Status
Available
Call number
Series
Genres
Publication
New York, NY : Harper Voyager, an imprint of HarperCollinsPublishers, [2018]
Description
Fantasy. Fiction. Romance. HTML: Gladiator meets Game of Thrones: a royal woman becomes a skilled warrior to destroy her murderous cousin, avenge her family, and save her kingdom in this first entry in a dazzling fantasy epic from the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the Elemental Assassin series�an enthralling tale that combines magic, murder, intrigue, adventure, and a hint of romance. In a realm where one's magical power determines one's worth, Lady Everleigh's lack of obvious ability relegates her to the shadows of the royal court of Bellona, a kingdom steeped in gladiator tradition. Seventeenth in line for the throne, Evie is nothing more than a ceremonial fixture, overlooked and mostly forgotten. But dark forces are at work inside the palace. When her cousin Vasilia, the crown princess, assassinates her mother the queen and takes the throne by force, Evie is also attacked, along with the rest of the royal family. Luckily for Evie, her secret immunity to magic helps her escape the massacre. Forced into hiding to survive, she falls in with a gladiator troupe. Though they use their talents to entertain and amuse the masses, the gladiators are actually highly trained warriors skilled in the art of war, especially Lucas Sullivan, a powerful magier with secrets of his own. Uncertain of her future�or if she even has one�Evie begins training with the troupe until she can decide her next move. But as the bloodthirsty Vasilia exerts her power, pushing Bellona to the brink of war, Evie's fate becomes clear: she must become a fearsome gladiator herself . . . and kill the queen..… (more)
User reviews
LibraryThing member dlynch
Jennifer Estep’s KILL THE QUEEN is an amazing debut to the Crown of Shards series. Lady Everleigh Saffira Winter Blair was the seventeenth in line for the throne. Her cousin, Vasilia, the crown princess, kills everyone in the royal family to ensure her spot on the throne. Evie manages to escape
I loved this story. It was refreshing and exciting. Evie is a likable character. She was orphaned after the murder of her parents. She was at the bottom of the royal family food chain, not being treated very well. She has a good sense for right and wrong. She has a magical ability that she keeps hidden. She has all the makings for a humble heroine. She is courageous and ruthless. She is caring and selfless.
I adored her interaction with Lucas Sullivan. Their verbal banter was entertaining. They have amazing chemistry. Lucas has an interesting history.
The plot was skillfully executed and clever. There are interesting twists, lots of drama, and action. The characters are well-developed and believable. KILL THE QUEEN would make an excellent movie or television series. I look forward to the next book in the series. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
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hiding among a troupe of gladiators, while determining her next move. This fantasy is suitable for adult audiences.I loved this story. It was refreshing and exciting. Evie is a likable character. She was orphaned after the murder of her parents. She was at the bottom of the royal family food chain, not being treated very well. She has a good sense for right and wrong. She has a magical ability that she keeps hidden. She has all the makings for a humble heroine. She is courageous and ruthless. She is caring and selfless.
I adored her interaction with Lucas Sullivan. Their verbal banter was entertaining. They have amazing chemistry. Lucas has an interesting history.
The plot was skillfully executed and clever. There are interesting twists, lots of drama, and action. The characters are well-developed and believable. KILL THE QUEEN would make an excellent movie or television series. I look forward to the next book in the series. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
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LibraryThing member Carolesrandomlife
This was a fantastic story! As soon as I saw this book online, I knew that I wanted to read it. Since this book is the beginning of a brand new series, I was really excited to give it a try. I did have a bit of a slow start with this book but that had everything to do with me and nothing to do with
Lady Everleigh's life is about to change. She lives in the royal court and is actually seventeenth in line for the throne but she is treated rather poorly. She is often the token royal sent to do the things that more important royals don't want to do like bake pies or learn complicated dances. Things go horribly wrong at an event at the palace and soon Everleigh is more focused on survival than anything else.
I try to go into books as blindly as possible and I don't think I even read the entire summary for this book before I got started with it. I do recommend going into this one blindly because I think that the book's summary gives a whole lot away. I was completely shocked by some of the turns this book took which I think added to my enjoyment.
I thought that Everleigh was a fantastic character. I loved how much growth we saw in her over the course of the story. She starts out knowing her place in the world and just trying to do what was expected of her to the best of her ability. She proves to be quite resourceful and has a lot of strength she didn't know she had. Even at her toughest, she never stopped thinking about others and was willing to make huge sacrifices in order to protect those she cared about.
This book had a lot going for it. There are some pretty intense action scenes that really kept the excitement level high. I thought that the world building was very well done and loved all of the different ways that magic could manifest in an individual. I thought that the relationships between the characters were very well done and felt quite authentic. I liked that there is just a hint of romance worked into the story.
I would highly recommend this book to fans of fantasy or urban fiction. I thought that this book was a fantastic story filled with a lot of action and characters that I grew to care about. I can't wait to read more from this wonderful series!
I received a digital review copy of this book from Harper Voyager via Edelweiss.
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the book because the book was great. Once I had some time to dedicate to reading, I ended up devouring the bulk of this book in a single day. This was a story that grabbed me and didn't want to let go.Lady Everleigh's life is about to change. She lives in the royal court and is actually seventeenth in line for the throne but she is treated rather poorly. She is often the token royal sent to do the things that more important royals don't want to do like bake pies or learn complicated dances. Things go horribly wrong at an event at the palace and soon Everleigh is more focused on survival than anything else.
I try to go into books as blindly as possible and I don't think I even read the entire summary for this book before I got started with it. I do recommend going into this one blindly because I think that the book's summary gives a whole lot away. I was completely shocked by some of the turns this book took which I think added to my enjoyment.
I thought that Everleigh was a fantastic character. I loved how much growth we saw in her over the course of the story. She starts out knowing her place in the world and just trying to do what was expected of her to the best of her ability. She proves to be quite resourceful and has a lot of strength she didn't know she had. Even at her toughest, she never stopped thinking about others and was willing to make huge sacrifices in order to protect those she cared about.
This book had a lot going for it. There are some pretty intense action scenes that really kept the excitement level high. I thought that the world building was very well done and loved all of the different ways that magic could manifest in an individual. I thought that the relationships between the characters were very well done and felt quite authentic. I liked that there is just a hint of romance worked into the story.
I would highly recommend this book to fans of fantasy or urban fiction. I thought that this book was a fantastic story filled with a lot of action and characters that I grew to care about. I can't wait to read more from this wonderful series!
I received a digital review copy of this book from Harper Voyager via Edelweiss.
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LibraryThing member STACYatUFI
Jennifer Estep dives into a brand new fantasy world with KILL THE QUEEN.
Both the main character and the secondary characters in KILL THE QUEEN held my interest. Everleigh is often overlooked an underestimated which serves her well and helps her stay alive. I liked her survival spirit and it was
There is a bit of a romance blooming with book one, but lots of obstacles that need to be navigated. I WANT them to navigate.
The action is fierce in KILL THE QUEEN. Estep packed it in wherever she could and totally pulled it off. With the action came danger and it definitely kept me on the edge of my seat as the characters got themselves out of sticky situations. I did have a favorite part in the book, but I can't reveal it without giving away spoilers. I will say that I loved that something that seemed so trivial and felt like a waste of time became something that saved a lot of lives.
KILL THE QUEEN was a fabulous start to the Crown of Shards series. I look forward to reading more of Evie's journey in PROTECT THE PRINCE.
* This book was provided free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Both the main character and the secondary characters in KILL THE QUEEN held my interest. Everleigh is often overlooked an underestimated which serves her well and helps her stay alive. I liked her survival spirit and it was
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easy to stay connected to her throughout the story. The gladiator troupe was full of interesting people. Some I liked more than others, but I enjoyed learning about all of the different parts and players that made up the troupe. There is a bit of a romance blooming with book one, but lots of obstacles that need to be navigated. I WANT them to navigate.
The action is fierce in KILL THE QUEEN. Estep packed it in wherever she could and totally pulled it off. With the action came danger and it definitely kept me on the edge of my seat as the characters got themselves out of sticky situations. I did have a favorite part in the book, but I can't reveal it without giving away spoilers. I will say that I loved that something that seemed so trivial and felt like a waste of time became something that saved a lot of lives.
KILL THE QUEEN was a fabulous start to the Crown of Shards series. I look forward to reading more of Evie's journey in PROTECT THE PRINCE.
* This book was provided free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
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LibraryThing member jmchshannon
Initial Thoughts: “I have been relatively vocal on social media lately about how I am channeling all of my anger and frustration – about work, about the government, etc. – into my reading. The bloodier the story and the angrier the hero, the more I am enjoying the story. Before this, I was
Now: Kill the Queen satisfies on so many levels, and I find myself thinking about that feeling of empowerment and righteousness I had while reading it. Evie’s past, in particular, struck a chord with me, and the fact that she gets to confront her childhood torturer and nemesis is something about which I can only dream. Evie’s growth from self-effacing royal to mighty gladiator is inspiring because she does it all through hard work. She may have a network of the best trainers, but the progress she makes is due to her grit and determination. You can have the best trainers in the world, but they won’t do any good if you are not willing to put forth the time and effort. Evie is more than willing to do so, and I love her for it.
One of the reasons why I find novels such as Kill the Queen comforting these days is the fact that they tend to follow a David and Goliath type plot. I take great comfort in seeing the underdog win at any time, but these days such stories take on greater importance. At a time when it feels like the country’s slide towards fascism and a puppet dictatorship is happening with ever-increasing speed, they remind me of what is possible with the right amount of determination and support. It does not matter that the hero uses magic. It does not matter if the hero is fabulously wealthy or without a penny to his or her name. All that matters is that they act in good conscience and bring down the big bad. When that happens, I feel hopeful that the citizens of the United States can turn the tide and take power away from the old, wealthy, white boys club that makes up the legislative and executive branches of the government.
The violence in such stories is satisfying much in the same way that screaming or throwing something in frustration is satisfying. It provides an ideal outlet through which I can channel my ever-increasing anger at the headlines and soothes an urge – however irrational – I have to see every last Republican strung up by their toes and flogged. If reading allows you to visit new worlds and explore other countries, reading also provides a cheaper alternative to therapy and prevents any jail time.
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somewhat cautious in the types of novels towards which I was gravitating. However, with a title like Kill the Queen, there is no circumspection. The title says it all, and I loved every page of it. There is rage – cold, bright rage fueled by years of torment and petty tortures. There is violence; we are talking about a society founded by a gladiator in which the gladiatorial battles still are the highest form of entertainment. Magic, political backstabbing (in the literal sense), a fantastic training montage, and great characters round out this entertaining story. It fit what I need in novels right now and is, in general, an excellent story. I am excited to see where the series goes next.”Now: Kill the Queen satisfies on so many levels, and I find myself thinking about that feeling of empowerment and righteousness I had while reading it. Evie’s past, in particular, struck a chord with me, and the fact that she gets to confront her childhood torturer and nemesis is something about which I can only dream. Evie’s growth from self-effacing royal to mighty gladiator is inspiring because she does it all through hard work. She may have a network of the best trainers, but the progress she makes is due to her grit and determination. You can have the best trainers in the world, but they won’t do any good if you are not willing to put forth the time and effort. Evie is more than willing to do so, and I love her for it.
One of the reasons why I find novels such as Kill the Queen comforting these days is the fact that they tend to follow a David and Goliath type plot. I take great comfort in seeing the underdog win at any time, but these days such stories take on greater importance. At a time when it feels like the country’s slide towards fascism and a puppet dictatorship is happening with ever-increasing speed, they remind me of what is possible with the right amount of determination and support. It does not matter that the hero uses magic. It does not matter if the hero is fabulously wealthy or without a penny to his or her name. All that matters is that they act in good conscience and bring down the big bad. When that happens, I feel hopeful that the citizens of the United States can turn the tide and take power away from the old, wealthy, white boys club that makes up the legislative and executive branches of the government.
The violence in such stories is satisfying much in the same way that screaming or throwing something in frustration is satisfying. It provides an ideal outlet through which I can channel my ever-increasing anger at the headlines and soothes an urge – however irrational – I have to see every last Republican strung up by their toes and flogged. If reading allows you to visit new worlds and explore other countries, reading also provides a cheaper alternative to therapy and prevents any jail time.
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LibraryThing member BillieBook
I'm saying nothing about this yet—not even a star rating—because I was gifted a copy of the manuscript and I don't know that I'm allowed to say anything. When I have clearance, I will have thoughts.
LibraryThing member Cherylk
It has been a while since I have read a book from this author. Yet, with this new series, I figured now is the perfect time to pick up a book again by Mrs. Estep. I have to tell you that I absolutely fell in love with this book. The characters and the setting as well as the pacing were strong. This
Evie is a woman of mystery. She started out as a quiet mouse but by the end of the story Evie was roaring like a lion. Evie training with the gladiators is cool. It shows that not just men can be warriors. Yet, what I really liked is Evie's magical abilities. She did showcase them in this story but I think there is more to come from Evie. This story just barely scratches the surface. Lucas was cool but it did not capture my attention as much as Evie. For me this book was really about woman power. Long live the queen. Jennifer Estep pens a strong female protagonist with an action packed storyline that is sure to thrill readers.
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is how you start off a new series. I for sure will be reading book two in this series. Evie is a woman of mystery. She started out as a quiet mouse but by the end of the story Evie was roaring like a lion. Evie training with the gladiators is cool. It shows that not just men can be warriors. Yet, what I really liked is Evie's magical abilities. She did showcase them in this story but I think there is more to come from Evie. This story just barely scratches the surface. Lucas was cool but it did not capture my attention as much as Evie. For me this book was really about woman power. Long live the queen. Jennifer Estep pens a strong female protagonist with an action packed storyline that is sure to thrill readers.
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LibraryThing member BethYacoub
~~~~ 3.5 Stars ~~~~
I enjoyed listening to Kill the Queen on Audible and, overall, I liked it. The narrator was decent. The differing chatacter's voices were easily discernable and by the end I couldn't picture Evie with any other voice. NOW, that aside, I am compelled to tell you that this book is
The MC, Lady Everleigh (aka Evie), was a cold rage hardened badass heroine who would rather save herself than wait around to be rescued. She never gave up and never laid around feeling sorry for herself. She wasn't afraid to put in the hard work necessary to achieve her goals and overall, was a highly likeable character. There was also a motley crew of supporting cast so likeable/detestable that I truly loved them all.... except for a certain queen... yes Vasilia, I'm looking at you... you crazy mamma jamma!!
The climatic clash between the Royal Blaires was not as epic as I had hoped. I think that Evie's magical ability/inability was probably the determining factor for how lengthy the fight could realistically have dragged on and in that respect it wasn't paltry. Speaking of paltry, now on to the romance... yes there was romance and before you groan you should know that it was SUPER tame and demure and borderline nonexistent. If you like your Fantasy on the chaste side then this is for you.
Though knee deep in cliches, the writing was so engaging that I didn't feel the need to throw it off the nearest cliff to be dashed to pieces on the jagged rocks below. What was the world building like you might wonder?? WELL, I'm glad you asked but sorry to report that the world building was on the super lean (boarderline anorexic) side, especially for an Epic Fantasy. BUT because the character development was on point, I didn't mind... a miracle you say?!? Yes, a Holiday Miracle!!...or just exemplary writing... they feel the same sometimes.
I classify this as a fun, fast paced, moderately descriptive, non twisty, romance-lite, High(ish) Fantasy. It sounds weird but with the lack of meticulous attention to World/Magic System/Courtly developments means it isn't a "true" High Fantasy in my eyes. I know that seems a bit harsh but I mean it in the best possible way and the description fits so snugly that I'm leaving it there. I do want to add that cliches and tropes and stereotypes are loved by so many for a reason and that they are used over and over again and, as long as the writing can carry its own, we can't help but love 'em! Me included!
If you don't mind your stories a little on the floofier side (it's a thing... or at least NOW it's a thing) with well written yet predictable trope-y cliches abound, then I think Kill the Queen will be an excellent fit for you!
~Enjoy!
I enjoyed listening to Kill the Queen on Audible and, overall, I liked it. The narrator was decent. The differing chatacter's voices were easily discernable and by the end I couldn't picture Evie with any other voice. NOW, that aside, I am compelled to tell you that this book is
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undeniably trope-y. Yes, it is trope-tastic but it is also written very well. The royal intrigue and machinations that can easily become overwhelming weren't present so there was no danger of becoming trapped in the quagmire of royal names, relations and lineage. The pace was nice but there weren't many twisty turns and for that I think Mrs. Estep missed the mark. The MC, Lady Everleigh (aka Evie), was a cold rage hardened badass heroine who would rather save herself than wait around to be rescued. She never gave up and never laid around feeling sorry for herself. She wasn't afraid to put in the hard work necessary to achieve her goals and overall, was a highly likeable character. There was also a motley crew of supporting cast so likeable/detestable that I truly loved them all.... except for a certain queen... yes Vasilia, I'm looking at you... you crazy mamma jamma!!
The climatic clash between the Royal Blaires was not as epic as I had hoped. I think that Evie's magical ability/inability was probably the determining factor for how lengthy the fight could realistically have dragged on and in that respect it wasn't paltry. Speaking of paltry, now on to the romance... yes there was romance and before you groan you should know that it was SUPER tame and demure and borderline nonexistent. If you like your Fantasy on the chaste side then this is for you.
Though knee deep in cliches, the writing was so engaging that I didn't feel the need to throw it off the nearest cliff to be dashed to pieces on the jagged rocks below. What was the world building like you might wonder?? WELL, I'm glad you asked but sorry to report that the world building was on the super lean (boarderline anorexic) side, especially for an Epic Fantasy. BUT because the character development was on point, I didn't mind... a miracle you say?!? Yes, a Holiday Miracle!!...or just exemplary writing... they feel the same sometimes.
I classify this as a fun, fast paced, moderately descriptive, non twisty, romance-lite, High(ish) Fantasy. It sounds weird but with the lack of meticulous attention to World/Magic System/Courtly developments means it isn't a "true" High Fantasy in my eyes. I know that seems a bit harsh but I mean it in the best possible way and the description fits so snugly that I'm leaving it there. I do want to add that cliches and tropes and stereotypes are loved by so many for a reason and that they are used over and over again and, as long as the writing can carry its own, we can't help but love 'em! Me included!
If you don't mind your stories a little on the floofier side (it's a thing... or at least NOW it's a thing) with well written yet predictable trope-y cliches abound, then I think Kill the Queen will be an excellent fit for you!
~Enjoy!
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LibraryThing member Spurts
Damn, who wrote this?
Seriously, I have enjoyed other books and series by Jennifer Estep. Gave them good ratings, devoured series in their entirety and was a fan. But there were always things to pick on, some pacing, some repetitiveness, various other things that didn't stop my enjoying her books.
This book was extremely well written. Start to finish. Fast paced. So fast paced that surprisingly this first book has a very complete story arc, an absolute opposite of a cliffhanger.
The main character -- oh, sheesh. Not perfect but perfectly written. Not in the least perfect, but a fully developed, believable, character to root for.
The story unfolds believably and logically even with the twists.
Boy, I'm not writing good reviews. But I've had these books languishing waiting on a review so for now this is the best I can do.
Definitely continuing the series when more are published. Ms. Estep has gotten really good as an author.
Seriously, I have enjoyed other books and series by Jennifer Estep. Gave them good ratings, devoured series in their entirety and was a fan. But there were always things to pick on, some pacing, some repetitiveness, various other things that didn't stop my enjoying her books.
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This book was extremely well written. Start to finish. Fast paced. So fast paced that surprisingly this first book has a very complete story arc, an absolute opposite of a cliffhanger.
The main character -- oh, sheesh. Not perfect but perfectly written. Not in the least perfect, but a fully developed, believable, character to root for.
The story unfolds believably and logically even with the twists.
Boy, I'm not writing good reviews. But I've had these books languishing waiting on a review so for now this is the best I can do.
Definitely continuing the series when more are published. Ms. Estep has gotten really good as an author.
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LibraryThing member wagner.sarah35
I didn't really know what to expect from this fantasy novel, but wow, was I impressed! This novel combined world-building with some of the best character development that left me highly invested in the characters, rooting for them, and eager to have more adventures with them. Evie starts out the
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the novel as an overlooked royal cousin tasked with baking pies and learning foreign dances, but after surviving a brutal massacre that wiped out much of the rest of the royal family, she becomes a deadly gladiator in a performance troupe. This novel is quickly paced and left me ready to pick up the next book in the series. Show Less
LibraryThing member BooksCooksLooks
I don't often read fantasy (except for my live of time travel novels) but something about the synopsis appealed. I am so glad I accepted these books. Ms. Estep has created a unique word populated by not only queens, princesses and nobles but also people with their own kinds of magical powers.
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Those powers can be the ability to shoot lightening from fingers or create snowstorms from thin air. My favorite - conjuring up the sweetest and flashiest of baked goods.
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But this world is not just one that thrives. It's one where there is a battle between good and evil. Everleigh is a very minor noble - an orphan - with very little magic so she is much ignored yet often called upon for "royal duties" that no one else wants to fulfill.
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She is a an unexpected heroine in this tale of murder and greed but one that you will certainly capture your reading heart.
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Despite all the fantastic happenings in this world so far removed from reality I could not stop turning the pages. I immediately started the second book, Protect the Prince, and the beginning chapters hold the same promise.
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Those powers can be the ability to shoot lightening from fingers or create snowstorms from thin air. My favorite - conjuring up the sweetest and flashiest of baked goods.
.
But this world is not just one that thrives. It's one where there is a battle between good and evil. Everleigh is a very minor noble - an orphan - with very little magic so she is much ignored yet often called upon for "royal duties" that no one else wants to fulfill.
.
She is a an unexpected heroine in this tale of murder and greed but one that you will certainly capture your reading heart.
.
Despite all the fantastic happenings in this world so far removed from reality I could not stop turning the pages. I immediately started the second book, Protect the Prince, and the beginning chapters hold the same promise.
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LibraryThing member roses7184
This was pretty much a perfect book for me, dear friends. In fact, it was perfect to the point that my headphones died with only 3 minutes left to go in the audio version, and I audibly yelled at them. You know those endings that make you feel just a little more powerful, and all but push you into
I can't praise Estep enough for the character that she's created in Evie. My favorite characters are always the ones who rise up from the ashes, reluctantly, and claim what is rightfully theirs. Friends, this is Evie through and through. Her persona at the beginning of the book was so much different from the one presented at the end of the book. However, at her core, she was still Evie. She was still kind, still always thinking of others, still full of quiet strength. I adored that she didn't completely morph but, instead, became the most powerful version of herself possible. I cheered for her. I cried for her. I was so in love with her character that I couldn't stand it. Remember how I said that I needed the next book in the series, stat? This is why.
That's not to say that the plot isn't absolutely excellent as well. In fact, the amount of tension that is slowly ramped up in this story is breathtaking. From the first line, I was hooked. Court intrigue, bloody coups, and the perfect amount of simmering possible romance touch each and everyone one of these pages. Between reading a print copy, and listening to the audio book, there were so many times that my hands were clenched and I was breathless with anticipation. Readers, you will find yourself so immersed in Evie's world, so a part of the little family that she finds for herself, that I promise you'll be reluctant to let go at the end. Thank goodness that there is another book, because I'm already missing my new friends.
Outstanding female relationships, realistic self growth, and perfectly tempered romances are just some of the wonderful things that you'll find within these pages. If you love Fantasy, and are looking for something new to get lost in that already has a sequel out, Kill The Queen needs to be next on your list. I loved this book so very much. Time to see what happens next!
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buying the next book in the series? That's Kill The Queen. Consider yourself warned that is one addictive read.I can't praise Estep enough for the character that she's created in Evie. My favorite characters are always the ones who rise up from the ashes, reluctantly, and claim what is rightfully theirs. Friends, this is Evie through and through. Her persona at the beginning of the book was so much different from the one presented at the end of the book. However, at her core, she was still Evie. She was still kind, still always thinking of others, still full of quiet strength. I adored that she didn't completely morph but, instead, became the most powerful version of herself possible. I cheered for her. I cried for her. I was so in love with her character that I couldn't stand it. Remember how I said that I needed the next book in the series, stat? This is why.
That's not to say that the plot isn't absolutely excellent as well. In fact, the amount of tension that is slowly ramped up in this story is breathtaking. From the first line, I was hooked. Court intrigue, bloody coups, and the perfect amount of simmering possible romance touch each and everyone one of these pages. Between reading a print copy, and listening to the audio book, there were so many times that my hands were clenched and I was breathless with anticipation. Readers, you will find yourself so immersed in Evie's world, so a part of the little family that she finds for herself, that I promise you'll be reluctant to let go at the end. Thank goodness that there is another book, because I'm already missing my new friends.
Outstanding female relationships, realistic self growth, and perfectly tempered romances are just some of the wonderful things that you'll find within these pages. If you love Fantasy, and are looking for something new to get lost in that already has a sequel out, Kill The Queen needs to be next on your list. I loved this book so very much. Time to see what happens next!
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LibraryThing member JenniferElizabeth2
Very readable, despite having the emotional depth of a CW show.
LibraryThing member Andorion
Delightfully to the point.
LibraryThing member xaverie
Aggressively average, but still fun and easy enough. Absolutely chockablock with all the best tropes from pretty much any fantasy book, television show, or movie you've ever enjoyed. Distant Royal Now the Only Hope to Save Her Country. Hot Bastard Foreign Prince. Bland Snarky and Sparky
The writing is simple; if the text hadn't mentioned that the protagonist, Everleigh, is in her late 20s the style and first person narration would have led me to believe she was a teenager. The cast of secondary characters are vibrant, and I liked that the author developed a genuine friendship between Everleigh and one of the female gladiators. Still, it was fun. A serviceable high (medium?) fantasy novel when you're not looking for anything emotionally taxing or difficult.
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Heterosexuality. Gladiator Fights. Born Bad Villain. The writing is simple; if the text hadn't mentioned that the protagonist, Everleigh, is in her late 20s the style and first person narration would have led me to believe she was a teenager. The cast of secondary characters are vibrant, and I liked that the author developed a genuine friendship between Everleigh and one of the female gladiators. Still, it was fun. A serviceable high (medium?) fantasy novel when you're not looking for anything emotionally taxing or difficult.
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LibraryThing member lexilewords
First things first - about halfway through, when Evie had to fight, truly fight, to survive I realized why this book (and Evie) rang out so clearly in my head. Its the spiritual sister to my beloved POISON STUDY.
Evie starts out in a weak, vulnerable position - cowed, distressed, lost and
With the Black Swan group she's given a second chance to live and in doing so find a way to settle the disquiet in her soul. Nothing comes easy - not trust, not respect, not friendship, but she carries through by being the Evie she thought she lost years ago.
So much love for this. Estep's books have ALWAYS grabbed me and kept me going (incidentally her mains also always seem to start from a place of underdogness before rising spectacularly to wipe smug smirks from the villains).
Vasilia makes you want to punch her. A lot. I wish I could have. She's a right solid bitca of the first water.
And now I can't wait to see what happens next.
Evie starts out in a weak, vulnerable position - cowed, distressed, lost and
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grief-stricken. Surviving the massacre her cousin so carefully planned had less to do with skill and more to do with luck.With the Black Swan group she's given a second chance to live and in doing so find a way to settle the disquiet in her soul. Nothing comes easy - not trust, not respect, not friendship, but she carries through by being the Evie she thought she lost years ago.
So much love for this. Estep's books have ALWAYS grabbed me and kept me going (incidentally her mains also always seem to start from a place of underdogness before rising spectacularly to wipe smug smirks from the villains).
Vasilia makes you want to punch her. A lot. I wish I could have. She's a right solid bitca of the first water.
And now I can't wait to see what happens next.
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Original publication date
2018-10-02
ISBN
006279762X / 9780062797629