red queen book report

74 pages • 2 hours read

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-2

Chapters 3-5

Chapters 6-8

Chapters 9-12

Chapters 13-14

Chapters 15-16

Chapters 17-19

Chapters 20-22

Chapters 23-24

Chapters 25-27

Chapter 28 and Epilogue

Character Analysis

Symbols & Motifs

Important Quotes

Essay Topics

Discussion Questions

Summary and Study Guide

Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard (Harper Teen, 2015) is the first book in the Red Queen series, which follows one girl’s battle to bring equality to her people in a dystopian fantasy world where the power hungry Silvers oppress the lower Red class. The book won the 2015 Goodreads Choice Award for Debut Goodreads Author and was nominated for the 2015 Goodreads Choice Award for Young Adult Fantasy & Science Fiction.

New York Times bestselling author Victoria Aveyard grew up in western Massachusetts before moving to Los Angeles, where she obtained a degree from the University of Southern California’s screenwriting program. She writes young adult science fiction and fantasy, including the Red Queen series and the Realm Breaker series (2021). This guide follows the 2015 Harper Teen version of Red Queen .

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Plot Summary

Red Queen is set in the world of Norta , a country divided into Red and Silver classes. Reds have red blood while Silvers have silver blood and supernatural powers. Each Silver house has a different ability (such as superstrength or fire manipulation), and the Silvers believe these powers elevate them above Reds. As a result, Reds are oppressed while Silvers live in luxury. Seventeen-year-old Mare Barrow is a Red living with her parents and younger sister. Her three older brothers were conscripted into the war between Norta and its neighbor, a fate that also awaits Mare when she turns 18. Mare spends her days skipping school and pickpocketing to provide for her family.

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Mare and her friend Kilorn Warren attend the First Friday televised fight between two Silvers, one of the many ways the Silvers keep the Reds in line. Later that night, Kilorn learns his employer was killed in an accident, which means Kilorn will be sent to the war. Desperate, Mare makes a deal with the Scarlet Guard, a rebel group of Reds, who agree to smuggle Mare and Kilorn to safety for a hefty fee. The next day, Mare accompanies her sister to the Silver city, where she works embroidering silks. Mare plans to pickpocket the Guard’s fee. While there, a news broadcast comes on, which is interrupted by a member of the Scarlet Guard threatening the Silvers. Fearful Silvers round up Red workers to demand information, many using their powers to torture Reds. While trying to escape the city, Mare’s sister attempts to steal money, but she is caught and her hand is broken as punishment.

Mare hides out at a nearby tavern, where she pickpockets drunk patrons. A boy a bit older than her named Cal catches her but doesn’t turn her in. Instead, he gives her a few coins before disappearing into the night. The next day, Mare is given a job working at the Silver palace. She learns it is Queenstrial, the day where the daughters of noble families compete to wed one of the princes. As she works the trial, Mare learns Cal is the crown prince and that his wife has already been chosen.

During the Queenstrial, it becomes clear that Mare has her own Silver-like powers. As a coverup, the royal family outfits Mare with the identity of a long-lost noble daughter and betroths her to Cal’s brother, Maven. Mare spends the next several weeks among the Silvers, learning to use her powers and lying to keep up appearances while she seeks a way to undermine the Silvers from within. Mare joins the Scarlet Guard and learns Maven also supports the Guard’s cause of Red freedom. Together, they form a plan to kill key figures in the Silver ranks at the grand ball before the royal family returns to the capital.

The assassinations at the ball are successful, but Kilorn and other members of the Guard are captured. Knowing her secret identity is in danger, Mare helps the prisoners escape. The next day, the royal family leaves for the capital.

Maven proposes the Guard stage a coup. The Guard agrees, but the coup doesn’t go as planned. Mare and Maven are captured. While Mare’s powers are suppressed, Maven reveals he has been double-crossing her the entire time. Maven and his mother force Cal to kill his father and then spin the story that Cal is a murderer. Mare and Cal are sentenced to death by public execution.

The execution is a televised fight. Cal is allowed his powers but Mare’s are again suppressed. While Cal battles, Mare tricks one of their opponents into killing the Silver restraining her powers. Mare and Cal win the match, but Maven sends in a contingent of soldiers to kill them. The Scarlet Guard rescues Mare and Cal, and the story ends with the Guard in retreat.

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Red queen: book 1, common sense media reviewers.

Action-packed fantasy will grip fans of powerful heroines.

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this book.

Readers will learn about the way monarchies work a

Readers will ponder the idea that being different

Mare's court tutor Julian encourages and helps

The Silver court hosts gladiator-like fights where

Some brief kisses, many lingering looks, and a cou

Insults: "weak," "coward," &qu

Adults (including teens who are of age) drink at s

Parents need to know Red Queen is the highly anticipated debut by Victoria Aveyard. A blend of fantasy and dystopia, Red Queen will appeal to fans of The Selection , Divergent , and Shadow and Bone . The story of Mare, a young woman in a world divided by blood -- the Silvers…

Educational Value

Readers will learn about the way monarchies work and why caste systems are so limiting for those at the bottom.

Positive Messages

Readers will ponder the idea that being different is valuable and important. Mare's abilities make her special and unlike others in her society.

Positive Role Models

Mare's court tutor Julian encourages and helps her to fit into the society while being honest about the way Silver society has failed. Cal is a rule-follower who believes in the monarchy and the idea that he can make things better for everyone. Mare is bright, quick, and selfless, even when it might not necessarily keep her safe.

Violence & Scariness

The Silver court hosts gladiator-like fights wherein two Silvers use their special powers to defeat each other. Certain Silvers can see inside your mind and turn you insane/unable to think. A bomb kills innocent civilians. Revolutionaries fight silvers with weapons; Silvers kill with their powers or their weapons. Characters are tortured.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Violence & Scariness in your kid's entertainment guide.

Sex, Romance & Nudity

Some brief kisses, many lingering looks, and a couple of slow dances.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Sex, Romance & Nudity in your kid's entertainment guide.

Insults: "weak," "coward," "liar," "nothing."

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Language in your kid's entertainment guide.

Drinking, Drugs & Smoking

Adults (including teens who are of age) drink at social functions.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Drinking, Drugs & Smoking in your kid's entertainment guide.

Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know Red Queen is the highly anticipated debut by Victoria Aveyard. A blend of fantasy and dystopia, Red Queen will appeal to fans of The Selection , Divergent , and Shadow and Bone . The story of Mare, a young woman in a world divided by blood -- the Silvers are the rulers and the Reds the commoners -- is full of court intrigue, sociopolitical commentary, and social unrest. There are several violent gladiator-type fights, confrontations, torture scenes, and revolutionary/terrorist strikes that kill characters. With its courageous protagonist, action-packed plot, and romantic possibilities, Red Queen is a winning series start for fantasy and dystopia lovers.

Where to Read

Community reviews.

• Parents say (15)
• Kids say (149)

Based on 15 parent reviews

A review of the series

What's the story.

In Victoria Aveyard's debut fantasy novel RED QUEEN, Mare is a 17-year-old pickpocket in a world where caste is determined by blood color; she and other commoners are Reds, and the ruling class are Silvers (who literally bleed silver). She faces a grim future without an apprenticeship or a career. When she turns 18, her only option as a Red will be to join an army at war. When her best friend Kilorn loses his apprenticeship and faces conscription, Mare attempts a plan that fails spectacularly. The night her plan goes awry, she meets a handsome young man who catches her stealing and questions her about her life. The next day, Mare is mysteriously hired as a royal servant to the Silvers, who've gathered at a palace festival to determine which aristocratic girl will be betrothed to the two eligible princes -- one of whom is the mysterious stranger Mare met the previous night. During the competitive display of rich girls' powers, Mare discovers that she possesses supernatural powers unheard of in a Red. To cover up the existence of Red with "Silver" skills, the King forces her to pretend she's a long-lost Silver brought up by Reds. She's also betrothed to a prince, but not the older one she knows and likes. As Mare learns how to appear as a Silver when she's actually a Red, she's drawn to the underground rebellion that seeks to overthrow Silver rule.

Is It Any Good?

Aveyard packs a lot into a first novel: world building, court intrigue, caste divisions, superpowers, and a main character with multiple possible love interests. Like Tris or Alina, Mare is unique: She has amazing powers in a world where Silvers boast powers but Reds do not; like Katniss in The Hunger Games , she bears the burden of playing a part for society's rulers but secretly feeling a kinship with subversive revolutionaries. She's beautiful but doesn't see it; she's desired but can't maturely navigate her feelings for the Princes: Maven, the sensitive second son she's been tied to, or Cal, the fiery firstborn who's engaged to a nasty, but politically advantageous, match. And like most 17-year-olds, she can occasionally grate on readers' nerves with her indecision and insecurity.

While Aveyard's world-building starts off slow, it grows more complicated as the book continues. Even by the end of the book, readers may not master all the Silver powers, but by then the story is so page-turning those details don't matter so much as figuring out who's lying and who's going to survive to see Book 2. Aveyard's pacing starts off reflective, as young Mare discovers everything about the Silver court for the first time. By the last third of the book, the story is so compelling you can't stop reading. Don't bother trying to figure out the end game; Aveyard is a crafty writer who sneaks in twists and makes readers care, despite a few niggling plot holes and the occasionally exasperating shifts in Mare's romantic feelings.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

Families can talk about the popularity of fantasy-dystopian books that take place in totalitarian or caste-based societies. Why are these stories so compelling to readers?

The romance in Red Queen is understated even though the main character has three potential love interests. Did you like the way the romance was handled? Do you expect more romance in the upcoming installments?

There's quite a gap between the lives of the Reds and the Silvers. Do you think there are still class disparities and discrimination today?

Book Details

• Author : Victoria Aveyard
• Genre : Fantasy
• Topics : Brothers and Sisters , Friendship
• Book type : Fiction
• Publisher : HarperTeen
• Publication date : February 10, 2015
• Publisher's recommended age(s) : 13 - 17
• Number of pages : 400
• Available on : Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, iBooks, Kindle
• Last updated : June 25, 2018

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Red Queen Summary, Characters and Themes | Victoria Aveyard

In the novel “Red Queen” by Victoria Aveyard, readers are plunged into the divided world of Norta, where society is split along the lines of blood color—Red and Silver. 

This gripping tale, set against a dystopian backdrop, unfolds the story of Mare Barrow, a Red girl born into poverty and oppression under the Silver elite’s rule. Aveyard weaves a world that is as fantastical as it is reflective of our own, making “Red Queen” a compelling read that resonates deeply with contemporary themes of inequality and the fight for social justice.

In this dystopian realm, people are split by the color of their blood: the elite Silvers and the impoverished Reds.

Mare Barrow, a Red from the poverty-stricken village of the Stilts, is a resourceful pickpocket, stealing to support her family. 

Her life contrasts starkly with the opulent world of the Silvers, known for their supernatural abilities to manipulate elements like fire, metal, and water. 

These powers have allowed them to subjugate the Reds, using them as disposable soldiers in a century-long war that has little to do with Red interests.

As Mare grapples with the injustices around her, she faces a personal crisis when her best friend, Kilorn, faces conscription into the endless war. 

Desperate, she turns to the black market, where she encounters Farley, a smuggler linked to the Scarlet Guard, a group fighting for Red rights. Farley agrees to help Mare and Kilorn escape, but at a steep price.

Mare’s plan goes awry when her sister Gisa is caught and punished for pickpocketing in the Silver city. 

Guilt-ridden, Mare ends up working in the Silver Palace, where she accidentally discovers her own extraordinary power during a dramatic event called the Queenstrial. 

This revelation shocks the Silver elite and forces the royal family to fabricate a story: Mare, a Red, is to be presented as a long-lost Silver and betrothed to Prince Maven.

In the palace, Mare navigates a treacherous web of politics , power, and intrigue. She grows close to both Prince Maven and his brother, Cal, but her trust in Maven leads her into the heart of a devastating betrayal. 

Maven, in collusion with his mother Queen Elara, orchestrates a coup for personal power, framing Mare and Cal for the king’s murder.

The novel culminates in a dramatic escape, with Mare and Cal joining forces with the Scarlet Guard. Mare learns a stunning truth: she’s not the only Red with Silver abilities. 

Her presumed-dead brother, Shade, is alive and part of this unique group. Resolved to fight against Maven’s tyranny, Mare sets aside personal entanglements, focusing on her new mission with the Scarlet Guard and her shared goal with Cal: vengeance against Maven.

Mare Barrow

Mare Barrow, the protagonist of “Red Queen,” is a tenacious and resourceful Red girl from the impoverished village of the Stilts.

She possesses a strong sense of justice and is initially driven by the need to support her family. Mare’s life takes a dramatic turn when she discovers her unique ability to control electricity, a power unprecedented for a Red. 

This discovery thrusts her into the heart of the Silver elite, where she navigates complex political and personal landscapes, while grappling with her new identity and the responsibilities it brings.

Cal, or Tiberias Calore VII, is the crown prince of Norta and a Silver with the power to manipulate fire. He is portrayed as a character torn between his duty to his kingdom and his personal beliefs, especially after meeting Mare. 

Cal is complex, often struggling with the injustices within his society, yet feeling bound by tradition and his position. His relationship with Mare introduces him to perspectives that challenge his worldview.

Maven, Cal’s younger brother and the second prince, initially appears supportive and understanding towards Mare’s cause. As the story progresses, his more manipulative and ambitious nature is revealed. 

Maven’s character is pivotal to the novel’s exploration of betrayal and the corrupting influence of power. His actions are central to the plot’s twists and turns, deeply affecting Mare’s journey.

Queen Elara

Queen Elara is a powerful and cunning antagonist in the story. As a Silver with the ability to invade and manipulate minds, she plays a critical role in the political machinations of the Silver court. 

Her manipulative nature and cold demeanor make her a formidable figure in the novel. 

She is deeply involved in the plot against the Reds and is the mastermind behind many of the betrayals that occur.

Gisa, Mare’s younger sister, is one of the few Reds in the Stilts who has secured an apprenticeship, working as a seamstress. 

She is a symbol of the limited but possible upward mobility for Reds within the Silver-dominated society. Gisa’s character is significant in showing a different, more conformist side of the Red population, in contrast to Mare’s rebellious nature.

Farley is a key member of the Scarlet Guard, a rebel group fighting against Silver oppression. She is strong-willed, determined, and fiercely dedicated to the cause of Red liberation. 

Farley’s interactions with Mare expose the larger resistance movement within the kingdom and serve as a catalyst for Mare’s involvement in the fight for Red rights.

Kilorn is Mare’s childhood friend, whose impending conscription into the army serves as a critical turning point in the novel. 

His character represents the average Red youth, forced into dire circumstances by the oppressive Silver regime. Kilorn’s situation propels Mare into action and underscores the personal cost of the Silver’s tyrannical rule over the Reds.

1. Class Struggle and Social Injustice

“Red Queen” delves deeply into the theme of class struggle, portraying a society sharply divided along bloodlines – the affluent Silvers and the subjugated Reds. 

This division is more than just economic; it’s about power, privilege, and access to resources. Aveyard skillfully explores how such a divide leads to systemic social injustice, where the Silvers, endowed with supernatural abilities, exploit the Reds for labor and warfare. 

This theme is not just a backdrop; it’s integral to the story, driving the characters’ motivations and the plot’s trajectory. 

The Reds’ plight, mirrored in real-world issues of classism and inequality, resonates with the struggles of marginalized communities globally, making the theme both fantastical and strikingly relevant.

2. The Complexity of Power and Corruption

The novel intricately examines the nature of power – its allure, its ability to corrupt, and the moral ambiguities that come with wielding it. 

Through Mare’s journey and her interactions with the Silver elite, Aveyard explores how power can be both a tool for change and a weapon of oppression. 

The Silvers, despite their extraordinary abilities, are shown to be deeply flawed and susceptible to corruption, while the seemingly powerless Reds, like Mare, discover strength and abilities that challenge the status quo. 

The book doesn’t shy away from showing how power can corrupt even the most well-intentioned individuals, encapsulating the adage that absolute power corrupts absolutely. 

This theme adds layers of complexity to the characters and their decisions, making the narrative thought-provoking and morally challenging.

3. Betrayal and Trust

Central to the story is the theme of betrayal and the fragile nature of trust. 

Mare’s journey is riddled with betrayals that reshape her understanding of her world and herself. 

The relationships she forms, particularly with the royal brothers Cal and Maven, are fraught with deception and hidden agendas. 

These betrayals aren’t just personal; they have far-reaching implications on the political landscape of Norta. 

Aveyard uses these betrayals to advance the plot and develop her characters, highlighting how trust is a delicate and sometimes dangerous commodity in a world rife with power struggles. 

This theme resonates deeply, as it touches on the human experience of being betrayed and the challenge of whom to trust, especially in a world where alliances shift like sand.

Final Thoughts

“Red Queen” is a tale of power, betrayal, and resistance, where a young girl’s awakening abilities become a symbol of hope for an oppressed people, setting the stage for a larger rebellion against a cruel and unjust order.

A team of Editors at Books That Slay.

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Awards & Accolades

Our Verdict

New York Times Bestseller

From the Red Queen series , Vol. 1

by Victoria Aveyard ‧ RELEASE DATE: Feb. 10, 2015

An inventive, character-driven twist breathes new life into tired fantasy trends.

Amid a war and rising civil unrest, a young thief discovers the shocking power within her that sparks a revolution.

At 17, Mare knows that without an apprenticeship or job, her next birthday will bring a conscription to join the war. She contributes to her poor family’s income the only way she can, stealing from the Silvers, who possess myriad powers and force her and her fellow Reds into servitude. The Silvers literally bleed silver, and they can manipulate metal, plants and animals, among many other talents. When Mare’s best friend, Kilorn, loses his job and is doomed to conscription, she is determined to change his fate. She stumbles into a mysterious stranger after her plan goes awry and is pulled out of her village and into the world of Silver royalty. Once inside the palace walls, it isn’t long before Mare learns that powers unknown to red-blooded humans lie within her, powers that could lead a revolution. Familiar tropes abound. Mare is revealed as a great catalyst for change among classes and is groomed from rags to riches, and of course, seemingly kind characters turn out to be foes. However, Aveyard weaves a compelling new world, and Mare and the two men in her life evolve intriguingly as class tension rises. Revolution supersedes romance, setting the stage for action-packed surprises.

Pub Date: Feb. 10, 2015

ISBN: 978-0-06-231063-7

Page Count: 400

Publisher: HarperTeen

Review Posted Online: Nov. 10, 2014

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Dec. 1, 2014

TEENS & YOUNG ADULT SCIENCE FICTION & FANTASY | TEENS & YOUNG ADULT ROMANCE | TEENS & YOUNG ADULT FICTION

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by Victoria Aveyard

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BOOK TO SCREEN

IF HE HAD BEEN WITH ME

by Laura Nowlin ‧ RELEASE DATE: April 1, 2013

There’s not much plot here, but readers will relish the opportunity to climb inside Autumn’s head.

The finely drawn characters capture readers’ attention in this debut.

Autumn and Phineas, nicknamed Finny, were born a week apart; their mothers are still best friends. Growing up, Autumn and Finny were like peas in a pod despite their differences: Autumn is “quirky and odd,” while Finny is “sweet and shy and everyone like[s] him.” But in eighth grade, Autumn and Finny stop being friends due to an unexpected kiss. They drift apart and find new friends, but their friendship keeps asserting itself at parties, shared holiday gatherings and random encounters. In the summer after graduation, Autumn and Finny reconnect and are finally ready to be more than friends. But on August 8, everything changes, and Autumn has to rely on all her strength to move on. Autumn’s coming-of-age is sensitively chronicled, with a wide range of experiences and events shaping her character. Even secondary characters are well-rounded, with their own histories and motivations.

Pub Date: April 1, 2013

ISBN: 978-1-4022-7782-5

Page Count: 336

Publisher: Sourcebooks Fire

Review Posted Online: Feb. 12, 2013

Kirkus Reviews Issue: March 1, 2013

TEENS & YOUNG ADULT ROMANCE | TEENS & YOUNG ADULT SOCIAL THEMES

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by Laura Nowlin

SEEN & HEARD

IF ONLY I HAD TOLD HER

by Laura Nowlin ‧ RELEASE DATE: Feb. 6, 2024

A heavy read about the harsh realities of tragedy and their effects on those left behind.

In this companion novel to 2013’s If He Had Been With Me , three characters tell their sides of the story.

Finn’s narrative starts three days before his death. He explores the progress of his unrequited love for best friend Autumn up until the day he finally expresses his feelings. Finn’s story ends with his tragic death, which leaves his close friends devastated, unmoored, and uncertain how to go on. Jack’s section follows, offering a heartbreaking look at what it’s like to live with grief. Jack works to overcome the anger he feels toward Sylvie, the girlfriend Finn was breaking up with when he died, and Autumn, the girl he was preparing to build his life around (but whom Jack believed wasn’t good enough for Finn). But when Jack sees how Autumn’s grief matches his own, it changes their understanding of one another. Autumn’s chapters trace her life without Finn as readers follow her struggles with mental health and balancing love and loss. Those who have read the earlier book will better connect with and feel for these characters, particularly since they’ll have a more well-rounded impression of Finn. The pain and anger is well written, and the novel highlights the most troublesome aspects of young adulthood: overconfidence sprinkled with heavy insecurities, fear-fueled decisions, bad communication, and brash judgments. Characters are cued white.

Pub Date: Feb. 6, 2024

ISBN: 9781728276229

Page Count: 416

Review Posted Online: Jan. 5, 2024

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Feb. 1, 2024

TEENS & YOUNG ADULT SOCIAL THEMES | TEENS & YOUNG ADULT FICTION | TEENS & YOUNG ADULT ROMANCE

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Victoria Aveyard

Ask litcharts ai: the answer to your questions.

Welcome to the LitCharts study guide on Victoria Aveyard's Red Queen . Created by the original team behind SparkNotes, LitCharts are the world's best literature guides.

Red Queen: Introduction

Red queen: plot summary, red queen: detailed summary & analysis, red queen: themes, red queen: quotes, red queen: characters, red queen: symbols, red queen: theme wheel, brief biography of victoria aveyard.

Historical Context of Red Queen

Other books related to red queen.

• Full Title: Red Queen
• When Written: 2012
• Where Written: Western Massachusetts
• When Published: 2015
• Literary Period: Contemporary
• Genre: Fantasy Novel, Young Adult Fiction
• Setting: The fantasy kingdom of Norta
• Climax: Maven turns against Cal and their father, revealing that he has been scheming with the queen to stage a coup. Mare realizes that by pretending to want justice for the Reds, Maven has used her in order to gain power for himself.
• Antagonist: Maven Calore, Queen Elara
• Point of View: First-person present, from Mare Barrow’s perspective

Extra Credit for Red Queen

Revolution on the big screen. Universal Pictures has optioned the novel as of 2018 and plans to produce a film version directed by Elizabeth Banks—who, incidentally, also starred in the movie adaptations of the Hunger Games trilogy.

Social media citizen. Victoria Aveyard has an active Twitter presence, through which she corresponds with fans. She also shares and comments on political news, emphasizing not only her characters’ investment but also her own investment in politics and social justice.

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Red Queen Summary & Study Guide

Red Queen Summary & Study Guide Description

“Red Queen” is a young adult fantasy novel by Victoria Aveyard which follows how seventeen-year-old Mare Barrow’s discovery that she, a peasant-born Red, has the special powers of the elite ruling Silvers and changes the course of her country’s future. When the novel begins, Mare is a lowly peasant pickpocket of the Red-blooded class in the country of Norta. The Reds carry out most of the dirty work of the world, ruled over by elite Silver-blooded humans with special powers and ability. Mare hates the Silvers.

Mare and her family, like most Reds, barely manage to scrape by. Her three brothers are off at war. Her sister Gisa is apprenticed to a seamstress and is the primary source of income for the family. Mare assists with money earned from pickpocketed items. Her father is a heavily-disabled war veteran. Mare’s best friend, Kilorn, is nearing the age of conscription when he must go off to fight. This breaks Mare’s heart. Mare, herself having been arrested numerous times for petty crimes, knows her fate will soon be the frontlines as well. She decides to meet with Will Whistle, a member of the underground black market to see if he can offer help.

Will introduces Mare to Farley, the leader of an underground group called the Scarlet Guard. Farley says she will help Mare and Kilorn escape conscription, ferreting them away to safety, for the price of two thousand Crowns. Mare has limited time to obtain the money. She accompanies her sister Gisa to work in Summerton, where the Silver royals and elites hold their summer court, intending to land a big score. However, a terrorist attack back in the country’s capital puts Summerton on edge, and Reds are rounded up across Summerton. Gisa is caught attempting to pickpocket and has her hand crushed in punishment. She can no longer work as a result. Unable to face her family, Mare does not go home right away.

She ends up near a pub, where a man of about nineteen or twenty named Cal—evidently wealthy by his clothing and manners—speaks to her. Cal feels badly for Mar and promises to do what he can to help her. Soon after, Mare is stunned to learn that she has been taken on to work in the Royal Household. She is also amazed to see the Royal Family in the palace. There is King Tiberias the Sixth; his second wife, Queen Elara; their youngest son Prince Maven; and the eldest son and heir to the throne from Tiberias’s first marriage, Cal (who will become Tiberias the Seventh upon assuming the throne).

The Queenstrial gets underway at the palace, where girls from the most elite Silver families, from the age of fourteen and up, compete in a demonstration of their power to win the hands of the princes in marriage. The most powerful girl is Evangeline, from the House of Samos. She has the tremendous power of controlling, reshaping, and manipulating metals. She uses this power to shake the viewing boxes of the attending Silver families and the Red servants, causing Mare to fall. As Mare falls, she emits a massive shield of lightning which protects her. She is instantly seized and brought before the Royals.

The king and queen do not know what to make of a Red with Silver powers. A cover story is decided upon, where Mare will portray the orphan daughter of a slain war hero, raised in poverty by a Red. In exchange, Mare’s brothers will be brought home from the war, and her family will be take care of. Mare reluctantly agrees. It is then announced that Mare will marry Prince Maven, while Evangeline will marry Prince Cal.

Mare is in disbelief. She has hated the Silvers for so long that she cannot imagine living among them. She is put into a strict schedule of learning how to be a lady, and how to wield her power. She begins meeting with Julian, brother of the dead queen, who recognizes Mare is something different, though he doesn’t know exactly what. He tells her that not all Silvers are bad, and warns her that anyone can betray anyone. As time passes, Mare develops romantic feelings for Cal and for Maven, though she tries to keep hating them. She ultimately comes to join the Scarlet Guard in order to make things right for the Reds and to end the ongoing war. Surprisingly, Maven joins her, telling her that it is time for change.

Mare and Maven agree to become part of a coup to seize the king and force reforms. Mare attempts to use Cal’s feelings for her to get him to turn against his father, but he will not do so. He orders troops after the Scarlet Guard instead. Cal’s troops capture Mare and Maven, and bring them before the king and queen. The king says that both must be killed, but the queen will not allow this. She uses her powers to force Cal to kill his own father. Maven reveals himself as a traitor, having used Mare to help him destroy the Scarlet Guard and become king on his own. Mare and Cal are then sentenced to death, but manage to escape when they are aided by the Scarlet Guard. As the novel ends, Mare vows to kill Maven.

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Writing Style and Tone

Victoria Aveyard’s Red Queen is distinguished by its engaging writing style and tone , which play a significant role in immersing readers in its dystopian world and connecting them to the characters’ journeys. Here’s how these elements contribute to the book’s mood and atmosphere :

• Pacing and Suspense : Aveyard employs a fast-paced narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The plot is filled with twists, betrayals, and revelations that maintain a high level of suspense throughout the story.
• Descriptive Imagery : The author uses vivid imagery to paint the stark contrasts of the Red and Silver worlds. Descriptions of the luxurious Silver lifestyle and the bleak Red villages highlight the disparities in their society, adding depth to the world-building.
• Emotional Depth : Aveyard’s writing style conveys the intense emotions of her characters, from Mare’s determination and fear to Cal’s conflict and Maven’s ambition. The tone is often reflective, allowing readers to deeply connect with the characters’ struggles and triumphs.
• Dialogues and Internal Monologues : The dialogues are sharp and often laden with tension, revealing character dynamics and advancing the plot. Mare’s internal monologues provide insight into her thoughts and feelings, adding layers to her character development.
• Themes and Symbolism : The narrative is rich with themes of power, identity, and resistance, which are explored through symbols such as blood and the crown. Aveyard’s style weaves these elements seamlessly into the plot, enhancing the story’s thematic resonance.
• Contrasts and Conflicts : The writing effectively highlights the contrasts between Reds and Silvers, as well as the internal conflicts within characters as they navigate a divided society. This contrast enhances the story’s moral and ethical dilemmas, making readers ponder the notions of justice and equality.

Victoria Aveyard’s Red Queen stands out for its ability to blend action-packed scenes with emotional depth and social commentary. Her writing style and tone not only propel the narrative forward but also invite readers to reflect on the themes and issues presented in the story, making it a compelling read in the YA dystopian genre .

Literary Devices used in Red Queen

Victoria Aveyard’s Red Queen employs a variety of literary devices that enrich the narrative , deepen the exploration of its themes, and enhance the reader’s experience. Here are the top 10 literary devices used in the book:

• Foreshadowing — Aveyard uses foreshadowing to hint at future events and revelations, creating suspense and keeping readers engaged with the plot.
• Imagery — Vivid imagery is employed to paint the stark differences between the lives of Reds and Silvers, as well as to depict the novel’s action-packed scenes and the emotional states of its characters.
• Metaphor and Simile — These devices are used extensively to draw comparisons that highlight the characters’ experiences and the societal divisions within the world of Red Queen .
• Symbolism — Various symbols, such as blood, the crown, and lightning, carry deeper meanings that contribute to the themes of power, inequality, and rebellion.
• Irony — The use of irony, especially situational irony, underscores the betrayals and twists that are central to the plot, often highlighting the contrast between appearance and reality.
• Personification — By attributing human characteristics to non-human elements, Aveyard adds a layer of depth to the narrative , making the setting and the powers possessed by Silvers feel more alive and impactful.
• Allusion — The novel contains allusions to historical events and literature, drawing parallels that enrich its themes of power struggle and resistance.
• Juxtaposition — The deliberate juxtaposition of the Reds’ poverty against the Silvers’ opulence serves to emphasize the social and economic disparities at the heart of the novel’s conflict .
• Motifs — Recurring motifs, such as the battle for equality and the search for identity, thread through the narrative , reinforcing the novel’s key themes and character arcs.
• Dialogue — Sharp, revealing dialogue not only advances the plot but also deepens character development and the dynamics of their relationships, often serving as a vehicle for the themes of trust, loyalty, and betrayal.

These literary devices contribute significantly to the complexity and allure of Red Queen , allowing Victoria Aveyard to weave a captivating tale of revolution, power, and identity.

Literary Devices Examples

Exploring the top 10 literary devices used in Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard, let’s dive into specific examples and their explanations to understand how these devices enhance the narrative and thematic depth of the novel .

Foreshadowing

Metaphor and Simile

Personification

Juxtaposition

These examples showcase how Victoria Aveyard skillfully employs literary devices in Red Queen to create a rich, immersive world that resonates with readers long after they turn the final page.

What is the main plot of Red Queen? Red Queen follows Mare Barrow, a Red girl in a world divided by blood color—Reds, who are commoners, and Silvers, who have superhuman abilities. Mare discovers she has powers of her own, leading to her entanglement in the Silver world, where she navigates betrayal, political intrigue, and the fight for equality.

Who is the author of Red Queen? Victoria Aveyard is the author of Red Queen . She is an American writer who gained widespread recognition with this debut novel , launching a successful series that explores themes of power, resistance, and identity.

What genre does Red Queen belong to? Red Queen is a young adult (YA) fantasy novel with elements of dystopian fiction . It combines the intrigue of royal politics with themes of social division and rebellion.

Who are the main characters in Red Queen? The main characters include Mare Barrow, the protagonist with unexpected powers; Prince Cal and Prince Maven, the royal brothers with whom Mare forms complicated alliances; and Queen Elara, the manipulative antagonist .

What are the major themes in Red Queen? Major themes include power and corruption, the nature of betrayal, the struggle for equality, and the search for one’s identity in a divided society.

How does Red Queen explore the concept of power? Through the dichotomy of Reds and Silvers and Mare’s unique position, the novel explores how power is wielded, the corruption it breeds, and the resistance it inspires, highlighting both the allure and the cost of power.

What makes Red Queen unique in the YA fantasy genre ? Red Queen stands out for its blend of traditional fantasy elements with modern dystopian themes, a complex heroine whose journey encompasses both personal growth and political intrigue, and its commentary on social hierarchy and rebellion.

Has Red Queen been adapted into a movie or TV series? As of my last update, Red Queen has been considered for adaptation into a TV series or movie, but no definitive project has been completed. Interest in adapting the series remains high due to its popularity and engaging storyline.

Is Red Queen part of a series? Yes, Red Queen is the first book in a series that includes three sequels, several novellas, and companion books, expanding on the world and characters introduced in the first novel .

Would Red Queen be suitable for readers who don’t typically read fantasy ? Yes, Red Queen might appeal to a broader audience beyond traditional fantasy fans due to its focus on social issues, character-driven narrative , and the blend of dystopian elements, making it accessible to readers interested in themes of power, injustice, and rebellion.

This quiz is designed to test your knowledge and comprehension of key plot points, characters, and themes in Victoria Aveyard’s Red Queen , offering an engaging way to review the novel’s content.

Identify the literary devices used in the following paragraph from Red Queen . Then, check your answers below.

“In the heart of the battle, Mare’s veins pulsed with electricity, her power surging like a storm across the sea. The air crackled around her, charged with anticipation and fear. Each step she took was a defiance against the world that sought to crush her spirit, her presence a beacon of hope in the darkness. As she unleashed her fury, the Silvers who had once looked down upon her now cowered in awe, the tables turned by the Red girl who defied the limits of her blood.”

• Simile : “her power surging like a storm across the sea” — This simile compares Mare’s power to a storm, emphasizing the intensity and uncontrollability of her abilities.
• Personification : “The air crackled around her, charged with anticipation and fear.” — The air is given human-like qualities, enhancing the atmosphere of tension and the electric nature of Mare’s power.
• Metaphor : “her presence a beacon of hope in the darkness” — Mare is metaphorically described as a light source, symbolizing hope and resistance against oppression.
• Imagery : “Each step she took was a defiance against the world that sought to crush her spirit” — This imagery vividly portrays Mare’s resilience and the oppressive forces she faces, invoking a strong visual and emotional response.
• Irony : “the Silvers who had once looked down upon her now cowered in awe” — This situation is ironic because the Silvers, who are supposed to be superior, are now afraid of Mare, a Red, showcasing the reversal of power dynamics.

This exercise helps to identify and understand the literary devices Victoria Aveyard used to enrich the narrative in Red Queen , enhancing the thematic depth and emotional resonance of the story.

• Red Queen Summary

by Victoria Aveyard

These notes were contributed by members of the GradeSaver community. We are thankful for their contributions and encourage you to make your own.

Written by people who wish to remain anonymous

Red Queen centers in a divided world; those born with red blood and those born with silver. The “Silvers” which is what the people born with silver blood is called, are the royals and the rich, born with superpowers, while the “Reds” are poor and often serves as slaves.

Mare, a seventeen-years-old Red lives together with her poor family. Her sister, who was the family’s initial bread-winner has her hand crushed, and pick-pocketing is not an option for Mare anymore. One day, as she is trying to earn money for her family, she meets the handsome Cal. He sees the situation she is in and decided to help her, which reveals that he is the crown prince, as he has assigned her to work in the royal Palace for the Silvers.

She decides to work there, as her family will be given a lot of money. There are many women trying to win the princess hand in marriage, and they show of their powers in a rink. As Mare serves the people around the rink, watching the shows the Silver women with powers are presenting, it is Evangeline turn to show off. She has the power of manipulating metals, and she causes and earthquake.

Mare falls down from one of the viewing boxes, towards the rink, but before she falls to her death, she saves herself by creating a lightning shield. This means that she has powers even though she is a red, and she is taken away by the royal guards. The king and queen make a cover story of Mare; she was the secret daughter of a strong Silver warrior, and therefore has great power. They decide that she will marry the youngest prince, Maven.

The Scarlet Guard is a resistance group that secretly works for the betterment and rights for the Reds. Mare secretly joins, as she is scared. She has always hated the Silvers for their treatment of the Reds, yet she begins falling in love with both the princess. Mare is surprised to find out that the prince’ weren’t as bad as she though they were, when Maven says he wants to join them as well, as he realizes the county hasn’t been working effectively.

There is a coup planned, where Mare and Maven join to kill the king. Cal tries to stop them, though the Queen makes sure the King is killed anyway. Maven reveals that he is a traitor, working for the Queen to have the throne, not the Reds. Mare and Cal have to escape, and she decides to kill Maven.

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Red Queen Questions and Answers

The Question and Answer section for Red Queen is a great resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss the novel.

Figurative language sentences from red queen, cited.

Check this out below:

https://www.gradesaver.com/red-queen/study-guide/literary-elements

What dystopian genre is Red Queen?

Young Adult, Dystopian Fantasy

from which chapter an page did the quote

Page numbers will be different depending opn which copy you have.

Study Guide for Red Queen

Red Queen study guide contains a biography of Aveyard, literature essays, quiz questions, major themes, characters, and a full summary and analysis.

• About Red Queen
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Victoria Aveyard

New York Times Bestselling Author of "Red Queen"

June 27, 2019 by

Red Queen, by #1 New York Times bestselling author Victoria Aveyard, is a sweeping tale of power, intrigue, and betrayal, perfect for fans of George R.R. Martin’s Game of Thrones series.

Mare Barrow’s world is divided by blood—those with common, Red blood serve the Silver-blooded elite, who are gifted with superhuman abilities. Mare is a Red, scraping by as a thief in a poor, rural village, until a twist of fate throws her in front of the Silver court. Before the king, princes, and all the nobles, she discovers she has an ability of her own.

To cover up this impossibility, the king forces her to play the role of a lost Silver princess and betroths her to one of his own sons. As Mare is drawn further into the Silver world, she risks everything and uses her new position to help the Scarlet Guard—a growing Red rebellion—even as her heart tugs her in an impossible direction.

One wrong move can lead to her death, but in the dangerous game she plays, the only certainty is betrayal.

Praise for Red Queen

Bulletin of the center for children’s books.

[Aveyard] sets her audience up for a gaspworthy twist that reconfigures nearly every character’s role and leaves Mare with no one to trust but herself… This blend of fantasy and dystopia will be an unexpected and worthy addition to many genre fans’ reading list.

Aveyard weaves a compelling new world of action-packed surprises… inventive, character-driven.

A sizzling, imaginative thriller, where romance and revolution collide, where power and justice duel. It’s exhilarating. Compelling. Action-packed. Unputdownable.

Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA)

Fascinating world building… Readers will be intrigued by a world that reflects today’s troubling issues concerning ethnic inequality, unfair distribution of wealth, pollution, warfare, political corruption, and the frightening power of the media.

School Library Journal

Breakneck pace and engaging characters.

A volatile world with a dynamic heroine.

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Book Review

• Victoria Aveyard
• Fantasy , Romance , Suspense/Thriller

Readability Age Range

• Harper Teen, a division of Harper Collins Publishers

Year Published

This book has been reviewed by Thriving Family , a marriage and parenting magazine published by Focus on the Family.

Plot Summary

17-year-old Mare Barrow is the fourth of five children born to ordinary Red-blooded parents. Her three older brothers have already been conscripted into the army, pawns in a war started long ago by the ruling, almost immortal, Silver-blooded nobility. Mare knows she will be shipped off to war as soon as she reaches 18, as she has no skills the Silvers deem exceptional. Her younger sister, Gisa, will be able to provide for their parents, as she is a talented seamstress.

When Mare’s best friend, Kilorn, loses his apprenticeship, Mare vows to help him escape the army. Gisa smuggles Mare into a protected city, run by Silvers, in order for Mare to steal the money she needs to pay for Kilorn’s freedom. Before she can act on her plan, however, the city is thrown into chaos as the Silvers learn of a terrorist attack in the capital. The culprits are a group of Reds known as the Scarlet Guard. As Mare and her sister flee the city, Gisa is caught trying to pick the pocket of a Silver in order to get the money Mare needs. Gisa’s hand is crushed as punishment for her crime, thus assuring the future starvation of their family.

Upset at having caused the ruin of her family, Mare goes out for a walk at night. She meets a young man outside a tavern who stops her from stealing from the other patrons, but gives her coins to help her family. Mare tells him all that has happened, expecting nothing but friendly concern in return. In the morning, she is escorted by guard to the royal palace and given a position as a servant. That evening, while serving at a function for the royal family, she discovers the man she spoke with the night before is the crown prince, Cal.

The ruling Silver families have come to the palace to present their daughters for consideration to become his bride, as well as the wife of his younger stepbrother, Prince Maven. The hopeful contenders take turns displaying their superhuman abilities. All Silvers possess some kind of power. Some can manipulate flame; others can control water. Still others can teleport, make things grow, or read minds. When Evangeline, a Silver with the ability to control metal, manipulates the spectators’ boxes so that Mare falls into the arena, everyone expects her to be killed by the electrical currents surrounding it. Instead, Mare takes the energy within her body and uses it to escape Evangeline’s attack. Mare tries to flee the castle, but is stopped by Prince Cal.

Queen Elara, Prince Cal’s stepmother, uses her mind-reading capabilities to search Mare’s memories. When it is discovered that she is only a Red, King Tiberias decides to hide that knowledge from the world. He can’t kill her, as everyone saw her survive and assumes she has Silver blood, but he can’t let it be known she does not, or the commoners will revolt.

Tiberias and his family decide to claim that Mare is the daughter of slain Silver-blooded parents killed in combat. A Red soldier found her and raised her as his own daughter. Now that she has been found, she will wed Prince Maven as a reward for her parents’ sacrifice to the kingdom. Mare agrees to the deception as long as the king brings her brothers home from the war and provides for her family.

Mare must learn how to act like a Silver lady of nobility. She suffers through long hours of protocol training and luncheons with other nobles. The highlight of her training comes from Julian. He is Prince Cal’s uncle, the brother to the first queen. Julian is supposed to teach her history, but he also teaches her how to manipulate her newfound powers. When her powers seem to become too great for her to control, she is brought in to train with other Silver-blood nobility. Evangeline, now Prince Cal’s fiancee, challenges Mare to a duel and wounds her. Before the others can see her red blood, Prince Maven hurries her to a healer they know will keep her secret.

Although betrothed to Prince Maven—the quieter of the two brothers—Mare finds herself drawn to Prince Cal, who arranges for her to secretly visit her family. She learns that her brothers did get released from the army, but that the youngest, Shade, was killed in action before the order came. Mare seeks out the leader of the Scarlet Guard, Farley, in order to declare her allegiance to them. She is surprised to find that Prince Maven, too, wishes to help in the revolution against the ruling class.

Together, they help the Scarlet Guard enter the palace and assassinate three top officials. Unfortunately, several members of the Guard are captured during the fight. Among them are Mare’s friend Kilorn. Mare begs Julian to use his ability to manipulate minds to coerce various palace guards into helping Kilorn and the other Scarlet Guard members to escape. During the attempt, a guard shoots Mare. The blood she spills near the jail will be analyzed. The truth of Mare’s identity will be revealed. Prince Maven vows to protect her.

In light of the rising tensions, King Tiberius and his family return to the capital. Along the way, Mare sees more cities populated by Reds, who have been forced to serve the Silvers as little more than slaves. Mare is forced to give a speech denouncing the Scarlet Guard and extoling the virtues of their Silver-blooded rulers. Farley finds her and takes both Mare and Prince Maven on a tour of the Scarlet Guard’s secret network of tunnels.

The Guard has the ability to travel quickly and undetected throughout much of the land. Mare gives a list of names to Farley—other Reds who have even stronger abilities than the Silvers. Prince Maven convinces Farley and the Scarlet Guard to arrange a coup against the king. He believes that Prince Cal’s affection for Mare will bring his brother and the troops he commands to the rebels’ side.

The rebels blow up a bridge in the center of the city. When Prince Cal and his troops come to investigate, Mare tries to convince him to join the Scarlet Guard and overthrow the current government. Although torn by his feelings for Mare, Prince Cal refuses and has her and Prince Maven arrested.

When they are brought before the king to be tried, Queen Elara uses her powers of mind control to force Prince Cal to kill his father. Mare realizes she has been a pawn in a power struggle between the queen’s family and King Tiberius’ family. Queen Elara and Prince Maven betray Prince Cal and Mare. They testify that Prince Cal willingly killed the king.

Prince Cal and Mare are sent to the arena to be killed. Instead, after a great battle, Mare and Prince Cal manage to overpower, or kill, their attackers. The Scarlet Guard helps the two escape capture by Prince Maven and his guards. Mare falls unconscious.

When Mare awakens, she discovers her brother Shade is not dead. He, too, has abilities and could not be killed by the Silvers. Together with Kilorn and Farley, they vow to find the other mutant Reds before Prince Maven has them killed. The Guard holds Prince Cal prisoner, unwilling to believe he is ready to join their fight against Prince Maven, but Mare knows the truth. She and Prince Cal now have the same goal: to kill the one who betrayed them.

Christian Beliefs

Other belief systems.

Although it is not explained how the Silvers got their power, Mare learned in school that gods and angels once lived in the sky and ruled lovingly over men. She believes they then came down to earth to join them. Silvers are a result of that union.

Authority Roles

Mare’s father was injured in the war and remains an invalid. He hides the little improvement he’s had in his recovery from his wife so she will not cling to false hope. Her parents love her but can’t help but compare her to her younger, more gifted sister, Gisa. Queen Elara is a murderer who manipulates her son to gain the kingdom.

Profanity & Violence

The world Mare lives in is one of war. The Silvers use violence as a means to keep the Reds subjugated. In a tradition called First Friday, Reds and Silvers are required to attend a contest in the village stadium. Two Silver warriors battle to demonstrate their powers. Neither can die, as Silvers have healers present that can restore their bodies. In one battle, a Silver tosses his opponent into a wall. He then pounds him into the ground. His opponent, using mind control, forces him to run himself through with his sword. Silver blood pours from the man’s wounds.

Silvers kill innocent Reds after the Scarlet Guard’s attack. One man is drowned in the street by a Silver who can control water. Gisa’s hand is crushed by a Silver as punishment for her theft. Evangeline uses her ability to control metal to pull apart the stadium where the spectators and her opponents are sitting. She sends pieces of metal rushing toward Mare in an attempt to kill her, but Mare uses her powers to deflect them.

Silvers train by fighting each other in bloody, violent battles. Evangeline again tries to kill Mare during a practice tournament. She sends metal spiders and blades after Mare, eventually cutting her face and drawing blood. The Scarlet Guard sends assassins into the castle where they kill two government officials. An explosion kills others. Farley is tortured by a Silver who turns the water inside her body to ice, causing it to pierce through her skin.

Another Red is run through with a spear. Several guards are killed by Mare and the rebels when she orchestrates their escape. Mare is shot, but a healer seals the wound. Queen Elara uses her mind-control ability to force Prince Cal to run his father through with a sword. Prince Maven sends both Mare and Prince Cal to the arena for treason. They are to be killed by other Silvers. In the arena, attempts are made to drown them, kill them with metal projectiles and choke them. Mare uses her ability to control electricity to electrocute their opponents. She causes another man to be run through with a spear.

Sexual Content

At different times, Mare shares several passionate kisses with Prince Cal and Prince Maven.

Discussion Topics

Get free discussion questions for this book and others, at ThrivingFamily.com/discuss-books .

Additional Comments

Parental note

Stealing: Mare is a thief, generally stealing from people’s pockets. She uses the money to buy her family needed credits for electricity and food.

Lying: Mare lies to her parents about where she is going. She agrees to lie about her identity to keep herself and her family alive. Prince Maven lies about caring for her and his stepfamily.

Alcohol: Mare steals coins from drunk patrons leaving a bar. It is intimated that Mare drinks something like champagne.

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• About the Book

Introducing Antonia Scott --- the most compelling and original detective since Lisbeth Salander --- in Juan Gómez-Jurado's RED QUEEN, the #1 international award-winning bestseller and thriller that has taken the world by storm. 

Antonia Scott --- the daughter of a British diplomat and a Spanish mother --- has a gifted forensic mind, whose ability to reconstruct crimes and solve baffling murders is legendary. But after a personal trauma, she's refused to continue her work or even leave her apartment.

Jon Gutierrez, a police officer in Bilbao --- disgraced, suspended and about to face criminal charges --- is offered a chance to salvage his career by a secretive organization that works in the shadows to direct criminal investigations of a highly sensitive nature. All he has to do is succeed where many others have failed: Convince a recalcitrant Antonia to come out of her self-imposed retirement, protecting her and helping her investigate a new, terrifying case.

The case is a macabre, ritualistic murder --- a teenaged boy from a wealthy family whose body was found without a drop of blood left in it. But the murder is just the start. A high-ranking executive and daughter of one of the richest men in Spain is kidnapped, a crime which is tied to the previous murder. Behind them both is a hidden mastermind with even more sinister plans. And the only person with a chance to see the connections, solve the crimes and successfully match wits with the killer before tragedy strikes again...is Antonia Scott.

Red Queen by Juan Gómez-Jurado

• Publication Date: March 14, 2023
• Genres: Fiction , Mystery , Suspense , Thriller
• Hardcover: 384 pages
• Publisher: Minotaur Books
• ISBN-10: 1250853672
• ISBN-13: 9781250853677

Book Review: Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard

By: Author Laura

Posted on Published: 9th July 2020  - Last updated: 12th January 2024

Categories Book Reviews , Books

Wondering if Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard is worth the hype? Keep reading for my honest Red Queen review telling you what I thought!

Red Queen Summary

This is a world divided by blood – red or silver. The Reds are commoners, ruled by a Silver elite in possession of god-like superpowers. And to Mare Barrow, a seventeen-year-old Red girl from the poverty-stricken Stilts, it seems like nothing will ever change. That is until she finds herself working in the Silver Palace.

Here, surrounded by the people she hates the most, Mare discovers that, despite her red blood, she possesses a deadly power of her own. One that threatens to destroy the balance of power. Fearful of Mare’s potential, the Silvers hide her in plain view, declaring her a long-lost Silver princess, now engaged to a Silver prince.

Despite knowing that one misstep would mean her death, Mare works silently to help the Red Guard, a militant resistance group, and bring down the Silver regime. But this is a world of betrayal and lies, and Mare has entered a dangerous dance – Reds against Silvers, prince against prince, and Mare against her own heart.

Red Queen Review

Red Queen , one of the most hyped books of 2015, is undoubtedly the newest craze in the world of young adult literature. First published on the 10th February 2015, the first book in the Red Queen series is still making waves on bookstagram and still drawing in new readers and re-readers.

I absolutely hate hyped books and am often afraid to read them in case they fail to live up to expectations. At the same time, I get that niggling feeling telling me I have to check it out in case I miss out on something great. In the case of Red Queen , I regret to say that I missed out on something great.

Victoria Aveyard has created a world in which people are divided by their blood. Reds are seen as commoners and the Silvers rule. The latter are also born with superpowers, thus equality is nonexistent and most believe that it will remain that way forever.

The story centres around Mare, a Red girl who is given the chance to work as a servant in the Silver Palace. But what at first seems like a great opportunity turns into something of a night Mare  (sorry, couldn’t resist).

It turns out that Mare is no ordinary Red. She has powers too, powers that the Silvers are very afraid of and confused about. Mare’s powers threaten to upset the balance of power in the Kingdom as a mutation in her blood has given her the same, if not more powerful, superpowers than the Silvers. Panicked, the Silvers turn her into a long-lost Silver princess, hiding her true heritage, but keeping her where they can see her.

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Mare soon discovers the Scarlet Guard, a militant resistance group, and secretly joins them in their fight against the Silvers. Without knowing who she can really trust, Mare navigates the dangerous world of the Silvers, desperate to stay alive, but also desperate to bring down the Silver regime.

Red Queen has all the elements of a fantastic story, but what is most impressive about Aveyard’s storytelling is her ability to sustain the reader’s interest and the action throughout the entirety of her novel. You are drawn into the story of Reds and Silvers from the very beginning and plot twists and surprises await you in every chapter.

There are no flat characters in this story and I found myself with strong feelings (whether love or hate) about each and every character, big or small. Although Mare is undoubtedly the protagonist there are countless other very important characters who are all distinct and very well fleshed out. Every character in this story has a role to play and there are no moments when I thought that the author had included superfluous information for the sake of it.

There are elements of romance in this book but it is nowhere near as prominent as I thought it would be. I really liked this as it meant that characters were motivated by their own beliefs and passions, rather than just love. That is not to say that Aveyard doesn’t clearly set up a romance that will no doubt be of greater significance in the future.

There are many threads in Red Queen that remain unresolved at the end of this book but not in a way that you feel that you have been cheated out of a proper ending. Instead, it leaves you hungry for more of this story.

From the get-go this book had me gripped and I was convinced that it was soon to become one of my favourite YA series; however, one hundred pages from the end, disaster struck. Aveyard seemed to be taking the story in a direction that many other YA series have done before.

I was disappointed that she had decided to use a worn-out storyline that I’d read countless times before. I was immediately saddened that so close to the end of this wonderful book, it had let me down, but fast forward another thirty pages and I was even more surprised.

Aveyard ends this book with plot twist after plot twist and despite the fact that not all of these were entirely unforeseeable, they were excellently timed and excellently executed. My faith in both Victoria Aveyard and Red Queen was restored, and I tore my way to the end of this book.

Red Queen presents a completely new world to readers and combines interesting characters, a fast-paced plot and great storytelling. Whilst there are some elements of Red Queen that reminded me of bits from various other young adult fantasy book series , I would still say that this story is unique and has never been told before.

Red Queen does not just set the scene for the rest of this series but it’s also jam-packed with its own action. For people that are afraid to pick this up because of the hype surrounding it, do not fear, because Red Queen will most certainly not disappoint.

The sequel, Glass Sword , was released on February 2016. Check out my Glass Sword review here.

Buy Red Queen: Amazon | Waterstones

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Editor of What’s Hot?

If you liked this Red Queen review, check out these young adult fantasy book reviews: Rebel of the Sands Review Throne of Glass Review Crown of Midnight Review The Cruel Prince Review Books Like Throne of Glass Best YA Fantasy Series Best YA Dystopia Books

[This post was first published in 2016 and updated in 2020]

Friday 9th of July 2021

I read this book and it is one of my favorite books that I read. It is such an interesting book that it shows a great fantasy world. I recommend this trilogy.

Tuesday 16th of February 2016

I'm currently waiting for this from the library, I love this style of book so I can't wait to move on to it.

FlorenceandMary.com

Friday 26th of February 2016

Have you read this yet Victoria? Hope you managed to get it (and the sequel!)

Friday 12th of February 2016

I like the look of this book and would be something I would read. I've been looking for similar books to this so will be purchasing for sure. I read a chapter online when I first commented and was hooked.

Hope you get to finish the book off as the ending is what really gets you!

sounds like a very interesting read indeed I have a pile of 8 books sat waiting to be red but I would look out for this in the future

It's a very exciting story so I'd recommend it if you're in the mood for that sort of book :)

Thursday 21st of January 2016

Sounds very interesting!

S. http://subhamrai.blogspot.com

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The #1 New York Times bestselling series!

Red Queen , by #1 New York Times bestselling author Victoria Aveyard, is a sweeping tale of power, intrigue, and betrayal, perfect for fans of George R.R. Martin’s Game of Thrones series.

Mare Barrow's world is divided by blood—those with common, Red blood serve the Silver-blooded elite, who are gifted with superhuman abilities. Mare is a Red, scraping by as a thief in a poor, rural village, until a twist of fate throws her in front of the Silver court. Before the king, princes, and all the nobles, she discovers she has an ability of her own.

To cover up this impossibility, the king forces her to play the role of a lost Silver princess and betroths her to one of his own sons. As Mare is drawn further into the Silver world, she risks everything and uses her new position to help the Scarlet Guard—a growing Red rebellion—even as her heart tugs her in an impossible direction.

One wrong move can lead to her death, but in the dangerous game she plays, the only certainty is betrayal.

Discover more wonders in the world of Red Queen with Broken Throne: A Red Queen Collection, a companion novel with stories from fan favorites and new voices, featuring never-before-seen maps, flags, bonus scenes, journal entries, and much more exclusive content!

Plus don't miss Realm Breaker ! Irresistibly action-packed and full of lethal surprises, this stunning fantasy series from Victoria Aveyard, #1 New York Times  bestselling author of the Red Queen series, begins where hope is lost and asks: When the heroes have fallen, who will take up the sword?

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Perfect for fans of George R.R. Martin’s Game of Thrones series, Glass Sword is the high-stakes follow up to the #1 New York Times bestselling Red Queen .

Mare Barrow's blood is red—the color of common folk—but her Silver ability, the power to control lightning, has turned her into a weapon that the royal court tries to control. The crown calls her an impossibility, a fake, but as she makes her escape from Maven, the prince—the friend—who betrayed her, Mare uncovers something startling: she is not the only one of her kind.

Pursued by Maven, now a vindictive king, Mare sets out to find and recruit other Red-and-Silver fighters to join in the struggle against her oppressors. But Mare finds herself on a deadly path, at risk of becoming exactly the kind of monster she is trying to defeat. Will she shatter under the weight of the lives that are the cost of rebellion? Or have treachery and betrayal hardened her forever?

• Kindle $8.99
• Paperback See all buying options

The third book in the thrilling #1 New York Times bestselling series!

In this breathless third installment to Victoria Aveyard’s #1 New York Times bestselling Red Queen series, rebellion is rising and allegiances will be tested on every side. Perfect for fans of George R.R. Martin’s Game of Thrones series.

Mare Barrow is a prisoner, powerless without her lightning, tormented by her lethal mistakes. She lives at the mercy of a boy she once loved, a boy made of lies and betrayal. Now a king, Maven Calore continues weaving his dead mother's web in an attempt to maintain control over his country—and his prisoner.

As Mare bears the weight of Silent Stone in the palace, her once-ragtag band of newbloods and Reds continue organizing, training, and expanding. They prepare for war, no longer able to linger in the shadows. And Cal, the exiled prince with his own claim on Mare's heart, will stop at nothing to bring her back.

When blood turns on blood, and ability on ability, there may be no one left to put out the fire—leaving Norta as Mare knows it to burn all the way down.

• Kindle $9.00
• Paperback $10.39

The #1 New York Times bestselling Red Queen series comes to a stunning conclusion in War Storm .

VICTORY COMES AT A PRICE.

Mare Barrow learned this all too well when Cal’s betrayal nearly destroyed her. Now determined to protect her heart—and secure freedom for Reds and newbloods like her—Mare resolves to overthrow the kingdom of Norta once and for all . . . starting with the crown on Maven’s head.

But no battle is won alone, and before the Reds may rise as one, Mare must side with the boy who broke her heart in order to defeat the boy who almost broke her. Cal’s powerful Silver allies, alongside Mare and the Scarlet Guard, prove a formidable force. But Maven is driven by an obsession so deep, he will stop at nothing to have Mare as his own again, even if it means demolish everything—and everyone—in his path.

War is coming, and all Mare has fought for hangs in the balance. Will victory be enough to topple the Silver kingdoms? Or will the little lightning girl be forever silenced?

In the epic conclusion to Victoria Aveyard’s stunning series, Mare must embrace her fate and summon all her power . . . for all will be tested, but not all will survive.

• Kindle $10.81

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Victoria Aveyard was born and raised in East Longmeadow, Massachusetts, a small town known only for the worst traffic rotary in the continental United States. She moved to Los Angeles to earn a BFA in screenwriting at the University of Southern California. As an author and screenwriter, she uses her career as an excuse to read too many books and watch too many movies.

Find out more at www.victoriaaveyard.com or follow her on Instagram @VictoriaAveyard

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By Juan Gomez-Jurado and Victoria Aveyard

The #1 New York Times bestselling series!

Red Queen , by #1 New York Times bestselling author Victoria Aveyard, is a sweeping tale of power, intrigue, and betrayal, perfect for fans of George R.R. Martin's Game of Thrones series.

Mare Barrow's world is divided by blood--those with common, Red blood serve the Silver-blooded elite, who are gifted with superhuman abilities. Mare is a Red, scraping by as a thief in a poor, rural village, until a twist of fate throws her in front of the Silver court. Before the king, princes, and all the nobles, she discovers she has an ability of her own.

To cover up this impossibility, the king forces her to play the role of a lost Silver princess and betroths her to one of his own sons. As Mare is drawn further into the Silver world, she risks everything and uses her new position to help the Scarlet Guard--a growing Red rebellion--even as her heart tugs her in an impossible direction.

One wrong move can lead to her death, but in the dangerous game she plays, the only certainty is betrayal.

Discover more wonders in the world of Red Queen with Broken Throne: A Red Queen Collection, a companion novel with stories from fan favorites and new voices, featuring never-before-seen maps, flags, bonus scenes, journal entries, and much more exclusive content!

Plus don't miss Realm Breaker ! Irresistibly action-packed and full of lethal surprises, this stunning fantasy series from Victoria Aveyard, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Red Queen series, begins where hope is lost and asks: When the heroes have fallen, who will take up the sword?

BUY THE BOOK

Average rating: 7.52

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Red Queen Series Order | 2 Ways to Read Victoria Aveyard’s Books

I jumped on the Red Queen bandwagon very early. And despite some divided opinions from readers, I personally read and enjoyed all four books. But there are novellas, too, and that raises questions about the proper Red Queen series order.

If you’ve yet to read a single book, there are two different Red Queen series orders to choose from.

The first way is to read by order of publication, and the second is chronological order.

We’ll cover both Red Queen series orders so you can determine which works best for you.

Who is Victoria Aveyard?

Red Queen came into being after Victoria Aveyard graduated from the University of Southern California with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in screenwriting, no job lined up, and an intense desire to write a YA novel. At 22, she returned home to East Longmeadow, Massachusetts and began writing her first draft.

A representative from a television production company had been the one to encourage her to pursue writing her book. Once her manuscript was written that contact passed it along and Aveyard secured a three-book deal with HarperTeen. Along the way, three books turned into four and a handful of novellas to provide more background and character development.

Red Queen also sold out its initial print run of 150,000 copies and the film rights were sold to Universal Studios before the book’s publication.

The film adaptation has since turned into a series adaptation for the streaming platform Peacock. Elizabeth Banks will direct, executive produce, and star in the production. Aveyard will also be an executive producer and co-wrote the pilot with Beth Schwartz, another executive producer and the showrunner.

When Aveyard began writing Red Queen, her dream was for it to be published. She says that everything that has followed since has far exceeded her initial dream.

Aveyard currently lives in Los Angeles, California with her husband. She keeps up a very active social media presence, hopping on BookTok trends and giving fans a glimpse into her life as author.

2 Ways to Read Red Queen in Order

Because all of the various novellas are now bundled together in a single book , each of the links below will take you to that one volume, but I’ve still separated them out so you know exactly when to read them.

You can also opt to purchase the first two individually as they’re still available, but I’d recommend just grabbing the Broken Throne collection if you plan to read the novellas.

Red Queen Series Order by Publication

I read the Red Queen books by publication date, and it’s a perfectly acceptable method for reading the series.

It’s also the method I’d recommend if this is your first time reading the series.

• Red Queen (2015) <–Book 1
• Queen Song (2015) (Novella)
• Steel Scars (2016) (Novella)
• Glass Sword (2016) <–Book 2
• King’s Cage (2017) <–Book 3
• War Storm (2018) <–Book 4
• World Behind (2019) (Novella)
• Iron Heart (2019) (Novella)
• Fire Light (2019) (Novella)
• Fare Well (2019) (Bonus Scene)

Extras Red Queen Coloring Book Red Queen Collector’s Edition Glass Sword Collector’s Edition

Do I Need to Read the Novellas?

If the above list looks a little confusing, we’ll break it down even further.

No, the novellas are not required reading to understand the story. If you are a person that doesn’t like novellas (like me), then you don’t have to read them. They provide added insight into characters from the main story, such as Cal’s mother ( Queen Song ) or Captain Farley ( Steel Scars ).

So what books do I need if I’m ignoring the novellas?

Here is the Red Queen series in order without novellas:

• Red Queen (2015)
• Glass Sword (2016)
• King’s Cage (2017)
• War Storm (2018)

That’s it. Those are the four main novels in the series. Nothing else is necessary. They’re even sold in a box set to make things simple.

Where Does Cruel Crown Fit?

Cruel Crown combines together the first two novellas, Queen Song and Steel Scars.

Now that all five novellas are bundled into the Broken Throne collection, you don’t need to buy Cruel Crown. In fact, I recommend against doing so.

Since Broken Throne contains novellas you can’t purchase anywhere else, and is the only way to enjoy the full Red Queen series order with all of the novellas, you’re just wasting money if you buy Cruel Crown.

Why, then, did they release Cruel Crown?

The first two novellas were written a full 3-4 years before the latter ones. Cruel Crown was a result of making it easier to buy the original novellas. After the release of the later novellas, Cruel Crown became obsolete.

Red Queen Series in Chronological Order

The following is a timeline of events in the Red Queen series order. It’s not 100% perfect as some novellas and scenes take place during the main novels.

I would also give you warning that it’s possible that reading the Red Queen series in chronological order may reveal spoilers for the main series.

It’s generally not recommended that new readers follow any series chronological timeline for this reason. For an absolute certainty do not read Queen Song before Red Queen .

But if you’re a fan looking for the best way to re-read this series, this reading order is for you:

0.1 Queen Song (Novella) 0.2 Steel Scars (Novella) 1. Red Queen 2. Glass Sword 2.5 World Behind (Novella) 3. King’s Cage 4. War Storm 4A. Fare Well (Bonus Scene) 4.1 Iron Heart (Novella) 4.2 Fire Light (Novella)

Red Queen Series Books

Now that we’ve listed out two ways to read the Red Queen books in order, let’s take a closer look at each of the books in the series.

1. Red Queen

Red Queen is the first book in the Red Queen series. It follows Mare Barrow and her struggles with an oppressive government that sees Red bloods (aka those without magic) like her as inferior.

The silvers (magic users) reign over them with a steel first.

That is until Mare exhibits powers of her own, and suddenly their whole world is upended by this new truth. The Silvers will do anything to keep it hidden, and the Reds are ready to rise up against their oppressors.

2. Glass Sword

Glass Sword continues the story pretty much right where they left off in Book 1.

I can’t really tell you anything about the conflict as it’s major spoilers for one of the greatest twists of all time in the original book.

But in Glass Sword, Mare discovers she is not the only Red with powers and she seeks to recruit them all in her effort to fight against their Silver oppressors.

3. King’s Cage

King’s Cage is where things in the Red Queen series really start to get dicey.

War is brewing and the fight against the Silvers escalates.

Mare is in some serious trouble. That’s all I can say, and it’s up to the Scarlet Guard to save her if they hope to continue their resistance.

4. War Storm

War Storm is the final installment in the Red Queen series and the epic conclusion to the war between the Reds and the Silvers.

Two sets of nations have allied to fight against each other in the great Nortan Civil War.

There’s a lot subterfuge and misdirection going on, with an ever uncomfortable relationship between Mare and her love interest that makes this book exciting yet somehow hard to read at the same time.

5. Broken Throne

Broken Throne collects the original two novellas with three new novellas that haven’t been published anywhere else. There’s also a War Storm bonus ending.

It’s a collection that any Red Queen fan must have.

Looking for more great books?

Check out this Cosmere reading order by Brandon Sanderson .

23 thoughts on “ Red Queen Series Order | 2 Ways to Read Victoria Aveyard’s Books ”

Where does Cruel Crown fit into this?

Cruel Crown is a novella bundle. It includes Queen Song and Steel Scars. But since Broken Throne contains all five prequel novellas, I recommend getting that instead of Cruel Crown. You’ll need to get Broken Throne anyway if you want to read the other three novellas.

Do we need to get cruel crown or broken throne has all the novellas including the first 2

Yes, Broken Throne includes all five novellas.

Cruel Crown is a collection all on its own that contains Steel Scars and Queen Song. It is not a separate book or story.

But since the other three novellas (World Behind, Iron Heart, and Fire Light) aren’t available anywhere else except the Broken Throne collection, I only recommend purchasing that one since it also includes Steel Scars and Queen Song.

Hi, first; thank you for making a reading order for Red Queen series! I wonder if i “have to” read the novellas or can i read them after the other books? I have read the first book and thought i would read ‘Glass sword’ next, but it might be better to read ‘Queen son’, ‘Steel Scars’ and then ‘Glass sword’? what do you recommend?

You don’t have to read the novellas, no. I didn’t read them. If you aren’t into novellas, go ahead and skip them. But if you do like novellas, then I would read those two before Glass Sword.

Thank you for such helpful information! The order you said was best to read for new readers is by publication date. Would that mean I can read the four main books in order first and then go back and read Broken Throne? I didn’t realize Broken Throne was a collection of Novellas and I’ve read Red Queen and started Glass Sword so far but I don’t want to continue to read Glass Sword if it will be confusing to not read Queen Song first.

Personally, I haven’t read the novellas. I don’t really do novellas. So I thought it was just fine reading only the main books. If you’re the type of person who enjoys novellas. Reading them before proceeding would be the better choice I would think, just to better understand the characters. But if the cliffhangers are too heavy and you don’t feel like deviating to read the novellas, I wouldn’t worry too much about it.

Thank you so much for the response! I think I’ll read the regular books first then.

Thank you! I’ll see how I do:)

Hello!I have a question,between red queen & cruel crown wich one should I read first & after them wich ones?! [I already bought the cruel crown)

Cruel Crown contains the novellas Queen Song and Steel Scars. Those novellas are also available in Broken Throne, and you’ll need Broken Throne in order to read the rest. If you can, I’d recommend returning Cruel Crown and getting Broken Throne instead.

There is nothing to read between Cruel Crown and Red Queen though. If you’re reading them in chronological order, Cruel Crown comes first, and if you’re reading it in publication order, Cruel Crown is read immediately after Red Queen. The next thing to read after finishing Red Queen, Queen Song, and Steel Scars is to read Book 2, Glass Sword.

Oh I see that was helpful,thank you so much!

where can I find a world behind

It’s located in the Broken Throne bundle.

I would have never thought you would have responded so quickly. Thanks!

You’re welcome! Always happy to help.

I just wanted to say thanks. I’m in the middle of Red Queen at the moment. I think I picked it up @ a yard sale or something but I like it & wanted to order the rest of the series. I knew nothing about the series when I started searching & didn’t realize how confusing it would be just to find out which story was next. Without you I’d still be looking. So again, thank you very much. You were extremely thorough & made everything easy to understand. 🙂

You’re welcome! Glad it was of help for you!

Hi! I want to ask, since i just finished reading Red Queen and I want to read the novellas according to chronological order, can i just purchase Broken Throne instead of cruel crown? And not read the other three novellas until the time i have to read them? Or are all the novellas combined into one whole story making it hard for me to tell whether which is which? Like would i know if this certain page is the end of thing certain novella? Thank you in advance for your answer! Would be of very great help :))

You can definitely just buy Broken Throne and I would highly recommend it for a Chronological read of Red Queen. All of the novellas are clearly labeled and you can definitely just read whichever one you need, then save the others for a later time.

Can you please help. My daughter read red Queen. She wants to read the rest of the series. I have read this three times and have no idea what I am supposed to buy next. Thank you!!

Book 2 is Glass Sword. If she doesn’t like novellas, you can ignore everything else but the major books. Red Queen, Glass Sword, King’s Cage, War Storm, in that order.

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