Great read. Well-developed characters. Easy to follow storyline with low drama. Would highly recommend this book to anyone wishing to pass a couple of hours.

RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
SPICE: 🔥🔥🔥.5
Tiernan Verran's life has taken a turn for the worst. His brother Caiden has abdicated the throne, leaving it to the one person who does not want it the most: Tiernan. As the owner of the Night Court Crown, the Vegas businessman also has to give up something else other than his rebellious ways: the sassy redhead who has captured her heart.

But Fiona Jewel isn't all she seems to be. The lower-class help tries to shield her secrets from the newly crowned dark Fae king as they carry on a very torrid affair. An affair that has been shifted from clandestine to forbidden with Tiernan's new royal role.

Mystery and romance are the foundation of this dark whirlwind romance. Gina L. Maxwell serves us with a nice balance of these elements as we learn more about Tiernan and Fiona. The chemistry between our MMCs is fire, especially when it is wrapped nicely in a forbidden love trope. I love the healthy dose of super-spicy scenes, including BDSM.

Along with the romance and spice, Maxwell navigates us through a fun maze filled with mystery and suspense. The hunt for the light fae will have you turning the pages.

This is the second installment of the series. There is an interconnection with Book 1 that is explained really well, so this can be read as a standalone.

** I am voluntarily reviewing an advance copy of this book. Thank you to Gina L. Maxwell, Entangled Publishing, and NetGalley for providing an ARC. **

dark and spicy… exactly what i like!!! i had a really good time with this one. it definitely helped me put of my slump, i could NOT put it down!

Thank you Netgalley and Entangled for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I began reading the Rebel King almost immediately after finishing The Dark King. The Rebel King picks up with two characters, Fiona and Tiernan whose relationship we were introduced to in the Dark King. The beginning of this book picks up after the events revealed in the last chapter in which Caiden abdicates his throne making Tiernan the new King making it so he can no longer participate in his “rebel” activities such as seeing Fiona. I didn’t really know what to expect from this book plot wise, but I definitely enjoyed where the story ran. I liked how Fiona took control of the situations presented and did what she could for herself and the people she cares about. I also really enjoyed the fact that while Tiernan wasn’t as much of a rebel as I was expecting, I appreciated his way of thinking and how he didn’t always conform to what tradition calls for. While this story was enjoyable, I didn’t completely connect to the story or the characters. I just didn’t really care about them enough so it took me a while to get through unfortunately.

I was so excited to read this after loving the first book but I gotta say this one fell flat for me. It wasn't really my vibe.

I was a fan of the romance plot which was really the only part that kept me reading. It didn't start to pick up until the 50% mark so it was pretty slow in the beginning. I love the BDSM club shenanigans and all the smut, I thought that was fun and I wish there was more of that.

The romance felt overshadowed by the fantasy politics plot, which I wasn't a huge fan of. I usually love fantasy and political plot lines but I don't think this one was for me. There's a lot of repetition of what has happened in the past but bright side, if you forgot what happened in the first book you are definitely going to be reminded.

I wasn't a fan of the villain, his dialog was too much for me. His whole villain monologue pulled me out of the story and that made the resolution at the end fall flat for me.

Overall, I think that this book was okay. I think that maybe it just wasn't for me, but I can definitely see some people loving this. It's kind of like, CW shows in 2010 vibe.

Tiernan and Fiona were sneaking around in the first book and such sassy/rebel characters.
Loved how the first book ended with Tier having to eat his words.
They are perfect for eachother but with some new fringe group taking out fae and his new duties in the court he can't be with her.
Fi is very entertaining and snarky which helps with all the paranormal creatures. But she's an exhibitionist and Tier is getting territorial. Even though he's not able to claim her.
And the BDSM scenes were also🔥

Eek both of these books were so good!

Can't wait for The Vicious King!

Thank you entangledpub for the e-ARC for my honest and voluntary review.

So this is the second book in the Deviant Kings series, each of which focuses on a different Verran brother. The first book was based on Caiden and Bryn, and now we get Tiernan and Fiona. While I did absolutely enjoy this book, I think I am in the minority of people who actually preferred Caiden's story. I'm not sure what about this book was a bit less appealing, as it is definitely action packed, but it just didn't leave me with the same satisfied feelings as book 1. Again, that doesn't mean it wasn't good, because it was, it just wasn't my favorite of the two.

I think my feelings maybe stem from the fact that the writing here felt a little more juvenile. We get alot of slang, emojis, and new gen speak - I think I read someone say Gen-Z speak in another review?? It sort of took away from the story for me a bit because that's not the vibe you get from the first book. That being said, I understand that Tiernan is more of the 'chill, rebel' brother, so sometimes his manner of speaking is true to his character, but a lot of the times it just seemed forced. Other than that, I did really like his growth throughout the novel from reluctant king to someone who is ready to break barriers for the good of his people.

Fiona was also a great character, but I found that I liked her more in the beginning of the book than I did nearing the end. She was strong, independent, and snarky and while that didn't necessarily change throughout the book, I just found myself getting less absorbed with her character as the story unfolded instead of more.

Overall, I think it was a good read, but there were aspects that I didn't like as much as I thought I would. I have a feeling that the next book, Finnian's story, is going to be my all-time favorite of the series. But we shall see...

SUPER HOT with a GREAT plot line and can be read as a standalone(though it works well with The Dark King). A great book overall with interesting and sexy characters and a smooth plot! Cant wait for book 3!

This book was totally yummy! Tiernan and Fiona's story was sinfully seductive and wickedly hot. The storyline seizes you tightly with a combustive and incandescent combination of juicy drama, raw emotions, stunning twists, thrilling action and taut suspense. I need the next book ASAP!!

The Rebel King by Gina L. Maxwell is the second book in the Deviant Kings Series. This is Fiona and Tiernan‘s story.
 
Tiernan is known as The Rebel Prince, and he is second in line to the throne. He never felt like the role as a king is for him and rather explored other options. Because of this a lot of people underestimate him and it actually gives him an advantage. I felt like you got to know him more with each page and had to uncover what lies beyond this facade and that made me fall in love with him.
 
Fiona works as a maid for the royal household. She has some human descent in her lineage and in the fae world that is frowned upon. Therefore, she is often looked down upon, which was so sad, because she is an amazing and hard-working person. I really liked her as well.
 
The romance between Fiona and Tiernan seems a bit forbidden at first and they only share a few moments. But they were very meaningful, and I loved them together. And with time they grew more confident in their roles and that brought the romance to the next level.
 
Overall, I really enjoyed this book, and it was another stunning fae romance. 4 stars.
 
(ARC kindly provided in exchange for a review.)

"Just because something always has been doesn't mean it always should be."

The series just keeps getting better

From the opening scene, it was nonstop edge of your seat
"What the ever dark fae is going on here" action-packed, twisty, hades level steamy, suspenseful moment after another
Don't worry despite how desperate things get - it ends with the absolutely best plot twist, redeeming HEA

"I will follow you. I will find you in whatever afterlife exists for ***** , and I will drag your cute ass back to the land of the living."
My heart broke for Tiernan, he never wanted this responsibility and now he is questioning if he can properly lead and protect his people -
And if he can at what cost to himself?
I wanted to do some very creative things to the council
So excited about who Tiernan made a temporary alliance with and the little side surprise - So not spoiling but it connects with the next book in the series

"And it's okay to be mad at your eyes. I'll show them enough love until you're ready to love them, too."
The way Tiernan loves Fiona - Swoon
100% book boyfriend material #lickedhimsoheismine
Fiona is such a perfect match for Tiernan. She is strong, intelligent, and quick witted - She is having her entire belief system turned upside down and tossed about (just wait for the revelation - holy guacamole!) but she is not backing down (yes she has a small pity party but it is brief) and she is not abandoning everything she has ever known including Tiernan

I could rant for days about how much I love these characters and how absolutely engaging the storylines are I will save you that and just say I
Highly recommend!

Basics about the book
The Rebel King is the second book in the Deviant Kings series. The story follows Tiernan Verran, the middle brother of the Night Court royal family, as he is thrust into the role of king after his brother's death. Tiernan is a rebel at heart, and he doesn't want to be king. He would rather spend his time pursuing his own dark, lush pleasures in Sin City. When a series of murders threatens the Night Court, Tiernan is forced to step up and take charge.
Along the way, Tiernan finds himself falling for Fiona, a lower-caste fae who works as his house cleaner. But their relationship is forbidden, him being the king and she being a lowly peasant...
At least in the eyes of the council who have other plans for Tiernan and his future consort

4⭐️ 3.5🌶️

I have been impatiently waiting for Tiernan and Fiona’s book since I finished The Dark King and it was worth the wait!

I love Gina’s writing because she is equally capable at writing humor and spice. I was cracking up and Fiona and Bryn’s emoji talk.

Fiona and Tiernan had such amazing chemistry that was only intensified by the need to keep their relationship a secret since Tiernan became the heir. So much of their relationship was purely physical and I was so glad to see them opening up and being more vulnerable with each other.

I did find myself wanting to shake both of them for being so foolish at times. But I could understand where they were coming from and why they did the things they did.

The spice in this book was amazing! I can’t tell you how much I loved Tiernan’s tool of choice while in the club. I also loved Fiona going undercover and the anxiety and jealous Tiernan felt over it.

The bomb that was dropped in the epilogue has me feral for book three. I cannot wait for Finnian’s story!

The Second Book in the Deviant Kings Trilogy, this book follows Tiernan who was happy as a Prince but is now forced to Ascend to the Throne after his Brother abdicates. Tiernan is known as the Rebel Prince, having less responsibilities and accountabilities than his oldest brother. Meet Fiona, she is a lower class Dark Fae who works in the Night Courts mansion who has been having an on and off fling with Tiernan until he is told he has to ascend. The Night Court does not approve of her as a potential mate for Tiernan.

Than the murders of Fae start, Tiernan is trying to figure out how the Murderers are choosing their targets, and who they are since they are using Iron Blades, is it other Fae or their Familiars ( Humans who know about Fae) Tiernan with the help of Fiona dive into the mystery and their relationship gets more complicated.


3/5 stars, fun and predictable however i enjoyed the first book more than this one because the FMC was more full of snark and the main characters had more chemistry than Tiernan and Fiona.

The Rebel King is Maxwell’s second installment of her Deviant Kings series. While all are marketed as standalone titles, I’d caution against jumping into the series anywhere but at the beginning. Each book has a separate plot, but an underlying mystery remains unsolved up to this point. I imagine she will wrap it up in the final story.

That said, I highly enjoyed Tiernan and Fiona’s story. He’s a happy-go-lucky guy living in the moment until life throws him a major curveball. We spend most of this tale watching him grow into a more mature yet less uptight version of himself than his older and younger siblings. Unlike Tiernan’s curveball, Fiona’s plot twist rocks her to her core. Watching her learn to love herself again was both heartbreaking and heartwarming. With a lovable cast of secondary characters, no shortage of witty banter, and some fairly tame BDSM elements, Maxwell brings us a very entertaining fantasy romance with just enough of a teaser to whet our appetite for more from these Verran brothers. I’m very much looking forward to seeing how she wraps it all up for us in the youngest Verran brother’s book.

NICUnurse’s Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭑ (4.5)

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️

I feel like I’m betraying Caiden, but Tiernan is officially my favorite Verran brother😍

The Rebel King took me by surprise! I already knew I loved Tiernan from the first book, but I was not expecting to love him even more. He’s super sarcastic, but has a heart of gold. Even though he’s put in a position he never dreamed of being in, he shows so much care and love for his people and takes on his role with a seriousness you would never expect to come from him.

This book had significantly more action than book 1! There is murder mystery, political intrigue, and some undercover spy action. I was engaged in the mystery of it all and was shocked at some of the revelations! Secrets are revealed, new alliances are formed, and war is on the horizon. Speaking of alliances, I loved the addition of Dmitri and can’t wait to see more of him the next book.

This book is a standalone, but is connected to The Dark King. The author did a really great job of setting the scene and making sure information from the first book is explained before you fully get into the story. I think this book could easily be read without reading the first one, but I highly recommend reading The Dark King first to enhance the experience of this one. Book 3 will also be a connected standalone and based on the action in this book, I think you should read all of the books in order to truly connect to this world.

Tropes/What to Expect
▪️Forbidden Romance
▫️Fae royalty
▪️Murder Mystery
▫️Touch Her and 💀
▪️BD$M
▫️Urban Fantasy (Modern Day Vegas)
▪️Dual POV

TL;DR- Great for urban fantasy lovers!

I love a dark fantasy romance and this one did not disappoint! I couldn't put it down. It had such a great plot line I was so invested, and needed to know what was going to happen next! It also had some really great spice!

This book was pretty good. I really like the plot of the story, I had to find out what the heck was going on. It did take me a little bit to get into the book. But once it hit a good spot for me. I read it quickly.
I can't wait to see how the story is going to go into the next book. I have a feeling Finn is going to beat Caiden in the spot for my favorite Verran brother.

In the scorching sequel of The Deviant King series, Tiernan, the charismatic playboy prince on the cusp of becoming the fae king, reluctantly inherits the throne following his brother's assassination attempt. Amidst political intrigue and a thrilling murder mystery, Tiernan's clandestine romance with the stunning half-fae maid, Fiona, intensifies, leaving them grappling with their desires. Set against the backdrop of Las Vegas, the book seamlessly weaves together paranormal romance, political drama, and steamy scenes while the Verran family's dark allure captivates readers. Tiernan's bad-boy charm and sharp wit make him utterly swoon-worthy. The book also tastefully explores BDSM elements; the witty banter between the characters adds a fun touch. This series is a must-read if you crave a mix of supernatural romance and thrilling Vegas adventures. Counting down the days for book three's December release!

4.5
The Rebel King is another fantastic tale in the Deviant King's series. After book 1's ending, this novel gives us Tiernan's story which was a dark, explosive, suspenseful and engrossing tale.

As the Rebel and playboy Prince, I enjoyed seeing Tiernan's character development and growth throughout the story and seeing him come into his own as the future leader.

His forbidden relationship with Fiona was angsty, intense and steamy and I loved the tension and banter between them. While they might have started off as a quick hook up, it soon evolved into more, even though there were so many reasons they couldn't be together.

Fiona was a strong, fiesty character who had quite a complex past which brought up some unexpected twists and turns in this story.

The political intrigue and mystery played a major part in this novel but I felt at times it overshadowed the romance.

We are introduced to a couple new characters who I absolutely loved. First was Tiernan's chess partner Robert, an 80 year old human, who provided another level of witty banter in the story, and then the sexy Russian vampire Dmitri “D’yavol” Romanov. (I'm really hoping we get his story)

This book was action packed, humorous, steamy, and I loved the different types of relationships explored within the pages. It was a great addition to the series and I can't wait for more. I would definitely recommend it to lovers of paranormal romance.

5/5 ⭐
4/5 🌶️

I fell in love with Tiernan and Fiona back in The Dark King and their story did nothing but solidify that love. I also thought the plot was really great and then add in the spicy spice and this book was easily five stars for me.

The struggle Tier and Fi face as Tier prepares to become the king was at times heartbreaking, but watching them find their way was wonderful. He's been her dirty little secret for a bit, but as the heir apparent they will eventually need to stop and have him find his consort to fulfill his kingly duties. Some other things about Fiona come to light making it even harder on them with The Speaker hot on Tier's tush....

The action in this one is really great as they work to take on the culprit behind the mysterious dark fae deaths, I loved getting to see the other races both as allies and enemies. I can't wait for The Vicious King as it sounds like we'll be getting a lot more vampire action and hopefully a resolution with the light and dark fae conflict. The cliffhanger epilogue II left me with will have me crying in a corner for the next year... I am so excited to see how this series ends.