She was witty and intelligent, and very caring and kind. She was fierce and determined to keep her servants employed and keep her household running. She was very strong and independent, but had a soft, emotional side to her as well. I really loved this version of Cinderella, too. The plot was captivating and enchanting, and the writing was elegant and descriptive, as always. I found myself smiling, laughing, and even shedding a tear at a beautiful moment toward the end. I was drawn in to the world and the story. I loved the way that this one was written to make me feel the oppression of the people of the kingdom from the Queen’s taxes. It had several refreshing twists compared to the usual retellings of the tale, and had a few surprising moments that fit in with the predictable faerie tale bits. It reminded me a little of the movie Ever After with its historical world feel and the sense of friendship between Cinderella and her servants. I really loved the wit and charm that this one had to offer. Shea’s Timeless Fairy Tales get better and better with each addition!

It has historical charm, humor, romance, and magic. You can read Basiles version here, and Perrault’s version here.Ĭinderella and the Colonel is a refreshing twist on a classic tale. The most popular version was published by Charles Perrault in 1697, and later adapted by the Brothers Grimm in 1812.įun fact: The story of Rhodopis, which is about a Greek slave who marries the Egyptian king is thought to be the earliest form of the story! The original tale of Cinderella, or the Little Glass Slipper was written in 1634 by Giambattista Basile, and published in Italy. Cinderella realizes it is only a matter of time before she loses everything she has struggled to protect, and it seems that all is lost until she is befriended by the debonair Colonel Friedrich-a member of the Erlauf military and a citizen of the oppressing country that rules her homeland.įrom helping her break into the royal library to saving her from a rogue mage, Friedrich draws her closer and challenges her mindset of the queen and the war.Ĭinderella knows Friedrich is not all he appears to be, but can she trust him with her country and her heart?

Her sacrifices aren’t enough, and when a mountain of debt is levied against her, she is given one season to produce the funds. Synopsis: Scratching out a living in a land recovering from war and a hostile takeover, Cinderella-an orphaned, destitute duchess-is desperate to save her lands and servants in spite of the terrible taxes placed upon her by the Erlauf queen, even if it means she must don servants’ clothes and work like a commoner.

Cinderella and the Colonel by K.M. Shea