Reviews

OMG, I just finished "Her Majesty's Royal Coven" by Juno Dawson and I am SHOOK! This book is an absolute must-read, and here's why:

First off, I need to shout out HarperCollins for sending me this gem. It's not my usual genre, but boy am I glad I picked it up.

Imagine a bunch of witches navigating a post-civil-war world, each with their own POV. You get to dive into the lives of Niamh, Helena, Leonie and Elle - childhood friends turned adults who are reunited by a doomsday prophecy. Like, talk about drama!

Let's talk about Leonie. She's formed her own coven called Diaspora for black, minority and LGBTQ+ witches. The way the book tackles discrimination and privilege within the witch community is so on point. It really opened my eyes to the issues marginalised groups face, even in a magical world.

And the transgender representation? Juno Dawson, being a transgender woman herself, writes with such raw power and empathy. The struggles of transgender people are portrayed in a way that makes you feel all the feels. It's clear these are issues close to her heart and it hits you right in the gut

Now, onto the theme of friendship. We all have those friends we've known forever, but sometimes, people change and it's ok to let go. This book captures that perfectly. The bond between these witches feels so real and relatable. It's a reminder that you need to surround yourself with people who let you be your true self.

The 90s nostalgia is everything! Spice Girls, Boyzone - it's all there. Plus, the contemporary witch vibes are hilarious. One of my fave quotes: "I'm doomed to float stationery. Great. Wicked witch of WHSmith." I mean, come on, that's gold. And the whole found family theme? These witches are more like sisters, and it gives you all the warm fuzzies.

Each character's POV is so distinct and well-written. You really get to know them and see the story unfold from different angles. The pacing starts slow, but once you're in, it's impossible to put down. And that ending? OMG. Totally cliffhanger. I NEED the next book, "The Shadow Cabinet", like yesterday.

Seriously, go read this book. Whether you're here for the 90s throwbacks, the witchy sisterhood, or the emotional depth, you're gonna love it. Prepare for an emotional rollercoaster and some serious heart-stomping moments. 5 stars, hands down. Happy reading, witches!

bookswithmeg_'s review against another edition

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challenging emotional sad tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? No
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

Helena Vance is a trip. That is all.

jobro236's review against another edition

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slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? No
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

2.0

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