Falling for the Winged Witch: A Villainous Twist on Wild Swans and Jack and the Beanstalk

To Win a Dark Heart

by Sarah Beran

A widowed queen trapped by her past.

A giant who just wants to be left alone.

A fowl curse that could cost them both everything.

Lindy never wanted to get married or have children—especially not seven stepsons old enough to be her brothers and a doddering royal husband. Just when it seems like things couldn’t possibly get any worse, the king suddenly dies, and her sinister reputation for casting curses means that all eyes and fingers are pointed at her. Rather than support their new mother, her stepsons seem determined to do everything they can to make her life miserable. When the youngest fills her room with water fowl as a prank, Lindy finally decides to take things into her own hands—and everything goes wrong.

Atlas lives with his head in the clouds, and he likes it that way. His ancestral home is hidden away so high in the mountains that it’s practically inaccessible. But somehow the secret has slipped, and he keeps chasing away unwanted visitors. After the latest break-in ends with his prized goose missing, Atlas is forced to do the one thing never climb down the beanstalk.

Unfortunately, the scoundrel who took his goose is now a swan, and the only way to get him to tell Atlas where she is is to help the witch who cast the curse in the first place. The nettlesome woman won’t give him the time of day, refusing to speak until the sun goes down. When she does, it’s to instruct him in the most ridiculous task he’s ever heard of.

But Atlas really wants to get his goose and go home, and if knitting is the way to achieve that, so be it. If only the task didn’t threaten to knit his heart to hers in the process…

Falling for the Winged Witch is a combined retelling of Jack and the Beanstalk and The Wild Swans, featuring tropes such as Unlikely Allies, Found Family, and Opposites Attract. It is the third book in the To Win a Dark Heart series, which retells fairy tales as old as time, but this time it’s the villain’s turn to get a happy ending.

Genres: Fairy Tale Retellings, Fantasy

176 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 30, 2026

About the author

Sarah lives in sunny southern California with her husband, two small children, and dog Pippin. An elementary music teacher by day, when she is not writing or devouring books she spends her free time running, making music, or playing make believe.

Reviews

[Sarah Ryder · Rating 4 out of 5]

****Actual Rating 4.5 Stars****

Can’t say after reading Chords of Green and Gold that I wanted nor expected a story about the antagonist, Belinda aka Lindy, but here we are and despite my doubts in the first chapter I ended up loving this sweet little tale far more then I thought I would! My gosh though her stepsons were horribly mean, good grief! I felt so bad for Lindy and Atlas giving those boys a piece of his mind and protect her was EVERYTHING, he was so sweet!

The combining of The Wild Swans and Jack and the Beanstalk was super creative and well done, and I kept guessing throughout how certain elements from both tales would play out and was surprised and pleased with each one. And the climax was WILD, my goodness that was pure chaos!

The way Lindy’s past and present abuse was handled in such a light but raw and real way was very well done, and Atlas being there for her despite how bad her past actions were was so sweet and just everything.

The only part that confused me was the whole Jax and the golden egg bit which went nowhere and felt weirdly out of place, even though I know those elements are part of Jack and the Beanstalk. Though…hang on a second. *runs off to go check something* *runs back* Okay, I think Jax is one of the MCs in her next book in another multi author series, Cursed Climb, which is also a mash-up of JatB, so that makes sense now! Though I still stand behind saying if you don’t know that the scene is strange and feels out of place; so not great since they’re not in a series together (at least not right now) but it’s not totally wasted either, as long as it ends up being the same character, that is, lol.

So far I haven’t been too fond of this author’s series books but have generally loved her multi author contributions which is interesting, lol, and this one is no exception, as I really enjoyed this little tale and had a hard time putting it down! Can’t wait for the release of Cursed Climb later this year!


‼️Content‼️

TRIGGER WARNING: a character is bullied; hints at past physical/verbal/emotional abuse

Violence: a character is nearly burned at the stake; fighting with swans and hand to hand (not detailed); injuries and blood (not detailed)

Sexual: a kiss (not detailed)

Other: a character is bullied; hints at past physical/verbal/emotional abuse; magic; magical abilities; a character curses others (past and present); a character’s called a witch; a character’s locked up in a dungeon


****Note: I received a free copy of the book from the author/publisher. All thoughts and opinions are most assuredly my own and I wasn’t required to write a positive review. If I was I wouldn’t have read it. 😜****

[Fairy Tale and Fantasy Fan Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Falling for the Winged Witch was a fantastic book. It retells the stories The Wild Swans and Jack and the Beanstalk flawlessly. I have wanted Lindy to get her own story after reading about her sister Eliza in A Bond of Ice and Sunshine. Admittedly I wasn't positive I would like her as the protagonist, but Sarah Beran has proven that some villains can be redeemed in the eyes of readers.

Lindy and Atlas were a great couple too. I loved how protective and caring he is to her as he slowly breaks away the barriers, she's built around herself during and after her abusive childhood. (I also really liked that the goose is his pet - so cute!) And I enjoyed seeing Lindy open up her fragile heart to him and learning she doesn't have to do everything by herself. Her friendship with her Ellie was also very sweet and I liked how Ellie stood by her even in the face of the prince's animosity. The princes were very annoyingly rude at first, but I was glad to see how they developed throughout the storyline. Their masterplan at the end had me chuckling too!

Overall Falling for the Winged Witch is a wonderful book that can be read by itself but is more enjoyable after reading Chords of Green and Gold and A Bond of Ice and Sunshine. I look forward to reading more books in this series as well as more books by Sarah Beran

[Tash Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review - Falling for the Winged Witch by Sarah Beran.

I loved this so much. A retelling of Jack and the beanstalk mixed with the Seven Wild Swans.

This story was heartbreaking and healing at the same time, I was literally crying sad and happy tears at once.

Lindy is such a great character! So full of love and care despite all else. She made a huge mistake but it was never on purpose. Her dedication to fix it was so sad though.

Atlas… he was amazing! So misjudged and all because of physical appearance. It was unfair but he wore it like a crown. He absolutely got what he deserved.

I loved the ending! I would have liked to know a bit more about what happened to the princes and the idiot guard, but it was still great.

Highly recommended to fairytale readers. This is only my second book of Sarah but will definitely be reading all the rest soon. Thank you for the opportunity to read this early copy.

[Jasmine (Jazzie) [Jesus Loves You!!] · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rtc!

[Lover of books · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this it was quite the interesting twist on the fairytales.

[LeeEllen Belcher (Caw) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This no-spice fairytale retelling was such a heartbreaking story, making me very emotional throughout the whole novella! The author beautifully weaved the villains from Jack and the Beanstalk and The Wild Swans together in a story of redemption and misunderstandings. I loved how attentive Atlas was towards Lindy, and how he was able to get her to open up. The hardships Lindy endured and her deep desire to belong are things I'm sure would resonate with many readers, just as they did with me.

When Queen Lindy's elderly husband dies, she's falsely accused of his murder by a kingdom that thinks she's a witch. To make matters worse, his seven sons play another cruel prank on her, trapping a flock of stolen waterfowl in her room. In a moment of overwhelmed emotions, Lindy accidentally curses the princes, turning them into swans. Her lady-in-waiting and loyal friend, Ellie, tries to help her escape from the kingdom that now thinks she killed the whole family. While trying to break the curse, she encounters the giant, Atlas, who is searching for his goose that one of the princes stole for their prank. Offering her his help and protection, she slowly reveals her true self to him, and to the princes who never gave her a chance.
Will they be able to trust each other and break the curse before her fate is sealed?

I received an Advanced Reader Copy with no expectation of a review. All opinions are my own.

[Marie Reed · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I started this book, I didn’t think I was going to like it much. I didn’t understand how the two storylines were going to combine in a way that made sense, and I wasn't really a fan of Lindy.

This changed quickly. Lindy was so hurt by everyone in her life but was still trying to be the better person. Atlas had given up on kindness and was resigned to a life alone. They met after the princes had been cursed, when Lindy was working on the nettle shirts. And even though I wasn't a huge fan of how this ended, with both still being seen as a villian by the general population, I loved everyone's growth and I hope there is a story later where the new king tries to make everything right.

[Sarah Pratt · Rating 5 out of 5]

~Overall 4.5 Stars~

This is the first I've read of Sarah Beran's, and I will probably read more of her books after this. Falling for the Winged Witch is a very cute short novel that retold the stories of Wild Swans and Jack and the Beanstalk.

All of the characters came to life and had their own voice, which is a remarkable feat in the short pages of the book. Lindy wasn't just a damsel in distress or an evil witch. She had a rough life and made some bad choices. Atlas was a gentle, caring, misunderstood giant. I didn't think I would like the pairing, but their relationship worked surprisingly well.

I recommend this book to anyone looking for a clean, no-spice, fantasy romance.

[emeraldragonlady (Maddie) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh this villain retelling just hit the spot for me. I could not put it down and it was such a sad story with just the right amount of hope. I don’t know if I could pick a favorite part in this book because i seriously just loved the entire book. I couldn’t put it down just knowing that this witch who was severely picked on and deserves better is being framed for everything and who, but another outcast comes to her rescue and even stands up for her and shows the right way to treat a person for these seven spoiled princes, and the transformation of the princess is amazing and real and unforced. I just loved every moment of this book.

[Thoroughly Clean Indies · Rating 4 out of 5]

*4.5 stars*

Genre: Fantasy, fairy tale retelling [of The Wild Swans and Jack and the Beanstalk]
Tropes: Unlikely allies, on the run, misunderstood
Setting: Castle, forest, up the mountain
Writing style: Dual POV, 3rd person, past tense; includes a flashback
Tone: Vulnerable
Character- or plot-driven: Character-driven

Romance: Yes
Clean level:
• 1 mouth kiss minimally described, pulling closer by shirt
• 2 mouth kisses barely described but 1 with taste
• Kiss fingertips, 1 sentence; again 2 sentences
• 1 forehead kiss, one sentence; 1 head kiss, zero description; 1 forehead touch, zero description
• Man sits on the ground with woman in his lap and her head on his chest; preceded by her nuzzling into his neck; barely described in a very tame context
• Brush cheek with fingers
• “Smoldering” look, 1 sentence

Sensitive aspect: Lyndy was abused by her father and still bears the scars, including flinching whenever a man lifts a hand toward her.

Favorite aspects of the book:
• The way Atlas and Ellie offer Lyndy understanding when no else does, and eventually help her find faith in herself
• Lyndy and Atlas’s relationship
• The redemption and forgiveness

Thoughts on main characters:
• Lyndy’s temper is what has previously got her into trouble with her magic, yet she also displays an impressive forebearance when it comes to her stepsons’ abuse. And when she accidentally turns them into swans, she immediately works to make it right, despite her anger and pain, despite the fact they’d never do the same for her.
• Atlas can be both fierce and gentle, and his indignation on Lyndy’s behalf even when they’ve just met shows his sense of justice.
• Ellie’s loyalty to Lyndy despite the horrible things even her own sweetheart, the oldest prince, believe about Lyndy. She doesn’t allow others’ judgement to guide her own. As Lyndy’s lady-in-waiting, she’s had a close-up view of her for the past few years, and she can sense the trauma lying behind the exterior.

Aside from Atlas and Elise, everyone views Lyndy through a lens of guilt and suspicion. They interpret her composure and fortitude as cold and calculating—because, as they see it, being a villain, she can’t have any other reason. They refuse to consider the strength it takes to endure the abuse of her stepsons and the scorn and ridicule from every corner. Or stop to consider that maybe such an experience was nothing new to her. Only the person closest to her and the outsider with a baselessly ugly reputation of his own are able to recognize her mental scars, because only they care enough to notice.

The beauty of Lyndy and Atlas’s relationship lies in the empathy and tenderness he shows her, even when he’s just met her and her barriers are still up. Even before she’s ready to receive all he offers, he shows her that a man can be gentle and good—something she hasn’t seen since her tutor was dismissed for trying to protect her from her father. He highlights how her character contrasts with the accusations leveled against her, gives voice to her defense mechanisms, and forces her stepsons to reckon with their shameful behavior toward her. The longer he’s with her, the more he yearns to replace her fear-instilling memories with ones that nurture and heal. For the first time, she begins to feel safe with someone, like maybe she can start trusting people again.

The one thing that kept me from being totally satisfied by Lyndy's vindication is that no explanation was given for how exactly she cursed her sister, why she “deserved it,” or in what way she “asked for it.” Without that information it's impossible to.

____________________________________

They’ll never see me as anything other than a witch. Why not just give them what they want?

The type of illogic easy to fall prey to. It matters because why should they be proven right? Whether or not you are one is on you, no one can make you be one.

Favorite Quotations:
• My heart never stopped beating, but my imprisonment was its own form of death. It separated me from my throne, my power, and my tea.
• A smirk played along the corner of one of his lips. “Yes, they were blissfully silent when you froze them.”
• The queen, wearing a glamour that made her leather clothes look like a peasant’s dress, sniffed dramatically. “Please, we’ve been riding for days.” She hiccupped. Literally hiccupped. She was lucky I had experience in schooling my face because my eyes were threatening to roll out of my head.
• I drew a ragged breath as a new Andar—an old Andar who cared about people more than power—shook off centuries of oppression. My own oppression of myself had been even more cruel than what Brintontoven had done to me. He’d imprisoned a power-hungry monster. I’d smothered a good person with a cruel one.
• I hadn’t been on the island when her body finally gave up its grasp on her soul, and when I’d received word of her passing, I’d buried the sorrow of not being there into the same mass grave I’d built for a quickly growing collection of other regrets.
• All the power I’d once tried to control—all the strength I’d thought it would bring me—was nothing compared to the strength that came from trusting. Or the power in admitting I could be wrong without being weak. And the security that came from being known—seen and understood and accepted for exactly who we both were—strengths, weaknesses, hopes, and desires. We were stronger together.
• “I didn’t realize we were having the king for dinner,” he scowled for the sake of tradition. The expression was short-lived, unable to survive long in the presence of Lindy’s smile. She brightened as he entered the room, perking up like a cut flower in a vase of cold water, and jumped from her chair to greet him. “We’re not having him for dinner,” she corrected with a twinkle in her eye. [...] “You need to choose different words if we’re going to salvage your reputation. “Will doing that result in more visitors?” “It could.” [...] “In that case, I stand by my previous statement.”


(I received a free ARC of this book from the author and am gratefully—voluntarily—leaving a review.)

[Makayla · Rating 4 out of 5]

While I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book, the review below reflects my own opinion.

Sarah Beran has easily become a favorite author of mine, so I knew that this story would be good. I was indeed right! While I had wondered how Beran would meld the classic stories of Jack and the Beanstalk and Wild Swans together into a unique villainous story that would capture the reader's attention I wasn't prepared for the seamless way she did so.

Lindy has always felt unwanted. First in her own family, then by the king she was forced to marry as well as her new stepsons. From the moment she entered their lives, her stepsons have done everything they could to make her life miserable. Combine this with the ghosts of her past, it's no wonder Lindy buries her good heart beneath her sharp tongue and by pushing others away. When the king dies, the people begin to believe that it was because of her. When one of the pranks her stepsons play goes too far in the wake of the king's funeral, Lindy ends up accidentally cursing the princes. Desperate to break the curse even at the cost of being thrown into prison or put to death, Lindy escapes along with her stepsons who are now in the bodily form of swans. To break the curse, Lindy makes each of the princes shirts sewn from stinging nettles in silence from dawn to dusk. She doesn't expect to meet Atlas, the gentle giant who at first was only looking for his beloved goose that one of the princes had stolen for their prank.

Atlas is used to a life of solitude. His large intimidating height has forced him into his life of solitude as the townspeople are afraid of him. Only those looking for adventure have dared to climb the mountain to where he resides. When a young man escapes with his close companion, a goose he had rescued and raised from a gosling, he sets out to bring his friend back. When he stumbles upon Lindy at the lakeshore. Despite getting off on the wrong foot during their first interaction, Atlas can't bring himself to leave Lindy alone by herself where anything could happen to her. Offering his protection and help, the two slowly begin to trust each other. Atlas can't deny that there's something special about Lindy, despite her prickly personality. As Atlas slowly gains Lindy's trust and begins to get to know the real Lindy danger strikes.

Will Atlas be able to rescue Lindy before it's too late? Will Lindy be able to break the curse? Read Falling for the Winged Witch to find out! It's a great, clean, villianous story you will not want to miss!

[Chad Barrus · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC copy of this book from the author and though I didn’t have to post a review, I wanted to offer my honest, voluntary impression of it anyway upon completing the book.

Sarah has written a book meshing together two beloved fairy tales which twist the villains into understanding one another through mutually working together leading to an ending both different and satisfying than what you know from reading them separately!

This is a wonderful story of a person who has been overlooked and only used as a pawn never knowing love or kindness and a giant who just wants to be left alone but has to contend with people who climb up the beanstock to cause mischief!

When the king dies and his sons play an especially cruel prank on her Lindy lets out a curse directed against them and the next day they aren’t to be found - only a swan is found in each bedroom.
Realizing what has happened she leaves with the swans to try and undo her curse and meets the giant looking for the youngest prince who stole his goose!
Seeing they need each other to get what they want they work together which is hard for her since she has been mistreated and used her whole life.

Things transpire at the castle requiring her to return with the princes/ swans to save an innocent woman and she is captured. This leads to a plan for a dramatic rescue for her!

I enjoyed this tale of redemption and sacrifice on the part of Lindy and realizing through her ordeal that the princes have watched and changed in their behavior towards her watching her work on their behalf.

This should make everyone pause to reflect how they treat others and to be sure that any judgements you have reflect honestly on known behavior and not suspicions!

I happily recommend this book as one I know you’ll enjoy! I, for one, love fairy tales and it’s nice to read a series where this time all the villains in fairy tales have a chance for redemption and showing they were not the evil persons they’ve been represented to be!

If you love fairy tales get this book and if you think you’re too old for the magic and feeling you had when you read them when you were younger, come back and let that feeling wash over you again reminding you while you loved them in the first place!

[Sierra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reader’s Notes:

*Series or Connected Books?* part of a series, but meant to be read as a stand-alone

-it is set in the same world as Sarah Beran’s Tales of Eukarya series, but can be read on it’s own (Lindy’s sister’s story is A Bond of Ice & Sunshine; some of the events of Chords of Green & Gold are mentioned too)

*Point Of View:* Lindy & Atlas

*Any Cursing Or Possibly Offensive Language?* once or twice it is mentioned that a character utters a curse, but no actual curse words are used in the book

*Romance?* Yes! Just sweet kisses

*Things To Know:*

–past physical abuse is mentioned (insinuated, not shown as it happened)

-Lindy was married to someone old enough to be her grandfather (he dies before the story starts & the marriage was arranged by her father)

-there are some threats of harm & death

Review:

This was a lot of fun! I enjoyed the way Sarah Beran made the ‘villains’ someone we cared about and not the typical way the fairytales would portray each character to be! I also loved how the author made the characters cross paths and get to know each other! Lindy and Atlas were so sweet together!

I’m excited to find out more about a character that was very briefly mentioned in this book too! In one of her newsletters, Sarah Beran mentioned that the ‘Jack’ for her Cursed Climb book was briefly met in this story!

Summary:

Lindy has a reputation for being an evil witch. So when her husband – the king – dies soon after they have married, everyone turns their eyes and ire on her. The worst of it comes from her stepsons who find cruel pleasure in trying to crack her tough façade with pranks. After a particularly fowl prank, Lindy accidentally curses the princes into the form of swans. With the kingdom already ready to have her head for something she didn’t do, her only option is to leave the castle in hopes of creating the counter-spell to free her stepsons.

Atlas knows that the townspeople see him and live in fear when he comes down the mountain. He knows that anything that goes wrong is immediately put on his shoulders despite him not having done anything but a supply run. Not that it stops thrill seekers from climbing the mountain to say they spotted him anyways. But when one thrill seeker runs off with his goose, Atlas finds himself travelling to the world below to get her back. Unfortunately when he gets down the mountain, Atlas finds that he can’t scare the boy into returning or pointing out his goose. Because that boy has been turned into a swan. The only way he’ll find his goose is by waiting for the witch who cursed the boy to finish her counter-spell.

[Jennie Jae · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a wonderful take on some of the fairytales we don’t see as often: Jack and the Beanstalk and Wild Swans. It is a tale of repentance and forgiveness, friendship, sacrifice, and ultimately learning your true worth and embracing love even when you don’t feel like you deserve it.

Things I liked:
-The MMC, Atlas. He was so sweet and charming and wise, despite having lived his whole life being misunderstood and stereotyped due to his appearance.
-What I like to call “The Atlas Therapy Sessions.” These moments were so heartwarming, and honestly much needed words that everyone should take to heart.
-The repentance of the princes. I think it was a nicely handled, and believable, character arc.
-The unconditional friendship of Ellie.
-Phoebe.

Things I didn’t like so much:
-The portrayal of time passing was confusing at times. Sometimes it seemed like we were told a few weeks had gone by, then it seemed like only a day or two. Just a bit unclear, however, not to worry! It didn’t affect the storyline.
-The backstory with Lindy’s sister. We are told vaguely about an event involving her sister being cursed by her, but it’s never described or explained. It’s such a huge part of the pain that Lindy feels and has shaped her, but we don’t get to know anything about it.

This was a well written, clean/no-spice, charming romantic fairytale that can be enjoyed by all ages, with plenty of humor, heart, and happily ever afters.

I received this book as an ARC from the author. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and given willingly.

[Ilona Nurmela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, this one is a hoot, loved it!

Lindy is married off to an 80yo king who promptly dies and his 7 sons can’t accept she didn’t do him in.

What if the “evil” queen was a political pawn who wanted a home, NOT the throne. What if the princes deserved their fate? What if the swan curse was an accident? And the biggest what if - what if the giant went down the beanstalk and found himself someone to love?

I absolutely adored Lindy’s and Atlas’ story! This fairytale retelling completely remakes the Wild Swans story as well as Jack and the Beanstalk - in one fell 90-minute read! Loved how curses had to be dismantled and that it was the caster, not the princes’ sister (or in this case betrothed to the heir apparent) who unwound the curse. Absolutely adored Atlas, the gentle giant, reminded me of Fezzik from the Princess Bride, a heart of gold and such a cinnamon roll, awww. Lindy was a good soul and a victim of her reputation, so whitewashing of a villain here. Glad the princes figured things out by the end as well. Fantastic finale, play up the stereotypes is what I’m sayin’. ;)

Fave quote: “You have your reputation, I have mine.”

Recommended for lovers of clean and sweet mixed gen (YA/NA) mashup fairytales, especially the Roald Dahl kind, and especially of those blending Jack and the Beanstalk and Wild Swans.

[Jo|Ruth Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a wonderful, cozy read! She’s a witch still learning to control her powers. He’s a lonely giant searching for his missing pet goose...realizes there's been more missing from his life than he realized!

Atlas has chosen a life of isolation because everyone fears him. Lindy, on the other hand, has lived as a queen and stepmother to seven princes, longing for nothing more than a true place to call home. When the king dies and his death is blamed on her, everything unravels. After a prank by her stepsons goes too far, Lindy’s magic spirals out of control, turning the princes into swans. With the king dead, the princes cursed, and her life on the line, Lindy must break the spell and prove her innocence... before more than her freedom is at risk.

When she crosses paths with Atlas, who only left the beanstalk for his beloved goose...they agree to work together. The princes may be the key to finding the goose, and perhaps Atlas’s journey to find his goose will find him something even more worthwhile?!

This story strikes a lovely balance: cozy with just enough tension, and a romance that feels perfectly paced. I adored Atlas’s attentiveness and growing protectiveness toward Lindy, and the banter at the beginning was especially fun. I’m very much looking forward to reading more by Sarah.

I received a complimentary copy. This review reflects my honest opinion.

[Leah · Rating 5 out of 5]

A willingness to own up to mistakes and make them right shows strength of character. Lindy has every reason to be angry, bitter, and hurt. Her stepsons have made life miserable for her. Yet, when she curses her stepsons, it’s not intentional, and she is determined to restore them to human form. Her strength despite everything drew me into the story and made me invested in the outcome. Atlas turned out to be the most wonderful supporter and protector beneath his gruff exterior. That he and Lindy are characters with hearts of gold who are constantly misjudged by those around them adds another layer of backstory. Together, they make the perfect team.

From start to finish, this book held me spellbound. This is a Wild Swans combination with Jack and the Beanstalk like you’ve never seen before. Although the book is on the shorter side, it has everything that makes it one of Beran’s: compelling characters, an ability to elicit an emotional response, and a creative plot that balances ingenuity with the prerequisite elements of the original stories. Clean in language and content, I highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy fairy tale retellings and healthy relationships in their books.

*I received an ARC. All opinions are my own.

[Rosalyn Nightshade · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fantastic story by Sarah Beran! I loved this Jack and the Beanstalk and Wild Swans retelling so much! I loved getting to know the main character, Lindy, and I was so happy to recognise her from A Curse of Green and Gold and A Bond of Ice and Sunshine. Lindy was such a great character. She has been mistreated her whole life and treated like nothing, but she was always strong and kind and compassionate, even to those who were so cruel and unkind to her. Atlas is such a great hero. This is the first book that I have ever read that features the giant from Jack and the Beanstalk as the main character, and I loved this interesting take on his life and his story. I also loved all the supporting characters so much and I really hope that they get their own books eventually. The ending of the book was really satisfactory and made me laugh. It was such a great way to end this story!

Overall, this was a great, short read that was full of adventure, excitement, and humour. I loved it so much and I can't wait for Sarah Beran's next book!

Disclaimer: I received an ARC from the author. I was not required to leave a review and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

[Ellen Pena · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this combination of Jack and the Beanstalk and Wild Swans. Sarah Beran did a fantastic job combining these into one. I only wish it had been longer! I loved how relatable the main protagonists were. Belinda’s head strong, independent personality that came through externally, but then the more vulnerable side internally as she struggled with her past while working toward a better future. One filled with redemption and trust. Meanwhile, Atlas is portrayed as this “terrifying” giant whom others feared, but underneath was caring and protective to those dear to him. The perfect picture of what many women desire. To feel loved, protected, and known.

Furthermore, I loved the growth of the princes. From those struggling with grief and anger. Not understanding how to process it well. Then by the end see how foolish they were acting and admitting their own faults.

I would highly recommend this book to those who enjoy stories that include themes of forgiveness, trust, and found love. However, this book does include scenes of bullying which may be a trigger to some

I received an Advanced Reader Copy with no expectation of a review. All opinions are my own.

[Mandy Prather · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC for the To Win a Dark Heart series. This one was Falling for the Winged Witch.
This is a mix of Wild Swans and Jack and the Beanstalk.

Lindy (Balenda) is the witch that cursed the seven princes into swans
Atlas is the giant from the beanstalk

I absolutely loved how these two stories were mixed together. After the princes pull a mean prank on Lindy. She sccidentally curses the princes they all flee together. One of the Geese that the Princes use was stolen from Atlas.

Atlas is a giant so he stays on top on his mountain most of the time but when his goose Phoebe his stolen he goes after the man who stole her but he finds Lindy and the princes at the lake. With the princes as swans they can't tell him where she is. So he stays to help.

Poor Lindy has been through so much. I loved the idea of getting her side of the story and her owning up and fixing her mistake and just wanting a family.
Atlas is Truly a gentle giant. He doesnt like being alone but people are scared of him.
I love her and atlas Together they are so sweet to each other and when Atlas stands up for her with the Princes was on of my favorite parts.

[Christian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Falling for the Winged Witch was a sweet and satisfying read, but then again, Beran’s novels always are. They feel cozy to me, no matter the situation the characters end up in. This story is about the giant from Jack and the Beanstalk and the “witch” from The Wild Swans.

The characters. Lindy and Atlas are so cute together. She’s lonely, he’s antisocial. What could possibly be a better match? I loved the way Atlas always wanted to make sure that Lindy was not alone in anything and that she was taken care of. Their banter is cute! The playful water scene is one of my highlights. I really love the growth of her stepbrothers and I adored Atlas’ goose, Phoebe (I’m nothing if not a bird lover).

The ending was my favorite part of this story. I won’t spoil it. Just know, I loved the combination of the two fairytales and Atlas’ actions were fabulous!

(A note: from my understanding, Lindy is not so much a witch as an inheritor of hereditary magic. Just something to keep in mind if you don’t want a book with witches.)

Thank you to Sarah Beran for an ARC of Falling for the Winged Witch! All opinions are my own.

No-Spice Rating: 1.5 light kissing
Language: Clean
Faith-Elements: None

[Martha Braebuck · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book and I loved reading Belinda's side of the story. This book had so much emotion and feeling in it that I had to keep turning the page! Belinda was definitely not a villain and I loved how she managed to maintain her composure and her dignity even when everyone believes her to be a witch. Atlas was so sweet - despite being a giant, he was so incredibly gentle and kind to Lindy. The twist on The Wild Swans was really enjoyable as well, and I loved how it still kept the basics of the fairy tale, but made it so that Lindy is the one knitting the shirts even though she wasn't the one being burned at the pyre at the end. This book really touched on themes of forgiveness and perseverance and, even though I hated Lindy's stepsons in the beginning, it was nice to see them realise their mistakes and stand up for her in the end. Overall, this book was an excellent and enjoyable read with realistic characters that make readers root for them. The romance was really sweet and 100% clean.

[Charissa James · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story. I found it interesting to read about how a queen thought to be a witch ended up meeting and falling in love with a reclusive giant. I really liked how the author took these characters from perceived villainy to misunderstood lovable people.
The beginning of this story had a slightly chaotic feeling. And I mean that in a good way! There was a lot going on with a runaway goose, and curses, and a fallen king, but even in that, it was easy to follow. It all got me hooked and gave the tale an upbeat pace.
I absolutely loved how sweet Lindy was to endure the pain required to reverse the curse she accidentally cast even though those she cursed were mean to her. And it was just as sweet when Atlas offered to help her. I teared up a little at the reconciliation between Lindy and the cursed ones at the end of the book.
I recommend you pick this one up if you're in the mood for a sweet fairytale retelling that can be read in a day or two!

Thanks so much to the author for providing me with an ARC. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.

[Chelsea · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this twist on Wild Swans and Jack and the Beanstalk and how well the two were blended together. This was my first retelling for Jack and the Beanstalk but I have read several for Wild Swans since it is among my favorites. Atlas & Lindy (Belinda) were great characters and I enjoyed their banter and seeing how protective Atlas was as he saw through her armor. I was glad to see the princes learn their lesson and to appreciate and care for Lindy as the story progressed and the end was so fun. I look forward to reading more books in this multi author series as well as from Sarah Beran in the future.

Steam Rating: 🔥

🦢 I received a free advanced reader copy of this book from the author through the To Win a Dark Heart ARC Team and am voluntarily leaving a review. 🌱

[Nicole Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

I consumed this story so fast. When I met Lindy all I wanted to do was wrap her up and protect her, she’s had a rotten life and the worst of luck. She is also one of the kindest FMC I have read about in a while. She is forced to marry an OLD OLD man, then her stepsons are cruel to her and she hardly reacts, until they take things too far. Then she accidentally curses them and feels BAD about it! Atlas is the epitome of a gentle giant. We really only see him get mad when his goose is taken, mind you it is not a goose that lays golden eggs! I loved when Atlas and Lindy meet, she needs someone who is not only kind to her, but strong enough to protect her. He also does a good job chasing the princes who are now swans for their cruelty towards their young step-mother and that is when I fell for him!

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Falling for the Winged Witch by Sarah Beran
If only the task didn’t threaten to knit his heart to hers in the process…
A combined retelling of The Wild Swans and Jack and the Beanstalk from the "villains'" perspective. I very much enjoyed this one from start to finish. Sarah does a great job of packing so much story and emotion into such a short book! I liked that the villains weren't morally grey, just viewed through the wrong lens. And I loved that Atlas knits! I've read the Frog prince story but not Eliza and Freddy's yet. And loved the cameo of Jax! Can't wait for his story. Would definitely recommend!
Genre: Fairytale retelling
Standalone but is connected to the author's other books
Favorite character: Lindy (main female character)
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

ARC (will be published Jan 30th, all opinions are my own)

[Ronel Janse van Vuuren · Rating 5 out of 5]

An interesting premise with a couple of great surprises.

I liked that Atlas saw her so clearly despite all she did to hide her past and true nature behind her villainous reputation. He was so sweet!

The few things one learns about her past makes one want to know even more about her and send the princes to seek vengeance (once they become well-behaved young men, of course!).

I enjoyed the book. The themes (take responsibility for your own actions, etc.) were well-explored and I liked the character growth. I do wonder why she chose to knit shirts…? Good plot device, though.

A sweet romantasy where he falls first, found family, a cheeky goose, and learning to see beyond the surface. Highly recommended. I’ll read more by this author.

*I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest opinion.

[Riella Cristobal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goodness! What a fun story and so sweet!
I really felt for Lindy! She was stuck in such difficult circumstances and was trying so hard just to survive. I admired her strength and her character. She was determined to do the right thing, even when it meant hard and painful work. Lindy had been hurt and was very guarded, but was able to find security with Atlas.
Atlas was so sweet! He had a grumpy exterior and also was very aware of his reputation, which also left him careful with people. However, he was so honorable and willing to support Lindy however he could. I loved how he stood up for her.
I loved the twists of this series and how it plays with the fairytale. It definitely was a magical story and I loved seeing the inspiration of Jack and the Beanstalk and Seven Swans. This fairytale inspired fantasy romance is a sweet novella with only kissing.
I received an ARC.

[Madisyn Carlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn't know I needed a Jack and the Beanstalk x The Wild Swans mashup - villain style - but apparently I did. Once again, Beran knocked it out of the park. Fantastic characters, great worldbuilding, and a plot that keeps you turning the page. I'm really hoping we can get some of the princes' stories, and I would also like to see a certain individual receive his just desserts.

I'm always a fan of a protective main male character, and Atlas certainly is that. It was also fun to see how other stories connected to this one.

Sensitive readers should note that physical abuse is implied.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. No positive review was required and all opinions expressed are my own.

[Bethany Aich · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been wanting Belinda’s story for so long, and love having it now at my fingertips. In typical Beran style, I was drawn right in and finished in basically one sitting.

As is also typical for me with this author’s books, I’m left wishing it hadn’t ended so soon. More? Please? Guess it might be time for a reread of some of her books, most of which I’ve already reread a time or two…or three.

There is no listed trigger warning in here, which is fine with me, but it does mention physical and emotional abuse in a peripheral way, as well as mean prank-pulling, so consider that when determining if it’s age-appropriate for a child.

Romance-wise, I’d call this A-okay for any age.

I did receive an early copy of the book from the author, but I read everything she writes anyway.