"Tales of the Five Hundred Kingdoms" is a fantasy book series by Mercedes Lackey that reimagines classic fairy tales in a unique setting. The series features a world where traditional stories and characters, such as Cinderella and Snow White, exist alongside one another, often with unexpected twists and outcomes. The narrative follows various protagonists who navigate the challenges of their fairy tale destinies while seeking to forge their own paths. Each story explores themes of choice, empowerment, and the subversion of typical fairy tale tropes, creating a rich tapestry of interconnected tales within the Five Hundred Kingdoms.