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The Lost Princess of Story
For anyone who ever wished on a star, waited for their owl letter, or checked every single wardrobe at the IKEA, just in case...
Prince Charming grew up, became King, and married and murdered his way through six of the most famous fairy tale princesses. Since his death, the World of Story has been torn by civil war. Charming’s youngest daughter seized the throne, built the Wall, and closed the Doors.
A small group escaped just in time. The Community came together, a group of knights and princesses, heroes and magical creatures that put down temporary roots in New York City, the place in this World most hospitable to magic.
They thought they would be home soon.
It has been fifteen years since the Wall went up, and now the Doors are about to open. Now their children will discover Story, the World that knows your wildest wishes and your deepest hidden damage, where reward is limitless and danger beyond all that you can dream.
So—if you dare—turn the page. And welcome to Story.
The Chronicles of Story, Volume One: The Lost Princess is urban fantasy portal fiction with fairy tale twists. All ages book, about Brooklyn and magic with LGBT+ characters.
Prince Charming grew up, became King, and married and murdered his way through six of the most famous fairy tale princesses. Since his death, the World of Story has been torn by civil war. Charming’s youngest daughter seized the throne, built the Wall, and closed the Doors.
A small group escaped just in time. The Community came together, a group of knights and princesses, heroes and magical creatures that put down temporary roots in New York City, the place in this World most hospitable to magic.
They thought they would be home soon.
It has been fifteen years since the Wall went up, and now the Doors are about to open. Now their children will discover Story, the World that knows your wildest wishes and your deepest hidden damage, where reward is limitless and danger beyond all that you can dream.
So—if you dare—turn the page. And welcome to Story.
The Chronicles of Story, Volume One: The Lost Princess is urban fantasy portal fiction with fairy tale twists. All ages book, about Brooklyn and magic with LGBT+ characters.
- GenresFantasy
Kindle Edition
Published July 15, 2021
21 people are currently reading
787 people want to read
About the author
Suzanne de Planque
2 books65 followersSuzanne de Planque is a writer, actor, and stay-at-home mom. Theatrical credits include off-Broadway and other New York, regional, and tours; everything from Shakespeare to Sondheim.
She has sung on Broadway. The New Amsterdam, not the street. Though she has probably sung on the street, too.
A few highlights from her years in the theater include enacting what must be every Grimm fairytale in her years as the self-proclaimed Queen of Children’s Theater, playing cut-rate Disney princesses at birthday parties, inspiring a generation of high school students as the DON’T example in a series of job-seeking educational videos, and breaking her neck falling out of a giant teapot dressed as the Dormouse.
The latter resulted in a career change to playwriting and a healthy respect for teacups. Her plays have been commissioned and performed in New York and regionally.
She lives in a little White House in Brooklyn with her husband and son, an impressive array of costumes, swords, and Original Broadway Cast albums, and a world-class collection of children’s books. She is an avid collector of antique and vintage children’s literature, a devotee of War of the Roses and Tudor history, and a fan of literary tourism, in person and on Pinterest.
She has never passed a wardrobe without checking, just in case.
She has sung on Broadway. The New Amsterdam, not the street. Though she has probably sung on the street, too.
A few highlights from her years in the theater include enacting what must be every Grimm fairytale in her years as the self-proclaimed Queen of Children’s Theater, playing cut-rate Disney princesses at birthday parties, inspiring a generation of high school students as the DON’T example in a series of job-seeking educational videos, and breaking her neck falling out of a giant teapot dressed as the Dormouse.
The latter resulted in a career change to playwriting and a healthy respect for teacups. Her plays have been commissioned and performed in New York and regionally.
She lives in a little White House in Brooklyn with her husband and son, an impressive array of costumes, swords, and Original Broadway Cast albums, and a world-class collection of children’s books. She is an avid collector of antique and vintage children’s literature, a devotee of War of the Roses and Tudor history, and a fan of literary tourism, in person and on Pinterest.
She has never passed a wardrobe without checking, just in case.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
July 19, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was fascinating crossover; fairy tale characters and creatures exiled from The Magical Land of Story, (where the stories are real) to contemporary Brooklyn. They have been living there for several years and now their children are finding out about their homeland, and of course end up going back to it. It was witty, whimsical, and charming. It also, in spite of its overall humour, connected with some very real and human issues; refugees, chronic health problems and disability, mental health, adoption, LGBT issues, and the trials of early adolescence.
In the interests of full disclosure, I designed the book jacket for this book, but loved this book regardless, and would have loved it had I not worked on it all. Something I cannot say for every project I have worked on.
In the interests of full disclosure, I designed the book jacket for this book, but loved this book regardless, and would have loved it had I not worked on it all. Something I cannot say for every project I have worked on.
August 29, 2021
A magical tale! A wonderful antidote to the trying times we live in now.
January 16, 2022
The Lost Princess of Story is a captivating exploration of tales spun and woven through our lives and fairytales reflected in reality and fiction. It references enough classic and contemporary fiction, especially children’s stories, to keep a well-read reader happy, and it weaves in magic and mystery in every bite. It has a delightfully tongue-in-cheek tone with a narrator that emphasizes it at certain points of the story without overwhelming the narrative and allows the story to be told in many third-person perspectives.
At first it almost seems like a children’s story, a riff on fairytales for maybe the slightly older than kindergarten aged children. It very much is not.
That said, it does keep to many conventions of storytelling. The adults in the story get stories of depth and reflection. They have lived lives full of hurt and blood and politics. They have both suffered and seen wonders. Some of them have blessed, but some have witnessed tragedies younger than they should, and this is all reflected in politics and messy twofaced relationships where you have true friends, but you also have people you want to trust, and who you must depend on, but who you must also play a certain game with. The adults in the story are the heroes of the past fairytales, and they’re fairytales make those stories real.
The children have a more conventional story on the other hand. You hear they can die, but I was never really worried about them. Even when the adult and children’s stories mix at the end, it feels much less high stakes than when the adults were dealing with their own thing.
That said, this is the setup to what seems like a very involved series of books that I’m excited to see start. As such, there are a lot of characters, a lot of ideas, and a lot of questions left on the table. I can’t say I was satisfied with the ending, but then again, who can be when it’s only the beginning?
At first it almost seems like a children’s story, a riff on fairytales for maybe the slightly older than kindergarten aged children. It very much is not.
That said, it does keep to many conventions of storytelling. The adults in the story get stories of depth and reflection. They have lived lives full of hurt and blood and politics. They have both suffered and seen wonders. Some of them have blessed, but some have witnessed tragedies younger than they should, and this is all reflected in politics and messy twofaced relationships where you have true friends, but you also have people you want to trust, and who you must depend on, but who you must also play a certain game with. The adults in the story are the heroes of the past fairytales, and they’re fairytales make those stories real.
The children have a more conventional story on the other hand. You hear they can die, but I was never really worried about them. Even when the adult and children’s stories mix at the end, it feels much less high stakes than when the adults were dealing with their own thing.
That said, this is the setup to what seems like a very involved series of books that I’m excited to see start. As such, there are a lot of characters, a lot of ideas, and a lot of questions left on the table. I can’t say I was satisfied with the ending, but then again, who can be when it’s only the beginning?
July 19, 2021
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book from the LibraryThing Member Reviews program. No compensation was received other than the chance to read this book for an honest review.
I loved reading this book and having a nostalgic moment with all the book tie-ins that are placed throughout such as Narnia,Oz and even Dr. Seuss. The characters are all well written with all having their own loveable moments. From Lilla the Reader to Jamie the once knight now Therapist, to Sophie the Princess and Sass who desperately wants to be a Princess. If you love Jello keep an eye out for some interesting Jello facts and at the end some recipes for some of the foods mentioned throughout the book.
Story meets Brooklyn
It has been 15 years since the evacuation of Story from the Evil Queens reign. The Queen has put up the wall and closed the Doors to Story.
But for Lilla who has read all the books and knows nothing of Story believes there is a door waiting for her to find. No door goes unchecked, running into each hoping to find the magic or maybe just Narnia. Each attempt almost knocking herself out without finding what she was looking for.
But that is all about to change for her and her best friend Charlie when mysterious Men in Black and their hellhound chase them down the streets of New York and a cab takes them to Story. Their adventure in Story is short with the Princesses brother Tigg helping them escape along with a stowaway named Tickey-Ding.
Lilla wants nothing more than to get back to Story, to get back to the adventure and magic. She will get her chance dragging Charlie, Tickey-Ding and some how Luke the non- believer of magic with her.
To find out what else happens between Story and Brooklyn I suggest reading this book for you won't be disappointed. There really is something for everyone.
I loved reading this book and having a nostalgic moment with all the book tie-ins that are placed throughout such as Narnia,Oz and even Dr. Seuss. The characters are all well written with all having their own loveable moments. From Lilla the Reader to Jamie the once knight now Therapist, to Sophie the Princess and Sass who desperately wants to be a Princess. If you love Jello keep an eye out for some interesting Jello facts and at the end some recipes for some of the foods mentioned throughout the book.
Story meets Brooklyn
It has been 15 years since the evacuation of Story from the Evil Queens reign. The Queen has put up the wall and closed the Doors to Story.
But for Lilla who has read all the books and knows nothing of Story believes there is a door waiting for her to find. No door goes unchecked, running into each hoping to find the magic or maybe just Narnia. Each attempt almost knocking herself out without finding what she was looking for.
But that is all about to change for her and her best friend Charlie when mysterious Men in Black and their hellhound chase them down the streets of New York and a cab takes them to Story. Their adventure in Story is short with the Princesses brother Tigg helping them escape along with a stowaway named Tickey-Ding.
Lilla wants nothing more than to get back to Story, to get back to the adventure and magic. She will get her chance dragging Charlie, Tickey-Ding and some how Luke the non- believer of magic with her.
To find out what else happens between Story and Brooklyn I suggest reading this book for you won't be disappointed. There really is something for everyone.
August 3, 2021
A Big, Smashing Jump into Make Believe.
Having just returned from a rip roaring trip into Storyland, I must find my place in Reality, away from a lengthy cast of lovable characters that comforted me on my journey. First there is Illa the young girl who often questioned her beginning as well as the identity of her real parents, and why she lived with a guardian.
Then there is Charlie, and Sophie, and Luke. People who are special in illa's life. Add a minotaur, A baby dragon, A princess , and a knight, as well as a host of bad men who leap through magical doors from one kingdom to another, landing in Brooklyn, New York, seeking to capture and return escapees from Story.
We have all visited Story each time we opened a book and read to our children or to ourselves. Susan La Plaque is a gifted writer with an imagination that rivals the best storytellers in the land. He ability to hold true to an imaginary land without dumbing down to any age group is a talent that is rare and envied by all who whisper in the night of glass slippers and pumpkin coaches
I highly recommend this big , beautiful novel and suggest that any reader needing to lose reality for a while to the pleasant pages of fairy tales place this book high in your library list for a joyous ride into make believe.
Having just returned from a rip roaring trip into Storyland, I must find my place in Reality, away from a lengthy cast of lovable characters that comforted me on my journey. First there is Illa the young girl who often questioned her beginning as well as the identity of her real parents, and why she lived with a guardian.
Then there is Charlie, and Sophie, and Luke. People who are special in illa's life. Add a minotaur, A baby dragon, A princess , and a knight, as well as a host of bad men who leap through magical doors from one kingdom to another, landing in Brooklyn, New York, seeking to capture and return escapees from Story.
We have all visited Story each time we opened a book and read to our children or to ourselves. Susan La Plaque is a gifted writer with an imagination that rivals the best storytellers in the land. He ability to hold true to an imaginary land without dumbing down to any age group is a talent that is rare and envied by all who whisper in the night of glass slippers and pumpkin coaches
I highly recommend this big , beautiful novel and suggest that any reader needing to lose reality for a while to the pleasant pages of fairy tales place this book high in your library list for a joyous ride into make believe.
September 10, 2021
The Lost Princess of Story is a whimsical delight. I expected more of a children's "portal" story (as the author calls them) but the story alternates between seeming aimed at children's and addressing the deeper truths of how difficult it is to be an adult and how change comes on our life. I particularly found the depiction of Sophie as a mom with chronic illness really interesting, along with Jamie's desire to still connect to a world of magic and childhood even though that same world is still full of darkness (as all proper fairy tales are).
The writing is fun and humorous and takes good advantage of footnotes.
I think my only complaints is I would have liked a few more answers in this first book of the series, specifically on Lilla, Gus, and Elspeth and Merry. Who they are and how they became who they are.
Overall a very enjoyable story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book.
The writing is fun and humorous and takes good advantage of footnotes.
I think my only complaints is I would have liked a few more answers in this first book of the series, specifically on Lilla, Gus, and Elspeth and Merry. Who they are and how they became who they are.
Overall a very enjoyable story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book.
September 13, 2021
Great magical tale!
Young Lilla is under the guardianship of Gus. His strict rules are constantly questioned as are that of her background, but the answers are never forthcoming. Lilla loves stories so she looses herself in books... but how real are the hidden worlds she visits. She soon realises that not all fairytale lands are full of wishes and dreams, danger lurks.
The author clearly has a gifted imagination which is attributed to the creation of this beautifully written story of a magical world with a modern day twist. Dialogue that is intespersed with quips which captures the authors sense of humour. A book for all ages, its a must read. Thoroughly enjoyed x
Young Lilla is under the guardianship of Gus. His strict rules are constantly questioned as are that of her background, but the answers are never forthcoming. Lilla loves stories so she looses herself in books... but how real are the hidden worlds she visits. She soon realises that not all fairytale lands are full of wishes and dreams, danger lurks.
The author clearly has a gifted imagination which is attributed to the creation of this beautifully written story of a magical world with a modern day twist. Dialogue that is intespersed with quips which captures the authors sense of humour. A book for all ages, its a must read. Thoroughly enjoyed x
August 15, 2021
A magical fairy tale for adults.
This book would be perfect reading for an adult who is ready to lose himself in a long fairy tale story that, according to the author, just began at the end of the book. The writing is wonderful, the characters and their sometimes very complicated relationships with each other, are masterfully drawn. Dialogues are natural and often very funny. The mini-dragon character is delightful and highlights every chapter where he appears. I hope enough readers will find their way to this talented author.
This book would be perfect reading for an adult who is ready to lose himself in a long fairy tale story that, according to the author, just began at the end of the book. The writing is wonderful, the characters and their sometimes very complicated relationships with each other, are masterfully drawn. Dialogues are natural and often very funny. The mini-dragon character is delightful and highlights every chapter where he appears. I hope enough readers will find their way to this talented author.
September 26, 2021
'The Lost Princess of Story' by Suzanne de Planque, is a unique approach in which the reader is occasionally addressed directly, which can be quite endearing.
I love the idea of magic lurking at the edges of our world. This had the effect of making me look more closely around my own little corner of the world.
Doors and what might lie beyond have always resonated with me. Doors in this story hold intriguing secrets that are not always warm and welcoming.
The story overall however, has a universal appeal. A good read for sure.
I love the idea of magic lurking at the edges of our world. This had the effect of making me look more closely around my own little corner of the world.
Doors and what might lie beyond have always resonated with me. Doors in this story hold intriguing secrets that are not always warm and welcoming.
The story overall however, has a universal appeal. A good read for sure.
September 10, 2021
First I would like to state that I received this book through the Goodreads giveaway in exchange for an honest review. I would like to thank the author for giving me this opportunity and honor in being able to read this book. When I received this book I began reading it at once. I really enjoy the authors writing style, All the characters are very well portrayed though out. A most interesting read, I recommend this book
September 16, 2021
A Magical Journey
What a wonderful journey for the readers of this book! The author has crafted a story of make believe for all ages. What added to my enjoyment of this book was the quotes (appropriately cited) from well-known books, as well as the author occasionally speaking directly to the reader, as if knowing exactly what the reader was thinking. A great start to the series!
What a wonderful journey for the readers of this book! The author has crafted a story of make believe for all ages. What added to my enjoyment of this book was the quotes (appropriately cited) from well-known books, as well as the author occasionally speaking directly to the reader, as if knowing exactly what the reader was thinking. A great start to the series!
August 29, 2021
A beautifully written and engaging story .. complete with magical beings and characters who have found a special place in my heart and a journey you won’t ever forget .. we need magic and hope today, and The Lost Princess of Story delivers both!
July 20, 2021
An extraordinary blend of mystery, fairy tale, and the big question of 'what if?" The dialog is spot on--not distracting and believable. The plot literally flows
August 29, 2021
A wonderful antidote to the trying times we live in now!
July 16, 2021
Great read for all ages. A modern day fairy tale with adventure and magic but also representative of the real-world issues we face today.
October 22, 2021
Had a lot of fun reading this book. The author captures both reverence and playfulness with the fantasy genre that was unique and a joy to experience. For me it shined in how it blended magic into the edges of our world, all the hidden nooks of a city (New York City in this case) and the idea of discovering all the hidden stories and worlds beyond our daily routines. The book includes journeys into Story, a magical land of whimsy and looming danger. Glad I discovered this book, and I can't wait for another one by this author!
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews