The Rebel King is the direct sequel to The Kingmaker in the All the King’s Men series. Since the story in this novel follows the cliffhanger of the previous, it is best to read them in order. I’ve seen other reviews that mention they read this one without reading the previous and either ended up lost or did not enjoy it because they were missing the foundation, so I wish publishers would start making it clearer if a series needs to be read in order or as standalones. The story in this one continues after the cliffhanger ending as Lennix and Maxim navigate the political environment around them. It continues to explore power and trust along with integrating great representation of Native American culture.

As characters, it was great to have the foundation in place for Lennix and Maxim and this novel just further explores them. Ryan is a little more heavy-handed when she wrote Lennix as outspoken. Compared to the first novel where there was a little more balance in Lennix, this one was a bit much at times. She is still not the most likeable character, but she was, at least well-written. As for Maxim, he did become a little more established for me. He is still protective over Lennix, which can be a bit much for many readers, including me. They are a great couple that may have differences, but they work well with each other. Overall, this was a great romance story and I look forward to reading more from Ryan in the future.

**I give a special thank you to Netgalley and the publisher, Bloom Books, for the opportunity to read this entertaining novel. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**

An emotional roller coaster that will have you wondering until the very end! It kept me wanting to know more with each page read and I couldn't stop!

The Rebel King is a thrilling and captivating novel that had me on the edge of my seat. This fast-paced and heart-pounding read left me breathless and longing for more.

The Rebel King is the continuation of Lennix and Maxim’s story in the Kingmaker. The first book ended in a dramatic cliffhanger than was immediately continued in Rebel King and the drama is still sky high.
After a traumatic event for Lennix, Maxim also experienced a difficult time and the couple now face me challenges.
It is difficult reviewing this without spoilers but it’s full of tension, drama and romance and it definitely continues with the Scandal-esque setting and drama.
This was entertaining but I found lulls where I was slightly bored. But overall it was fun and full of drama and the perfect escapism filled with tense romance.

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.

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 by Kennedy Ran had me at the edge of my seat! The final book of the duet was full of intrigue and steamy chemistry and completely consumed me. I read it on sitting as I could not put the book down.

The connection between Maxim and Lennix was strong and undeniable. Though so much has happened and changed over the course of time, including Maxim and Lennix, their love and the passion they shared was strong. Their journey was not easy at all, but you will be riveted from the first page to the very last. I was absolutely captivated by The Rebel Kind (and the previous book) by Kennedy Ryan. The characters shared an all-encompassing kind of love that you felt through every page. Even with all the twists and surprises. This is a must-read for sure!

Happy reading!

WHAT AN EPIC CONCLUSION! I am still reeling from the tsunami of emotions that engulfed me as I finished this duology.

The Rebel King reels you in with the high-stakes, intense cliffhanger from The Kingmaker. Leave it to Kennedy Ryan to masterfully portray character development, passion and integrity amidst a plot full of twists and unexpected turns. Lennix and Maxim are truly inevitable as they navigate life-changing circumstances that alter their paths, their brewing passion that screams intimacy and a true partnership. The banter and feistiness were refreshing, which hit me right in the feels. The insights of both characters deeply resonated with me even though they couldn't be more different. The supporting characters shine throughout this book, and their interactions with the main leads are laced with humour, sassiness and some harsh truths. Given the roller coaster, the ending was impactful and well-deserved, and these characters will be well missed.
I look forward to reading more from the author!

Thank you, NetGalley & SOURCEBOOKS Bloom Books, for this e-ARC. This honest review is left voluntarily.

This was this perfect conclusion to this ambitious second chance power couples story for representation of an indigenous culture and the power and sadness that comes with being that in the America. Lennix Moon Hunter is the best empowered women that's her authentic self which is a beautiful thing to read about throughout her years. The jump in time for most of her life over two decades is powerful and healing in the most realistic and well done representation of one story for the family of a missing and murdered indigenous women. In this case its her mother, which she learns to adapt while pushing for focus on the issue personal to her life.

Maxim is tied in to her life in the best way and they work to overcome the divisive lifestyles which brought them together. Not to mention the seven year age difference which causes a part of there problem in the choices they make but somehow didn't bug me . This sequel for this duology writing is just a graceful and meanigful as The Kingmaker and was a good time for me considering I read both within two days last week. I'm beyond grateful to have read one of the most popular female black authors out right now in this ARC. I definitely plan to get physical about this story of love, growth, and compromise which if your reading this you should do the same.

When I tell you o devoured this book after book 1 left me hanging like an Iguana….. OMG! OMG!

You’re NOT ready for this book, I just know you’re not! Talk about PLOT TWIST!!!!?????? *sweating in spanish*

This is the love story you didn’t know you need it in your life. max and Lenny are just 2 power couples destined to rule the world. To make the world better. To do what needs to be done so the voiceless have a voice And a future.

Thank you sourcebooks and blooms books for a Earc copy of this incredible book.

After finishing the Prequel, I had to get my hands on this book. Thank God for advance reader copies (also thank you NetGalley & Bloom Books)! This sequel was the perfect addition to the first book.

The Rebel King immediately grasps you right away since you pick up exactly where The Kingmaker left off. I was rooting from Nix and Doc, hoping all would end well and it did. As a Kennedy Ryan Stan, I knew to expect nail biting and tears (I did sob in my shower). She always give romance with just the right amount of drama.

Lennix is a SHERO. I see so much of myself in her story. Kennedy Ryan does an incredible job of her character and personality development. You can feel Lennix’s strength jumping off the page. Take a strong man to love a strong woman. I appreciate Kennedy Ryan for illustrating that the tough, go getter girls do too get the happy endings. Maxim matches the fierce and gives Lennix the space to be herself while still being a supportive and possessive partner. Literally reading them argue was just as fun as reading them make up (🌶️🌶️).

This is my 3rd Kennedy Ryan series and I still don’t think I was prepared for the emotional roller coaster. The tension, the passion, the thrills lead to best conclusion to the duology. I’m always amazed by Kennedy Ryan’s ability to blow me away with her writing.

If you like political romance, spicy books, second chance romance, billionaire romance or anything else Kennedy Ryan then run to grab these books! You won’t regret it!

The story immediately picks up from the cliffhanging ending in The Kingmaker so the action starts right away. The plot twists, angst, and forbidden romance will keep you at the edge of your seat until the end. Lennix and Maxim fate's have been tied together from the moment they met at 17 and 24 respectfully. This is a second chance romance fit for a King who becomes a man to deserve his Queen. They are couple goals with their commitment to their love and their dedication to their own passions.

I love Kennedy Ryan! She is a powerful writer, and I believe she writes in a beautiful and respectful manner for difficult topics. The duology was written to tie the two books and characters into a well wrapped gift for the readers. I was cheering for these two from the beginning, and it was amazing to read their 2 decades of history.

I would recommend to readers who love second chance, billionaire, and forbidden romance with political activism for the environment and Indigenous People. Please read the first book to avoid spoilers!

I am thankful to have received an ARC of the traditional re-release. I hope more people will pick up this book because it is a powerful duology. Thank you to Netgalley and Sourcebooks Bloom Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Rebel king was a good ending. I was happy to have closure from the first book. I was glad to see the up’s and downs with this couple. There was a lot of political talk but the overall love story was definitely felt. If you love Kennedy Ryan this will be a great time.

Maxim’s and Lennix’s story continues where the second book in the All the Kings Men series left us with a cliffhanger. It’s a very intense, emotional romance. There is a lot of action, drama, suspense and spice. This is a very entertaining series and I’m anxious, now, to read Queen Move. *this was a complimentary copy and this was my honest review*

★.·´¯`·.·★ A R C Review ★·.·`¯´·.★
✨ The Rebel King by Kennedy Ryan ✨
💭 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 💭

“True empowerment is about choice—figuring out what we want and going after it.“

“She’s an extension of me, and I’m an extension of her. She’s a layer of my skin, a chamber of my heart.”

°•*⁀➷

Thank you Sourcebooks Bloom Books, Netgalley and Kennedy Ryan for providing me with an ARC for this phenomenal book!

This book is an absolute masterpiece! From the moment I picked it up, it seamlessly continued the gripping story after that cliffhanger from the first book. Kennedy Ryan once again showcases her brilliance as a writer, leaving me in awe of the extensive research she and her team must have conducted. The attention to detail, particularly in respecting the social and cultural aspects of Lennix's history, adds to the beauty of the read.

This duet is truly amazing! Even after finishing the book, my jaw remains on the floor, solidifying its place among my top favorite reads of the year. The author's skill in crafting spicy scenes is maintained, if not surpassed, in this installment, delivering a level of hot and steamy that exceeds expectations.

"The Rebel King" has it all: humor, suspense, romance, and an abundance of steam. It evoked a whirlwind of mixed emotions within me, making the reading experience all the more captivating.

The love story portrayed within these pages is nothing short of stunning. It intertwines with important themes that inspire and evoke deep emotions. The conclusion to Lennix and Maxim's story was perfect, filled with elements I truly loved. And that massive shock in the middle of the book? Simply breathtaking! I can't help but draw comparisons to a certain beloved TV series, but mentioning it would risk spoiling everything.

To be honest, no review, including mine, could ever fully capture the brilliance of this book. One must read the duet to truly grasp the sheer talent and versatility of Kennedy Ryan's storytelling.

So, I implore you—don't hesitate any longer. Grab a copy of this duet and allow yourself to be swept away into the world of Lennix Moon Hunter and Maxim Cade. The audiobook version is also a delightful experience. And please, if you do read it, I would love to hear your thoughts!

Don't wait a moment longer—immerse yourself in this extraordinary journey.

°•*⁀➷ Recommended for those who like:
👑Extraordinary & Elegant spicy scenes🔥🥵
👑 Dual POV
👑 Powerful MMC + Powerful FMC (Both Alphas)
👑 2 driven heroes determined to change the world
👑 Enemies to lovers
👑 Second Chance Romance
👑 Perfect Banter

The Rebel King is the ending of this duet set. It is also a story I never expected!!! The twists, the turns and everything in between. THIS IS THE BEST DUET I HAVE READ FOR 2019!!!

Not only is there more love there is also betrayal, career - family choices, revenge, family drama. Lennix and Maxim are two characters that I have fallen in love with. I was happy for them, shouted for joy with them, and even cried and became angry with and for them.

Kennedy this was such a joy to read. I learned about tribes. history, places I now want to visit, politics and true love and devotion. You are a wonderful writer. I do not usually get actual books since I am an ebook reader but I honestly will be purchasing these to add to my shelf.

Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Easy-to-read, Entertaining, Great world building, Informative, Page-turner, Romantic, Steamy, Tear-jerker, Wonderful characters

Rebel King by Kennedy Ryan delivered as far as sequels go. This was a highstakes romance filled with drama, angst and a plot twist you don’t see coming. Ryan is an amazing story teller. You are not only captivated by her characters but their individual journeys. The love between Lennix and Maxim was beautiful and as Max said inevitable. But getting there was NOT easy! I mean that twist in the middle almost broke me, however there is purpose to her madness. I cannot say enough good things about this book without giving to much away but it’s a must read.

Book 2 of 2 in this Kennedy Ryan duet. If you want a contemporary romance book with a side of political intrigue, read this. If you liked the show Scandal, you’ll love this book.

I enjoyed it. Some parts were dry and I didn’t need that much politics in my romance book. But I do think that’s a personal preference.

I love Ryan’s writing style. Her characters are well thought out and relatable.

This sequel picked up right where The Kingmaker’s cliffhanger left me in the edge of my seat. Thank you @kennedyryan1 for not letting me wait long!😆
Jumping right into the action, Lennix and Maxim still are navigating their relationship through many obstacles. Both their type-A personalities keep clashing but the passion between them is palpable. This romance is layered with suspense, political drama, social justice and deniable chemistry.

If you haven’t read this author yet, this is a great 2 book series to introduce you to her great work.
She don’t miss!

Thank you to Kennedy Ryan and netgalley for the ARC if this one!

After reading book, one which was a bit more plot heavy than it was romance, I was hoping that book 2 would deliver on the relationship between Maxim and Lennix and it DID!

Still addressing important and heavy topics, I liked seeing the relationship develop. Kennedy Ryan broke me in the middle of this one but somehow put me back together!

This is the first duology where I see the two MC be headstrong, firm in their ways and beliefs, and I appreciated that. They truly had to compromise constantly and that felt real.

Overall, highly recommend if you like a politically charged theme with love of self and love for others at the center.

An incredible end to the duology! Twists I still didn't see coming, with the steamy romance still able to be the focus. Really glad Kennedy is getting any and all praise, she deserves it.