A unique world that blends elements of futuristic sci-fi with elements of high fantasy! I love the idea for the caste/faction system. It feels like a blend of the Divergent series mixed with the Red Queen series, while still being it's own thing.

An exciting, unexpected, and clever twist on the YA formula. It played expertly with time and constructed a fascinating world, meeting tropes and giving them its very own flavour.

Four Dead Queens by Astrid Scholte, 432 pages. Putnam (Penguin), Feb 2019. $18.

Language: PG-13 (21 swears, 0 ‘f’); Mature Content: PG (implied sex, some LGBT content); Violence: PG -13 (assassinations, some graphic)

BUYING ADVISORY: HS - ESSENTIAL

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

The land of Quadara has been ruled by four queens for generations. Keralie, 17, is just a trickster and a thief living on the fringes near the capitol. When her boss, Mackiel goads her into stealing from a messenger, she doesn’t realize she is plunging herself into treachery that may see all four queens dead.

High fantasy lovers will have a great time riding this wave of tension and emotion.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

This book was written well. The story jumped back and forth between memories and real life so it kept you guessing regardless of the title. I really enjoyed it and will recommend it to teens that love fantasy,

This sci fi/fantasy/dystopia will keep you guessing! The world building is great and I hope to red more.