Four Dead Queens delivers what it promises: a twisty murder mystery with a fantasy backdrop that keeps older teens turning pages. The world-building is creative, the plot moves fast, and reviewers genuinely seem surprised by the reveals.

But let's be real about the content. This isn't a cozy mystery—it's got frequent profanity (parents specifically call out the language), four dead monarchs, and a cast of characters who lie, steal, and scheme their way through the investigation. The moral landscape is murky, which can be interesting for mature readers but might feel uncomfortable for younger teens.

The biggest knock is that while it's entertaining, it's not particularly deep. Some character arcs feel underdeveloped, and the emotional payoff doesn't quite match the intricate plotting. It's a solid beach read for older teens who love mysteries, but it's not going to change anyone's life. If your teen devoured One of Us Is Lying or similar YA thrillers, this fits that lane—just know the profanity is more frequent than some parents expect from YA.