Status
Available
Call number
Series
Collection
Publication
Harper Voyager (2011), Hardcover, 592 pages
Description
Two teenagers, one fleeing from a forced marriage and the other from a dangerous family of wizards, cross paths and fall in love.
User reviews
LibraryThing member spottedhorse23
Title: The Exiled Queen
Author: Cinda Williams Chima
Genre: YA, Fantasy
Publisher: Hyperion Book CH
Publication Date: September 28, 2010
Hardcover: 586 pages
Summary:
You can't always run from danger...
Haunted by the loss of his mother and sister, Han Alister journeys south to begin his schooling at
Meanwhile, Princess Raisa ana’Marianna runs from a forced marriage in the Fells, accompanied by her friend Amon and his triple of cadets. Now, the safest place for Raisa is Wein House, the military academy at Oden's Ford. If Raisa can pass as a regular student, Wein House will offer both sanctuary and the education Raisa needs to succeed as the next Gray Wolf queen. The Exiled Queen is an epic tale of uncertain friendships, cut-throat politics, and the irresistible power of attraction.
Book Review:
OMG!! I absolutely loved this book! I mean the first book, The Demon King , was good, but this was just...GREAT! I know I'm probably overdoing it, right?! It's just I loved this book soo much. It's hard to describe. I loved the development of the characters. The beginning was kinda lengthy though. I liked how Raisa really grew. She started out kinda annoying and stubborn. Afterwards she was still stubborn, but now she isn't annoying and she is more lovable. I really liked the relationship that Raisa and Hans have. They are perfect for each other. The Exiled Queen is full of love, hardships, and secrets. There was just so much going on. Sometimes it felt overwhelming. I also liked seeing the story from Hans point of view. Sometimes when stories are written from multiple point of views they feel choppy. That so not the case in this one. Cinda William Chima is a talented writer who is amazing at weaving a interesting and entrancing story. I just loved it. I can't wait for the next book, The Gray Wolf Throne. The only bad thing about this book is that it ended! I swear I am gonna die of anticipation before it comes out on September 20, 2010. Is anticipation the right word? If it's not then I don't know what is.
Rating: A
Excerpt:
You can read more about the Seven Realms series Here and Here.
Han slid his fingers inside his shirt and absently touched the serpent amulet that sizzled against the skin of his chest. Power flowed out of him and into the jinxpiece, relieving the magical pressure that had been building all day.
It had become a habit, this drawing off of power that might otherwise pinwheel out of control. He needed to constantly reassure himself the amulet was still there. Han had become strangely attached to it since he’d stolen it from Micah Bayar.
The magical pendant had once belonged to his ancestor, Alger Waterlow, known by most people as the Demon King. Meanwhile, the Lone Hunter amulet made for him by the Clan Matriarch Elena Demonai languished in his saddlebag.
He should hate the Waterlow jinxpiece. He’d paid for it with Mam’s and Mari’s lives. Some said the amulet was a black magic piece—capable of naught but evil. But it was all he had to show for his nearly seventeen years, save Mari’s charred storybook and Mam’s gold locket. It was all that remained of a season of disaster.
Author: Cinda Williams Chima
Genre: YA, Fantasy
Publisher: Hyperion Book CH
Publication Date: September 28, 2010
Hardcover: 586 pages
Summary:
You can't always run from danger...
Haunted by the loss of his mother and sister, Han Alister journeys south to begin his schooling at
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Mystwerk House in Oden’s Ford. But leaving the Fells doesn’t mean danger isn’t far behind. Han is hunted every step of the way by the Bayars, a powerful wizarding family set on reclaiming the amulet Han stole from them. And Mystwerk House has dangers of its own. There, Han meets Crow, a mysterious wizard who agrees to tutor Han in the darker parts of sorcery—but the bargain they make is one Han may regret.Meanwhile, Princess Raisa ana’Marianna runs from a forced marriage in the Fells, accompanied by her friend Amon and his triple of cadets. Now, the safest place for Raisa is Wein House, the military academy at Oden's Ford. If Raisa can pass as a regular student, Wein House will offer both sanctuary and the education Raisa needs to succeed as the next Gray Wolf queen. The Exiled Queen is an epic tale of uncertain friendships, cut-throat politics, and the irresistible power of attraction.
Book Review:
OMG!! I absolutely loved this book! I mean the first book, The Demon King , was good, but this was just...GREAT! I know I'm probably overdoing it, right?! It's just I loved this book soo much. It's hard to describe. I loved the development of the characters. The beginning was kinda lengthy though. I liked how Raisa really grew. She started out kinda annoying and stubborn. Afterwards she was still stubborn, but now she isn't annoying and she is more lovable. I really liked the relationship that Raisa and Hans have. They are perfect for each other. The Exiled Queen is full of love, hardships, and secrets. There was just so much going on. Sometimes it felt overwhelming. I also liked seeing the story from Hans point of view. Sometimes when stories are written from multiple point of views they feel choppy. That so not the case in this one. Cinda William Chima is a talented writer who is amazing at weaving a interesting and entrancing story. I just loved it. I can't wait for the next book, The Gray Wolf Throne. The only bad thing about this book is that it ended! I swear I am gonna die of anticipation before it comes out on September 20, 2010. Is anticipation the right word? If it's not then I don't know what is.
Rating: A
Excerpt:
You can read more about the Seven Realms series Here and Here.
Han slid his fingers inside his shirt and absently touched the serpent amulet that sizzled against the skin of his chest. Power flowed out of him and into the jinxpiece, relieving the magical pressure that had been building all day.
It had become a habit, this drawing off of power that might otherwise pinwheel out of control. He needed to constantly reassure himself the amulet was still there. Han had become strangely attached to it since he’d stolen it from Micah Bayar.
The magical pendant had once belonged to his ancestor, Alger Waterlow, known by most people as the Demon King. Meanwhile, the Lone Hunter amulet made for him by the Clan Matriarch Elena Demonai languished in his saddlebag.
He should hate the Waterlow jinxpiece. He’d paid for it with Mam’s and Mari’s lives. Some said the amulet was a black magic piece—capable of naught but evil. But it was all he had to show for his nearly seventeen years, save Mari’s charred storybook and Mam’s gold locket. It was all that remained of a season of disaster.
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LibraryThing member BookAddictDiary
The fascinating tales of the Seven Realms continues in The Exiled Queen, sequel to The Demon King.
The Exiled Queen follows the paths of two characters: seventeen year-old Han Alister and Princess Raisa of the Fells. Han leaves his life of thievery to travel to Oden's Ford, where he can learn about
Cinda Williams Chima is one of those authors who gets better with every book, and The Exiled Queen is no exception. It's filled with thrilling action and great character relationships all spun together into an epic adventure that's impossible to put down. The world, especially, is highly engaging and well-constructed, so readers are completely enveloped into the world of The Seven Realms and don't want to leave it. Luckily, The Seven Realms series has been expanded from a trilogy to a quartet, so we have more great adventures to look forward to.
Though not perfect, The Exiled Queen is an exciting adventure that's some of the best YA high fantasy out there. It was a quick, easy read that was an just fun to read. It was easy for me to just let go and enjoy the story as it wove together and edged toward a thrilling climax. It's books like this that remind me why I enjoy reading.
The Exiled Queen follows the paths of two characters: seventeen year-old Han Alister and Princess Raisa of the Fells. Han leaves his life of thievery to travel to Oden's Ford, where he can learn about
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the magical arts. However, Han is made fun of by most of the others at the academy, and is forced to make a pact with a mysterious wizard he meets in the dream world. Though the wizard agrees to help Han, the price is higher than Han had bargained for. Meanwhile, Princess Raisa has fled from her arranged marriage from Micah Bayar, and is traveling to Oden's Ford so she can receive a military education and become a better ruler, unlike her mother. While in Oden's Ford, Raisa and Han's paths cross, and are drawn together.Cinda Williams Chima is one of those authors who gets better with every book, and The Exiled Queen is no exception. It's filled with thrilling action and great character relationships all spun together into an epic adventure that's impossible to put down. The world, especially, is highly engaging and well-constructed, so readers are completely enveloped into the world of The Seven Realms and don't want to leave it. Luckily, The Seven Realms series has been expanded from a trilogy to a quartet, so we have more great adventures to look forward to.
Though not perfect, The Exiled Queen is an exciting adventure that's some of the best YA high fantasy out there. It was a quick, easy read that was an just fun to read. It was easy for me to just let go and enjoy the story as it wove together and edged toward a thrilling climax. It's books like this that remind me why I enjoy reading.
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LibraryThing member seescootread
I loved this book! The Exiled Queen picks up right where The Demon King left off and we rejoin the adventures of Han Alister and Raisa ana’Marianna. Each traveling on separate paths to basically the same ending point across the realm Han and Raisa are followed by danger at every turn. Han is
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struggling with his new found magical abilities while Raisa is learning how to live a rough soldier’s life away from the palace. Full of intrigue, magic and romance The Exiled Queen is a brilliant read. I really enjoyed getting back into the world of the Seven Realms. The story flowed very well; a great balance of action and suspense while switching between multiple points of view. I was thrilled when certain plot elements (which I won’t spoil for you) happened... and worried when things I didn’t foresee where thrown in our favorite characters path. Fast paced with a never-ending-knot of plot twists The Exiled Queen is a great read that I highly recommend. I can’t wait to read the third in this series The Gray Wolf Throne that comes out in fall 2011! Show Less
LibraryThing member MrsMich02
I'll admit that I had a hard time getting into the first book, The Demon King. It was soo worth it. Love the action and suspense of all the young main characters coming together at Oden's Ford. Mystwerk does does a bit like Hogwart's but not in a copycat way. Part of me was wishing that Raisa and
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Han would come together in the next book, but now I'm thinking they must be related. Shades of Luke Skywalker and Princess Leia??? Show Less
LibraryThing member MrsBoswellBooks
The Exiled Queen started off where The Demon King left off. Han Alister has recently lost everything keeping him in Ragmarket. The Bayars have not forgotten Han, nor have they forgiven him. They will attempt anything to get back the amulet Han took from them. Danger does not only come from the
Princess Raisa ana'Marianna is leaving the Fells, running from a forced marriage to the High Wizard's son, Micah. Traveling with her is her friend, Corporal Amon Byrne. He and his triple of cadets are returning to Oden's Ford to continue their cadet schooling at Wein House, located across the river from Mystwerk. What better place for Raisa to go and be kept safe? Little does she know, some of the people she is running away from have a way of turning up where she least expects them.
This story has the usual characters: Han, Raisa, Amon, Dancer and then some.
I am very much enjoying the Seven Realms series. As with Demon King, Exiled Queen is written following both the main characters, their parallel journeys to and continuing at Oden's Ford. While this story tended to focus on Han a little more than Raisa, the characters were very well developed. At times I felt like I was attending school with these two. Some unlikely characters came into play in this story, and created twists and turns that kept the story going. The ending of the book was not quite what I expected, but I am looking forward to continuing the story. Unfortunately when starting a new series, I realize too late that I have to wait until next year to read the next book. BOO!
The one thing I did not like about this book was the back and forth "I love this person" then "I love that person" followed by "I enjoy kissing this person" but when I see someone else I can't stop thinking "I want to kiss that person"... Man, no one could make up their mind about who they really liked and I don't want to know what it was like for each of the 12 (ok, over-exaggerated) people you've made out with.
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Bayar family. Han and Dancer are now journeying south to begin their schooling at Mystwerk House in Oden's Ford. Mystwerk is the school specifically for wizards. Once at school, Han meets a strange man in an unlikely place. This man, Crow, begins tutoring Han in the darker parts of magic... but there's always a cost.Princess Raisa ana'Marianna is leaving the Fells, running from a forced marriage to the High Wizard's son, Micah. Traveling with her is her friend, Corporal Amon Byrne. He and his triple of cadets are returning to Oden's Ford to continue their cadet schooling at Wein House, located across the river from Mystwerk. What better place for Raisa to go and be kept safe? Little does she know, some of the people she is running away from have a way of turning up where she least expects them.
This story has the usual characters: Han, Raisa, Amon, Dancer and then some.
I am very much enjoying the Seven Realms series. As with Demon King, Exiled Queen is written following both the main characters, their parallel journeys to and continuing at Oden's Ford. While this story tended to focus on Han a little more than Raisa, the characters were very well developed. At times I felt like I was attending school with these two. Some unlikely characters came into play in this story, and created twists and turns that kept the story going. The ending of the book was not quite what I expected, but I am looking forward to continuing the story. Unfortunately when starting a new series, I realize too late that I have to wait until next year to read the next book. BOO!
The one thing I did not like about this book was the back and forth "I love this person" then "I love that person" followed by "I enjoy kissing this person" but when I see someone else I can't stop thinking "I want to kiss that person"... Man, no one could make up their mind about who they really liked and I don't want to know what it was like for each of the 12 (ok, over-exaggerated) people you've made out with.
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LibraryThing member YABliss
I dont quite know how to even begin to review this book without me going all fangirly over it. It's been quite some time since I've fallen head over heels for a series, specially for a high fantasy one. This book was magnificent... epic... glorious... monumental! I thought I loved the first one
I am seriously awestruck by the greatness of the world Cinda created. Even though this one was in a different scenery because they traveled south, and I did miss some of the previous scenarios, it was as unbelievably atmospheric as the first. Her alternate world of fantastical greatness that left me longing to live in it once again. The characters bloomed, just like any teenager, they've been growing up and unexpectedly growing together. Every single character was fantastic and well developed.
The writing is magical and sucks you in right away. It's the kind of writing that makes me sigh, wishing every book was written half as good as this one. Cinda has quickly become one of my favorite authors. She must seriously have some kind of enchantment spell in her words. Also, the cover blew me away. You know from The Demon King what the cover represents, and it looks gorgeous. I cant wait to see the next cover.
"The Characters, the brilliantly woven plot, the magic in the storytelling, the atmospheric vividness of this wonderful world, and everything within these pages is pure perfection."- from The Demon King review.
This is one of those series that will someday become a classic. It has everything you wish for in a book and so much more. So believe me when I say: YOU NEED TO READ THIS. It is the best high fantasy book I've ever read!
NOTE: It was previously scheduled as a trilogy, but now there will be 4 books! (Squeee!)
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until I read this one, and gee, am I desperate to read book 3. I am seriously awestruck by the greatness of the world Cinda created. Even though this one was in a different scenery because they traveled south, and I did miss some of the previous scenarios, it was as unbelievably atmospheric as the first. Her alternate world of fantastical greatness that left me longing to live in it once again. The characters bloomed, just like any teenager, they've been growing up and unexpectedly growing together. Every single character was fantastic and well developed.
The writing is magical and sucks you in right away. It's the kind of writing that makes me sigh, wishing every book was written half as good as this one. Cinda has quickly become one of my favorite authors. She must seriously have some kind of enchantment spell in her words. Also, the cover blew me away. You know from The Demon King what the cover represents, and it looks gorgeous. I cant wait to see the next cover.
"The Characters, the brilliantly woven plot, the magic in the storytelling, the atmospheric vividness of this wonderful world, and everything within these pages is pure perfection."- from The Demon King review.
This is one of those series that will someday become a classic. It has everything you wish for in a book and so much more. So believe me when I say: YOU NEED TO READ THIS. It is the best high fantasy book I've ever read!
NOTE: It was previously scheduled as a trilogy, but now there will be 4 books! (Squeee!)
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LibraryThing member amwo
My opinion of Chima's writing grows everyday. First, I read the first book in her Heir series, then, I read The Demon King. The Warrior Heir was okay... but not extremely good. The Demon King was good enough that I wanted to be on the ARC tour for The Exiled Queen. And The Exiled Queen.... well. It
First off, the plot was AMAZING! Obviously, I don't like a book just because it has a good plot, because if the writing sucks, the book sucks. But most of the time, I will love the writing and the characters, but hate the plot. And still give the book five stars. Not so with this book. Trust me, this plot will keep you on the edge of your seat. It had everything that I could want from a YA fantasy novel. Complicated love triangles... (sort of), new and unexpected friendships, the characters learning all about the crazy new world they've entered, and of course, the feeling of looming danger. I don't want to give you any spoilers, but I will tell you that Raisa's love life sure heats up and gets REALLY complicated. Oh boy.
Which brings me to the characters, of course, we got to know them in the first book, but in the first book I had favorite characters. I've always had a soft spot for Raisa and Amon. I mean hello, a girl who's not afraid to stand up for herself and her smokin' hot uber loyal soldier best friend. And I found that in The Exiled Queen, that favoritism sort of carried over, but as I got more into the book, I found lots of other characters I liked. Instead of skipping over Han's chapters (like I was tempted to do to get more Amon/Raisa action. Which I won't tell you if there ever really was any action), I found that the characters in his chapters were growing on me. I really started to see Dancer as this loyal best friend who was in a mess he didn't want to be in, but stuck to it. Which trust me, will really endear him to you once you see how much he fits in at the Wizard school... or more like doesn't. Also, call me crazy, but I was starting to like Fiona Bayar. She may be grouped in with the "bad" guys, but it's really just because of her family. I found that she was really level - headed and at times, very feisty in a good way. Oh, and then there's the Wolf Pack. If you want the best friends you could ever have in the world, it's them. I really grew to love Talia and Hallie, because they were always there for Raisa. And it was kind of interesting to see them go through their struggles too, because they had A LOT! Anyways, if you didn't love the cast of characters in the first book, you will definitely ADORE them in the second book.
Overall, this book was nothing short of amazing. I found myself staying up late at night just to see what Han and Raisa were up to. Chima's writing seems to get better and better with each book she writes, and she has effectively got me extremely excited for the 3rd book. The Exiled Queen is set to be released September 28th, and if you haven't read The Demon King, you definitely should so you can be ready for this amazing keep-you-up-all-night book.
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blew me out of the water.First off, the plot was AMAZING! Obviously, I don't like a book just because it has a good plot, because if the writing sucks, the book sucks. But most of the time, I will love the writing and the characters, but hate the plot. And still give the book five stars. Not so with this book. Trust me, this plot will keep you on the edge of your seat. It had everything that I could want from a YA fantasy novel. Complicated love triangles... (sort of), new and unexpected friendships, the characters learning all about the crazy new world they've entered, and of course, the feeling of looming danger. I don't want to give you any spoilers, but I will tell you that Raisa's love life sure heats up and gets REALLY complicated. Oh boy.
Which brings me to the characters, of course, we got to know them in the first book, but in the first book I had favorite characters. I've always had a soft spot for Raisa and Amon. I mean hello, a girl who's not afraid to stand up for herself and her smokin' hot uber loyal soldier best friend. And I found that in The Exiled Queen, that favoritism sort of carried over, but as I got more into the book, I found lots of other characters I liked. Instead of skipping over Han's chapters (like I was tempted to do to get more Amon/Raisa action. Which I won't tell you if there ever really was any action), I found that the characters in his chapters were growing on me. I really started to see Dancer as this loyal best friend who was in a mess he didn't want to be in, but stuck to it. Which trust me, will really endear him to you once you see how much he fits in at the Wizard school... or more like doesn't. Also, call me crazy, but I was starting to like Fiona Bayar. She may be grouped in with the "bad" guys, but it's really just because of her family. I found that she was really level - headed and at times, very feisty in a good way. Oh, and then there's the Wolf Pack. If you want the best friends you could ever have in the world, it's them. I really grew to love Talia and Hallie, because they were always there for Raisa. And it was kind of interesting to see them go through their struggles too, because they had A LOT! Anyways, if you didn't love the cast of characters in the first book, you will definitely ADORE them in the second book.
Overall, this book was nothing short of amazing. I found myself staying up late at night just to see what Han and Raisa were up to. Chima's writing seems to get better and better with each book she writes, and she has effectively got me extremely excited for the 3rd book. The Exiled Queen is set to be released September 28th, and if you haven't read The Demon King, you definitely should so you can be ready for this amazing keep-you-up-all-night book.
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LibraryThing member OhForTheLoveOfBooks
First off, let me just say how much I LOVE this series!! It amazing! Amazing characters, political intrigue, romance, action, adventure…it has it all!!
This book starts off pretty much where The Demon King left off with both Han and Raisa on different routes to Oden’s Ford. Cue the adventure!!
This book contains an intricate and intriguing plot that will keep you wanting more! This book is through the different POV’s of Raisa and Han and their journeys, though seemingly separate, come together gracefully. This book is full of betrayals and changing allegiances. You never know the truth, who to trust, or who is a friend or an enemy.
This is a book full of amazing characters! I actually grew to love Raisa more in this book. She had to learn to listen to others and do hard work instead of having everything done for her. She’s headstrong, independent, and determined. She learns so much about her country and her people and knows what needs to be done to help her country. This helped her grow into an amazing young woman who I know will one day be a great ruler! Amon…although I love him, he sometimes annoyed me. Of course, there is a reason for this, but still. However, I LOVE Han! Ohhhh so much! Smart, witty, adventuresome, a thief with a sense of honor…Oh I do love him!
I even fell in love with the secondary characters! Every single one of em, good or bad.
The World building is excellent! I honestly can’t wait to return to this book in the next series! If you want a book of epic proportions with just the right amount of everything, then definitely start this series!
This book starts off pretty much where The Demon King left off with both Han and Raisa on different routes to Oden’s Ford. Cue the adventure!!
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The adventure and action starts right away, instantly gripping the reader in this most epic of epic fantasies! This book contains an intricate and intriguing plot that will keep you wanting more! This book is through the different POV’s of Raisa and Han and their journeys, though seemingly separate, come together gracefully. This book is full of betrayals and changing allegiances. You never know the truth, who to trust, or who is a friend or an enemy.
This is a book full of amazing characters! I actually grew to love Raisa more in this book. She had to learn to listen to others and do hard work instead of having everything done for her. She’s headstrong, independent, and determined. She learns so much about her country and her people and knows what needs to be done to help her country. This helped her grow into an amazing young woman who I know will one day be a great ruler! Amon…although I love him, he sometimes annoyed me. Of course, there is a reason for this, but still. However, I LOVE Han! Ohhhh so much! Smart, witty, adventuresome, a thief with a sense of honor…Oh I do love him!
I even fell in love with the secondary characters! Every single one of em, good or bad.
The World building is excellent! I honestly can’t wait to return to this book in the next series! If you want a book of epic proportions with just the right amount of everything, then definitely start this series!
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LibraryThing member wyvernfriend
It did take me a while to get back into what was going on with the story. It was interesting to see Han and Raisa grow and learn where their futures were and come to terms with the consequences of earlier choices.
It's an interesting read, the two characters mature a lot during this story and learn
It's an interesting read, the two characters mature a lot during this story and learn
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a lot about the magic of this world. I'm looking forward to reading the last in this series. Show Less
LibraryThing member bell7
Han and Raisa's story continues where The Demon King left off. Han and Dancer are on their way to the wizard academy; Raisa travels to Oden's Ford as well to the soldier's school with Amon Byrne and his Gray Wolves. Between the Bayars and civil war in Arden, their journeys are fraught with peril
Usually I like to give myself a small break between the books in a series so that I don't get too sick of a story, but the end of The Demon King left me really wanting the next installment. Unfortunately, that lack of a break left me chafing whenever there was explanation or reminder of what had gone on before. I was most interested in learning what happens at the schools, and felt that much of the time spent traveling drags a bit, where the first book was more evenly paced. I like Han, Raisa, and Amon a lot, and look forward to seeing how their story unfolds in The Gray Wolf Throne.
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before they even arrive.Usually I like to give myself a small break between the books in a series so that I don't get too sick of a story, but the end of The Demon King left me really wanting the next installment. Unfortunately, that lack of a break left me chafing whenever there was explanation or reminder of what had gone on before. I was most interested in learning what happens at the schools, and felt that much of the time spent traveling drags a bit, where the first book was more evenly paced. I like Han, Raisa, and Amon a lot, and look forward to seeing how their story unfolds in The Gray Wolf Throne.
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LibraryThing member Paper_Dreams
This review may contain spoilers for The Demon King.
I enjoyed The Demon King, but I did not love it. However after reading it, I was desperate for the next book in the series. Thanks to my fabulous local library, I was able to get this book in fairly quickly. After finishing this, I am now a solid,
The book continues to narrate from mainly Raisa and Hans’ POV, which lets the reader to really experience their respective journeys. As I read, I fell even more in love with them both. They grow so much both as maturing characters mentally and becoming warriors physically. I think what I find the most admirable about them is their strength. Raisa has to sacrifice so much, and yet, she is always determined to find a way to help her country. Hans has suffered the deaths of his family members, but he uses his grief to propel him forward in life. Once again, the secondary characters threaten to steal the spotlight with the realistic way they are portrayed. That is such an impressive feat.
The stakes are raised as the realm falls into even more turmoil. Unfortunately, Raisa, Hans, and their allies also have to deal with the war in . As they both unknowingly journey to Oden’s Ford, they are faced by circumstances that test their courage and control. The pacing of this book is much more intense than the first book. Whereas The Demon King felt somewhat slow at times, The Exiled Queen just rushes onward. From the moment I began reading, I had a lot of trouble putting this book down.
Overall I found this to be a sequel that not only equaled its predecessor, but it also surpassed it. I absolutely and completely loved this book, and I have found myself to be a huge fan of the series. I am dying to read the next book! I was even too impatient to wait to get it on-loan, and I have gone ahead an ordered it. I would highly recommend this series to fans of high fantasy. Those who have enjoyed the Inheritance series by Christopher Paolini may enjoy this.
I enjoyed The Demon King, but I did not love it. However after reading it, I was desperate for the next book in the series. Thanks to my fabulous local library, I was able to get this book in fairly quickly. After finishing this, I am now a solid,
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adoring fan of the series. This is becoming a fantastic fantasy series that definitely places among my favorites.The book continues to narrate from mainly Raisa and Hans’ POV, which lets the reader to really experience their respective journeys. As I read, I fell even more in love with them both. They grow so much both as maturing characters mentally and becoming warriors physically. I think what I find the most admirable about them is their strength. Raisa has to sacrifice so much, and yet, she is always determined to find a way to help her country. Hans has suffered the deaths of his family members, but he uses his grief to propel him forward in life. Once again, the secondary characters threaten to steal the spotlight with the realistic way they are portrayed. That is such an impressive feat.
The stakes are raised as the realm falls into even more turmoil. Unfortunately, Raisa, Hans, and their allies also have to deal with the war in . As they both unknowingly journey to Oden’s Ford, they are faced by circumstances that test their courage and control. The pacing of this book is much more intense than the first book. Whereas The Demon King felt somewhat slow at times, The Exiled Queen just rushes onward. From the moment I began reading, I had a lot of trouble putting this book down.
Overall I found this to be a sequel that not only equaled its predecessor, but it also surpassed it. I absolutely and completely loved this book, and I have found myself to be a huge fan of the series. I am dying to read the next book! I was even too impatient to wait to get it on-loan, and I have gone ahead an ordered it. I would highly recommend this series to fans of high fantasy. Those who have enjoyed the Inheritance series by Christopher Paolini may enjoy this.
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LibraryThing member sassybrunette
this book is just as good as the first, and it starts up with plenty of action that carries on threw the whole book. there is never a dull moment in Raisa’s life so its fitting this the book is them same as well.
LibraryThing member DebbieMcCauley
The second book in the 'Seven Realms' series. Princess Raisa ana’ Marianna is running away from a forced marriage, accompanied by Amon and his triple of cadets. They are hoping she will pass for a normal student at Oden's Fords military academy. Meanwhile, Han Alister is on his own journey to
Another great fantasy read from Chima.
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Mystwerk House in Oden’s Ford to learn wizarding. Danger follows him as the Bayars seek to reclaim his stolen amulet at any cost. Another great fantasy read from Chima.
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LibraryThing member mattries37315
In The Exiled Queen, Cinda Williams Chima takes her two main protagonists and the readers away from all they had known before and sent to the neutral city of Oden's Ford. However, the journeys there and their experiences are not without hazard or excitement which keeps the reader very much engaged.
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Chima continues the growth of her main characters as well as several secondary ones which helps develop the story, nor do Raisa (aka Rebecca) and Han really meet once again until over halfway through the book giving their story arcs independence from one another even as they interact. Through both character's stories, the world and history of the Seven Realms is further explored without taking away from the narrative flow of the book and putting in building blocks for later in the series. Although a few things aren't exactly explained to satisfaction given their importance or revelation in this book, I can't really complain. The events of the last 100 pages not only were a pay off of what developed since page 1, but also left me wanting to see what happens in The Gray Wolf Throne. Show Less
LibraryThing member wagner.sarah35
A great follow-up to The Demon King, with the various young characters traveling to school at Oden's Ford, each for their own reasons. Danger continues to stalk both Han and Raisa, as each finds a few enemies that should have been left behind in Fellsmarch. In addition, Han and Raisa (when they
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finally encounter each other again) begin to explore their own attraction to each other, a relationship I hope will continue to develop in this series. Fun reading! Show Less
LibraryThing member NineLarks
The Exiled Queen continues where the first book left off, with both Han and Raisa traveling across the lands to get to the famed academy where they train soldiers and magicians.
I couldn't finish this book. I almost can't believe it. It's not a horrible story, it's not as if I utterly loathe it. I
Here are the reasons I have dropped this book, and consequently this series:
The plot has gotten ridiculously simplified. I don't even think half the plot lines are feasible.
None of the characters have changed or grown up.
I don't believe anything she writes anymore.
All of it bores me.
For the plot: (spoilers) Han meets the Bayar twins at the academy and prepares to face off. It's like Chima wanted to do a school scene of all a sudden! Ridiculous. As if problems aren't happening outside of their individual issues. What about the country and the war outside? Usually books go from a small, isolated area (like a school) and then expand outwards into the world. It doesn't really work in the reverse because there are more important things that I would rather be reading about - rather than seeing them master the magical fundamentals with childish rivalries.
As for Raisa, it's as if Chima decides to put her through a lot of trouble and give her the gift of "witch-speaking". What the bloody hell? One little speech gets her through life and death every single freaking time. I don't believe it all. She hasn't grown up nearly enough to deserve talking her way through survival and admittance to school. It's not believable and it's not doing anything for her character growth.
Picking up Cat, flaunting Han's amulet without any repercussions, Raisa preventing her death through five lines of pretty speech. No. Not believable at all. In fact, a very early point in the beginning of the story tells us that Han is going to the academy for revenge. What in freaking blazes? Nothing in his characters suggests that. I don't even know what this character is thinking. None of it is believable anymore. These characters are like caricatures of real people. It's like they're being dragged along a plot without any real character development. The main characters are too astute, the enemies are too stupid. Why aren't adults at a school smarter than the students? ...really. Caricatures, I say. Which makes me hate the story.
And the romances are just plain stupid. Everyone falls in love with everyone else - and I can literally say everyone because there are really only a handful of characters that matter.
Honestly, at this point, I don't care about the characters anymore. I don't care about the plot. I don't really care about the world and the magic. So what's there for me to continue reading?
One star because I can't finish the book. Perhaps with a bit more time on my hands and persistence, I actually probably could have finished this book through sheer will power. But it would have still been a book that is filled with unbelievable plot-twists, stagnant characters, and a very subpar world.
Recommended only if you can't bear to drop a series. And if you absolutely have nothing else to read. But I'd suggest you pick up another series entirely.
I couldn't finish this book. I almost can't believe it. It's not a horrible story, it's not as if I utterly loathe it. I
Show More
got through 50% of it (120 pages or so) and then skimmed through the rest, but somehow... I just can't bear reading another 200 pages with sequels to boot. Here are the reasons I have dropped this book, and consequently this series:
The plot has gotten ridiculously simplified. I don't even think half the plot lines are feasible.
None of the characters have changed or grown up.
I don't believe anything she writes anymore.
All of it bores me.
For the plot: (spoilers) Han meets the Bayar twins at the academy and prepares to face off. It's like Chima wanted to do a school scene of all a sudden! Ridiculous. As if problems aren't happening outside of their individual issues. What about the country and the war outside? Usually books go from a small, isolated area (like a school) and then expand outwards into the world. It doesn't really work in the reverse because there are more important things that I would rather be reading about - rather than seeing them master the magical fundamentals with childish rivalries.
As for Raisa, it's as if Chima decides to put her through a lot of trouble and give her the gift of "witch-speaking". What the bloody hell? One little speech gets her through life and death every single freaking time. I don't believe it all. She hasn't grown up nearly enough to deserve talking her way through survival and admittance to school. It's not believable and it's not doing anything for her character growth.
Picking up Cat, flaunting Han's amulet without any repercussions, Raisa preventing her death through five lines of pretty speech. No. Not believable at all. In fact, a very early point in the beginning of the story tells us that Han is going to the academy for revenge. What in freaking blazes? Nothing in his characters suggests that. I don't even know what this character is thinking. None of it is believable anymore. These characters are like caricatures of real people. It's like they're being dragged along a plot without any real character development. The main characters are too astute, the enemies are too stupid. Why aren't adults at a school smarter than the students? ...really. Caricatures, I say. Which makes me hate the story.
And the romances are just plain stupid. Everyone falls in love with everyone else - and I can literally say everyone because there are really only a handful of characters that matter.
Honestly, at this point, I don't care about the characters anymore. I don't care about the plot. I don't really care about the world and the magic. So what's there for me to continue reading?
One star because I can't finish the book. Perhaps with a bit more time on my hands and persistence, I actually probably could have finished this book through sheer will power. But it would have still been a book that is filled with unbelievable plot-twists, stagnant characters, and a very subpar world.
Recommended only if you can't bear to drop a series. And if you absolutely have nothing else to read. But I'd suggest you pick up another series entirely.
Show Less
LibraryThing member NineLarks
The Exiled Queen continues where the first book left off, with both Han and Raisa traveling across the lands to get to the famed academy where they train soldiers and magicians.
I couldn't finish this book. I almost can't believe it. It's not a horrible story, it's not as if I utterly loathe it. I
Here are the reasons I have dropped this book, and consequently this series:
The plot has gotten ridiculously simplified. I don't even think half the plot lines are feasible.
None of the characters have changed or grown up.
I don't believe anything she writes anymore.
All of it bores me.
For the plot: (spoilers) Han meets the Bayar twins at the academy and prepares to face off. It's like Chima wanted to do a school scene of all a sudden! Ridiculous. As if problems aren't happening outside of their individual issues. What about the country and the war outside? Usually books go from a small, isolated area (like a school) and then expand outwards into the world. It doesn't really work in the reverse because there are more important things that I would rather be reading about - rather than seeing them master the magical fundamentals with childish rivalries.
As for Raisa, it's as if Chima decides to put her through a lot of trouble and give her the gift of "witch-speaking". What the bloody hell? One little speech gets her through life and death every single freaking time. I don't believe it all. She hasn't grown up nearly enough to deserve talking her way through survival and admittance to school. It's not believable and it's not doing anything for her character growth.
Picking up Cat, flaunting Han's amulet without any repercussions, Raisa preventing her death through five lines of pretty speech. No. Not believable at all. In fact, a very early point in the beginning of the story tells us that Han is going to the academy for revenge. What in freaking blazes? Nothing in his characters suggests that. I don't even know what this character is thinking. None of it is believable anymore. These characters are like caricatures of real people. It's like they're being dragged along a plot without any real character development. The main characters are too astute, the enemies are too stupid. Why aren't adults at a school smarter than the students? ...really. Caricatures, I say. Which makes me hate the story.
And the romances are just plain stupid. Everyone falls in love with everyone else - and I can literally say everyone because there are really only a handful of characters that matter.
Honestly, at this point, I don't care about the characters anymore. I don't care about the plot. I don't really care about the world and the magic. So what's there for me to continue reading?
One star because I can't finish the book. Perhaps with a bit more time on my hands and persistence, I actually probably could have finished this book through sheer will power. But it would have still been a book that is filled with unbelievable plot-twists, stagnant characters, and a very subpar world.
Recommended only if you can't bear to drop a series. And if you absolutely have nothing else to read. But I'd suggest you pick up another series entirely.
I couldn't finish this book. I almost can't believe it. It's not a horrible story, it's not as if I utterly loathe it. I
Show More
got through 50% of it (120 pages or so) and then skimmed through the rest, but somehow... I just can't bear reading another 200 pages with sequels to boot. Here are the reasons I have dropped this book, and consequently this series:
The plot has gotten ridiculously simplified. I don't even think half the plot lines are feasible.
None of the characters have changed or grown up.
I don't believe anything she writes anymore.
All of it bores me.
For the plot: (spoilers) Han meets the Bayar twins at the academy and prepares to face off. It's like Chima wanted to do a school scene of all a sudden! Ridiculous. As if problems aren't happening outside of their individual issues. What about the country and the war outside? Usually books go from a small, isolated area (like a school) and then expand outwards into the world. It doesn't really work in the reverse because there are more important things that I would rather be reading about - rather than seeing them master the magical fundamentals with childish rivalries.
As for Raisa, it's as if Chima decides to put her through a lot of trouble and give her the gift of "witch-speaking". What the bloody hell? One little speech gets her through life and death every single freaking time. I don't believe it all. She hasn't grown up nearly enough to deserve talking her way through survival and admittance to school. It's not believable and it's not doing anything for her character growth.
Picking up Cat, flaunting Han's amulet without any repercussions, Raisa preventing her death through five lines of pretty speech. No. Not believable at all. In fact, a very early point in the beginning of the story tells us that Han is going to the academy for revenge. What in freaking blazes? Nothing in his characters suggests that. I don't even know what this character is thinking. None of it is believable anymore. These characters are like caricatures of real people. It's like they're being dragged along a plot without any real character development. The main characters are too astute, the enemies are too stupid. Why aren't adults at a school smarter than the students? ...really. Caricatures, I say. Which makes me hate the story.
And the romances are just plain stupid. Everyone falls in love with everyone else - and I can literally say everyone because there are really only a handful of characters that matter.
Honestly, at this point, I don't care about the characters anymore. I don't care about the plot. I don't really care about the world and the magic. So what's there for me to continue reading?
One star because I can't finish the book. Perhaps with a bit more time on my hands and persistence, I actually probably could have finished this book through sheer will power. But it would have still been a book that is filled with unbelievable plot-twists, stagnant characters, and a very subpar world.
Recommended only if you can't bear to drop a series. And if you absolutely have nothing else to read. But I'd suggest you pick up another series entirely.
Show Less
LibraryThing member anyaejo
Magic school! Feels! Strong and logical heroine! Excellent narration!
LibraryThing member rosetyper9
I picked up this book last year sometime and I started to read it after an all night read-a-thon of The Demon King. I started this book and then put it away because I think I was on Seven Realms overload and the characters were making me angry. The other day I saw it at the library and gave it
I love the intricacy of the entire word Ms. Chima built. I love the differences in the characters and the constant juxtaposition of Raisa and Han. I enjoyed the rivalry between the Bayars and Han, this isn't a children's rivalry, this whole book is live or death, crown and country. This book may be written for children but the situations are adult and intricate. This book isn't written so a child couldn't read it but it is written so an adult might enjoy it as well.
I think my favorite part of this book and the series so far is the relationships. I love how each character's relationship with each other is unique and different. Han and Raisa, Han and Crow, everyone has something unique to offer each and every relationship and I enjoy hashing it out in my head. This book is lovely and unpredictable.
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another shot and thoroughly loved it. I love the intricacy of the entire word Ms. Chima built. I love the differences in the characters and the constant juxtaposition of Raisa and Han. I enjoyed the rivalry between the Bayars and Han, this isn't a children's rivalry, this whole book is live or death, crown and country. This book may be written for children but the situations are adult and intricate. This book isn't written so a child couldn't read it but it is written so an adult might enjoy it as well.
I think my favorite part of this book and the series so far is the relationships. I love how each character's relationship with each other is unique and different. Han and Raisa, Han and Crow, everyone has something unique to offer each and every relationship and I enjoy hashing it out in my head. This book is lovely and unpredictable.
Show Less
LibraryThing member rosetyper9
I picked up this book last year sometime and I started to read it after an all night read-a-thon of The Demon King. I started this book and then put it away because I think I was on Seven Realms overload and the characters were making me angry. The other day I saw it at the library and gave it
I love the intricacy of the entire word Ms. Chima built. I love the differences in the characters and the constant juxtaposition of Raisa and Han. I enjoyed the rivalry between the Bayars and Han, this isn't a children's rivalry, this whole book is live or death, crown and country. This book may be written for children but the situations are adult and intricate. This book isn't written so a child couldn't read it but it is written so an adult might enjoy it as well.
I think my favorite part of this book and the series so far is the relationships. I love how each character's relationship with each other is unique and different. Han and Raisa, Han and Crow, everyone has something unique to offer each and every relationship and I enjoy hashing it out in my head. This book is lovely and unpredictable.
Show More
another shot and thoroughly loved it. I love the intricacy of the entire word Ms. Chima built. I love the differences in the characters and the constant juxtaposition of Raisa and Han. I enjoyed the rivalry between the Bayars and Han, this isn't a children's rivalry, this whole book is live or death, crown and country. This book may be written for children but the situations are adult and intricate. This book isn't written so a child couldn't read it but it is written so an adult might enjoy it as well.
I think my favorite part of this book and the series so far is the relationships. I love how each character's relationship with each other is unique and different. Han and Raisa, Han and Crow, everyone has something unique to offer each and every relationship and I enjoy hashing it out in my head. This book is lovely and unpredictable.
Show Less
LibraryThing member Lylee
Great follow-up to the Demon King. Raisa gains many key skills, Han and Dancer learn all about wizardry. The story winds through Demonai forests and mountains, the land of the Waterwalkers through the Flatlands to Oden's Ford. Sometimes the conflict are physical battles, sometime battles of wits.
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It was fun trying to predict each characters next move. Show Less
LibraryThing member A_Reader_of_Fictions
For more reviews, gifs, Cover Snark and more, visit A Reader of Fictions.
The Demon King was fun and an excellent start to a series. It didn’t however completely suck me in or get me right in the feels. Once again, Meg and Gillian (Writer of Wrongs) were so right about the way that this series
My main complaint with The Demon King was the plotting. I felt like it was really predictable at all points. There’s something comforting in that, especially with the similarities to Aladdin, but it also didn’t wow me. In The Exiled Queen, the plot consistently took me by surprise. Continually the threat that I expected to raise its ugly head remained quiet, and an unseen threat came out of nowhere and went for the characters. It’s thrilling to not have any idea where the danger will actually come from, and it’s a lot like life, I think.
Though I didn’t see them coming, the threats were well-established. Sometimes twists are achieved by hiding things from the reader. That’s one way to do it and it’s effective, but it’s also a cheat. Chima doesn’t do that. All the information you need is there, but it’s not telegraphed. Mostly it’s just that there are so many different forces moving against our hero and heroine that it’s really hard to pinpoint who and what will happen to them next. This is the sort of plotting that I adore.
Similarly, the depths of good versus evil are so much more complex in The Exiled Queen. It was very easy to pinpoint the villain in The Demon King. Sure, he’s still evil, but he’s also one just one wave in a turbulent ocean. The political landscape is complicated, and, though it’s easy to tell who some of the enemies are, discerning which supposed allies can be relied upon is very much not.
Chima continues to add layers to the cast, as well. I’m especially in love, oddly enough, with the development of the Bayars. Previously, they were the standard spoiled, rich kids meant to seize power at daddy’s command. In The Exiled Queen, Micah and Fiona become less of a unit and begin to make their own choices. The first year at school in Oden’s Ford changes everyone in big ways. The Demon King felt almost middle grade at times, but they’re truly growing into young adults now, capable of making mature choices.
It’s funny, because in the larger terms of the plot, The Exiled Queen actually is sort of like hitting the pause button. There’s not a lot that happens in terms of the main characters’ interaction with the larger politics that comprise the larger arc. They basically take a year off to train. It ought to be slower. However, it’s not. First of all, they do all of this with a sense of the clock’s ticking, because not being trained could result in defeat but so could delaying too long. Second of all, all of the characters are undergoing serious character arc stuff, which I personally find as fascinating as the action/adventure stuff.
The shipping in this series is most excellent, with one caveat. I’m down with all the ships, except for the obvious one that involves settling. However, despite the inclusion of LGBT-positive things, I really wish there were an LGBT character among the leads. Yes, Talia and Pearlie are a lesbian couple, and they put in occasional appearances, but I hardly know anything about them. I’d like to see them become more important to the story or the addition of more LGBT romances. It’s probably unfair, because I don’t know that I would feel this way if I hadn’t had that expectation going in, but it’s how I feel. That said, Chima does excellent kissing scenes. Much approve.
Word to the wise: if The Demon King was a bit slow for you, do keep going. The Exiled Queen levels up several levels of badassery. I’m ready to have my heart broken in The Gray Wolf Throne.
The Demon King was fun and an excellent start to a series. It didn’t however completely suck me in or get me right in the feels. Once again, Meg and Gillian (Writer of Wrongs) were so right about the way that this series
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starts slow but continually gets more intense. Though I wouldn’t say I’m to massive fangirl status yet, I’m much more impressed with The Exiled Queen and very eager to find out what the future has in store for Han, Raisa, and the rest of the dear main characters.My main complaint with The Demon King was the plotting. I felt like it was really predictable at all points. There’s something comforting in that, especially with the similarities to Aladdin, but it also didn’t wow me. In The Exiled Queen, the plot consistently took me by surprise. Continually the threat that I expected to raise its ugly head remained quiet, and an unseen threat came out of nowhere and went for the characters. It’s thrilling to not have any idea where the danger will actually come from, and it’s a lot like life, I think.
Though I didn’t see them coming, the threats were well-established. Sometimes twists are achieved by hiding things from the reader. That’s one way to do it and it’s effective, but it’s also a cheat. Chima doesn’t do that. All the information you need is there, but it’s not telegraphed. Mostly it’s just that there are so many different forces moving against our hero and heroine that it’s really hard to pinpoint who and what will happen to them next. This is the sort of plotting that I adore.
Similarly, the depths of good versus evil are so much more complex in The Exiled Queen. It was very easy to pinpoint the villain in The Demon King. Sure, he’s still evil, but he’s also one just one wave in a turbulent ocean. The political landscape is complicated, and, though it’s easy to tell who some of the enemies are, discerning which supposed allies can be relied upon is very much not.
Chima continues to add layers to the cast, as well. I’m especially in love, oddly enough, with the development of the Bayars. Previously, they were the standard spoiled, rich kids meant to seize power at daddy’s command. In The Exiled Queen, Micah and Fiona become less of a unit and begin to make their own choices. The first year at school in Oden’s Ford changes everyone in big ways. The Demon King felt almost middle grade at times, but they’re truly growing into young adults now, capable of making mature choices.
It’s funny, because in the larger terms of the plot, The Exiled Queen actually is sort of like hitting the pause button. There’s not a lot that happens in terms of the main characters’ interaction with the larger politics that comprise the larger arc. They basically take a year off to train. It ought to be slower. However, it’s not. First of all, they do all of this with a sense of the clock’s ticking, because not being trained could result in defeat but so could delaying too long. Second of all, all of the characters are undergoing serious character arc stuff, which I personally find as fascinating as the action/adventure stuff.
The shipping in this series is most excellent, with one caveat. I’m down with all the ships, except for the obvious one that involves settling. However, despite the inclusion of LGBT-positive things, I really wish there were an LGBT character among the leads. Yes, Talia and Pearlie are a lesbian couple, and they put in occasional appearances, but I hardly know anything about them. I’d like to see them become more important to the story or the addition of more LGBT romances. It’s probably unfair, because I don’t know that I would feel this way if I hadn’t had that expectation going in, but it’s how I feel. That said, Chima does excellent kissing scenes. Much approve.
Word to the wise: if The Demon King was a bit slow for you, do keep going. The Exiled Queen levels up several levels of badassery. I’m ready to have my heart broken in The Gray Wolf Throne.
Show Less
LibraryThing member MrNattania72
So this is book two of the Demon King series and I felt it was mainly exposition, setting up and beginning to illustrate the up coming conflicts that will arise in the future books to come. ( yes I know they are all released, but yet to come to me ). Kinda slow, but the fast paced ending really
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gave a huge shocking ending with a huge Contrast and Contradictions of our Grey Wolf princess !! Show Less
Awards
Buckeye Children's & Teen Book Award (Nominee — Teen — 2011)
Language
Original publication date
2010
Physical description
592 p.
ISBN
000738422X / 9780007384228
Local notes
Haunted by the loss of his mother and sister, hunted by the powerful Bayar family, Han Alister makes a devil’s bargain with the clans. If they sponsor his schooling at Mystwerk Academy at Oden’s Ford, he will become their magical sell-sword against the power-hungry Wizard Council. Han Alister asks the girl he knows as Rebecca (Princess Raisa in disguise) to tutor him, and the streetlord turned wizard with the complicated past fascinates her, and he makes it clear the interest is mutual. But Han blames Queen Marianna and the Bayars for the loss of his family. As their relationship deepens, Raisa suspects that if Han knew her true identity, he wouldn’t want anything to do with her.