Kennedy Ryan writes stories that are deep and multi-layered. I recognize some may think her stories are a little controversial, but I find her characters’ voices are clear and authentic in her books. Queen Move is no different. I waited almost a year for this book, and I have to say it was worth it..
I met Kimba like a lot of people when I read Ryan’s, All the King’s Men Duet. In it, Kennedy portrayed Kimba as a strong, formidable woman who lives life on her own terms and takes no prisoners. She is loyal and ethical yet compassionate to her best friend, Lennix. In Queen Move she is still all those things and more. We get to know her from the time when she was a child to present day. Her stamina, drive and enthusiasm for being the change she wants to see in the world, is inspiring. It is also what draws Ezra Stern to her as well. In Queen Move, both characters know each other from the time they are babies while their parents are the best of friends. Ezra and Kimba grow up across the street from one another and are each other’s best friend. And then at 14- share their first kiss together. It’s lovely that Kennedy Ryan shares their upbringing and childhood years because it adds so much context for the reader. Although I love a good bodice ripping, like the next girl, I found the beginning chapters showed an innocence and understanding for the two main characters we are rooting for. Kimba is true and strong in spirit (hence her middle name – Truth) going after everything she wants and not settling. Ezra is more open and flexible with a hardworking, noble ethic. Both know who they are and what they will and will not tolerate. But over the course of their second chance together, they discover secrets about their families they could have never imagined.
Throughout the book, what seems like an impossible, messy, and complicated turn of events is what holds them together as they remember the pact, they made to each other as children. I have heard Kennedy Ryan’s books referred to as rich tapestries. They are. The description is apropos. I saw colors of gold and bronze mixed with iridescent violet and magentas finishing in bright red with a cascade of chestnut curls. And that was just Kimba’s clothes and appearance. Kennedy pays close attention to describing the environment and setting the scene for the reader which adds richness and texture of the story like a beautiful woven garment. Queen Move is a journey of empowerment and coming back to what you know is right and helped mold you into what you are now. I loved it and my wish is that you do too.