Jennifer Estep returns to the to her Crown of Shards world with an all-new trilogy. Capture the Crown began slowly and finished strong with a swoon-worthy hero and a heroine who fears her own powers. Grab an iced coffee and check out my thoughts…
by Jennifer Estep
Series: Gargoyle Queen #1
Genres: Fantasy
Source: Publisher
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate
Bestselling author Jennifer Estep returns to her Crown of Shards world with an all-new trilogy and a bold new heroine who protects her kingdom from magic, murder, and mayhem by moonlighting as a spy.
Gemma Ripley has a reputation for being a pampered princess who is more interested in pretty gowns, sparkling jewelry, and other frivolous things than learning how to rule the kingdom of Andvari. But her carefully crafted persona is just an act to hide the fact that Gemma is a powerful mind magier—and a spy.
Gemma is undercover, trying to figure out who is stealing large amounts of tearstone from one of the Ripley royal mines when she encounters Prince Leonidas Morricone of Morta—her mortal enemy. Gemma tries to steer clear of the handsome prince, but when she finds herself behind enemy lines, she reluctantly joins forces with Leo. Also coming to Gemma’s aid is Grimley, her beloved gargoyle.
Despite the fact that Andvari and Morta are old, bitter enemies, a dangerous attraction sparks between Gemma and Leo. Further complicating matters is Leo’s murderous family, especially Queen Maeven Morricone, the mastermind behind the infamous Seven Spire massacre.
The closer Gemma gets to the stolen tearstone, the more deadly plots she uncovers. Everyone is trying to capture the crown, but only one queen can sit on the throne…
This is a brand new trilogy set in the world of Crown of Shards and I am so delighted we are returning. We meet Gemma Ripley, princess of the kingdom of Andvari in a mining town. She is incognito and playing her favorite role as a spy. On her way to the mines, she spots Prince Leonidas Morricone of Morta—her mortal enemy. Ah, how I adore Leo.
The tale began slowly as Estep gave backstory and took us to Morta. Gemma and Leo have similar abilities, but she is more. Some we witness and others are hinted at leaving me curious. The last fourth of the book was epic, fast-paced and left me drooling for more. The author delivered a brilliant ending that left me grinning and begging for more.
Andvari and Morta are enemies, and Leo and Gemma share a history, but you can feel the chemistry between them. It was interesting seeing what occurred in the past and how they aided each other despite not fully trusting each other. Estep delivered twists and surprises, endearing me to both.
It was interesting being in Morta. Mauve showed many sides and the political courts and deadly dances for power entertained while laying the groundwork for what is coming. I love the creatures from each of the kingdoms and in particular those who have bonded with our characters. You’ll meet plenty of villains and even meet characters you’d like to friend. I am so curious about the vines… but alas spoilers darling.
I love how Estep writes romantic fantasy from the clever creatures within the kingdoms to the magic and stones. Her characters are unique, complex and memorable. I cannot wait to see where she takes Gemma and Leo next….
Capture the Crown Jennifer Estep, the first in the #GargoyleQueen trilogy, set in the world of Shards of Glass is a #mustread for fans of #fantasy #romanticfantasy Share on XAbout Jennifer Estep
Jennifer Estep is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, prowling the streets of her imagination in search of her next fantasy idea.
Jennifer writes the Elemental Assassin adult urban fantasy series for Pocket. Books in the series are SPIDER'S BITE, WEB OF LIES, VENOM, TANGLED THREADS, SPIDER'S REVENGE, BY A THREAD, WIDOW'S WEB and DEADLY STING. THREAD OF DEATH, an e-novella, is also available. HAINTS AND HOBWEBS: AN ELEMENTAL ASSASSIN SHORT STORY can be found in THE MAMMOTH BOOK OF GHOST ROMANCE. Jennifer also writes the Mythos Academy young adult urban fantasy series for Kensington.
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About Kimberly
Kimberly is a coffee loving book addict who reads and listens to fictional stories in all genres. Whovian, Ravenclaw, Howler and proud Nonna. She owns and manages Caffeinated PR. The coffee is always on and she is ready to chat. BlueSky | Facebook | Instagram
Anne - Books of My Heart
I really enjoyed this one especially the creatures. I got tired of Gemma’s repetition of the past though. She also seemed so young / naive at times. At least she had personal growth here although it came at a high price.
Nicci @ Sunny Buzzy Books
I’m excited to read this one! I loved Gemma as a girl and I’m curious to see what she’s like all grown up. I’m also curious as to how the romance works with Leo when Morta was the big bad for so long… Is it still evil? Guess I’ll find out! 🙂
Vanessa
I haven’t read anything from the author, but this series sounds like something I would enjoy as well. And ohhhh, that cover looks gorgeous!
Debbie Haupt
I need to start reading her again, she was one of my very favorite authors way back when. Thanks Kim
Wendy Williams
This sounds so interesting. The cover is gorgeous but so cool that it starts a new series.
Sophia Rose
Neat that she put another series in a world you enjoy and it was a hit right out of the gate.
Joyousreads
Sounds like a brand new series to sink your teeth into. I hope you’ll continue to enjoy the proceeding books. 🙂
Melliane
Oh yes, I really enjoyed this one as well! You made me recall that I need to post my review as well!