Review of The Queen of Xana

[Donald Kelvin]

[Following is a volunteer review of "The Queen of Xana" by Fred Pilcher.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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The Queen of Xana is a fictional tale written by Fred Pilcher. It has an allegorical theme that uses a simple story to single out the errors and issues in our society. Readers would witness the monarchy from the perspectives of two different rulers: Queen Julia and her daughter, Agatha, who would later become Queen. Agatha was the only child of Queen Julia and, therefore, heir apparent to Xana's throne. Having been blessed with kindness and compassion from her fairy godmother, her mother wasted no time ensuring that her daughter, Agatha, got the best of education and experience in order to instill wisdom on how to govern and be a good monarch. Using her gifts, Agatha was also loved by the villagers with whom she had dealings. She was always there to support them in any way that she could.

However, on her twentieth birthday, tragedy struck. A sorcerer, Magi, known for his philandering, stealing, and ability to cast dark spells, appears in her kingdom. This sorcerer kills her mother, steals their riches, and plunges her people into dark times. It is up to Agatha to save the people of Xana. Will she make the right decision, or will they suffer forever? What kind of queen does Agatha become? I believe there's only one way to find out.

Reading about the Land of Xana and its monarchs was an enlightening read. At first, I thought I was reading a legend because the author introduced a narrator called The Traveller, who seemed to have an omnipresent view of all the events in the story. The plot was so realistic that I wondered if Truly Xana ever existed. I have to commend the author on his realistic writing style. As said, the book told its tale from a third-person narrative, centering mostly on Agatha and sometimes Prince Olaf. It was eye-opening to read about Xana's diverse cultures, simplistic nature, and unusual practices such as public nudity. The language used by the author was fair and simple; I'm sure readers would have no issues with comprehension.

The only thing I'd say I disliked about this story was the over-association of Agatha with the poor. I understand that the poor needed reassurance; however, I believe some rich people were good, and if only she had identified with some of them, she'd have discovered them. Rather, I feel she just favoured the poor more. Apart from that, I do not have other reservations about this story. Every other thing was in sync. This book also taught life lessons; we could learn from Agatha's love for her people and her obligation to do better for them.

I give The Queen of Xana a perfect rating of 4 out of 4, considering its theme, plot, and setting, which I found properly done. I spotted two errors while reading; however, I'm convinced this book was professionally edited. I recommend it to audiences interested in adventure, fantasy, mythical, and leadership tales. Audiences who like stories with strong female protagonists can also pick up this book.

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The Queen of Xana
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[Fams Pee]

What a suspenseful storyline. I'd like to see how Agatha overpowered Magi. Nice review.

[Oluchii]

The plot of this book is nice. From your review, I can see that Agatha would make a good queen. I hope she makes the right decisions. Great review.

[Chimereucheya Okoroafo]

Seems like a reflection of the real monarchy story in the today's world. It's beautiful to see am author so creative, especially when it comes to giving attachments to real world events. Nice review overall.

[Judy O]

Your review of this book is quite thrilling. It promises suspense; I look forward to seeing how Agatha rules and how Magi is defeated. Nicely written.

[Chiamaka Ogadimma]

I like the fact that she associated with the poor. It's a good thing to help the poor. Great review by the way. Well done.

[Wash William]

I think Agatha being associated with the poor is nice because she would be able to listen to their needs. Thanks for the review it is so detailed.

[Larabs Josh]

I think this is a book that has a female as a lead character. I always love books with such. I love your writing style though and your review is excellent.

[third agbata]

This book is really fascinating and amazing. your review gave me more insight on the book's storyline. Thanks for the great review.

[Gavice Victoria]

This is the kind of book that will be perfect for a film adaptation. Reading this review, I was already captivated by the story. I would love to read this book soon. You wrote a great review by the way. I enjoyed reading it.

[Bef Ozo]

The author's writing style was unique. The narration was clear and painted a vivid of the storyline. I would love to see how Agatha used her powers. I enjoyed reading your review. Keep it up.

[Azuka Jessica]

Agatha sounds like a lovely princess for having related well with the villagers. it is sad how a wicked person will come to take her joys away. I appreciate and admire Agatha for being brave enough to fight Magi and I would love to read how she will do that. Thanks for this review.

[Nino Chinonso Onwurah]

We've seen these kinds of stories all too commonly, yet, we cannot but be captivated every time we encounter them. I appreciate your ability to draw out the major intrigues embedded in the books you review.

[ometanoghenetejiri]

I am not a great fan of fantasy and mythical novels. However, this review of this book gave me a whole new look to this book. I would love to see the kind of queen Agatha becomes despite her mother's untimely death.
Nice review, I must say.

[Chukwuemeka Ezema]

Agatha's life just have turned upside down when the Wizard came to her kingdom and committed all those atrocities. I hope she was able to overcome them. Great review.