Book Review: The Bloodless Queen by J.M. Lee
When I stumbled upon The Bloodless Queen, I was immediately captivated by the promise of a world where the boundary between life and death is as thin as a whisper, and where chaos reigns over a hauntingly beautiful landscape. As soon as I learned that J.M. Lee’s novel blends elements of sci-fi with a touch of fantasy, I knew I had to dive in. Thanks to DAW Books and Brilliance Publishing for providing me with this intriguing book for review consideration via NetGalley; I’m finally ready to share my thoughts!
This novel begins with a chilling foundation: on the autumnal equinox of 1987, over 100,000 people died, only to rise again as fae-like zombies. I can’t help but marvel at the ambitious lore Lee crafts to set the stage. Picture a world where these tragic figures are sealed away in Harbors, and every year, the dead rise anew, tying society to a haunting history. Fast forward to today, and we meet Calidore and Evangeline, skilled “fencers” tasked with protecting humanity from the dangers lurking beyond their fenced-off lives. Their dedication to keeping the balance while striving for a normal family life—complete with scavenger hunts and pizza nights—draws you in and makes you root for them, not just against external threats, but in their fight for a semblance of normalcy.
As I immersed myself in their journey, I was struck by how Lee masterfully balances the personal with the fantastical. The stakes ratchet up not just through the looming threats of the Harbors, but through the quiet, poignant moments shared among this beautiful family. Cal, Evangeline, and their daughter Winnie grapple not only with external chaos but with the emotional weight of their responsibilities. Their unwavering love for each other provided a warm contrast to the book’s more chilling elements, and I’ll admit, I even shed a tear or two during some of the more intense moments.
Lee’s writing style is richly layered and highly immersive. The pacing teeters between tense action and contemplative family moments, and while at times it can be dense, I found that the intricate world-building only encouraged me to keep turning the pages. There are echoes of Annihilation’s eerie, encroaching wilderness and a subtle nod to mythic tales, all masterfully woven together. Lee’s work reminds us that sometimes, the real monsters dwell not just in the shadows, but within the choices we make.
Listening to the audiobook, narrated by Eric Altheide, was an enjoyable experience, though his performance felt solid yet unremarkable against Lee’s rich narrative. However, the story itself—filled with moments that linger long after the last page—is what truly enchanted me.
The Bloodless Queen is a tapestry of emotions, lore, and thrilling stakes that will resonate with fans of lush sci-fi/fantasy and those who adore intricate world-building. If you appreciate stories where the ordinary intersects with the extraordinary and love books that make you contemplate what it means to protect those we hold dear, this one is a must-read. The experience reminded me of why I indulge in fiction: to explore the realms of our imagination while reflecting on the depths of our humanity.
So, if you’re ready to dive into a world where love battles chaos, where haunted pasts and fierce present realities collide, grab a copy of The Bloodless Queen—your next adventure awaits!