Red Queen Book Review: Action-Packed, Dramatic, and Leaves Readers Heartbroken
By: Rozlyn Williams
Victoria Aveyard’s first introduction to the Red Queen series titled Red Queen will leave readers heartbroken, yet craving more. Not only is it action-packed and full of nothing but suspense, but the juxtaposing addition of romance also gives the book the perfect mix it needs.
In the dystopian Kingdom of Norta, the main character Mare Barrow is one of the more unfortunate red blooded individuals who lives under the command of their superior silver blooded rulers. Due to the silver bloods having designated abilities due to their high houses (such as nymphs of the Osanos house manipulating water or the royal family of Calore having the ability to manipulate fire), they have been able to remain in high-ranking positions for thousands of years. Mare lives in a red-blooded slum town – known as the Stilts – with her father injured by war, her disapproving mother, and her much better younger sister, Gisa. Her three older brothers (Bree, Tramy, and Shade) are currently absent due to the war conscription. In the Kingdom of Norta, all red bloods must have some sort of employment, otherwise, they are taken away by the governing individuals and forced to war for the silvers.
Mare is faced with her first obstacle once her best friend Kilorn suddenly finds himself unemployed alongside her. She continues to try and support her family through her pickpocketing ways to keep her and Kilorn from conscription. However, she is suddenly recruited to work at the palace as a servant when an unexpected individual catches her red-handed. While she is doing her duties, through unforeseen circumstances, Mare discovers she has an ability of her own. Not only is she able to manipulate electricity, she can create her own electricity, something unknown to their kind. In fear of the potential she now contains, the royal family whisked Mare away and forced her to take on a fake persona of a long-lost silver princess. Not only is she required to live this new life, but she is also betrothed to the second-in-line prince, Maven. Despite her blood color and the many secrets she contains, Mare finds herself trapped in a love triangle between Maven and the future king Cal. Through her experience, she learns to navigate this new lifestyle and use it to her advantage to potentially bring power to the red blooded individuals herself.
Something specific that I truly love about this book series is the full purpose that each and every character serves in the story. Background knowledge is known for most characters and if one is reintroduced, a small description is provided to refresh the memory of the reader. Along with that, having a main character that is relatable I feel is what could keep the reader interested across many audiences. Mare is sassy and acts like your typical 17-year-old girl, yet knows her worth in the world and will not let anyone bring her down. However, as the book carries on, we get more of a sense of her true character that can make one feel empathetic and connected towards her. Aveyard does such a great job with character development that will truly be left wondering whose side they should truly be on.
One thing that makes this series stand out from the rest is the constant twists and turns of the plot throughout the entire book. While I would not recommend this series to those who prefer a more easy read with a predictable plot, it is a perfect read for individuals who love to be on a constant ride of emotions. The amount of characters, abilities, and locations throughout the book may also get confusing to individuals, as well; however, for those who prefer a longer read, this book is perfect for you. The attention to detail and descriptive writing will sweep the reader to new locations and make you feel a part of the story yourself. Whether it be the glitz and glamour of the palaces and dresses or the dirt of the slum towns, all are provided in perfect detail that will cast great imagery for the reader. With a mix of all of these astonishing factors, I would definitely recommend this book to many.