The world of the kingdom of Solanum is divided in two. The elite are able to turn into birds, all the rest are called wingless. They should not be touched without gloves - even a light touch causes pain. The swan is Aderyn's family bird, but the girl can no longer change her appearance since her mother was torn to pieces by ferocious hawks. To find the culprit in the tragedy, Aderyn goes to the Silver Citadel - the impregnable castle of the king, her uncle. However, the laws at court are harsh. Finding herself in a real nest of snakes, the girl must not only be able to survive, but also take the throne, of which she is the heir.