Rebel Queen by Moran, Michelle

Rebel Queen

by Moran, Michelle

"When the British Empire sets its sights on India in the mid-nineteenth century, it expects a quick and easy conquest ... But when they arrive in the Kingdom of Jhansi, the British army is met with a surprising challenge. Instead of surrendering, Queen Lakshmi raises two armies--one male and one female--and rides into battle, determined to protect her country and her people. Although her soldiers may not appear at first to be formidable against superior British weaponry and training, Lakshmi refuses to back down from the empire determined to take away the land she loves"--

Reviewed by Whitney @ First Impressions Reviews on

4 of 5 stars

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Fond Of

Previously I had only read Michelle Moran's novels that were set in Egypt. Asps, Pharaohs and Pyramids has always been an era that interests me, and I suppose it is comfortable to stick with what you know. Nevertheless, I enjoy Moran's writing style and become lost in her stories therefore, when I saw Rebel Queen become available I thought I'd break out of my shell and give it a try.

I have always liked novels that are told in first person as I feel it gives a more intimate account and Sita was no exception. It was wonderful to learn how her person was shaped from childhood, with prejudice of being a girl and thus unworthy with her ambition to prove herself mingled with the love and devotion to her sister. As an adult, these attributes were only intensified with a touch of Katy Perry's "Roar" added to the mix. It was excellently presented.

Her sister, Anu was a key participant in Sita's actions and felt very reminiscent to Katniss Everdeen and her sister Prim. Everything Sita did she did for her. Like Katniss it bit her in the butt, but it lead to a heart-pounding climax. I will say that foreshadowing led me to some suspicions but was enthralled just the same.

Not just in Sita was the character development stellar but also in Queen Lakshmi, the other members of the Queen's all female army and Sita's love interest, Arjun came alive and felt real to the touch


Not Fond Of

While the majority was fast-paced, must read one more chapter, the middle did drag a little for me, it just felt repetitive with the "he loves me, he loves me not". I'm a little anti-romance when it comes to reading though so this could be just my preference.

A second small semi-critique is the gaggle of girls in the army. While both the comradely and rivalry was well done it did feel a little clique, sorority but left an "Oh no she didn't" atmosphere which was I felt added a high school element to the novel.

Final Thoughts

Rebel Queen reminded me of what an excellent writer Michelle Moran is and masters the art of a good story. So much so, that Rebel Queen has influenced me to break-out of my Egyption comfort zone. Simplely wonderful.

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Reading updates

  • Started reading
  • 12 February, 2015: Finished reading
  • 12 February, 2015: Reviewed