by missh1  18 chapters  Last update:  February 28, 2019

Swallow is a poor little peasant girl, born in the Hun dynasty of China.  She very much looks up to her older brother, the man of the house, as they together try to look after their sick mother.  A turn of events leads to her replacing a young noble woman, and becomes a bride for a prince believed to be cursed. 

Further details in the story, besides revealing what a scared little girl she is living in a dangerous world, also reveals how brave she is, and how far she will go to protect and rescue the ones she loves.

At the moment Swallow is still a young little thing, and absolutely terrified of the attraction she feels to the prince, even as she sees he's just another human being that hurts like everyone else.  She also makes some friends along the way, even as she unintentionally makes some enemies.

Pros:  Very descriptive writing.  Beautiful imagery, especially once Swallow is inside the palace.

Cons:  Historical accuracy, so it might make some people uncomfortable with the age difference.

Why you should read this story:  It's a journey with Swallow from a little girl to her adulthood, and it feels much like watching a phoenix rise from the ashes.