Two hundred years after Cinderella found her prince, the kingdom of Mersailles has become a rigid patriarchy. Teenage girls are required to attend an annual ball where men select them as wives based on their appearance; those not chosen face an uncertain, dangerous fate. Sophia is a queer protagonist who refuses to participate in this tradition, especially since she is in love with her childhood friend, Erin. After a failed escape from the ball leads her to Cinderella’s hidden mausoleum, Sophia meets Constance, a descendant of the stepsisiters. Together, they work to dismantle the monarchy and uncover the suppressed history of the original fairy tale, which differs significantly from the state-sanctioned version used to oppress women.
Fans of reimagined fairy tales and young adult fantasy read this book for its focus on queer identity and systemic rebellion. It appeals to those looking for a story where female characters take active roles in overthrowing autocratic structures rather than seeking rescue. Readers walk away with a subverted perspective on classic folklore and a narrative centered on the necessity of questioning inherited laws. The story provides a concrete example of how historical narratives are manipulated to maintain social control and how marginalized groups organize to reclaim their autonomy.
Clear-cut and escapist; an easy read.
Best for readers like The Escapist Adventurer. Which reader are you?
- Published
- 2019
- Language
- EN
