BLURB:

Though surrender is what Maxim Cade demanded of Lennix Hunter’s body and heart, she had other plans. They were fast-burning fascination and combustible chemistry, the son of an oil baron and the Apache daughter at war with his family, but she trusted him, and he turned out to be a thief who stole her love.

Still, if what they had was a lie, why had it felt so real?

Now, the man she swore to hate is about to have it all, and he wants Lennix at his side. But when the two of them are forced to face the unthinkable, their rocky foundation is tested, as is the invisible thread that seems to wind their fates together. As they navigate a treacherous political landscape in their quest for justice, Maxim and Lennix soon learn that power is a game, and they are merely the pawns and players. Facing insurmountable odds, will they win the world, or will they lose it all?

MY THOUGHTS:

Alright, book lovers, let’s talk about The Rebel King by Kennedy Ryan. I have feelings about this one, and if you loved The Kingmaker, this is going to be a ride. Spoiler alert: I might’ve liked the first book better, but hear me out before you come for me with your annotated paperbacks and tabs!

First off, can we take a moment for Maxim? The man is sureness and cockiness personified. He knows what he wants, and that level of confidence is chef’s kiss. Now, maybe I’m a little toxic (who isn’t these days?), but that bracelet-tracking device situation? I know it’s objectively a red flag, but my inner romantic was like, hmm, interesting. 🫣

Lennix, though—absolute powerhouse. She’s giving “strong female lead who takes no nonsense,” and I loved her for it. Those action scenes? Whew, I felt like I was in the middle of a blockbuster, watching Maxim throw down to save his woman. It gave me all the dramatic romance vibes I signed up for.

But I’ll be honest: the politics-heavy sections had me skimming faster than a toddler on a sugar high. It was like, “politics, politics, spice (because we miss each other in our crazy busy lives), rinse and repeat.” While the depth of the politics is admirable, I just wanted more of the sparks and less of the… Senate floor.

And then there’s Lennix calling Maxim “DOC.” At first, it was cute. By the 100th time, I was ready to file a petition. Also, girl—when a man tells you he loves you for the first time, and you hit him back with a “same”? Ma’am. I nearly threw the book.

Overall, I rated The Kingmaker four stars, but The Rebel King wobbles on the edge of a three. Still, I’m not giving up on the series. I’ve got Queen Move queued up on audiobook (shoutout to my library for coming through with Hoopla!). Let’s see if it steals the crown for me.

Favorite quotes? Oh, there are some gems:
“I almost died, and I want to feel alive. Nothing makes me feel more alive than making love to you.”
“The girl who chases stars finds them every time we make love.”

That’s it for now, bookish fam. Let me know what you thought of the series, or if you’re tempted to pick it up. Until then, happy reading, folks! 🖤