The True Queen

The True Queen is a fantasy novel set in Regency-era Britain and follows two sisters from Malacca who lose their memories on a magical beach. One sister, Muna, must venture into London's magical society to rescue her sister Sakti after strange events separate them. The story combines elements of British manners and romance with Malaysian magic and folklore. Muna navigates both the strict social rules of London's elite and the complex politics between human and fairy realms, while trying to understand her own identity and magical abilities. Characters from Cho's previous novel Sorcerer to the Crown appear in this standalone sequel, though reading the first book is not required. The narrative centers on themes of sisterhood, belonging, and the intersection of different magical traditions in a colonized world. This tale explores questions of memory, identity, and power through the lens of both intimate family bonds and larger societal structures. The cultural dynamics between Britain and Malaya provide context for deeper examinations of how magic and politics shape personal relationships.

Readers call this a lighter, funnier follow-up to Sorcerer to the Crown, though many note it works as a standalone. The Malaysian-inspired elements and sister relationship between Muna and Sakti earned particular praise. Several reviewers highlighted the sharp dialogue and political intrigue woven throughout. Likes: - Character dynamics and romance - Dragons and magical world-building - Integration of colonialism themes - Humor and witty banter Dislikes: - Slower pacing in middle sections - Less focus on previous book's characters - Some found the plot resolution rushed - Romance felt underdeveloped to some readers Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (4,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.3/5 (190+ ratings) LibraryThing: 3.9/5 (150+ ratings) "The sister relationship feels authentic and drives the story" - Goodreads reviewer "Clever commentary on power and privilege wrapped in a fun fantasy" - Amazon review "Missing some of the spark that made the first book special" - LibraryThing review

Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell by Susanna Clarke A story of rival magicians in Regency England combines historical fiction with magic and political intrigue through British-Malaysian relations.

Sorcerer to the Crown by Zen Cho The first book in the series explores the same magical Regency England setting through the lens of race, power, and social obligations.

The House of Shattered Wings by Aliette de Bodard Post-apocalyptic Paris becomes the backdrop for fallen angels, Vietnamese dragons, and magical politics in a colonial-influenced fantasy world.

The Midnight Bargain by C. L. Polk A young woman navigates marriage, magic, and societal restrictions in a Regency-inspired fantasy world where women must choose between sorcery and family life.

The Goblin Emperor by Katherine Addison A mixed-race heir navigates court politics and cultural identity while ruling an empire in a fantasy world with complex social hierarchies.

🌟 Author Zen Cho was born in Malaysia and moved to the UK to study law at Cambridge University, bringing a unique multicultural perspective to her fantasy writing. 🔮 The True Queen is the second book in the Sorcerer Royal series, which reimagines Regency-era England with magic, but can be read as a standalone novel. 🐉 The book draws heavily from Malay folklore and mythology, incorporating traditional creatures like the pontianak (a female vampire) and weaving them into British magical society. 👑 Unlike many Regency-era fantasy novels, The True Queen centers on Asian protagonists and explores themes of colonialism and power dynamics between East and West. ✨ The novel won the 2020 British Fantasy Award for Best Fantasy Novel, establishing Zen Cho as a significant voice in historical fantasy fiction.