The King's Man: An MM Slow-Burn Romantasy

The King's Man #2

by Anyta Sunday

A healer on the rise. A masked merchant hiding too much. A kingdom where the wrong kind of magic can cost you everything.

Cael is used to being underestimated. A par-linea healer in a world where magic is only for the elite, he’s fought for every scrap of recognition, and now, he’s finally earned a place in the royal city. But ambition has a price, and when he once again crosses paths with that sharp-tongued merchant who knows too much, their game of wits threatens to turn deadly.

Quin is an enigma, a man who moves through court like a shadow, watching, waiting. His gaze lingers too long, his smirks cut too deep, and when a violent conspiracy unfolds within the palace walls, Cael finds himself ensnared in a battle far bigger than himself. With wyverns wreaking havoc and a high duke tightening his grip, the city is on the verge of collapse. And somehow, Quin is always at the centre of it.

Torn between ambition and survival, Cael must decide who he can trust. But in a world where power is wielded more sharply than magic, trust may be the most dangerous weapon of all.

THE KING’S MAN is an epic romantasy filled with slow-burn passion, courageous choices, and the relentless spirit of a healer determined to beat all odds.
This six-book series is one continuous journey and romance arc and is best read in order for maximum enjoyment.

For readers who Slow-burn romance crackling with tensionA healer hero who refuses to back downCourtly intrigue, masked secrets, and deadly politicsHigh-stakes magic and rebellionPerfect for fans of "The Captive Prince," "The Magician’s Guild," and "The Priory of the Orange Tree."

Genres: Fantasy, Slow Burn, M M Romance, Romance, Romantasy, Royalty, M M Fantasy

262 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 13, 2025

About the author

Specialising in slow-burn romances where emotions reign, intimacy lingers, and chemistry sizzles—stories that leave you holding your breath and cheering for love, with just a splash of spice to sweeten the journey.

Check out my website:
Contact: http://www.anytasunday.com/?page_id=386

Für deutsche Leser:
http://www.anytasunday.de/

In italiano:
http://www.anytasunday.it/

Reviews

[Meags · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars

BEWARE: Spoiler-ish review if you haven't read book one...

If I’m already this in-swoon with the slow-burn romance building between Cael and Quin, I don’t even know how I’m going to handle what happens when they finally proclaim their feelings and get to the touching. Seriously, I’m not going to be okay.

This might be “book two” but it’s all really just one long story that has been broken up into six-parts for easier consumption. That is to say, this book contains chapters 26-39 in the larger story, making this in no way, shape, or form a standalone tale.

The royal scheming and kingdom-wide politics are becoming more intricate and high-stakes, with magical healer Cael at the centre of a masked war between the King and his malicious usurper-striving uncle, The Duke.

In book two we get more clarity in all things, from the world-building, to the characters and their motives, and even in the writing itself.

I personally loved how much more page time we got between Cael and Quin, here. The “big realisation” scene, in particular, was a highlight for me, and I can’t wait to see how this whole thing continues to play out.


***A special thanks to the author and publishers (via Book Sirens) for providing an ARC of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily (and enthusiastically).

[Drache.... (Angelika) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Better than the first book, not as erratic and all over the place.
I'm still not a fan of the writing style, though (and that's not something I ever thought I'd say about A. Sunday's writing).

What I enjoyed most was waiting for Cael to figure out who had been with him on the memorable occasions he values so much (still waiting, though). I'm also curious how the author is going to solve the romance aspect without hurting Nicostratus, Veronica and Alexos.

I guess I'll have to wait for some more time, as Cael only discovered Quin's identity in this book, and the author clearly has other priorities right now for Cael: surviving, hiding, facing cruel decisions by the king's sinister uncle, fighting, surviving.

The slow burn is slow, very slow.
On Cael's part it's really non existent as he fancies himself still in love with Nicostratus (I'm never going to understand where both their attraction and feelings have come from, as there's zero chemistry). But that's ok, especially knowing what truths Quin still hides from Cael.

Overall I feel a bit like the rabbit led by the carrot.

[Achim · Rating 3 out of 5]

Suppose I came to term with the wonky world building and the focus of book 2 on the limited space of King's Island made those rough edges even more smooth. Also, meanwhile I came up with assumptions about the meaning of those special words the author is using without explaining e.g. for the time being an aklo being a bondsman or body-servant is working for me although I guess the author had something different but similar in mind. It also helps that a lot is happening and Cael is stumbling from one challenging threat into the next dangerous situation.

What doesn't help is that I'm still not sure if I like Cael. Oh, I probably would have if he appeared in Sunday's Zodiac series or another of her contemporary stories but as a fantasy character his mix of cheeky confidence, carefree obliviousness and big-hearted naivety needs a different environment than a scheming court with power struggles or at least he needs some fitting characters to balance his modern vibes. Unfortunately we get the caricature of an evil High Duke, a charismatic but threatened king with spur-of-the-moment decisions when it's about Cael and chivalrous but bland prince as the supposed romantic interest. Would work if it would be a funny fantasy tale but that's not the case. It also seems like it's going for a romance pet peeve of mine. There's no doubt that Cael and Quin are the main couple while Cael still believes to be in love with Quin's brother who also has at least a crush for Cael and Quin is married with child to Victoria who's a childhood friend of Cael … yes, arranged, political marriage and Nicostratus surely soon recognize that his feelings were never really love, but I like such situations like I like such half-hearted solutions for such situations.

So what's left are interesting scenes, a brilliant system for healing magic and a lot of amusing situations between Cael and Quin but it's still not easy for me to get into the flow of the story.

[Lily Loves 📚 · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was definitely more exciting than book one. I know who I want Cael to be with but time will tell.

This second book shows you the inner workings of the kingdom and how sinister the Duke is. This end on such a cliffhanger though! That ending had me out of breath!!! I just know the next books are going to be so good!!!

ARC provided for review
All thoughts and opinions are my own

[Renée · Rating 4 out of 5]

Huge cliffhanger, but I expected that. Very slow going on the romance, but that’s also core to this author. It’s going well, and now I have to wait until June 3.

[Dan · Rating 4 out of 5]

The books are getting good. A lot is happening and based on the fact that there are four books left then a lot is still yet to happen. And unlike in other live triangles, I can't figure out who our Cael is meant ti be with. that kind of makes it even more interesting

[Joyfully Jay · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Joyfully Jay review.

4.25 stars

Book Two was definitely stronger than Book One and, while there were still some issues, I felt like the story really started to find its feet here and we see a wider scope of politics at play. I was more involved with the characters and was a lot more invested in the overall story. With any luck, this series will grow from strength to strength as it continues and I’m definitely looking forward to the next installment.

Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.

[⭐️ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m deceased… Anyta has done it again!

I was on the edge of my seat the whole time… there’s just no rest for Cael at all!!!! I think I’m certain who I really want Cael to end up with and I am so excited to find out. I’m going to down a bottle of red if I’m right, and some white wine if I’m wrong haha.

I am absolutely obsessed with this story and this world. Have I mentioned that the magic system is so interesting? Makes me wish I was linea 🤔

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Cynthia M Brow · Rating 4 out of 5]

The King's Man: Book 2, this series should be read in order. Another part of the story I couldn't put down. I really think this installment of the story is better than the first one. I still love Cael. The story just keeps getting better and better. I love all the intrigue in the series. I'm not sure yet who I want Cael to end up with. I can't wait for the next book in the series. I would definitely recommend this book and series.

[Bookreader87(Amanda) · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read book 1 & 2 together. See review  Review

[Fae · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anyta Sunday’s new series, The King’s Man, continues to develop in exciting ways in Book II. Fraught with danger, increasing intrigue, and perilous political maneuvering, the pacing evens out in this installment and really finds its stride. Readers will be intrigued as they uncover more and more detail, and enjoy the increasing tension as they watch Cael and Quin’s dance into and out of each other’s lives in a complexly nuanced slow-burn relationship. Full disclosure: I am going to be mindful of spoilers in this review, probably more so than usual.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

2025 Favorite: The King’s Man

The King’s Man series is shaping up to be my favorite of 2025. I’m excited about it. I want to invite all my MM romance friends to read it. It’s special to find something I genuinely want to share with as many people as possible.

While Book I initially struggled with pacing and sparse descriptions, Book II does not share these struggles. The characters, the world, the magic, the politics, the systems, all continue to develop and clarify as the story progresses. The magic system evolves, and it’s clearer how it all works with some fleshed-out descriptions of spellwork. The reader is not constantly wondering if they understand what is going on.

A hypothesis emerges

I believe that re-reading this series after it’s all finished will bring lots of things that were previously confusing in Book I into sharper focus.

Book II of VI

This series is on a long track. So while I want to review the hell out of this book, I also want to preserve its secrets for readers who will want to read after seeing the reviews piling in. I don’t want to spoil things. A lot of times, my reviews post after a book drops. And yes, Book II was released a few weeks ago. But this whole series is new. Only the first two have been published. So I want to hold the cards close.

The Bloom of New Friendships

We start immediately after the previous book, Cael has been admitted to the Royal City to continue his vitalian studies. New characters introduce themselves, and quickly, challenges start to arise. Cael is behind in his studies. Gee, wonder why, seeing as he’s not been allowed to develop his skills on threat of death til now.

The lower-level vitalians are tasked regularly with treating the Royal City’s numerous servants. Cael notices things are amiss, and you know he’s going to stick his nose into things.

Comrades

Of the new characters, his fellow green-sashed associates seem to warm to his undeniable charm the quickest. Florentius and the other two apprentices, Makarios and Mikros (twins? I read so quickly I don’t recall if we’re told) are all at the same level as Cael, and though they resent him at first, they come to recognize that he’s here on his own merit. Cael is a good healer, innate instinct and his steadfast determination overcomes any weaknesses, perceived or real, that being par-linea manifest.

Mounting Danger

Cael’s motivations continue to thrust him into peril and victory in equal measure. This book does end on an intense cliffhanger. That makes me want to finish up this review as quickly as I can so that I can continue reading, because I am desperate to know what happens next!

Complex Relationships

Despite Cael and Quin’s oblivious denial, they have feelings for one another. Cael also has Nicostratus, or Silvius as he was known in the first book, and their relationship seems tepid in comparison; the swirl of interactions between Cael and Quin has more edge, more tension, more spark than the other relationship can dream to muster.

Glows and Grows

This series is very exciting. It’s mysterious, complex and unique in surprising ways. I have not read something like this in quite some time. It’s really gripped me now. In my last review, I wrote about my struggles with book I. They stemmed primarily from purposeful decisions: sparse descriptions of key elements of the society set in a complex world, many different characters with mysterious histories, motivations, and roles. But this was done mindfully, I think. I call it the dive into the deep end/sink or swim approach’’and it was a choice.

Some people will really like that and be able to just run with it. Some people will struggle with it like I did. My fear is that some people might not give the book series a chance because of it. But I do want to encourage my readers that it is worth the initial struggle to see it through. Continue reading, and you will be rewarded by getting into a really interesting series.

The Spark of a Slow-Burn

The slow-burn romance really starts to take hold here, especially once some key identities are confirmed. Like me, readers may have made some assumptions about identities before the big reveal. I was glad to be right in my suspicions and felt very validated to have that potential locked into place. Cael and Quinn dance around one another beautifully. Quinn continues to be annoyed and bothered by things that Cael does. But secretly, maybe not so secretly anymore, Quin supports and holds Cael up, providing him with critical opportunities and new ways to further his aspirations and dreams.

Cael is a Button-Pusher

“Let’s see what happens, YOLO.” - Cael’s philosophy in life, probably.

Cael can’t help but push Quin’s buttons. And he’s in for a big shock because of it. Quin’s character is complicated, and one gets the feeling he hides, by necessity, almost all his true feelings and intentions. And maybe has done for most of his life. Cael’s adventure is increasingly tied to the dangerous political games society forces Quin to play. Cael’s overwhelming instinct is to heal, to protect, to ensure Quin’s safety. Maybe he doesn’t understand why. But readers, this book starts with the warning that it includes a torturously slow-burn romance. So, gather your nerves, because things gon go down. Eventually.

Theme Development

Book I explores and introduces the themes that continue to play out in Book II. Readers will enjoy that the main themes develop in nuance as the realities of Cael’s situation evolve.

Power is a Double-Edged Sword

Who has the power, and who wants it? This is a world where power can mean different things. Who is willing to do anything to protect their loved ones, despite being the face of power?

Who gets to have Power (Magic)

On that note, the book explores ideas about who should be able to wield power in its many forms: through magic, political might, or healing. The ripe metaphors call up questions about power imbalances in our world. Why do the rich and powerful work to keep themselves on top and take the chance of improvement, the dream of rising above one’s station, out of the hands of everyone else? While our worlds are different, Cael burns with the same sense of injustice.

Trusting Can Be Dangerous

Cael trusts implicitly, to his peril. His naivety brings him trouble over and over, but this facet of his character burns strongly in him; it’s his cornerstone. He’s warned that the world will tread all over him because of it, and it does.

Quin is more grounded in reality, he doesn’t seem to trust anyone. I think he wants to trust Cael.

Nicostratus, well. He takes the back burner in this book. So much so that I start to wonder if he’s all he says he is on the surface.

Recommendation

As already stated, this series is something worth honing in on. It’s special. I’m 100% all in.

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

********** Contains Spoilers**********

I’m new to Anyta Sunday’s work and I’m looking forward to reading more. I’ve reviewed both books I & II separately since I received a combined file through GRR.

Book I - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - I enjoyed this book and thought that it was a good start to the King’s Man Series. I enjoyed immersing myself in this exciting world that Anyta has created and I’m looking forward to learning more as the series continues. I did find it quite confusing to start with as we were kind of just got dropped straight into the story without much explanation on what was happening and why. There were also a lot of different names/characters introduced that it was hard to keep track of them, but as this story progressed I was able to follow along more easily. I really liked Cael he’s not perfect and makes mistakes along the way. He just wants to help people using his healing powers, even though it’s against the rules because he’s only a par-linea. There’s two possible love interests for Cael, Nicostratus and Quin. I find Cael’s interactions with Quin throughout this book much more interesting. I’m looking forward to finding out who he eventually ends up with.

Book II - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - I enjoyed this book and thought that it was a good addition to the King’s Man Series. I enjoyed immersing myself in this exciting world that Anyta has created and I’m looking forward to learning more as the series continues. I found this book slower paced than King’s Man I which I liked, as that book was non stop action with very little down time. Cael has finally earned a place in Royal City as a par-linea healer, but things are far from easy. Cael can’t seem to help himself by helping those less fortunate, even if it causes problems for himself or those he cares about. I think that Cael has a lot more chemistry with Quin, they enjoy pushing each other’s buttons but it works for them. Nicostratus is the safer choice but only time will tell how things play out. Man, I want to throat punch the Duke for everything he’s done and I can’t wait for him to get taken out but since there’s four more books left in this series it probably won’t be until like the last book.

I’m looking forward to reading King’s Man III & IV next, as well as more books from Anyta Sunday in the future. I’d recommend this book, series and author to others.

******I received a complimentary copy of this book through GRR. I would still happily review this book even if I purchased it myself. My thoughts and feelings about this book are completely unbiased******

[Ariana (mostly offline) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Totally blown away by pretty much everything this time.
The plot, the romance, the action, the hurt, the feelings … sigh, I could go on.

We find out so much more in this book about what’s going on in the kingdom, all the intrigue, the injustice, the fight against evil. And Cael seems to find himself in the midst of it, as always unable to keep himself out of trouble when helpless, underprivileged people need helping and healing.

His relationship with Quin blossoms which means mostly that their verbal sparring and battle of wills get more intense. My heart broke a few times for Quin who so clearly adores and believes in Cael, helping him, saving him, getting him out of trouble again and again, while Cael doesn’t seem to see the attraction at all.
Or is he trying not to?

It’s no wonder considering he does find out, to my surprise so early, who Quin is and what that involves.
I thought that Cael really tries hard to convince himself that Nicostratus is the right guy for him, but we know and feel that the chemistry between them is simply not there. Certainly nothing compared to what’s crackling between Cael and Quin.

I must admit I have no idea where this is going to go, considering the complex relationships between these three guys and some other people who are involved in this situation.

But I LOVE all the feels, the subliminal, unrecognised jealousy, the stirring of nameless emotions, the banter between Cael and Quin, the way Cael is never afraid to give Quin his honest opinion. The forth and back between them, the niggling, and pull and push. So So good! And there hasn’t even been a kiss! (unless you count the chaste ones from Nicostratus).

And the plot thickens considerably, too. The constant danger, the brutality of the villains, the breathless action … my heart is still beating wildly. Particularly after that tense and awful last chapter. (And yes, it’s a blooming cliff hanger!)
Also need to say ... I really ADORE the magic, the spells - so inventive and imaginative! And the drawings in the books are very lovely, too.

I’m so happy that the rest of the books are being released very soon!
I might actually have to reread the first two books more slowly, as I raced through them far too fast.

Very much looking forward to the next book/s!

[Kavisha · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished reading The King's Man series by Anyta Sunday, and wow — what a ride. This six-book series is set in a beautifully imagined magical kingdom and follows Cael, a gifted healer who, due to his non-pure-blood status, is forbidden by law from practicing magic. His determination to heal regardless of his lineage, and to challenge an unjust system, creates a compelling and emotional arc that spans decades.

The concept of magical healing as the central focus was refreshingly original — I’ve never read anything quite like it. Add to that the slow-building romance, political intrigue, and themes of resistance and change, and you get a series that’s both intellectually engaging and emotionally moving. Watching Cael and the king work to change the kingdom from within was deeply satisfying.

That said, book one was a tough entry point. You're thrown into the world with minimal explanation, which made it hard to follow at first. Magical terms, world-building details, and key characters — some of whom appear in disguise — are all introduced rapidly, and I spent a lot of time feeling confused. I didn’t fully understand who Cael was or what was happening until well into the first book.

However, once I made it through book one, I was completely hooked. I read the entire series in just six days. The pacing picks up, the characters deepen, and the emotional payoff becomes incredibly rewarding.

Reading The Unofficial Guide to Lumen and Love: A King's Man Glossary helped a lot — it provided much-needed context for the world and made everything click into place.

As a longtime fan of Anyta Sunday (The Signs of Love and Love, Austen series are personal favorites), I know how talented she is at crafting slow-burn romances with real heart. That skill shines here too, even in a completely different genre. I admire her boldness in creating such a complex and original fantasy world, and despite the rocky start, I truly loved this series.

If you enjoy magical worlds, political transformation, found family, and achingly slow-burn queer romance, The King's Man series is absolutely worth the read. Just give yourself some time to get through book one — the payoff is well worth it.

[Meg · Rating 5 out of 5]

𝓜𝔂 𝓱𝓮𝓪𝓻𝓽𝓯𝓮𝓵𝓽 𝓰𝓻𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓽𝓾𝓭𝓮 𝓽𝓸 𝓑𝓸𝓸𝓴 𝓢𝓲𝓻𝓮𝓷𝓼 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓪𝓾𝓽𝓱𝓸𝓻 𝓯𝓸𝓻 𝓪𝓵𝓵𝓸𝔀𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓶𝓮 𝓽𝓸 𝓻𝓮𝓬𝓮𝓲𝓿𝓮 𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓼 𝓐𝓡𝓒!

I am always hesitant going into a sequel or continuation of a series; especially following a book as good as Book I. The King’s Man: Book II by Anyta Sunday totally lived up to my high expectations.

I absolutely adore the world the author has created in these books. The unique way the magic is layered gives the story its unique flair. I could see the battle with the water wyverns in my head. The imagery and vivid detail bring every aspect into a visual story that plays through my mind. It’s been very difficult finding a high fantasy series that keeps me engaged. The Champion of the Gods series by Andrew Q Gordon was the last series that drew me in the way this one has. I can already tell this will be on my annual reread list for years to come.

The excitement definitely continues in this book, and it had me on the edge of my seat. The political machinations have started becoming clearer, and the manipulation and malice shown by the villain give me chills. Some violence and cruelty are involved, but it only adds to the story.

Sunday does not shy away from writing heartwrenching scenes, and this book ends after a particularly brutal standoff. These books are meant to be read as a series, so expect them to end on a cliffhanger until the end. The romance is slowly simmering , and I am about to lose my mind! I am so excited to continue on this journey.

I wanted to gush a bit over the illustrations throughout the book. Done by Merce Rodriguez, these works of art are absolutely breathtaking!


Happy reading!

~𝓘 𝓻𝓮𝓬𝓮𝓲𝓿𝓮𝓭 𝓪𝓷 𝓐𝓡𝓒 𝓸𝓯 𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓼 𝓫𝓸𝓸𝓴 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓘 𝓪𝓶 𝓵𝓮𝓪𝓿𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓶𝔂 𝓱𝓸𝓷𝓮𝓼𝓽 𝓻𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀.~

[R · Rating 3 out of 5]

This review is for combined story from Book One 2.75 and Two 3.5
I was so lost in the beginning of this book. I felt like there was a whole story that I missed. Confusing and convoluted but very interesting so I struggled my way through it. A lot of names tossed around, hidden identities, social prejudice, and almost mystical healing made for a compelling book.

Cael want to be a vitalian, a legitimate healer. Every time he helps someone he risks his life and those of his family. Meeting someone who he knew mirrored a false face set the course of his life in the direction he wanted it to go, he just didn’t know it.

His journey to the royal palace isn’t an easy one. Nicostratus and Quin both confuse and entice Cael. His time spent with each of them is precious and painful.

As he battles for his future as a vitalian, evil forces work against him and the men that mean so much to him.

It did become easier to comprehend as the story progressed.

The book ends not so much on cliffhanger as it does with anger and pain.

I received an arc of this book.

[Sunne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 2 in this gripping fantasy series - to be read in order.

Now that we are comfortable in this fantasy world, Anyta Sunday no longer spares us a minute to catch our breath. This was a fast paced, very interesting book, full of undercurrents, politics, revealing of a hidden identity and new friends. I loved the change of place, the fast pace and the change in how Caels spends his time. We learn a lot of new stuff, we see Cael widening his horizon.
Besides that his connections with both, Nicostratus and Quin, gets more developed.
Books 3 and 4 will be released at the beginning of June, so there is no long wait.
If I could, I would give this one 6 stars.

Oh - and I would like to mention - the books have a few illustrations in them - which is a bonus besides the beautiful covers.

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

I feel so lucky to have received an ARC of this second book in the series from Goodreads!
I don't know how long I could have lasted waiting to read this one, so the rest of the series are definitely being looked forward to with anticipation.
You definitely must read this series in order.
Cliffhangers, deaths, twists, turns, an evil duke, malicious magical spells and secrets.

Veronica, the queen, provides information that gives me hope for the future.
The best of friends, Makarios and Mikros, provide some much needed humor at a time it is desperately needed.
The king throws curves at Cael every chance he gets...protecting him and so many others.
You'll love Prince Nicostratus and Florentious.
Everyone needs an Akilah in their lives.

Take a deep breath and hold on for a rough ride!

[Debby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cael returns in Book II exactly where Book I ended. He has succeeded and is now part of the royal city as he prepares to further his education. He is still treated differently but many are beginning to recognize his value. Quinn continues to come and go from his life as does Sylvius. The true identities of the two men in his life are revealed and Cael struggles with this as well. The city is threatened by wyverns and the Grand Duke is making a play for more. Cael’s activities are being scrutinized and he is forced to make a decision that affects more than just him. Book 3 cannot come fast enough.

This series is quite enjoyable. The plot is revealed slowly and masterfully, keeping us glued to the pages. The stakes steadily increase and as with Book I, Cael is forced into a corner and must act. This one left us on a cliff hanger. Book III here we come.

[Alias11 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wasn't inspired by this world or the characters after reading the first book, but I think this one is better. I am understanding more the motivations of the characters (though who can be trusted us still in the air). The court is a den of vipers for sure, and Cael better watch his step, but I love a story with intrigue and machinations. I also love Cael's dedication and stubbornness in pursuing who/what he wants to be, no matter the risks. I'm still not excited by the romance(?). I don't mind slow-burn, but this is more like no-burn. That's okay as long as the rest of the plot makes up for it. I'm still lukewarm about the series, but after that cliff-hanger, I can see the potential, and I have to read on.

I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.

[L H · Rating 4 out of 5]

​Alternatively, I could have titled this review 'be careful what you wish for'. As the story continues we get to spend more time with Cael and Quin and get to see just how precarious the political shenanigans swirling around them really are. As the author continues to build the world I am looking forward to being in for the next 4 books, the excitement builds but so does the danger that often accompanies jockeying for power. As a big fan of this author the slow burn in the relationship is one of the things I enjoy as it makes me really appreciate the distance travelled between the main romantic pair to wind up together. This story does not disappoint in that regard either.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm already hooked to this series! It is exciting, action-packed, full of magic, betrayal, intrigue, and the promise of a future love. In this book, Cael continues to advance as a healing mage, working toward his next test. His friendships with the King, the King's brother, the other student mages, and others continues to deepen. It feels that there is a strong mutual attraction to the King, but the King is married with a child. (No cheating in this book.) It ends in a cliffhanger, but since it is on rapid release, I won't have to wait long for the rest of the series. It is very slow burn, so there is almost no real romance in the book. I plan to read it all.

[ivanareadsalot · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would like to thank GRR for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.

*NOTE 1:

this review for The King's Man II comes after reading both The King's Man I & II!

*NOTE 2:

***As pertaining to the comp to CPT:

I AM A MEGA FAN of The Captive Prince trilogy, and while The King's Man I has started off ten trillion times less brutal than CPT, The King's Man II is ramping up its ducal cruelty and therefore the comp is starting to align...in that regard.***

The King's Man II was dynamite, and all the things i enjoyed about book 1 flourished and shone and charmed me to no end!

I think now one of my favourite tropes has to be when MC1 is sassy with gorgeous and enigmatic MC2, and he doesn't know the true identity of the mystery-man he gets cheeky with! Cael was such a brazen and mischievous thing with Quin and it made me giddy and gleeful whenever they bantered with each other! Cael, the more impish variety of playful, but also with strong feelings he wasn't afraid to share about the marginalized classes. And Quin, inscrutably facing down Cael's bright nature/rebel heroics with stoic endurance, can't help but fall face-first into Cael's orbit.

There's a bit of a triangle here that's making me a touch nervous, but i'm in this for the long haul and i know that this series will own my insides every chance it gets and i'm gonna let it!

Book 2's ending had me screaming, and i absolutely cannot wait to dive into the next because if it's anything like what i've just read it's gonna be amazing for sure!

[Raven and Chris · Rating 4 out of 5]

Honestly the two parts blended together on me pretty badly because I read them together. I truly recommend doing that with this whole series. This one ends on a whopper of a cliffhanger and I don’t know how I feel about some of the events here. Cael and Quin are going to have some serious struggles…I can tell…but I couldn’t stop reading this if I wanted to. I figured out part of the plot straight away but that didn’t stop me. These characters have a lot of depth and I can’t wait to see what happens next.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay Anyta, you got me. I was unsure after book 1, but I am fully hooked now! No seriously, that cliffhanger, I NEED the next book!! I truly think the romance I want is going to happen HUZZAH, but I need more clueless MC who doesn't see it and all the pining. Anyta just writes that sweet clueless MC not realizing how much he is absolutely adored. It's just, so good. And I get the magic now, and I'm into the political machinations going on. It just all came together in this one for me. If you're on the fence after book 1, make sure you still give book 2 a chance. It's so worth it.

[Kathy Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in The King’s Man Fantasy Series. This is a continuation and I feel this series should be read in order to understand what is happening. The author did a lot of world building in the first book. The second book is a wonderful continuation of a great story; it was hard to put down. The characters continue to grow and develop. The adventure gets better and mystery of who will end up together just keeps getting confused. I can’t wait for the third installment of this series.

[Suzanne Irving · Rating 5 out of 5]

More slow burn and adventures

No no no. I was so sad by the end of this book. Anyta Sunday ready knows how to wrench her reader’s emotions around and there is a lot that is wrenching in this volume of this series. Cael goes through a lot as politics again swirls around him and I have never enjoyed politics more. The only thing was that there weren’t as many illustrations in this book which, while not affecting the story is a pity because they are great drawings and help to visualize what the characters look like. More please!

[Marta · Rating 4 out of 5]

I know how this is going to evolve in love matters, or so I hope and I'm feeling sad for the prince who is not going to end with Cael.
In this book we see some growth in Cael, he sees more and is willing to learn more than in the first book.
Quin is an amazing character, fighting a losing war with almost no allies in every aspect of his life.
Nicostratus is sweet, a pleaser and like having a hug.
The plot thickens here, with the king making political advances while his uncle undermines him.
What an ending, how is Cael to get himself out of this?
Really expecting the next book.

[Jack Harkness · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rose petals, 2 dove feathers, charcuterie board, Goffridus Ethics, wyvern cane, 60 ingredients, turbocharged wyverns

In Book 2, the saga continues. At some point, Cael will have to choose between brothers King Constantinos or Prince Nicostratus. But will both men return to their palace or perish at the southern front? Their uncle, the high duke, schemes to take over the kingdom. The story's pace is a bit more frenzied than Book 1, but nothing is lacking. Once again, the story continues on in Book 3. Prior reading in order is necessary. Like Book 1, I absolutely recommend this book.

[Jeanette Waters · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book two of Anyta Sunday's Kings Man series, was a more comfortable fit than book one. I was more familiar with the characters, they made sense. Now we get thrown into a story about court intrigue. The danger is ramping up, with a few twists for fun. Still slow burning. And Anyta Sunday is being a bit cagey about whether this is a pairing, or a triad.
Quicker read than book one. We could definitely do with a glossary of terms and a Who's who list. And now I want more.
I received an advance copy and this is my review.