What do you think?
Rate this book
The Frean Chronicles #2
Queen's Catacombs
Winning the crown was only the beginning.
Jacs, now the rightful Queen of Frea, seems to be Queen in title alone. She scrambles to learn the customs and traditions of a Realm she had only read about in books. The Council of Four have her firmly under their thumb, and their ideas for the Queendom are oppressive and outdated. Their knowledge of her mother and Master Leschi’s whereabouts is the only leverage they need to make the new Queen dance to their tune.
Jacs is determined to find those who were taken from her and do what’s right for her Queendom. But in her search for answers, Jacs uncovers a much darker truth from the Queendom’s past that will forever change its future.
Jacs, now the rightful Queen of Frea, seems to be Queen in title alone. She scrambles to learn the customs and traditions of a Realm she had only read about in books. The Council of Four have her firmly under their thumb, and their ideas for the Queendom are oppressive and outdated. Their knowledge of her mother and Master Leschi’s whereabouts is the only leverage they need to make the new Queen dance to their tune.
Jacs is determined to find those who were taken from her and do what’s right for her Queendom. But in her search for answers, Jacs uncovers a much darker truth from the Queendom’s past that will forever change its future.
416 pages, Hardcover
Published March 14, 2023
About the author
Jordan H. Bartlett
9 books150 followersJordan H. Bartlett is an award-winning, New Zealand-born Canadian author with a love for children’s literature and female empowerment. She grew up reading books about boys for boys and found it hard to find a strong heroine she could relate to. Bartlett wrote the Frean Chronicles to give young readers that character she so longed for in a world where gender norms are reversed. Bartlett currently resides in Banff, Alberta where she works as a speech language pathologist and is a certified yoga instructor.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
September 23, 2022
Oh Nelly, I am so proud of this one!
March 31, 2023
This cover is absolutely gorgeous - and did not disappoint!
I inhaled the first book, The Queen's Contest - and have been counting down to this book's release. Worth it!
We return to Jacs - struggling to be her people's leader and maintain her autonomy.
I adore the strong women representation - society's ongoing obsession with women tearing women down, what that means to our lives and those around us.
I am a huge fan of this author - cannot wait for more!
I inhaled the first book, The Queen's Contest - and have been counting down to this book's release. Worth it!
We return to Jacs - struggling to be her people's leader and maintain her autonomy.
I adore the strong women representation - society's ongoing obsession with women tearing women down, what that means to our lives and those around us.
I am a huge fan of this author - cannot wait for more!
April 14, 2023
Oof.
That last chapter.
What an absolute delight this series has been. I am so excited to continue and see how Jacs overcomes the obstacles in her way.
That last chapter.
What an absolute delight this series has been. I am so excited to continue and see how Jacs overcomes the obstacles in her way.
January 31, 2024
Review copy provided by NetGalley
3.5/5 stars. I enjoyed the set up of the first book, and appreciate how this book expanded this universe and characters. However, I mostly felt frustrated while reading this. I feel that this is the intention of the book, but it went too far. Besides frustration with the Council and Upperite prejudices in general, I found myself frustrated by Jax’s closest allies and friends. Despite her being queen they all still look down on her, her past, her values, and only excuse those things because she is their friend and queen.
I definitely want to read the eventual follow up when it is released, as I’d like to see the way things play out for these characters and this realm. I hope much of it follows Connor in the Lower Realms as he gets a reality check on his views and attitudes.
While Karissa Vacker has a beautiful voice and does great character work, sometimes that beauty clashes with the tone of the story. It feels too frothy and delicate at moments of big impact, and lofty in the way you would want someone who’s narrating a children’s fairytale to be. It felt more appropriate for the first book to be narrated in that manner, but ended up making this entry feel more juvenile than I would have liked.
3.5/5 stars. I enjoyed the set up of the first book, and appreciate how this book expanded this universe and characters. However, I mostly felt frustrated while reading this. I feel that this is the intention of the book, but it went too far. Besides frustration with the Council and Upperite prejudices in general, I found myself frustrated by Jax’s closest allies and friends. Despite her being queen they all still look down on her, her past, her values, and only excuse those things because she is their friend and queen.
I definitely want to read the eventual follow up when it is released, as I’d like to see the way things play out for these characters and this realm. I hope much of it follows Connor in the Lower Realms as he gets a reality check on his views and attitudes.
While Karissa Vacker has a beautiful voice and does great character work, sometimes that beauty clashes with the tone of the story. It feels too frothy and delicate at moments of big impact, and lofty in the way you would want someone who’s narrating a children’s fairytale to be. It felt more appropriate for the first book to be narrated in that manner, but ended up making this entry feel more juvenile than I would have liked.
June 12, 2023
I really liked this one! Even more than the first one. The cast of characters is great, and the narrator manages to breathe life into all of them. As before, the upside-down world is novel, and each new little detail adds to the setting.
Actually, I should probably do a pro/con list, rather than an essay. Oh well, this is not an English class.
Things I didn't like:
- It seemed like the first half was written like a middle children's book (everyone is so naive...) and I was wishing for more maturity
- But then the second half took a turn, and I was "woah", did not expect that to happen to that character --> so it seemed a bit disconnected
- The naivety sometimes... like c'mon, that's obvious
Things I liked:
- Likeable characters (I'm not gonna spell them out because I listened to the audiobook and would probably get it wrong)
- Diverse villains
- Great friendships and relationships (<3)
- Engaging & intriguing plot (I had to keep reading and reading, and I love when books hook me like that; plus, I want to know what's going to happen next!)
- Strong women!!! (physically, mentally, and intellectually)
- Even better than the first one (maybe because of multiple POIs? more politics? more sacrifice?)
Overall, 4.5 stars and I'm very excited to read part #3 of the Frean Chronicles!
Actually, I should probably do a pro/con list, rather than an essay. Oh well, this is not an English class.
Things I didn't like:
- It seemed like the first half was written like a middle children's book (everyone is so naive...) and I was wishing for more maturity
- But then the second half took a turn, and I was "woah", did not expect that to happen to that character --> so it seemed a bit disconnected
- The naivety sometimes... like c'mon, that's obvious
Things I liked:
- Likeable characters (I'm not gonna spell them out because I listened to the audiobook and would probably get it wrong)
- Diverse villains
- Great friendships and relationships (<3)
- Engaging & intriguing plot (I had to keep reading and reading, and I love when books hook me like that; plus, I want to know what's going to happen next!)
- Strong women!!! (physically, mentally, and intellectually)
- Even better than the first one (maybe because of multiple POIs? more politics? more sacrifice?)
Overall, 4.5 stars and I'm very excited to read part #3 of the Frean Chronicles!
December 28, 2022
All I can say is WOW! Jordan Bartlett did not let us down with this sequel.
All of our loveable characters from the first book came back with even more to offer. Instead of focusing solely on Jacs and Connor, we got to read chapters from other characters POVs which was a happy addition.
Jacs is now Queen and is facing a number of challenges and prejudices coming from the Lower Realm. The Council is working against her, and while a majority of her squad believes there are higher powers looking to undermine her, Connor is still on the fence. This causes a lot of turmoil in the beginning of the book. Jacs' ups and down with Connor in the first half of the book was so well written I personally felt the emotional rollercoaster.
Then, as we move onto the second half of the book, the story turns into an un-putdown-able, edge-of-your-seat, ride. The Hoods, from the first book at the clock tower, make an explosive return and the plot thickens as we find out who they are, where they reside, and what they are working towards.
Book 2 ends just as Book 1 did, leaving you wanting more and rooting for Jacs the entire time. There is even a thrilling and super juicy Epilogue!! Cannot wait for book 3!
All of our loveable characters from the first book came back with even more to offer. Instead of focusing solely on Jacs and Connor, we got to read chapters from other characters POVs which was a happy addition.
Jacs is now Queen and is facing a number of challenges and prejudices coming from the Lower Realm. The Council is working against her, and while a majority of her squad believes there are higher powers looking to undermine her, Connor is still on the fence. This causes a lot of turmoil in the beginning of the book. Jacs' ups and down with Connor in the first half of the book was so well written I personally felt the emotional rollercoaster.
Then, as we move onto the second half of the book, the story turns into an un-putdown-able, edge-of-your-seat, ride. The Hoods, from the first book at the clock tower, make an explosive return and the plot thickens as we find out who they are, where they reside, and what they are working towards.
Book 2 ends just as Book 1 did, leaving you wanting more and rooting for Jacs the entire time. There is even a thrilling and super juicy Epilogue!! Cannot wait for book 3!
March 30, 2023
Queen’s Catacombs is book two in the Frean Chronicles and the amazing sequel to Contest of Queens!
It picks up right where we left off, with Jac’s trying to adjust to her new role as queen. I loved the fact that it wasn’t all ‘Happily Ever After’ for Jacs and her crew after the Contest. Bartlett uses the steam she built up from her previous book and sends us on this action packed, edge of your seat adventure!
Jacs and Conner’s relationship is tested again and again. Conner puts his trust in the Council and believes that they can do no wrong. Jacs butts heads with the Council, them forever seeing her as a Lowrain and nothing more. These two experiences cause Jacs and Conner to clash, and leaves Jacs feeling misunderstood and disappointed.
You can read my full review here: https://bookswithachanceoftraveling.h...
It picks up right where we left off, with Jac’s trying to adjust to her new role as queen. I loved the fact that it wasn’t all ‘Happily Ever After’ for Jacs and her crew after the Contest. Bartlett uses the steam she built up from her previous book and sends us on this action packed, edge of your seat adventure!
Jacs and Conner’s relationship is tested again and again. Conner puts his trust in the Council and believes that they can do no wrong. Jacs butts heads with the Council, them forever seeing her as a Lowrain and nothing more. These two experiences cause Jacs and Conner to clash, and leaves Jacs feeling misunderstood and disappointed.
You can read my full review here: https://bookswithachanceoftraveling.h...
April 27, 2023
This is a FANTASTIC follow up to Contest of Queens (which was a super fun adventure of a novel!) Jordan does an incredible job at fleshing out this world, spreading confusion, distrust, and adventure, and making the reader fall even more in love with all the different characters!
I ADORE how she sets up this matriarchal society in such a believable way that still points to how ridiculous it is for one gender to be so much better than another. The division in the kingdom is well done, and the descriptions were so rich; I could actually feel like I WAS THERE.
Just enough was wrapped up at the end, so I didn't feel cheated out of satisfying closure, but I'm still DESPERATE for more! I can't wait to see what happens next in the Frean Chronicles!
I ADORE how she sets up this matriarchal society in such a believable way that still points to how ridiculous it is for one gender to be so much better than another. The division in the kingdom is well done, and the descriptions were so rich; I could actually feel like I WAS THERE.
Just enough was wrapped up at the end, so I didn't feel cheated out of satisfying closure, but I'm still DESPERATE for more! I can't wait to see what happens next in the Frean Chronicles!
December 23, 2022
This wonderful sequel to Contest of Queens has it all: complex, engaging characters, plot twists, mysteries, and romance. My favorite part of the Frean Chronicles, however, is Bartlett's world-building, and in particular, the way that she explodes naturalized gender roles. Like the best science fiction and fantasy, Bartlett's books have a way of asking us to reconsider our own world, beliefs, and practices.
Oh, and it's a lot of fun too!
Oh, and it's a lot of fun too!
June 1, 2023
I was hooked on the first book of the series and #2 did not disappoint! The strong matriarchal characters in this series continue to challenge the way other books of its kind had us thinking, and it's the flip in perspective we all needed to read. Twists and turns fill the pages as Jacs and co navigate the treacherous halls of the queendom; and a juicy teaser at the end have me counting down the days until book #3's release!
November 5, 2022
Wow! What a ride! The twists and turns had me lost in the labyrinth that is Queen’s catacombs. I’m so invested in these characters and I want them to succeed so bad but I can’t tell what is going to happen next! Left on a cliffhanger I cannot wait for the next book! Jordan I know this one is not even out yet but I really want to know how it ends!
April 6, 2023
this was better than the first book, in my opinion. so much action and intrigue, character development, and relationships that can be felt as real instead of just shown. I can't wait for the next book!
July 4, 2023
Incredible second instalment, had me captivated the entire way through. Amazing character development and can’t wait for the next one!
April 4, 2025
Jordan H. Bartlett’s CONTEST OF QUEENS was one of my favorite YA fantasy novels in recent years. So I had high expectations for QUEEN’S CATACOMBS, the second book in The Frean Chronicles series. I’m delighted to say that Bartlett suffered no sophomore slump—QUEEN’S CATACOMBS is a worthy sequel and a great story in its own right!
In the first novel, Jacs, a teen girl from modest circumstances in the Lower Realm, defies impossible odds and life-or-death challenges through sheer ingenuity and courage. The book ends with Jacs becoming Queen of Frea.
But Jacs’ story is only beginning. Being Queen has made Jacs’ life even more difficult. Plenty of powerful people in the Upper Realm don’t like the idea of a commoner becoming Queen. More ominously, her mother has disappeared, taken by a mysterious group of purple-cloaked conspirators.
But Jacs has help, as many of the beloved characters from the first novel return. Connor, her most trusted advisor, has reservations about how Jacs handles her business as monarch. This creates a rift between Jacs and him. But she can depend on Lena, her friend who helps her navigate the unfamiliar world of royalty. We also get the welcome return of the knights Amber and Andromeda and where they go, action is sure to follow! While there are plenty of supporting characters, Bartlett manages to give them each a distinct personality, purpose, and voice.
In addition to a compelling story with great characters, Bartlett also demonstrates her skill at scene-setting. The details are rich and descriptive (but not excessive), and they combine to put the reader right in the scene.
Some of the best speculative fiction also shines a light on important real-world challenges, and Bartlett certainly does that. The first book dealt with inequities between the “Haves and Have-Nots” – an issue that feels as relevant in 2025 as it does in the fictional Queendom of Frea. QUEEN’S CATACOMBS shows how deeply ingrained misogyny can be—even in a fictional matriarchy. No matter how capable, smart, and thoughtful Jacs is as Queen, there’s always someone there to second-guess her. Sadly, I bet a lot of women can relate.
Anyway, the third book in the series, QUEENDOM COME, recently came out and you better believe I’ll be reading it, too!
In the first novel, Jacs, a teen girl from modest circumstances in the Lower Realm, defies impossible odds and life-or-death challenges through sheer ingenuity and courage. The book ends with Jacs becoming Queen of Frea.
But Jacs’ story is only beginning. Being Queen has made Jacs’ life even more difficult. Plenty of powerful people in the Upper Realm don’t like the idea of a commoner becoming Queen. More ominously, her mother has disappeared, taken by a mysterious group of purple-cloaked conspirators.
But Jacs has help, as many of the beloved characters from the first novel return. Connor, her most trusted advisor, has reservations about how Jacs handles her business as monarch. This creates a rift between Jacs and him. But she can depend on Lena, her friend who helps her navigate the unfamiliar world of royalty. We also get the welcome return of the knights Amber and Andromeda and where they go, action is sure to follow! While there are plenty of supporting characters, Bartlett manages to give them each a distinct personality, purpose, and voice.
In addition to a compelling story with great characters, Bartlett also demonstrates her skill at scene-setting. The details are rich and descriptive (but not excessive), and they combine to put the reader right in the scene.
Some of the best speculative fiction also shines a light on important real-world challenges, and Bartlett certainly does that. The first book dealt with inequities between the “Haves and Have-Nots” – an issue that feels as relevant in 2025 as it does in the fictional Queendom of Frea. QUEEN’S CATACOMBS shows how deeply ingrained misogyny can be—even in a fictional matriarchy. No matter how capable, smart, and thoughtful Jacs is as Queen, there’s always someone there to second-guess her. Sadly, I bet a lot of women can relate.
Anyway, the third book in the series, QUEENDOM COME, recently came out and you better believe I’ll be reading it, too!
February 5, 2024
The second book in the Frean Chronicles, I’ve been anticipating this book for about a year, ever since I listened to Contest of Queens. And this follow up doesn’t disappoint. While it shifts to more of a political mystery setup, it has the same intrigue and fast pacing as the previous book! Also, the cover is beautiful!
Despite her wins in the first book, Jacs finds herself in an equally powerless situation as she was previously, being controlled by four council women, who are the true rulers of Frea. Add on blackmail, missing boys, the lower realm issues, and some mysterious surplus of eggs, we have ourselves another grand adventure.
Jacs is as determined as ever as she is trying to make things better for the whole queendom, but it’s clear she’s out of her league. So she has to level up several times in order to enact the change she desires. She also has to handle her relationship with Connor, which takes some more focus, but doesn’t dominate the plot. Connor also has to deal with his place in the queendom, with him and Jacs starting to butt heads. We also get POV chapters of some of the knights, adding to the flavor of the world. Each of the characters stood out and played their part and I want more of them! Especially Jacs as she learns and grows.
The prose was easy to follow, with the narrator, Karissa Vacker doing another great job with her vocal range and inflections and emotions. The world building of a matriarchal queendom was expanded on with some new surprises, and felt lived in and I love how it examines gender roles. Even though Jacs rules the realm, there’s a lot that she doesn’t know and leads to her making some critical mistakes. While the first half is mostly political intrigue, the second shifts to a more adventure vibe and every chapter was more gripping than the last. The last few chapters had quite the twists and I can’t wait for the next book in the series to see how this continues.
If you’re up for a YA High Fantasy with matriarchal rule, plenty of secrets with some romantic ties sprinkled in, The Frean Chronicles is a can’t miss series.
*I received a review copy from Netgalley and CamCat Books. All opinions are my own.*
Despite her wins in the first book, Jacs finds herself in an equally powerless situation as she was previously, being controlled by four council women, who are the true rulers of Frea. Add on blackmail, missing boys, the lower realm issues, and some mysterious surplus of eggs, we have ourselves another grand adventure.
Jacs is as determined as ever as she is trying to make things better for the whole queendom, but it’s clear she’s out of her league. So she has to level up several times in order to enact the change she desires. She also has to handle her relationship with Connor, which takes some more focus, but doesn’t dominate the plot. Connor also has to deal with his place in the queendom, with him and Jacs starting to butt heads. We also get POV chapters of some of the knights, adding to the flavor of the world. Each of the characters stood out and played their part and I want more of them! Especially Jacs as she learns and grows.
The prose was easy to follow, with the narrator, Karissa Vacker doing another great job with her vocal range and inflections and emotions. The world building of a matriarchal queendom was expanded on with some new surprises, and felt lived in and I love how it examines gender roles. Even though Jacs rules the realm, there’s a lot that she doesn’t know and leads to her making some critical mistakes. While the first half is mostly political intrigue, the second shifts to a more adventure vibe and every chapter was more gripping than the last. The last few chapters had quite the twists and I can’t wait for the next book in the series to see how this continues.
If you’re up for a YA High Fantasy with matriarchal rule, plenty of secrets with some romantic ties sprinkled in, The Frean Chronicles is a can’t miss series.
*I received a review copy from Netgalley and CamCat Books. All opinions are my own.*
September 26, 2024
That last chapter tho… 😮💨 This was a well-executed sequel that expanded on all the characters and arcs we loved in the first book, and gave us lots of new ones too! Excited to read the third book!
April 18, 2023
The second book picks up a few months into Jacs' reign & things are really going well. Basically a puppet, she is trying her best to do what is right for her people, her friends/family, and herself.
More deception & deeper issues are arising in this second boom, but Jacs is a strong, able female character who makes me cheer for the "underdog". The development of more supporting characters is interesting & captivating. I loved going on this journey of self-strength & will power to make an actual change in her land.
The ending left it open for another book and I can't wait to see where this story may go.
More deception & deeper issues are arising in this second boom, but Jacs is a strong, able female character who makes me cheer for the "underdog". The development of more supporting characters is interesting & captivating. I loved going on this journey of self-strength & will power to make an actual change in her land.
The ending left it open for another book and I can't wait to see where this story may go.
April 5, 2023
Jacs, an inventor's apprentice from the Lower Realm, has become Queen of the Queendom of Frea. But her council is the one in control. With her boyfriend Connor at her side, she uncovers plots and conspiracies that are undermining her power. With no choice but to take matters into her own hands, Jacs embarks on a journey back to her home realm and learns about the disappearance of her mother and her former trainer as well as dozens of boys that have been kidnapped over decades. The discovery leads her further into the catacombs than anyone has dared venture to confront these evils and save her people.
In this exciting second instalment of The Frean Chronicles, Queen's Catacombs flips the narrative highlighting the courage, determination and wherewithal of a young queen stepping up to become a true leader of her Queendom. As Jacs confronts internal and external demons, she finds out who her friends and enemies really are. In parallel stories, a broad cast of diverse characters fall in love, succumb to bribes, are betrayed and betray others and fight to preserve the rightful Queendom. With non-stop action and complex characters, Queen's Catacombs is anything, but predictable. Readers will find a lot to like in this fantasy adventure series focused on a young, underdog heroine who fights for what she believes.
A sincere thank you to the author and publisher for a copy of this book. I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
In this exciting second instalment of The Frean Chronicles, Queen's Catacombs flips the narrative highlighting the courage, determination and wherewithal of a young queen stepping up to become a true leader of her Queendom. As Jacs confronts internal and external demons, she finds out who her friends and enemies really are. In parallel stories, a broad cast of diverse characters fall in love, succumb to bribes, are betrayed and betray others and fight to preserve the rightful Queendom. With non-stop action and complex characters, Queen's Catacombs is anything, but predictable. Readers will find a lot to like in this fantasy adventure series focused on a young, underdog heroine who fights for what she believes.
A sincere thank you to the author and publisher for a copy of this book. I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
March 11, 2023
It's not often that a sequel is even better than the debut, but Jordan H. Bartlett's Queen's Catacombs has smashed it out of the park.
Beginning three months after the events of the first novel, Bartlett immediately subverts our expectations of the traditional fairytale happy ending by revealing that not only has the Queen not yet chosen a King to rule by her side, but that Jacs' infiltration of the Upperites' comfortable lifestyle has not been so well received by everyone in her Queendom.
Throughout Jacs' fight for her rightful place as Queen of Frea, she will aim to find those she has lost, confront bigotry and prejudice in the realm, discover that those closest to her are not always what they seem, and uncover terrible secrets hidden in the underbelly of the Upperite realm.
One of the greatest strengths of Queens Catacombs is the way Bartlett moves from the young adult, twisted fairytale of Contest of Queens, to creating a deep, rich fantasy world, more suitable for an adult reader. The first novel establishes the world and the story she wants to carve out, but Queen's Catacombs provides the depth and detail to truly give this trilogy a place on the bookshelf alongside the fantasy greats. Eagerly awaiting book three!
Beginning three months after the events of the first novel, Bartlett immediately subverts our expectations of the traditional fairytale happy ending by revealing that not only has the Queen not yet chosen a King to rule by her side, but that Jacs' infiltration of the Upperites' comfortable lifestyle has not been so well received by everyone in her Queendom.
Throughout Jacs' fight for her rightful place as Queen of Frea, she will aim to find those she has lost, confront bigotry and prejudice in the realm, discover that those closest to her are not always what they seem, and uncover terrible secrets hidden in the underbelly of the Upperite realm.
One of the greatest strengths of Queens Catacombs is the way Bartlett moves from the young adult, twisted fairytale of Contest of Queens, to creating a deep, rich fantasy world, more suitable for an adult reader. The first novel establishes the world and the story she wants to carve out, but Queen's Catacombs provides the depth and detail to truly give this trilogy a place on the bookshelf alongside the fantasy greats. Eagerly awaiting book three!
April 11, 2023
What a treat of a read. I was surprised by how much I loved Contest of Queens, having read very little fantasy before. The sequel, Queen’s Catacombs was yet another captivating page turner. I loved getting to know Jacs and Connor more and became enthralled in the feminist, fantasy plot. What would the world be like if males took the birth control, knights and leaders were all females (for their strength of mind and self control) and the only people empowered to fight were those who could also birth. The story had just enough suspense to leave me looking forward to the next in the sequel.
November 1, 2022
“She was the rightful queen. She had been chosen to protect her people. She was worthy of the crown, and tomorrow she would prove it.”
Queen’s Catacombs is an exciting sequel to The Frean Chronicles offering us a fierce matriarch whose belief in herself and determination captures readers and gives us hope for our own Upper Realm-led world. Jacs is the relatable hero we all need, and the endearing ensemble transports us into their world offering adventure, intrigue, and a cliffhanger that will have you generating conspiracy theories with your book club.
Jordan’s writing is rhythmic and lulls you into a false sense of familiarity by drawing on much beloved fantasy tropes. Yet unlike these novels, her world is created from the bones of women, her language grows from their desires, and girls dream of power. You forget the novelty of these powerful perspective changes and are swept up in what can be possible. Do yourself a favour and preorder this book!
Queen’s Catacombs is an exciting sequel to The Frean Chronicles offering us a fierce matriarch whose belief in herself and determination captures readers and gives us hope for our own Upper Realm-led world. Jacs is the relatable hero we all need, and the endearing ensemble transports us into their world offering adventure, intrigue, and a cliffhanger that will have you generating conspiracy theories with your book club.
Jordan’s writing is rhythmic and lulls you into a false sense of familiarity by drawing on much beloved fantasy tropes. Yet unlike these novels, her world is created from the bones of women, her language grows from their desires, and girls dream of power. You forget the novelty of these powerful perspective changes and are swept up in what can be possible. Do yourself a favour and preorder this book!
March 14, 2023
What I liked:
In Queen's Catacombs, Jacs from the lower realms has won the competition to become Queen, but ruling is not as easy as it seems. The council of four is thwarting Jac at every move, her mom is missing, and she discovers that the spying crystals are still in the lower realm. This second book gives us Jacs and Connor, but we also see chapters from other characters. We also see more of this world and uncover how corrupt the queendom is.
Final Verdict:
Queen's Catacombs is a complex sequel with engaging characters, plot twists, mysteries, and romance. The concept of a lower and upper realm is intriguing and lends itself well to a vast world to explore. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
In Queen's Catacombs, Jacs from the lower realms has won the competition to become Queen, but ruling is not as easy as it seems. The council of four is thwarting Jac at every move, her mom is missing, and she discovers that the spying crystals are still in the lower realm. This second book gives us Jacs and Connor, but we also see chapters from other characters. We also see more of this world and uncover how corrupt the queendom is.
Final Verdict:
Queen's Catacombs is a complex sequel with engaging characters, plot twists, mysteries, and romance. The concept of a lower and upper realm is intriguing and lends itself well to a vast world to explore. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
May 15, 2023
This was a solid sequel, and I enjoyed seeing the characters from the previous book continue to be fleshed out and navigate their relationships. There was a lot of gaslighting and manipulation in this one, and it was strange to me how easily Jacs is able to mask her true emotions. It didn't seem like she had to do that much in her life in the Lower Realm, and keeping a constant poker face, especially for those in power, takes a lot of time and training. Again, the gender-flipped stereotypes were entertaining, but sometimes eye roll worthy. I didn't realize the series was planning to continue, so I did not see the plot twist for Jacs's future coming. I also felt a little let down by the title because they definitely could have chosen something that better fit the story.
February 17, 2023
Just as lush and beautiful as the first, with a lovely dash of darkness.
Queen's Catacombs picks up a few months after the ending of book one, with Jacs neck deep in a mire of corrupted politicians. The snakes in Frea's court are so well done, you just love to hate them. The world and the characters from book one are expanded even further, and there's so much to explore and resolve in book three, I can hardly wait!
And that ending!
Queen's Catacombs picks up a few months after the ending of book one, with Jacs neck deep in a mire of corrupted politicians. The snakes in Frea's court are so well done, you just love to hate them. The world and the characters from book one are expanded even further, and there's so much to explore and resolve in book three, I can hardly wait!
And that ending!
June 19, 2023
I have loved this series so far. Between a creative story and comments from the author about real life, this series is a must read. The author includes feminist ideals into the royal politics. I enjoyed how the author explores power dynamics and it affects people. The side romance between Jacs and Connor is also super cute.
March 16, 2023
A story about economic status, how the upper levels treat the lower levels of a region, as well as a shift in women being in charge and how that makes some of the men feel.
A slow start and a lot of remembering events from the past, with no indication that it is part of a series.
A slow start and a lot of remembering events from the past, with no indication that it is part of a series.
September 1, 2024
Thank you Jordan H. Bartlett for writing a can’t put down sequel! It was dark, and had many surprising twists - can’t wait for the final book to see what happens.
February 12, 2024
Thanks are due to NetGalley and CamCat Publishing for an advance copy of this audiobook.
This is the second volume Jordan H. Bartlett’s YA series set in a mythical realm, the Queendom of Frea, in which the traditional gendered hierarchy is inverted. The first volume focused on two young people coming of age in very different settings. Cornelius, usually called Connor, is a teenaged prince whose mother, Ariel, rules the Queendom. The Queendom is peopled by the nobility and other ruling class members and is literally elevated far above the Lower Realm, peopled by the impoverished common folk, or Lowerites. Only a heavily guarded and fearfully high bridge connects them and the Upoer Realm, high in the cliffs above them, and it cannot be used without permission. By that book’s end, the two had met and become devoted to each other. Jacs was by then apprenticing with Master Bruna Leschi, a genius inventor. Then Queen Ariel was murdered on a rare trip to the Lower World. With no female heir, the crown had to be decided by a series of risky competitive games among lords (all women) of the Upper Realm. The most terrifying of these contests took place in the catacombs of this book’s story. Jacs was the first lower-born contestant, and her victory made her the first lower-born queen. Meanwhile, the two most important women in her life, her mother Maria and Master Leschi, disappear and are presumed to have been kidnapped by forces opposing both Jacs and the entire concept of a matriarchal society. These are the Purple Hoods, who continue their menace in the second volume.
As this book opens, young Queen Jacs and her closest adviser, Prince Connor, are feeling the effects of the tumultuous victory. Although her servants, knights and guards (all female) are dutiful, many among the nobles of are discontented and resentful, troubled by the overturned power structure and anxious about the Queen’s avowal to rule all her people fairly and equally. Particularly troublesome are the four nobles of her ruling council, with whom she struggles constantly as they try to keep things as they are and she tries to make progressive changes. Connor is caught in a particular dilemma, representing both the old world and the new in ways that affect their personal relationship.
Book 2 is about these internal struggles and court intrigues, but also about the appearance of a new threat that seems connected to the disappearance of her mother and her mentor, but also that of an increasing number of Lowerite boys and young men. The Lower Realm is growing restless to see the new Queen’s promises take hold. Some in both realms are turning disaffection into radicalism. When a gala celebrating the Queen dissolves into violence and the kidnapping of key members of her entourage, the intrepid Jacs risks all to travel the catacombs again. As Book Two ends, she has uncovered some important information. She has also made a devil’s bargain. Book 3 will have to follow that through, and also, as the epilogue shows, bring Jacs and her allies to confrontation with a very dark threat.
This is an excellent follow-up to the opening book of the trilogy, showing the maturity of the young people on both world levels, and the conflicts that face Jacs and Connor as they try to fit in both worlds, to love each other as equals, and to build something better together. The gender reversal is provocative, and the simple fact that I had to think about gender at every mention of the Lords and other female courtiers simply confirms that. The Queendom is historically a matriarchy, and male representatives were removed from the Council of Four some centuries past. Felt to be « too emotional » and conflict-prone, they were never allowed back. Names, titles and propertied are bequeathed through the maternal line. There is a wide range of sexual identities, with several same sex unions and instances of bisexuality. But this is no feminist nirvana. Bartlett shows how unquestioning adherence to the status quo is always damaging, and that women are not necessarily more compassionate, equitable, and peaceful than men when it comes to ruling. This book has mystery, magic, love, betrayal, and a contest of light and dark, good and evil, that will captivate readers of any age.
This is the second volume Jordan H. Bartlett’s YA series set in a mythical realm, the Queendom of Frea, in which the traditional gendered hierarchy is inverted. The first volume focused on two young people coming of age in very different settings. Cornelius, usually called Connor, is a teenaged prince whose mother, Ariel, rules the Queendom. The Queendom is peopled by the nobility and other ruling class members and is literally elevated far above the Lower Realm, peopled by the impoverished common folk, or Lowerites. Only a heavily guarded and fearfully high bridge connects them and the Upoer Realm, high in the cliffs above them, and it cannot be used without permission. By that book’s end, the two had met and become devoted to each other. Jacs was by then apprenticing with Master Bruna Leschi, a genius inventor. Then Queen Ariel was murdered on a rare trip to the Lower World. With no female heir, the crown had to be decided by a series of risky competitive games among lords (all women) of the Upper Realm. The most terrifying of these contests took place in the catacombs of this book’s story. Jacs was the first lower-born contestant, and her victory made her the first lower-born queen. Meanwhile, the two most important women in her life, her mother Maria and Master Leschi, disappear and are presumed to have been kidnapped by forces opposing both Jacs and the entire concept of a matriarchal society. These are the Purple Hoods, who continue their menace in the second volume.
As this book opens, young Queen Jacs and her closest adviser, Prince Connor, are feeling the effects of the tumultuous victory. Although her servants, knights and guards (all female) are dutiful, many among the nobles of are discontented and resentful, troubled by the overturned power structure and anxious about the Queen’s avowal to rule all her people fairly and equally. Particularly troublesome are the four nobles of her ruling council, with whom she struggles constantly as they try to keep things as they are and she tries to make progressive changes. Connor is caught in a particular dilemma, representing both the old world and the new in ways that affect their personal relationship.
Book 2 is about these internal struggles and court intrigues, but also about the appearance of a new threat that seems connected to the disappearance of her mother and her mentor, but also that of an increasing number of Lowerite boys and young men. The Lower Realm is growing restless to see the new Queen’s promises take hold. Some in both realms are turning disaffection into radicalism. When a gala celebrating the Queen dissolves into violence and the kidnapping of key members of her entourage, the intrepid Jacs risks all to travel the catacombs again. As Book Two ends, she has uncovered some important information. She has also made a devil’s bargain. Book 3 will have to follow that through, and also, as the epilogue shows, bring Jacs and her allies to confrontation with a very dark threat.
This is an excellent follow-up to the opening book of the trilogy, showing the maturity of the young people on both world levels, and the conflicts that face Jacs and Connor as they try to fit in both worlds, to love each other as equals, and to build something better together. The gender reversal is provocative, and the simple fact that I had to think about gender at every mention of the Lords and other female courtiers simply confirms that. The Queendom is historically a matriarchy, and male representatives were removed from the Council of Four some centuries past. Felt to be « too emotional » and conflict-prone, they were never allowed back. Names, titles and propertied are bequeathed through the maternal line. There is a wide range of sexual identities, with several same sex unions and instances of bisexuality. But this is no feminist nirvana. Bartlett shows how unquestioning adherence to the status quo is always damaging, and that women are not necessarily more compassionate, equitable, and peaceful than men when it comes to ruling. This book has mystery, magic, love, betrayal, and a contest of light and dark, good and evil, that will captivate readers of any age.
September 5, 2024
"I was just a little boy with a toy boat hoping to find adventure. You were the girl who could fly."
About: Jacs has the crown and she's ready to unite the Lower and Upper realms. Her people desperately need her to, but her Council have other ideas. It is they and their traditions who have ruled the Queendom for all these years, they who hold the puppet strings behind the crown, and they who might possibly be holding Jacs' mother and mentor hostage. Jacs needs all the allies she can get but even Connor, her most trusted advisor and the boy with the boat, doesn't believe there's any conspiracy to fight.
Thoughts
Contest of Queens was a relatively quiet, cosy story with a boy who dreams of being a knight and a girl full of inventions looking to make a difference in an unjust world. Its sequel keeps the cosy in the sweet friendships and romantic relationships, but explodes with secrets and intrigue, conspiracies and a dark underbelly.
Jacs life has become complicated. Her mother and mentor are missing, she's unable to sign into law any policies without her Council's support - who are dead set against her, and the boy she loves doesn't believe that there is any danger around her. Connor simply thinks she needs to 'adjust' to the role and the Upper Realms ways. He's so easily manipulated by the people around him because they're his people. Bartlett does a wonderful job of showing how a person's belief system doesn't change overnight or over one person. Connor may love a Lowrian, but he switches easily into base insults and casual xenophobia towards Jacs' people at the slightest provocation. And despite all the evidence he's shown against the Council, he continues to support them and believe their intentions are good. He's an Upperite, a product of his upbringing, and he doesn't suddenly forget all his prejudices simply because of Jacs.
We also get more POVs in this one. Instead of switching only from Connor and Jacs, we now get Lena's and Amber's POVs. I did like that this opened out the action, though the POVs I really wanted were Yves (such a cool character!), Hera, and Philip. Yves I think I could read a whole book about, but Hera and Philip both have very interesting roles to play in the story and I liked the greyness of their actions.
The writing is also really beautiful. Bartlett really knows how to set a scene and this world is such an easy one to fall into. From the castle gardens, to local taverns, to underground caves, there's a real atmosphere that's completely captivating.
Overall, Jacs is a standout heroine with patience and cunning in a world that never wanted her to succeed - despite it being a female-led society. The heart-breaking choice she has to make at the end destroyed me. But not to worry, part three is incoming!
About: Jacs has the crown and she's ready to unite the Lower and Upper realms. Her people desperately need her to, but her Council have other ideas. It is they and their traditions who have ruled the Queendom for all these years, they who hold the puppet strings behind the crown, and they who might possibly be holding Jacs' mother and mentor hostage. Jacs needs all the allies she can get but even Connor, her most trusted advisor and the boy with the boat, doesn't believe there's any conspiracy to fight.
Thoughts
Contest of Queens was a relatively quiet, cosy story with a boy who dreams of being a knight and a girl full of inventions looking to make a difference in an unjust world. Its sequel keeps the cosy in the sweet friendships and romantic relationships, but explodes with secrets and intrigue, conspiracies and a dark underbelly.
Jacs life has become complicated. Her mother and mentor are missing, she's unable to sign into law any policies without her Council's support - who are dead set against her, and the boy she loves doesn't believe that there is any danger around her. Connor simply thinks she needs to 'adjust' to the role and the Upper Realms ways. He's so easily manipulated by the people around him because they're his people. Bartlett does a wonderful job of showing how a person's belief system doesn't change overnight or over one person. Connor may love a Lowrian, but he switches easily into base insults and casual xenophobia towards Jacs' people at the slightest provocation. And despite all the evidence he's shown against the Council, he continues to support them and believe their intentions are good. He's an Upperite, a product of his upbringing, and he doesn't suddenly forget all his prejudices simply because of Jacs.
We also get more POVs in this one. Instead of switching only from Connor and Jacs, we now get Lena's and Amber's POVs. I did like that this opened out the action, though the POVs I really wanted were Yves (such a cool character!), Hera, and Philip. Yves I think I could read a whole book about, but Hera and Philip both have very interesting roles to play in the story and I liked the greyness of their actions.
The writing is also really beautiful. Bartlett really knows how to set a scene and this world is such an easy one to fall into. From the castle gardens, to local taverns, to underground caves, there's a real atmosphere that's completely captivating.
Overall, Jacs is a standout heroine with patience and cunning in a world that never wanted her to succeed - despite it being a female-led society. The heart-breaking choice she has to make at the end destroyed me. But not to worry, part three is incoming!
February 29, 2024
Queen's Catacombs by Jordan H. Bartlett is the second book in The Frean Chronicles, taking place right after the events in Contest of Queens and navigating upon its unresolved conflicts while also expanding on the lore and worldbuilding. Although Jacs and Connor are still the main PoVs, there are also some other familiar faces that become PoV characters, giving us insight on the conflicts that happen parallel to the main plot.
I was looking at my review for Contest of Queens (CoQ) and was reminded that I mentioned how it tackled topics such as leadership, loyalty and love, and in a way I find it interesting how we could say that in Queen’s Catacombs (Q’sC) the same topics are still quite present but in a different way: If CoQ explored leadership from the perspective of what it takes to be a good leader, Q’sC focused on how it is to be a leader without real power; if CoQ explored loyalty towards new acquaintances, Q’sC focused instead on loyalty towards old friends and family; and if CoQ explored on cultivating love, Q’sC focused on enduring love. Although the topics that are being explored are, in broad terms, the same ones, Queen’s Catacombs took a more mature and less lighthearted approach to them, which is quite fitting since the narrative and plot is also darker and more mature than its predecessor.
When it comes to the romance among the two main characters, I must say I was gratifyingly surprised in how both characters kept their own personality, views and agency instead of having the minor main character becoming an extension of the major main character as it is commonly found in many books. It made their romance feel more real and organic, showing not only the occasions in which they are happy and at peace with each other, but also the times in which they argue over their different views and ultimately meet in the middle. I thought it was a very healthy and realistic depiction of how romance works.
If I had one complaint to point out it would be how flat the antagonists felt, and how at times it felt like the main characters lost all brain capacity around them. The former is more of a personal preference, since I like when villains/antagonists’ motives are explained or hinted at in the narrative, but the latter was a bit embarrassing. There were instances in which even Jacs (who had no reason to trust them) was questioning her own stance despite
Karissa Vacker, the audiobook narrator, delivered once again a stellar performance and I honestly cannot find a single thing to complain about her.
Overall, I found Queen’s Catacombs to be a rather enjoyable read, despite how at times it frustrated me with some of what was happening, and I am looking forward to reading the next instalment when it comes out.
Thank you very much to CamCat Publishing and NetGalley for providing me an Audio-ARC!
I was looking at my review for Contest of Queens (CoQ) and was reminded that I mentioned how it tackled topics such as leadership, loyalty and love, and in a way I find it interesting how we could say that in Queen’s Catacombs (Q’sC) the same topics are still quite present but in a different way: If CoQ explored leadership from the perspective of what it takes to be a good leader, Q’sC focused on how it is to be a leader without real power; if CoQ explored loyalty towards new acquaintances, Q’sC focused instead on loyalty towards old friends and family; and if CoQ explored on cultivating love, Q’sC focused on enduring love. Although the topics that are being explored are, in broad terms, the same ones, Queen’s Catacombs took a more mature and less lighthearted approach to them, which is quite fitting since the narrative and plot is also darker and more mature than its predecessor.
When it comes to the romance among the two main characters, I must say I was gratifyingly surprised in how both characters kept their own personality, views and agency instead of having the minor main character becoming an extension of the major main character as it is commonly found in many books. It made their romance feel more real and organic, showing not only the occasions in which they are happy and at peace with each other, but also the times in which they argue over their different views and ultimately meet in the middle. I thought it was a very healthy and realistic depiction of how romance works.
If I had one complaint to point out it would be how flat the antagonists felt, and how at times it felt like the main characters lost all brain capacity around them. The former is more of a personal preference, since I like when villains/antagonists’ motives are explained or hinted at in the narrative, but the latter was a bit embarrassing. There were instances in which even Jacs (who had no reason to trust them) was questioning her own stance despite
Karissa Vacker, the audiobook narrator, delivered once again a stellar performance and I honestly cannot find a single thing to complain about her.
Overall, I found Queen’s Catacombs to be a rather enjoyable read, despite how at times it frustrated me with some of what was happening, and I am looking forward to reading the next instalment when it comes out.
Thank you very much to CamCat Publishing and NetGalley for providing me an Audio-ARC!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews