The Secret Princess: A Retelling of The Goose Girl (Return to the Four Kingdoms Book 1)

A royal delegation is sent to the Four Kingdoms - but everything goes horribly wrong. Four girls have a part to play in fighting an approaching darkness. This is Giselle's story.Giselle was a supporting character in 'A Crown of Snow and Ice', and it was good to see her come into her own in 'The Secret Princess'. She is resourceful and resilient - if more than a little self-deprecating - and well aware of her responsibilities as a princess. She has a thirst to prove herself, and she does exactly that.Some of the characters from books in 'The Four Kingdoms' and 'Beyond The Four Kingdoms' make an appearance - and it's obvious that some of the issues they faced haven't gone away. Arvin, Giselle's talking horse, was certainly an intriguing character and it's hinted that this isn't the last we'll see of him.I deeply enjoyed 'The Secret Princess', and I'm eagerly anticipating 'The Mystery Princess'!

I’m always somewhat cautious when an author returns to the same universe, especially for a third time. But I needn’t have been: Melanie Cellier continues to write stories that you can fall into. Even though you know the basic story, and you know that there’s going to be a happily ever after, it’s not tired and doesn’t feel old.It’s not a challenging read, and it’s not written to be. If you’re after something that requires the effort and concentration of Tolkien then, well, read Tolkien. This is one of those books (and universes in general) that leaves you feeling like you’re wrapped in a comfy blanket. And that’s something, I think, most people are in great need of these days.