Maiden

Brought to you by Penguin.

THIS PRINCESS IS GOING TO SAVE HERSELF

Discover a world of forbidden magic, court politics and sacrifice in this enchanting new myth retelling, perfect for fans of Katherine Arden and Naomi Novik.

The small, land-locked nation of Corfuia is known for its strict customs, historic battles and mountainous borders. And for its dragons.

On the first day of Spring each year, a young woman chosen by lot from the towns and villages is sacrificed to the dragons in a legendary treaty known as the Maiden Sacrifice.

As spring approaches, and the Maiden Sacrifice with it, the fates of three women are called into question. Between them, Maelle, Cressyda and Alinore hold the key to breaking free of the centuries-old treaty that hangs over Corfuia.

But first, they must face the dragons...

Praise for Georgia Leighton

'A wonderfully imaginative retelling of Sleeping Beauty, Spellbound weaves together atmospheric prose with enchanting characters to bring fresh new life to this classic fairy-tale'
--Rosie Hewlett, bestselling author of MEDEA

'Beautifully written and atmospheric, Spellbound is a fresh, imaginative take on the classic fairytale you thought you knew'
--Sophie Keetch, author of MORGAN IS MY NAME

‘A deliciously magical novel and an absolute delight to read. I devoured it!’
-- Menna Van Praag, author of THE SISTERS GRIMM

‘Immersive, magical, and of course, spellbinding…this book is sheer joy'
--Naomi Kelsey, author of THE BURNINGS

© Georgia Leighton 2026 (P) Penguin Audio 2026