What do you think?
Rate this book
Crowned in Feathers
Princess Ivette has always known duty comes before love—until a family curse changes everything.
Bound by duty since childhood, Princess Ivette must give up her secret affair to marry a prince and secure her kingdom’s future. But when it’s revealed her bloodline is cursed, Ivette becomes a political weapon, and now she has to choose her fate—for her sake and Ivery’s.
Six years later, that choice has cost her everything: a tyrant warlock rules the kingdom, and Ivette must confront the curse, even if it means working with an unexpected ally and embracing the very magic her family spent decades trying to destroy. She is older. Wiser. Angrier. While dark magic looms and old promises haunt her, Ivette will stop at nothing to save her kingdom and reclaim her birthright as the Swan Queen.
This brand new tragic retelling of Swan Lake is perfect for fans of Damsel and The Rose Bargain.
Bound by duty since childhood, Princess Ivette must give up her secret affair to marry a prince and secure her kingdom’s future. But when it’s revealed her bloodline is cursed, Ivette becomes a political weapon, and now she has to choose her fate—for her sake and Ivery’s.
Six years later, that choice has cost her everything: a tyrant warlock rules the kingdom, and Ivette must confront the curse, even if it means working with an unexpected ally and embracing the very magic her family spent decades trying to destroy. She is older. Wiser. Angrier. While dark magic looms and old promises haunt her, Ivette will stop at nothing to save her kingdom and reclaim her birthright as the Swan Queen.
This brand new tragic retelling of Swan Lake is perfect for fans of Damsel and The Rose Bargain.
- GenresFantasy
344 pages, Paperback
First published April 5, 2026
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
May 2, 2026
I bought the book bc it was very pretty without knowing anything about it. I went in completely blind and that made the story that more unpredictable.
It was an enjoyable read and I loved this depiction of obsession, betrayal and heartbreak. This would be an amazing movie:)
I did secretly wished for a certain duo to get together tho😅 but they're great friends so it's alright.
It was an enjoyable read and I loved this depiction of obsession, betrayal and heartbreak. This would be an amazing movie:)
I did secretly wished for a certain duo to get together tho😅 but they're great friends so it's alright.
April 12, 2026
Adriana wrote her own version of Swan Lake and I loved it!
I'm not too familiar with Swan Lake but I do feel like this version is something new and original. Adriana gave us her interpretation and I must say I thoroughly enjoyed it. The story encapsulated a lot and what I really liked was how everything came together nicely in the end. Sure, I was sometimes a little lost because I didn't understand something or didn't know why or what was really happening. But at no point during the reading of this book did I think 'fuck this, I don't get it so I'm done'. I was just eager to discover the answers that I knew were coming.
The different POVs were a really nice surprise. Most chapters are narrated by Yvette, our main character. But every now and then we get a POV of another character. Whether it's Robert (her love interest), one of her maiden's or someone else entirely, I found this enriched the story even more. Talk about getting the full scope in a story!
I love stories that encompass girlhood or female strength in whatever way and this is something that really stood out to me in this book too. While I liked Yvette well enough, the other women in this story really made me fall in love with it even more. I was immediately drawn to Lucy and she stuck with me till the very end (I basically loved everything about her). And then there's Yvette's maidens, or should I say friends? The girlhood really showed here too and I live for these moments!
Can we also take a moment to appreciate lovers to enemies? I feel like this isn't done nearly enough even though this is such a GOOD TROPE.
I'm not too familiar with Swan Lake but I do feel like this version is something new and original. Adriana gave us her interpretation and I must say I thoroughly enjoyed it. The story encapsulated a lot and what I really liked was how everything came together nicely in the end. Sure, I was sometimes a little lost because I didn't understand something or didn't know why or what was really happening. But at no point during the reading of this book did I think 'fuck this, I don't get it so I'm done'. I was just eager to discover the answers that I knew were coming.
The different POVs were a really nice surprise. Most chapters are narrated by Yvette, our main character. But every now and then we get a POV of another character. Whether it's Robert (her love interest), one of her maiden's or someone else entirely, I found this enriched the story even more. Talk about getting the full scope in a story!
I love stories that encompass girlhood or female strength in whatever way and this is something that really stood out to me in this book too. While I liked Yvette well enough, the other women in this story really made me fall in love with it even more. I was immediately drawn to Lucy and she stuck with me till the very end (I basically loved everything about her). And then there's Yvette's maidens, or should I say friends? The girlhood really showed here too and I live for these moments!
Can we also take a moment to appreciate lovers to enemies? I feel like this isn't done nearly enough even though this is such a GOOD TROPE.
May 9, 2026
6 fucking stars, thank you very much! Ivette totally has my heart, and the way she grew throughout this book was incredible to see. The plot twists were absolutely insane and the character development was so well done! Both ballet and Barbie hold such a special place in my heart, and the fact that these two worlds were brought together in this story is amazing. Truly a perfect read!
March 13, 2026
If you are looking for a royal fantasy novel that plays with the idea of forbidden romance in an innovative way, pick this up!
Let me start by saying, this is not an unbiased review. This book is written by one of my personal friends, and I also was involved in the editing process as a beta reader and proof reader. Nevertheless, I am delighted to tell you that I can recommend this one with my full chest!
The atmosphere in this book is great, especially when it gets a little darker. The vibes of this kingdom and the magic system felt very vivid and cinematic.
The characters have such depth and growth. I am also a sucker for well written side characters. There is a specific character that becomes important in the second half of the book who is an absolute icon, let me tell you! (if you've read it you probably know)
If the synopsis sounds like something you like, go read this one!
Thank you Adriana for letting me read early versions. Can't wait to actually hold it in my hands when it is officially released!
Let me start by saying, this is not an unbiased review. This book is written by one of my personal friends, and I also was involved in the editing process as a beta reader and proof reader. Nevertheless, I am delighted to tell you that I can recommend this one with my full chest!
The atmosphere in this book is great, especially when it gets a little darker. The vibes of this kingdom and the magic system felt very vivid and cinematic.
The characters have such depth and growth. I am also a sucker for well written side characters. There is a specific character that becomes important in the second half of the book who is an absolute icon, let me tell you! (if you've read it you probably know)
If the synopsis sounds like something you like, go read this one!
Thank you Adriana for letting me read early versions. Can't wait to actually hold it in my hands when it is officially released!
January 28, 2026
I had to pleasure to read a pre-ARC as a colleague author of Adriana. This book reminded me of me as a little girl, completely in awe of Barbie and the Swan lake. This book is a grownup version of that movie with strong female characters, action whilst keeping the delicate feeling of Swan lake.
I absolutely loved this book! Adriana, you should be so proud of what you wrote ❤️
I absolutely loved this book! Adriana, you should be so proud of what you wrote ❤️
June 3, 2026
4.25 ⭐️
What a fun young adult fantasy! I was so excited to read this book and it did not disappoint, at all.
I really liked the writing style and how everything went and ended in the end. While reading this I was so eager to find out the why's in the story. When I was reading I was really invested.
There are multiple POVs we follow and I thought that was so fun. It really gave something extra to the book that keeps you interested.
It is a ya book and I knew that before starting it and I highly recommend people to read this. The story was unique and the trope (not going to spoil) was so fun and is something you don't see in a lot of books.
Important to say is that I did not only like Yvette but also the other characters.
If you don't know what to read, go read this one now!!
What a fun young adult fantasy! I was so excited to read this book and it did not disappoint, at all.
I really liked the writing style and how everything went and ended in the end. While reading this I was so eager to find out the why's in the story. When I was reading I was really invested.
There are multiple POVs we follow and I thought that was so fun. It really gave something extra to the book that keeps you interested.
It is a ya book and I knew that before starting it and I highly recommend people to read this. The story was unique and the trope (not going to spoil) was so fun and is something you don't see in a lot of books.
Important to say is that I did not only like Yvette but also the other characters.
If you don't know what to read, go read this one now!!
April 5, 2026
“You couldn't hold someone close to you to the point that it was suffocating. You had to allow them to be free and trust them to come to you out of their own free will.”
A big thank you to Hamley books for the ARC I received. :)
The first thing I immediately found was that the prologue was one of the best/most entertaining prologues I’ve ever read! Really an amazing start to keep you wanting more.
This book was honestly just so so beautifully written, and sometimes I find it difficult to follow books that are ‘too beautifully’ written but not with this novel! It was still easy to follow even for someone who isn’t 100% familiar with the Swan lake story.
(and without spoiling too much I was kinda glad that ‘He’ wasn’t an endgame ‘lovestory’ with Ivette, because he seemed very suspicious..)
"So we were 'punished', for what he did?"
Also really enjoyed the women power and teamwork that was shown through the whole story, but especially at the end! The relationship between Ivette and her mother with grief was also very heartbreaking especially with how they needed to say goodbye so fast..
Definitely keeping an eye out for Adriana her next books!! And might also pick up her previous novel ‘Skyestone’.
A big thank you to Hamley books for the ARC I received. :)
The first thing I immediately found was that the prologue was one of the best/most entertaining prologues I’ve ever read! Really an amazing start to keep you wanting more.
This book was honestly just so so beautifully written, and sometimes I find it difficult to follow books that are ‘too beautifully’ written but not with this novel! It was still easy to follow even for someone who isn’t 100% familiar with the Swan lake story.
(and without spoiling too much I was kinda glad that ‘He’ wasn’t an endgame ‘lovestory’ with Ivette, because he seemed very suspicious..)
"So we were 'punished', for what he did?"
Also really enjoyed the women power and teamwork that was shown through the whole story, but especially at the end! The relationship between Ivette and her mother with grief was also very heartbreaking especially with how they needed to say goodbye so fast..
Definitely keeping an eye out for Adriana her next books!! And might also pick up her previous novel ‘Skyestone’.
April 3, 2026
A big thanks for Hamleybooks for this ARC.
Crowned in Feathers was such an interesting surprise. As a Swan Lake retelling, I expected the story to follow a more familiar path, but it really takes its own direction, and that made it stand out for me. The theme of feminine power runs strongly through the book and gives the story an extra layer that I really appreciated.
The writing style is vivid and easy to read, which made it simple to sink into the world. There were a few moments where I lost the connection a little, mostly because of some jumps in time or because I would have loved another POV here and there, but the story always managed to pull me back in. The beginning was a bit slower for me, yet in the end it became clear that all of that information was there for a reason.
By the time I finished, I could really appreciate how everything came together. It had a rougher start, but it was absolutely worth it in the end.
Crowned in Feathers was such an interesting surprise. As a Swan Lake retelling, I expected the story to follow a more familiar path, but it really takes its own direction, and that made it stand out for me. The theme of feminine power runs strongly through the book and gives the story an extra layer that I really appreciated.
The writing style is vivid and easy to read, which made it simple to sink into the world. There were a few moments where I lost the connection a little, mostly because of some jumps in time or because I would have loved another POV here and there, but the story always managed to pull me back in. The beginning was a bit slower for me, yet in the end it became clear that all of that information was there for a reason.
By the time I finished, I could really appreciate how everything came together. It had a rougher start, but it was absolutely worth it in the end.
May 17, 2026
Crowned in Feathers review ˚˖𓍢ִ໋🦢˚
4 ⭐️
This story was beautifully written and instantly gave me strong Swan Lake vibes, which makes perfect sense since it’s a retelling inspired by the classic tale. ₊⋆·˚🪷.‧₊˚
The pacing flows really smoothly and the multiple POVs kept the story dynamic and easy to get through. I always enjoy when different perspectives add more depth to the world and characters and it worked really well!!🤍
Ivette was such a good female lead. Adriana created a strong protagonist who constantly tries to make the right choices while carrying the weight of duty, expectations, and sacrifice on her shoulders. Watching her growth throughout the story was one of my favorite parts.
That being said, because the story moves quite fast at times, some moments felt a little rushed. I especially would’ve loved more background and development for Robert, since I think his storyline had a lot of potential for extra emotional impact.✨
And can we talk about the edition for a second? The cover and sprayed edges are absolutely stunning and fit the story perfectly.💕
💌 AD | Gifted by @hamleybooks
4 ⭐️
This story was beautifully written and instantly gave me strong Swan Lake vibes, which makes perfect sense since it’s a retelling inspired by the classic tale. ₊⋆·˚🪷.‧₊˚
The pacing flows really smoothly and the multiple POVs kept the story dynamic and easy to get through. I always enjoy when different perspectives add more depth to the world and characters and it worked really well!!🤍
Ivette was such a good female lead. Adriana created a strong protagonist who constantly tries to make the right choices while carrying the weight of duty, expectations, and sacrifice on her shoulders. Watching her growth throughout the story was one of my favorite parts.
That being said, because the story moves quite fast at times, some moments felt a little rushed. I especially would’ve loved more background and development for Robert, since I think his storyline had a lot of potential for extra emotional impact.✨
And can we talk about the edition for a second? The cover and sprayed edges are absolutely stunning and fit the story perfectly.💕
💌 AD | Gifted by @hamleybooks
April 12, 2026
This book was absolutely wonderful and kept me engaged from start to finish! I had an amazing time with it, I highly recommend you pick this up! 💜
May 2, 2026
i loved crowned in feathers so much while i was reading it. honestly if i can give it more than 5 stars it is an 8. it has that exact barbie movie aesthetic like swan lake and the 12 dancing princesses, and for me it also gave a bit of princess and the pauper. ✨ i also loved the lovers to enemies part because you don’t see that often. i felt like i was literally a character in the book. no downsides for me, just loved every second of it. 🦢
April 6, 2026
ℕ𝕃
Crowned in Feathers is een prachtige hervertelling van Het Zwanenmeer en volgt Ivette, prinses van Ivery. Gebonden aan haar verplichtingen moet ze haar affaire met wachter Robert opgeven om te trouwen met prins Leon van Elora, zodat hun rijken kunnen verenigen. Maar wanneer blijkt dat Ivette’s familie vervloekt is, staat ze voor een onmogelijke keuze - eentje die zes jaar later nog steeds zware gevolgen heeft. Gedreven door woede en verlies vindt Ivette een onverwachte bondgenoot. Ze is vastbesloten om Ivery terug te winnen en de warlock die er nu regeert te verslaan.
💭 Ik lees nog niet zo vaak hervertellingen, maar als ze allemaal zo goed zijn als dit boek, dan ben ik helemaal verkocht aan het genre. Ik vond het geweldig dat de meeste hoofdstukken vanuit Ivette’s POV zijn geschreven, met af en toe een hoofdstuk vanuit een ander personage. Die afwisseling gaf het verhaal zoveel extra diepgang.
Ivette is zo’n sterk personage, ik was meteen gek op haar. Ze kent haar verantwoordelijkheden als prinses, maar wil tegelijk haar hart volgen en haar eigen pad kiezen. Wanneer haar keuze anders uitdraait dan gehoopt, vecht ze zélf om alles recht te zetten. Ze blijft trouw aan zichzelf en haar vrienden en haar doorzettingsvermogen is echt bewonderenswaardig. Love her!
Ook de vriendschap met Lucy vond ik een prachtige verhaallijn. De focus op vriendschappen en wat je kan bereiken als je samenwerk en krachten bundelt, vond ik zo verfrissend en hartverwarmend. Ik heb echt genoten van dit verhaal.
Dankjewel Hamley Books voor dit prachtige recensie-exemplaar!
𝔼ℕ𝔾
Crowned in Feathers is a beautiful retelling of Swan Lake and follows Ivette, Princess of Ivery. Bound by her duties, she must give up her affair with the guard Robert to marry Prince Leon of Elora, so that their kingdoms may be united. But when it turns out that Ivette’s family is cursed, she faces an impossible choice - one that still has serious consequences six years later. Driven by anger and loss, Ivette finds an unexpected ally. She is determined to reclaim Ivery and defeat the warlock who now rules it.
💭 I don’t read retellings very often yet, but if they’re all as good as this book, then I’m completely sold on the genre. I loved that most chapters are written from Ivette’s POV, with the occasional chapter from another character’s perspective. That variety gave the story so much extra depth.
Ivette is such a strong character, I fell in love with her straight away. She knows her responsibilities as a princess, but at the same time wants to follow her heart and choose her own path. When her choice turns out differently than hoped, she fights to set everything right herself. She remains true to herself and her friends, and her perseverance is truly admirable. Love her!
I also thought the friendship with Lucy was a wonderful storyline. The focus on friendships and what you can achieve when you work together and join forces was so refreshing and heart-warming. I really enjoyed this story.
Thank you, Hamley Books, for this wonderful review copy!
Crowned in Feathers is een prachtige hervertelling van Het Zwanenmeer en volgt Ivette, prinses van Ivery. Gebonden aan haar verplichtingen moet ze haar affaire met wachter Robert opgeven om te trouwen met prins Leon van Elora, zodat hun rijken kunnen verenigen. Maar wanneer blijkt dat Ivette’s familie vervloekt is, staat ze voor een onmogelijke keuze - eentje die zes jaar later nog steeds zware gevolgen heeft. Gedreven door woede en verlies vindt Ivette een onverwachte bondgenoot. Ze is vastbesloten om Ivery terug te winnen en de warlock die er nu regeert te verslaan.
💭 Ik lees nog niet zo vaak hervertellingen, maar als ze allemaal zo goed zijn als dit boek, dan ben ik helemaal verkocht aan het genre. Ik vond het geweldig dat de meeste hoofdstukken vanuit Ivette’s POV zijn geschreven, met af en toe een hoofdstuk vanuit een ander personage. Die afwisseling gaf het verhaal zoveel extra diepgang.
Ivette is zo’n sterk personage, ik was meteen gek op haar. Ze kent haar verantwoordelijkheden als prinses, maar wil tegelijk haar hart volgen en haar eigen pad kiezen. Wanneer haar keuze anders uitdraait dan gehoopt, vecht ze zélf om alles recht te zetten. Ze blijft trouw aan zichzelf en haar vrienden en haar doorzettingsvermogen is echt bewonderenswaardig. Love her!
Ook de vriendschap met Lucy vond ik een prachtige verhaallijn. De focus op vriendschappen en wat je kan bereiken als je samenwerk en krachten bundelt, vond ik zo verfrissend en hartverwarmend. Ik heb echt genoten van dit verhaal.
Dankjewel Hamley Books voor dit prachtige recensie-exemplaar!
𝔼ℕ𝔾
Crowned in Feathers is a beautiful retelling of Swan Lake and follows Ivette, Princess of Ivery. Bound by her duties, she must give up her affair with the guard Robert to marry Prince Leon of Elora, so that their kingdoms may be united. But when it turns out that Ivette’s family is cursed, she faces an impossible choice - one that still has serious consequences six years later. Driven by anger and loss, Ivette finds an unexpected ally. She is determined to reclaim Ivery and defeat the warlock who now rules it.
💭 I don’t read retellings very often yet, but if they’re all as good as this book, then I’m completely sold on the genre. I loved that most chapters are written from Ivette’s POV, with the occasional chapter from another character’s perspective. That variety gave the story so much extra depth.
Ivette is such a strong character, I fell in love with her straight away. She knows her responsibilities as a princess, but at the same time wants to follow her heart and choose her own path. When her choice turns out differently than hoped, she fights to set everything right herself. She remains true to herself and her friends, and her perseverance is truly admirable. Love her!
I also thought the friendship with Lucy was a wonderful storyline. The focus on friendships and what you can achieve when you work together and join forces was so refreshing and heart-warming. I really enjoyed this story.
Thank you, Hamley Books, for this wonderful review copy!
April 14, 2026
I went into Crowned in Feathers already pretty excited about it since it’s been on my radar for a while now. And then I was able to buy it the day before release AND get it signed by the author herself, safe to say I was buzzing to dive into this!! Adriana wastes no time pulling you in with this one, I was almost instantly hooked. Basically, if Barbie Swan Lake had a glow-up, went through a villain era, and came back fueled by rage and questionable decisions… you’d get Crowned in Feathers.
That said, the story does wear its YA heart on its sleeve, especially in the beginning where the political engagement between Ivette and Leon and the arranged marriage dynamics felt a little childlike. It reads more like a soft introduction to court politics before the story really deepens, which didn’t fully bother me but did stand out compared to the darker themes it later explores. And then there’s Robert… The “charming” guard. The shoulder to cry on. The man who had me side-eyeing the page like it personally offended me. Because here’s the thing. The two met when Ivette was around fourteen when Robert, at twenty, rescued her and afterwards joined the guard, this was long before anything romantic actually developed, but that early dynamic made me suspicious of his intentions from the get-go. Don’t get me wrong, I’m all for an age gap romance, but something about Robert just felt off and their entire dynamic started to feel uncomfortable, and that feeling never really goes away. The gaslighting? The emotional manipulation? Absolutely infuriating. I felt so frustrated for Ivette, especially because she didn’t fully see it herself. Which, to be fair, is very realistically written… but wow, did it test my patience. Politely, Robert, shut the fuck up.
What I did love, though, were the multiple POV chapters. Getting glimpses from Robert, the royal physician, and Ivette’s lady-in-waiting added so much depth to the story, making everything feel richer and more layered. Even though this is inspired by Swan Lake, it never feels like a strict retelling, and aside from familiar elements like the winged villain and the swan transformation, it stands strongly on its own as a darker and more original take. The ending, however, wrapped up a bit too quickly for my taste, and after all that build-up I would have loved a bigger, messier payoff with higher stakes, but I can also see how the resolution fits within the YA tone the story maintains.
Overall, this was a gripping, emotionally charged read with a beautifully written narrative voice and a main character you can’t help but root for, even when everything around her is falling apart. It’s dramatic, it’s frustrating (looking at you, Robert), and it absolutely delivers on that darker fairytale vibe.
That said, the story does wear its YA heart on its sleeve, especially in the beginning where the political engagement between Ivette and Leon and the arranged marriage dynamics felt a little childlike. It reads more like a soft introduction to court politics before the story really deepens, which didn’t fully bother me but did stand out compared to the darker themes it later explores. And then there’s Robert… The “charming” guard. The shoulder to cry on. The man who had me side-eyeing the page like it personally offended me. Because here’s the thing. The two met when Ivette was around fourteen when Robert, at twenty, rescued her and afterwards joined the guard, this was long before anything romantic actually developed, but that early dynamic made me suspicious of his intentions from the get-go. Don’t get me wrong, I’m all for an age gap romance, but something about Robert just felt off and their entire dynamic started to feel uncomfortable, and that feeling never really goes away. The gaslighting? The emotional manipulation? Absolutely infuriating. I felt so frustrated for Ivette, especially because she didn’t fully see it herself. Which, to be fair, is very realistically written… but wow, did it test my patience. Politely, Robert, shut the fuck up.
What I did love, though, were the multiple POV chapters. Getting glimpses from Robert, the royal physician, and Ivette’s lady-in-waiting added so much depth to the story, making everything feel richer and more layered. Even though this is inspired by Swan Lake, it never feels like a strict retelling, and aside from familiar elements like the winged villain and the swan transformation, it stands strongly on its own as a darker and more original take. The ending, however, wrapped up a bit too quickly for my taste, and after all that build-up I would have loved a bigger, messier payoff with higher stakes, but I can also see how the resolution fits within the YA tone the story maintains.
Overall, this was a gripping, emotionally charged read with a beautifully written narrative voice and a main character you can’t help but root for, even when everything around her is falling apart. It’s dramatic, it’s frustrating (looking at you, Robert), and it absolutely delivers on that darker fairytale vibe.
April 5, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
I genuinely don’t even know where to start because this book completely consumed me in the best way possible… 🦢✨
Crowned in Feathers is one of those stories that slowly pulls you in and then suddenly you realize you’re emotionally attached to everything, the characters, the pain, the magic, the choices… all of it. The Swan Lake retelling aspect was done so beautifully and tragically, and it gave the entire story this haunting, melancholic atmosphere that I absolutely adored.
Princess Ivette… wow. She’s not your typical soft, perfect heroine; she’s angry, tired, burdened, and shaped by years of sacrifice and loss. And that’s exactly what made her feel so real to me. Watching her navigate duty, love, power, and her cursed bloodline was honestly heartbreaking at times. You can feel how much everything costs her.
The world-building was rich without being overwhelming, and the magic system? Dark, dangerous, and slightly unsettling in the best way. I loved how the story didn’t shy away from consequences. Every decision mattered, every secret had weight, and the political tension kept me hooked the entire time.
And can we talk about the emotional depth??? Because I was NOT prepared. The longing, the grief, the quiet moments of vulnerability… it all hit so hard. The slow-burn elements were perfectly done subtle but intense enough to make my fangirl heart suffer (and love every second of it).
There’s something about this book that feels both epic and deeply personal at the same time. It’s about power, identity, sacrifice… but also about reclaiming yourself after everything has been taken from you. And that message stayed with me long after I finished reading.
Huge, huge thank you to @hamleybooks & @adrianaswritings_ for the ARC copy 🤍 I’m so grateful to have had the chance to read this story early. It truly felt like a journey, and I already know I’ll be thinking about Ivette and her story for a long time.
If you love dark fantasy, tragic retellings, morally complex characters, and stories that make your heart ache in the best way… please pick this up. You won’t regret it.
Still not over it… and honestly, I don’t want to be 🖤🦢✨
I genuinely don’t even know where to start because this book completely consumed me in the best way possible… 🦢✨
Crowned in Feathers is one of those stories that slowly pulls you in and then suddenly you realize you’re emotionally attached to everything, the characters, the pain, the magic, the choices… all of it. The Swan Lake retelling aspect was done so beautifully and tragically, and it gave the entire story this haunting, melancholic atmosphere that I absolutely adored.
Princess Ivette… wow. She’s not your typical soft, perfect heroine; she’s angry, tired, burdened, and shaped by years of sacrifice and loss. And that’s exactly what made her feel so real to me. Watching her navigate duty, love, power, and her cursed bloodline was honestly heartbreaking at times. You can feel how much everything costs her.
The world-building was rich without being overwhelming, and the magic system? Dark, dangerous, and slightly unsettling in the best way. I loved how the story didn’t shy away from consequences. Every decision mattered, every secret had weight, and the political tension kept me hooked the entire time.
And can we talk about the emotional depth??? Because I was NOT prepared. The longing, the grief, the quiet moments of vulnerability… it all hit so hard. The slow-burn elements were perfectly done subtle but intense enough to make my fangirl heart suffer (and love every second of it).
There’s something about this book that feels both epic and deeply personal at the same time. It’s about power, identity, sacrifice… but also about reclaiming yourself after everything has been taken from you. And that message stayed with me long after I finished reading.
Huge, huge thank you to @hamleybooks & @adrianaswritings_ for the ARC copy 🤍 I’m so grateful to have had the chance to read this story early. It truly felt like a journey, and I already know I’ll be thinking about Ivette and her story for a long time.
If you love dark fantasy, tragic retellings, morally complex characters, and stories that make your heart ache in the best way… please pick this up. You won’t regret it.
Still not over it… and honestly, I don’t want to be 🖤🦢✨
April 10, 2026
From the very first pages of Crowned in Feathers, I felt like I was stepping into something unreal. I was immediately transported back to my childhood, watching the animated movie "The Swan Princess", my absolute favourite! One of my all-time favourite animals is a swan as well, because of its grace & elegance, so this story already had a piece of my heart before it even truly began.
This story took me into a whole direction I didn't really expect. Ivette, as a young girl, is so full of life, vibrant & loving. Once she gets older & her circumstances change overnight, you can clearly feel how she starts rethinking some of the decisions she took & the directions she went in. When she manages to escape & eventually breaks free, it feels so liberating to watch her take control over her own life again. It truly reads like a magical tale of redemption, courage & female empowerment.
Robert, on the other hand, never really won me over. From the very start, he felt shady to me & once Otice was gone too, his sanity really took a turn for the worst. It’s like every sense of common sense leaves him at that very moment & his magic takes over his whole being. Watching that shift only confirmed the feeling I had about him from the beginning.
As a Swan Lake retelling, I was honestly surprised by the direction this story took. It felt so different from the original, yet at the same time incredibly recognizable. The magical element is present all throughout, but what kept me most intrigued was how the swan aspect would be introduced. I have to say, the author did a splendid job integrating this into the book & I can imagine it wasn’t easy at all, so truly, very well executed!
What lingered most after finishing this book were the identity struggles. At its core, this is a story about losing yourself when life happens & finding the strength to reclaim your own life, soul & spirit. Watching Ivette break free from the chains that Robert created especially for her made this feel like a powerful, emotional journey of redemption.
A story that feels both nostalgic & new at the same time, but most of all, one that quietly reminds you how powerful it is to always choose yourself!
This story took me into a whole direction I didn't really expect. Ivette, as a young girl, is so full of life, vibrant & loving. Once she gets older & her circumstances change overnight, you can clearly feel how she starts rethinking some of the decisions she took & the directions she went in. When she manages to escape & eventually breaks free, it feels so liberating to watch her take control over her own life again. It truly reads like a magical tale of redemption, courage & female empowerment.
Robert, on the other hand, never really won me over. From the very start, he felt shady to me & once Otice was gone too, his sanity really took a turn for the worst. It’s like every sense of common sense leaves him at that very moment & his magic takes over his whole being. Watching that shift only confirmed the feeling I had about him from the beginning.
As a Swan Lake retelling, I was honestly surprised by the direction this story took. It felt so different from the original, yet at the same time incredibly recognizable. The magical element is present all throughout, but what kept me most intrigued was how the swan aspect would be introduced. I have to say, the author did a splendid job integrating this into the book & I can imagine it wasn’t easy at all, so truly, very well executed!
What lingered most after finishing this book were the identity struggles. At its core, this is a story about losing yourself when life happens & finding the strength to reclaim your own life, soul & spirit. Watching Ivette break free from the chains that Robert created especially for her made this feel like a powerful, emotional journey of redemption.
A story that feels both nostalgic & new at the same time, but most of all, one that quietly reminds you how powerful it is to always choose yourself!
May 11, 2026
Ik heb enorm uitgekeken naar dit boek. :) De prachtige cover met sprayed edges zorgen er dan ook nog eens voor dat het enorm uitnodigt om dit boek te gaan lezen. :)
Dit is een geweldig YA verhaal in een historische setting. Het gaf mij vooral een sprookjesachtig gevoel. :) De hoofdstukken worden afgewisseld vanuit een paar perspectieven, wat zorgde voor de nodige diepgang. Het verhaal heeft ook een rustige opbouw waardoor je alle details mee krijgt die je nodig hebt om het verhaal goed te kunnen volgen. De spannende momenten worden mooi opgebouwd naarmate het einde vordert, wat ervoor zorgde dat ik regelmatig op het puntje van mijn stoel zat. :)
Adriana heeft een erg vlotte, gedetailleerde en meeslepende schrijfstijl. Dat maakte het moeilijk om dit boek weg even te leggen. :) Ik zag alles letterlijk voor me tijdens het lezen en dat vind ik enorm bewonderingswaardig. :) Alsof het zich als een film afspeelde in mijn hoofd. De wereldopbouw en de verschillende personages vond ik ijzersterk, wat ervoor zorgde dat ik enorm met hun mee leefde. Ook de vriendschappen die worden opgebouwd staan centraal. Het 'samen staan we sterk' gevoel werd heel mooi uitgewerkt en vond het hartverwarmend. :)
Ik kan dit boek dan ook aan iedereen aanraden. :)
Dit is een geweldig YA verhaal in een historische setting. Het gaf mij vooral een sprookjesachtig gevoel. :) De hoofdstukken worden afgewisseld vanuit een paar perspectieven, wat zorgde voor de nodige diepgang. Het verhaal heeft ook een rustige opbouw waardoor je alle details mee krijgt die je nodig hebt om het verhaal goed te kunnen volgen. De spannende momenten worden mooi opgebouwd naarmate het einde vordert, wat ervoor zorgde dat ik regelmatig op het puntje van mijn stoel zat. :)
Adriana heeft een erg vlotte, gedetailleerde en meeslepende schrijfstijl. Dat maakte het moeilijk om dit boek weg even te leggen. :) Ik zag alles letterlijk voor me tijdens het lezen en dat vind ik enorm bewonderingswaardig. :) Alsof het zich als een film afspeelde in mijn hoofd. De wereldopbouw en de verschillende personages vond ik ijzersterk, wat ervoor zorgde dat ik enorm met hun mee leefde. Ook de vriendschappen die worden opgebouwd staan centraal. Het 'samen staan we sterk' gevoel werd heel mooi uitgewerkt en vond het hartverwarmend. :)
Ik kan dit boek dan ook aan iedereen aanraden. :)
July 11, 2026
I used to read a specific fantasy book when I was I child that I loved dearly. I forgot about it when I got older since I hadn’t read any fantasy books since then. While reading this book, I was immediately brought back to my childhood. It felt so nostalgic to read this fantasy book. So on top of the unexpected, pleasant, nostalgic feelings, I really enjoyed reading this one.
Great story, great details, good build- up, and the perfect amount of the good/ bad balance that I always look for in the books I read. I did expect the ending and plot twists for the most part but that definitely didn’t stop me from finishing the story (maybe it’s because I was thinking about how I would write the book if I would be the author). Nonetheless, you are an incredible writer and that will always win me over, whatever kind of book you would decide to write.
I am in awe of you Adriana. This is a really great book that you created. I am very excited to read more of your work. And you brought back my love for the fantasy genre, so thank you for that!
Waiting (im)patiently for the next one… ;)
Great story, great details, good build- up, and the perfect amount of the good/ bad balance that I always look for in the books I read. I did expect the ending and plot twists for the most part but that definitely didn’t stop me from finishing the story (maybe it’s because I was thinking about how I would write the book if I would be the author). Nonetheless, you are an incredible writer and that will always win me over, whatever kind of book you would decide to write.
I am in awe of you Adriana. This is a really great book that you created. I am very excited to read more of your work. And you brought back my love for the fantasy genre, so thank you for that!
Waiting (im)patiently for the next one… ;)
June 29, 2026
When I saw this marketed as Barbie Swan Lake meets Reign… I was SOLD, and Adriana did not disappoint.
There are so many messages to take away from this story, with some many layers for a YA fantasy retelling which makes it perfect for a cross-over audience.
From stories of friendships forged in the most unlikely places due to a joint purpose that becomes so much more, to learning that being delicate doesn’t mean being weak, and that you have more inner power than you can ever now… it was a story of love, betrayal, reinvention, making mistakes, being human, fighting for what you believe in and following your heart as much as your head.
It’s about the corruption of power, it’s about powerful women (hell yeah 🙌🙌), and overall I found it so wonderful and refreshing, taking elements of a classic story, but making a reading experience that will keep you guessing and never gets boring.
It’s always a privilege to read more of Adriana’s writing, and I can’t wait for the next!
May 23, 2026
This book was beautiful, for the lovers of tragic retellings, this one is for you, this is the tragic retelling of the Swan Lake.
Ivette has to give up her secret affair to marry a prince to secure her kingdom’s future. She is knows that her duty comes before love.
But a tragic event reveal that her bloodline is cursed, Ivette becomes then a political weapon. She has to choose her fate for the sake of Ivery.
But 6 years later everything changes, and she is not a damsel in distress anymore.
Honestly, I really loved this book, the FMC is the perfect princess, she is the perfect example of damsel in distress.
It is a little boring in the beginning, but when we enter the universe and read more of it, he becomes really addictive and we don’t want to stop reading it.
The story is really great and I needed tissues when I read the end of it.
Fan of fantasy, this book is made for you. The cover is also beautiful I love it so much.
While reading it, I had some thoughts, and they weren’t always right some of parts of this book was really unexpected.
I recommend this book 100%.
Ivette has to give up her secret affair to marry a prince to secure her kingdom’s future. She is knows that her duty comes before love.
But a tragic event reveal that her bloodline is cursed, Ivette becomes then a political weapon. She has to choose her fate for the sake of Ivery.
But 6 years later everything changes, and she is not a damsel in distress anymore.
Honestly, I really loved this book, the FMC is the perfect princess, she is the perfect example of damsel in distress.
It is a little boring in the beginning, but when we enter the universe and read more of it, he becomes really addictive and we don’t want to stop reading it.
The story is really great and I needed tissues when I read the end of it.
Fan of fantasy, this book is made for you. The cover is also beautiful I love it so much.
While reading it, I had some thoughts, and they weren’t always right some of parts of this book was really unexpected.
I recommend this book 100%.
April 13, 2026
From the very first scene, I was completely captivated. Adriana’s writing is elegant and immersive, drawing you effortlessly into the story. The plot, world-building, and characters are all thoughtfully developed, with every element connecting seamlessly and no loose ends left unresolved. What truly stands out for me is her ability to make you feel exactly what the characters are experiencing. This is a stunning novel that I’d highly recommend to anyone who enjoys fairy tale retellings. A Swan Lake retelling is also something I have never read before, and this book sets a high standard for others that may follow.
June 26, 2026
I was hooked from the very start of the book!!! 🤍
I’ve been in a reading slump since september and this book finally gave me back that love for reading.
I couldn’t stop thinking about it and couldn’t wait to get home to read!!
I love this world and the story, it’s something new and I’m kinda sad that I have to leave this world and these people! 🤭
I love her (the authors) writing and if she decides to ever come back to this kingdom!!! I’ll be there! 🦢🤍
If u want a quick paced fantasy romantic beautiful strong sometimes kinda heartbreaking story this is for you!!! I definitely recommend!!!
This books vibe:
🦢👑🥀✨🐦⬛🏰💍🕯️
I’ve been in a reading slump since september and this book finally gave me back that love for reading.
I couldn’t stop thinking about it and couldn’t wait to get home to read!!
I love this world and the story, it’s something new and I’m kinda sad that I have to leave this world and these people! 🤭
I love her (the authors) writing and if she decides to ever come back to this kingdom!!! I’ll be there! 🦢🤍
If u want a quick paced fantasy romantic beautiful strong sometimes kinda heartbreaking story this is for you!!! I definitely recommend!!!
This books vibe:
🦢👑🥀✨🐦⬛🏰💍🕯️
May 8, 2026
"What a ride! This book completely subverted my expectations. I was already invested by chapter one, but the transition from a fairytale atmosphere to that plot twist was handled so well. If you love stories that take paths you don't see coming, you need to read this."
May 8, 2026
The book felt a bit too juvenile for me. It had a very strong start, but I lost interest halfway through and struggled to finish the ending.
April 18, 2026
Teenage mistakes and a mother’s love for her child
Review of advance copy received from Author
𝘈 𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘭𝘦 𝘵𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘱𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘳 𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘯 𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘵𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘨𝘳𝘰𝘸𝘴 𝘩𝘶𝘯𝘨𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘰𝘱𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘶𝘯𝘪𝘵𝘺
I was really hyped for this YA Swan Lake retelling and Adriana delivered! In this story we follow Ivette, a princess that is to be wed to a prince. Of course, like every princess in a YA story, Ivette has her own thoughts and opinions about her duty. One choice leads to another, and what was once a choice made with the best intentions, is now a battle for her kingdom.
🦢 𝒲𝒽𝒶𝓉 ℐ 𝑒𝓃𝒿𝑜𝓎𝑒𝒹 🦢
➹ the characters & multiple povs: Every main AND minor character stood out in its own way. I loved seeing their process out thoughts in their povs, but also how other characters saw each other. It brought more depth to the characters that I’m certain wouldn’t have been there if we only had the main character’s povs.
➹ the foreshadowing: everything mentioned in the story always came back in a surprising way. I didn’t always catch on as I was often too invested for theories, which caused me to have quite some “oohhh!!” moments afterwards!
➹ everyone is grey: Adriana is really good in writing “grey” characters.
I understood why “good” characters made bad choices, and why “villain” characters made their good/bad choices. There’s no black and white choices or feelings. I did feel sympathy for the villains (without condoning what they had done) and that was what made this story so heartbreaking.
➹ the unspoken bond that the women had with each other. I felt it with Ivette’s ladies, with queen Ingrid, with Lucy … these women were ready for a matriarchy
🩰 ℐ𝓋𝑒𝓉𝓉𝑒 🩰
Let’s talk about our main girl cause I really loved her. Ivette starts out as a soft, sweet but very insecure young princess. The bond with her mother was not the best, and after reading Miranda’s pov, I really felt for “what could’ve been”, but was taken from them by grief.
She was not ready for Leon at all, she was too young and naive, but I loved both of their soft sides during their honest conversation. Our bestie Queen Ingrid was so disappointed in her 😭😭
I think a lot of sadness and insecurities is what eventually led Ivette down this path of submission and fear, which eventually led to her breaking point. I felt sad and scared for her the entire time.
“𝘐𝘷𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘥 𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘴𝘩𝘦’𝘥 𝘭𝘰𝘴𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘧 𝘪𝘯 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘪𝘵 𝘤𝘢𝘮𝘦 𝘧𝘭𝘰𝘸𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘬 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘴 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘦𝘥 𝘶𝘱𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘩𝘢𝘥 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘺𝘦𝘥.”
Not gonna talk too much about her comeback era for the spoilers, but I loved that, despite everything and despite how much harder she had become, her soft side did not chance. She grew, she learned, but she did not chance that love inside her 🤍
🖤 ℛ𝑜𝒷𝑒𝓇𝓉 🖤
I also don’t want to talk too much about our MMC for spoilers, but I this man was fishy from the get go.
⬇️SPOILERS⬇️
Yet I can still understand some of his choices, especially with his ring corrupting him.
The ending was what really made me sad for him though. Ivette and him reminiscing about their love and him eventually making peace with “the end” … heartbreak.
You had your fairytale life Robert, too bad you chose to stand on the wrong side of this story.
🎀 𝒲𝒽𝒶𝓉 𝓌𝒶𝓈𝓃’𝓉 𝒻𝑜𝓇 𝓂𝑒 🎀
Yannick was one of my favorites, why did you have to do that 😭
I was really hyped for this YA Swan Lake retelling and Adriana delivered! In this story we follow Ivette, a princess that is to be wed to a prince. Of course, like every princess in a YA story, Ivette has her own thoughts and opinions about her duty. One choice leads to another, and what was once a choice made with the best intentions, is now a battle for her kingdom.
🦢 𝒲𝒽𝒶𝓉 ℐ 𝑒𝓃𝒿𝑜𝓎𝑒𝒹 🦢
➹ the characters & multiple povs: Every main AND minor character stood out in its own way. I loved seeing their process out thoughts in their povs, but also how other characters saw each other. It brought more depth to the characters that I’m certain wouldn’t have been there if we only had the main character’s povs.
➹ the foreshadowing: everything mentioned in the story always came back in a surprising way. I didn’t always catch on as I was often too invested for theories, which caused me to have quite some “oohhh!!” moments afterwards!
➹ everyone is grey: Adriana is really good in writing “grey” characters.
I understood why “good” characters made bad choices, and why “villain” characters made their good/bad choices. There’s no black and white choices or feelings. I did feel sympathy for the villains (without condoning what they had done) and that was what made this story so heartbreaking.
➹ the unspoken bond that the women had with each other. I felt it with Ivette’s ladies, with queen Ingrid, with Lucy … these women were ready for a matriarchy
🩰 ℐ𝓋𝑒𝓉𝓉𝑒 🩰
Let’s talk about our main girl cause I really loved her. Ivette starts out as a soft, sweet but very insecure young princess. The bond with her mother was not the best, and after reading Miranda’s pov, I really felt for “what could’ve been”, but was taken from them by grief.
She was not ready for Leon at all, she was too young and naive, but I loved both of their soft sides during their honest conversation. Our bestie Queen Ingrid was so disappointed in her 😭😭
I think a lot of sadness and insecurities is what eventually led Ivette down this path of submission and fear, which eventually led to her breaking point. I felt sad and scared for her the entire time.
“𝘐𝘷𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘥 𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘴𝘩𝘦’𝘥 𝘭𝘰𝘴𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘧 𝘪𝘯 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘪𝘵 𝘤𝘢𝘮𝘦 𝘧𝘭𝘰𝘸𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘬 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘴 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘦𝘥 𝘶𝘱𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘩𝘢𝘥 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘺𝘦𝘥.”
Not gonna talk too much about her comeback era for the spoilers, but I loved that, despite everything and despite how much harder she had become, her soft side did not chance. She grew, she learned, but she did not chance that love inside her 🤍
🖤 ℛ𝑜𝒷𝑒𝓇𝓉 🖤
I also don’t want to talk too much about our MMC for spoilers, but I this man was fishy from the get go.
⬇️SPOILERS⬇️
Yet I can still understand some of his choices, especially with his ring corrupting him.
The ending was what really made me sad for him though. Ivette and him reminiscing about their love and him eventually making peace with “the end” … heartbreak.
You had your fairytale life Robert, too bad you chose to stand on the wrong side of this story.
🎀 𝒲𝒽𝒶𝓉 𝓌𝒶𝓈𝓃’𝓉 𝒻𝑜𝓇 𝓂𝑒 🎀
Yannick was one of my favorites, why did you have to do that 😭
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
“That afternoon, she would be crowned queen – a broken one, but a queen nonetheless.’
This book was incredible! It was hands down one of the most original retellings I have ever read. Despite it being based on a well know tale – Swan Lake – I had no idea what was about to happen or where the story was going. I was blown away!
First of all, I need to applaud the author. I said it before and I will say it again: Adrianna published her poetry before she wrote her debut novel and that poetry is reflected in her writing style. The way she describes things, such as furniture or nature... Only a poet describes certain things this way. I read her debut, Skyestone, as well and although it was a good book, this one showed her improvement as an author. This book felt more mature, as she gets more experience with every story she writes.
“He couldn’t believe it at first. A swan lay inside, seemingly sound asleep. Its feathers were as white as a pearl.”
This story is labeled ‘a fairytale retelling’, while it is, in fact, based on the most famous ballet out there: Swan Lake by composer Tchaikovsky. The author succeeded in seamlessly infusing parts of the famous ballet into a lovely, breathtaking YA fantasy story. And for those who were a fan of Barbie’s adaptation of the ballet, not unlike myself, this one is for you! It has the same feeling as the film, including handsome princes and poofy dresses.
And yet, this book is nothing like the original ballet or the Barbie film. I am good at figuring out how the story will go, even at the very beginning. But now I was gasping when I found out who the sorcerer was and how the storyline of the sorcerer, Odette (the princess who turns into the white swan during the day) and Odile (the black swan) fits into Adrianna’s adaptation. I applaud her for taking that famous story and throwing it upside down, inside out. It was original and unpredictable, but don’t expect an adaptation close to the ballet. For example, you have to wait until part II (around chapter 10, it was, I think) before the swan appears. This does not mean that the story was badly written, it’s just a loose adaptation.
“[She was] practicing how to k*ll the only person who stood in her way of taking back her kingdom and everything she’d lost."
Overall, this book was phenomenal. I loved the characters, because none of them were either good or bad, and none of their decisions and actions were just black or white. They always had a reason, and even though their actions may not always be good, you can understand why they did it.
I loved the descriptions and worldbuilding, with a lot of poofy and sparkles but also with a dark cloud hanging above them, as well as the refreshing take on the ballet aspects of the story.
And a big round of applause for Adrianna, Designsbylotte and the publisher for making this book breathtaking. It will be one of the most beautiful covers on my bookshelf!
This book was incredible! It was hands down one of the most original retellings I have ever read. Despite it being based on a well know tale – Swan Lake – I had no idea what was about to happen or where the story was going. I was blown away!
First of all, I need to applaud the author. I said it before and I will say it again: Adrianna published her poetry before she wrote her debut novel and that poetry is reflected in her writing style. The way she describes things, such as furniture or nature... Only a poet describes certain things this way. I read her debut, Skyestone, as well and although it was a good book, this one showed her improvement as an author. This book felt more mature, as she gets more experience with every story she writes.
“He couldn’t believe it at first. A swan lay inside, seemingly sound asleep. Its feathers were as white as a pearl.”
This story is labeled ‘a fairytale retelling’, while it is, in fact, based on the most famous ballet out there: Swan Lake by composer Tchaikovsky. The author succeeded in seamlessly infusing parts of the famous ballet into a lovely, breathtaking YA fantasy story. And for those who were a fan of Barbie’s adaptation of the ballet, not unlike myself, this one is for you! It has the same feeling as the film, including handsome princes and poofy dresses.
And yet, this book is nothing like the original ballet or the Barbie film. I am good at figuring out how the story will go, even at the very beginning. But now I was gasping when I found out who the sorcerer was and how the storyline of the sorcerer, Odette (the princess who turns into the white swan during the day) and Odile (the black swan) fits into Adrianna’s adaptation. I applaud her for taking that famous story and throwing it upside down, inside out. It was original and unpredictable, but don’t expect an adaptation close to the ballet. For example, you have to wait until part II (around chapter 10, it was, I think) before the swan appears. This does not mean that the story was badly written, it’s just a loose adaptation.
“[She was] practicing how to k*ll the only person who stood in her way of taking back her kingdom and everything she’d lost."
Overall, this book was phenomenal. I loved the characters, because none of them were either good or bad, and none of their decisions and actions were just black or white. They always had a reason, and even though their actions may not always be good, you can understand why they did it.
I loved the descriptions and worldbuilding, with a lot of poofy and sparkles but also with a dark cloud hanging above them, as well as the refreshing take on the ballet aspects of the story.
And a big round of applause for Adrianna, Designsbylotte and the publisher for making this book breathtaking. It will be one of the most beautiful covers on my bookshelf!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Crowned in Feathers 👑🪶
.
English below.
Aller eerst bedankt @hamleybooks & @adrianaswritings_ voor dit hele gave recensie exemplaar!
Crowned in Feathers zoals al eerder benoemd wordt in een recensie is dit de grown up versie van Het zwanenmeer (die eene van vroegah)
Ik vond dat echt de perfecte benaming voor dit boek.
Er zitten hele leuke en hele leuke foute personages is maar wat ik zo leuk vond was de vrouwen power die heerlijk maar niet irritant overheersend was 💪🏻.
Ook maken de personages hele grote ontwikkelingen door wat super bijzonder was om te lezen, want niet iedereen komt uit een fijne omgeving/ gezin.
Ik durf er eigelijk niet veel meer over te zeggen omdat dit een boek is die je zelf moet " ervaren".
Hou jij van royal fantasy novels ga dan dit boek lezeb het zal je alles behalve teleurstellen.
Ik ben fan van deze schrijfster en ze heeft de lat erg hoog gelegd want ik ben super benieuwd naar haar volgende uitgave 💚.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
.
Crowned in Feathers 👑🪶
First of all, thank you @hamleybooks & @adrianaswritings_ for this really cool review copy!
Crowned in Feathers, as mentioned earlier in a review, is the grown-up version of The Swan Lake (that one from way back).
I really thought that was the perfect name for this book.
It features very fun and very fun flawed characters, but what I really liked was the female power, which was delightful but not annoyingly overpowering 💪🏻.
The characters also undergo major developments, which was super special to read, because not everyone comes from a nice environment/family.
I actually don't dare say much more about it because this is a book you have to "experience" for yourself.
If you love royal fantasy novels, go read this book; it will be anything but disappointing.
I am a fan of this author and she has set the bar very high, because I am super curious about her next release 💚.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
.
English below.
Aller eerst bedankt @hamleybooks & @adrianaswritings_ voor dit hele gave recensie exemplaar!
Crowned in Feathers zoals al eerder benoemd wordt in een recensie is dit de grown up versie van Het zwanenmeer (die eene van vroegah)
Ik vond dat echt de perfecte benaming voor dit boek.
Er zitten hele leuke en hele leuke foute personages is maar wat ik zo leuk vond was de vrouwen power die heerlijk maar niet irritant overheersend was 💪🏻.
Ook maken de personages hele grote ontwikkelingen door wat super bijzonder was om te lezen, want niet iedereen komt uit een fijne omgeving/ gezin.
Ik durf er eigelijk niet veel meer over te zeggen omdat dit een boek is die je zelf moet " ervaren".
Hou jij van royal fantasy novels ga dan dit boek lezeb het zal je alles behalve teleurstellen.
Ik ben fan van deze schrijfster en ze heeft de lat erg hoog gelegd want ik ben super benieuwd naar haar volgende uitgave 💚.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
.
Crowned in Feathers 👑🪶
First of all, thank you @hamleybooks & @adrianaswritings_ for this really cool review copy!
Crowned in Feathers, as mentioned earlier in a review, is the grown-up version of The Swan Lake (that one from way back).
I really thought that was the perfect name for this book.
It features very fun and very fun flawed characters, but what I really liked was the female power, which was delightful but not annoyingly overpowering 💪🏻.
The characters also undergo major developments, which was super special to read, because not everyone comes from a nice environment/family.
I actually don't dare say much more about it because this is a book you have to "experience" for yourself.
If you love royal fantasy novels, go read this book; it will be anything but disappointing.
I am a fan of this author and she has set the bar very high, because I am super curious about her next release 💚.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
3,25 ⭐️
I was lucky to be picked as an ARC reader for Crowned In Feathers, thank you Hamley Books! This book was being promoted as a "coming of rage" and a "lovers to enemies" which had me intruiged. It's a retelling of The Swan Lake and it has an original twist to the story.
The prologue was VERY promising! This part of the book was so well written and was a great set-up for the story. Sadly for me, the actual start of the story fell a little flat to me. I had to drag myself a little to keep on reading and it wasn't untill 40% in that something interesting started happening. Don't get me wrong, everything that led up to this point was necessary, but it felt a little dull.
I had a few struggles throughout the story. The first of them being the time jumps. This made me lose interest and connection to the FMC. Also the pacing of the story felt off to me. Like I said, the prologue was very strong, then for almost 120 pages it felt like not much was happening. After something interesting happened, the story lost it's pace again, only to pick up again near the end. At one particular part in the story, the characters didn't seem to see the difference at first between a flying raven and a swan. Like come on, that's a huge difference...
However, I think the story has promise. I loved the multiple POV's, but it was mainly written from the FMC's perspective. The few added POV's added more depth to the story and were added at just the right times. I feel like Crowned In Feathers has a hidden meaning and tries to get across a beautiful message for young women. I think this book fits the YA genre best and is a perfect way to dive a little into the fantasy genre, without being so heavy on the fantasy.
I was lucky to be picked as an ARC reader for Crowned In Feathers, thank you Hamley Books! This book was being promoted as a "coming of rage" and a "lovers to enemies" which had me intruiged. It's a retelling of The Swan Lake and it has an original twist to the story.
The prologue was VERY promising! This part of the book was so well written and was a great set-up for the story. Sadly for me, the actual start of the story fell a little flat to me. I had to drag myself a little to keep on reading and it wasn't untill 40% in that something interesting started happening. Don't get me wrong, everything that led up to this point was necessary, but it felt a little dull.
I had a few struggles throughout the story. The first of them being the time jumps. This made me lose interest and connection to the FMC. Also the pacing of the story felt off to me. Like I said, the prologue was very strong, then for almost 120 pages it felt like not much was happening. After something interesting happened, the story lost it's pace again, only to pick up again near the end. At one particular part in the story, the characters didn't seem to see the difference at first between a flying raven and a swan. Like come on, that's a huge difference...
However, I think the story has promise. I loved the multiple POV's, but it was mainly written from the FMC's perspective. The few added POV's added more depth to the story and were added at just the right times. I feel like Crowned In Feathers has a hidden meaning and tries to get across a beautiful message for young women. I think this book fits the YA genre best and is a perfect way to dive a little into the fantasy genre, without being so heavy on the fantasy.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This book felt like returning to a place you loved dearly, but hadn’t visited in a long time.
I always try to not have any expectations when I start reading, but this story went somewhere I didn’t expect it to go - and I loved it. Adrianna really fooled me hehe. Every twist surprised me, yet I kept thinking “damn, I should have seen that coming.”
The writing was incredibly immersive. You could smell the food, see the dresses and feel the vibrations of the music through the descriptions.
It also explores some really important themes such as romantic relationships, coming of age, femininity…These topics get more depth due to the fact that we don’t just follow Ivette’s POV, but also those of side-characters (I LOVED the friendship arc). I did struggle with the main character at first, she felt kind of mopey (she did have her reasons, but after a while it felt repetitive and kind of shallow), but this improved towards the ending.
The themes are handled very well for a YA book, not too heavy or explicit, but not too childish. Lately I feel like a lot of YA books aren’t truly YA anymore (as in: I would NEVER give them to my 13-year-old sister) - but this one contained everything a good YA book should have.
My favourite quotes:
“She’d become the choir master and silenced the music”
“A single taste of power creates an appetite that grows hungrier with each opportunity.”
“She felt like a bird in a cage. And she was tired of keeping her wings hidden.”
If you’re looking for a book with themes like femininity, sisterhood, curses, forbidden love and political intrigue, that actually feels YA, this one’s for you!
I always try to not have any expectations when I start reading, but this story went somewhere I didn’t expect it to go - and I loved it. Adrianna really fooled me hehe. Every twist surprised me, yet I kept thinking “damn, I should have seen that coming.”
The writing was incredibly immersive. You could smell the food, see the dresses and feel the vibrations of the music through the descriptions.
It also explores some really important themes such as romantic relationships, coming of age, femininity…These topics get more depth due to the fact that we don’t just follow Ivette’s POV, but also those of side-characters (I LOVED the friendship arc). I did struggle with the main character at first, she felt kind of mopey (she did have her reasons, but after a while it felt repetitive and kind of shallow), but this improved towards the ending.
The themes are handled very well for a YA book, not too heavy or explicit, but not too childish. Lately I feel like a lot of YA books aren’t truly YA anymore (as in: I would NEVER give them to my 13-year-old sister) - but this one contained everything a good YA book should have.
My favourite quotes:
“She’d become the choir master and silenced the music”
“A single taste of power creates an appetite that grows hungrier with each opportunity.”
“She felt like a bird in a cage. And she was tired of keeping her wings hidden.”
If you’re looking for a book with themes like femininity, sisterhood, curses, forbidden love and political intrigue, that actually feels YA, this one’s for you!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This retelling of Swan Lake, written in third person with multiple perspectives (mostly Ivette’s), starts with a suspenseful prologue that sets the tone of the story. The author depicts a vivid and beautiful setting, allowing me to really visualize the surroundings and enter the world. Combined with surprising twists, a curse and strong female bonds, it drew me in and I kept wondering what would happen next.
I admired the ballet scenes and I enjoyed the references to swans. It was nice that how the Syrcle’s magic works is gradually introduced. In principle it is only meant for good, although that’s not to say that it can’t be used for evil purposes - which also goes for power. Even so, I could understand the motives of most of the characters, which I liked. In the last chapters, I had expected even more of a struggle, but I certainly appreciated the symbolism.
Throughout the story, Ivette’s view of love drastically changes, from believing that love conquers all to detesting so-called love that presents itself as controlling, possessive and obsessive. Being misled by someone who poses to be more trustworthy than they are is in a way a relatable experience for me. At times, I felt like the emotions urging her transformation could have been written more raw. I loved how everything greatly came together and multiple twists left me open-mouthed, which is definitely proof that it’s a good book!
I admired the ballet scenes and I enjoyed the references to swans. It was nice that how the Syrcle’s magic works is gradually introduced. In principle it is only meant for good, although that’s not to say that it can’t be used for evil purposes - which also goes for power. Even so, I could understand the motives of most of the characters, which I liked. In the last chapters, I had expected even more of a struggle, but I certainly appreciated the symbolism.
Throughout the story, Ivette’s view of love drastically changes, from believing that love conquers all to detesting so-called love that presents itself as controlling, possessive and obsessive. Being misled by someone who poses to be more trustworthy than they are is in a way a relatable experience for me. At times, I felt like the emotions urging her transformation could have been written more raw. I loved how everything greatly came together and multiple twists left me open-mouthed, which is definitely proof that it’s a good book!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews