The Necklace of Princess Fiorimonde, and Other Stories

"The Necklace of Princess Fiorimonde and Other Stories" by Mary De Morgan is a collection of fantasy stories written during the late 19th century. The first tale introduces Princess Fiorimonde, a beautiful yet wicked girl who practices witchcraft under the guidance of a malevolent old witch. In her desire to maintain her beauty and avoid marriage, Fiorimonde concocts a plan to ensnare suitors, transforming them into beads for her necklace—an act filled with dark magic and foreboding consequences. The opening of the book reveals a tale steeped in enchantment and danger as the King seeks a suitable prince for his daughter, unaware of her sinister pursuits. As Fiorimonde grapples with the fear of losing her beauty to a husband, she consults the witch for assistance, leading her down a treacherous path involving spells and curses. Unbeknownst to her, each conquest adds to her growing necklace of transformed princes, setting the stage for an unfolding saga of greed, ambition, and the quest for true beauty beyond mere appearances. The narrative promises a rich blend of fairy tale elements and moral lessons, engaging readers who enjoy classic fantasy tales with a darker twist.