Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Queen Avan #1-3

Queen Avan: The Complete Three Parts

Rate this book
Avan’s land is dying.

A washerwoman whose future is bleak, Avan faces starvation. When the capital takes those in her village with tribal magic, she leaves with them, hoping for a better life. Or at least a constant supply of food.

Saving her country, gaining the heart of a prince, and then getting captured by savages wasn't exactly what she'd had in mind.

But the real threats come from unexpected places and soon everyone she loves is at risk. She must untangle decades of corruption and rid the country of its most powerful leaders or watch her village starve.




This is the complete edition including Part One: Avan’s Gift, Part Two: Avan’s Curse and Part Three: Avan’s Heart. Each part is also available as a separate ebook.

Queen Avan is set two hundred years before the events of The Flawed Princess and can be read before, after or independently.

473 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 2, 2020

23 people are currently reading
43 people want to read

About the author

Alice Ivinya

32 books309 followers
Alice is a USA Today Bestselling author who writes low spice fantasy and fairytales.

She lives in Bristol, UK, and has loved fantasy all her life. Her favourite authors are Holly Black and Brandon Sanderson.

When she's not off gallivanting in other worlds, you can find her looking after her two young sons, hanging out with her church family, or walking the best dog in the world with her husband.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
47 (57%)
4 stars
22 (26%)
3 stars
11 (13%)
2 stars
1 (1%)
1 star
1 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
230 reviews2 followers
June 27, 2021
Great read

I loved this book and loved the journey of Avan, both externally and internally…. The thought processes and mishaps all made for an exciting read….
A fair amount of action and some surprising situations…just a really great read…. If I didn’t have small children to tend to and events to attend I think I would have just sat and read non stop from beginning to end….
I really enjoyed this book in case it wasn’t obvious….
My niece has started reading now…and is loving it
Profile Image for Lissa Hawley.
1,376 reviews29 followers
June 22, 2022
4.5 stars.

Good, but dragged a little in the middle.
Profile Image for Tammie.
1,608 reviews174 followers
December 11, 2021
I saw this omnibus on KU and it looked like it might be good, so I picked it up, and I ended up being really impressed by this trilogy. I thoroughly enjoyed the characters in this story and the way they developed. Avan was a wonderful character and I had a hard time putting this book down. I thought there was just the right amount of romance and adventure in the books. I had never read anything by this author, but after reading this trilogy, I looked up more of her novels to add to my to-read list.

Review also posted at Writings of a Reader.
Profile Image for OldBird.
1,837 reviews
January 23, 2022
An enjoyable, offbeat YA fantasy with romance. While it does show that it's an early work by the author (it can feel a little obvious and maybe a tad anti-climactic at times), and the difference in each of the three original episodic releases is apparent, I still found myself pulled in to this strange world of magic and mystery. I enjoyed it far more than the companion novel The Flawed Princess (which you don't need to read to understand this one) as it shows definite improvement by the author (who has gotten even better over time!)

In a land where each kingdom has their own specialized kind of magic, Avan is decidedly unspecial. She's an inattentive washerwoman with no real life plans aside from mess around with her friend and survive the ongoing drought that challenges even their magical Growers abilities to pull crop plants from nothing. When the king sends for her village Growers to attend to the fields around the capital, along with an offer of shelter for any villagers willing to make the trek, Avan heads off... Only to fall prey to nomadic bandits desperate enough to steal the Growers for themselves. Stuck in the wilderness with only the unusually optimistic survivor Cedric to help her reach the city, she finds herself falling deeper into a web of political wrangling and magical mysteries that threatens worse for the Farthi people than even the deadly drought. Unless, that is, she can find a way through all the lies.

I really enjoyed Avan's narration. I didn't believe she was as old as she was meant to be (I'd have guessed 15-17 at most!) but still found her an interesting character. She's got all your usual YA heroine thoughts and concerns: is she good enough? Can she change who she is for the better? It gives her a strong character arc, even if there is a little part that feels rushed into Side character Cedric also gets himself an arc of learning to trust in himself and accept duty. He's such a cinnamon roll of a character it's hard not to fall for his bouncy charm. I really liked how naturally the two came to know each other, even if I was weirded out by everyone else's reactions to them

There are quite a number of side characters, and each feel distinct in their own way. I wasn't a fan of the Herne nobility because they were so obvious in their intentions; Farthi politics isn't quite GoT level of finesse but it's got plenty of YA appropriate intrigues. Even the rough and roguish horsemen get time to shine, and have nuanced characters that we learn more about as we go along.

The fantasy world is really part of the charm; we have at least three kingdoms each with their own specialities (plant/earth magic, animal charming magic, and healing magic respectively) and though we only visit two of those lands they are vividly painted as being very different from each other in looks and attitudes. From the lush Farthi city that sounds like a magical fairytale forest of stone castles and wooden tree houses to the arid plains of the supposedly brutal Tharans, it's a fascinating place to explore.

I'll be honest; there were times here when I did sigh at the old cliches turning up or things being made glaringly obvious. There were oddities that didn't feel wholly satisfying in a narrative sense, though I appreciate that they weren't always the old tropes The ending in particular felt a bit... less than I'd hoped for after so much build up, maybe a little unbelievably so . Part one felt rushed after a strong slow start and less polished stylistically than the others. I struggled especially with the number of commas that could break the writing flow. Parts 2 and 3 were much easier to read, though those unusual narrative paths could be a bit strange. (Also, sorry, misspelled and misused word typos).

Regardless, it was an engrossing and enjoyable younger end of YA read. It's got secret magic, sweet romance, a little bit of intrigue, shocks, heartbreak, and a tough leading lady who always knows how to own her mistakes. It's quirky unpredictability adds to it's unusual charm. While I didn't think it as strong as newer work by the author, it's well worth a read if you like easy to read magical YA romance. A nice comfort read!
Profile Image for Shawna Z.
509 reviews6 followers
December 13, 2024
This prequel to The Flawed Princess is the story of Ava, a mischievous and lazy laundress from a small village who becomes beloved as she saves her country and wins the heart of the Crown Prince. Her story is referred to several times by Violet in FP, so it was a pleasure to read of the woman Violet was inspired by.

Ava has no magical affinity. Her people are farmers and the magic, if you have the gift, is for rejuvenating and enrich spent soil or to bring forth crops, some even out of season. In Ava’s village and others in the region people are moving due to the massive drought. Failed crops have Growers in high demand and the King has emissaries combing the region to gather as many growers as possible to the capital and focus on growing crops there that can be doled out elsewhere. The neighboring territory has their own parties out raiding villages and travelers to claim Growers for themselves. Ava’s group is accosted by such a raiding party but she and Cedric, a young man from the capital’s group manage to hide and evade capture. A young man who turns out to be the Crown Prince.

From their struggle to reach the capital, to kidnappings, ransoms, prisoner exchanges, almost more magic than one person can hold, battles, and several near death moments, Ava and Cedric will persevere against the odds to save the kingdom and each other along the way.

The story is told in multiple parts and has a lot happening- almost a little too much. Still, I enjoyed nearly every single moment of it. There was a few that had me all but biting my nails, and even some where I wanted to shake my head at just how preposterous a few situations became.

Only a whisper-light kiss though through the main storyline (bummer( but I love Ava’s smart mouth ways and the banter. There are loads of characters, but nobody feels flat or static. In fact, as the story covers two different provinces (and characters from others) I appreciated getting to see things from the stance of the two kingdoms. War stories often seem to want a hero and a villain, but here you get to see there are good reasons on both sides for why everything escalates the way it does.

Tween me: 4 stars, 50+ me: 3 1/2…. Minus extra for the want of more kisses and the fact that memories shared are in narrative form (which doesn’t feel organic like a memory should be… who dictates what happens in their memory?) so we’ve both agreed on 3

Profile Image for Priscila.
852 reviews86 followers
July 21, 2023
Queen Avan was such an intriguing read! I don't think I've read a book that has this much political intrigue, and plot twists, with a rather subtle romantic thread in quite a while, if not to say ever, and that it still managed to hook me and want to find out how it all would play out. Let's be honest, it did have a slow start, and I almost gave up on it, but I decided to give it till the "meet cute" (around Ch. 3, maybe?) and it definitely paid off, since by then I was hooked. However, if you're a moody reader and not feeling it, PFN it (pause for now) and come back when the right mood strikes. ;) I knew from the beginning I was in for quite the ride in regard to Avan's growth as a character, and I enjoyed most of it. I say most because it also involves plenty of mistakes (like, the number of times you'll want to shake her is high) but they're part of the process I guess so they're a necessary evil. I loved the cultures/world-building crafted by the author, and I definitely loved her writing skills, since it immersed me in the story and made me feel like I was right there with Avan. The Farthi and Tharan cultures are so different yet interesting and I enjoyed experiencing all of it from Avan's eyes. I loved the balance Cedric provided with his optimism and willingness to see and believe the best in people. His own growth was rewarding as well. Jasper and his men were intriguing, played an important part in the story, and I loved getting to know all of them.

I think I could go on, but then I'd spoil it for someone, so let's just say I definitely recommend it for anyone who enjoys Fantasy with a very light romantic thread (still with a HEA), and who wishes for more politics and intrigue, without compromising the action, in their books. ~ 4.5 stars!

Content:
Violence: according to a Fantasy setting: from battles and taking prisoners, to treason, getting injured or dying by sword (slit throat, getting stabbed) and poison, etc.
1,282 reviews23 followers
May 14, 2023
What a exciting series! This book contains all three
books in one complete novel so it’s the perfect way to read this series!

Avan is a girl with no magic so she has practiced weaving with her mother and also working as a washer woman. When an opportunity comes to leave her village which is suffering because of a drought, she takes the chance and leaves with others. In the group she sees a noble but doesn’t realize he’s the crown prince until later after they are attacked! She forms a friendship with him but they are attacked again and he is taken. When she gets to her destination, she chances upon a woman who is able to grow things willing them to. By touching her as she does that, she is able to take the power for herself also and surprises everyone when she can “grow” things now herself. She is betrayed by the king in exchange for the crown prince she knew briefly and taken prisoner. However, she learns about herself and what she is now capable of doing. When the prince comes to try and save her, he is stabbed by his own people and left for dead. In the company of a healer, Avan touches her as she heals Cedric and gets the healing powers as well. Her friend who took her in trade for the crown prince makes her believe in herself and explains the “gift” she has. When he agrees to become the prisoner of this man who took something of immeasurable value from him and is threatening to do it again he is killed by this same person. Avan and Cedric set out to bring those to justice who did such a thing! More betrayal is in Avan’s future, but also great things as she single handily makes her enemies sign a treaty between their lands after she rejects their offers.

This is a great story which you’ll love so all I can say
is that I heartily recommend you get this complete series box set as one book so it’ll always be there
to read again and again!
Profile Image for The Book Dragon's Hoard by A.V..
1,077 reviews27 followers
August 7, 2022
Avan is a common washerwoman from a small village in a rural setting. Avan struggles in a society marked by magic users, where she is one who hasn't shown any talent. Drought is slowly snuffing out the region and Avan decides to follow a group heading to the capital city in hopes of a better future. On their way, they are ambushed by raiders and Avan is separated from her friends. Together with Prince Cedric, Avan embarks on an adventure where she discovers her magical powers and realises the depth and uniqueness of her abilities.

This is a brilliant Young Adult Fantasy novel brimful of life lessons and perennial truths, to the point where it becomes immeasurably enjoyable to readers of all ages. There is adventure, heartbreak and loss, along with some wonderful clean romance and deep friendships. Ivynia's tale is beautiful, engaging and one of those books I simply couldn't put down. Her supporting characters are solid, intriguing and totally believable and the plot is filled with really enjoyable, unexpected twists. This book ends on a high note. It is empowering and leaves you with a glimmer of true hope.
Profile Image for Hunter.
483 reviews22 followers
February 13, 2025
I enjoyed Queen Avan almost as much as The Flawed Princess (which is one of my all time favorites)

It was really interesting learning more about the Tharans and Farthi’s history together. It gives a bit of a new understanding of what happens in The Flawed Princess.

Avan said and did some things that were super horrible in the third part, but she got called out on it, and grew from it. And in the end it really gave more depth to her character. SOOOO don’t give up on Avan, she has excellent character growth!

Cedric has to be protected at all costs! He stayed true to himself through out everything, and is one of my favorite MMC.

Jasper had many layers, but I’m so glad he was never a love interest because he was fueled by revenge and hate, and it really bled through at times. But I loved what his character added to the story.

The romance was sweet, maybe happened a bit quick, but definitely got more depth to end by the end.

Worldbuilding was excellent. I’m hoping we another book outta it. Maybe centered around the other two nations?? (Pleaseeeeee)

Content: clean, some mild violence? No spice.
243 reviews2 followers
November 15, 2022
Kinda wish I read this before 'The Flawed Princess'

This can be read before or after 'The Flawed Princess', but I think it would be better to read this first.

Avan is a very flawed character, in that she has no real self-direction, and is quite naive. Her growth is in spurts, which is more realistic than most main characters in books. She finishes off still uncertain of herself, but more sure of who she wants to become.

The story arc was a bit of a struggle to get through. The politics of who was who, and keeping up with all the various plots throughout, were giving me a headache. I almost quit reading about halfway, but I'm glad I didn't give up. I'm still slightly off-kilter, and if I didn't have a long TBR list, I would read 'The Flawed Princess' again to rehash the things that link the two stories.

So, though the author states you can read the two stories in any order, I suggest reading Queen Avan's story first.
Profile Image for Astrid V.J..
Author 36 books354 followers
October 10, 2020
Ivynia has done it again. What a brilliant book! I loved the Flawed Princess and Queen Avan definitely is equal to that fantastic debut novel.

This book is an excellent introduction to this magical universe and what I love most about Queen Avan is how flawed this character is. She is convincingly naive, makes wrong decisions, muddled her way through and eventually, after dabbling in actions that very realistically could lead to evil, she has to reassess herself and make a decision. Ivynia spins Avan from a coarse, uneducated and simple washerwoman into a pure silver thread. Her journey is amazing and shows the way for the rest of us. Our lives are filled with difficult choices and often we lose track of what the right step is. Queen Avan is a lovely way for teenage readers to engage with our human capacity for evil and how to choose good instead.

Great reading! Highly recommend!
Profile Image for Sarah Hill.
Author 7 books57 followers
October 29, 2020
I am so glad I came across this series on Instagram!! The author, Alice did a wonderful job spinning a tale of suspense, adventure, magic and romance. I read through the series in two days and literally fell in love with her characters! Avan, Cedric and Jasper were my favorites, but so many supporting characters just made my heart leap and put a smile on my face! That little Mel was a feisty little thing and Trapper, Hawker, Cog and Jeb made me laugh throughout the series.
Give this awesome series a read, you will not be disappointed! Thank you Alice for sharing your characters and their story with the world!
Profile Image for Hanna.
44 reviews
January 25, 2025
I read the Flawed Princess right before this and really liked it, but this was just WOW. Amazing story. Such happy and devastatingly sad stories - I had to take breaks a couple times just to process. Jasper’s story was so tragic and Avan was really going through it. Their relationship/friendship felt very special for the short amount of time it lasted. I wish there was an epilogue or another book about the time between the end of this book and when the Tharans eventually take over. I will read it the moment it’s released.
85 reviews1 follower
December 21, 2020
I can't imagine reading the three parts as they came out. I found the first part slow, but the second and third parts more than made up for the slow beginning. The main character solved the problem in a way I did not see coming because it was not what I would have done. At first when I finished that made me feel disconnected from the character, but then I realized not all characters have to be me and make what I feel are the best decisions.
18 reviews1 follower
October 9, 2020
I loved this trilogy, beautifully presented in a single volume. It is the prequel to The Flawed Princess but can be read as a standalone tale. Alice Ivinya creates compelling characters and a fascinating world, with vivid descriptions and a fast-moving plot. I was completely absorbed and really cared about the characters.

Highly recommended.
Profile Image for Brigitte Frantz.
155 reviews1 follower
April 5, 2021
Intriguing

Very exciting romantic adventurous intriguing story. I spent a whole day reading all 3 books. The characters were so real and you just wished they would act like you wanted them too. That’s where the suspense comes in.
Profile Image for LaShunda.
613 reviews1 follower
February 26, 2023
What an Adventure!

I thoroughly enjoyed this omnibus! Each part kept enhancing the journey of Avan, the washer girl who would become queen. I kept thinking things would end one way but I could not predict this ending. This was fun to read.
24 reviews2 followers
October 31, 2020
What a book! I don't read books that fast but this I devoured. Characters had depth and good progression. Part 2 was a personal favourite!
22 reviews
February 19, 2021
Excellent

This is a great book, I found it hard to put down.
Characters are great and the world created is original and captivating.
117 reviews1 follower
April 7, 2022
I utterly adored the characters. The author's bright imagination shines through as she managed to create a world that is elaborate, simple, and unforgettable.
6 reviews
December 30, 2020
This book is amazing. A real page turner. An unexpected twist in every chapter as you are transported into a world full of adventure and fantasy.
304 reviews
August 24, 2023
loved it! very unique “power/magic” systems

Very interesting magic/power system. Great pacing, character development and relationship development. It was very unique storyline.

Definitely read this before The Flawed Princess as it will give you a lot more background for that book. I actually like this one more than the flawed princess.
Profile Image for Shannon Marie.
Author 1 book6 followers
July 12, 2024
Okay this is one of the only times I’ll ever recommend reading the prequel AFTER the first book, because as much as I adore the first one, this story absolutely blows the other one out of the water!!!!

The MAGIC SYSTEM. The INTRIGUE. The politics, survival, changing allegiances, and the TWISTS!

And it somehow comes together to make a very satisfying HEA?!?!

#diesofhappiness
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.