The Queen’s Spade
The Queen’s Spade by Sarah Raughley, published by HarperCollins Publishers in 2025, is a historical thriller that delves into the complexities of revenge and identity. Set in Victorian England, the narrative follows Sally, a kidnapped African princess and goddaughter to Queen Victoria, as she navigates the treacherous waters of royal court politics. With 416 pages, this edition presents a gripping tale inspired by true events, where Sally seeks to dismantle the monarchy that has stripped her of her dignity and freedom.
Readers will find a richly woven story that intertwines themes of romance, social issues, and the harsh realities of prejudice and racism. As Sally plots her revenge against the British Crown, she must engage with the dangerous underbelly of London’s society, forming alliances that challenge her resolve. The narrative explores her internal struggles as she balances her desire for vengeance with the need for personal freedom, culminating in a high-stakes game that tests her heart and spirit.
Official synopsis Publisher
“You will bow before this queen.” –Sara Raasch, New York Times bestselling author of Night of the Witch
“Revenge and justice have never been so satisfying!” — Marissa Meyer, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Lunar Chronicles
In this riveting historical thriller inspired by true-life events, Belladonna meets Bridgerton as revenge, romance, and twisted secrets take center stage in Victorian England’s royal court when Sally, a kidnapped African princess and goddaughter to Queen Victoria, plots her way to take down the monarchy that stole her from her homeland.
A young lady can take only so many injuries before humiliation and insult forge a vow of revenge. . . .
The year is 1862 and murderous desires are simmering in England. Nineteen-year-old Sarah Bonetta Forbes (Sally), once a princess of the Egbado Clan, desires one thing above all else: revenge against the British Crown and its system of colonial “humanitarianism,” which stole her dignity and transformed her into royal property. From military men to political leaders, she’s vowed to ruin all who’ve had a hand in her afflictions. The top of her list? Her godmother, Britain’s mighty monarch, Queen Victoria herself.
Taking down the Crown means entering into a twisted game of court politics and manipulating the Queen’s inner circle–even if that means aligning with a dangerous yet alluring crime lord in London’s underworld and exploiting the affections of Queen Victoria’s own son, Prince Albert, as a means to an end. But when Queen Victoria begins to suspect Sally’s true intentions, she plays the only card in Victorian society that could possibly cage Sally once again: marriage. Because if there’s one thing Sally desires more than revenge, it’s her freedom. With time running out and her wedding day looming, Sally’s vengeful game of cat and mouse turns deadly as she’s faced with the striking revelation that the price for vengeance isn’t just paid in blood. It means sacrificing your heart.
Inspired by the true story of Sarah Forbes Bonetta, Queen Victoria’s African goddaughter, The Queen’s Spade is a lush and riveting historical thriller for fans of This Ravenous Fate, A Dowry of Blood, and Grave Mercy.
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