Common Sense Media Review
By Michael Berry
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Faerie queen in exile plots revenge in captivating fantasy.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
What's the Story?
As THE STOLEN HEIR opens, Suren thinks she gave up court intrigue years ago, but her mother has different ideas for her. Now Suren must travel to the Ice Needle Citadel, in the company of the boy to whom she was once betrothed, all while fighting off monsters made from sticks and snow.
Is It Any Good?
It can be fun to watch fantasy writers experiment with new characters, and this spin-off offers ample evidence that author Holly Black was ready for a change-up. Black works at her usual high standards, offering plenty of action and whip-smart dialogue. Suren is crafty yet vulnerable, often surprising herself with what she's capable of. Prince Oak is the perfect male lead for The Stolen Heir, constantly keeping Suren on her toes as they test each other's trustworthiness. If it's court intrigue you want, The Stolen Heir overflows with it, artfully setting the stage for the conclusion of the duology.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about The Stolen Heir and how it reflects Celtic mythology and folklore. Why are fantasies about faerie folk so popular?
What would it be like to never be able to tell a lie?Would such a rule make your life easier or more difficult?
What are some of the civic challenges of monarchies? Why are some governments based on bloodlines?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Fantasy
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic , Fairy Tales )
- Character Strengths : Courage , Perseverance , Teamwork
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
- Publication date : January 3, 2023
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 14 - 18
- Number of pages : 358
- Available on : Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Award : Common Sense Selection
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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