Now a Top 30 Amazon Bestseller! “This story sets a new bar in the genre . . . Exquisitely written, meticulously researched, tender, yet oh-so steamy–this is the Mary Poppins of Contemporary Romances: practically perfect in every way.” — Natasha Is A Book JunkiePower. Passion. Betrayal. Raised to rule, bred to lead and weaned on a diet of ruthless ambition. In a world of haves and have nots, my … world of haves and have nots, my family has it all, and I want nothing to do with it.
My path takes me far from home and paints me as the black sheep. At odds with my father, I’m determined to build my own empire. I have rules, but Lennix Hunter is the exception to every one of them. From the moment we meet, something sparks between us. But my family stole from hers and my father is the man she hates most. I lied to have her, and will do anything to keep her. Though she tries to hate me, too, the inexorable pull between us will not be denied.
And neither will I.
THE KINGMAKER is the epic and powerful first installment in the All The King’s Men Duet by USA Today bestselling and RITA® Award winning author, Kennedy Ryan.
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I have a confession…This is my first book I have read by Kennedy Ryan
How is that possible?
I tell you I am a huge stalker of hers and have many of her books..Kindle and autographed paperbacks..I see sooo many ladies rave about her. I just haven’t gotten to read her books yet..but I tell you after this book I definitely need to rectify that!!
Such an amazing read…enjoyed the crap out of it!!!
Alpha Male + Alpha Female = an enemies-to-lovers romance from Kennedy Ryan that you don’t want to miss! Grab it on Amazon or free in KU.
*ARC Given to Blog for Honest Review*
4.5 “Girl Who Chases Stars” “Doc” “wolf” “Amsterdam” Kisses
I had a reeeeeeally good feeling about The Kingmaker. I can’t really put my finger on exactly what it was…but I mean it had a lot of good things working in its favor. I mean…the blurb…all the teasers I read…that cover!!!! Just wow…seriously, that cover might be one of my favorites ever – but I digress…the icing on top of the cake was the fact that it’s written by Kennedy Ryan. The writing was ah-maze-inggggg…I loved her words so much and seeing what she did with Lennix and Maxim was perfection on the page. It was an angsty romance, it was empowering, it was suspenseful, it was so many things that I was never expecting and I loved how much Kennedy surprised me with this book. I couldn’t get enough of The Kingmaker…truly never wanted it to end…this story is truly unique and Nix and Maxim are completely unforgettable.
Lennix Moon Hunter…a gorgeous name to match an equally gorgeous woman, inside and out. I loved going on the journey of meeting and getting to know Lennix…she is so unique…an old soul, trapped in a time that isn’t ready for her and honestly doesn’t deserve her. I could tell from the first moment I read her thoughts that she was going to be a fierce, impactful character…and I was beyond correct. I loved her passion and her drive…you could feel it with every action she took, with every word she spoke – she fights for everything she believes in with her whole heart and soul and that is an inspiring thing to read. I wish I had half the conviction she has in her pinky…she doesn’t care who she is up against because they have never faced someone like her. She is beyond intelligent…witty…kind…generous…loving…a thoughtful daughter, a caring friend…she is a warrior, an activist, a fighter…she is so many things and I feel like I am barely scratching the surface of how truly amazing she is. Clearly I kind of have a bit of a crush on Ms. Hunter…but luckily I’m in good company 😉
‘Humor crinkles the edges of those beautiful eyes, and I’m suddenly sad I’ll probably never see this man again. I know it’s crazy. We’ve only shared a few words in not much more than an hour, but I’m the kid so often trapped between worlds, split in two and finding my place. On rare occasion, you come across someone who just gets you, and you don’t have to figure out your place. Wherever you are is okay.
I think he could be a “wherever you are” person.’
Maxim Kingsman Cade…good Lord have mercy, I need to send Kennedy Ryan and personal thank you card for creating this man because he’s just too amazing for words. Unlike with Lennix, who I could clearly start a fan club for, it’s really hard for me to try and put my thoughts and feelings about Maxim into coherent thoughts. He is so unexpected…and in a world where he could make easy choices to do the wrong thing and be what is expected of him…he chooses to fight for what he believes is right. He is nothing like you would expect him to be and that was one of the things I loved most about him. I loved how brilliant he was…I loved how much he wanted to fight for the planet and yet also make money too (can’t really blame him for that…he is a Cade)…I loved how charming he was…I just adored him. His determination…his drive…if he wants something, he never gives up and I loved that. I still feel like I’ve not said enough about how amazing Maxim is…not done his character enough justice…he’s absolutely one of a kind – I mean clearly, Lennix Moon wouldn’t have fallen for a guy who was anything less than.
“Ask me how many times I’ve thought about you since that protest.” My voice scratches gruffly against the cool silk of the quiet night.
She stares up at me, and at first I think she’ll wave off my question, pretend this is normal, what’s happening between us. But she doesn’t do that. She doesn’t pretend or wave it off. She meets it head-on and answers with unflinching honesty.
“Maybe as many times as I’ve thought of you.”
Lennix and Maxim are…chemistry and passion personified. They are so different and yet so much alike…they make come from different backgrounds but they have that same burning desire to do more, be more, and change the world. And they’re doing it. They have an instant connection…obviously some of that is attraction and lust based, but it has roots that are far deeper. They make a mark on each other from the very beginning and it never fades. Lennix and Maxim have staying power…it doesn’t matter what they come up against, there is no denying the power of what they have, it’s as strong as the passion that they have for their separate causes. I loved that this wasn’t a ‘typical’ romance where one person puts his or her own dreams and aspirations to the side so that they can be together – there is absolutely nothing at all wrong with that – but it would not have felt right or authentic with these two. They are more realistic…pragmatic…and it felt so much more genuine – it was a sucker punch to the heart but completely worth it to see them achieve their own goals. Plus…absence makes the heart grow fonder. I loved their connection…their banter…how they each supported each other in what they were passionate about. There is so much right and perfect and wonderful about the bond that Maxim and Nix have.
‘“I’ve been drawn to you since I first I saw you on that hill with stars and stripes on your face. You cried, and there was such conviction in every word you spoke. I didn’t know you were seventeen, but I knew you were young. And I wondered, what made her this way? What shaped her into this remarkable person already? Now I know. That girl, the girl who drew me in that day, I would never expect things to be simple or typical with her.”
For a moment, I’m stunned by his vision of me—of how he saw me so clearly. There are few things more affirming than someone seeing you exactly as you aspire to be—for them to say I see that in you.’
Clearly I knew Kennedy Ryan was a talented author…I mean, you don’t win a RITA for nothing…but I feel like The Kingmaker is just a whole other level of brilliance. Granted…I haven’t read all of Kennedy’s books (yet!!! Don’t stone me! I’m working on it!!!) but everything I have has blown me away…and The Kingmaker COMPLETELY blew me away! I loved the way she crafted the story and the characters and it just felt fearless – the way she tackled not only their love story but also the causes that Nix and Maxim were passionate about. With Maxim’s focus on climate change and Nix’s focus on Native American rights, you’ve got two huge, important topics that both mean a great deal to people…it can be very polarizing and (unfortunately) political. It’s impossible not to internalize how Maxim and Nix feel about their own causes…I loved feeling their passion, but there were times when it started to edge toward a bit much for me, mainly because it got a bit repetitive and I felt like I had read the same thing over and over which is a pet peeve of mine. I truly applaud Kennedy for taking the stand and writing about truly important topics – there are things that she mentions in this book that I had no idea about, so it was kind of awesome that I got to read a brilliantly wonderful book and also learn a few things at the same time.
‘What do I want from Lennix? To know if my memory tricked me, and she wasn’t as fantastic as I remember? Do I need that reassurance to move forward? I can’t call this love, the near-obsessive burn in my gut when I think of her, when I saw her last night. She was a candle lit and extinguished too quickly, but the smoke of what we had has endured, lingering in the air all these years.
I wouldn’t call it love, but it’s something I’ve never found elsewhere, and I need to know if I could have it again. If I could have her again.’
I didn’t see the last 20% of the book coming at all…I mean, let’s be honest I didn’t see any part of the book happening the way it did. Maxim and Nix took over and I just held on for the right but it was a pretty amazing ride so I’m not complaining in the least. I did however know to expect a cliffhanger – this is the All the King’s Men DUET for a reason…there’s a book two and Kennedy is going to make sure we want to read book two! And she definitely achieved that goal for me. I am the strange reader who loooooves cliffhanger’s – but they have to be GOOD cliffhanger’s and Kennedy definitely gave me a goodie. Totally unpredictable…unique…made sense with the events that was happening and it is not drama for the sake of drama. I absolutely cannot wait to see what she is going to do with The Rebel King…cause I seriously have no idea – I mean if I thought I couldn’t have guessed The Kingmaker, I’m even more clueless as to what she is going to do with my poor Maxim and Lennix…but I’m sure her amazing, creative brain will blow me away again.
Kennedy Ryan is a superstar and the first episode of her All The King’s Men Duet is brilliant! Maxim Kingsman Cade is a man born of privilege who eschews it because his father tries to ram it down his throat. Much like his father in both looks and demeanor, Maxim is stubborn and desires to set his own path once he learns just how far his father will go to get what he wants. On the fateful day that he meets Lennix Moon Hunter, his life is forever changed, but he soon finds that while she might sound older than her years, she is still very much a kid, so he goes on with his life. Fast forward to Lennix at twenty-one and their paths cross again while she’s on Spring Break in her final year of college. The banter between them is as incendiary as it is intelligent. Nothing pleases me as a reader more than having the hero and heroine converse in a way that is both smart and sexy. I also love a novel that teaches me something within the story. Ryan’s research is stellar and it allows her to build a world so believable, you kinda wish you existed in that world with the protagonists. I wont share anymore about this fantastic story with you, because I really want you to read it for yourself. I inhaled this story, and as soon as I read Rebel King. I’m going back to read them both again.
Amazing romantic saga! What a way to spend a weekend!
Kennedy Ryan possesses a gift. A gift she so willingly and brilliantly shares with the world. This gift is an innate calling to tell painful, important, beautiful love stories surrounding sensitive topics we should all be talking about with the utmost conviction, honesty, and passion.
Her gift extends to the deepest parts of her characters hearts and souls to provide a truly fitting romance set against message Ryan wants to explore and the feelings she wants to evoke. By making her characters not only relatable but inspirational, she digs deep into the hearts and souls of her readers too.
This forthcoming new duet from Kennedy Ryan comes as something entirely different from her previous works yet wholly the same in terms of Ryan’s excellent delivery and profound execution in story telling. The language flows creating a world you cannot escape until the end.
The Kingmaker is a love story about power; how love shapes power and vice versa. How power is ultimately wielded by the beholder. It’s about the tough choices we make as human beings, about rising and overcoming. It’s about understanding and seeing something in another that you recognize as a piece of your own soul.
Two people who want to set the world on fire meet and combust through a series of fateful events around the world setting both on paths to link and separate them. The connection between these two main characters is palpable as Ryan establishes a sense of longing and belonging. There’s a clear purpose to them as a couple and the evolution of them as people furthers that purpose.
I felt deeply connected to the story from the powerful prologue through the electric storytelling to the explosive ending. I was reeling and ecstatic with each turn of the page.
There’s a reason this woman is a tour de force award winner in romance writing and The Kingmaker poignantly and perfectly showcases, once again, why that’s the case. An upcoming MUST READ, first part of a new duet from Kennedy Ryan.
Where do I even start with this most magnificently written book. The author has completely outdone herself in this book one and how I need book two right now. The characters are masterfully written and I love their complexity and passion in everything they do. The story line is enthralling and captivated me with this original premise and I loved the timeline of development for the story.
So much needs to be said about this book and so little can be said through as a review as the reader really needs to go into this adventure full mind, body and soul without any spoilers.
I’m in love with Kennedy Ryan’s stories! The King Maker does not disappoint with a second chance romance that will have you begging for more! You won’t regret one-clicking this one.
This is one of my favorite books of the year. Hands down. I’ve read some amazing books in 2019, but this one has sunk its teeth into me and I can’t stop thinking about it. It’s action-packed, with inspiration, aspirational characters and a plot that’s full of real-world tension, but also offers glimpses into the high stakes world of politics and activism. I LOVED it and can’t wait for the next installment! I HIGHLY recommend it!
“The harder I have to work for something, the harder I take it.”
Yes, I read the synopsis, but I still had no clue what I was in for. The title makes perfect sense now that I understand what it means. I wish I could tell you…not really. That would be a disservice, it’s the experience of the slowly unraveling story that feeds the hunger inside, right? The need to understand, to feel, to experience, to question, to hate, to fall. And nothing could feed my addiction better than my dealer, Kennedy Ryan.
Their parents are enemies. His father took what didn’t belong to him and she can’t forgive him. But, the son, she’s drawn to him against her will. “It’s laughable to think that he could camouflage his driven nature and be something that he’s not.” He doesn’t agree with what his father did to her family. He’s determined to blaze his own trail and make a name for himself that’s not connected to the family business. He doesn’t need any distractions and she’s the biggest one of all.
Not unlike other Kennedy Ryan books, this one does not disappoint. The writing is superb, the topics covered are unparalleled and written with sensitivity but make you want take action! Somewhere in there, there is a love story and it’s hard but beautiful, like most are. You fall right along with them. I can’t wait for the next book! Is it November yet!! Give me more!
What a magnificent read I just finished. It was packed with emotion, heart, knowledge, and filled with a spectacular and powerful romance. It was an epic read that gripped my soul because of the moving and intelligent words that spins from this author’s talented fingers.
Lennix and Maxim meet each other at age 17 and 24. It’s not the right time but their paths do cross again at 21 and 28 and its their time, until its not, and then they must wait another 10 years to see each other again and face the aftermath of their last meeting. Both are passionate in their lives and convictions. Each head strong, intelligent and committed to doing their best for a better world. But what is equally evident, they recognize that the other is special, spectacular and like no other they have ever met. Their banter is perfect and lively. While their connection may seem instant, their affinity feels real and powerful. Their passion and feelings have been simmering for ten years……. I would say that fate and destiny are alive and well with Lennix and Maxim.
Besides this epic romance, the author delves into powerful topics of passion for the environment, politics, and the history of the Apache Nation and it’s handling of it’s people and rights. It’s engaging, thought provoking and originally resourceful. She also mixes family dynamics into the mix that creates an added edge to the story.
I would be amiss if I didn’t mention that the cast of secondary characters were amazing. They added sass, humor, conflict and love to the lives of Lennix and Maxim.
Kennedy Ryan with her brilliant storytelling knows how to capture a reader with stories that are unique, socially relevant and always emotionally heart driven. The Kingmaker is epic in all aspects and a definite must read. I’m already counting down the days until the conclusion, The Rebel King, comes out.
What in the world! When I picked up this book I just knew it was going to be everything, I mean it is Kennedy Ryan after all, everything she touches turns to gold, I am serious! This book is no different. This book is gold, it is everything, it is on-the-edge-of-your-seat captivating. Here I sat biting my nails wondering what in the world was going to happen next, because that is the beauty of this book,, you just didn’t know! You were hit with those twists and turns and all that heart stopping madness, and everything……*Takes a deep breath* It is just everything.
I was so mad when I had to get up and adult because it literally took me away from the book for most of the day! If only I could read while I worked! I needed this book and this story like I needed air, and I will definitely be waiting with bated breath until the next one is released.
Lennix is so courageous, and strong, and everything I love in this author’s heroines. She is feisty when she needs to be, stands up for exactly what she believes in and will not back down! She will stand up to the bullies who hurt those she loves, no matter what the cost. She is someone you could only wish to have on your side.
Maxim, oh sweet Maxim. He is the perfect man for our Nix. Not only is he courageous, strong, handsome, and caring, but he is ready to make this world a better place. That is exactly the type of man that Lennix needs to take on this world. Max fights for what he believes in too, even if it goes against everything that he grew up with. He is seriously perfect!
I love the diversity that this author gives us. I love every single word that Kennedy Ryan produces. I just love it all. I also like the fact that this book looked at real life problems and somehow raised awareness inside of me about it. These are things we need to look into! I have said love about a hundred times in this review and I will say it again… I LOVE THIS BOOK! IT IS EVERYTHING!! Highly, Highly recommended.
This is my voluntary arc review
Oh my gosh, another beautiful book from the amazing Kennedy Ryan! She blows me away every time <3
Kennedy Ryan never ceases to amaze me with her words. She has raw talent and her stories always have important messages, make me think, and make me feel. The Kingmaker is different than her previous books in many ways, but it’s still got that epic feel that all her stories have.
Lennix and Maxim meet at a pipeline protest. They are both there for different reasons, but they connect. Lennix is 17 and Maxim is in his early twenties, so it’s not the right time for them. Not yet. Fast-forward a few years, and they meet again in Amsterdam. The timing still isn’t right for them, but this time, they can’t stay away from one another. They spend time together that changes them forever, but they both have to get back to changing the world.
Lennix is Native American and her heritage means so much to her. Maxim is born to a rich father who has completely different ideas than he does. They are truly from different worlds, but they fit. They are separated again by many years, but that connection they’ve shared has never wavered. If anything, it’s only grown stronger with time.
There is a secret, something Maxim has left out of telling Lennix and one that puts a divide between them. But now they’re back in each others lives, and he’s willing to do whatever it takes to get her back.
Lennix and Maxim both want to change the world. They both have that drive and determination and I admired both of them so much. Honestly, I couldn’t tell you which one I loved more. It would be impossible to choose. There is no damsel in distress in this story. Lennix is one of the strongest, most courageous heroines. And Maxium. Sigh. He was strong in his own right, but also 100% supportive and not intimidated by this strong woman. He only wanted her at his side.
While reading, I was obsessed with this book. Obsessed with Lennix and Maxim. Seriously, the second book can’t come soon enough. There is a bit of a cliffhanger, but don’t let that deter you from reading. Book 2 is out in just a few weeks!
The Kingmaker is a story of passion. It has an incredible prose, is thought provoking, and has so much heart. It’s an important story that needs to be read, and I can’t recommend it enough!
Ahhh! A hot new release from Kennedy Ryan is here!
Alpha Male + Alpha Female
Passion spanning 4 continents & 20 years
2 fighter-dreamers determined to change the world!
Enemies-to-Lovers + Second Chance romance
Alpha Male + Alpha Female
Passion spanning 4 continents & 20 years
2 fighter-dreamers determined to change the world!
Enemies-to-Lovers + Second Chance romance
HOT NEW RELEASE from Kennedy Ryan!
Alpha Male + Alpha Female
Passion spanning 4 continents & 20 years
2 fighter-dreamers determined to change the world!
Enemies-to-Lovers + Second Chance romance
The Kingmaker by Kennedy Ryan is book one in her All The King’s Men Duet.
It tells Lennix and Maxim’s story and oh boy what a story that is.
There’s a strong heroine and a stubborn hero. Sidekicks that deserve to be main characters themselves.
Once started I couldn’t put the book down. The story spans years and I loved that they’re grown ups when the real story starts out.
The storyline gave me all the feels, it’s heart wrenching, unputdownable, soulamtes stories like that I love the most.
I can’t wait for the next book, The Rebel King.
Two of my very favorite storylines are enemies-to-Lovers and second chance. This whirlwind story has both! Five stars!