Parents' Guide to

The Imposter Queen

By Andrea Beach, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 12+

Magical fantasy a fine escape for fans.

Book Sarah Fine Fantasy 2016
The Imposter Queen Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

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

Community Reviews

See all
age 8+

Based on 2 parent reviews

Lebron12James3
Lebron12James3 Parent
December 10, 2021
age 2+

THIS BOOK IS SUSSY

THIS BOOK IS CALLED THE IMPOSTER QUEEN AND THAT IS SUS BECAUSE IT IS IMPOSTER LIKE IN THE VIDEO GAME SUS
Papade3
Papade3 Adult
August 9, 2018
age 13+

Not very exciting not for youngsters

The book didnt have much valuable content. It is a simple novel in which sex is trying to sneak in but it doesnt. It has some descriptions of physical sensations between the characters developibg attraction which could be unappropiate for children under 12.
See all 2 parent reviews

What's the Story?

Elli was identified as the next queen of Kupari when she was about 4 years old. At that time she was taken from her mother to live a lonely, isolated life with only a few adults for company while she was prepared for her future role. Now Elli's 16, and when the current queen dies after saving the country from an invasion, Elli has to undergo the ritual that will bind the previous queen's magic to her. But something goes wrong, and Elli emerges with no magic whatsoever. How can she rule and keep her people safe without magic? With her country on the verge of being invaded, THE IMPOSTER QUEEN will have to find a way to restore her country -- and her belief in herself.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (2 ):
Kids say (4 ):

This well-balanced story has plenty of elements for fantasy fans to enjoy. Magic, action, intrigue, and romance combine in an imaginative world that's well realized. Tweens and teens will relate to Elli's feelings of uncertainty about herself and root for her as she discovers she has more to offer the world than she thought.

Although the various elements are woven together well and the plot keeps the pages turning, there's not a great deal of depth or richness to provide appeal outside the genre. It's a fun, light read that fantasy lovers will enjoy, with an ending that satisfies while leaving the door open for more.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about why fantasies are so popular. Why do we love them so much?

  • If you lived in Kupari, would you rather have ice magic, fire magic, or no magic at all? Why?

  • Did you find the ending satisfying? Would you like this to become a series? What do you think the future holds for Elli?

Book Details

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

See all recommended book lists

Related Topics

Want suggestions based on your streaming services? Get personalized recommendations

Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.

See how we rate