Review: The Shadow Queen by C.J. Redwine

The Shadow Queen by C.J. Redwine
pub Feb 16 2016 by Balzer + Bray
Young Adult - Fantasy
Received via Edelweiss

When I think of Snow White, I can’t help but picture the Disney version of this fairytale and I’ll be honest, that was probably one of my least favorite Disney movie as a kid. So while I thought the concept for The Shadow Queen sounded really cool, I approached the book warily. Which is why I was amazed by C.J. Redwine’s interpretation! The way she borrowed concepts from the classic while adding her own twist was beyond clever and the end the result was a book I pre-ordered soon after finishing. (Note: This means you should too!)

Lorelai Diedrich is the princess of Ravenspire and the true heir to the throne but the wicked Queen Irina has stolen that and more from her family. And while Lorelai was able to face her once as a child, she and her brother barely escaped with their lives and have been on the run ever since. However the goal has always remained the same: Lorelai must hone her magical skills to take down the Queen, who also possesses magic, and reclaim the throne. But that’s just one side of the story! We also get Prince Kol’s, who is suddenly crowned King of Eldr when his father and older brother are killed by ogres infused with magic. He feels he has no choice but to turn to none-other-than Queen Irina, who promises to help him only if he hunts down Lorelai and brings back her heart as proof.

As I said, the storytelling here was absolutely on point but so were the characters. Lorelai is everything a fantasy lover wants in a heroine and then some. I loved her determination, kind heart and abilities as a leader and strategist. There’s never a doubt that this girl belongs on the throne. (Bonus points because she could make me laugh too!) Likewise, Kol was the perfect counterpoint to her journey. I was just as interested in his path to becoming king, his trials and of course, the way his life became intertwined with hers. I shipped their inevitable connection and was engrossed in their battle to do what’s best for their kingdoms and take down the evil queen.

Do I recommend?

I do! I was very impressed with the story and I loved how it ended. Then I was happy to hear that the author would be releasing more books in this series, and how each would concentrate on a new fairytale retelling. I can’t wait!

Collaborative feature with Alexa! 

What is your favorite Snow White re-telling?

Well, I've seen the Disney movie, the Lily Collins movie and the Huntsman and wasn't a fan of any of them (except for Chris Hemsworth because obviously!). But the one stand-out to me is Winter by Marissa Meyer. She's another pro are retelling fairytales and I loved how she told that story.