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Kingmaker Trilogy #1
King of Nothing
I’m not the sort of girl you take home to meet your parents.
But our marriage of convenience is the perfect revenge…
I find Darren Walker drowning himself in expensive whiskey. Young, handsome, and educated, he’s the playboy son of a U.S. Senator, and his father’s sudden death has hit him harder than expected.
When he offers me millions of dollars to marry him, I want to tell him that I can’t be bought.
But of course, that’s not true, and Darren is prepared to play dirty.
He’s made it his life’s mission to squander his potential in order to avoid living in his father’s shadow. But if he wants to see even one cent of his trust fund, he needs a wife. And not just any wife will do.
Ours will purely be a marriage of convenience, and I’m going to be his final, perfect revenge.
My name is Evangeline Bowen, and I’m an escort to the rich and powerful. But soon I’ll be the wife of a Senator’s son, who thinks he knows all my dark secrets.
All of them, except for one…
King of Nothing is the first book in The Kingmaker trilogy, a steamy marriage of convenience romance full of political scandal. The books must be read in order for the best reader experience.
But our marriage of convenience is the perfect revenge…
I find Darren Walker drowning himself in expensive whiskey. Young, handsome, and educated, he’s the playboy son of a U.S. Senator, and his father’s sudden death has hit him harder than expected.
When he offers me millions of dollars to marry him, I want to tell him that I can’t be bought.
But of course, that’s not true, and Darren is prepared to play dirty.
He’s made it his life’s mission to squander his potential in order to avoid living in his father’s shadow. But if he wants to see even one cent of his trust fund, he needs a wife. And not just any wife will do.
Ours will purely be a marriage of convenience, and I’m going to be his final, perfect revenge.
My name is Evangeline Bowen, and I’m an escort to the rich and powerful. But soon I’ll be the wife of a Senator’s son, who thinks he knows all my dark secrets.
All of them, except for one…
King of Nothing is the first book in The Kingmaker trilogy, a steamy marriage of convenience romance full of political scandal. The books must be read in order for the best reader experience.
234 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 12, 2024
About the author
Paula Dombrowiak
87 books349 followersPaula Dombrowiak grew up in the suburbs of Chicago, Illinois but currently lives in Arizona. She is the author of Blood and Bone, her first adult romance novel which combines her love of music and imperfect relationships. Paula is a lifelong music junkie, whose wardrobe consists of band T-shirts and leggings which are perpetually covered in pet hair. Music is what inspires her storytelling.
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CHECK OUT MY WEBSITE
www.pauladombrowiak.com
BUY DIRECT FROM ME
https://payhip.com/PaulaDombrowiakBooks
FOLLOW ME
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/pauladombro...
TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@pauladombrowiak
Facebook Reader Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/39278...
Twitter https://twitter.com/PDombrowiak
BookBub https://www.bookbub.com/profile/paula...
Amazon https://www.amazon.com/~/e/B08KQGG6K4
SUBSCRIBE TO MY NEWSLETTER
http://eepurl.com/he_zk1
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
April 1, 2024
Nearly all sex and very little plot. The characters aren't appealing either. That's what I get for choosing a romance book based on TikTok.
Read
March 15, 2024Thank you to Paula Dombrowiak for sending me an arc of this book!
The story in this book revolves around Evangeline, a high-end escort for the rich and famous, and Darren, the playboy bachelor son of a senator. After Darren's parents tragically pass away in a helicopter accident, he gets drunk and hires Evangeline. The following morning, Darren learns that he cannot access his inheritance and has no money unless he gets married. In order to rectify the situation, Darren announces that Evangeline and him are getting married (#marriageofconvenience). He agrees to pay her $5 million to marry him for a year.
The couple quickly likes each other and seem to be friends. They are having sex pretty much the entire book, so there's plenty of spice.
If you like marriage of convenience books with a playboy hero and a heroine who has a lot of secrets of her own, give this a chance!
The story in this book revolves around Evangeline, a high-end escort for the rich and famous, and Darren, the playboy bachelor son of a senator. After Darren's parents tragically pass away in a helicopter accident, he gets drunk and hires Evangeline. The following morning, Darren learns that he cannot access his inheritance and has no money unless he gets married. In order to rectify the situation, Darren announces that Evangeline and him are getting married (#marriageofconvenience). He agrees to pay her $5 million to marry him for a year.
The couple quickly likes each other and seem to be friends. They are having sex pretty much the entire book, so there's plenty of spice.
If you like marriage of convenience books with a playboy hero and a heroine who has a lot of secrets of her own, give this a chance!
June 26, 2025
2,5 ⭐️
This was exactly what I expected. And I needed it. Those kind of books a don’t have to be good to get me binging them in just 2 or 3 days. Although, some lines were decent and I have them right here:
“Every man’s life ends in the same way. It is only the details of how he lived and how he died that distinguish one man from another.”
“No love can be bound by oath or covenant to secure it against a higher love.”
“It’s a dead language like Latin.” […] “Not dead, just lost.”
Those were the things that stood out to me in a literary kind of way. But of course that’s not what the book was written for, so I won’t judge any of it for that.
I can’t really name any specific arguments for my rating, I’m just giving this book this rating based off of my emotions because I’m a human being and those tend to make decisions by relying on their emotions rather than facts.
Anyway, the whole concept of “marriage of convenience” isn’t really my thing and the abrupt sexual desires they had for each other were (in my opinion) a little weird. I don’t even know how to explain but the guy Darren gave me the ICK throughout the book and I couldn’t really stand him until he said something like “hands off my wife” and then punched that guy in the face lmao.
I’m just happy it’s over and I’m glad it was only 220 pages or something like that.
This was exactly what I expected. And I needed it. Those kind of books a don’t have to be good to get me binging them in just 2 or 3 days. Although, some lines were decent and I have them right here:
“Every man’s life ends in the same way. It is only the details of how he lived and how he died that distinguish one man from another.”
“No love can be bound by oath or covenant to secure it against a higher love.”
“It’s a dead language like Latin.” […] “Not dead, just lost.”
Those were the things that stood out to me in a literary kind of way. But of course that’s not what the book was written for, so I won’t judge any of it for that.
I can’t really name any specific arguments for my rating, I’m just giving this book this rating based off of my emotions because I’m a human being and those tend to make decisions by relying on their emotions rather than facts.
Anyway, the whole concept of “marriage of convenience” isn’t really my thing and the abrupt sexual desires they had for each other were (in my opinion) a little weird. I don’t even know how to explain but the guy Darren gave me the ICK throughout the book and I couldn’t really stand him until he said something like “hands off my wife” and then punched that guy in the face lmao.
I’m just happy it’s over and I’m glad it was only 220 pages or something like that.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 28, 2024
Was truly the King of NOTHING
DNFed
DNFed
March 9, 2024
first thank you to the author for sending me this arc.
Darren Walker is the son of a senator & has lived his life as a playboy & drinking. He had no worries until tragedy hits and he loses his parents. In order to get his trust fund he has to either marry or wait until he hits 30. Choosing the easy way, he proposes an escort Evangeline to be his wife. Evangeline has a secret of her own.
since I picked up the book I couldn’t put it down. I was hooked from the beginning.
It was giving me a pretty women vibes honestly & I was here for it!!
I felt like it was fast paced. The spice here was so hot.
Oh and there was the my wife scene not once but TWICE???? yesssss !!
This does end on a cliffhanger and I’m counting down the days because I need to know what happens next!!
read this if you like :
- political scandal
- he’s the son of a senator x she’s an escort
- marriage of convenience
- my wife
Darren Walker is the son of a senator & has lived his life as a playboy & drinking. He had no worries until tragedy hits and he loses his parents. In order to get his trust fund he has to either marry or wait until he hits 30. Choosing the easy way, he proposes an escort Evangeline to be his wife. Evangeline has a secret of her own.
since I picked up the book I couldn’t put it down. I was hooked from the beginning.
It was giving me a pretty women vibes honestly & I was here for it!!
I felt like it was fast paced. The spice here was so hot.
Oh and there was the my wife scene not once but TWICE???? yesssss !!
This does end on a cliffhanger and I’m counting down the days because I need to know what happens next!!
read this if you like :
- political scandal
- he’s the son of a senator x she’s an escort
- marriage of convenience
- my wife
March 13, 2024
I NEED, the next Book NOW!!!! This was an Awesome Book. This is part 1, of the " Kings of Nothing," in the "Kingmaker Trilogy." I couldn't put this book down. It was Awesome. 💓 Darren and Evangeline , they were the perfect match, from he beginning.
This book has great chemistry, Perfect match, secerts, lies, high ended escorts, darkness, desire, hidden agendas keeping you on your toes, unpredictable, entertaining, emotions runs deep, wonder characters, funny, page turner, wonderful plot, love story, wonderful secondary characters, 💓 the cover (fitting for this book), spicy, page turner, marriage of convenience, and I can go on and on. This book does, ends in a Cliffhanger, but, its So Awesome. I'm definitely, reading the next books. I'm also, putting this on my reread list. This is A Must Read. You will Not be Disappointed, well you will be at the end, because its a cliffhanger, but you will be So Glad, you did.
This book has great chemistry, Perfect match, secerts, lies, high ended escorts, darkness, desire, hidden agendas keeping you on your toes, unpredictable, entertaining, emotions runs deep, wonder characters, funny, page turner, wonderful plot, love story, wonderful secondary characters, 💓 the cover (fitting for this book), spicy, page turner, marriage of convenience, and I can go on and on. This book does, ends in a Cliffhanger, but, its So Awesome. I'm definitely, reading the next books. I'm also, putting this on my reread list. This is A Must Read. You will Not be Disappointed, well you will be at the end, because its a cliffhanger, but you will be So Glad, you did.
March 12, 2024
ARC kindly provided for the author in exchange for an honest review
Since Paula Dombrowiak announced this new project I have been waiting for it with great excitement because King Of Nothing is the first book by this author that moves away from rock stars to make way for the corrupt world of politics, and I think she did it spectacularly! Darren & Evangeline made it impossible for me to put the book down until I finished it and I loved every moment of them, I also fell in love with Alastair and I hope Paula gives him his own trilogy, maybe with that violinist?🤔🙏
Evangeline is a goddess! A girl who had to give up her dreams to become a luxury escort, her clients are the richest and most privileged men in the United States. But Evan is much more than just a pretty face: to begin with, I loved reading her confronting Darren with his many privileges, stopping him when necessary and stealing his heart little by little, in addition, Evangeline also has some secrets that make her an even more interesting character and I am dying for Paula to develop this girl's plot more because I need to know about her.
Darren is the son of a senator, rich, spoiled, handsome, privileged and so lost, he carries a great weight on his shoulders, and although he has everything to be a character that I could hate it, it broke my heart to read him thinking about his parents, the disappointment his decisions cause his dad and how much his mom means to him. I also liked reading his friendship with Alastair, how they are both completely immature when the book begins and also how they seem to start growing towards the end.
Evangeline & Darren meet on a particularly complicated night for both of them, and from that moment on everything changes because Darren needs a wife to have access to his inheritance, and Evangeline is the perfect option, and so these two end up sharing a house and a connection that strengthens every time Darren shows himself vulnerable & real to Evangeline, but they never lost their funny, revealing and tenderbanter!
👑Darrel: 5/5
👑Evangeline: 5/5
👑Plot: 5/5
👑Love story: 4/5
👑Secondary characters: 4/5
👑Cover: 5/5
🌶️: 3/5
ARC amablemente proporcionada por la autora a cambio de una reseña honesta
Desde que Paula Dombrowiak anunció este nuevo proyecto lo he estado esperando con mucha emoción porque King Of Nothing es el primer libro de la autora que se aleja las estrellas de rock para darle paso al corrupto mundo de la política, y creo que lo hizo de manera espectacular! Darren & Evangeline me hicieron imposible dejar el libro hasta terminarlo y amé cada momento de ellos, también me enamoré de Alastair y espero que Paula le de su propia trilogía, ¿tal vez con esa violinista?🤔🙏
Evangeline es una diosa! Una chica que tuvo que dejar sus sueños para convertirse en una escort de lujo, y sus clientes son los hombres más ricos y privilegiados de los Estados Unidos. Pero Evan es mucho más que una cara bonita: para empezar me encantó leerla confrontando a Darren con sus muchos privilegios, poniéndole un alto cuando es necesario y robando su corazón poco a poco, además, Evangeline también tiene algunos secretos que la hacen un personaje aún más interesante y me muero por que Paula desarrolle más la trama de esta chica porque necesito saber de ella.
Darren es el hijo de un senador, rico, malcriado, guapo, privilegiado y MUY perdido, carga un gran peso sobre sus hombros, y aunque tiene todo para ser un personaje que yo podría odiar, me rompió el corazón leerlo pensando en sus padres, en la decepción que sus decisiones le causa a su papá y en lo mucho que su mamá significa para él. También me gustó leer su amistad con Alastair, como los dos son completamente inmaduros cuando empieza el libro y también como parecen empezar a crecer hacía el final.
Evangeline & Darren se conocen en una noche particularmente complicada para ambos, y a partir de ese momento todo cambia porque Darren necesita con urgencia una esposa para tener acceso a su herencia, y Evangeline es la opción perfecta, y así que estos dos terminan compartiendo casa y una conexión que se fortalece cada vez que Darren se muestra vulnerable & real ante Evangeline, pero nunca dejan sus discusiones iniciales que son demasiado divertidas, reveladoras y tiernas.
👑Darrel: 5/5
👑Evangeline: 5/5
👑Trama: 5/5
👑Historia de amor: 4/5
👑Personajes secundarios: 4/5
👑Portada: 5/5
🌶️: 3/5
Since Paula Dombrowiak announced this new project I have been waiting for it with great excitement because King Of Nothing is the first book by this author that moves away from rock stars to make way for the corrupt world of politics, and I think she did it spectacularly! Darren & Evangeline made it impossible for me to put the book down until I finished it and I loved every moment of them, I also fell in love with Alastair and I hope Paula gives him his own trilogy, maybe with that violinist?🤔🙏
Evangeline is a goddess! A girl who had to give up her dreams to become a luxury escort, her clients are the richest and most privileged men in the United States. But Evan is much more than just a pretty face: to begin with, I loved reading her confronting Darren with his many privileges, stopping him when necessary and stealing his heart little by little, in addition, Evangeline also has some secrets that make her an even more interesting character and I am dying for Paula to develop this girl's plot more because I need to know about her.
Darren is the son of a senator, rich, spoiled, handsome, privileged and so lost, he carries a great weight on his shoulders, and although he has everything to be a character that I could hate it, it broke my heart to read him thinking about his parents, the disappointment his decisions cause his dad and how much his mom means to him. I also liked reading his friendship with Alastair, how they are both completely immature when the book begins and also how they seem to start growing towards the end.
Evangeline & Darren meet on a particularly complicated night for both of them, and from that moment on everything changes because Darren needs a wife to have access to his inheritance, and Evangeline is the perfect option, and so these two end up sharing a house and a connection that strengthens every time Darren shows himself vulnerable & real to Evangeline, but they never lost their funny, revealing and tenderbanter!
👑Darrel: 5/5
👑Evangeline: 5/5
👑Plot: 5/5
👑Love story: 4/5
👑Secondary characters: 4/5
👑Cover: 5/5
🌶️: 3/5
ARC amablemente proporcionada por la autora a cambio de una reseña honesta
Desde que Paula Dombrowiak anunció este nuevo proyecto lo he estado esperando con mucha emoción porque King Of Nothing es el primer libro de la autora que se aleja las estrellas de rock para darle paso al corrupto mundo de la política, y creo que lo hizo de manera espectacular! Darren & Evangeline me hicieron imposible dejar el libro hasta terminarlo y amé cada momento de ellos, también me enamoré de Alastair y espero que Paula le de su propia trilogía, ¿tal vez con esa violinista?🤔🙏
Evangeline es una diosa! Una chica que tuvo que dejar sus sueños para convertirse en una escort de lujo, y sus clientes son los hombres más ricos y privilegiados de los Estados Unidos. Pero Evan es mucho más que una cara bonita: para empezar me encantó leerla confrontando a Darren con sus muchos privilegios, poniéndole un alto cuando es necesario y robando su corazón poco a poco, además, Evangeline también tiene algunos secretos que la hacen un personaje aún más interesante y me muero por que Paula desarrolle más la trama de esta chica porque necesito saber de ella.
Darren es el hijo de un senador, rico, malcriado, guapo, privilegiado y MUY perdido, carga un gran peso sobre sus hombros, y aunque tiene todo para ser un personaje que yo podría odiar, me rompió el corazón leerlo pensando en sus padres, en la decepción que sus decisiones le causa a su papá y en lo mucho que su mamá significa para él. También me gustó leer su amistad con Alastair, como los dos son completamente inmaduros cuando empieza el libro y también como parecen empezar a crecer hacía el final.
Evangeline & Darren se conocen en una noche particularmente complicada para ambos, y a partir de ese momento todo cambia porque Darren necesita con urgencia una esposa para tener acceso a su herencia, y Evangeline es la opción perfecta, y así que estos dos terminan compartiendo casa y una conexión que se fortalece cada vez que Darren se muestra vulnerable & real ante Evangeline, pero nunca dejan sus discusiones iniciales que son demasiado divertidas, reveladoras y tiernas.
👑Darrel: 5/5
👑Evangeline: 5/5
👑Trama: 5/5
👑Historia de amor: 4/5
👑Personajes secundarios: 4/5
👑Portada: 5/5
🌶️: 3/5
March 17, 2024
Intoxicating, thrilling, and so very sinfully sexy.... this story completely consumed me in the very best of ways! I am literally OBSESSED with this exciting new series!
Right from the start this story is so incredibly written, it pulls you in deep. These characters, their dynamic, the intrigue, the sexy tension...just OHMIGAH! It's one hell of a scandalously tantalizing tale that leaves you utterly hooked, addicted, and craving more.
As an escort to some of Washington's most elite and powerful men, Evangeline Bowen is a young woman who knows handle herself. Gorgeous, smart, and observant, she's more than just another pretty face used for decoration or for her body. She's a woman with her own agenda and knows how to play the game in a world of wealth and privilege. We'll, that is until Darren Walker makes her an offer she can't refuse...
Charming, wealthy, handsome, and highly educated, Darren Walker is a playboy with too much money and is far too pretty for his own good. For years, he’s made it his life’s mission to squander his potential in order to avoid living in his father’s shadow. When tragedy strikes and his parents are killed, the man known as the Kingmaker demands he start living up to his potential or he won't see a dime of his trust. Prepared to do whatever to get what he wants, Darren is willing to play dirty but, he never planned on a woman quite like Evangeline. They say that the downfall of every man is underestimating a beautiful woman....only will she become his downfall or their marriage of convenience begin to change him into the King he was destined to be....
Damn this book was SO GOOD! I couldn't get enough of the dynamic between Evangeline and Dare! It's as hot and heavy as it is gripping. The way their drawn together is intoxicating. You can't quite figure it out but you feel that need, the obsession, and the pull towards one another. Their marriage may be built on a foundation of revenge, spite, and lust but, they're also unlikely allies in a sea of sharks...and as they grow closer, you question will they become each other's downfall or salvation.
I loved Evan! She's one hell of an intriguing woman who's confident and bold, guarded and strong, and so unapologetically herself which I found to be completely badass! Evan definitely keeps you on your toes all while you're trying to figure out her secrets...especially the one she doesn't want you to know 😉
Dare is a character that grows on you throughout the story. At first he comes across very much like the cocky, arrogant, presumptuous wealthy playboy who's used to getting what he wants making you question if he has any redeeming qualities. I loved his growth, his vunerable side, his protective nature, and while he could be an 🍑, there were moments when he could be so damn endearing.
It's been a while since I've read a book in one sitting and I literally did not want to put this one down! It's the type of story you can't stop reading because you're enjoying it so freaking much! This was marriage of convenience and political intrigue AWESOMENESS!! Seriously, get this gem on your TBR NOW! It's one amazing read you won't want to miss!
Right from the start this story is so incredibly written, it pulls you in deep. These characters, their dynamic, the intrigue, the sexy tension...just OHMIGAH! It's one hell of a scandalously tantalizing tale that leaves you utterly hooked, addicted, and craving more.
As an escort to some of Washington's most elite and powerful men, Evangeline Bowen is a young woman who knows handle herself. Gorgeous, smart, and observant, she's more than just another pretty face used for decoration or for her body. She's a woman with her own agenda and knows how to play the game in a world of wealth and privilege. We'll, that is until Darren Walker makes her an offer she can't refuse...
Charming, wealthy, handsome, and highly educated, Darren Walker is a playboy with too much money and is far too pretty for his own good. For years, he’s made it his life’s mission to squander his potential in order to avoid living in his father’s shadow. When tragedy strikes and his parents are killed, the man known as the Kingmaker demands he start living up to his potential or he won't see a dime of his trust. Prepared to do whatever to get what he wants, Darren is willing to play dirty but, he never planned on a woman quite like Evangeline. They say that the downfall of every man is underestimating a beautiful woman....only will she become his downfall or their marriage of convenience begin to change him into the King he was destined to be....
Damn this book was SO GOOD! I couldn't get enough of the dynamic between Evangeline and Dare! It's as hot and heavy as it is gripping. The way their drawn together is intoxicating. You can't quite figure it out but you feel that need, the obsession, and the pull towards one another. Their marriage may be built on a foundation of revenge, spite, and lust but, they're also unlikely allies in a sea of sharks...and as they grow closer, you question will they become each other's downfall or salvation.
I loved Evan! She's one hell of an intriguing woman who's confident and bold, guarded and strong, and so unapologetically herself which I found to be completely badass! Evan definitely keeps you on your toes all while you're trying to figure out her secrets...especially the one she doesn't want you to know 😉
Dare is a character that grows on you throughout the story. At first he comes across very much like the cocky, arrogant, presumptuous wealthy playboy who's used to getting what he wants making you question if he has any redeeming qualities. I loved his growth, his vunerable side, his protective nature, and while he could be an 🍑, there were moments when he could be so damn endearing.
It's been a while since I've read a book in one sitting and I literally did not want to put this one down! It's the type of story you can't stop reading because you're enjoying it so freaking much! This was marriage of convenience and political intrigue AWESOMENESS!! Seriously, get this gem on your TBR NOW! It's one amazing read you won't want to miss!
March 20, 2024
The Kingmaker series by Paula Dombrowiak, starts off with quite an unexpected and twisty bang. It's been a long time since I've read a romance with such an edgy political setting, but after finishing King of Nothing, it has become a new form of catnip to me. The story grabbed me right away with the POV of a well paid, discreet escort, rubbing elbows with powerful men in the country's dog-eat-dog political scene.
Evangeline's persona and backstory were still a bit of a mystery to me by the end of the book, but she seemed to be an old jaded soul in a younger women's body. Her beauty was the mask and intelligence was her secret weapon when dealing with the sharks she often swam with.
Darren was a smart, but debauched silver spooned partier, until his life was changed in an instant. He was making bad decisions in a haze, and some of them were not so easily swept under the rug. I felt like tragedy became the turning point to see his path forward, but only time will tell what that future could be.
Theirs was an opposites attraction, with instantly combustable heat burning between them. What an unlikely pair they were- or were they? Will this couple navigate their stormy, dangerous world together, or were they bound for disaster from the start?
I've gotten a tasty tease of Evangeline, Darren, and the key players introduced so far in this Kingmaker world, so I'm thrilled that there are two more books still to come to complete their compelling, modern day marriage of convenience story. I am hooked now, and counting the days until Queen of Ruin comes to momma, because...plot twist...there is a strategically placed cliffhanger ending. I'm here for all of it, to get what I hope will be an amazing HEA ending to this well told and intriguing story.
I received an early copy of this book to read and honestly review.
Evangeline's persona and backstory were still a bit of a mystery to me by the end of the book, but she seemed to be an old jaded soul in a younger women's body. Her beauty was the mask and intelligence was her secret weapon when dealing with the sharks she often swam with.
Darren was a smart, but debauched silver spooned partier, until his life was changed in an instant. He was making bad decisions in a haze, and some of them were not so easily swept under the rug. I felt like tragedy became the turning point to see his path forward, but only time will tell what that future could be.
Theirs was an opposites attraction, with instantly combustable heat burning between them. What an unlikely pair they were- or were they? Will this couple navigate their stormy, dangerous world together, or were they bound for disaster from the start?
I've gotten a tasty tease of Evangeline, Darren, and the key players introduced so far in this Kingmaker world, so I'm thrilled that there are two more books still to come to complete their compelling, modern day marriage of convenience story. I am hooked now, and counting the days until Queen of Ruin comes to momma, because...plot twist...there is a strategically placed cliffhanger ending. I'm here for all of it, to get what I hope will be an amazing HEA ending to this well told and intriguing story.
I received an early copy of this book to read and honestly review.
March 14, 2024
Oh. My. Gosh! What a smashing start to a new series! This is book 1 of 3 in the Kingmaker series. Darren is broken and drowning in whiskey when he meets Evangeline. She is broken, too, in a different way, but hides it much better. Darren drags Evangeline down with him, which in turn, might save them both… if she can keep her secret hidden…
I read this book in less than a day. I could not put it down! It had me guessing right up until the very end… and I can’t wait to see where their story goes next!! Political scandals, side characters with their own agendas, secrets, lies, deceit. And despite all of that, the book isn’t too angsty. It was the perfect blend of mysterious characters and questionable morals. Both Darren and Evangeline are complicated main characters with many layers… Darren is much easier to read, and he lets his vulnerability show sometimes, but I know there’s more to him that we haven’t seen yet. Evangeline is still somewhat of a mystery that I’m sure will be unraveled a bit more in the next book, and I can’t wait! But seriously. That ending will live in my head until the next book comes out and I find out what happens!! Brava, Paula Dombrowiak. Chef’s kiss.
I read this book in less than a day. I could not put it down! It had me guessing right up until the very end… and I can’t wait to see where their story goes next!! Political scandals, side characters with their own agendas, secrets, lies, deceit. And despite all of that, the book isn’t too angsty. It was the perfect blend of mysterious characters and questionable morals. Both Darren and Evangeline are complicated main characters with many layers… Darren is much easier to read, and he lets his vulnerability show sometimes, but I know there’s more to him that we haven’t seen yet. Evangeline is still somewhat of a mystery that I’m sure will be unraveled a bit more in the next book, and I can’t wait! But seriously. That ending will live in my head until the next book comes out and I find out what happens!! Brava, Paula Dombrowiak. Chef’s kiss.
March 13, 2024
Amazing Start to this New Series!
Paula has been a one click author for me since I read Blood and Bone. I fell for Jack fast and hard in that book and he has held my heart in his hand since. I did not think another book boyfriend could make him share, but alas, Darren has succeeded in the impossible. King of Nothing has the perfect broken boy who meets a broken girl and together they are setting their world on fire. I love the character development, the range and depth of emotions that I felt while reading the book and I loved the chemistry between Evangeline and Darren. The story is one that sucked me in immediately and has it’s cold hard grip on my heart, refusing to let it go - I suspect I won’t get it back until I finish reading the last book in this trilogy. That ending . . that ending shredded my heart for Darren. I don’t know what to think or how to feel. Ms. Dombrowiak I need the next book now!!!!
Paula has been a one click author for me since I read Blood and Bone. I fell for Jack fast and hard in that book and he has held my heart in his hand since. I did not think another book boyfriend could make him share, but alas, Darren has succeeded in the impossible. King of Nothing has the perfect broken boy who meets a broken girl and together they are setting their world on fire. I love the character development, the range and depth of emotions that I felt while reading the book and I loved the chemistry between Evangeline and Darren. The story is one that sucked me in immediately and has it’s cold hard grip on my heart, refusing to let it go - I suspect I won’t get it back until I finish reading the last book in this trilogy. That ending . . that ending shredded my heart for Darren. I don’t know what to think or how to feel. Ms. Dombrowiak I need the next book now!!!!
April 16, 2026
3.5/5
I started off really just not liking it. Another escort/sex worker that is going to end up with a client. I'm not fond of these types of books and if they end up on my TBR I will read them, but I tend to not pick on them in reviews because I know they aren't for me.
But then this book started to win me over, though I'm still not sure why. They don't know enough about each other for the feelings they are going through already. But okay, let's look past that, there's still an interesting little mystery unraveling here.
And then the ending came. I despise cliffhangers that are drop off cliffhangers. In other words, it tried to conclude nothing. Something that should have been a chapter ending was a book ending with the intention to make you buy the sequels. I think this could have wrapped up a little more evenly and still left the cliffhanger. I'll still read the next one.
I started off really just not liking it. Another escort/sex worker that is going to end up with a client. I'm not fond of these types of books and if they end up on my TBR I will read them, but I tend to not pick on them in reviews because I know they aren't for me.
But then this book started to win me over, though I'm still not sure why. They don't know enough about each other for the feelings they are going through already. But okay, let's look past that, there's still an interesting little mystery unraveling here.
And then the ending came. I despise cliffhangers that are drop off cliffhangers. In other words, it tried to conclude nothing. Something that should have been a chapter ending was a book ending with the intention to make you buy the sequels. I think this could have wrapped up a little more evenly and still left the cliffhanger. I'll still read the next one.
March 7, 2024
I NEED TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENS NEXT!!
This was such a good book! He was in need of a HUGE favor, and thanks to him, she was now unemployed and had to accept his too good to refuse offer.
The banter between Darren and Evangeline was so good! Evan is a strong FMC that knows how to hold her own and Darren, well he’s trying to figure out his life after some very unfortunate events. But, the way he treats Evangeline when they are together was so cute but also had me melting over here 🥵🫠
It ended too soon! On the cliffy-est of cliff hangers. I need to know how she knew Kerry and shat Darren will do!!
This was such a good book! He was in need of a HUGE favor, and thanks to him, she was now unemployed and had to accept his too good to refuse offer.
The banter between Darren and Evangeline was so good! Evan is a strong FMC that knows how to hold her own and Darren, well he’s trying to figure out his life after some very unfortunate events. But, the way he treats Evangeline when they are together was so cute but also had me melting over here 🥵🫠
It ended too soon! On the cliffy-est of cliff hangers. I need to know how she knew Kerry and shat Darren will do!!
March 11, 2024
This was a brilliant start to this trilogy, and if it continues this way, it will be 5 stars. But as it's just the start, and I always rate a little down because I don't know what the story will end like. So, at the end, I will come back and add an edit as to what my full opinion is.
Darren and Evangeline are a perfect match, but they hate each other and have from the start, but they spark with a strong chemistry. As the story unfolds and the secrets and lies all start to be uncovered, you get a glimpse of what to expect. I know I'm gonna dislike both characters at some points, but that will be for a reason.
It's really hard to really go into details as it will spoil it, but know it's a great read and the story is really enjoyable. And the cliffhanger isn't so bad. I totally recommend this book.
Darren and Evangeline are a perfect match, but they hate each other and have from the start, but they spark with a strong chemistry. As the story unfolds and the secrets and lies all start to be uncovered, you get a glimpse of what to expect. I know I'm gonna dislike both characters at some points, but that will be for a reason.
It's really hard to really go into details as it will spoil it, but know it's a great read and the story is really enjoyable. And the cliffhanger isn't so bad. I totally recommend this book.
March 24, 2024
4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
3.5 🌶🌶🌶1/2
This was my first read from @pauladombrowiak, and it did not disappoint! King of Nothing is the first in the Kingmaker series. It was a quick read that I finished in a day but really good. Left me on a bit of a cliffhanger, but I'll definitely be back for the second installment, Queen of Ruin due out in June '24.
Darren and Evangeline have great chemistry, and there's a bit of mystery surrounding her. I was loving watching their relationship unfold, and I can't wait to find out more. I'm not going to give anything away. You need to read for yourself. Definitely go grab this one!!
3.5 🌶🌶🌶1/2
This was my first read from @pauladombrowiak, and it did not disappoint! King of Nothing is the first in the Kingmaker series. It was a quick read that I finished in a day but really good. Left me on a bit of a cliffhanger, but I'll definitely be back for the second installment, Queen of Ruin due out in June '24.
Darren and Evangeline have great chemistry, and there's a bit of mystery surrounding her. I was loving watching their relationship unfold, and I can't wait to find out more. I'm not going to give anything away. You need to read for yourself. Definitely go grab this one!!
March 3, 2024
4.5
Marriage of convenience
Reformed playboy
Banter/tension/spice
“My wife”
This was my FIRST book by this author, and it definitely won’t be the last. This short marriage of convenience is exactly what I needed. This plot line for a fake marriage is not one I’ve read before so that Drew me in immediately. Senators son marries an escort?! Yes please!
I was immediately hooked from page one! Darren and Evangeline aren’t perfect but they’re perfect together. This is an amazing start to a series I’m excited to able to read! But beware the cliffhanger!
Marriage of convenience
Reformed playboy
Banter/tension/spice
“My wife”
This was my FIRST book by this author, and it definitely won’t be the last. This short marriage of convenience is exactly what I needed. This plot line for a fake marriage is not one I’ve read before so that Drew me in immediately. Senators son marries an escort?! Yes please!
I was immediately hooked from page one! Darren and Evangeline aren’t perfect but they’re perfect together. This is an amazing start to a series I’m excited to able to read! But beware the cliffhanger!
March 25, 2024
Darren Walker seems to have it all, but this man has no clue what the real world is like. Evangeline Bowen has been 'in the world,' she is a master at playing any roll. Darren and Evangeline meet under circumstances that would be normal for their respective professions, if not for a major twist. When the rules get broken, causing her to lose the only income she has, he offers her a deal of a lifetime. Marriage to him in the hopes of clearing up some deep family drama. Now, they just have to prove its real.
Dare is the stereotypical playboy, but the layers underneath the suit are mired in heartbreak and loneliness.
Eva is a take no nonsense woman of the night who is not to be messed with. She pulls no punches, telling you exactly how she feels. These two are perfect for each other, even though neither one of them seems to realize it. Their push and pull is red carpet level spice.
This is the first book in a trilogy that will have you hooked on page 1. While I was slightly curious about the new turn of political scandal, I knew that if anyone could make me enjoy this trope, it would be Ms. Dombrowiak. Though it derives from what this author has written before, it still holds much of what she's known for. The steam, sass, strongly written characters, and heartbreak that have become her trademarks are fully present. As much as I hate cliffhangers, this one does its job and has me screaming for book 2!
Dare is the stereotypical playboy, but the layers underneath the suit are mired in heartbreak and loneliness.
Eva is a take no nonsense woman of the night who is not to be messed with. She pulls no punches, telling you exactly how she feels. These two are perfect for each other, even though neither one of them seems to realize it. Their push and pull is red carpet level spice.
This is the first book in a trilogy that will have you hooked on page 1. While I was slightly curious about the new turn of political scandal, I knew that if anyone could make me enjoy this trope, it would be Ms. Dombrowiak. Though it derives from what this author has written before, it still holds much of what she's known for. The steam, sass, strongly written characters, and heartbreak that have become her trademarks are fully present. As much as I hate cliffhangers, this one does its job and has me screaming for book 2!
March 6, 2024
This was such a quick and short read!
I was hooked from the beginning, the chemistry between these two was absolute amazing and the banter had me kicking my feet!! This was such an easy read and I absolutely fell in love with the characters. The twists leave you wanting more and the cliff hanger… ahhh
Something i’m terrible at is trying new authors, but this was so worth it🫶🏼
Thank you Paula for giving me a copy of your absolutely amazing book:)
I was hooked from the beginning, the chemistry between these two was absolute amazing and the banter had me kicking my feet!! This was such an easy read and I absolutely fell in love with the characters. The twists leave you wanting more and the cliff hanger… ahhh
Something i’m terrible at is trying new authors, but this was so worth it🫶🏼
Thank you Paula for giving me a copy of your absolutely amazing book:)
March 12, 2024
Awesome Contemporary Romance with marriage of convenience, political scandal, secrets, and witty dialogue. Darren and Evangeline have different lifestyles and steamy chemistry. Cliffhanger! Can’t wait for Book 2! A Must Read!
March 6, 2024
This was so good!! Excellent story telling and great characters. The VA & DC setting are near and dear to my heart. Anxiously waiting for book 2 so we get details of the relationship being hinted at through the entire story!
March 14, 2024
This book was really good for a political romance with some level of spice can't wait to see what happens in the next book
March 6, 2024
Wow that book is amazing. I couldn't put it down. The plot is amazing and I fell in love with the Characters. That Cliffhanger though.....
April 1, 2024
I need book 2 like... yesterday???
I didn't know that book 1 was going to leave me on a savage cliffhanger and I absolutely need more of their story! I need to find out where Darren and Evangeline go from here... 200 some pages was not enough!
Darren is the partygoing son of a senator who dies in a tragic accident - but Darren unexpectedly can't receive his inheritance unless he's married... enter Evangeline, a professional escort who just HAPPENS to conveniently be there when Darren learns he needs to find a wife.
This somehow gives me Chuck Bass/Gossip Girl vibes but make them ten years older, it was great!
For Fans Of:
- Billionaire Romance
- Marriage of Convenience
- "My Wife"
- Political Scandal
I didn't know that book 1 was going to leave me on a savage cliffhanger and I absolutely need more of their story! I need to find out where Darren and Evangeline go from here... 200 some pages was not enough!
Darren is the partygoing son of a senator who dies in a tragic accident - but Darren unexpectedly can't receive his inheritance unless he's married... enter Evangeline, a professional escort who just HAPPENS to conveniently be there when Darren learns he needs to find a wife.
This somehow gives me Chuck Bass/Gossip Girl vibes but make them ten years older, it was great!
For Fans Of:
- Billionaire Romance
- Marriage of Convenience
- "My Wife"
- Political Scandal
June 21, 2024
I absolutely adored this book! It had all the drama, suspense, and of course, spice! Man, the spice... Whew! 🥵🥵🥵 I could not put it down...
Paula executed the characters perfectly, and her attention to detail with the scenes and imagery were out of this world.
But what I loved about this book the most was all the feels... especially those tingly ones. 😏
This has to be my favourite book by Paula, along with Beautiful Lies, and I can't wait to get my hand on the next in the KingMaker Series.
Paula executed the characters perfectly, and her attention to detail with the scenes and imagery were out of this world.
But what I loved about this book the most was all the feels... especially those tingly ones. 😏
This has to be my favourite book by Paula, along with Beautiful Lies, and I can't wait to get my hand on the next in the KingMaker Series.
March 10, 2024
This was a great weekend read! Steamy scenes and a saucy plot. A secret withheld and then revealed. Leaving on a cliffhanger, and now I am biting my nails to find out what happens next. I recommend this to all of my fellow romance lovers. I won't say anything more as I do not do spoilers
June 12, 2024
Boo throw your tomatoes at this book. A waste of time and energy, I know art is subjective but this was lame , don’t believe the TikTok hype.
September 11, 2024
Disappointed
I cannot believe I paid for this Book. The story could be combined into one book instead of paying for three books. The writing was hard to follow.
I cannot believe I paid for this Book. The story could be combined into one book instead of paying for three books. The writing was hard to follow.
March 13, 2024
If you have ever read one of Paula's books you know her best ones are full of The 3 great S's: Suspense, Secrets, and Sex....and this new series is not going to disappoint.
Darren is a spoiled rich play boy and while in Vegas partying he learns of his father a Senator and his mother a woman from "old" money are in a helicopter crash and unfortunately did not survive. Despite Darren's strained relationship with his father he goes on a sad drinking bender. Where he meets Evangeline.
Evangeline is an escort to the most influential men in the country, mostly politicians. When her latest job is interrupted by an emergency, she finds out it is a Senator from her past that left a large impression on her. How we actually don't know but I have a feeling we may find out it is.much more than an escort relationship. She runs into or actually follows a very drunk Darren who she knows is this Senators son from her past. She has no idea going with him back to his suite will change her life, job, and her future in more ways than one.
When Darren needs to either find a wife or tie up his inheritance in probate for years he chooses the only logical thing, ask Evangeline to marry him. I mean when in Vegas. But he doesn't really give her a choice when he makes sure she doesn't have a job to stay in Vegas. Evangeline may have no reason to stay in Vegas but she is no dummy when she accepts Darren's marriage proposal, she will be his wife in this crazy arrangement for the sum if 5 million.
There is much more to know about Evangeline's and Darren's story but I am not sure we as the reader know everything there is to know. Just like the layers of a true politician we are going to have to wait for book 2 in the series to find out all the dirty secrets. Don't let the idea of a cliffhanger deter you from grabbing this book because it is that good.
Darren is a spoiled rich play boy and while in Vegas partying he learns of his father a Senator and his mother a woman from "old" money are in a helicopter crash and unfortunately did not survive. Despite Darren's strained relationship with his father he goes on a sad drinking bender. Where he meets Evangeline.
Evangeline is an escort to the most influential men in the country, mostly politicians. When her latest job is interrupted by an emergency, she finds out it is a Senator from her past that left a large impression on her. How we actually don't know but I have a feeling we may find out it is.much more than an escort relationship. She runs into or actually follows a very drunk Darren who she knows is this Senators son from her past. She has no idea going with him back to his suite will change her life, job, and her future in more ways than one.
When Darren needs to either find a wife or tie up his inheritance in probate for years he chooses the only logical thing, ask Evangeline to marry him. I mean when in Vegas. But he doesn't really give her a choice when he makes sure she doesn't have a job to stay in Vegas. Evangeline may have no reason to stay in Vegas but she is no dummy when she accepts Darren's marriage proposal, she will be his wife in this crazy arrangement for the sum if 5 million.
There is much more to know about Evangeline's and Darren's story but I am not sure we as the reader know everything there is to know. Just like the layers of a true politician we are going to have to wait for book 2 in the series to find out all the dirty secrets. Don't let the idea of a cliffhanger deter you from grabbing this book because it is that good.
March 19, 2024
DAMN! That was one hell of an intoxicating, exhilarating, sexy and sinfully delicious start to this thrilling new series. I was instantly entranced, and devoured every delectable and heady moment of it!
Evangeline pulled me into her world of scandalous beauty, volatile secrets, and salacious games of cat and mouse, and I never wanted to leave. She is a fierce and smart woman who uses her body to survive. But Evangeline has her own reasoning behind why does what she does, and we don’t quite know what that is yet. I loved her tenacity, determination and strength. She was a force to be reckoned with and I can only see her growing stronger as the story progresses.
Darren and Evangeline are so wrong for each other but yet so right together. Their unique dynamic is what keeps you intrigued with them and the sexual tension that continually surrounds them was powerful and electrifying.
Their banter was filled with wit, sarcasm, and little barbs against one another, but the powerful energy that connected them was sinfully delicious. And when they gave into the insane lust, desire and cravings that they had for each other, it set me (and my panties) on fire. So freaking HOT!
This story was incredibly well written with such amazing characters that you were either instantly drawn to or wanted to at least throttle, and the storyline was insanely addictive, suspenseful, thrilling, poignant, sexy and entertaining.
I am now obsessed with Darren and Evangeline and they have left me aching to know what was going to happen after that suspenseful and slightly shocking ending.
“You’re like a drug, Evangeline… I want to bury myself in you until there is nothing left of me.”
Evangeline pulled me into her world of scandalous beauty, volatile secrets, and salacious games of cat and mouse, and I never wanted to leave. She is a fierce and smart woman who uses her body to survive. But Evangeline has her own reasoning behind why does what she does, and we don’t quite know what that is yet. I loved her tenacity, determination and strength. She was a force to be reckoned with and I can only see her growing stronger as the story progresses.
Darren and Evangeline are so wrong for each other but yet so right together. Their unique dynamic is what keeps you intrigued with them and the sexual tension that continually surrounds them was powerful and electrifying.
Their banter was filled with wit, sarcasm, and little barbs against one another, but the powerful energy that connected them was sinfully delicious. And when they gave into the insane lust, desire and cravings that they had for each other, it set me (and my panties) on fire. So freaking HOT!
This story was incredibly well written with such amazing characters that you were either instantly drawn to or wanted to at least throttle, and the storyline was insanely addictive, suspenseful, thrilling, poignant, sexy and entertaining.
I am now obsessed with Darren and Evangeline and they have left me aching to know what was going to happen after that suspenseful and slightly shocking ending.
“You’re like a drug, Evangeline… I want to bury myself in you until there is nothing left of me.”
May 17, 2024
"King of Nothing" by Paula Dombrowiak is a gripping tale of revenge, deception, and unexpected romance that will keep readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish.
Evangeline Bowen, an escort with a past shrouded in secrecy, finds herself faced with an intriguing proposition from Darren Walker, the playboy son of a U.S. Senator. Struggling with the recent loss of his father, Darren offers Evangeline millions of dollars to enter into a marriage of convenience with him. As they embark on this unconventional arrangement, both Evangeline and Darren find themselves navigating a web of lies and hidden agendas, each with their own motivations and secrets.
Dombrowiak expertly weaves together a tale of intrigue and passion, drawing readers into a world where nothing is as it seems and every move is calculated. Evangeline and Darren's dynamic is electric, with sparks flying between them as they dance around their mutual attraction while keeping their true intentions hidden. The tension between them crackles with intensity, making for a riveting and emotionally charged read.
The author's skillful prose and well-developed characters bring the story to life, immersing readers in a world of wealth, power, and betrayal. Evangeline's strength and resilience make her a compelling protagonist, while Darren's complex character adds depth and intrigue to the narrative. Their journey from reluctant partners to unlikely allies is fraught with twists and turns, keeping readers guessing until the very end.
"King of Nothing" is a captivating and suspenseful read that will appeal to fans of romance and suspense alike. With its blend of intrigue, passion, and unexpected twists, it's a book that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.
Evangeline Bowen, an escort with a past shrouded in secrecy, finds herself faced with an intriguing proposition from Darren Walker, the playboy son of a U.S. Senator. Struggling with the recent loss of his father, Darren offers Evangeline millions of dollars to enter into a marriage of convenience with him. As they embark on this unconventional arrangement, both Evangeline and Darren find themselves navigating a web of lies and hidden agendas, each with their own motivations and secrets.
Dombrowiak expertly weaves together a tale of intrigue and passion, drawing readers into a world where nothing is as it seems and every move is calculated. Evangeline and Darren's dynamic is electric, with sparks flying between them as they dance around their mutual attraction while keeping their true intentions hidden. The tension between them crackles with intensity, making for a riveting and emotionally charged read.
The author's skillful prose and well-developed characters bring the story to life, immersing readers in a world of wealth, power, and betrayal. Evangeline's strength and resilience make her a compelling protagonist, while Darren's complex character adds depth and intrigue to the narrative. Their journey from reluctant partners to unlikely allies is fraught with twists and turns, keeping readers guessing until the very end.
"King of Nothing" is a captivating and suspenseful read that will appeal to fans of romance and suspense alike. With its blend of intrigue, passion, and unexpected twists, it's a book that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.
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