Rendersella

by Amy R. Anguish

Ella dreams of her artwork on display in the famous Prince Gallery, but working for her stepmother leaves her eking out sporadic minutes to draw or paint. When her stepsister steals her drawing and claims it as her own, Ella fears she’s lost her chance.

Chaz Prince wants more responsibility at his family’s gallery, but first he must prove he can handle it. Chaz talks his dad into a contest to bring in some new artists, sure this will be exactly what the gallery needs. When he stumbles across Ella’s piece, he not only wants the artwork, but wishes to know the artist.

At the gala to celebrate the contest winners, Ella is determined to let them know the artwork is hers, but time is against her. And where did her shoe end up?

Genres: Cinderella, Christian Fiction

320 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 22, 2025

About the author

Amy R Anguish grew up a preacher's kid, and in spite of having lived in seven different states that are all south of the Mason Dixon line, she is not a football fan. Currently, she resides in Tennessee with her husband, daughter, and son, and usually a bossy cat or two. Amy has an English degree from Freed-Hardeman University that she intends to use to glorify God, and she wants her stories to show that while Christians face real struggles, it can still work out for good.

Reviews

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

I loooooove fairy tale retellings, and my radar especially goes up when it’s a retelling of Cinderella (or Beauty and the Beast). The story of Cinderella has been a favorite of mine since I was about three years old, so any new take on it grabs my interest. And when it’s respun by an author whose books I already enjoy? Gimme, gimme, gimme.

Which brings me to Rendersella. Like any good reimagining of Cinderella, there’s a goodhearted-but-mistreated young woman, a handsome Prince, a heartless stepmother, a conniving stepsister, a ‘fairy godmother’ stand-in, a shoe that saves the day, and even a pumpkin… of sorts. I loved how the author gave her own twist to these classic elements – which is partly the fun of reading a retelling, right? Finding the nods to the beloved & familiar tucked away among the new – and I stayed solidly invested in watching it all unfold. So invested that I gasped out loud in horror more than once at the stepsister’s cruel antics, as though the havoc she wreaked in Ella’s life was happening to an actual friend instead of a fictional character. (I’m also suspicious that we may not have seen the last of Bellamy in this series, so I’m psyching myself up to see her potential collision with grace because … a) everyone should get the chance for redemption and Anguish will write it well but b) wow, I really despised her haha.)

In contrast to her stepsister, Ella is such an easily likable character whose heroine-worthy heart shines brightly. I wanted only good things for her and, though life is pretty miserable for her for a while in keeping with the spirit of the original fairy tale, I cheered on the inside (and, ok, maybe a little out loud too) when the happily-ever-after part of the fairy tale at last arrives. Someone who has a hand in that HEA is Chaz Prince who is dashing and kind and heroic in every way, even if he’s not perfect. I loved getting to know him in this story, and I adored seeing him ‘in love’. His sincerity of heart truly did make him a Prince Charming, and his tender care of Ella’s own heart won my affection. Ella’s older neighbor Fae was another fave of mine – you can probably guess who she represents from the original fairy tale – and I appreciated the steady faith, friendship, and nurturing love she infused into Ella’s life. The bantering sibling team of Kari and Jake are also people of refuge for Ella, which automatically endeared them to me, and I’m very curious to see how the events at the end of this story will play out for them in the next book(s).

Bottom Line: Dust off those glass slippers – or, if you want to be like Ella, your custom Converse – and put your fairy godmother on speed dial. There’s a ball to attend and you’re invited! With the author’s always-engaging writing style and her clever takes on the classic fairy tale, Rendersella by Amy R. Anguish delighted this Cinderella fan from the first word to the last. The romance is sweet with a touch of swoon, the faith notes fit naturally into the plot, the characters are easy to love (except the ones who aren’t supposed to be … and they really really weren’t lol), and the story has layers that will tug at a variety of your emotions. I gobbled this one up super quickly, and I’m already eager for the next one! A lovely choice for fans of Toni Shiloh, Carolyn Miller, fairy tales, and Hallmark movies.

(I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I read via Kindle Unlimited.)

first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower

[Mary Johns · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a fun take on the Cinderella story! The mom and stepsister were truly awful. Chaz was a wonderfully human prince, and the art theme increased my enjoyment of the story ten-fold. If you're a fan of modern day fairy tales, you won't want to miss this one. Keep writing, Ms Anguish. I can't wait to read your other Real-Life Fairy Tales.

[J.L. Burrows · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rendersella was a delight! This retelling had all the hints of the original fairytale with a unique story steeped in a beautiful setting, detailed art projects, and an inspirational, hope-filled plot that had my heart at every turn. Even the description of the art had depth, as if the art itself were a character and gave texture to the story. My favorite character is Fae, as I noted above, and I’ll let you try to guess which original fairytale element her character hinted toward. A thrill chased through me every time I caught another hidden Easter egg hinting at the original fairytale. I could not put this romance down, and not for the usual suspenseful reasons. I highly recommend this witty, entertaining, terrific beginning novel to a series of fairytale retellings!

[Amanda Gardner · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a really amazing book . I loved how the author took the story of Cinderella and kinda of rewrote her version of it . You have Ella who the stepsister called Rendersella . The Stepmom had her sit up a flea market to sell all her families belongings after her fathers death . Ella one day wanted to be an artist and have her pics hanging up at a Gallery . Then there’s Chaz who only wanted to be recognized in the family’s Gallery . Then he met Ella at the flea market he bought her mother’s China , for his mother’s birthday. Which that broke Ella’s heart just seeing all her parents things going . Let’s talk about the stepsister she wasn’t very nice at all took credit for things Ella done … I’m tell you this book was a page turner and made you want to jump in and stand up for Ella for everything the stepsister was going . I really enjoyed this book … through all adversity Ella will overcome all but how?

I received a ARC from the author for my honest review.
I LOVED IT AND YOU WILL TOO !!!!!!

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC, but my opinions are my own.

I have read every book by Amy Anguish and I keep saying each one is the best. They just keep getting better and better! I really enjoyed finding the parallels in the Cinderella story and Ella's story. especially the shoes! I love the way Ella's shoes played a part in the story. But I won't spoil it for you, you must read it for yourself!

If you like clean romance AND twists on classic fairy tales, then you'll love this series.

There's just one problem...I have to wait too long for book 2! Can't wait to read it!

[Jenny Carlisle · Rating 5 out of 5]

A retelling of my favorite fairy tale has some big glass slippers to fill. This contemporary version lived up to the challenge. I was immediately cheering for her to get out from under the influence of her selfish and hateful step-family. You will fall for her and her handsome prince long before midnight. Give this one read!

[Beth Westcott · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this contemporary romance that's a chapter in the age-old conflict between good and evil, Ella Renders dreams of having her art hanging in the elite Prince Art Gallery, but an evil stepmother and conniving stepsister stand in her way. In this contemporary retelling of the classic Cinderella fairy tale, Amy Anguish has created an absorbing story that keeps the reader in suspense as Ella fights for the recognition she deserves against two women determined to take away, piece by piece, what she holds dear. The characters are strong and interesting, whether likeable or otherwise: a worthy leading man named Prince, an older woman who is like a fairy godmother, and friends who stand beside Ella in her hour of need to counteract the plotting women. Amy's novels always entertain and present authentic slices of life. And you'll want to read to the end to see if Ella gets her happily-ever after.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really fun Cinderella re-telling. I enjoyed how the author worked in all the details of Cinderella's story in a modern setting. Making Ella an artist and Chaz a Prince in last name was fun, as was seeing how Ella overcame all the trials her evil step-sister and step-mother threw in her way.
The setting of West Virginia was a nice change of pace as well, and I really enjoyed the chemistry between Chaz and Ella too. There were so many sweet hints and easter eggs to the actual Cinderella story, it was very well done.
If you enjoy fairytale re-tellings, and want one with more of a faith foundation, I definitely recommend you give this one a try. I'm looking forward to the author's Snow White re-telling coming out next year.
*I read an early ARC from the author. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.

[Finding Faith in Fiction (Chrissy) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I saw this book and worried this was going to be a cheesy retelling based on the title. This is such a classic case of "don't judge a book by it's cover", although the cover is beautiful. This was a refreshingly interesting retelling of the classic Cinderella story, and I was happily surprised by how much I enjoyed this book!

Set in reality, this retelling gives us a modern-day Cinderella, with the usual Cinderella elements like an evil step-mother and step-sister, a fairy godmother, a prince charming, and a shoe left behind at the ball. You won't find any seamstress mice or birds, but you will find a unique spin on the story by bringing in themes of creativity and artistry.

Ella is your typical 'Cinderella' in that she's lost both of her parents and is now forced to survive under the roof of a neglectful and cold step-mother. She also suffers from the relentless cruelty of a self-centered step-sister who is so far out of touch with reality that it's almost comical. Luckily, she finds a safe haven with her elderly neighbor who provides love, food, and a whole lot of advice. When Ella meets Chaz, she doesn't realize he is the son of the wealthy art gallery owner she dreams of having her art featured in someday. When an opportunity arises to enter her art in a contest that could fix most of her problems, she's forced to navigate secrecy, threats, and hidden artwork. What entails is a complicated web of chaos as she tries to appease her manipulative step-sister, avoid the guy she's so drawn to, keep her well-meaning but stubborn neighbor in check, and achieve her art goals.

The author really played up the humility of Ella throughout the story, almost to a fault, as her words and actions are often self-deprecating. Everyone seems to see her worth but her. As much as you'll want to be frustrated with her, you'll also be rooting for her to stand up for herself and take hold of her happily ever after. Likewise, Chaz is a great MMC, and the perfect Prince Charming. He's a bit oblivious when it comes to reading people, especially Bellamy and Ella, and many times he makes things worse for Ella. But again, you can't help but root for him as he tries to woo Ella without scaring her away.

Kari and Jake were enjoyable supporting characters, especially Jake bringing some humor and light-heartedness to the story. I wanted to see more interaction with Kari! Fae is such a staple, as she provides some much needed care and mothering, and provides what Ella needs in a way that still allows her to maintain some of her dignity and independence. Of course, there are the lesser loved supporting characters, Angela and Bellamy, the "evil" step-family. While Angela, the step-mother, does some things that are less than ideal, and is obviously a selfish woman, I found her to be quite neutral in most of the story. She even pulls out some slightly redeeming traits by the end. Bellamy on the other hand, is so perfectly unlikable. Props to the author, because honestly, she wrote Bellamy's character so well. Her character is obnoxious, overbearing, greedy, bratty, and all of the other negative adjectives. She was the ideal version of the Cinderella's step-sister. She definitely gave the vibes of the (other) Chaz-obsessed step-sister in Ella Enchanted. I would say her character plays a much more important role than Angela, the step-mother, as much of the conflict directly involves her.

What I enjoyed about this story:
🦃 Adorable Cinderella elements
🦃 Chaz's sweet attempts to woo Ella (pizza rolls!)
🦃 The art emphasis & art details
🦃 The appreciation of God's handiwork (a theme throughout the book)
🦃 Fae the Fairy Godmother
🦃 Loving to hate the villain
🦃 Faith-filled moments

⚠️ Content Warnings:
- Death of parents (off page, mention of cancer)
- Familial abuse/neglect (mostly inferred, not described)
- Manipulation and threats (mild)

This story was probably one of the best Cinderella retellings I've read. It was light and fun, while still having layers of depth and meaning. There was moderate faith content in the book, and it was written into the story well. I would have liked to see Ella connect with her identity in Christ more, but otherwise it felt sufficient. The little details like the "Pumpkin", the painted Converse, and the blue dress added sweet little elements of the original fairytale into the story in a unique way that felt authentic to the storyline and characters.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 stars

If you enjoy modern day fairytale retellings, a sweet romance, and/or reimagined Cinderella elements, you'll love this book. The next book in the series, Real Life Fairytales, comes out on March 24, 2026. It's based on Ella's friend, Kari, and is a Snow White retelling. I loved Rendersella so much, and I can't wait to read Book 2: Fairest Inn All!

[Heather Greer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read all, or nearly all, of Amy R. Anguish's books, and this one is my favorite. It's a fairy-tale retelling of Cinderella, and having grown up with the comical Rindercella version told to me, I appreciated the play on the traditional name. And having the main character named Ella Renders was a great choice. This story is a quick and easy read, as any fairy-tale should be. 

All the elements of the original are present in this new version. There are even a few nods to the tale from the characters themselves, who are smart enough to see the similarities their lives share with the fairy-tale. Ella is the orphan, unloved by her step-mother and tormented by her step-sister. There is a prince of sorts and a fairy godmother, though her magic is of the wisdom and faith variety. The slipper is there, though not as you'd expect. And even the pumpkin makes an appearance. The only things missing were mice, but since those were from the movie version, I concede they would be an unnecessary addition. 

While Ella, the prince, and the fairy godmother are all easily lovable, making you cheer for them from the start, it's not because they are perfect or lack depth. Ella and her friends do have struggles, other than the typical fairy-tale trouble. They do make mistakes. And they are people of faith. I love that the author brought faith into the story. How much better would the "real" Cinderella fared if she'd had God to lean on instead of a fairy godmother? 

While most stories have a bad guy or at least someone standing in the way of the heroes goal, the author of Rendersella took full advantage of  the opportunity to really let the villain's nastiness shine through. I like that the badness wasn't watered down as it allowed the story to keep the fairy-tale feel.

For my Rendersella review, I give the story five stars. And I recommend you check it out. If you love a good fairy-tale, you don't want to miss this one. 

[Ausjenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to the author for my review copy.

I love this retelling of Cinderella. We have our heroine Ella, our hero Chaz and the wicked stepmother and stepsister. Angela is the stepmother who basically ignores Ella at the same time making her work for her for way less than she should be paying. Bellamy is the really nasty stepsister who gets anything she wants, is self-entitled and a brat.

Ella loves drawing and dreams to be an artist with her work being shown at the Prince Gallery. She uses any free time to work on her art. Chaz wants a bigger role in the family gallery and comes with an idea thanks to a piece of artwork Ella's stepsister claims as her own. Bellemy has Ella over a barrel.

I have read a couple books based on the Cinderella story, and this would be my favourite. Great read.
If you like modern fairy tales and contemporary Christian Fiction, give this book a go.

Meanwhile we have Kari and Jake, siblings running a hotel where both Ella and Chaz go to for different reasons. Kari lets Ella use an empty guest room to sketch and Jake lets Chaz have a room when he needs a night away from his father. Then there is Fae, Ella's older neighbour who is like a fairy Godmother. She was good friends with her parents and is a safe place for Ella when her house and stepfamily get too much for her. I love Fae, everyone needs their own Fae in their lives.

I love how the book plays out how Ella endures so much but still keeps going. We also see how if you tell someone long enough, they are no good at things they believe it. Even if it's not true words cut deep. We also see Chaz trying to prove to his father he can do more than he is currently.

The one person I haven't mentioned is his mother. She is a gentle but strong character, very level headed with great advice.

I have read a few Cinderella retellings and this is my favourite.

[Tonya B. Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Down-to-Earth Modern Retelling with Heart, Charm, and Artistic Flair!

Rendersella is a delightful twist on a classic fairy tale—brimming with charm, clever nods to the original, and a heroine you can’t help but root for. Despite her self-doubt, Ella’s quiet determination, wrapped in brushstrokes and bravery, adds a refreshing layer of heart to this modern retelling. Watching her navigate the tension between her creative calling and the demands of her unkind home life felt both inspiring and grounded. Even if we haven’t lived her exact circumstances, her longing to be seen, valued, and free to create resonates deeply.

Chaz Prince is no cardboard prince. While Chaz begins as a man with something to prove, what makes him compelling is the way he learns to truly see—not just artwork, but the heart behind it. Delightfully thoughtful and refreshingly real, he delivers all the depth and charm you'd hope for in a modern day Prince.

The contest setup, art world backdrop, and one well-timed lost shoe bring a sense of fun and familiarity, while elevating the emotional stakes. With its sweet pacing, heartfelt themes, and charming twists, Rendersella offers more than just a fairy tale update—it weaves a thread of faith through moments of wisdom, legacy, and quiet guidance. A charming start to the Real-Life Fairy Tales series.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can I just jump into this book and be the main character? Ella Renders is a charming and talented artist, one you love from the very beginning. She works hard at every turn, relying on God throughout her entire journey.

Chaz Prince comes into the story and he is as charming as his name would suggest. He’s real, genuine, down to earth, just trying to figure out more about Ella and grow with his family’s business.

It was a story that enveloped me and I found my self staying up late just to get to the next encounter of Chad and Ella.

Warm characters intertwined throughout and a strong presence of God in each chapter. It’s a must read for anyone who loves a classic tale spun with a modern twist.

(I received a digital ARC of this book with no expectation in return. The opinions and comments above are mine alone.)

[Terri Wangard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ella Renders has only one stepsister, but she’s as evil and obnoxious as they come. Her own fairy godmother lives next door, the elderly Fae. And she literally bumped into a real Prince. Chaz Prince is billed by a local magazine as a great catch.

Having grown up as the victim of bullies, I understand Ella’s reluctance to share with Fae and her best friend Kari about her misery at home. She does cling to her faith and understand that she needs to pray for her stepmother and sister. Even though they didn’t get along, Angela and Bellamy were the only family she had left.

In this modern-day Cinderella retelling, Ella really does go to a ball, although her glass slippers are actually Converse and her coach is an ugly orange car. But if she can snag a Prince, who cares?

[Ami Jacobs · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a cute contemporary retelling of Cinderella! I loved the mix of same and different parts of the original story, and the backdrop for the whole storyline was so creative! The character building was very nicely done, with little “aha” moments along the way. I loved the clean romance and the way the story flowed! … and the shoes!

[Carrie McCauley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well, this is a new way to look at a Cinderella retelling! This one I think is the best one I've read! A modern day story of so many sad and happy feels. The characters weave in and out of Ella's day to day life. The descriptions are absolutely wonderful for drawing pictures in your mind. Faith and believing in God and yourself is all over this story and told in hust the right way.

[Jaime Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an absolute DELIGHT read. I was looking for a good Cinderella retelling and this was IT. Although our girl Ella went through a LOT, it was so well written and the chemistry between her and our guy... (I won't say his name but I'm sure you can guess 😏). Ugh! It's all the longing without anything sketchy for young girls and it's actually very encouraging in the Lord. 🩷

[Brianna Mays · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet and pure

This was such a sweet take on Cinderella! I loved that the characters prayed and gave godly advice! And each chapter kept you hanging on and wanting to read more to see when everything would fall in place.

[Sarah Brake · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book surprised me. Some fairytale retellings can be kinda hokey or cheesy. This was neither! This was a cute faith-based fairytale retelling of Cinderella with a modern twist. I loved it and couldn't put it down!

[Amy Lynch · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lovely modern day rendition of the classic Cinderella. You’ll be rooting for Ella to find her Happily Ever After!

[Sarah Heatwole · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Amy's writing. It's always so sweet and this story was no exception. I didn't think I would enjoy a fairytale retelling as much as I did. I'll keep reading!

[Janell York · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful sweet romance.

Cinderella has always been my favorite Disney Princess, so when author Amy Anguish released her modern day retelling of Cinderella - I knew I had to read it.

From the gorgeous book cover to the charming, heartwarming story, I was hooked. I didn't want to put it down.

I rooted for the main character, Ella, from the beginning and the charming Chaz Prince is gallant and kind. What’s not to love about this well told twist on a Disney classic.

[Jamie Gordy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ella a.k.a. Rendersella is an artist who had lost both parents, and is living with a nasty step mother and stepsister. She accidentally, quite literally runs into Chaz Prince in her friend’s hotel. Chaz is the son of a prominent art gallery owner. Over the course of the next few weeks he discovers her art, although her stepsister takes credit for i,t and decides to just an art contest. The story continues from there.

I enjoyed this Christian contemporary take on Cinderella. I enjoyed how Amy was able to take the popular story and fit into the art world. I also enjoyed the faith content, it did not feel at all overdone. My one slight issue with this story, and it mostly bothered me with the stepsister, was some actions felt a bit too juvenile for the ages of the characters. Even Chaz and Ella’s actions felt teenagery at times. Overall though, the story was amazing and the resolution was well done. I look forward to book 2!

I think someone who wanted to read a fairytale retelling, but is scared of magic would adore this book. I also think someone who loves Christian, contemporary romance books would enjoy it. A person who doesn’t like apparent faith elements may not like this one.