The Best Cinderella Retellings in Romance Books
Cinderella is one of the most beloved fairytales, and for a good reason. The rags-to-riches storyline, the magical transformation, and the happily-ever-after romance make it the perfect foundation for countless retellings. If you love a romance with masquerade balls, dashing heroes, and strong heroines overcoming their circumstances, you’ll adore these.
In this post, we’re diving into the best Cinderella retellings in romance books, broken down by genre so you can find your perfect match.
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Historical Cinderella Retellings
If you love Regency, Victorian, or historical romance with a Cinderella twist, these books are for you. Think grand masquerade balls, dashing dukes, and women rising above their stations (or men) to find true love.
Marry Me by Midnight by Felicia Grossman
A gender-swapped Cinderella retelling set in 1830s London’s Jewish community. Heiress Isabelle Lira needs a husband, and she enlists Aaron Ellenberg, a synagogue custodian, to vet potential suitors. But when their undeniable chemistry takes over, she may have already found the one.
The Trouble with Being a Duke by Sophie Barnes
At a grand masquerade ball, Anthony Hurst, Duke of Kingsborough, falls for Isabella Chilcott, a mysterious beauty who vanishes at midnight. Determined to find her, Anthony embarks on a romantic pursuit reminiscent of Cinderella’s lost glass slipper.
A Kiss at Midnight by Eloisa James
A witty, passionate Cinderella retelling where Kate Daltry is forced to pose as her stepsister at a ball. She catches the attention of Prince Gabriel, and sparks fly in this Regency-era romance full of humor and charm.
The Prince Who Loved Me by Karen Hawkins
A charming Cinderella retelling where Prince Alexsey Romanovin sets his sights on Bronwyn Murdoch, a bookish and independent woman. But when their romance faces the challenges of royal expectations, Bronwyn must decide if she can trust her heart.
Related: Don’t miss our favorite highlander heroes
An Offer From a Gentleman by Julia Quinn
A classic Cinderella-inspired romance from the Bridgerton world. Sophie Beckett, the illegitimate daughter of an earl, sneaks into a masquerade ball and captures Benedict Bridgerton’s heart. But can a woman of her station ever marry a Bridgerton?
One Night with You by Sophie Jordan
Lady Jane Guthrie, trapped in a loveless marriage, attends a masquerade ball in disguise and encounters Seth Rutledge. Their passionate night leads to unforeseen consequences and a journey toward love.
If You Give a Girl a Viscount by Kieran Kramer
A young woman toils under her stepmother and stepsisters until a charming viscount steps in to change her fortunes, leading to a romance filled with wit and warmth.
Fantasy & Paranormal Cinderella Retellings
For readers who love magic, fairytales, and supernatural elements, these Cinderella retellings add a fun new twist.
Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas
A Cinderella-inspired fantasy where Celaena Sardothien, a deadly assassin, is given the chance to win her freedom—if she can survive a competition to become the king’s champion.
Cinder by Marissa Meyer
A sci-fi Cinderella retelling where Cinder, a cyborg mechanic, falls for Prince Kai while uncovering dark secrets about her past. A YA favorite blending fairytale and futuristic elements.
Cinderella is Dead by Kalynn Bayron
A bold, feminist retelling set in a world where Cinderella’s story is used to oppress young women. Sophia rebels against the system, uncovering dark secrets and finding unexpected love.
Contemporary Cinderella Retellings
Modern twists on Cinderella bring the magic into today’s world, from reality TV to geeky fandoms.
If the Shoe Fits by Julie Murphy
A plus-size Cinderella retelling featuring Cindy, a young designer who joins a reality dating show. But will she find love or just make fashion history?
Geekerella by Ashley Poston
A fandom-inspired Cinderella where Elle, a superfan of the Starfield movie series, enters a cosplay contest and crosses paths with a Hollywood heartthrob playing her favorite character.
Dark Cinderella Retellings
Stroke of Midnight by K. Webster
A dark billionaire romance with a forbidden age-gap twist. Cinderella meets a powerful CEO who makes her an offer she can’t refuse.
Which Cinderella Retelling Will You Read Next?
Do you prefer historical ballrooms, magic, or dark and spicy romance? Share your favorite Cinderella retellings in the comments! And if you love historical romance, listen to my latest podcast episode featuring five must-read historical Cinderella retellings.
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