Queen of Faces

Bookseller recommendation

“I really, really enjoyed this book. There was so much going on at all. The unique concept of switching bodies, piffs, and branches, especially when showing character growth and not just a "dying moment or the power of friendship" kind of reveal, was super satisfying. It kept my interest from start to finish, and I couldn't wait to see how everything would play out. I was so hurt that it ended, now I have to wait for the next book. I will say the love 'triangle' is so funny but confusing (in a good way), just really creative. I've never seen it that way before (I don't wanna spoil). I can't wait to see what our lovely main characters get up to in the 2nd book. ”

— Trevia • Hudson Booksellers

Bookseller recommendation

“Loved! This was such a powerful story. It’s soul vs. body, and I am here for it. A perfect epic fantasy, magical dystopian. I need the next book, like now. (10/10) Strengths: Perfectly addictive from beginning to end. The characters feature deep, transformative arcs that feel earned and cathartic. This is an effortless read; an absolute standout with an unforgettable story. Thought-provoking themes on identity and transformation, particularly the fight for bodily autonomy, gender identity, and forced self-discovery. Powerful explorations of trans experiences, gender dysphoria, privilege, colonialism, racism, and the ethics of survival amid oppression and rebellion, all while the lush, vivid setting sweeps you away. It leaves you wanting the next book. Tropes: Enemies to Friends, Found Family, Enemies to “It’s Complicated,” Slow Burn, Dark Academia, Dystopian Fantasy, Body Swapping, Mercenary Protagonist, Queer Normative World, Morally Grey Characters, Illusion Magic System, Identity Exploration, and Rebellion. Trigger Warnings: Body Disfigurement and Injury, Graphic Violence, Body Theft, Classism, Terminal Illness, Ableism, Genocide, War, Colonisation, Child Abuse and Child Death, Physical Abuse, Emotional Abuse, Bullying, Death, Suicidal Thoughts, Gender Dysphoria, Misgendering, Deadnaming, Abandonment, and Death of a Parent. Spice Level: 0.25 out of 5 Audiobook Narration: Excellent Performances by Dylan Reilly Fitzpatrick, E. A. Castillo, & Nicky Endres”

— Mandy • Aber Stoat Books

Bookseller recommendation

“What would happen if our bodies were interchangeable and all we had to define us was our intelligence and our spirit? Queen of Faces is a sweeping fantasy novel that examines the deeper facets of good versus evil and shows readers all of the ways our paths branch as we strive to create our destinies. I haven’t loved a story like this since Six of Crows. Every character is flawed and worth saving and Lord keeps us on a knife’s edge waiting to see which way they land. I already want to read it again. ”

— Jennifer • Through the Fold

Bookseller recommendation

“The way this book started had me thinking it was going to be the typical "poor girl miraculously gets into magic school and proves them so wrong", but I was so wrong. Completely unexpected and delightfully twisty - this one will stick with me. ”

— Andy • Sower Books

Bookseller recommendation

“What a fantastic story! The premise and world Lord created is so fresh and new, and that is difficult to do these days. The premise of the story alone is unique and complex, but told with a very straightforward prose that was easy to follow despite the complexity of the story and characters. I devoured this book, and I cannot wait to read the next instalment in this series. I can't wait for the release to hear how much others love this story! ”

— Melly • Casa Luna Books

Bookseller recommendation

“If you're a fan of series like Young Elites by Marie Lu and the Grishaverse, Queen of Faces by Petra Lord is for you. It's that with some dark academia thrown in. There's political intrigue and gender-swapping and assassinations and dystopia. It's gorgeous and thought-provoking. If you like darker YA, put this one on your list. ”

— Anna • Katy Budget Books

Bookseller recommendation

“A deliciously unique dark academia fantasy that, thankfully, doesn’t suffer from chosen-one syndrome, explores gender fluidity by way of body swapping, and has a true enemies-to-possibly-lovers that I can’t wait to dive back into when book two comes out. Already itching to get my hands on a physical copy. ”

— Jordan • Lion's Mouth Bookstore

Bookseller recommendation

“A great dark academia fantasy novel, with a deep cast of characters and a lot of shifting loyalties. A world where people can shift from one body to another - if they have the resources to do so - which allows for avoidance of illness, bodily injury, age, or subterfuge. A magic system which relies on character development to increase the power of a person's unique spell. A great read! ”

— Armand • The Sparkle Bookstore