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Happily Ever After #3
False Princess
Princess Aria of Auradale has everything, except the right to choose who she marries. She doesn’t want to commit to a man she has never met, but the time has come to meet the terms of her betrothal. Aria sets out for Rivergate to marry Prince Bryson, strengthen the alliance between their kingdoms, and face a life she would rather run away from.
Aria’s maidservant, Joceline, convinces Aria to cast a spell. They switch places, allowing Aria more time to decide if Prince Bryson is someone she can happily spend the rest of her life with. But being a maidservant isn’t what Aria was expecting, and she soon wants to be herself again.
Joceline has other ideas. She enjoys being a princess, and she wants to stay as Aria so she can be the one who marries the Prince. The conditions of the spell force Aria to help Joceline continue the charade, and the former Princess ends up with no one except a talking horse and a gaggle of geese as companions.
How can Aria break the spell when she can’t tell anyone what they’ve done? Stuck in someone else’s skin, can Aria find her happily ever after when no one is who they should be? Or is she destined to be the goose girl forever?
Aria’s maidservant, Joceline, convinces Aria to cast a spell. They switch places, allowing Aria more time to decide if Prince Bryson is someone she can happily spend the rest of her life with. But being a maidservant isn’t what Aria was expecting, and she soon wants to be herself again.
Joceline has other ideas. She enjoys being a princess, and she wants to stay as Aria so she can be the one who marries the Prince. The conditions of the spell force Aria to help Joceline continue the charade, and the former Princess ends up with no one except a talking horse and a gaggle of geese as companions.
How can Aria break the spell when she can’t tell anyone what they’ve done? Stuck in someone else’s skin, can Aria find her happily ever after when no one is who they should be? Or is she destined to be the goose girl forever?
Kindle Edition
Published October 12, 2020
7 people are currently reading
63 people want to read
About the author
K.A. Last
30 books364 followersK. A. Last is a graphic designer and author blessed with a vivid imagination. She has a Diploma in Graphic Design, and a Bachelor of Arts Degree with a major in English, and minors in Children’s Literature, Art History, and Visual Culture. She lives in the Australian countryside with her family and a menagerie of animals, where she loves to immerse herself in creativity and nature.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
May 27, 2022
Goose Girl is one of my favorite fairytales, so I always read a retelling when I come across it. While most of the story was close to the original, the main events were quite different. The thing I liked most about the book was that it conveyed an important message.
The characters were well-written even though they weren't given elaborate backstories. This is a novella, so the information provided was sufficient for me to understand them. I enjoyed Falada's sass and reactions to the people around him.
It is very easy to overlook the struggles of the underprivileged when one is abundantly blessed. It is only when they experience these difficulties firsthand do they learn to sympathize with others. This is a lesson I learned from this book, and I absolutely loved the way the author put it through.
The only thing that left me dissatisfied was the fate of certain characters. I think Aria deserved better when it came to her choice of companions at the end. Despite this, I liked the other positive changes.
I recommend the book to readers who enjoy fairytale retellings with some romance, a message, an animal companion, and elemental magic.
The characters were well-written even though they weren't given elaborate backstories. This is a novella, so the information provided was sufficient for me to understand them. I enjoyed Falada's sass and reactions to the people around him.
It is very easy to overlook the struggles of the underprivileged when one is abundantly blessed. It is only when they experience these difficulties firsthand do they learn to sympathize with others. This is a lesson I learned from this book, and I absolutely loved the way the author put it through.
The only thing that left me dissatisfied was the fate of certain characters. I think Aria deserved better when it came to her choice of companions at the end. Despite this, I liked the other positive changes.
I recommend the book to readers who enjoy fairytale retellings with some romance, a message, an animal companion, and elemental magic.
September 30, 2020
What can I say but that I truly love this series by the immensely talented writer and author K. A. Last!! I got interrupted yesterday before I got very far but I read and finished it today.
This is a fairy tale I hadn’t read before but I loved what K. A. ‘s version of the story and how Princess Aria’s eyes were opened to the suffering around her when she was exposed to it and her determination to do something if and when she got the chance!
I most definitely recommend this series to young and old alike for her treatment of these fairy tales shows a love she has for them and she infuses her magic into each story that will warm your heart and bring tears to your eyes! So yes, you need a box of kleenex by you for you’ll be daubing at your eyes before you’re finished!
What a wonderful genre fairy tales and magic is when they are treated with so much love and care and yes affection by such a talented author such as K. A.!! If you haven’t read the other two books in this series may I humbly suggest that you not only read this book but also Ella and Ash and Chasing Neve in the Happily Ever After Series. I know you will love them as much as me!
Please do yourself a favor and read a wonderful book
or should I say books. For my way of thinking this is the way to effect change-not as we’ve been subjected to the past five months in the states with lawless mobs and what they’ve done to our cities. Take a break from the idiot box and the doom and gloom they spread daily to force their idiocy and ideology on the masses. Read a good book-this book and it’s two previous ones in this series and feel good inside. You’ll be glad you did I am sure of it!!
This is a fairy tale I hadn’t read before but I loved what K. A. ‘s version of the story and how Princess Aria’s eyes were opened to the suffering around her when she was exposed to it and her determination to do something if and when she got the chance!
I most definitely recommend this series to young and old alike for her treatment of these fairy tales shows a love she has for them and she infuses her magic into each story that will warm your heart and bring tears to your eyes! So yes, you need a box of kleenex by you for you’ll be daubing at your eyes before you’re finished!
What a wonderful genre fairy tales and magic is when they are treated with so much love and care and yes affection by such a talented author such as K. A.!! If you haven’t read the other two books in this series may I humbly suggest that you not only read this book but also Ella and Ash and Chasing Neve in the Happily Ever After Series. I know you will love them as much as me!
Please do yourself a favor and read a wonderful book
or should I say books. For my way of thinking this is the way to effect change-not as we’ve been subjected to the past five months in the states with lawless mobs and what they’ve done to our cities. Take a break from the idiot box and the doom and gloom they spread daily to force their idiocy and ideology on the masses. Read a good book-this book and it’s two previous ones in this series and feel good inside. You’ll be glad you did I am sure of it!!
October 11, 2020
False Princess: The Goose Girl Reimagined is the third story in K.A. Last’s Happily Ever After series of reimagined fairy tales. Each story stands alone, so they can be enjoyed in any order. This is a sweet, clean romance in which Last puts her own unique spin on The Goose Girl, originally published by the Brothers Grimm.
I really liked Princess Aria and loved watching her learn and grow through her experience as a servant. Prince Bryson was also kind and thoughtful. I was easily drawn into the story, and I really wanted things to work out for these characters. The plot of this story doesn’t stray far from the original tale, but I liked the little details, and the very sweet ending. In the end, Last’s story is more feminist, more progressive, and much more gentle than the original.
I recommend this story to those who enjoy fairy tale retellings or clean romantic fantasies aimed at the young adult market.
I received an ARC from the author via BookFunnel, and I volunteered to provide an honest review.
I really liked Princess Aria and loved watching her learn and grow through her experience as a servant. Prince Bryson was also kind and thoughtful. I was easily drawn into the story, and I really wanted things to work out for these characters. The plot of this story doesn’t stray far from the original tale, but I liked the little details, and the very sweet ending. In the end, Last’s story is more feminist, more progressive, and much more gentle than the original.
I recommend this story to those who enjoy fairy tale retellings or clean romantic fantasies aimed at the young adult market.
I received an ARC from the author via BookFunnel, and I volunteered to provide an honest review.
October 13, 2020
Another beautiful retelling of a classic tale, I enjoyed it and highly recommend it . Princess Aria is forced to move to Riverdale for her arraigned marriage to Prince Bryson. On the the journey to her new life her hand-maiden Jocelyn suggest a spell to swap places, to which she agrees. Things as always don't go to plan and Aria finds her shelf working on the grounds looking after the geese. Treatment of the servants of Riverdale isn't very nice and Princess Aria wants to turn back onto herself but Joycelyn loves living like a princess and won't agree to do it. Colin a young man who often visits her and helps her with her new job, sparks seem to fly between the pair. Also Prince Bryson seems more interested in her than Jocelyn pretending to be the Princess. Will the real princess be able to reveal herself and return to who she was meant to be and bring better conditions to those who serve the Royalty.
October 2, 2020
I am loving all these stories that retell our childhood fairytales in a more modern context. Follow along with this retelling of the Goose girl as Princess and maid swap places with the use of magic. The princess has her eyes opened to the conditions the servants are forced to endure in this new kingdom she now resides in and she also discovers just how true real friendships are. K A Last seems to have an ability to not only bring these fairy tales to life but to bring them into favour once again.
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April 23, 2025I've read a lot of fairytale retellings over the years, some are a little better than others. While I enjoyed myself while reading this one, the story also didn't feel very original. Most of the original story elements were still there. The only difference is that the horse survives this story (yes, that's a spoiler, but I assume people wanna know that) and that the princess does understand why this happened to her and is really learning something from the situation. Everything is solved a little too easily in the finale, but I guess that just adds to the fairytale feeling.
October 1, 2020
I don't know if I'm the only one who hadn't heard of this fairy tale until I was an adult, but I love it as much as my old standby fairy tales. This is a really smooth and exceptional retelling of The Goose Girl. I was able to read it in one sitting because it was well paced, well edited, and just overall well written. It makes me want to check out Ms. Last's other two fairy tales!
October 1, 2020
This was a fantastic book and highly recommend it. I’m one for no giving things away about books or movies. So just read this wonderful work of magic. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 📚 👍. Paranormal and fairytales are my favorite books to read ❤️ them. I read other books also since I’ve read for years. I’ve lost count on my paperback collection.
October 12, 2020
Intriguing and magical, False Princess is an updated retelling of The Goose Girl, with a little bit of romance and suspense. I don’t remember the Goose Girl from my childhood fairytales, but I immensely enjoyed this story. The theme of treating every one fair no matter their station in life is quite current and perfect for today’s world.
November 6, 2020
Rather sweet
I've read quite a few "Goose Girl" retellings, as its one of my favorite tales. Most veer towards the darker parts of the story (as fairy tales tend to); the maid servant is covetous and filled with resentment, the Prince is somewhat arrogant and negligent, Falada...well I was happy with Falada in this book. 100% of the time.
Last preferred to focus on the brighter side of things; Joceline the servant is truly only trying to help, Bryson is good hearted, Falada is perfect.
Reading though, while quickly paced and engaging, left me feeling just...okay. much of the tension from the darker bits of the story are sanded down here. Its less a matter of "will she survive" and more "when will she wise up". It made for a less dynamic read through.
I've read quite a few "Goose Girl" retellings, as its one of my favorite tales. Most veer towards the darker parts of the story (as fairy tales tend to); the maid servant is covetous and filled with resentment, the Prince is somewhat arrogant and negligent, Falada...well I was happy with Falada in this book. 100% of the time.
Last preferred to focus on the brighter side of things; Joceline the servant is truly only trying to help, Bryson is good hearted, Falada is perfect.
Reading though, while quickly paced and engaging, left me feeling just...okay. much of the tension from the darker bits of the story are sanded down here. Its less a matter of "will she survive" and more "when will she wise up". It made for a less dynamic read through.
October 15, 2020
Fans of the traditional Goose Girl story will find much to love in this largely faithful retelling of of the tale. It keeps many of the details unique to this story, but loses much of the gore and shifts the theme to one of social justice and a double redemption arc. I like the way Last found a way to work the more fanciful elements of this story into a new and different magical system. These changes allowed for richer, more dynamic characters than in the original. I've always like Colin's roll in this story - and the mischievous winds stealing his hat!
This was a well paced, fast read with a clean, sweet romance and a bit of suspense and adventure. If I have any complaint it is that I would have liked to see a little bit more of Joceline and what was going through her head. This is book 3 in the Happily Ever After series, but is a complete standalone.
This was a well paced, fast read with a clean, sweet romance and a bit of suspense and adventure. If I have any complaint it is that I would have liked to see a little bit more of Joceline and what was going through her head. This is book 3 in the Happily Ever After series, but is a complete standalone.
October 20, 2020
Looking for a little faery tale magic? The third book in K. A. Last’s Happily Ever After series is False Princess, a reimagining of The Goose Girl, first recorded by The Brothers Grimm in 1815. It’s the story of a princess not keen on an arranged marriage, whose maid convinces her to swap places with her so she can get to know the prince before deciding if she wants to marry him. But of course once the maid is treated like a princess, she doesn’t want to go back! There’s enchantment, spells, intrigue, deception, learning, love and a talking horse – it’s such a sweet story, and I adored the character development of Princess Aria, and the magical twists on the classic tale. I first read it back in August, but it’s now available, yay!, as a gorgeous paperback or an ebook.
October 14, 2020
I never heard of the fairytale Goose Girl but after reading this story of False Princess I wish I had. It was a wonderful story of treating everyone fairly and that all people are the same no matter the station in life. This is something that we need now in the world. This author always does a wonderful job of retelling fairytales with out loosing the original theme. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
October 13, 2020
A sweet and clean retelling of the Goose Girl classic fairytale, that hooked me from start to finish. Although it stays true to the original story, the author has done a wonderful job on presenting it as a novel, with excellent world and character buidling.
If you like clean and sweet fairytale retellings, I highly recommend it!
If you like clean and sweet fairytale retellings, I highly recommend it!
October 14, 2020
I am really enjoying this series. This retelling of The Goose Girl is captivating in its gentleness and the more modern spin on the original. I love Aria's strong character and determination. I've read this story in one sitting, and would definitely recommend it to anyone who wants to read an old and loved fairy tale with a fresh spin.
October 15, 2020
This is a brilliant read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great drama and romance with wonderful world building.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great drama and romance with wonderful world building.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
October 16, 2020
A sweet retelling of the Goose Girl. I loved Aria’s heart and how she learned that sometimes you have to look below the surface of things to see the reality of how things really are. And that even when she’s put into the worst of situations, she refuses to be brought down. And the forgiveness in her heart is so beautiful. I’m glad that she finds the love she deserves.
October 12, 2020
The Goose Girl is my favorite fairytale. Of course I had to read another retelling. K. A. Last does a great job of keeping the essence of the original story while expanding and making it unique. I loved that this version becomes more forgiving than others.
November 5, 2020
I haven't seen many takes on the Goose girl story, but I did enjoy this one. Princess Aria's adventure throughout this books teaches her many things and helps her grow into a better person. I can't wait to see what tale comes next in this series.
May 10, 2023
I thought this was very cute. My favorite of the series for sure. Still kinda short though. Wish we got to see more about the elements and especially more on the Prince. But still a nice enjoyable read
January 10, 2025
I really loved reading this wonderful book! I loved the characters and the plot! I had a hard time putting this really wonderful book down! I absolutely loved this retelling of The Goose Girl! I will be reading the next book in this really wonderful series!
December 28, 2020
Started ok and then got worse and worse. It was a shame really because I love this fairytale.
August 31, 2022
I liked the aspect that the Prut needed to learn how privileged she truly was and become a better person, but the idea that the maid would be the one to see she was wrong was silly.
April 8, 2024
"The False Princess" by K. A. Last is a captivating retelling of the classic fairy tale, "The Goose Girl”, and it stands as my favourite book by the author. For anyone who enjoys fairy tale retellings with a touch of romance, a profound message, a charming animal companion, and a sprinkle of elemental magic, this book is a delightful addition to the genre.
This reimagined tale follows Princess Aria of Auradale, who faces a difficult fate – an arranged marriage to Prince Bryson to strengthen the alliance between their kingdoms. Aria, reluctant to commit to a man she's never met, decides to cast a spell with the help of her maidservant, Joceline. They switch places, giving Aria time to evaluate her feelings for Prince Bryson. But life as a maidservant isn't what Aria expected, and she soon yearns to be herself again.
What sets this retelling apart is its poignant message about privilege and empathy. The characters are thoughtfully crafted, and Aria's transformation from a naive and insecure princess into a resilient and compassionate leader imparts a powerful lesson about treating others kindly and fairly, regardless of their station in life. The endearing bond between Aria and her faithful animal companion, Falada, is more pronounced and well-developed compared to other retellings. This connection enhances the overall reading experience, adding an extra layer of warmth and depth to the story.
The world-building in the book is exceptional, and the magic system is both intriguing and well-presented. It's evident that the author has put great care into making the world and its kingdoms come to life, leaving readers eager to explore this enchanting world further.
"The False Princess" stands as a standalone story in the Happily Ever After series. While it maintains the essence of the original fairy tale, the author weaves the narrative into a novel format with remarkable world and character development. Aria's journey of personal growth and her dedication to making her kingdom a better place for all are particularly inspiring, making this version of "The Goose Girl" a truly enjoyable and meaningful read.
This reimagined tale follows Princess Aria of Auradale, who faces a difficult fate – an arranged marriage to Prince Bryson to strengthen the alliance between their kingdoms. Aria, reluctant to commit to a man she's never met, decides to cast a spell with the help of her maidservant, Joceline. They switch places, giving Aria time to evaluate her feelings for Prince Bryson. But life as a maidservant isn't what Aria expected, and she soon yearns to be herself again.
What sets this retelling apart is its poignant message about privilege and empathy. The characters are thoughtfully crafted, and Aria's transformation from a naive and insecure princess into a resilient and compassionate leader imparts a powerful lesson about treating others kindly and fairly, regardless of their station in life. The endearing bond between Aria and her faithful animal companion, Falada, is more pronounced and well-developed compared to other retellings. This connection enhances the overall reading experience, adding an extra layer of warmth and depth to the story.
The world-building in the book is exceptional, and the magic system is both intriguing and well-presented. It's evident that the author has put great care into making the world and its kingdoms come to life, leaving readers eager to explore this enchanting world further.
"The False Princess" stands as a standalone story in the Happily Ever After series. While it maintains the essence of the original fairy tale, the author weaves the narrative into a novel format with remarkable world and character development. Aria's journey of personal growth and her dedication to making her kingdom a better place for all are particularly inspiring, making this version of "The Goose Girl" a truly enjoyable and meaningful read.
February 8, 2024
Raamatu peategelaseks on printsess Aria, kes vahetab reisil teise kuningriiki kohad oma teenijannaga, kuid teenijanna muidugi kasutab juhust ja teatab, et tema küll ei kavatse luksuslikust elust lahti öelda ja nüüdsest on hoopis tema printsess. Aria saadetakse hoopis hanesid karjatama. Raamatu aluseks on vendade Grimmide muinasjutt „Die Gänsemagd”. Eesti keeles peaks Grimmide versioon olema avaldatud pealkirja „Hanekarjus” all.
Selles raamatus oli minu maitsele palju loogikavigu, alustades sellest, et printsess saadetakse teise kuningriiki vaid kolme saatjaga. Ma saan aru, et muinasjutult ongi palju nõuda, et see reaalsele elule vastaks, aga kui nüüd mõtlen, et mis mind selle raamatu juures konkreetselt häiris, siis ma ei kritiseeri üldse, et need muinasjutu-elemendid liiast oleks olnud. Näiteks rääkiv hobune ei tundunud üldse mitte veider, vastupidi – lisas just loole särtsu. Aga jah, just igapäevaelu ja inimeste käitumisega seoses leidsin mitmeid kummalisi loogika-apsakaid.
Samuti häiris, et see versioon oli võrreldes originaaliga (vahetult enne seda raamatut loetud ja värskelt meeles) liiga lastesõbralik. Tuli meelde, kui väike sugulane käis teatris ja hunt mitte ei söönud Punamütsikese vanaema ära, vaid pani ka kappi kinni. Milleks? Ma ei saa aru, miks vanad muinasjutud niimoodi ümber tehakse. Ütleks, et praegune raamat on suunatud teismelistele lugejatele. Ei usu, et nad Grimmide versiooni peale kohe minestaks, et oi, kui vägivaldne. 😕 Seega jäi selgusetuks, miks sellised muudatused.
Selles raamatus oli minu maitsele palju loogikavigu, alustades sellest, et printsess saadetakse teise kuningriiki vaid kolme saatjaga. Ma saan aru, et muinasjutult ongi palju nõuda, et see reaalsele elule vastaks, aga kui nüüd mõtlen, et mis mind selle raamatu juures konkreetselt häiris, siis ma ei kritiseeri üldse, et need muinasjutu-elemendid liiast oleks olnud. Näiteks rääkiv hobune ei tundunud üldse mitte veider, vastupidi – lisas just loole särtsu. Aga jah, just igapäevaelu ja inimeste käitumisega seoses leidsin mitmeid kummalisi loogika-apsakaid.
Samuti häiris, et see versioon oli võrreldes originaaliga (vahetult enne seda raamatut loetud ja värskelt meeles) liiga lastesõbralik. Tuli meelde, kui väike sugulane käis teatris ja hunt mitte ei söönud Punamütsikese vanaema ära, vaid pani ka kappi kinni. Milleks? Ma ei saa aru, miks vanad muinasjutud niimoodi ümber tehakse. Ütleks, et praegune raamat on suunatud teismelistele lugejatele. Ei usu, et nad Grimmide versiooni peale kohe minestaks, et oi, kui vägivaldne. 😕 Seega jäi selgusetuks, miks sellised muudatused.
March 8, 2025
Another great retelling of the classic fable "The Goose Girl". The three leads are great and the story around them sucks you in.
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