In this subversion of the Sleeping Beauty myth, Toadling is a changeling fairy stolen from her human family and raised in the fae realm. Centuries ago, she was tasked with protecting a princess by trapping her within a wall of magical thorns. However, Toadling’s mission is not to hide a treasure, but to contain a malevolent force. When Halim, a kind-hearted knight, arrives to break the curse, Toadling must decide whether to maintain her lonely vigil or trust a stranger with the truth about the monster sleeping in the tower.
Readers who enjoy folklore retellings centered on unconventional protagonists will find a story about the weight of long-term responsibility. It appeals to those who prefer pragmatic characters over traditional heroic archetypes. The narrative provides a perspective on how kindness operates in harsh circumstances and how cycles of abuse can be broken through individual choice. A reader finishes the book with a focus on the moral complexity of doing what is right versus what is expected, alongside a grounded portrayal of sacrifice.
- Published
- 2023
- Language
- EN
