Amie McNee did the research. I felt so ensconced in the world of 14th century London from the mannerisms, to the descriptions, to the lingo. I was absolutely riveted as the pieces of the puzzle fit together. The queer representation was a phenomenal bonus. I started this and had to finish it within days because I wanted to know what came next.

To Kill A Queen

The premise is really cool, a redemption story of a thief using an attempted assassination of THE Queen Victoria, to make amends for his past sins.

It was okay, I did like the characters and that it kept the focus on the plot. No unnecessary side quests.

Quite a few funny moments, I had a good time with it.

Thank you to Crooked Lane Books and Netgalley for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.

Unfortunately, this was a DNF for me. I can't exactly pinpoint what didn't work for me except for the tone, more YA than I was expecting. "To kill a queen" does blend historical and murder mystery quite well, but it couldn't hold my attention very well despite the presence of emotional layers to the story. There was a good deal of potential behing Jack's desire to escape his father's line of work and in doing good, but it wasn't enough to make me care about the story.
Aside from the YA tone and the first person narration, I think I coudln't get behind the pacing at times.

Despite my own experience, I think 'To kill a queen' will be enjoyed by people seeking a historical murder mystery with external and personal stakes.

Started really well, but the more the book goes on, the more we see some issues with the pacing and (especially) the characterization. Also, the representation did not convince me, there was something off about it.

To Kill a Queen by Aime McNee is an electrifying and immersive tale that masterfully melds high-stakes intrigue with deep emotional resonance. The plot is taut and beautifully layered—every twist feels both surprising and inevitable, unfolding with momentum that keeps you fully invested. McNee balances sweeping world-changing stakes with intimate, quietly powerful character moments, ensuring neither element ever overshadows the other.

At the center is a heroine whose courage and complexity jump off the page—her decisions feel meaningful, shaped by her convictions and fears. Supporting characters share that same dimensionality: allies and rivals alike reveal depth and heart through subtle choices and shifting loyalties. Dialogue crackles with tension and honesty, providing insight into both personal stakes and broader consequences.

Overall, To Kill a Queen is a stunning example of character-driven epic fantasy. It’s a story that thrills and moves in equal measure, with richly drawn relationships and a plot that lingers long after the final page.

If you are looking for an exciting Elizabethan mystery novel then this is the book for you. I for one was hooked immediately when I read the opening sentence which was hilarious. I won't write it here because for one it is slightly offensive (still funny though) and I figured other readers should have a chance to read it for themselves. It tells the story of one young man's journey to track down the Queen’s almost assassin.
Our main focus is on a young man in Tudor England named Jack. He is the son of a man who is well known for petty theft crimes however, Jack is wanting to put that life behind him. When the Queen becomes victim for a failed assassination plot Jack immediately jumps to the chance to prove himself worthy to help track down the person. However, some of his informants end up getting killed and he wonders if it is even worth it to find the person.
I received an arc copy from Netgalley and all opinions are of my own.