Please note: I will post this review on my blog (book instagram, @bookedbailey) later today.

I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

"The Rebel King" by Kennedy Ryan
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
✈️ to:
Re-Release Date (with new cover): 6/27/23 - TODAY

The Rebel King picks up right where The Kingmaker left off (aka with a massive cliffhanger!). It's the last book in the duology, a fact that makes me VERY bummed. I do think this probably could have been a trilogy. And while i did really enjoy this book, when I flipped to the last page it did feel a little abrupt and like there was still more story tell... this may be my not so subtle way to beg Kennedy Ryan to write another book in the All the King's Men series.

But if this is the last we see of Lennix and Maxim then I'm glad to have been a part of the ride! P.s. This sequel is MUCH steamier than the first book in the series. 👍

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Maxim and Lennix have been through a lot to find their way back to each other, but they have a long way to go. Picking up right where The Kingmaker ended, Lennix's life is in danger and Maxim will do anything to save her. Little do they know that this is only the first of many challenges they will face in the immediate future. The future of their relationship, their families, their business, and the country is up in the air.

I really like this book. It's a little overly dramatic at times, but it's a great escape from reality for a while. This book made me love Lennix even more. Her strength and connection to her ancestors is something I was drawn to. Overall, this is a great sequel to The Kingmaker.

Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Bloom Books for the ARC of this book.

I don’t want to give away any spoilers for The Kingmaker, so I’ll just say that the Rebel King picks up right where we left off in The Kingmaker at that terrifying cliffhanger. Thank goodness I’ve got some resolution because I’ve been worried about these characters since I read the first book earlier this year!

This book is just FILLED with passion. Lennix and Maxim have so much passion for their careers, the people they’re trying to help, their communities and heritage, and definitely each other. It’s a love story for the ages! I appreciated how not everything in their lives and their relationship was perfect. They had to work for their love from the very beginning and have to face many obstacles both separately and together, but they still were nothing but supportive of each other in the end.

There were some pretty dark moments in this book, but I thought the sweet romance and moments of humor balanced it out very well. The story was super compelling with a lot of suspense. It was definitely a page turner!

Overall, I really enjoyed this one! If you like your romance with plenty of spice, a bit of thrill, and some strong and lovable main characters, I think you’ll love the All the King’s Men Duet!

Wow! What a conclusion to their story. This duet has some of the most believable and heartfelt character growth I’ve ever read.

I loved their hard fought happily ever after and definitely recommend these books.

I had quite high hopes for Kennedy Ryan as two individuals I follow on TikTok adore her and her books but I don't think this was a good introduction to Kennedy Ryan's writing. I didn't realize this was a sequel until I was deep into the book so it made sense why parts are a bit confusing. I think that this sequel didn't feel necessary. Will definitely try Kennedy Ryan again as I have heard good things about her other books but maybe this was just a miss for me cause I didn't read the first one.

"The girl who chases stars has war in her eyes, and she'll need it. The toughest fight of our lives is ahead. The fight to heal."

The Rebel King picks up where its predecessor, The Kingmaker, left off! This book was just as good as the first one! Kennedy Ryan is a QUEEN! I don’t know why it took me so long to read any of her books! I am obsessed!!

The Rebel King delves deeper into the complex and intense love story of Maxim Cade and Lennix Hunter. Kennedy Ryan's writing style is a symphony of emotions, expertly weaving together themes of love, sacrifice, social justice, and political upheaval. She effortlessly navigates the intricate plotlines, ensuring that every twist and turn leaves a lasting impact.

What truly sets The Rebel King apart is the remarkable character development. Maxim and Lennix are beautifully flawed and utterly compelling. Their journey is one of self-discovery, growth, and unwavering determination. Ryan brings them to life with such authenticity that readers will feel an indelible connection to their struggles, triumphs, and unwavering love.

I highly recommend you give this series a shot!

The Rebel King

Phenomenal conclusion to this outstanding, unforgettable series! I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this book. And it didn’t disappoint! Beautifully written with an extraordinary story that touched my soul. Filled full of twists and turns, danger, and suspense, as well as many emotional moments of fear, anguish, grief, happiness, exhilaration and love. But the power. The beauty. The essence, of these two characters, finally together was exhilarating to experience in this great love story that will forever be a part of me, making it an unforgettable romance. And my number one read of the year!!!

“I just love you so much. Nothing’s ever felt like this.”

Kennedy Ryan’s talent for combining in-depth, real life issues with such compelling conviction, while educating and engaging the reader in thought provoking world issues are why her books will always be on my auto-buy list. And raising the bar for all others. I Loved this series!

“The past is behind us. The future is ours. Figure out how you can change the world right now, and don’t fear it. Do it.”

Received an early copy and this is my honest review.

Thank you to NetGalley and Bloom Books for this ARC re-release!

I don't even know where to begin! Kennedy Ryan does it again. She has an uncanny ability to have me all hot and bothered on one page and then sobbing hysterically on the next.

The Rebel King leaves and starts where Kingmaker leaves off. Talk about an adrenaline rush immediately! I was on the edge of my seat for the first part of the book just waiting for the other shoe to drop. Of course, Kennedy Ryan did a wonderful job of lulling you into a sense of security then BAM part 2 gets you and it was on and off sobbing for the rest of the book. I loved seeing Lennix and Maxim navigate their relationship as two hyper-independent people and learning how to lean on each other when they need each other the most.

Can't wait to read more from Kennedy Ryan!

This is a compelling and emotional story that will make you cry. Maybe. Probably.

I can't say much other than Kennedy found a perfect balance of romance, suspense, and real characters. Lennox and Maxim were perfect together and you need to read it.

The Rebel King was the perfect conclusion to the All the King’s Men duet. It will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. It is so much more than a romance and that just takes this series to another level.
The level of knowledge and perfection in detail that Kennedy put into this duet is terrific.

I can't wait to read Queen Move.

This story picks up right after the cliffhanger at the end of The Kingmaker. To say I was desperate to read this sequel is an understatement. The need to find out what happened to Lennix and Maxim ran deep, and I was thrilled to read the continuation of their love story!

As with The Kingmaker, this story was beautifully and respectfully written. And while the romance between Lennix and Maxim is the main storyline, this book is so much more than that. My best description of this book is that it's like an entire season of the show Scandal, but in print, and so much better. I'm not usually into political themes, but this book sucked me in and kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. It also touches on some extremely relevant social issues in our present day, which makes the story even more engaging.

The love between Lennix and Maxim is unmatched and could be felt right through the pages of this book, it was such a powerful and moving love story. I loved how the passion between them never fades over time. Regardless of their banter or fights, their love perseveres.

This was the perfect conclusion to Lennix and Maxim's story and I can't wait to read more from this author!

Thank you NetGalley and SOURCEBOOKS Bloom Books for this E-ARC in exchange for my honest review.

After a literal cliffhanger ending for the last book I was so excited to finally read The Rebel King! Lennix and Maxim return in the sequel with some new challenges to conquer and some big feelings to face up to. Just when they think they’ve got things all worked out, their worlds implode and steer them on a new path which has more than a couple of speed bumps.
I don’t want to give too much away but there were certainly things I did not see coming in this storyline….some were super sad, thanks for the feels Kennedy Ryan.

This is a continuation of the love story between Lennix and Maxim after the huge cliffhanger at the end of Kingmaker. They've survived so much together and face even more in this book as Maxim continues to prove he'll put her first. I absolutely loved the characters in this series, especially Lennix! She's such a strong female minority character and stands up for what she believes in. It took me a while to decide to read this duet but I'm so glad I finally picked it up and devoured it!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

The Rebel King by Kennedy Ryan was everything I needed it to be and more. This duet is one of the greatest love stories I’ve ever read! I loved following Maxim and Lennix’s journey continue and come to such a satisfying conclusion. Kennedy is a master at writing! The Rebel King is full of surprises and swoon worthy moments. I have found my new favorite romance books ever! I would highly suggest everyone check out both The Kingmaker and The Rebel King.

I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

One thing to believe is that Maxim doesn’t play about Lennix. He would do anything for her and baby he had no problem showing and proving. The natural protector that Maxim is and the strength of Lennix with the connection to her heritage made me fall for the characters. I was unsure after reading the first book but after reading this it brought me closer to the characters. I learned of the research Kennedy Ryan put into this and it showed. Politics in any book throws red flags my way but this one didn’t bother me at all. It didn’t feel like she put her own views in the story which made it seem more authentic. While reading I immersed myself in the story and felt like I was there while everything happened.

Thank you SOURCEBOOKS, Bloom Books, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ebook in exchange for an honest review.

I previously read The Kingmaker (book 1 of this duet) and rated it 2 stars because I was frustrated with the ending. Now, having read the second part of the duet, I will be updating my rating for The Kingmaker. This book explained and redeemed everything that frustrated me about book 1.

Quick Synopsis: a direct follow-up of what occurred in book 1, The Rebel King follows Lennix and Maxim post-Lennix kidnapping and as they navigate an ever changing political environment in the US.

Trigger warnings: Domestic terrorism; assassination; kidnapping; murder; sexism; misogyny; racism;

What I Liked:
-This explained and rationalized everything I didn’t like about The Kingmaker. I.e.: why the 10 year separation, why she was so stubborn and against him because of his name, etc.
-I loved how these two had to fight to stay together and while it was a struggle, they survive, together.
-No third act breakup.
-Their dedication to one-another. There was never any doubt that once they were together, they were together.
-It all makes sense and there’s a lot of political intrigue. It is incredibly idealistic, however.
-Lennix’s focus on Native American issues and creating a political environment where Native Americans are prioritized in US legislation.

What I struggled with:
-The politics are incredibly idealistic. As someone who has studied and follows politics, and is incredibly jaded about US politics, this is a dream. Won’t ever happen though.

Altogether, I didn’t trust the process, but I won’t make that mistake again. I loved this duet.

The only reason I don’t give this one 5⭐️ like book one is because for a section of it I was bored. Maybe around 20% it started to lull but when it picked up.. it picked up!!

Owen broke my heart. Like shattered me! I felt that one throughout the book which I assume was KR’s intention! Maxim and Lennix will forever be the ultimate power couple to me. Talk about a strong FMC!! From the beginning of book one I have been I sensed with her. A strong woman. A proud minority woman! Set in her convictions and unwavering for anyone including the love of her life. She is probably one of my all time favorite bada— FMCs! I love Maxim too but we always get our good possessive MMC, this is about Lennix! I love how their love transcended time, space, politics, death. Everything you could imagine was thrown at them and tried to tear them apart. I loved their thirst for each other and that feeling of another person helping you feel alive!

This duet is amazing and I can’t wait to read Kimba’s story!

4.5 -⭐⭐⭐⭐💫

"She's mine completely. And I, unequivocally, belong to Lennix Moon Hunter."

The Rebel King is the second novel in the adult contemporary romance series, All the King's Men series and the conclusion to Lennix and Maxim's story.

In this novel we follow Lennix and Maxim after the explosive ending in book one that forces these lovers apart once again. As they find their way back to each other they realize they must confront the reality of their love and how far are they willing ago to remain together while also keeping their dreams. Lies, secrets, and revenge will threaten all they hold dear...

This series puts you on such a wild ride and I was living for it. In this book we see out beloved character navigating a political minefield where one mistake could ruin their careers. For Lennix the tension was all the more high because of how women are treated in politics. She comes into this book a little bruised but unwilling to bend. I found her charisma and strength to be powerful and she truly stood by her stances. There are a few moments where she can let loose but overall she was a boss lady and I loved it.

Now Maxim is the example of a male main character who has definitely learned from his mistakes. Initially he is a little sketch but given the way the book started I gave him some leeway. He listens to Lennix and doesn't force her to conform because of his fear. I found this helped create realism in their romance that I absolutely adored.

In terms of spice, I would place this around 2.5 spicy peppers out of 5 spicy peppers. The romance here is excellent and I appreciated that the spicy was intentional in its placement. It helped mark some pretty powerful moments and was well written.

"Are you okay?"
"I will be okay...It may take some time, but you love me, and I will be okay."

The world and story of this book were evocative and enthralling. The pace was well done and I really liked how they journey has unexpected changes that led us down whole new plots I was not expecting. The tension is high in places as we get some thriller aspects but also the complexity of political intrigue with these career driven characters. I initially was worried where the book would go next but part 2 blew me out of the water and I felt truly moved (dare I say teary eyed) as we move forward. Now, there are still these beautiful moments where we can set with the characters and watch their romance which I thoroughly appreciated especially because we have this slight forbidden romance evolve. For every twist that ups tension, we get these soothing moments to balance out which I loved. Also that final chapter and its cyclical symbolism is UNMATCHED.

If you enjoy a contemporary romance with spice, second chance romance, political intrigue, and all the tension this series will give you everything you need. I had such a blast diving back into this world and I cannot wait to see what more this author has in store.

Thank you Netgalley and Bloom Books for the Arc.

Re-release of the book is June 27th, 2023.

I was so happy to finally read the end of this story ! I loved the first one.
Lennix and Maxim finally together, and the twist ! I did not see it coming. The story still powerful with great values.
Just the end come to quickly for me.

Kennedy Ryan is such an incredible author - I could hardly wait from part one of the All The King's Men duet, The Kingmaker - Nix (Lennix) is such a strong woman, an indigenous woman who is someone we don't see in literature and romance very often. We're left at the end of book one with such a (literal) cliffhanger that it's difficult with the time between books to know where this one is going to pick up! She and her best friend are kidnapped in Costa Rica, and Maxim is going out of his mind trying to deal with the kidnappers and get the ransom to get her back. He bypasses protocol and heads down there to do what has to be done for "his woman."

Their relationship has always been unusual and tumultuous with their family history and dislike due to his father destroying tribal lands for pipelines, and now she's running his brother's campaign for President, and nothing has really changed on that front. This book is more of the same until something huge occurs (can't mention or it will totally spoil that), and then major things move heaven and earth and their entire world shifts - and not only theirs. It's absolutely beautiful and everyone needs this story in their lives.

Another fantastic read from Ryan - a massive recommendation from me (but you absolutely have to read The Kingmaker first!). Now I move on to Queen Move next. Even though it's not part of the duet, it's part of the series. Looking forward to it and have meant to read it for years!

I received an advance copy from Sourcebooks Bloom Books, and this is my honest feedback.

The Rebel King is a superb conclusion to ALL THE KING'S MEN duet.
It's on a class of its own. It is Kennedy Ryan like never before. She does not hold back and gives it to us with a gut wrenching punch to the Heart and Soul and it feels GOOD!

I went through so many emotions and Yes! I cried it was so powerful. I cried and then I smiled. ♡Lennix and Maxim's story is about LOVE but it's also about so much more♡. It was truly wonderful to read such plot and I literally feel sorry and sad for Owen ...why he has to die for sake of the story I just don't understand....Owen could have his own love story but unfortunately he was killed...it was 5 star but for owen its 4.25 stars for me...