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Royal States #9
Trickster King
Patrick Laycal loves his family above all else, but he needs time off work from ruling over stubborn Texans. Rather than rest and relax, Pat does what he does best, sowing the seeds of chaos and progress wherever he goes.
His trip to purchase land and cattle for his projects blooms into an opportunity to forever change the Royal States, if he can somehow cultivate the child best suited to become next King of Texas—and save his stubborn daughter from the consequences of her choices.
Chronologically, this novel takes place after Taken, but due to the nature of the story, it is best read after Runaway and before the Prince of New York and New Waters.
His trip to purchase land and cattle for his projects blooms into an opportunity to forever change the Royal States, if he can somehow cultivate the child best suited to become next King of Texas—and save his stubborn daughter from the consequences of her choices.
Chronologically, this novel takes place after Taken, but due to the nature of the story, it is best read after Runaway and before the Prince of New York and New Waters.
289 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 13, 2024
67 people are currently reading
77 people want to read
About the author
Susan Copperfield
14 books239 followersSusan Copperfield is the royal romance, urban fantasy loving alter ego of award-winning & USA Today bestselling novelist R.J. Blain.
Under the super not-so-secret identity of Susan, the Royal States of America is explored, where the work of sixteen founding royal families preserved the United States from destruction and civil war when magic swept over the world.
In the Royal States, life, love, and magic always finds a way.
Under the super not-so-secret identity of Susan, the Royal States of America is explored, where the work of sixteen founding royal families preserved the United States from destruction and civil war when magic swept over the world.
In the Royal States, life, love, and magic always finds a way.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
February 18, 2024
All it is is talk about horses cows and bulls.
I love this series. Each of the American states instead of being run democratically are ruled by monarchs. The King and Queen of New York The King and Queen of Texas etc. Patrick Laycal is the King of Texas he gained this title when he married the Texan heir Jessica. This is the third book dedicated to the couple and they have also appeared as side characters a few times. They are a fun couple, have lots of children (exact numbers are not known) rule jointly and wage war against cruelty to animals (especially horses). Patrick is an empath, with his main focus being horses, Jessica is a lightening rod she can do anything from shocking people to causing major storms Jessica is deadly. Having the passive magical talented partner the husband is a refreshing change, not to say that Patrick is not.capable of handling himself, he is more than capable. Having said all that I really looked forward to this new book and while it's not a disappoint it is too much on one track. All Patrick does.for the whole book is go.from farm (and ranch) to farm buying the properties along with the stock and finding abused horses in need of rescuing along the way. There is no story to follow, no mystery to solve, dispute to be resolved. Or misunderstanding causing marital strife. Just horses, bulls and cows..........................
I love this series. Each of the American states instead of being run democratically are ruled by monarchs. The King and Queen of New York The King and Queen of Texas etc. Patrick Laycal is the King of Texas he gained this title when he married the Texan heir Jessica. This is the third book dedicated to the couple and they have also appeared as side characters a few times. They are a fun couple, have lots of children (exact numbers are not known) rule jointly and wage war against cruelty to animals (especially horses). Patrick is an empath, with his main focus being horses, Jessica is a lightening rod she can do anything from shocking people to causing major storms Jessica is deadly. Having the passive magical talented partner the husband is a refreshing change, not to say that Patrick is not.capable of handling himself, he is more than capable. Having said all that I really looked forward to this new book and while it's not a disappoint it is too much on one track. All Patrick does.for the whole book is go.from farm (and ranch) to farm buying the properties along with the stock and finding abused horses in need of rescuing along the way. There is no story to follow, no mystery to solve, dispute to be resolved. Or misunderstanding causing marital strife. Just horses, bulls and cows..........................
February 19, 2024
February 2024
Kindle edition
I did like Patrick and his horses, so nice that he's popped up again in the series. I was enjoying it up until 40%, went bed and then wasn't really into reading the rest. It's an essay about horses, meat markets and bad land. It was kinda like picking a keyword, in this case Trickster king and seeing how many times it could be fit into the story. The story itself was mainly dialogue presented in a round about way, much like characters on a stage talking about memories like there's a new person in the group and continuously looking back at the audience. After the first ranch and horse purchase there wasn't much new. It felt very rinse and repeat, which was a shame since I like the characters and the plot.
Kindle edition
I did like Patrick and his horses, so nice that he's popped up again in the series. I was enjoying it up until 40%, went bed and then wasn't really into reading the rest. It's an essay about horses, meat markets and bad land. It was kinda like picking a keyword, in this case Trickster king and seeing how many times it could be fit into the story. The story itself was mainly dialogue presented in a round about way, much like characters on a stage talking about memories like there's a new person in the group and continuously looking back at the audience. After the first ranch and horse purchase there wasn't much new. It felt very rinse and repeat, which was a shame since I like the characters and the plot.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 14, 2024
Susan Copperfield/R.J. Blain is my new guilty pleasure read. I continue to buy her books, I read them almost immediately, I delight in the characters, but I am forced to admit that there are problems. For example, nothing actually happens in Trickster King. There is no real plot. It meanders, we learn a lot about ranching/raising horses and livestock/politics, but nothing actually happens.
I suspect the real intent of the book was to provide more backstory for Deidre/Eddie. Whenever we get their book, it's going to read like instalove, because the relationship development has been happening in Pat's books.
I love Pat. I relate to Pat. I wish Trickster had been more like Taken, but just being able to spend time with him was so much fun. Even if it's just watching him pitch fits about horses.
I suspect the real intent of the book was to provide more backstory for Deidre/Eddie. Whenever we get their book, it's going to read like instalove, because the relationship development has been happening in Pat's books.
I love Pat. I relate to Pat. I wish Trickster had been more like Taken, but just being able to spend time with him was so much fun. Even if it's just watching him pitch fits about horses.
May 25, 2025
Patrick is a wonderful character but, while he saves so many horses and cattle (a one hanky read), not much else happens in this book. If this addition to the series was meant to show the origin of contagious empathy it was too subtle; maybe it came from the fungus in the bull paddock.
February 15, 2024
Horses Cattle and Love
I loved this book so much. The king got to show more of his talents, he'd rather cook and take care of horses and cattle than be a ruler but he manages just fine doing both. He's A wonderful parent and takes one of his boys on a expedition. The boy Eddie is an adopted child whose father died in a kidnapping attempt on the King. Both the King and Queen of Texas treat him like he's their own. So Pat the king and Eddie go off on a trip where Pat can save horses sent to the meat market and purchase rescue horses and cows. Eddie learns about euthanasia and helping horses get well. I myself am an ardent horse lover and didn't want the story to end. It has fun and love and is just so good. It made me wish that I was 25 years younger and get on horse right now. I'm not a good reviewer hope I let you know how magical this made me feel. Well done Susan Copperfield.
I loved this book so much. The king got to show more of his talents, he'd rather cook and take care of horses and cattle than be a ruler but he manages just fine doing both. He's A wonderful parent and takes one of his boys on a expedition. The boy Eddie is an adopted child whose father died in a kidnapping attempt on the King. Both the King and Queen of Texas treat him like he's their own. So Pat the king and Eddie go off on a trip where Pat can save horses sent to the meat market and purchase rescue horses and cows. Eddie learns about euthanasia and helping horses get well. I myself am an ardent horse lover and didn't want the story to end. It has fun and love and is just so good. It made me wish that I was 25 years younger and get on horse right now. I'm not a good reviewer hope I let you know how magical this made me feel. Well done Susan Copperfield.
February 22, 2024
2024 bk 17 What an enjoyable ride. With twins looming in the Royal Palace, King Pat know he needs a break before the joys of pregnancy sideline his wife and Queen. When their unofficial son becomes ill (stress related as his empathy is emerging), Patrick takes the opportunity to give Eddie and himself a break, turning one or two nights into more. Riding around checking to see how far a nasty pasture fungus has spread reveals things not right among the ranchers and horsemen of the kingdom. Instead of rest, the King involves himself, Eddie, and the RSP in rescuing abused horses, rescuing failing ranches and training centers, and coming to terms with the fact that his children are growing up. Very enjoyable as Patrick continues to grow into the role into which he was not born.
February 11, 2024
The Royal States series by Susan Copperfield (aka R.J. Blain) is one of my absolute favorite book series of all time. Pat, the King of Texas is one of my absolute favorite characters, though I love pretty much all of them. I'm really happy I found this series.
Pat holds true to his trickster ways and happily causes chaos as well as making things better for as many as he can along the way. I laughed, I got a bit teary in a few places and just loved this book from first page to last!! I'm really looking forward to more stories in the Royal States World. *grins evilly* Iron Unicorn is up next and I can't wait!!
Pat holds true to his trickster ways and happily causes chaos as well as making things better for as many as he can along the way. I laughed, I got a bit teary in a few places and just loved this book from first page to last!! I'm really looking forward to more stories in the Royal States World. *grins evilly* Iron Unicorn is up next and I can't wait!!
February 14, 2024
The title tells no lies - the author portrays the King of Texas as a true blue Texan (with skills hard won and earned) with a heart bigger than the kingdom and the ability to drag his bodyguards into elaborate escapades as well as the talent to literally fall into grandiose windfalls by accident. Maybe he should be called the Midas King rather than the Trickster King. This was an excellent view of Patrick's story with lovely nods to other books in the Royal States series. As always, the author's work makes me laugh as well as think, which is something that very few other authors can do. Definitely worth the read and the re-read!
February 24, 2024
I call BS - this is not a Copperfield book.
This book is a waste of time! It can be summed up in one sentence. The King Buys Livestock. One question, why have you made Jessica so obnoxious?
Each Royal states book has had an obstacle to overcome. Something the Royal has to confront. The obstacle in this book was about as difficult as marshmallow fluff.
Don't waste your time or credits on this book. The King Buys stuff. That's it. Literally, no one has to overcome even a hang-nail.
Other than money, I am unable to understand why this book was written.
Sorry to have had this experience.
This book is a waste of time! It can be summed up in one sentence. The King Buys Livestock. One question, why have you made Jessica so obnoxious?
Each Royal states book has had an obstacle to overcome. Something the Royal has to confront. The obstacle in this book was about as difficult as marshmallow fluff.
Don't waste your time or credits on this book. The King Buys stuff. That's it. Literally, no one has to overcome even a hang-nail.
Other than money, I am unable to understand why this book was written.
Sorry to have had this experience.
February 15, 2024
A joy to read, highly recommend.
Love visiting this world. Some of my favorite Royal States Texans and so many horses. I do so love catching up with the characters.
Another positive story showing the changes and improvements that individuals can put into motion when they are ruled by empathy. Escape from the real world for a bit and read about a world where magic and determined characters are working to create a better future for all.
Enjoy the fiction, let your imagination loose.
Cross posted kobo, goodreads, book bub.
Love visiting this world. Some of my favorite Royal States Texans and so many horses. I do so love catching up with the characters.
Another positive story showing the changes and improvements that individuals can put into motion when they are ruled by empathy. Escape from the real world for a bit and read about a world where magic and determined characters are working to create a better future for all.
Enjoy the fiction, let your imagination loose.
Cross posted kobo, goodreads, book bub.
May 2, 2025
A good addition to the Royal States novels
Patrick is the king of Texas, a lover of horses, and a father. He goes to pick up his sick child from school, and ends up on quite the odyssey around Texas. This series is full of humor and heart, and of course a lot of farm animals, especially horses. And cute children. I strongly suggest reading this book, and the entire series, if you need to relax. I will definitely read the next book in the series.
Patrick is the king of Texas, a lover of horses, and a father. He goes to pick up his sick child from school, and ends up on quite the odyssey around Texas. This series is full of humor and heart, and of course a lot of farm animals, especially horses. And cute children. I strongly suggest reading this book, and the entire series, if you need to relax. I will definitely read the next book in the series.
February 15, 2024
Pat’s the best!
I truly enjoyed reading this book, loved the writing, and following more of the King of Texas (Pat) and his young family's adventures. It was great to learn more about Pat’s ongoing concerns and his works towards improving the lives of his people and his country, building on the previous books; and (I think) setting up for future books. Great story! Already waiting for the next series installment!
I truly enjoyed reading this book, loved the writing, and following more of the King of Texas (Pat) and his young family's adventures. It was great to learn more about Pat’s ongoing concerns and his works towards improving the lives of his people and his country, building on the previous books; and (I think) setting up for future books. Great story! Already waiting for the next series installment!
February 14, 2024
Excellent!
As an end to this series? So good, I’m sorry to say goodbye to these characters, they’ve had an exceptional run. I adore Patrick and his queen and their growing herd, the horse empathy adds so much to his story! The. Whole Royal States line has been a fun ride as well and I need to start a re-read now.
As an end to this series? So good, I’m sorry to say goodbye to these characters, they’ve had an exceptional run. I adore Patrick and his queen and their growing herd, the horse empathy adds so much to his story! The. Whole Royal States line has been a fun ride as well and I need to start a re-read now.
February 17, 2024
love these characters and this book!
We revisit Pat and Jessica along with their friends. This book gives so many snapshots of the relationships and events to come. It showcases how Pat, truly, Loves so many. I would recommend this book to friends and family alike. Thank you for another wonderful snapshot of the Royal States and Texas.
We revisit Pat and Jessica along with their friends. This book gives so many snapshots of the relationships and events to come. It showcases how Pat, truly, Loves so many. I would recommend this book to friends and family alike. Thank you for another wonderful snapshot of the Royal States and Texas.
March 2, 2024
Another fun Royal States Novel!
I truly appreciate that the series goes back to continue stories of those who got married etc. I also love the quality of their relationships. I definitely find it both abusrd and funny how many kids they have and animals rescued but that's why this series is escapism for me.
Lots of innuendo, all behind doors fun
I truly appreciate that the series goes back to continue stories of those who got married etc. I also love the quality of their relationships. I definitely find it both abusrd and funny how many kids they have and animals rescued but that's why this series is escapism for me.
Lots of innuendo, all behind doors fun
February 14, 2024
out of sequence
These are two of my favourite people in this series. Yet reading this I struggled as it was out of sequence. The story felt forced, so much telling instead of action and nothing new about the characters made it hard to stay interested.
These are two of my favourite people in this series. Yet reading this I struggled as it was out of sequence. The story felt forced, so much telling instead of action and nothing new about the characters made it hard to stay interested.
February 15, 2024
I really enjoyed this story being about Patrick. I like finding out about how he changed Texas laws in the past. He was so interesting and we only got to know him when he was older in the first book in the series. I want to read the whole series again.
February 16, 2024
Another great book
Loved this book, but it made me want to reread the whole series again. Please keep writing the series as they are always entertaining and I find them different and original.
Loved this book, but it made me want to reread the whole series again. Please keep writing the series as they are always entertaining and I find them different and original.
February 17, 2024
Fun
I like the story because it's a fun adventure. Chronologically it's nearer the beginning of the whole series, it can be read alone but is much better with all the other books about Patrick Laycal.
I like the story because it's a fun adventure. Chronologically it's nearer the beginning of the whole series, it can be read alone but is much better with all the other books about Patrick Laycal.
February 19, 2024
Couldn't put it down
Love the story. In fact, I love any story with the Texan Royals in them, Pat and Jessica are so much fun to read about. I loved this storyline, it was a bit emotional in parts. I feel like a reread of the series.
Love the story. In fact, I love any story with the Texan Royals in them, Pat and Jessica are so much fun to read about. I loved this storyline, it was a bit emotional in parts. I feel like a reread of the series.
February 20, 2024
Another great Sequel
Absolutely love this author and her series about the royal states. This flushes out some of the history for The family. Absolutely recommend and Suggest reading them in order if it all possible. But you will love them anyways.
Absolutely love this author and her series about the royal states. This flushes out some of the history for The family. Absolutely recommend and Suggest reading them in order if it all possible. But you will love them anyways.
February 21, 2024
I love this author's work
She always surprises me with unexpected new directions her characters take. The Good Guys are all decent people. I always enjoy learning about things I don't know.
She always surprises me with unexpected new directions her characters take. The Good Guys are all decent people. I always enjoy learning about things I don't know.
February 23, 2024
As with all the Royal States books, this was brilliant! It was nothing more than a hilarious and fun romp through Texas, riding along with our favorite King while he spreads joy and spends insane amounts of money to do good deeds.
It was fun, it was heart-warming and I loved every second of it!
It was fun, it was heart-warming and I loved every second of it!
February 26, 2024
I do love this series!
These books are fun! Too bad the real world isn’t like them.🙂. If you enjoy easy reads with happy endings, this series is for you. Be advised that some touch on tough topics and may act as triggers. However, they all have their happily ever afters.
These books are fun! Too bad the real world isn’t like them.🙂. If you enjoy easy reads with happy endings, this series is for you. Be advised that some touch on tough topics and may act as triggers. However, they all have their happily ever afters.
February 29, 2024
Charmed, I'm sure!
Even given it's going to be a true love story and happy ending, the issues that arise are always just different enough, poignant, and interesting and informative. Now we just need a story in Austin and more of those tigers, please!
Even given it's going to be a true love story and happy ending, the issues that arise are always just different enough, poignant, and interesting and informative. Now we just need a story in Austin and more of those tigers, please!
March 6, 2024
Love this series!!!!!
Another wonderful addition to the Royal States series! It's fun as well as funny. Ms. Copperfield is one of my favorite authors and I thank her for her awesome tales and hard work!!!!!!
Another wonderful addition to the Royal States series! It's fun as well as funny. Ms. Copperfield is one of my favorite authors and I thank her for her awesome tales and hard work!!!!!!
February 13, 2024
Could not put it down
It was fun to get to know Pat better, look forward to more shanigans with him and Jessica going forward.
It was fun to get to know Pat better, look forward to more shanigans with him and Jessica going forward.
February 13, 2024
I enjoyed reading a slice of Pat and Jessica’s life
I enjoyed reading Pat and Jessica’s slice of life. Can’t wait to read Eddies and Deidra’s story. Thank you Susan Copperfield
I enjoyed reading Pat and Jessica’s slice of life. Can’t wait to read Eddies and Deidra’s story. Thank you Susan Copperfield
February 13, 2024
Another amazing book!!
Loved this book so much!! Susan Copperfield has added another wonderful book to the series. You won’t ever go wrong by reading a book by the author.
Loved this book so much!! Susan Copperfield has added another wonderful book to the series. You won’t ever go wrong by reading a book by the author.
February 14, 2024
Love This book!
Patrick & Jessica's adventures just keep getting better & better! The Royal States is a wonderfully written series. I anxiously await the release of each new book.
Patrick & Jessica's adventures just keep getting better & better! The Royal States is a wonderfully written series. I anxiously await the release of each new book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews