I received a free copy of The Queen of England: Coronation by Courtney Brandt to write an honest review. This thrilling adventure takes place in a steampunk version of England after the New World Order eliminates Queen Victoria, her family, and most of the British government. A young scientist named Juliette steps up to take the throne and save her country.
In an alternate London set in 1840, recently crowned Juliette faces the New World Order, a shadowy group responsible for a disastrous dirigible accident that wiped out much of the aristocracy. On top of her political troubles, she juggles romantic distractions, a magical unicorn, and the quest to find the legendary Excalibur. Juliette’s journey to her coronation at Westminster is fraught with challenges—will she secure her reign?
In The Queen of England: Coronation, we see Juliette, a sharp and resourceful young woman, suddenly in charge of an entire kingdom. She uses her scientific knowledge and intellect to untangle the mystery behind the deaths of many British nobles. Juliette’s character is impressive and endearing, captivating readers throughout the story.
Juliette is not alone; she is supported by her trusted friends and advisers. One standout character is Askew, her tutor and adviser, whose keen sense of fashion and sharp judgment play a crucial role in their efforts to protect England. Brandt ensures that every character is engaging and richly developed.
The world-building in the novel is exceptional, blending the refined customs of Victorian England with imaginative steampunk elements. From airships and steam-powered guns to numerous other inventive gadgets, the steampunk aspects are highly enjoyable. Another fascinating element is the inclusion of Arthur’s Excalibur, intricately woven into the plot for readers to discover.
The narrative is well-paced with plenty of twists and turns. Dialogue-heavy scenes remain captivating, showcasing Brandt’s talent for capturing the time period’s vernacular effortlessly.
A key highlight of the book is the romance between Juliette and her Captain of the Guard, Cranleigh. They share a secret love, constrained by their public duties. The chemistry between them is expertly written, creating perfect tension. One of the most romantic scenes involves a tender moment in the rain, adding to the book’s charm.
In summary, The Queen of England: Coronation is a must-read for fans of Victorian romance, steampunk, and legendary tales. The book’s intricate world-building and compelling characters ensure it doesn’t disappoint. As part of a trilogy, it leaves readers eager for the next installments.
I can easily imagine Dakota Blue Johnson playing Juliette, despite her different hair color. For Cranleigh, Sam Heughan or Richard Rankin would be great choices, and Michael Sheen would be perfect for Askew. This book is ideally suited for a captivating miniseries.
