Quick thoughts:
- I think I'm part of a very small minority here: The Caged Queen is better than its predecessor, The Last Namsara.
- For me, The Last Namsara brought nothing new to the table: headstrong, independent heroine slaying monsters who eventually learns that the true monsters aren't the ones she's slaying. Predictable. Yawn.
- On the other hand, The Caged Queen builds on a larger political narrative that explores a range of themes: power, alliances, deceit, betrayal, strategy, and manipulation. It really gave me a bit of Game of Thrones vibe that I very much liked.
- Roa isn't the stereotypically strong and kick-ass archetype that most fantasy leads (including Asha in The Last Namsara) fall under. Instead, she's a very complex, very flawed character with vulnerabilities, fears, and uncertainties. I actually liked how unsure she was of herself because it felt really honest and raw and realistic.
- While I missed the wonderful sibling relationship between Dax and Asha, I enjoyed learning about the relationship between sisters Roa and Essie.
- I was really intrigued by Essie's character! I wanted to explore her character a bit more.
- Unlike in The Last Namsara, I was heavily invested in the romance in this book!!!
- DAX IS AN ADORABLE, FLUFFY CINNAMON ROLL!!! AND I LOVE HIM!!!
- This book really manipulated the hell out of my emotions. One second, I hate Dax with every fiber of my being. And in the next second, I outright adore that little rascal.
- Sad to say, there aren't many dragons.
- But new magic system!!!
- New folklore and myths!!!
- This book leans more heavily on the love between siblings compared to romantic love, which is one of my favorite aspects!!!
- THE STORY WILL KEEP YOU GUESSING.
- The ending was so immensely satisfying. I am a happy reader.

Full review to follow!