The Princess Imposter

Gr 3–6—Princess Gabriella of Fairhaven's life is turned upside down when one morning she wakes up surrounded by ill-mannered fairy children instead of in her bed at the palace. One of the fairy children, Parf (a name meant to combine pee and barf), explains that the fairy children were bored, so Gabriella is now a changeling for Parf's sister Phleg (short for Renphlegena) for the next three days. Gabriella struggles with some of Phleg's chores such as laundry and cooking, while Phleg inadvertently creates conflict with the parents of Prince Frederic of Ostermark, Gabriella's betrothed. Eventually, the two find their place in the other's world: Gabriella uses her diplomacy to help Parf's father Benlos resolve a conflict with another fairy, and Phleg uses the skills she learned helping animals to tend to Frederic when he injures his leg. The story alternates between Gabriella and Phleg's points of view as both protagonists find their happily ever after with a twist. In addition to a dash of magic, Velde's story is full of humor, whether it's oriented in bodily functions or Parf's tendency to misunderstand situations. Frederic and Benlos share an interest in storytelling, although this isn't explored in depth. The cast of characters is large, but each character is distinct and well developed. While the plot maintains a steady pace, Gabriella's problems seem trivial compared to those that Phleg's family has, making the resolution of her troubles feel slightly less significant.