Review copy was received from Edelweiss. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Crush the King by Jennifer Estep Series: Crown of Shards #3
Published by Harper Voyager on March 17, 2020
Genres: Fantasy
Pages: 432
Format: eARC
Source: Edelweiss
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Queen Everleigh Blair of Bellona has survived the mass murder of the royal family, become a fearsome warrior trained by an elite gladiator troupe, and unleashed her ability to destroy magic. After surviving yet another assassination attempt orchestrated by the conniving king of Morta, Evie has had enough. It’s time to turn the tables and take the fight to her enemies.
There is no better opportunity to strike than during the Regalia Games, a time when warriors, nobles, and royals from all the kingdoms come together to compete in various sporting events. With the help of her loyal friends, Evie goes on the attack at the Regalia, but things don’t turn out the way she hopes. Soon, she is facing a terrifying new threat, and she will have to dig deep and learn even more about her growing magic if she has any chance of defeating her foes.
Because to secure her throne and ensure her kingdom’s survival, Evie must think like a true Bellonan: she must outsmart and outwit her enemies . . . and crush the king.
I have really loved this Crown of Shards trilogy. It is an urban fantasy in true fashion. The battles and politics are the main story with any romance on the side. I would read this trilogy and all urban fantasy in order for the best experience.
I love these characters. The queen has surrounded herself with a team of caring people. Magic is my favorite thing and the magic is varied and fascinating in its forms. I’ve enjoyed learning about the different kingdoms and I would have been happy to know even more. I do appreciate both males and females have strengths and can be rulers.
Crush the King takes place during the Regalia tournament but not before a few assassination attempts at home, then also at the tournament. It’s like the Olympics only with more politics. First each kingdom has to choose its best or most politically advantageous competitors. Then the seven kingdoms meet at the supposedly neutral island for the games and political posturing. It’s like a massive chess game only more deadly.
There are plenty of chances for people to die but most of them don’t know Evie or anything about her magic. Her background, while not easy, is a perfect preparation for her to play a long game. Her intelligence and compassion provide her with many allies, and she would rather risk herself than them. It’s heart-stopping action with some intriguing surprises along the way.
About Jennifer Estep
Jennifer Estep is a New York Times, USA Today, and international bestselling author prowling the streets of her imagination in search of her next fantasy idea.
Jennifer writes the Crown of Shards epic fantasy series. She also writes the Elemental Assassin urban fantasy series and the Black Blade young adult urban fantasy series. Jennifer also the author of the Bigtime paranormal romance series and Mythos Academy young adult urban fantasy series.
I read all types of books but my favorites are urban fantasy and romantic suspense.I like some romance and some action / adventure / mystery in everything.I like sex in my books but please, only between TWO people.Intimate conversation is equally important to the sex in a book.It lets me see the characters.The other thing I enjoy is humor.
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Reading this book contributed to these challenges:
- COYER Friends
I have listened to the first book in this series, but still have to continue it. Good to know book 3 is out now. I am glad to hear you enjoyed the whole series.
I think it is really well done. I enjoyed it very much!
This book has been reviewed a lot today. And everyone seems to agree on how good it is. I’m definitely intrigued.
It’s a great series. It’s release day and UF is my jam.
Nice review. I didn’t read since I haven’t read book 2 nor 3 yet. They are on my list of books to read this year. The audio’s are nice for this series. I really enjoyed book 1.
I did not do audio even though I enjoy audio for the fantasy genre particularly. I hope you get to read them in ebook or audio as they are great!
It sounds like a series I should check out. Thanks for the nudge:)
It’s a great series and just a trilogy. I really enjoyed them all.
Reading now, so skipping the review. I’ve been hearing good things!
Totally understandable. I hope you love it.
I really love UF so I’ll have to try this trilogy out sometime! I don’t think I’ve ever read anything by Jennifer Estep.
UF is my jam too. She has a long running series in UF which I’m behind, but it’s great too. I’ve been enjoying some YA audios of hers also. This would be an easy and great way to try her writing.
Such. fun series! I loved it too Anne.
I was happy to see there will be more in the world, just from a different perspective.
I enjoyed this series a lot! My only complaint with this book was that the author wove in new threats and left some personal threads hanging… I assume to continue the series either from a new pov or a follow on trilogy from Evie’s pov.
Yes I enjoyed it too. I saw on FB or Twitter the author saying there would be something else in the world but not from Evie’s POV which she would announce soon. I look forward to it.
Wasn’t this one fantastic?! I had such a good time with this one and loved the setting of the games. I would love to see more books with these characters in the future.
I have loved this whole series! I have the impression she will start some new stories in the same world with a different main character (from the author’s site) I’ll be happy for more.
(another unspammed)