Review of Agatha the Beloved Queen

This forum is for volunteer reviews by members of our review team. These reviews are done voluntarily by the reviewers and are published in this forum, separate from the official professional reviews. These reviews are kept separate primarily because the same book may be reviewed by many different reviewers.
User avatar
Lene Lena
Book of the Month Participant
Posts: 326
Joined: 18 Jun 2017, 04:57
Currently Reading: Snatched Up to Heaven for Kids
Bookshelf Size: 80
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-lene-lena.html
Latest Review: Entrepreneurship: 5 Best Practices for Stay-At-Home-Moms who want to start an Online Business by Joy Jennings
2025 Reading Goal: 12
2025 Goal Completion: 25%

Review of Agatha the Beloved Queen

Post by Lene Lena »

[Following is a volunteer review of "Agatha the Beloved Queen" by Fred Pilcher.]
Book Cover
5 out of 5 stars
Share This Review


"Agatha the Beloved Queen" is a historical fiction written by Fred Pilcher that takes place in the imaginary country of Xana, where the society has been divided into the poorest commoners and the wealthy elite. This story focuses on Agatha, a young woman with great, inherent intelligence and kindness, who has to find a way to close the explored gap and make a positive change within her realm.

Agatha is born into the world, and her fairy godmother predicts that she is to be a great queen who will change the lives of her people. When Agatha grows up, she feels the suffering of the commoners, which is once again caused by the heartless aristocrats’ desire for more wealth. Her experience is described with numerous indignities as she attempts to bring about new policies that would favor the unfortunate. The story becomes more interesting with the introduction of an evil magical man, Magi, who dethrones her mother, Queen Julia, causing havoc in Xana. This marks a turning point in Agatha’s character as she embarks on a journey that is going to be filled with lots of challenges in order to bring back order, peace, and stability to her kingdom.

Agatha turns out to be a complex protagonist motivated by compassion towards other people. Her character exemplifies qualities like tenacity, resilience, and kindness. I liked how her character transformed from a sheltered princess into a strong-willed queen who does everything to protect her people no matter how uncomfortable it gets. The relationships Agatha has with other characters, especially those of the working class, show that she is committed to inclusivity and opportunities for all.

However, as much as Agatha’s character has good motives in mind, there is still room for further development in some of her attributes. For example, there are circumstances where her actions lack clear intentions either because of a change in the story’s focus. Still, the depicted woman remains realistic and serves as a role model.

Fred Pilcher’s approach to writing is highly descriptive and consequently inviting. He masterfully paints out rather realistic scenes that are reminiscent of medieval politics accompanied by the cultural values of that age. It also helps that the author incorporates different social issues into the comedic narrative adding value to the reading experience. However, some sections of the story are disconnected and lack coherence because of the abrupt transitions.

Furthermore, Pilcher’s ability to include Xana’s cultural insights, such as the aspects of nudity that do not align with contemporary society’s views on body image, enhances the authenticity of the story. These elements make a contribution to the detailed picture of Agatha’s world.

On every front, "Agatha, the Beloved Queen" addresses ideas of social justice, ethical leadership, and selflessness for the sake of the common good. So it is a fair reminder that being a leader, one can be kind and also stand firm on their rules, as demonstrated through Queen Agatha’s interactions with both opponents and allies.

I enjoyed reading “Agatha the Beloved Queen,” an engaging fairy tale that includes vital political and social messages. Even though it does have its dramatic structural flaws, it contains important messages about understanding and accountability that are delivered through positions of authority. Thus, I rate this book 5 out of 5 because of the above reasons in addition to being professionally edited.

I recommend this book to readers who enjoy fairy tales as well as those who appreciate stories that focus on influential women in historical settings.

******
Agatha the Beloved Queen
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
User avatar
Seetha E
Book of the Month Participant
Posts: 1275
Joined: 02 Mar 2023, 10:18
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 283
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-seetha-e.html
Latest Review: From Idea to Publication by Frank Mueller

Post by Seetha E »

Hello Lena,
We need more leaders like Agatha, with inherent intelligence and kindness, who can impact a positive change. The author thoughtfully weaves the aspects much needed- a commitment to inclusivity and opportunities for all.
Your review offers prospective readers an appropriate analysis of the narrative. Great review.
User avatar
Gerry Steen
Book of the Month Participant
Posts: 2110
Joined: 08 May 2023, 20:08
Favorite Book: Winning the War on Cancer
Currently Reading: Plan To Profit
Bookshelf Size: 337
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-gerry-steen.html
Latest Review: She Had Wings by Audrey Carnegie

Post by Gerry Steen »

The world will always need leaders like Agatha. In a democracy, a leader should be there to serve all people regardless of social or economic class. Everyone should have the chance to aspire to something greater with opportunity. Agatha is a wonderful and inspirational character. Your 5 out of 5 rating of this fairytale story has caused me to add this book to my bookshelves. Thank you for this detailed review.
User avatar
Magdalyne chebet
Book of the Month Participant
Posts: 366
Joined: 10 Apr 2024, 13:44
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 49
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-magdalyne-chebet.html
Latest Review: Biblical Priniciples from Yesterday to today by Rev Jewel Harper-Simon

Post by Magdalyne chebet »

"Agatha the Beloved Queen" by Fred Pilcher is an engaging historical fiction set in Xana, exploring themes of social justice, resilience, and compassion. This detailed review highlights Agatha’s transformation and the vivid storytelling, making me eager to give this book a read. Thank you Lena.
User avatar
NetMassimo
Previous Member of the Month
Posts: 7262
Joined: 24 Jul 2019, 06:37
Currently Reading: Afterburn
Bookshelf Size: 493
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-netmassimo.html
Latest Review: Demystifying AI for Business Executives by Henry Collins Xavier Taylor II
2025 Reading Goal: 60
2025 Goal Completion: 10%

Post by NetMassimo »

This novel contains some interesting elements with problems mirroring the ones on Earth. It's a situation that makes you think of a better world and offers some food for thought. Thank you for your great review!
Ciao :)
Massimo
User avatar
Adrian Bouknight
Book of the Month Participant
Posts: 351
Joined: 25 May 2024, 21:51
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 35
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-adrian-bouknight.html
Latest Review: My name is arthur by Mj windsor

Post by Adrian Bouknight »

Lene Lena, thanks for this review! This sounds like an interesting one! Social justice has been a hot topic in recent years. Agatha sounds like an interesting character and role model as well. I'll have to keep an eye out for this one, and will look up more reviews.

Thank you for sharing!
-Adrian
Lene Lena wrote: 16 Dec 2024, 06:47 [Following is a volunteer review of "Agatha the Beloved Queen" by Fred Pilcher.]
Book Cover
5 out of 5 stars
Share This Review


"Agatha the Beloved Queen" is a historical fiction written by Fred Pilcher that takes place in the imaginary country of Xana, where the society has been divided into the poorest commoners and the wealthy elite. This story focuses on Agatha, a young woman with great, inherent intelligence and kindness, who has to find a way to close the explored gap and make a positive change within her realm.

Agatha is born into the world, and her fairy godmother predicts that she is to be a great queen who will change the lives of her people. When Agatha grows up, she feels the suffering of the commoners, which is once again caused by the heartless aristocrats’ desire for more wealth. Her experience is described with numerous indignities as she attempts to bring about new policies that would favor the unfortunate. The story becomes more interesting with the introduction of an evil magical man, Magi, who dethrones her mother, Queen Julia, causing havoc in Xana. This marks a turning point in Agatha’s character as she embarks on a journey that is going to be filled with lots of challenges in order to bring back order, peace, and stability to her kingdom.

Agatha turns out to be a complex protagonist motivated by compassion towards other people. Her character exemplifies qualities like tenacity, resilience, and kindness. I liked how her character transformed from a sheltered princess into a strong-willed queen who does everything to protect her people no matter how uncomfortable it gets. The relationships Agatha has with other characters, especially those of the working class, show that she is committed to inclusivity and opportunities for all.

However, as much as Agatha’s character has good motives in mind, there is still room for further development in some of her attributes. For example, there are circumstances where her actions lack clear intentions either because of a change in the story’s focus. Still, the depicted woman remains realistic and serves as a role model.

Fred Pilcher’s approach to writing is highly descriptive and consequently inviting. He masterfully paints out rather realistic scenes that are reminiscent of medieval politics accompanied by the cultural values of that age. It also helps that the author incorporates different social issues into the comedic narrative adding value to the reading experience. However, some sections of the story are disconnected and lack coherence because of the abrupt transitions.

Furthermore, Pilcher’s ability to include Xana’s cultural insights, such as the aspects of nudity that do not align with contemporary society’s views on body image, enhances the authenticity of the story. These elements make a contribution to the detailed picture of Agatha’s world.

On every front, "Agatha, the Beloved Queen" addresses ideas of social justice, ethical leadership, and selflessness for the sake of the common good. So it is a fair reminder that being a leader, one can be kind and also stand firm on their rules, as demonstrated through Queen Agatha’s interactions with both opponents and allies.

I enjoyed reading “Agatha the Beloved Queen,” an engaging fairy tale that includes vital political and social messages. Even though it does have its dramatic structural flaws, it contains important messages about understanding and accountability that are delivered through positions of authority. Thus, I rate this book 5 out of 5 because of the above reasons in addition to being professionally edited.

I recommend this book to readers who enjoy fairy tales as well as those who appreciate stories that focus on influential women in historical settings.

******
Agatha the Beloved Queen
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
I am an avid reader. I typically read 1-2 books per week. I enjoy a wide array of genres including Sci Fi, Action/Thriller, and Historical Fiction.

As a geologist and christian, I also particularly enjoy books on science and faith.
User avatar
Priya Murugesan
In It Together VIP
Posts: 1305
Joined: 27 Jan 2020, 01:51
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 84
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-priya-murugesan.html
Latest Review: Goodbye Bobby by JJ Harrigan

Post by Priya Murugesan »

I would love to read this book to know more about Agatha.. Looks like an engaging plot..
In a world where you can be anything, be kind :)
User avatar
Anu Anand
Book of the Month Participant
Posts: 1061
Joined: 25 Jun 2023, 20:36
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 96
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-anu-anand.html
Latest Review: Louder Than Fiction: by Weldon Gaines

Post by Anu Anand »

This book sounds captivating with its mix of historical fiction, fantasy, and powerful themes of leadership and social justice. Agatha’s journey from princess to queen seems inspiring, and I love the focus on inclusivity and ethics. Thanks for the detailed review.
User avatar
Neha Panikar
In It Together VIP
Posts: 368
Joined: 29 Sep 2023, 03:40
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 80
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-neha-panikar.html
Latest Review: Never Do Anything Just Right by Rod Jahner

Post by Neha Panikar »

Lovely review, Lene! I liked how detailed yet concise and objective it is. You've highlighted the good points as well as the points to improve on really well. I enjoy stories that inspire leadership, so think I would like this one. Thank you for the review!
User avatar
Sarah Zain
Book of the Month Participant
Posts: 1692
Joined: 09 Jan 2023, 17:00
Favorite Book: Wutheing heights
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 95
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-sarah-zain.html
Latest Review: The Magdalena Gambit by Oscar Ortiz

Post by Sarah Zain »

@Lene Lena
Comprehensive review. The story's features including the presence of a strong female character who is humble and sympathetic to the working class make the story very impactful. Your writing style and analysis is great. Thank you for the review.
Life is hard on its own so let's make it easier for each other if we could.
User avatar
Lene Lena
Book of the Month Participant
Posts: 326
Joined: 18 Jun 2017, 04:57
Currently Reading: Snatched Up to Heaven for Kids
Bookshelf Size: 80
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-lene-lena.html
Latest Review: Entrepreneurship: 5 Best Practices for Stay-At-Home-Moms who want to start an Online Business by Joy Jennings
2025 Reading Goal: 12
2025 Goal Completion: 25%

Post by Lene Lena »

Neha Panikar wrote: 03 Jan 2025, 01:00 Lovely review, Lene! I liked how detailed yet concise and objective it is. You've highlighted the good points as well as the points to improve on really well. I enjoy stories that inspire leadership, so think I would like this one. Thank you for the review!
Hi Neha! Thank you for your kind words! I’m glad you found the review helpful. Leadership stories can be truly inspiring, and I hope you enjoy this one as much as I did!
User avatar
Lene Lena
Book of the Month Participant
Posts: 326
Joined: 18 Jun 2017, 04:57
Currently Reading: Snatched Up to Heaven for Kids
Bookshelf Size: 80
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-lene-lena.html
Latest Review: Entrepreneurship: 5 Best Practices for Stay-At-Home-Moms who want to start an Online Business by Joy Jennings
2025 Reading Goal: 12
2025 Goal Completion: 25%

Post by Lene Lena »

Anu Anand wrote: 02 Jan 2025, 23:21 This book sounds captivating with its mix of historical fiction, fantasy, and powerful themes of leadership and social justice. Agatha’s journey from princess to queen seems inspiring, and I love the focus on inclusivity and ethics. Thanks for the detailed review.
Hi Anu!

Thank you for your thoughtful feedback! The blend of genres and themes in Agatha’s story indeed creates a rich narrative that resonates with many readers today. If only leaders of today could be all about equal opportunities like Agatha!
User avatar
Lene Lena
Book of the Month Participant
Posts: 326
Joined: 18 Jun 2017, 04:57
Currently Reading: Snatched Up to Heaven for Kids
Bookshelf Size: 80
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-lene-lena.html
Latest Review: Entrepreneurship: 5 Best Practices for Stay-At-Home-Moms who want to start an Online Business by Joy Jennings
2025 Reading Goal: 12
2025 Goal Completion: 25%

Post by Lene Lena »

Sarah Zain wrote: 03 Jan 2025, 09:27 @Lene Lena
Comprehensive review. The story's features including the presence of a strong female character who is humble and sympathetic to the working class make the story very impactful. Your writing style and analysis is great. Thank you for the review.
Hi Sarah!

Thank you! I’m glad you found the review impactful. I appreciate your feedback on my writing style and analysis; it motivates me to continue improving.
User avatar
Lene Lena
Book of the Month Participant
Posts: 326
Joined: 18 Jun 2017, 04:57
Currently Reading: Snatched Up to Heaven for Kids
Bookshelf Size: 80
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-lene-lena.html
Latest Review: Entrepreneurship: 5 Best Practices for Stay-At-Home-Moms who want to start an Online Business by Joy Jennings
2025 Reading Goal: 12
2025 Goal Completion: 25%

Post by Lene Lena »

Priya Murugesan wrote: 31 Dec 2024, 07:07 I would love to read this book to know more about Agatha.. Looks like an engaging plot..
Absolutely! This book offers intriguing insights into Agatha's leadership style. It's an excellent choice for any fan of inspirational stories about women in leadership!
User avatar
Lene Lena
Book of the Month Participant
Posts: 326
Joined: 18 Jun 2017, 04:57
Currently Reading: Snatched Up to Heaven for Kids
Bookshelf Size: 80
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-lene-lena.html
Latest Review: Entrepreneurship: 5 Best Practices for Stay-At-Home-Moms who want to start an Online Business by Joy Jennings
2025 Reading Goal: 12
2025 Goal Completion: 25%

Post by Lene Lena »

Adrian Bouknight wrote: 29 Dec 2024, 20:04 Lene Lena, thanks for this review! This sounds like an interesting one! Social justice has been a hot topic in recent years. Agatha sounds like an interesting character and role model as well. I'll have to keep an eye out for this one, and will look up more reviews.

Thank you for sharing!
-Adrian
Lene Lena wrote: 16 Dec 2024, 06:47 [Following is a volunteer review of "Agatha the Beloved Queen" by Fred Pilcher.]
Book Cover
5 out of 5 stars
Share This Review


"Agatha the Beloved Queen" is a historical fiction written by Fred Pilcher that takes place in the imaginary country of Xana, where the society has been divided into the poorest commoners and the wealthy elite. This story focuses on Agatha, a young woman with great, inherent intelligence and kindness, who has to find a way to close the explored gap and make a positive change within her realm.

Agatha is born into the world, and her fairy godmother predicts that she is to be a great queen who will change the lives of her people. When Agatha grows up, she feels the suffering of the commoners, which is once again caused by the heartless aristocrats’ desire for more wealth. Her experience is described with numerous indignities as she attempts to bring about new policies that would favor the unfortunate. The story becomes more interesting with the introduction of an evil magical man, Magi, who dethrones her mother, Queen Julia, causing havoc in Xana. This marks a turning point in Agatha’s character as she embarks on a journey that is going to be filled with lots of challenges in order to bring back order, peace, and stability to her kingdom.

Agatha turns out to be a complex protagonist motivated by compassion towards other people. Her character exemplifies qualities like tenacity, resilience, and kindness. I liked how her character transformed from a sheltered princess into a strong-willed queen who does everything to protect her people no matter how uncomfortable it gets. The relationships Agatha has with other characters, especially those of the working class, show that she is committed to inclusivity and opportunities for all.

However, as much as Agatha’s character has good motives in mind, there is still room for further development in some of her attributes. For example, there are circumstances where her actions lack clear intentions either because of a change in the story’s focus. Still, the depicted woman remains realistic and serves as a role model.

Fred Pilcher’s approach to writing is highly descriptive and consequently inviting. He masterfully paints out rather realistic scenes that are reminiscent of medieval politics accompanied by the cultural values of that age. It also helps that the author incorporates different social issues into the comedic narrative adding value to the reading experience. However, some sections of the story are disconnected and lack coherence because of the abrupt transitions.

Furthermore, Pilcher’s ability to include Xana’s cultural insights, such as the aspects of nudity that do not align with contemporary society’s views on body image, enhances the authenticity of the story. These elements make a contribution to the detailed picture of Agatha’s world.

On every front, "Agatha, the Beloved Queen" addresses ideas of social justice, ethical leadership, and selflessness for the sake of the common good. So it is a fair reminder that being a leader, one can be kind and also stand firm on their rules, as demonstrated through Queen Agatha’s interactions with both opponents and allies.

I enjoyed reading “Agatha the Beloved Queen,” an engaging fairy tale that includes vital political and social messages. Even though it does have its dramatic structural flaws, it contains important messages about understanding and accountability that are delivered through positions of authority. Thus, I rate this book 5 out of 5 because of the above reasons in addition to being professionally edited.

I recommend this book to readers who enjoy fairy tales as well as those who appreciate stories that focus on influential women in historical settings.

******
Agatha the Beloved Queen
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Thank you, Adrian! I’m glad you found the review intriguing. Agatha’s character values social justice, making her a compelling role model. I hope you enjoy reading about her!
Post Reply

Return to “Volunteer Reviews”