Lady Tremaine by Rachel Hochhauser is a sharp and sweeping reimagining of Cinderella, told from the “evil” stepmother’s perspective. Hochhauser’s powerful prose reveals the often unsung strength and brilliance of Lady Etheldreda Verity Isolde Tremaine Bramley. From the first page of this debut novel, her captivating, lyrical, and witty storytelling will hook you.
Hochhauser’s vibrant world-building is so immersive that you will likely find yourself surprised when you suddenly realise that you are, indeed, reading, rather than watching the lush, cinematic masterpiece. Hochhauser beautifully describes both opulence and decay, as Etheldreda’s manor hall, although grand from the outside, crumbles within, reflecting how her façade is cracking under the pressures of motherhood, misfortune, and survival.
Etheldreda is certainly the star of the show, but the rest of the cast is just as vivid and well-developed, each character presented with a special twist. Cinderella is more defiant and haughtier than you might expect, and there is more to her prince than meets the eye. Cinderella’s stepsisters are unlikeable in most renditions of the tale, but in Lady Tremaine, Rosie and Matilda delight each time they grace the page.
Hochhauser thoughtfully explores animal bonds through Etheldreda’s connection to her peregrine falcon, and I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the addictive, enthralling love story between Etheldreda and…well, I won’t spoil who, but their tension and chemistry are *chef’s kiss.
Lady Tremaine’s originally “evil” character is presented with a new perspective—one that’s thoughtful, compelling, and delightfully surprising. Lady Tremaine isn’t a mere retelling; it is an emotional exploration of womanhood. Hochhauser highlights the pain (and often exploitation) that comes with being a woman: little girls are forced to grow up too fast, and women must combat violence and fight to survive, both in marriage and in the trials the world throws at them.
Widowed twice, Etheldreda’s story is one of survival, as she’s forced to maintain a ruse of ease and care for herself, her manor, and her daughters in a world that favours men and wealth. As Lady Tremaine highlights the strength of womankind, it simultaneously emphasises the power of motherhood and the determination of a mother to protect and provide for her children. Etheldreda would do anything for her daughters, and the loving ferocity of a mother’s bond shines through as she strives to secure marriages for them.
The heart and key elements of the Cinderella story are preserved while revealing a whole new side in refreshing and exhilarating ways. Threaded throughout are many twists, secrets, and powerful revelations. With a whirlwind of a plot that ends on a beautiful note and sharp pacing that leaves room to bask in the world while having you flying through the pages, Lady Tremaine is unputdownable from start to finish. I cannot recommend it enough! (But please check the trigger warnings before diving in, as the story covers sensitive topics).
Oh, and we must take a moment to appreciate Bessie Carter’s brilliant performance in the audiobook of Lady Tremaine. With excellent accents and a soothing yet engaging voice, her narration was enchanting. She beautifully captured the novel’s atmosphere and emotion. I highly recommend the audiobook!
Lady Tremaine is available from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Bookshop.org, and other good book retailers, like your local bookstore, as of March 3rd 2026.
Will you be picking up Lady Tremaine? Tell us in the comments below!
Synopsis
Twice-widowed, Lady Etheldreda Verity Isolde Tremaine Bramley is solely responsible for her two children, a priggish stepdaughter, a razor-taloned peregrine falcon, and a crumbling manor. Fierce and determined, Ethel clings to the respectability her deceased husband’s title affords her, hoping it will secure her daughters’ future through marriage.
When a royal ball offers the chance to change everything, Ethel risks her pride in pursuit of an invitation for all three of her daughters―only to see her hopes fulfilled by the wrong one. As an engagement to the future king unfolds, Ethel discovers a sordid secret hidden in the depths of the royal family, forcing her to choose between the security she craves and the wellbeing of the stepdaughter who has rebuffed her at every turn.
As if Bridgerton met Circe, and exhilarating to its core, Lady Tremaine reimagines the myth of the evil stepmother at the heart of the world’s most famous fairy tale. It is a battle cry for a mother’s love for her daughters, and a celebration of women everywhere who make their own fortunes.
