Swan Lake: Quest for the Kingdoms

Once upon a time, in a faraway land, there were four kingdoms: Bloom, Rotbart, Montrose, and Sydney, but after the Great Quake destroyed Sydney Castle, three kingdoms remained. Not surprisingly, they are at war. Two princesses, who should be sworn enemies, are their only hope
of survival.

Princess Odette of Bloom has a big secret; she is cursed. Every morning she turns into a swan, and, by night, she turns into a human. Her family is so afraid of her curse that they lock her up in the castle during the day so no one will know her burden. She is lonely and confused and just wants to break free.

Princess Odile (Dillie) of Rotbart knows a thing or two about being different. Due to her prosthetic leg, Dillie often has to deal with misperceptions about what she can and cannot do. Like Odette, she yearns for adventure and wants to break free from the constraints of her royal life. Not surprisingly, the two spark a true friendship after Dillie stumbles upon Odette transforming into her human self one night.

But their friendship is put to the test very quickly when Odette learns that it was the Rotbarts who cursed her. Confused and upset, Dillie wants to prove that it was not her family who did this to Odette and wants to reverse the curse that has ruined her best friend’s life. Her proposal? To go on an epic quest and avenge her family’s honour.

So, Odette and Dillie go on the adventure of a lifetime to find a compass and three magic keys that will lead them to a WishMage who can grant them a wish and reverse the curse. Along the way, they befriend Prince Siegfried (Fred) of Montrose and his talking bear who prove to
be valuable allies against all manner of monsters, goblins, and sea serpents.

A rollicking adventure story, Swan Lake: Quest for the Kingdoms is Rey Terciero’s newest foray in the graphic novel world. Not only is it a fun retelling of Swan Lake, but it gives the story a much-needed reboot. Dillie and Odette are modern princesses. They are strong, fearless, and can save the day all on their own. Young children will fall in love with their fearlessness and bravery, but, most importantly, their willingness to stand up for what is right. Plus, Megan Kearney’s artwork is just stunning. The way she juxtaposes the soft palette of the Bloom Kingdom with the dark edginess of the Rotbart Kingdom makes readers feel like they are truly immersed in this magical fairytale. A great read for fans of the original story, with a little twist.