Spellbound by Georgia Leighton is a captivating re-imagining of the classic fairy tale of Sleeping Beauty, set on a windswept island off the coast of the Kingdom of Bavaugh. This enchanting novel is perfect for fans of fantasy retellings, offering a fresh and intriguing take on a beloved story.
The plot revolves around a long-awaited royal heir who is born amidst ancient customs and a blessing ceremony that bestows magical gifts along with a terrible curse, However, this is not the love story you know. Instead of a prince saving the day, the narrative focuses on three women—the Queen, her chief Lady-in-Waiting, and Sel, a Master’s Apprentice—who concoct a desperate plan of misdirection that changes the course of all their lives.1.
Sel flees the castle with the cursed princess, promising to raise her in secrecy, while another child grows up in her place behind castle walls. This child, Talia, is plain and bookish, not the princess everyone was expecting. Meanwhile, Sel roams the depths of the kingdom with the beautiful and otherworldly Briar, as the end of the curse edges ever closer.
The characters in Spellbound are richly developed and relatable.
- Sel, the Master’s Apprentice, is a strong and determined woman who takes on the responsibility of raising the cursed princess in secrecy.
- Talia, the child who grows up in the castle, is bookish and plain, adding a unique twist to the traditional fairy tale princess
- Briar, the beautiful and otherworldly princess, brings an element of mystery and enchantment to the story
I found Leighton’s writing atmospheric and immersive, drawing me into a dark and magical world. The novel’s themes of identity, deception, and the struggle against dark magic are expertly woven into the narrative, making it a compelling read for fans of Gothic fantasy
If you enjoy fairy tale retellings with strong female protagonists, dark magic, and intricate plots, Spellbound is a must-read.
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