Our main character, Mare, is a Red. This society is divided into two races, the Reds, who are the workers and soldiers and the Silvers, who are the aristocracy and rulers. Not only do the Silvers bleed silver blood, they also have special powers. Things like being able to read your thoughts, or melt metal, or control the weather. Mare doesn't know much about the Silvers since she is never around them.
She has no job and since she is almost 18, she will be conscripted into the army. They are fighting a war that has been going on for over 100 years. Once you are in the army, there's really no hope.
Through some strange events, Mare ends up in the Silver's capital. And it is revealed that she has her own special power. So the Silvers take her in and she has to pose as one of them. In the meantime, there is a rebel organization that Mare has become involved with that wants to overthrow the Silvers.
There is a lot of excitement in Red Queen. The class system is interesting. The predicament that Mare is put in is dangerous. She can trust no one. But, she does begin to trust, and sometimes that works to her advantage, but other times, she is betrayed. There are several unexpected twists and turns that will keep you guessing.
Sometimes it seems a bit too easy for Mare to escape from all the dangerous situations she finds herself in. Also, I really need to know more about this world -- how did the classes end up this way? There was some vague reference to nuclear war or something, but it wasn't expanded upon and I wish it would have been left out. Either tell us or don't. I assume more of the explanation is to come in future books.
I enjoyed the characters. Yes, Mare is stupid and impulsive sometimes, but she's maturing very quickly. I had no trouble sinking into the story, and I'm anxious for more. I will be adding this to my list of books with kick ass heroines, paranormal abilities, and dystopian worlds. Should be well received in my library!
Published by HarperTeen, February 10, 2015
eARC obtained from Edelweiss
400 pages
Rating: 4.5/5
I am glad to hear you enjoyed this one. I have seen mostly great reviews but a few not so good. I need to read this one. I don't mind stupid and impulsive if there is growth. so good to hear there is. The caste system sound really intriguing. i think this is what drew me to the book oh and the cover is awesome.
ReplyDeleteEek! Your review made me even more excited for this one! Can't wait to read it!
ReplyDeleteYay, another great review for Red Queen!! I'm so excited to read this one!! (: Thank you for the awesome review!
ReplyDeletePearl @ AsteriskPearl's Book Blog