Review Detail

Honestly, I didn’t like this book so much the first time I read it. I was completely unsympathetic toward Gen, who loses something pretty significant in the beginning, and I hated how much he sulked and didn’t act like the dangerous thief he is. In fact, I almost completely gave up reading it after a certain plot twist near the end that I just honestly couldn’t wrap my head around. It was only until I read the next book in the series that I could finally accept the plot twist. I’ll give props to Ms. Turner for actually knowing what a plot twist is and doing it better than almost anyone else.

The Queen of Attolia is told in 3rd person POV, as opposed to Gen’s POV as in the first book. The majority still focuses on Gen, but you’ll read bits and pieces of thoughts from other characters, as well. There is something truly remarkable about these characters because not one of them clings to a stereotype and they are all so completely unique and likeable (or at least, realistic, if not likeable).

This book is fun and exciting and completely unique in a way very few books are. Whereas the last book was focused on a single quest, this book broadens to focus on a war between neighboring nations and how Gen almost single handedly guides the war in his favor. It is truly incredible, learning more about Gen and how frighteningly clever he is, even as he deals with loss, pain, and humiliation. Eugenides is still very human which is what makes him and his story so captivating.

I recommend this for: everyone, though it’s probably better to read the first book in the series first, The Thief.