"The Thorn Queen" by Sasha Peyton Smith

 

"The Thorn Queen" by Sasha Peyton Smith is the second and final book in The Rose Bargain duology, bringing the story to a satisfying close. I loved the first book, so I was a bit wary about reading its sequel — sequels are usually touch-and-go for me. Fortunately, it didn’t disappoint.

The book picks up where the first one ended, so you need to read it beforehand. Ivy is King Bram’s wife and queen, ruling an alternate version of 1800s/Victorian England, while her sister Lydia and Prince Emmett are trapped in the Otherworld. With the help of some loyal friends, Ivy plots to unseat Bram, save her sister, and reunite with Emmett. To do this, she must outsmart Bram, navigate court intrigue, and overcome obstacles. Among clandestine meetings, tricky trials, and wicked magic, she has to play for keeps.

I enjoyed the book, though I have to admit I loved the first one more. This is not to say that the book isn’t good — it just lacks the spark and romantic tension of the first. The pace was uneven; some sections dragged while others rushed. Furthermore, this book is much darker and bloodier than the first, and the romance takes a back seat. The cruelty of the fae reached a new level, along with their games and debauchery, which at times was too much.

The book alternates between different points of view, giving us insight into the characters’ mindsets. It introduces some new characters, such as Rhion, Bram’s best friend and advisor, whose characterization I loved. The author described his eccentricities well. I also loved the bond between the two sisters and how each of them wanted to save the other. I didn’t like that Emmett was sidelined, nor did I condone his conduct; I preferred him in the first book. Bram was the perfect villain, but I found the lenient attitude and soft feelings of the others toward him a bit odd.

The story mostly takes place in the Otherworld, and I loved the world-building, with all its ins and outs. The focus is more on feelings and relationships, so there is less action. There are trials as well, and I loved their creativity: a self-awareness forest, caves that cause pain, and even a quest. What’s not to like?

With themes of grief, sisterly relationships, emotional turmoil, friendships, betrayals, trust, social justice, and moral conflicts, the author has woven a tale that I overall enjoyed reading. The themes of love and moral choices resonated with me particularly, making the story feel emotionally rich. While the writing was engaging, the issues I noted earlier led me to deduct a star.

If you loved the first book, you will enjoy this one as well. I did, despite its flaws, and found the conclusion satisfying. This duology is ideal for fans of dark fantasy with complex characters, intricate relationships, and rich storytelling.

* Thank you NetGalley and (publisher) for the opportunity to read this arc.  All opinions are my own.  

* For more info about the book: "The Thorn Queen" by Sasha Peyton Smith