Title: The Orphan’s Wish
Author: Melanie Dickerson
First published June 26, 2018
345 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780718074838 (ISBN10: 0718074831)
Rating: 3.89
Overview
The Orphan’s Wish by Melanie Dickerson is a heartwarming tale of a young boy named Aladdin who, after being orphaned, travels to a foreign land in search of a better life. In his new home, Aladdin meets Lady Kirstyn, the daughter of a powerful Duke, and despite their different backgrounds, the two quickly become close friends.
As they grow older, Aladdin’s hard work and determination earn him a position as the Duke’s steward, but his past as a thief still haunts him. To prove his worth and become Kirstyn’s equal, Aladdin sets out on a journey that will test his courage and loyalty, and ultimately bring him back to Kirstyn in a time of unexpected danger.
This enchanting retelling of a classic story explores the true meaning of family, friendship, and love.
About the Author
Meet Melanie Dickerson, an accomplished author with numerous accolades to her name. She has been honored as a New York Times bestselling author, a two-time Christy Award finalist, and a two-time winner of the Maggie Award.
In addition, Melanie has won the Carol Award and Christian Retailing’s Best award twice. Her debut novel, The Healer’s Apprentice, even won the National Readers Choice Award for Best First Book.
Melanie is an active member of both American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and Romance Writers of America (RWA). Prior to her writing career, she earned a degree in special education of the hearing impaired from The University of Alabama and worked as a teacher in Georgia, Tennessee, and Ukraine.
Melanie currently resides in Huntsville, Alabama with her husband and two children.
Editoral Review
The Orphan’s Wish is a young adult historical romance novel written by Melanie Dickerson. Known for her retellings of classic fairy tales, Dickerson has turned her attention to the tale of Aladdin in this latest novel.
Published on June 26, 2018, the book is a delightful mix of adventure, romance, and intrigue. Set in fifteenth-century Germany, The Orphan’s Wish follows the journey of Aladdin, an orphaned teenager who survives by stealing from the wealthy.
When he crosses paths with Lady Kirstyn, a beautiful noblewoman disguised as a boy, she hires him as her protector. Together, they embark on a perilous journey to retrieve a valuable relic, all while uncovering dark secrets and falling in love.
Dickerson’s writing style is clear and concise, making it easy for readers to follow the story’s intricate plot. The setting is vividly described, creating a realistic portrayal of medieval Germany.
Dickerson’s characters are well-developed, particularly Aladdin, who is both charming and sympathetic. His desire for a better life, even if it means breaking the law, is well-founded, as readers will empathize with his struggles.
The Orphan’s Wish is not only a retelling of Aladdin but also a commentary on social class and gender roles. Lady Kirstyn, who is not like other women of her stature, yearns for a life of adventure and freedom.
Her character is a refreshing change from the typical female characters found in medieval settings, adding a much-needed layer of complexity and relatability. At times, the plot can be slow-moving, and the romance between Aladdin and Lady Kirstyn can feel predictable.
However, Dickerson’s ability to weave in historical events and details keeps readers engaged. The book’s length can also be a bit daunting for those looking for a quick read.
Overall, The Orphan’s Wish is an enjoyable read for fans of both fairy tale retellings and historical fiction. It provides a fresh and engaging perspective on the tale of Aladdin while also exploring important themes relevant to today’s social issues.
Young adults will particularly appreciate the relatable characters and exciting adventure. I give The Orphan’s Wish a rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars.
