In her latest Medieval Dericott Tale, Melanie Dickerson weaves a creative, romantic retelling of Jack and the Beanstalk. Lady of Disguise is a sweet hidden identity romance with a loving sister, handsome knight, treasure hunt, a giant, and plenty of adventure. As with all of Melanie Dickerson’s books, I enjoyed her clever twists on beloved fairytales and this book is no exception. It’s a sweet story of learning to trust in God and others while forging your own path and finding love along the way.

After Louisa’s parents died, she and her younger sister are forced to live with their ambitious aunt and uncle determined to find wealthy matches for the girls in order to increase their own standing. The gentleman they parade before the girls are often much older and unsavory. Determined to protect her sister and save them both from unwanted marriages, Louisa runs away seeking an ancient treasure guarded by a giant. She disguises herself as a boy and goes by the name of “Jack.” When she meets the handsome knight, Sir Charles on her journey, he joins her quest desiring to protect “Jack” who he clearly recognizes is a girl from the dangers that lie ahead. Along the way, they meet new friends, fierce foes, and even the fabled giant.

This was such a sweet story with lots of romance, action, and faith. I loved all the nods to Jack and the Beanstalk. Like Jack, Louisa is a bit naive in her quest to find the giant’s treasure. I loved the way Sir Charles took her under his wing and how their romance grew. Charles is recovering from a bitter betrayal and is not looking for a romantic relationship, but Louisa captures his heart and brings out his protectiveness. I loved how they worked together and helped not only each other but new friends in their quest. Their meeting with the giant offered a heartwarming twist.

Definitely recommend this cute YA Medieval romance to those 14 and up and to anyone who enjoys fairytale retellings. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided. ( )

Set in 1388, the Middle Ages, a tale of errant knights, an innocent maiden, with robbers, thieves, a giant and a wicked uncle, all thrown into the melting pot.
Eighteen year old Louisa Lenton didn’t want to marry the rich older men her miserly uncle kept presenting her with. Now he’s turning his eyes and plans towards her twelve year old sister, Margaret! Louisa has to break free, and find the hidden Viking gold their father had always talked to save them both.
Having grown up hearing about the giant and his Viking treasure up in Scotland, Louisa disguises herself as a boy and sets off to track down the treasure, the key to their freedom.
That’s when she meets a young, disillusioned knight who ignores the fact that Jack’s really a girl. He’s determined to protect her.
Off they go, Sir Charles Raynsford armed with his sword and knightly integrity, Louisa with her faith in Jesus, her prayers, and her goodness. Of course she keeps escaping bad situations by the skin of her teeth. The various people they meet include a widow making a pilgrimage to Canterbury (to my mind a character who could have been straight from Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales). She’s by herself and of course the ever knightly Charles includes her in his protective orbit.
The tale is supposed to be based on Jack and the Beanstalk. I think the connection is somewhat tenuous.
A slightly otherworldly read where goodness naturally triumphs.

A Thomas Nelson ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher. ( )

This book takes place in England in 1388, a very different time, woman were to be owned and not really people, according to some. Two young sisters, one eighteen and the other twelve, are being raised by their aunt and uncle, or as you will soon see paying their way. The guardians now want more money to marry them both off, yes, both!

So the oldest decides to set off disguised as "Jack", can she pull it off? Wow what an adventure she is about to find and have, but can she return in time to save her sister?

I so enjoyed this story, could it be based on fact? Probably, a different time, but for this time it reads a bit like a fairy tale!

I loved the ending of this read!
I received this book though Net Galley and the Publisher Thomas Nelson, and was not required to give a positive review. ( )