Once a Queen
by Sarah Arthur
Fourteen-year-old Eva Joyce is expecting a quiet summer, but her world is turned upside down when she is sent to stay at her grandmother’s mysterious English manor. Eva soon realizes that the house and its staff are guarding ancient secrets, including the existence of fading portals to other worlds. Most shocking of all is the revelation that her grandmother was once a queen in one of these magical realms, though she has long since closed her heart to that past. As Eva investigates the strange occurrences in the gardens, she must decide if the fairy tales she loved as a child are actually true and discover her own place in this hidden legacy.
This enchanting novel is perfect for children who love the classic portal fantasies of C.S. Lewis and Madeleine L’Engle. It is ideal for readers interested in family mysteries, multigenerational stories, and the intersection of magic and reality. Sarah Arthur crafts a richly woven tale that explores the weight of the past and the wonder of the unknown, making it a great choice for fans of The Chronicles of Narnia looking for a fresh, modern take on the genre.
Highlights:
- A captivating portal fantasy set in a mysterious English manor house.
- Explores deep themes of family secrets, healing, and rediscovered wonder.
- Perfect for fans of classic literature like The Chronicles of Narnia and A Wrinkle in Time.
- A strong, relatable 14-year-old protagonist on a journey of self-discovery.
- The first installment in a promising new epic fantasy series.