Great! Can't wait until the next one. I love seeing Gemma grown up and getting to experience how characters interact down the line. Also, all Leo's gestures of affection were too cute!

Following her adventures in Capture the Crown, Gemma returns as the main character in Tear Down the Throne when her possible betrothal becomes the main event of the royal summit. Queen Maeven springs the Gauntlet on everyone as a way of betrothing her son, Leonidas, to Gemma should he succeed in the three traditional challenges. To pass is to win Gemma’s hand, to fail or forfeit lies death. Meanwhile, Gemma still has to deal with the plots that are springing up around the Summit. Prince Milo’s are a given, but his seem not to be the only ones.

Tear Down the Throne was a little redundant for me. It started with Gemma immediately falling into a trap (just like Capture the Crown) and proceeded just like any Estep novel in either this universe or the Elemental Assassin world. Stakes are high and deadly, with Gemma telling the readers that every foe is bigger than before, vowing to kill her enemies, and having flashbacks to illuminate part of the plot readers might already know about or not. The plot is okay, it just doesn’t seem as fresh or dramatic as it might be.

The taunts Gemma uses against Maeven are repetitive too, as they all are heavy-handed and go back to the Seven Spire Massacre. Supposedly Gemma is using these gibes to throw Maeven off her game, but the massacre happened over a decade ago. Maeven knows what she did, everyone knows what happened—there’s nothing surprising there that can shock anybody.

Overall, Tear Down the Throne was disappointing to me, but it might not have been had Estep’s writing been more new to me.

This book was so good! I don't even know how to describe how much I love this book! Every book in this series has sucked me in, and I didn't want to do anything until I finished the last page.

I love Gemma and Leonides, their will they? wont they? enemies to could I possibly have actual feelings for you? thing is totally working for me.. I love all the behind the scenes back stabbing, and spying, and who can you trust anybody, even your bestest friend? How will Gemma get herself and her kingdom out of the mess she currently finds herself in?

This book is filled with action, and political intrigue, and some hot sweaty chemistry between two people whose families are sworn enemies.. What more could I possibly ask for??

This world that Jennifer Estep has made is so amazing! Now I really want to go back and reread this series starting from the original trilogy. I abosutley can't wait for 2023 for the next book!!

What do a cheese sandwich, ice violets, and a baby strix have in common??? Well your just going to have to read this to find out!

I have been provided with a reviewcopy of TearDown the Throne fromNetGalley for an impartial review. This is the second book in AGargoyle Queen Novel seriesand I just loved getting to reenter this world. I was just drawn into thiswonderful story and I just couldn’t get enough of it. It was just so easy toget lost in this great story. I just didn’t want it to end. I just lost myselfin and I just couldn’t get enough of these interesting characters. I can’t waitto see what’s next from this author.

4 1/2 Stars!

Long Live the Gargoyle Queen! These books have been such a treat to read. After the Crown of Shards series ended, I was thrilled to find that Gemma would receive her own series. There's definitely so much to tell here and some great push and pull between her and Leo.

This is the second book in The Gargoyle Queen series and the majority of it takes place at the Trade Summit with multiple kingdoms present. Naturally, there is much malice and mayhem afoot. It's difficult to tell who is friend and who is foe. Even though some questions are answered by the end of this book, the reader will come away with new ones.

Some of my favorite moments involve interactions between Gemma and Leo...but I'm a romantic that always cheers for the unlikely couples. I also have to admit that baby strixes melting the hearts of tough gargoyles is also right up there as one of my favorite excerpts from this book. Obviously, there is a great deal of evil, hate, torture, scheming and murder occurring in Tear Down the Throne but when it's balanced with a romance and fluffy baby strixes, all is good.

I was so engrossed in the storyline of this book that I zipped right through it. There was no savoring it, I had to see how things resolved themselves. That said, the ending was satisfying "for now," but I'm eagerly awaiting the next book already.

Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC. I voluntarily chose to review it and the opinions contained within are my own.

I have a lot of the same feelings about book 2 as I did for book 1. It started out a bit slow, but by the end I was completely hooked. There is a lot of secrecy, and you don't always know who to trust or not, and I kept trying to figure things out as Gemma was trying to figure them out. That makes for an intriguing read for me. I think the beginning just got a little bogged down by descriptions but once you get past that, I enjoyed trying to figure out the evil plot.

I'm no longer wondering where Leo's loyalties lie. I believe he has truly proven himself at this point and I'm now pretty excited to see him and Gemma together. I'm super curious what the next step for his sister entails. Their queen mother, Maeven, has admitted to plans where she is concerned.

Maeven is also completely unpredictable, and I like that. I like that she isn't as evil as I though but she also isn't that good. She's a mix of both and that makes her unpredictable. This series has my attention and I look forward to seeing how it all ends.

The third book in the Gargoyle Queen series by Jennifer Estep picks up just a short time after the events in the previous installment. Princess Gemma Ripley of Andvari is back home from Morta, but her time spent there and the tortures she suffered will never be able to be forgotten. She still hasn’t quite figured out what devious plots Prince Milo has planned or forgotten the betrayal of Leonidas. But the Summit is set to begin soon and with the representatives of every kingdom present, there is sure to be plenty of intrigues to navigate.

While the first book felt like a slow build, setting up character backstory and the general politics of this world (for those who didn’t read the original series and aren’t familiar), Tear Down the Throne jumps right into the action. Gemma is still spying for her country and trying to `reason out just what plans Milo has for all the tearstone stolen from the Andvari mines. Her relationship with Leo is more fraught than ever as she feels like she can’t trust him, even though her heart is still drawn to him.

It doesn’t take too long to figure out that Queen Maeven of Morta has devised a new way to punish Gemma and force a union between their two countries. The only question is why? Leonidas is set up as a sacrifice and volunteered to endure the Gauntlet, where he must complete three tasks in order to win Gemma’s hand in marriage. And he won’t be swayed from competing. Leo seems determined to prove his trust and devotion to her through this challenge, even though to fail would mean he forfeits his life.

While the beginning felt like a classic action and intrigue fantasy, the romance picks up shortly once Leo arrives with his family at the Summit. I wasn’t sure just how long this author would string out their relationship build-up, but was pleasantly surprised to discover that readers would get that emotional payoff in just the second book in the series. There is such longing between the two, and I just knew that some big gesture was going to happen to bring the two together. Finally. And I was right.

Gemma’s character grows so much in this installment, going from a young woman in the first book who makes stupid mistakes and is a little tentative about her magic, to a true power who deeply understands the workings of government and court conspiracies, between both allies and enemies. She learns to trust her heart and even though there is still a villain on the loose at the conclusion that will surely come back to exact some revenge in the next book in the series, I’m confident she and Leo will be triumphant in the end.

This was a great addition to the series and I’m looking forward to what comes next.

Tear Down the Throne is the second book in the Gargoyle Queen series, continuing the story of Gemma and Leonidas. Picking up where the first book left off, Gemma is back home after her quasi-undercover mission in the Morricone palace and trying to figure out what the Morricone heir is up to. This book centers around the annual meeting of the various kingdoms to discuss trade (minus Bellona, so no Everleigh). Of course, political shenanigans abound, with Queen Maevan shocking everyone with a game that has lasting repercussions for all of the kingdoms, Gemma, and Leonidas.

It took me a while to get into this book, but once I did, I enjoyed it. I liked the development of Gemma's various relationships (especially with her spy-friend), and the deeper look at Maeven's past. But I would be remiss not to mention the romance. Gemma and Leo are fabulous in this book. Lots of enemies angst, some pining, and spycraft. I won't spoil it, but the ending reminded me very much of the second Crown of Shards book.

I am thoroughly enjoying this series, and can't wait to see what's next for Andvari, Morta, and their heirs!

This book continues with the protagonist of Princess Gemma Ripley, and if you enjoyed the first in this series, number two does not disappoint. Magic, mystery, political intrigue. This story is for folks who enjoy a lighter fantasy story.

Gemma has matured and become an outstanding heroine. She has grown more comfortable with her power, adept at her spycraft, and improved her fighting skills. The last thing left to master will be her emotions, particularly where her feelings of adequacy and Leonidas are concerned. I'm a sucker for a forbidden or enemies-to-lovers romance, and Gemma and Leonidas couldn't be any more at odds. Though Leo does seem to have a greater grasp on his feelings for Gemma.

This installment brings us to another summit, and I was very interested to see all the royals gathering again. (Although I did miss Everleigh and am curious why she didn't attend). I absolutely loved the idea of the Gauntlet, and couldn't wait to see how it would effect everyone. There was SO much action and drama in this one, I felt like the book flew by and was sorry to see it end. I especially enjoyed the introduction of Otto and Violet, and I hope they continue to play a part in future stories. I also have an inkling of where our next spinoff will occur, and who that heroine may be. 😉

I just really enjoyed this book. It was just really easy to get lost in this book. I will definitely be reading more by this author.

Tear Down the Throne hooked me from the start. I liked the magical elements throughout the book. Splendid writing and characters.

I love this world. It's full of adventure, enemies to lovers romance, and deadly court politics. Gemma and Leonidas are honestly perfect for each other and I can't wait for the next book in the series.

Rounded to 4.5 stars.

CONTENT WARNING: torture, blood, violence

After finishing the Crown of Shards series, I was heartbroken to have to say goodbye to the beautiful world that Jennifer Estep created. So when she announced that there was going to be an offshoot series set years later in the same world, I was overjoyed. Capture the Crown, the first book, was fabulous, and lets us into the life of a grown up Princess Gemma Ripley, and this book met and exceeded all my expectations.

I was so ready to read this, especially after finishing a quick audiobook reread of book 1, and it picks up shortly after Gemma has returned to Andvari, her kingdom. But nothing about this was ever boring. It’s a fast-paced story, full of action and surprises that I didn’t see coming. But at the heart of it is also a great romance that I’ve been hoping for since the last book!

We are immediately immersed into magic, mystery, and political intrigue, which lasts throughout the story. Gemma is still dealing with the aftermath of the events in book 1, and while she’s gotten stronger at wielding her magic, she continues to struggle with controlling it rather than letting it control her. She’s also working as a spy, trying to figure out what is going on with the weapons made of stolen tearstone, but not having nearly as much progress as she’d like.

So when the Summit, a gathering of all the royal leaders from various kingdoms occurs, she’s in a unique position to find out more while working to strengthen her own kingdom’s position. However, it also brings her back into close contact with the Morricones. And Maeven is still up to her old tricks — playing the long game and using new and innovative means to do so. This time, she calls for an old, mostly-forgotten tradition to do it. But it means putting Gemma right into the path of Leonidas Morricone, her avowed enemy.

“‘I wish I could have shielded you from the Morricones, especially Maeven. But no matter what I do, she always seems to find a way to get the better of me and hurt our family. I don’t know whether to admire or hate her for that.’ My gaze drifted over to the Mortan queen, who was sipping wine from a goblet. ‘Me neither.’”

Speaking of Leonidas, this is the perfect enemies-to-lovers story, wrapped in a thrilling fantasy world with a variety of amazing, well-rounded characters. But the attraction between Gemma and Leonidas is simmering throughout the book, and all I really wanted was to see them together.

“Leonidas Morricone got under my skin in a way no one else ever had and made my tongue as uncontrollable as my magic so often was.”

Gemma does a great job of attending to her royal duties, spying, and working on her burgeoning friendship with Lady Reiko, a spy from another country that she worked with in the last book. I loved seeing the dynamics evolve between Gemma and Reiko, from competition to a true friendship, although that is definitely threatened through the story.

This book was everything I’d hoped it would be, and then some. Now I’m just stuck waiting for book 3 to come out, to find out what happens next for Gemma. Some of my favorite characters from the Crown of Shards series returned, although there were two notable exceptions, but I have high hopes that they’ll make at least an appearance in book 3. But the twists and turns, and various intriguing plots running throughout this story are a hallmark of Estep’s, and I love every second of it!

A lovely addition to Jennifer's Estep's Gargoyle Queen world. I really enjoyed being able to step back into the world that Estep created all the way back in Kill the Queen. She really expands more on the motivations and personalities of Gemma and Leo, fleshing them out into fully realized characters and gets you invested in their relationship. The writing is everything you want from Estep and the book ends on a open conclusion that still feels satisfying. Personally, I would have loved to see Evie in this book as Gemma's and Leo's characters are now strong enough to stand on their own, but I understand why she is only referred to in this series. A fun read that will leave the reader eager for the next book!

ARC courtesy of NetGalley in exchange for a honest review.

I received access via Netgalley, but my opinion is all my own.
This is a very compelling story/series which keeps you engaged and intrigued. I have one problem with it: it's sold as adult, but reads as young adult. Don't get me wrong I love young adult which is probably why I enjoyed this so much, but because it reads and feels like young adult the coarse language and other adult content is a shock and feels random as well as very out of place. The female lead feels 16-18, tops of 21 maybe and Leo feels maybe a couple years older maybe early 20s, but the book states they are about 30ish. Overall a very enjoyable read.

RELEASES: 5/3/2022

I received a digital copy of this ARC from Harper Voyager, through Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.

Content Warnings: Blood/gore, drowning, political themes, anxiety, PTSD, and discussion/memories of torture, abuse, and murder.

I have been excited to get my hands on this book since I read the ARC of CAPTURE THE CROWN last year, and it did not disappoint. What I love most about this series is how we’re able to see flashbacks of a young Gemma and Leo and what actually happened to them after the events of the Seven Spire massacre.

When I originally read the CROWN OF SHARDS trilogy, back in late 2020, I was confused as to why we were introduced to Gemma and Leo but left feeling like we didn’t learn enough to tie up their story, which is why when I found out there would be a spin-off that focused on an adult Gemma I was so excited! Not only do we get to see Gemma as an adult but we also get vivid flashbacks of her childhood that show us just how connected she and Leo really are.

From a young age, thanks in part to the Seven Spire massacre, Gemma learned to never underestimate her enemies and she isn’t going to start now. So regardless of her growing feelings, and attraction, towards Leo she doesn’t have the time, or patience, to dissect them. As all the royals gather for their annual Summit, to discuss trade agreements, Gemma’s sole focus is on unraveling whatever plans Maeven, and Milo, attempt to enact that could hurt those she loves.

As Gemma tries to gather clues, can she get ahead of Maeven and Milo, and are those the only enemies she should be looking out for?

I LOVED this book though at times I really wanted to shake Gemma. Not only do we get the political intrigue, and backstabbing, that we’re used to but we also get a beautiful story of two people learning to love and trust regardless of circumstance. This book had me feeling all the emotions, there were times when I needed to scream into a pillow from excitement, and sometimes anger, and times when I needed to grab the tissues because I couldn’t stop the tears.

Each new book I read, set in this universe, has me falling more and more in love with it and with Jennifer’s writing. I cannot wait [I’m serious give me book 3 now! haha] to see what else we get out of these kingdoms. I’m not sure if this series will also be a trilogy, but I can already see potential breadcrumbs, for another character, to have their own trilogy and I’m so excited to see if that happens.

I have voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this title given to mevia NetGalley. This book was just amazing. I just lost myself in this story anddidn’t want it to end. It was really well written and just drew in you intothese characters lives. I look forward to seeing what’s next from this author.

I loved everything about this book. This sequel just had more of everything I loved in the first one: slow burn enemies to lovers romance, political machinations, exciting action, and fantastic character growth. Gemma's story developed in all the best ways. When Queen Maevan invokes an ancient tradition that threatens to bring Gemma and Leo together, Gemma once again finds herself battling her complex feelings for the enemy prince. The assassination attempts and power struggles at the summit were intense and fast-paced.

I devoured this book and cannot wait to see where Jennifer Estep takes us in the trilogy conclusion. I will buy any fantasy or paranormal with Jennifer Estep's name on it,.This one exceeded expectations. Thank you so much to NetGalley and HarperVoyager for providing me with a copy of this e-arc.

This is a great continuation to what was already a gripping and exciting fantasy read for me. The main character Gemma is on a quest to get answers that will ultimately stop the production of weapons that threaten her home. The Morricones are the nemesis of Gemma and are hiding some nasty secrets that Gemma is determined to reveal. The story is weaved together expertly by Jennifer Estep and the prose is addictive. I enjoyed learning more about this world. The world building is further developed and explored in this sequel. The characters are well developed and the main character is a strong woman lead.
I have nothing but good things to say about this book. Every aspect was executed excellently, from the world building to the character development and continuation of plot. This was definitely a page turner in the realm of Sarah J. Maas or Leigh Bardugo. It has the same spirit of these epic fantasy authors and will attract the attention of similarly styled readers. The action and romance is evenly dispersed and well done as well. The love interest Leonidas is well written and a captivating character as well. I will definitely be recommending this to fans of YA fantasy blended well with romance and fantasy social politics. Thank you for the opportunity to read this stunning story.