Title: Tear Down the Throne
Author: Jennifer Estep
Series: Gargoyle Queen #2
Pages: 468
Release Date: May 3, 2022
This book picks up a few weeks after the previous book ended. Gemma Ripley, Princess of Andvari, is still struggling with PTSD from her torture by the Morricone’s even if she can’t show it. She is still determined to find answers which leads her to the trade summit between the various kingdoms.
This was a very fast-paced story that was full of surprises, danger, romance, and love. The Summit quickly turns into another plot by Queen Maeven Morricone but this time it isn’t a death plot, it’s a marriage one. I really enjoyed the whole Gauntlet challenge and Leonidas’ determination to win over Gemma. I absolutely love when a hero declares his determination to win over his love. Leonidas and Gemma have the perfect enemies-to-lovers story. It was a wonderful adventure of them both fighting their feelings, dodging assassination attempts, and dealing with coniving family members.
“I am going to earn your trust, Gemma Ripley…And your heart too, if I am lucky enough to manage it.”
Gemma really shows how versatile in this book. She balances her royal duties, spying, the Gauntlet, and her friendship with Lady Reiko. Her friendship with Reiko was one of my favorite parts of this book. They have a great bond and it gets put to the test in this one. I will be very interested in learning more about Lady Reiko in the future, especially her love life.
Gemma is also growing into her abilities now that she isn’t hiding behind her necklace anymore. I really love seeing the scope of her abilities now that she isn’t holding back. It will be interesting to see how her abilities grow and relate to her being known as the gargoyle queen.
Overall, this book was everything I didn’t know I needed in this series. I loved the relationship and the trials that went with it. I can’t wait to read the next book and see how these two work together as a couple to bring down their enemies. Also, I really want to learn more about Leonidas’ sister, Delmira, now because she has a very interesting ability.
Trigger warnings: torture, blood, violence, PTSD
*ARC provided by Netgalley for an honest review.*
Previous books and reviews for the series:
Red-Haired Ash Reads 