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The Opal Mask #2
The Opal Crown
In the year since she was betrothed to the crown prince of Kyrenica, no one has suspected that the Masked Princess has been a decoy. That Elara, the secret twin sister, has been pretending to be Princess Wilha all along. The royal family has kept Elara’s identity hidden from the world, and for the girls, swapping lives has not been easy. Galandra is quickly declining, and the sisters continue to be a pawn in the Guardian’s ever-changing endgames.
But the stakes rise when Elara and Wilha’s younger brother, Andrei, takes the Galandrian throne after their father's death, and he reveals the girls' deception to Kyrenica’s royal family. Viewed as traitors, Elara and Wilha realize they are now fighting for their lives—and for their country. However, with only one crown and one throne to overthrow, Elara and Wilha must decide who will become queen. Or rather, the next savior for their people.
But the stakes rise when Elara and Wilha’s younger brother, Andrei, takes the Galandrian throne after their father's death, and he reveals the girls' deception to Kyrenica’s royal family. Viewed as traitors, Elara and Wilha realize they are now fighting for their lives—and for their country. However, with only one crown and one throne to overthrow, Elara and Wilha must decide who will become queen. Or rather, the next savior for their people.
368 pages, Paperback
First published October 21, 2014
About the author
Jenny Lundquist
7 books437 followersJenny Lundquist grew up in Huntington Beach, California, wearing glasses and wishing they had magic powers. They didn't, but they did help her earn a degree in intercultural studies at Biola University. Jenny has painted an orphanage in Mexico, taught English at a university in Russia, and hopes one day to write a book at a café in Paris. Jenny and her husband live in northern California with their two sons and Rambo, the world's whiniest cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
December 25, 2014
3.5 Stars
This sequel to the exciting The Princess in the Opal Mask and conclusion to the duology did not disappoint, nor cease to keep my interest. Albeit a bit immature and watered down in terms of the political aspect, The Opal Crown was cute and fluffy and huggable after an influx of darker books.
Yes, there were inconsistencies and yes, there were plot holes. But if you're a book reviewer like me and tire of analyzing every book you read and just want something to take your mind off of things, then this is the book you should be gravitating towards. It's almost like a Disney movie; you know some aspects of it are a bit ridiculous but you still find yourself gobbling every word of it.
That's not to say that this book's value should be undermined, though. The main characters are pretty well-developed and go through interesting character arcs, specifically Wilha. Their growth and development over the course of the two books is realistic and gradual; something you won't find in a lot of other books of the genre.
I feel like a lot of unnecessary drama was very superficially created. They were easy to see through, and could have easily been solved if not for the characters' aversion to acting before thinking. Hey, I'm not a particularly rational human being, but even I noticed the intentional drama created for the sake of speeding things up.
Like the first book, the plot relied too heavily on cliches. There were some instances where I felt things were solved too easily that in the end I didn't feel any sense of urgency or fear that the characters will not survive.
If it were another book, these issues would have compelled me to set--no, throw--the book aside. But it's The Opal Freaking Crown, and I loved every second of reading it. If you're in the mood for a simple, lovable fantasy story, then I'd definitely recommend The Opal Mask duology. It doesn't set out to be either complex or innovative; but it is memorable in its right.
This sequel to the exciting The Princess in the Opal Mask and conclusion to the duology did not disappoint, nor cease to keep my interest. Albeit a bit immature and watered down in terms of the political aspect, The Opal Crown was cute and fluffy and huggable after an influx of darker books.
Yes, there were inconsistencies and yes, there were plot holes. But if you're a book reviewer like me and tire of analyzing every book you read and just want something to take your mind off of things, then this is the book you should be gravitating towards. It's almost like a Disney movie; you know some aspects of it are a bit ridiculous but you still find yourself gobbling every word of it.
That's not to say that this book's value should be undermined, though. The main characters are pretty well-developed and go through interesting character arcs, specifically Wilha. Their growth and development over the course of the two books is realistic and gradual; something you won't find in a lot of other books of the genre.
I feel like a lot of unnecessary drama was very superficially created. They were easy to see through, and could have easily been solved if not for the characters' aversion to acting before thinking. Hey, I'm not a particularly rational human being, but even I noticed the intentional drama created for the sake of speeding things up.
Like the first book, the plot relied too heavily on cliches. There were some instances where I felt things were solved too easily that in the end I didn't feel any sense of urgency or fear that the characters will not survive.
If it were another book, these issues would have compelled me to set--no, throw--the book aside. But it's The Opal Freaking Crown, and I loved every second of reading it. If you're in the mood for a simple, lovable fantasy story, then I'd definitely recommend The Opal Mask duology. It doesn't set out to be either complex or innovative; but it is memorable in its right.
November 12, 2014
I love these books and The Opal Crown is a worthy sequel to The Princess in the Opal Mask. It's full of scheming characters with two very different twins stuck in the middle of a kingdom's battle for power. Another voice is added in book two--the twins' brother Andrei--and he adds a depth and dimension to an already colorful story. If you're looking for a clean, unique, well-written fantasy, I'd highly recommend these books.
May 30, 2015
After reaching the ending of The Princess in the Opal Mask, I grabbed this book off my stack of almost-due library books and kept right on reading.
Warning: This review will have a few spoilers for book one in it, so I wouldn't recommend reading it unless you'd already read the first book.
So, we kind of jumped forward in time with this book. Admittedly, it was a little disconcerting at first, but things straightened out a bit.
I liked how Andrei was a bigger part of this book, and all the tension/uncertainty over who would be the best to rule the kingdom of Galandria. I also liked watching the characters grow and overcome their faults in the midst of everything going on around them. Particularly, the question of loyalty in the siblings relationships was done really well, I think. I felt badly for Wilha, who was trying so hard to get Elara to understand what it was like to grow up in the palace and what kind of situations it created. I spent most of this book waffling back and forth between Wilha and Elara on the who-was-most-sympathetic side, and though I liked Elara better, Wilha was just all around less frustrating in this book.
Kyrenica doesn't have much of a part in this sequel, and I feel like Steffan got a bit neglected. (Although, I have to say I'm pleased with the way things ended up between him and Elara.) I also kind of wondered about Wilha's friends from book one, who weren't so much as mentioned in this book.
There was really only one major reveal here, and unlike in The Princess in the Opal Mask, I can honestly say I did not see it coming. It definitely added another layer of depth to the whole conflict, so I liked it.
Overall, I'm pretty satisfied with this concluding sequel, although I do wish certain things had been more consistent throughout the two books. I heartily approve of the ending.
A fun, light fantasy duo geared toward teens but appropriate for younger readers, which is something I appreciate immensely.
Warning: This review will have a few spoilers for book one in it, so I wouldn't recommend reading it unless you'd already read the first book.
So, we kind of jumped forward in time with this book. Admittedly, it was a little disconcerting at first, but things straightened out a bit.
I liked how Andrei was a bigger part of this book, and all the tension/uncertainty over who would be the best to rule the kingdom of Galandria. I also liked watching the characters grow and overcome their faults in the midst of everything going on around them. Particularly, the question of loyalty in the siblings relationships was done really well, I think. I felt badly for Wilha, who was trying so hard to get Elara to understand what it was like to grow up in the palace and what kind of situations it created. I spent most of this book waffling back and forth between Wilha and Elara on the who-was-most-sympathetic side, and though I liked Elara better, Wilha was just all around less frustrating in this book.
Kyrenica doesn't have much of a part in this sequel, and I feel like Steffan got a bit neglected. (Although, I have to say I'm pleased with the way things ended up between him and Elara.) I also kind of wondered about Wilha's friends from book one, who weren't so much as mentioned in this book.
There was really only one major reveal here, and unlike in The Princess in the Opal Mask, I can honestly say I did not see it coming. It definitely added another layer of depth to the whole conflict, so I liked it.
Overall, I'm pretty satisfied with this concluding sequel, although I do wish certain things had been more consistent throughout the two books. I heartily approve of the ending.
A fun, light fantasy duo geared toward teens but appropriate for younger readers, which is something I appreciate immensely.
March 9, 2015
This was SO good. I loved seeing each girl grow and struggle. The story is so unique and has so many great messages without being preachy at all it's just a very fun adventure. It has just the right amount of romance, fighting, political drama, and mystery. This is now one of my favorite series. I love the way the different histories and experiences of each characters come into play with this story. If you haven't read the first book do it. ANd if you have read it you MUST read this asap because it's great.
July 29, 2014
I am crying happy tears! That was the perfect ending I loved it!!! I'm going to miss this works though I wish there was more!
January 1, 2015
Such a great book! A great way to finish the series off! Nicely done Lundquist. :)
April 30, 2015
My entire review will be a spoiler pretty much so be warned.
November 10, 2014
I received a signed, advance uncorrected proof copy for free from Goodreads Giveaways. Along with swag, 2 beautiful bookmarks. Thank you so much! ::happy fingers::
I thoroughly enjoyed this sequel to 'The Princess in the Opal Mask.' I loved that the twin princesses did not meekly accept their fate, or should I say their fate as decreed by their various advisors. Instead, they went about creating their own fate. Of course this didn't come easily. They both had their share of fighting, crying, bickering, and heartbreak, but they both grew into wonderfully strong, caring women because of it. There were a few plot twists I definitely didn't see coming. Yowza. I also appreciated the nice, tidy ending. I would highly recommend this to anyone who enjoyed the first book of the duology.
I thoroughly enjoyed this sequel to 'The Princess in the Opal Mask.' I loved that the twin princesses did not meekly accept their fate, or should I say their fate as decreed by their various advisors. Instead, they went about creating their own fate. Of course this didn't come easily. They both had their share of fighting, crying, bickering, and heartbreak, but they both grew into wonderfully strong, caring women because of it. There were a few plot twists I definitely didn't see coming. Yowza. I also appreciated the nice, tidy ending. I would highly recommend this to anyone who enjoyed the first book of the duology.
May 25, 2016
I knew as soon as I finished the The Princess in the Opal Mask that I wasn't going to like this book, I knew it! But being the glutton for punishment I am I read it anyway, and I am so not a happy camper right now. (-_-)
January 10, 2021
The Opal Crown by Jenny Lundquist fills in all of the gaps that were left behind by the Princess and the Pauper-inspired book, The Princess in the Opal Mask. I enjoyed The Princess in the Opal Mask, but was left with many questions after completing the final chapter. It leaves both girls in a delicate situation that is likely to fall apart at any moment. The Opal Crown conveys prcisely how that situation falls apart and how the girls must work together to save themselves, their kingdom, and choose how they will spend the rest of their lives. It is a fast-paced suspenseful adventure story that is superior to the original book in every way. This review will contain spoilers for The Princess in the Opal Mask, so be sure to read that first if it is a concern.
The Princess in the Opal Mask concludes with Princess Wilha choosing to give up her identity to her twin sister, Elara, who never got to experience the pleasures of royal life. In her final letter to Elara, Wilha claimed that she was going to "disappear" to give Elara the freedom and space she needed to be a true princess. This was a bit frustrating as a reader because Wilha had already built a new life for herself as a peasant and found a new family among the residents of a small village. It seemed like a shame for her to give all of that up when she worked so hard for it. In The Opal Crown, we learn that she did not stay true to her word to "disappear" and continues her position as a seamstress among her new friends at the inn. That is all well and good, but it causes problems for Elara, who married a prince under false pretenses and must wear Wilha's confining opal mask so that no one will notice she has a lookalike in town. It seems like an impossible situation. Anything that benefits one princess will harm the other.
The twins' new lives are interrupted early on when they are summoned back to their home kingdom by their brother, Andrei, who has been crowned king after the passing of their father. This creates a series of political schemes among the small handful of lords who are aware of the princesses' identities. Elara is taken into hiding, where one lord grooms her for a coup to steal the crown from her brother, while Wilha is brought to the castle where she must face the lord who attempted to murder her in the first book. Both princesses must find ways to communicate with each other to untangle the political schemes they are wrapped up in while trying to hide their connection from the wicked lord and the general public. In the process. Elara learns that she has a dark side that thirsts for power that she must learn to control, and Wilha realizes that she could do more good with the crown than she initially thought. They also attempt to speak to Andrei in secret to find out whether or not he is on their side and argue over how much of a role he plays in the kingdom's politics now that he is king.
The royal siblings have enough going on in their lives to have time to worry about romance. However, since the first book teased relationships for both girls that were left unresolved, this book helps to tie up some of those loose ends without spending a great deal of time on them. Elara finally comes clean to Prince Stefan about her true identity and must face the consequences for lying to him about who she was for the entirety of the first book. Wilha sorts out her feelings between the boy she met in the village and her swordsmanship trainer at the castle who she grew up with. It was nice to have some closure, but neither love story draws much attention away from the main plot of the book. At the end of the day, The Opal Crown is more about Elara learning to shed her gruff exterior and accept Wilha as the sister she never knew she had than it is about finding romantic love. Her relationship with her sister encompasses the true "happy ever after" of the book.
The Opal Crown should have been included as the second half of The Princess in the Opal Mask. The stories feel incomplete without each other, whereas together, they make a fantastic book. In a metaphorical sense, this is a good representation of the story's theme about how the sisters need each other to complete themselves. Elara is worldly and secretive, while Wilha is honest and humble. When the twins are united, they lend each other their strengths and become unstoppable. The Opal Crown is stronger overall due to faster pacing, sharper writing, and a more specific direction for the plot. I recommend reading both of these books in succession to fully grasp the author's vision.
The Princess in the Opal Mask concludes with Princess Wilha choosing to give up her identity to her twin sister, Elara, who never got to experience the pleasures of royal life. In her final letter to Elara, Wilha claimed that she was going to "disappear" to give Elara the freedom and space she needed to be a true princess. This was a bit frustrating as a reader because Wilha had already built a new life for herself as a peasant and found a new family among the residents of a small village. It seemed like a shame for her to give all of that up when she worked so hard for it. In The Opal Crown, we learn that she did not stay true to her word to "disappear" and continues her position as a seamstress among her new friends at the inn. That is all well and good, but it causes problems for Elara, who married a prince under false pretenses and must wear Wilha's confining opal mask so that no one will notice she has a lookalike in town. It seems like an impossible situation. Anything that benefits one princess will harm the other.
The twins' new lives are interrupted early on when they are summoned back to their home kingdom by their brother, Andrei, who has been crowned king after the passing of their father. This creates a series of political schemes among the small handful of lords who are aware of the princesses' identities. Elara is taken into hiding, where one lord grooms her for a coup to steal the crown from her brother, while Wilha is brought to the castle where she must face the lord who attempted to murder her in the first book. Both princesses must find ways to communicate with each other to untangle the political schemes they are wrapped up in while trying to hide their connection from the wicked lord and the general public. In the process. Elara learns that she has a dark side that thirsts for power that she must learn to control, and Wilha realizes that she could do more good with the crown than she initially thought. They also attempt to speak to Andrei in secret to find out whether or not he is on their side and argue over how much of a role he plays in the kingdom's politics now that he is king.
The royal siblings have enough going on in their lives to have time to worry about romance. However, since the first book teased relationships for both girls that were left unresolved, this book helps to tie up some of those loose ends without spending a great deal of time on them. Elara finally comes clean to Prince Stefan about her true identity and must face the consequences for lying to him about who she was for the entirety of the first book. Wilha sorts out her feelings between the boy she met in the village and her swordsmanship trainer at the castle who she grew up with. It was nice to have some closure, but neither love story draws much attention away from the main plot of the book. At the end of the day, The Opal Crown is more about Elara learning to shed her gruff exterior and accept Wilha as the sister she never knew she had than it is about finding romantic love. Her relationship with her sister encompasses the true "happy ever after" of the book.
The Opal Crown should have been included as the second half of The Princess in the Opal Mask. The stories feel incomplete without each other, whereas together, they make a fantastic book. In a metaphorical sense, this is a good representation of the story's theme about how the sisters need each other to complete themselves. Elara is worldly and secretive, while Wilha is honest and humble. When the twins are united, they lend each other their strengths and become unstoppable. The Opal Crown is stronger overall due to faster pacing, sharper writing, and a more specific direction for the plot. I recommend reading both of these books in succession to fully grasp the author's vision.
August 9, 2017
This is the sequel to The Princess in the Opal Mask. I loved that book and this one lived up to my expectations nicely.
Generally speaking, there are two kinds of princesses: those that grow up as peasants/commoners and don't know they are a princess, and those that grow up in the palace but still find their lives to be lacking. This book has both kinds, I don't know if that's ever happened before. On top of that, the two princesses are sisters, on top of that, they are identical twins, and on top of THAT, there is all manner of fun with masks involved.
I relate to Wilha more than Elara. She is the princess that has grown up in the palace, but under some very weird circumstances. She was forced to hid her face behind very ornate masks all her life. She had been very sheltered and lonely, and I was happy for her when, at the end of the first book, she changed places with Elara and ventured out on her own to live in the town. I guess part of me was hoping she would find happiness free from the rumors of The Masked Princess that followed her everywhere she went. Meanwhile, Elara was playing the part of The Masked Princess and falling in love with the prince - for real.
This book begins about six months after the first one ended. While Wilha did experience fun and freedom at first, she is now beginning to have second thoughts about the life that she walked away from. The lies are also beginning to catch up with Elara. She is growing closer to being found out for the fraud that she is. Although, I don't really agree that Elara's lie is as bad as everyone seems to think it is. I mean, she is a princess after all AND a rightful member of the Royal Family. Plus, she didn't just decide to commit this crime on her own. She was given no choice but to act as a decoy for the Crown Princess.
Eventually, Elara is caught and Wilha is found. Both girls are brought back to the Opal Palace. They return to a Galandria that is greatly changed from the way they left it. King Fennrick has died and their younger brother, Andrei, has taken the throne. But he is inexperienced and easily led astray by Lord Mercendor. The city is in shambles and people go hungry while the king throws lavish parties regularly. Naturally, many people begin to believe that the throne rightfully belongs to Wilha, who is King Fennrick's oldest child.
The rest of the book is about how Wilha and Elara go about revealing themselves to the people and eventually take the crown. The stakes are a lot higher in this book and there is a lot more danger, but it is well done in most cases. There were one or two things at the very end that I might have done differently, but overall, the story is great. Just so many elements that I love coming together in one story! Truly a joy to read.
I especially loved the scene where Whila and Elara remove their masks in public for the first time. Wilha asserts her will here for probably the first time and shows that she will not be pushed around anymore. She is a different person than the girl who ran away from the palace a year ago. I love that she has grown stronger, and I like her idea of having Twin Queens. I think this would have been a lovely thing - why can't they rule together? Everyone seemed to think it would not work, but I'm not so sure. Wilha and Elara, while very different, do get to know each other better in this book and realize that they care about each other.
Of course, I was very sad when the book ended. Ideally, I'd like 2 or 3 more sequels to this series - I just love these two princesses so much!!
Generally speaking, there are two kinds of princesses: those that grow up as peasants/commoners and don't know they are a princess, and those that grow up in the palace but still find their lives to be lacking. This book has both kinds, I don't know if that's ever happened before. On top of that, the two princesses are sisters, on top of that, they are identical twins, and on top of THAT, there is all manner of fun with masks involved.
I relate to Wilha more than Elara. She is the princess that has grown up in the palace, but under some very weird circumstances. She was forced to hid her face behind very ornate masks all her life. She had been very sheltered and lonely, and I was happy for her when, at the end of the first book, she changed places with Elara and ventured out on her own to live in the town. I guess part of me was hoping she would find happiness free from the rumors of The Masked Princess that followed her everywhere she went. Meanwhile, Elara was playing the part of The Masked Princess and falling in love with the prince - for real.
This book begins about six months after the first one ended. While Wilha did experience fun and freedom at first, she is now beginning to have second thoughts about the life that she walked away from. The lies are also beginning to catch up with Elara. She is growing closer to being found out for the fraud that she is. Although, I don't really agree that Elara's lie is as bad as everyone seems to think it is. I mean, she is a princess after all AND a rightful member of the Royal Family. Plus, she didn't just decide to commit this crime on her own. She was given no choice but to act as a decoy for the Crown Princess.
Eventually, Elara is caught and Wilha is found. Both girls are brought back to the Opal Palace. They return to a Galandria that is greatly changed from the way they left it. King Fennrick has died and their younger brother, Andrei, has taken the throne. But he is inexperienced and easily led astray by Lord Mercendor. The city is in shambles and people go hungry while the king throws lavish parties regularly. Naturally, many people begin to believe that the throne rightfully belongs to Wilha, who is King Fennrick's oldest child.
The rest of the book is about how Wilha and Elara go about revealing themselves to the people and eventually take the crown. The stakes are a lot higher in this book and there is a lot more danger, but it is well done in most cases. There were one or two things at the very end that I might have done differently, but overall, the story is great. Just so many elements that I love coming together in one story! Truly a joy to read.
I especially loved the scene where Whila and Elara remove their masks in public for the first time. Wilha asserts her will here for probably the first time and shows that she will not be pushed around anymore. She is a different person than the girl who ran away from the palace a year ago. I love that she has grown stronger, and I like her idea of having Twin Queens. I think this would have been a lovely thing - why can't they rule together? Everyone seemed to think it would not work, but I'm not so sure. Wilha and Elara, while very different, do get to know each other better in this book and realize that they care about each other.
Of course, I was very sad when the book ended. Ideally, I'd like 2 or 3 more sequels to this series - I just love these two princesses so much!!
May 31, 2017
I devoured this book in a day, that’s how good it was. Fantasy is my favourite genre but I rarely read anything without magic in it. This was a nice change; I should try more of those because I love the winner’s curse trilogy as well.
So in this book Elara and Wilha end up having to fight for the crown. There are so many twists and turns in this story that I found myself wanting to scream at the author. It was soo frustrating, but in a good way. The ending however was just not that good for me. The evil in me will only be satisfied when characters like Lord Mucendor get to suffer for a very long time; some characters do not deserve a quick death like that. Given Elara’s personality I have a feeling she would have sided with me in this one.
Throughout the book I wanted to knock some sense into Elara, everyone knows you are going to end up with Stefan and leave to rule another kingdom, that is the way these YA romances work, because of this I felt that her fighting for the crown was a waste of my time. I would have preferred her playing more of a supportive role for Wilha to rule. That and the fact that despite her being the actual first born, she didn’t really care about Galandria, she only saw the crown as a solution to her current situation. This book didn’t focus too much on romance. It was there but the couples aren’t that interesting. I don’t know if I should be happy that the author didn’t focus too much on romance because I also feel like it might be because the romance wasn’t all that great. It was just mediocre; there was nothing at all to get me excited about these ships. I think the first book was a lot better in that regard. I actually liked Wilha with James in the first book and not Patric. James is also another character who didn’t get his storyline wrapped up properly. As the book goes on it’s as though James never existed which is annoying. This could have been used as an opportunity for the people from these two kingdoms to come to a point where they could acknowledge that they were not in fact barbarians or dogs but two kingdoms separated by a family feud, just that. I would have at least liked to see James acknowledge that he had been ignorant with his stereotyping. I also think he deserved to know who Wilha was.
Wilha also got the chance to develop into something more. Her experiences made her stronger and she was now willing to step up and take control. I liked that in this book. In the first book she is just there, it didn’t feel like her story but this time she managed to own her part in this story I liked that. In my review on The Princess in the Opal Mask I mentioned how I would have liked more POVs because there are interesting characters who would have made it more interesting. I still think that...yes we did get Andrei’s point of view but it wasn’t that important considering we already knew Lord Mucendor was up to no good as always. Maybe Lord Mucendor’s POV would have been more interesting...just a thought..With all of that plotting I would have wanted to know his motivations.
Overall I think this wasn’t as good as the first book but I still enjoyed it. I didn’t like that ending but it wrapped up the story just fine. You won’t be left with too much to wonder about. I definitely recommend this duology if you just want an easy story to fall into. It is well written and has just the right amount of action to keep things interesting
So in this book Elara and Wilha end up having to fight for the crown. There are so many twists and turns in this story that I found myself wanting to scream at the author. It was soo frustrating, but in a good way. The ending however was just not that good for me. The evil in me will only be satisfied when characters like Lord Mucendor get to suffer for a very long time; some characters do not deserve a quick death like that. Given Elara’s personality I have a feeling she would have sided with me in this one.
Throughout the book I wanted to knock some sense into Elara, everyone knows you are going to end up with Stefan and leave to rule another kingdom, that is the way these YA romances work, because of this I felt that her fighting for the crown was a waste of my time. I would have preferred her playing more of a supportive role for Wilha to rule. That and the fact that despite her being the actual first born, she didn’t really care about Galandria, she only saw the crown as a solution to her current situation. This book didn’t focus too much on romance. It was there but the couples aren’t that interesting. I don’t know if I should be happy that the author didn’t focus too much on romance because I also feel like it might be because the romance wasn’t all that great. It was just mediocre; there was nothing at all to get me excited about these ships. I think the first book was a lot better in that regard. I actually liked Wilha with James in the first book and not Patric. James is also another character who didn’t get his storyline wrapped up properly. As the book goes on it’s as though James never existed which is annoying. This could have been used as an opportunity for the people from these two kingdoms to come to a point where they could acknowledge that they were not in fact barbarians or dogs but two kingdoms separated by a family feud, just that. I would have at least liked to see James acknowledge that he had been ignorant with his stereotyping. I also think he deserved to know who Wilha was.
Wilha also got the chance to develop into something more. Her experiences made her stronger and she was now willing to step up and take control. I liked that in this book. In the first book she is just there, it didn’t feel like her story but this time she managed to own her part in this story I liked that. In my review on The Princess in the Opal Mask I mentioned how I would have liked more POVs because there are interesting characters who would have made it more interesting. I still think that...yes we did get Andrei’s point of view but it wasn’t that important considering we already knew Lord Mucendor was up to no good as always. Maybe Lord Mucendor’s POV would have been more interesting...just a thought..With all of that plotting I would have wanted to know his motivations.
Overall I think this wasn’t as good as the first book but I still enjoyed it. I didn’t like that ending but it wrapped up the story just fine. You won’t be left with too much to wonder about. I definitely recommend this duology if you just want an easy story to fall into. It is well written and has just the right amount of action to keep things interesting
September 19, 2017
****SPOILERS*****
Very good sequel. Because of the unfinished ending (if you can call it that) of the first one this one was set up for success.
The two princess's view points were different yet similar. In the first book Elara and Wilhamina I felt were too similar, almost the same person in the beginning. But then towards the end of the first book they started showing their differences and in the book it definitely shone through.
I must say that the characterization of Stephan wasn't all that great. He was just another Ken from Barbies dream house much like from many other of the princess books out there. Where the guy the princess or girl falls in love with is tall and blonde or brown hair and handsome with a fine jaw.
Patric I found a bit more refreshing with his stoic business like manner and black hair! Now I have yet to read a Ken with black curly hair! Usually that color is reserved for bad guys only. Although I can't say Patric's characterization was all that amazing either since it got more clique when he told her that "he loved her! Oh and Don't go!" But I can get over it since I'm not really expecting anything better from these authors.
The plot was interesting and held my attention, though (like in the first one) it dragged a bit or made quantum leaps to the future.
Also some of Lord Murcendor's actions didn't make sense. Like first he wants to plunge the country into war and regain the glory of Galandria in the first book and then in the second one he wants to rule but then the whole country is going to pot under his rule...So if he really just wanted to rule why not kill the king in the first book? Why waste the time on war?
Also when he sends guards to the hunting lodge to set it on fire to capture the princesses he later questions Elara where her guards and Lord Royce and everybody is...so why didn't his guards follow them back to their camp instead of burning the place down and only capturing one princess who won't talk? And when they do capture her why not use her as bait to capture Wilha?
Very good sequel. Because of the unfinished ending (if you can call it that) of the first one this one was set up for success.
The two princess's view points were different yet similar. In the first book Elara and Wilhamina I felt were too similar, almost the same person in the beginning. But then towards the end of the first book they started showing their differences and in the book it definitely shone through.
I must say that the characterization of Stephan wasn't all that great. He was just another Ken from Barbies dream house much like from many other of the princess books out there. Where the guy the princess or girl falls in love with is tall and blonde or brown hair and handsome with a fine jaw.
Patric I found a bit more refreshing with his stoic business like manner and black hair! Now I have yet to read a Ken with black curly hair! Usually that color is reserved for bad guys only. Although I can't say Patric's characterization was all that amazing either since it got more clique when he told her that "he loved her! Oh and Don't go!" But I can get over it since I'm not really expecting anything better from these authors.
The plot was interesting and held my attention, though (like in the first one) it dragged a bit or made quantum leaps to the future.
Also some of Lord Murcendor's actions didn't make sense. Like first he wants to plunge the country into war and regain the glory of Galandria in the first book and then in the second one he wants to rule but then the whole country is going to pot under his rule...So if he really just wanted to rule why not kill the king in the first book? Why waste the time on war?
Also when he sends guards to the hunting lodge to set it on fire to capture the princesses he later questions Elara where her guards and Lord Royce and everybody is...so why didn't his guards follow them back to their camp instead of burning the place down and only capturing one princess who won't talk? And when they do capture her why not use her as bait to capture Wilha?
March 18, 2018
In the year since she was betrothed to the crown prince of Kyrenica, no one has suspected that the Masked Princess has been a decoy. That Elara, the secret twin sister, has been pretending to be Princess Wilha all along. The royal family has kept Elara’s identity hidden from the world, and for the girls, swapping lives has not been easy. Galandra is quickly declining, and the sisters continue to be a pawn in the Guardian’s ever-changing endgames. But the stakes rise when Elara and Wilha’s younger brother, Andrei, takes the Galandrian throne after their father's death, and he reveals the girls' deception to Kyrenica’s royal family. Viewed as traitors, Elara and Wilha realize they are now fighting for their lives—and for their country. However, with only one crown and one throne to overthrow, Elara and Wilha must decide who will become queen. Or rather, the next savior for their people.
Apparently being in love with someone means not if listening to their side of the story. I was so frusterated reading this story. All of the stupid things all of the characters did even though they were in so much peril.
Apparently being in love with someone means not if listening to their side of the story. I was so frusterated reading this story. All of the stupid things all of the characters did even though they were in so much peril.
August 22, 2018
This book was way better than its predecessor. While I wasn't ecstatic about the way it ended, I was satisfied that neither sister was shortchanged.
My opinion of Wilha improved greatly, but I preferred Elara vastly to Wilha. She was strong, bold, daring and compassionate. Maybe it's because I relate to her more. The School of Hard Knocks leaves its mark on you, and only by holding on to the knowledge of goodness can you come out a stronger, better person. I
This was Elara all over. No, she wasn't perfect, but her heart was always in the right place right down to the end. She was the wiser and more decisive of the two. Readers who judged her harshly obviously never suffered some of life's greatest hardships. Elara was so right by saying that her sufferings had fashioned a stronger person. Only in the hottest fire can the dullest metals become refined to beauty and strength. Swinging a weapon about isn't everything--love, courage, mercy, compassion and loyalty are more important still. Let that be this story's lesson for us all.
An interesting read, subtle romance, and a fairly decent ending. Well done, Lundquist.
My opinion of Wilha improved greatly, but I preferred Elara vastly to Wilha. She was strong, bold, daring and compassionate. Maybe it's because I relate to her more. The School of Hard Knocks leaves its mark on you, and only by holding on to the knowledge of goodness can you come out a stronger, better person. I
This was Elara all over. No, she wasn't perfect, but her heart was always in the right place right down to the end. She was the wiser and more decisive of the two. Readers who judged her harshly obviously never suffered some of life's greatest hardships. Elara was so right by saying that her sufferings had fashioned a stronger person. Only in the hottest fire can the dullest metals become refined to beauty and strength. Swinging a weapon about isn't everything--love, courage, mercy, compassion and loyalty are more important still. Let that be this story's lesson for us all.
An interesting read, subtle romance, and a fairly decent ending. Well done, Lundquist.
May 3, 2020
Kind of disappointed. The charm of the characters in the first book seems to have disappeared, instead I am frustrated by the stubbornness and stupidly of the characters. I enjoyed seeing Andrei's perspective. The ending was predictable, which isn't a bad thing, but I had to read through so much that frustrated me getting to that point. The characters motives we're good and it made sense but Elara was just really annoying in this book. It was more enjoyable watching the characters switch in the first book. Yet, Lundquist is a good writer, I enjoyed the climax and the elegence of the characters words when they are determined.
August 18, 2020
After reading the Princess in the Opal Mask, I expected the sequel to be a simple, nothing-too-serious read. Instead, I found myself caught up in the politics, the action, and the plot for the throne, racing to the end, yet not wanting to finish.
Yes, the story is a little immature at times and the setting is hard to imagine, but the story is full of twists and so much action-packed adventure, that it’s easy to forgive these minor problems. In the end, The Opal Crown is a fun, fantasy adventure that may not be super complex, but remains memorable in its own right.
Yes, the story is a little immature at times and the setting is hard to imagine, but the story is full of twists and so much action-packed adventure, that it’s easy to forgive these minor problems. In the end, The Opal Crown is a fun, fantasy adventure that may not be super complex, but remains memorable in its own right.
February 5, 2019
I loved BOTH Opal Mask books! Imaginative, creative and fun to read. After reading #1 I had to read #2 as soon as possible.
My wish is for the author Jenny L. to please, please write more to the series of The Opal Mask! Did I mention Please? :)
Thank you so much for such fun and creative, can't-put-down Opal Mask books! I will most likely read them again.
My wish is for the author Jenny L. to please, please write more to the series of The Opal Mask! Did I mention Please? :)
Thank you so much for such fun and creative, can't-put-down Opal Mask books! I will most likely read them again.
September 8, 2017
I would have enjoyed this more if the sisters got along better. At least the story and the relationship is resolved by the end. I am glad Wilha finally started standing up for herself. Once she began to do so the story improved.
May 18, 2019
It ended exactly as it should have ended, given the situation and the characters' personalities, but I have to admit that I was hoping for a somewhat more interesting journey. Unlike with the first book, this time around, absolutely nothing surprised me.
May 5, 2020
Just like with book 1, I flew through this one as well. I didn't love it as much, mostly because Elara got on my nerves a bit. But I really liked the way it ended. Overall this has been a really great, yet underrated, duology. I totally recommend it.
March 9, 2021
The political aspect of this book and getting to know Andrei better both made this book a fun read. That said, the series is a little tame and still strikes me more as middle grade then YA. A decent conclusion to the duology.
June 4, 2017
I quite enjoyed this, but my daughter did NOT like the ending. :)
August 11, 2017
I find Wilha and Patric very irritating. Wilha even in the first book is self-centered and dumb but of course she's been a victim of emotional abuse far worse than Elara.
January 15, 2018
Review to come.
January 28, 2021
Fun YA sequel of twin princesses trying to win the crown. It wrapped up too easily but was a cute read.
October 7, 2022
Such a great conclusion to the story- exciting, romantic, and just so well done! I love it
April 21, 2015
My librarian recommended this two book series to me and I'm honestly quite glad she did. I love the mix of fantasy and fairy tale type, add in a bit of political drama and several characters vying for the crown and I'm very happy. I enjoyed the first book a lot and I thought there were some really good plot twists. This one, I think, didn't have as many. I felt like the main focus of this book was the crown and Elara and Wilha trying to become sort of friendly with each other. There might not have been as much action either, except for a mob or two and a few attacks and sneaking about ;) But the vibe of the story was still enticing and I finished this book fairly quickly. I was nearly finished with the book last night when I realized how late it was and decided to finish it this morning, haha. I also think this is a good sequel and demonstrates how things are changing and the twins are developing and maturing. Depending where I was in the book, I was often on one girls' side or the other. Now that I think about it, that's pretty realistic. There were times that I wasn't happy with something Elara had said or a way Wilha had handled a situation and that's how it is irl.
The writing style fits the setting so well. I don't think that I've read any of the author's other books but she has created such a great group of kingdoms and villages for this series. Then there are legends, secret passageways and all kinds of fairy tale-esque things that I loved. Character wise, I liked both the girls (except for the few odd scenes or moments) and their love interests. At first I was rather confused as Wilha had been seeing someone when the girls were in another kingdom, yet when she returns home to Galandria she goes back to swooning over her sort-of-beau from before she left. It was explained later, but at the time it felt odd to me that she seemed to immediately forget about this other boy she'd been with for months. I liked that Wilha was quiet yet the one who could handle a sword masterfully. I liked how strong and determined that Elara often was, I felt that she also could really understand what the Galandrians are going through in this book. The ending was satisfying, although there was just a little hint of something at the end that would almost make you wonder about another book...but it seems like this is the final one so oh well :)
Overall, while this sequel wasn't quite as good as the first book, I still liked it a lot. It's got a cool setting, two fiery main characters, and turned out to be a pretty nice ending. I really liked this series as a whole and found the romances sweet and the twins (although a bit irritating in this book because they don't communicate with each other well) lovely princesses with good hearts. I'd definitely recommend if you like a good medieval/fairy tale sort of book.
The writing style fits the setting so well. I don't think that I've read any of the author's other books but she has created such a great group of kingdoms and villages for this series. Then there are legends, secret passageways and all kinds of fairy tale-esque things that I loved. Character wise, I liked both the girls (except for the few odd scenes or moments) and their love interests. At first I was rather confused as Wilha had been seeing someone when the girls were in another kingdom, yet when she returns home to Galandria she goes back to swooning over her sort-of-beau from before she left. It was explained later, but at the time it felt odd to me that she seemed to immediately forget about this other boy she'd been with for months. I liked that Wilha was quiet yet the one who could handle a sword masterfully. I liked how strong and determined that Elara often was, I felt that she also could really understand what the Galandrians are going through in this book. The ending was satisfying, although there was just a little hint of something at the end that would almost make you wonder about another book...but it seems like this is the final one so oh well :)
Overall, while this sequel wasn't quite as good as the first book, I still liked it a lot. It's got a cool setting, two fiery main characters, and turned out to be a pretty nice ending. I really liked this series as a whole and found the romances sweet and the twins (although a bit irritating in this book because they don't communicate with each other well) lovely princesses with good hearts. I'd definitely recommend if you like a good medieval/fairy tale sort of book.
October 22, 2014
'The Opal Crown' is a mesmerizing second book in young adult fantasy series that continues to follow the fate of two twin sisters - Elara and Wilha - as their younger brother takes the thrown of Galandra and exposes the girls' deception. Elara and Wilha have been branded as traitors and are on the run - to save their lives and their country. They must figure out which of them will make the best queen - and essentially the savior - for their country after they overthrow their brother and take the crown. Which girl will be the one to wear the crown and bring peace back to Galandra?
I was a bit nervous before starting this book due to the fact that it's the second in a series and it had a lot to live up to after the spectacular beginning to the series. I had nothing to worry about because this book was just as fantastic as the first and far exceeded my hopes and expectations for it. The story was told in alternating first person point-of-views - those of Elara and Wilha. I usually love this type of story telling because it gives the reader a much deeper insight into the characters and their personalities, along with how each of them live their lives and respond to all the different occurrences in the novel. I liked getting to know more about each girl and their relationship with each others as well as the other characters in the book. I also enjoyed watching each girl grow and mature throughout the book. Both girls continued to be realistic and I immediately identified with each of them early in the book. The setting took us back to the land of Galandria - and the description of the land and its various details made the story seem like a fairy tale to me. I continued to love reading all about the realm of kingdoms, soldiers, wars between other parts of the kingdom. All of these various concepts brought the story into a new light and an intriguing landscape for it all to take place. The plot was enchanting, and less predictable than the first book. I enjoyed watching the plot unfold and to see how each girl would handle the situations that occur and how they would overcome the obstacles in their paths. The writing was beautifully done with detailed descriptions and vivid imagery that had me easily immersed in the world that the author created. This is by far one of the best YA fantasy books I've read this year and I'm already dying for more. I can't wait to see what will happen next with Elara and Wilha along with the kingdom of Galandria. Very highly recommended for fans of YA fantasy and fairy tales!
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
I was a bit nervous before starting this book due to the fact that it's the second in a series and it had a lot to live up to after the spectacular beginning to the series. I had nothing to worry about because this book was just as fantastic as the first and far exceeded my hopes and expectations for it. The story was told in alternating first person point-of-views - those of Elara and Wilha. I usually love this type of story telling because it gives the reader a much deeper insight into the characters and their personalities, along with how each of them live their lives and respond to all the different occurrences in the novel. I liked getting to know more about each girl and their relationship with each others as well as the other characters in the book. I also enjoyed watching each girl grow and mature throughout the book. Both girls continued to be realistic and I immediately identified with each of them early in the book. The setting took us back to the land of Galandria - and the description of the land and its various details made the story seem like a fairy tale to me. I continued to love reading all about the realm of kingdoms, soldiers, wars between other parts of the kingdom. All of these various concepts brought the story into a new light and an intriguing landscape for it all to take place. The plot was enchanting, and less predictable than the first book. I enjoyed watching the plot unfold and to see how each girl would handle the situations that occur and how they would overcome the obstacles in their paths. The writing was beautifully done with detailed descriptions and vivid imagery that had me easily immersed in the world that the author created. This is by far one of the best YA fantasy books I've read this year and I'm already dying for more. I can't wait to see what will happen next with Elara and Wilha along with the kingdom of Galandria. Very highly recommended for fans of YA fantasy and fairy tales!
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
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