Olga is an orphan and a thief, relying on trickery and sleight of hand to make her way in the world. But it’s magic, not thievery, that could get her into trouble. When Olga and her partner-in-crime Pavel learn of a valuable jewel kept in a secluded castle, Olga sees an opportunity to change their lives: a prize so big, they’d never have to steal again. But the castle is not as it seems, ruled by an enchanter who hosts grand balls every night, only for the guests to disappear each morning, replaced by swans.
Guided by cryptic clues from the palace spiders, Olga soon realizes she’s in over her head — torn between a bargain with the enchanter, loyalty to Pavel, and determination to understand how the enchanted swans are linked to her own fate. One thing is certain: there is dark magic behind the castle’s mysteries, and Olga will stop at nothing to unmask it. This is a magical retelling of Swan Lake, featuring a clever orphan, a castle filled with enchanted swans, and a quest to unearth the secrets of the past.
"Olga and Pavel find themselves in the lavish Sokolov Palace, complete with a swan-filled aviary and extravagant balls hosted by the enigmatic Baron Sokolov. Of course, it’s all too good to be true, and Olga soon must try to unlock a 'distorted, infected' magic, unaware that her own fate is inextricably linked to it. Segments of the story are cleverly previewed by an omniscient spider storyteller who addresses readers and asks them thoughtful questions.... Engaging illustrations, reminiscent of woodcut prints, add interest and context as the tale unfolds." — Kirkus Reviews
Recommended Age | 9 - 12 |
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Author | Karah Sutton |
Illustrator | Pauliina Hannuniemi |
ISBN | 0593121708 |
Publication Date | Oct 24, 2023 |
Publisher | Knopf Books for Young Readers |
Language | English |