I’ve been looking forward to this sequel since about a third way into The Princess Will Save You. So that’s been a while, right? Worried that it might fall short based on how much I loved the first, I could not have been more wrong. Henning delivers an action packed, scream worthy, sequel in The Queen Will Betray You. Keep reading this book review for my full thoughts.
Summary
After a thousand years of political stability, the realm of The Sand and Sky is up for grabs. Four kingdoms, four rulers vying for the ultimate prize, sovereignty over the entire continent: A ruthless old king spinning webs, whose schemes encompass generations. A widowed queen whose only credo is all kings must die. A runaway queen whose unexpected return upends everyone’s plans. And a prince-in-waiting determined to wait no more.
Standing against them are a dispossessed princess and her stableboy love with a surprising claim of his own. Their only hope in the face of unspeakable betrayals, enemies hidden in the shadows, and insurmountable odds is the power of true love…
Review
(Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher. This has not impacted my review which is unbiased and honest.)
TW: torture
Beginning right where The Princess Will Save You leaves off, The Queen Will Betray You is an action packed sequel. And I would like the next one now because OMG. The Queen Will Betray You balances action that propels the plot forwards in an explosive way. I am also so glad that this duology is getting a sequel because the world just opens up throughout this book. The multiple viewpoints allows readers to witness the struggle and conflicts unfolding over countries, the betrayal and the deceit.
With The Princess Will Save You, The Queen Will Betray You has fantastic “Princess Bride” references that I absolutely loved. While the action swept me off my feet, I loved the ways Henning illustrates the sexism that underpins the action. Plus Ama is just such a dramatic, brave, and good hearted heroine. Don’t even get me started on the cinnamon roll of Luca! The Queen Will Betray You also examines truth and perception. The ways time and stories can be twisted to fit nefarious purposes.
Overall,
The Queen Will Betray You is truly such a fabulous sequel. I cannot wait to see what Henning does in the finale! My favorite element has to be the ways Henning explores power – absolute and stolen – and what makes a good ruler. How can we tear the system down without becoming as unfair as our opposition? Ultimately, if you liked the first, you have to read this one because there were moments that had me gasping!
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