*****I received this book for free through the Kindle First program.*****

I read the entirety of The Hundredth Queen contemplating exactly why I didn't like the book, but ended up enjoying it enough to look forward to the sequel. It is that confusing dichotomy that has me wondering if three or four stars is the right final rating for this book.

Plot-wise, The Hundredth Queen presents an interesting and at-least somewhat original story, with no lag or wasted words, which is a huge plus. The characters were generally well-developed, although the death(s) of made too little impact on me as a reader, and at least one felt too deus ex machina-ish for me to approve. The writing is solid, which is no knock; King doesn't meddle with too much overwrought scenery or atmosphere.

We have an interesting religious system/magic usage/cultural bias clash throughout, which provides the impetus for the story and motivations for the characters, and I think King pulled it off well. It's no original move to feature warrior women, or base a book around a surprising diamond in the rough sort. But at the same time there's no reason to complain.

I think I liked this book more than my review would make it sound. Hopefully the follow-up will make things clearer for me.