Queen of the Dead by Sarah Broadway Review (Gifted/AD)

Hello Readers,
 
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Angry Robot for the early copy of Queen of the Dead. I received a complimentary eBook in exchange for an honest review. With the book publishing today there’s no need to worry this review is completely spoiler-free.
 
Disclaimer: I do not own the rights to the cover image featured in this post. It is used under Fair Use for the purposes of review and recommendation, in line with sections 29 and 30 of the Copyright Act.
 
Happy Publication Day

Title: Queen of the Dead
Author: Sarah Broadway
Genre: Fantasy FictionHorror FictionGhost StoryUrban FantasyParanormal Fantasy
Pages: 400
Cover Image:


Synopsis:
Speaking with the dead is nothing new for Lou. It’s a curse she’s learned to hide from everyone – sometimes even herself. After running away from a past that took advantage of those abilities, Lou finally carves out a normal life for herself. That is, until she receives a mysterious message from a ghost – the Veil is thinning – and a cult of necromancers infiltrates her small town.

In a race to discover and defeat her foe, Lou learns she’s not alone in the fight. She grudgingly leans on her allies but wonders who to trust. What’s more impossible is suddenly finding herself the romantic interest of a man who somehow isn’t afraid of all the dark, creepy things about her... but even he has secrets for her to discover.

Time is running out, and reality seems to be slipping away. To save her new life and the people she loves, Lou must learn to accept who she is and embrace her true abilities, no matter where they might take her.

Miniature Review

Queen of the Dead is one of those wonderfully cosy, slightly spooky reads that hits all the right notes for fall. It’s atmospheric without being too scary, heartfelt without being heavy, and full of the kind of paranormal mystery that makes you want to curl up with a blanket and keep turning pages long past bedtime.

Lou, our main character, has spent her whole life speaking with the dead, and while she sees it as a curse, readers will quickly fall in love with her. She’s kind, capable, and wonderfully relatable she’s gentle without being a pushover, independent but still connected to the people (and ghosts) around her. And if you’re a fan of the found-family trope, this book does it so well.

The story starts with a slow, eerie simmer before picking up into a fast-paced, high-stakes adventure. Strange hauntings, mysterious warnings, and a growing sense of danger all pull you deeper into Lou’s world. It’s more atmospheric than frightening, giving off the perfect ghostly vibes without crossing into full-on horror.

There’s also a sweet touch of romance just enough to make you smile without overshadowing the main plot. And honestly, the cast is half the charm from quirky ghosts, loyal friends, intriguing newcomers, and a heroine you can’t help rooting for.

Engaging, imaginative, and full of heart, Queen of the Dead is a delightful paranormal escape and an exciting start to a new series. A perfect pick for anyone looking for a thrilling cosy winter read.

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