"A Tale" by totteacher

Posted by Pb

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Bella Swan grew up in a world where men treated women rashly; using them for their own pleasure and throwing them away later like a piece of trash. As she had to witness her mother going through exactly that kind of abuse daily, she naturally felt hatred towards Baron Sir James Welshford, who not only ill-reputed many women from his kingdom, but also had his father killed just to have her mother all to himself. Now, as an orphan of eighteen years, Bella works as a servant in the Welshford household: desperately trying to hide herself in dirt and a slouching gait in order to prevent men from getting too attracted to her.  She definitely didn't want the same fate as her mother. Her life is completely changed, however, when Lady Alice and her two brothers arrive at Welshford for a visit. Bella is assigned, rather unexpectedly, as Alice's personal servant, who is supposed follow and take care of every one of her commands and needs. Fortunately, dear Alice is a sweetheart and treats Bella more than nicely, especially when she finds out about her servant's personal history and learns that she wasn't actually born into slavery! She formulates a plan in her head: after making Bella "disappear" she tells everyone that her husband Jasper's sister is missing. She then orders Edward, her brother, to go find her...

Well, as superb as Alice's plan turns out to be, Edward is completely unaware of Bella's past and mistakes her for a royal Lady, falling in love with her immediately. It isn't long before he proposes to her and Bella readily accepts. All she sees is a bright future with this kind, gentle, and handsome young man, who completely managed to sweep her off her feet. But soon, she is overcome with guilt and eventually reveals the truth about herself to him. Surprisingly enough, Edward takes it pretty well and couldn't care less about who she was before they met. He loves her unconditionally and intends make her a true Lady by marrying her. Unfortunately, despite their beautiful wedding, Sir James still seems to have an evil eye out for Bella when he realizes that she is Renee's daughter; the same Renee, whom he ravished without control, eventually killing her. Now he has to have Bella too, but will Edward let that happen?

totteacher does an explicit job in writing such an amazing, and realistic, story. Though we don't know exactly when this story is set, one can deduce that it takes place some time in the 1800s. Her wonderful use of diction creates really a good imagery for readers as they feel like they are right into the story. The best part about this fanfiction is the intricate characters the author has built. The way Edward stands by Bella through everything makes your heart melt! It is also really great reading about how Bella overcomes her fears and grows as a person, discovering that not all men are cruel and treat women badly. Though she seems slightly naive in the beginning, we have to remember what Bella has gone through and witnessed in the past - it is not surprising that she has a rather dense idea about true love. That said, the moment she finally realizes her deep love for Edward is absolutely heart-warming! Yes, men like him really do exist! Don't worry, it is a HEA and I bet you will thoroughly enjoy yourself as you read about James' punishment! A story that one should definitely NOT miss!

A Tale consists of 30 chapters and 67,237 words. The story is rated M for mention of abuse and sexual activities.

COMPLETE 

For fans of: Labour of Devotion