The Hemlock Queen

By: Hannah Whitten

Narrated by: Emily Ellet

In the second installment of New York Times bestselling author Hannah Whitten’s lush romantic epic fantasy series, the glittering and dangerous world of the Sainted King’s royal court is upended when Prince Bastian seizes control and a mysterious dark force begins to take over.

The corrupt king August is dead. Prince Bastian has seized the throne and raised Lore—a necromancer and former smuggler—to his right-hand side. Together they plan to cut out the rot from the heart of the royal court and help the people of Dellaire. But not everyone is happy with the changes. The nobles are sowing dissent, the Kirythean Empire is beating down their door, and Lore’s old allies are pulling away. Even Prince Bastian has changed. No longer the hopeful, rakish, charismatic man Lore knows and loves, instead he’s become reckless, domineering, and cold.

And something has been whispering in her ear. A voice, dark and haunting, that’s telling her there’s more to the story than she knows and more to her power than she can even imagine. A truth buried deep that could change everything.

With Bastian’s coronation fast approaching and enemies whispering on all sides, Lore must figure out how to protect herself, her prince, and her country before they all come crumbling down and whatever dark power has been creeping through the catacombs is unleashed.

Critic reviews

"Hannah Whitten is a world-building powerhouse! The Sainted King's court feels like a glittering chandelier—bright and brilliant to behold, with faceted edges sharp enough to kill. I was dazzled."—Erin A. Craig, #1 New York Times bestselling author of House of Roots and Ruin

a great sequel

This really broadened the story, which was nice. The first book felt like it was over or could end there, but this one really brought the world into perspective.

Great story!

I loved the story. The narrator’s voice was fine until she did Lore’s dialogue. Still highly recommend this book even if the narrator was a bit cringy at times.

Another great installment

The character development and the back stories are great although at times it felt a little slow it's still well worth it. I can't wait for the next book!

Narrators voice is painful!!

I love the story but Lores voice is so painful to listen to hour after hour! Tired, scratchy, croaky, not suited for a strong female character. I’m not sure i can go through this again with the last book.

Great book

I love Hannah Whitten’s books! This book is exciting with great twists and turns. Her storytelling makes you feel submersed in the world she creates.