The Lily Gate: A Retelling of The Frog Prince

by Hanna Sandvig

One princess, twenty princes, and one…frog? The path to true love isn’t always what you might expect.All my life I've been waiting for my prince charming, but you can't just leave these things up to chance. There are plenty of princes in the Seelie kingdom, but I'm the princess of the Lily Court and someday I will rule. Just because a prince is handsome, or an excellent swordsman, it doesn't mean he's going to be a good co-ruler.

Obviously my fairy godmother agrees, because she gave me the christening gift of true love. If I organize a set of challenges for the potential future husbands to tackle, she's promised that I'll find my perfect match.

So that's just what I have planned, and when a talking frog offers to help me find out what the princes are really like, who am I to argue? Honestly, he's pretty good company, even if he keeps stealing pastries from the castle kitchen.

Is there truly a prince out there that will meet all the criteria on my very comprehensive list? Or will I find that true love has been waiting for me all along?

**This adorable sweet romance is a retelling of The Frog Prince and is a stand-alone novella (only eight chapters) in the Faerie Tale Romances series. If you love Fae, pastries, and sassy animal sidekicks, dive into The Lily Gate today!**

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Retellings, Young Adult, Fairy Tales, Fairy Tale Retellings, Short Stories

63 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 7, 2020

Reviews

[Christina Baehr · Rating 4 out of 5]

25-year-old me would have had no time for this fairy rom-com; 42-year-old me needed something just like it after a tough evening. This is a bowl of icecream.
There’s a fae heroine who stress-bakes with her supportive human dad, who thoughtfully keeps a nice apartment in Paris just for these occasions. There are water lilies and picnics and there isn’t really a moment where you think anything bad is going to happen. It doesn’t get any more low stakes than this.

But I gotta say, I bet this is hard to write. This is as light as a soufflé and as any cook knows, soufflés are hard to make without collapsing. Sandvig knows her stuff, folks.

I won’t eat a bowl of icecream every night, but sometimes, it’s just what is needed.

[Hanna Sandvig]

You can get this novella for free if you sign up for my newsletter at HannaSandvig.com!

[Tales and Treats with Tay · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was cute but I don't think I'm the target audience.

There wasn't anything wrong with this persay but it just read super duper young to me-- for like a middle grade audience.

I don't expect a novella to have a ton of depth but there were several places that I had a lot of questions as to the reasoning and logic. A good bit wasn't explained or given much detail which personally I don't care for.

The part with the herbivore sea serpent creature was the most entertaining part. Again, this was cute, entertaining enough to be a palate cleanser. No cursing, only a few kisses.


Content: faeries that use glamours and light magic (ie transportation)

Christian faith rating: 0/3

[Amanda Stevens · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short yet feels complete for what it is (though I wouldn't object to more development via higher word count). This is just a super-sweet and genuinely fun fairy-tale reinvention. All the hugs and puff pastries to Tuala and Naven, and I hope they show up in at least one of the full-length novels (so far I've only read the novellas in this series), because Naven deserves some more page time shed of his frog "curse." (And writing that last bit makes me grin.)

[Suzannah Rowntree]

I've wanted to sample a Hanna Sandvig story for a while now, and this one didn't disappoint! This was a very cosy, low stakes story, but it came with just enough wit and cleverness to keep me laughing and prevent the story feeling twee.

Also, this is the second Frog Prince retelling I've read this year and I thoroughly appreciate the story's capacity for some madcap shenanigans.

[nerdy.bookdragon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fairy tale retelling of the well know story of the Princess and the Frog. But it wasn't the same story. I always loved the disney retelling (you know the animated movie), so I was really interested what this book can bring.

And I loved every minute that I could spend with this book. Both our princess and the frog are a really lovable characters, and I adored their cute romantic moments.

The book isn't long, I would have happily spent much more time with this book. But if you want some cute and happy story to read I think you should definitely read this book.

Also, it made me want to make beignets, so I might just have to cook beignets tomorrow.

[Christie Powell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cute story. I enjoyed the banter and growth between the two characters. I found the twist, so to speak, a bit predictable, but I feel like the reason that you read these stories is more for the cuteness and good feelings than the predictability anyway. Nice and short but still a full, fun story. Well worth reading.

[Maria Elena | pagesofmaria · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the cutest short story I've ever read.

The Lily Gate is a short and sweet retelling of The Frog Prince. While I don't think I've ever read the original fairytale, I think the majority of us are aware with the general gist of it. The version I know of this story is Disney's The Princess and the Frog, and there were a couple of little nods to it that I really enjoyed. My heart is full of fuzzy warm feelings, and I adored the Easter eggs connected to The Rose Gate: A Retelling of Beauty and the Beast and The Wolf Gate: A Retelling of Little Red Riding Hood !

Again, this is a standalone, so you don't need the previous books in the series to understand this. If you're looking for a nice short story to add to your reading goal while you're waiting for your next big book to come out, this is a good option. That being said, I do encourage you to read the other books in the series because they're the sweetest, most adorable fairytale retellings I've ever read. If you have children who love fairy tales, they're a good read to share with them. If you're simply someone who loves romantic stories with a fairy tale twist like me, then this is also a good series to pick up.

[Kayla · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Lily Gate is a novella in the Faerie Tale Romance series about Princess Tuala of the Lily Court. When Tuala was born, her fairy godmother said she would find love through a series of competitions. She follows her godmother’s advice, but how is supposed to find not only love but a good co-ruler. So when a talking frog offers to help, who is she to argue? He makes pretty good company, and she will be able to find out what the princes are actually like. But will she actually find true love or will it be alongside her all along?
This was such a cute novella. Obviously, the storyline progressed quickly, but you were able to see Grenie, the frog, and Tuala’s love story quite nicely. It was also sweet that they were friends before, and then they fell in love. I liked seeing their banter, and Tuala’s practicality. Her tests for the princes actually made a lot of sense, and I loved all the little bits of her personality like her love of lists and baking. Grenie was also trying to look out for Tuala. Even if he couldn’t tell her why or who he was, he was trying hard to woo her. This was an adorable love story. I would definitely recommend it, and all of the books in the Faerie Tale Romance series!

[Annette · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love the tale of the Frog Prince, and its many variations across the globe, and this retelling was really really cute. Of course, as a reader there's not really a plot twist, since we see that coming from miles away, but I love the interactions between the princess and her frog. I loved the princess and her frog in general. Although the princess designed a challenge to find her future husband, she came up with insanely good trials. All those tests really said something about their personalities and not just their talents. I also liked how there was a failsafe in case the princess wouldn't find her prince. She was not forced to marry someone she wouldn't or couldn't love. I can't wait to dive into the next book in this series!

[Karyne Norton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a sweet fairy-tale retelling. It's a quick, but satisfying read with a contest for the princess' hand in marriage, baking, and a frog who deserves that kiss (oh, come on - it's not a spoiler when it's a retelling and we all know what's going to happen even if we don't know how it's going to get there!).

Download and read for free here: http://hannasandvig.com/

Listen for free here: https://www.findingfantasyreads.com/p...

[Lisa Dawn · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed Hanna Sandvig's other books, but I get why this one was free. It didn't have the same interdimensional romance as the others, and there was virtually no conflict. It was a cute love story about a princess needing to choose a husband and a basic and predictable retelling of "The Frog Prince."

[Aizlynne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who thinks to retell the Frog Prince? It seemed like an absurd idea at first but this turned out to be an adorable story. It is light and just perfect for a quick read to lift your spirits and remind you of reading fairytales as a child.

[Celebrilomiel · Rating 3 out of 5]

A light confection, definitely one my eight-year-old self would have liked more than I did now some decades later, but sweet and wholesome enough that I could give it to my sheltered, voracious little self without a qualm.

I could see every beat of the plot coming from a mile away and, given that this is a novella, the characters were only marginally developed, but we're here for a stress-free, predictable fairytale romance, not cunning plots or complex characterizations. Although I haven't seen the Disney movie and it has been a while since I read other variations on the fairytale, this story did seem to lean more into the Disney version than the classic version. However, I appreciated the betrothal candidate trials and the childhood friend element, which both felt like fresh takes for this story, and I was amused by the nod to the fairytale's golden ball by way of the croquembouche.

[Catherine · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed the other two stories I've read in this world, but this one was quite predictable and I didn't enjoy it nearly as much as I did the others. There were some cute details, but it fell short of the quality I've found in the other books. I realize it's just a short story/novella, but there wasn't really any character development, the frog's identity was barely a mystery, and a kiss to break the spell played out exactly on beat for a summary of the basic story. I've really enjoyed the characters and world in the other books and wish this had been the same clever retelling that they've been.

[Bella Juliet · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love the idea of this short story, and I love the original Frog Prince Story. The Characters were really cool, the settings were beautiful, and I very much look forward to visiting this world more. This story is very original, and I love the mix of old classic fairytales with Irish Faery lore.
However I'm ranking this as three star, because the ending felt kinda rushed. This felt very much like it had the potential to be a longer story, but was tied up sooner.

So yes, the ranking is because it was too short lol.

This could definitely be a 4 star if it were longer. (I rarely rate a book 5 star)

[Maria · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoy retellings of The Frog Prince, and this was no exception. Princess Tuala was likeable and I loved all of her baking. The setup of the story (the princes' competition) was a little forced, but if you just accept it, it made a nice setup for the story. And I loved the frog. He was kind and helpful and everything a good frog prince should be.

I listened to this on the Finding Fantasy Reads podcast and the narration was very good. If you like your fairy tales in audio form, check it out!

[Donna (BookDragonGirl) · Rating 5 out of 5]

An 86 page, absolutely delightful novella!! A retelling of The Frog Prince!! This author has now become a one-click author for me. Her retellings are wonderful!!

This was super cute!! I loved Tuala, Princess of The Lily Court, and her Frog Prince!! They were so cute together. It’s pretty bad when the list of princes competing for your hand can’t hold a candle to the frog on your shoulder!!

This is definitely one you don’t want to miss, especially if you enjoy fairytale retellings!!

[Kristy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet novella retelling the story of The Princess and the Frog.
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We get a glimpse of characters from the other stories in the series, but you can read this as a standalone.
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I just love this fantasy world!

[Clarissa Gosling · Rating 5 out of 5]

So much fun, from the beginning to the end. Loved the cameos from other characters in the other books and the trials were so well thought out too.

[Breny and Books · Rating 3 out of 5]

Short and sweet! It was predictable but the French and baking element to it made it unique :)

[Jess (Jessie’s World of Books) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not what I’d normally read, but the story was well told and the narration was excellent (I listened to it on The Finding Fantasy Reads podcast). Also, love the cover.

[Jebraun · Rating 5 out of 5]

This charming fairy-tale retelling fulfils every requirement of mine. A sweet princess, a meddling fairy godmother, enchantments, trials to find true love, a fun story-world, and a HEA.

[Joy · Rating 3 out of 5]

A short and sweet fairytale love story. I would have liked a bit more depth but it was still satisfying. It was cute and I plan to read more in this world.

[Astrid Rudloff · Rating 4 out of 5]

I voluntarily review an ARC.
This is a retelling of the Frog Prince.
It's a short, but cute story with nice new elements in a well known fairy tale.
I liked the world building and the different reliable characters. Of course some things were a bit predictable.
This was the first book by this author I've read, but I'd like to read more.

[Veronica Villar · Rating 5 out of 5]

(English below)

4'5/5 estrellas

The Lily Gate de Hanna Sandvig es una novela corta, de apenas 10 capítulos (contando el epílogo), que me ha encantado. La protagonista, Tuala, es la princesa de la Corte Lily y como heredera al Trono debe elegir a su futuro marido. Para ello prepara tres pruebas en las que pretendientes de varios reinos del mundo de las hadas participarán para ganar. ¿Quién ganará el corazón de Tuala? Y nuestra querida princesa contará con la ayuda de Greenie, una rana que adora los dulces.
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Me ha parecido una historia tierna y con un toque de humor, sobre el amor verdadero. Tuala es una chica que sabe lo que quiere, y Greenie es encantador. No puedo decir mucho más sin hacer spoilers, pero os animo a leerla, os hará pasar un buen rato.
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4'5/5 stars

The Lily Gate by @hannasandvig is a short novel, barely 10 chapters (counting the epilogue), that I loved. The main character, Tuala, is the princess of the Lily Court and as heir to the Throne she must choose her future husband. To do this, she prepares three trials in which suitors from various kingdoms of the Faerie world will participate to win. Who will win the heart of Tuala? For this, our beloved princess will have the help of Greenie, a frog who loves sweets.
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This is a sweet story with a touch of humor, about true love. Tuala is a girl who knows what she wants, and Greenie is so lovely. I can't say much more without spoiling it, but I encourage you to read it, it will make you have a good time.
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Quote: "And it turned out my mother was right. This one, said my heart, as I tangled my hands behind his neck, This is the one we were waiting for."

[Shawna Z · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short novella retelling of the Frog Prince. Princess Tuala of the Lily Court is not happy. It’s her 18th birthday and, thanks to her fairy godmother’s prophecy, Tuala is set to meet her future husband at the party.

So what do her parents do? They invite all of the eligible princes to a competition to win Tuala’s hand by proving they will be the best man to help rule the court alongside her.

If only her childhood friend Naven was there. She dearly wanted to see him again as it’s been a long two years since they saw one another. His valet is there, claiming Naven is around and will indeed be competing, but he isn’t able to see Tuala just now.

All Tuala wants is to walk away from the pageantry but her mother insists she go through with it- three challenges with the winner from each getting a date with Tuala but also a kiss, so she can be sure to make an informed decision.

If only she had some inside help to help her decide who to cut and who to keep…

… which, surprisingly, comes in the form of a talking frog with an abundant sweet tooth.

Okay, we all know Naven is the frog and that it’s going to take a kiss to bring him back to his fae form, but you’ll fall for the witty banter and the creative means of Naven participating in the competition without being spotted.

It’s full of heart and charm (and a moat monster!) with fun cameos from previous books that are well done, and I loved getting to see more of Declan. With any luck maybe he’ll get his own story one day.

[Mia★ · Rating 2 out of 5]

It's cute and a light read but I won't read it twice. I liked the idea of different challenges to determine who should be a suitable co-ruler and the interference of the faerie godmother. And that's all.
There are no explanation on things that need to be explained which lead to me getting confused over and over again(and not the cool kind). There are description of things throughout the whole book that are not important at all to the story. The feeling was as if I was reading a fanfic released when wattpad was new. I did have hopes for this one but sadly they weren't met.
I'm sure many of you will like the book but I just didn't.

[Anna (The_Reading_Pantry) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was exactly what I needed.

I was totally in a funk and not sure what to read until I found this one. I loved the twist to your regular frog prince story. Add in a bachelorette twist and I was a goner. The only reason I gave it four stars was because the ending seemed to come suddenly and I wish I got more answers. I’m still happy I read it! This story could have been a novel it was that good.

[Elle Steward · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was SOOO cute and the most precious little book ever!!! I just wish it was longer so I could savour this world more💕 I’m absolutely in love with Tuala & her prince!! Such an adorable & pleasant book. Truly a sheer delight of a story & nothing but sweet cuteness!! I adored it!!!🪷✨

This is a sweet little clean cozy fantasy romance novelette retelling of The Frog Prince. It comes after The Rose Gate in Hanna Sandvig’s Faerie Gate series.🐸👑🍃