The Rebel King directly follows the events from The Dark King, so read that 1st. The stories are interconnected. They follow a line of Dark fae brothers ruling the night court in Vegas. I loved that this story started to add in vampires in addition to the fae courts. It is smutty, fun, and the perfect book for a steamy summer night!

Book Review: The Rebel King by Gina L Maxwell
Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
This review may contain minor spoilers.

The Rebel King is book 2 in The Deviant Kings series and takes place in the months following the Dark King. Tiernan has been named the new king of the dark fae and only has a few months to prepare before his coronation. Part of the requirements are selecting a consort and producing an heir to continue the Verran line. This leaves him and Fiona reeling with the loss of their FWB relationship. This book includes found family, hidden identity, undercover schemes, and a little whodunnit.

Throughout the whole book I was trying to puzzle out how the MCs could end up together. As with all fae stories, wording is *very* important and I would dissect phrases, agreements, and rules with this in mind. I was also heartbroken for Fiona when she learned more about her family. I felt her pain when she realized that leaving would be the best path forward. All this to say, I spent the majority of the book feeling sad for the characters.

I felt like this book had less spice than the first, however maybe I should have rated the first at 3 🌶️s too. With the kinks hinted at in this book this reader was hoping to see a bit more. The spicy scenes were well written and exciting, I just wanted more of them. Loved the undercover infiltration of the enemy territory. It was fun and it got the MCs out of their routine to see each other in a new light.

Dmitri and Finnian were both a gem to read about. A little predictable who Finn's love interest would end up being, but I'm not mad about it! Looking forward to finding out how he becomes the Vicious King in the next book.

Thanks NetGalley & Entangled Publishing for the eARC!

Gina L Maxwell does it again in the amazing Deviant Kings series with Tiernan, The Rebel King.

There were certainly clues within The Dark King as to who Tiernan's love interest would be and I was not disappointed and neither will you!

The expected mystery and skulduggery continues whilst Tiernan is preparing for his new role and has to step up to the plate to manage the mayhem.

The spice level in this is hawt, hawt, hawt but does not, in any way, detract from the amazing story.

Plots are uncovered and some mysteries are solved but you know Finnian's time has yet to come so the mystery will most certainly continue.

I for one can't wait for the youngest Prince's story but The Rebel King will take some beating.

Anyone who likes dark romance, hot and mesmerizing fae and lot of spice should definitely read Gina’s new book. „The Dark King“ is a perfect mix of those things. Gina L. Maxwell has a wonderful writing style that has me in a chokehold. I just flew through the pages and i couldn’t put the book down. I finished the book in a few hours. The cover is perfect and fits the plot well. Gina knows how to inspire her readers and the erotic scenes were damn hot and I had to fan myself a few times.

The characters were wonderfully developed. They had depth and you could understand the respective actions and behavior very well. Bryn fell straight into my heart and I admired her a lot for how she handled her situation. She is brave and despite everything, she is not intimidated by Caiden. Caiden was a character that hits like a bomb. I fell in love with him straight away. The chemistry between Caiden and Bryn was there from the first page and there’s a lot of sparks between these two.

The dark king was an extremely good book and anyone who likes fae and dark romance should definitely not miss this book. And after this ending, i’m really looking forward to the next part of the series. I highly recommend this book.

I enjoyed this story I can’t wait to read the rest of the series I think the first in the series will always have my heart though

I voluntarily read and reviewed this advanced copy from NetGalley.

This picks up a few months after where book 1 left us. However, I really think you could read this one without reading the first one. You would miss a really good story by not reading book 1 though. And you would miss the buildup of the overarching plot. But, it could be done.

This is Tiernan's book as he ascends the throne of the Night Court. While he never imagined he would be doing this, he is resigned to it. He does love the Dark Fae and knows that it is his duty to protect them and lead them like the men in his family have done for centuries. There's just one little hitch - he's slowly fallen in love with Fiona and she's the housekeeper at the king's mansion. Fiona finds out some information about her past that shakes her but she is determined to help her people. I don't want to say too much about the war and what happens, but know it's good. Like, real good. Tiernan is so protective and is all alpha with her, even knowing he can't have a future with her. But can he have a future with her? He is the king. Can't kings make the rules? Read the book and find out if he does ;)

I'll be honest and say that the second epilogue with Finnian has me DYING to get the next book. I can not wait!

Thank you to TLC Book Tours and Entangled for the advanced reader copy. These opinions are my own.

The Rebel King is the second in the Deviant Kings series. This is a series I definitely recommend reading in order, both to fully understand what's happening in this book and because this one does spoil the ending for the previous one. So a special thanks for also gifting me an ebook of The Dark King.

I really enjoyed the spin on fae lore that this series takes. The Night Court has been exiled to Vegas, and the Verran brothers are both fae royalty and the billionaires who run the city. The fae don't have wings because of their exile. Additionally, fae have to tell the truth but can get around that with some interesting vague wording and loopholes.

In this book, we focus on Tiernan. He's always been the rebel, trying to escape responsibility. We learn that he and Fiona have just a casual something in the previous book. But now, both of their worlds are utterly upended, and they can't continue any relationship. I won't say more (and I recommend not reading the synopsis) since I don't want to spoil any part of the series.

This is a fun and spicy book. The two of them have great chemistry, and there are some amazing steamy scenes in a brothel. I also really enjoyed the chess references and strategy mixed with lighthearted jokes. They combined to demonstrate just how complex and interesting Tiernan is.

We also get great new world building and learn more about how magic works. This was a smart sequel with an amazing set-up for the third book. I can't wait to read it as soon as it's available.

After reading the first book in the Deviant Kings dark romance-fantasy series last year, I was so eager to read book two – The Rebel King. Tiernan was so intriguing, and I was curious how he would adjust to the role pushed upon him. Unfortunately, it is not smooth sailing, as he cares for a woman he cannot be with, some are questioning his abilities to rule, and shocking murders plague his people.

The story switches between Tiernan and Fiona’s perspectives, so you really get to understand both of them on a deeper level. They are fascinating protagonists, and I was engrossed in both of their journeys. Tiernan is transitioning into a leadership role, and he’s begrudgingly accepting his role as king. He’s a way better leader than he gives himself credit for, and he really comes into his own over the course of the story. I loved seeing his belief in himself as a leader grow.

And Fiona is the perfect match for Tiernan. Feisty and strong, Fiona is kind of a badass. She puts her own safety on the line so many times to protect and help others, even though she’s going through a lot personally. Fiona receives some shocking revelations about herself that shake the foundation of her life and some of her relationships, but she never loses her determination to help Tiernan and the missing women they are searching for. I also love how Fiona makes Tiernan see things from a different perspective, which is particularly poignant as Tiernan faces unfortunate traditions and expectations.

Of course, my absolute favorite part of the book is the super steamy love story between Tiernan and Fiona. In a forbidden romance, the pair can’t be together for so many reasons. And with the crown on the line for his family, Tiernan is bound by duty. But oh my word, these two have it bad for each other! It’s electrically charged and spicy, and the forbidden nature of their relationship just adds to the intensity of their romance. Regardless of the dangers they face, Tiernan and Fiona’s deep love for each other, which neither wants to admit to, is incredible. And did I mention steamy? That’s definitely worth mentioning twice because – whew!

Some other things I really love about this series are the awesome banter, the humor, and the myriad of relationships that are explored. I adore the relationship between Tiernan and his brothers, his wonderful connection to their mentor, and the relationship between Fiona and her mother. Friendships, family bonds, and new relationships are all explored and create nuanced and layered characters and side stories that I really enjoyed. And some of the conversations are laugh-out-loud funny, which I appreciated, especially after some of the intense and darker scenes.

I thought this was a great addition to the series. It’s entertaining and suspenseful, and the romance is super steamy. Special thanks to Entangled Publishing for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.

An amazing addition to the series. I wasn't quite sure hour our dear rebel king would take to his new role or the fact that the woman he loves has more secrets than he could have ever imagined. Can't wait for the next book!

I am so in love with this series. Tiernan is everything I love about a book boyfriend and this kind of fantasy is perfect for me. Amazing. Keep it up, and this will be my favorite fantasy series ever.

The Rebel King by Gina Maxwell
Rating: 3 stars
Steam: 3 chilis
Pub Date: 7/25

I wanted to love this book, especially after how much I adored the first book in the series, The Dark King. But sadly, this was a little disappointing.

Tieran, the Rebel Prince, is perfectly happy with his life: it’s full of nonstop parties and a secret, steamy affair with fiery, red-headed Fiona. But all that stops when his brother has to step down as King, and Tieran is forced into the role.

Fiona isn’t royalty, which makes her an unsuitable match for Tieran. And a new threat has him trying to protect his kingdom. Will he step up and be the king they all need?

I loved the relationship between Tieran and Fiona, and I was sucked into this story right away. They have a fun dynamic and good chemistry. I enjoyed their banter, cute nicknames, and sweet and swoony moments together. The nonstop steam was a highlight for me, also.

While I loved the relationship between the MCs, I think a lot of their issues came out of nowhere. We needed to spend more time getting to know them individually before getting to know them as a couple. The quick look we got at them in book one wasn’t enough.

There are a lot of secrets being kept, and some of the twists come out of nowhere, talking about magic and creatures that we haven’t seen in this world before. It deviated wildly from the plot of the first book and threw me off a little. Also, the villain in the story felt like a caricature of how a bad guy should act, giving him a comical role and making it hard to take him seriously.

Overall, this book had great fantasy vibes, but the execution was missing something for me. I’m sure fans of spicy dark fantasy will enjoy this, but definitely read the first book beforehand or it will be easy to get lost. I'm still intrigued enough by the story to read the next book when it comes out.

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for my advanced copy to read and review. The Rebel King comes out on 7/25.

Rating: 3.5 ⭐️

The Rebel King was an okay read. While, I did enjoy several elements throughout the story, the romance and overall conflict was quite underwhelming in my opinion.

This is the second book in the Deviant Kings series and does pick up immediately after the first book, so I would recommend reading the prior book first. I also suggest checking the content and trigger warnings before reading just in case.

It is dual POVs of the main characters, Tiernan and Fiona, and there are some great tropes like close proximity, a forbidden romance, a modern day fantasy setting, and an employee-boss relationship.

The overall premise was fairly enjoyable. There was some mystery and suspenseful moments, that I really liked. There were also some angsty, amusing and heartfelt moments. However, it was a bit slow paced as nothing really happened plot-wise until the very end. There was also a bit of repetitive dialogue.

I will say though, there was a bit of recap in the beginning, which I appreciated because it had been a while since I read the first book in the series, so getting some backstory again was very helpful. I also loved all the secondary characters and Fiona’s friendship with her cousin.

The romance between Tiernan and Fiona was pretty good. I absolutely loved their banter and spice. It was definitely the main highlight of this book for me. The spice was just kinky, passionate and hot. However, I wanted a bit more depth or emotional connection between them, as their relationship felt a bit surface level at times. I also would have liked for some snippets of their past showcasing their history together.

There was a lot of buildup towards the conflict/confrontation but it was resolved pretty quickly, which was a bit disappointing. The next book in the series does continue with Tiernan’s younger brother and as there were some new revelations and twists at the end the conflict seemed to expand, which I’m excited for. The epilogue for Tiernan and Fiona’s story was pretty sweet as well.

Overall, a decent read I was just expecting a little bit more.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

Welcome back to The Rebel King, the second installment in the Deviant Kings series by Gina Maxwell. A new chapter that's even darker and mystical in Vegas. It's time to hold onto your wings and heart ;)! While you could read this as a standalone, I recommend reading this series in order as to enhance your reading adventure and one you'll enjoy even more. Not to mention it's just soooo good!

In three months, Tiernan Cullen is scheduled to have his coronation, what could possibly go wrong? In a world that is carefully managed, negotiated and plotted, will love triumph over duty?

Fiona Jewel is aware that she's slightly different from her family, what will happen when she uncovers a family secret that could destroy everything she's ever known? Despite her strength Fiona is determined to uncover the truth. Is it possible to still be with the only man she loves, or will she have no choice but to walk away?

When the fate of the kingdom is threatened, the only thing that can save the kingdom is a strategy that rises above the most seasoned player. It's time to navigate and solve one of the biggest mysteries and I promise you'll turn the last page gasping!

If you love fantasy with amazing world building layered with character arcs and plot arcs that do not disappoint, an inferno heat level, and an ending hoping that the days quickly pass until the next installment drops .. go read this.

While it will be a few months until the Vicious King releases, and with a tease at what's next, I'm patiently counting down the days because I need to know!!!! Go add this series to your bookshelf, e-reader, or reading list if you like fantasy with erotic romance this is your next read!

3/5. Releases 7/25/2023.

For when you're vibing with... modern fair folk with a touch o' kink, boss/employee vibes, and a bit of a bad boy.

Thanks to his brother, rebellious prince Tiernan is on the verge of being pushed into the role he wants least: King of the Dark Fae. Not only will this take him away from his freedoms; it will take him from Fiona, a lower-caste fae with whom he has a complex (and very physical) relationship. But with war on the horizon, Tiernan may be forced to make a final choice.

I really like the fey/fae/fair folk in fiction, and I'm kind of mad that so much of the bygone "fey wave" was largely centered around YA books and urban fantasy novels that weren't actually romance. They're perfect for romance novels! Gimme!

This one didn't quite work for me, I'm afraid, but I appreciate the sentiment, and I think it may work for readers who prefer a lighter touch with their paranormal romance.

Quick Takes:
--You'll see this marketed as a standalone in the midst of a series. I don't know that I agree with this. After I received this ARC, I read the first book in the series. To me, it feels like it imparted some pretty important plot information? I mean, Tiernan and Fiona begin this book with an established situationship. Context is important.

--Our setting, because I feel that's important, is Las Vegas! I do love that. It feels like a place exiled fair folk would enjoy. All hedonism, all easy access. And it also feels like these creatures would be super into the kink scene--that tracks. I appreciate these adjustments to a contemporary setting.

--Here's the thing. You can write the fey/fae and keep them mystical while retaining a modern vibe. I think Kresley Cole, with some exceptions, does this well with her paranormal creatures. Rune is a dark fey, and he's fully ingratiated into contemporary America in his book... But he's still very much not human, and you can tell from the way he presents himself, the choices he makes. I feel this is especially important when you're dealing with ancient, immortal, notoriously capricious creatures like these.

Maxwell has a couple instances of characters speaking in emoji slang here, and in general--these characters just don't present themselves as truly inhuman. It took me out of the story.

--Similarly, a lot of the plot is rushed, and it felt like Fiona in particular was taking hit after hit and just not... absorbing them? It felt like it didn't truly matter, which affected my ability to emotionally connect. And that is kind of crucial for a love story. Like I said before, Tiernan and Fiona were already in a Thing (if not a defined romantic relationship) before the book began. Which I'm not against! But I need full emotional absorption if I'm not going to get the full relationship arc from beginning to end, and that didn't happen here.

--This is a pure personal taste thing, but I just didn't find Tiernan intimidating or scary. Reckless, rakish, hedonistic--yes. A feared magical creature? No. Now, for some people, that will make this book more palatable, and that's fine. I think that in many ways this could work for someone who wants a sprinkling of fairy dust, versus full "inhuman animalistic vibes".

The Sex Stuff:
The sex scenes were solid, but not especially memorable. I went into this book series sold on "kinky fairies", and I don't know if that's how I would sell it. But that could just be my warped perception.

Again--didn't work for me, but I didn't find it offensive, and it was put together well enough. If you're missing the YA fair folk boom but want something a bit more adult, I think this could potentially work--if you don't want your fairies to feel tooooo creepy.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thanks to Netgalley and Entangled: Amara.

This book sucked me in very quickly and had me super excited to spent time with the main characters. It was instantly sexy, funny and engaging. I did find that as time went on, there’s some things I didn’t love about the way the male interests “voice” came through. I think sometimes when writing nice guys, they start to sound like psychologists rather than sounded like a character experiencing the thoughts that we’re reading. It’s almost like they’re too perfect. It’s hard to put my finger on. I think that made the book less exciting for me as it went on. Everyone who was a character we’re meant to root for is going to have the perfect answer to almost everything. It makes it feel a touch bland. Sex is fun to read but people make the sexy interesting on the page. I’m still excited to read the next one, I just wish this one kept me a gripped as I was when I first started it.

Sexy and intriguing, The Rebel King is a truly addicting, bingeable read. Tiernan never planned to be king--he planned on a life of freedom in Las Vegas with some steamy adventures with the manor’s housekeeper Fiona. Only now that he’s about to be crowned, he has to give up Fiona, and war is coming, so he readies himself to risk it all for the survival of the ones he loves. Fiona is such a spitfire and Tiernan is such a great alpha hero. These are standalone in the series but I do recommend reading the first one first to get to know the important characters (I didn’t and there was enough background to not feel lost, but the first one also sounds like a great story and it definitely builds up to this one). I loved the dual POV and getting this story from both Tiernan and Fiona. Their banter is so good and their steam is off the charts. There’s the added BDSM depth to them too that really explores their trust and communication as well that I really thought was great. Plus there’s a lot of court politics and mysteries that made this a really dynamic read. And Tiernan is just such an amazing book boyfriend, and I love how Fiona challenged him and how brave she was. There’s a lot of vulnerability in these characters too that I thought was also beautifully done. These were characters that were just really easy to root for and a plot that made it so hard to put this book down! Excited to see where Book 3 takes this series!

I have to say I liked Fiona and Tiernan more than Bryn & Caiden, but there’s just something missing in this series and I’m not sure what it is. While I did enjoy Rebel King more then Dark King, it still didn’t hook me the way I was expecting it to.

So far, this is my favorite in the series— and I really enjoyed the Dark King! Fiona and Tiernan have hooked up, but nothing serious. Until he’s set to be serious and become king himself- a rebel king. Which means he has to change, starting with choosing a consort who isn’t “low-born”… right? It doesn’t help that his people are being killed mysteriously, and working with Fiona may help him keep everyone safe. This story has spice, very soft bdsm (Tier is a softie compared to his brother, and I dig it so much), and a love story that’s like magnets pulling together— Fiona and Tier don’t set out to be a couple, but it’s meant to be. I love this series, and can’t wait to see what happens with the third brother!

Read if you like forbidden love, strong-willed heroines, cinnamon roll heroes with an edge, suspense, expanding magical worlds, and really cool chess references!

Fae, spice, and a murderer on the loose - yes please!

The Rebel King is the second book in the Deviant Kings series and it did not disappoint.

Tiernan and Fiona have had a bit of a fling going, but that changes now that Tiernan is about to become the king. Their chemistry is undeniable and at a certain point, I was screaming for them to hurry up and give in!

I liked the mystery of trying to figure out who was murdering the fae. You never knew when they were going to strike! Or who the next target would be.

There were so many twists that kept me on the edge of my seat reading this. The spice level caught me a little off guard, which is in line with all the surprises in this book.

If you enjoy rebellions, mystery, spice and fae, definitely put this on your TBR and preorder!

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book. The review expresses my own opinions.

I loved the first in series and had equal high hopes for this one and for the most part it delivered! It's got all the spicy dark fantasy that I love mixed in with some BDSM. Loved the banter in this one!