A review by lololovesthings
The Rebel King by Kennedy Ryan

challenging dark emotional hopeful mysterious sad tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

4.5 stars!

Kennedy Ryan never, and I do mean NEVER, misses. If you are not reading her books, you are missing out on some of the best novels ever written! Seriously!! She's THAT good. "The Rebel King" picks up right where "The Kingmaker" left off. I personally think this is one of the best sequels I've ever read, and I'm not just saying this because I am a Kennedy Ryan fangirl. The plot is insanely engaging, gripping, and tense. In fact, it never lets up once the book starts.  It doubles down on the drama, triples down on the suspense, and quadruples down on the sexiness. It's hard to make my jaw drop, but boy, did it ever! Much like Maxim to Lennix, I DEVOURED this book. I'm not one for alpha-holes, but Maxim.... ohhhh, Maxim. His devotion, possessiveness, and adoration is something else. He's also super sweet and sensitive, too. Top book boyfriend material. And Lennix! What a strong, fearless, fierce-but-gentle main character. God, I love her. I love him. I love them both. I love them together. I love the smuuuut! I love their growth both together and apart. You never, ever doubt for a single second that they are not soulmates. And just when you think it can't possibly get any more emotional, BAM! More and more heart-pounding drama propels the plot forward into new, uncharted territories I did NOT see coming. This story is not just about the spice and the tension. It's also a multilayered sociopolitical commentary about climate change, big pharma, indigenous rights, political volatility, PTSD, and grief. 

"The Rebel King" is a truly extraordinary book. It's a top-tier contemporary romance and an incredible sequel. I am just in sheer awe of Kennedy Ryan's writing abilities. She is truly to GOAT!

Thank you to NetGalley, Kennedy Ryan, and SOURCEBOOKS Bloom Books for the ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for my review.

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