Waiting on Wednesday (4): The Merchant's Daughter by Melanie Dickerson

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

The Merchant's Daughter

Melanie Dickerson

Zondervan

Expected publication on November 29, 2011

An unthinkable danger.  An unexpected choice.  Annabel, once the daughter of a wealthy merchant, is trapped in indentured servitude to Lord Ranulf, a recluse who is rumored to be both terrifying and beastly.  Her circumstances are made even worse by the proximity of Lord Ranulf's bailiff---a revolting man who has made unwelcome advances on Annabel in the past.  

Believing that life in a nunnery is the best way to escape the escalation of the bailiff's vile behavior and to preserve the faith that sustains her, Annabel is surprised to discover a sense of security and joy in her encounters with Lord Ranulf.  As Annabel struggles to confront her feelings, she is involved in a situation that could place Ranulf in grave danger.  Ranulf's future, and possibly his heart, may rest in her hands, and Annabel must decide whether to follow the plans she has cherished or the calling God has placed on her heart. -Goodreads.com

As you might be able to guess, this is a new spin on the age-old tale of Beauty and the Beast.  But wait -- before you groan and say, "Oh not again,"  hear me out.

Has it been done before?  Yes.  

Do we know how the story will end?  Of course. 

Do we know how the characters will make it to their happily-ever-after? Not really.  It changes according to the storyteller.

Am I tired of reading retellings?  No way!

I am a hopeless romantic and fairy tales are some of the greatest stories out there.  There's no denying that there have been many re-tellings of famous fairy tales throughout the centuries and Beauty & the Beast has not escaped that at all.  Books, television series, movies, Broadway shows; this story has seen it all.  Like the sappy romantic I am, I love it all.  

Knowing that the Titanic sinks didn't stop you from going to see Kate & Leo's movie did it?  Heck no!  

Knowing that Beauty and her Beast live happily-ever-after won't stop me from reading this book.  I love seeing old stories through new eyes and I expect I will enjoy The Merchant's Daughter.

If you like fairy tale revamps, I suggest you check out Melanie's other work, The Healer's Apprentice (a new look on Sleeping Beauty), or the many works of the fabulous Robin McKinley.