
audiobook
Set on a luminous midsummer night in 1767, the story unfolds on the rugged islands of Degerö and nearby Santahamina, where the sea, cliffs and pine‑scented air create a vivid backdrop for a light‑hearted musical romp. A seventeen‑year‑old prince, restless for freedom, slips away from his royal duties with the daring lieutenant Otto Sporren, eager to taste adventure beyond the confines of his court. Alongside a colorful cast of aristocrats, a curious admiral and spirited local maidens, they chart a mischievous course that promises both comedy and romance.
In the opening act the pair hide behind craggy outcrops, overhearing whispered plans and stumbling upon sleeping locals in a modest cottage. Their playful banter and impromptu songs turn ordinary moments into farcical escapades, as the prince’s lofty dreams of ruling with kindness clash with Otto’s pragmatic humor. The atmosphere buzzes with youthful exuberance, setting the stage for a charming tale of daring exploits and unexpected friendships.
Language
fi
Duration
~1 hours (70K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Release date
2014-04-13
Rights
Public domain in the USA.
Subjects

1818–1898
A beloved Finnish writer and historian, he helped shape 19th-century literature with fairy tales, poems, novels, and school texts that generations of children grew up with. His stories often mix warmth, moral clarity, and a strong sense of Finland’s landscapes and history.
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