The Star-Touched Queen

The Star-Touched Queen by Roshani Chokshi surrounds Princess Maya, who is unlike any of the Raja’s other children. Feeling cursed by the stars, Maya’s horoscope foretells of a marriage of death and destruction. Having been rejected by the kingdom for this, Maya is content to spend her life studying, until a lengthy war changes this. In an effort for peace, the Raja arranged for a wedding ceremony between Maya and one of the enemy, but this turns bloody when both sides double-cross each other. Saved by a mysterious suitor, Maya then becomes the betrothed to a God of another world.

I loved the rich description of Indian culture and mythology throughout this novel. Roshani does a great job of describing the lush environment of the castle as well as the enchanting world Maya lives in once she is saved. There are so many passages that are lyrically written and are worth stopping to reread. However, I did struggle with the plot leading up to the first major climax, and found it predictable. Still, it’s a beautifully written book about a culture that needs much more representation in young adult literature.