Step into the thrilling world of The Red Queen’s War, where dark magic, political intrigue, and a roguish prince collide in a fantasy saga that’s as witty as it is epic! Written by Mark Lawrence, this trilogy spins a tale of reluctant heroes, cunning queens, and a world teetering on the edge of chaos. Set in the same universe as Lawrence’s acclaimed Broken Empire trilogy, The Red Queen’s War follows Prince Jalan Kendeth, a charming coward who’d rather gamble and flirt than save the world—but fate has other plans.
With its blend of gritty adventure, Norse mythology, and laugh-out-loud humor, this series offers a fresh take on epic fantasy. Whether you’re drawn to complex characters or high-stakes quests, The Red Queen’s War delivers a ride you won’t forget!
How The Red Queen’s War Began
Mark Lawrence, a former research scientist with a knack for dark fantasy, crafted The Red Queen’s War as a lighter counterpart to his grim Broken Empire trilogy. Launched in 2014, the series was inspired by Lawrence’s love for flawed, relatable characters and intricate world-building. He wanted to explore a new perspective in the same post-apocalyptic world, introducing Jalan, a self-proclaimed scoundrel, and Snorri, a Viking warrior, whose unlikely bond drives the story. Lawrence’s goal was to balance humor and heart while delving into themes of destiny and redemption.
The Heart of The Red Queen’s War
The trilogy kicks off with Prince of Fools (2014), where Prince Jalan, tenth in line to the throne of Red March, gets magically bound to Snorri ver Snagason after escaping a deadly trap. Their quest to break the curse leads them into a war against the undead. The Liar’s Key (2015) ramps up the stakes as Jalan and Snorri chase Loki’s key, an artifact that can open any door—including one to death itself. The finale, The Wheel of Osheim (2016), sees Jalan facing his fears to stop a world-ending catastrophe. A novella, The New World (2023), follows Jalan and Snorri on a voyage to America, packed with Lawrence’s signature humor.
The series shines through its themes of fate versus free will, loyalty, and personal growth. Jalan’s transformation from a selfish prince to a reluctant hero is both hilarious and heartfelt, while Snorri’s tragic quest adds emotional depth. Set in a future Earth ravaged by a cataclysm, the world blends medieval aesthetics with Norse mythology and subtle sci-fi elements, like the mysterious Wheel of Osheim, which fuels magic. Lawrence’s prose is sharp, blending philosophical musings with Jalan’s cheeky narration, making every page a delight.
Why The Red Queen’s War Resonates
The Red Queen’s War has carved a niche in fantasy for its unique blend of grimdark and humor, appealing to fans of George R.R. Martin and Joe Abercrombie. Readers praise Jalan and Snorri’s dynamic, often comparing their banter to classic literary duos like Legolas and Gimli. The series’ exploration of power dynamics, embodied by the Red Queen’s secretive war, resonates with those who love political intrigue. Its lasting appeal lies in its relatable characters and unpredictable plot, earning it a loyal following and high ratings on platforms like Goodreads.
- Publication Years: 2014–2016 (main trilogy), 2023 (novella)
- Number of Books: 3 novels, 1 novella
- Setting: Post-apocalyptic Earth with Norse and medieval influences
Grab Prince of Fools and dive into The Red Queen’s War’s wild, witty world of fantasy adventure!