This modern fairy tale is a thoroughly good time! Princess Benevolence has grown up in the kingdom of Montagne, a small principality that is set in the shelter of a small valley abutting a large mountain that plays a major role in the lore of the kingdom Drachensbett, a larger neighboring one that has threatened it's sovereignty over the centuries.

Ben is the daughter of the of the king's brother. She was given every amenity and is a bit spoiled. She has a bit of spunk and a sarcastic tongue that gets her in trouble but keeps the reader laughing.

As with most fairy tales, our hero must overcome a terrible tragedy, and Ben's trouble is tied to the loss of her uncle and mother who turn up dead after a trip up the mountain to visit the tomb of her grandfather, who died heroically fighting the forces of Drachensbett. Her father has turned up missing.

Besides losing her loved ones, Ben is forced into the rule of being the future leader of her country. Queen Sophia, her aunt and new regent, has taken on the responsibility of training Ben for the future. She comes across as being quite harsh as Ben is forced to learn the skills and behavior that would serve any queen well. Life is by no means easy for Ben, but some of the harshness comes across because of her own insolence.

Before long, Ben finds herself imprisoned in a room in a high tower that would do Rapunzel proud. As she frantically seeks out an escape, she comes across a secret passage that leads her to a small magical laboratory that helps her connect with her family's magical past. She slowly uses a book in the lab to learn to control the four elements.

While she does this, she learns that the Regent Sophia is working on bringing about suitors for Ben in order to avoid an invasion by Drachensbett, which includes the crown prince of that kingdom. This seems to be a complete nightmare since many, including Ben, believe this kingdom played a role in the recent royal deaths.

At the conclusion of a ball designed to introduce Ben to the various suitors, Ben is able to flee the castle and end up in dire straights. Her adventures will help her realize what it takes to be both an adult and a good leader.

The story is presented by Ben, who is looking back on the adventures from the future. Her humorous tone and cozy narrative really makes the reader feel for her, even at the beginning when she is a bit spoiled. I really loved this story. It reminded me a lot of Shrek and Ella Enchanted. It is fun!