Book: The Hemlock Queen by Hannah Whitten
Reviewed by Ashley M
Rating: 4/5
Plot summary: Bastian seizes the throne with Lore at his side, attempting to purge the Sainted Court while facing external threats from the Kyrithean Empire.
Writing style & pacing: Meticulous and immersive; prioritizes character growth and political setup over constant action.
Character development: Deep exploration of Bastian's duality and Lore's growing power/paranoia.
World-building: Expands the lore of the catacombs and the unseen threads of magic.
Emotional impact: High tension regarding Lore's safety and her complicated feelings for both Bastian and Gabriel.
Themes & messages: Corruption, the cost of power, and the "rot" at the heart of institutions.
Content warnings: Intimate partner violence (emotional), gore, religious abuse, and explicit sexual content.
Recommendation & rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5). A strong second act for fans of deep, treacherous worlds.