Who Would Like This Book:
Looking for a cozy escape wrapped in a dash of magic and a heap of heart? 'The Sugar Queen' delivers just that! With endearing, quirky characters (including a book-loving heroine whose life is literally visited by the titles she needs most!), it's a whimsical tale of friendship, self-discovery, and the courage to change. Allen uses vivid settings, a sprinkle of the supernatural, and plenty of tasty descriptions to sweeten the journey. If you love stories that combine feel-good relationships, a Southern small-town vibe, and just the right amount of magical realism, this book is a treat - especially for anyone who's ever sought solace in sweets or stories.
Who May Not Like This Book:
Some readers found the story predictable and a little too sweet, with the magical elements feeling more like convenient plot devices than layered fantasy. If you're not a fan of romance or prefer your fiction with more grit and less frosting, you might crave more depth or originality here. Those wanting complex character exploration or a fresh twist on magical realism may find 'The Sugar Queen' a bit light and formulaic, and readers sensitive to clichés around comfort eating or mother-daughter drama could be underwhelmed.
About:
The Sugar Queen by Sarah Addison Allen is a light, magical novel that follows the story of Josey Cirrini, a young woman trapped by the demands of her mother and seeking a different existence. Her life takes an unexpected turn when Della Lee appears in her closet, becoming a catalyst for change. The book weaves together elements of romance, family relationships, and magic, creating a heartwarming and funny atmosphere filled with a sense of longing. Readers are introduced to diverse and interesting characters, including one who is followed by books that appear as she needs them, adding a touch of whimsy to the story. Despite the magical elements, the writing style is easy and enjoyable, making The Sugar Queen a sweet and engaging read.
Sarah Addison Allen's writing in The Sugar Queen is described as gentle, quiet, and enchanting, drawing readers into a world where the characters are relatable and the stories are unique. The plot moves at a pace that keeps the reader's interest, with quirky, warm characters who navigate themes of love, family, loss, and a touch of magic. The book is praised for its ability to evoke emotions, create a sense of comfort akin to a Hallmark movie, and provide surprises that keep readers engaged. The author's talent for incorporating magical realism into her stories is highlighted, with readers expressing anticipation for her next book and admiration for the enchanting qualities of The Sugar Queen.
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Notes:
Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
The book includes themes of past trauma, emotional abuse, and infidelity which may be triggering for some readers.
Has Romance?
The romance element is present but is not the sole focus—it intertwines with themes of friendship and self-discovery.
From The Publisher:
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER
In this irresistible novel, Sarah Addison Allen, author of the bestselling debut, Garden Spells, tells the tale of a young woman whose family secrets-and secret passions-are about to change her life forever.
Brimming with warmth, wit, and a sprinkling of magic, here is a spellbinding tale of friendship, love-and the enchanting possibilities of every new day.
Praise for The Sugar Queen
"Like the most decadently addictive bonbons, once started, Allen's magically entrancing novel is impossible to put down."-Booklist (starred review)
"Bewitching . . . Such a pleasurable book."-Publishers Weekly
Ratings (36)
Incredible (2) | |
Loved It (19) | |
Liked It (11) | |
It Was OK (2) | |
Did Not Like (1) | |
Hated It (1) |
Reader Stats (74):
Read It (39) | |
Want To Read (29) | |
Did Not Finish (1) | |
Not Interested (5) |
3 comment(s)
“The Sugar Queen” is a novel filled with secrets, magic and growing into oneself. Josey Cirrini is a twenty-seven year old woman living with her mother, Margaret, in Bald Slope, North Carolina. Josey was born when her mother was forty-seven and her father was in his late sixties. The Cirrini’s are are local royalty in town since her father, Marco created the Bald Slope Resort decades ago and created a much needed economic boost for the town. Josey was a unruly child with a reputation for being a terror and after her father’s death at the age of nine, Josey makes it her life’s mission to become respectful for the sake of her mother.
Josey copes with a limited life chauffeuring her mother around and interacting with no one. Nightly, Josey takes solace in her closet stockpile of sugary treats and paperback romance novels. As Josey prepares to indulge in her sugary snacks one night, she’s surprised to find Della Lee Baker, a local waitress, hiding in her closet. Josey and Della Lee eventually make a deal to keep Della Lee’s location secret while Della Lee keeps Josey’s stockpile a secret.
As the novel progresses, Della Lee directs Josey into meeting new people and over time, Josey begins to become more independent. Margaret becomes jealous of Josey’s newfound friendship with a local restaurant owner Chloe and her romantic relationship with local mailman Adam. By the end of the novel, the relationship between Josey and Margaret is forever changed.
I liked this novel since it was a quick and light read. Also,
as someone who enjoys eating candy, I liked that each of the fourteen chapters were titled after candy and directly connected to the events occurring in the chapter.
Sarah Addison Allen is a magician in herself. She is able to put a tinge of magic somehow in her stories. I loved the story of Josey Cirrini, a rich woman but no dreams of her own meets Della lee in her closet. Della lee stays in the closet and helps Josey to find a friend Chloe Finley, love as Adam and a life far away from her mother.
I was a good read with lots of sweets and magic :)
Plot, relationships
What can you read after
The Sugar Queen?
About the Author:
Sarah Addison Allen is the author of The Peach Keeper, The Girl Who Chased the Moon, Garden Spells, and The Sugar Queen. She was born and raised in Asheville, North Carolina.
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