It's been a long time since I've read a good storytelling tale like this one. It reminds me of stories like The Neverending Story and The Princess Bride, with its fantasy and romantic historical setting. I was hooked from the beginning at the description of the inn and the creeping ivory. I'm extremely curious to see how this plays out, and I love how the book cover is both a lake and a swan's neck. It makes me think of the fairy tales from my childhood. Well done!