⭐⭐ (2/5) Yikes. I never thought I’d give a John Irving novel two stars, but Queen Esther was a major disappointment. Returning to the world of The Cider House Rules, Irving introduces Esther Nacht, a Viennese-born Jewish orphan whose father dies during their journey to Maine and whose mother is murdered by antisemites after their arrival. At the St. Cloud’s orphanage, Dr. Wilbur Larch struggles to find her an adoptive family. Eventually, Esther finds a home with the Winslows, whose kindness inspires a lifelong devotion, even as she returns to Vienna to explore her roots. It’s a strong premise with plenty of potential. Irving touches on important themes, including antisemitism, […]