A review by nitya
How to Catch a Queen by Alyssa Cole

emotional hopeful inspiring medium-paced
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

Note: I didn't get an ARC, my pre-order arrived very early!

So this was my first time ever reading anything by Alyssa Cole, and for the most part I enjoyed it! The worldbuilding is wonderful, Shanti and Sanyu are freaking adorable, and there's really well done anxiety rep, exploration of imperialism on "third world" nations, and criticism of patriarchy/toxic masculinity. And the Reluctant Royals character cameos makes me more hyped to read the series!

My biggest issue is that
the main antagonist, who is super abusive and toxic to Shanti and Sanyu (and anyone who tries to call him out on his BS honestly), was redeemed at the end and never apologized for his actions, especially to Shanti. I didn't read the epilogue which apparently goes on to paint him as a kind grandfather figure.
Yeaaaah no thanks. I was hoping he would drop dead but I guess I will leave that as a personal headcanon.

On a positive note, I am very much looking forward to the next book in this series (and the character intro is delightful)!!
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