Lady of Disguise

A Medieval Inspirational Fairytale

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Pub Date Feb 13 2024 | Archive Date Mar 20 2024

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Description

Readers who love the fairytale charm of Melanie Dickerson, and the historical richness of Philippa Gregory and Bernard Cornwell, will be drawn into this riveting tale of courage, romance, and hidden treasures. Feel the tension and intrigue as a brave and determined young woman embarks on an adventurous journey to unearth the legendary "Giant's Treasure" in Melanie Dickerson's Lady of Disguise.

Only the hidden treasure will allow Louisa and her sister to gain their freedom.

England, 1388: All her life, Louisa has dreamed of finding the rumored "Giant's Treasure," a collection of ancient, lost riches said to be hidden on a mountaintop in Scotland, guarded by a fierce monster. It's a story her father used to tell her, and when he dies and she and her younger sister have to go live with their shiftless, greedy uncle, Louisa is determined to find that treasure. It's the hope that has kept her defying her uncle's efforts to marry her off to the highest bidder.

After her uncle starts to parade Louisa's twelve-year-old sister Margaret in front of potential husbands, Louisa realizes she has no time to waste. She disguises herself as a boy and takes off for Scotland. But the road is a harsher place than she'd imagined, and she is relieved to find a friend in the knight, Sir Charles, who goes along with her on her journey.

Charles is intrigued by this young woman who claims her name is "Jack" and is set on going to Scotland. He goes along, pretending to believe she is a boy, in order to make sure nothing bad happens to her. As they meet new friends along the road, and as Louisa comes clean about her identity, the pair find themselves falling in love. But what will happen when they reach Scotland? Will they find their independence and the freedom to marry in the form of a buried treasure, or will the monster from Louisa's own past keep the young couple apart?

A delightfully charming reimagining of "Jack and the Beanstalk" from New York Times bestselling author Melanie Dickerson that beautifully interweaves strong faith-based elements with an engaging YA story about a girl determined to save her family. The book's emphasis on resilience, integrity, and the power of faith will inspire and prompt readers to consider life's deeper meanings and purposes, making it an excellent read for those seeking books that encourage contemplation and conversations about values and moral lessons. And it includes discussion questions!

Part of the Dericott series: Book 1: Court of Swans; Book 2: Castle of Refuge; Book 3: Veil of Winter; Book 4: Fortress of Snow; Book 5: Cloak of Scarlet; Book 6: Lady of Disguise

Readers who love the fairytale charm of Melanie Dickerson, and the historical richness of Philippa Gregory and Bernard Cornwell, will be drawn into this riveting tale of courage, romance, and hidden...


Available Editions

EDITION Other Format
ISBN 9780840708670
PRICE $19.99 (USD)
PAGES 320

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Average rating from 108 members


Featured Reviews

A lovely tale of love and mistaken identity, this gem takes place in medieval times, and at its heart is the love of a sister for a sister. Melanie Dickerson writes charming romances that warm the heart, and this one is no different. I found it a very engrossing, enjoyable read that I will return to!

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LADY OF DISGUISE by MELANIE DICKERSON is a delightful romantic “fairy tale” which takes place in England in 1388, and in which we come upon the Dericott family again, with Sir Charles Raynesford of Dericott coming to the rescue of Louisa Lenton of Maydestone, who has run away from her wicked uncle who wants to marry her and her twelve year old sister Margaret to the highest bidder. Dressed as a boy, she sets off to Yorkshire to find the Viking treasure she has heard so much about. The characters she and Charles come across are interesting, and I love to see how they interact with the simple truth of Christ’s love and compassion flowing through the story…….
I like this description of Charles, a knight dedicated to his king and “going about the English countryside seeking wrongs to make right, damsels in distress to rescue, and other good deeds and noble quests,” and that of Louisa, who, as she left on her jourey, “hugged her sister, praying silently, God, help me come back to her with enough money so I can provide for us both.”
I found Lady of Disguise most enjoyable and inspirational - a “breath of fresh air” in its simplicity and truth.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Thomas Nelson. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

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The way women have been treated down through the years is abominable. Instead of being treasured, so many (including myself) have suffered being demeaned and abused.
In this tale, two young women are seen only as a means of money to their uncle.
The oldest sister (I relate) will go to any length to protect her younger sister.
Along comes a knight who will protect women and children from the injustices of the time.
I love the quiet romance that lends hope that some good men can still be found.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. My opinions are my own.

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I did not realize that this book is marketed toward a teen/YA audience. That was my mistake. Nonetheless, I found the novel to be super entertaining. LADY OF DISGUISE covers a time period I wasn't previously familiar with, and I enjoyed how the author weaves her historical research into the narrative. The characters, especially the main character, are captivating. While the second half of the story drags a bit in terms of pacing, overall the plot moves well. The ending provides a satisfying conclusion. Highly recommended for fans of historical fiction.

I received a complimentary e-galley from the publisher; all opinions are my own.

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A retelling of Jack and the beanstalk, this book which is the sixth book in the Derricott tales series was a great read. It can be read as either a standalone or as part of the series. I liked the twist that the author put on the traditional tale and while I am not in the target demographic - I wouldn't have enjoyed it anymore if I was - meaning it's suitable for anyone interested.

I liked most of the characters - you'll see the exceptions as you read it. It was nice getting to see characters from previous novels and for that reason, I'd suggest going back and reading them. Looking forward to book 7.

I receive complimentary books for various sources including, Netgalley, Authors, and other such sources. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received compensation.

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I was given an e copy of this book, to give my honest opinion, the following is my honest opinion.
I really enjoy Melanie Dickerson's books, and this one is no different. This beautiful heart warming story of the love between Louisa and her 12 year old sister who live in England during the middle ages. Louisa is determined to do whatever it takes to protect her sister, even if she has to face a "Giant".
I absolutely loved this book. It is inspirational and encouraging. I highly recommend this book.

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Thank you Thomas Nelson Fiction for this ARC of Lady in Disguise.

I understand this is a YA novel, but I decided I wanted to read the series anyway. I have very much enjoyed the whole series of The Dericott Tales Series. Great stories bas3d in fairy tales.

This story was based on Jack and the Bean stalk.

This are good stories that anyone can read.

I just reviewed Lady of Disguise by Melanie Dickerson. #LadyofDisguise #NetGalley

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Melanie Dickerson is one of my most favorite authors. I may own all of her YA books, and to read Lady of Disguise was just the icing on the cake. She is a master of all fairytale retellings and historical fiction (and beautiful book covers). Loved this book so much.

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An arranged marriage, A skimming uncle, and A buried treasure guarded by monster! Lady of Disguise is another wonderful medieval romance and adventure from Melanie Dickerson!

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This book teaches you to think of others. Even if they are cruel or monsters. It is the perfect example of kindness to others. It displays how even when we are not like someone else we can still appreciate them and in situations where we are treated badly we can not return the favor.

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Another hit from Melanie Dickerson! I would absolutely recommend this book to any friends and family!

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The sixth installment from The Dericott Tales, Lady of Disguise, is just what I would expect from Melanie Dickerson. It was great. Five stars.

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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.,

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Melanie dickerson has been on of my favorite authors for years and I was so excited to read this book and it did not disappoint. The romance was so amazing and the story was very well thought out. I would highly recommend this book to everyone!

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Louisa is so incredibly kind and good. I loved that her character is always looking for ways to help or show kindness to others. Sir Charles is also noble and good. He just wants to do what is right and make the world a better place. When their paths meet on a potentially perilous mission their goodness combines to include many others.
I loved the side characters that Louisa and Charles meet along their journey. They were interesting and varied. This is a book that left me feeling happy and wanting to show more kindness. I would highly recommend.

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Lady of Disguise by Melanie Dickerson is the next Dericot tale, stories about knights and ladies in King Richard’s court. Sir Charles meets Louisa on the road. She is disguised as a boy and headed to find a treasure that is supposedly guarded by a giant. Along the way, they meet new friends and start to fall in love. But how can they make things work when her uncle is determined to make her marry a man of his choice. Thanks NetGalley for the chance to read and listen to this book.

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Another Amazing Reimagining Of A Favorite Fairy Tale!

I should not be surprised when I’m finished with another Dericott Book that I’m ready for more! Run to get your hands on this book!

Louisa was delightful and I loved her portrayal as a strong woman with a heart for God. Charles was honorable and such a kind heart. I felt all the characters were very interesting. Of course you wouldn’t have a fairytale without a villain!

Audiobook: Narrated by Jude Mason
The Narrator is amazing. The different accents are spot on and are not distracting. She gives another dimension to the book. I was so drawn in I got my kitchen clean before I knew it!!!

I can’t wait for her next book!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

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Another great fairy tale retelling from Melanie Dickerson. This story along was filled with sadness, a controlling Uncle but also happiness, a heartfelt love and faith elements. Melanie always writes the right amount of faith in her books to have to feeling at peace and not feeling like God is being shoved down your throat. Another great story in this series of wonderful stories with the Dericott family.
Thank you to the author and Netgalley for my review ARC. These words are my own.

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"None of us get what we deserve," Louisa was quick to say, "because God is merciful and forgiving, and He has forgiven you."

Lady of Disguise is the sixth installment of Melanie Dickerson's The Derricott series. I really enjoy the series she writes because of how relatable her characters. I love that she does retellings of fairy tales, even some that you wouldn't expect, like Jack and the Beanstalk. This was an easy to read, fun book that I couldn't put down from page one. I finished it in a day. Louisa was such a sweet, brave soul who truly deserved to find happiness and I loved how protective and honorable Charles was. And, as much as I loved the two main characters, I think my favorite character was Allistor. He truly melted my heart. I hated how difficult of a life he had lived and was glad that he has the hopes of better now. I only wish the other Derricott siblings could have been featured more in the story. It would have been good to be able to "visit" with the rest of the family some. That said, Dickerson truly does introduce some amazing new characters in this story. Some of them, I loved and some I absolutely hated. I really did like the cover design even though it doesn't really match the rest of the series.

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I have been provided with a review copy of Lady of Disguise from NetGalley for an impartial review. Awwww this was such a cute story. I was just captivated by everything that was taking place. It was just so easy to get into these characters lives and you just can't help but fall in love with them. I can't wait to see what's next from this author.

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Lady of Disguise is book six in The Dericott Tales Series by Melanie Dickerson and it was a delightful historical medieval romance.
This book has great characters, a vivid setting and an adorable romance.
Dickerson has written a beautiful, inspiring, and adventure filled story.
I have not read the previous titles in this series but I think I may have to check them out.

Thank You NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for your generosity and gifting me a copy of this amazing eARC!

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This book in the Dericott series features Charles and Louisa. Louisa runs across Charles in her travels to find a treasure and he joins her to keep her safe. We also meet Louisa's uncle and aunt, as well as her sister Margaret, as well as Richie, Sybil, Morten and Allistor, as well as mention of a couple of Charles family members. Most of this story is set to the travelling beyond Yorkshire for Louisa and Charles and the people they meet on the way. Enjoyable story with two leads who like to help others. Though Louisa had planned this trip herself, she is thankful for the protection of a knight as we travel along with them.

A complimentary copy was provided by Thomas Nelson via NetGalley. A review was not required and all thoughts and opinions are my own.

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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.
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)

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The Dericott’s live on. I love this series about the Dericott brothers. The story is an adventure with Sir Charles and Lady Louisa. Louisa and her sister, Margaret are wards of their aunt and uncle after their parents passing. Their uncle only wants the money he can get out of the highest bride sale. But Louisa remembers the story her father told her about a buried fortune high on a hillside, and she is determined that she is going to run away and find it. She and Margaret can then live their life the way they want to. She decides the only way it can work is if she disguises herself as a boy, so she finds old boys clothes and cuts her hair. With a hat pulled over her brow she sets out on her adventure. When she runs into some trouble, a kind young man comes to her aid. When Sir Charles comes across this young lad that needed some assistance he quickly realized it was no young lad. It was a girl dressed up to be a boy. This is just the beginning of this wonderful story. It held me captivated and I was intrigued throughout the story. It was fun, witty, adventurous, with villains, faith, Christian kindness, and of course sweet romance. I truly enjoyed the characters. They were well rounded God-fearing people trying to find good in others. If they could find happiness for themselves, their journey would be worth every trial with a happily ever after. I love this author, Melanie Dickerson’s stories, and this one is another great addition. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

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This book was a super fun, action packed adventure. It was a clever retelling of Jack and the Bean Stalk. Luisa was smart and brave while Charles was courageous and chivalrous. I also loved Margaret’s character and I absolutely can’t wait to hear her story.

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Sir Charles is SWOON worthy! This is a great YA Jack and the Beanstalk retelling.

Louisa is a brave older sister who desperately wants to protect her very young sister from being married off. The suitors her uncle is attracting are not ideal. Especially when it comes to marrying off a 12 year old.

There is action, adventure, and found families.

Give it a read if you’re into fairy tale retellings and historical fiction.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

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I really enjoyed this fairytale retelling of Jack and the Beanstalk. I liked how it was different from the original story but we could see elements of the fairytale. I love the characters of Louisa and Charles and I loved how they fell in love on their journey. I also loved how kind they were to those around them. I thought this story was well done and was a great addition to this series.

I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.

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Another fun book to add to this collection! I have really enjoyed each and every tale of these brothers and Sir Charles included. I love a good re-telling and Melanie Dickerson has such a fun way of making each one very unique. You feel as though you are a part of the story.

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Melanie Dickerson is the Fairy tale retelling Queen! I absolutely adored this Medieval retelling of Jack in the Bean stock! I really enjoyed the dynamic between Louisa and Charles! Can't wait to see what comes next!

I received an ARC through Netgalley and all opinions are my own.

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Great tale once again from Melanie Dickerson! She sets the standards for young adult fiction. Her books are ones that I collect and buy no matter what for a feel good read that entertains.

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