Conquer the Kingdom

Estep returns to a world of gargoyles and court politics for the gripping final installment to her Gargoyle Queen series (after Tear Down the Throne). Prince Milo Morricone of Andvari’s rival kingdom, Morta, has escaped unscathed from his failed political scheming at the Sword and Shield Tournament in Caldwell Castle, leaving Andvarian princess Gemma Ripley, who is newly engaged to Milo’s brother, Leonidas, determined to track him down and kill him. She searches far and wide, but Milo proves elusive. So Gemma hatches a plan to use the next tournament being held in Andvari to lure him out. Knowing Milo wants his own mother dead, Gemma invites Morta’s Queen Maeven to attend. Milo takes the bait, but Gemma’s unprepared for the tricks he still has up his sleeve. Estep doubles down on the political intrigue and steamy romance in this riveting outing as Gemma and Milo come face-to-face one final time. This sends the series out on a high note. Agent: Annalise Robey, Jane Rotrosen Agency. (Mar.)