4 Reasons Why You Should Read Allerleirauh
On August 22nd, Parliament House Press will release it’s first novel – “Allerleirauh.” It’s a fanciful and powerful retelling of a classic fairy tale. A king makes a promise to his dying wife that he'll only remarry a woman who possesses her golden hair. In time, the king's eyes are turned by his daughter. Realizing her father’s intentions, Princess Aurelia tries to trick him by requesting impossible gifts: dresses created by the sun, moon and stars, and a coat made of a thousand furs. But when he is successful, Aurelia sacrifices her privileged life and flees her kingdom, disguised by the cloak and a new name, Allerleirauh. She enters the safe haven of Saarland der Licht, where the handsome and gentle Prince Klaus takes her under his care. Hoping not to be discovered by her father’s courtiers, Allerleirauh tries to remain hidden under her new identity when she finds unexpected love with Prince Klaus, even though his arranged marriage to the princess of a neighboring kingdom approaches. Risking everything, Allerleirauh must face her troubled past and her fears of the future along her journey to self-acceptance and love.
1. The Men
What can I say? The men in this novel have been some of my favorite characters to write about. As I was writing these characters, these actors definitely inspired how they looked (and acted.)First, there’s the dashing, brave and kind Prince Klaus of Saarland der Licht, who takes the runaway princess in as his guest. Kinda like Prince Eric with Ariel, right? (Maybe a little)
And then there’s Lord Crestwood, the Prince’s “right hand man.” He’s loyal, stubborn and cares greatly for his friend and the kingdom that he serves.
2. The Dresses
What fairy tale doesn’t have a mention of some beautiful and fashionable ball gowns? Cinderella is known for her glass slippers, Belle – for her yellow gown, and Ariel – for that adorable pink gown we all secretly adore. Allerleirauh’s original story includes the mention of three gowns and a fur cloak made by her father – the King. Each gown made by the elements of nature – The Sun, Moon and Stars. My novel certainly did not leave out these details. Even as these gowns come and go in this retelling, there are several mentions to other gorgeous gowns.
3. Real Issues
This novel actually touches on some really big (and current) issues that women face daily. While catching the attention of a rich and powerful man might be thrilling (and maybe the ultimate ‘happily ever after’ for some of us) – it’s completely different when that man is your blood relative. In the case of “Allerleirauh,” – it’s her father. After vowing to his dying wife that he’d only remarry a woman with her golden hair, his unsuccessful pursuits nearly drive him into madness – and begins to focus his desires towards his own daughter. Sexual abuse is alive all around the world and occurs more often than we might realize. For instance, did you know 1 in 10 children are sexually abused before the age of 18? While that might not seem a lot to you, it’s still one too many. This book was not written with only fairytale fans in mind – instead, I wrote this novel for those who have endured sexual abuse in their lives.
You’re not alone.
4. The Love of Fairytales
If you’re a fan of magical, meaningful, and well-loved fairy tales, “Allerleirauh” deserves to have it’s chance in sweeping you up off of your feet. While there might not be a fairy godmother with a magical wand, or a magical curse in need of ‘true love’s kiss,’ . . . this fairy tale does encompass the wonders of love, the fear of rejection, and the struggles of overcoming a range of obstacles. In each fairy tale, whether it was written by Charles Perrault, the Grimm Brothers, or animated by the brilliant minds of the Walt Disney Company – it captures a part of humanity, of reality, that lingers in each of us even as we grow up. There are lessons that stick with us and help us in our day-to-day lives. “Allerleirauh” is no exception. In the difficult times and places that we live in, it’s comforting to find a story that we can immerse ourselves in; take refuge in, and learn something. I hope my novel can be that for you.
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