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Rise of a Kingdom
The Prize
I was raised in a world filled with opulence, where anything is available at your fingertips for the right price. I was trapped in a gilded golden cage, a facade for the prison I live in. Reduced to being a possession sought out by the greed of wealthy men. A phoenix ready to rise from her ashes and confinement.
Tarnished, meek and broken…or so they thought.
The Victor
The spoils of war go to the victor, and I am at the top of this food chain.
Power, wealth, and control are mine for the taking. There was just one thing missing in my empire: a crown jewel needed to complete my reign. She was mine before she even knew it, a beautiful prize passed from the hands of one wealthy man to another. My new little ice queen will help further my legacy while she fights the bonds of her captivity.
Will we both end up shattering like shards of glass in the process of this war against each other or can we build the rise of our kingdom side by side?
Rise of a Kingdom is a standalone, placed loosely in the world before Casbury Prep. Some characters from Casbury Prep do make an appearance.
Tropes:
Forced Marriage
MF
Secrets and lies
J/P Hero
OTT (over-the-top) Hero
Strong FMC
Billionaire Romance
Complete standalone
Told in dual POV
TW: Listed in the book & author’s website
Author’s Note: Please check TW on the author’s website. This is a dark romance and contains themes that are not suitable for all readers. If you take issue with dark contemporary romance, hot and heavy spice, this book is not for you. Please read the author’s foreword or visit the author's website for TW. Don’t say I didn’t warn you!
I was raised in a world filled with opulence, where anything is available at your fingertips for the right price. I was trapped in a gilded golden cage, a facade for the prison I live in. Reduced to being a possession sought out by the greed of wealthy men. A phoenix ready to rise from her ashes and confinement.
Tarnished, meek and broken…or so they thought.
The Victor
The spoils of war go to the victor, and I am at the top of this food chain.
Power, wealth, and control are mine for the taking. There was just one thing missing in my empire: a crown jewel needed to complete my reign. She was mine before she even knew it, a beautiful prize passed from the hands of one wealthy man to another. My new little ice queen will help further my legacy while she fights the bonds of her captivity.
Will we both end up shattering like shards of glass in the process of this war against each other or can we build the rise of our kingdom side by side?
Rise of a Kingdom is a standalone, placed loosely in the world before Casbury Prep. Some characters from Casbury Prep do make an appearance.
Tropes:
Forced Marriage
MF
Secrets and lies
J/P Hero
OTT (over-the-top) Hero
Strong FMC
Billionaire Romance
Complete standalone
Told in dual POV
TW: Listed in the book & author’s website
Author’s Note: Please check TW on the author’s website. This is a dark romance and contains themes that are not suitable for all readers. If you take issue with dark contemporary romance, hot and heavy spice, this book is not for you. Please read the author’s foreword or visit the author's website for TW. Don’t say I didn’t warn you!
416 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 13, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
October 6, 2023
I wasn’t going to review this, since I DNF’ed around 30% in. But this has almost ONLY great reviews. I felt misled. So, I will review it, so that other people can feel less misled than I did.
This started off promising: it’s a marriage of convenience (for Rich People Reasons). The hero doesn’t love the heroine, but he thinks she’s hot, and he’s excited to marry her in order to boost his power. The heroine is angry about having to marry him. She snubs him when he tries to kiss her at the altar, and leaves their wedding early. He’s insulted, so he brings home an OW and kisses her. The heroine vows to punish him for disrespecting her. I like heroine revenge! But almost immediately, she melts for him, and lets him get her in bed, which defeated the purpose of her being like “I am a Strong Heroine who is getting Revenge!!” She just seemed foolish.
This also started feeling very…Wattpad. The writing felt juvenile, with too many repetitive and long inner monologues. The characters were immature and stupid, Like, the hero suddenly started yelling, “SHE IS MINE!” and attacking other men for showing interest in the heroine, when so little had led up to that. Of course, this book has a long CW note that made it seem like it would be hardcore. But it’s cartoonish.
The hero also kept acknowledging that he was being a hypocrite (with his insane jealousy), since HE was the one who cheated, not the heroine. But then, he kept doing that, anyway. When a character acknowledge that they are behaving stupidly, but then they keep behaving that way, that is annoying! The worst crimes a fictional character can do is be annoying, or be boring. This hero is both. So is the heroine, in a different way.
This started off promising: it’s a marriage of convenience (for Rich People Reasons). The hero doesn’t love the heroine, but he thinks she’s hot, and he’s excited to marry her in order to boost his power. The heroine is angry about having to marry him. She snubs him when he tries to kiss her at the altar, and leaves their wedding early. He’s insulted, so he brings home an OW and kisses her. The heroine vows to punish him for disrespecting her. I like heroine revenge! But almost immediately, she melts for him, and lets him get her in bed, which defeated the purpose of her being like “I am a Strong Heroine who is getting Revenge!!” She just seemed foolish.
This also started feeling very…Wattpad. The writing felt juvenile, with too many repetitive and long inner monologues. The characters were immature and stupid, Like, the hero suddenly started yelling, “SHE IS MINE!” and attacking other men for showing interest in the heroine, when so little had led up to that. Of course, this book has a long CW note that made it seem like it would be hardcore. But it’s cartoonish.
The hero also kept acknowledging that he was being a hypocrite (with his insane jealousy), since HE was the one who cheated, not the heroine. But then, he kept doing that, anyway. When a character acknowledge that they are behaving stupidly, but then they keep behaving that way, that is annoying! The worst crimes a fictional character can do is be annoying, or be boring. This hero is both. So is the heroine, in a different way.
April 6, 2023
4.5 ⭐️ Steam: 4.5/5. Strong Language: 5/5. Characters: 5/5. Plot: 4/5
Triggers: Graphic V!olence, A$$ault, Mu£der, Bl00d Play, Kn!FE Play, Dub Con, Domestic V!olence, B0ndage, K!nk, Sta!king, Forced Marriage, Dark Themes
Rise of a Kingdom by A.L. Maruga is a standalone, dark romance. It is connected to her Casbury Prep series in a prequel way but you do not need to read one to enjoy the other. Warning: Once you read one, you will want to devour the other.
Stella is a fierce heroine who I want to be when I grow up. She takes no shizz and gives no..you see where I’m going with this. The story opens with her being forced into an arranged marriage by her overbearing and abusive father. He has bartered his ‘disappointing and useless female child’ off in a shrewd business deal to further his family legacy. She may have to acquiesce to this marriage but be damn sure that she will get even with those who made it happen - her father and her groom-to-be: Jaxon Stratford.
Jaxon is a cocky alphahole. Spoiler alert: I love him. He is a rainmaker in the business world, head of a billion dollar business, and he needs Stella (and her family connections and money) to expand his empire. He’s always had a thing for the ‘Ice Queen’ but has kept his feelings hidden. It wouldn’t do to expose any weakness and a Stratford never loses.
In a collision between two objects, both objects experience forces that are equal in magnitude and opposite in direction. When these two meet on the field of battle - some of us call it a wedding chapel - it’s not just sparks that fly.
This is a dark and dirty, enemies to lovers read. It is chock full of triggers. The personalities of the two main characters - Stella and Jaxson - dominate this read. They are dynamic, entrancing, and captivating. If you met Stella in the Casbury Prep series, this book does NOT disappoint. She is larger than life, a true Queen, and a warrior. Long May She Reign. Jaxon is equally engaging. I loved getting to know him. They are true equals and this was a great love/hate story.
Triggers: Graphic V!olence, A$$ault, Mu£der, Bl00d Play, Kn!FE Play, Dub Con, Domestic V!olence, B0ndage, K!nk, Sta!king, Forced Marriage, Dark Themes
Rise of a Kingdom by A.L. Maruga is a standalone, dark romance. It is connected to her Casbury Prep series in a prequel way but you do not need to read one to enjoy the other. Warning: Once you read one, you will want to devour the other.
Stella is a fierce heroine who I want to be when I grow up. She takes no shizz and gives no..you see where I’m going with this. The story opens with her being forced into an arranged marriage by her overbearing and abusive father. He has bartered his ‘disappointing and useless female child’ off in a shrewd business deal to further his family legacy. She may have to acquiesce to this marriage but be damn sure that she will get even with those who made it happen - her father and her groom-to-be: Jaxon Stratford.
Jaxon is a cocky alphahole. Spoiler alert: I love him. He is a rainmaker in the business world, head of a billion dollar business, and he needs Stella (and her family connections and money) to expand his empire. He’s always had a thing for the ‘Ice Queen’ but has kept his feelings hidden. It wouldn’t do to expose any weakness and a Stratford never loses.
In a collision between two objects, both objects experience forces that are equal in magnitude and opposite in direction. When these two meet on the field of battle - some of us call it a wedding chapel - it’s not just sparks that fly.
This is a dark and dirty, enemies to lovers read. It is chock full of triggers. The personalities of the two main characters - Stella and Jaxson - dominate this read. They are dynamic, entrancing, and captivating. If you met Stella in the Casbury Prep series, this book does NOT disappoint. She is larger than life, a true Queen, and a warrior. Long May She Reign. Jaxon is equally engaging. I loved getting to know him. They are true equals and this was a great love/hate story.
May 14, 2023
Maruga Spins A Vivid Tale.
With details that jump off the page, you’ll find yourself immersed and invested in Jaxon and Stella’s contentious relationship from the start.
The ultimate enemies-to-lovers story, Stella is forcibly married to Jaxon in order to unite the family empires. However, she doesn’t exactly go willingly.
Not only does Stella seek vicious retribution for wrongs committed, she proves herself a formidable foe when it becomes apparent her life is in danger.
There are surprises, “No, she didn’t!”’s and some well-deserved sweet moments.
With details that jump off the page, you’ll find yourself immersed and invested in Jaxon and Stella’s contentious relationship from the start.
The ultimate enemies-to-lovers story, Stella is forcibly married to Jaxon in order to unite the family empires. However, she doesn’t exactly go willingly.
Not only does Stella seek vicious retribution for wrongs committed, she proves herself a formidable foe when it becomes apparent her life is in danger.
There are surprises, “No, she didn’t!”’s and some well-deserved sweet moments.
April 13, 2023
I wanna be Stella when I grow up! But no really such a amazing strong female lead! Every King needs a strong Queen!
Want to Read
January 28, 2026🎁 FREE on Amazon today (7/10/2023)! 🎁
April 9, 2023
I am a big fan of this author and love this series. Stella is a very. strong woman she is very clever and very ruthless. But her father Thomas Penticton can't see that. He wants his daughter to marry. Jaxon Stratford for the name and the power she will be the queen of Manhattan. so, like a queen to the slaughter it's her wedding day. Now that wedding will give you the giggles as our Stella does not do anything buy halves. She will not take orders from anyone and in time Jaxon will see she won't bow to anyone. But she starts to like Jaxon. The scenes are.so hot someone wants her dead. And Stellas mum is not a scared little woman ever. Will it be a happy ending? I so loved this book did not want it to end so looking forward to next installment of this series I so recommend this author.
April 15, 2023
I loved this book! The chemistry between Stella and Jaxon are fire. I could feel the burning between them through the words as if they were sitting right next to me. Stella also was my favorite character, I loved her tenacity along with proving all the men around her that she was someone that you didn’t want to mess with. I haven’t loved a female character this much in a long time.
March 30, 2023
This book is phenomenal! Stella & Jaxon are two alpha personalities, a force to be reckoned with, and definitely a couple ready for war. Whether it be war against each other or against a common enemy, you don’t want to be on their bad side. Getting to see inside how Stella Stratford came to be a powerful businesswoman to be feared is amazing! You see her kick butt in the Casbury Prep series with her granddaughter Mia, but witnessing her becoming this bada$$ was so good. Jaxon is an alphahole through & through but when he’s good, damn is he good. The spice is a wild ride! So much of it, and it’s hot AF. Definitely a few one handed reading moments. IYKYK. A must read, especially if you love the Casbury Prep series!
March 28, 2025
5/5⭐️
3/5🌶️
If you have read Reign of the Queen, and are wondering how Stella Stratford became the queen that she is? This is her story. I always knew that Stella was a very strong-willed and amazing grandmother. I was very excited to finally get to read her backstory. This book took me on an adventure of panic, and of a couple who probably should have never been able to fall in love and did despite their struggles. AL has done it again with giving us a strong women who doesn’t need a man to save her but wants one to be by her side. I cannot give this book a million stars but if I could I would!
3/5🌶️
If you have read Reign of the Queen, and are wondering how Stella Stratford became the queen that she is? This is her story. I always knew that Stella was a very strong-willed and amazing grandmother. I was very excited to finally get to read her backstory. This book took me on an adventure of panic, and of a couple who probably should have never been able to fall in love and did despite their struggles. AL has done it again with giving us a strong women who doesn’t need a man to save her but wants one to be by her side. I cannot give this book a million stars but if I could I would!
November 22, 2023
DNF.
This had the makings of a decent story but clearly the author lacked the creativity to get it there. Its starts of great but turns to the same old boring verbiage and Smut that repeats itself to the point where i just couldn't finish it.
This had the makings of a decent story but clearly the author lacked the creativity to get it there. Its starts of great but turns to the same old boring verbiage and Smut that repeats itself to the point where i just couldn't finish it.
July 1, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I am a woman. They thought I was the weaker sex. That I would go quietly, and meekly into my existence, powerless to define my own destiny. They were wrong…
This was an entertaining and thrilling read, more so for the smut and violence than the relationship between the couple. In a true hate-to-love romance, the FMC, Stella, is forced to marry the anti-hero, Jaxon, to combine two dynasties and provide an heir. She has been vastly underappreciated and shows she is worth more than just her sex; she is a true queen who will make the world burn.
I was never really convinced of an emotional connection between the couple. Yes, they were entirely consumed with passion and the need for possession, but any true relationship-building occurs off-page. On the page, we are treated to obsessive and possessive thoughts and lots of intense sex – plus incredibly hot dirty talk. I was a big fan.
I loved the times Stella showed her strength, from walking down the aisle in a black wedding gown to ruining Jaxon’s ex’s life, and destroying her father’s legacy. Woe be the ones who cross the ice queen. She deserves the world bowing at her feet and has no qualms about showing her power.
This is an incredibly fast burn and intensely spicy read. View the TW/CW for a list of kinks explored and to determine if this book is an appropriate read for you. There is no gentle lovemaking involved. Both parties have dark desires.
Rise of a Kingdom is a standalone that predates the Casbury Prep series. I look forward to continuing the saga of the Stratford dynasty.
Genre: Dark Contemporary Romance
Tropes/Features: Forced marriage, Hate to Love, OTT J/P MMC, Strong FMC, Praise & Degradation, Ownership & Possession, touch her and die, Trigger heavy
Narrator: Dual 1st Person POV
Relationship Type: MF, Fast burn, high spice with kinks
Book Type/Ending: Standalone with HEA
TW/CW: This is a dark read with multiple possible triggers; view TW/CW in author’s note in book.
I am a woman. They thought I was the weaker sex. That I would go quietly, and meekly into my existence, powerless to define my own destiny. They were wrong…
This was an entertaining and thrilling read, more so for the smut and violence than the relationship between the couple. In a true hate-to-love romance, the FMC, Stella, is forced to marry the anti-hero, Jaxon, to combine two dynasties and provide an heir. She has been vastly underappreciated and shows she is worth more than just her sex; she is a true queen who will make the world burn.
I was never really convinced of an emotional connection between the couple. Yes, they were entirely consumed with passion and the need for possession, but any true relationship-building occurs off-page. On the page, we are treated to obsessive and possessive thoughts and lots of intense sex – plus incredibly hot dirty talk. I was a big fan.
I loved the times Stella showed her strength, from walking down the aisle in a black wedding gown to ruining Jaxon’s ex’s life, and destroying her father’s legacy. Woe be the ones who cross the ice queen. She deserves the world bowing at her feet and has no qualms about showing her power.
This is an incredibly fast burn and intensely spicy read. View the TW/CW for a list of kinks explored and to determine if this book is an appropriate read for you. There is no gentle lovemaking involved. Both parties have dark desires.
Rise of a Kingdom is a standalone that predates the Casbury Prep series. I look forward to continuing the saga of the Stratford dynasty.
Genre: Dark Contemporary Romance
Tropes/Features: Forced marriage, Hate to Love, OTT J/P MMC, Strong FMC, Praise & Degradation, Ownership & Possession, touch her and die, Trigger heavy
Narrator: Dual 1st Person POV
Relationship Type: MF, Fast burn, high spice with kinks
Book Type/Ending: Standalone with HEA
TW/CW: This is a dark read with multiple possible triggers; view TW/CW in author’s note in book.
April 26, 2023
The Queen- Ruthless
A.L Maruga hit another home run. This author definitely knows how to write dark, twisted and mentally disturbed and I’m here for every word.
I highly recommend reading this book prior to Reign of the Queen so that you get the full strength and grit that built Stella Stratford and her empire. It really exemplifies how she raised such ruthless, defiant, strong females who don’t take crap. I loved this book.
As always check TW- there are many but if you are not a triggered reader I highly suggest you don’t.
A.L Maruga hit another home run. This author definitely knows how to write dark, twisted and mentally disturbed and I’m here for every word.
I highly recommend reading this book prior to Reign of the Queen so that you get the full strength and grit that built Stella Stratford and her empire. It really exemplifies how she raised such ruthless, defiant, strong females who don’t take crap. I loved this book.
As always check TW- there are many but if you are not a triggered reader I highly suggest you don’t.
May 3, 2023
Rise of a Kingdom is darker 💀💀 grittier and steamier 🔥🥵 Stella is kickass, mean and alpha Queen who doesnt let anyone knock her from her throne not even Jaxon. Ohh, my god, now is he unhinged, possessive af and sadistic? Yes, yes, yes! But I licked him first and he is mine now 😜 Stella and Jaxon together remind me of a much hotter version of Bonnie and Clyde 🔥🥵
If you like dark stories with action, twists and turns, tons of kinky spice 🌶🌶🌶 and steam ♨️ ♨️ then go get yours 🐾 on this book now.
If you like dark stories with action, twists and turns, tons of kinky spice 🌶🌶🌶 and steam ♨️ ♨️ then go get yours 🐾 on this book now.
April 30, 2023
Wow! Incredible, chaotic and hotness overload! Awesome book!
April 9, 2023
I absolutely loved this book!
Stella is a badass woman & Jaxon is holy moly 🥵🥵🥵
It is definitely a top 5 read of the year!
Stella is a badass woman & Jaxon is holy moly 🥵🥵🥵
It is definitely a top 5 read of the year!
September 30, 2024
Horrible writing, characters changed feelings n the way they acted every second, idk why it has so many positive comments
August 13, 2023
Rating: 4.0 ⭐️
This was the first novel I'd read by this author, and let me just say that I love a good, fierce heroine. This is a really intense story with a lot of action, some harsh language, and a lot of tension. 🔥😍🔥
Tropes:
Obsessive/Posesseive MMC 🏴
Strong FMC
Enemies to lovers
Arranged Marriage
This is a love story between Stella and Jaxon, but Stella's father is pressuring her to marry our hero so that the family may maintain their position in renowned society. Stella's father thinks of her as an incompetent woman who is unable to be a successful woman in a man's world without a husband. Stella has perfected the mask of the "ice queen," but on the inside, she is a very passionate woman who is not scared of anything. Jaxon is under the impression that he will be able to break and mold Stella to his own image and wants, but he is rudely awoken to the harsh reality of the situation one day after their wedding when Stella presents him with an ultimatum in response to his behavior on their wedding night.
This is a roller coaster ride filled with passion, vengeance, action, and emotional development on both sides of the main characters. It is a story about making sacrifices and coming to terms with the realization that life without the person you love the most in the world is meaningless. 💗💗💗
Favorite Highlights/Quotes:
❤️My little ice queen, if you are not down that aisle in the next ten minutes, I will find you, throw you over my shoulder and drag you down with your ass red and on display for all our friends and family to see. Do not make an enemy of me Stellam you will regret it.
❤️None of it of the slightest importance of significance in light of the love I have for Stella. Loving her will be greatest accomplishemnt of my life and the only thing of value that I leave behind into the world.
⚠️Please check trigger warnings before you read this⚠️
Since Stella's Bonus epilogue piqued my interest quite a bit, there is no way I can avoid adding "Casbury Prep" to my TBR! 🤗🤗
This was the first novel I'd read by this author, and let me just say that I love a good, fierce heroine. This is a really intense story with a lot of action, some harsh language, and a lot of tension. 🔥😍🔥
Tropes:
Obsessive/Posesseive MMC 🏴
Strong FMC
Enemies to lovers
Arranged Marriage
This is a love story between Stella and Jaxon, but Stella's father is pressuring her to marry our hero so that the family may maintain their position in renowned society. Stella's father thinks of her as an incompetent woman who is unable to be a successful woman in a man's world without a husband. Stella has perfected the mask of the "ice queen," but on the inside, she is a very passionate woman who is not scared of anything. Jaxon is under the impression that he will be able to break and mold Stella to his own image and wants, but he is rudely awoken to the harsh reality of the situation one day after their wedding when Stella presents him with an ultimatum in response to his behavior on their wedding night.
This is a roller coaster ride filled with passion, vengeance, action, and emotional development on both sides of the main characters. It is a story about making sacrifices and coming to terms with the realization that life without the person you love the most in the world is meaningless. 💗💗💗
Favorite Highlights/Quotes:
❤️My little ice queen, if you are not down that aisle in the next ten minutes, I will find you, throw you over my shoulder and drag you down with your ass red and on display for all our friends and family to see. Do not make an enemy of me Stellam you will regret it.
❤️None of it of the slightest importance of significance in light of the love I have for Stella. Loving her will be greatest accomplishemnt of my life and the only thing of value that I leave behind into the world.
⚠️Please check trigger warnings before you read this⚠️
Since Stella's Bonus epilogue piqued my interest quite a bit, there is no way I can avoid adding "Casbury Prep" to my TBR! 🤗🤗
July 1, 2023
Amazing, spicy book!
**Book does contain TW. You can find TW listed in the book and on the author's website.**
I adored Rise of a Kingdom by A.L. Maruga.
The Author paints a picture of raw eruptive passion, and a plot filled with deliciously delivered, ruthless revenge with her words.
Living in a billionaire world filled with corporate men on top, Stella the FMC is essentially bartered into marriage by her father to a top Elite billionaire, Jaxon Stratford. Stella has had a lifetime of her father making her feel insignificant,despite her accomplishments, while watching her mother cower before him. However, do not mistake Stella for broken or weak.
She is a total bad@$$!💜
Dubbed, the "ice queen" since high school, Stella has no desire to be forced into marriage with Jaxon.
She refuses to become his puppet as he gains more wealth and power from their union.
Jaxon is used to getting what he wants. He has no qualms about using Stella as a toy to continue to build his Empire, and give him an heir. He thinks he can do what he wants and still keep her in a nice little box to take out to play with.
Jaxon soon discovers Stella is not even close to the Ice Queen he believes. She might be calm and collected on the outside, but she is passionate, feisty, calculated and a force to be reckoned with. He has never dealt with anybody like Stella before, and he learns very quickly and harshly to not underestimate her. In turn, Stella learns how deep Jaxon's depravity can be. The biggest question is can they overcome their odds enough to continue building this Empire together?
I loved Stella and Jaxon's dynamic. Their erratic journey as they war against each other in and out of bed gave me all the tingly feels.
🌶🔥💦🗡
Stella and Jaxon's ferocious passion radiates out of the pages of this compelling book. Although they both try to fight their attraction at different times to gain control, there is no denying their touch lights each other on fire. 🔥🔥 I adored how possesive and jealous Jaxon was over Stella. Heaven help anybody who touches either of them, in lust or in violence, because the harsh retaliation they receive is
💥explosive💥.
This book had me gasping in the best possible ways, with its scorching scenes, and oftentimes volatile interactions. My favorite kind of books are the ones that leave you breathless, and biting your bottom lip as you turn the page!
I highly recommend this book!!
Spice level: 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
**Book does contain TW. You can find TW listed in the book and on the author's website.**
I adored Rise of a Kingdom by A.L. Maruga.
The Author paints a picture of raw eruptive passion, and a plot filled with deliciously delivered, ruthless revenge with her words.
Living in a billionaire world filled with corporate men on top, Stella the FMC is essentially bartered into marriage by her father to a top Elite billionaire, Jaxon Stratford. Stella has had a lifetime of her father making her feel insignificant,despite her accomplishments, while watching her mother cower before him. However, do not mistake Stella for broken or weak.
She is a total bad@$$!💜
Dubbed, the "ice queen" since high school, Stella has no desire to be forced into marriage with Jaxon.
She refuses to become his puppet as he gains more wealth and power from their union.
Jaxon is used to getting what he wants. He has no qualms about using Stella as a toy to continue to build his Empire, and give him an heir. He thinks he can do what he wants and still keep her in a nice little box to take out to play with.
Jaxon soon discovers Stella is not even close to the Ice Queen he believes. She might be calm and collected on the outside, but she is passionate, feisty, calculated and a force to be reckoned with. He has never dealt with anybody like Stella before, and he learns very quickly and harshly to not underestimate her. In turn, Stella learns how deep Jaxon's depravity can be. The biggest question is can they overcome their odds enough to continue building this Empire together?
I loved Stella and Jaxon's dynamic. Their erratic journey as they war against each other in and out of bed gave me all the tingly feels.
🌶🔥💦🗡
Stella and Jaxon's ferocious passion radiates out of the pages of this compelling book. Although they both try to fight their attraction at different times to gain control, there is no denying their touch lights each other on fire. 🔥🔥 I adored how possesive and jealous Jaxon was over Stella. Heaven help anybody who touches either of them, in lust or in violence, because the harsh retaliation they receive is
💥explosive💥.
This book had me gasping in the best possible ways, with its scorching scenes, and oftentimes volatile interactions. My favorite kind of books are the ones that leave you breathless, and biting your bottom lip as you turn the page!
I highly recommend this book!!
Spice level: 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
April 23, 2023
💥Overall opinion:
Absolutely blown away! I've read every book by this author and she continues to amaze me with every release. Such a dark, yet explosive love story that I'm obsessed with.
⛔️Brief Story Summary:
Stella was raised in a world where anything is available at your fingertips for the right price, including her. Forced into a marriage with Jaxon, she's out for revenge. What she didn't know was that she was Jaxon's before she knew it. Stella is what was missing in his empire and Jaxon will do whatever it takes to be the victor. The kingdom will be theirs for the taking.
💋Tropes:
Arranged Marriage
Enemies to Lovers
Secrets/Lies
Revenge
Billionaire
Jealous/Possessive Hero
And More
🔥Spice Level:
3.5/5
💣Main Character Rating:
Jaxon - 5⭐️ - yes. To everything that is this man. I'm not a fan of degradation, but this author writes it in a way I enjoy reading it. This dirty talking, broody, alphahole is everything I look for in a MMC!
Stella - 5⭐️ - despite being a little bratty and immature in the beginning, she completely won me over with her fierce, smart, cunning, independent, cutthroat personality. She's a definite bad@$$!
🚫Closure:
I inhaled this entire book, just like I have all of the author's others. Love this story, these characters, and this world. The way the author brought the story full circle to tie in with the series was beautiful and so well done. I'm so excited to see what's next.
⭐️Overall Rating:
5 freaking stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Absolutely blown away! I've read every book by this author and she continues to amaze me with every release. Such a dark, yet explosive love story that I'm obsessed with.
⛔️Brief Story Summary:
Stella was raised in a world where anything is available at your fingertips for the right price, including her. Forced into a marriage with Jaxon, she's out for revenge. What she didn't know was that she was Jaxon's before she knew it. Stella is what was missing in his empire and Jaxon will do whatever it takes to be the victor. The kingdom will be theirs for the taking.
💋Tropes:
Arranged Marriage
Enemies to Lovers
Secrets/Lies
Revenge
Billionaire
Jealous/Possessive Hero
And More
🔥Spice Level:
3.5/5
💣Main Character Rating:
Jaxon - 5⭐️ - yes. To everything that is this man. I'm not a fan of degradation, but this author writes it in a way I enjoy reading it. This dirty talking, broody, alphahole is everything I look for in a MMC!
Stella - 5⭐️ - despite being a little bratty and immature in the beginning, she completely won me over with her fierce, smart, cunning, independent, cutthroat personality. She's a definite bad@$$!
🚫Closure:
I inhaled this entire book, just like I have all of the author's others. Love this story, these characters, and this world. The way the author brought the story full circle to tie in with the series was beautiful and so well done. I'm so excited to see what's next.
⭐️Overall Rating:
5 freaking stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 2, 2024
This was a perfect illustration of the adage that love and hate are two sides of the same coin. Forced into a marriage against her will, Stella is already plotting against her husband before she even walks down the aisle. Of course, Jaxon is a bit of a callous alphahole and all he sees in his new bride is a way to expand his empire, so he thinks nothing of bringing his ex-girlfriend home on his wedding night. Well…that was a big mistake! Stella’s revenge was swift and devastating. It was so refreshing to see a woman more than hold her own and out-scheme her nemesis, although Stella’s agreement to then give Jaxon free reign in the bedroom was difficult to understand. These two were experts at pushing each other’s buttons, and while their clashes were epic, there was also a growing mutual respect as they both fought for control. However, the story would have been so much more enjoyable if all that internal dialogue revealed more than just a need for possession. It isn’t until very late in the story that either character admits to any feelings of love. So, although there is a lot of smut, it’s more about dominance than connection. Nevertheless, when Stella thinks Jaxon has betrayed her, her heart breaks and there’s nothing more dangerous than a woman scorned. Let the world tremble at the feet of their queen!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 6, 2026
This book felt a little different from the ones I’ve read before from this author. This is not in a bad way by any means, just different. Jaxon is focused on owning Stella and tells her and anyone around them constantly that she is his possession. It gives off a vibe to me that he partly considers her an object, which I'm sure not everyone will feel the same way about. There is plenty of the obsession and unhinged behavior we want to see in the male characters, and he will do anything for her. Stella is no meek thing needing a knight to protect her, though. She is truly a little viper, as Jaxon calls her. They are both ruthless in their ambitions for power and dominance, not only towards others who have wronged them or are in their way, but also with each other. Things are toxic between them from the start, and it only gains more fuel as time goes on. Thank goodness Jaxon seems to be a cat with nine lives! He burned through a couple of them in just a few months.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 8, 2023
Omg this book was so good. A.L made me care for Stella and Jaxon with how she wrote their story. I was so mad at Jaxon he was such a punk in the beginning but I love how Stella gave him his ass. Stella was for sure a queen like you don't mess with her. I love when she put people in place and show people she was a queen. The spice between Jax and Stella was so freakin good and hot so well written. I could not put this book down until I finish reading that's how good this book was. They went through so much shit that just made them stronger and you get to see how they grow to care for each other. This book will for sure to have you on your feet at all times. I think I said yes queen to Stella so many times. I love the respect Jaxon had for Stella when it came to her been in charge and saw her as an equal and not below him.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 16, 2023
Rise of the Kingdom is a standalone, but if you have read the Casbury Prep Series, you already know a little about Stella. And let me tell you after this read, it’s cemented; Stella is and always will be fierce. She is that hard as nails type of girl who refuses to take things laying down. Problem is, she lives in a world where her choices are ruled by the men in her life. Cue in Jaxon.
Just like Stella, he’s dominate and strong. He’s that typical alpha male with the mentality of life going by his plans. So when these two personalities are brought together, it equals one hot read. That spice between them is simply fire.
From start to finish, Jaxon and Stella’s dynamic was irresistible and I couldn’t recommend this book enough!
Definitely one of my favorite dark and steamy reads this year.
Just like Stella, he’s dominate and strong. He’s that typical alpha male with the mentality of life going by his plans. So when these two personalities are brought together, it equals one hot read. That spice between them is simply fire.
From start to finish, Jaxon and Stella’s dynamic was irresistible and I couldn’t recommend this book enough!
Definitely one of my favorite dark and steamy reads this year.
May 24, 2026
A.L. Maruga has officially cemented herself as one of my all-time favorite authors! After already falling in love with the world through Casbury Prep and the Venom series, getting Stella’s story felt like finally uncovering the missing piece of the puzzle.
Even though this book is recommended to be read first, I honestly loved experiencing it afterward because it worked so well as both an origin story and an emotional closer. Seeing Stella’s backstory added so much depth to moments and relationships I already knew from the other books, and it made the entire universe feel even more connected.
Maruga has a way of writing emotionally messy, addictive characters that completely pull you in, and this book was no exception. I already want to reread the whole series with this new perspective! 🖤
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Even though this book is recommended to be read first, I honestly loved experiencing it afterward because it worked so well as both an origin story and an emotional closer. Seeing Stella’s backstory added so much depth to moments and relationships I already knew from the other books, and it made the entire universe feel even more connected.
Maruga has a way of writing emotionally messy, addictive characters that completely pull you in, and this book was no exception. I already want to reread the whole series with this new perspective! 🖤
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
April 15, 2023
Holy smokes!!! A.L did not disappoint with this book!! I’m completely obsessed with this author and if haven’t read her other books Casbury Prep you need to run!!! Stella is one heck of a strong ruthless woman that will go a long with the plan of men but she’s doing it her way.. she’s forced to marry Jaxon because this is what her father wants her to do due to who Jaxon is and what power he can give her. But all these men have forgotten that Stella is just as powerful and she shows them all every step of the way. This is an enemies to lovers forced marriage lots of triggers read. But most definitely worth it..
April 20, 2023
If you have read the Casbury Prep Series, you have already met the infamous Stella. And let me just say, after this read, Stella is and always will be GIRL BOSS vibes! She is not the one to take things lightly. Problem is, she lives in a man dominated world where her voice in not heard and she is ruled by the men in her life. And then we meet Jaxon.
He’s your typical alpha male that wants everything done his way. And when these two dominate personalities come crashing together, you get an amazing read with your daily dose of spice.
Jaxon and Stella’s dynamic was fire and I would recommend this book to anyone!!
He’s your typical alpha male that wants everything done his way. And when these two dominate personalities come crashing together, you get an amazing read with your daily dose of spice.
Jaxon and Stella’s dynamic was fire and I would recommend this book to anyone!!
May 3, 2023
Stella always intrigued me during the Casbury books, so I was really excited to get to read her origin story, and meet the elusive Jaxon.
Stella's fire was always there, and watching her burn those in her way to find her place was a real joy, because who doesn't love a strong, awesome female, right??
Jaxon? That man melted the pages he appeared on, and watching him trying to tame a woman who was more likely to savage him was delicious.
Honestly, every book of A.L. Maruga's is a pleasure to read, and a steamy ride that you won't just want to experience once. Totally recommend it!
Stella's fire was always there, and watching her burn those in her way to find her place was a real joy, because who doesn't love a strong, awesome female, right??
Jaxon? That man melted the pages he appeared on, and watching him trying to tame a woman who was more likely to savage him was delicious.
Honestly, every book of A.L. Maruga's is a pleasure to read, and a steamy ride that you won't just want to experience once. Totally recommend it!
July 8, 2024
so hot and gripping
Having already fallen in love with the Cadbury Prep series you know how Stella is a force to be reckoned with in protecting her family. Her origin story of how she became a Stratford Queen in this book shows just how strong she is. Not only treated badly by her family and friends she survives countless real attacks on her life and with not the best partner by her side (to begin with). Her strength and determination manages to win men over and her relationship with Jaxon grows from strength to strength. No wonder her Stratford princesses are as tenacious as they are with her as a role model
Having already fallen in love with the Cadbury Prep series you know how Stella is a force to be reckoned with in protecting her family. Her origin story of how she became a Stratford Queen in this book shows just how strong she is. Not only treated badly by her family and friends she survives countless real attacks on her life and with not the best partner by her side (to begin with). Her strength and determination manages to win men over and her relationship with Jaxon grows from strength to strength. No wonder her Stratford princesses are as tenacious as they are with her as a role model
February 20, 2025
AN EMPIRE'S BEGINNINGS
I started with The Serpent's Queen but have taken the sage advice of the author and am starting afresh with Rise of a Kingdom and will move to the Casbury Prep series before I end on Venomous King.
A.L. Maruga brings us back to where it all began, Stella and Jaxon and the beginning of the empire. While I had an inkling that Stella was a force to be reckoned with, in Rise of a Kingdom, you truly understand how strong, smart, determined and forceful she can be. But, under all that, she is also just a woman seeking recognition, a chance to prove her worth and be loved. Jaxon's growth is nothing to minimalise, he is a character that you despise to begin with but end up cheering for, for his ability to defend, desire and worship his most prized asset, his queen. This was truly amazing, engaging and enthralling writing with an excellent plot.
I started with The Serpent's Queen but have taken the sage advice of the author and am starting afresh with Rise of a Kingdom and will move to the Casbury Prep series before I end on Venomous King.
A.L. Maruga brings us back to where it all began, Stella and Jaxon and the beginning of the empire. While I had an inkling that Stella was a force to be reckoned with, in Rise of a Kingdom, you truly understand how strong, smart, determined and forceful she can be. But, under all that, she is also just a woman seeking recognition, a chance to prove her worth and be loved. Jaxon's growth is nothing to minimalise, he is a character that you despise to begin with but end up cheering for, for his ability to defend, desire and worship his most prized asset, his queen. This was truly amazing, engaging and enthralling writing with an excellent plot.
April 17, 2023
I loved this book. Stella is a very strong woman and doesn't take shit from anyone and will destroy anyone who hurts her or her husband Jaxon. Jaxon is a billionaire and they were forced into marriage but ended up being in love with each other despite the obstacles that are put n their way.
I didn't care for a couple of sex things and how he used some crude words to her but she liked it.
There is a lot of triggers in this book, Graphic V!olence, Assault, Murder, , Knife Play, Domestic V!olence, B0ndage, Forced Marriage, Dark Themes.
I didn't care for a couple of sex things and how he used some crude words to her but she liked it.
There is a lot of triggers in this book, Graphic V!olence, Assault, Murder, , Knife Play, Domestic V!olence, B0ndage, Forced Marriage, Dark Themes.
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