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Beyond the Four Kingdoms #5
A Captive of Wing and Feather: a Retelling of Swan Lake
Princess Adelaide has been missing for years. And that's exactly the way she wants it. Haunted by her past, not even the curse that entraps her is enough to make her long for her old home.
But her past finds her anyway, in the form of a handsome prince from her childhood. Adelaide doesn't want to let Gabe in, but a sinister force is spreading fear throughout her new kingdom, and only Gabe has the will to help her. Adelaide can't refuse his assistance--not when the evil might soon ensnare much more than a solitary princess. But with her friends and her new kingdom in danger, even the help of Gabe and her seven swans might not be enough.
In this reimagining of the classic tale, Swan Lake, the trapped princess must find the courage to overcome her past if she has any hope of turning a tragedy into a happy ending.
But her past finds her anyway, in the form of a handsome prince from her childhood. Adelaide doesn't want to let Gabe in, but a sinister force is spreading fear throughout her new kingdom, and only Gabe has the will to help her. Adelaide can't refuse his assistance--not when the evil might soon ensnare much more than a solitary princess. But with her friends and her new kingdom in danger, even the help of Gabe and her seven swans might not be enough.
In this reimagining of the classic tale, Swan Lake, the trapped princess must find the courage to overcome her past if she has any hope of turning a tragedy into a happy ending.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 5, 2019
600 people are currently reading
2635 people want to read
About the author
Melanie Cellier
128 books2,732 followersMelanie Cellier grew up on a staple diet of books, books and more books. And although she got older, she never stopped loving children’s and young adult novels.
She always wanted to write one herself, but it took three careers and three different continents before she actually managed it.
She now feels incredibly fortunate to spend her time writing from her home in Adelaide, Australia where she keeps an eye out for koalas in her backyard. Her staple diet hasn’t changed much, although she’s added choc mint Rooibos tea and Chicken Crimpies to the list.
She writes young adult fantasy including her Spoken Mage series, and her Four Kingdoms and Beyond the Four Kingdoms series which are made up of linked stand-alone stories that retell classic fairy tales.
She now feels incredibly fortunate to spend her time writing from her home in Adelaide, Australia where she keeps an eye out for koalas in her backyard. Her staple diet hasn’t changed much, although she’s added choc mint Rooibos tea and Chicken Crimpies to the list.
She writes young adult fantasy including her Spoken Mage series, and her Four Kingdoms and Beyond the Four Kingdoms series which are made up of linked stand-alone stories that retell classic fairy tales.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 248 reviews
March 21, 2025
3/3.5 stars ✨
For some reason, I really struggled getting into this retelling. Besides the Barbie version, I’m not super familiar with the story of Swan Lake so I wouldn’t call it a favorite. I was curious about Dominic’s hidden sister though, so I wanted to still read it, but it took me longer than any of the other books in this series or the original one. Because of life and not being very interested into this story, it took me days to read it. Once I hit 50%, I was more interested in it, but still. Days. But I finally finished it and the ending was cute so I’m glad I got to it!
We learn in the bonus introduction on the author’s website that the godmother have hidden Adelaide. We also see a glimpse of Prince Percy who we’ll see again in the next spin-off series with Daria (which I’m really excited to read!)
I do think the ending was a little too coincidental, but it worked out and I liked the ending regardless. Not my favorite of this series, though it had it's cute moments and unique parts for the classic tale!
Main Content:
There’s a lot about curses/enchantments, especially because of Adelaide being under one (hence the Swan Lake retelling); Instead of being cursed into a swan, she has to spend her nights at a lake with swans (if she’s late or not there at night, she is in pain), honks instead of talks during the day, and only gets her human voice back at night; The main part of this book is breaking curses/enchantments and taking down the villain (who is said to have a darkness in him) who is doing them, so there’s many, many mentions of all of it and our main characters trying to figure out everything; There are also animals under enchantments; The villain comments on wanting to prove that “we make our own destiny” and doesn’t believe that the High King exists, that it’s just a bunch of women with too much power; A godmother says that she and other godmothers are always working for good and serve bigger plans than others can see.
Mentions of the High King, godmothers under his rule, and godmothers’ magical objects (which are supposed to be used for driving back the darkness and ensuring that true love triumphs, but villains can get ahold of and twist their use).
Being surrounded by wolves and wild animals & the possibility of being attacked/killed by them (up to a few sentences); Nearly drowning, Pain (due to the curse), & Being kidnapped (up to a handful of sentences); Seeing blood & knocking someone out (a couple sentences); Adelaide is concerned that her swan friends could be injured or killed (this is also used as a threat for her to follow the villain’s orders);
Mentions of murders, deaths, seeing both happen, & grief (including Adelaide’s parents); Mentions of a widow grieving her husband; Mentions of hunting, potential wars with enchanted animals, & possible bloodshed/deaths; Mentions of a planned assassination & threatening another with death; Mentions of pain, injuries, being drugged/poison, & nearly drowning; Mentions of a father who belittled his son and his thirst for knowledge (*Spoiler* ); A handful of mentions about a tavern & drinking; A couple mentions of hatred.
No language stronger than ‘idiot’; “What in the kingdoms” is said twice; A couple curses are said (but not written out); Eye rolling; A few hints to Adelaide’s father being a mean man to her, her family, & their kingdom’s citizens.
1 quick kiss,
1 kiss lasting a couple sentences,
2 kisses lasting a few sentences;
Touches, Dancing, Embraces, Hand holding, Nearness, Warmth, & Noticing (up to a handful sentences in details); Blushes; Wanting to be embraced & touches (a couple sentences); When Adelaide realizes that she made like Gabe, she tries to avoid him at night and someone else says that she must not trust herself with him; Seeing a couple kiss & embrace (a couple sentences); Mentions of kisses, kissing, & truth love’s kiss; A mention of flirting.
See my content reviews of the rest of the series & spin-off series here:
The Four Kingdoms series:
Book #1, Book #2, Book #2.2, Book #2.5, Book #3, Book #3.5, Book #4, and Book #5.
Beyond the Four Kingdoms series:
Book #1, Book #2, Book #3, Book #4, Book #5, and Book #6.
Return to the Four Kingdoms series:
Book #1, Book #2, Book #3, Book #4, Book #5, and Book #6.
The Four Kingdoms Duology:
Book #1 and Book #2.
For some reason, I really struggled getting into this retelling. Besides the Barbie version, I’m not super familiar with the story of Swan Lake so I wouldn’t call it a favorite. I was curious about Dominic’s hidden sister though, so I wanted to still read it, but it took me longer than any of the other books in this series or the original one. Because of life and not being very interested into this story, it took me days to read it. Once I hit 50%, I was more interested in it, but still. Days. But I finally finished it and the ending was cute so I’m glad I got to it!
We learn in the bonus introduction on the author’s website that the godmother have hidden Adelaide. We also see a glimpse of Prince Percy who we’ll see again in the next spin-off series with Daria (which I’m really excited to read!)
I do think the ending was a little too coincidental, but it worked out and I liked the ending regardless. Not my favorite of this series, though it had it's cute moments and unique parts for the classic tale!
Main Content:
There’s a lot about curses/enchantments, especially because of Adelaide being under one (hence the Swan Lake retelling); Instead of being cursed into a swan, she has to spend her nights at a lake with swans (if she’s late or not there at night, she is in pain), honks instead of talks during the day, and only gets her human voice back at night; The main part of this book is breaking curses/enchantments and taking down the villain (who is said to have a darkness in him) who is doing them, so there’s many, many mentions of all of it and our main characters trying to figure out everything; There are also animals under enchantments; The villain comments on wanting to prove that “we make our own destiny” and doesn’t believe that the High King exists, that it’s just a bunch of women with too much power; A godmother says that she and other godmothers are always working for good and serve bigger plans than others can see.
Mentions of the High King, godmothers under his rule, and godmothers’ magical objects (which are supposed to be used for driving back the darkness and ensuring that true love triumphs, but villains can get ahold of and twist their use).
Being surrounded by wolves and wild animals & the possibility of being attacked/killed by them (up to a few sentences); Nearly drowning, Pain (due to the curse), & Being kidnapped (up to a handful of sentences); Seeing blood & knocking someone out (a couple sentences); Adelaide is concerned that her swan friends could be injured or killed (this is also used as a threat for her to follow the villain’s orders);
Mentions of murders, deaths, seeing both happen, & grief (including Adelaide’s parents); Mentions of a widow grieving her husband; Mentions of hunting, potential wars with enchanted animals, & possible bloodshed/deaths; Mentions of a planned assassination & threatening another with death; Mentions of pain, injuries, being drugged/poison, & nearly drowning; Mentions of a father who belittled his son and his thirst for knowledge (*Spoiler* ); A handful of mentions about a tavern & drinking; A couple mentions of hatred.
No language stronger than ‘idiot’; “What in the kingdoms” is said twice; A couple curses are said (but not written out); Eye rolling; A few hints to Adelaide’s father being a mean man to her, her family, & their kingdom’s citizens.
1 quick kiss,
1 kiss lasting a couple sentences,
2 kisses lasting a few sentences;
Touches, Dancing, Embraces, Hand holding, Nearness, Warmth, & Noticing (up to a handful sentences in details); Blushes; Wanting to be embraced & touches (a couple sentences); When Adelaide realizes that she made like Gabe, she tries to avoid him at night and someone else says that she must not trust herself with him; Seeing a couple kiss & embrace (a couple sentences); Mentions of kisses, kissing, & truth love’s kiss; A mention of flirting.
See my content reviews of the rest of the series & spin-off series here:
The Four Kingdoms series:
Book #1, Book #2, Book #2.2, Book #2.5, Book #3, Book #3.5, Book #4, and Book #5.
Beyond the Four Kingdoms series:
Book #1, Book #2, Book #3, Book #4, Book #5, and Book #6.
Return to the Four Kingdoms series:
Book #1, Book #2, Book #3, Book #4, Book #5, and Book #6.
The Four Kingdoms Duology:
Book #1 and Book #2.
December 9, 2022
Melanie Cellier is one of my auto-buy authors. So when this book popped onto Amazon, I immediately bought it and tried to concentrate at work until I could rush home to read it.
This story continues the storyline started in the first book of this series, though it can be read as a standalone. Most of the rest of the books in this series retell a single fairytale, but this one does a really cool blend of Swan Lake and The Seven Swans, which worked really well together!
I've been dying to learn what happened to Princess Adelaide ever since reading book 2 (which is her brother's story), and this book didn't disappoint! It has so many unique twists and turns!
If you haven't picked up this author's books yet, go out and buy them! They are all amazing!
This story continues the storyline started in the first book of this series, though it can be read as a standalone. Most of the rest of the books in this series retell a single fairytale, but this one does a really cool blend of Swan Lake and The Seven Swans, which worked really well together!
I've been dying to learn what happened to Princess Adelaide ever since reading book 2 (which is her brother's story), and this book didn't disappoint! It has so many unique twists and turns!
If you haven't picked up this author's books yet, go out and buy them! They are all amazing!
April 24, 2021
GUYSSSS 😍 what are you doing right now!?? If you haven’t read this book you’re missing out on life! ✨💖🥺
December 6, 2020
A Captive of Wing and Feather by Melanie Cellier is the fifth book in the Beyond the Four Kingdoms and a retelling of Swan Lake. Princess Adelaide is the sister of Prince Dominic who disappeared when his kingdom was cursed. She found safety in a place far away and has even made friends. Until the Lord of her new home puts her under a curse. But she manages just fine. That is until an old childhood comes to town and puts everything at risk. Prince Gabriel is a troublemaker. Not only that, he believes that Adelaide’s curse may be linked to the darkness that is spreading in his country. In a way, they both need each other more than they could ever predict.
I love Swan Lake! Melanie Cellier does a wonderful job at capturing the aesthetic–it is enchanting and dark all at the same time. Plus I have been dying to know what happened to Adelaide ever since I read A Tale of Beauty and the Beast. Adelaide is a dream! For a fictional character, under a curse, she is so relatable. She is haunted by her past, betrayed by her family. She craves love and family but cannot trust anyone, except a small few. But she definitely can’t trust anyone with her heart. But Gabriel is so charming and brazen. They are opposites but are made for each other.
This story moves at a wonderful pace. Adelaide’s curse is mysterious, so it takes a while to see the full nature of it unfold. However, the twists and turns in this retelling will keep readers on their toes. One of my favorite aspects is how she integrated the swans into the story.
As always, Esther Wane is marvelous as the narrator!–Also just look at that cover!!! If that isn’t enough to reel you in, then I don’t know what will! I rate this installment 5 out of 5 stars!
I love Swan Lake! Melanie Cellier does a wonderful job at capturing the aesthetic–it is enchanting and dark all at the same time. Plus I have been dying to know what happened to Adelaide ever since I read A Tale of Beauty and the Beast. Adelaide is a dream! For a fictional character, under a curse, she is so relatable. She is haunted by her past, betrayed by her family. She craves love and family but cannot trust anyone, except a small few. But she definitely can’t trust anyone with her heart. But Gabriel is so charming and brazen. They are opposites but are made for each other.
This story moves at a wonderful pace. Adelaide’s curse is mysterious, so it takes a while to see the full nature of it unfold. However, the twists and turns in this retelling will keep readers on their toes. One of my favorite aspects is how she integrated the swans into the story.
As always, Esther Wane is marvelous as the narrator!–Also just look at that cover!!! If that isn’t enough to reel you in, then I don’t know what will! I rate this installment 5 out of 5 stars!
December 3, 2019
I’ve had this book for a while already and even though I’ve been reading quite some Fairytale retellings, I wasn’t quite in the mood to read this one yet. I don’t know why that is. It always seems to happen with the books Melanie Cellier writes. I’m very excited about getting them and yet it takes some time before I pick the up.
It’s probably because it always takes me some time to get back into the world and into the story. Even though all books can be read as a standalone, they’re much more fun being read in order. Even I, who has read them, sometimes have to dig deep to remember who was who again and what exactly had been told about these characters in the other stories.
But, once I got into the story I was reminded again why I love Cellier’s fairytales and how she allows her characters to bond and talk and get to know each other. It happens so rarely that characters who fall in love have the chance to have conversations, actual conversation and not just about their feelings. It takes time, but it also pays of. Always.
And that was certainly not any different for this story. Once it became clear what Adelaide’s story truly was about and how Cellier had carefully crafted her journey, I realised that Adelaide and I have a lot in common. Some advice Adelaide got might have hit home. And I can only wish that one day my own Gabe will find me to shatter all the walls I’ve carefully built around my own heart and soul.
It was nice to be back and nice to enjoy a true fairytale in a fairytale world and fairytale setting. I can’t wait to read the little mermaid retelling that’s coming up!
It’s probably because it always takes me some time to get back into the world and into the story. Even though all books can be read as a standalone, they’re much more fun being read in order. Even I, who has read them, sometimes have to dig deep to remember who was who again and what exactly had been told about these characters in the other stories.
But, once I got into the story I was reminded again why I love Cellier’s fairytales and how she allows her characters to bond and talk and get to know each other. It happens so rarely that characters who fall in love have the chance to have conversations, actual conversation and not just about their feelings. It takes time, but it also pays of. Always.
And that was certainly not any different for this story. Once it became clear what Adelaide’s story truly was about and how Cellier had carefully crafted her journey, I realised that Adelaide and I have a lot in common. Some advice Adelaide got might have hit home. And I can only wish that one day my own Gabe will find me to shatter all the walls I’ve carefully built around my own heart and soul.
It was nice to be back and nice to enjoy a true fairytale in a fairytale world and fairytale setting. I can’t wait to read the little mermaid retelling that’s coming up!
May 2, 2025
Such a good series! It was so good to finally see what happened to Adelaide, and I enjoyed seeing her and Gabe's relationship.
September 16, 2019
Finally! We get to see what happened to Princess Adelaide, Dominic's sweet sister. She disappeared in the aftermath of their parents' sudden deaths, and two years after Dominic and his bride Sophie were able to lift the curse on him and his kingdom of Palinar she still has not resurfaced. (For the full story on that, read A Tale of Beauty and Beast, book 2 in this series)
Turns out Addie wanted to stay gone. Understandably, given the coldness of their upbringing, the trauma of their parents' deaths, and the way Dominic withdrew afterward, Adelaide doesn't trust her formidable older brother's rumored change of heart. She's also under a curse herself, and she'd rather continue existing in obscurity, solving her own problems and keeping the world at arm's length. Certainly she's not interested in anyone rescuing her.
Until Crown Prince Gabriel of Talinos comes blundering into her life. Gabe and Addie were friends once, and Addie remembers him as the boy who would take any dare and who loved a challenge. While the man is more tempered and responsible--and more handsome!--than when they were children, Adelaide quickly realizes she won't be able to dissuade him from getting involved in trying to break her curse. Especially when they discover that her curse might have wider implications, and a tie to the strange timidity that has been falling over the people of Talinos for years.
One of the best parts of this story was Addie's slow journey to letting people in again. Not just Gabe as a love interest, but the people around her who have become her friends. Addie and Gabe are great characters, very distinct and memorable, with a fun group of supporting characters (who for once are not other royals, which is a nice change).
Turns out Addie wanted to stay gone. Understandably, given the coldness of their upbringing, the trauma of their parents' deaths, and the way Dominic withdrew afterward, Adelaide doesn't trust her formidable older brother's rumored change of heart. She's also under a curse herself, and she'd rather continue existing in obscurity, solving her own problems and keeping the world at arm's length. Certainly she's not interested in anyone rescuing her.
Until Crown Prince Gabriel of Talinos comes blundering into her life. Gabe and Addie were friends once, and Addie remembers him as the boy who would take any dare and who loved a challenge. While the man is more tempered and responsible--and more handsome!--than when they were children, Adelaide quickly realizes she won't be able to dissuade him from getting involved in trying to break her curse. Especially when they discover that her curse might have wider implications, and a tie to the strange timidity that has been falling over the people of Talinos for years.
One of the best parts of this story was Addie's slow journey to letting people in again. Not just Gabe as a love interest, but the people around her who have become her friends. Addie and Gabe are great characters, very distinct and memorable, with a fun group of supporting characters (who for once are not other royals, which is a nice change).
November 22, 2021
Pretty, pretty cover! 😍😍😍 I think this one might be my favorite of this series as it’s just so soft and bright and sunshiny and the model perfectly captures who I imagine Adelaide to be.
Adelaide is just so sweet and gentle yet with enough fire to keep her burning bright and fearless in the face of everything she goes through. And, boy, does she go through A LOT. Gabe is just a precious, sweet, reckless cinnamon roll I want in my life and want to protect and go on adventures with all at once. He and Adelaide are a force and so sweet together—I fully approve. 🥰👍
I love how the author incorporated two fairy tales (Swan Lake and The Seven Swans), but since this is mostly Swan Lake I was really worried about how the whole love betrayal by trickery on the villain’s part would play out. Leander is a nasty price of work I truly hate—just ick.
The whole theme of learning to love and trust another person again after betrayal hit really close to my heart and was woven very powerfully into this remarkable story. And the swans! I loved the swan sidekicks as I have a soft spot for animal sidekicks and these girls did not disappoint.
A beautiful, wonderful story I really, really loved.
Adelaide is just so sweet and gentle yet with enough fire to keep her burning bright and fearless in the face of everything she goes through. And, boy, does she go through A LOT. Gabe is just a precious, sweet, reckless cinnamon roll I want in my life and want to protect and go on adventures with all at once. He and Adelaide are a force and so sweet together—I fully approve. 🥰👍
I love how the author incorporated two fairy tales (Swan Lake and The Seven Swans), but since this is mostly Swan Lake I was really worried about how the whole love betrayal by trickery on the villain’s part would play out. Leander is a nasty price of work I truly hate—just ick.
The whole theme of learning to love and trust another person again after betrayal hit really close to my heart and was woven very powerfully into this remarkable story. And the swans! I loved the swan sidekicks as I have a soft spot for animal sidekicks and these girls did not disappoint.
A beautiful, wonderful story I really, really loved.
December 31, 2019
I love Swan Lake. I always have. It's a piece of my childhood, sits right next to The Nutcracker and Dance Tanya. I can't say I've read many retellings of Swan Lake, though I know a few film adaptations and The Swan Princess sets the bar pretty high for me. That said, Melanie Cellier knocked it out of the park. Truly, I fell every bit in love with her rendition as I'd hoped I would.
I've been following Cellier's works for a few years now and her fairy tales have a light air to them, an adventurous spirit, and just enough fluff to soothe the itch. Admittedly, going in with high expectations because of my love for Swan Lake puts her at a disadvantage, but Cellier pulled through. She created a cast of characters that I just loved. I had a little trouble remembering Gabe from previous books or even Adelaide since it's been two years since I read the first two books in this series. But I still enjoyed them both. Their relationship was sweet and fun to watch, too. I liked their childhood and past together. That was special, I thought.
And the side cast was just as much fun! First of all, Cora ;) I must admit, it's only the second time I've ever run into a character with my own name! But her character was heartwarming and motherly. I loved her! Our Rothbart figure was a little less on screen and, honestly, a little less effectively creepy I thought, but he served his purpose and pulled through for a strong climax and ending, I thought.
The haven was a big part of this story and I loved how it worked into the plot. The lake itself was stunning, enchanting, and perfect. I loved Cellier's vision of the lake and how she tied it into the plot so beautifully. It wasn't simply a pretty bit of scenery. The lake served a purpose and that was neat. The Keep was cool, too, adding yet another dimension to the setting.
The plot was, of course, Swan Lake, but it was thoroughly steeped in the Four Kingdoms world and held true to Cellier's style for something a little more than simply the retelling of a classic tale. The spying and intrigue were some of the coolest twists in this retelling. And the swans were such a treat! It had a thread of Wild Swans/Seven Swans which was honestly a nifty addition, I think.
Cellier writes clean books. No foul language, very little and non-graphic violence, and sweet, clean romance. The themes were uplifting and well threaded into the story. Overall, I really think Cellier did Swan Lake justice and I'd even say this is one of my favorites of the series!
I've been following Cellier's works for a few years now and her fairy tales have a light air to them, an adventurous spirit, and just enough fluff to soothe the itch. Admittedly, going in with high expectations because of my love for Swan Lake puts her at a disadvantage, but Cellier pulled through. She created a cast of characters that I just loved. I had a little trouble remembering Gabe from previous books or even Adelaide since it's been two years since I read the first two books in this series. But I still enjoyed them both. Their relationship was sweet and fun to watch, too. I liked their childhood and past together. That was special, I thought.
And the side cast was just as much fun! First of all, Cora ;) I must admit, it's only the second time I've ever run into a character with my own name! But her character was heartwarming and motherly. I loved her! Our Rothbart figure was a little less on screen and, honestly, a little less effectively creepy I thought, but he served his purpose and pulled through for a strong climax and ending, I thought.
The haven was a big part of this story and I loved how it worked into the plot. The lake itself was stunning, enchanting, and perfect. I loved Cellier's vision of the lake and how she tied it into the plot so beautifully. It wasn't simply a pretty bit of scenery. The lake served a purpose and that was neat. The Keep was cool, too, adding yet another dimension to the setting.
The plot was, of course, Swan Lake, but it was thoroughly steeped in the Four Kingdoms world and held true to Cellier's style for something a little more than simply the retelling of a classic tale. The spying and intrigue were some of the coolest twists in this retelling. And the swans were such a treat! It had a thread of Wild Swans/Seven Swans which was honestly a nifty addition, I think.
Cellier writes clean books. No foul language, very little and non-graphic violence, and sweet, clean romance. The themes were uplifting and well threaded into the story. Overall, I really think Cellier did Swan Lake justice and I'd even say this is one of my favorites of the series!
December 9, 2019
Eh, it was cute but not my favorite book of the series.
A Captive of Wing and Feather is a swan princess retelling. Not really like the movies that I grew up with because she wasn't really turning into a swan. Yet, she did have a squad of swans.. so that was pretty interesting. In it, you will meet Adelaide and Grabiel. They were cute in a way but I was really bored while listening to this one. Maybe it's because I'm at work and I'm bored there.. but I just wasn't that invested in these characters or their romance.
Of course things got better towards the end of the book, which made me happy. Yet, it was a little too late for me to even think about liking it more than the previous books. If the pacing was a lot better then the rating and review would reflect that. I am, however, really happy I dove into this retelling series. It was fun and interesting since it has been a while since I'm done a series that just focuses on retellings.
Overall, I need to find another series that grabs my attention from start to finish - any recommendations?
A Captive of Wing and Feather is a swan princess retelling. Not really like the movies that I grew up with because she wasn't really turning into a swan. Yet, she did have a squad of swans.. so that was pretty interesting. In it, you will meet Adelaide and Grabiel. They were cute in a way but I was really bored while listening to this one. Maybe it's because I'm at work and I'm bored there.. but I just wasn't that invested in these characters or their romance.
Of course things got better towards the end of the book, which made me happy. Yet, it was a little too late for me to even think about liking it more than the previous books. If the pacing was a lot better then the rating and review would reflect that. I am, however, really happy I dove into this retelling series. It was fun and interesting since it has been a while since I'm done a series that just focuses on retellings.
Overall, I need to find another series that grabs my attention from start to finish - any recommendations?
April 5, 2022
Wow! Just wow.......
I did not expect that ending to be so.....jaw-dropping.
Of course, why am I surprised?
Swan Lake as always been one of my favorites. As a middle school girl, I was in love with the movie Barbie of Swan Lake. I was so afraid and excited at the same time to read this book. I guess after reading the other books with characters I had already "met". Reading a book with a character, Adelaide, that I'd never read in any other book (expect when she was mentioned in pervious books), so I was nervous about what she would be like. Altho, was not surprised when I instantly liked her. I finally realized how much the books are connected between. One part I gasped at, was when Gabe announced how they all grew up together. I don't know why it hadn't dawned on my til then! My mouth drop when I learned Adelaide, Gabe, Dominic, Jon, Teddy, Oliver, Millie, Lilac, Hazel, and Marigold, Snow and Opal and Pearl, all grew up together! At that moment I really felt how much the books were connected. I was even more excited when Gave mentioned Teddy's encounter with a mysterious "ocean girl" almost three years previously. Then Lily, Sophie and Celine were mentioned! AH! I swear I nearly scared my sister to death when I screamed. LOL!
Furthermore, I have come to realize that each of these books are leaving me with a different emotion or sense of the book (like I stated in my last review about book 4). This one, left me feeling a certain ease. Like some invisible weight has been lifted off my shoulders but I also saddened. I felt like, reading what Adelaide went through and the burden of fear and distrust she carried transpired to me. And as she learned to trust in people again, I was also learning that trusting people can lead to great things. The whole moral of the story really resinated with me (since I don't trust very easily). As Adelaide grew to trust people and not deign her love for Gabe, she opened up to the reality that life wasn't all heartache. I am so impressed how well these moral was weaved into the story. Sure it was focused around Adelaide braking the curse and her and Gabe's love story, but the underlining of this story was most certainly on how to learn to trust and let go of fear. I am not sure if I worded this all correctly where ya'll will kinda understand my feelings I got this book, but I tried my best... :);)
Adelaide was just the kind of character I was looking forward to (even tho I was nervous about reading this book because I hadn't "met" her yet). I feel like the cover of the but gives off a sense of elegance, grace and silent strength, and Adelaide was most certainly like this. She was everything a princess should be. Both elegant and graceful as well as strong and brave. She was so headstrong from being on her own since she was thirteen. Altho following what happened to her parents and brother (Dominic a.k.a the Beast), I can understand why she closed off her heart and grew to distrust people, not for any fault of theirs however. It was easier for her to only rely on herself to get herself through whatever thing hit her. I think that kinda set her apart from Lily, Sophie and Celine. They are all brave and strong in their own ways, as Adelaide proved to be. I loved her friendship with the swans and how they were their own different characters. For so long she only had them and it was easy for her to put her trust in them. But when Gabe came along, she only saw him complicating things. He did, however in a good way. Through him, Adelaide realized she had to learn to trust people and with the help of a certain godmother, I'm glad to see she learned to. Even tho Gabe didn't always make it easy.
Gabe was the perfect character to balance Adelaide's character. He was funny, charming and open, to her closed off and guarded personality. I certainly can not see anyone else who would be more perfect for Adelaide. At first he only seemed like that reckless, arrogant prince just looking for an adventure. But underneath all of that, there was a brave, headstrong serious crown prince willing to do anything to protect his kingdom and later the girl he fell in love with. I loved him an book one. His friendship with Jon and Teddy (and sometimes Oliver, even tho it was strained by the curse over him), was just so fun to read. Even then Gabe showed his serious side when he saved Lily and little Daisy from a bear attack. Right then I knew I love in with his character (even tho I always in love with Jon, Teddy and Oliver). He reminded me of Robin Hood in book one and even more in this one. My heart broke when Adelaide claimed she didn't love him. I could just picture the life draining from his face. Altho that never stopped him for risking his life for in her the end. I got the feeling he had always been in love with Adelaide, even as children (like Snow and Alex). But then their love had only been one-sided. Gabe was just such an amazing "prince charming" it made my heart stop. Yes, I know I've said that about every other "prince charming". But each one has been different and you have to have the perfect one to match the girl.
Okay, okay! I have to tell ya'll that my favorite part of this series has been the godmothers! OMG! I love them! They're so mysterious, witty and cryptic and only ever show up at the very last minute. I swear I crack up every time one of them comes in. I feel like I'm getting more of the godmothers in this series than the first series, and I couldn't be more happy for it. And then the godmother objects!? Please! These items could be anything from glass slippers to red apples. I love how Miss Cellier turned classic fairy tale objects into powerful magic tools that can bring about true love. But that can also be used for malice. I feel like there are far more godmother objects out there just waiting to be discovered and I wonder what they could be used for. Ah ah! I just get soooooo giddy when a godmother and godmother objects come in.
The villain I could get enough off! The whole plot was just mind blowing! The bad guy most certainly reminds me of the evil man who caused the curse in the fairy tale. The whole story was just amazing! I couldn't get over how much of the fairy tale Swan Lake was woven into this book. Leander was just the perfect bad guy. He was perfect mixture of evil, malice and crazy. He was so sure of himself he didn't care he if gave away the secrets of his plans in front of anyone. (Okay, guys, my mind just literally went blank)...........Anyway, the villainy was awesome. And the whole retelling was just amazing. The ending had me gasping and screaming and jumping up and down! I'm come on! How many more times can my mind be blown by these books enough to leave me in awe?
Everyone character was clearly amazing. Cora, Wren and Audrey I want as my friends! And Juniper! Aw! She was so cute! Maybe one day we'll see her in her own book all grown up (wistfully dreaming). I certainly hope I'll get to see all the supporting characters soon! I always fall in love with the side characters and wish they had their own books. (Made I should put in a request? *wink, wink*)
The content was clean. A little blood. Mention of a few characters dying and/or danger. Of course there were a few kisses (duh). I think there was at least one idiot. Obviously there was a curse/curses. Overall, it was just as clean as the rest of the books.
Come on, guys, you've got to read these books! They are so amazing! I continue to be impressed by Melanie's writing skills. And as someone who has read so many books by so many countless authors, I tell the difference in a good writer and even better writer and she the better. The when she entwines each story with the last and how each character is connected somehow. Her way to tie events with things that happened so many books pass, just amazing me even more. It is just a pleasure to read and enjoy her books so much. I know I will forever love and treasure these books.
Off to read the last book in these series. NOOOoooooo! (crying dramatically)
I did not expect that ending to be so.....jaw-dropping.
Of course, why am I surprised?
Swan Lake as always been one of my favorites. As a middle school girl, I was in love with the movie Barbie of Swan Lake. I was so afraid and excited at the same time to read this book. I guess after reading the other books with characters I had already "met". Reading a book with a character, Adelaide, that I'd never read in any other book (expect when she was mentioned in pervious books), so I was nervous about what she would be like. Altho, was not surprised when I instantly liked her. I finally realized how much the books are connected between. One part I gasped at, was when Gabe announced how they all grew up together. I don't know why it hadn't dawned on my til then! My mouth drop when I learned Adelaide, Gabe, Dominic, Jon, Teddy, Oliver, Millie, Lilac, Hazel, and Marigold, Snow and Opal and Pearl, all grew up together! At that moment I really felt how much the books were connected. I was even more excited when Gave mentioned Teddy's encounter with a mysterious "ocean girl" almost three years previously. Then Lily, Sophie and Celine were mentioned! AH! I swear I nearly scared my sister to death when I screamed. LOL!
Furthermore, I have come to realize that each of these books are leaving me with a different emotion or sense of the book (like I stated in my last review about book 4). This one, left me feeling a certain ease. Like some invisible weight has been lifted off my shoulders but I also saddened. I felt like, reading what Adelaide went through and the burden of fear and distrust she carried transpired to me. And as she learned to trust in people again, I was also learning that trusting people can lead to great things. The whole moral of the story really resinated with me (since I don't trust very easily). As Adelaide grew to trust people and not deign her love for Gabe, she opened up to the reality that life wasn't all heartache. I am so impressed how well these moral was weaved into the story. Sure it was focused around Adelaide braking the curse and her and Gabe's love story, but the underlining of this story was most certainly on how to learn to trust and let go of fear. I am not sure if I worded this all correctly where ya'll will kinda understand my feelings I got this book, but I tried my best... :);)
Adelaide was just the kind of character I was looking forward to (even tho I was nervous about reading this book because I hadn't "met" her yet). I feel like the cover of the but gives off a sense of elegance, grace and silent strength, and Adelaide was most certainly like this. She was everything a princess should be. Both elegant and graceful as well as strong and brave. She was so headstrong from being on her own since she was thirteen. Altho following what happened to her parents and brother (Dominic a.k.a the Beast), I can understand why she closed off her heart and grew to distrust people, not for any fault of theirs however. It was easier for her to only rely on herself to get herself through whatever thing hit her. I think that kinda set her apart from Lily, Sophie and Celine. They are all brave and strong in their own ways, as Adelaide proved to be. I loved her friendship with the swans and how they were their own different characters. For so long she only had them and it was easy for her to put her trust in them. But when Gabe came along, she only saw him complicating things. He did, however in a good way. Through him, Adelaide realized she had to learn to trust people and with the help of a certain godmother, I'm glad to see she learned to. Even tho Gabe didn't always make it easy.
Gabe was the perfect character to balance Adelaide's character. He was funny, charming and open, to her closed off and guarded personality. I certainly can not see anyone else who would be more perfect for Adelaide. At first he only seemed like that reckless, arrogant prince just looking for an adventure. But underneath all of that, there was a brave, headstrong serious crown prince willing to do anything to protect his kingdom and later the girl he fell in love with. I loved him an book one. His friendship with Jon and Teddy (and sometimes Oliver, even tho it was strained by the curse over him), was just so fun to read. Even then Gabe showed his serious side when he saved Lily and little Daisy from a bear attack. Right then I knew I love in with his character (even tho I always in love with Jon, Teddy and Oliver). He reminded me of Robin Hood in book one and even more in this one. My heart broke when Adelaide claimed she didn't love him. I could just picture the life draining from his face. Altho that never stopped him for risking his life for in her the end. I got the feeling he had always been in love with Adelaide, even as children (like Snow and Alex). But then their love had only been one-sided. Gabe was just such an amazing "prince charming" it made my heart stop. Yes, I know I've said that about every other "prince charming". But each one has been different and you have to have the perfect one to match the girl.
Okay, okay! I have to tell ya'll that my favorite part of this series has been the godmothers! OMG! I love them! They're so mysterious, witty and cryptic and only ever show up at the very last minute. I swear I crack up every time one of them comes in. I feel like I'm getting more of the godmothers in this series than the first series, and I couldn't be more happy for it. And then the godmother objects!? Please! These items could be anything from glass slippers to red apples. I love how Miss Cellier turned classic fairy tale objects into powerful magic tools that can bring about true love. But that can also be used for malice. I feel like there are far more godmother objects out there just waiting to be discovered and I wonder what they could be used for. Ah ah! I just get soooooo giddy when a godmother and godmother objects come in.
The villain I could get enough off! The whole plot was just mind blowing! The bad guy most certainly reminds me of the evil man who caused the curse in the fairy tale. The whole story was just amazing! I couldn't get over how much of the fairy tale Swan Lake was woven into this book. Leander was just the perfect bad guy. He was perfect mixture of evil, malice and crazy. He was so sure of himself he didn't care he if gave away the secrets of his plans in front of anyone. (Okay, guys, my mind just literally went blank)...........Anyway, the villainy was awesome. And the whole retelling was just amazing. The ending had me gasping and screaming and jumping up and down! I'm come on! How many more times can my mind be blown by these books enough to leave me in awe?
Everyone character was clearly amazing. Cora, Wren and Audrey I want as my friends! And Juniper! Aw! She was so cute! Maybe one day we'll see her in her own book all grown up (wistfully dreaming). I certainly hope I'll get to see all the supporting characters soon! I always fall in love with the side characters and wish they had their own books. (Made I should put in a request? *wink, wink*)
The content was clean. A little blood. Mention of a few characters dying and/or danger. Of course there were a few kisses (duh). I think there was at least one idiot. Obviously there was a curse/curses. Overall, it was just as clean as the rest of the books.
Come on, guys, you've got to read these books! They are so amazing! I continue to be impressed by Melanie's writing skills. And as someone who has read so many books by so many countless authors, I tell the difference in a good writer and even better writer and she the better. The when she entwines each story with the last and how each character is connected somehow. Her way to tie events with things that happened so many books pass, just amazing me even more. It is just a pleasure to read and enjoy her books so much. I know I will forever love and treasure these books.
Off to read the last book in these series. NOOOoooooo! (crying dramatically)
September 28, 2019
3.5 stars
I’m only disappointed there wasn’t more to this story. I have been anxiously awaiting Cellier’s next installment to her Beyond the Four Kingdoms series while she was writing and publishing her Spoken Mage series, so I wanted to be pulled back in with all the retelling and sweet romance I’ve come to expect in her books. But with Adelaide and Gabe, there didn’t seem to be as much of a connection as there is between the couples in her previous books, and I think a lot of that is due to Addie’s own refusal to open her heart for more than half the book. Her attitude was very frustrating and off-putting, which is unlike all the other heroines I’ve read in Cellier’s books so far. Because of that, I don’t think Gabe had as big of a role as he could have had, which contributed to me feeling as if they barely got to know each other before they were suddenly in love. It didn’t seem realistic, even though they knew each other as kids. I wanted their romance to actually have a chance to develop before the “boom-bang we’re in love” vibe that happened, especially on Addie’s part. Since she was closed off for so long, it didn’t make sense that she suddenly realized she was head over heels in love.
Even though it frustrated me, I did appreciate Addie’s inner struggle to trust again after being hurt by someone she loved and trusted before. She definitely had some healing that needed to happen, and I liked the way that was portrayed through inner reflection and good friends speaking the truth to her. That was another thing that seemed different with this book than the other ones in the series, in that there was a large focus on the female friendships in this story. Sometimes they overshadowed the romance aspect.
We also really didn’t see enough of the villain for me to be at all worried for how things would turn out. Leander just seemed like a creep with grand plans and too much time on his hands. One of my favorite aspects though was the swans, and the special connection Addie had with them. I hope we get to see more scenes between Adelaide and her brother, and I’m looking forward to Teddy’s story with his ocean girl!!
I’m only disappointed there wasn’t more to this story. I have been anxiously awaiting Cellier’s next installment to her Beyond the Four Kingdoms series while she was writing and publishing her Spoken Mage series, so I wanted to be pulled back in with all the retelling and sweet romance I’ve come to expect in her books. But with Adelaide and Gabe, there didn’t seem to be as much of a connection as there is between the couples in her previous books, and I think a lot of that is due to Addie’s own refusal to open her heart for more than half the book. Her attitude was very frustrating and off-putting, which is unlike all the other heroines I’ve read in Cellier’s books so far. Because of that, I don’t think Gabe had as big of a role as he could have had, which contributed to me feeling as if they barely got to know each other before they were suddenly in love. It didn’t seem realistic, even though they knew each other as kids. I wanted their romance to actually have a chance to develop before the “boom-bang we’re in love” vibe that happened, especially on Addie’s part. Since she was closed off for so long, it didn’t make sense that she suddenly realized she was head over heels in love.
Even though it frustrated me, I did appreciate Addie’s inner struggle to trust again after being hurt by someone she loved and trusted before. She definitely had some healing that needed to happen, and I liked the way that was portrayed through inner reflection and good friends speaking the truth to her. That was another thing that seemed different with this book than the other ones in the series, in that there was a large focus on the female friendships in this story. Sometimes they overshadowed the romance aspect.
We also really didn’t see enough of the villain for me to be at all worried for how things would turn out. Leander just seemed like a creep with grand plans and too much time on his hands. One of my favorite aspects though was the swans, and the special connection Addie had with them. I hope we get to see more scenes between Adelaide and her brother, and I’m looking forward to Teddy’s story with his ocean girl!!
August 22, 2025
+1 star to 4 stars on reread
March 27, 2020
Another enjoyable installment in the series. I nudged it up to four and half stars because I really liked the life lessons woven in.
This book is easily appropriate for the intended age range, and even for some younger readers. There is some danger (including to children and animals), some hugging and kissing, and a lot of hiding important information from friends (but also learning why that's a bad idea). Death is also real risk, and a death scene is briefly described, so some very young readers might find it traumatic.
This book is easily appropriate for the intended age range, and even for some younger readers. There is some danger (including to children and animals), some hugging and kissing, and a lot of hiding important information from friends (but also learning why that's a bad idea). Death is also real risk, and a death scene is briefly described, so some very young readers might find it traumatic.
January 5, 2024
Melanie Cellier had been on hiatus from her Beyond the Four Kingdoms series of fairy tale retellings to work on Elena's adventures in The Spoken Mage books. Therefore, I was pleasantly surprised to learn that she went back to her fairy tales sooner than I was expecting with A Captive of Wing and Feather. This adaptation of "Swan Lake" is set in Melanie Cellier's extended fairy tale universe, where Princess Adelaide takes on the role of Odette. Adelaide is the sister of Prince Dominic, the "Beast" character from her book A Tale of Beauty and the Beast, linking her story to the rest of the books in the series. Unfortunately, Melanie has a tendency to shy away from full human-to-animal transformation sequences, which took some of the magic and mystery out of this version of "Swan Lake."
A Captive of Wing and Feather is hard to follow at first because there is so much information to digest about Adelaide's situation. Little by little, we learn that she was cursed by an evil sorcerer named Leander to only be able to speak the language of the swans during the daytime and is considered a mute by all intents and purposes among her peers (similar to the little mermaid). She lives in a haven with a colorful group of women that she considers her adoptive family, even though none of them know that she's a runaway princess. At night, she recovers her ability to speak, but her curse forces her to return to Swan Lake, where the only person she is able to speak to is Leander. The curse also gives her a special connection to the swans who live at the lake, allowing her to communicate with them. Unlike the original story, which often implies that the swans are cursed maidens like Odette, these are real swans that take a liking to Adelaide due to their bond.
I found it a struggle to get through the first portion of the book because there were so many characters to keep track of at the haven. It also starts after many major events in the story have already taken place. I would have preferred to experience the moment Adelaide was cursed instead of reading about it after the fact. It gets a little more interesting after Prince Gabe shows up. Gabe agreed to search for Adelaide on behalf of her brother, Dominic. Like Prince Siegfried from "Swan Lake," Gabe is a skilled archer. He is also extremely impetuous and acts without considering the consequences, such as when he follows Adelaide to Swan Lake the night he discovers her whereabouts at the haven. He quickly the details of the curse and is determined to do everything in his power to help her break it. The two make a charming couple that is reminiscent of Tiana and Naveen from The Princess and the Frog. Adelaide judges Gabe at first for his recklessness, but she eventually accepts that it is sometimes necessary to get the job done.
One thing that surprised me about this book was the character that took on the role of Odile, the black swan. In other versions of "Swan Lake," Odile is a woman who is immensely loyal to Rothbart. In the Barbie version, she was his daughter. There did not seem to be a single woman who was close enough with Leander to take on such a role in this book, so I thought that perhaps Melanie had changed that element of the story. I was caught completely off guard by the twist ending, but I'm not sure I liked how easily it was resolved. The story ended just how you would expect a modern fairy tale to in a way that was reminiscent of other versions I've seen in the past, not counting the original ballet. For such a powerful wizard, I was a little disappointed that Leander never turned Adelaide full swan, even for a short period of time.
Overall, A Captive of Wing and Feather was not my one of my favorite Melanie Cellier books. I found Adelaide difficult to relate to because she hid so much of her past that it felt less significant when it was revealed piecemeal later on. I didn't feel that this story captured the grace or enchantment of the "Swan Lake" ballet. Swans are beautiful and elegant because of the way they move and float on the water. Their trumpets are the least ethereal thing about them, and that was the only aspect that Adelaide inherited from her curse. I would have preferred to see her as a skilled dancer or possess some other ability that makes swans so alluring. The next book in the Beyond the Four Kingdoms series will be A Princess of Wind and Wave, based on my favorite fairy tale, "The Little Mermaid!" I am far more eager to read that adaptation than I was for this one.
A Captive of Wing and Feather is hard to follow at first because there is so much information to digest about Adelaide's situation. Little by little, we learn that she was cursed by an evil sorcerer named Leander to only be able to speak the language of the swans during the daytime and is considered a mute by all intents and purposes among her peers (similar to the little mermaid). She lives in a haven with a colorful group of women that she considers her adoptive family, even though none of them know that she's a runaway princess. At night, she recovers her ability to speak, but her curse forces her to return to Swan Lake, where the only person she is able to speak to is Leander. The curse also gives her a special connection to the swans who live at the lake, allowing her to communicate with them. Unlike the original story, which often implies that the swans are cursed maidens like Odette, these are real swans that take a liking to Adelaide due to their bond.
I found it a struggle to get through the first portion of the book because there were so many characters to keep track of at the haven. It also starts after many major events in the story have already taken place. I would have preferred to experience the moment Adelaide was cursed instead of reading about it after the fact. It gets a little more interesting after Prince Gabe shows up. Gabe agreed to search for Adelaide on behalf of her brother, Dominic. Like Prince Siegfried from "Swan Lake," Gabe is a skilled archer. He is also extremely impetuous and acts without considering the consequences, such as when he follows Adelaide to Swan Lake the night he discovers her whereabouts at the haven. He quickly the details of the curse and is determined to do everything in his power to help her break it. The two make a charming couple that is reminiscent of Tiana and Naveen from The Princess and the Frog. Adelaide judges Gabe at first for his recklessness, but she eventually accepts that it is sometimes necessary to get the job done.
One thing that surprised me about this book was the character that took on the role of Odile, the black swan. In other versions of "Swan Lake," Odile is a woman who is immensely loyal to Rothbart. In the Barbie version, she was his daughter. There did not seem to be a single woman who was close enough with Leander to take on such a role in this book, so I thought that perhaps Melanie had changed that element of the story. I was caught completely off guard by the twist ending, but I'm not sure I liked how easily it was resolved. The story ended just how you would expect a modern fairy tale to in a way that was reminiscent of other versions I've seen in the past, not counting the original ballet. For such a powerful wizard, I was a little disappointed that Leander never turned Adelaide full swan, even for a short period of time.
Overall, A Captive of Wing and Feather was not my one of my favorite Melanie Cellier books. I found Adelaide difficult to relate to because she hid so much of her past that it felt less significant when it was revealed piecemeal later on. I didn't feel that this story captured the grace or enchantment of the "Swan Lake" ballet. Swans are beautiful and elegant because of the way they move and float on the water. Their trumpets are the least ethereal thing about them, and that was the only aspect that Adelaide inherited from her curse. I would have preferred to see her as a skilled dancer or possess some other ability that makes swans so alluring. The next book in the Beyond the Four Kingdoms series will be A Princess of Wind and Wave, based on my favorite fairy tale, "The Little Mermaid!" I am far more eager to read that adaptation than I was for this one.
August 7, 2024
Content Rating: 5/5 I will note that there were several curses at work, with the MC being cursed, so just be aware of that if that is a concern for you.
Theme Rating: 5/5
Age Rating: 11+ There was a romance, of course, but squeaky clean!
This was such a sweet book, with lots of mysteries that were fun to uncover. I loved the follow-up of sorts to Sophie and Dominic's story from a few books back, and seeing Gabe again. He's so reckless and adventurous but there's something about him that's hard not to love.
I loved the crazy aspects of the curses, and honestly the way it was wrapped up was really clever, because I was worried we were gonna have some plot holes by the end, but it all turned out really well. It was also nice to have an established villain for once. XD
Okay, I have to say, the theme...🤩 I loved it so much. So beautiful. And I loved the found family aspect at the haven and all the characters... especially Wren and Juniper. But I also loved Adelaide- even though she was guarded, it was really understandable why, and she was so sweet and caring. Also, Audrey was great. She cracks me up.
Some of my favorite parts were all the character relationships, and the way they all look out for each other at the haven. I also loved how Gabe came in and, even though he was a prince, he started sticking it out for the people in need. The childhood reminiscences between Gabe and Addie were awesome too- I loved getting some more insights into all the characters- and the stupid decisions Gabe and occasionally Teddy made as children. XD
Overall, this was such a sweet novel. I loved all the characters and the theme was amazing... Overall, it was just a great read!
"You just need to give yourself permission to let someone else hold your heart again. You can't regain what you lost, but you can create a new future for yourself."
Theme Rating: 5/5
Age Rating: 11+ There was a romance, of course, but squeaky clean!
This was such a sweet book, with lots of mysteries that were fun to uncover. I loved the follow-up of sorts to Sophie and Dominic's story from a few books back, and seeing Gabe again. He's so reckless and adventurous but there's something about him that's hard not to love.
I loved the crazy aspects of the curses, and honestly the way it was wrapped up was really clever, because I was worried we were gonna have some plot holes by the end, but it all turned out really well. It was also nice to have an established villain for once. XD
Okay, I have to say, the theme...🤩 I loved it so much. So beautiful. And I loved the found family aspect at the haven and all the characters... especially Wren and Juniper. But I also loved Adelaide- even though she was guarded, it was really understandable why, and she was so sweet and caring. Also, Audrey was great. She cracks me up.
Some of my favorite parts were all the character relationships, and the way they all look out for each other at the haven. I also loved how Gabe came in and, even though he was a prince, he started sticking it out for the people in need. The childhood reminiscences between Gabe and Addie were awesome too- I loved getting some more insights into all the characters- and the stupid decisions Gabe and occasionally Teddy made as children. XD
Overall, this was such a sweet novel. I loved all the characters and the theme was amazing... Overall, it was just a great read!
"You just need to give yourself permission to let someone else hold your heart again. You can't regain what you lost, but you can create a new future for yourself."
October 19, 2020
This was my least favorite of this series so far. While there were parts I liked, I never really connected with the main character. Also, the love story wasn't very believable. I do really like the audio narrator, however.
June 26, 2024
Review
3.75 stars ✨
At this point, I'd read anything by Melanie Cellier. But this book was very... interesting.
Honestly, I was wondering if a different author wrote this at times. Maybe Melanie got brainwashed?
I'm not saying this because of the writing style, that was the same. It read smoothly, and that part I loved.
As usual.
I'm talking about the plot.
Adelaide can kind of talk to swans, (and I never like talking to animals trope, btw), so it just felt kind of strange. There were plenty of twists and turns, and I never saw some of them coming. The plot wasn't as strange as the original, and I liked it. Kind of. It just seemed like a different kind of fantasy than I usually like and kind of odd.
You shouldve seen my face when I realized that Adelaide is NOT turning into a swan at night, but is trapped at the pond with her swan friends.
And thank goodness for that ending! I looked up the original ending...
*shudders*
And it scared me. I legit thought that they were both going to drown and die!!
Gabe is PERFECT for Adelaide, too. He doesn't bat an eye about the enchantment, and treats her like a normal person.
I do feel like he underreacted when she told him about the swan curse, though.
He basically just shrugs and says, "Oh well. Lets find a way to break the curse."
Like, really? You just found out that you childhood friend van talk to swans and has a curse on her and that's all you can say?
Because curses TOTALLY happen everyday in his kingdom.
I don't remember much of a character arc, but then again I read this in one day, (mostly at night), so I could've forgotten. My late night reading isn't quite as sharp...
I did not like Audrey at first. Mostly because I thought she'd start a dreaded love triangle, but luckily she didn't.
*sigh*
The idea of having a love triangle with Adelaide, Gabe, and Audrey honestly scared me.
It also bugged me how both of them are trying to deny their feelings towards each other most of the book. And she finds out that true love is the only thing that will break her out, and pretends that she DOESN'T like Gabe for no apparent reason.
I mean, c'mon. You have a way out of the curse, and suddenly deny that you ever loved Gabe back? Really?
Overall this was an okay book. The swan part was strange, (kind of,) but I liked it. And it helped me break out if my comfort zone and try something different!
CW: three no detail kisses, two kisses with a three to five sentence description, two almost kisses, one hair kiss, blushes, winks, noticing closeness, warmth Gabe calls Adelaide beautiful, some minor physical attraction, (but only a tiny bit and the romance is NOT because of physical attraction), a mention of an older couple acting like "courting youngsters," other couples kiss, semi detailed, Gabe is tricked into saying that he loves someone else, (he doesn't, the other girl, Audrey, was dressed like Adelaide), Adeliades parents were in a marriage of convenience/alliance of sorts before they died, mentions of a newly married couple possibly having a lot of kids in the future
Almost drowning, (but they survive), minimal details, Adelaide is under a curse that causes her to almost die, but true loves sacrifice saves her, glares, Gabe wanting to put an arrow in the persons leg (or kill them) who cursed Adelaide, remembering a broken arm, Adelaide remembers her mom dying, (she was pushed down the stairs by her father and died because she protested a massacure) in return her dad was killed my a godmother, semi detailed, her dad killed everyone in a village years ago because they "rebelled", (they hid a rebel so the whole village was punished,) Adelaide didn't watch it happen and its semi detailed, getting kidnapped, they get almost attacked by wolves and bears, (but the swans fight them off), Gabe and Adelaide break into a manor, they're betrayed by a friend later, (Audrey didn't want to do it but was forced to), mentions of a bar, an old lady tells a story about how her husband betrayed her by wasting aall his money on alcohol when all the kids needed shoes, mentions of treason
Many mention of curses, magic, Adelaide is under an enchantment where she can't leave the lake at night, and can only speak English at night, while she can honk like a swan at day, godmothers come, (they haven't been to the kingdom in years), Adelaide can talk to the swans at day and they understand simple phrases from her, a potion from Leander put her into the curse, (she was tricked into drinking it), other people are under a similar curse, the whole kingdom is timid because the water is poisoned by Leander, and they won't take action for anything,
Age recommendation: 12+
If you still want to read this book after all that, go for it. I didn't really like the swan part, though, and found the idea of talking to swans and acting like they're people very strange.
3.75 stars ✨
At this point, I'd read anything by Melanie Cellier. But this book was very... interesting.
Honestly, I was wondering if a different author wrote this at times. Maybe Melanie got brainwashed?
I'm not saying this because of the writing style, that was the same. It read smoothly, and that part I loved.
As usual.
I'm talking about the plot.
Adelaide can kind of talk to swans, (and I never like talking to animals trope, btw), so it just felt kind of strange. There were plenty of twists and turns, and I never saw some of them coming. The plot wasn't as strange as the original, and I liked it. Kind of. It just seemed like a different kind of fantasy than I usually like and kind of odd.
You shouldve seen my face when I realized that Adelaide is NOT turning into a swan at night, but is trapped at the pond with her swan friends.
And thank goodness for that ending! I looked up the original ending...
*shudders*
And it scared me. I legit thought that they were both going to drown and die!!
Gabe is PERFECT for Adelaide, too. He doesn't bat an eye about the enchantment, and treats her like a normal person.
I do feel like he underreacted when she told him about the swan curse, though.
He basically just shrugs and says, "Oh well. Lets find a way to break the curse."
Like, really? You just found out that you childhood friend van talk to swans and has a curse on her and that's all you can say?
Because curses TOTALLY happen everyday in his kingdom.
I don't remember much of a character arc, but then again I read this in one day, (mostly at night), so I could've forgotten. My late night reading isn't quite as sharp...
I did not like Audrey at first. Mostly because I thought she'd start a dreaded love triangle, but luckily she didn't.
*sigh*
The idea of having a love triangle with Adelaide, Gabe, and Audrey honestly scared me.
It also bugged me how both of them are trying to deny their feelings towards each other most of the book. And she finds out that true love is the only thing that will break her out, and pretends that she DOESN'T like Gabe for no apparent reason.
I mean, c'mon. You have a way out of the curse, and suddenly deny that you ever loved Gabe back? Really?
Overall this was an okay book. The swan part was strange, (kind of,) but I liked it. And it helped me break out if my comfort zone and try something different!
CW: three no detail kisses, two kisses with a three to five sentence description, two almost kisses, one hair kiss, blushes, winks, noticing closeness, warmth Gabe calls Adelaide beautiful, some minor physical attraction, (but only a tiny bit and the romance is NOT because of physical attraction), a mention of an older couple acting like "courting youngsters," other couples kiss, semi detailed, Gabe is tricked into saying that he loves someone else, (he doesn't, the other girl, Audrey, was dressed like Adelaide), Adeliades parents were in a marriage of convenience/alliance of sorts before they died, mentions of a newly married couple possibly having a lot of kids in the future
Almost drowning, (but they survive), minimal details, Adelaide is under a curse that causes her to almost die, but true loves sacrifice saves her, glares, Gabe wanting to put an arrow in the persons leg (or kill them) who cursed Adelaide, remembering a broken arm, Adelaide remembers her mom dying, (she was pushed down the stairs by her father and died because she protested a massacure) in return her dad was killed my a godmother, semi detailed, her dad killed everyone in a village years ago because they "rebelled", (they hid a rebel so the whole village was punished,) Adelaide didn't watch it happen and its semi detailed, getting kidnapped, they get almost attacked by wolves and bears, (but the swans fight them off), Gabe and Adelaide break into a manor, they're betrayed by a friend later, (Audrey didn't want to do it but was forced to), mentions of a bar, an old lady tells a story about how her husband betrayed her by wasting aall his money on alcohol when all the kids needed shoes, mentions of treason
Many mention of curses, magic, Adelaide is under an enchantment where she can't leave the lake at night, and can only speak English at night, while she can honk like a swan at day, godmothers come, (they haven't been to the kingdom in years), Adelaide can talk to the swans at day and they understand simple phrases from her, a potion from Leander put her into the curse, (she was tricked into drinking it), other people are under a similar curse, the whole kingdom is timid because the water is poisoned by Leander, and they won't take action for anything,
Age recommendation: 12+
If you still want to read this book after all that, go for it. I didn't really like the swan part, though, and found the idea of talking to swans and acting like they're people very strange.
April 28, 2020
aww I loved Gabe in this one! after reading the story about Dominic and Sophia, I was really intrigued as to where Adelaide ended up, and it's definitely interesting reading her story! It's funny how much I relate to both Gabe and Adelaide; Gabe's impulsive tendencies and Adelaide's mistrusting demeanor are definitely both characteristics that I relate to a lot and see in myself on the daily. I definitely think I'm the most similar to the two main characters in this book (well, Gabe and Adelaide individually) out of all the characters or couples I've ever read about in Cellier's books, which is saying quite a bit as I've read an astonishing amount of her books. xD
but AUDREY. she. drives. me. crazy. I don't know what it is about her (maybe it's that she seems rather... airheaded and too bubbly) but I just find her particularly annoying and didn't quite understand her motive behind her betrayal? like did Leander threaten her family or something because I didn't quite catch what made her turn sides? it didn't seem like she was remorseful or sorry for her actions either since after Adelaide was freed once and for all from the curse everything just skipped forward to Cora's wedding without referencing what really happened (or was it Wren's wedding? idk). and also what was that whole deal with the tea she drank? like where did she get it from and how did she figure out that Leander was using the water to poison people? It seemed like Gabe and Adelaide only figured that out in the latter half of the book but then Audrey was drinking the tea from the very beginning? so was she in cohorts with Leander or something or is she extremely bright, which I rather doubt since, y'know, she has a habit of spilling secrets everywhere. Or maybe she just stumbled upon a random concoction of tea that just happened to ward off any effects of the poison. I'd love some more explanation on that.
I'm not sure though; I was reading at my normal speed so I feel like I shouldn't have missed anything but based on how I'm still confused about a lot makes me think I didn't quite catch everything, so. yeah. xD
Good book overall. Cellier definitely has a masterful touch at writing that I'm always drawn to and her protagonists are always amazing!
but AUDREY. she. drives. me. crazy. I don't know what it is about her (maybe it's that she seems rather... airheaded and too bubbly) but I just find her particularly annoying and didn't quite understand her motive behind her betrayal? like did Leander threaten her family or something because I didn't quite catch what made her turn sides? it didn't seem like she was remorseful or sorry for her actions either since after Adelaide was freed once and for all from the curse everything just skipped forward to Cora's wedding without referencing what really happened (or was it Wren's wedding? idk). and also what was that whole deal with the tea she drank? like where did she get it from and how did she figure out that Leander was using the water to poison people? It seemed like Gabe and Adelaide only figured that out in the latter half of the book but then Audrey was drinking the tea from the very beginning? so was she in cohorts with Leander or something or is she extremely bright, which I rather doubt since, y'know, she has a habit of spilling secrets everywhere. Or maybe she just stumbled upon a random concoction of tea that just happened to ward off any effects of the poison. I'd love some more explanation on that.
I'm not sure though; I was reading at my normal speed so I feel like I shouldn't have missed anything but based on how I'm still confused about a lot makes me think I didn't quite catch everything, so. yeah. xD
Good book overall. Cellier definitely has a masterful touch at writing that I'm always drawn to and her protagonists are always amazing!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 18, 2020
A captive of wings and feather is the fifth book in Beyond the Four Kingdoms series, I read only one other of the books on the series and, except a few link to better understand how the kingdom is divided, you can easily read anyone one of the book as a stand alone.
Princess Adelaide is the protagonist of this adventure which is a retelling of the Swan Lake, or better said, you will find the same atmosphere of The Swan Princess movie.
There aren’t many preambles, you’re throw into the story right when the action starts, when a prince from a distant land finds a lost childhood friend, who happen to be a lost princess cursed by a mysterious spell who links her to a lake.
Melanie Cellier writing is smooth and flow perfectly to create a modern fairytale perfect for a light reading.
Princess Adelaide is the protagonist of this adventure which is a retelling of the Swan Lake, or better said, you will find the same atmosphere of The Swan Princess movie.
There aren’t many preambles, you’re throw into the story right when the action starts, when a prince from a distant land finds a lost childhood friend, who happen to be a lost princess cursed by a mysterious spell who links her to a lake.
Melanie Cellier writing is smooth and flow perfectly to create a modern fairytale perfect for a light reading.
May 7, 2024
I enjoyed this more than I thought I would. There is a moment in the original fairytale that I just find too depressing and frustrating, but behold, Melanie Cellier did an excellent job and actually empowered the heroine in that moment! This is a retelling of Swan Lake, but I appreciated the tie-in of "The Six Swans" story as an explanation of certain things. Super creative. I think my only real complaints are the shifting goalposts too near the end and unforeshadowed last-minute revelations. I like to guess what's coming, or know help is on the way, or be able to see just a little further than the characters at times. something about the ending was just a little too rushed maybe? Still, don't skip this one!
August 29, 2024
This fairy tale retelling was as magical as its beautiful cover. I loved the enchantment of the swans, the conflict of Lady Adelaide speaking like a swan during the day and having to retreat to her prison of the lake in the night, and how the characters detect there are complications to the curse. And as always, Melanie Cellier kept her book sweet and clean!
My main objection would be Lady Adelaide's character. She is selfish on the most part, even after a character arc. Rather self-confident and a bit stuck up, her love interest is flat and slightly annoying.
All the same, I appreciated hearing the story continue, especially what happened with Dominic's sister. The tale was magical, and I will soon finish the series!
My main objection would be Lady Adelaide's character. She is selfish on the most part, even after a character arc. Rather self-confident and a bit stuck up, her love interest is flat and slightly annoying.
All the same, I appreciated hearing the story continue, especially what happened with Dominic's sister. The tale was magical, and I will soon finish the series!
July 23, 2024
I didn’t quite understand where the author was going in this book. I understood the double curse but I thought it was far too easy to break. I wish there would have been a beauty and the beast twist in there where the animals were humans turned to animals and when the curse was broken they returned to being human. It felt like she was trying to make the book as different as she could from the others. I am happy we got her storyline though because I had been wondering where Dominick’s sister was hiding. I wish she would have shed more light on what her childhood was like and her father as a ruler or her brother after her father’s death.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 7, 2023
I’m not going to lie the only swan lake fairytale I have seen has been the Barbie and the swan lake movie.
So.. that being said I loved this book I was slightly more stressed in this one bc I didn’t really see how things were going to resolve but oooohh
Loved it!
ALSO THE FREAKING INTERCONNECTEDNESS OF THESE BOOKS!
I tried to explain how they all connect to my sister and it took me over an hour and I still wasn’t finished 🩵🩷🩵🩷
So.. that being said I loved this book I was slightly more stressed in this one bc I didn’t really see how things were going to resolve but oooohh
Loved it!
ALSO THE FREAKING INTERCONNECTEDNESS OF THESE BOOKS!
I tried to explain how they all connect to my sister and it took me over an hour and I still wasn’t finished 🩵🩷🩵🩷
February 13, 2023
Great book!
This is a great retelling of Swan Lake, and I really enjoyed reading it! I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series!
This is a great retelling of Swan Lake, and I really enjoyed reading it! I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series!
April 15, 2023
This one took me a long time to get through. I think I love the Swan Princess story too much and this didn’t measure up until close to the end. I expected to like Addie a lot more than I did.
March 12, 2020
I like the set of worlds here and the premise of the fairy tales actually all being related. Unfortunately the novels could have been more in depth. They're YA novels so I guess that's expected, but they all just gloss over things and poof it turns out fine.
August 7, 2022
So sweet! I loved it an adored these adorable yet brave characters, you fight that dragon Vilma!
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