"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...

"Run. Keep running. You don't stop running because it's hard. You don't stop running because it hurts. Don't you dare stop running because someone says you'll never finish the race or even that it's not your race to run. Prove them all wrong. Blaze your own trail."

I don't know how Kennedy Ryan manages it, but every time I open one of her stories, I am absolutely blown away. The King's Men duet is so impactful and unique that I don't think I'll ever read anything like it again. It's emotional and gives a glimpse into some critically important topics that definitely aren't talked about enough. The passion and emotion put into these stories is astounding.

Lennix is a powerhouse, just like she was in the first book. Her ambition, rage, love, power and connection to herself and her ancestors is something incredible to witness. I loved seeing her and Maxim get together in the first novel, but it was equally as impactful and empowering to see them continue to grow not as a couple, but help one another grow as individuals.

And Maxim... I'll take five. His ambition and drive for life is just as powerful and amazing as Lennix's. They're so perfect together, but part of why I love them so much is how incredible they are as individuals. It takes a really strong person to know who they are and know who their partner is, and support them while not altering their own boundaries.

This duology is perfect. It's an amazing story, and one that will stick with me for quite some time. The Rebel King is set to be published on June 27, 2023. Thank you to Bloom Books, NetGalley and the author for the digital advanced reader's copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Well, I'm officially a Kennedy Ryan fan.

The things I typically don't like to read, I actually enjoyed in this series and in particular, The Rebel King. I don't usually enjoy stories that feel unbelievable. Hostage situations and presidential romances don't usually tickle my fancy. However, this somehow really worked for me.

I was so attached to Lennix and Maxim after The King Maker that I could have followed them anywhere.

I think the thing that really struck me as important in this series was the way Ryan tackles the issues of trust, power and perspective in a relationship between two people of very different lived experiences. Maxim pushes boundaries, occasionally blinded by his perspective as a very wealthy white man in America. His view on control and protection often comes in direct opposition to the freedom Lennix, an Indigenous woman raised by her father after her mother became one of the far too many missing and murdered Indigenous women (MMIW), needs and deserves. Lennix knows exactly who she is and pushes back when necessary but is also comfortable being vulnerable and soft. Their love isn't easy (crazy murderers aside) because of the worlds they come from and the one they inhabit but it is strong enough. Because they are strong enough.

I love how unique this story was and in particular, how Ryan gives voice to characters who aren't usually on center stage. A powerful, Indigenous woman taking on the political world? Sign me up! And a cis white man who is not only unafraid to take a stand but is also unafraid of being wrong? Yes please!

This series challenged my own ideas on power relationships and romance. It also reminded me how natural it can feel to have different types of people cast as our leading characters.

Kennedy Ryan does it again! Another book series that has me absolutely hooked from start to finish. This book literally dug its claws into me and hasn't let go of me since I finished it. It was utter perfection.

After book one's massive cliffhanger, it was so much fun to dive back into the world with all our favourite characters and enjoy them again. Kennedy's writing is literally top tier and so utterly perfect. The way her male main characters are a literal dream come true!! All of her books, this one especially is a book where Maxim is quite literally written in the female gaze and this is a woman's kind of man, totally swoon worthy.

Thank you NetGalley for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

Simply incredible.

The chemistry between Lennix and Maxim was so undeniably hot and magnetic. Their strength as individuals was apparent but when they joined forces, they were an unstoppable force. Nothing, and I mean nothing could tear these two apart. Not even a deranged, psychopath out for revenge.

The way book 1 ended in such a dramatic way, I wasn't sure what to expect from book 2. I hoped that Kennedy was going to continue to write a compelling and earth moving story about Lennix's passions and Maxim's drive. The book took a turn I didn't expect and I was left wondering what was going to fill the pages of the rest of the story at about 60%, but the author continued to prove why they're the best in this genre. Plot twists and story derailment threw me for numerous loops and left me agonizing for more! I didn't want this story to end. The alignment this story took to our current reality was both unsettling and motivating. I truly enjoyed the political aspects of the story from both Nix's perspective as well as Owen and Maxim.

I didn't feel that this story was nearly as emotionally draining and mentally taxing as the first but it certainly made me think and feel things I didn't anticipate. The writing was so eloquent yet gritty with honesty and ruthlessness. You could feel the truth and passion bleeding from the pages.

The way this love story wrapped up left it open for more, which I was excited about. I don't think this is the last we'll see of Nix and Max but it ended in a really good place for the couple!

I simply could not wait to get my hands on The Rebel King after having finished The Kingmaker! I was so ready to dive into this one to see where Kennedy Ryan was going to take us and I was not disappointed! The Rebel King is one of the best books I have read in a very long time, if not one of the best books I have read period. The story of Maxim and Lennix is one that will stay with me for a very long time.

We begin where The Kingmaker ended, with the harrowing cliffhanger. We then follow Maxim and Lennix as they navigate their relationship and the highs and lows that go with it. There is no doubt the love that they share for one another, but there is also no doubt there are things that stand in the way of them being together in the way that they wish to be.

I don't want to say too much about the rest of the story because it needs to be read and discovered as it unfolds, but what I will say is that Kennedy Ryan has a true gift in the way she is able to write and bring you into the story and make you feel like you are right there. You feel with the characters; you hurt, you laugh, you cry and you cheer right along with them. The way she is able to paint pictures with her words makes the story so rich and beautiful. This is such an amazing book and I highly recommend you picking up this series; you won't be sorry.

**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review**