A review by thesenovelnotions
The Queen of the Tearling by Erika Johansen

adventurous dark inspiring mysterious 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? It's complicated

4.5

Erika Johansen's "The Queen of the Tearling" weaves a tale of political intrigue, magic, and a young queen's journey to reclaim her kingdom. Set in a dystopian future where society has regressed to a medieval-like state, the novel introduces us to Kelsea Glynn, a young woman raised in seclusion who suddenly finds herself thrust onto the throne of the Tearling.

At the heart of the narrative is Kelsea herself, a refreshing departure from the typical fantasy heroine. Strong-willed, intelligent, and unapologetically flawed, Kelsea defies the traditional princess archetype. Her struggle to reconcile her sense of duty with her desire for justice forms the emotional core of the story. Johansen skillfully develops Kelsea's character, allowing her to grow and evolve throughout the novel.

Supporting characters such as the enigmatic Fetch and the formidable Queen's Guard Lazarus add depth to the narrative, each bringing their own motivations and secrets. The complex relationships between characters, rife with tension and hidden agendas, keep the reader engaged and guessing until the very end.

Johansen's world-building is another highlight of the novel. The kingdom of the Tearling is a harsh and unforgiving landscape, plagued by poverty, oppression, and the looming threat of invasion from the neighboring kingdom of Mortmesne. Yet, amidst the darkness, there are glimpses of hope and magic, hinting at a deeper mythology waiting to be uncovered.

One of the most intriguing aspects of "The Queen of the Tearling" is its exploration of power and morality. Johansen poses thought-provoking questions about the nature of leadership and the sacrifices necessary to effect real change. As Kelsea grapples with the consequences of her decisions, the novel forces the reader to consider the true cost of revolution.

Overall, I found "The Queen of the Tearling" to be a compelling and immersive read. While the pacing can be slow at times, particularly in the early chapters, the payoff is well worth it. Johansen's richly imagined world and complex characters kept me eagerly turning pages until the very end.

As I reach the conclusion of this first installment, I find myself eager to delve deeper into the world of the Tearling. Johansen has laid the groundwork for an epic saga, and I look forward to seeing where Kelsea's journey takes her next. If you're a fan of fantasy novels that defy conventions and challenge your assumptions, I highly recommend giving "The Queen of the Tearling" a read.
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