Wasp Queen

by Joy Olival

What if your entire life was a charade and everyone you knew wasn’t really who you thought they were?

Makana, a laid-back high school student, discovers just that. Growing up in a quiet Hawaiian town has always been easy. Though she enjoys her calm life, she dreams of adventure beyond her idyllic island home.
Everything changes when Charr, the new girl in town, arrives with secrets about who Makana really is. The revelations will shake her to the core. As if questioning her entire identity isn’t bad enough, Makana finds out there are countless worlds beyond her own. Each of them is in danger from a mysterious being, known as the Queen, and her army of followers, the Wasps.
With the worlds at stake, Makana must decide if she’s willing to pay the price of losing everyone she loves for a fight that she never wanted to begin with.

275 pages, Paperback

Published February 3, 2023

About the author

Joy Olival was born and raised on the Big Island of Hawaii. She loves everything about it, except its lack of a drive-in theater. She has a love for all things geeky and nerdy. When she’s not reading or writing, she can usually be found playing copious amounts of video games, trying out new board games, making theories about her latest TV show obsession, or creating travel plans. Wasp Queen is her debut novel.

Reviews

[Monet Daffodil · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Wasp Queen
Author: Joy Olival

Thank you so much Joy for gifting me a copy of this read! I was surprised when I started it and I was immediately taken back to Hawaii, my home. I recently moved away so this really hit home for me. Our FMC Makana lives in Hawaii with her parents and oh boy all the scenery, the loco mocos, the ocean, the references made me miss home so much! Things take an abrupt turn when a new girl shows up that looks just like Makana. This girl pretty much tells Makana her entire life is a lie, and she’s actually a clone and apart of something much bigger then she could ever have dreamed of. This was like if Lilo and Stitch happened without Stitch. We got magic, portals, clones, it was an awesome read. Book 2 just released last month so now is the time to give this a read. It’s also on KU!

[Tabitha Reynolds · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book, I loved getting to know Makana and seeing the experience/life of a Hawaiian native. It was very well written, fun, and easy to read. Definitely recommend!

Thank you for letting me ARC read this :)

[Havelah McLat · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't always read sci-fi books, but I did enjoy this one. The story kept me going and enjoyed seeing characters' growth and journey. Of course, this is not the end of the story. I am looking forward to reading the next book.

[Hanna · Rating 2 out of 5]

Joy was so friendly to reach out to me about this book and send me a free ebook of it! Thank you.

Now, about the book. Its definetly noticeable that's it's a debut novel. The idea of the storyline and the plot are really fun. They are just very undeveloped. The world building might be well thought out, but it just didn't give that on the paper. It felt a bit too simplistic. The different world ideas was fun but it felt a little cringe to me. I did not feel connections with the main characters and I can't tell you much personality traits of them either. A sub plot would've had made this story so much more interesting already.

This book felt like a better than average wattpad book(also because of how short it was). But for it not being a wattpad book, it wasn't that great. So I give it 2/5 stars. But, if I come back in 5 years and see a new release from Joy, I might read it because the idea of this book was very creative!

[Matthew Runals]

First, living where the setting of this book is written in, Hawaii, adds a real feal for me. Second, it's written well, and tons of character emotions explained in great dialogue and action with plot twists that leave you wanting more. The characters grow as you read, and you travel through the book that boast a tremendous plot which isn't standard, or a typical YA/Teen read.

[Lilla Petra · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️.4 / 5⭐️

This book is fast-paced, easy to read, it has a creative concept but that being said, I felt distracted and confused all the time.
It was interesting to get to know the Hawaiian culture, I really loved the badass, strong main character. Bondmates, multiduplicates, different worlds: the story has so much potential but I felt that a lot of actions, events were rushed, I missed having some explanations… maybe because it’s the first book (🙄😉), or maybe I’m just not that bright. 😅
All in all, I’m glad that I was able to read this debut novel in exchange for my review, congratulations!

[Jill Hansel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wasp Queen by Joy Olival was a great read! Characters were introduced with enough depth to draw you in and revealed more about themselves along the journey. The worlds created were described vividly so you can picture them fully in your mind to immerse yourself in the story. A little dystopian, a little sci-fi, a little fantasy, it has a little of everything. This was an easy adult read/great young adult book. This book balances between the two so both audiences can enjoy. And the end leaves it open to more adventures in the series without being a dissatisfying cliff hanger. A fun read!

[Saint Eli · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so fun to read! It was enjoyable getting to go down the rabbit hole with the main character as she experienced events that turned her ordinary life upside down. The dialogue between characters was also always easy to read and well structured. Great first novel. I can't wait for the next one keep writing!!

[Brooke · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book feels like you are literally on the adventure right along with the main characters! There isn't one spot in the book where it felt stale or slow or anything like that! It feels like an action movie in book form! Amazing work by the author!

[Claire · Rating 3 out of 5]

Joy reached out to me in 2023 to read her book, then life happened, and in the last month, I finally got to it!!! I couldn’t be more excited to share the review.

This book is set in Hawaii in the beginning and I love Hawaii. I visited in 2023 and loved it!!! I loved hearing little references to places or creatures in Hawaii. So cool!

Honestly, I enjoyed the world-building! There were several worlds and each one was different, for example, one was steampunk. It was so interesting to read how each world had their own currencies, own style, own fashion, and own clones.

The characters fell flat to me, but nevertheless, I will continue the series.

[Natalie Potenzi · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars - rounded up.

I really enjoyed the concept of this book. It was action-packed and had strong female characters. I found myself being able to imagine the events along the way and wanted to know what was going to happen. It ended quite strong and I am interested to see where the story goes next.

Throughout the book, I did feel like it was a little rushed in parts and personally I wanted a little more suspense. However, it was a very good YA book and I look forward to reading the second installment which comes out next month (Feb 2025).

[H · Rating 4 out of 5]

Makana’s life is flipped upside down when a new girl comes to her school. What do you do when you find out nothing is as you thought? What about finding out no one is who you think they are? Makana goes on a mission to win her freedom. She faces off with bad guys and learns that no one can be trusted. Worst of all, the bad guys may not be who you think they are. Remember, nothing is ever as it seems.

[Morgan Carpenter · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 Stars

This was truly so interesting, you get involved with these two characters that are supposed to be matches of each other but are still so different and unique. As you travel through multiple worlds and meet more characters you really develop a connection with the story and what the girls are trying to accomplish.

[Meagan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is very enjoyable.
It starts out a little slow, but I think it’s necessary to build the backstory. By 20% I was very intrigued and needed to know what was going to happen. I thought the world building was well done and the characters were diverse. I loved the beginning in Hawaii and all the different cultural aspects included. I’d be interested in reading more in the series.
If you like YA Sci-fi, this might be for you!

[Rebecca Andrews · Rating 4 out of 5]

The wasp queen is full of lots of action. It was a bit slow to get going but once it did, everything happened really quickly. I really enjoyed the plot and storyline, filled with clones, weapons, different worlds, costumes and time periods. The world building was good and hope in future books they can explore the other worlds more when they aren't running for their lives. I loved that even though the main characters were clones of the same person they all had completely different personalities to make them unique. Even though Charr was constantly grumpy, I thought she was awesome. I found the book quick n easy to read and I'm definitely keen to see what happens next especially in regards to the Queen. I did find a couple transitions between scenes or chapters a bit disjointed/didn't flow as smoothly but other than I think Joy did a great job for her debut novel.

[Sukriti · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Wasp Queen" by Joy Olival is a riveting tale blending mystery and fantasy. The story revolves around protagonist Clara, who discovers a hidden world of wasps with extraordinary powers. The narrative is both enchanting and suspenseful, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. Olival's vivid descriptions create a captivating atmosphere, making the fantasy realm come alive. The characters are well-developed, and Clara's journey of self-discovery adds depth to the plot. However, the pacing occasionally falters. Overall, "Wasp Queen" is a delightful escape into a unique world, perfect for readers who enjoy a mix of magic and intrigue.

[Claira · Rating 5 out of 5]

The adventure, fights, the story, THAT ENDING!! This book had me from start to finish! I absolutely loved the characters! They were funny, strong, quick thinkers. Overall just absolutely amazing!!

[Elfbooknook · Rating 4 out of 5]

I first want to say that I am not a huge sci-fi reader but I do love a reluctant hero.
Secondly, I am so happy I have this book a chance!
Makana lives in Hawaii and though I have never been, I loved the details of her life there and it was still relatable. I was a little thrown by the first two encounters she and Charr had but let’s not forget trying to convince someone that they are in danger and their life isn’t what they thought it was isn’t exactly easy.

The action and the descriptions of the fights and powers among the characters and their enemies keeps me eagerly reading and then you throw in some portals to other worlds and I found myself feeling like I was with them.
I love the world within this book and the explanations of the WASP was very well written as were the details of each world.

When the author asked me after reading who my favorite character was it was tough because through the book you are following Makana and her character goes through changes and you watch her grow and accept that what this blue haired stranger has been telling her has all been true. And speaking of blue haired strangers Charr and her untrusting and rough exterior is my favorite, something about her pulled me in almost immediately. The change in Makana was more growing up and trusting Charr but with Charr you watch her lose her mom and her determination to find her bondmate and kill them bit, then you also see her become a leader and protector for Makana as well as a friend. So while I love both girls I found my favorite to be Charr.

I couldn’t wait to read the second book! But I’ll review over there!

Seriously recommend this series.

[Angela Franklin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fast-paced, sci-fi, debut novel, but don't let that last bit deter you. Joy creates many worlds that the characters race through, providing a quick feel for each world, rather than spending vital story telling time spent on describing each world intricately. This works in the book both for the pace that is set and for the many worlds involved.

It's a quick and fun read of a new concept and the first in the series.

[Angela Franklin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fast-paced, sci-fi, debut novel, but don't let that last bit deter you. Joy creates many worlds that the characters race through, providing a quick feel for each world, rather than spending vital storytelling time describing each world intricately, allowing the reader's imagination to expand. This works in the book both to maintain the pace that is set, and for the many worlds involved.

It's a quick and fun read of a new concept and the first in the series.

[Haya · Rating 5 out of 5]

For someone who's into storylines revolving intergalactic relationships and unexpected twists, this one is for you! The author paints the picture in such a laudible manner, that one gets hooked immediately. Easily one of the coolest reads I've had this year!

[Sharlene · Rating 4 out of 5]

What if your entire life was a charade and everyone you knew wasn't who you thought they were? 


I really enjoyed this book. It's a breeze to read and the world building is explained very well. Not too much information, just enough to form all sorts of pictures in my mind about how every world looks like. 


The characters were also well described. You get to know them, get to grow with them and journey with them. 


There were a few plottwist, they were predictable to me, but most are, so I don't know if this is representative for how good they were. Even though I sensed them before they were happening, I didn't mind it. 


Looking forward to the second book. 

[Dawn O · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It is a must read! I couldn't put the book down! Entirely enjoyable!

[Sammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book! Somehow manages to be fun and lighthearted depsite a trail of bodies!
The sci fi elements, such as the worldbuilding, weaponry, and cloning, feel natural to the plot, an very believable. Plus the characters are loveable, even when they are annoying each other!
Can't wait to read the next one!

This book was an ARC but all views are my own.

[Lori · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a good debut
I honestly love the unique premise, and explored Native Hawaiian culture.

[Brianna Glenn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Moral of the story? Be careful what you wish for.

Our main character Makana lives a reasonably calm, quiet life in Hawaii. She dreams of travelling and experiencing what the rest of the world has to offer, hoping to share her adventure on her travel blog. One fateful day, she gets just that. Thrust into a fast-paced cat-and-mouse game spanning multiple worlds, Makana is forced to confront her own identity and those of the ones she loves most.

Wasp Queen is a fun, action-packed young adult novel that lured me in from the beginning. I’ve always enjoyed stories of heroes forced into sacrificing everything they know and love to ensure the survival of the very world (in this case…worlds). It was an enjoyable read that was over before I knew it and left me wanting more. It is filled from cover to cover with secrecy, intrigue, action, friendship, and betrayal…so fun!! I look forward to seeing how the Wasp Queen universe evolves and can’t wait to get my hands on another book (please!).

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn't just like this book, I LOVED it! It starts off with Makana, an island girl who grew up in the ideal vacation spot yet she's dreaming of traveling anywhere else. Her life is a daydream in itself and yet she is completely unaware of how good she has it until she discovers the shocking truth that nothing is at all how it seems. Seriously, what would I do if everyone closest to me wasn't really who I thought they were? From there the story immediately takes off on a multi-verse adventure with a reluctant mc who must come to terms with who she, and who everyone else around her, really is. It's a beautifully written book and the ending wrapped up her own personal story arc well, but still left me eager to find out what happens next.

[Littlemissbooknook · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wasp Queen review:

This book was fantastic! Makana was an amazing main character! I really like Char, too! I 100% recommend reading this book if you like:
- Fantasy
- multiple dimensions theme
- adventure
- friendship
- YA books
- Action
I really appreciate all the different worlds because I know how hard world building is. This could not have been easy! 😄
I feel like it was really well put together, though. Amazing job! 👏 Again, I encourage you all to read this book because it is definitely worth the read! 🩷✨️🫶📚