To Steal a Throne

by Gabi Burton

In this YA fantasy novel perfect for fans of Divine Rivals, a girl who has always served others decides to take power for herself.

Her magic feeds on lies.
His magic could destroy her.

Mira Kyler runs the court of Virdei from the shadows. Ever since she helped her half-brother Luc cheat his way into the role of Virdei's leader, she's used her lie-powered magic to collect secrets from members of court, then used them as blackmail to keep her brother in power.

But when newcomer Kaidren Vale shows up and challenges Luc's leadership, he threatens the stability Mira has worked so hard for. Kaidren also has magic-magic that can detect the precise nature of someone else's power with a single touch. If Kaidren so much as brushes against her, everyone will discover that Mira is the one who's been manipulating the court for years.

As Kaidren and Luc compete in three deadly challenges called The Trials, Mira realizes that no matter who wins, she'll be stuck serving a mediocre man who doesn't deserve to be in charge. She's done hiding in the shadows. She wants power of her own.

To get it, she'll have to betray both her own brother and Kaidren-but the fiercer the competition gets, the more Mira realizes that the one boy who could destroy everything is the one boy she might not be able to resist.

Genres: Fantasy, Young Adult, Romance, Romantasy, Young Adult Fantasy, Fiction, Fantasy Romance

368 pages, Hardcover

Expected publication April 7, 2026

Reviews

[Gabi Burton]

My third born child is off to copy edits so I can "review" her! I had so much fun writing TO STEAL A THRONE and I hope y'all love her as much as I do.

Trigger/content warnings listed below. They will also be on my website:
- Violence/death
- Descriptions of physical injuries/blood
- Depiction of war
- Death of a parent
- Discrimination
- Language
- Mentions of poverty and starvation

[jenny reads a lot · Rating 5 out of 5]

Do I have any clue what this is about? No.

Do I still want to read it? Hell yes.

[Zana]

DNF @ 30%

This isn't grabbing my interest. The story, worldbuilding, and characters felt very cliche, predictable, and unmemorable.

I wasn't feeling the surface level political intrigue, nor the cat and mouse game between Remira and Kaidren. Nothing was unique enough for me to grasp onto and keep on reading.

The story also moved so quickly that I didn't even have time to breathe and let it all seep into my mind. The novel started in media res, which made me feel disoriented and I kept wondering if I was accidentally reading the second or third book in a series. It was like I was expected to know all the 5 Ws from the get-go.

It felt like I had no time to get to know the characters, their motives, and their thoughts and thought processes before another scene would start playing and interrupt any gains I had when it came to understanding these characters.

This novel wasn't for me, but it might work for other readers.

Thank you to Bloomsbury YA and NetGalley for this arc.

[Mai ༊*·˚]

Currently thinking very much about this... I need it 🫂

[Christine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to the publisher for an early copy of this book! Below is my honest review.

Rating: 3.5 stars out of 5 stars

I will say, this book started off strong. However, as I continued to read it, I felt like there were a lot of convenient moments to push the plot forward. Also, the Trials were not as deadly as I was expecting. Our MC Mira somehow is able to weave her way into each Trial to help her half-brother Luc so he can win. Her magic, at times, also seemed very convenient in helping her not get caught in any situation. Her magic feeds on lies, but she also has the ability to take away memories. And no one else really seems to have magic either that we know of.

I was also not a huge fan of Kieran. At times, it felt like his personality was forced. I found him to be a little awkward. Here is this guy that out of nowhere declares that he is the new person to see at the table (I'm blanking on the position title, but it is essentially equivalent to our IRL Senators). Then before he can even get comfortable in his new role, he declares that he is running for Luc's position (kind of like the President)... Also, I think there is this hate-to-love relationship between Mira and Kieran, but to me, it felt awkward and forced.

Overall, I wish I liked this book more. I thought the world had potential, but it felt flat for me. I hope other people are able to enjoy it.

[Bookish Martina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this so much.

Getting to read Gabi Burton's newest book months early was such a privilege - thank you so much to the publisher for the proof 💙

𝘏𝘦𝘳 𝘮𝘢𝘨𝘪𝘤 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘥𝘴 𝘰𝘯 𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘴.
𝘏𝘪𝘴 𝘮𝘢𝘨𝘪𝘤 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘺 𝘩𝘦𝘳.

What to expect from To Steal A Throne?
✨️ An illegitimate daughter with secret magic
🗡 A contender for the throne who can sense magic
✨️ A life lived in the shadows
🗡 A half-brother to betray
✨️ Deadly trials for a throne... that Mira intends to steal for herself anyway
🗡 An irresistible enemy-to-lovers romance
✨️ Political intrigue & scheming
🗡 YA fantasy

Gabi Burton strikes again with another fantastic fantasy novel!! Beautifully written, To Steal A Throne had me hooked right from the start, rooting for Mira to emerge from the shadows and make the world see HER. Mira's burning desire to finally be recognised for what she can do, and her incredible power and brilliant scheming made her a great protagonist! Her magic was so cool, too - so unique in how it can be powered up and what it allows her to do. And the urgency of keeping her magic hidden could be felt so intensely throughout the book - I loved how that need played alongside the sizzling chemistry between her and Kaidren, who could unravel her secret with a single touch.

Also - why did I think this was going to be a standalone?! It's not even out for another few months and I already need the sequel!

[Joiya Morrison-Efemini · Rating 5 out of 5]

The plot is unpredictable. The characters are full and fresh. The worldbuilding is emaculate. This is a page-turner. The theme of honesty permeates throughout, quite literally in the form of the protagonist's magic, but also subtly in the way lies weaken relationships and strengthen advantages. The tension in this book is just one of the ways Ms. Burton shows what a masterful storyteller she is.

[Jenn]

DNF. Not for me.

[Angelbelle Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you for the gifted copy

👑YA fantasy
🔥Political intrigue
👑Secret magic
🔥Sabotage
👑Rivals to lovers
🔥Blackmail

Mira Kyler works from the shadows helping her brother maintain his position but when Kaidren Vale comes to compete for the throne her plans go awry

‘Neither of us says it, but we both know there’s more: I don’t hate you. But if that’s what it takes to win, I’ll fight you as if I do.’

Okay with the Lady Whistledown vibes lol. I just know them people hate to see a letter coming 😆

Yall Mira was back there effing stuff up behind the scenes. I love a good spy 💕 Her loser of a brother needs to be worshipping the ground she walks on. Every time he came on the pages my pressure went up 🫩

Listen, the secrets, the scandals, the girl boss moments with Mira and Sef, there was so much I enjoyed about this book and I absolutely cannot wait for what’s to come

Please let my girl rule from the throne in book 2🙏🏾 I just know those men are gonna sick when she starts making changes 😛 got me over smiling just thinking about it

[allirockss · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

Overall, I did enjoy To Steal a Throne. I wish there was more from the trials as they didn't seem as grand as I think they were made out to be. I feel like the MMC's emotions were all over the place and inconsistent with the events/what was happening at the time. I really like Mira and hope she is able to achieve her goal.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC!

[Mystie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well WOW! I have just finished To Steal a Throne, and I did NOT see that ending coming. This was one of those radical female rage books until, of course, the author sucker-punched us. One second you are in the cold with the FMC, Mira, and the next your eyes are bulging and you are sitting up to re-read what you definitely could not have just read.

Yes, this is one of those books.

So, this book is about Mira, who has a highly specialized type of magic. She knows when people are lying and she can ‘use’ it. No spoilers. The magic system in this book was fresh and riveting. There was an expansive scope to it that gave the author a type of freedom readers will definitely enjoy. I have read nothing like this before. It was very cool. 

Mira is helping her brother Luc maintain power because she has to. The things she does, hmm, gave me a Gossip Girl feel that had me smirking as she applied her own version of justice. I felt absolutely no sympathy for anyone. Which was its own kind of glee. (Tee hee!)

Luc is not our MMC; someone else is. And when he comes into the story, he causes major upheaval. He does this continuously. As much as I enjoyed him, I also wanted to punch him a few times. Which, again, made for great reading, lol!

To Steal a Throne examines the struggle for power on a few levels. It also highlights exactly how disruptive one angry woman can be when she focuses in on specific targets and works the skills she has. Even with opposition, so much can be accomplished.

There are many surprises and reveals that will keep you reading feverishly to the end. An end, which turned out to be a tumultuous shove that ensured the author will get my money every time she writes.

The book is one that you will remember. The plot, the characters, the world and its creativity really get into your brain and have you wondering exactly what could happen, if only?

Jump in, read this one, you will have a lot of fun, especially if women who laugh at rules are your favorite kind of FMC. And you never know, you might get some inspiration. After all, who among us does not need a bit of villainous inspiration to get us through 2026? Lol, I know I do!

Thank you so much to Gabi Burton for opening up arcs and granting me such an inspiring read ;)

[elixir.beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review — To Steal A Throne by Gabi Burton

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

“I’d ruin your life for free.”
— Remira Kyler

First of all, my deepest, loudest, most dramatic thank you to Gabi Burton for the opportunity to read this early — because this book did not just entertain me. It possessed me.

To Steal A Throne is everything I crave in fantasy and then some: razor-sharp political intrigue, secrets stacked like daggers behind every smile, and stakes so high they feel personal. Every chapter feels like someone quietly sliding another chess piece into place while you’re too busy gasping to notice.

Remira Kyler? Oh, she is that girl.

A fierce Black queen-in-the-making with a soft heart she refuses to let the world crush. She knows when to be tender and when to scheme like she invented manipulation. Watching her navigate power, betrayal, and expectation was intoxicating. She isn’t just fighting for a throne, she’s daring to believe she deserves it. And I rooted for her with my whole chest from page one.

And the MMC? Just as sharp. Just as dangerous. Just as devious. But what makes him lethal is this: he supports her. Not in a soft, ornamental way but in a “let’s burn the board and build our own kingdom” way. Their dynamic crackles. Every interaction feels loaded. Every alliance feels strategic. I was unwell.

What this book delivers:

Political intrigue that never lets you relax

Plot twists around every corner

High-stakes maneuvering that feels breathless

A tournament arc used PERFECTLY

Unique, immersive worldbuilding

Lady Whistledown-level secrets and social tension

An angry Black queen who deserves her crown and throne

A charismatic, calculating love interest

Mysteries threaded through every layer of the story

Prose that makes you feel every ounce of triumph, fear, fury, and longing

The writing is sharp but emotional. Elegant yet vicious when it needs to be. The kind of prose that doesn’t just tell you what’s happening, but makes you live inside it.

This story is beautiful, calculated, romantic, dangerous...and devastating in the best way.

Five stars isn’t enough. I would absolutely ruin my sleep schedule for this world again.

[Kinsey B · Rating 4 out of 5]

Initial thoughts:
If you enjoy books about blackmail, espionage, deadly trials, warring kingdoms, and worlds where men hold all the power, but the FMC is working against the system...this is a book for you. It is fully YA with a kissing scene and zero fade to black or spice moments following it. Despite being intended for YA readers, this book fully entertained me as a reader of both spice and non-spice fantasy books. The racial injustice and feminine rage was very moving. The ending twists were well done and the book clearly sets up for another. I throughly enjoyed the push and pull between Kaiden and Remira throughout the book. The political landscape was well described and very interesting. Overall, a good read. There were somethings that didn't grab me and somethings I wish had more, but for the length and genre of this book, I think it was well done.

Brief summary:
Remira holds the power of a nation through her brother's position as Praeceptor of Virdei. She's his secret weapon in the background blackmailing and manipulating policies to better the Orpheran civilians. Her ability to feel lies and wield magic makes her uniquely skilled in her role as unofficial advisor to her brother. Hated by her step-mom and father, Remira has no one in her corner, but is a self-motivated young woman who seeks the recognition she feels she deserves.
Kaidren comes along and ruins all of Remira's best laid plans with his own bid for the seat of power in Virdei. Kaidren and Remira's brother enter deadly trials where the best competitor will win the role of Praeceptor and the power that comes with it. Remira is determined to help her brother maintain power, even if she secretly intends to steal his power for herself in the end. Remira throws herself into the trials and her role uncovering secrets and plots of the others who hold power within Verdei.

Tropes:
Patriarchal society
Power hungry FMC
Secret Identity
Rivals to lovers
Blackmail and Sabotage

Quotes:

I highlighted a few! There were some good ones in this book.

Thank you Net Galley and Bloomsbury USA Children's books for the eARC. These are my honest opinions.

[Laura Elisabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

4,75 ⭐️

Thank you so much to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read an ARC of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily and all thoughts are my own.

Wow, this was such an amazing read! Excellent pacing that kept you engaged and entertained throughout, and I absolutely LOVED Remira as our FMC. She was fierce, determined, and she refused to back down once she set her sights on the throne. She was unapologetically power hungry, and I loved seeing her wield her cunning intelligence. And even when she starts getting romantic feelings for our MMC, she still doesn't sacrifice her ambition for him – it was one of my favorite moments in the book, because it felt so important to show that she wouldn't just give it all up for a man. Because why should she?

And speaking of favorite moments... when she finally drops the act and shows Kaidren her true colors? I ate it up. It was such a fun scene, and seeing him realize how much he had underestimated her was brilliant. I really loved the way their relationship evolved from there, when they slowly start recognizing pieces of themselves in each other as well as truly seeing the other as a worthy opponent for the first time. All the delicious tension gets ramped up, and their banter is sharp and on point. So well done!

There were so many fun twists that I honestly hadn't seem coming at all, and I love when a book manages to do that. I will say however, that the ending felt maybe a little rushed and crowded at times, and I would have liked to be able to soak everything up a bit more. It resulted in some slightly confusing moments in the final chapters – not in a way where I didn't understand it, but where it was hard to keep track of all the revelations, agendas, and big moments happening at the same time.

This was one of my most anticipated reads of 2026, and I'm happy to report that it did not disappoint. It was wildly captivating and enjoyable, and I'm really looking forward to the next one and getting to see how everything plays out. Go read this as soon as it comes out April 7th!

[Kinsey B · Rating 4 out of 5]

Initial thoughts:
If you enjoy books about blackmail, espionage, deadly trials, warring kingdoms, and worlds where men hold all the power, but the FMC is working against the system...this is a book for you. It is fully YA with a kissing scene and zero fade to black or spice moments following it. Despite being intended for YA readers, this book fully entertained me as a reader of both spice and non-spice fantasy books. The racial injustice and feminine rage was very moving. The ending twists were well done and the book clearly sets up for another. I throughly enjoyed the push and pull between Kaiden and Remira throughout the book. The political landscape was well described and very interesting. Overall, a good read. There were somethings that didn't grab me and somethings I wish had more, but for the length and genre of this book, I think it was well done.

Brief summary:
Remira holds the power of a nation through her brother's position as Praeceptor of Virdei. She's his secret weapon in the background blackmailing and manipulating policies to better the Orpheran civilians. Her ability to feel lies and wield magic makes her uniquely skilled in her role as unofficial advisor to her brother. Hated by her step-mom and father, Remira has no one in her corner, but is a self-motivated young woman who seeks the recognition she feels she deserves.
Kaidren comes along and ruins all of Remira's best laid plans with his own bid for the seat of power in Virdei. Kaidren and Remira's brother enter deadly trials where the best competitor will win the role of Praeceptor and the power that comes with it. Remira is determined to help her brother maintain power, even if she secretly intends to steal his power for herself in the end. Remira throws herself into the trials and her role uncovering secrets and plots of the others who hold power within Verdei.

Tropes:
Patriarchal society
Power hungry FMC
Secret Identity
Rivals to lovers
Blackmail and Sabotage

Quotes:

I highlighted a few! There were some good ones in this book.

Thank you Net Galley and Bloomsbury USA Children's books for the eARC. These are my honest opinions.

[Brady · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Bloomsbury and Netgalley for this eARC, these opinions are my own. Ok wow I consumed this book, finished it in a day! Remira lives in the Republic of Virdei, it’s there that she moves in the shadow helping her brother Luc, who is the Praeceptor, leader of Virdei. How does she help her brother? With lies and secrets. Remira has a power, a power that’s fueled by lies and she can sense them as well. She’s set to help her brother be the first two term Praeceptor since the Republic was formed and nothing will stop her. That is until Kaidren Vale makes himself known. The found son of one of the Honorate’s, the Republic’s ruling government. He challenges Luc for the throne. They enter a tournament of three challenges and victory will become the new Praeceptor. It’s Remira’s job to make sure Luc wins but to do that she’ll have to find out what she can about Kaidren, who just happens to have a power of his own, one that could expose everything Remira has worked for. She should keep her distance from him but something about Kaidren draws her to him. Can she help her brother retain his rule? Or will her connection to Kaidren be the downfall of all her work? And why is she putting in so much effort for Luc to rule when she could steal the throne from him? A fast paced story about a strong powerful black woman who won’t let anything or anyone stand in her way! I loved the world building and the political intrigue! Remira and Kaidren’s interactions were tense, charismatic, and engaging! Two people determined to have their way, who should hate each other, but can’t stay away from each other, but are both so willing to stab the other in the back! Gabi Burton’s latest is full of plot twists, secrets, lies, action, and is unputdownable!

[LaPrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️

Thank you Bloomsbury for the early copy!

“It's better to elevate where you are, rather than to look down your nose from the top.”

“I've salved his worry and quieted his fears, but I still carry mine.”

“Fury shouldn't call to me. His sings my name. Spite shouldn't entice me. His draws me in like a pulled sledge.”

This book!! I’m already on the edge of my seat waiting for the second one and THIS one doesn’t come out till April. I loved the world in this story, the magic system, the high society and the politics that were taking place. Outside of the magical aspect this could be a very relatable story because of what the characters bring to the table. I love Remira; she’s so strong, confident and determined. Remira is all those things while also being soft, but being soft is something she fears due to the environment in which she lives. Kaiden is bold, deceptive, and cocky; while also being vulnerable and wounded. I’m typically not into a YA romance (the romance is very light) but I loved the way these two truly were enemies except in the quiet moments.

This story has a lot of underlining meaning to it while also having tons of twist and turns. I could see some people saying that it has “ a lot going on” and I honestly would agree; but it truly makes the story sooooooo good. It’s capturing and it really makes you feel like you’re there in the pages. I truly loved every second of this book! The only reason it’s not a 5 star is because it got a little repetitive in a descriptive way, if that makes sense. It would often repeat things that the reader already knew so that got annoying, but overall AMAZING! I need a final copy immediately.

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was a huge fan of the author’s duology Sing Me to Sleep, which I recommend to everyone! I was absolutely delighted to receive a copy through NetGalley to read her upcoming release.

Mira’s magic feeds on lies. She keeps it a secret from everyone, using it to help her brother retain power, ruling the court of Virdei. When a mysterious stranger with his own magical abilities arrives, Mira must use all her intelligence and all her magic to stay safe. Mira realises that she’s fed up of living in the shadows and wants power for herself - but how far will she go?

This book had very similar themes to the first duology - a young woman with dangerous powers living in the shadows and trying to manipulate events. I really enjoyed the writing and I straightaway was drawn to the character of Mira. The magic and world building felt really unique - I enjoyed the political situation and the motivations behind Mira and her machinations. The chemistry that built between Mira and the male romantic lead was steady and kept me gripped. My favourite part, however, had to be Mira’s quest for power. Her persona is the Shadow Queen had a hint of Lady Whistledown - if Lady Whistledown used what she knew for political gain! I really enjoyed those parts, and the way that she exposed the corrupt centre of the court. I like to have a story got darker and twistier as it progressed exposing more of Mira’s secrets. As ever, Burton’s writing uplifts the voices of the downtrodden, invigorating you with their fight and keeping pages turning!

[Megan · Rating 3 out of 5]

**Thank you to Blooomsbury Press for giving me an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!**

I somewhat enjoyed this book, but there were definitely some issues. I enjoyed the dynamics between Kaidren and Remira, even though it was cliche. They were cute. However, Kaidren kind of baffled me. He was emotionally hot-and-cold, which was confusing as the story went on. It mostly seemed like he was into Remira when the plot needed romance and was super angry when the plot needed tension, but it didn't feel authentic.

Remira was fierce, but she was the typical, cookie-cutter fighter fmc from a tragic background. I can't really point to anything unique about her. Plus, her magic was not explained super well. Again, her abilities just felt like a very convenient plot device rather than a natural part of her character.

The politics were also vague and confusing, as was the rest of the magic system. Even the Trials, which I thought were the main plot event, were pretty low-stakes and honestly kind of boring. The plot was sometimes too fast and other times way too slow. The characters were fine, but none of them were all that memorable or unique. Overall, I was just underwhelmed.

[Asia Levine · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you love a fierce, relentless, and morally questionable FMC, this book is absolutely for you.

Mira pulled me in immediately. Her morals are questionable, but I couldn’t help believing she deserved everything she was willing to take especially after seeing how little was ever given to her. Gifted (or cursed) with the ability to sense lies, Mira is reduced to a tool by her father and stepmother, expected to serve one purpose only: helping her brother Luc secure his reign as leader of Virdei.

That plan seems simple enough until Kaidren arrives to challenge Luc for the throne, forcing a series of trials that shift everything.

The twists and reveals throughout the story were genuinely jaw dropping, and the world building was straightforward enough to follow without becoming overwhelming. That said, I do wish the trials and certain elements had been more detailed, as they sometimes fell short of their full fantasy potential. There were also moments where Mira’s magic felt a bit too convenient for the sake of moving the plot forward.

Still, the banter and cat and mouse dynamic between Mira and Kaidren kept me hooked and invested in both the trials and their outcome.

The ending completely caught me off guard. While it felt a bit rushed and left me wanting more, it’s clearly setting the stage for book two….one I wasn’t expecting, but am very much looking forward to.

Perfect for readers who love:
• Black Girl Magic 🧚🏾🪄
• A fierce FMC 😤
• Trial-based competition 🎯
• Rivals-to-lovers tension 💕

[Cleanbooks4ever · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story follows Mira Kyler, a powerful magic user in the Republic of Virdei whose ability feeds on lies, allowing her to manipulate memories and gather secrets. From the shadows, she has helped her half-brother Luc rise to leadership and keeps him in power by blackmailing and controlling the political elite. Although Luc is the public ruler, Mira is the true force behind the throne.
When Luc’s rule is challenged by Kaidren Vale, a rival with a rare magical ability, a series of dangerous Trials is announced to determine who will lead. As political tensions rise and the competition unfolds, Mira begins to question her loyalty and her place in the system she helped create.
Realizing she no longer wants to serve someone else’s crown, Mira considers taking the throne for herself—even if it means betrayal. The novel explores ambition, loyalty, and the cost of stepping out of the shadows to claim power.

[Leah Content · Rating 4 out of 5]

First, I would like to thank Bloomsbury publishing for sending this arc, I greatly appreciate it. Wow 🤯 Gabi Burton has done it again. Everything about this book fascinates me from the amazing magic system to the stories narrative and the character development of Remira and Kaidren. I had the time of my life reading this book and it kept me on the edge of my seat. There were so many plot twists that I didn’t see coming and the tension and banter between Remira and Kaidren was amazing. I really hope there is a sequel to this book because the ending was very ominous and I hope dearly that is not how the story ends. Ending aside I really enjoyed reading this book and I had a very pleasant experience. I highly recommend that everyone check this book out when it releases in April, you won’t be disappointed. Thank you again to Bloomsbury publishing for sending me this amazing arc, I had a blast reading it. Happy reading everyone!!

[Natalie Fisher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gabi did it again! I couldn’t believe it when I got the email saying I received this ARC from Bloomsbury but somehow, some way I did. I was nervous going in because it is her sophomore offering, the one that was written with love and care, but not with as much time as Sing Me to Sleep and Drown Me With Dreams.

It was like can she match or surpass them and she did! Omg! The magic system, the inequality of it all.. and how the FMC, Remira should have and be more, but how unjust her position is, but like Saoirse, she never lets the unfairness of her life her her down! OMG!

It doesn’t ease you into the action, it drops you in fast. You find out so much in the first few chapters of the book, it never drags. You are rooting for our girl the whole way. I’ve already told my book club that we are reading this when it drops. I can/can’t believe she knocked it out of the park!

[whereintheworldis · Rating 5 out of 5]

big fan of Gabi Burton’s work, and her latest series starter is no different. TO STEAL A THRONE has all the romantasy tropes we know and love, and yet it offer readers a fresh, distinct take on the story of a powerful girl tired of playing by the rules in a world intent on keeping her small. and honestly?? the strong undercurrent of racial and social inequities and systemic power dynamics on display in this book fully resonate.

thanks to Burton’s gorgeous writing and trademark ability to blend searingly profound topics with light tales of romance, TO STEAL A THRONE is poised to be a fan-favorite

many thanks to NetGalley for an ARC of this incredible book!

[Jihad Hamid · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. It had a morally grey FMC and an MMC that wanted to be a cinnamon roll so bad. Mira’s ability to detect lies really allowed this story to reflect on the complexity of morality and different characters motivations. From those just trying to do the right thing to absolute villains. The FMC’s brother was the definition of weaponized incompetence and I just wanted to wring his neck the whole book. But the way Gavin Burton weaved in political intrigue/ action packed moments/ family trauma/ and a budding romance was such a fun experience. I can’t wait for the sequel.

[Kels O. · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting story. Mira’s magic feeds on lies and she’s used it to cheat and blackmailed her brother onto the throne of their kingdom. Mira has sacrificed everything - even her own mother to achieve this goal. It is all going smoothly until Kaidren, an unknown throws a wrench into her plans. Slowly, Mira lets her walls down until Kaidren is the only one who really sees her. It ends with a pretty big backstab, and I’m looking forward to seeing how they can manipulate their way out of it. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC.

[Ilia Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

To Steal A Throne by Gabi Burton immediately had me hooked! I love a FMC out to manipulate and rule the world and my girl Mira Kyler is top tier giving Kidan Adane/ Jude Duarte vibes❤️ if you know you know! There was great banter between Mira and our MMC Kaidren and I enjoyed their dynamic. I found myself highlighting several passages and my emotions were tugged to tears in a few moments. Overall the world building and magic system was solid and I’m looking forward to this Fantasy series. Highly recommend ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Thank you for the ARC

[Chasidy Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gabiiiiiiiiiiiiii I just finished the ARC via NetGalley and omggggggg why would you do this to me????? I loved it I shed tears, I felt everything that Mira felt and the endingggggggggg. Book 2 I need you. Now I shall stare out my window just sad until it’s released. Don’t get me started on how Kaidren stole my heart. “Maybe I don’t like sweet”

This book was nothing beyond amazing. It’s truly a book about finding your power. Mira does everything for the better of everyone else until she starts to do them for herself.

[Kelly E. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved Gabi Burton’s Sing Me to Sleep series, so I couldn’t wait to read this one.
Enemies to lovers? Political scheming? Intrigue and secrets? Just my cup of tea.
Loved the world building, the magic system, and SECRETS.
A few predictable plot twists, a few that weren’t all that predictable. I enjoyed the characters, although it sometimes felt like the prose was a little too clunky.
A solid 4 star read for me though.

[QueenoftheBookDragons · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had the opportunity to read this as an ARC and I just want to say thank you to Gabi Burton and her team for giving me this free copy!!

I really enjoyed this book! It’s got some Cinderella and Lady Whistledown vibes wrapped in political intrigue and machinations.
She’s the vicious one and He’s slowly catching on.
Definitely a slow burn YA and a solid beginning to an intriguing series!!!

Overall, a very enjoyable read!!!