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Cover of QUEEN OF FACES

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QUEEN OF FACES

Petra Lord

Anabelle Gage is caught between two warring factions while her own life is on the line. (Ages 14 to 18)

Ages 14+Source checked

Why this age? The novel’s YA fantasy conflicts, threats, prejudice, and identity themes call for some emotional maturity, though sexual content appears limited and violence is not notably graphic. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age14+

Strongest cautions

  • LGBTQIA characters5/5
  • Frightening scenes3/5
  • Violence3/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Creativity & curiosity4/5
  • Diverse representation3/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character2/5
Why this rating?

The stakes involve the risk of death, and some supporting characters perish during the plot.

Graphic injury1/5
Why this rating?

Minor, non-gratuitous mentions of wounds or blood typical of the fantasy genre.

Strong language2/5
Why this rating?

Uses occasional mild strong language consistent with the genre.

LGBTQIA characters5/5
Why this rating?

Queer identity and relationships appear central to the main characters and the novel’s story, rather than merely incidental representation.

Religious themes2/5
Why this rating?

Fictional beliefs, mythology, or spiritual world-building appear in the setting, but religion is not a dominant focus.

Romance2/5
Why this rating?

Features burgeoning romantic interest and emotional subplots typical for YA.

Frightening scenes3/5
Why this rating?

Tense moments and atmospheric threats, but not designed to be overtly frightening.

Sexual content & nudity1/5
Why this rating?

Minimal, focused mostly on romantic tension rather than explicit content.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

Possible casual drinking in social or banquet settings is minor and not a central theme; no stronger substance use is indicated.

Violence3/5
Why this rating?

Contains fantasy combat, magical skirmishes, and some depictions of injury.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

Characters face danger and social pressure by asserting their identities and standing up for themselves and others.

Creativity & curiosity4/5
Why this rating?

Its face-changing fantasy premise and imaginative world encourage curiosity about identity, transformation, and alternative ways of living.

Diverse representation3/5
Why this rating?

The novel centers queer representation and explores difference, belonging, and varied identities with meaningful character agency.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Encourages critical thinking regarding power dynamics and social perception.

Kindness & empathy3/5
Why this rating?

Empathy, friendship, solidarity, and chosen-family support are important sources of strength in the story.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

Strong themes affirm self-acceptance, resisting oppressive expectations, finding community, and challenging prejudice.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Characters show loyalty, resilience, and growth while confronting fear and unfair systems, though they can make difficult choices.

Family discussion

Talk about it

Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. What did courage look like in this story? Was being brave always the same as being fearless?
  2. How are identity and relationships presented, and how do they shape the characters’ experiences?
  3. Which choice in QUEEN OF FACES would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in QUEEN OF FACES, and what caused that change?
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Dark Lord of DerkholmDiana Wynne Jones · 1998Ages 14+Drowned Ammet (Dalemark Quartet, Book 2)Diana Wynne Jones · 1977Ages 12+Cart and Cwidder (The Dalemark Quartet)Diana Wynne Jones · 1975Ages 12+The Secret AdversaryAgatha Christie · 1922Ages 13+

These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

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