What’s your book about?
“I don’t have to be everyone’s queen. I just want to be a mother, warrior, and partner. I won’t waste my time being anything different.”
Queen Anjali has spent two years away from her son, husband & kingdom. After dodging assassins & delivering her second child, she anticipates a triumphant return. To her dismay, she learns that King Damir has already remarried another woman.
Overcome with grief and confusion, Anjali returns home with two main objectives: reunite with her children & find out who sent assassins after her. Did someone from her court want her gone & why? Who would disturb the fragile peace between two powerful kingdoms? Queen Anjali must seek out justice to recover from the past while sifting through her options to secure her future.
THE THROWAWAY QUEEN is Whitney McGruder’s first new adult fantasy novel that delves into a world of warrior women, secret rooms, unlikely allies, and blended families.
What makes your book unique?
The Throwaway Queen is a New Adult fantasy book so the target audience and main cast are in their 20s. I wrote this book for readers who are ready to graduate from YA fantasy and discuss more mature topics.
I wrote this novel with intersectional feminism in mind. This book discusses race, parenthood, divorce, death, mental health, and trusting yourself. I wanted to honor the young moms in my life who are learning to embrace their multiple roles as mother, wife, friend, daughter, and yes, queen.
I love Anjali because she is straightforward. She cuts through court gossip and doesn’t let anyone tell her story. She’s not everyone’s cup of tea but her openness creates unexpected friendships and opportunities to heal.
Who would be interested in reading this book?
I wrote this novel for all my young mom friends. I’ve always wanted to see a young mother as a strong, confident protagonist. You’ll enjoy this novel if you’re a fan of motherhood, feminism, and royal intrigue.
Beyond intrigue, the novel has adventure, mystery, and fantasy world building.
You can click this image to check out my Throwaway Queen inspo board on Pinterest.
