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Return to the Four Kingdoms #1
The Secret Princess
Princess Giselle is excited to be leading her first royal delegation—until everything goes wrong before they even reach their destination. With her rank and authority stripped away and her people scattered, she’s left with nothing but a gaggle of geese.
Giselle is determined to prove herself a true princess—in action as well as in name.
But to do so she must uncover a conspiracy that threatens far more than her own future. With her life in danger and only a talking horse and an irritable goose boy at her side, she needs assistance. One of the servants is willing to help her, but Philip’s attractive smile hides yet more secrets, and Giselle is running out of time.
In this reimagining of the classic fairy tale, The Goose Girl, the wronged princess must prevail in a deadly game of identities with the fate of kingdoms at stake.
If you enjoy clean romance, adventure, and intrigue, then try the books in the Return to the Four Kingdoms series now! These interconnected fairy tale retellings each feature a different heroine who finds herself friendless in a strange land and who must fight to save her new home and win her happily ever after.
Giselle is determined to prove herself a true princess—in action as well as in name.
But to do so she must uncover a conspiracy that threatens far more than her own future. With her life in danger and only a talking horse and an irritable goose boy at her side, she needs assistance. One of the servants is willing to help her, but Philip’s attractive smile hides yet more secrets, and Giselle is running out of time.
In this reimagining of the classic fairy tale, The Goose Girl, the wronged princess must prevail in a deadly game of identities with the fate of kingdoms at stake.
If you enjoy clean romance, adventure, and intrigue, then try the books in the Return to the Four Kingdoms series now! These interconnected fairy tale retellings each feature a different heroine who finds herself friendless in a strange land and who must fight to save her new home and win her happily ever after.
318 pages, Paperback
First published May 22, 2020
779 people are currently reading
3636 people want to read
About the author
Melanie Cellier
126 books2,740 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 280 reviews
May 20, 2025
**3.5-stars**
The Secret Princess was a super cute retelling of the classic fairy tale, The Goose Girl. Please note, I have never read the original source material, but this was so fun that it made me want to give it a shot.
With this in mind though, I can't necessarily comment on how this compares to the original story. I just hope there is actually an enchanted, talking horse in it...
This story follow Princess Giselle, who is sailing to her sister-in-law's kingdom with a royal entourage, when things go horribly wrong.
Unforeseen circumstances force Giselle, her enchanted horse and some others to go ashore, where the traveling party becomes separated. It's at this time that Giselle is betrayed by one of her companions and due to an enchantment, has her identity stolen from her.
Forced to act a mere peasant upon reaching their destination, Giselle is assigned the job of being the local goose girl.
As she adjusts to her new life and tries to figure out how to get her identity back, Giselle learns there's a bigger plot afoot. Now it looks like it's not just herself she needs to save, but possibly the entire realm.
The Secret Princess is completely outside my normal reading zone. I actually had never heard of this book, series, or author, until I was casually searching for some more obscure fairy tale retellings; as in, not Beauty and the Beast, Cinderella or Snow White.
I am glad that I discovered this author and these audiobooks. This was quick, sweet and well written. It's much lighter than my normal reads, so was actually a really nice change of pace.
The audiobook was so entertaining. The narration was engaging and I felt like I was actually listening to Giselle tell her tale. I also loved Arvin, her horse. He brought such humor to the story. Seriously, he was the cutest. A little arrogant, but so cute. I want one!!
Unfortunately, the one downside was that I found my interest waxing and waning over the course of the story. I think maybe because I had no prior connection to The Goose Girl, it wasn't quite as impactful for me as it would be for a Reader who goes into this one a fan of that original story.
With this being said, I am absolutely continuing on with the audiobooks in this series. I am planning to pick up the Cinderella retelling next, which is a story I know well and love. I'm interested to see if that makes a difference for me as far as my engagement with the story.
Overall, I am glad that I stepped outside my comfort zone, tried a new author and a new subgenre of Fantasy with this one. I'm delighted by this discovery and am looking forward to reading many more of Cellier's retellings.
The Secret Princess was a super cute retelling of the classic fairy tale, The Goose Girl. Please note, I have never read the original source material, but this was so fun that it made me want to give it a shot.
With this in mind though, I can't necessarily comment on how this compares to the original story. I just hope there is actually an enchanted, talking horse in it...
This story follow Princess Giselle, who is sailing to her sister-in-law's kingdom with a royal entourage, when things go horribly wrong.
Unforeseen circumstances force Giselle, her enchanted horse and some others to go ashore, where the traveling party becomes separated. It's at this time that Giselle is betrayed by one of her companions and due to an enchantment, has her identity stolen from her.
Forced to act a mere peasant upon reaching their destination, Giselle is assigned the job of being the local goose girl.
As she adjusts to her new life and tries to figure out how to get her identity back, Giselle learns there's a bigger plot afoot. Now it looks like it's not just herself she needs to save, but possibly the entire realm.
The Secret Princess is completely outside my normal reading zone. I actually had never heard of this book, series, or author, until I was casually searching for some more obscure fairy tale retellings; as in, not Beauty and the Beast, Cinderella or Snow White.
I am glad that I discovered this author and these audiobooks. This was quick, sweet and well written. It's much lighter than my normal reads, so was actually a really nice change of pace.
The audiobook was so entertaining. The narration was engaging and I felt like I was actually listening to Giselle tell her tale. I also loved Arvin, her horse. He brought such humor to the story. Seriously, he was the cutest. A little arrogant, but so cute. I want one!!
Unfortunately, the one downside was that I found my interest waxing and waning over the course of the story. I think maybe because I had no prior connection to The Goose Girl, it wasn't quite as impactful for me as it would be for a Reader who goes into this one a fan of that original story.
With this being said, I am absolutely continuing on with the audiobooks in this series. I am planning to pick up the Cinderella retelling next, which is a story I know well and love. I'm interested to see if that makes a difference for me as far as my engagement with the story.
Overall, I am glad that I stepped outside my comfort zone, tried a new author and a new subgenre of Fantasy with this one. I'm delighted by this discovery and am looking forward to reading many more of Cellier's retellings.
March 21, 2025
Easy 4 stars!
By all reckoning with how much I enjoy the hidden identity trope, I should really enjoy retellings of the Goose Girl. Reading multiple different retelling of the Goose Girl has proven to me that I do not really care for this retelling. And I think I finally figured out why in this version. It’s the ~audacity~ of somebody in it. Whoever it is, they are just infuriating and the injustice of the situation just galls me. Particularly in this book. That side character was so suspicious to me and then what she did! My eye was twitching and I wanted to lock her in a broom closet. I knew she was trouble!! (If Apple would approve the twitching eye emoji already, I could have used it here.)
I actually really liked the geese element because somehow my TikTok algorithm knows I want ducklings and has been showing accounts with them non-stop, so I honestly pictured ducks instead and romanticized those parts. *nods approvingly*
I was shocked that I really got into this story the more it continued because this isn’t usually a retelling I really enjoy, but I shouldn’t have been shocked because I have really enjoyed the creative twists this author has done on all of her fairytale books I’ve read. The concept of the Goose Girl in this book made it where Giselle was able to be every part of herself—and while definitely parts of it being due to her princess upbringing, there was no expectations and princess duties that happened, but the princess values are ingrained in her character. I don’t know if she would call this freeing, but I noticed elements of that for her.
It was absolutely wonderful to see Alyssa and Max again?! They are still so cute and I loved seeing them in this book with their children. It’s been around 11 years since that first book and that’s so weird to think about.
I wasn’t sure how to feel about the love triangle. I honestly wasn’t sure who to trust and was suspicious of both guys. (Very similar to the love triangle in Frozen, not a bad one that leaves you having second lead syndrome.) Some twists had me shocked and pausing to think about past events to see if I could have noticed the breadcrumbs leading to the ending. I really liked the epilogue, just have to note that!
I’m scared that hints are leading that Daisy isn’t found until her book, which is roughly four years in the future. Ack! Must read faster to get answers!
Main Content-
Like the books in the prior series, we hear about kingdoms turning back to the High King, royalty having Godmothers, godmother objects that are supposed to be used for good but can be twisted with ill intentions, & enchantments; Giselle was given the ability to talk to a horse that her Godmother gave her (via an enchantment on the horse); Giselle is under an enchantment and is unable to talk about something; *Spoiler* .
Mentions of past events like Celine’s fire powers, people being trapped under enchantments and curses, a godmother object that lets the owner know if other person is telling the truth, & such.
Being attacked and slapped, Nearly kidnapped/killed, Fighting, Pain, Injuries, & Blood/Bleeding (up to a handful of sentences); Someone threatens Giselle with ordering her execution & ordering a horse to be put down (the person says that it’s just “a horse. I’m hardly slaughtering babies”; But the horse is not killed); Seeing a young boy being bullied by other boys; A horse steps on a villain but is not hurt.
Many mentions of kidnappings, missing people (but no bodies being found), bandits, attacks, fighting, thieves, stealing, injuries, pain, & blood/bleeding (up to a few sentences); Mentions of deaths/murders, planned assassinations (including of royal children), & poisons; Mentions of lies, lying, liars, & deceit; Mentions of rumors & gossip; A few mentions of deaths of parents; A few mentions of it being said that Giselle is “mentally disturbed” by an event (rumor by a villain); A couple mentions of alcohol & drinking; A couple mentions of jealousy; A couple mentions of throwing up; A mention of someone being brainwashed; A mention of a misbehaving child getting a whipping.
No language stronger than ‘blasted’ and ‘idiot’; Some curses are said (but not written out); Eye rolling & Sarcasm.
Staring at lips (a couple times, up to a few sentences)
1 almost kiss,
1 hand kiss,
1 forehead kiss,
3 kisses lasting a sentence,
2 kisses lasting up to a couple sentences,
1 kissing lasting about eight sentences (not over the top in my opinion, but the longest I would say there’s been for these fairytale retellings by this author);
Touches, Embraces, Dancing, Warmth, & Noticing (up to a few sentences); Blushes; Mentions of kisses & kissing; A few mentions of winks.
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.
By all reckoning with how much I enjoy the hidden identity trope, I should really enjoy retellings of the Goose Girl. Reading multiple different retelling of the Goose Girl has proven to me that I do not really care for this retelling. And I think I finally figured out why in this version. It’s the ~audacity~ of somebody in it. Whoever it is, they are just infuriating and the injustice of the situation just galls me. Particularly in this book. That side character was so suspicious to me and then what she did! My eye was twitching and I wanted to lock her in a broom closet. I knew she was trouble!! (If Apple would approve the twitching eye emoji already, I could have used it here.)
I actually really liked the geese element because somehow my TikTok algorithm knows I want ducklings and has been showing accounts with them non-stop, so I honestly pictured ducks instead and romanticized those parts. *nods approvingly*
I was shocked that I really got into this story the more it continued because this isn’t usually a retelling I really enjoy, but I shouldn’t have been shocked because I have really enjoyed the creative twists this author has done on all of her fairytale books I’ve read. The concept of the Goose Girl in this book made it where Giselle was able to be every part of herself—and while definitely parts of it being due to her princess upbringing, there was no expectations and princess duties that happened, but the princess values are ingrained in her character. I don’t know if she would call this freeing, but I noticed elements of that for her.
It was absolutely wonderful to see Alyssa and Max again?! They are still so cute and I loved seeing them in this book with their children. It’s been around 11 years since that first book and that’s so weird to think about.
I wasn’t sure how to feel about the love triangle. I honestly wasn’t sure who to trust and was suspicious of both guys. (Very similar to the love triangle in Frozen, not a bad one that leaves you having second lead syndrome.) Some twists had me shocked and pausing to think about past events to see if I could have noticed the breadcrumbs leading to the ending. I really liked the epilogue, just have to note that!
I’m scared that hints are leading that Daisy isn’t found until her book, which is roughly four years in the future. Ack! Must read faster to get answers!
Main Content-
Like the books in the prior series, we hear about kingdoms turning back to the High King, royalty having Godmothers, godmother objects that are supposed to be used for good but can be twisted with ill intentions, & enchantments; Giselle was given the ability to talk to a horse that her Godmother gave her (via an enchantment on the horse); Giselle is under an enchantment and is unable to talk about something; *Spoiler* .
Mentions of past events like Celine’s fire powers, people being trapped under enchantments and curses, a godmother object that lets the owner know if other person is telling the truth, & such.
Being attacked and slapped, Nearly kidnapped/killed, Fighting, Pain, Injuries, & Blood/Bleeding (up to a handful of sentences); Someone threatens Giselle with ordering her execution & ordering a horse to be put down (the person says that it’s just “a horse. I’m hardly slaughtering babies”; But the horse is not killed); Seeing a young boy being bullied by other boys; A horse steps on a villain but is not hurt.
Many mentions of kidnappings, missing people (but no bodies being found), bandits, attacks, fighting, thieves, stealing, injuries, pain, & blood/bleeding (up to a few sentences); Mentions of deaths/murders, planned assassinations (including of royal children), & poisons; Mentions of lies, lying, liars, & deceit; Mentions of rumors & gossip; A few mentions of deaths of parents; A few mentions of it being said that Giselle is “mentally disturbed” by an event (rumor by a villain); A couple mentions of alcohol & drinking; A couple mentions of jealousy; A couple mentions of throwing up; A mention of someone being brainwashed; A mention of a misbehaving child getting a whipping.
No language stronger than ‘blasted’ and ‘idiot’; Some curses are said (but not written out); Eye rolling & Sarcasm.
Staring at lips (a couple times, up to a few sentences)
1 almost kiss,
1 hand kiss,
1 forehead kiss,
3 kisses lasting a sentence,
2 kisses lasting up to a couple sentences,
1 kissing lasting about eight sentences (not over the top in my opinion, but the longest I would say there’s been for these fairytale retellings by this author);
Touches, Embraces, Dancing, Warmth, & Noticing (up to a few sentences); Blushes; Mentions of kisses & kissing; A few mentions of winks.
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.
May 24, 2020
Well, that was a thousand times more epic than I expected... Of course, that's typical of Melanie Cellier's books. This one blasted my expectations out of the sky. Which means it was BRILLIANT.
I love "The Goose Girl" retellings so much because of 1) how uncommon they are and 2) the multitude of themes that can be explored! I mean, yes I know, there are multitudes of themes in every fairytale that's retold, but not a lot of them deal with the suddenly-humbled-down status of this fairytale (granted, the original goose girl princess was something of a disappointment in this area, but we are thankful to the fairytale authors who do a good job in making up for that). Melanie Cellier did not disappoint!
First of all, let's point out the absolute likability of these characters. Giselle is one of my favorite side characters over from the Beyond the Four Kingdoms series-- she's so practical and witty and endearingly blunt, yet tactful. She feels the need to prove herself capable of having her own adventure without her sister-in-law Celine always coming in to save the day. I loved that element in this story, and I loved Giselle's overall NON-contrived humility and open-mindedness. And she had her problems too, and the best thing about her personality is that she's so unafraid to address them. WE NEED MORE HEROINES LIKE THESE.
Philip was certainly an intriguing character, but I do wish he had more depth to him. That's about it...
I was so, so happy to read about our dear beloved Max and Alyssa and their life as it is twelve years after their own story. That being said, I am ridiculously excited for the next book in this series because there is a high possibility that it will be set in Rangmere, which means *covers mouth to muffle my anticipation* Ahem, let's move on.
One of the best things about these retellings is how utterly complex and clever these plots are. The villains' schemes and even the brilliance of our own heroes never cease to amaze me, and honestly, this one was awesome. Really awesome. I won't say any more.
Before I end this review I want to add that Arvin is quite possibly the best talking animal companion no one asked for but everyone expects.
(How is it that every time I review one of these books I completely lose any trace of a professional edge and start rambling like a gushy fangirl? It's embarrassing, is what it is!)
SO yes, I do 100% highly recommend this series. Well actually, the two series before this one, and then this one. Thank me later.
Always be a happy camper!
I love "The Goose Girl" retellings so much because of 1) how uncommon they are and 2) the multitude of themes that can be explored! I mean, yes I know, there are multitudes of themes in every fairytale that's retold, but not a lot of them deal with the suddenly-humbled-down status of this fairytale (granted, the original goose girl princess was something of a disappointment in this area, but we are thankful to the fairytale authors who do a good job in making up for that). Melanie Cellier did not disappoint!
First of all, let's point out the absolute likability of these characters. Giselle is one of my favorite side characters over from the Beyond the Four Kingdoms series-- she's so practical and witty and endearingly blunt, yet tactful. She feels the need to prove herself capable of having her own adventure without her sister-in-law Celine always coming in to save the day. I loved that element in this story, and I loved Giselle's overall NON-contrived humility and open-mindedness. And she had her problems too, and the best thing about her personality is that she's so unafraid to address them. WE NEED MORE HEROINES LIKE THESE.
Philip was certainly an intriguing character, but I do wish he had more depth to him. That's about it...
I was so, so happy to read about our dear beloved Max and Alyssa and their life as it is twelve years after their own story. That being said, I am ridiculously excited for the next book in this series because there is a high possibility that it will be set in Rangmere, which means *covers mouth to muffle my anticipation* Ahem, let's move on.
One of the best things about these retellings is how utterly complex and clever these plots are. The villains' schemes and even the brilliance of our own heroes never cease to amaze me, and honestly, this one was awesome. Really awesome. I won't say any more.
Before I end this review I want to add that Arvin is quite possibly the best talking animal companion no one asked for but everyone expects.
(How is it that every time I review one of these books I completely lose any trace of a professional edge and start rambling like a gushy fangirl? It's embarrassing, is what it is!)
SO yes, I do 100% highly recommend this series. Well actually, the two series before this one, and then this one. Thank me later.
Always be a happy camper!
August 27, 2020
I think this is my second book about The Goose Girl and I'm hoping it wont be my last. There's just something about retellings that makes me feel all happy and pure inside. Even if they give me characters to despise or love - I enjoy it all.
That being said, The Secret Princes was a delight to read. I mean devour because if I'm being honest here - I couldn't put it down. In it, you will meet Princess Giselle. She is on her way to visit a kingdom, and meet a prince, when her crew is under attack. Luckily for her, she has a guardian angel (of some sort). Her horse Arvin. Without him, I don't know if I would've gotten my comedic relief. He was downright hilarious and honestly.. Giselle should never question him.
Just like most books, this one has some twists, turns, and betrayals flying around. Some were pretty easy to spot and other's blew my mind a little bit. Just know that I really enjoyed this book and plan to dive into the next one. Only because I really want to know what happened to the other girls from the beginning and what their own adventure will look like.
That being said, The Secret Princes was a delight to read. I mean devour because if I'm being honest here - I couldn't put it down. In it, you will meet Princess Giselle. She is on her way to visit a kingdom, and meet a prince, when her crew is under attack. Luckily for her, she has a guardian angel (of some sort). Her horse Arvin. Without him, I don't know if I would've gotten my comedic relief. He was downright hilarious and honestly.. Giselle should never question him.
Just like most books, this one has some twists, turns, and betrayals flying around. Some were pretty easy to spot and other's blew my mind a little bit. Just know that I really enjoyed this book and plan to dive into the next one. Only because I really want to know what happened to the other girls from the beginning and what their own adventure will look like.
December 14, 2022
It took me a little bit to get into this. Probably because I was so busy that I read the beginning in snatches.
Once I had time to sit down and read, I flew through this book in an evening. I LOVED this retelling of the Goose Girl fairy tale. Especially for one part of the original fairy tale that didn't happen, and I didn't end up bawling my eyes out. Sometimes, you just want a fun, happy, adventurous story that doesn't rip your heart out, and this one definitely fit that. It will be one Goose Girl retelling I'll happily re-read!
Re-Read Update: I mentioned in my original review that I would definitely re-read this book, and I just did to refresh my memory before the release of book 2 in this series. I think I liked it the second time around even better than the first time! Also, this book has now released on audiobook, so I was able to listen to it this time around! Love Esther Wayne's narration of these fairy tales!
Once I had time to sit down and read, I flew through this book in an evening. I LOVED this retelling of the Goose Girl fairy tale. Especially for one part of the original fairy tale that didn't happen, and I didn't end up bawling my eyes out. Sometimes, you just want a fun, happy, adventurous story that doesn't rip your heart out, and this one definitely fit that. It will be one Goose Girl retelling I'll happily re-read!
Re-Read Update: I mentioned in my original review that I would definitely re-read this book, and I just did to refresh my memory before the release of book 2 in this series. I think I liked it the second time around even better than the first time! Also, this book has now released on audiobook, so I was able to listen to it this time around! Love Esther Wayne's narration of these fairy tales!
May 10, 2025
I loved seeing Giselle take the lead here, especially since she's such a fundamentally different character than she was when she was introduced. I loved the relationship here, and the twist was so great! And Max and Alyssa!!! And their kids!!!!!
June 9, 2020
I'm not sure if the Goose Girl was in the fairytale books my mother read to me. I somehow can't remember the tale from my childhood. However, I do know that after reading loads of different retellings of this story and after reading fanfics based on this story and after watching the episode in the German Grimm series based on this fairytale, that it's one of my favorites. Because just like Cinderella I always found this a story of true nature always shining through, no matter the circumstances. And just like Cinderella, I also always found this a story about humbleness and the talent to be content with little.
And Cellier fitted this story into her Four Kingdoms series brilliantly! The way everything happens and is done feels very natural and not once does Giselle seem stupid. Maybe she's a little naive at first, but that's not a too bad character trait. And like Cellier already did with other tales, she also managed to give Giselle a lot of power and strength. Giselle is not just pouting and waiting for things to change, she's actively taking matters into her own hands, not always with success, but at least she's always trying.
Of course the plot of the book is quite predictable. I mean, if you don't want predictable you shouldn't read fairytale retellings. However, all the elements of the well known Goose Girl tale are present, but not all of them are in the well known way. There are some surprises in the story and some reveals that I didn't see coming until quite late. I love it when a retelling manages to do that, to hide some nice turns while keeping the core of the story very much intact.
And Giselle and Philippe have a really nice kind of chemistry. For me they were not the most passionate couple in this series, but their love really grows slowly, but steadily. They take the time to talk and get to know each other. They don't just say and promise things, but also show that they mean all those things and that they're keeping their promises. There might be some attraction at first sight, but the more only follows during the rest of the story. And that makes it very believable that this is the start of another very happy ending.
I can't wait for the next book in the series!
And Cellier fitted this story into her Four Kingdoms series brilliantly! The way everything happens and is done feels very natural and not once does Giselle seem stupid. Maybe she's a little naive at first, but that's not a too bad character trait. And like Cellier already did with other tales, she also managed to give Giselle a lot of power and strength. Giselle is not just pouting and waiting for things to change, she's actively taking matters into her own hands, not always with success, but at least she's always trying.
Of course the plot of the book is quite predictable. I mean, if you don't want predictable you shouldn't read fairytale retellings. However, all the elements of the well known Goose Girl tale are present, but not all of them are in the well known way. There are some surprises in the story and some reveals that I didn't see coming until quite late. I love it when a retelling manages to do that, to hide some nice turns while keeping the core of the story very much intact.
And Giselle and Philippe have a really nice kind of chemistry. For me they were not the most passionate couple in this series, but their love really grows slowly, but steadily. They take the time to talk and get to know each other. They don't just say and promise things, but also show that they mean all those things and that they're keeping their promises. There might be some attraction at first sight, but the more only follows during the rest of the story. And that makes it very believable that this is the start of another very happy ending.
I can't wait for the next book in the series!
June 11, 2021
❤️❤️❤️
May 23, 2020
Where to begin??
Positives: The characters were all done sooo so well. I loved how well Cellier did Giselle's voice, her bluntness with herself, and her practicality as well as the hero's own helpful, kind, and mischievous characters. I can always count on this author to mix flaws and virtues in her protagonists without under or overstating them. Perfect arcs, great pacing, and realistic progression of plot and relationship without overcomplicating or muddling the conflict. Also, I loved going back to the world of the Four Kingdoms, seeing how much things had improved after 12 years. The writing was excellent as always and the retelling of the fairy tale was done in a unique way that I really enjoyed, particularly the role-switching was done so creatively.
Negatives: I don't think there were any negatives...I guess the romance could be said as moving too fast? Just that the attraction seemed pretty quick (but what do I know about romance :P Everyone comes to love in different ways). Nothing really stuck out in a bad way to me, and villain motivations were pretty clear and SOOOOO well done (this should go in the positives).
Opinion: AHHHH!!! I'm sad I have to wait until the next book until next year, but I'm willing to be patient. :P I can't wait to get the rest of the girls' stories, especially considering most of them are so young (one is 13) and I don't think the author will make us wait too long before getting the nice and happy reuinion and the conclusion to this villain-arc. I LOVE how Cellier twists her fairy tales to be standalone but still sneaks in a light connecting thread between the series. As for this one, I ADORED everything and any screaming right now would just be a rehash of all the positives. Giselle was an awesome heroine and I very much enjoyed how she balanced out with every character, even with her flaws. Also....the horse. Who can't help but love the arrogant animal sidekicks with a superiority complex that it seems will actually be addressed???? THANK YOU!!
Content: A bit of violence, not super stated, allusions to death. There's also romance, but only chaste kissing.
Positives: The characters were all done sooo so well. I loved how well Cellier did Giselle's voice, her bluntness with herself, and her practicality as well as the hero's own helpful, kind, and mischievous characters. I can always count on this author to mix flaws and virtues in her protagonists without under or overstating them. Perfect arcs, great pacing, and realistic progression of plot and relationship without overcomplicating or muddling the conflict. Also, I loved going back to the world of the Four Kingdoms, seeing how much things had improved after 12 years. The writing was excellent as always and the retelling of the fairy tale was done in a unique way that I really enjoyed, particularly the role-switching was done so creatively.
Negatives: I don't think there were any negatives...I guess the romance could be said as moving too fast? Just that the attraction seemed pretty quick (but what do I know about romance :P Everyone comes to love in different ways). Nothing really stuck out in a bad way to me, and villain motivations were pretty clear and SOOOOO well done (this should go in the positives).
Opinion: AHHHH!!! I'm sad I have to wait until the next book until next year, but I'm willing to be patient. :P I can't wait to get the rest of the girls' stories, especially considering most of them are so young (one is 13) and I don't think the author will make us wait too long before getting the nice and happy reuinion and the conclusion to this villain-arc. I LOVE how Cellier twists her fairy tales to be standalone but still sneaks in a light connecting thread between the series. As for this one, I ADORED everything and any screaming right now would just be a rehash of all the positives. Giselle was an awesome heroine and I very much enjoyed how she balanced out with every character, even with her flaws. Also....the horse. Who can't help but love the arrogant animal sidekicks with a superiority complex that it seems will actually be addressed???? THANK YOU!!
Content: A bit of violence, not super stated, allusions to death. There's also romance, but only chaste kissing.
April 4, 2022
This is Young Adult/Fantasy/Retellings. The Goose Girl is one of my favorite fairy tales which is why I wanted to read this retelling.
I liked the different creative spins on this one. I also wanted to see how the unveilings at the end would come about. I will say though that some of this seemed a little over the top for me, but I liked how the author lined it all up. So overall, this one was 3 stars.
I liked the different creative spins on this one. I also wanted to see how the unveilings at the end would come about. I will say though that some of this seemed a little over the top for me, but I liked how the author lined it all up. So overall, this one was 3 stars.
July 9, 2024
Let me just start off by saying; the only reason I spent the time, effort, and a few brain cells on this book was just so I could rip it to shreds on Good-Reads.
First of all, I feel like you could just slightly change a few scenes in the book, and no one would even guess it was about the goose girl. Which was really just lazy writing when you didn’t even put in the effort and brain power to make a few slight changes in the plot so that readers can read it as a original book and not a re-telling. Perhaps it would save their sanity and their view of your book.
Secondly, the character in the original Goose Girl were very smart, talented, and witty. The characters in this book however were as dumb as can be. The main character literally stayed in a carriage for what? Four hours? With the villain WHO WANTS HER DEAD! And the main character even knew about this fact. Not to mention at the beginning of the book when the villain “nonchalantly” (imagine air-quotes as you read that line) suggested they change clothes so that the main character wouldn’t be killed. Being the dull-brained idiot she was, the main character agreed. REALLY! Were you just in too much shock that you had been attacked that your brain can’t even function and listen to logic?
Thirdly, the romance was truly tragic. She had no idea who she liked until she was literally kissing him, then the second another handsome face walks into the picture, she tosses the first man away and claims to be “confused.” I also would like to add on to the fact that this girl thought she hadn’t done anything to help her kingdom (she’s a princess) so far, (which I agree with wholeheartedly because she’s completely useless) and that she needed to prove herself and serve her kingdom and blah, blah, blah; filling up an entire page of how useless she was.
To quote myself literally an hour into the book, “this is the Goose-Girl chewed up, spit out, and left to die the side of a road.” And it only got worse from there folks.
I was completely confused the entire time because apparently the author had written an entire first book on the characters backstory, expected us all to magically know it even though she never published the dang thing, and went into the second book all whilst spitting out random words about an ice queen, a cursed kingdom, fairy godmothers, and a magical palace filled with talking horses or whatever. There could be another book explaining it all, I don’t know, I tried doing some research and found absolutely nothing so tell me if I’m wrong.
So yeah, that is my review. I would make it longer, but I’m afraid if I did that, I would fill up seventy pages with how much I disliked this book, and I do not recommend for anyone who has read the original Goose-Girl and wants to keep a few brain cells.
First of all, I feel like you could just slightly change a few scenes in the book, and no one would even guess it was about the goose girl. Which was really just lazy writing when you didn’t even put in the effort and brain power to make a few slight changes in the plot so that readers can read it as a original book and not a re-telling. Perhaps it would save their sanity and their view of your book.
Secondly, the character in the original Goose Girl were very smart, talented, and witty. The characters in this book however were as dumb as can be. The main character literally stayed in a carriage for what? Four hours? With the villain WHO WANTS HER DEAD! And the main character even knew about this fact. Not to mention at the beginning of the book when the villain “nonchalantly” (imagine air-quotes as you read that line) suggested they change clothes so that the main character wouldn’t be killed. Being the dull-brained idiot she was, the main character agreed. REALLY! Were you just in too much shock that you had been attacked that your brain can’t even function and listen to logic?
Thirdly, the romance was truly tragic. She had no idea who she liked until she was literally kissing him, then the second another handsome face walks into the picture, she tosses the first man away and claims to be “confused.” I also would like to add on to the fact that this girl thought she hadn’t done anything to help her kingdom (she’s a princess) so far, (which I agree with wholeheartedly because she’s completely useless) and that she needed to prove herself and serve her kingdom and blah, blah, blah; filling up an entire page of how useless she was.
To quote myself literally an hour into the book, “this is the Goose-Girl chewed up, spit out, and left to die the side of a road.” And it only got worse from there folks.
I was completely confused the entire time because apparently the author had written an entire first book on the characters backstory, expected us all to magically know it even though she never published the dang thing, and went into the second book all whilst spitting out random words about an ice queen, a cursed kingdom, fairy godmothers, and a magical palace filled with talking horses or whatever. There could be another book explaining it all, I don’t know, I tried doing some research and found absolutely nothing so tell me if I’m wrong.
So yeah, that is my review. I would make it longer, but I’m afraid if I did that, I would fill up seventy pages with how much I disliked this book, and I do not recommend for anyone who has read the original Goose-Girl and wants to keep a few brain cells.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 25, 2024
It's not you, it's me 🙈
I had a good time with the Four Kingdoms ~2 years ago and thought I'd try the next series but it seems the spark has been lost.
This was a bit long-winded at times and we got little goose-ing for a Goose Girl retelling but it was still really sweet! And at the end all the drama makes up for the slowness 😉
I had a good time with the Four Kingdoms ~2 years ago and thought I'd try the next series but it seems the spark has been lost.
This was a bit long-winded at times and we got little goose-ing for a Goose Girl retelling but it was still really sweet! And at the end all the drama makes up for the slowness 😉
February 10, 2024
Review coming soon!
August 10, 2022
2.5 stars✰ ✰. ½
tw: *contains spoilers*
This was a fluffy cute (clean) romance with one of my fav fairytale retellings (goose girl). I don’t read goose girl retellings if it’s the perspective of the fake princess. Me, I want the destitution of a princess. The rise, fall and subsequent rise again in my goose girl (and six swans) retellings. Something about that shit gets me going. Maybe the fall the princess experience into a working class existence is interesting and can open up questions on working conditions, wealth disparities and that not everyone can simply be in charge of a nation. Or maybe it’s fun reading about quests that centre female protagonist that go through big personal sacrifices for the ‘greater good’. All that being said when I see a retelling of the goose girl or the six swans… imma jump at the chance to read it for they bring me joy in this bleak world.
Part 1 had me intrigued. I liked the abrupt swapping of places between the maid and the princess. Uh-oh! Goose girl story is a go!
Where this book lost me was Part 2 ‘The Prince’.
I tend to skew towards fantasy monarchist on a good day so when you tell me there are eligibility Princess’ I will want to ship them with the FMC. It’s a sickness I refuse to cure. The Prince is introduced and then I was hit with the sudden realisation this was a love triangle. The plot also waned in this section, placing the love triangle and the brewing romances more important than the breaking of curses. I also noticed a lack of mention of the missing girls in the section. Everyone stops caring in this part which is funny in a future books where they are main characters type of way. Makes the princess turned goose girl feel somewhat callous. I know she has her own issues but I would be worried sick about the other girlies in your care that disappeared into neighbouring countries.
By the time Part 3 ‘The Ball’ rolled around I had lost most steam.
Did I care about the budding romance? Sure I guess. Did I care about the plot? Not really.
Did it have a satisfying climax and resolution? Ahhh… kinda. I was not, not interested. I was more interested in it finishing as quickly as possible.
It was fluffy, it was clean, innocent, and most of all a fairytale about a fairytale retelling. The talking horse was probably one of the best parts. Who doesn’t love a talking animal companion! I live for it!! I wish he had more to do with the story.
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December 14, 2020
I'm so glad that we got to return to the original kingdoms that I love so much! I still get the "beyond" kingdoms mixed up because they just aren't as distinct as the original ones (...and maybe I just don't love them as much). Anyway, I enjoyed this book immensely. Goose girl and I have a bit of love-hate relationship because the time while the maid is in power is always so painful, and Cellier pulls it off so well!
September 6, 2021
This was such a fun read. I've been in a bit of a reading slump. Additionally, I've been doing a lot more beta reading and been in a season where I'm ingesting a ton of educational content, so my brain's been kind of full and I haven't been the in mood for reading for fun lately. But I got tired of being behind on my reading goals, and tired of audiobooks and ebooks (translated: I missed physical books and just wanted to read something without analyzing it!), so I plucked this one off my shelf because I knew it would be a light read, but that it would be uplifting and good.
I've been meaning to get to this new spin off series of Cellier's for a while now, so I'm really glad I did sit down with this one. I read it in about four nights just making some time before bed each night, and it served just the purpose I knew it would! Cellier always has such a nice balance in her stories of fun, entertainment and that thread of hope and deeper roots in her faith.
Also, the Goose Girl is one of my favorite fairy tales, so I was super excited to see what Cellier did with it! And, guys, that cover!! Isn't it gorgeous! I enjoyed Cellier's take on the tale. At first, I thought she was going to go off-script with a really cool twist on the classic story, but then I realized she just had a really clever villain that totally duped the MC. It made me laugh, but also, it was neat to see how Giselle chose to handle the situation and move forward. And I loved her horse!! I hope we get to see more of him! Cause he was awesome! It was also fun to see some of our beloved characters from previous books before, too.
Phillip was a lot of fun. I thought he kinda fell for Giselle a little quickly, but her perspective didn't feel rushed at all. And Damon was really neat, too! I loved the part he played--and I'm absolutely intrigued by how his plotline ended up. I hope to see a lot more of him in the future! Stoked for book 2! Bring on the Cinderella!!
The book is a clean YA fairytale retelling/romance, so no foul language, mild violence, and clean romance. I'd give it to a preteen.
I've been meaning to get to this new spin off series of Cellier's for a while now, so I'm really glad I did sit down with this one. I read it in about four nights just making some time before bed each night, and it served just the purpose I knew it would! Cellier always has such a nice balance in her stories of fun, entertainment and that thread of hope and deeper roots in her faith.
Also, the Goose Girl is one of my favorite fairy tales, so I was super excited to see what Cellier did with it! And, guys, that cover!! Isn't it gorgeous! I enjoyed Cellier's take on the tale. At first, I thought she was going to go off-script with a really cool twist on the classic story, but then I realized she just had a really clever villain that totally duped the MC. It made me laugh, but also, it was neat to see how Giselle chose to handle the situation and move forward. And I loved her horse!! I hope we get to see more of him! Cause he was awesome! It was also fun to see some of our beloved characters from previous books before, too.
Phillip was a lot of fun. I thought he kinda fell for Giselle a little quickly, but her perspective didn't feel rushed at all. And Damon was really neat, too! I loved the part he played--and I'm absolutely intrigued by how his plotline ended up. I hope to see a lot more of him in the future! Stoked for book 2! Bring on the Cinderella!!
The book is a clean YA fairytale retelling/romance, so no foul language, mild violence, and clean romance. I'd give it to a preteen.
August 22, 2020
Melanie Cellier can certainly write a fairy tale retelling. Her The Four Kingdoms and Beyond the Four Kingdoms novels are fabulous, and now she's returning to her popular series for more stories. This book is about Princess Giselle, younger sister to Prince Oliver from A Crown of Snow and Ice: A Retelling of The Snow Queen. She is accompanying her brother and sister-in-law (as well as others) on a diplomatic tour of the Four Kingdoms when their ship starts leaking. They decide that most of the crew (including the ill and pregnant Celine) will go directly to her home country of Lanover, leaving a small diplomatic party (led by Giselle) to explain to the royal family of Arcadia what happens. However, when they're attacked, Giselle's maid Sierra takes advantage and impersonates Giselle, enchanting the real princess so she can't tell anyone what really happened.
This s a great story. There's a lot of palace intrigue, spying, and action, along with romance, character development and fun. Anyone who likes fairy tell retellings should really like this book.
This s a great story. There's a lot of palace intrigue, spying, and action, along with romance, character development and fun. Anyone who likes fairy tell retellings should really like this book.
August 31, 2021
I finally got to read Giselle’s story! It was exciting (I got VERY invested in the climax), romantic, funny, yet intense as Giselle struggled to find her place in the world and regain her title.
Philip was so fun and made me smile at how much he loved Giselle. Arvin the horse was fantastic! Snarky, snooty, and aristocratic—he reminded me of a cat in his manner and personality lol, but I loved how that made him different and fun from other fictional horses. I also liked seeing characters from The Princess Companion again and how they’ve grown since we last saw them.
The Goose Girl bits were fantastically woven in the story in a new way yet also reflected their origins as well. I also wanted to mention a theory I had while reading but the below is a SPOILER!!!! so if you don’t want to know please skip!
***SPOILER!****
While I suspected Damon was up to know good, I thought he had stolen the prince identity from Philip and enchanted him to be silent like Giselle. While I was wrong about the last bit I was at least partially right and therefore feel satisfied, haha.
****END OF SPOILER****
I can’t wait to read Daria’s adventure when I get the time. Another great book from this author!
Content: magic; lies and betrayal; violence (nothing over PG); kissing (not detailed)
Philip was so fun and made me smile at how much he loved Giselle. Arvin the horse was fantastic! Snarky, snooty, and aristocratic—he reminded me of a cat in his manner and personality lol, but I loved how that made him different and fun from other fictional horses. I also liked seeing characters from The Princess Companion again and how they’ve grown since we last saw them.
The Goose Girl bits were fantastically woven in the story in a new way yet also reflected their origins as well. I also wanted to mention a theory I had while reading but the below is a SPOILER!!!! so if you don’t want to know please skip!
***SPOILER!****
While I suspected Damon was up to know good, I thought he had stolen the prince identity from Philip and enchanted him to be silent like Giselle. While I was wrong about the last bit I was at least partially right and therefore feel satisfied, haha.
****END OF SPOILER****
I can’t wait to read Daria’s adventure when I get the time. Another great book from this author!
Content: magic; lies and betrayal; violence (nothing over PG); kissing (not detailed)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 5, 2022
I found this a very good story. I am not familiar with the goose girl fable but it didn’t seem that this story would have followed a fable storyline, other than there being a goose girl in it. I could well be wrong, of course!
Whatever. This story had character development and enough twists to keep me wondering. The end wrapped up pretty quickly but that also seemed to fit the speed of the action at the end. Then there was an epilogue so I felt the HEA 😀
Whatever. This story had character development and enough twists to keep me wondering. The end wrapped up pretty quickly but that also seemed to fit the speed of the action at the end. Then there was an epilogue so I felt the HEA 😀
October 18, 2022
It was an interesting retelling of the Goose Girl fairy tale with plenty of unpredictable twists, but I felt that the romance was quite insta-love and shallow, and our princess FMC Giselle/Elle was pretty TSTL at times. Even though the FMC was 19 years old, the romance was clean and YA.
August 20, 2023
I LOVE fairytale retellings!
These are getting pretty formulaic
BUT
I'm still devouring them!
In this book, Princess Giselle is bound by enchantment and cannot reveal anything about her true identity.
So maybe I'm just being annoyingly technical and a party pooper. But anytime this happens in a book, the main character is all like whelp *shrugs* that's it. I'm helpess.
If I were the character, I would be doing everything in my power to work around the enchantment.
Am I just boring and lame? Like there's gotta be some magical loopholes?!
I was mentally yelling at her the whole book like BRO can't you *charades* your way through it?
Or write it out in code on a piece of paper? Like pls try LITERALLY ANYTHING to outsmart the enchantment!
I would straight up tell my trusted companion (i.e., romantic interest lol) like "heyyyyyy so funny story, I can't talk about a big secret bcz magicalness. How about we play 20 Questions until you guess the truth! It'll be fun, I promise!! :D "
Maybe it's just that the enchantment can read the mental intention, I dunno.
Like if that's the case, then fine, but PLEASE MAKE ATTEMPTS FOR THE LOVE OF GOD!
[image error]
These are getting pretty formulaic
BUT
I'm still devouring them!
In this book, Princess Giselle is bound by enchantment and cannot reveal anything about her true identity.
So maybe I'm just being annoyingly technical and a party pooper. But anytime this happens in a book, the main character is all like whelp *shrugs* that's it. I'm helpess.
If I were the character, I would be doing everything in my power to work around the enchantment.
Am I just boring and lame? Like there's gotta be some magical loopholes?!
I was mentally yelling at her the whole book like BRO can't you *charades* your way through it?
Or write it out in code on a piece of paper? Like pls try LITERALLY ANYTHING to outsmart the enchantment!
I would straight up tell my trusted companion (i.e., romantic interest lol) like "heyyyyyy so funny story, I can't talk about a big secret bcz magicalness. How about we play 20 Questions until you guess the truth! It'll be fun, I promise!! :D "
Maybe it's just that the enchantment can read the mental intention, I dunno.
Like if that's the case, then fine, but PLEASE MAKE ATTEMPTS FOR THE LOVE OF GOD!
[image error]
January 19, 2021
Oh man, I have missed these books and characters so much! I loved every second of The Secret Princess and now want to reread the first two series!
Melanie Cellier is a master at retellings. I thoroughly enjoyed the first book in her newest series and can't wait for the others.
The characters, the romance, the plot, and the humor is just perfection. I've got to say, my favorite character is probably Arvin, the talking horse. He's so hilarious and vain but also caring and protective. I'm so happy because it sounds like he'll be in the other books as well!
If you like good, clean fantasy retellings with danger and intrigue lurking around every corner sprinkled with love and sweetness, you'll love these books!
Melanie Cellier is a master at retellings. I thoroughly enjoyed the first book in her newest series and can't wait for the others.
The characters, the romance, the plot, and the humor is just perfection. I've got to say, my favorite character is probably Arvin, the talking horse. He's so hilarious and vain but also caring and protective. I'm so happy because it sounds like he'll be in the other books as well!
If you like good, clean fantasy retellings with danger and intrigue lurking around every corner sprinkled with love and sweetness, you'll love these books!
November 13, 2024
Enjoyable enough, but nothing special.
June 28, 2023
I love a book that can make me gasp out loud in one scene and then giggle uncontrollably because the main couple is so fucking cute together in the next one.
April 9, 2022
I just love these books! They are simple cheesy and fun! I loved in this book how it was brought out that the godmother objects are not there to remove the trial but to help them through the trial. Yes- it was predictable- but I still enjoyed it and the escape it and lessons it provided.
May 17, 2021
As usual, Melanie Cellier doesn't disappoint. I was kept anticipating the whole time, although I did arrive to the right conclusions before the final reveal. Giselle proved to be a very fun character to whom I could relate and I have to say I'll miss her now that I've finished the book. What I love about Melanie's books is that you can pick them up at any time, read them in a few days (or hours if you've got nothing to do) and close the book with a light heart and a giddy smile. Her stories make me dream of faraway lands, palaces, balls, adventure and romance in the way I like them best. They contain a lot of goodness, humour and hope which, at the end of the day, is all that really counts.
Also, let's just appreciate that gorgeous cover, a masterpiece as always!
Also, let's just appreciate that gorgeous cover, a masterpiece as always!
August 12, 2024
*4.5
Content Rating: 5/5
Theme Rating: 5/5
Age Rating: 11+Some romance, but perfectly fine for this age:-)
This was such a fun book! It wasn't quite as great as the prior series, but it was still amazing! I loved all the familiar environments and characters, and the intrigue of all the new characters and twists was amazing! I also liked seeing Giselle's thoughts on the events of A Crown of Snow and Ice, because while she seems a lot like Celine, they're also very different characters.
I also have to say, a lot of these plot twists caught me off guard even though this was my second time through. I had a general memory of what happened, but a lot of the details I didn't remember.
Okay, I loved Giselle, and I loved Phillip. They were so great. And, let's be honest, certain parts of this book had me majorly fangirling. It was set in Arcadia after all.
Overall, this was a great start to the Return to the Four Kingdoms series... so much set-up, and can't wait to binge read the rest of these adventures!
Content Rating: 5/5
Theme Rating: 5/5
Age Rating: 11+Some romance, but perfectly fine for this age:-)
This was such a fun book! It wasn't quite as great as the prior series, but it was still amazing! I loved all the familiar environments and characters, and the intrigue of all the new characters and twists was amazing! I also liked seeing Giselle's thoughts on the events of A Crown of Snow and Ice, because while she seems a lot like Celine, they're also very different characters.
I also have to say, a lot of these plot twists caught me off guard even though this was my second time through. I had a general memory of what happened, but a lot of the details I didn't remember.
Okay, I loved Giselle, and I loved Phillip. They were so great. And, let's be honest, certain parts of this book had me majorly fangirling. It was set in Arcadia after all.
Overall, this was a great start to the Return to the Four Kingdoms series... so much set-up, and can't wait to binge read the rest of these adventures!
October 25, 2020
This wasn't one of my most favourites by the author but it has an interesting story line , great twist and overall plot. Also the writing is good . So a very nice book indeed. Just not exceptionally great or phenomenal in any way, as I have come to expect of Melanie Cellier's books. I personally did not connect with the characters much either so maybe that is the reason why I did not enjoy this book as much as the others.
December 31, 2021
I think the only thing I didn’t like about this book is that I had forgotten som of character details from prior books. I loved Arvin! He was my favorite character in the story. Phillip was a great character as well. Giselle was also a good character but not always wise in her decisions but that was all part of the story. Good start to a new series.
May 16, 2022
I read this book thinking it was the first in a series, but I found many references to events that I felt I should have known more about. The author did a good job of referencing enough to bring relevant information without too little or too much of other stories, and I still felt like this story was complete by itself, but I could tell more had taken place before it. I looked it up and while it is the first in a series, this is the 3rd series set in the same world. I will of course be checking out the prior tales and then probably reading this again in the correct order.
As for this story, I really enjoyed it. I'll be honest that I don't know the original Goose Girl tale, but I feel these retellings are merely hints at the source material and not meant to be a copy or barely modified retelling. I liked the fact that this authors takes inspiration but builds it up as her own. I am also really appreciative that there is love, but it doesn't get all steamy to distract from the story itself. Some young adult retellings have had teenage princesses, but very mature content. This did not go smutty and I enjoyed it thoroughly. I definitely need to find out about the other princesses!
As for this story, I really enjoyed it. I'll be honest that I don't know the original Goose Girl tale, but I feel these retellings are merely hints at the source material and not meant to be a copy or barely modified retelling. I liked the fact that this authors takes inspiration but builds it up as her own. I am also really appreciative that there is love, but it doesn't get all steamy to distract from the story itself. Some young adult retellings have had teenage princesses, but very mature content. This did not go smutty and I enjoyed it thoroughly. I definitely need to find out about the other princesses!
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