Nameless Queen
by Rebecca McLaughlin
Release date: January 7, 2019
Rating: 3.5/5
Let’s just say that I wanted this book to knock it out of the park but unfortunately, it did not deliver what I was hoping for. The book is still good and I loved the world-building and the characters; however, it just didn’t capture my attention and imagination as much as I hoped it would.
Choosing to call herself Coin, a young girl finds herself fighting to survive on the streets of Seriden, a city of Royals, Legals, and the Nameless. With the death of King Fallow, the tattoo of the next ruler reveals itself on Coin’s arm. How could the king name his successor without a name? Confusion and outrage follow these events as Coin temporarily ascends the throne as the Nameless Queen until she can be challenged during the Assassin’s festival. Does Coin even want to be queen? Could she actually make a difference? What about the magic powers that come with the royal tattoo? Can she learn to control them? Can she save the only person she cares about as a temporary queen?
This story had so much promise and I did enjoy it, but something seemed off. The characters are fun and unique. The world McLaughlin has created is interesting but the history of Seriden and magic probably could have been laid out more clearly. There were consequences for actions but not quite as satisfying as I’d like.
This story is not a romance; it is more fantasy adventure with some mystery. This story is also a standalone novel. I would still recommend this story for younger readers, especially those who deal with insecurities. If you like books with strong heroines, I’d also recommend this book.
My thanks to the author and NetGalley for an ARC of the book. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own. No positive review was expected and no compensation received.
