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The Clandestine Queen
The Clandestine Queen is a WHITNEY AWARD NOMINATED BOOK
A shard of ice hides in her chest
A raging fire burns in his.
A lost queen
A desperate assassin
Together they will change the world.
Maggie Abernathy always thought she was human, even though she could do the most peculiar things. Things no other girl in her village could do. Fifteen years after being abandoned as a baby, she begins to question who she is, where she belongs, and what she might be capable of. When a mysterious letter from the past calls her home, she embarks on a journey that will change her life forever-if she survives.
Loravain-an enslaved, ember-breathing witch hunter-is hot on her trail and gaining fast. If he can find and kill her, he will win what he has sought for twenty years: freedom from the demon he serves. But he knows he isn't supposed to be the villain, and his conscience weighs heavily even as he continues his hunt. Will the prospect of freedom overpower his desire for redemption?
As their fates intertwine, neither knows what the future truly holds.
A shard of ice hides in her chest
A raging fire burns in his.
A lost queen
A desperate assassin
Together they will change the world.
Maggie Abernathy always thought she was human, even though she could do the most peculiar things. Things no other girl in her village could do. Fifteen years after being abandoned as a baby, she begins to question who she is, where she belongs, and what she might be capable of. When a mysterious letter from the past calls her home, she embarks on a journey that will change her life forever-if she survives.
Loravain-an enslaved, ember-breathing witch hunter-is hot on her trail and gaining fast. If he can find and kill her, he will win what he has sought for twenty years: freedom from the demon he serves. But he knows he isn't supposed to be the villain, and his conscience weighs heavily even as he continues his hunt. Will the prospect of freedom overpower his desire for redemption?
As their fates intertwine, neither knows what the future truly holds.
367 pages, Paperback
Published April 12, 2022
1 person is currently reading
1961 people want to read
About the author
Brandon J. Greer
10 books22 followersI haven't always wanted to be a writer, but I have always been interested in the arts in some way or another. As a kid, I loved to draw. My goal was to become an animator for Disney. While that didn't pan out, my love for drawing grew as I got older. Though I don't practice that as much as I once did, I am still intrigued by art.
When high school started, I discovered a love for acting, even though I wasn't the best at it. I couldn't wait to be with my friends performing on stage. It was the highlight of my teenage years. This stayed with me until my early twenties. Then, around my mid-twenties, the writing bug hit and never left.
In the beginning, I wrote mostly short stories and flash fiction, never getting more than two or three pages long. I dreamed of something more but didn't know how to achieve that goal. Until I began writing a new story. This story began as a twisted fairy tale. Jack and the Beanstock from the perspective of the giant. This story evolved and changed until it became my first novel. If you read that novel, you would never guess the idea came from Jack and the Beanstock.
Fast forward fifteen years. I still love writing. I love crafting a story that I hope my readers will enjoy. I write the same things I like to read. Middle-grade and young adult fantasy. Why do I like this? I like to read something where I don't have to worry about content. I don't like to read a lot of language or violence or sex. Because I don't like to read that, I want my work to be family-friendly. I want to produce something that a parent wouldn't be ashamed to sit down and read with their children.
Outside of writing, I love to be in the mountains. I love hiking. I love the solitude of being on the top of a mountain, breathing in the clean, fresh air. The challenge of it exhilarates me. The burning sensation in my legs, though not fun, pushes me on. It is a great escape for me.
Traveling with my wife and family is one of my favorite things to do. My wife is from Peru, so we head off to South America as often as time and money permit. In 2019, we spent two months there with her family. Closer by, we love long weekend trips to Yellowstone. If I didn't love writing so much, I might try my hand at volcanology. The sheer power of the earth is an amazing thing and I love to learn more about it.
When high school started, I discovered a love for acting, even though I wasn't the best at it. I couldn't wait to be with my friends performing on stage. It was the highlight of my teenage years. This stayed with me until my early twenties. Then, around my mid-twenties, the writing bug hit and never left.
In the beginning, I wrote mostly short stories and flash fiction, never getting more than two or three pages long. I dreamed of something more but didn't know how to achieve that goal. Until I began writing a new story. This story began as a twisted fairy tale. Jack and the Beanstock from the perspective of the giant. This story evolved and changed until it became my first novel. If you read that novel, you would never guess the idea came from Jack and the Beanstock.
Fast forward fifteen years. I still love writing. I love crafting a story that I hope my readers will enjoy. I write the same things I like to read. Middle-grade and young adult fantasy. Why do I like this? I like to read something where I don't have to worry about content. I don't like to read a lot of language or violence or sex. Because I don't like to read that, I want my work to be family-friendly. I want to produce something that a parent wouldn't be ashamed to sit down and read with their children.
Outside of writing, I love to be in the mountains. I love hiking. I love the solitude of being on the top of a mountain, breathing in the clean, fresh air. The challenge of it exhilarates me. The burning sensation in my legs, though not fun, pushes me on. It is a great escape for me.
Traveling with my wife and family is one of my favorite things to do. My wife is from Peru, so we head off to South America as often as time and money permit. In 2019, we spent two months there with her family. Closer by, we love long weekend trips to Yellowstone. If I didn't love writing so much, I might try my hand at volcanology. The sheer power of the earth is an amazing thing and I love to learn more about it.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
April 11, 2022
The Clandestine Queen is a book that is sure to have many fans of young adult fantasy hooked. It’s a story with many moving parts, ensuring the reader is left curious to see how it comes together. While I did enjoy the story, I never quite connected to it in the way I had hoped.
I think the reason I never quite connected is because of the main character whose story we followed. Her story was interesting, and I wanted to see how things progressed, but I was more interested in the other characters. This was fine when we followed the other members of the cast, but she was central to the plot and I had expected a bit more investment in her. Due to this, I always felt a little bit of disconnect from the story. That is not to say it was bad – it was an enjoyable read – simply that I was not sucked in quite as deep as I would have been had I fallen deeper for the characters.
I’m sure many will not feel the same way or will love the story despite the above. For me, however, this was an enjoyable read, but not quite all I had hoped.
I think the reason I never quite connected is because of the main character whose story we followed. Her story was interesting, and I wanted to see how things progressed, but I was more interested in the other characters. This was fine when we followed the other members of the cast, but she was central to the plot and I had expected a bit more investment in her. Due to this, I always felt a little bit of disconnect from the story. That is not to say it was bad – it was an enjoyable read – simply that I was not sucked in quite as deep as I would have been had I fallen deeper for the characters.
I’m sure many will not feel the same way or will love the story despite the above. For me, however, this was an enjoyable read, but not quite all I had hoped.
March 3, 2022
The Clandestine Queen will keep you on the edge of your seat as you root for Maggie as she learns of the past she never knew that chases her across the country as she searches for the mother that gave her up to keep her from the very danger she must now face. She teams up with a villain, Loravain, as he searches for redemption. He must choose between his freedom and doing what is right. They are both helped along the way by a witch who wants to save them both, and might just be the very thing to heal Loravain’s shattered heart. With storytelling similar to C.S. Lewis and Andrzej Sapkowski, Brandon masterfully manages to create complex characters that have to learn to work together all while a demon is out to ruin all that is good in the world. The Clandestine Queen will certainly leave you aching for the next book!
February 24, 2022
If you're looking for a heart-racing fantasy that you won't be able to put down - or better yet, characters that start to feel like family - then this is the book (dare I hope, series?) for you. I look forward to my next dive into this world of demons and guardians, witches and magical powers, all rooted in a past that we're desperately trying to untangle... Brandon is a masterful storyteller. I can't wait to see where Maggie and her friends take us from here!
July 25, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Maggie is an almost 16 year old girl who soon finds out she isn’t as ordinary as she pretends to be. Loravain is a witch hunter hell bent on gaining his freedom from his demon master. These 2 characters intertwine in a magical journey to help Maggie discover her true destiny. This book was an action packed filled adventure and I could not put down. Great YA fantasy book!
Maggie is an almost 16 year old girl who soon finds out she isn’t as ordinary as she pretends to be. Loravain is a witch hunter hell bent on gaining his freedom from his demon master. These 2 characters intertwine in a magical journey to help Maggie discover her true destiny. This book was an action packed filled adventure and I could not put down. Great YA fantasy book!
March 30, 2022
The stunning cover captured my attention and the story more than kept it! The prologue starts straight into the action – a witch on the run and a hunter on her trail giving chase. We learn there’s an intense prejudice against witches by humans, is it deserved, or are they seeking to destroy that which they don’t understand?
The narrative is told from mostly Maggie and Loravain’s perspective. They are immensely likeable characters who leap off the page. As the story moves forward they completely endear themselves to the reader and I was wanting all good things for them.
Maggie was left on her adopted parents doorstep at birth – she has loving and caring parents and lives a peaceful life. As she grows up she realises she can do things no one else can but she keeps this to herself. She’s always felt different and like she doesn’t belong, and when her parents give her the letter that was left with her as a baby she discovers the reason why. As Maggie begins her journey into the unknown I was fully engrossed in joining her on this adventure!
Loravain is a complicated character – he’s entered into a deal with a demon, known as the Dark One, to serve him and be his puppet for evil. He was tricked into the bargain and the flashback scenes were heartbreaking. He suffers with pain, guilt, and shame over his actions and when his master hands down his next mission he decides he can’t wrestle with his conscience any longer.
I loved the intricate magic world created and how the history, customs and traditions are trickled through the pages. It makes you feel completely immersed in their world. There’s five distinct magics – fire, ice, mind, storm and nature. There’s different abilities in each and you can have more than one. The Five, who are ancient and immortal beings with vast knowledge, were fantastic characters. I was especially fond of Thanatos, the wolf, who helps Loravain and looks out for him.
The chapters explore how power can be corrupted by the person wielding it – it should be respected and not abused. However, the lure of power is too strong for some and they equate it with superiority with dire consequences.
Events lead to Loravain and Maggie’s paths crossing. Maggie has picked up a witch friend along her travels, Sarah, who can do the most amazing things with her mind magic. Loravain wants to atone for his past actions and becomes Maggie’s protector with Thanatos by his side. They have to trust each other to move as one. All four had a great dynamic together growing ever closer and I enjoyed the scenes where they were all together.
The Dark One has an unusual interest in Maggie and as they trek across the lands they encounter some horrendous creatures they have to fight along the way. It seems a war is in the making and Maggie may be key to stopping it. It’s an extreme pressure placed on her shoulders but she’s truly brave and courageous, and is determined to do all that she can.
The book is an exciting and engaging fantasy read; it has an absorbing plot filled with prophecies, destiny, and mystery which fizzes with energy. It’s also a story of self- discovery, about accepting and fully embracing who you are – no one should feel the need to hide, as Maggie discovers with a little help from her friends.
With thanks to @lolasblogtours and @brandonjgreer for a place on the tour and the opportunity to read and review this book
The narrative is told from mostly Maggie and Loravain’s perspective. They are immensely likeable characters who leap off the page. As the story moves forward they completely endear themselves to the reader and I was wanting all good things for them.
Maggie was left on her adopted parents doorstep at birth – she has loving and caring parents and lives a peaceful life. As she grows up she realises she can do things no one else can but she keeps this to herself. She’s always felt different and like she doesn’t belong, and when her parents give her the letter that was left with her as a baby she discovers the reason why. As Maggie begins her journey into the unknown I was fully engrossed in joining her on this adventure!
Loravain is a complicated character – he’s entered into a deal with a demon, known as the Dark One, to serve him and be his puppet for evil. He was tricked into the bargain and the flashback scenes were heartbreaking. He suffers with pain, guilt, and shame over his actions and when his master hands down his next mission he decides he can’t wrestle with his conscience any longer.
I loved the intricate magic world created and how the history, customs and traditions are trickled through the pages. It makes you feel completely immersed in their world. There’s five distinct magics – fire, ice, mind, storm and nature. There’s different abilities in each and you can have more than one. The Five, who are ancient and immortal beings with vast knowledge, were fantastic characters. I was especially fond of Thanatos, the wolf, who helps Loravain and looks out for him.
The chapters explore how power can be corrupted by the person wielding it – it should be respected and not abused. However, the lure of power is too strong for some and they equate it with superiority with dire consequences.
Events lead to Loravain and Maggie’s paths crossing. Maggie has picked up a witch friend along her travels, Sarah, who can do the most amazing things with her mind magic. Loravain wants to atone for his past actions and becomes Maggie’s protector with Thanatos by his side. They have to trust each other to move as one. All four had a great dynamic together growing ever closer and I enjoyed the scenes where they were all together.
The Dark One has an unusual interest in Maggie and as they trek across the lands they encounter some horrendous creatures they have to fight along the way. It seems a war is in the making and Maggie may be key to stopping it. It’s an extreme pressure placed on her shoulders but she’s truly brave and courageous, and is determined to do all that she can.
The book is an exciting and engaging fantasy read; it has an absorbing plot filled with prophecies, destiny, and mystery which fizzes with energy. It’s also a story of self- discovery, about accepting and fully embracing who you are – no one should feel the need to hide, as Maggie discovers with a little help from her friends.
With thanks to @lolasblogtours and @brandonjgreer for a place on the tour and the opportunity to read and review this book
April 11, 2022
Action, action, action. The tension is high and the stakes are higher. If you’re looking for an attention grabbing page turner in a classic fantasy world that gives off a Salem witch hunting vibe, this is the book for you. There’s some neat fire and ice magic in it, especially in Loravain’s character arch. The scenes when his magic develops include some of the coolest fire and smoke magic descriptions and world building. I really hope the sequel delves even deeper into his magic system. Also, the unique creatures in this world and their detailed descriptions were some of my favorite parts because they really immersed me in the story and setting. Especially the monsters with lava burning boils (at least, that’s the way I pictured it).
You should know that I’m the type of reader who loves internal growth and watching characters overcome their flaws, so I was a little disappointed when it felt like some of their character changes happened quickly and without the characters having to really work for them. I also know a lot of reviewers felt like the characters were quite well developed, but for me, the first third of the book, I struggled to feel like the characters were real people. Some of Maggie and Loravain’s initial decisions felt forced by the plot instead of what they’d actually do.
That being said, I felt like the plot and character actions got more engaging and came to life as the speed picked up and their danger increased—the struggle for their lives the last two thirds of the book definitely still made it worth the read. I found myself rooting for them and wondering how they could possibly make everything work out. For the action packed, fighting scenes type of reader who isn’t really interested in the internal plot line, this is right up your alley.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable read. Maggie is a hesitant hero who finds herself thrown under the spotlight of a war between some of the most powerful leaders in the land. Watching her come to terms with her new life, learn to develop her powers, and face the evil forces trying to take her life was very entertaining. I hope you pick this one up and share it with your friends!!
You should know that I’m the type of reader who loves internal growth and watching characters overcome their flaws, so I was a little disappointed when it felt like some of their character changes happened quickly and without the characters having to really work for them. I also know a lot of reviewers felt like the characters were quite well developed, but for me, the first third of the book, I struggled to feel like the characters were real people. Some of Maggie and Loravain’s initial decisions felt forced by the plot instead of what they’d actually do.
That being said, I felt like the plot and character actions got more engaging and came to life as the speed picked up and their danger increased—the struggle for their lives the last two thirds of the book definitely still made it worth the read. I found myself rooting for them and wondering how they could possibly make everything work out. For the action packed, fighting scenes type of reader who isn’t really interested in the internal plot line, this is right up your alley.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable read. Maggie is a hesitant hero who finds herself thrown under the spotlight of a war between some of the most powerful leaders in the land. Watching her come to terms with her new life, learn to develop her powers, and face the evil forces trying to take her life was very entertaining. I hope you pick this one up and share it with your friends!!
April 4, 2022
Magic, intrigue, danger, prophecies, and romance weave together into a fast-paced adventure, which makes it hard to put down.
Maggie knows she's different than the rest of the people in the village. Her adoptive parents, but neither knows exactly what that means. She has talents, she can't explain, and she keeps them a secret from everyone in the village, knowing that she'd be accused of being a witch and killed. When her parents give her a box, which was laid next to her when she was abandoned by her birth mother, her world changes completely. Now, she wants to find the truth behind her true identity, even if it means taking on more than she even believes exists.
This is not a boring read. The author has woven a very tight-knit-tale, which leaves every scene as important as the next and exciting as the last. The chapters are written from the view of various characters, making sure the reader stays on top of what's going on and is aware of the intentions from all angles...which is good because there are quite a few factors involved in Maggie's adventure. It all comes together well with few plot holes and good world-building. Sinking into the scenes is no problem as the magic and danger unfolds.
The characters have depth, and yet, I did have trouble really connecting with Maggie. I'm not sure why because this is written well enough. The rest of the characters came across very well, and I did find myself engaged with all of them. There are many twists and turns, with some moments predictable and others not...which is exactly the way it should be to keep the tale intriguing. The romance works and doesn't overtake the rest of the plot. It's simply a rich, entertaining read and one fantasy fans will surely enjoy diving into.
I received a complimentary copy and did find it to be an action-packed read.
Maggie knows she's different than the rest of the people in the village. Her adoptive parents, but neither knows exactly what that means. She has talents, she can't explain, and she keeps them a secret from everyone in the village, knowing that she'd be accused of being a witch and killed. When her parents give her a box, which was laid next to her when she was abandoned by her birth mother, her world changes completely. Now, she wants to find the truth behind her true identity, even if it means taking on more than she even believes exists.
This is not a boring read. The author has woven a very tight-knit-tale, which leaves every scene as important as the next and exciting as the last. The chapters are written from the view of various characters, making sure the reader stays on top of what's going on and is aware of the intentions from all angles...which is good because there are quite a few factors involved in Maggie's adventure. It all comes together well with few plot holes and good world-building. Sinking into the scenes is no problem as the magic and danger unfolds.
The characters have depth, and yet, I did have trouble really connecting with Maggie. I'm not sure why because this is written well enough. The rest of the characters came across very well, and I did find myself engaged with all of them. There are many twists and turns, with some moments predictable and others not...which is exactly the way it should be to keep the tale intriguing. The romance works and doesn't overtake the rest of the plot. It's simply a rich, entertaining read and one fantasy fans will surely enjoy diving into.
I received a complimentary copy and did find it to be an action-packed read.
April 12, 2022
The Clandestine Queen by Brandon J Greer is a great read. It is a fantasy novel that combines a young woman’s search for her true home, with the eternal struggle of good vs. evil. The book combines the best elements from the Chronicles of Narnia, Harry Potter, and a good Dungeons and Dragons campaign.
The main characters are well-developed, and they grow and change through their experiences in the story. The most profound transformation occurs as Loravain tackles his memories of his wife’s death and his decision to serve his demon Master. He breaks free of his enslavement to his past as he does everything he can to fulfil his oath to keep Maggie safe.
The fantasy world is populated by demons, witches, monsters, and wise, talking animals. The settings are realistic and provide plenty of exciting obstacles for the characters to overcome. The volcano is the best of these natural obstacles.
If you want a fascinating fantasy read, I encourage you to check out The Clandestine Queen by Brandon J Greer.
The main characters are well-developed, and they grow and change through their experiences in the story. The most profound transformation occurs as Loravain tackles his memories of his wife’s death and his decision to serve his demon Master. He breaks free of his enslavement to his past as he does everything he can to fulfil his oath to keep Maggie safe.
The fantasy world is populated by demons, witches, monsters, and wise, talking animals. The settings are realistic and provide plenty of exciting obstacles for the characters to overcome. The volcano is the best of these natural obstacles.
If you want a fascinating fantasy read, I encourage you to check out The Clandestine Queen by Brandon J Greer.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 12, 2022
There's an interesting magic system going on here, with unique aspects among the familiar. There are great moments of description, and the hunter's backstory comes into play in an interesting way. I would like to see a little more of show-don't-tell, especially with the emotional beats. These characters have a lot of potential, and I want a little more setup and emotional weight behind their transformations. Especially with the title character. I want to see the actions that reveal her good and pure heart. I want her to begin stepping up as a leader on this journey, to start building personal qualities that will help her be what she needs to be for her people. I have to say, though, her powers are pretty cool. Literally, for one of them...
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March 7, 2022If you love mystery , intrigue and adventure- this book is for you! Heroes and heroines come alive as they face challenges and overcome the odds! Good versus evil and the unknown all must be faced and life lessons learned in this well crafted story! Well developed characters that will keep you rooting for their success, as they navigate the turns amd twists of the plot! This book will leave you excited for the sequel! It was fun to find a new author that can provide good, clean, but exciting entertainment!
April 19, 2022
This book was a fantastic YA Fantasy novel! As you followed Maggie and Loravain through a world of magic and witches, demons and guardians, you could feel the characters learn and try to understand their world. You can feel Loravain struggling with his past and uncertain future and Maggie trying to understand her new powers and the new family she has never met. Greer was able to tie in the past and go between two different perspectives masterfully. If you enjoy fantasy, I suggest this book. Crossing my fingers for a sequel!
April 1, 2022
Kind of like a drug (in the best way). You can't put it down, it makes you feel good, and the imagery gives an almost realistic mental image allowing you to be deeply sucked into a magical and interesting world. It had me from the prologue and kept me coming back! It's written beautifully and balanced, combining intense and specific descriptions as well as action and plot. A little J.R.R. Tolkein meets Shannon Hale. A very well-written book!
April 23, 2022
What a fun story. I would say this is more of an early-teen book rather than a young adult book. Some elements are a bit too basic for young adults. (I almost didnt make it through the blacksmith crush section.)
My main complaint, if any, is that it was too fast-paced. I think I would’ve liked to learn what the characters look like, how they moved, no verbal attributes, what they wore.
Otherwise a fun quick fantasy jaunt!
My main complaint, if any, is that it was too fast-paced. I think I would’ve liked to learn what the characters look like, how they moved, no verbal attributes, what they wore.
Otherwise a fun quick fantasy jaunt!
January 17, 2024
I purchased this book from Brandon while he was at a farmers' market. The cover immediately drew me in, and I knew this was a book I would be interested in reading. I am glad I purchased this book. As I read this book I wanted Maggie to be a stronger character but then I would remember that she is young and just leaving her home. So I could see that she was growing into the person she needs to be. She still has a lot of growing up to do and I hope we see her step up in book 2.
September 13, 2022
The Clandestine Queen is fast-paced adventure, with twists and turns I didn’t see coming. So much action, danger, and intrigue! It’s an engaging fantasy world where mysteries and discoveries abound.
I loved the characters of Maggie and Loravaun, both of them conflicted in their knowledge and their paths. They are easy to root for!
I loved the characters of Maggie and Loravaun, both of them conflicted in their knowledge and their paths. They are easy to root for!
July 26, 2023
An interesting context that is exciting and action packed, but it really tells two stories and its hard to tell which is dominate. Could use more understanding of the world it is all just accepted in the setting but understanding how and why things work would be helpful.
December 7, 2023
Not too long, makes for a quick read, in a good way. I really enjoyed the character development throughout the story. I enjoyed the overall story, it was intriguing, engaging, and really hooks you in! I will definitely be reading the other novels from Brandon!
March 19, 2022
Great read! Good pacing and build-up to the climax! It keeps you engaged until the end! Excited to see what's in store in the sequels.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews