Kill the Queen - Jennifer Estep

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 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.