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A Villain's Ever After #9
The Sorcerer and the Swan Princess
A usurped princess. A mercenary sorcerer. A fate neither expected.
As a crown princess, Ava has always anticipated betrayals—but never from her own twin.
The unspeakable treachery comes the night Ava meets her true love, when Lina hires the infamous sorcerer, Dietrich Von Rothbart, to turn Ava into a swan, and takes her place.
Kept across the mountains in Dietrich’s castle lake, Ava’s repeated attempts to escape, to return to her prince and life, keep failing. But in the last time Dietrich recaptures her, she gets close enough to glimpse the terrible truth of what she left behind—starting with that of her prince.
Yet, it’s Dietrich’s true motivations and the unique bond that forms between them that shock her the most.
Will she reject their burgeoning feelings and trust to undo his efforts and reclaim her kingdom? Will he risk the consequences of freeing her from his curse? Will their love survive the demands of duty, and the toll of resentment and threats? Or will it fade away with the moonlight at sunrise?
The Sorcerer and the Swan Princess is one of twelve short novels in A Villain's Ever After, a collection of standalone stories featuring villainous twists on some of your favorite classic fairytales. Read the series in any order for magical adventures . . . and fall in love with villains as you’ve never seen them before. Who said villains can’t have happily-ever-afters?
As a crown princess, Ava has always anticipated betrayals—but never from her own twin.
The unspeakable treachery comes the night Ava meets her true love, when Lina hires the infamous sorcerer, Dietrich Von Rothbart, to turn Ava into a swan, and takes her place.
Kept across the mountains in Dietrich’s castle lake, Ava’s repeated attempts to escape, to return to her prince and life, keep failing. But in the last time Dietrich recaptures her, she gets close enough to glimpse the terrible truth of what she left behind—starting with that of her prince.
Yet, it’s Dietrich’s true motivations and the unique bond that forms between them that shock her the most.
Will she reject their burgeoning feelings and trust to undo his efforts and reclaim her kingdom? Will he risk the consequences of freeing her from his curse? Will their love survive the demands of duty, and the toll of resentment and threats? Or will it fade away with the moonlight at sunrise?
The Sorcerer and the Swan Princess is one of twelve short novels in A Villain's Ever After, a collection of standalone stories featuring villainous twists on some of your favorite classic fairytales. Read the series in any order for magical adventures . . . and fall in love with villains as you’ve never seen them before. Who said villains can’t have happily-ever-afters?
200 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 8, 2021
79 people are currently reading
996 people want to read
About the author
Lucy Tempest
14 books307 followersAs the spawn of Trekkie comic book nerds, the importance of storytelling is an integral part of my being. Spinning tales since I learned to speak, now my books can take others through my adventures and necessary escapism.
I live with one foot in Florida with my family and two spoiled cats, and the other firmly lodged in fantasy.
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I live with one foot in Florida with my family and two spoiled cats, and the other firmly lodged in fantasy.
Follow me on Bookbub
Join my VIP mailing list by clicking HERE!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 157 reviews
November 13, 2021
“Men like me don’t get to be with women like you. We don’t get the princess and the happy ending. We get killed by the prince and become a cautionary tale for anyone who dares to reach beyond their lot in life, let alone dream of winning a love that defines eras.”
I received an ARC through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own and left voluntarily. Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy.
Genre: fantasy, romance
Tropes:cursed & captured heroine, betrayal from a close person, enemies to lovers
Series: A Villain's Ever After #9 (can be read as a stand-alone)
Cliffhanger: No
This was definitely a fun read. Not deep, not extremely touching, but catchy, easy to read and very fast-paced. You don't have time to get bored, but you also don't have time to fall in love with the characters (which is a pity because the ideas and the world described are really great).
“I should have known you’d be trouble when the form you took was a swan.”
It's a very nice fairy tale retelling for The Swan Lake and, even though the characters lacked depth, I enjoyed this novel. I loved the imagination and the easy way the story has unfolded, I found particular delight in the scene with the wedding crashing and the shoe throwing (it simply reminded me a lot of Rhys and Feyre from ACOTAR) and I appreciated the way the dialogs between Ava and Dietrich were written.
I recommend this to anyone in search of a fast and easy read, with fantasy and a bit of romance. Perfect for a weekend afternoon or a road trip.
I received an ARC through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own and left voluntarily. Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy.
Genre: fantasy, romance
Tropes:cursed & captured heroine, betrayal from a close person, enemies to lovers
Series: A Villain's Ever After #9 (can be read as a stand-alone)
Cliffhanger: No
This was definitely a fun read. Not deep, not extremely touching, but catchy, easy to read and very fast-paced. You don't have time to get bored, but you also don't have time to fall in love with the characters (which is a pity because the ideas and the world described are really great).
“I should have known you’d be trouble when the form you took was a swan.”
It's a very nice fairy tale retelling for The Swan Lake and, even though the characters lacked depth, I enjoyed this novel. I loved the imagination and the easy way the story has unfolded, I found particular delight in the scene with the wedding crashing and the shoe throwing (it simply reminded me a lot of Rhys and Feyre from ACOTAR) and I appreciated the way the dialogs between Ava and Dietrich were written.
I recommend this to anyone in search of a fast and easy read, with fantasy and a bit of romance. Perfect for a weekend afternoon or a road trip.
Read
October 8, 2021Brought to you by:
1. A lifelong fascination with ballet.
2. A writing soundtrack consisting of Taylor Swift's folklore and evermore, and my cat snoring on my office couch.
3. My irritation with Prince Siegfried in the original Swan Lake
4. The Black Swan getting to be her own (terrible) person
5. And a long-standing crush on Ewan MacGregor's Obi-Wan Kenobi
The Sorcerer and the Swan Princess took over two years to go from the first inklings to what you see today. The whole time I've been excited to share this unique take on the Rothbart and Odette characters - Dietrich and Aventina.
When thinking about which story I'd put my twist on for A Villain's Ever After , I remembered an old concept for Swan Lake. It was originally for my previous series, Fairytales of Folkshore - but I had no place for it on the timeline. This is why, while it is set in Folkshore, this story takes place in the past.
I was also excited to develop the relationships between all the principal characters, and the motivations of Rothbart turning the Odette-character into a swan and replacing her. I think you're going to have fun seeing what I did with that idea!
Without further ado, I present to you The Sorcerer and the Swan Princess .
As always, I can't wait to hear what you thought! 💫
1. A lifelong fascination with ballet.
2. A writing soundtrack consisting of Taylor Swift's folklore and evermore, and my cat snoring on my office couch.
3. My irritation with Prince Siegfried in the original Swan Lake
4. The Black Swan getting to be her own (terrible) person
The Sorcerer and the Swan Princess took over two years to go from the first inklings to what you see today. The whole time I've been excited to share this unique take on the Rothbart and Odette characters - Dietrich and Aventina.
When thinking about which story I'd put my twist on for A Villain's Ever After , I remembered an old concept for Swan Lake. It was originally for my previous series, Fairytales of Folkshore - but I had no place for it on the timeline. This is why, while it is set in Folkshore, this story takes place in the past.
I was also excited to develop the relationships between all the principal characters, and the motivations of Rothbart turning the Odette-character into a swan and replacing her. I think you're going to have fun seeing what I did with that idea!
Without further ado, I present to you The Sorcerer and the Swan Princess .
As always, I can't wait to hear what you thought! 💫
November 18, 2021
This book was interesting. I don't regret reading it but neither do I think I will read it again.
The writing of this book was good. It was never choppy. It was a little overly poetic at times for me, but I think most would really like it.
It was interesting to see how Dietrich's actions were explained as the story went on. It was obvious that he did everything that he did do out of wanting to protect the people he was around.
One thing I wish I knew was more of Ava's plans for the throne. She does not seem to have any motivation for wanting it other than keeping it out of her sister's grasp.
3.5/5
Content: death, violence
*I received a copy of this novel on NetGalley. All thoughts are my own and a positive review was not required.
The writing of this book was good. It was never choppy. It was a little overly poetic at times for me, but I think most would really like it.
It was interesting to see how Dietrich's actions were explained as the story went on. It was obvious that he did everything that he did do out of wanting to protect the people he was around.
One thing I wish I knew was more of Ava's plans for the throne. She does not seem to have any motivation for wanting it other than keeping it out of her sister's grasp.
3.5/5
Content: death, violence
*I received a copy of this novel on NetGalley. All thoughts are my own and a positive review was not required.
December 10, 2021
I wasn't sure I was going to like this book right at first. Rothbart was just so mean to the main character that I just couldn't like him as the love interest.
But he IS partially the villain of this story, and he does have an arc. As the book unfolded, he learned some great lessons. The main character called him out on his behavior, and she too grew and changed throughout the book.
By the ending, the two characters were much stronger, and Rothbart had changed. In the end, he acknowledges that he was wrong in the things that he did.
And the comeuppance of the true villains of the story was perfect!
But he IS partially the villain of this story, and he does have an arc. As the book unfolded, he learned some great lessons. The main character called him out on his behavior, and she too grew and changed throughout the book.
By the ending, the two characters were much stronger, and Rothbart had changed. In the end, he acknowledges that he was wrong in the things that he did.
And the comeuppance of the true villains of the story was perfect!
May 9, 2022
I have received this ARC from NetGally in exchange for an honest review.
The Sorcerer and the Swan Princess is the ninth installment within the A Villain's Ever After series. If the title wasn't obvious enough, this is a swan lake retelling. Just like the previous books within this series, I really enjoyed getting to know the characters. The one problem I had was the length of this. Definitely wanted a much longer book so that we could dive a bit more into certain things. For example, the tension filled scenes and the romance too.
Other than that, I did like getting to see Ava grow throughout this. Whether it was with Lina or Dietrich. I also really enjoyed the bantering because that's always something I will enjoy. Then there's the romance, which yes, it was good. I just wanted more spice, heat, and everything in between. Don't get me wrong, clean romances are good every now and then but with villains involved? Heck, I need the spicy moments.
In the end, I definitely liked the heck out of this book and I'm happy that I got the chance to dive into it as well. Just wished it was longer and spicier.
The Sorcerer and the Swan Princess is the ninth installment within the A Villain's Ever After series. If the title wasn't obvious enough, this is a swan lake retelling. Just like the previous books within this series, I really enjoyed getting to know the characters. The one problem I had was the length of this. Definitely wanted a much longer book so that we could dive a bit more into certain things. For example, the tension filled scenes and the romance too.
Other than that, I did like getting to see Ava grow throughout this. Whether it was with Lina or Dietrich. I also really enjoyed the bantering because that's always something I will enjoy. Then there's the romance, which yes, it was good. I just wanted more spice, heat, and everything in between. Don't get me wrong, clean romances are good every now and then but with villains involved? Heck, I need the spicy moments.
In the end, I definitely liked the heck out of this book and I'm happy that I got the chance to dive into it as well. Just wished it was longer and spicier.
October 7, 2021
I saw this series quite some time ago already and pre-ordered all the books. Quite a few have been released already and yet I didn't manage to read any of them. Until I saw this book on BookSirens and knew I had to grab it. After all, four days a week I read review copies so this gave me a very good reason to make this book a priority. And during the day I really felt I was looking forward to start this book and to drown in it.
Nothing could have prepared me for how much I would love this book. That's firstly because this book combines chronic pain with magic in a way that absolutely makes sense without taking away the dreams people with chronic pain have. Since I also have chronic pain in my right leg it was so great to finally meet a heroine like me, who doesn't let the pain define her, who isn't cured, but who does get the chance to do what I want to do too: Fly.
On top of that the setting of this book was amazing! I don't want to give too much away, but this book actually had EVERYTHING I love so much. And not only when it comes to setting, but also when it comes to a lot of other things. The book had royal court drama, the book had complicated and backstabbing politics, the book had things not being as they seemed and the book had intelligent characters using their brain to solve issues.
The book also has an amazing, wonderful and very well written romance. I'm a hopeless romantic and as long as there is some magic I can fall in love with a lovestory easily, but this book was really the kind of lovestory I love most of all. The build up was slow, the characters really had to get to know each other, understanding each other took time and love was something they both had to work for. But when everything eventually DOES come together it's simply glorious!
I think I have the first book in Tempest's other Fairytale series on my Kindle already. I'll put it a little higher on my TBR!
Nothing could have prepared me for how much I would love this book. That's firstly because this book combines chronic pain with magic in a way that absolutely makes sense without taking away the dreams people with chronic pain have. Since I also have chronic pain in my right leg it was so great to finally meet a heroine like me, who doesn't let the pain define her, who isn't cured, but who does get the chance to do what I want to do too: Fly.
On top of that the setting of this book was amazing! I don't want to give too much away, but this book actually had EVERYTHING I love so much. And not only when it comes to setting, but also when it comes to a lot of other things. The book had royal court drama, the book had complicated and backstabbing politics, the book had things not being as they seemed and the book had intelligent characters using their brain to solve issues.
The book also has an amazing, wonderful and very well written romance. I'm a hopeless romantic and as long as there is some magic I can fall in love with a lovestory easily, but this book was really the kind of lovestory I love most of all. The build up was slow, the characters really had to get to know each other, understanding each other took time and love was something they both had to work for. But when everything eventually DOES come together it's simply glorious!
I think I have the first book in Tempest's other Fairytale series on my Kindle already. I'll put it a little higher on my TBR!
January 14, 2022
3.5 STARS
I believe this quote speaks for all of the retellings that give a HEA to the villain and I think this novel shouldn't be an exception , as it also belongs in the "A Villain's Ever After" series. In this story we have the classic fairytale of Swan Lake/Princess , but with a twist. The bad guy in this scenario is Lina, Ava's twin sister who hires the sorcerer, Dietrich Von Rothbart, to turn Ava into a swan, in order to take her place. Ava struggles a lot, but in the meantime she gets to know that Dietrich isn't who everyone thought to be.
I really love this tale. In fact it's one of my favorites and I was so ecstatic when I found out this book in Netgalley. I really enjoyed the twist in this one and how everything seemed to fit perfectly well , even with the original tale or the Black swan referance. I loved Dietrich's character and he was a joy to read. However Ava took her sweet time until she grew on me. Plus she seemed a bit too immature for my taste, even near the end. I felt like this book had the potential to be even better, but it was still a pleasant story to pass my time.
ARC copy was provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
“One where the hero and villain, destined to either be defeated or die at the other’s hands, instead wrote a new ending together.”
I believe this quote speaks for all of the retellings that give a HEA to the villain and I think this novel shouldn't be an exception , as it also belongs in the "A Villain's Ever After" series. In this story we have the classic fairytale of Swan Lake/Princess , but with a twist. The bad guy in this scenario is Lina, Ava's twin sister who hires the sorcerer, Dietrich Von Rothbart, to turn Ava into a swan, in order to take her place. Ava struggles a lot, but in the meantime she gets to know that Dietrich isn't who everyone thought to be.
“On one hand, he was a sorcerer with a feared reputation who was commissioned by the wealthy to do questionable, if not terrible things, and was my abductor. On the other, he used the acquired funds to run this school, and had spared me from his contractor’s death sentence. Half devious, half noble, all confounding. What would I consider such a person?”
I really love this tale. In fact it's one of my favorites and I was so ecstatic when I found out this book in Netgalley. I really enjoyed the twist in this one and how everything seemed to fit perfectly well , even with the original tale or the Black swan referance. I loved Dietrich's character and he was a joy to read. However Ava took her sweet time until she grew on me. Plus she seemed a bit too immature for my taste, even near the end. I felt like this book had the potential to be even better, but it was still a pleasant story to pass my time.
“Men like me don’t get to be with women like you. We don’t get the princess and the happy ending. We get killed by the prince and become a cautionary tale for anyone who dares to reach beyond their lot in life, let alone dream of winning a love that defines eras.”
ARC copy was provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 9, 2021
I really liked the plot and the details in this story so I really wanted to finish reading it. But I started to dislike the sorcerer, Rothbart, who I never liked to begin with. During one of the many times the princess confronts him about kidnapping her against her will from her home, he responds with (and I kid you not), "I only did what your sister asked." Oh like you weren't paid. And he says another time, "She (Ava's evil twin (and I say evil for good reason which I explained in the mild spoiler below)) gave me permission to take you; therefore, I did not 'kidnap' or 'abduct' you." I'm sorry what? You got her sister's permission to kidnap her. Geez. I didn't realize individual choices and will worked that way. I guess my views must be antiquated. I had my fingers crossed for his character arc at that point especially since the other side characters were saying that he has his reasons for behaving the way he does like he's a five year old stealing a cookie and not humans .
I just couldn't stand how hypocritical Rothbart was since one of the first things he said to her was how he finds King Ludwig "useless" and how his queen was an "evil hag". (I'm using quotations here not to be sarcastic, but taking the words from the text.) Well. Since Princess Ava is so smart and diligent in her studies to be a good queen and to run her court and kingdom fairly, I figured she'd pick up on his evident dislike of evil people born to power and explain to him what a terrible wretch of a human being her sister is. Nope. Didn't happen. Not once in the eight chapters I trudged through.
I know characters are different and each have different personalities, but what person doesn't get kidnaped and try to explain why kidnapping them is a bad idea? Like. Shouldn't you at least try? She meets with Rothbart over and over again, but not once does she try to explain to her abductor why leaving the person who hired him to kidnap her in power for her own selfish gain is a bad idea. And she could also try to explain you know, how he's doing the very thing he despises, handing power over to evil selfish entitled people? Heck, why doesn't he understand that on his own?? I don't understand. :/ Oh ho~ and then he goes and tells her she's entitled because she keeps telling him that he stole her life and throne from her. I was at a loss for words at that point.
Mild spoiler: Okay, that totally doesn't go against your personal ethic code or anything.
I initially liked the princess and was excited to see where her spunk would get her. I was especially excited since the details, world building and funny scenes made me want to keep reading. It's just that while reading, I felt that this story was one of those where the author says the character is a certain way the character's actions and words says otherwise. And in the end, it got too much for me. Maybe some of you will feel otherwise. If you do, I'm glad you enjoyed it! If you didn't feel otherwise, I emphasize (in case you couldn't tell from my review already lol).
I just couldn't stand how hypocritical Rothbart was since one of the first things he said to her was how he finds King Ludwig "useless" and how his queen was an "evil hag". (I'm using quotations here not to be sarcastic, but taking the words from the text.) Well. Since Princess Ava is so smart and diligent in her studies to be a good queen and to run her court and kingdom fairly, I figured she'd pick up on his evident dislike of evil people born to power and explain to him what a terrible wretch of a human being her sister is. Nope. Didn't happen. Not once in the eight chapters I trudged through.
I know characters are different and each have different personalities, but what person doesn't get kidnaped and try to explain why kidnapping them is a bad idea? Like. Shouldn't you at least try? She meets with Rothbart over and over again, but not once does she try to explain to her abductor why leaving the person who hired him to kidnap her in power for her own selfish gain is a bad idea. And she could also try to explain you know, how he's doing the very thing he despises, handing power over to evil selfish entitled people? Heck, why doesn't he understand that on his own?? I don't understand. :/ Oh ho~ and then he goes and tells her she's entitled because she keeps telling him that he stole her life and throne from her. I was at a loss for words at that point.
Mild spoiler: Okay, that totally doesn't go against your personal ethic code or anything.
I initially liked the princess and was excited to see where her spunk would get her. I was especially excited since the details, world building and funny scenes made me want to keep reading. It's just that while reading, I felt that this story was one of those where the author says the character is a certain way the character's actions and words says otherwise. And in the end, it got too much for me. Maybe some of you will feel otherwise. If you do, I'm glad you enjoyed it! If you didn't feel otherwise, I emphasize (in case you couldn't tell from my review already lol).
October 7, 2021
I love all of Lucy Tempest’s books! They are fantastic retellings of fairytales with such interesting twists. The Sorcerer and the Swan Princess is the 9th book in the multiple author A Villain's Ever After series. The Sorcerer and the Swan is a retelling of Swan Lake, but it has a twist. This story is different from what has been told for years. It is a thrilling book about seeing behind the darkness.
Princess Aventina is ready to ascend to the throne and become the best queen she can be to help her people. However, all of her plans are thrown aside when she finds herself a swan. She is taken by the sorcerer who cursed her, Lord Von Rothbart, but she is determined to find her way home. But as she spends time with Lord Von Rothbart, Dietrich, she finds that all was not as it seemed. She finds herself falling for the man hidden behind the masks he wears
Aventina was such an interesting character. She was the perfect daughter who was ready to ascend to the throne. I really liked Ava’s growth as a character. She grew up and learned from her mistakes. She had been told her whole life that magic was evil, but as she spent time with the man who cursed her, she learned that all was not as it should be. I thought that Ava was really cool and it was sweet to read about her falling in love with Dietrich. Ava had to learn how to get back up after falling and how to fly again.
I liked Dietrich from the beginning. He had a hidden kindness behind his sorcery. He didn’t want to hurt others, but he also needed to care for those around him. I loved his character and how he wanted to help Ava even though she was mad at him. However, Dietrich had to work though his own demons of the past. He wanted to make the world safe for his people, but he was also scared. He was willing to risk it all to save those under his care.
Ava and Dietrich were such fun and interesting characters. There were so many hidden aspects about them that they hid from the world. I loved reading about them falling in love and fighting for what is right. I was amazed by the evil of the people around them, and the villain was kind of a surprise. But I adored the storyline and I read this novella in one day!
The Sorcerer and the Swan Princess is definitely a must read! It was such a cool look at Swan Lake! I loved the characters and I could not put the book down. I am excited to read what Tempest writes next. The Sorcerer and the Swan Princess is a clean fairy tale retelling.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
Princess Aventina is ready to ascend to the throne and become the best queen she can be to help her people. However, all of her plans are thrown aside when she finds herself a swan. She is taken by the sorcerer who cursed her, Lord Von Rothbart, but she is determined to find her way home. But as she spends time with Lord Von Rothbart, Dietrich, she finds that all was not as it seemed. She finds herself falling for the man hidden behind the masks he wears
Aventina was such an interesting character. She was the perfect daughter who was ready to ascend to the throne. I really liked Ava’s growth as a character. She grew up and learned from her mistakes. She had been told her whole life that magic was evil, but as she spent time with the man who cursed her, she learned that all was not as it should be. I thought that Ava was really cool and it was sweet to read about her falling in love with Dietrich. Ava had to learn how to get back up after falling and how to fly again.
I liked Dietrich from the beginning. He had a hidden kindness behind his sorcery. He didn’t want to hurt others, but he also needed to care for those around him. I loved his character and how he wanted to help Ava even though she was mad at him. However, Dietrich had to work though his own demons of the past. He wanted to make the world safe for his people, but he was also scared. He was willing to risk it all to save those under his care.
Ava and Dietrich were such fun and interesting characters. There were so many hidden aspects about them that they hid from the world. I loved reading about them falling in love and fighting for what is right. I was amazed by the evil of the people around them, and the villain was kind of a surprise. But I adored the storyline and I read this novella in one day!
The Sorcerer and the Swan Princess is definitely a must read! It was such a cool look at Swan Lake! I loved the characters and I could not put the book down. I am excited to read what Tempest writes next. The Sorcerer and the Swan Princess is a clean fairy tale retelling.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
October 27, 2021
First off, can we just talk about how cool Lucy Tempest's name is? It literally means 'light' and 'a violent storm,' and it is absolutely perfect for a fantasy author. Anyways, on to the book itself, I am such a sucker for a retelling. I grew up doing ballet, and so Swan Lake has always been near and dear to my heart (I may have also been slightly influenced by the Barbie movie that was all the rage when I was little). Lucy not only met my expectations, but exceeded them.
One thing I love seeing in all of the retellings I read is what they choose to keep original and what they choose to change. Lucy did a great job with balancing this. The story was close enough to the original that I was reminded just why I loved the story as a child, but also different enough so that I was kept on my toes and intrigued to see what was going to happen next. Ava and Dietrich's relationship was the perfect enemies-to-lovers story, but one I didn't see coming until a good ways into the book. I also loved that Lucy kept ballet as an integral part of the story, since that was how the story was initially told.
I really only have two complaints. First, there were a few cliches with the effortlessly gorgeous and good Princess Ava and the dashing bad-boy-turned-hero Dietrich. They were still fully formed characters, but I would have loved to see a little less of the cliche fantasy heroes in them. The second complaint I have is that this story isn't longer. I know it was written as a novella for a series of fairy tale retellings, but if that hadn't been the case I would have loved to be able to spend more time with Ava and Dietrich.
Overall it was a delightful retelling of Swan Lake, and it made for the perfect afternoon read.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own, and I am writing a voluntary review.
One thing I love seeing in all of the retellings I read is what they choose to keep original and what they choose to change. Lucy did a great job with balancing this. The story was close enough to the original that I was reminded just why I loved the story as a child, but also different enough so that I was kept on my toes and intrigued to see what was going to happen next. Ava and Dietrich's relationship was the perfect enemies-to-lovers story, but one I didn't see coming until a good ways into the book. I also loved that Lucy kept ballet as an integral part of the story, since that was how the story was initially told.
I really only have two complaints. First, there were a few cliches with the effortlessly gorgeous and good Princess Ava and the dashing bad-boy-turned-hero Dietrich. They were still fully formed characters, but I would have loved to see a little less of the cliche fantasy heroes in them. The second complaint I have is that this story isn't longer. I know it was written as a novella for a series of fairy tale retellings, but if that hadn't been the case I would have loved to be able to spend more time with Ava and Dietrich.
Overall it was a delightful retelling of Swan Lake, and it made for the perfect afternoon read.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own, and I am writing a voluntary review.
March 18, 2022
I very much enjoyed that! I'm frequently skeptical of any romance-forward books (no matter the genre), but I love the original Swan Princess story, and I'd never seen a retelling before, so obviously I had to pick it up. And this was well worth the risk! Despite some awkward and choppy bits towards the beginning, I quickly found myself quite attached to Ava and quite intrigued by her captor. I enjoyed seeing both of them develop as characters and watching the progression of their relationship — which, while not exactly one of the Great Romances of Our Time, did convince me enough that I can say I ship it. The ending was a bit rushed, unfortunately, which was the main reason I knocked a star off. But otherwise, this was good.
October 21, 2021
First off, I would like to thank NetGalley and the author for a free e-copy of this book. Alright, onto the review!
So what do you get when you take a classic ballet, Swan Lake, play around with the characters and mix in a little adventure, romance, and redemption arc? You get this amazing book.
This new retelling of Swan Lake starts with Princess Ava and her twin sister, Lina. Right after Ava’s coronation as the crown princess, Lina hires a sorcerer to turn Ava into a swan and then dispose of her. Lina then takes Ava's place as well as her crown. Ava is then taken far from the castle by Dietrich Von Rothbart, the sorcerer. Ava's numerous escape attempts fail, as she keeps being caught by the sorcerer who may not be as evil as he seems. Divided on if she should stay or go, Ava must decide whether to follow her heart or return to her crown.
Much like the rest of the author's work, this book didn't disappoint. Something that I love about Lucy Tempest's books is how inventive the fairy-tale retellings are. And that says a lot considering I've read my weight in retellings.
I really enjoyed the twist of seeing the story from the villain's perspective. While this book is a novella, the pacing wasn't too fast and it allowed for the relationship between Dietrich and Ava to grow and deepen. When it was time for Ava to decide her future I was just as torn as she was! One of the ways they bond is through exchanging stories. I found this to be a really effective way to develop the characters and move along the Swan Lake plot that we all love.
My only negative is that the book is way too short! I loved the world-building and I would have enjoyed being lost in it for a few more pages. I can't wait to see what the author is up to next. If you love a good fairy-tale retelling (or just a book with a bit of magic) then this one is for you!
So what do you get when you take a classic ballet, Swan Lake, play around with the characters and mix in a little adventure, romance, and redemption arc? You get this amazing book.
This new retelling of Swan Lake starts with Princess Ava and her twin sister, Lina. Right after Ava’s coronation as the crown princess, Lina hires a sorcerer to turn Ava into a swan and then dispose of her. Lina then takes Ava's place as well as her crown. Ava is then taken far from the castle by Dietrich Von Rothbart, the sorcerer. Ava's numerous escape attempts fail, as she keeps being caught by the sorcerer who may not be as evil as he seems. Divided on if she should stay or go, Ava must decide whether to follow her heart or return to her crown.
Much like the rest of the author's work, this book didn't disappoint. Something that I love about Lucy Tempest's books is how inventive the fairy-tale retellings are. And that says a lot considering I've read my weight in retellings.
I really enjoyed the twist of seeing the story from the villain's perspective. While this book is a novella, the pacing wasn't too fast and it allowed for the relationship between Dietrich and Ava to grow and deepen. When it was time for Ava to decide her future I was just as torn as she was! One of the ways they bond is through exchanging stories. I found this to be a really effective way to develop the characters and move along the Swan Lake plot that we all love.
My only negative is that the book is way too short! I loved the world-building and I would have enjoyed being lost in it for a few more pages. I can't wait to see what the author is up to next. If you love a good fairy-tale retelling (or just a book with a bit of magic) then this one is for you!
October 23, 2021
Wow! Definitely didn’t see this coming! Really amazing story for the Swan Princess retelling!
Aventina and Avelina are twins. Ava is the heir to her kingdom. Lina being born second to her is jealous and enlists the help of a sorcerer so she can take Ava’s place. Lord von Rothbart turns her into a swan and takes her with him.
Headmaster Dietrich Morgenstern is the other name of Rothbart. He runs a school like Hogwarts, where kids can learn magic.
It’s so cool to see the magic he uses and the magic between them. It’s the fourth book I’ve read in this series and absolutely adore it!
Aventina and Avelina are twins. Ava is the heir to her kingdom. Lina being born second to her is jealous and enlists the help of a sorcerer so she can take Ava’s place. Lord von Rothbart turns her into a swan and takes her with him.
Headmaster Dietrich Morgenstern is the other name of Rothbart. He runs a school like Hogwarts, where kids can learn magic.
It’s so cool to see the magic he uses and the magic between them. It’s the fourth book I’ve read in this series and absolutely adore it!
February 19, 2022
You probably know the melody. You probably grew up watching The Swan Princess or Barbie of Swan Lake. Maybe you’ve even seen the Tchaikovsky ballet. Either way, you know the story: a princess, cursed to become a swan; a sorcerer, the man who cursed her; and a prince, destined to save her.
NEWSFLASH: forget about the prince. Forget the story you think you know. Because none of that matters. Just remember the princess — the swan — and the sorcerer who cursed her.
In The Sorcerer & the Swan Princess, author Lucy Tempest delivers an enemies-to-lovers romance, packed with an endearing heroine and a fascinatingly moral villain.
First off, Ava, our princess, our swan. She’s impossible not to like. Is she a little perfect? Yes. BUT HEAR ME OUT: she has struggles, she has flaws, and they’re acknowledged. And they’re what make her, well, perfect for Dietrich.
Villains are typically morally gray, right? Not this sorcerer. Dietrich has a clear set of morals that keep him going. Anger and brooding aside, this man knows where his moral compass is pointing — and it’s pointing straight at Ava.
While this honestly wasn’t my favorite enemies-to-lovers approach, it was definitely fun seeing the perfect princess and angry, moral sorcerer dynamic between Ava and Dietrich. And, let’s be honest, this book is a fun light read.
Would I recommend? 100%.
So pour yourself a glass of tea, go down to the nearest lake, and crack open The Sorcerer & the Swan Princess. This is the perfect airy spring read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
NEWSFLASH: forget about the prince. Forget the story you think you know. Because none of that matters. Just remember the princess — the swan — and the sorcerer who cursed her.
In The Sorcerer & the Swan Princess, author Lucy Tempest delivers an enemies-to-lovers romance, packed with an endearing heroine and a fascinatingly moral villain.
First off, Ava, our princess, our swan. She’s impossible not to like. Is she a little perfect? Yes. BUT HEAR ME OUT: she has struggles, she has flaws, and they’re acknowledged. And they’re what make her, well, perfect for Dietrich.
Villains are typically morally gray, right? Not this sorcerer. Dietrich has a clear set of morals that keep him going. Anger and brooding aside, this man knows where his moral compass is pointing — and it’s pointing straight at Ava.
While this honestly wasn’t my favorite enemies-to-lovers approach, it was definitely fun seeing the perfect princess and angry, moral sorcerer dynamic between Ava and Dietrich. And, let’s be honest, this book is a fun light read.
Would I recommend? 100%.
So pour yourself a glass of tea, go down to the nearest lake, and crack open The Sorcerer & the Swan Princess. This is the perfect airy spring read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
October 17, 2021
The Sorcerer and the Swan Princess is the third book that I have read in the Villain's Ever After series. I've been skipping around because the series contains too many books to keep up with on a regular basis. This one stood out to me after enjoying several of Lucy Tempest's recent fairy tale books and because the story of "Swan Lake" has always fascinated me due to its many possible interpretations. While this book follows the same basic structure as the others I've read in which the prince or princess falls in love with the villain instead of their traditional love interest, it also had a few clever twists that made it stand out. It takes place in the same fairy tale world as Lucy Tempest's other books, so it can be interpreted as the latest installment in the Fairy Tales of Folkshore series just as easily as the Villain's Ever After series.
Princess Ava's sister, Lina, has always been jealous of her claim to the throne, but Ava never realized how far Lina would be willing to go to get it. It was a clever twist to make the Odette and Odile counterparts twin sisters, especially since Odile is mistaken for Odette in almost every version of the story. Usually, this character has a closer connection with the sorcerer Rothbart than she does with Odette. The Barbie version made Odile Rothbart's daughter. Since this version of the story turns Rothbart into the main love interest, it makes sense to separate him from Lina's wicked intent. When Lina makes a deal with the infamous sorcerer to get rid of Ava at her coronation so she can take her sister's place, Ava refuses to believe that her own sister would do something so awful and blames Rothbart, who turns her into a swan to give her time to cool off.
The swan transformation is not a daily curse in this story like it is in other versions. Ava is only transformed into a full swan twice, and only one of those times is out of spite. This is the book's first clue that Rothbart will be a more sympathetic villain than in other interpretations. He does not trap Ava on the lake nor does he try to force her to marry him to lift the curse. Instead, he reveals his true identity as Dietrich, the headmaster of a school for troubled children gifted with magical powers like himself. He uses the school to protect them from the kingdom's anti-magic laws and to protect Ava from her nefarious sister. When Ava learns that her swan transformation was an attempt on Dietrich's part to save her life rather than punish her, she begins to see Dietrich in a new light.
This adaptation also places some focus on the ballet roots of "Swan Lake" by making Ava a ballerina princess whose dance career was cut tragically short due to an injury that permanently disabled one of her ankles. In this respect, the book reminded me of Pirouette by Kenley Davidson, another fairy tale adaptation about a disabled princess who longed to dance again. Dietrich helps Ava with her dream in the most magical way that truly made this book a delight to read. Though he treats her kindly at his hidden school, her feelings toward him despite her captivity could be interpreted as Stockholm Syndrome until Dietrich makes a very "Beauty and the Beast" inspired decision that justifies his happy ending with her.
The Sorcerer and the Swan Princess is a charming installment in the Villain's Ever After series. It has all the qualities of a villain redemption arc with some extra magic that appears in unexpected ways. It isn't very similar to the "Swan Lake" story overall, but I didn't mind that because the story it does tell is so engaging. Plus, I loved the little nods to the origins of "Swan Lake" like the prince named Siegfried and the princess's love of ballet. Dietrich reminded me of Cedric from Sofia the First, who does bad things with his magic because he is misguided by a troubled past, but not because he is a bad person. If you are at all intrigued by the concept of A Villain's Ever After, this book is a must-read.
Princess Ava's sister, Lina, has always been jealous of her claim to the throne, but Ava never realized how far Lina would be willing to go to get it. It was a clever twist to make the Odette and Odile counterparts twin sisters, especially since Odile is mistaken for Odette in almost every version of the story. Usually, this character has a closer connection with the sorcerer Rothbart than she does with Odette. The Barbie version made Odile Rothbart's daughter. Since this version of the story turns Rothbart into the main love interest, it makes sense to separate him from Lina's wicked intent. When Lina makes a deal with the infamous sorcerer to get rid of Ava at her coronation so she can take her sister's place, Ava refuses to believe that her own sister would do something so awful and blames Rothbart, who turns her into a swan to give her time to cool off.
The swan transformation is not a daily curse in this story like it is in other versions. Ava is only transformed into a full swan twice, and only one of those times is out of spite. This is the book's first clue that Rothbart will be a more sympathetic villain than in other interpretations. He does not trap Ava on the lake nor does he try to force her to marry him to lift the curse. Instead, he reveals his true identity as Dietrich, the headmaster of a school for troubled children gifted with magical powers like himself. He uses the school to protect them from the kingdom's anti-magic laws and to protect Ava from her nefarious sister. When Ava learns that her swan transformation was an attempt on Dietrich's part to save her life rather than punish her, she begins to see Dietrich in a new light.
This adaptation also places some focus on the ballet roots of "Swan Lake" by making Ava a ballerina princess whose dance career was cut tragically short due to an injury that permanently disabled one of her ankles. In this respect, the book reminded me of Pirouette by Kenley Davidson, another fairy tale adaptation about a disabled princess who longed to dance again. Dietrich helps Ava with her dream in the most magical way that truly made this book a delight to read. Though he treats her kindly at his hidden school, her feelings toward him despite her captivity could be interpreted as Stockholm Syndrome until Dietrich makes a very "Beauty and the Beast" inspired decision that justifies his happy ending with her.
The Sorcerer and the Swan Princess is a charming installment in the Villain's Ever After series. It has all the qualities of a villain redemption arc with some extra magic that appears in unexpected ways. It isn't very similar to the "Swan Lake" story overall, but I didn't mind that because the story it does tell is so engaging. Plus, I loved the little nods to the origins of "Swan Lake" like the prince named Siegfried and the princess's love of ballet. Dietrich reminded me of Cedric from Sofia the First, who does bad things with his magic because he is misguided by a troubled past, but not because he is a bad person. If you are at all intrigued by the concept of A Villain's Ever After, this book is a must-read.
May 7, 2022
This is my very first Swan Lake retelling, and I enjoyed it very much. The author has done a great job in adding a unique twist to the original tale. I've always liked the idea of having stories from the villain's point of view, and even though it is the female who is narrating the story, Rothbart's side of things are explained well.
The characters were given sufficient backstories that helped me understand their motivations and personalities. I personally felt connected to Dietrich the most and sympathized with him. Though I was a bit annoyed with him at first, I understood where he was coming from.
The thing I liked about Ava was that despite her shortcomings, she didn't give up on her passion. She did need a push in the right direction, but she faced the challenges confidently.
I enjoyed the conversations between Ava and Dietrich. They were deep, beautiful, and at times, funny. One dialogue that stood out to me and got me very emotional was this,
“Men like me don’t get to be with women like you. We don’t get the princess and the happy ending. We get killed by the prince and become a cautionary tale for anyone who dares to reach beyond their lot in life, let alone dream of winning a love that defines eras.”
I didn't enjoy the romance aspect as much as I wanted to. It felt like one minute they were fighting and the next minute they were in love. But I understand that the author did the best she could considering that it was a novella. It is always challenging to build up the romance, especially in cases of enemies to lovers because the transition from one extreme sentiment to another requires time.
If I put aside that one minor negative point, I'd say this book was entertaining. The pace was good and the ending was satisfying. I recommend it to readers who enjoy retellings, villain stories, sorcery, and some romance.
The characters were given sufficient backstories that helped me understand their motivations and personalities. I personally felt connected to Dietrich the most and sympathized with him. Though I was a bit annoyed with him at first, I understood where he was coming from.
The thing I liked about Ava was that despite her shortcomings, she didn't give up on her passion. She did need a push in the right direction, but she faced the challenges confidently.
I enjoyed the conversations between Ava and Dietrich. They were deep, beautiful, and at times, funny. One dialogue that stood out to me and got me very emotional was this,
“Men like me don’t get to be with women like you. We don’t get the princess and the happy ending. We get killed by the prince and become a cautionary tale for anyone who dares to reach beyond their lot in life, let alone dream of winning a love that defines eras.”
I didn't enjoy the romance aspect as much as I wanted to. It felt like one minute they were fighting and the next minute they were in love. But I understand that the author did the best she could considering that it was a novella. It is always challenging to build up the romance, especially in cases of enemies to lovers because the transition from one extreme sentiment to another requires time.
If I put aside that one minor negative point, I'd say this book was entertaining. The pace was good and the ending was satisfying. I recommend it to readers who enjoy retellings, villain stories, sorcery, and some romance.
October 19, 2021
4/5 stars
I received an ARC of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
This unique re-telling of Swan Lake revolves around Princess Ava and her twin sister, Lina. On the night of Ava’s coronation, Lina has a sorcerer turn Ava into a swan and then kidnapped. Lina swaps places with Ava in order to take the throne. Meanwhile, Ava is trapped far from the castle by Dietrich Von Rothbart. Her many escape attempts fail, and she is forced to remain with the wicked sorcerer. Only he’s not as wicked as she may believe. Torn between her heart and her duty, Ava isn’t sure what’s worth saving: love, or her kingdom.
I really enjoyed this short fairytale re-telling! I felt like the author did an excellent job capturing the essence of the original story while still creating an entirely new world and cast of characters!
While this story is on the shorter side, I didn’t feel like the pacing was rushed at all. I loved how the characters grew throughout the story! Outside of the castle, Ava learns that she was wrong about a few things, and Dietrich has more layers to him than she originally thought. Most of their interactions were amusing, and I found their relationship adorable!
The world-building, including the magical aspects, was interesting! The romance might be a large part of this book, but I liked the actual plot as well.
The Sorcerer and The Swan Princess was a satisfying and wholesome read! I would recommend it to anyone looking for a fairytale re-telling with a clean romance! I will also be checking out the other books in this series and Lucy Tempest’s other books!
Content: some violence
I received an ARC of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
This unique re-telling of Swan Lake revolves around Princess Ava and her twin sister, Lina. On the night of Ava’s coronation, Lina has a sorcerer turn Ava into a swan and then kidnapped. Lina swaps places with Ava in order to take the throne. Meanwhile, Ava is trapped far from the castle by Dietrich Von Rothbart. Her many escape attempts fail, and she is forced to remain with the wicked sorcerer. Only he’s not as wicked as she may believe. Torn between her heart and her duty, Ava isn’t sure what’s worth saving: love, or her kingdom.
I really enjoyed this short fairytale re-telling! I felt like the author did an excellent job capturing the essence of the original story while still creating an entirely new world and cast of characters!
While this story is on the shorter side, I didn’t feel like the pacing was rushed at all. I loved how the characters grew throughout the story! Outside of the castle, Ava learns that she was wrong about a few things, and Dietrich has more layers to him than she originally thought. Most of their interactions were amusing, and I found their relationship adorable!
The world-building, including the magical aspects, was interesting! The romance might be a large part of this book, but I liked the actual plot as well.
The Sorcerer and The Swan Princess was a satisfying and wholesome read! I would recommend it to anyone looking for a fairytale re-telling with a clean romance! I will also be checking out the other books in this series and Lucy Tempest’s other books!
Content: some violence
February 22, 2023
Eep! Getting closer to the end! Only a few books left to go!
Admittedly, the Swan Princess is one of my favorite fairy tales. So, I was definitely curious about a Rothbart/Swan Princess pairing.
I've read a few works by Tempest before, and unfortunately she's not really my cup of tea. But there were elements of this story I liked. The twin sister was a cool idea and the twist on the tale that provided could have been really epic, I think. I do feel like the execution of the character was a little cardboard. From the first page, the twin was a brat, so there was really no surprise that she was behind it all. It had the potential to be a neat twist, but she just had no dynamic to her.
Honestly, the other characters really didn't feel that rounded out either. Ava started out the graceful, sweet, kind princess (or so we were told she was), but then she kind of turned into a brat too XD I mean, I 100% admired her effort to try to escape and absolutely understand from her perspective being upset with her captor. (In fact, I thought it was kind of odd she let him off so easy in the end and pretended like he was some hero.) But she didn't really exhibit any of the patience or cleverness I would have thought she had based on her opening scene and what we were told. She didn't really seem graceful or strong when she was throwing insults and tantrums with Rothbart. It just seemed like a strange juxtaposition to me.
And Rothbart spent half the book as a piece of eye candy for Ava. It was all clean and mellow, but I got a little sick of hearing about his russet locks and broad frame. Those electric blue eyes and spectacular eyebrows. Spectacular eyebrows?! It just jerked me out of the story. He was given a super sympathetic backstory that Ava, of course, refused to acknowledge until he tried to tell her a thousand times. And when she finally listened (and of course had the chance to cry into his broad chest), then she was so smitten with him that she didn't acknowledge the fault in what he'd done. Although, ironically, he did. It was like they flip flopped positions on the issue. Overall, I think I found him the more interesting character, though. I loved what he was trying to do and felt like his sympathetic backstory was actually pretty compelling. But what made it work for me was that he never denied the wrong he'd done. He admitted to being willing to do almost anything to meet his goal and he walked through a change in his character where he adjusted his non-negotiables, which I admired.
I also actually really liked that Ava was a dancer and I liked the way flight played into the story. The comparison of birds to dancing and the ballet references were fun. Rothbart's magic played a cool part in the story and was a neat nod to the original with a unique flair. The plot didn't necessarily draw me in and keep me engaged, but neither was it disinteresting or irksome necessarily. It just kind of was. I did like how she brought the threads together in the end and how the different characters came together and sorted out. The climactic confrontation was satisfying.
There's no swearing and some fantasy violence and a clean romance (nothing more than a kiss and definitely some ogling, though nothing inappropriate. Mostly just his hair and height and eyes). I'd probably give this to a 14/15 year old.
Admittedly, the Swan Princess is one of my favorite fairy tales. So, I was definitely curious about a Rothbart/Swan Princess pairing.
I've read a few works by Tempest before, and unfortunately she's not really my cup of tea. But there were elements of this story I liked. The twin sister was a cool idea and the twist on the tale that provided could have been really epic, I think. I do feel like the execution of the character was a little cardboard. From the first page, the twin was a brat, so there was really no surprise that she was behind it all. It had the potential to be a neat twist, but she just had no dynamic to her.
Honestly, the other characters really didn't feel that rounded out either. Ava started out the graceful, sweet, kind princess (or so we were told she was), but then she kind of turned into a brat too XD I mean, I 100% admired her effort to try to escape and absolutely understand from her perspective being upset with her captor. (In fact, I thought it was kind of odd she let him off so easy in the end and pretended like he was some hero.) But she didn't really exhibit any of the patience or cleverness I would have thought she had based on her opening scene and what we were told. She didn't really seem graceful or strong when she was throwing insults and tantrums with Rothbart. It just seemed like a strange juxtaposition to me.
And Rothbart spent half the book as a piece of eye candy for Ava. It was all clean and mellow, but I got a little sick of hearing about his russet locks and broad frame. Those electric blue eyes and spectacular eyebrows. Spectacular eyebrows?! It just jerked me out of the story. He was given a super sympathetic backstory that Ava, of course, refused to acknowledge until he tried to tell her a thousand times. And when she finally listened (and of course had the chance to cry into his broad chest), then she was so smitten with him that she didn't acknowledge the fault in what he'd done. Although, ironically, he did. It was like they flip flopped positions on the issue. Overall, I think I found him the more interesting character, though. I loved what he was trying to do and felt like his sympathetic backstory was actually pretty compelling. But what made it work for me was that he never denied the wrong he'd done. He admitted to being willing to do almost anything to meet his goal and he walked through a change in his character where he adjusted his non-negotiables, which I admired.
I also actually really liked that Ava was a dancer and I liked the way flight played into the story. The comparison of birds to dancing and the ballet references were fun. Rothbart's magic played a cool part in the story and was a neat nod to the original with a unique flair. The plot didn't necessarily draw me in and keep me engaged, but neither was it disinteresting or irksome necessarily. It just kind of was. I did like how she brought the threads together in the end and how the different characters came together and sorted out. The climactic confrontation was satisfying.
There's no swearing and some fantasy violence and a clean romance (nothing more than a kiss and definitely some ogling, though nothing inappropriate. Mostly just his hair and height and eyes). I'd probably give this to a 14/15 year old.
October 20, 2021
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for a free e-copy of this book. My review is my own opinion and completely unbiased.
First off: WOW! This book! I didn't know what to expect coming into this, as I like to not know much about the plot before I start reading. Because of this, I didn't realise that this was a Swan Lake retelling until I'd got into it. I've been looking for retellings of different stories for a while, as while I love Beauty and the Beast retellings, I've been wanting to mix it up a bit.
This book honestly has me speechless, and I don't know how to express how I feel about it. I read it all in one sitting when I really should have been studying, but it just hooked me. The romance was gorgeous, and the imagery that the writing evoked was amazing. I've got to be honest, this book is on the same level as the ACOTAR series for me, and I cannot wait to get my hands on the rest of Lucy's books. I also loved this book so much that I will be buying a physical copy so that I can reread it easily in the future. Would highly recommend this to all fantasy romance lovers, but be warned that it is a YA fantasy romance, so it doesn't have "spice" like some fantasy romances do (don't hold that against it though).
Just read this book, it's amazing!
First off: WOW! This book! I didn't know what to expect coming into this, as I like to not know much about the plot before I start reading. Because of this, I didn't realise that this was a Swan Lake retelling until I'd got into it. I've been looking for retellings of different stories for a while, as while I love Beauty and the Beast retellings, I've been wanting to mix it up a bit.
This book honestly has me speechless, and I don't know how to express how I feel about it. I read it all in one sitting when I really should have been studying, but it just hooked me. The romance was gorgeous, and the imagery that the writing evoked was amazing. I've got to be honest, this book is on the same level as the ACOTAR series for me, and I cannot wait to get my hands on the rest of Lucy's books. I also loved this book so much that I will be buying a physical copy so that I can reread it easily in the future. Would highly recommend this to all fantasy romance lovers, but be warned that it is a YA fantasy romance, so it doesn't have "spice" like some fantasy romances do (don't hold that against it though).
Just read this book, it's amazing!
January 4, 2022
Disclaimer: I received this ebook from netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to Netgalley and the author.
This was an incredibly quick read and I read it in one sitting. I think this was well written and I liked the way the story unfolded. I also liked the changes from the original story. Putting a spin on the villain was a nice touch. Villains are almost always my favorite characters. I like how the character’s motivations are slowly revealed throughout the story. Even though this is short, I do feel like the characters did have complete arcs.
With this being a short story, I feel like some things were brushed over and the plot felt rushed. I don’t feel like we really get to know the characters because the story is so short. I would have liked to see them as more fully formed characters. Sadly, I feel like this is always my dislike with short stories. I don’t want to fault it for that though. I wish that this had been a full length novel because I think it would have been even more amazing.
I would definitely read something else by this author. I will be picking up the rest of her retellings too. I’m excited to see what additional spins she adds to the original stories
This was an incredibly quick read and I read it in one sitting. I think this was well written and I liked the way the story unfolded. I also liked the changes from the original story. Putting a spin on the villain was a nice touch. Villains are almost always my favorite characters. I like how the character’s motivations are slowly revealed throughout the story. Even though this is short, I do feel like the characters did have complete arcs.
With this being a short story, I feel like some things were brushed over and the plot felt rushed. I don’t feel like we really get to know the characters because the story is so short. I would have liked to see them as more fully formed characters. Sadly, I feel like this is always my dislike with short stories. I don’t want to fault it for that though. I wish that this had been a full length novel because I think it would have been even more amazing.
I would definitely read something else by this author. I will be picking up the rest of her retellings too. I’m excited to see what additional spins she adds to the original stories
October 12, 2021
I have been lucky enough to get an advanced readers copy of this book, and as usual with her, I was really looking forward to what the author would come up with next.
In this book we follow a princess that gets taken away from the castle the same evening she has the ball and ceremony to confirm her as heir to her country's throne and we get to meet the sorcerer who abducted her on that night.
This book tells the story of a princess determined to get away from her captor and win back her stolen birthright. I love the character development in this book as she gets to know her captor and starts to understand a people that have been vilified. This book is a bit shorter than what the author usually writes, but it is long enough to be able to tell a wonderful story that will have you snuggled up in your favorite reading spot until suddenly there are no pages left.
Would I read it again? If I manage to get through my tbr-pile, most definitely.
Elle
In this book we follow a princess that gets taken away from the castle the same evening she has the ball and ceremony to confirm her as heir to her country's throne and we get to meet the sorcerer who abducted her on that night.
This book tells the story of a princess determined to get away from her captor and win back her stolen birthright. I love the character development in this book as she gets to know her captor and starts to understand a people that have been vilified. This book is a bit shorter than what the author usually writes, but it is long enough to be able to tell a wonderful story that will have you snuggled up in your favorite reading spot until suddenly there are no pages left.
Would I read it again? If I manage to get through my tbr-pile, most definitely.
Elle
October 19, 2021
OMG. I was always fascinated with the Swan Princess tale, but this was so much better!! Lucy has outdone herself with telling a beautiful story in a magical way that you will feel as if this was the first time you've ever heard of this fairytale. I would never have expected all of the twists we read in this, but am full of wonder at how things played out. I was definitely not prepared to fall in love with this as quickly as I did, but I am 100000% sure you will fall in love as much as I have with Ava and Rothbart!
October 13, 2021
Omg it was such a good read. After so many dnfed it felt like a balm to my soul. And I am so glad I could finally finish a book. So good really.
And not gonna lie I actually liked the twists of the original story. It was really well written just chef's kiss. I'll definitely check out more books from this author.
Thank Netgalley for the eArc of this book and I'm leaving the review voluntarily.
And not gonna lie I actually liked the twists of the original story. It was really well written just chef's kiss. I'll definitely check out more books from this author.
Thank Netgalley for the eArc of this book and I'm leaving the review voluntarily.
October 14, 2021
Fun story
I loved reading Ava’s story. This book presented a delightful and unique twist on the original story of Swan Lake. I also love how it takes place in the Folkshore where the other retellings I’ve read by this author take place. If you haven’t read those books, there aren’t any spoilers, so you’re safe to read this first.
I loved reading Ava’s story. This book presented a delightful and unique twist on the original story of Swan Lake. I also love how it takes place in the Folkshore where the other retellings I’ve read by this author take place. If you haven’t read those books, there aren’t any spoilers, so you’re safe to read this first.
October 14, 2021
I had to read this book out of principle for my love of Swan Princess. And boy, did it deliver.
I loved the author’s spin on this tale and the motivations for each character. Although it’s a novella, the book felt well-paced and hit all the swoon-worthy moments to a T.
I haven’t read anything by this author before, but I look forward to reading more from her in the future.
I loved the author’s spin on this tale and the motivations for each character. Although it’s a novella, the book felt well-paced and hit all the swoon-worthy moments to a T.
I haven’t read anything by this author before, but I look forward to reading more from her in the future.
December 15, 2021
This was such a sweet and entertaining story to read. I'll admit, I'm not familiar with the story of Swan Lake, but nonetheless loved this retelling. I think if I had to go and read the original story now, it would pale in comparison.
The typical stereotype of the evil sorcerer is pretty common in most fairy tales, and at the start, this seems to be no exception. But as Ava, and us readers, get to know him, we see hidden depths to him, and that he's not really evil. Morally gray, sure, but we are shown goodness in him. Its a really nice change that the real villain(s) of the story are punished, and that had to be my favourite scene of the book.
The typical stereotype of the evil sorcerer is pretty common in most fairy tales, and at the start, this seems to be no exception. But as Ava, and us readers, get to know him, we see hidden depths to him, and that he's not really evil. Morally gray, sure, but we are shown goodness in him. Its a really nice change that the real villain(s) of the story are punished, and that had to be my favourite scene of the book.
October 10, 2021
Thank you, NetGalley for the eArc in exchange for an honest review.
If you loved The Swan Princess movie as a child this is the book for you, Even if the Villain gets a redemption arc.
Ballet is not my forte but even I could appreciate this Swan Lake retelling. This was such a heartwarming tale that I won't hesitate to read more from this Author.
Ava is the crown princess who to me seems kind and soft. Especially when you consider how her twin sister is, evil and manipulative. I thought the dynamic between Ava and Detrich was something special and it wasn't quite what I was expecting, it was better.
My biggest complaint with this book is I wish it was longer. I was able to finish this in one sitting which is a rarity at the moment.
If you loved The Swan Princess movie as a child this is the book for you, Even if the Villain gets a redemption arc.
Ballet is not my forte but even I could appreciate this Swan Lake retelling. This was such a heartwarming tale that I won't hesitate to read more from this Author.
Ava is the crown princess who to me seems kind and soft. Especially when you consider how her twin sister is, evil and manipulative. I thought the dynamic between Ava and Detrich was something special and it wasn't quite what I was expecting, it was better.
My biggest complaint with this book is I wish it was longer. I was able to finish this in one sitting which is a rarity at the moment.
September 24, 2024
I've never seen the ballet, Swan Lake, but I've always loved the book retellings of Swan Lake/The Swan Princess. In this retelling, Lucy Tempest flips the story upside down when Lord Rothbart is not the villian he first appears to be. I really liked this book and loved how in homage to the ballet, our Swan Princess is a very talented ballet dancer.
- Sept 24, 2024
Once again, a brilliant book from Lucy Tempest! A lovely enemies to lovers plot that is full of the witty back and forth banter that I sooo love. My main problem with books is the ending, I always want more! With this book, in the end the villian(s) got what they deserved and was overall a satisfying ending. I don't know about you but whether or not the book ended well I will never get enough of just how well the characters grew and can't help but wish the book would never end!
- Oct 14, 2021
- Sept 24, 2024
Once again, a brilliant book from Lucy Tempest! A lovely enemies to lovers plot that is full of the witty back and forth banter that I sooo love. My main problem with books is the ending, I always want more! With this book, in the end the villian(s) got what they deserved and was overall a satisfying ending. I don't know about you but whether or not the book ended well I will never get enough of just how well the characters grew and can't help but wish the book would never end!
- Oct 14, 2021
December 14, 2022
All I want is more decent ballet retellings 😭
I love the premise for this, but the execution was so disappointing for me. The romance made no sense, the writing was clunky, the main character was frustrating and poorly written, and the plot was kind of silly at times. Honestly the only thing I genuinely enjoyed was the premise and ballet parts, AND getting to revisit that stellar Tale of Two Cities quote at the beginning of the book.
(AND THAT'S ANOTHER THING: YOU CAN'T QUOTE ONE OF THE MOST ROMANTIC LINES IN ALL OF LITERATURE AND THEN GIVE ME THIS PLATE OF SALTINE CRACKERS!!)
I love the premise for this, but the execution was so disappointing for me. The romance made no sense, the writing was clunky, the main character was frustrating and poorly written, and the plot was kind of silly at times. Honestly the only thing I genuinely enjoyed was the premise and ballet parts, AND getting to revisit that stellar Tale of Two Cities quote at the beginning of the book.
(AND THAT'S ANOTHER THING: YOU CAN'T QUOTE ONE OF THE MOST ROMANTIC LINES IN ALL OF LITERATURE AND THEN GIVE ME THIS PLATE OF SALTINE CRACKERS!!)
December 23, 2021
I have loved Lucy's other books, so I'm not surprised that I really enjoyed this book as well. It is a fun and quick, clean fairy tale read. The pacing is quite fast and it only took a couple of hours to read through. I really liked the characters and it was a fun spin on The Swan Princess. Not the greatest literary piece I have read, but entertaining and it provided a nice break. It can be read as a standalone and has a happy ending as well
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