Garden Princess

“An original fairy tale that will suit young romantics to a T.” — Kirkus Reviews

Princess Adela would rather be digging in her garden than listening to teatime gossip, so when she visits the mysterious Lady Hortensia’s garden, she knows immediately that something is wrong. Every flower is in bloom?—in October! Not only that, a talking magpie is flitting about stealing the guests’ jewels. Is it possible that Hortensia is a witch, and the magpie an enchanted prince? And what of the flowers? Will Adela get to the root of the mystery and nip trouble in the bud before it’s too late?Unvarnished storytelling, a solid back story and a strong cast of characters ground the tale...An original fairy tale that will suit young romantics to a T.
—Kirkus Reviews

What could have been just another fairy tale hints at a rich backstory and sweeps the reader into a bewitching adventure. The book is neatly paced, particularly in the latter half, when the chapters alternate between Edward and Adele. A solid choice for reluctant readers, this clever tale has an open ending that paves the way for a sequel.
—Booklist

Adela is a modern heroine masquerading as a fairy-tale princess. She rejects convention, takes charge of her own life, and prevails with both right and might over the forces of evil.
—VOYA

Middle-graders who have loved but outgrown Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” but who aren’t quite ready for similarly themed YA fare may find this an appealing read-alike.
—Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

Adela is a strong female character, and the plot propels readers forward through its intriguing and mysterious twists. Fairytale and mystery enthusiasts will surely want to add Kladstrup’s novel to their reading lists.
—Library Media Connection

A wonderful story full of magic, courage, and the power of change.
—Discovery Girls Magazine