Review Detail

I am now a die-hard Jeff Wheeler fan. I was so excited to find such a great example of a young adult book that will appeal to ALL audiences. The story is told from the perspective of a young boy taken from his home and placed precariously among the dangers of palace intrigue. But the Queen’s Poisoner is not a book only to be enjoyed by young readers eager to live vicariously through Owen's adventures. It is a dynamic tale for all ages—which to this YA fan—is what great YA is all about.

Inspired by the War of the Roses and Richard III's struggle for the English crown, The Queen’s Poisoner brings magic, mystery, espionage and suspenseful strategic political maneuvers to this epic fantasy tale. Beautifully written and expertly researched, this first installment of the Kingfountain Series will leave readers eager to pick up the sequel, The Thief’s Daughter.

Game of Thrones fans will definitely enjoy The Queen’s Poisoner, while at the same time it is also appropriate for a younger audience. The rich descriptive setting of Kingfountain and the impressive world-building combine to create a fantasy world so real, there are moments where it almost feels like historic fiction.

Owen is an admirable, honorable and believable protagonist, while his young playmate, the vivacious, Lady Elysabeth Victoria Mortimer, leaves him baffled at times, and hardly able to get a word in edgewise at others. The cast of characters, from the sinister and mysterious King Severn, right down to the motherly cook, Liona are well developed, three dimensional characters, each with their own colorful story.

And The Queen’s Poisoner—she’s incredible.