The Queen's Resistance: The Queen's Rising
#2 of 2 in The Queen's Rising Series
on Goodreads (10,329)
What’s inside...
At long last, Brienna is a mistress of knowledge and is settling into her role as the daughter of Davin MacQuinn, the disgraced lord who returned to Maevana to reclaim his House. Though she’s just survived a revolution that will finally put a queen on the throne, she faces yet another challenge: acceptance by the MacQuinns. But as Queen Isolde Kavanagh’s closest confidant, she’ll have to balance serving her father’s House with serving her country. And then there’s Cartier. Aodhan Morgane, formerly known as Cartier Évariste, is adjusting to the stark contrast between his pre-rebellion life in Valenia and his current one as lord of a fallen House. During his castle’s restoration, he discovers Tomas, a young boy whose past is a mystery. So when Brienna is as taken with Tomas as he is, Cartier lets his mind wander—what if he doesn’t have to raise him or his House alone? However, Brienna and Cartier must put their love aside and stay focused on the most vital tasks at hand—the Lannons' trial, forging alliances, executing justice, and ensuring that no one halts the queen’s coronation. But resistance is rumbling among the old regime’s supporters, who are desperate to find a weakness in the rebels’ forces. And what makes one more vulnerable than love? In this epic follow-up to The Queen's Rising, Rebecca Ross weaves political intrigue, complicated relationships, and undying love to create a story that readers won't be able to put down.
Character compass
Brienna
Isolde Kavanagh
Cartier Evariste
Discussion points
How do you think Brienna felt when she struggled to find her passion, and how did it change when she finally discovered it?
What are some qualities of a good leader that you noticed in Queen Isolde?
How do the characters in the book show courage and resilience against adversity?
What would you have done differently if you were in Brienna's shoes during a critical moment in the story?
How do you think the concept of 'family' is explored in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the world of the book. Ask them what role they might have played.
Discuss the historical and cultural aspects of the book. Help your child make connections with the current world or their personal experiences.
Highlight the growth of characters over time. Discuss with your child the idea of growth through challenges.
Relate discussions to real-world examples of leadership and resilience to make the conversation more tangible for your child.
Praise efforts to analyze character motivations and story outcomes, reinforcing critical thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience and perseverance
Explanation: The protagonist, Brienna, faces numerous challenges but consistently demonstrates resilience and perseverance. Despite uncertainties in her journey, she remains steadfast and committed.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to stay determined and keep trying even when faced with difficulties in school or during extracurricular activities.
Example Lesson: Importance of education and knowledge
Explanation: Brienna's success is largely due to her education and the knowledge she acquires at Magnalia House. Her intellectual growth plays a crucial role in her journey.
Real-World Application: Emphasizes to children the value of paying attention in school and being curious learners, as education can empower them to achieve their goals.
Example Lesson: Building meaningful relationships
Explanation: Throughout the book, Brienna forms deep and meaningful relationships that support and enrich her life. These relationships are pivotal to her personal and professional growth.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to foster strong, supportive friendships and teaches them the importance of collaboration and empathy in relationships.
Example Lesson: Courage to stand up for justice
Explanation: Brienna is often faced with moral dilemmas and chooses to stand up for what is right, demonstrating courage and integrity.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of standing up against wrongdoing and advocating for fairness, both in their immediate surroundings and the broader community.
Example Lesson: Self-discovery and identity
Explanation: As Brienna embarks on her quest, she learns more about her past and what she truly desires, leading to significant personal growth and self-discovery.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to explore their own interests and passions, helping them build a sense of identity and self-confidence.