State of Union

Kingmaker Trilogy #3

by Paula Dombrowiak

Our marriage could make or break us…

Letting go of billionaire playboy Darren Walker was the right thing to do.

My life as a former escort will only damage his campaign for congress, and I’m too scared to admit I’ve fallen in love with my fake husband.

Except when Darren finds me and refuses to let me go, I can’t run from my feelings any longer. It’s time I have the courage to confess that he isn’t my husband in name only. He’s my everything.

All Darren wants is to carve out a future for himself while honoring his father’s legacy. But can I truly be the politician’s wife my husband needs when there are those who will use me to derail his campaign?

It doesn’t matter how much we love each other, I can’t change my past.

But we have no way of knowing that he has shocking family secrets that are yet to be revealed. Secrets bigger than me and powerful enough to destroy him.

And his enemies won’t stop until they’ve left him—and our marriage—in ruins…

The Kingmaker trilogy is a steamy, marriage of convenience, romance, in a political setting. State of Union is the final book in the trilogy with a guaranteed HEA. The books must be read in order, for the best reader experience.

Genres: Romance, Dark Romance, Second Chance, Marriage Of Convenience

240 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 10, 2024

About the author

Paula 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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Reviews

[B. C. Booklover · Rating 5 out of 5]

State of Union is the third book and twisty conclusion of Paula Dombrowiak's politically themed romance in the exciting Kingmaker Trilogy. Main characters Evangeline and Darren were opposites from completely different worlds, but  unusual circumstances, a little bit of blackmail and desperate promises entwined their lives in a marriage of convenience that becomes all too real.

The list of burning questions kept growing as this final stretch of their spicy romance revealed more secrets, lies, betrayals, and quite a few ah-ha moments. The political intrigue was off the charts with suspenseful plots brewing between the pages of this witty, clever and bingeworthy story.

Darren and Evangeline's romance defied all the odds, but they rose above their pasts, embracing legacies and their future with surprising turns, the joy of long time friendships and love triumphing above everything else. What a perfect way to end their emotionally charged story.

Lovers of political drama, romance with tons of heat and a good laugh along with way are going to love these books.

[Jenn M · Rating 5 out of 5]

So, so gooood!!!

The third installment of this series was well worth the wait. I don’t know how Paula does it, but she is able to take regular tropes and add twist and turns so that they all feel brand new again. I loved how the obstacles that Darren and Evangeline had to overcome where written in a way and addressed in a manner that you could feel the love that these two have between one another. I really have no words other than I’m very sad this series is over. It was amazing and I truly couldn’t put it down. If you haven’t started reading it, grab the first book, King of Nothing and clear your calendar. You won’t be coming up for air until you finish this book - that’s a promise.

[Sarah | Retro Girl Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

“State of Union” is the conclusion to author Paula Dombrowiak’s Kingmaker Trilogy, and it’s also the conclusion to Darren and Evangeline Walker’s story.

I honestly think that Darren and Evangeline have literally been through so much joy and happiness, angst and pain.

The way their relationship developed over the course of the three books is complete and utter perfection, and I loved every second of it.

Darren and Evangeline have such sizzling, fiery chemistry as well! I’ve always loved their connection, and I’ve been rooting for them to find happiness together this whole time.

To sum this up, I highly recommend Paula Dombrowiak as an author, and if you love the marriage of convenience trope, the Kingmaker Trilogy is definitely for you!

[Bella Street · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just like the first 2 books, I devoured this. I read it in one sitting and could not get enough, just like the other 2. I can’t ever focus long enough to finish a book in one sitting, but somehow Darren and Evangeline always hold my attention. I cannot get enough of them or their world. It’s sexy and classy and has just the right amount of drama mixed in with it. And don't even get me started on the scene with the one-way glass. Whew, talk about HOT.

I was absolutely heartbroken at the end of book 2, especially because we had yet ANOTHER cliffhanger. My heart wouldn’t have been able to handle yet another one if this book had one. Yet I still feel like I haven't had enough of Dare and Evan.

Can we take a minute and talk about the major Rausch bomb??? I mean that was fucking insane. It's been days and my mind is still reeling. I don't know why but I freaking love Alistair’s sister and I kind of hope we get to see more of her one day. She just seems like such a fun time and her scenes are for sure so interesting. But leave it to Cleo to spoil the *you know what at the end* before Darren could even ask and I fucking love Alistair. I was kind of hoping Cleo and Alistair would finally get together and I refuse to get my hopes up because well…Paris is the city of love.

I loved getting to see more of Kerry and Meril’s past and Rausch’s as well. And the amount of growth we get to see between Dare and Evan…and even Alistair? I LOVED IT. But I love the teasing relationship Alistaire and Darren have even more. They remind me so much of me and my friends. I really did not like Rausch at the beginning of the series, and I even hated him at one point. But when we learned about his past and got some insight into him is when he really grew on me. I had come to accept his character between the first book and that, but I didn't really appreciate him until that scene. I always loved how passionate he was about his work and how he took on Darren as his own. I just hated the way he went about it, but knowing what I know now I completely get it. And I absolutely adore the relationship they formed after his past came to light. I was obsessing over Rori and Darren’s relationship. I loved how competitive yet caring and supportive Rori was with Darren. And y'all just know I couldn't not go get the bonus scene which I absolutely loved just as much as I loved these three books.

QUOTE TIMEEE (well with how much I love this book it's more like scene time):

C: “Oh honey, you were meant for so much more.”
E: “Mimi used to say if you keep looking in the rearview mirror you’ll never see what’s right in front of you.”
C: “Smart lady. Too bad you didn’t listen to her.”
E: “Excuse me?”
C: “You heard me. If what you told me in the kitchen earlier was true, then I don’t know why you’re still here.”
E: “Now you’re on Darren’s side?”
C: “I’m not on anyone’s side.”
E: “You think it’s okay for him to just come in here and…”
C: “Save you from yourself?”
E: “I don’t need saving.”
C: “Look around you. What are you doing here?”
E: “I’ll fix it up when I have the money.”
C: “I’m talking about you being back here in the first place.”
E: “You know I came back for Mimi’s funeral.”
C: “Why did you stay?”
E: “I needed her to love me. Why didn’t she love me?”
C; “It’s not your fault.”
E: “I know.”
C: “It’s like I said, you’re too busy looking in the rearview mirror that you don’t see what’s right in front of you.”
E: “You don’t understand.”
C: “No, I don’t understand how you can walk away from a man who genuinely loves you.”
E: “I think…I think it’s too late.”
C: “If I’m right, that man would wait until the end of days for you. But you gotta go back to find out.”

My commentary: I absolutely loved everything about this scene.
________________________________

D: “I don’t like party ties. I never have. I think we should vote for what is right and what is best for the community, not because it’s in line with how your party votes.”

My commentary: This was so perfectly said. This is how I have always felt and I've never really found the right words to explain that. So I just had to throw this in here. Dare, you can count on my vote!

________________________________

D: “I couldn’t take it off. I didn’t choose to fall in love with you, but now that I have, I wouldn’t change it. I can’t change it, so don’t ask me to.”

________________________________

D: “Have I ever told you how unbelievably sexy you look wearing my t-shirt”
I look down at Darren's Georgetown t-shirt hanging off one shoulder and sitting just at the tops of my thighs.
I kiss him.
E: “Many times”
________________________________

D: “I can be quick, you know that.” I lift my eyebrows.
E: “I don’t think that’s something to brag about.”
D: “I like to call it being efficient.”

________________________________

E: “I’m your wife, Darren. Your burden is my burden. If you’re hurting, then use me to take it away.”
________________________________

E: “Yes,” she obeys, kneeling down and looking up at me through her bangs.
D: “Yes, what?”
She blinks innocently. She’s beautiful and has me in knots and I’d do just about anything to have her. Even on her knees, she owns me.
E: “Yes, Congressman”


My commentary: I think I have a congressman kink now???
________________________________

“You took a bullet for me.”
“I tripped.”

________________________________

“Those are very serious accusations,” Langley says.
“Doesn't matter, because this is between me and you, and I'm tired of you lording this information over the people I love.”
“Which is why you attacked me on the Capital steps,” he accuses.
“You wanted all of this to come out anyway. I just did you a favor. And if you think I'm attacking you now then just wait until I win, because it won't be on the steps of the capitol, it'll be on the senate floor.”
“Oh, and by the way, vote for Darren Walker.”

________________________________

D: “What?” he questions with a smirk
E: “Nothing. I just love you.”
D: “That’s not nothing.”
A: “Is this a party or what?” Allistair barges in setting down a bottle of whiskey.
D: “It’s not,” Darren groans, releasing me.
He insects the bottle of whiskey and raises an eyebrow.
A: “Only the best for Congressman Walker”
D: “I haven’t won yet,” he tells him
A: “Yet is the optimal word, ” Allistair points into the air.
A: “And when you do, we will celebrate like kings.”

________________________________

Rausch holds out his hand.
R: “Congratulations, and God help Congress,” he teases.
Instead of shaking his hand, he pulls Rausch in for a hug. Rausch closes his eyes momentarily and gives Darren's back a proud slap, the sound like a clap of thunder. When he lets go, Darren gathers me up his arms, lifting me into the air.
D: “We did it!” he cheers loudly and when he gently lets my feet touch the floor he says again, quietly and with deep emotion,
D: “We did it.”
A: “Our first order of business should be legalizing prostitution,” he declares, wiggling his eyebrows.
D: “First of all, I don't have any authority over that, and second, there is no ‘us’.”
Alistair stands indignantly.
A: “Well, as your Chief of Mischief Affairs, I outvote you.”
D: “There is no such title,” Darren says with an annoyed tone and I giggle
A: “This is the thanks I get for helping you get elected.”
Darren rolls his eyes, giving him one last push out the door.
D: “Get home safely, Alistair,” Darren remarks, patting his shoulder and then he turns to look at me with a smile that I know all too well.
A: “I know what I'm not wanted, Alistair bemoans with mock hurt but then his expression turns serious.
A: “Proud of you, Dare.”
A: “I'm having business cards made up tomorrow. Chief of Mischief Affairs. It's happening!” He waves behind him and Darren laughs
I like the sound of it.
Darren pulls a Dare for Change hat out of his pocket and places it on my head, pulling it down over my eyes. I re-adjust it and give give him a kiss
“You won,” I whisper against his lips
“Oh yeah?” He grins. “Where is my prize?”
I roll my eyes teasingly.
“What do you want?”
“I want you to wear this and nothing else,” he commands, tapping the bill of the hat.
“Yes, Congressman.” I smile

My commentary: I LOVE LOVE LOVE Dare and Alistair’s relationship with my whole heart. I will never get enough. But that “yes, congressman” REALLY gets my heart…and other things going. ESPECIALLY when you throw the hat into the mix.

________________________________

D: “Aren’t you going to open the book?”
E: “Why? Did you get Hemingway to sign it to me? Dear Evangeline, your husband is relentless, and I came back from the dead just to sign this book to you…”
D: “Don’t be a smartass”
E: “”First editions aren't worth that much you know.”
D: “That’s not the point.”
E: “Has anyone ever told you how pretentious you are?”
D: “Many, many, many times”

My commentary: I will never be over how much you can really feel their love for each other through these pages, even through the smaller moments like these.
________________________________

D: “I wanted to give you a real wedding and maybe convince you there is no such thing as Paris Syndrome, because I will make sure it is everything you hoped it would be.

Slight interruption: I HAVE BEEN WAITING ON THIS SINCE BOOK 1!!!!!

E: “I don't have a dress or anything.”
D: “Already taken care of. All you have to do is show up.”
Cleo plops down in the seat next to Alistair and opens her book.
Alistair plucked it from her hands.
Alistair: “Is this a French translation book?”
C: “Yes,” she plucks it back out of his hands.
C: “I've been studying.”
A: “You can't learn French from a book, you have to immerse yourself.”
C: “Not everyone has the luxury of skipping off to Paris and immersing themselves frenchie. Besides, I took French in high school.”
Alistair: “Oh yeah?” Alistair lifts an eyebrow.
C: “The only thing I remember is voulez-vous coucher avec moi ce soir?” And Alistair chokes on the glass of champagne he absconded with.
D: “Maybe I shouldn't have invited them.”
E: “Darren Walker, if you bought me a Jessica Rabbit wedding dress I will not walk down that aisle.” I would walk down that aisle wearing nothing at all if he's waiting for me at the end.
With cool confidence, he walks me towards the back of the plane where the bedroom is.
E: “Darren, we have guests,” I laugh but the minute he opens the door, there it is and my eyes immediately well up with tears.
E: “It's the dress from the bridal shop in Vegas. I can't believe you remembered that.”
D: “I remember everything.”
As he kicks the door shut behind him, I wag my finger in front of him.
E: “Ah, ah. Not before the wedding.”
D: “You should know by now Mrs. Walker, I'm no virgin.”
A: “You know it's rude to leave your guests unattended!” Alistair calls from the other side of the door and I laugh against Darren's lips.
D: “Fucking Alistair,” Darren groans.

Someone better lock Cleo and Alistair in a room together in Paris. Or maybe they can just join the mile high club while Evan and Dare are “leaving them unattended.”


But seriously I love all of their friendships so much and I could not imagine it any other way. Thank you from the very bottom of my heart for giving us this literary masterpiece of a series, Paula.
Thank you gif

[Dusty Shirley · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fabulous conclusion. I waited patiently for this. Well not so patiently. Lol but it was worth every second of wait. Ms. Dombrowiak knocked this out of the park. This series was phenomenal from start to finish.

[Lorelei Aurora · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy moly what a conclusion! I swear, I didn’t think this trilogy could get better… but it did!
We finally find out if Darren and Evangeline can move beyond her past, both personally and politically, or if it will destroy their marriage and any life they thought they might have.
So many loose ends were tied up in ways I couldn’t imagine! Things were brought to light in twists and turns so unexpectedly that my jaw was on the floor! I had to take time to process everything after reading it… definite book hangover material! And I will definitely be reading more Paula Dombrowiak books in the future!

[Laura Fabian · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC kindly provided for the author in exchange for an honest review

⚠️May contain spoilers for previous books in the trilogy⚠️

I have to say that when Paula Dombrowiak announced this series I was a little scared because it would be so different from her previous books, but after reading Kingmaker Trilogy I couldn't be happier that the author decided to take this direction. Darren & Evangeline's story got better with each book, Paula took them through unexpected, painful and surprising situations, and I loved that she gave me one of the most beautiful love stories I've ever read and characters that stole my heart from start to finish!

The last book left me heartbroken after reading Darren heartbroken and I really liked the way the author decided to start the last book of this trilogy, but WHAT I LOVED THE MOST was reading Evangeline & Darren showing the great growth they both had throughout their story, and a Darren who is not afraid to show and tell Evan how much he loves her, even when he might face her rejection. I also really enjoyed that the author showed us more of the vulnerability of these two and how they are both more alike than they think: Evan's fear of not belonging to Darren's world and ending his dreams, and his fear of not being able to get her back and not being able to achieve what he sets out to do.

I also loved that Paula kept the Walker family's biggest secret for the end, so that we could see a different side of Darren, get to know a little more about Kerry, Meril, and also Rausch, a complicated character that I loved at times, hated at others, but that I finally came to understand much better in this book: I always loved his attitude, the way he takes care of Darren in his own way, how he constantly bothers him, and how he loves and supports him, even though it may not seem like it at times.

Finally, I think Alastair deserves a special mention for being the best and funniest of all the supporting characters Paula has written so far, and although his appearances were fewer than I would have liked, I really liked that Alastair was by Darren & Evan's side in the most difficult moments and supported them unconditionally, and I really hope that he, his sister, and Cleo have their own stories because they are characters with a lot of potential.

💍Darren: 5/5
👑Evangeline: 5/5
💍Trama: 5/5
👑Historia de amor: 5/5
💍Personajes secundarios: 5/5
👑Universo: 5/5
💍Portada: 5/5
🌶️: 2/5

ARC amablemente proporcionada por la autora a cambio de una reseña honesta

⚠️Puede contener spoilers de los libros anteriores en la trilogía⚠️

Tengo que decir que cuando Paula Dombrowiak anunció esta serie me dio un poco de miedo que fuera tan diferente a sus libros anteriores, pero después de leer Kingmaker Trilogy no puedo estar más feliz de que la autora haya decidido tomar esta dirección. La historia de Darren & Evangeline fue mejorando con cada libro, Paula los llevó por situaciones inesperadas, dolorosas y sorprendentes, y me encantó que me diera una de las historias de amor más hermosas que he leído y a personajes que se robaron mi corazón de principio a fin!

El último libro me dejó con el corazón roto después de leer a Darren con el corazón roto y me gustó mucho la manera en la que la autora decidió empezar el último libro de está trilogía, pero LO QUE MÁS AMÉ fue leer a Evangeline & Darren demostrando el gran crecimiento que ambos tuvieron a lo largo de su historia, a un Darren que no tiene miedo de demostrarle y decirle a Evan lo mucho que la ama, incluso cuando podría enfrentarse a su rechazo. También disfruté mucho que la autora nos mostrara más de la vulnerabilidad de estos dos y como ambos son más parecidos de lo que creen: el miedo de Evan a no pertenecer al mundo de Darren y a terminar con sus sueños, y él miedo de él a no ser capaz de recuperarla y no poder lograr lo que se propone.

También amé que Paula guardara el mayor secreto de la familia Walker, para el final, que nos dejara ver con el un lado diferente de Darren, conocer un poco más de Kerry, Meril y también de Rausch, un personaje que complicado, que amé en algunos momentos, odie en otros, pero al final logré comprender mucho mejor en este libro: siempre me encantó su actitud, la manera en la que cuida de Darren a su manera, como lo molesta contantemente y como lo ama y apoya, aunque a veces no lo parezca.

Finalmente, creo que Alastair merece una mención especial por ser el mejor y mas divertido de todos los personajes secundarios que Paula ha escrito hasta ahora, y aunque sus apariciones fueron menos de las que me hubiera gustado, me gustó mucho que Alastair estuviera junto a Darren & Evan en los momentos más complicados y apoyándolos incondicionalmente, y de verdad espero que él, su hermana, y Cleo tengan sus propias historias porque son personajes con mucho potencial.

💍Darren: 5/5
👑Evangeline: 5/5
💍Trama: 5/5
👑Historia de amor: 5/5
💍Personajes secundarios: 5/5
👑Universo: 5/5
💍Portada: 5/5
🌶️: 2/5

[Kelchickbooklover · Rating 5 out of 5]

While I am sad to see this trilogy end, I thoroughly loved every single word Ms. Dombrowiak gave us from the first book to the very end of this book and the bonus scene. With the cliffhanger that she left us with in book two, I was worried about how this book was going to end, but I knew they had to have a HEA. State of Union is an addictive, heart-stopping, emotional and beautifully written romance full of angst and secrets that shatter lives but the revenge that is sought after is sweet.
Darren and Evan's marriage did not start as a beautiful and loving one but by the end of this trilogy, their love and marriage are just as strong as the ones where people fall in love and get married. When Evan thinks that she is helping Darren, she ends up shattering both of their hearts. Darren knows that he needs her by his side while he runs for office however will her past be a detriment to his campaign? Can she see that she is what makes him the man he has become? When Evan's secret is revealed Darren can't help but get her back. When Darren finds out about his family's secrets he is devastated and takes us out of the one he loves the most.
These two started as strangers and sometimes you would think they were enemies but in the end, their relationship was stronger and their love was meant to be. This trilogy is a must-read and I recommend you grab all three books at once because once you start reading you will not be able to wait to read the next book.

[Rebmay · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading the first two books in this trilogy, I couldn’t wait to see how Darren and Evangeline’s story ended. Right from the first, these two fascinating characters pulled me into their story and had me rooting for a happily ever after for them. What started off as a marriage of convenience/business arrangement has turned into a love match, though each has doubts about what the other is feeling. Believing her past is a detriment to Darren’s political aspirations, Evangeline leaves him, breaking both of their hearts. An unexpected revelation changes everything and both make a move toward the other. They discover that life in the political arena is like living in a fishbowl, where nothing is private, secrets are exposed and something or someone is always muddying the water. They both take a stand, find their footing, deal with the revelation of secrets and support each other unflinchingly. It might be rarity in the power circles, but these two love each other and are both called to be of service to their community.

I loved the intrigue and suspense in this book. It made this book thrilling to read. The evolution of the relationship between Darren and Evangeline, as well as the very steamy encounters were captivating and memorable. I will certainly recommend this trilogy to those who enjoy suspenseful and spicy romance.

[Teresa Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

State of Union: A Steamy Marriage of Convenience Romance (Kingmaker Series Book 3) by Paula Dombrowiak concludes the political thriller romance between Evangeline, a former escort to the rich, and Virginia’s senator’s son Darren Walker, who lost his parents in a helicopter crash. Evangeline left Darren when he decided to run as a congressman to represent the fifth congressional district in Virginia so her reputation couldn’t ruin his budding career. Darren decides to go after his wife and fight for their marriage. Their romance sparks other characters behind the scenes who want to see them fail to further their political aspirations. Washington D.C. politics lives up to its dirty cesspool manipulations, with secrets being held over crucial players such as Darren and his wife. As the story concludes, secrets sear the heart of Darren as he decides to go forward despite political threats to destroy him and Evangeline. The romance and suspense build side by side as it rides to a tidal wave that crashes into their HEA. Paula Dombrowiak’s Kingmaker trilogy is a political thriller that I especially enjoyed since I am a former resident of the fifth congressional district in Virginia and very aware of local politicians.

[Ashley Flaherty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Will the King keep his Queenie.....or will this be the end to a reign before it even officially started

The book I have been waiting for, third and conclusion of this amazing series. Evangeline has left Darren because she knows her past will stand in his political career she is miserable and Darren is even worse off. Darren finally gets it together to go after Evangeline and bring his wife home. Though there seems to someone or something always standing in their way to make being together even more difficult. Will Darren pick his political career over his beloved Queenie or will he loose his hope for having any type of a political career by choosing love. Can their marriage face the scrutiny that they will go through making their lives so public. How will an escort go from her former lifestyle to all the expectations and transparency that come with being a political wife? Will the “King Maker” be able to build the next “King” or will his own secrets destroy this relationship forever. There is so much more and some huge revelations that honestly I did not see coming. So sit back and enjoy the ride because this is definitely going to be one to remember.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the stunning finale to her Kingmaker Trilogy, State of the Union, Paula Dombrowiak brings the culmination of all the darkness and subterfuge of the previous books in this series to a powerful conclusion!

Despite the odds being against them Evangeline and Dare's all encompassing love was far from over. With conviction and a shared vision this couple took on the world to stand united. On the surface Evangeline and Dare would appear as corrupt as the people they associated with but in fact there was a honesty and goodness to them that withstood being tainted. This was not a conventional love story but one riddled with flaws that in the end proved to be the very thing that made it believable. Ms. Dombrowiak's skillful built up of this story and well plotted revelations resulted in an outstanding trilogy!

Paula Dombrowiak's unorthodox relationships are some of the most inspiring love stories out there. Emotionally messy with intense connections, this author's works are as passionate as they are thought provoking. Paula Dombrowiak's well orchestrated exploration into the darker side of romance and politics shines in State of the Union's!

*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own.*
*The previous books in this trilogy need to be read as part of three for the complete story*

[Jordan Fiest · Rating 5 out of 5]

State of Union is book three in the Kingmaker Series.

What a way to end a book! I was left on the edge of my seat, turning each page, wondering how the story of Darren and Evangeline was going to end.

You can tell they both strongly love the other, even willing to sacrifice their happiness for the others success. Evangeline really didn't want to hurt any potential political future Darren could have, so she leaves him, but she does it with so much love. She does everything she can to ensure he has a great future. But what she doesn't realize if that his best future has her by his side.

There are a lot of secrets revealed which really rock the boat of their lives. We get to see the behind the scenes of a political campaign and how some things we say can be turned into something we didn't mean. I really enjoyed the growth of many of the relationships throughout this series.

This was a beautiful ending to a beautiful story. I was very pleased with the ending even if I wanted to read more about them being together.

[Fiona · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited for this final installment of the Kingmaker trilogy, and it did not disappoint. I was engaged from the first word to the last as all the pieces finally came together. Secrets were unveiled, revenge was sweet, and Darren and Evangeline got their HEA. I was really on the edge of my seat as the story unfolded, Paula has a way of pulling you in with her words…she builds the tension and intrigue and adds a few twists you do not expect. I also enjoyed the character development of Darren and Evangeline over all three books. They are both dynamic and charismatic in their own way but together they become a formidable team. This was the perfect ending to a story full of political intrigue and romance. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third and conclusion to Darren and Evangeline’s journey.
The relationship between Darren and Evangeline grows from strength to strength, and a marriage of convenience / business arrangement, turns into so much more over time, and they will each sacrifice their happiness for the other’s success.
This is a well written story which is an easy read, with intrigue, challenges, emotions, suspense, revelations, drama, humor, witty banter, undeniable chemistry, romance, engaging and realistic characters, and love, which leads to an entertaining, spicy, unpredictable, and captivating addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.

[Marni Ortiz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg what epic conclusion to Darren and Evangeline’s story . It’s not often I come across a series that has the ability to captivate me so completely and play on all my emotions quite the way this one has . All the drama , the angst , the witty banter , the humor , the secrets , the love , the passion, the obstacles, the twists and turns , i really did feel I was just taken on the ride of life and completely blown away in all the best ways possible. One of things I loved most about this trilogy was how throughout a 3 books we saw the development of their relationship- how it grew and changed , how no it was not all hearts and flowers and they definitely had to overcome many obstacles to be together. But in the end it all turned out just the way it was meant to be 💜💜💜💜

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very entertaining series. State Of Union is book 3 in the Kingmaker series and wraps up the series beautifully. Darren, a charmingly flawed politician's son and Evangeline, a former escort fight their way through some not so ideal situations only to come out stronger in the end!
I think Darren was so easy to love and root for, as was Evangeline. Their relationship was not always the easiest to navigate, but they did it with truth and grace. A few twists and turns were great additions, but I also loved the side characters and their humor. Spice was a solid four (I would have preferred more ;)). This was a quick read and very satisfying wrap-up!!

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an ending!!

Darren and Evangeline have been through it all. Intense emotional ups and downs, angst, drama, danger, pain, corruption, wickedness and eventually happiness. Together they seem to be able to work through issues and make their marriage work but only after taking down those that want to destroy them. You could fee how connected they were and see the growth of their complicated relationship improving so much over the course of the series. I just loved these two.

The story was well written with little twists and turns throughout, and some intrigue and suspense that kept me glued to the pages to that very wonderful and satisfying ending.

What a ride – loved it!

[FS Meurinne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the final installment in the Kingmaker Trilogy and is a riveting conclusion to Darren and Evangeline's intense love story. The couple faces relentless political scrutiny, shocking family secrets, and powerful enemies determined to tear them apart. Their journey is filled with suspense, passion, and surprising twists, making their love story all the more compelling. This book brilliantly ties up the series, delivering a satisfying and steamy finale that will leave readers cheering for Darren and Evangeline's hard-earned happily ever after. A must-read for fans of romantic political thrillers.

[Rose Helg · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third and final book, in this series. This book and series was Awesome. I Highly Recommend, this series. Please start with book 1, of The "Kingmaker Series," because you will be lost, if you don't.
This book was so entertaining, action, steamy, marriage of convenience, HEA (finally), page turner, unpredictable, so Hot, politics, twisted, wonderful characters, witty, Love the ending, they been through so much, and so much more.
I Highly Recommend , this Trilogy, and this author. Its A Must Read.
Definitely, on my reread list. Can't Wait , for the next couple.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!!! This book finished off this trilogy so well. I was very worried about how and what would happen and how this would finish. But even I didn't see what happened coming. What a way to drop a bomb.

I loved Darren and Evangeline. They were just perfect. There was just enough heat, fun, and drama. And let's just say the one-way glass scene was just hot as hell, and I'm not sure I'll recover from it. Again, my emotions were frayed, but like always, I enjoyed the ride.

This book made this trilogy a 5 star for me. It blew me away. I couldn't recommend it more.

[Lena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a great conclusion to Darren and Evangeline's story. Regardless of how long they were apart, they fell back together like they saw each other this morning. I loved the fight to be and stay together. The twists and turns were unexpected, and I loved them. I suspected Darren's father's secect, but I wasn't expecting the fall out from it. That blew my mind!! The book is beautifully written and brings the fun, drama, shock, chemistry, secrets, love, and much more. I'd definitely recommend this trilogy!

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the last book of the Kingmaker trilogy, and I was really excited about it. Paula's words have a way of grabbing your attention.She creates suspense and interest while also introducing unexpected twists. I also liked how Darren and Evangeline grew as characters across the three books. Every stage of Evangeline and Darren's journey has been enjoyable to me. I enjoyed watching these characters mature both individually and together. This was an excellent conclusion to a novel filled with political intrigue and romance!

[Elyn Sulger · Rating 5 out of 5]

State of Union is the anticipated last book in the Kingmaker trilogy. I was drawn to the story once again and read right through to the end of the book.
Darren and Evangeline navigate through their lives eventually coming together. Love conquers, through the drama, revealed secrets and bumps in the road.
Paula Dombrowiak, I really love these books and look for more from you. I recommend the trilogy to everyone.

[Pattip · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the perfect HEA for Evangeline and Darren! Through all the drama, struggles, and secrets, Darren's love for Evangeline was awe inspiring. I really love when a male shows his vulnerability. They are great together. The witty parts were excellent, and really brought the enjoyment of the book to a higher level for me. This was a great trilogy! The emotional depth in this story was perfect! I was sent a complimentary copy and I am choosing to leave my honest review.

[Carina Hales · Rating 4 out of 5]

The final book to this trilogy was fantastic!

I just love the character growth of both Darren and Evangeline, together they were so strong. I love how despite everything they had total belief in each other. The chemistry was as hot as ever and together they were scorching.

The side characters really added to the story, particularly Allistair, Rausch and Cleo.

Overall a great conclusion to an enthralling trilogy. I loved it.

[Julia Shah]

A brilliant conclusion to The Kingmaker series by Paula Dombrowiak.

The surprises keep coming right to the end as do the emotional moments. It's a great read.

I wouldn't usually read this genre, however I thought I'd give this series a try as it peeked my interest and I have not been disappointed. I may need to do some further exploring now as I have thoroughly enjoyed this series.

Highly recommended.

[Antika Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 ⭐️

This whole series has been nothing short of amazing.

After the last book I wasn't sure what was going to happen. And I was not disappointed.

Darren and Evangeline are perfect. Their characters are written so well.

I dont want to spoil anything but there's a couple twists in this one I was not expecting at all. But they made the story even better.

I dont think there's many content warnings in this one but always be sure to check them!

[Tara Rainwater · Rating 4 out of 5]

State of The Union is the final book of this trilogy, GREAT ENDING! I love this couple. Darren & Evan are force to be reckon with. A lot of secrets are revealed and may new surprises. Darren's run for congressman is not an uneventful one, thanks to Evan's past and the ghost in Darren's father closet. Of course expect plenty of WILD TIMES!! lol
Must read! Love this author!! Can't wait to see what's next.

[Library.of.linds · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am sooooo sad this is the last book in the trilogy!!! I need more of Darren and E!!!

This whole series is a journey of ups and downs and I absolutely devoured each book. Even though they started out just being together because it was what was best for their own lives, they grew to love and care for each other. The character development of phenomenal. I can’t wait to read what else Paula writes because I know it’s going to be amazing!