"Charming romantic fantasy"
After years of being little more than a slave to her
odious stepmother and stepsisters, Elena Klovis gets her
first taste of freedom when they are forced to flee the
country, one step ahead of the creditors. Elena, known to
the townsfolk's as Ella Cinders, attends the Mop Fair
hoping to be hired on as someone's servant but everyone is
afraid that Madam Klovis will return and they don't want
to feel her wrath. Just as Elena is ready to leave the fair, Madame Bella the
fairy godmother offers her an apprentice position, which
the lass accepts. Elena learns quickly and becomes the
fairy godmother when Bella retires. She judges those
contenders who want to win the princess and the kingdom.
Only one of the claimants meets with her approval and she
sends him on a quest with some tips to help him succeed.
One of the pursuers she dumps in the forest, unable to
leave until he mends his ways. Another prince she turns
into an ass and takes home with her where he toils for his
food and lodging until he learns to behave like a decent
man. Elena has no idea what she will come to feel for
Alexander. This is the launch book for Harlequin's Luna imprint and
if THE FAIRY GODMOTHER is any example, the imprint will be
a smashing success. At times whimsical and at other times
very action oriented, this romantic fantasy will please
readers of both genres very much so. Fans of Mercedes
Lackey will see a different style in her writing, one that
is lighter and at times very comical. This book expands
the boundaries of the romantic fantasy sub-genre. Harriet Klausner
Reviewed by Harriet Klausner
Posted December 25, 2003
Cinderella meets Russian folk tales with a fairy godmother,
and three princes thrown in for good measure.
SummaryHard Cover edition also available. Jan. 2004 - ISBN:
0373802021
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