Lady of Disguise

An inspiring coming-of-age sweet romance inspired by Jack and the Beanstalk

By: Melanie Dickerson

Narrated by: Jude Mason

From New York Times bestselling author Melanie Dickerson, beloved for her enchanting fairy-tale retellings, comes a sparkling medieval adventure inspired by Jack and the Beanstalk, perfect for fans of Philippa Gregory and Bernard Cornwell.

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 blend of historical richness and heartfelt romance, Lady of Disguise can be enjoyed as a standalone or as an essential chapter in Dickerson's beloved YA world (other books include Court of Swans, Castle of Refuge, Veil of Winter, Fortress of Snow, and Cloak of Scarlet). With its thoughtful discussion questions and gentle spiritual insights, it's a wonderful read for teens, families, and anyone who loves fairy-tale magic with real-world heart.

Critic reviews

'Set in 14th-century England, this lighthearted romance by Dickerson (The Warrior Maiden) centers the Chaucer-like plight of orphaned 18-year-old Louisa Lenton of Maydestone . . . her compassion and grace immediately endear her to the reader, as well as to fairy tale gallant Sir Charles. Purple prose and plentiful religious allegory combined with steadily crescendoing romantic tension, easily vanquished dangers, and innumerable foes and red herrings results in an amiable love-conquers-all tale.'

I loved this retelling of Jack and the beanstalk. so many fun twists. I also always love the way her stories twin together.

I liked the feminine independence she stands up for but also the Biblical submission to her going to be husband.

Centuries Old Love Story

The story was engaging, the time in which it was written, excellent language and the most important touch of the Christian faith.

Bravery, A Quest, Unexpected Friends, and Clean Romance

Another fantastic book by Melanie Dickerson. I always feel motivated and inspired to be as brave, good, and kind as the main characters. I knew, as with past books, that the content would be safe to listen to out loud around my children. The characters are good role models for them.

As for the book itself, the story held my attention and I couldn’t stop listening. Every book seems to get better than the last. I love how characters from previous novels get woven in to create a richer story.

Louisa tries to find a treasure she’s heard stories of. She wants to free herself and her sister from being forced into marriage. Along the way she makes friends with all sorts of interesting people. One of those is Charles, a knight, who helps her along her journey.

I wasn’t sure what would happen when they got to where the supposed treasure was, and it was a twist that captivated my attention!

I know this will be another book I’ll enjoy listening to more than once.

Love the series

I’m never disappointed in the wholesome pleasant stories from Melanie Dickerson! So thankful I purchased this one!

Never disappoints

Melanie Dickerson’s books are always interesting and I haven’t read one of her books I don’t like. I am waiting for a few years to pass to read them all again!