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Monday 30 September 2024

Junior Review: The End Crowns All

Love caused this war. At least, that’s what the stories will say…

Bea Fitzgerald’s new novel The End Crowns All is filled to the brim with characters that truly leap off the page in a unique and captivating world, delivered in an innovative perspective of Greek Mythology. 

This touching story features Cassandra, a princess of Troy gifted with the power of prophecy, and Helen, a Spartan princess-warrior who fled her country in the pursuit of love.

When the god Apollo offers Cassandra the gift of prophecy, she seizes the opportunity, along with the power it holds. However, unable to uphold her end of the deal, she is cursed by the god and realises just how far she can fall when no one believes her prophecies. 

Meanwhile, Helen fled Sparta searching for love and a life where she could be valued for more than being a prized possession, although she soon realizes she is exactly that, a prize from Aphrodite to Paris; a prince of Troy. 

In Troy, Helen finds herself unwelcome due to the war she is certain to cause, and Cassandra is driven in banishing this princess from the city.

Nevertheless, the war is inevitable and the story that unfolds is shocking. Will Cassandra be able to prevent the war from happening, or will she have to watch the downfall of her city?

Throughout the novel, Fitzgerald explores themes of power, romance, loyalty and betrayal through a compelling reimagining of the Trojan War. The dramatic tension and profound characters will keep readers hooked. The dynamic characters and enemies to lovers trope adds to the slow burn romance and electric chemistry between the figures.

Bea Fitzgerald skilfully recounts the fall of Troy in her novel The End Crowns All. The compelling narrative weaves together dramatic tension and startling plot twists. This story is achingly beautiful, particularly through the touching romance, and thought-provoking questions on the pensive themes. Overall, Bea Fitzgerald’s The End Crowns All is a deeply rewarding read, resonating with its audience through its emotional intensity and reminiscent storytelling.


Title: The End Crowns All
Author: Bea Fitzgerald
Publisher: Penguin Random House, $27.99
Publication Date: 23 July 2024
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9780241675229
For ages: 13 - 18
Type: Young Adult Fiction