According to legend, swans sing most beautifully before they die.
As shifter royalty and the next in line to lead my clan, I believed I was invincible. Until my mother disappeared without a trace and I learned my entire existence was a lie.
My fate was sealed when the last of my power was stolen by human men. From that day forward, I buried the life I’d been born into, along with any humanity I had left.
Until all that remained was pure animal rage.
When the past arrives with twin promises of winter’s death and spring’s renewal, I’m given the chance to reclaim the life I was destined for.
The question is—how badly do I want it?
Enough to be reborn from the ashes? Or should I allow my fate to sing its final swan song?
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You will want to read the complete Yaga's Riders trilogy (starting with Rise of the Witch) before reading this novella. The Yaga’s Riders is based on the folklore of Baba Yaga, with many often ridiculous creative liberties taken.
This series is meant for readers 18 and over.
IF YOU LOVE • A salty swan who takes no shiz • Fire + Ice with a certain pair of gods ( + enemies-to-lovers vibes) • Extra spicy spice with respectful MFF • Body positivity + va ju-ju love • Suspense + mystery • Folklore + witchy vibes • Cameos from a certain witch and her Riders, and a Rusalka & her human*
Then preorder this Yaga's Riders tale!
Full list of CW/TWs coming soon, but it's safe to assume the following will be included: • Sweary dialogue • Naughty, irreverent humor • EmoTIOnaL DAmaGe • Graphic, extra spicy sex • References to past SA • Healing from trauma • General weirdness and medium-dark elements
Please note: Margo + Konstantin from the Into the Woods monster romance anthology will be side characters, but NOT the sammich bread in this tale.
Stay connected by joining my Clubhouse of Smut on Patreon, my Little Sinners FB Group, subscribing to my newsletter, and lovingly st@lking me in all the places: https://c-rochelle.com/
C. Rochelle here! I’m a naughty but sweet, introverted, Aquarius weirdo who believes a sharp sense of humor is the sexiest trait, loves shaking my booty to Prince, and have never met a cheese I didn’t like. Oh, and I write spicy Paranormal/Sci-Fi/Monster Why Choose + MM, MFF & MMF romance with dark, naughty humor and a #loveislove mentality.
So I was late to the C. fan train, I came in around 12 Hunks and then decided to wait to read Yaga’s Riders until I could buy the audiobooks... Which means I had the advantage of that story, where Anthia and her loves are from, being fresh in my mind still — fresh enough that I could honestly still hear the phenomenal narrators’ voices/accents when I’m reading the dialogue in this story and I’m just gonna say that if you haven’t read The Yaga’s Riders books yet you need to to really enjoy this story anyway so take the time to listen to the audiobooks, you’ll thank me later. ;)
This is another review that’s really hard to write without giving anything away but I’m going to assume you all have at least the basic understanding from the blurb and advertising that this is an MFF story. When I say I was basically foaming at the mouth to get my hands on a copy of this the second C. confirmed that it was 1) being written and 2) would be MFF I don’t think that would be much of an exaggeration. I have been DYING for C. to write something with FF in it ever since I picked up her work and started following her on social media; her “Love is Love” philosophy is so refreshing and while most folks are okay applying that to MM in why choose situations and typically stop there, C. really put her money where her mouth is and did FF right too. I wanted more, I won’t lie to you guys, I would’ve loved both a longer (novel-length) story and more on-page FF romance, but as a queer woman finally seeing herself in one of C’s stories I really love the way she portrayed Rena & Thia’s relationship both “in the streets and in the sheets” as the kids say lol. (I also really hope that we see more FF in future work, but I know that’s not always how the muse works.)
My ecstatic feelings about the FF pairing aside, I loved the dynamic with Jarilo too and he was no less important than Rena. I think C. did a fantastic job making an almost abrasive personality (from the Yaga’s Riders especially) into a really loveable and relatable one with him and I enjoyed the trio’s dynamic more than I thought I would, especially after finding out what the twins dynamic is in Slavic legend/mythology lol. Once again C. proves to me that keeping an open mind pays off and that the whole “don’t yuck someone else's yum” (especially without trying it) applies to more than just food. We also get to see the OG main characters from Yaga’s which was really fun, especially since it was from an outside looking in perspective — we already knew how Anthia felt about the Riders from the end of book 3 but a lot of it really tickled my funny bone, especially from the new POVs. I can always count on lots of laughs, or at the very least “air blowing forcefully through the nose in amusement because you’re trying to be quiet”s from anything C. touches.
Overall I really enjoyed the plot and the direction C. went with tying up all the loose ends that were left from the main story arc in Yaga’s. I was really happy with what happened with Anthia’s personal journey and all the questions she got answered as well as how she heals the trauma she obtained in the other books. The relationships with Rena & Jar don’t magically fix her, they’re a complementary piece to the story in the way that good romances should be (not all-consuming and every-problem-solving). It felt incredibly realistic to me and I appreciate the time and effort that was obviously put into her character arc, especially the mental health aspects that other authors tend to gloss over.
This was absolutely a love letter to her fans, but also to women everywhere that have gone through something(s) horrible and picked themselves up and said “No, this isn’t how its always going to be, I’m going to put in the work” and then did the damn work. And I love her for it! ♥️
Has all the wicked humor and delicious k!nky spice you would expect, if you've read C. Rochelle before, which you definitely should have read The Yaga's Riders Trilogy as this novella is a continuation of a characters journey.
I loved Anthia's character from reading the Yaga’s Riders Trilogy and I'm so glad to read a resolution to her story. I love her healing journey and it is great to see more sides to Marena and Jarilo too.
There is also great bonus content included. "From the Depths" is Margo and Konstantin's story before they pop into "A Song of Saints and Swans" and "It's Just a Bunch of Va Ju-Ju Voodoo" is a high spice Halloween special featuring the main characters of Yaga’s Riders.
Favorite quotes:
"Nothing better than a partner who eats pussy like they’ll die without it."
"And you know it’s serious when the peanut gallery gets quiet."
Holy smokes!!! This book is steamy!! An MFF featuring Slavic gods and a swan shifter, yes please. Another fantastic book from C.Rochelle.
If you loved the Yaga Riders series then this book is Anthia (Vasi's best friend) love story. If you've not read Yaga Riders, i recommend you read it first as *spoilers*.
A Song of Saints and Swans is brilliantly written and once you start you won't be able to stop. So grab yourself a drink, a snack or two and settle into your favourite chair.
I’ve literally waited 51 weeks for this book. I first found these character in January of 2022. I’ve been OBSESSED with this world ever since. When the author announced she was writing a book for Anthia I got ridiculously excited.
ASoSS finally sees Anthia happy, cared about, and loved. She learns where she came from. AND they finish ridding the world of the few remaining Facility members. It ties up all of the loose ends that C left in AWOoT.
This book far surpassed all of my hopes. As sad as I am to officially say goodbye to these amazing characters, I finally feel whole thanks to this novella.
If you enjoy the combination of slavic mythology, friends to lovers, smug ass to lovers, a bit of taboo, family secrets and healing journeys, check this out. But first, you need to have read the Yaga’s Riders Trilogy, because we are going back to Russian woods to follow Baba Yaga’s bestie in her journey. Anthia is a swan shifter and she’s been through a lot. Now she’s healing, and strong women’s journeys towards their power is always something I’m willing to read. On this journey, she has the company of the twins Marena - goddess of winter - and Jarilo - god of spring. M. and A. are already friends and have a secret crush on each other, but Jarilo makes very clear from the beginning that he wants that swan (because his sister he already has 👀). But the swan can’t stand him, of course. Except she finds out that he has a huuuge…heart, and her opinion starts to change. She also finds out that Rena makes ice dildos, which is important. I love this throuple! Their relationship is cute and sexy and brings out the best in everyone. C. did edge me *a lot* with this book, to be honest, but seeing a god on his knees for two women was worth it. 🫠 But, I gotta say this, it’s pretty clear to me that C. is living her villain arc and working pretty hard to become Vatican’s enemy n. 1, and she has my full support. 🤣 I love Rise of the Witch and it was great to catch up with this family Vasi got for herself in the middle of the woods.
***If you haven’t read Yaga’s Riders trilogy then read those before this one
This novella is MFF. Multiple POV. Enemies-to-lovers and Friends-to-lovers. Swan shifter. Twin Gods. Bondage with VINES. Praise. HORNS. Icicle 🍆. Trauma recovery. What more do you even want?!
Anthia is recovering from recent trauma and transforms into her new feathers. I loved seeing her back to her badass self. She goes on her own journey with her beautiful twin gods and learns about her past. We find out she’s even more badass than we thought before and has magical blood. This was my first FF book. I never thought I’d be into it but of course I should’ve known C. Rochelle would be the one to open my eyes to a new world. Damn! It was hot. Icicle 🍆? Yes please. She had me feeling sad for a quick second and then laughing my ass off. Only her. C. Rochelle is hilarious and knows the exact about of humor and seriousness her books need. She didn’t disappoint with this novella I never knew I needed.
A Song of Saints and Swans is a spin-off novella of the Yaga's Riders series. This does contain spoilers, so I HIGHLY recommend that you start the Yaga's Riders series first. I am such a §lüţ for C. Rochelle's books. (Yes, I will wholeheartedly admit this) When I heard she was writing Anthia's story, I was over the moon excited. When I got this in my hands, I had to drop everything and read this. As always I was not disappointed. This was beautifully written. Anthia has been through terrible events and the fact C. Rochelle shows her grow and not gloss over the healing process. So wonderfully done. Not only that, but we have a bonus story, The Yaga’s Riders Halloween Special, that was a newsletter exclusive. I loooove this series so much and I'm glad we're able to revisit it!
I'm going to cry 😔😭... I really am 😵💫, because the Yaga series is finally over.. 😩
For anyone who's curious about this book PLEASE read the Yaga Riders series or this will make absolutely no sense whatsoever. I didn't expect it to be a novella but it didn't disappoint. 🥰🥰
Twins, Marena & Jarilo are used to focusing on themselves until a certain sassy and headstrong swan flaps her way into their hearts. ❤ It's their love story and it was so good. I miss them already.
I absolutely adore Jarilo because who doesn't? Dominant Marena had me clenching my thighs and of course Anthia is the same as always, strong and takes what she needs. 😂✨💗
I was hella shocked when Thia was stammering I said wow, who swapped out our girl Thia for someone else? 🤣🤣
Seeing Tan, Asa, Nox and Vasi in this book warmed my heart. I wish there was more smut but this was beautiful as expected of C.Rochelle. 🤝💕 THANKFULLY NO CLIFFHANGERS THIS TIME!
Anthia’s story was long awaited and worth every second! The emotional journey we watch our Swan experience as she overcomes the trauma she experienced at the hands of the Facility was riveting! Her acceptance of who she is and what she has went through was breathtaking. Add in two incredibly alluring and swoon worthy gods to create a novella worthy of rereading for years to come!
If you are looking for a heart wrenching, humorous, and spicy story this is absolutely the book for you!!
A Song of Saints And Swans by C Rochelle is an exciting and steamy Novella and part of The Yaga's Riders series. This is Anthia's story. After her traumatic time in the facility, she's been training and hanging out with the goddess Marena and her twin Jarilo. Jarilo's obsession has only grown, and he has claimed she will be his consort. As she gets to know him better, she sees another side to him, one she wouldn't mind getting to know better. While on the journey, they give in to desire, but there are secrets. Will they all learn to trust each other before it's too late?
Anthia's story is perfect. Speaking for Rochelle fans of the Yaga series, it was saddening to see the effect The Facility had on Anthia. A Song of Saints and Swans is a story of discovery, hope, and healing. Though Anthia is the main character, she is not the only one struggling. There are plenty of secrets in this story.
I rated A Song of Saints and Swans 5 out of 5 stars. I was excited to learn more about Anthia and the twin's Marena and Jarilo. There is much anticipation as we begin discovering the secrets they all hold. I enjoy hearing about the Slavic Gods and their beliefs. There is plenty of spice as we learn how the twins have a relationship often considered taboo. Things get hotter when Anthia expresses her desire for both of them. If you're a fan of poly romance, taboo relationships, and retellings of old tales then you will love A Song Of Saints and Swans.
Corrine always surprises me with her writing. While I have lovingly labeled her the Smut Queen lol her writing honestly has so much more depth than that. I noticed after reading 12 Hunks of Herculeia the themes of acceptance, healing, consent, and acceptance. It is nice to see those things in a book that you wouldn't think would have much depth. Honestly, if you are looking for spice and story her books should be on your list.
Thia's journey to healing after being captured by the facility is a tough one, but she has the help of two gods. Their patience with her warmed my heart. But also, this was my first FF book and I think Corrine unlocked a new kink for me lol. Rena is HOT. Don't get me wrong I love Jarillo lol but Rena stole the show for me. The spice was there in this book, but surprisingly there was less of it than in most of Corrine's books. I think it was two things. One, Thia was healing from trauma. Two, it was a novella so we didn't have the privilege of a longer book to have more spice scenes. Don't fret, they're still there lol just less than what I am used to.
You have to read the Yaga Riders series before this novella or you will be completely lost. My other suggestion is to reread the YR series because it has been a long time lol and I forgot A LOT of what happened.
A Song of Saints and Swans: A Yaga's Riders Tale by C. Rochelle is part of the Yaga’s Riders series and is absolutely to DIE for!!! Because hello?!? A spin off featuring our favorite swan shifter Anthia from Rochelle’s fabulous the Yaga Riders Trilogy? Yes please!!! So get ready and dive right into this jam packed emotional rollercoaster of a ride that Rochelle masterfully takes us on yet again.
This story features Anthia, a beautiful swan shifter, that has experienced enough trauma for a few lifetimes, and the twin gods that enter her life, changing everything. I absolutely loved how Rena and Jar were so protective and caring towards their girl, and how they always put her first, and showing her that she can finally have her own happily ever after.
Overall if you’re an enemies-to-lovers and friends-to-lovers fan that also happens to love books based on mythology that are full of hot delicious steam and a little MFF love, then this is the one for you! This is a tragically beautiful story full of pain, hope, finding one’s self, overcoming tragedy and finally healing and finding peace and was utterly beautiful! Just be sure to check your triggers before diving in.
FINALLY!!! Our beautiful, damaged little swan got her story and her HEA. I feel like I’ve waited a million years to get Anthia’s story. She intrigued me and broke my heart in the Yaga books and I needed more. Let me just say it was worth the wait and way more than what I expected.
Anthia, Marena, and Jarilo set out on a little adventure to find out who, or rather what Anthia is. There are secrets and twists and turns around every corner. The steam is 🔥 and man oh man I couldn’t get enough. Anthia is one of my favorite characters from the Yaga series and I don’t know if I’m sad or happy that her journey is complete.
This is definitely more of a FF with a tad bit of male juju in it, along with some triggers that some may be uncomfortable with such as past SA (not detailed at all ), mentions of possible twin on twin action ( come on they are gods 🤷🏽♀️ don’t be so humanish).
I was expecting a fun and spicy quickie. What I got was a fun and spicy cathartic experience that was over was too fast and has me begging for more- I won’t even brat too bad I swear. While I knew Anthia needed to heal, I expected it to be glossed over like most authors do. Instead her healing is shown in a (for me) non triggering way I wish I got to read years ago. It was absolutely beautifully done and relatable in the best way. Now, the fun part. I have been dying for some FF content from C. Rochelle and she did not disappoint. I loved the dynamic. It was so natural and believable, and oh steamy. We got snark, we got healing, we got to see our Witchy friend and her Riders, we got ice straps, we got vine bondage, we got a switch, we got a good begging boy, we got a domme goddess… what else could we ask for- except more.
You better buckle up buttercup! And also prepare yourself by reading the Yaga Riders before. This is Anthia's story and it DOES NOT disappoint.
A Song of Saints and Swans was the perfect novella (can i call it that?) to the Yaga Riders. I loved seeing Anthia and how she developed into this bad ass. I've been curious of Anthia since her introduction and her story was beautifully told. The characters each found a way into my heart and the banter that follows Anthia is addictive. Her story was so unique and I loved seeing 'Thia transform into her 'new skin'. This is also an FF romance so get ready to swoon to a new side. There is a little M but he's there for looks.
I am always a fan of the humor and banter that is engraved into each page and how the reader always has that one clown character that keeps the comedy rolling within the story.
I fell in love with Anthia and her snark, bravery, loyalty, and perseverance in the Yaga Riders Trilogy. I am so glad we got her story and to see her get her happily ever after. C. Rochelle gave me everything I wanted and didn’t know I needed. Anthia has been through so much and it’s answers she seeks. With her mates by her side, there isn’t anything she can’t get through. It’s not always easy and her mates can both be a handful when they want to be, but there is no denying the raw connection between them. Something so uniquely special to them. This story was beautiful and seeing Anthia finally have the peace and love she so rightly deserves warmed my heart. I truly loved every word!
**Please be warned that you should read the Yaga Riders Trilogy first to really get the full picture**
I was so excited to hear that Anthia was getting her own novella. I loved the Yaga’s Riders series so much and I couldn’t wait to jump back into their world! To read this, you need to read the Yaga’s as it’s a spinoff with crossovers. I was so excited to see my main men back in action. But I digress, the story isn’t about them it’s about Anthia, Jarilio, and Marena. Those two are sassy, hardheaded, fun, and sweet and the dynamics between them and Anthia are fire. As per a typical C. Rochelle book, you can expect a sweet and spicy tale with mythology, special peens 😘, and more. At the end of Vasi’s story, Anthia was in a really bad place and Marena and Jarilio are the perfect pair to help her find herself and her place in the world. I loved it and I hope you do too!
Back to the woods where it all started, but this time it is all about Anthia and her journey. It starts right where it ended with Vasi and her trio of men, but from a different POV than what we read. I loved how everything came together and it is nice to see how a variety of the characters overcome their problems. Jar and Rena are EVERYTHING you would expect from our duo and I have to admit I liked the dominant vibes Marena gave off and how everyone submitted to her. It was such a tale of female power with a side of ego male Jar brought to it. It was nicely written and this short little tale really was a fun read. I enjoyed some fun surprises and sandwiches this delivered. Come to mommy because I did not realize daddy vibes were out and this Dom Mommy was in!
OMFG!!! That was FREAKING HOT!!! I am not okay! My panties are not okay! My lady parts are ready to fall off and I think my B.O.B. just died!! What an intoxicating, thrilling and utterly titillating story that was.
I am obsessed with the Yaga Riders series, and Anthia’s story just adds so much more icing to that delicious and scrumptious cake. It was action packed, suspenseful, emotional, intense, hilarious at times, and so damn spicy! I absolutely loved every delectable second of it.
Brilliantly written story that had me riveted to my seat with my heart beating out of my chest and my ovaries exploding. This amazing author never disappointments me when I need to add some serious kinkiness to my day.
This was a lovely tale. Ultimately it’s a story of Anthia's journey towards healing, finding strength and happiness along the way. But let’s be real, can I call this book lovely when C. Rochelle knows how to write spice? Tender yet spicy is my new favourite trope.
This novella tied up a lot of loose ends from The Yaga’s Riders series and gave Anthia the ending she deserved. As well, it gave us glimpses of all the characters we fell in love with in that series.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novella. The writing style flowed smoothly, the plot was well-developed for a shorter read and the characters all had distinct captivating personalities. I highly recommend this read especially if you want more witchy-woo in your life.
I legit couldn’t be happier to revisit the Yaga-adjacent world in this book! I adored Anthia when reading the Yaga series and she absolutely deserved her own happy/k!nky ever after… especially after the horrific trauma she suffered. Not only are Jarilio and Marena fun, sweet, and snarky… They’re so perfect for Anthia.
As one should expect from the spectacular C Rochelle, there are plenty of lol, sweet, and spicy moments in this perfect novella. Plus fun cameos… (I <3 Nox forever) AND bc she’s f-ing amazing, there are two other short stories from this world included and I couldn’t be happier.
Bottom line? You need this! But be sure to check reading order for the Yaga world.
Let me just say, I inhaled this book! I finished it in 2 days it was so good! If you are looking for spoilers you wont find them here, cause I want you to jump into the C.Rochelle World blind!
What I will say is that Anthia’s story was one I loved. You want an angsty sharp shooter FMC thats is finding clues to who they are meant to be while enjoying the pleasures of the lust adventures they deserve...then you need to read this! You find out what the story is after the Facility.
I don't think you need to read the series, as this story is so good as it's self, BUT I highly highly suggest your read the Yaga Riders series because the characters will make more sense and you will love those as well!
The spice was *Chef's kiss* and the story was just so good!
I’m so happy that Anthia got her own book. I loved her little sassy swan self.
Anthia was captured and brutalized.
This novella is about her healing and finding her happy ending.
She’s been trying to cope with her trauma. Combat training, missions to help those trapped like she was, and a wolf of convenience. She manages until they show up again, the twin gods who she can’t help but gravitate towards.
Jarilo, the god of springtime, the one she loves to hate…until she doesn’t…
Marena, the goddess of winter, the one who’s friendship turns into more.
Jarilo is hiding something and Marena thinks she’s not wanted.
Even though Thia has her hands full with these two…they are exactly what she needs.
I loved this sweet and spicy novella!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I love pretty much all of C. Rochelle's books, including her EPIC Yaga's Riders series. With this installment, we see what's happening outside the riders and Vasi's POV and get a chance to follow some other characters we've met along the way for a magificent tie in.
This book still is very much a Riders tale, as we have the magical folklore center that C. Rochelle does so very well, this time with twin gods and a story of identity that is tightly woven in with some monstrsouly amazing creativity regarding the legends it borrows from.
It's full of action, steam, and tear-jerker moments that are the special sauce of a C.Rochelle book.
This is a continuation of C Rochelle's Baba Yaga series but follows a traumatized swan shifter and a set of twin gods several months after the series ended. I really liked the details, both there and implied, that followed the mythology of the twins. And let's be real, the implied is almost on page ;) It's both healing and spicy. Do I wish it was longer simply because I wanted more spicy times with these three? Yes. But I'm happy that we got what we got. The plot moves very fast. The speed of the relationship moves fast. My reading of this moved very fast. Definitely love reading this authors works.
A Song of Swans and Saints was a much anticipated read of mine, and it did not disappoint at all. I’ve been looking forward to Anthia’s story since I first met her in The Yagas Riders series. And it was so so good to see some old friends along the way.
Anthia’s story is one of healing and finding the people who love you no matter what, whether they be friends or lovers. Rena and Jar are so incredibly protective of ‘Thina, but they don’t smother her. They follow her lead and respect her choices, always.
I am a little sad that this story is over, but it was one hell of a ride.
So for starters Anthia is a bada$$ survivor and I love her! She was one of my favorites in the Yaga Riders and I was beyond thrilled for her to get her own story. No details/spoilers (so go read the Yaga Riders if you haven’t already) but she is an amazing character with amazing strength. Rena and Jarilo are also characters we saw previously so having the 3 of them together? Was perfection! Also can I just say HORNS 😱 it made me so excited!
I love love love this book, it’s perfect and Anthia is a survivor and I love her, so happy she got her HEA!
A Song of Saints and Swans, A novella spinoff from The Yaga's Riders by C Rochelle. C Rochelle is a master of smut with heart. This novella takes place after The Yaga's Riders trilogy, so read that first. It covers the aftermath of the trauma that Anthea and Jarilo experience in the original series. This novella opens with a broken, albeit surviving, Anthea and a defeated, hopeless god, and culminates with a strong Swan and... healthy, happy gods. A wonderful addition to a fantastic series. Five stars. #bookreview #2023 #pnr #FF #MFF #Slavicmythology #twins #babayaga
I was waiting for such a long time for this book and just inhaled it in an afternoon!!! But it was sooooooooooooooooooooooooooo good!! I have loved Anthia since the first book of Baba Yaga and was very eager for her to find love, specially after all she had to go thru in the facility and I loved how she was able to overcome all this and trust again!!! How C.R. managed to get us an amazing story while at the same time tying all loose ends from the Yaga story is awesome. This are books I will revisit again and again
If you read the Yaga series then you'll recognize the FMC Anthia. In that series, we had a lot of mystery and uncertainty around the swan. Well, this series will help us get our answers. Excellent world building, plot, character development. Marena the goddess of winter and Jarilo the god of spring or back too. So yes, we get some MFF action going on lol. Still dealing with facilities from Yaga and some of the corrupt people that ran it. Perfect amount of heat, perfect amount of adventure, perfect amount of twist turns in suspense.