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A review by roseleebooks
The Summer Queen by Rochelle Hassan
adventurous
emotional
funny
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
This second in series picks up a few months after the events at the end of the first book. It did not disappoint and I cannot wait to read the final book in trilogy.
The real strength of this book is the Coven, with an incredibly well-written dynamic. The POV rotates between Aziza, Leo, and Tristan as in the first book. Their interactions were hilarious, heartfelt, tense, or all of those at once, and the best moments in the book are when the three of them are together. Their trust in and love for each other is so tangible.
Aziza continues to be my favorite character. Her cleverness, loyalty, and willingness to learn from mistakes make her confidence well-earned, and it's fun to see her leadership style shift in this book compared to the first as her relationships with Tristan and Leo have evolved.
We get a lot of worldbuilding as the fairies of Elphame and witches from outside Blackthorn are introduced in more detail. This expands the plot and the experiences of the trio broadly. There is a lot set up for the next book but the story arc here has just enough conclusion to not feel unfinished.
Overall this book was excellent. A gripping story, characters who are flawed but lovable, and gorgeous prose. I wish I could immediately start the next one!
Thank you to Netgalley and Macmillan Children's Publishing group for the opportunity to read and review this book prior to publication.
The real strength of this book is the Coven, with an incredibly well-written dynamic. The POV rotates between Aziza, Leo, and Tristan as in the first book. Their interactions were hilarious, heartfelt, tense, or all of those at once, and the best moments in the book are when the three of them are together. Their trust in and love for each other is so tangible.
Aziza continues to be my favorite character. Her cleverness, loyalty, and willingness to learn from mistakes make her confidence well-earned, and it's fun to see her leadership style shift in this book compared to the first as her relationships with Tristan and Leo have evolved.
Overall this book was excellent. A gripping story, characters who are flawed but lovable, and gorgeous prose. I wish I could immediately start the next one!
Thank you to Netgalley and Macmillan Children's Publishing group for the opportunity to read and review this book prior to publication.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Violence, Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Sexual violence, Death of parent
Minor: Child death