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Romance a Medieval Fairytale #19
Float: Enchanted Horse Retold
A brave knight. A lady beset by suitors. An enchanted horse that topples cities.
Once upon a time...
Disgraced knight Sir Godfrey would do anything to regain his honour. So when the famed Trojan Horse appears at court, Sir Godfrey volunteers to lead a crusade on the magical beast.
Lady Penelope is sick of life at a convent, waiting for her father to decide who she shall marry. So when a knight appears in the convent garden with a magic horse, she jumps at the chance to escape.
The enchanted horse may have ended one war, but with Penelope missing, it may be about to start another.
Can a knight and his lady stop history repeating?
Once upon a time...
Disgraced knight Sir Godfrey would do anything to regain his honour. So when the famed Trojan Horse appears at court, Sir Godfrey volunteers to lead a crusade on the magical beast.
Lady Penelope is sick of life at a convent, waiting for her father to decide who she shall marry. So when a knight appears in the convent garden with a magic horse, she jumps at the chance to escape.
The enchanted horse may have ended one war, but with Penelope missing, it may be about to start another.
Can a knight and his lady stop history repeating?
290 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 25, 2019
9 people are currently reading
302 people want to read
About the author
Demelza Carlton
175 books3,874 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author Demelza Carlton has always loved the ocean, but on her first snorkelling trip she found she was afraid of fish.
She has since swum with sea lions, sharks and sea cucumbers and stood on spray-drenched cliffs over a seething sea as a seven-metre cyclonic swell surged in, shattering a shipwreck below.
Sensationalist spin? No - Demelza tends to take a camera with her so she can capture and share the moment later; shipwrecks, sharks and all.
Demelza now lives in Perth, Western Australia, the shark attack capital of the world.
The Ocean's Gift series was her first foray into fiction, followed by the Nightmares trilogy. She swears the Mel Goes to Hell series ambushed her on a crowded train and wouldn't leave her alone.
She has since swum with sea lions, sharks and sea cucumbers and stood on spray-drenched cliffs over a seething sea as a seven-metre cyclonic swell surged in, shattering a shipwreck below.
Sensationalist spin? No - Demelza tends to take a camera with her so she can capture and share the moment later; shipwrecks, sharks and all.
Demelza now lives in Perth, Western Australia, the shark attack capital of the world.
The Ocean's Gift series was her first foray into fiction, followed by the Nightmares trilogy. She swears the Mel Goes to Hell series ambushed her on a crowded train and wouldn't leave her alone.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
April 3, 2020
I have never read the story about a magical wooden horse that can fly but can I say I really liked how the story turned out as a retelling.
We meet Sir Godfrey, a young knight who loves horses more than his sword and is on a justice mission to find those responsible of a crime. His journeys before he became a knight leads him into the lands and eyes of the beautiful Lady Penelope. The daughter of a powerful and respected merchant.
But now as a knight, he knows he cannot hope to have the beautiful woman, even though she wishes to escape her current life.
Both will be thrown into a world of tales and twists and even curses as they go on their adventures on a flying wooden horse. But will their adventures cause more problems then what they bargain for?
Join the story of these two lovebirds as they journey up in the clouds. Thoroughly enjoyed this Retelling and it was also nice to see so many characters from different stories also in this tale too.
Received a copy from the author herself, for an honest review, thank you!
We meet Sir Godfrey, a young knight who loves horses more than his sword and is on a justice mission to find those responsible of a crime. His journeys before he became a knight leads him into the lands and eyes of the beautiful Lady Penelope. The daughter of a powerful and respected merchant.
But now as a knight, he knows he cannot hope to have the beautiful woman, even though she wishes to escape her current life.
Both will be thrown into a world of tales and twists and even curses as they go on their adventures on a flying wooden horse. But will their adventures cause more problems then what they bargain for?
Join the story of these two lovebirds as they journey up in the clouds. Thoroughly enjoyed this Retelling and it was also nice to see so many characters from different stories also in this tale too.
Received a copy from the author herself, for an honest review, thank you!
Want to read
June 11, 2023Series Character and Story Connections for Float: Enchanted Horse Retold
Melisende's tale is Steal: Forty Thieves Retold (Book #20)
The five queens are that Dalia refers to when she's predicting Penelope's future, they're:
Margareta in Silence: Little Mermaid Retold (Book #05)
Melitta in Embellish: Brave Little Tailor Retold (Book #07)
Rosamond in Awaken: Sleeping Beauty Retold (Book #06)
Sativa in Appease: Princess and the Pea Retold (Book #08)
Portia in Blow: Three Little Pigs Retold (Book #09)
The tale of Godfrey and Penelope's daughter, Melitta, is in Embellish: Brave Little Tailor Retold (Book #07)
Zoticus's storyis in Call: Pied Piper Retold (Book #21)
Melisende's tale is Steal: Forty Thieves Retold (Book #20)
The five queens are that Dalia refers to when she's predicting Penelope's future, they're:
Margareta in Silence: Little Mermaid Retold (Book #05)
Melitta in Embellish: Brave Little Tailor Retold (Book #07)
Rosamond in Awaken: Sleeping Beauty Retold (Book #06)
Sativa in Appease: Princess and the Pea Retold (Book #08)
Portia in Blow: Three Little Pigs Retold (Book #09)
The tale of Godfrey and Penelope's daughter, Melitta, is in Embellish: Brave Little Tailor Retold (Book #07)
Zoticus's storyis in Call: Pied Piper Retold (Book #21)
June 26, 2019
A brave knight. A lady beset by suitors. An enchanted horse that topples cities.
Disgraced knight Sir Godfrey would do anything to regain his honour. So when the famed Trojan Horse appears at court, Sir Godfrey volunteers to lead a crusade on the magical beast.
Lady Penelope is sick of life at a convent, waiting for her father to decide who she shall marry. So when a knight appears in the convent garden with a magic horse, she jumps at the chance to escape.
The enchanted horse may have ended one war, but with Penelope missing, it may be about to start another.
Can a knight and his lady stop history repeating?
I love these fairy tale retelling stories.
This one had some romance and I adored the characters.
We have some action and adventure rolled in with the story.
I love the under lying message of hope and persevereance it has.
Such a wonderful read.
Highly Recommend Reading!!
I read a complimentary advance copy of the story; this is my voluntary and honest review.
Disgraced knight Sir Godfrey would do anything to regain his honour. So when the famed Trojan Horse appears at court, Sir Godfrey volunteers to lead a crusade on the magical beast.
Lady Penelope is sick of life at a convent, waiting for her father to decide who she shall marry. So when a knight appears in the convent garden with a magic horse, she jumps at the chance to escape.
The enchanted horse may have ended one war, but with Penelope missing, it may be about to start another.
Can a knight and his lady stop history repeating?
I love these fairy tale retelling stories.
This one had some romance and I adored the characters.
We have some action and adventure rolled in with the story.
I love the under lying message of hope and persevereance it has.
Such a wonderful read.
Highly Recommend Reading!!
I read a complimentary advance copy of the story; this is my voluntary and honest review.
June 28, 2019
Demelza Carlton's Romance a Medieval Fairytale series is wonderfully imaginative. At this point (it’s at Book 19 now) she’s pretty much used up the well-known tales but somehow finds new sources to twist into wonderful retellings. So now that 19th tale, Float: Enchanted Horse Retold, mines The Enchanted Horse story from the famed “The Thousand and One Nights” to give us a wonderful set of leads in Penelope and Godfrey who learn the sane bottom line lesson: how love, rather than greed, leads to prosperity. Perfectly told this is pure fun. But for the fact that I’m literally dictating this review to my husband from my hospital bed I could go on and on with praises. The book definitely deserves it. Since I can’t do that I will simply note that the book is most definitely one to read, and it is easy to highly recommend. I’m definitely looking forward to the next book in this series.
June 28, 2019
Shaken by the horrors around him Godfrey sailed in a mission of vengeance and make things right. But the world was plagued of difficult decisions and evil so good intentions were not enough and when he had a chance to get what his heart wanted he took a stand. Lady Penelope was ready to take a chance with fortune and with her gifts she was more than eager to take matters in her hands. With enemies close behind Godfrey and Penelope were facing great challenges, danger and violence. Liked their interesting characters, the suspense, the magic and their passion. Some scenes were intense and made me think of the world injustice and lack of honor. Like the creativity of the author that made me want to read more stories. An interesting book that I liked and left me intrigued with some of the secondary characters.
June 28, 2019
A Rialtan princess, a horse trader's son, a flying horse and the threat of a three way war feature in this charming medieval tale that merges bits of the Trojan horse and the Emperor's New Clothes with tales of the great Crusades and the Venetian Republic.
Demelza Carlton,s fairy tales aren't rainbows and unicorns. They're peopled with people who are petty and selfish and brutal, but underneath the ugliness, I love the way she manages to find happiness and romance and true love for her heroes and to make it all plausible and right.
Godfrey and Penelope's love endures years of separation and hardships, but in the end, that elusive HEA is the kind of feel good moment that affirms your faith in the fairy tale genre.
Yet another great read from the mistress of fairy tale literature.
Demelza Carlton,s fairy tales aren't rainbows and unicorns. They're peopled with people who are petty and selfish and brutal, but underneath the ugliness, I love the way she manages to find happiness and romance and true love for her heroes and to make it all plausible and right.
Godfrey and Penelope's love endures years of separation and hardships, but in the end, that elusive HEA is the kind of feel good moment that affirms your faith in the fairy tale genre.
Yet another great read from the mistress of fairy tale literature.
June 24, 2019
I do love these short, yet quirky retelling by Demelza Carlton, and Float: Enchanted Horse Retold is no exception. I always find it amazing how much detail the author can fit into one short story when it comes to describing the characters and the places they visit. I really can't wait to read more from the Romance a Medieval Fairytale collection.
If you enjoy retellings of fairytales, with a side of romance then I'd definitely give this collection a go. I would say you can read each story as a stand-alone, but just bear in mind that some characters from previous and even upcoming stories do sometimes get mentioned.
If you enjoy retellings of fairytales, with a side of romance then I'd definitely give this collection a go. I would say you can read each story as a stand-alone, but just bear in mind that some characters from previous and even upcoming stories do sometimes get mentioned.
June 27, 2019
It was interesting to read about a lesser known fairytale I’m not familiar with. I felt that the first half of the novel was choppy, and it took me a while to get into the story, but the second half flowed well. As always, the heroine was strong and intelligent. Penelope’s gift added a rich dimension to the story. Godfrey was an exceptional hero, and I loved that he was so humble. I wish we had seen more of some of the side characters, especially Zoticus—he was very intriguing. Overall, I enjoyed this retelling of The Enchanted Horse and would recommend it to those who like fairytale retellings and romance. As a caution, there was an intimate scene and some violence.
June 28, 2019
Very entertaining tale about a how a man with nothing ends up with more than he ever dreamed possible. Godfrey is the youngest son of a horse trainer/trader who figures he has nothing to offer a bride and thus he will remain unmarried. Penelope is the daughter of the Duke of Rialto. She is resigned to ending up in a marriage that will strengthen the ties between Rialto and another land. Find out how a Crusade, a magician, and a flying wooden horse change the futures of both of these characters. The story is one of sweet romance, Crusading armies, selfish men, and magic.
I was given an advanced copy of this book by the author. My review is voluntary.
I was given an advanced copy of this book by the author. My review is voluntary.
June 29, 2019
Overall rating: 3.9
Although not graphic, there are references to violence against women contained in this book. Sexually suggestive content is also woven into the storyline so this fairytale reimagined is not for anyone easily triggered and meant for adult readers. With that said, this tale did not grab my attention as heartily as I am used to but the author took great care to develop the tale. My curiosity always gets the best of me with these retelling of classics for I enjoy the creative license each author takes. This is still a well written and creative tale easily read in a lazy afternoon. All my reviews are always voluntarily written.
Although not graphic, there are references to violence against women contained in this book. Sexually suggestive content is also woven into the storyline so this fairytale reimagined is not for anyone easily triggered and meant for adult readers. With that said, this tale did not grab my attention as heartily as I am used to but the author took great care to develop the tale. My curiosity always gets the best of me with these retelling of classics for I enjoy the creative license each author takes. This is still a well written and creative tale easily read in a lazy afternoon. All my reviews are always voluntarily written.
June 25, 2019
Not really a fairytale that I remember, though there are shades of The Emperor's New Clothes, but it's packed with action adventure as Crusaders maraud and young Venetian noblewoman Lady Penelope grows uneasy over her fate. In a sea of possible suitors or ravishers, Sir Godfrey seems the only decent candidate despite his lack of power or high title. Forget the flying carpet; this gal snags a better ride! Not my favorite of the author's revamped fairytales, but an entertaining read.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the story; this is my voluntary and honest review.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the story; this is my voluntary and honest review.
June 28, 2019
This was a super enjoyable, well-written story. Lady Penelope's father has taken her to live in a convent for safety until he arranges a marriage for her. Sir Godfrey will do anything to regain his honor. He trains horses at his family's estate, and when he comes across a magic horse, he volunteers to lead a crusade with it. Penelope and Godfrey cross paths more than once, and then join together to regain Godfrey's honor and prevent war. This was another great story in the Medieval Fairytale series. I would recommend it to others and look forward to reading more books by this author.
June 28, 2019
So much is happening in this book. Sir Godfrey is on a mission to get the men who killed his sister but before that can happen life takes a turn in the shape of a magical wooden horse, an evil magician and Lady Penelope, who he fell in love with three years ago. I loved the twist and turns, also I liked Lady Penelope’s magical power. Godfrey and Penelope will go on an adventure that will bring together kingdoms. You will also meet two new characters who will star in their own books and one will surprise you. Would recommend this book to all.
July 17, 2019
This is an enjoyable book based on a story with which I am completely unfamiliar (unless it's based on the Trojan horse). Not that it matters. When Demelza Carlton retells a fairytale, it seldom resembles the original.
As usual, this author paints a picture of an imaginary land that is easy to visualize. Characters come to life, becoming real and relatable. And as always, the characters in this story are connected to ones in her other stories. This one didn't pack the emotional punch that some of her others do, but I recommend it nonetheless.
As usual, this author paints a picture of an imaginary land that is easy to visualize. Characters come to life, becoming real and relatable. And as always, the characters in this story are connected to ones in her other stories. This one didn't pack the emotional punch that some of her others do, but I recommend it nonetheless.
June 25, 2019
I love these fairy tale retellings. Demelza Carlton always manages to somehow pull off a unique version of each fairy tale while still keeping all the important and memorable parts of the original. And the stories interconnect. I'm not familiar with this particular fairy tale, but the story and the romance were amazing and I've read enough of these stories to trust that the important details from the original must be in here.
June 30, 2019
This retelling of The Enchanted Horse (which also had a brief section like the Emperor's New Clothes) was an intriguing read, full of action and adventure, drama and some laughter, a twist of romance and a sprinkling of magic. I really enjoyed it, and highly recommend it to all adult lovers of fairytales. Can't wait for the next book's release!
NB I received a complimentary copy of this book, but I always give an HONEST review based wholly on my own opinions
NB I received a complimentary copy of this book, but I always give an HONEST review based wholly on my own opinions
October 14, 2020
Godfrey was just trying to get a load of horses off a ship. Using a gondola to get there seemed totally obvious, but then life interfered. The ship was late, he met a magic horse and a beautiful daughter of a duke. He was able to save her, didn't have to go on the crusade with some questionable characters. Shortly they marry and break the news to dear old dad.
It all leads to a peace treaty and peace for all.
It all leads to a peace treaty and peace for all.
June 25, 2019
This tale has a rather slow start. But, overall, it is a wild roller-coaster ride of emotions. Their are many brutish nobles. And a few noble nobles. Godfrey and Penelope struggle through nearly the entire, wonderful story. Well worth reading.
I received a copy of this book as a gift. This is my honest review.
Entertaining. Happily Ever After. Romantic. Wonderful characters.
I received a copy of this book as a gift. This is my honest review.
Entertaining. Happily Ever After. Romantic. Wonderful characters.
July 7, 2019
I had never heard of this fairytale so I initially read Demelza Carlton's translated version of the original which was also excellent. I really enjoyed the story of Penelope who was always waiting for her future to be decided and Godfrey the young man desperately trying to be a great Knight. A beautiful story if, as always, a bit brutal in places!
August 16, 2019
This story is different from all other stories written by Ms. Carlton. I needed a longer time to connect dots and start liking characters or at least understands them.
The story was good and the characters played well, but I think I lacked something in the background of the story.
I have high hope for the next story in this series!
The story was good and the characters played well, but I think I lacked something in the background of the story.
I have high hope for the next story in this series!
June 22, 2020
I loved Australian author Demelza Carlton’s book Float (25 of 52), which was inspired by the Enchanted Horse faery tale. Set in Venice, it’s full of love and war, magic and mystery, and a kick ass MC I was cheering on the whole way... Totally enchanting. I’ve read a few of Demelza’s faery tale reimaginings now, and have loved them all. I’m looking forward to reading more...
June 26, 2019
I really enjoy these Fairytale retellings. The stories are familiar but totally new at the same time. This one has romance and adventure and a hero who is totally honourable. Godfrey and Penelope are a great couple and this series is truely enjoyable.
June 27, 2019
Though not familiar with this fairytale I enjoyed this retelling. Penelope and Godfrey prove that with perseverance and love you can conquer anything. The story is filled with emotional strife throughout and lots of adventure.
I received an ARC copy and this is an honest review.
I received an ARC copy and this is an honest review.
June 28, 2019
LOVED IT!!! Twists and turns, magic and romance, battles and mysteries, this is a wonderful taleto enjoy as the medieval world depicted unfolds. Competently written, a delight to read, this wonderful taledeserves all the sars anyone can give it.
January 15, 2020
This is a good story. The characters are interesting, the plot is not the same old stereotypical fantasy. There's no sword play, no magical duels, yet there's plenty of excitement, some romance. Like I said, it's a good story.
July 4, 2020
Not as suspenseful
This was good but not as good as most of the other stories. I haven’t read the fairytale this was based on though. It didn’t have as much suspense as others. I still enjoyed it, however.
This was good but not as good as most of the other stories. I haven’t read the fairytale this was based on though. It didn’t have as much suspense as others. I still enjoyed it, however.
June 30, 2019
I love her stories, this one has a touch of the Trojan Horse and the emperors new clothes wrapped into a love story.
August 26, 2019
I received this book and chose to review this book. The Horse is obvious to all of this story but you may not see him. This is a lovely romance.
November 8, 2019
Yet another spectacular retelling by Ms. Carlton. I loved the characters and the twists in the plot. I cannot get enough of these retellings.
November 20, 2019
Great story
I love this series. I've always loved fairytales, so to read about them in this series is great. Looking forward to the next one
I love this series. I've always loved fairytales, so to read about them in this series is great. Looking forward to the next one
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews