Thank you to Kennedy Ryan and Sourcebooks – Bloom Books for the advance reader copy of The Rebel King, the second book in the All the King’s Men series. You can read my review of the first book, The Kingmaker here.
I am such a huge fan of this duology and so after re-reading and reviewing the first book, The Kingmaker naturally I wanted to bring you all my thoughts on the sequel. This is a great follow-up, it will bring tears to the eyes of fans as Lennix and Maxim make their way in the world together against every barrier thrown in their way.
This story highlights the epidemic of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, the fear of going missing and the threat of violence is a reality affecting Indigenous women, girls, and two-spirited individuals across the United States and Canada. Do not let this book be your only source of knowledge on the topic I urge you to learn more (if you are in Canada consult the Final Report from the Commission on MMIWG).
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?
From beloved, RITA-award-winning author Kennedy Ryan comes the gripping, passionate finale of the All the King’s Men duology.
Check out my more detailed thoughts below…
- Characters: Lennix has grown into her own so beautifully. She is such a strong character, it is hard not to get heavily invested in her well-being. Maxim is so damn intense, so the romance girlies will love that alpha-ness. I enjoyed his development and seeing how his relationships not just with Lennix but with his family shift as well. Our characters remain remarkably strong in the face of what the world throws at them. I won’t tell you what, it is well worth a blind read.
- Setting: This story takes place all over the place, but has a decent presence in Washington, D.C. With Lennix and Kimbra running their own political consulting firm, if you liked the TV show Scandal you will love the Scandal vibes. If you like D.C. political intrigue then Kimbra’s book Queen Move is a natural next read for you.
- Pacing: I cannot believe how many things I forgot from my first time through, on this re-read everything felt like I was experiencing it for the first time. This story is an emotional rollercoaster that never gives you a second to breathe. This story seems to fly by and plot point after plot point comes and goes, keeping you on your toes.
- Romance: Lennix and Maxim are hot hot hot. Each romantic scene holds this quiet power. The power it takes to choose to be together against all odds. The power of the force of just how much they love each other and are meant for each other. The power for Maxim at least in claiming your person from day one.
The Rebel King receives five out of five stars.
You can pick up the story below…
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Thank you again to Kennedy Ryan and the Sourcebooks team for the review opportunity. Thank you for reading and supporting my blog!
