The Goose Girl, by Shannon Hale, 2003

Crown Princess Anidori-Kiladra Talianna Isilee was called Ani by her aunt, and Princess by her horse, Falada, with whom she shared a psychic bond, and the Jewel of Kildenree by her mother, the Queen, who senther off to marry the Crown Prince of Bayern, giving the crown of Kildenree to Ani's younger brother. But her escorts are traitors who try to kill her and deliver her blond lady-in-waiting, Selia, to the prince of Bayern as his betrothed. A thoughtful novelization of Grimms' fairy tale, The Goose Girl is captivating read (even if this reader wishes the final version had been better edited). Strongly recommended.