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Courageous Heroine Fairy Tales #1
Cinderella
69 pages Cinderella made a vow to her mother, before her mother tragically passed away on midwinter's day. Ella swore to watch over her father and care for him. But then her father married anew. Her stepmother and two stepsisters took sharp delight in causing Ella grief from morn to eve. They bullied her, called her Cinderella, and treated her as little more than a slave in her own home. It took all of Ella's courage to swallow the insults and to honor her word.Now the crown prince has returned home from the battlefront; a ball is announced to celebrate his arrival. All eligible young women from the entire kingdom are invited to attend.Ella has but one desire left. She wishes to see the king's gardens one last time before she leaves home. It will be a final way to commemorate her beloved mother before counting her vow's terms as complete.She has no idea what awaits her on that arched stone bridge ...* * *Cinderella - A Retelling with Strength and Courage is Book 1 of a gently cliff-hangered short story series. The series honors the original intention of the Grimm Fairy Tales - to present women of strength and courage tackling challenges which seem insurmountable. With each new book a new heroine is interwoven into the story. The series sequence leads through five books up to a happily ever after ending. The series is clean romance and is suitable for teens and up. Readers have the option to read each tale one by one or to get the complete set which contains all five tales.As fairy tales are so integral to so many young lives, it was critical for me to do my very best to present each heroine in a way which honored her strength and showcased her ability to stand on her own. It took me over five years to craft this series. I feel strongly that no woman should ever sit around waiting for a man to "rescue" them. Women should not endure abusive behavior in the hopes that a man will change or magically become a prince.Be the change you wish to see in the world.I have a library of over 450 books running the gamut from medieval romance to cozy mystery, from mythology to fairy tale to Biblical retellings. I support battered women's shelters. Feel Free to contact me with any questions!
72 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 9, 2017
60 people are currently reading
127 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Shea
515 books468 followersLisa Shea is a fervent fan of honor, loyalty, and chivalry. She brings to life worlds where men and women stand shoulder to shoulder, steady in their desire to make the world a better place for all. Most of her profits are donated to support battered women's shelters.
Lisa's works are all cleanly written with no explicit intimacy and little language. They are suitable for teens and up.
Lisa has written a wide range of fiction stories. She has medieval romances, modern murder mystery novels, sci-fi adventures, Scottish regency time travel romances, dystopian stories, 1800s-era black-Indian novellas, and Blackstone Valley mysteries.
In short stories, there's a thirty-one part story-a-day mini mystery series set in Salem, Massachusetts through the month of October 2014. There's a time travel series, a Biblical-era series, a zoo mystery series, an art museum mystery series, a diner mystery series with an Asperger's heroine, a romantic proposal series, three sci-fi and two contemporary shorts.
On the non-fiction side, Lisa has written nearly 100 books. There are low carb books, relationship books, green living, journaling, ASP programming, sleep and dreams, wine, wedding and courtship traditions, Melville poetry, and history. There is also a collection of books on self-help topics like working from home, reducing stress, yoga, meditation, using Twitter, running an author signing, and conquering a fear of spiders.
Lisa also writes poetry.
Lisa has thousands of pages online to help aspiring authors learn how to develop time management, write that book, lay it out, and get it published. Visit LisaShea.com for all the details, and free to email with questions!
Namaste.
Lisa's works are all cleanly written with no explicit intimacy and little language. They are suitable for teens and up.
Lisa has written a wide range of fiction stories. She has medieval romances, modern murder mystery novels, sci-fi adventures, Scottish regency time travel romances, dystopian stories, 1800s-era black-Indian novellas, and Blackstone Valley mysteries.
In short stories, there's a thirty-one part story-a-day mini mystery series set in Salem, Massachusetts through the month of October 2014. There's a time travel series, a Biblical-era series, a zoo mystery series, an art museum mystery series, a diner mystery series with an Asperger's heroine, a romantic proposal series, three sci-fi and two contemporary shorts.
On the non-fiction side, Lisa has written nearly 100 books. There are low carb books, relationship books, green living, journaling, ASP programming, sleep and dreams, wine, wedding and courtship traditions, Melville poetry, and history. There is also a collection of books on self-help topics like working from home, reducing stress, yoga, meditation, using Twitter, running an author signing, and conquering a fear of spiders.
Lisa also writes poetry.
Lisa has thousands of pages online to help aspiring authors learn how to develop time management, write that book, lay it out, and get it published. Visit LisaShea.com for all the details, and free to email with questions!
Namaste.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
October 1, 2018
I read one Cinderella retelling and then I searched for others.
This one shows Cinderella as smart and courageous. The red tablecloth story, and then turning the table cloth into a dress for herself to attend the ball - that was something.
The story ends with a cliffhanger. What happens to Ella and Alexander?
I had a sense of incompleteness at the end. Not sure if the next book deals with the same story line and answers the question
I like short and cute stories and Lisa seems to have written a lot of them. As I get time, I intend to explore her other stories.
This one shows Cinderella as smart and courageous. The red tablecloth story, and then turning the table cloth into a dress for herself to attend the ball - that was something.
The story ends with a cliffhanger. What happens to Ella and Alexander?
I had a sense of incompleteness at the end. Not sure if the next book deals with the same story line and answers the question
I like short and cute stories and Lisa seems to have written a lot of them. As I get time, I intend to explore her other stories.
April 24, 2019
What a lovely twist
Th story starts fairly similar to the one I grew up with but the more I read the more I fell for this version, the amount of plot twists and that ending had me quickly purchasing the rest of the books in the series ❤
Th story starts fairly similar to the one I grew up with but the more I read the more I fell for this version, the amount of plot twists and that ending had me quickly purchasing the rest of the books in the series ❤
February 25, 2022
I’d say it was more suitable for YA readers, but it was nicely written.
March 21, 2025
Empowering
Lisa Shea's Cinderella offers a refreshing twist on the classic fairy tale, reimagining the iconic character as strong, independent, and determined—far from the damsel in distress often portrayed in traditional versions. One of the standout aspects of this retelling is Cinderella's unyielding strength and self-reliance. Rather than depending on a magical fairy godmother or anyone else to save her, Ella (as she’s called in this version) takes matters into her own hands, confronting the injustices around her with incredible resilience.
The novel begins with a poignant moment: Ella’s vow to care for her father after her mother's untimely death, a promise she holds even as her life becomes more challenging. Her stepmother and two stepsisters bring nothing but cruelty and mockery, forcing her to endure daily hardships with grace. The sense of duty Ella feels towards her late mother and father is admirable, and it’s this commitment that drives her actions throughout the story.
When the ball is announced, inviting all eligible young women to meet the crown prince, it would be easy for any reader to expect a familiar trajectory: Cinderella going to the ball and magically meeting her prince. But in this version, Ella's motivations are different. Instead of seeking a romantic escape, her wish is to visit the king’s gardens one final time to honor her mother—a deeply emotional and meaningful gesture. It’s a quiet yet powerful expression of her character, showing that her journey is not about finding a prince, but about finding peace with her past.
The magic in Cinderella lies not in spells or fairy godmothers, but in Ella's inner strength, determination, and the subtle magic of the world around her. Shea does an excellent job of weaving a sense of wonder without relying on fantastical elements, allowing the story to feel grounded in emotional realism.
Overall, this retelling of Cinderella is a beautifully empowering story of resilience, duty, and the quiet strength of a young woman who refuses to be defined by her circumstances. The book will resonate with anyone who enjoys strong, independent characters and a tale where the power of one's inner resolve is what truly changes the course of their life. If you’re looking for a Cinderella who doesn’t need rescuing, this is the book for you.
Lisa Shea's Cinderella offers a refreshing twist on the classic fairy tale, reimagining the iconic character as strong, independent, and determined—far from the damsel in distress often portrayed in traditional versions. One of the standout aspects of this retelling is Cinderella's unyielding strength and self-reliance. Rather than depending on a magical fairy godmother or anyone else to save her, Ella (as she’s called in this version) takes matters into her own hands, confronting the injustices around her with incredible resilience.
The novel begins with a poignant moment: Ella’s vow to care for her father after her mother's untimely death, a promise she holds even as her life becomes more challenging. Her stepmother and two stepsisters bring nothing but cruelty and mockery, forcing her to endure daily hardships with grace. The sense of duty Ella feels towards her late mother and father is admirable, and it’s this commitment that drives her actions throughout the story.
When the ball is announced, inviting all eligible young women to meet the crown prince, it would be easy for any reader to expect a familiar trajectory: Cinderella going to the ball and magically meeting her prince. But in this version, Ella's motivations are different. Instead of seeking a romantic escape, her wish is to visit the king’s gardens one final time to honor her mother—a deeply emotional and meaningful gesture. It’s a quiet yet powerful expression of her character, showing that her journey is not about finding a prince, but about finding peace with her past.
The magic in Cinderella lies not in spells or fairy godmothers, but in Ella's inner strength, determination, and the subtle magic of the world around her. Shea does an excellent job of weaving a sense of wonder without relying on fantastical elements, allowing the story to feel grounded in emotional realism.
Overall, this retelling of Cinderella is a beautifully empowering story of resilience, duty, and the quiet strength of a young woman who refuses to be defined by her circumstances. The book will resonate with anyone who enjoys strong, independent characters and a tale where the power of one's inner resolve is what truly changes the course of their life. If you’re looking for a Cinderella who doesn’t need rescuing, this is the book for you.
January 3, 2020
This is the beginning of a story
Reading this is like watching a TV series with a cliff-hanger. The story is told well. The characters are interesting interpretations of the characters in the fairy tale. Then, as things get interesting, the book ends. The story has not ended, just the book. The story takes up again in the next book which by the way also has no ending - just another cliff hanger. I read the first three but the book that continues the story (book 4) is not yet written. I got these through Kindle Unlimited. I won't be looking for book 4, who cares.
Reading this is like watching a TV series with a cliff-hanger. The story is told well. The characters are interesting interpretations of the characters in the fairy tale. Then, as things get interesting, the book ends. The story has not ended, just the book. The story takes up again in the next book which by the way also has no ending - just another cliff hanger. I read the first three but the book that continues the story (book 4) is not yet written. I got these through Kindle Unlimited. I won't be looking for book 4, who cares.
April 14, 2021
Not a full story
A book that ends on a cliffhanger and this book are not the same thing. There was zero resolution to this. It reads like the author stopped mid-scene. I mean, the author literally stopped mid-scene! I wish I had read the Amazon reviews first because boy was this a waste of time. I don't want to have to buy four books in order to read one story.
A book that ends on a cliffhanger and this book are not the same thing. There was zero resolution to this. It reads like the author stopped mid-scene. I mean, the author literally stopped mid-scene! I wish I had read the Amazon reviews first because boy was this a waste of time. I don't want to have to buy four books in order to read one story.
July 30, 2021
I loved this strong and independent version of Cinderella and this was one of the first books that introduced me to the world of reading. Prior to this , I had considered books boring and stressful. I am glad I came across this book. However I was a little disappointed at the abrupt end of the story but that is what you call a cliffhanger I guess?
Overall this is a lovely fairy tale.
Overall this is a lovely fairy tale.
September 6, 2021
Very short. Different but okay, realistic. Unsatisfying ending. Cliff hanger that continues as Snow White?
Might be good if this is bought as a multi book with 5 or more stories but on it's own it's disappointing.
Geared towards teens. Even at 10 I would have been disappointed. Perhaps geared towards non readers to not be daunting and peak their interest??
Might be good if this is bought as a multi book with 5 or more stories but on it's own it's disappointing.
Geared towards teens. Even at 10 I would have been disappointed. Perhaps geared towards non readers to not be daunting and peak their interest??
August 3, 2021
Solid retelling
The characters are enjoyable, the updates and changes are unique and entertaining, and the ending makes you want to dive straight into the next one (which I'll be doing momentarily).
The characters are enjoyable, the updates and changes are unique and entertaining, and the ending makes you want to dive straight into the next one (which I'll be doing momentarily).
December 27, 2019
It's a good book but seems like it was published unfinished. ☹️ I would like a second book that would continue the story and wouldn't seem unfinished.
March 25, 2020
Loved the book but why did the book not end? Or did it unjustly and I can't accept it?
July 10, 2020
No ending
The author began a good story and then it abruptly ended. Don't waste your time. The dilemma had barely begun when the book ended
The author began a good story and then it abruptly ended. Don't waste your time. The dilemma had barely begun when the book ended
January 3, 2021
A nice twist the the fairytale we all grew up with
January 18, 2021
Great writing and captivating story but surely incomplete!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 15, 2021
Waste of my time. Unless you love a cliff hanger and must read the next book then you should pass on this.
December 24, 2021
I LOVED IT SO MUCH! now only if I could find the next books...
January 19, 2024
Very confused after reading this. It was so short! And the ending was so abrupt--I also couldn't find the sequel it talked about. I dunno, it was good, but strange. 🤷♀️
February 7, 2022
I found this book by accident. As it was only 69 pages long, So I downloaded it.
I loved it. The authors style of writing really appealed to me. It followed the traditional tale of Cinderella just in a slightly different way.
When I put it down at the end of the evening, I couldn’t wait to finish it the following morning. I had reached the bit where Ella left the ball and her slipper behind.
With this being book 1 of the series, I assumed book 2 would be another twist on a fairy tale. But no…
The story took a very interesting turn, but then – it ended. So I’ve downloaded the book with all the in.
I loved it. The authors style of writing really appealed to me. It followed the traditional tale of Cinderella just in a slightly different way.
When I put it down at the end of the evening, I couldn’t wait to finish it the following morning. I had reached the bit where Ella left the ball and her slipper behind.
With this being book 1 of the series, I assumed book 2 would be another twist on a fairy tale. But no…
The story took a very interesting turn, but then – it ended. So I’ve downloaded the book with all the in.
May 5, 2017
Quite delightful re-telling of the Grimm brothers' classic. :)
May 29, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 12, 2017
Not kindle Unlimited, although the following ones are pretty sure, most of her's are or else quite a few are perma free {start of series etc just not this one}. What kind of 'disclaimer' do I put in for whined to the writer that it was not on ku, so got a copy sent to me free, in hopes would review, and probably favorably of course although there are some of her's that have not been 5 stars, think there was some 3's and 4's, BUT this retelling of a classic 'fairy tale' while not perfect was done quite well overall, and definitely will be looking to see what books follow this series {more than likely series, as she is real fond of series and serialized series} but would like to say, for those who might be expecting the older weak females, 'prince charming' type to the rescue and all that junk, this is NOT one of those. There is a bit, just a bit, of 'romance' but not overly much, and rather suited the story, because after all it is still some sort of 'fairy tale' even if reworked to be more modern.
Cinderella - A Retelling with Strength and Courage (Courageous Heroine Fairy Tales Book 1)
Snow White - A Retelling with Strength and Courage (Courageous Heroine Fairy Tales Book 2)
pages and pages of other stories, some serialized, some more 'book' length or novelette versus the short short of serial
Cinderella - A Retelling with Strength and Courage (Courageous Heroine Fairy Tales Book 1)
Snow White - A Retelling with Strength and Courage (Courageous Heroine Fairy Tales Book 2)
pages and pages of other stories, some serialized, some more 'book' length or novelette versus the short short of serial
May 3, 2017
Stronger and smarter version of Cinderella.... now am a fan of this Cinderella story. So bold and So beautiful.
May 24, 2019
Absolutely loved this story, right up until it ended without a resolution and on a cliff hangar. Brought it down from a 5 to a 3. Not happy, Jan!
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews