The Queen's Gamble

Game of Gods #2

by Nicole Sanchez

No matter what move she makes, there will be consequences.

Daphne Hale has transformed from pawn to queen. Or has she?

Daphne's caught once more between the man she loves and the man who seeks to own her. Estranged from Essos and forced to cater to Galen, Daphne fights to navigate the dangerous waters of the Trials as she moves closer to the seemingly inevitable endgame - marriage to the man who murdered her.

As the Underworld itself trembles with unstable power and Daphne’s own magic weakens daily, every move could be her undoing. To protect those she loves, Daphne must go along with the charade. But no one ever won a game of chess by resigning.

This reborn goddess may be in check, but it’s her move.

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Romantasy

480 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 18, 2023

About the author

Nicole Sanchez can't believe she has the occasion to write an author biography.

She has been writing short stories from a young age, and is excited to be publishing her debut novel, Central Park Collision, a contemporary romance.

She has a lot of tricks up her sleeve, so be sure to hit the follow button to see all she has to offer!

When she's not writing, she can be found training for her next Disney Race or lounging around the parks.

She lives in New Jersey with her adoring husband and two cats, Chip and Harvey.

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Reviews

[thesebooksiread · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing sequel! This series has kept me so intrigued and on the edge of my seat! This sequel did not disappoint.

Daphne is such a strong heroine and I absolutely loved her so much especially by the end of this book. Her strength, her loyalty and her fire makes an amazing character that is easy to connect to.

Sometimes sequels can feel like just passing from one point to another but this book built so much to look forward to and answered questions we’ve been wanting to know. I couldn’t stop reading and thinking about it. Trying to guess what I thought was coming and only being right half the time.

This entire series is unique and intriguing and absolutely amazing. Can’t wait to get my hands on the next book!

[Raymie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love this series by Nicole Sanchez. This is the second book in the series. It picks up right where book one left off and just like book one it pulls you.

This is a really Plot focused retelling of Hades and Persephone then smut driven and I love it. Daphne is still acting like she is in love with Gallen while trying to figure out how to stop the wedding and find her way back to Essos.

The plot thickens everywhere you turn. I keep cheering for Essos and Daphane. Every character has their own personality.

The spice is great! You can really feel the chemistry between Essos and Daphne. The library scene 👩🏼‍🍳💋. Probably one of my favorite scenes in the whole book.

The book does leave on a cliff hanger and Nicole has left me wanting more!!

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Here for more

As the second in this series it opens up a whole new world, but continues to pull you in. Often I can predict the twists, but I never saw these ones coming. I loved learning more about Esso’s and Daphne’s previous relationship and the added spice was a great bonus. I did find it difficult at first how different this book was from the previous, but the plot easily pulled me in that I was quickly over it.

[Lucile *:･ · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was really, really but like REALLY frustrating !!! But in a good way, I just couldn't put it down.

Review to come but I don't want but NEED the third book, the ending... I just cannot stay with this end!

[Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

NICOLE.

WHAT THE HECK WAS THAT?!?

How you gonna leave us on THAT cliffhanger?!?

Man have I missed Daphne and Essos. So many bombs dropped in this book lol but it was everything I needed after book one. I am so glad book 3 comes out this spring!

I was up until 2:30am finishing this book and that NEVER happens.

[Lydia Craft · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was really disappointing compared to the first book. Since I finished the first book I was looking forward to the next one but I missed the fun story of the first and found it abit of a slog to get through. The trials were made out to be the main part of this next book at the end of the last one but they were quickly rushed through throughout the book with more time and focus spent on the cheating scandal and the obvious foreshadowing of the pregnancy, I think it was a shame the trials weren’t made more of a focal point. As with the first book the ending felt rushed and the revelation at the end of zombies being brought into the story just felt like the final unbelievable straw- although this is a Greek god/meets the bachelor series which sounds crazy at first but that I actually enjoyed the unique new story the addition of zombies tipped me over the edge into ridiculousness. The cliff hanger at the end was also frustrating and despite its aim I don’t think I’ll be reading the third book.

[Elizabeth Barrett · Rating 2 out of 5]

essos’ absence this entire book was very felt, and I couldn’t help but grow bored of the martyr-ready-to-die-again to selfish-bitch-queen cycle that daphne continued going through. The end of the book REALLY lost me… I mean, come on, a zombie apocalypse, the supreme god dying, AND cat is conveniently a reincarnated goddess as well (not to mention the painfully obvious pregnancy trope). The trials were also boring, which was disappointing since it was the only real action squished in between Daphne’s inner monologising on whether or not she should trust essos. Just…. Ugh.

[Kimerys Bookmarks · Rating 5 out of 5]

What can I say but "DAMN"!! Nicole has done it again!!!

The Queen's Gamble will keep you on your toes and guessing until the very last page!!! The last page was an OH SH*T out loud moment from me!

The Queen's Gamble is the second book in the series Game of Gods! It continues the love story of Daphne and Essos, with a side order of Galen. And let's not forget her friendship with Cat.

Trials, a possible wedding, Posey, and the Underworld - what could happen?

Here are some of my favorite quotes:

"Nothing matters but the feel of his heart beating against my own, something I never thought I would feel again. I spread out my fingers, needing the feel of him under my palms." (fanning myself)

"I feel like a jack-in-the-box, except when I explode, I’m going to take everyone out with me."

"I’m no bored housewife looking for something to busy myself with. I am a f%$%ing queen, and if people don’t start treating me like it, maybe heads should roll."

"If he weren’t my brother, I would offer to let you have us both at the same time.” His teeth capture my earlobe, giving a gentle tug. “But crossing swords with my brother is a line I will not cross, even for you.”

“There is nothing quite like losing the one good thing in your life to make you realize what you had.”

"Then fight back. You want your husband back? Fight. I thought that you had a backbone."

"It is a promise of blood and pain, and he will be the one to pay it."

“Eyes on me, my love,” he orders, and I obey."

"I will love you until every star falls from the sky, and even that can’t stop my feelings for you,”

“Love is such an insufficient word for what I feel for you. I spend my days longing for you, unable to think straight. But until I create a word for how you make me feel, love will just have to cover it.”

“The meaning of this is obvious. You are trying to steal my wife, and I’m here to stop you.”

“After all, my husband decided this is the Hotel California.” (Love this, Hotel California is one of my favorite songs.

I received this free eARC novel from the author. This is my honest review.

[Jeraca · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this free eARC novel from the author. This is my honest review.

This. Book. There was so much that happened that my brain is so trying to process everything. This was an adventure from start to finish and, but, it is not over yet. I'm so intrigued on how everything is going to end!

In book one we had almost like a bachelor style storyline going on. This book? Yeah, complete 180 turn. Delilah is such a strong woman who has so many obligations and responsibilities, yet is forced to play these games to make everyone happy. I honestly don't know how she went day to day, it was so much on her shoulders.

I really got so annoyed with the majority of these people making Delilah jump through hoops. I just wanted Delilah to go all supreme on them like I know she can but she was thinking way smarter than I was lol.

All I know? Galen deserved so so much worse.

There were many things I figured out super early, but also quite a lot I didn't see coming, which I was pleasantly surprised about. Anytime I'm caught off guard is amazing cause it means it isn't like other books out there, making it unique!

I'm so glad I discovered this author and this amazing series and I absolutely can't wait until the last book is released so I can see how everything gets fixed! I definitely recommend this series!

[Sandy Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phenomenal continuation of the creative romantasy trilogy, inspired by the Hades-Persephone myth.

Heroine Daphne is ANGRY and going to take down those who've put her in the most untenable position--"engaged" to her beloved's brother and mortal enemy, the man who murdered her first incarnation in the first place. But while her wrath is willing, her new-fledged powers are not in her control, and with so many unknown enemies, she and Essos will have to be craftier than ever to win back their kingdom and claim the timeless love they've only now gotten back.

Gut-wrenching, twist-filled, fast-paced and riveting, this one's a really fun and romantic ride from start to finish. No cheating or emotional cheating but tons of romantic drama caused by others. Highly recommended, as is the trilogy.

[FS Meurinne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Daphne, the strong heroine, stole the show with her character development and fierce personality. The plot was truly unique and kept me hooked with its intriguing twists and turns. The chemistry between Daphne and Essos was palpable, especially in the steamy library scene. The side characters were well-developed and added depth to the story. Although the book had a slower start and some parts dragged, overall, it was an enjoyable and easy-to-follow read. The unexpected plot twists surprised me. It's worth mentioning that the book includes darker themes and trigger warnings. I can't wait for the conclusion of the series to see how everything unfolds!

[Amanda · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm so sad that I went from 5* rating in book one, down to 3* for this book. While I still love the characters, it's a fun time - I have major issues with this book. I like sex as much as the next guy, but when that's all that takes place in the middle of high stakes...constantly - it's a little annoying. The book felt very rushed and very slow all at the same time. Our FMC went to being on of my favorite female characters to just being one of my least favorite female charaters...of all time! She gives me glimpses of the character I fell in love with, but not enough to outweigh the bad. I have so many issues with the plot, characters - just...no.

(Finishing review at a later date)

[Katie Leonard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay now THIS book was amazing! I really liked the first book but my god Daphne was dumb…clearly the point. But in this book we got to see the Queen side of her! I’m glad that while Essos was not main character in this book, he wasn’t totally gone. I’m still super confused as to why this giant whole ass plot with killing Daphne and getting her to marry Galen but hoping it’s going to be clear motive explained well in the 3rd book. I really liked the plot turns in this one. Felt like so much more drama and I loved it! Can’t wait to dive into the next installment! But she better not be trapped where she ended up in this book or I’m going to be livid.

[Chloesbookiewook · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first half of the book was slow and I struggled quite a bit to get through it. The second half was fantastic and the last 30% thrilling. The plot twists game me life and the ending had me shooketh. I could not put it down in the last half! I do think it would have been more enjoyable cutting out some of the first half of the book but also acknowledge it weaved a story and complex system that is very important for all of the plot twists.

Super keen for book 3 and to see where this goes!

Honest review in exchange for an ARC

[Mike Anthony · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent second installment in the Game of God's series. I was eagerly awaiting this book after reading the first book in the series. Once I finally got my hands on it I couldn't put it down. The stakes are amped up in this book, and I was on the edge of my seat throughout the second half. And the ending, well if you read book one you know its going to be another good one. Can't wait to read book three.

[Kathryn Grimsley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This sequel is one that I can't stop thinking about days and even weeks later. It was THAT good! Book one was rollercoaster filled with twists and turns and I didn't think the second one could be as good. Man, was I wrong! It was better and I was surprised by each new twist and did not see them coming. I may, in fact, be going a bit crazy waiting for the third book to find out what happens next. Book 2 ends in a massive cliff hanger!

[Stefanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Growth and Adventure

At the end of book one, we learn Daphne's true identity- Queen of the Underworld. In book 2, Daphne’s is growing back into herself- strength and memories included. She's torn between doing what she has to do as Queen and playing the game and what she wants to do as a scorned woman. The whole book is one wild ride and we're left hanging what's going to happen in the next book!

[Laci Steimel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved this sequel! I love how Daphne is so easy to relate to as a strong female character. Plus some very well done spicy scenes that keep you aching for more, and rooting for Essos and Daphne and their chemistry. Has some definite plot twists I absolutely did NOT see coming! And ends on a bit of a cliffhanger, so I cannot wait til the next one!

[Echo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just like the first, this sequel was AMAZING! I could NOT wait for this story to continue and the ending of this one again has me on the edge of my seat. I love Daphne and Essos and the chemistry between the two! I love the unexpected turns and the cliffhanger ending that has me DYING to read the conclusion to my new favorite couple!

[Lyndsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Queen’s Gamble

I finally finished the second book at the series. It has been a busy week so I’ve struggled with finding time to read.

This one picks up right where the last one left off. There are lots of twists in this one that were fun to read.

I cannot wait to see where the next one takes us.

[Kristin Hinck · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heart-pounding, blood pumping, heart in my throat, didn’t want to put this book down. Read it in 2 days. Absolutely crushed my heart and put it back together again. I love this series and these characters!

[Jill Bridgeman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good ridence Galen!

Hello Essos and Daphne.

I'm so happy for them. However, I really do dislike Octavia and Posey. Those two need to go. I'm hoping by that ending that things can be turned around even though Daphne has been duped again 🤦‍♀️.

[Krystal Herndon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one dragged a little for me. I really want Daphne to become a badass. She loses herself in this book.

Galen is disgusting, and I hate him. Ellie got what she deserved. Posey is a bitch. Someone needs to beat her!

CAT AND XAVIER!!!!! What!?!?! Yeessss!

Zaras gonna be a fate isn't she?

[Fiona · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fantastic continuation from book 1. Yes it was a little slower but there was so much to it. I hope you understand how great your storytelling and writing is, but honestly I think it's fantastic.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this book. Read it more slowly than usual so I could savor it.

At times it felt like the story and dialogue was repetitive, but overall I really throughly enjoyed it.

Excited to read book 3.

[Hannah Lang · Rating 5 out of 5]

Definitely saw a lot of this coming but there was enough that still surprised me! FMC can be a little defeatist but also her situation seemed untenable a lot! Overall really enjoyed this one! And the characters and plot are so fun!

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book! So many plot twists I didn’t see coming, and was definitely kept on the edge of my seat for the entire second half of the book. Can’t wait for book 3 😍

[Kiana · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn’t enjoy it as much as the first but still enjoyed it enough to finish it.

[Sydney Toups · Rating 2 out of 5]

I can’t see how the third book would make up for this one.

[Merie Rentzios · Rating 5 out of 5]

So beautiful! I can’t recommend enough! Watching as Daphne fought for love and never backed down was beautiful! Knowing that she would do anything to get her love back and protect him with her all is so precious!