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The Exiled Queen
She spent years following the path reserved for highborn men. When she's thrust back into a subservient role, how will she forge her own destiny?
Rome is marching. Cities and temples are falling. On the outskirts of the empire, Princess Andrada convinces her father to tutor her as his heir despite a taboo against women rulers. But her lifelong battle against entrenched customs shatters when she fails the King's Challenge and is sentenced to death.
To save Andrada from execution, her father marries her off to a neighboring king who doesn't care much about governing. Devastated, the new queen resolves to watch over her country from exile, preparing for the inevitable Roman attack. Although the crystal bell she risked everything to claim during the challenge grants odd wishes, she's dangerously unarmed against an unloving husband who needs a son from her. Meanwhile, her worst enemy is plotting to kill her once and for all.
Can this brave queen unite all the warring factions to stand strong before the mighty Roman Empire?
The Exiled Queen is a gritty and grounded historical fantasy. Pulling together threads from the past of her native Eastern Europe, Roxana Arama reimagines a people on the brink of drastic change. If you like fierce female protagonists, speculative sagas, and dramatic twists, you'll love this sweeping adventure.
Rome is marching. Cities and temples are falling. On the outskirts of the empire, Princess Andrada convinces her father to tutor her as his heir despite a taboo against women rulers. But her lifelong battle against entrenched customs shatters when she fails the King's Challenge and is sentenced to death.
To save Andrada from execution, her father marries her off to a neighboring king who doesn't care much about governing. Devastated, the new queen resolves to watch over her country from exile, preparing for the inevitable Roman attack. Although the crystal bell she risked everything to claim during the challenge grants odd wishes, she's dangerously unarmed against an unloving husband who needs a son from her. Meanwhile, her worst enemy is plotting to kill her once and for all.
Can this brave queen unite all the warring factions to stand strong before the mighty Roman Empire?
The Exiled Queen is a gritty and grounded historical fantasy. Pulling together threads from the past of her native Eastern Europe, Roxana Arama reimagines a people on the brink of drastic change. If you like fierce female protagonists, speculative sagas, and dramatic twists, you'll love this sweeping adventure.
385 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 1, 2024
145 people are currently reading
265 people want to read
About the author
Roxana Arama
5 books31 followersRoxana Arama is an award-winning Romanian American author. She studied computer science in Bucharest, Romania, and moved to the United States to work in software development. She is the author of three novels: The Regolith Temple: A Sci-Fi Thriller, The Exiled Queen: A Roman Era Historical Fantasy (in the Delight of Humans and Gods series), and Extreme Vetting: A Thriller. Her short stories and essays have been published in many literary magazines. She lives in Seattle, Washington, with her family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
January 16, 2024
In “The Exiled Queen,” Roxana Arama weaves historical fantasy and religious mysticism set against the backdrop of the Roman Empire’s expansion. The novel reimagines the Eastern European past through the eyes of Princess Andrada, a character who embodies strength, resilience, and the struggle against conventional norms.
The story opens with Princess Andrada, eagerly awaiting her tenth birthday – a significant milestone marked by tradition and expectation. On this day, her life takes a dramatic turn: she is to be groomed as her father’s heir, challenging the societal norms that normally restrict women’s roles.
As Andrada grows, she learns the harsh realities of leadership and the complexities of ruling a kingdom at risk of invasion. Her character is tested further when must face the King’s Challenge, which leads to an unexpected marriage that forces her into new, unwelcoming homelands.
The narrative is a rollercoaster of emotions and action, with Andrada’s trials and tribulations keeping the reader on edge. From her daring quests, to her struggle in a loveless marriage, the story is a captivating blend of adventure, drama, and political intrigue. The supporting characters are equally well-crafted, each adding depth to the story.
“The Exiled Queen” is a must-read for fans of historical fantasy. With its strong female protagonist, intricate plot, and vivid world-building, this book is a captivating read from start to finish.
The story opens with Princess Andrada, eagerly awaiting her tenth birthday – a significant milestone marked by tradition and expectation. On this day, her life takes a dramatic turn: she is to be groomed as her father’s heir, challenging the societal norms that normally restrict women’s roles.
As Andrada grows, she learns the harsh realities of leadership and the complexities of ruling a kingdom at risk of invasion. Her character is tested further when must face the King’s Challenge, which leads to an unexpected marriage that forces her into new, unwelcoming homelands.
The narrative is a rollercoaster of emotions and action, with Andrada’s trials and tribulations keeping the reader on edge. From her daring quests, to her struggle in a loveless marriage, the story is a captivating blend of adventure, drama, and political intrigue. The supporting characters are equally well-crafted, each adding depth to the story.
“The Exiled Queen” is a must-read for fans of historical fantasy. With its strong female protagonist, intricate plot, and vivid world-building, this book is a captivating read from start to finish.
January 15, 2024
The Exiled Queen is a well wrought tale of a discarded daughter of a flawed king who is used as a political tool through an unwanted marriage to an unloving fellow king. She uses her desire to earn her father’s approval and then her husband’s to learn skills as a warrior, innovator, healer and when these still do not bring her the love or approval of these two men she uses them to achieve what they could not.
The story is very well written and presented. The pacing is good so the reader doesn’t want to put the book down. The characters are well developed and captivating.
A very good read for any lovers of ancient European history.
Please note, although I received a free advance copy of this novel, I do not know the author or anyone involved in the publication or promotion of the book. I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
The story is very well written and presented. The pacing is good so the reader doesn’t want to put the book down. The characters are well developed and captivating.
A very good read for any lovers of ancient European history.
Please note, although I received a free advance copy of this novel, I do not know the author or anyone involved in the publication or promotion of the book. I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
January 31, 2024
This was a fascinating Roman Era historical fantasy. I really liked the mix of fantasy and historical elements that Arama weaved into this wonderful book. 🗡️
The reader follows four POVS: Andrada, Scorilus, Dapyx, and Nicetas. Andrada, the primary character the book is named for, is a young woman who deals with abandonment and lack of love from all sides. Her father groomed her to become his heir, only for him to marry her off when she fails a test for rulership. While a very strong, capable and pragmatic woman, I can see how much her loveless life and later marriage really marks her and her decision making. Her husband, Nicetas, is honestly despicable in a rather weirdly understanding way. He’s traumatized after a near-death experience, and is honor bound to a woman who can never be his wife. . . But it still doesn’t make up for his horrible treatment of his lawful wife. Scorilus is another tragic man who is trying to find his way in a position he never asked for, while plagued by his past. His POV, I personally think, was the least helpful to the overall plot of the book, but it definitely brought together the idea that this land is one kingdom divided by three rulers. Dapyx was my least favorite of the bunch. He just came off as smarmy and creepy in his devotion to Andrada. 😬
The side characters were good, but I do wish they got a bit more time with the reader and more backstory (especially the Cartographer). The world itself was great, and I enjoyed the Roman bits here and there. The only thing that was a bit of a downer for me (other than Dapyx in general 🫢) was that the plot felt drawn out for a while and then sped like a speeding train towards the end. But that’s really my only problem overall. 🗡️
Definitely would recommend this to those who want a great fantasy set in a fantastical Black Sea and Carpathian Mountain area of Europe with hints of Roman history! 🏔️
Big thank you goes to BookSirens and the author, Roxana Arama, for letting me a part of the review team in exchange for an honest review. Definitely look forward to book two! 👑
Publication date: March 1!
Overall: 4.25/5 ⭐️
The reader follows four POVS: Andrada, Scorilus, Dapyx, and Nicetas. Andrada, the primary character the book is named for, is a young woman who deals with abandonment and lack of love from all sides. Her father groomed her to become his heir, only for him to marry her off when she fails a test for rulership. While a very strong, capable and pragmatic woman, I can see how much her loveless life and later marriage really marks her and her decision making. Her husband, Nicetas, is honestly despicable in a rather weirdly understanding way. He’s traumatized after a near-death experience, and is honor bound to a woman who can never be his wife. . . But it still doesn’t make up for his horrible treatment of his lawful wife. Scorilus is another tragic man who is trying to find his way in a position he never asked for, while plagued by his past. His POV, I personally think, was the least helpful to the overall plot of the book, but it definitely brought together the idea that this land is one kingdom divided by three rulers. Dapyx was my least favorite of the bunch. He just came off as smarmy and creepy in his devotion to Andrada. 😬
The side characters were good, but I do wish they got a bit more time with the reader and more backstory (especially the Cartographer). The world itself was great, and I enjoyed the Roman bits here and there. The only thing that was a bit of a downer for me (other than Dapyx in general 🫢) was that the plot felt drawn out for a while and then sped like a speeding train towards the end. But that’s really my only problem overall. 🗡️
Definitely would recommend this to those who want a great fantasy set in a fantastical Black Sea and Carpathian Mountain area of Europe with hints of Roman history! 🏔️
Big thank you goes to BookSirens and the author, Roxana Arama, for letting me a part of the review team in exchange for an honest review. Definitely look forward to book two! 👑
Publication date: March 1!
Overall: 4.25/5 ⭐️
March 12, 2024
The Exiled Queen
By Roxana Arama
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
📖 A high-stakes historical fantasy set during The Roman Empire’s expansion, following a fierce female protagonist in an equally emotional and action-packed story.
• Historical fantasy
• Multiple POV
• Mysticism
• Coming of age
• Indie author
✅ Read this if you enjoyed Immortal Longings by Chloe Gong and Lady Tan’s Circle of Women by Lisa See
“Andrada saw those men for what they were: a flock of frightened sheep in need of a shepherd.”
This intense and adventurous story instantly hooked me and had me rooting for the protagonist, Princess Andrada. She is smart and strong-willed but faces a struggle within herself that will resonate with many people. The author depicts Andrada’s journey of changing religious beliefs and her need for love and protection with delicate nuance.
Much of the intricate world building takes place in a classroom setting, making it natural and engaging. Andrada being used as a political pawn leads to insights about the strengths of womanhood that were often overlooked in this time period.
There’s a slow burn feel as we learn about each character and territory, their customs and beliefs. By the time we reach an explosive ending it’s both exciting and packed with meaning and emotion. The use of multiple POV’s is effective in examining the complexities of humanity and the relationships between characters.
This is such a captivating story full of fascinating history and magical elements. I can’t wait to read the sequel and revisit these characters. I’d highly recommend reading Roxana Arama’s books!
By Roxana Arama
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
📖 A high-stakes historical fantasy set during The Roman Empire’s expansion, following a fierce female protagonist in an equally emotional and action-packed story.
• Historical fantasy
• Multiple POV
• Mysticism
• Coming of age
• Indie author
✅ Read this if you enjoyed Immortal Longings by Chloe Gong and Lady Tan’s Circle of Women by Lisa See
“Andrada saw those men for what they were: a flock of frightened sheep in need of a shepherd.”
This intense and adventurous story instantly hooked me and had me rooting for the protagonist, Princess Andrada. She is smart and strong-willed but faces a struggle within herself that will resonate with many people. The author depicts Andrada’s journey of changing religious beliefs and her need for love and protection with delicate nuance.
Much of the intricate world building takes place in a classroom setting, making it natural and engaging. Andrada being used as a political pawn leads to insights about the strengths of womanhood that were often overlooked in this time period.
There’s a slow burn feel as we learn about each character and territory, their customs and beliefs. By the time we reach an explosive ending it’s both exciting and packed with meaning and emotion. The use of multiple POV’s is effective in examining the complexities of humanity and the relationships between characters.
This is such a captivating story full of fascinating history and magical elements. I can’t wait to read the sequel and revisit these characters. I’d highly recommend reading Roxana Arama’s books!
March 1, 2024
She may be a female but she got her father to teach her to be queen even though it is forbidden. It is found out and she is sentenced to death but her father marries her off and she is exiled from her home as Rome prepares for war. Can she keep,her home safe? Will she fight to save them all? How will it all go? See what will happen next
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and I want to review
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and I want to review
May 21, 2024
Absolutely riveting story of adventure, faith and relentless grit of Andrada, a child begging for her father's approval becoming Queen of an empire through a series of miscommunications and plots.
I loved this story and the author's writing style makes this an incredibly fast read. There's never a dull moment.
I loved this story and the author's writing style makes this an incredibly fast read. There's never a dull moment.
March 1, 2024
A interesting historical fiction A very well written and very accurate historical fiction fantasy story that was well written and fun to read I got this book early for a unbiased review
April 4, 2024
In what promises to be an absorbing and insightful multi-volume epic historical fantasy, the Exiled Queen follows the course of the adolescent daughter of a small Central European kingdom as she prepares her body and mind for her future role and to gain the love and affection of her father, grief-stricken by the loss of his wife.
Surrounded by allies and enemies alike, conscious of the threat of further expansion of the Roman Empire, and laboring under the prohibition of a woman as ruler, Andrada must study history and statecraft from a tutor, plus train with weapons, all the time wearing men's clothing, taking on the guise of a man while not impersonating one. When she becomes of age, she must face the King's Challenge, pitted against another candidate. If successful, she can be named heir in spite of the prohibition against female rulers, but should she fail, will be executed.
Not a sword and sorcery tale or a bodice-ripper romance, the narrative is grounded in historical elements with details of daily life, the state of religious mysticism and beliefs, homeopathic medicine, and education including science, architecture, art, and history, the expansion of the Roman Empire in particular. The geographical setting corresponds to recognizable locations including the rivers, the Iron Gates on the Danube, and the multiple passes through the mountains such as the Red Tower, which lends significant realism to the tale. (Those same passes played a significant part in the latter part of the Great War.)
With only a nurse to rely on for comfort and affection, Andrada has little interpersonal experience and though self-reliant, is naive with regard to others. She interprets events on the basis of what she's learned but has the intelligence to examine beliefs versus results and change her mode of thinking. Andrada is brave and fearful in turn. She is foolish, intelligent, and resourceful. Events do not spare her but continue to shape her into a woman and a queen to be admired and feared.
I look forward to the next installment.
Surrounded by allies and enemies alike, conscious of the threat of further expansion of the Roman Empire, and laboring under the prohibition of a woman as ruler, Andrada must study history and statecraft from a tutor, plus train with weapons, all the time wearing men's clothing, taking on the guise of a man while not impersonating one. When she becomes of age, she must face the King's Challenge, pitted against another candidate. If successful, she can be named heir in spite of the prohibition against female rulers, but should she fail, will be executed.
Not a sword and sorcery tale or a bodice-ripper romance, the narrative is grounded in historical elements with details of daily life, the state of religious mysticism and beliefs, homeopathic medicine, and education including science, architecture, art, and history, the expansion of the Roman Empire in particular. The geographical setting corresponds to recognizable locations including the rivers, the Iron Gates on the Danube, and the multiple passes through the mountains such as the Red Tower, which lends significant realism to the tale. (Those same passes played a significant part in the latter part of the Great War.)
With only a nurse to rely on for comfort and affection, Andrada has little interpersonal experience and though self-reliant, is naive with regard to others. She interprets events on the basis of what she's learned but has the intelligence to examine beliefs versus results and change her mode of thinking. Andrada is brave and fearful in turn. She is foolish, intelligent, and resourceful. Events do not spare her but continue to shape her into a woman and a queen to be admired and feared.
I look forward to the next installment.
May 31, 2024
The Exiled Queen: A Roman Era Historical Fantasy by Roxana Arama
"Your mother, with her last breath, made your father promise you'd be like a son to him. So now the King believes he must cut your hair short, dress you in boy's clothes, and send you to school for the next eight years." Thus begins the life of Andrada, Princess of Kerta, a woman in sheep's clothing. Dressed like a boy and sent off to school to learn the ways of combat under the tutelage of High Priest Avezinas. Andrada soon garners newfound love from her father Cothelas, by impressing him with her penchant for war strategy. Once of proper age, she is brought forth before the other leaders within the kingdom but is quickly dismissed because of her gender. Striking a deal with the chieftains, she must succeed in the King's challenge to be taken seriously as a future Queen. Alliances must be consummated, as the Roman army is methodically infringing upon the occupants of the Kingdoms causing economic and territorial strife. Andrada becomes an integral political pawn, and with the help of the holy God named El, she has the vision to unite all three warring factions.
The tip of the falx drips red, as do the pages within this novel. A wonderous land takes hold, full of intrigue and war. Undertones of mysterious lore blended with the brute force of middle-aged chaos. The author Roxana Arama, invites the reader to join her in the mind of Andrada, a fascinating female protagonist. The hardship of family struggles torments young Andrada, and I was captivated by the resiliency of the princess. Her faith in the otherworldly proved a significant factor in her ability to overcome challenges put forth by unforeseen forces. Supporting characters were constructed in a way that lent to a polished product, a book that fluidly floated down a poisonous stream of water.
The final alliance was one made with me. Between the characters and myself, one filled with an understanding of beauty and pain. I can highly recommend this to enthusiasts of the fantasy genre. I give this 4 out of 5 stars.
"Your mother, with her last breath, made your father promise you'd be like a son to him. So now the King believes he must cut your hair short, dress you in boy's clothes, and send you to school for the next eight years." Thus begins the life of Andrada, Princess of Kerta, a woman in sheep's clothing. Dressed like a boy and sent off to school to learn the ways of combat under the tutelage of High Priest Avezinas. Andrada soon garners newfound love from her father Cothelas, by impressing him with her penchant for war strategy. Once of proper age, she is brought forth before the other leaders within the kingdom but is quickly dismissed because of her gender. Striking a deal with the chieftains, she must succeed in the King's challenge to be taken seriously as a future Queen. Alliances must be consummated, as the Roman army is methodically infringing upon the occupants of the Kingdoms causing economic and territorial strife. Andrada becomes an integral political pawn, and with the help of the holy God named El, she has the vision to unite all three warring factions.
The tip of the falx drips red, as do the pages within this novel. A wonderous land takes hold, full of intrigue and war. Undertones of mysterious lore blended with the brute force of middle-aged chaos. The author Roxana Arama, invites the reader to join her in the mind of Andrada, a fascinating female protagonist. The hardship of family struggles torments young Andrada, and I was captivated by the resiliency of the princess. Her faith in the otherworldly proved a significant factor in her ability to overcome challenges put forth by unforeseen forces. Supporting characters were constructed in a way that lent to a polished product, a book that fluidly floated down a poisonous stream of water.
The final alliance was one made with me. Between the characters and myself, one filled with an understanding of beauty and pain. I can highly recommend this to enthusiasts of the fantasy genre. I give this 4 out of 5 stars.
September 12, 2024
Tried a fiction-history book 📚 I don’t know... 😖I’m not trying to find books that suck…but good grief! I’m on a roll of suckage!! Princess Andrada’s life gets started on a bad note at birth. Her beloved mother passed away during birth. Her father can’t get over his wife’s death and blames the child. Princess Andrada grows up being shunned by her father & then her father (the King) sends her off to training which is like a military boy school where she has to cut her hair, change her name, bind her breast and live life as a boy….for what? To get sent off to a loveless arranged marriage to preserve the peace between the kingdoms. Husband-King accuses her of murdering his lover & locks her in a tower to await death. Someone goes and alerts Father-King and he gathers troops to save locked Queen (former Princess). During this fight scenes, someone lets Queen out from tower and she runs into battle (because of boy training). She puts on armor from fallen dead bodies…and confronts King-husband. She struggles to lift the sword as it’s so heavy and she pulls with every muscle and all her might…and Husband-King just so happens to walk/run too close and as the sword is being swung…it slices his neck and he dies. Father-King takes a fatal blow as well…she takes his body back to their kingdom and she insist she take the throne and lead as she fought shoulder to shoulder in battle and even killed the King her husband. Oh hail the Queen.
You look at this cover and you think she's going to be some bad ass queen going into battle for her people, for her kingdom. Nope! It sucked. Argh!!!!!
You look at this cover and you think she's going to be some bad ass queen going into battle for her people, for her kingdom. Nope! It sucked. Argh!!!!!
March 22, 2024
From Warrior Apprentice to Warrior Queen
This epic adventure is a historical fantasy set in the mythical kingdom of Dhawosian at the edge of the Black Sea. It is the second century when plundering Roman soldiers march perilously close to the edge of the Kingdom and when women like the spirited protagonist, Princess Andrada are nothing more than political pawns. This is a powerful and courageous tale of a strong female protagonist who goes through tremendous danger to reclaim her power, both personal and royal.
The first paragraph of the book immediately creates a reader’s bond as ten-year-old Princess Andrada is introduced. Her heartbreaking desire is to win the love and acceptance of her father, the kingdom’s elusive king, but he has other plans for the adoring daughter he has all but deserted.
Sent on a mysterious journey from warrior apprentice to warrior queen, Andrada is tenacious against incredible odds in her quest to be loved by her father, and ultimately to claim her crown and save her Kingdom from Rome. Her arduous trek from exile to capturing the heart of her beloved country is filled with death threats, warring factions, political turmoil, as this young woman comes into her own by shattering taboos, both cultural and religious to become the queen she dreams of becoming and who her Kingdom so desperately needs.
The author’s Eastern European background and in-depth knowledge of Romanian mythology and history resonates on every page. This is a fast-paced page-turner that I highly recommend reading.
This epic adventure is a historical fantasy set in the mythical kingdom of Dhawosian at the edge of the Black Sea. It is the second century when plundering Roman soldiers march perilously close to the edge of the Kingdom and when women like the spirited protagonist, Princess Andrada are nothing more than political pawns. This is a powerful and courageous tale of a strong female protagonist who goes through tremendous danger to reclaim her power, both personal and royal.
The first paragraph of the book immediately creates a reader’s bond as ten-year-old Princess Andrada is introduced. Her heartbreaking desire is to win the love and acceptance of her father, the kingdom’s elusive king, but he has other plans for the adoring daughter he has all but deserted.
Sent on a mysterious journey from warrior apprentice to warrior queen, Andrada is tenacious against incredible odds in her quest to be loved by her father, and ultimately to claim her crown and save her Kingdom from Rome. Her arduous trek from exile to capturing the heart of her beloved country is filled with death threats, warring factions, political turmoil, as this young woman comes into her own by shattering taboos, both cultural and religious to become the queen she dreams of becoming and who her Kingdom so desperately needs.
The author’s Eastern European background and in-depth knowledge of Romanian mythology and history resonates on every page. This is a fast-paced page-turner that I highly recommend reading.
March 13, 2024
The Exiled Queen is a Roman era historical fantasy novel that follows the life of Andrada, our main protagonist. Andrada is the daughter of Cothelas the Bald, King of Kerta one of the Dhawosian kingdoms where the novel is set. We first meet her at the age of 10, marking an important milestone in her life. She yearns for her father’s approval, having never met him she wishes today will be the day. Instead of a greeting, Andrada hair is cut and told she will be raised as a boy and grromed to become the next heir.
Andrada accepts hoping this will make her father proud. Once Andrada turns 18 she is met with the King’s Challenge to win her place on the throne. Unfortunately, she makes a mistake and fails.
In order to save her from death, King Cothelas marries her off to King Nicetas of Valdavia as a political pawn.
Andrada yearns for the acceptance of her father and now husband, even though she was brought up as an equal: she will always be less than.
Together we follow her growth from a princess that wants to make those who own her happy into the rightful owner of the throne. The book is packed with battles, trial and deceit. Andrada was faced with struggles that proved she was worthy. Each page kept me wanting to reach the conclusion as fast as I could. The story also follows the POVs of Nicetas, Una (Nicetas’ lover), Scorilus, and Dappyx (Nicetas’ younger brother).
Andrada accepts hoping this will make her father proud. Once Andrada turns 18 she is met with the King’s Challenge to win her place on the throne. Unfortunately, she makes a mistake and fails.
In order to save her from death, King Cothelas marries her off to King Nicetas of Valdavia as a political pawn.
Andrada yearns for the acceptance of her father and now husband, even though she was brought up as an equal: she will always be less than.
Together we follow her growth from a princess that wants to make those who own her happy into the rightful owner of the throne. The book is packed with battles, trial and deceit. Andrada was faced with struggles that proved she was worthy. Each page kept me wanting to reach the conclusion as fast as I could. The story also follows the POVs of Nicetas, Una (Nicetas’ lover), Scorilus, and Dappyx (Nicetas’ younger brother).
January 25, 2024
"The Exiled Queen" is an awesome Roman Era historical fantasy that takes on the journey of Princess Andrada of Kerta as she navigates the challenging path to emerge as the Queen of Three Kingdoms. Andrada is not just a queen; she is formidable both in politics and war. She is the
Chosen of the God. The story introduces a diverse cast of morally grey characters, each contributing to the complexity and depth of the storyline.
Andrada's attraction to her husband's lover, a medicine woman adds a unique layer to the story about love and desire by exploring the themes of bisexuality.
While I enjoyed the book very much and loved the complex character set, my only issue is the limited exploration of their individual characteristics. The story moves fast, so most of the characters didn't get enough opportunities to show who they really are. But I' m excited because the author mentioned a sequel is coming. That promises further character developments and revelations. Despite my small issues, "The Exiled Queen" is a promising and captivating historical fantasy. Can't wait for the next part !📚✨
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Chosen of the God. The story introduces a diverse cast of morally grey characters, each contributing to the complexity and depth of the storyline.
Andrada's attraction to her husband's lover, a medicine woman adds a unique layer to the story about love and desire by exploring the themes of bisexuality.
While I enjoyed the book very much and loved the complex character set, my only issue is the limited exploration of their individual characteristics. The story moves fast, so most of the characters didn't get enough opportunities to show who they really are. But I' m excited because the author mentioned a sequel is coming. That promises further character developments and revelations. Despite my small issues, "The Exiled Queen" is a promising and captivating historical fantasy. Can't wait for the next part !📚✨
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 17, 2024
This was a very fun, fast read. It's full of villains to hate, with a few good guys and an assortment of flawed people who try hard mixed in. Very exciting battle scenes and a plot that twists and doesn't tarry.
I also learned a ton of new things: about ancient warfare and weaponry, the relationship between kings and tribal chieftains, the history of Romania and its interaction with the Roman Empire. Add in ancient weaponry, medical techniques (surprisingly advanced), tactics and trade, and I'm smarter from reading it.
An interesting view on religion morphing from tribal gods to monotheism while remaining superstitious. Even a little literature! (I learned that Lucretia McEvil wasn't invented by Blood, Sweat, and Tears. 😂 Some romance, though no bodice-ripping. Some women's lib, but not over the top.
The book is obviously carefully researched. I learned that the Arnicare Gel I buy from Amazon was in use in herbal medicines in the first century. 😱 There are blood transfusions, pain meds, castles, sieges, chariots falling out of fashion, map-making, and rivercraft. Wow!
Plenty of room for a sequel, which I await breathlessly.
I also learned a ton of new things: about ancient warfare and weaponry, the relationship between kings and tribal chieftains, the history of Romania and its interaction with the Roman Empire. Add in ancient weaponry, medical techniques (surprisingly advanced), tactics and trade, and I'm smarter from reading it.
An interesting view on religion morphing from tribal gods to monotheism while remaining superstitious. Even a little literature! (I learned that Lucretia McEvil wasn't invented by Blood, Sweat, and Tears. 😂 Some romance, though no bodice-ripping. Some women's lib, but not over the top.
The book is obviously carefully researched. I learned that the Arnicare Gel I buy from Amazon was in use in herbal medicines in the first century. 😱 There are blood transfusions, pain meds, castles, sieges, chariots falling out of fashion, map-making, and rivercraft. Wow!
Plenty of room for a sequel, which I await breathlessly.
April 1, 2024
The story revolves around an unloved princess who grew up proving her self-worth. The main character, Andrada, was raised differently. She is not the typical strikingly beautiful, pampered kind of princess; was raised as a male apprentice and not given any privilege for her royal birth nor for her gender.
The story follows her growing up years, her beliefs, and misconceptions which eventually led to a series of unfortunate events leading to her being married off to a King for her father’s political gain.
Her childhood beliefs and misconceptions would be brutally unmasked which would shape her actions and eventual rise as a Queen.
The plot explores how faith can twist decisions and actions. It also showed unconventional love situations that can occur in any setting, and how this love influenced main characters in their decisions and uncommon and cruel acts.
The ending part explains the questions a reader may have formulated while reading the novel; is not a conventional happy ending, but the story somehow makes a reader understand why the characters have acted on certain ways an situations.
The story follows her growing up years, her beliefs, and misconceptions which eventually led to a series of unfortunate events leading to her being married off to a King for her father’s political gain.
Her childhood beliefs and misconceptions would be brutally unmasked which would shape her actions and eventual rise as a Queen.
The plot explores how faith can twist decisions and actions. It also showed unconventional love situations that can occur in any setting, and how this love influenced main characters in their decisions and uncommon and cruel acts.
The ending part explains the questions a reader may have formulated while reading the novel; is not a conventional happy ending, but the story somehow makes a reader understand why the characters have acted on certain ways an situations.
March 17, 2024
I'm not sure why this book is marketed as fantasy. There's no fantasy to it at all (unless you count belief in gods or spirits). Expecting magic or monsters or something, that was a little bit of a let down. I think it's definitely more historical fiction and it would likely find people who'd enjoy it more if it were described as such.
I feel like I should have liked Adrada much more than I did. She's smart and capable, and you can root for her to become queen. I'm also confused why if this is her story we spent so much time with the male characters POVs, ones who aren't really involved with Andrada.
I didn't care for any of the other characters though. Nicetas is an awful jerk. Dapyx is a creepy little stalker and just gross. Cothelas is also an awful jerk. They're believable, just not likeable
Despite those complaints, this book isn't bad at all. If you enjoy historical fiction and being immersed in times past, I this book would be enjoyable for you. And points for LGBTQ representation.
I feel like I should have liked Adrada much more than I did. She's smart and capable, and you can root for her to become queen. I'm also confused why if this is her story we spent so much time with the male characters POVs, ones who aren't really involved with Andrada.
I didn't care for any of the other characters though. Nicetas is an awful jerk. Dapyx is a creepy little stalker and just gross. Cothelas is also an awful jerk. They're believable, just not likeable
Despite those complaints, this book isn't bad at all. If you enjoy historical fiction and being immersed in times past, I this book would be enjoyable for you. And points for LGBTQ representation.
February 18, 2024
I have to admit I was stalled for a while, wadding through the names and tribes but once I got my head wrapped around them ( visualising who they were ) I loved this book.
I love History and the strong women it produced, I was so proud of Princess Andrada and how strong she was but this I believe was due to her farther treating her as a boy - an act which she resented for many years. The academy made her think and behave as a man would. Used for a marriage of alliance, Andrada feels betrayed by everyone, even her new husband is not kind.
She immerses herself in what she knows and helps her new people flourish. With the death of her husband’s mistress comes the promise of execution, until her saviour brings the promise of war. Andrada truly shines in the adversity, displaying strength and courage to take on the men in power around her.
I look forward to the new instalment.
Received this book as an arc and I’m leaving a voluntary review
I love History and the strong women it produced, I was so proud of Princess Andrada and how strong she was but this I believe was due to her farther treating her as a boy - an act which she resented for many years. The academy made her think and behave as a man would. Used for a marriage of alliance, Andrada feels betrayed by everyone, even her new husband is not kind.
She immerses herself in what she knows and helps her new people flourish. With the death of her husband’s mistress comes the promise of execution, until her saviour brings the promise of war. Andrada truly shines in the adversity, displaying strength and courage to take on the men in power around her.
I look forward to the new instalment.
Received this book as an arc and I’m leaving a voluntary review
March 17, 2024
The Exiled Queen is a distinctive, absorbing story that dispenses with the trappings of traditional fantasy and instead posits an alternate Earth in which parts of current Eastern Europe are divided into four warring kingdoms. The fresh, unique cultural underpinnings of the novel come clearly in the setting and actions of the characters. Suggestions of the otherworldly cunningly straddle the line between real and superstition, leaving the final call to the reader. Loved the political maneuvering! Andrada is an intriguing character who quickly becomes easy to root for, despite her flaws. And the storyline defies prediction, constantly jumping towards the unexpected, keeping the reader on their toes, as characters evolve or surprise us with their decisions, culminating in what was for me an unexpected climax. The ending brings closure while also providing an intriguing foundation for a sequel. Great read! I'm looking forward to the next chapter.
March 19, 2024
The Exiled Queen is an excellent story! Princess Andrada travelled a rough path as a little girl as she grew up. Set in ancient southern Europe, the story follows Andrada as she endures many trials, starting with a troubled relationship with her heartbroken father. Andrada faces and endures many challenges, some small, some deadly, in her quest to fulfill her destiny and rule. Small-kingdom politics collide with a common desire to maintain freedom from Rome. A variety of changing belief systems compete to capture the hearts and minds of royalty and common people. Politics, beliefs new and old, and emotions from joy to despair and rage drive conflicts between people and states. I liked this story on many levels. I've never read a historical fantasy before, but I have read 'The Swerve" and the works of Lucretius , so there were things in the story I could relate to. It is pretty fast-paced like a thriller in some respects. It all comes together as a story I really enjoyed.
January 19, 2024
This is a story that has all my “wanna reads:” lots of political crossings and double crossings, solid historical research, an unusual time in history, good people making bad choices, and morally grey rulers sacrificing a few to save the whole.
However. The story took a long time to move forward. There was quite a bit of info dumping as the author tries to get the reader up to speed on the kingdoms standing against the Roman Empire. It wasn’t until the last 50% of the book that it began racing along.
My favorite character? The third brother. How one 16 year old could wreck so much havoc is worth the read alone. A solid debut from a promising author. I will be continuing with this series. The book will be dropping on March 1, 2024. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is a classic example of the “enemy of my enemy is my friend” story.
However. The story took a long time to move forward. There was quite a bit of info dumping as the author tries to get the reader up to speed on the kingdoms standing against the Roman Empire. It wasn’t until the last 50% of the book that it began racing along.
My favorite character? The third brother. How one 16 year old could wreck so much havoc is worth the read alone. A solid debut from a promising author. I will be continuing with this series. The book will be dropping on March 1, 2024. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is a classic example of the “enemy of my enemy is my friend” story.
January 24, 2024
the story is not your typical princess or queen story where the monarchs live pampered lives and loved by people surrounding them. Its the exact opposite. as the plot unfolds, the readers will be shown how a girl’s childhood beliefs would be influenced by religious and political dynamics of her time.
As the plot unfolds, one cannot help but root for the heroine, Andrada, who somehow also baffles the reader on her decisions and reasoning process.
There is a resolution of questions as the story ends though its also not your typical ending. Somehow, readers would be appeased since the story has been narrated in a way that it explains why the characters acted and behaved.
Exiled Queen showcased different types of love and how it brought misery to some of the protagonists.
As the plot unfolds, one cannot help but root for the heroine, Andrada, who somehow also baffles the reader on her decisions and reasoning process.
There is a resolution of questions as the story ends though its also not your typical ending. Somehow, readers would be appeased since the story has been narrated in a way that it explains why the characters acted and behaved.
Exiled Queen showcased different types of love and how it brought misery to some of the protagonists.
July 4, 2024
A fun historical fantasy
I haven’t read any other book quite like this. The setting is familiar enough to ground you, but enough is different to intrigue. The cast of characters is varied. Some are one-dimensional, but in a believable way. The path and plot feel murky, just like real life - people die, and not everyone’s storylines end in a satisfying way. The fantasy parts are mostly light touches here and there that almost make the book seem like pure historical fiction and the people of the time just extra superstitious. Not my favorite read of things I bumped into on Kindle Unlimited, but definitely worth the read.
I haven’t read any other book quite like this. The setting is familiar enough to ground you, but enough is different to intrigue. The cast of characters is varied. Some are one-dimensional, but in a believable way. The path and plot feel murky, just like real life - people die, and not everyone’s storylines end in a satisfying way. The fantasy parts are mostly light touches here and there that almost make the book seem like pure historical fiction and the people of the time just extra superstitious. Not my favorite read of things I bumped into on Kindle Unlimited, but definitely worth the read.
July 9, 2024
Very interesting!
Really enjoyed this look at history and the tribes that fought against becoming part of the Roman Empire. Lots of excitement and adventure, but also heartbreak. Looking v forward to more from this author!
Really enjoyed this look at history and the tribes that fought against becoming part of the Roman Empire. Lots of excitement and adventure, but also heartbreak. Looking v forward to more from this author!
October 20, 2024
in the time of Vespasian
Outside the Roman Empire other peoples were also making peace, war, and progress. This story, with its excellent characters, brings some of that to life.
It is a truly engaging and enjoyable book.
Outside the Roman Empire other peoples were also making peace, war, and progress. This story, with its excellent characters, brings some of that to life.
It is a truly engaging and enjoyable book.
December 13, 2025
This book was a good book. I found it slow but got into later in the book. I did get invested in characters. The romance parts weren’t graphic or anything. I did find the ending to be interesting. The story by multiple povs which I normally don’t care for but it worked well for this book.
January 28, 2024
Definitely a fast action paced book. Andrada Is a brave and bold heroine willing to do what it takes to save her people. The book flows very nicely and kept me entertained page after page.
April 21, 2024
This was an awesome historical fantasy book with an action packed story and heroic main characters! So fun.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 4, 2024
Looking forward to her next book The Foreign King when published.
November 12, 2024
is that it?
I liked it. It was entertaining, but ended rather abruptly, with several unanswered questions and unresolved relationships. I suppose sequels rectify this?
I liked it. It was entertaining, but ended rather abruptly, with several unanswered questions and unresolved relationships. I suppose sequels rectify this?
May 27, 2024
I really enjoyed reading this book, and I think it would make a great TV series. There are so many details of life, warfare, medicine, and mythology of those times. As a reader, we get to follow several characters and see how their storyline develops and how they grow, paving the path for the next book.
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