Of Knives and Nobility: A Retelling of The Princess and the Pea

by E.G.Bella · A Twist of Tales · September 6, 2026

Cover of Of Knives and Nobility: A Retelling of The Princess and the Pea

He’s determined to rescue her. She knows it’s impossible. Two years after the invasion that ended his betrothal to the Cabranian princess, Prince Fenrick of Pethaylia watches his younger brother marry and longs for love of his own. When the borders between Pethaylia and Cabrana finally reopen, whispers circulate of the beautiful princess still awaiting a victorious suitor, and Fenrick resolves to try once more for her hand. Surely The Tests can’t be as difficult as rumors claim. Still grieving the unexpected loss of her father, Princess Ellina of Cabrana is a captive in her own home. Resolved not to soften her heart to any of the suitors who attempt her mother’s corrupt tests, she wants nothing to do with the eager prince from Pethaylia. He’ll fail and leave her again, like everyone else. Perhaps it’s better that way. As Fenrick fights to earn her favor, he realizes that failing at The Tests will lose more than her hand, but her hope as well. His efforts and unending kindness light a spark in Ellina’s chest, but how can anyone overcome the queen’s deception? As stakes rise and lies twist, more than their own happily-ever-afters hang in the balance. This book is part of A Twist of Tales, a series of nonmagical Christian genderbent fairy tale retellings with epic adventures and animal companions. Of Knives and Nobility retells The Princess and the Pea, featuring a morally admirable hero, and tropes such as second-chance romance and he falls first.

Rating: 4.00/5 from 1 ratings · Heat: 1 · Genres: Christian Fiction, Fairy Tale Retelling, Fantasy, Romance

Reviews

Kaytlin Phillips — 4/5

Ack! I had so much fun reading this one! This was such an interesting twist on The Princess and the Pea! Characters: Fenrick was such a sweet guy and I really enjoyed him as a character and Pea! Ack, that little detail and also how cute the lizard was! I just wanted to pull him out of the book so I could have him! Fenrick, darling boy that he was thinking people would be easier if they were lizards. XD Ellina was nice, I didn't relate as much to her...but that's okay, I usually don't relate as much with the girls...if you've read my reviews you know this. Tomboy problems...lol...But she was a nice, conflicted, and scared character who grew over the course of the story. Runi was adorable and I loved her and I could see more of myself in her outgoing and fun personality! Fenrick's brother Viggo was also just fantastic! I loved him! Language: N/A Romance: Yes, a very beautiful, developed romance that was just great! Magic: N/A Violence/Gore: Mentions of trials, being beaten, held at knife point, ordered to kill someone, being shot, cut, manipulated, etc. Nothing is overly detailed and all is handled in a tasteful manner. Overall: This was such a fun retelling with some great twists! I love the animal companion and the brother banter! I really enjoyed this read! Recommended for ages 12+