★★★★☆

To be honest, I went into this one expecting the icy, calculated villain we all know from the Disney movies, but what I found in Lady Tremaine was something so much more human. This is a “Cinderella” retelling that truly proves history is written by the winners.

The story follows Tremaine from her childhood through the loss of both her husbands, and I was so refreshed to find a version of her that wasn’t cold or lacking empathy. She doesn’t whine; she survives. I particularly loved the commentary on the “proper” expectations for women of that time. By the end, seeing her realize that being noticed by royalty isn’t all it’s cracked up to be, and that happiness doesn’t always come from doing what’s expected, felt incredibly relatable and grounded.

What I loved:

The Character Depth: Getting to know Otto was a highlight for me. At first, he comes off as a bit gruff and boarish, but by the end, when you realize the lengths he went to to protect the girls, he completely won me over.
A New Perspective: It took me a few chapters to shake the “Disney version” of the Prince out of my head, but once I did, I was fully swept up in this grittier, more realistic world. This definitely isn’t a “happily ever after” in the traditional sense, and it’s better for it.
The Pacing: The story is a bit of a slow burn. At times, it felt like the plot was taking its time, but looking back, I realize none of it was filler. Every detail had a purpose in building the woman Lady Tremaine became.

If you’re looking for a retelling that actually has something to say about memory, reputation, and the sacrifices mothers make, I can’t recommend this one enough. It’s a haunting, honest look at the “villain” next door.

Book releases in March of 2026