About the Book:
Title: The Rebel King
Author: Gina L. Maxwell
Series: Deviant Kings #2
Page Length: 352
Publication Date: July 25, 2023
Publisher: Entangled
Synopsis: All work and no wicked play makes Tiernan a very unsatisfied king…
Of all the Verran brothers, Tiernan is the least suited to wear the Night Court crown. The Rebel Prince is happy with no responsibilities or accountability―just the freedom to pursue his own dark, lush pleasures in Sin City. Including his secret hunger for a certain smart-mouthed, fiery redhead.
Only, the possibility of having Fiona is stripped away when Tiernan is thrust into the one role he never king . As king of the Dark Fae, wanting―let alone pursuing―anything with a lower-caste fae like Fiona would shift from fun…to forbidden.
Now war is emerging from the shadows of Vegas, and Tiernan is caught between who he’s meant to be and who he wants . And somewhere in this maelstrom of lust, love, and rebellion is the key to the Dark Fae’s survival…even if the cost is more than he can imagine.
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My Review:
After reading the first book in the Deviant Kings dark romance-fantasy series last year, I was so eager to read book two – The Rebel King. Tiernan was so intriguing, and I was curious how he would adjust to the role pushed upon him. Unfortunately, it is not smooth sailing, as he cares for a woman he cannot be with, some are questioning his abilities to rule, and shocking murders plague his people.
The story switches between Tiernan and Fiona’s perspectives, so you really get to understand both of them on a deeper level. They are fascinating protagonists, and I was engrossed in both of their journeys. Tiernan is transitioning into a leadership role, and he’s begrudgingly accepting his role as king. He’s a way better leader than he gives himself credit for, and he really comes into his own over the course of the story. I loved seeing his belief in himself as a leader grow.
And Fiona is the perfect match for Tiernan. Feisty and strong, Fiona is kind of a badass. She puts her own safety on the line so many times to protect and help others, even though she’s going through a lot personally. Fiona receives some shocking revelations about herself that shake the foundation of her life and some of her relationships, but she never loses her determination to help Tiernan and the missing women they are searching for. I also love how Fiona makes Tiernan see things from a different perspective, which is particularly poignant as Tiernan faces unfortunate traditions and expectations.
Of course, my absolute favorite part of the book is the super steamy love story between Tiernan and Fiona. In a forbidden romance, the pair can’t be together for so many reasons. And with the crown on the line for his family, Tiernan is bound by duty. But oh my word, these two have it bad for each other! It’s electrically charged and spicy, and the forbidden nature of their relationship just adds to the intensity of their romance. Regardless of the dangers they face, Tiernan and Fiona’s deep love for each other, which neither wants to admit to, is incredible. And did I mention steamy? That’s definitely worth mentioning twice because – whew!
Some other things I really love about this series are the awesome banter, the humor, and the myriad of relationships that are explored. I adore the relationship between Tiernan and his brothers, his wonderful connection to their mentor, and the relationship between Fiona and her mother. Friendships, family bonds, and new relationships are all explored and create nuanced and layered characters and side stories that I really enjoyed. And some of the conversations are laugh-out-loud funny, which I appreciated, especially after some of the intense and darker scenes.
I thought this was a great addition to the series. It’s entertaining and suspenseful, and the romance is super steamy. Special thanks to Entangled Publishing for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
Rating:
Favorite Parts:
- The romance.
- The relationships and characters.
- The banter.
Favorite Line:
Just because something always has been doesn’t mean it always should be,
Feisty female leads are my favorite and reluctant leaders (Tiernan) are always so fascinating. Excellent review!
Thanks, Tessa!