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Displaced Fairytales
Transformed Tail
She has one month to win the prince’s heart—or vanish into seafoam. Falling for the wrong prince was never part of the plan.
Princess Aulani was born under the sea, but the world above calls to her. When she rescues a drowning prince, she risks everything for a forbidden legs in place of fins, and a single chance to earn his love before the spell breaks.
But she surfaces in the wrong kingdom… and the only creature who understands her? A talking frog with problems of his own.
Prince Ezra never wanted the crown—or the curse that turned him into a coquí frog. With his kingdom crumbling and his throne stolen, he has no choice but to rely on the mermaid who, quite literally, splashed into his world.
As tides shift and hearts entangle, Aulani and Ezra discover that love isn’t just the strongest magic… it’s the one thing that might save them both.
Set in a lush island kingdom inspired by the Hawaiian islands, Transformed Tail is a sparkling mashup of The Little Mermaid and The Frog Prince. Part of the Displaced Fairy Tales multi-author series, this enchanting romance features grumpy/sunshine banter, forbidden love, he-falls-first swoon, and a sea of heart-tugging moments sure to sweep you away. Perfect for fans of magical transformations, second chances, and fairy tales with tropical flair.
Princess Aulani was born under the sea, but the world above calls to her. When she rescues a drowning prince, she risks everything for a forbidden legs in place of fins, and a single chance to earn his love before the spell breaks.
But she surfaces in the wrong kingdom… and the only creature who understands her? A talking frog with problems of his own.
Prince Ezra never wanted the crown—or the curse that turned him into a coquí frog. With his kingdom crumbling and his throne stolen, he has no choice but to rely on the mermaid who, quite literally, splashed into his world.
As tides shift and hearts entangle, Aulani and Ezra discover that love isn’t just the strongest magic… it’s the one thing that might save them both.
Set in a lush island kingdom inspired by the Hawaiian islands, Transformed Tail is a sparkling mashup of The Little Mermaid and The Frog Prince. Part of the Displaced Fairy Tales multi-author series, this enchanting romance features grumpy/sunshine banter, forbidden love, he-falls-first swoon, and a sea of heart-tugging moments sure to sweep you away. Perfect for fans of magical transformations, second chances, and fairy tales with tropical flair.
171 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 14, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
February 23, 2026
I surprisingly, really really enjoyed this!
☕️ sweet & very squeaky clean
☕️ no violence
☕️ very light magic
Fun, short, and delightful - better than I imagined and just what I needed.
Did Not Finish
March 6, 2026DNF at 47%
This didnt seem as well written as another book I read by the same author. The characters were annoying me, everything felt rushed, and I didnt like how the first meeting between Aulani and the frog guy played out and then Aulani kept talking about frog guy as if shes known him for years. you just met him 20 minutes ago, you don't know him or what kind of person he is!!! And then I didnt know why she was so stuck on having to marry Ryker specifically. She looked at him for like 5 seconds and he was unconscious the whole time. Just marry frog boy since you know him so well and already made out with him.
Content up to the point i read: Aulani's aunt is called a sea witch and she makes potions and stuff, but she isnt a villain in this retelling. Another character makes magical potions. The frog prince guy kisses aulaini upon first meeting her even though he's betrothed to someone else
This didnt seem as well written as another book I read by the same author. The characters were annoying me, everything felt rushed, and I didnt like how the first meeting between Aulani and the frog guy played out and then Aulani kept talking about frog guy as if shes known him for years. you just met him 20 minutes ago, you don't know him or what kind of person he is!!! And then I didnt know why she was so stuck on having to marry Ryker specifically. She looked at him for like 5 seconds and he was unconscious the whole time. Just marry frog boy since you know him so well and already made out with him.
Content up to the point i read: Aulani's aunt is called a sea witch and she makes potions and stuff, but she isnt a villain in this retelling. Another character makes magical potions. The frog prince guy kisses aulaini upon first meeting her even though he's betrothed to someone else
August 15, 2026
This book was so good! Aulani and Ezra had very palpable romantic chemistry, and the story took many interesting twists and turns that I didn't predict. Leialoha Humpherys did a good job weaving in environmental and anti-colonialism themes in a way that did not feel heavy-handed. Most indie fairy tale retellings just take place in a typical European-inspired fairy tale world, so the Hawaiian-coded setting was such a refreshing twist on the format!
April 28, 2026
This was such a fun mashup on the little mermaid and the frog prince. I really liked both of the main characters and enjoyed how the setting felt hawaiian. There were several instances I found humorous. Overall, a quick and entertaining read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Transformed Tail by Leialoha Humpherys is the second book I read from the Displaced Fairytales multi-author series. This book merges "The Little Mermaid" with "The Frog Prince," and I don't think anyone could ask for a better combination of fairy tales! Both stories are about transformed aquatic royals who need each other's love to maintain their human forms. This story takes the fun even further with its unique Hawaiian setting, positive environmental messaging, and adorable main couple. I'm generally biased towards "Little Mermaid" retellings, and this one did not disappoint.
Prince Ezra has his reservations about a marriage alliance with Princess Cressida, but he feels obligated to perform his duty as second in line to the throne. He never expected to end up in the body of a frog when he came into contact with her magic ball. And not just any frog! Ezra is transformed into a coqui frog, a tiny invasive species that's being hunted in his kingdom. Now his only salvation lies with a brave mermaid princess named Aulani, who is transported to his pond while chasing after the human prince she rescued. Aulani forms a magical bond with Ezra that allows them to communicate telepathically after drinking a potion that transforms her tail into legs and takes away her voice.
My favorite thing about this book is how much chemistry these two characters have! From the moment they meet, they are instantly drawn to each other, even before Aulani believes that Ezra is actually human. Their telepathic communication gives them a special connection that allows them to grow closer to each other as they navigate family, political, and personal struggles. It was so satisfying to see their internal banter that no one else could hear, letting them share countless inside jokes and support each other in their quest to protect their kingdom.
The book takes place in a refreshing tropical setting, which is uncommon for a fairy tale retelling. Reading it felt like taking a Hawaiian vacation. I learned a lot about the native flora and fauna, and I loved that Aulani's mermaid powers gave her the ability heal the land and connect with the animals. It made her connection to the land feel truly magical. This book also taught me a lot about the coqui frog and its status as an invasive species. I couldn't believe how small they are!
Transformed Tail is a refreshing blend of humor, heart, and Hawaiian magic. Leialoha Humpherys' unique take on "The Little Mermaid" and "The Frog Prince" is a refreshing addition to the fairy tale retelling genre, with a lovable couple and a relaxing setting that's sure to enchant readers.
Prince Ezra has his reservations about a marriage alliance with Princess Cressida, but he feels obligated to perform his duty as second in line to the throne. He never expected to end up in the body of a frog when he came into contact with her magic ball. And not just any frog! Ezra is transformed into a coqui frog, a tiny invasive species that's being hunted in his kingdom. Now his only salvation lies with a brave mermaid princess named Aulani, who is transported to his pond while chasing after the human prince she rescued. Aulani forms a magical bond with Ezra that allows them to communicate telepathically after drinking a potion that transforms her tail into legs and takes away her voice.
My favorite thing about this book is how much chemistry these two characters have! From the moment they meet, they are instantly drawn to each other, even before Aulani believes that Ezra is actually human. Their telepathic communication gives them a special connection that allows them to grow closer to each other as they navigate family, political, and personal struggles. It was so satisfying to see their internal banter that no one else could hear, letting them share countless inside jokes and support each other in their quest to protect their kingdom.
The book takes place in a refreshing tropical setting, which is uncommon for a fairy tale retelling. Reading it felt like taking a Hawaiian vacation. I learned a lot about the native flora and fauna, and I loved that Aulani's mermaid powers gave her the ability heal the land and connect with the animals. It made her connection to the land feel truly magical. This book also taught me a lot about the coqui frog and its status as an invasive species. I couldn't believe how small they are!
Transformed Tail is a refreshing blend of humor, heart, and Hawaiian magic. Leialoha Humpherys' unique take on "The Little Mermaid" and "The Frog Prince" is a refreshing addition to the fairy tale retelling genre, with a lovable couple and a relaxing setting that's sure to enchant readers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I enjoyed the book concept. Two different fairytales meetings together in a unique setting.
I love the setting the story is place in and how the prince and mermaid work together. It was a fun and quick read!
The only thing is that I wished the book was a it longer but otherwise I enjoyed the book.
I am received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I love the setting the story is place in and how the prince and mermaid work together. It was a fun and quick read!
The only thing is that I wished the book was a it longer but otherwise I enjoyed the book.
I am received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 29, 2026
ARC REVIEW! 🥳📚
Aww, this was such a cute and fluffy read!
I loved the Hawaiian setting with all the vibrant color, life, and respect of tradition and keeping the roots in their land that it displayed. The lovely descriptions really brought me into the world/kingdom of Kaiora!
Our MC’s made such a cute couple… and I found myself mischievously chuckling whenever Aulani pulled out a pun 😂 (For I’m also the type of gal who uses puns with high hopes and raised brows, waiting for the inevitable groan from my family members…)
And Ezra was a sweetheart and just the biggest walking green-flag! His heart for his island, its people, the creatures and plants, and his gentle approach to everything was something that stood out from most books these days. And let’s not forget one of the coolest things about the book… the fairytale mix-up! As a big fairytale retelling reader, it was great fun to see The Little Mermaid and The Frog Prince pulled together like this… Can’t wait to continue the series!
📍Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
📍Romance: Kisses only (not described in detail and only a few of them.)
📍Language: No cursing or swearing.
📍Genre: Fairytale Retelling, Romantic Fantasy
📍Other Content: He was present when she transformed into a human, so… slightly awkward and scandalous. However, it was written very appropriately.
📍Tropes
📚Quiet MMC/Chatty FMC
📚Hawaiian/Polynesian Setting
📚Political Intrigue
📚Telepathic Communication
📚PUNS! (Yeah, yeah not a trope, but definitely something to look forward to! 😂)
Aww, this was such a cute and fluffy read!
I loved the Hawaiian setting with all the vibrant color, life, and respect of tradition and keeping the roots in their land that it displayed. The lovely descriptions really brought me into the world/kingdom of Kaiora!
Our MC’s made such a cute couple… and I found myself mischievously chuckling whenever Aulani pulled out a pun 😂 (For I’m also the type of gal who uses puns with high hopes and raised brows, waiting for the inevitable groan from my family members…)
And Ezra was a sweetheart and just the biggest walking green-flag! His heart for his island, its people, the creatures and plants, and his gentle approach to everything was something that stood out from most books these days. And let’s not forget one of the coolest things about the book… the fairytale mix-up! As a big fairytale retelling reader, it was great fun to see The Little Mermaid and The Frog Prince pulled together like this… Can’t wait to continue the series!
📍Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
📍Romance: Kisses only (not described in detail and only a few of them.)
📍Language: No cursing or swearing.
📍Genre: Fairytale Retelling, Romantic Fantasy
📍Other Content: He was present when she transformed into a human, so… slightly awkward and scandalous. However, it was written very appropriately.
📍Tropes
📚Quiet MMC/Chatty FMC
📚Hawaiian/Polynesian Setting
📚Political Intrigue
📚Telepathic Communication
📚PUNS! (Yeah, yeah not a trope, but definitely something to look forward to! 😂)
March 4, 2026
Content:
Profanity: None.
Violence: Mild. There is magical harm and indication that some people died off screen. There is minor blood from a knife wound. Some fighting.
Sexual: High mild. Kissing, hands in hair, around neck/waist, and held close. Hugs, hand-holding, being carried, touching faces. Everything is clean and not spicy, there's just more kissing and touching than typical.
Things I liked:
1. The mash up of the Frog Prince and The Little Mermaid. That worked quite well! I was surprised, and it was one of the most fun parts of reading, to see how throwing a character from a different fairy tale into someone else's story changed things.
2. The problem needing to be solved. I enjoyed the issues that Ezra had to deal with and how Aulani helped and supported him from the outset. It was fun to see how it all played out and who was 'bad' and who was 'good'.
Things I didn't like:
1. Insta-love. They literally meet and he kisses her even though he 'knows he shouldn't' and that irked me. A lot. It wasn't fun to read because it wasn't believable. They act like they've been in love for years and inexplicably understand and know each other's personalities without trying. There's a lot of tell and not show in the romance. Hence, it wasn't really romance for me.
2. The abundant use of words I did not understand. There were a slew of Hawaiian words used that I couldn't even get from context what they were except in the broadest sense. It took me out of fun story time, to frustration at using words that made it so I felt disconnected to the story, since there was no explanation anywhere as to what they meant. Best I could tell was, 'ah, that must be a food?' and 'Okay, that's a tree of some sort' or 'Is that some kind of building or clothing?' the annoyance was at peak by the end.
This was super short. While I didn't hate it, I didn't love it either. I loved the idea of it...but it fell short with me having to figure out the Hawaiian-ness without enough context, the insta-love, and being really upset at Ezra's family situations. It was just okay. Not enough like or dislike for me to care much.
Profanity: None.
Violence: Mild. There is magical harm and indication that some people died off screen. There is minor blood from a knife wound. Some fighting.
Sexual: High mild. Kissing, hands in hair, around neck/waist, and held close. Hugs, hand-holding, being carried, touching faces. Everything is clean and not spicy, there's just more kissing and touching than typical.
Things I liked:
1. The mash up of the Frog Prince and The Little Mermaid. That worked quite well! I was surprised, and it was one of the most fun parts of reading, to see how throwing a character from a different fairy tale into someone else's story changed things.
2. The problem needing to be solved. I enjoyed the issues that Ezra had to deal with and how Aulani helped and supported him from the outset. It was fun to see how it all played out and who was 'bad' and who was 'good'.
Things I didn't like:
1. Insta-love. They literally meet and he kisses her even though he 'knows he shouldn't' and that irked me. A lot. It wasn't fun to read because it wasn't believable. They act like they've been in love for years and inexplicably understand and know each other's personalities without trying. There's a lot of tell and not show in the romance. Hence, it wasn't really romance for me.
2. The abundant use of words I did not understand. There were a slew of Hawaiian words used that I couldn't even get from context what they were except in the broadest sense. It took me out of fun story time, to frustration at using words that made it so I felt disconnected to the story, since there was no explanation anywhere as to what they meant. Best I could tell was, 'ah, that must be a food?' and 'Okay, that's a tree of some sort' or 'Is that some kind of building or clothing?' the annoyance was at peak by the end.
This was super short. While I didn't hate it, I didn't love it either. I loved the idea of it...but it fell short with me having to figure out the Hawaiian-ness without enough context, the insta-love, and being really upset at Ezra's family situations. It was just okay. Not enough like or dislike for me to care much.
February 16, 2026
What a fun story! I loved the fairytale inspiration and the themes of finding your place.
I really felt for Ezra! He was trying so hard to fulfill his new role and his struggle with comparison was so relatable. He had a tender protective heart and cared so much for his people. Ezra struggled with the legacy and responsibility that had been placed upon him. He found light and support in Aulani, but struggled with the temporary nature of her time with him.
Aulani was so vibrant! She was full of life, but definitely felt quite young. She went after her dreams, but was really searching for her place. She was a bright complement to Ezra, with his same desire to help and care for others, but a bubbly and fresh perspective.
I loved the island setting and felt the tension between the choices Ezra had to make as king. There were secrets, magic, betrayals and shocking surprises! I was rooting for Ezra and Aulani to uncover the mysteries of the island’s struggle and to discover what their future looked like. This double fairytale inspired fantasy has only kisses.
I received an ARC.
I really felt for Ezra! He was trying so hard to fulfill his new role and his struggle with comparison was so relatable. He had a tender protective heart and cared so much for his people. Ezra struggled with the legacy and responsibility that had been placed upon him. He found light and support in Aulani, but struggled with the temporary nature of her time with him.
Aulani was so vibrant! She was full of life, but definitely felt quite young. She went after her dreams, but was really searching for her place. She was a bright complement to Ezra, with his same desire to help and care for others, but a bubbly and fresh perspective.
I loved the island setting and felt the tension between the choices Ezra had to make as king. There were secrets, magic, betrayals and shocking surprises! I was rooting for Ezra and Aulani to uncover the mysteries of the island’s struggle and to discover what their future looked like. This double fairytale inspired fantasy has only kisses.
I received an ARC.
February 18, 2026
I was very lucky to receive an ARC of Transformed Tail. I enjoyed it so much! Leialoha Humpherys has flawlessly combined the fairy tales The Frog Prince and The Little Mermaid together. The main couple is so cute together! Their witty banter is charming and fun to read. The environmental themes are very interesting too. I hope some of the supporting characters will get their own stories. I look forward to reading more stories in the Displaced Fairy Tales series and more books by Leialoha Humpherys.
February 20, 2026
I was on the edge of my seat the whole book!! This is the perfect mashup of the Little Mermaid and the Frog Prince. And true to fashion for Leialoha it is Rich with culture! This is becoming the best aspect i love about her books. If you ever wondered what of would be like if the Little Mermaid landed in the frog prince pond this book was fun, touching, hilarious, and beautiful.it has all the emotions. I highly recommend! I wish I could think of more to say about how awesome this book is but i’m literally speechless. Just read it, I promise you will like it.
February 7, 2026
This interwoven retelling of the Little Mermaid and the Frog Prince was magical, mythical, and was filled with so much fun, and so much heart!
Aulani, daughter of the king of the Coral Realms, has always been drawn to where the ocean meets the land and sky. When her father betroths her to the mer-creature ruling over the darkest depths of the sea, which means she would never see the blue skies, or land, again, Aulani flees the home she knows and loves. She finds herself transported to a mystical forest, where a frog prince named Ezra is able to communicate with her-well, due to her magical ability to talk to animals of both sea and land. The frog prince’s request? Aulani must kiss him to break the curse of being a frog so he can return to be being a prince, with two legs, which would be much more helpful in bringing Aulani back to the sea and in saving his kingdom from an infestation of coqui frogs. A kiss turns into an adventure filled with love, laughter, grief, magic, and the power of using the gifts you have, and what makes you special, to help others. That who you are is more than enough.
This story was sweet, heartfelt, humorous, inspiring, and the love that blossoms between Ezra and Aulani was so lovely to experience. The found family, the magic, the lore woven throughout was so beautiful and ethereal, and it made me feel like I was living on the island too!
Romantic Content: No Spice ❌
TW: Potions, Magical Curse, Betrayal, Death of Parent, Parental Strife
Aulani, daughter of the king of the Coral Realms, has always been drawn to where the ocean meets the land and sky. When her father betroths her to the mer-creature ruling over the darkest depths of the sea, which means she would never see the blue skies, or land, again, Aulani flees the home she knows and loves. She finds herself transported to a mystical forest, where a frog prince named Ezra is able to communicate with her-well, due to her magical ability to talk to animals of both sea and land. The frog prince’s request? Aulani must kiss him to break the curse of being a frog so he can return to be being a prince, with two legs, which would be much more helpful in bringing Aulani back to the sea and in saving his kingdom from an infestation of coqui frogs. A kiss turns into an adventure filled with love, laughter, grief, magic, and the power of using the gifts you have, and what makes you special, to help others. That who you are is more than enough.
This story was sweet, heartfelt, humorous, inspiring, and the love that blossoms between Ezra and Aulani was so lovely to experience. The found family, the magic, the lore woven throughout was so beautiful and ethereal, and it made me feel like I was living on the island too!
Romantic Content: No Spice ❌
TW: Potions, Magical Curse, Betrayal, Death of Parent, Parental Strife
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed this clean mash-up of frog prince and little mermaid! Its able to be read as a standalone. I really liked how the two tales were combined and the fun puns the main characters make! I love the message about your talents and strengths being valuable and not trying to be someone else. I received an ARC from the author but my review is honest and my own opinion.
February 17, 2026
This was such a good mashup and probably my favourite little mermaid retelling.
I liked the characters as well as their communication style. The author did a great job with the story.
I liked the characters as well as their communication style. The author did a great job with the story.
reviewed
February 1, 2026{168 print pages}
Genre: Fantasy, fairy tale retelling [of The Little Mermaid and The Frog Prince]
Tropes: Instalove
Setting: Hawaii-inspired
Writing style: Dual POV (alternating chapters), 1st person, past tense
Tone: Earnest
Character- or plot-driven: Both
Romance: Yes
Clean level:
• 1 mouth kiss over appoximately three paragraphs including taste, touching jaw, “mesmerized,” heart flapping, fingers brushing back of neck
• 1 mouth kiss minimally described, including weaving fingers into hair and “You enjoyed yourself a little too much”
• 3 mouth kisses barely described, 1 with arms around neck and followed by playing with hair; 1 with zero description
• 2 near-kisses minimally described: 1 over approximately four paragraphs including her hands on his “hard, warm chest,” air charged, warm breath on skin; 1 over 7 sentences
• 1 paragraph of man worrying that his now-betrothed (who was her brother’s before he was lost) wants him to kiss her and recalling how she and his brother had been “all over each other”
• 1 neck kiss, with a giggle
• 1 jaw kiss, zero description
• 1 light romantic scene over a few paragraphs including brushing her fingers across man’s cheek and down his jaw, touching foreheads, cheek kiss with smell, “no kisses...not yet”
• “Whatever is going on between you is making this room warm”
• 1 instance of man’s relief that a man and woman do not kiss in front of everyone because he doesn’t want to witnesses another of their kisses, implying it would have been too passionate
• 1 sentence of man recalling having “really enjoyed himself” the two prior time’s he kissed a certain woman
• 1 instance of looking at each other’s lips
*See caveats below
Sensitive aspects:
• 1 quick instance of noticing that mermaid turned human is naked before prince gives her his vest that covers enough for a very termporary fix
• 1 instance of woman noticing a man’s partially open tunic revealing a muscular chest
Favorite aspect of the book: The way the author weaves the tales together, and the angle she took on the series concept
Thoughts on main characters: The protagonists are both self-sacrificing, yet unable to let the other make their own sacrifice. Aulani is a dreamer looking for a place to fit in, longing not to escape her own world so much as to not be trapped by it. Ezra wants his kingdom to thrive while retaining its traditions and uniqueness. He’s willing to trade with “outsiders” but doesn’t want the mass industrialization. He has strong support in his cousin, Kalei, and mentor and now-counselor, Ho‘ohuli.
The way the two tales are woven together was the highlight of the book for me. You can see the individual elements and how they intersect to create entirely new ones. The princess from the Frog Prince uses the ball to turn the prince into a frog, then takes over when his father dies, while he is still a frog. The sea witch is the original Little Mermaid, honorary aunt to the new Little Mermaid and important in another way as well. There is some misdirection regarding the coquí frogs that I wish had been a genuine thread, as it would have added depth to the Frog Prince angle.
The conflict surrounding Aulini’s return to the sea feels largely contrived. Back home, she saves a shipwrecked prince and immediately fixates on him as the one she must get to love her. Yet Ezra is also a prince, and there’s no clear reason he couldn’t be the one to keep her human permanently. Because she encountered the other prince first, he has to be the one? Says who? The solution was present all along, especially given that Aulini and Ezra are mutually infatuated from their first meeting. All that was needed was time for love to develop.
The two villains suffer from inconsistent characterization. Both commit — or plan to — evil acts, yet one’s motivations and the other’s expressed views shift abruptly. One is said to have believed the original heir would improve the kingdom and to have been eager to play a role in that endeavor, only to become a dictator the moment she gained power herself. The other, as he is being exiled, suddenly “speaks highly” of someone he had shown nothing but contempt for up until that very moment.
____________________________________
Let’s see. She said you were in the garden when she knew you were in the pond, she didn’t tell your father you were turned into a frog, and now your father’s dead and she’s been a “dictator” over your people. I think that’s a very safe assumption.
You’ve been on the same page the entire time, even insisting when he hesitated. That’s why.
See? There you go insisting again.
Favorite Quotations:
• His hair held the faintest hint of gold, like it had stolen light from the tips of the waves themselves.
• made my heart race faster than a rushing waterfall.
• His words were jumbled and confused. Crumbling, even, like dried coral being crushed under waves, turning into rocky sand.
• She looks like a jellyfish. Pretty to look at, but all sting beneath the surface.
(I received a free ARC of this book from the author and am gratefully—voluntarily—leaving a review.)
Genre: Fantasy, fairy tale retelling [of The Little Mermaid and The Frog Prince]
Tropes: Instalove
Setting: Hawaii-inspired
Writing style: Dual POV (alternating chapters), 1st person, past tense
Tone: Earnest
Character- or plot-driven: Both
Romance: Yes
Clean level:
• 1 mouth kiss over appoximately three paragraphs including taste, touching jaw, “mesmerized,” heart flapping, fingers brushing back of neck
• 1 mouth kiss minimally described, including weaving fingers into hair and “You enjoyed yourself a little too much”
• 3 mouth kisses barely described, 1 with arms around neck and followed by playing with hair; 1 with zero description
• 2 near-kisses minimally described: 1 over approximately four paragraphs including her hands on his “hard, warm chest,” air charged, warm breath on skin; 1 over 7 sentences
• 1 paragraph of man worrying that his now-betrothed (who was her brother’s before he was lost) wants him to kiss her and recalling how she and his brother had been “all over each other”
• 1 neck kiss, with a giggle
• 1 jaw kiss, zero description
• 1 light romantic scene over a few paragraphs including brushing her fingers across man’s cheek and down his jaw, touching foreheads, cheek kiss with smell, “no kisses...not yet”
• “Whatever is going on between you is making this room warm”
• 1 instance of man’s relief that a man and woman do not kiss in front of everyone because he doesn’t want to witnesses another of their kisses, implying it would have been too passionate
• 1 sentence of man recalling having “really enjoyed himself” the two prior time’s he kissed a certain woman
• 1 instance of looking at each other’s lips
*See caveats below
Sensitive aspects:
• 1 quick instance of noticing that mermaid turned human is naked before prince gives her his vest that covers enough for a very termporary fix
• 1 instance of woman noticing a man’s partially open tunic revealing a muscular chest
Favorite aspect of the book: The way the author weaves the tales together, and the angle she took on the series concept
Thoughts on main characters: The protagonists are both self-sacrificing, yet unable to let the other make their own sacrifice. Aulani is a dreamer looking for a place to fit in, longing not to escape her own world so much as to not be trapped by it. Ezra wants his kingdom to thrive while retaining its traditions and uniqueness. He’s willing to trade with “outsiders” but doesn’t want the mass industrialization. He has strong support in his cousin, Kalei, and mentor and now-counselor, Ho‘ohuli.
The way the two tales are woven together was the highlight of the book for me. You can see the individual elements and how they intersect to create entirely new ones. The princess from the Frog Prince uses the ball to turn the prince into a frog, then takes over when his father dies, while he is still a frog. The sea witch is the original Little Mermaid, honorary aunt to the new Little Mermaid and important in another way as well. There is some misdirection regarding the coquí frogs that I wish had been a genuine thread, as it would have added depth to the Frog Prince angle.
The conflict surrounding Aulini’s return to the sea feels largely contrived. Back home, she saves a shipwrecked prince and immediately fixates on him as the one she must get to love her. Yet Ezra is also a prince, and there’s no clear reason he couldn’t be the one to keep her human permanently. Because she encountered the other prince first, he has to be the one? Says who? The solution was present all along, especially given that Aulini and Ezra are mutually infatuated from their first meeting. All that was needed was time for love to develop.
The two villains suffer from inconsistent characterization. Both commit — or plan to — evil acts, yet one’s motivations and the other’s expressed views shift abruptly. One is said to have believed the original heir would improve the kingdom and to have been eager to play a role in that endeavor, only to become a dictator the moment she gained power herself. The other, as he is being exiled, suddenly “speaks highly” of someone he had shown nothing but contempt for up until that very moment.
____________________________________
“Cressida cursed you, Aulani cut in though the others couldn’t hear her. “We can’t assume it was her,” I said aloud[.]
Let’s see. She said you were in the garden when she knew you were in the pond, she didn’t tell your father you were turned into a frog, and now your father’s dead and she’s been a “dictator” over your people. I think that’s a very safe assumption.
At this point, I should have called for Ezra in my mind, to tell him the lies his brother shared with this foreigner. But doubt crept in, like an eel sliding into a reef crevice. What if? I swallowed hard. Ezra had not taken me to the ocean. He kept bringing it up, kept saying he wanted to… but what if Tavo was right?
You’ve been on the same page the entire time, even insisting when he hesitated. That’s why.
Ezra. Aulani squeezed my hand. What about your people? I’ve already asked enough of you– The birds? The island? The trees? Not only has Cressida’s magic negatively affected it, but how will you help them get their life back? Their desire? They need something more.
See? There you go insisting again.
Favorite Quotations:
• His hair held the faintest hint of gold, like it had stolen light from the tips of the waves themselves.
• made my heart race faster than a rushing waterfall.
• His words were jumbled and confused. Crumbling, even, like dried coral being crushed under waves, turning into rocky sand.
• She looks like a jellyfish. Pretty to look at, but all sting beneath the surface.
(I received a free ARC of this book from the author and am gratefully—voluntarily—leaving a review.)
April 20, 2026
First off, I want to say Transformed Tail is a solid book for the target audience. I'm a YA author but not a young adult myself (although, define "young," and I do love fairytale retellings). Thus, I'd round this book up to a 3.5-3.8 based on the fact that my age and tastes probably weren't what Leialoha Humphreys was going for.
This doesn't mean Transformed Tail is at all a bad book. I found many things to like about it. I love the combination of The Little Mermaid and The Frog Prince in one book, and I love the particular twists Leialoha gave characters who might otherwise be too familiar. Ezra's status as second son and "spare," for instance, or Aulani's gifts with plants and animals in addition to her voice, are not traits or plot points I usually see. I also loved Leialoha's takes on the sea witch and Prince Ryker.
Additionally, I could tell throughout Transformed Tail how much Leialoha Hymphreys loves her native Hawaii. The kingdom of Kaiora is clearly based on Hawaii, but it also carries enough fantasy and magic that I didn't feel it was "lifted" from a guidebook or anything like that. I particularly applaud the conflict between the birds and the coqui frogs, as it doesn't play out the way I thought it might and also doesn't stem from the problems one might assume.
Finally, I appreciated the fact that Aulani has no voice in this story, but unlike with other adaptations (e.g., Disney), this isn't made out to be a throwaway disability or a "relief" to others (read: Aulani can't speak so she can no longer complain about what she's missing). Instead, Aulani is in fact reckless and immature at times (she's a teenager, so really). But she has solid reasons for feeling the way she does about the human world. She doesn't *want* to rebel or disobey; she honestly feels trapped. And what she wants is to learn and grow. Plus, the fact that she and Ezra can and do communicate, keep Aulani from becoming a stereotypical distressed damsel.
So, with all that said, why a 3.5-3.8? As often happens, it's a matter of strengths mixed with weaknesses. For instance, Aulani and Ezra have great chemistry, and unlike in other adaptations, their romance feels earned. Yet, their personalities also feel two-dimensional, as does their conflict. Everything seems based on what they can't do and what they can't have, and they never plumb the depths of what all this means for who they are as people. Also, both of them repeat motivations or insecurities, or others do so for them. For instance, Ezra's gentleness is mentioned in those words no less than 5 times in a 171-page book.
The environment is also a problem, because I wanted so much more. Leialoha gives readers some great beginnings on several fronts. There's the environmental issue between the birds and coqui frogs. There're Tavo's plans for the kingdom and the fact that he looks and acts like the better ruler but definitely is not (and arguably, this is a bit too obvious). There's the whole plot thread of Ezra's heritage and what it means for both Aulani and Ezra's people. Yet all of these are told rather than shown. They're referenced frequently, but not given enough depth. Thus, the external stakes feel way too simplistic.
Finally, I hate asking this but I must: Where was Leialoha's editor? Throughout the book, I noticed missing, necessary capitalizations ("Father" and "Mother," for instance, are never capitalized even when being used as proper nouns). For pages on end, I found nary a comma in sight. There were also some oddly spaced dashes and other such small typos that added up over time.
In general then, Transformed Tail is a stronger book for the younger end of the target audience than it turned out to be for me. However, if you want a quick read and the writing style and occasional debatable typo (I'm sure there are many who would debate me on those commas and capitals) doesn't bother you, you'll probably like it much better than I did. If anything, this made me eager to read the rest of the series.
This doesn't mean Transformed Tail is at all a bad book. I found many things to like about it. I love the combination of The Little Mermaid and The Frog Prince in one book, and I love the particular twists Leialoha gave characters who might otherwise be too familiar. Ezra's status as second son and "spare," for instance, or Aulani's gifts with plants and animals in addition to her voice, are not traits or plot points I usually see. I also loved Leialoha's takes on the sea witch and Prince Ryker.
Additionally, I could tell throughout Transformed Tail how much Leialoha Hymphreys loves her native Hawaii. The kingdom of Kaiora is clearly based on Hawaii, but it also carries enough fantasy and magic that I didn't feel it was "lifted" from a guidebook or anything like that. I particularly applaud the conflict between the birds and the coqui frogs, as it doesn't play out the way I thought it might and also doesn't stem from the problems one might assume.
Finally, I appreciated the fact that Aulani has no voice in this story, but unlike with other adaptations (e.g., Disney), this isn't made out to be a throwaway disability or a "relief" to others (read: Aulani can't speak so she can no longer complain about what she's missing). Instead, Aulani is in fact reckless and immature at times (she's a teenager, so really). But she has solid reasons for feeling the way she does about the human world. She doesn't *want* to rebel or disobey; she honestly feels trapped. And what she wants is to learn and grow. Plus, the fact that she and Ezra can and do communicate, keep Aulani from becoming a stereotypical distressed damsel.
So, with all that said, why a 3.5-3.8? As often happens, it's a matter of strengths mixed with weaknesses. For instance, Aulani and Ezra have great chemistry, and unlike in other adaptations, their romance feels earned. Yet, their personalities also feel two-dimensional, as does their conflict. Everything seems based on what they can't do and what they can't have, and they never plumb the depths of what all this means for who they are as people. Also, both of them repeat motivations or insecurities, or others do so for them. For instance, Ezra's gentleness is mentioned in those words no less than 5 times in a 171-page book.
The environment is also a problem, because I wanted so much more. Leialoha gives readers some great beginnings on several fronts. There's the environmental issue between the birds and coqui frogs. There're Tavo's plans for the kingdom and the fact that he looks and acts like the better ruler but definitely is not (and arguably, this is a bit too obvious). There's the whole plot thread of Ezra's heritage and what it means for both Aulani and Ezra's people. Yet all of these are told rather than shown. They're referenced frequently, but not given enough depth. Thus, the external stakes feel way too simplistic.
Finally, I hate asking this but I must: Where was Leialoha's editor? Throughout the book, I noticed missing, necessary capitalizations ("Father" and "Mother," for instance, are never capitalized even when being used as proper nouns). For pages on end, I found nary a comma in sight. There were also some oddly spaced dashes and other such small typos that added up over time.
In general then, Transformed Tail is a stronger book for the younger end of the target audience than it turned out to be for me. However, if you want a quick read and the writing style and occasional debatable typo (I'm sure there are many who would debate me on those commas and capitals) doesn't bother you, you'll probably like it much better than I did. If anything, this made me eager to read the rest of the series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author and even though I didn’t have to post a review I wanted to offer my honest, voluntary impression of it upon my completion.
Lei has written a warm humanly book about two people who originally are from two vastly different realms- one far away under the sea and the other trying to live in the shadow of his father and missing brother. It’s a mash up of The Little Mermaid and The Frog Prince.
Aulani has dreamed of living on the surface because she is fascinated with all it has to offer. She thinks she has her chance when she saves a prince and hopes he’ll fall in love with her but when two magics combine she ends up in a different realm completely and is separated from her world and the sea she knew and grew up in.
Ezra finds himself turned into a frog by the fiancé of her brother who has designs to rule his kingdom in his place. In his frog form he finds Aulani and is able to communicate with her. Her kiss turns him into a human again but the journey to the ocean is too far to carry her so she takes the tonic that will give her legs but take away her voice. However, due to a new tonic he has they can communicate through their minds so thus this story begins in earnest!
I loved this story of a man who was always looked at as a spare who unwittingly becomes king because of circumstances which occurred while he was a frog and a little mermaid who finds love and acceptance and the use of her gifts that can help his kingdom. They have a deep friendship which grows into love but he wants her to have the life she envisioned before finding herself in his realm. As circumstances change their hesitant love becomes stronger and manifests itself when each are willing to sacrifice their all for each other and find a person both they love is connected to them which seals their love!
I have always loved fairy tales from when I heard them read to me when young and later when I could read myself. I love the wonder the genre evokes in me and the desire and thrill of reading and imagining I am there while reading them!
I wholeheartedly and enthusiastically recommend this book as one I know you’ll love and enjoy as well! If you think you’re too old to read fairy tales now, give this book a read and let it change your mind! There is something magical about fairy tales that make you so happy to read about stories that end like you’d want them to!
I urge you to get and read this book and discover this wonderful genre again you loved as a child! Come back and embrace your inner child again and feel the warmth and acceptance once again in reading books that help you escape the world and its corresponding
clamor that never seems to end!
Read this book- you’ll be so glad you did!
Lei has written a warm humanly book about two people who originally are from two vastly different realms- one far away under the sea and the other trying to live in the shadow of his father and missing brother. It’s a mash up of The Little Mermaid and The Frog Prince.
Aulani has dreamed of living on the surface because she is fascinated with all it has to offer. She thinks she has her chance when she saves a prince and hopes he’ll fall in love with her but when two magics combine she ends up in a different realm completely and is separated from her world and the sea she knew and grew up in.
Ezra finds himself turned into a frog by the fiancé of her brother who has designs to rule his kingdom in his place. In his frog form he finds Aulani and is able to communicate with her. Her kiss turns him into a human again but the journey to the ocean is too far to carry her so she takes the tonic that will give her legs but take away her voice. However, due to a new tonic he has they can communicate through their minds so thus this story begins in earnest!
I loved this story of a man who was always looked at as a spare who unwittingly becomes king because of circumstances which occurred while he was a frog and a little mermaid who finds love and acceptance and the use of her gifts that can help his kingdom. They have a deep friendship which grows into love but he wants her to have the life she envisioned before finding herself in his realm. As circumstances change their hesitant love becomes stronger and manifests itself when each are willing to sacrifice their all for each other and find a person both they love is connected to them which seals their love!
I have always loved fairy tales from when I heard them read to me when young and later when I could read myself. I love the wonder the genre evokes in me and the desire and thrill of reading and imagining I am there while reading them!
I wholeheartedly and enthusiastically recommend this book as one I know you’ll love and enjoy as well! If you think you’re too old to read fairy tales now, give this book a read and let it change your mind! There is something magical about fairy tales that make you so happy to read about stories that end like you’d want them to!
I urge you to get and read this book and discover this wonderful genre again you loved as a child! Come back and embrace your inner child again and feel the warmth and acceptance once again in reading books that help you escape the world and its corresponding
clamor that never seems to end!
Read this book- you’ll be so glad you did!
January 17, 2026
Reader’s Notes:
*Series or Connected Books?* is part of a series, but meant to be read as a stand-alone
*Point Of View:* Ezra & Aulani
*Any Cursing Or Possibly Offensive Language?* None!
*Romance?* Yes! Just sweet kisses
*Things To Know:*
–there are some mentions of relatives having passed (before and during the story)
-there are mentions of characters being sent to capture & kill frogs (in this case the frogs are an invasive species that are damaging the island’s ecosystem) – no killing is shown on page
-it is briefly mentioned that Aulani is naked when she changes from a mermaid to a human (but she is quickly covered up)
Review:
If it hadn’t already been late when I started this book, I totally would have finished it in one sitting! I loved getting to know Ezra & Aulani! They were both so sweet and I loved how they were together. I really enjoyed their literal inside jokes (since Ezra is the only one who could hear what Aulani wanted to say) as well as the puns they shared, which were a lot of fun too! I also loved the way Leialoha Humpherys mashed the Frog Prince & Little Mermaid tales into one story! It was so cool to see the elements of each as they played out in this book. I also enjoyed seeing what she added to make the stories her own as she brought our two characters to their happily ever after!
Summary:
Ezra was always the spare prince, but when his brother is lost to war Ezra has to step into the position he never wanted. And before the kingdom is officially passed to him, Ezra finds himself cursed into a little coquí frog. And the only person who can understand and possibly help save him is a mysterious lost mermaid.
Aulani loves going to the surface and learning about the world outside the sea. But when her joy is threatened to be taken away from her, Aulani believes the only way she can keep it is by becoming a human herself. And having just saved one in a storm gives her hope that he’ll want to help her stay on land. But when Aulani escapes her sea world, she finds herself transported to another world. And the only one nearby is a little frog claiming to be a prince. But he is not the prince Aulani saved in the storm nor is the island she surfaced at the island she placed her prince on.
*Series or Connected Books?* is part of a series, but meant to be read as a stand-alone
*Point Of View:* Ezra & Aulani
*Any Cursing Or Possibly Offensive Language?* None!
*Romance?* Yes! Just sweet kisses
*Things To Know:*
–there are some mentions of relatives having passed (before and during the story)
-there are mentions of characters being sent to capture & kill frogs (in this case the frogs are an invasive species that are damaging the island’s ecosystem) – no killing is shown on page
-it is briefly mentioned that Aulani is naked when she changes from a mermaid to a human (but she is quickly covered up)
Review:
If it hadn’t already been late when I started this book, I totally would have finished it in one sitting! I loved getting to know Ezra & Aulani! They were both so sweet and I loved how they were together. I really enjoyed their literal inside jokes (since Ezra is the only one who could hear what Aulani wanted to say) as well as the puns they shared, which were a lot of fun too! I also loved the way Leialoha Humpherys mashed the Frog Prince & Little Mermaid tales into one story! It was so cool to see the elements of each as they played out in this book. I also enjoyed seeing what she added to make the stories her own as she brought our two characters to their happily ever after!
Summary:
Ezra was always the spare prince, but when his brother is lost to war Ezra has to step into the position he never wanted. And before the kingdom is officially passed to him, Ezra finds himself cursed into a little coquí frog. And the only person who can understand and possibly help save him is a mysterious lost mermaid.
Aulani loves going to the surface and learning about the world outside the sea. But when her joy is threatened to be taken away from her, Aulani believes the only way she can keep it is by becoming a human herself. And having just saved one in a storm gives her hope that he’ll want to help her stay on land. But when Aulani escapes her sea world, she finds herself transported to another world. And the only one nearby is a little frog claiming to be a prince. But he is not the prince Aulani saved in the storm nor is the island she surfaced at the island she placed her prince on.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Mermaid Princess Aulani lives in the sea but the world on land has always called to her. After saving a drowning prince, she decides to switch her tail for forbidden human legs with the agreement that she has to win the right prince’s heart in a month to stay on land. Otherwise, she turns into sea foam. Too bad that she finds herself in an unknown kingdom with a talking frog that has his own issues to deal with. Prince Ezra never wanted to be king and being a coqui frog is the last thing he needs. Add in the fact that his kingdom has been occupied and his throne overthrown, the only person that can help him set things right is the mermaid he just met. As more things unfold, Ezra and Aulani work together to fix the issues the kingdom faces, they discover that love, as the root cause, might save them all.
This book was wonderful. You have Aulani, a clever, kind, curious, and beautiful sea princess that has a strong affinity for speaking with animals, asking questions, and a desire to explore the surface. You have Prince Ezra, a thoughtful, reserved, considerate, and handsome young man that would rather garden than rule a kingdom, but would do anything to protect the autonomy of his people and nature balanced. The interactions between the main characters were funny, sweet, and thought-provoking. The discussions about occupied forces, colonialism, people’s autonomy at the expense of profit and more were well written and absolutely relevant to current events. I also appreciated the discussion of invasive species and how they can devastate the land’s biological ecosystem. The themes of being true to yourself as your greatest strength vs shrinking to conformity, respecting the land, fighting for the people and more were powerful and encouraging. Overall, if you like Little Mermaid retellings, found family, great worldbuilding, and sweet romance with no spice, then I would highly recommend this book. I got a copy and these opinions are my own.
This book was wonderful. You have Aulani, a clever, kind, curious, and beautiful sea princess that has a strong affinity for speaking with animals, asking questions, and a desire to explore the surface. You have Prince Ezra, a thoughtful, reserved, considerate, and handsome young man that would rather garden than rule a kingdom, but would do anything to protect the autonomy of his people and nature balanced. The interactions between the main characters were funny, sweet, and thought-provoking. The discussions about occupied forces, colonialism, people’s autonomy at the expense of profit and more were well written and absolutely relevant to current events. I also appreciated the discussion of invasive species and how they can devastate the land’s biological ecosystem. The themes of being true to yourself as your greatest strength vs shrinking to conformity, respecting the land, fighting for the people and more were powerful and encouraging. Overall, if you like Little Mermaid retellings, found family, great worldbuilding, and sweet romance with no spice, then I would highly recommend this book. I got a copy and these opinions are my own.
February 17, 2026
Mermaid Princess Aulani lives in the sea but the world on land has always called to her. After saving a drowning prince, she decides to switch her tail for forbidden human legs with the agreement that she has to win the right prince’s heart in a month to stay on land. Otherwise, she turns into sea foam. Too bad that she finds herself in an unknown kingdom with a talking frog that has his own issues to deal with. Prince Ezra never wanted to be king and being a coqui frog is the last thing he needs. Add in the fact that his kingdom has been occupied and his throne overthrown, the only person that can help him set things right is the mermaid he just met. As more things unfold, Ezra and Aulani work together to fix the issues the kingdom faces, they discover that love, as the root cause, might save them all.
This book was wonderful. You have Aulani, a clever, kind, curious, and beautiful sea princess that has a strong affinity for speaking with animals, asking questions, and a desire to explore the surface. You have Prince Ezra, a thoughtful, reserved, considerate, and handsome young man that would rather garden than rule a kingdom, but would do anything to protect the autonomy of his people and nature balanced. The interactions between the main characters were funny, sweet, and thought-provoking. The discussions about occupied forces, colonialism, people’s autonomy at the expense of profit and more were well written and absolutely relevant to current events. I also appreciated the discussion of invasive species and how they can devastate the land’s biological ecosystem. The themes of being true to yourself as your greatest strength vs shrinking to conformity, respecting the land, fighting for the people and more were powerful and encouraging. Overall, if you like Little Mermaid retellings, found family, great worldbuilding, and sweet romance with no spice, then I would highly recommend this book. I got a copy and these opinions are my own.
This book was wonderful. You have Aulani, a clever, kind, curious, and beautiful sea princess that has a strong affinity for speaking with animals, asking questions, and a desire to explore the surface. You have Prince Ezra, a thoughtful, reserved, considerate, and handsome young man that would rather garden than rule a kingdom, but would do anything to protect the autonomy of his people and nature balanced. The interactions between the main characters were funny, sweet, and thought-provoking. The discussions about occupied forces, colonialism, people’s autonomy at the expense of profit and more were well written and absolutely relevant to current events. I also appreciated the discussion of invasive species and how they can devastate the land’s biological ecosystem. The themes of being true to yourself as your greatest strength vs shrinking to conformity, respecting the land, fighting for the people and more were powerful and encouraging. Overall, if you like Little Mermaid retellings, found family, great worldbuilding, and sweet romance with no spice, then I would highly recommend this book. I got a copy and these opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed this story, Especially the first 60%. The beginning of the book was really sweet and cozy. It was fast-paced and I loved the interactions between Au and Ezra.
I think the author did an amazing job staying true to both tales while intertwining them beautifully. The aspects of both fairytales were prominent but still woven well into this plot.
I loved Au's connection to animals. She is sweet, bubbly, and adventurous. She felt a lot like the Disney version of Ariel, which was one of my favorite Disney movies when I was younger.
Ezra is a gentle soul, a cinnamon roll MC, who stands up for what he believes in. He is sometimes ashamed of his gentle nature and sees it as a weakness. I liked how the story had the moral that being gentle can be a strength.
It felt like there were some political/social undertones in the story, which isn't really my favorite. I like to read books to escape... but I could also appreciate it how it worked for the story and how it fit with the plot. I also think it took Au a little long to figure out how the curse worked, but it didn't really take away from the story overall.
I would say this was a 4 or a 4.5 for me. It really loved the beginning and flew through the book. loved the sweet and swoony romance and the flirty banter.
I recommend this to anyone who really liked the little mermaid as a child and liked Ariel as a character.
sunshine fmc
cinnamon roll mmc
insta-love
nature magic
lots of ocean/fish puns
telepathic communication
portal fantasy
I received an arc from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I think the author did an amazing job staying true to both tales while intertwining them beautifully. The aspects of both fairytales were prominent but still woven well into this plot.
I loved Au's connection to animals. She is sweet, bubbly, and adventurous. She felt a lot like the Disney version of Ariel, which was one of my favorite Disney movies when I was younger.
Ezra is a gentle soul, a cinnamon roll MC, who stands up for what he believes in. He is sometimes ashamed of his gentle nature and sees it as a weakness. I liked how the story had the moral that being gentle can be a strength.
It felt like there were some political/social undertones in the story, which isn't really my favorite. I like to read books to escape... but I could also appreciate it how it worked for the story and how it fit with the plot. I also think it took Au a little long to figure out how the curse worked, but it didn't really take away from the story overall.
I would say this was a 4 or a 4.5 for me. It really loved the beginning and flew through the book. loved the sweet and swoony romance and the flirty banter.
I recommend this to anyone who really liked the little mermaid as a child and liked Ariel as a character.
sunshine fmc
cinnamon roll mmc
insta-love
nature magic
lots of ocean/fish puns
telepathic communication
portal fantasy
I received an arc from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 19, 2026
A fantastic combination of The Frog Prince and Little Mermaid with Environmental Conservation Themes
Transformed Tail is a delightful combination of The Frog Prince and The Little Mermaid like you haven't seen before. The descriptions and world building are stunning and make the book come to life.
I also found the characters very compelling. Ezra's been through the wringer with how his curse plays out. We're limited in how much of the relationship with his father and brother we see, but it's clear from the story that both meant a lot to him. He is a nice character who deeply cares about his people and island, though he struggles to accept that his leadership can be effective despite being different from his father's and brother's styles. Little Mermaid retellings sometimes have overprotective fathers and other times they're just poor parents. Aulani's father is terrile. It's impressive how much she still cares about her family after their treatment of her. Yet, she's still hopeful and spirited, while being self-sacrificing and kind. Her willingness to help the island even though the animals and people are not her own show her character. Together, she and Ezra make a good pair.
The environmental message is woven throughout the book. I hadn't considered how well environmental themes work for a book about a frog prince and a mermaid before reading this book, but it really does make a lot of sense for this particular pairing. The author also incorporated parts of her Hawaii'an culture into the book, which added an extra layer of depth and richness to the story. Would recommend to readers looking for a fun fairytale mashup story with cultural representation and environmental themes.
Transformed Tail is a delightful combination of The Frog Prince and The Little Mermaid like you haven't seen before. The descriptions and world building are stunning and make the book come to life.
I also found the characters very compelling. Ezra's been through the wringer with how his curse plays out. We're limited in how much of the relationship with his father and brother we see, but it's clear from the story that both meant a lot to him. He is a nice character who deeply cares about his people and island, though he struggles to accept that his leadership can be effective despite being different from his father's and brother's styles. Little Mermaid retellings sometimes have overprotective fathers and other times they're just poor parents. Aulani's father is terrile. It's impressive how much she still cares about her family after their treatment of her. Yet, she's still hopeful and spirited, while being self-sacrificing and kind. Her willingness to help the island even though the animals and people are not her own show her character. Together, she and Ezra make a good pair.
The environmental message is woven throughout the book. I hadn't considered how well environmental themes work for a book about a frog prince and a mermaid before reading this book, but it really does make a lot of sense for this particular pairing. The author also incorporated parts of her Hawaii'an culture into the book, which added an extra layer of depth and richness to the story. Would recommend to readers looking for a fun fairytale mashup story with cultural representation and environmental themes.
February 9, 2026
Transformed Tail is a beautifully imaginative mashup of The Little Mermaid and The Frog Prince and is a great pairing. Both stories centre transformed aquatic royals, and Leialoha Humpherys weaves them together into a fresh, heartfelt fairytale that feels both magical and deeply grounded.
Princess Aulani was born beneath the sea, but the world above calls to her. She risks everything—trading fins for legs and her voice for a single chance to be human, with the price being that she must find love before the magic fades. But she surfaces in the wrong kingdom, and the only one who truly understands her is Prince Ezra… currently cursed into the form of a tiny coquí frog. Ezra never wanted the crown, nor the political marriage meant to secure it, and certainly not the curse that leaves him hunted in his own kingdom. Forced to rely on each other, the two form a magical bond that allows them to communicate telepathically—and from there, the connection between them is undeniable.
One of my favourite aspects of this book was the chemistry between Aulani and Ezra. Their banter, especially through their private telepathic conversations, was charming, funny, and genuinely heartfelt. Watching their relationship grow as they navigate political pressure, family expectations, and personal identity felt incredibly satisfying.
The tropical, Hawaiian-inspired setting is refreshing and immersive, and true to Leialoha’s style, the story is rich with culture. I loved how the worldbuilding incorporated native flora and fauna, environmental themes, and Aulani’s connection to the land and sea. The discussion of invasive species was fascinating, and I appreciated how thoughtfully the book explored colonialism, occupation, autonomy, and profit at the expense of people and land. These themes felt natural within the story and incredibly relevant.
Transformed Tail is full of warmth, humour, and heart. It’s a clean, no-spice romance that still delivers emotional depth and strong tension throughout the story. If you enjoy Little Mermaid retellings, found family, rich worldbuilding, meaningful themes, and sweet, closed-door romance, Transformed Tail is an absolute must-read. Leialoha Humpherys once again proves how powerful fairytales can be when they’re rooted in culture, heart, and purpose—and this book is a standout example of that.
Princess Aulani was born beneath the sea, but the world above calls to her. She risks everything—trading fins for legs and her voice for a single chance to be human, with the price being that she must find love before the magic fades. But she surfaces in the wrong kingdom, and the only one who truly understands her is Prince Ezra… currently cursed into the form of a tiny coquí frog. Ezra never wanted the crown, nor the political marriage meant to secure it, and certainly not the curse that leaves him hunted in his own kingdom. Forced to rely on each other, the two form a magical bond that allows them to communicate telepathically—and from there, the connection between them is undeniable.
One of my favourite aspects of this book was the chemistry between Aulani and Ezra. Their banter, especially through their private telepathic conversations, was charming, funny, and genuinely heartfelt. Watching their relationship grow as they navigate political pressure, family expectations, and personal identity felt incredibly satisfying.
The tropical, Hawaiian-inspired setting is refreshing and immersive, and true to Leialoha’s style, the story is rich with culture. I loved how the worldbuilding incorporated native flora and fauna, environmental themes, and Aulani’s connection to the land and sea. The discussion of invasive species was fascinating, and I appreciated how thoughtfully the book explored colonialism, occupation, autonomy, and profit at the expense of people and land. These themes felt natural within the story and incredibly relevant.
Transformed Tail is full of warmth, humour, and heart. It’s a clean, no-spice romance that still delivers emotional depth and strong tension throughout the story. If you enjoy Little Mermaid retellings, found family, rich worldbuilding, meaningful themes, and sweet, closed-door romance, Transformed Tail is an absolute must-read. Leialoha Humpherys once again proves how powerful fairytales can be when they’re rooted in culture, heart, and purpose—and this book is a standout example of that.
February 17, 2026
Stars: 3.75
Warmth and sunshine in book form - this is a fun fairy tale retelling that combines The Little Mermaid and The Frog Prince! I enjoyed the character dynamics, political intrigue, various puns and plays on words, tropical setting and descriptions of the world, theme of sacrificial love, and fun twists on the original fairy tales (especially the Sea Witch and how the characters handle Aulani losing her voice!). I also enjoyed the emphasis on human-environment interaction and the look into Hawaiian culture. The allusions to Hawaiian history were thought-provoking as well. Aulani is curious, caring, and optimistic. Ezra is loyal, protective, and gentle. I really enjoyed their dynamic and how they communicate with each other. Their connection is a bit instant, but this is a fairy tale, so I don’t really mind.
I wish the story had been a little longer to better develop certain plot points and ideas. There was a certain plot point driven by a misinterpretation that bugged me until it was resolved; it just seemed silly to me and did take away some of my enjoyment while reading. There were a few times that the writing felt redundant.
Overall, the writing is nice, and the story flows well. This is a fun, fast-paced story that teens to adults can enjoy!
Content: kisses-only, clean romance; clean language; not violent but some very mild peril; strained parental relationships; loss; some nudity related to mermaid transformation referenced, not described, and resolved quickly; a robe described as “sheer” and worn in the presence of her husband
I received a complimentary advanced digital copy of this book from the author and was under no obligation to post a review.
Warmth and sunshine in book form - this is a fun fairy tale retelling that combines The Little Mermaid and The Frog Prince! I enjoyed the character dynamics, political intrigue, various puns and plays on words, tropical setting and descriptions of the world, theme of sacrificial love, and fun twists on the original fairy tales (especially the Sea Witch and how the characters handle Aulani losing her voice!). I also enjoyed the emphasis on human-environment interaction and the look into Hawaiian culture. The allusions to Hawaiian history were thought-provoking as well. Aulani is curious, caring, and optimistic. Ezra is loyal, protective, and gentle. I really enjoyed their dynamic and how they communicate with each other. Their connection is a bit instant, but this is a fairy tale, so I don’t really mind.
I wish the story had been a little longer to better develop certain plot points and ideas. There was a certain plot point driven by a misinterpretation that bugged me until it was resolved; it just seemed silly to me and did take away some of my enjoyment while reading. There were a few times that the writing felt redundant.
Overall, the writing is nice, and the story flows well. This is a fun, fast-paced story that teens to adults can enjoy!
Content: kisses-only, clean romance; clean language; not violent but some very mild peril; strained parental relationships; loss; some nudity related to mermaid transformation referenced, not described, and resolved quickly; a robe described as “sheer” and worn in the presence of her husband
I received a complimentary advanced digital copy of this book from the author and was under no obligation to post a review.
February 18, 2026
I really enjoyed this story, Especially the first 60%. The beginning of the book was really sweet and cozy. It was fast-paced and I loved the interactions between Au and Ezra.
I think the author did an amazing job staying true to both tales while intertwining them beautifully. The aspects of both fairytales were prominent but still woven well into this plot.
I loved Au's connection to animals. She is sweet, bubbly, and adventurous. She felt a lot like the Disney version of Ariel, which was one of my favorite Disney movies when I was younger.
Ezra is a gentle soul, a cinnamon roll MC, who stands up for what he believes in. He is sometimes ashamed of his gentle nature and sees it as a weakness. I liked how the story had the moral that being gentle can be a strength.
It felt like there were some political/social undertones in the story, which isn't really my favorite. I like to read books to escape… but I could also appreciate it how it worked for the story and how it fit with the plot. I also think it took Au a little long to figure out how the curse worked, but it didn't really take away from the story overall.
I would say this was a 4 or a 4.5 for me. It really loved the beginning and flew through the book. loved the sweet and swoony romance and the flirty banter.
I recommend this to anyone who really liked the little mermaid as a child and liked Ariel as a character.
sunshine fmc
cinnamon roll mmc
insta-love
nature magic
lots of ocean/fish puns
telepathic communication
portal fantasy
I received an arc from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I think the author did an amazing job staying true to both tales while intertwining them beautifully. The aspects of both fairytales were prominent but still woven well into this plot.
I loved Au's connection to animals. She is sweet, bubbly, and adventurous. She felt a lot like the Disney version of Ariel, which was one of my favorite Disney movies when I was younger.
Ezra is a gentle soul, a cinnamon roll MC, who stands up for what he believes in. He is sometimes ashamed of his gentle nature and sees it as a weakness. I liked how the story had the moral that being gentle can be a strength.
It felt like there were some political/social undertones in the story, which isn't really my favorite. I like to read books to escape… but I could also appreciate it how it worked for the story and how it fit with the plot. I also think it took Au a little long to figure out how the curse worked, but it didn't really take away from the story overall.
I would say this was a 4 or a 4.5 for me. It really loved the beginning and flew through the book. loved the sweet and swoony romance and the flirty banter.
I recommend this to anyone who really liked the little mermaid as a child and liked Ariel as a character.
sunshine fmc
cinnamon roll mmc
insta-love
nature magic
lots of ocean/fish puns
telepathic communication
portal fantasy
I received an arc from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 11, 2026
This is an ARC Review Thank you so much Leialoha Humphreys for letting me read your book!
Now where to begin? Well for starters this is my first time reading a book by this amazing author. She does a great job at bringing the islanders of her story to life! She describes aspects of the people and how they live that I don’t always consider. It’s like getting a small piece of history within her chapters which I enjoyed! As for the storyline itself it was amazing. I definitely never thought of a princess and the frog x little mermaid crossover. Enjoy an epic story as the two try to reclaim a throne, find a way to stop some secret plots (read the book), and hope to help each other before it’s too late (yes I am being vague but it’s your fault. If you want to know what I’m talking about read the book!).
It’s hard for me to decide who my favorite character is. First you have Ezra he’s very sensible and sensitive. He cares for everyone and wants only the best for his kingdom. He’s one of those people that it seems almost impossible not to like as he try’s to help everyone he can. (Especially a certain mermaid. I’ll leave it at that. No spoilers here!)
Then there’s Aulani a certain rebellious little mermaid she refuses to spend her days below the waves and longs for a life on land. She can be a tad snarky but mostly playful. An easily excited bundle of joy who always tends to dive in head first and then winds up in a steaming pot of trouble. The perfect duo for a curious novel.
Now where to begin? Well for starters this is my first time reading a book by this amazing author. She does a great job at bringing the islanders of her story to life! She describes aspects of the people and how they live that I don’t always consider. It’s like getting a small piece of history within her chapters which I enjoyed! As for the storyline itself it was amazing. I definitely never thought of a princess and the frog x little mermaid crossover. Enjoy an epic story as the two try to reclaim a throne, find a way to stop some secret plots (read the book), and hope to help each other before it’s too late (yes I am being vague but it’s your fault. If you want to know what I’m talking about read the book!).
It’s hard for me to decide who my favorite character is. First you have Ezra he’s very sensible and sensitive. He cares for everyone and wants only the best for his kingdom. He’s one of those people that it seems almost impossible not to like as he try’s to help everyone he can. (Especially a certain mermaid. I’ll leave it at that. No spoilers here!)
Then there’s Aulani a certain rebellious little mermaid she refuses to spend her days below the waves and longs for a life on land. She can be a tad snarky but mostly playful. An easily excited bundle of joy who always tends to dive in head first and then winds up in a steaming pot of trouble. The perfect duo for a curious novel.
March 17, 2026
I've never seen a mashup of The Frog Prince and The Little Mermaid before, let alone one where the characters are based in Hawaiian culture, so I was very excited to give this a try. It's a quick, fun read.
Aulani is a mermaid princess who loves the human world and frequently sneaks to the surface to have a look at human ships. But when her father gets tired of her rebellious ways and betroths her to an ancient mer-king who lives in the deepest trenches where she will never see the sun again, she runs away and is accidentally blown through a magic portal to a very distant island where none of her family can find her. Ezra is a prince of this island kingdom, which is facing invasion not only from outside humans but also imported frogs that are decimating their native bird population (a problem actual Hawaiian native fauna face today). Ezra's older brother was recently killed and Ezra is now heir presumptive. He feels woefully unprepared for all the burdens he faces, particularly since his personality is much more gentle and less belligerent than his brother's. To top it off, he abruptly finds himself transformed into one of the invasive frogs and can only regain human form if he is kissed by a true princess. But he's never met a princess quite like Aulani before...
Minus one star because the plot felt like it meandered a bit and had trouble staying focused. Ezra and Aulani are very likeable and putting their two fairy tales together was done creatively.
Aulani is a mermaid princess who loves the human world and frequently sneaks to the surface to have a look at human ships. But when her father gets tired of her rebellious ways and betroths her to an ancient mer-king who lives in the deepest trenches where she will never see the sun again, she runs away and is accidentally blown through a magic portal to a very distant island where none of her family can find her. Ezra is a prince of this island kingdom, which is facing invasion not only from outside humans but also imported frogs that are decimating their native bird population (a problem actual Hawaiian native fauna face today). Ezra's older brother was recently killed and Ezra is now heir presumptive. He feels woefully unprepared for all the burdens he faces, particularly since his personality is much more gentle and less belligerent than his brother's. To top it off, he abruptly finds himself transformed into one of the invasive frogs and can only regain human form if he is kissed by a true princess. But he's never met a princess quite like Aulani before...
Minus one star because the plot felt like it meandered a bit and had trouble staying focused. Ezra and Aulani are very likeable and putting their two fairy tales together was done creatively.
Review of advance copy
This no-spice fairytale mashup was a wonderful retelling of The Little Mermaid and The Frog Prince. The main characters are sweet and selfless, and the side characters added their own touches to the story nicely. I admired Prince Ezra's loyalty to his island and Princess Aulani's journey to find where she belongs. I loved how well they complemented each other and watching their slow-burn romance blossom. I enjoyed the author's vivid descriptions that brought the sea and island to life. This is definitely a must-read for fantasy lovers looking for a clean, charming escape!
Princess Aulani dreams of the stars, but belongs to the sea. When her parents forbid her to roam to the surface, she turns to the Sea Witch for help. Armed with a potion that gives her legs but steals her voice, she is sent through a portal to an unknown land. There, she's greeted by Prince Ezra, a frog claiming that her kiss will turn him human again. She has one month to "win the right prince's heart to stay" or turn to sea foam. With the odds stacked against them, they must reclaim his kingdom and return her to the ocean before time runs out.
However, another magic is at play, one they never considered, but may save them both.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy from BookSirens with no expectation of a review. All opinions are my own.
Princess Aulani dreams of the stars, but belongs to the sea. When her parents forbid her to roam to the surface, she turns to the Sea Witch for help. Armed with a potion that gives her legs but steals her voice, she is sent through a portal to an unknown land. There, she's greeted by Prince Ezra, a frog claiming that her kiss will turn him human again. She has one month to "win the right prince's heart to stay" or turn to sea foam. With the odds stacked against them, they must reclaim his kingdom and return her to the ocean before time runs out.
However, another magic is at play, one they never considered, but may save them both.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy from BookSirens with no expectation of a review. All opinions are my own.
February 11, 2026
🐸I received this book as an Advanced Reader Copy in an exchange for an honest review. These thoughts are 100% all my own and are not influenced by the author in any way shape or form.
🧜🏻♀️This is the first book I’ve read by Leialoha Humphreys and let me say I loved every bit of it! I loved her writing style and the bits of Hawaiian culture and folklore woven into the story and characters itself. Ezra is such a charming, lovable, “green”😉 flag of a prince I couldn’t help but fall in love with him from the beginning. And Aulani has a bubbly, infectious personality I couldn’t help but smile along with her as I read. They’re story was full of wonderful twists on the classic tale that kept the story fresh while simultaneously still bringing the nostalgia of the classic fairytales.
🐸Content:
•Romance Level: 2–lightly described kisses; she is naked for a brief period after gaining legs(she’s the little mermaid),after which a man gives her his tunic; male shirt is off due to him giving it up to cover her; light mentions of attraction
•Swearing: None
•Triggers: dark magic, mentions of death, loss of loved ones(past and present), fantasy violence, betrayal by loved one, unwanted male attention(nothing physical)
•Age rating: Mid Teen+
🧜🏻♀️This is the first book I’ve read by Leialoha Humphreys and let me say I loved every bit of it! I loved her writing style and the bits of Hawaiian culture and folklore woven into the story and characters itself. Ezra is such a charming, lovable, “green”😉 flag of a prince I couldn’t help but fall in love with him from the beginning. And Aulani has a bubbly, infectious personality I couldn’t help but smile along with her as I read. They’re story was full of wonderful twists on the classic tale that kept the story fresh while simultaneously still bringing the nostalgia of the classic fairytales.
🐸Content:
•Romance Level: 2–lightly described kisses; she is naked for a brief period after gaining legs(she’s the little mermaid),after which a man gives her his tunic; male shirt is off due to him giving it up to cover her; light mentions of attraction
•Swearing: None
•Triggers: dark magic, mentions of death, loss of loved ones(past and present), fantasy violence, betrayal by loved one, unwanted male attention(nothing physical)
•Age rating: Mid Teen+
February 18, 2026
Aulani is the princess of the Coral Kingdom, but she loves the land more. When her father tries to stop her from going to the surface by trapping her under the sea, she seeks help from her Aunt Lorelei, the only other mermaid who has gone to shore.
When she escapes, she ends up in another kingdom, one she doesn't recognize. A frog speaks to her, declaring himself a prince. Kissing him proves he's telling the truth, as he changes back. Enzo was changed by a curse and had been a frog for a year. With his cousin's help, he and Aulani can still speak to each other mind to mind, even though she can't speak.
He keeps promising to take her back to the ocean so she can find her prince and keep her life, but his island is dying, his enemies show up in the form of his formerly deceased brother, and someone keeps turning him into a frog. And when he does keep his promise, it turns out that some unknown prince isn't who she wants anyway.
A tale of true love and magic. A super fun little mermaid retelling!
When she escapes, she ends up in another kingdom, one she doesn't recognize. A frog speaks to her, declaring himself a prince. Kissing him proves he's telling the truth, as he changes back. Enzo was changed by a curse and had been a frog for a year. With his cousin's help, he and Aulani can still speak to each other mind to mind, even though she can't speak.
He keeps promising to take her back to the ocean so she can find her prince and keep her life, but his island is dying, his enemies show up in the form of his formerly deceased brother, and someone keeps turning him into a frog. And when he does keep his promise, it turns out that some unknown prince isn't who she wants anyway.
A tale of true love and magic. A super fun little mermaid retelling!
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