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The Defiant Queen
When love and loyalty collide, only the truth can reunite two long-lost loves in this royal, second chance romance.
Royal advisor, Baas, never stopped loving the woman he was forced to send away. When Shaya unexpectedly returns, he sees a long-awaited chance at happiness. However, winning back her trust and uncovering the secrets that led to their separation proves more difficult than navigating the royal court.
Shaya still yearns for her first love, but she is haunted by a past mistake that could end their reunion. An enemy threatening to expose her long-hidden truth makes her wary of getting close again.
With everything stacked against them, can Baas and Shaya put aside the past and face the future hand in hand? Or will long-buried secrets and dangerous foes doom their heart's desire once more? When love and loyalty collide, only truth and trust can set them free.
Royal advisor, Baas, never stopped loving the woman he was forced to send away. When Shaya unexpectedly returns, he sees a long-awaited chance at happiness. However, winning back her trust and uncovering the secrets that led to their separation proves more difficult than navigating the royal court.
Shaya still yearns for her first love, but she is haunted by a past mistake that could end their reunion. An enemy threatening to expose her long-hidden truth makes her wary of getting close again.
With everything stacked against them, can Baas and Shaya put aside the past and face the future hand in hand? Or will long-buried secrets and dangerous foes doom their heart's desire once more? When love and loyalty collide, only truth and trust can set them free.
273 pages, Paperback
Published April 29, 2025
10 people are currently reading
83 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
April 25, 2025
The Defiant Queen is the follow up story to the Accidental Queen, it features the two best friends to the King and Queen, Shaya and Baas. Who knew being in each other’s presence for a short time would leave such a lasting impression on these two, but it did. However, Baas had to take a wife in his home country to help form peace between two countries. Shaya could not see a place for herself in Baas’ life, thus, the two went their separate ways. I wholeheartedly believe Baas would have moved heaven and earth to be with Shaya.
The book was intriguing because I couldn’t predict how the storyline would evolve. There were many unpredictable happenings and twists, it seemed there was a push and pull in the universe that tested the couple beyond their wildest imagination. I loved how the author addressed adoption, the guilt and grief that happens and finally accepting the decision. I also felt the suspense was a good addition to the story, and I didn’t see the culprit right away. I felt the situation with Baas’ wife happened suddenly, and I wanted more details surrounding the customs of the country for situations like that. One thing LR does well with her books is depicting strong, resilient, and determined FMCs, because Shaya did not go down without a fight, and I loved that about her. This book is for the girls who love a man that will go to war with whoever for his woman, and a headstrong woman who knows how to adjust her crown and remember who she is! Good read for me.
**ARC Review
The book was intriguing because I couldn’t predict how the storyline would evolve. There were many unpredictable happenings and twists, it seemed there was a push and pull in the universe that tested the couple beyond their wildest imagination. I loved how the author addressed adoption, the guilt and grief that happens and finally accepting the decision. I also felt the suspense was a good addition to the story, and I didn’t see the culprit right away. I felt the situation with Baas’ wife happened suddenly, and I wanted more details surrounding the customs of the country for situations like that. One thing LR does well with her books is depicting strong, resilient, and determined FMCs, because Shaya did not go down without a fight, and I loved that about her. This book is for the girls who love a man that will go to war with whoever for his woman, and a headstrong woman who knows how to adjust her crown and remember who she is! Good read for me.
**ARC Review
January 30, 2025
I had the pleasure of reading The Defiant Queen as an ARC in exchange for my honest review. While the story started off a bit slow for me, it quickly picked up and kept me eagerly turning the pages, wanting to know what would happen next.
Shaya, the main female character, worked on my nerves at times, as she found herself in an unfortunate situation due to a choice she made. Although Baas played a role in the circumstances leading up to that choice, he was left out of the decision-making process. Despite the consequences they both had to face, Baas remained unwavering in his love, protection, and defense of Shaya. Even in the face of her selfish decisions, he was willing to lay his life on the line for her, which made his character all the more compelling.
The story had twists and turns I didn’t see coming, which kept me engaged and on edge. One of the things I enjoyed most was how two people who were once lovers found their way back to each other. The emotional depth and rekindled connection between Shaya and Baas added an extra layer of intensity to the story, making their journey even more captivating.
This was my first read by L.R. Jackson, and I thoroughly enjoyed the journey. I’m looking forward to seeing what she has in store next!
Thank you Black Odyssey!
Shaya, the main female character, worked on my nerves at times, as she found herself in an unfortunate situation due to a choice she made. Although Baas played a role in the circumstances leading up to that choice, he was left out of the decision-making process. Despite the consequences they both had to face, Baas remained unwavering in his love, protection, and defense of Shaya. Even in the face of her selfish decisions, he was willing to lay his life on the line for her, which made his character all the more compelling.
The story had twists and turns I didn’t see coming, which kept me engaged and on edge. One of the things I enjoyed most was how two people who were once lovers found their way back to each other. The emotional depth and rekindled connection between Shaya and Baas added an extra layer of intensity to the story, making their journey even more captivating.
This was my first read by L.R. Jackson, and I thoroughly enjoyed the journey. I’m looking forward to seeing what she has in store next!
Thank you Black Odyssey!
February 5, 2025
L.R. Jackson has done it again with The Defiant Queen, delivering a second-chance romance that’s as intense as it is emotional. Baas and Shaya’s journey is anything but simple—old wounds, buried secrets, and outside forces threaten to keep them apart, even as their connection refuses to fade.
From the very first page, I was invested. The tension between them crackles, the stakes feel impossibly high, and every new revelation had me turning pages like my life depended on it. Jackson’s ability to blend romance, drama, and court intrigue makes this story completely unputdownable.
If you love second-chance romances with depth, passion, and a whole lot of twists, this is one you need on your radar!
From the very first page, I was invested. The tension between them crackles, the stakes feel impossibly high, and every new revelation had me turning pages like my life depended on it. Jackson’s ability to blend romance, drama, and court intrigue makes this story completely unputdownable.
If you love second-chance romances with depth, passion, and a whole lot of twists, this is one you need on your radar!
January 10, 2026
3.5 stars
I wanted to love this one but didn’t. There was good and bad. MFC was selfish and I hated it. The book was paced to quick for me. This book is part of a series and I haven’t read the first book but it’s about a different couple, so this should be a fine stand alone read but I never got the chance to fall in love with the characters love Story. I’m confused how I read so many reviews and none mentioned this…. The adoption aspect kept me interested, because I was invested to see how that particular story line manifested. Halfway through the book I wrote this note for myself and it stands.
Honestly the book is making no sense. I don’t know how much of their story is talked about in the first book, but it seems like this book just starts in the middle of the story. Now that’s not terrible, but it feels like I don’t fully understand why they are going through so much to be together. The flashbacks aren’t giving enough context. And according to the description the first book is about a different couple, so I’m unsure why there isn’t a prologue so we can actually experience them falling in love. Because the love they have it’s so deep. So passionate. But everything with how the book starts and the predicament he’s in, it feels like I’m supposed to just know what happened before. I’m not feeling it. What is this pacing of the book? Why is everything feeling so rushed?
I wanted to love this one but didn’t. There was good and bad. MFC was selfish and I hated it. The book was paced to quick for me. This book is part of a series and I haven’t read the first book but it’s about a different couple, so this should be a fine stand alone read but I never got the chance to fall in love with the characters love Story. I’m confused how I read so many reviews and none mentioned this…. The adoption aspect kept me interested, because I was invested to see how that particular story line manifested. Halfway through the book I wrote this note for myself and it stands.
Honestly the book is making no sense. I don’t know how much of their story is talked about in the first book, but it seems like this book just starts in the middle of the story. Now that’s not terrible, but it feels like I don’t fully understand why they are going through so much to be together. The flashbacks aren’t giving enough context. And according to the description the first book is about a different couple, so I’m unsure why there isn’t a prologue so we can actually experience them falling in love. Because the love they have it’s so deep. So passionate. But everything with how the book starts and the predicament he’s in, it feels like I’m supposed to just know what happened before. I’m not feeling it. What is this pacing of the book? Why is everything feeling so rushed?
February 4, 2025
I requested to read this ARC novel and sis let me just say when this book drop you need to read it. It’s so engaging layered with secrets, betrayal and a royal romance. Take this wild journey of love and suspense with Baas and Shaya you won’t be disappointed. I will say that the first few chapters had me giving the book the side eye, however as the story unfolded, I was sitting on the edge of my seat and couldn’t flip the pages fast enough. Not to give too much away, but your girl Shaya had me questioning her for real. I knew she was hiding something, and I was partially right, but the twist to the situation took the cake for me. There were a few more twists that I didn’t see coming and would be consider less likely to happen in my mind. The love between Shaya and Baas is undeniable from the start and I am glad it all worked out in the end. Speaking of the end girl smh that took me for loop and had me looking like "what??". This is my first reading from this author and after reviewing her catalog I noticed that this book is related to “The Accidental Queen”. Giving how the flow starts in the beginning of this book, I think is best read that one first then this one although I am reading in reverse…LOL. Great work Mrs. Jackson this was an enjoyable read.
February 11, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley and Black Odyssey Media for providing me with this ARC.
Disclaimer - after starting the book I saw the suggestion to read book 1 first. I agree this would be helpful but I also feel like L.R. Jackson gave more than enough backstory and dialogue to understand the situations and decisions made.
The Defiant Queen by L.R. Jackson is a powerful novel following our two protagonists, lovers divided by a politically arranged marriage.
The pacing was well balanced and the reader has the opportunity to have both main characters POVs, making it very easy to understand their decision making process - even if you didn't always agree with it. I found it difficult to relate to the MMC due to some of the decisions he made and things he prioritised but I can also appreciate that this is a very real representation of the pressures of such a high expectations job.
Our FMC was much more relatable. She made human decisions and I could always understand why she did. Even when those choices may not be the best way to move forward.
The characters had great chemistry and believable relationships with the wider world they interacted with. The story was laid out well and will be a must read for fans of royal romances!
Disclaimer - after starting the book I saw the suggestion to read book 1 first. I agree this would be helpful but I also feel like L.R. Jackson gave more than enough backstory and dialogue to understand the situations and decisions made.
The Defiant Queen by L.R. Jackson is a powerful novel following our two protagonists, lovers divided by a politically arranged marriage.
The pacing was well balanced and the reader has the opportunity to have both main characters POVs, making it very easy to understand their decision making process - even if you didn't always agree with it. I found it difficult to relate to the MMC due to some of the decisions he made and things he prioritised but I can also appreciate that this is a very real representation of the pressures of such a high expectations job.
Our FMC was much more relatable. She made human decisions and I could always understand why she did. Even when those choices may not be the best way to move forward.
The characters had great chemistry and believable relationships with the wider world they interacted with. The story was laid out well and will be a must read for fans of royal romances!
April 30, 2025
Okay… The Defiant Queen by L.R. Jackson had me hooked. Even though I didn’t read The Accidental Queen (yet!), this one still gave enough context to stand on its own—and trust, I’ll be going back to book one ASAP.
Shaya and Baas? I was rooting for them from the beginning. Their chemistry was undeniable, and Baas… listen. He is absolutely my new book bae. He was bold, intentional, and brutally honest—and something about that combination made the romance hit. Hard.
Now let’s talk drama. Baas being married to one woman while loving another? DIABOLICAL. But also? So messy, so good. I devoured every page of it like it was popcorn. The tension, the twists, the steam—it all delivered. Some twists had me gasping, while one in particular left me a little disappointed… BUT the way this book ended? That cliffhanger?! L.R. Jackson, ma’am—you better be working on Book 3 because I need closure yesterday.
If you’re into romance with heat, heart, and high-stakes emotional chaos, The Defiant Queen is calling your name. Just don’t go in expecting anything neat or quiet—this book brings the noise, and I loved every minute of it.
Overall 4/5⭐️
Spice: 3/5🌶️
Big thanks to NetGalley and Black Odyssey Media for this ARC for my honest review.
Shaya and Baas? I was rooting for them from the beginning. Their chemistry was undeniable, and Baas… listen. He is absolutely my new book bae. He was bold, intentional, and brutally honest—and something about that combination made the romance hit. Hard.
Now let’s talk drama. Baas being married to one woman while loving another? DIABOLICAL. But also? So messy, so good. I devoured every page of it like it was popcorn. The tension, the twists, the steam—it all delivered. Some twists had me gasping, while one in particular left me a little disappointed… BUT the way this book ended? That cliffhanger?! L.R. Jackson, ma’am—you better be working on Book 3 because I need closure yesterday.
If you’re into romance with heat, heart, and high-stakes emotional chaos, The Defiant Queen is calling your name. Just don’t go in expecting anything neat or quiet—this book brings the noise, and I loved every minute of it.
Overall 4/5⭐️
Spice: 3/5🌶️
Big thanks to NetGalley and Black Odyssey Media for this ARC for my honest review.
February 13, 2025
When they were together it was amazing and when they had to be separated because of commitments it broke their hearts. There was no denying that there was a true connection between Baas and Shaya, but they were not destined to be together at the time because of commitments each had made. But then they were thrown together again by a never ending love, betrayals and a secret. A big secret that leads to some twists and an ending you didn’t expect at all. There is so much more I could say but that would ruin the book big time.
This is second in the series by L.R. Jackson and while it could help a few times to have read book 1, this is one that you can read it as a stand alone. The way Jackson was able to describe the characters and scenes they were in, allowed you to see them in your mind. The author is so talented with her words and plots that it grabs your attention, holds onto it and not let go until the book is finished. The book is amazing and one you will actually want to read more than once.
Thanks to NetGalley and Black Odyssey Media for sending me an ARC of this book for my honest review
This is second in the series by L.R. Jackson and while it could help a few times to have read book 1, this is one that you can read it as a stand alone. The way Jackson was able to describe the characters and scenes they were in, allowed you to see them in your mind. The author is so talented with her words and plots that it grabs your attention, holds onto it and not let go until the book is finished. The book is amazing and one you will actually want to read more than once.
Thanks to NetGalley and Black Odyssey Media for sending me an ARC of this book for my honest review
February 27, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and Black Odyssey Media for the ARC🫶🏾
I was immediately drawn to this book, it looked very appealing. I usually love reading romance with royal elements, so I was excited to dive in.
I’ll be completely honest: the story is enjoyable and packed with drama. There were moments that had me on the edge of my seat, almost screaming, and others that made me giggle, especially because of Baas and Shaya. If you’re looking for a quick, entertaining read, this might be the one for you.
However, I struggled to connect with the characters. They were charming in their own ways, but I didn’t feel a strong attachment to them. The story moved at a fast pace, and some parts felt rushed. While Shaya wasn’t portrayed as perfect, I found her a bit immature, she makes impulsive decisions without thinking twice, which was frustrating at times.
As for Baas, I appreciated how devoted he was to Shaya, willing to risk everything just to be by her side. But despite that, I didn’t fully connect with him either.
Overall, while this book had its enjoyable moments, I wish I had felt more invested in the characters.
I was immediately drawn to this book, it looked very appealing. I usually love reading romance with royal elements, so I was excited to dive in.
I’ll be completely honest: the story is enjoyable and packed with drama. There were moments that had me on the edge of my seat, almost screaming, and others that made me giggle, especially because of Baas and Shaya. If you’re looking for a quick, entertaining read, this might be the one for you.
However, I struggled to connect with the characters. They were charming in their own ways, but I didn’t feel a strong attachment to them. The story moved at a fast pace, and some parts felt rushed. While Shaya wasn’t portrayed as perfect, I found her a bit immature, she makes impulsive decisions without thinking twice, which was frustrating at times.
As for Baas, I appreciated how devoted he was to Shaya, willing to risk everything just to be by her side. But despite that, I didn’t fully connect with him either.
Overall, while this book had its enjoyable moments, I wish I had felt more invested in the characters.
April 24, 2025
The Defiant Queen by L.R. Jackson is Shaya and Baas's story. I was first introduced to them in The Accidental Queen. At the end of that story, Baas and Shaya were having a fling when Baas , as his duty, has to marry someone else. Shaya leaves Africa and goes back to New York to resume her life. Baas is doing his best in his marriage, but he will never love his wife. Shaya will always have his heart. Shaya, too, is struggling trying to get on with her life. When something unexpected happens to Baas, he might have a chance at happiness. When Shaya makes a visit to Africa, she is met at the airport by Baas. The feelings they share are as strong as ever. Baas is willing to do anything to get Shaya back. While Shaya still loves Baas, she still has feelings of betrayal over his marriage. Plus, she has a secret that could destroy their happily ever after. Unfortunately, outside forces end up shaking things up and set off a chain reaction of events. Lies, betrayal, intrigue, and deception bring life to this story. I truly enjoyed the adventure. Baas is all types of sexy and is swoon worthy. Getting to know him was a pleasure. I especially loved the ending to this book. Definitely left me wanting more. Can I get a novella, at least. 4.5 stars for me.
May 5, 2025
3.75 rounded up to 4 for GoodReads! Secondly, thanks so much to NetGalley and Black Odyssey Media for this advance reader copy!
One sentence summary: After Baas is forced to let go of the woman he loves, Shaya unexpectedly returns, and their love story seemingly can begin again, however, their long separation and reunification is riddled with stress and unexpected secrets that make it difficult for their love to truly grow.
This was a really good second chance romance! This book is the second in a series, however I read it as a standalone and it was so engaging! It started a little slow for me, but the pacing makes this the perfect quick read. I really liked both Shaya's and Baas's characters. Baas would do anything for the woman he loves, including respecting her boundaries while also communicating clearly his wants and desires. While Shaya is a head strong FMC who is determined and also makes mistakes. I feel like it was good.
I would recommend this story to someone who wants equal parts spice, drama, and swoon worthy romance with some royal aspects in it! It was a solid read.
One sentence summary: After Baas is forced to let go of the woman he loves, Shaya unexpectedly returns, and their love story seemingly can begin again, however, their long separation and reunification is riddled with stress and unexpected secrets that make it difficult for their love to truly grow.
This was a really good second chance romance! This book is the second in a series, however I read it as a standalone and it was so engaging! It started a little slow for me, but the pacing makes this the perfect quick read. I really liked both Shaya's and Baas's characters. Baas would do anything for the woman he loves, including respecting her boundaries while also communicating clearly his wants and desires. While Shaya is a head strong FMC who is determined and also makes mistakes. I feel like it was good.
I would recommend this story to someone who wants equal parts spice, drama, and swoon worthy romance with some royal aspects in it! It was a solid read.
March 30, 2025
Thank you @iamblackodyssey for my early digital copy!
“When love and loyalty collide, truth alone can reunite two long-lost loves in this royal second-chance romance.”
💭𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝐷𝑒𝑓𝑖𝑎𝑛𝑡 𝑄𝑢𝑒𝑒𝑛 is a second-chance romance that kept me hooked from the start. Baas and Shaya’s love story is packed with tension, secrets, and an emotional ride. The story ramps up significantly after the 50% mark, taking unexpected turns that left me shocked. The stakes become high, when love, loyalty, betrayal, and dangerous enemies cross paths, making it a fast-paced read without all the fluff. I loved that about this one! Baas and Shaya’s chemistry is undeniable, and I was invested in their journey back to one another and the drama involved along the way. Though I haven’t read book one, and wasn’t aware there was one until the end, I’m now curious about Dafari and Eboni’s story as well! With that, you don’t necessarily need to read book 1 to enjoy this one. I will definitely be picking that one up too. Also, I must mention—this cover is absolutely stunning.
“When love and loyalty collide, truth alone can reunite two long-lost loves in this royal second-chance romance.”
💭𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝐷𝑒𝑓𝑖𝑎𝑛𝑡 𝑄𝑢𝑒𝑒𝑛 is a second-chance romance that kept me hooked from the start. Baas and Shaya’s love story is packed with tension, secrets, and an emotional ride. The story ramps up significantly after the 50% mark, taking unexpected turns that left me shocked. The stakes become high, when love, loyalty, betrayal, and dangerous enemies cross paths, making it a fast-paced read without all the fluff. I loved that about this one! Baas and Shaya’s chemistry is undeniable, and I was invested in their journey back to one another and the drama involved along the way. Though I haven’t read book one, and wasn’t aware there was one until the end, I’m now curious about Dafari and Eboni’s story as well! With that, you don’t necessarily need to read book 1 to enjoy this one. I will definitely be picking that one up too. Also, I must mention—this cover is absolutely stunning.
July 23, 2025
I really enjoyed this one! The Defiant Queen delivers a rich, character-driven second-chance romance that balances emotional tension with a backdrop of royal politics and looming danger.
Baas and Shaya’s dynamic is everything I love in a slow-burn: full of hurt, history, longing, and gradual healing. Their chemistry is undeniable, and the way their past unfolds makes their reconnection feel earned. The writing is thoughtful and layered, especially in how it explores forgiveness, loyalty, and the weight of unspoken truths.
The pacing started a bit slow, but once the emotional stakes ramped up, I was hooked. There’s also just enough court intrigue and external threat to raise the tension without overshadowing the romance.
A heartfelt, swoony read with substance. Definitely recommend for fans of second-chance love stories and royal drama—though I’d suggest reading the first book for full context.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC
Baas and Shaya’s dynamic is everything I love in a slow-burn: full of hurt, history, longing, and gradual healing. Their chemistry is undeniable, and the way their past unfolds makes their reconnection feel earned. The writing is thoughtful and layered, especially in how it explores forgiveness, loyalty, and the weight of unspoken truths.
The pacing started a bit slow, but once the emotional stakes ramped up, I was hooked. There’s also just enough court intrigue and external threat to raise the tension without overshadowing the romance.
A heartfelt, swoony read with substance. Definitely recommend for fans of second-chance love stories and royal drama—though I’d suggest reading the first book for full context.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC
January 12, 2025
Ｅｂｏｏｋ Ｒｅｖｉｅｗ
4.5 ☆
Royal advisor, Baas, never stopped loving the woman he was forced to send away. When Shaya unexpectedly returns, he sees a long-awaited chance at happiness. However, winning back her trust and uncovering the secrets that led to their separation proves more difficult than navigating the royal court.
I would highly recommend reading book one, "The Accidental Queen," before starting this book to gain some background understanding of the two main characters, Baas and Shaya! I enjoyed this book so much; I read it in one day. Shaya really annoyed, irritated, and angered me, but she slowly grew on me at the very end. Baas is definitely a book husband, not a boyfriend. That's a real man! This storyline was really good. Highly recommend.
Thank you, Netgellay, and Black Odyssey Media for the ebook in exchange for my honest review.
4.5 ☆
Royal advisor, Baas, never stopped loving the woman he was forced to send away. When Shaya unexpectedly returns, he sees a long-awaited chance at happiness. However, winning back her trust and uncovering the secrets that led to their separation proves more difficult than navigating the royal court.
I would highly recommend reading book one, "The Accidental Queen," before starting this book to gain some background understanding of the two main characters, Baas and Shaya! I enjoyed this book so much; I read it in one day. Shaya really annoyed, irritated, and angered me, but she slowly grew on me at the very end. Baas is definitely a book husband, not a boyfriend. That's a real man! This storyline was really good. Highly recommend.
Thank you, Netgellay, and Black Odyssey Media for the ebook in exchange for my honest review.
September 11, 2025
The Defiant Queen pulled me in from the very first chapter. L.R. Jackson has a gift for creating characters who feel both regal and deeply human. Baas’s loyalty and quiet strength, paired with Shaya’s resilience and vulnerability, made me root for them every step of the way.
The palace intrigue kept the story exciting, but it was the emotional depth that truly stood out. The love between Baas and Shaya is tender, complicated, and unforgettable. I found myself pausing just to savor certain lines, the writing is that good.
Ebony Ford and Dylan Ford brought the characters to life beautifully in the audiobook, adding layers of emotion that made the experience even richer.
If you love royal romance, second chances, and a story that blends passion with heart, this is a must-read (or must-listen). I can’t wait to see what L.R. Jackson writes next!
The palace intrigue kept the story exciting, but it was the emotional depth that truly stood out. The love between Baas and Shaya is tender, complicated, and unforgettable. I found myself pausing just to savor certain lines, the writing is that good.
Ebony Ford and Dylan Ford brought the characters to life beautifully in the audiobook, adding layers of emotion that made the experience even richer.
If you love royal romance, second chances, and a story that blends passion with heart, this is a must-read (or must-listen). I can’t wait to see what L.R. Jackson writes next!
April 28, 2025
I was definitely excited for this read because I love reading about black royalty. However I did miss this was a series so I didn’t read the first book by mistake but I did like that in the second book there was a small recap so I wasn’t so lost. Baas is head over hills in love with Shaya but something or better yet a secret is holding her back to fully move forward with Baas. These two definitely had chemistry and you could tell that they really loved each other. Yet I found them both to be immature & didn’t love them as much as I thought I would. For Baas to be the Kings right hand man I found him to be so impulsive & he made decisions that didn’t make much sense. I wish there was more in the book about them being in Africa but other then that I really found the story to be enjoyable. Grateful for a complimentary copy for my honest review.
April 5, 2025
I enjoyed this story for shaya and baas. It was beautifully written and had a lot of powerful elements in it. I was so mad at shaya at one point (you'll see) but in a small way I understood her view. Baas is so loving and committed to her, it's unreal. A great story for the "friends of" from book 1, which i highly recommend reading first before this one.
I like the author's way of writing, which made both book 1 and 2 easy to read quickly. There is plenty of action, love and friendship which will leave you with many smiles and various times of tears.
Thank you net galley, l.r. jackson and black odyssey for this ARC in exchange of an honest review!
I like the author's way of writing, which made both book 1 and 2 easy to read quickly. There is plenty of action, love and friendship which will leave you with many smiles and various times of tears.
Thank you net galley, l.r. jackson and black odyssey for this ARC in exchange of an honest review!
Read
April 17, 2025That was chaotic. For anyone who follows my reviews you’ll know that I had wanted a Shaya and Baas story after reading The Accidental Queen. Well…here it is 😐
There was so much going on with this book. I should have known I was going to be in for a wild ride when there was already a death in Chapter 2 *inserts humorless laugh*. I do feel as though there was just too much thrown in the story though.
Shaya and Baas both pissed me off. I really wanted to enjoy their journey back to one another but between the choices they made, the lack of honesty, and unwavering forgiveness I just couldn’t connect and grew more frustrated by the page.
Also, the ending. Why?
There was so much going on with this book. I should have known I was going to be in for a wild ride when there was already a death in Chapter 2 *inserts humorless laugh*. I do feel as though there was just too much thrown in the story though.
Shaya and Baas both pissed me off. I really wanted to enjoy their journey back to one another but between the choices they made, the lack of honesty, and unwavering forgiveness I just couldn’t connect and grew more frustrated by the page.
Also, the ending. Why?
December 28, 2025
This book was the perfect reset I needed after all those heavy self-help reads. I’m obsessed with how they handled the drama and the storytelling—the characters were just beautiful. Honestly, the romance hit home for me; seeing a man who protects, fights for, and absolutely cherishes his woman was so moving. Plus, the royalty aspect? He was a king, she was a queen, and their connection was everything. The way he pleased her and took his time with his wife when making love was heartwarming. It seriously touched my soul and gave me all the inspiration I didn't know I was looking for. Love that for me.
February 4, 2025
This was another well-written book by L.R. Jackson. It catches your attention in the first couple of paragraphs. You must read The Accidental Queen if you want to know how Baas and Shaya met. I was waiting for the love story of Baas and Shaya. Baas was a man who was loyal to his best friend and his country. Baas met Shaya and fell in love with her, showing her that he loved her but knew his loyalty was to his country. Baas was set to marry NALA to join the two countries together. Baas was stuck because he wanted Shaya. He fulfilled his obligation to his country and married Nala, but his heart was with Shaya. As time went on, the love for each other never wavered, but there was a child involved who was given up for adoption by Shayla. As you read the book, all of your questions will be answered. Does Baas find out about the baby? Do Baas and Shaya have their happy ending? What happened to the baby, and was it a boy or girl? This book has some twists and turns that will make you not want to put the book down just so that you can find out what will happen next.
Denise Hadnot
The book was excellent and th
Denise Hadnot
The book was excellent and th
February 14, 2025
The Defiant Queen
👑Royalty
👑Touch her and 💀
👑Lots of secrets
This is my first book by this author, and it was definitely enjoyable! I received this book as an ARC. When this book was sent to me, I didn’t realize there was a book prior to it. I definitely felt like I was missing out on some dynamics without reading the first book, but I wasn’t confused about the storyline. This book has a lot going on! I was definitely invested in the story, but I started losing steam towards the end. I would read more books by this author!
👑Royalty
👑Touch her and 💀
👑Lots of secrets
This is my first book by this author, and it was definitely enjoyable! I received this book as an ARC. When this book was sent to me, I didn’t realize there was a book prior to it. I definitely felt like I was missing out on some dynamics without reading the first book, but I wasn’t confused about the storyline. This book has a lot going on! I was definitely invested in the story, but I started losing steam towards the end. I would read more books by this author!
February 19, 2025
This book took me on so many twist and turns. I would say to have better context read book one The Accidental Queen. Shaya really worked my nerves and I screamed at her several times. Most of Shaya’s problems could have been solved with a simple conversation.
Baas is a stand up guy and he made the choice to love Shaya through everything. Even through heartache he loved her. This was a really good read that kept me intrigued the entire story.
Thank you NetGalley and Black Odyssey Media for this ARC
Baas is a stand up guy and he made the choice to love Shaya through everything. Even through heartache he loved her. This was a really good read that kept me intrigued the entire story.
Thank you NetGalley and Black Odyssey Media for this ARC
March 23, 2025
I received this as an ARC from NetGalley. I really enjoyed this book. It was fast paced and kept me interested. I was pretty invested in Baas & Shayla’s story. They made such a great couple. The chemistry was great and the depth of their love for each other was definitely showcased. It had some plot twists and questions of morality to ponder, which only helped to make the story even more intriguing. I hope there’s a follow up to this one because I’d love to read it.
10/10 highly recommend. :)
10/10 highly recommend. :)
April 25, 2025
The Defiant Queen, a second chance for Baas and Shaya’s intense emotional journey. They carry some old wounds & buried secrets. But despite all that, their connection doesn’t seem to fade even with an outside force that is threatening to keep them apart.
The tension between them both is electric, and new revelation’s have reader intrigued.
This is book is of depth, passion, and plenty of twists. So if you like second chance romance this books for you.
The tension between them both is electric, and new revelation’s have reader intrigued.
This is book is of depth, passion, and plenty of twists. So if you like second chance romance this books for you.
October 14, 2025
This was a good book a lot of things could have been avoided if they talked to each other. This book was full of action & a roller coaster. I’m glad they were safe but now I’m worried about Bailey! What happened to her parents? Is there another book ? The character development was good throughout the book they both grew and learned how to communicate better and say what they was thinking.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 7, 2025
Once again LR Jackson has done it! The male main character did NOT play bout his lady regardless of what they went through. This book was everything I thought it would be and more and I can’t wait to read what she does next!
June 22, 2025
Definitely enjoyed this book, a great follow up from the first book. Baas & Shayla went through a lot but they made it through. I will say though I hate how she left us with a cliffhanger. I hope the next book is about Bailey’s story.
October 6, 2025
Meh. I should’ve read the synopsis because I thought I was going to get a continuation of book one. Nope this one is all about her best friend. Then the books ends on a major cliffhanger so now I gotta wait for book 3
June 12, 2025
Wow! I absolutely loved this book. Amazing characters and wonderful plot. Very beautifully written and easy to read.
April 7, 2025
This is book 2 of a series, the first book is the Accidental Queen, i recommend reading that before reading this one, that way you get the lay of the land. This is not the type of book that I would normally read, but the publisher reached out to me on my Booktok account and asked if I would be interested, after reading the synopsis I thought why not.
This book is told in Dual POV's, through the MMC and the FMC, Baas is the king of an African country, he is devastated after losing his love Shayla, he decides to stay in his home country with the hopes of preventing a war. Shayla however, decided to go a different path and ends up in New York City and becomes a veterinarian. Shyla is not without her own struggles and works to get through them. What ends will Baas go to winning Shayla back and regaining his love. Well youre going to have to read to find out.
I enjoyed this book, and it is a quick and fast read, can easily be finished in one setting. The characters bring the reader through a vast variety of emotions such as annoyance, anger, irritation due to their actions and or lack of communication at times. This was a great book and a wonderful example of a man that will protect his woman at all cost.
This book is told in Dual POV's, through the MMC and the FMC, Baas is the king of an African country, he is devastated after losing his love Shayla, he decides to stay in his home country with the hopes of preventing a war. Shayla however, decided to go a different path and ends up in New York City and becomes a veterinarian. Shyla is not without her own struggles and works to get through them. What ends will Baas go to winning Shayla back and regaining his love. Well youre going to have to read to find out.
I enjoyed this book, and it is a quick and fast read, can easily be finished in one setting. The characters bring the reader through a vast variety of emotions such as annoyance, anger, irritation due to their actions and or lack of communication at times. This was a great book and a wonderful example of a man that will protect his woman at all cost.
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