The Captive Maiden
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4.2 • 13 Ratings
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- $6.99
Publisher Description
Happily Ever After …
Or Happily Nevermore?
Gisela’s childhood was filled with laughter and visits from nobles such as the duke and his young son. But since her father’s death, each day has been filled with nothing but servitude to her stepmother. So when Gisela learns the duke’s son, Valten—the boy she has daydreamed about for years—is throwing a ball in hopes of finding a wife, she vows to find a way to attend, even if it’s only for a taste of a life she’ll never have. To her surprise, she catches Valten’s eye. Though he is rough around the edges, Gisela finds Valten has completely captured her heart. But other forces are bent on keeping the two from falling further in love, putting Gisela in more danger than she ever imagined.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Dickerson (The Healer's Apprentice) delivers a novel-length Cinderella story, complete with a damsel in distress and a charming duke's son. In Hagenheim, Bavaria, in the early 15th century, Gisela lives like a servant in her late father's home, while her stepmother and stepsisters sell off the horses Gisela loves. This compelling version of the familiar fairy tale dives into matters glossed over by shorter retellings. Jousting matches, swordplay, abductions, and other adventures allow Gisela's compassion and spirit to shine as much as the valor of her hero, Valten. The two must overcome evil Lord Ruexner, who lives to humiliate Valten and seeks to keep Gisela for himself. Two-thirds of the way through, the story turns into an extended homily on love and what makes a good match, aided by a deus ex machina the wandering evangelical priest, Friar Daniel. Valten becomes humble and appreciates Gisela for her bravery as well as her beauty, and Gisela learns she is worthy. Ages 15 up.
