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The King's Man #3
The King's Man: An MM Slow-Burn Romantasy
A healer in exile. A fugitive king. A kingdom that would see them both dead.
Cael should be dead. The kingdom believes it. The duke who framed him ensured it. But instead of execution, he was buried alive, and only one man dared to pull him from the grave. Now, Cael is on the run with the very king he was forced to betray.
Hunted by redcloaks and trapped in a town ravaged by disease, Cael and Quin must risk everything to survive. With supplies dwindling and the air thick with fevered cries, every life Cael saves pushes him closer to breaking. Wyverns carry the sickness, but the town’s fear and desperation are far deadlier. As tensions flare, sharp words clash, glances hold too long, and an unspoken pull tightens between them. Cael clings to the one thing slipping fastest through his control.
But even the most powerful healer has limits. And when their enemies close in, forcing Cael to make an impossible sacrifice, the price he pays will change him forever.
Uncover the fate of the healer who should have died . . . and the king who won’t let him go.
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 A slow-burn romance simmering with tensionA healer hero who refuses to be powerlessA puppet king fighting to reclaim his throneHigh-stakes adventure, betrayal, and found familyPerfect for fans of "The Captive Prince," "The Magician’s Guild," and "The Priory of the Orange Tree."
Cael should be dead. The kingdom believes it. The duke who framed him ensured it. But instead of execution, he was buried alive, and only one man dared to pull him from the grave. Now, Cael is on the run with the very king he was forced to betray.
Hunted by redcloaks and trapped in a town ravaged by disease, Cael and Quin must risk everything to survive. With supplies dwindling and the air thick with fevered cries, every life Cael saves pushes him closer to breaking. Wyverns carry the sickness, but the town’s fear and desperation are far deadlier. As tensions flare, sharp words clash, glances hold too long, and an unspoken pull tightens between them. Cael clings to the one thing slipping fastest through his control.
But even the most powerful healer has limits. And when their enemies close in, forcing Cael to make an impossible sacrifice, the price he pays will change him forever.
Uncover the fate of the healer who should have died . . . and the king who won’t let him go.
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 A slow-burn romance simmering with tensionA healer hero who refuses to be powerlessA puppet king fighting to reclaim his throneHigh-stakes adventure, betrayal, and found familyPerfect for fans of "The Captive Prince," "The Magician’s Guild," and "The Priory of the Orange Tree."
240 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 3, 2025
27 people are currently reading
60 people want to read
About the author
Anyta Sunday
111 books2,742 followersSpecialising 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/
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/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
August 18, 2025
4.5 Stars
Again, in case it bears repeating, this is NOT A STANDALONE; it’s one long M/M fantasy book broken into 6-parts that are meant to be consumed as a whole.
As part three in the series, we are well and truly in the middle of the action now, with the majority of the story following Cael and the King on the run—one presumed dead and one a fugitive of the kingdom that is swiftly breaking apart and in desperate need of a hero uprising against the evil Duke regent.
The beginning of this instalment was a bit all over the place for me. I was confused about what was happening to Cael and why, a lot unclear on setting, scene, and character behaviour. It was reminiscent of the murky opening third of the first book, which felt purposefully vague on details and (maybe unknowingly) rushed in its telling.
However, once the opening act was over with, and Cael and the King were on the run together, the story and I found our stride and I couldn’t look away.
This one had snarky banter and deeply veiled conversations, questionable disguises resulting in hilarious public hookwinking, and even a scary plague-type breakout that took up the second half of the story, threatening to break magical healer Cael in his desperate fight to save the affected townsfolk and his King.
SPOILERY TERRITORY AHEAD...
Honestly, just stop reading here if you plan to read this series and don’t want series spoilers…
...
....
.....
......
In truth, I think I enjoyed this instalment the most so far, in large part due to the fact that 80% of the story was comprised of scenes in which Cael and Quin were together on page. It was still intense in plot happenings and exceptional in character development, but I was mostly here to eat up every single morsel of relationship growth these two men shared, with all the swoony banter and the high-stakes situational hurt-comfort moments they experienced together in their constant fight for survival.
Yes, their love story is still the slowest of slow burn romances to ever slow burn, and yes, it’s still a bothersome love triangle that is stressing me out to high heavens, but by god I’m obsessed with Cael and Quin and the downright epic-ness of their slow growing feelings towards one another. I can only imagine how dead I’m going to be when they finally get together, unencumbered by that pesky brother, Nicostratus, and his role in their current dynamic. But who am I kidding? I even love Nico and his sweet, sincere heart! I honestly hope he doesn’t get hurt or hurt too deeply when he gets passed over for his hero hunk of a brooding brother King, but sacrifices must be made to make me a happy romance reader.
As is always the way with a good Anyta Sunday story, one MC is fairly oblivious to the depth of the feelings of the other MC, and that other MC is pretending not to be arse-over-tits, soulmate-level, YOU’RE MINE possessive about MC number one, but it’s all so, so, soooo well done in that regard that I’m even enjoying the delicious torture of having to wait these two idiots out—that is until MC one realises the true depths of his own feelings and acts on them accordingly… which better include climbing that King like a god damn tree! Just saying.
All in all, I’m well and truly hooked at this point and I can’t wait to see how it all plays out, even if I am anxious as heck to experience the undoubtedly angst-filled upcoming instalments. I’m confident the HEA will be well worth it because in Anyta Sunday I trust.
***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).
Again, in case it bears repeating, this is NOT A STANDALONE; it’s one long M/M fantasy book broken into 6-parts that are meant to be consumed as a whole.
As part three in the series, we are well and truly in the middle of the action now, with the majority of the story following Cael and the King on the run—one presumed dead and one a fugitive of the kingdom that is swiftly breaking apart and in desperate need of a hero uprising against the evil Duke regent.
The beginning of this instalment was a bit all over the place for me. I was confused about what was happening to Cael and why, a lot unclear on setting, scene, and character behaviour. It was reminiscent of the murky opening third of the first book, which felt purposefully vague on details and (maybe unknowingly) rushed in its telling.
However, once the opening act was over with, and Cael and the King were on the run together, the story and I found our stride and I couldn’t look away.
This one had snarky banter and deeply veiled conversations, questionable disguises resulting in hilarious public hookwinking, and even a scary plague-type breakout that took up the second half of the story, threatening to break magical healer Cael in his desperate fight to save the affected townsfolk and his King.
SPOILERY TERRITORY AHEAD...
Honestly, just stop reading here if you plan to read this series and don’t want series spoilers…
...
....
.....
......
In truth, I think I enjoyed this instalment the most so far, in large part due to the fact that 80% of the story was comprised of scenes in which Cael and Quin were together on page. It was still intense in plot happenings and exceptional in character development, but I was mostly here to eat up every single morsel of relationship growth these two men shared, with all the swoony banter and the high-stakes situational hurt-comfort moments they experienced together in their constant fight for survival.
Yes, their love story is still the slowest of slow burn romances to ever slow burn, and yes, it’s still a bothersome love triangle that is stressing me out to high heavens, but by god I’m obsessed with Cael and Quin and the downright epic-ness of their slow growing feelings towards one another. I can only imagine how dead I’m going to be when they finally get together, unencumbered by that pesky brother, Nicostratus, and his role in their current dynamic. But who am I kidding? I even love Nico and his sweet, sincere heart! I honestly hope he doesn’t get hurt or hurt too deeply when he gets passed over for his hero hunk of a brooding brother King, but sacrifices must be made to make me a happy romance reader.
As is always the way with a good Anyta Sunday story, one MC is fairly oblivious to the depth of the feelings of the other MC, and that other MC is pretending not to be arse-over-tits, soulmate-level, YOU’RE MINE possessive about MC number one, but it’s all so, so, soooo well done in that regard that I’m even enjoying the delicious torture of having to wait these two idiots out—that is until MC one realises the true depths of his own feelings and acts on them accordingly… which better include climbing that King like a god damn tree! Just saying.
All in all, I’m well and truly hooked at this point and I can’t wait to see how it all plays out, even if I am anxious as heck to experience the undoubtedly angst-filled upcoming instalments. I’m confident the HEA will be well worth it because in Anyta Sunday I trust.
***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).
November 30, 2025
Hmmm. I'm still undecided if I'm a fan of this series or not.
This installment had mostly Cael and Quin on the run, desperately trying to help a town of dying people. Cael is still oblivious to who is deeply in love with him (and that someone fights their feelings strongly). Cael still holds onto his "love" for Nicostratus. Nicostratus and Cael just meet once in this installment, and no, they still don't feel like lovers at all, they have no chemistry, their "love" doesn't make any sense to me (thankfully they only talk about it in a theoretical way, and never even kiss. Very strange, though).
I'm mostly sure now that I'll read the whole series, although the writing isn't growing on me, as I had hoped.
I need to know that Cael falls in love with the right person.
I need him to figure out who the boy and Maskios had been.
And I need to know that the other people involved with Cael (romantically and not) do not die on the author's whim, to make Cael's falling in love with the right person possible in a morally justifiable way.
And yes, I still feel like the rabbit led by the carrot.
This installment had mostly Cael and Quin on the run, desperately trying to help a town of dying people. Cael is still oblivious to who is deeply in love with him (and that someone fights their feelings strongly). Cael still holds onto his "love" for Nicostratus. Nicostratus and Cael just meet once in this installment, and no, they still don't feel like lovers at all, they have no chemistry, their "love" doesn't make any sense to me (thankfully they only talk about it in a theoretical way, and never even kiss. Very strange, though).
I'm mostly sure now that I'll read the whole series, although the writing isn't growing on me, as I had hoped.
I need to know that Cael falls in love with the right person.
I need him to figure out who the boy and Maskios had been.
And I need to know that the other people involved with Cael (romantically and not) do not die on the author's whim, to make Cael's falling in love with the right person possible in a morally justifiable way.
And yes, I still feel like the rabbit led by the carrot.
June 3, 2025
This series definitely picks up and things get even more exciting in this book. It’s the best kind of torture seeing Cael & Quin being so perfect together but not admitting it (Cael).
I love how each book visits a different city and introduces new characters. This is a very fun series!
ARC review
All thoughts and opinions are my own
I love how each book visits a different city and introduces new characters. This is a very fun series!
ARC review
All thoughts and opinions are my own
May 15, 2025
Cael and Quin aren't getting a breather, let alone a break. We're getting one thing after another. I'm starting to believe Quin is the brother we're supposed to root for but I like Nicostraus a lot. I have the feeling something bad may happen to him and I'm hoping I'm mistaken
June 7, 2025
This is a fantasy slow burn MM book series with magic and mystery. Wow what a series this is going to be, it has everything! Mystery, magic, love, longing, friendship, flirting, death, sadness, family.
In Book 1 we met :-
Cael , the main character , who has a love and knowledge for healing , like his grandfather, but he’s lower class and not allowed to practice magic healing.
Calix Solin / Maskios
Akilah
Megaera. Cael’s ex forced fiancée , who is out for revenge against the King.
A kind of love triangle between Cael, Quin and Silvius.
They all live in a Kingdom, a small one but the kingdom has magic. I think the bigger ones don’t , that’s how their kingdom makes their money and defends themselves.
Ooh we find out Quin has a wife and a son !! Wtf 😭😭😭
Cael thinks Silvius is a prince. “So that makes you . . .” Nicostratus Aetherion. My Prince Nicostratus.
Cael and Silvius share a kiss.
Cael receives permission to attend examinations, official training to be a real healer/ Vitalian, with full privileges.
Quin wants Cael to end things with Prince Nicostratus .
“He has my first kiss!”
Something sad lurks in Quin’s eye, like a part of him regrets doing this. He looks at me over the vial. “Doesn’t mean . . . he’ll have your last.”
Cael is to study at the royal city .
End of book 1 !!
Book 2 -
Cael finds out Quin is the King Constantinos. His uncle, the Duke, is conspiring against him, with the Kings mother as leverage.
Florentius, Makarios and Mikros are Caels classmates.
Cael meets Quins Wife’s, Queen Veronica and son, Prince Alexios. He already knew Veronica from childhood.
Cael finds out Veronica and Quin are in like a lavender marriage.
The king leaves to find evidence that will prove his Uncles evil plans.
While he’s gone… The complex-medius examination has been pulled forward, by order of the Duke.
At the end of book two, the Duke has Akilah’s love light transplanted into him.
So now you’re all caught up, it’s book three!
‘I’ve become a pawn in the high duke’s game.’
Cael and Akilah meet Florentius’s older brother Lucius.
Cael also meets Quins mother, Casimiria.
The duke is trying to force Cael to betray Quin.
Cael fakes his own death.
Quin and Cael are travelling together, to gather evidence against the Duke.
‘He strokes my cheek with a touch so light it feels like a question. His fingers catch my chin, lifting my gaze to meet his. His dark eyes search mine, peeling back every shield I’ve built. “This fear,” he murmurs. “For me. For what I might face.” He leans in and whispers in a tortured voice. “Do you think I didn’t feel it for you?”
Nicostratus comes to let Quin know their Uncles reach is growing.
The love triangle continues
Book 3 ends with Cael not having his magic !!
In Book 1 we met :-
Cael , the main character , who has a love and knowledge for healing , like his grandfather, but he’s lower class and not allowed to practice magic healing.
Calix Solin / Maskios
Akilah
Megaera. Cael’s ex forced fiancée , who is out for revenge against the King.
A kind of love triangle between Cael, Quin and Silvius.
They all live in a Kingdom, a small one but the kingdom has magic. I think the bigger ones don’t , that’s how their kingdom makes their money and defends themselves.
Ooh we find out Quin has a wife and a son !! Wtf 😭😭😭
Cael thinks Silvius is a prince. “So that makes you . . .” Nicostratus Aetherion. My Prince Nicostratus.
Cael and Silvius share a kiss.
Cael receives permission to attend examinations, official training to be a real healer/ Vitalian, with full privileges.
Quin wants Cael to end things with Prince Nicostratus .
“He has my first kiss!”
Something sad lurks in Quin’s eye, like a part of him regrets doing this. He looks at me over the vial. “Doesn’t mean . . . he’ll have your last.”
Cael is to study at the royal city .
End of book 1 !!
Book 2 -
Cael finds out Quin is the King Constantinos. His uncle, the Duke, is conspiring against him, with the Kings mother as leverage.
Florentius, Makarios and Mikros are Caels classmates.
Cael meets Quins Wife’s, Queen Veronica and son, Prince Alexios. He already knew Veronica from childhood.
Cael finds out Veronica and Quin are in like a lavender marriage.
The king leaves to find evidence that will prove his Uncles evil plans.
While he’s gone… The complex-medius examination has been pulled forward, by order of the Duke.
At the end of book two, the Duke has Akilah’s love light transplanted into him.
So now you’re all caught up, it’s book three!
‘I’ve become a pawn in the high duke’s game.’
Cael and Akilah meet Florentius’s older brother Lucius.
Cael also meets Quins mother, Casimiria.
The duke is trying to force Cael to betray Quin.
Cael fakes his own death.
Quin and Cael are travelling together, to gather evidence against the Duke.
‘He strokes my cheek with a touch so light it feels like a question. His fingers catch my chin, lifting my gaze to meet his. His dark eyes search mine, peeling back every shield I’ve built. “This fear,” he murmurs. “For me. For what I might face.” He leans in and whispers in a tortured voice. “Do you think I didn’t feel it for you?”
Nicostratus comes to let Quin know their Uncles reach is growing.
The love triangle continues
Book 3 ends with Cael not having his magic !!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 7, 2025
THE 👏 DRAMA 👏!!! The burn is so very, very slow and torturous indeed. Oh my god… this will be the death of me.
I love that there is still humour laced throughout the story even though everything is just getting real gritty, I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. We meet some new characters, one of them being so cheeky, I love how flirty he can get haha. But anyways, my heart and all my money goes on Quin. I love that King so much, such a lovely man…. UGH CAEL. WHAT THE HELL ARE U GONNA DOOOOO NOW!!!???!
I love this series so much, it’s keeping me on my toes and there is literally no rest for any of our boys… it’s just UGH. PLEEEAAse..
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I love that there is still humour laced throughout the story even though everything is just getting real gritty, I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. We meet some new characters, one of them being so cheeky, I love how flirty he can get haha. But anyways, my heart and all my money goes on Quin. I love that King so much, such a lovely man…. UGH CAEL. WHAT THE HELL ARE U GONNA DOOOOO NOW!!!???!
I love this series so much, it’s keeping me on my toes and there is literally no rest for any of our boys… it’s just UGH. PLEEEAAse..
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 31, 2025
The King's Man: Book 3, this series should be read in order. We are back with Cael and Quin in a new city, with new problems. I love how invested I am in this story. It just keeps getting better and better. I love these two so much. I love the world building that has gone into this series. I can't wait for the next book in the series. I would definitely recommend this book and series.
August 7, 2025
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.
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.
June 3, 2025
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
Book 3 picks up after the second book ends and these books must be read in order.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
Book 3 picks up after the second book ends and these books must be read in order.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
June 8, 2025
3.75/5 stars! I liked that the action picked up in this story. It definitely hits the fantasy vibes. I'm undecided on the romance because it felt like their interactions were over the top and I'm not sure how much I want them to be together after the way Cael acted. Verdict is still out.
June 25, 2025
Introduction
This is an arc review and (a lot) of my own opinions. Thanks to Booksirens!
Here we are in book three of six of Anyta Sunday’s series, The King’s Man. Our duo of Quin and Cael are on the run. Well, they don’t start out on the run, I’m getting ahead of myself. Book III sees the danger continue to mount, the stakes grow ever higher, and the feelings start to bubble over the top. The forward warns that this is, “a torturous slow-burn love story”, but great googly-moogly! I need these two to kiss. But after the events of this book… well. Without spoilers, I’ll wager that things might take a while yet.
Strong Series Gets Stronger
The King’s Man continues to excite and compel me to read faster, faster, faster. I am dying to know what happens. Worries grow, about what has to happen, a sense of dread that to break the triangle that’s emerged, bad things have to happen. I’ll just throw my towel in: I am team Quin, I desperately love that man, and I need for him to be okay, and happy, and with Cael.
Reviewing ALL SIX.
I’m so excited that Anyta Sunday offered her whole series on BookSirens for arc readers. I hope others are flying through the series like I am. I am obsessed. One facet of my personal ADHD deck of cards is hyper-fixation. Well, this series is literally all I can think about these days. I don’t fixate on just anything, though. It has to be goooood for my mind to snag onto. The King’s Man is it for me.
Plot Developments
Book III is plot-heavy. A lot happens to drive the narrative forward. To where? Well, your guess is as good as mine. But here we go, let’s dive in. If you do not want ANY spoilers, I’d skip this part. I have tried to leave out important details, but everyone has their spoiler comfort level.
Outcasts
At the end of Book II, Cael and Akilah are sent to an island of outcasts, for people who have been shunned within the Royal City. There, he meets Quin‘s mother, who has long been poisoned. I don’t remember why she’s on the island. She needs an antidote that only the High Duke can provide.
High Duke, He’s the Worst
I somehow haven’t mentioned the High Duke yet, but he is the big bad of this series. He is the Regent and he will do anything to remain in power, including spelling wyvern so that they’re more powerful and oh yeah he poisoned the Queen Mother. The High Duke forces Cael into a horrible no-win situation, threatening his family and loved ones. Lots of spoilery stuff happens and Quin and Cael end up on the run.
Sense of Duty
Quin is going to buckle under the pressure, some of which he’s putting on himself. He should ask for help. But who can he trust? I want to flick him on the head like he does Cael.
Quin feels it is his duty to keep the evil that is the High Duke contained and focused on him. Despite the fact that it’s too big of a battle for him to complete on his own, he feels that it’s his responsibility to keep the High Duke’s attention. To save others. To bear the burden. He can’t do it alone. I hope he realizes that soon.
The Will of the People
For years, the king has been an invisible ruler. The people of the Kingdom haven’t seen him, don’t even know what he looks like. Part of this was so he could move around better. But the people think that he doesn’t care. There is growing resentment. The people have an incomplete picture of what’s going on in the kingdom. They don’t understand that the High Duke is corrupt and evil.
Palpable Danger
The evil High Duke spins Quin’s departure from the city. He puts up wanted posters. So both Quin and Cael are in grave danger when they peek out of their hiding spot. The danger is palpable. There’s an oppressive feeling of the walls closing in on all sides. It feels like it’s only a matter of time before Quin is captured and sent back to the High Duke. If Cael is seen, it would be disastrous for everyone.
They can’t help but bring attention to themselves, though. Especially Cael, who continues to operate as if he’s unaware of the dangers. He just leaves his horse with all his stuff and goes off, telling the horse he’ll be right back?? That’s like leaving your car windows down and unlocked in the middle of the city, little bro, what are you doing?
Saviours
ANYWAY, things happen, and on their journey, they are trapped in a quarantined village. The villagers are shut inside the city walls, people are sick and dying, and there will be no food coming in. Most importantly, no healing herbs. Things are dire.
Cael is one of the only healers there. He knows how to treat the outbreak if he had the supplies, but there’s a huge problem. Ever since the earthquakes in Book I, a poisonous miasma has blocked the villagers from being able to forage for life-saving herbs. You know our duo is gonna help.
Vespertines
The term vespertine derives from Latin: vespertīnus, which means "evening".
Cael and Quin form an uneasy alliance with some Vespertines, a group of people mentioned a few times in the series already, but I’m not super clear on who they are exactly. They are like bounty hunters, I suppose, pretty badass fighting with whips. Initially, they capture Quin, but they end up allying with one another to help the village. I know, you can feel the betrayal coming.
As an aside, Vespertine by Indra Vaugn is a good book about a Catholic priest and a rockstar, good story.
Oh Yeah, Nicostratus is Still in the Story
Nicostratus has been in the background for this book. He’s someone we remember every so often while Cael and Quin are fully on page for the majority of the book. But eventually he strolls back into the story.
Potential Betrayal?
Oof, my mind is branching off in so many directions about this dude. For this love triangle to work itself out, something big has to happen. And why is it my gut feeling that he’s gonna betray them?
Why do you think that, Fae? Well, let me tell you. I think he’s playing the long game, that he is not actually so incorruptible. It’s just that he’s characterized as so good. He’s too good. It just doesn’t make sense. Maybe I’m just plotting.
I’m Here / I’m In Danger
After he reenters the story, Nicostratus lands in the thick of danger in short order. Attacked by Crusaders, another group of people who want power and magic, he almost immediately needs rescuing. Bad things happen.
That’s where we end. Cael plans to go off with Nicostratus.
Glows
Slow Burn Obliviousness
The slow burn keeps bubbling along. Quin, oh Quin. I think Quin has loved Cael since forever. I’m convinced it was Quin he met as a child, and that Quin was Maskios. So Quin has harbored feelings for years. Cael is obtuse when it comes to all things Quin. Cael believes Nicostratus was Maskios, but I think all things point to it being Quin. I don’t know if it’s just that the readers know more or if Cael is just super oblivious. He is deep in denial about his feelings. He even tells Quin that he doesn’t reciprocate Quin's feelings. Which, ouch. Even so, Quin feels a sense of ownership over Cael's life. Cael feels the same. But the problem is that Cael can’t admit to why he feels that way.
Pacing
We’re flying now. I honestly can’t tell if this book was shorter than the other two or if I’m just flying through it now because it’s that exciting. The pacing is where it needs to be for the third book of a series, though. Keep us pushing through, we need to not stall out in the middle.
Keep The Readers Guessing
This story has as many twists and turns as the canals surrounding the Royal City. It could go anywhere. It’s a major glow that I genuinely don’t know where the story will end up. So many stories follow the same guidelines, use the same tropes. Sometimes predictability is comforting, but this exhilaration I’m feeling comes from a story that I cannot pinpoint what’s going to happen. It’s thrilling (and makes me anxious!)
Grows
Introduction Pages
Many questions remain unanswered at this point. And dare I suggest:
You know how some books have an index at the start of the book that introduces key characters, vocabulary and culture points? I think this series needs this. I say this with trepidation because some people really, really don’t like those things. But with so many names, so much lore that readers have to understand, it might be helpful. Like who are the Vespertines? Who are the Crusaders? What is linea vs. par-linea. What is the Queen Mother’s name?
Writing Style
Sunday continues to improve at revealing important story elements while keeping readers in the dark about later surprises. Her cards are still held close. While I don’t feel like readers are fully in the dark anymore, at the same time there’s still a huge degree of suspense. I don’t know where the story will go. It’s exciting, and it’s due in part to the writing style.
Character Developments
The character development in this book surpasses the first two by far, when it comes to our two main characters. Readers have their finger on the pulse of Cael for sure, and Quin to a slightly lesser degree.
The Nicostratus Problem
Nicostratus is the wild card at this point. My money is on Nicostratus being somehow in cahoots with the Duke or out for his own good at the end of the day. I have conflicted feelings about him. I think Cael feels the same. I’m confused about this character and what he’s been up to this entire series.
We’re halfway through at this point, and I know very, very little about Nicostratus besides the fact that he is portrayed as very good, very loyal, very light and always jovial.
He Can’t Be
But think about his life experience. He couldn’t possibly live the life he has and end up that way. He’s been tortured, beaten, and trained for ruthless precision in the military. There has to be darkness within him. Not that I want him to be, but any probing at his life experience screams that he has to be just as traumatized by the realities of their world as everyone else. I feel like he has to be one of those ‘surprise, I’m bad’ characters.
Needs More Development
I don’t know, man. Nicostratus‘s character isn’t developed enough on page for readers to fully understand him. It’s highly possible the next book will change that, and readers will know more. Is this guy good or is this guy bad? I don’t think that Nicostratus can work out in this situation.
Quin, My Love
I love Quin. Desperately, I want to protect him. I feel like Quin has these deep longing, pining sort of feelings for Cael. It’s clear (to me) now that Cael and Quin are the ones who have been dancing around one another for as long as we’ve been looking in on their lives.
And oh, Cael.
Our oblivious little cinnamon roll is definitely, definitely feeling some sort of way for Quin. He doesn’t admit to it, not even to himself. But it’s so very clear.
Love Triangle
So, then. We’re stuck in a love triangle that has to work itself out somehow. This is why I don’t like love triangle stories. I don’t like the Nicostratus loose end, and knowing that for the narrative to progress, it has to go somewhere. Nicostratus has to do something to push Cael back to Quin.
End Game: Quin and Cael
At this point, I am fully in on Quin and Cael. Maybe Silvius was Nicostratus, sure. But Maskios was Quin. The boy in the tree was Quin. The boy with the wyvern was Quin. I have to read the first book again. Because I was confused through a lot of the first book. But I’m pretty certain of all those things. And my gut tells me that Cael should be with Quin, not Nicostratus. So something’s gotta give.
What Will Happen Next?
I can imagine many scenarios where the narrative might head to at this point. I’m conflicted over where this series may go. The next book has to focus on Nicostratus and Cael, and what will happen to ultimately drive Cael back to Quin. It has to do that. Maybe we’ll stay with Nicostratus and Cael for all of book IV before focusing back in on Quin and Cael in book V and VI. Or maybe it’ll be quick. I hope Cael doesn’t get hurt too much along the way. Physically or emotionally.
Halfway There
If you’ve already read books I and II, my recommendation is heck yes, you should continue reading. This series is amazing. If you haven't begun yet, stop here, go back to the beginning. As much as I worry about where the story is going, I absolutely recommend you take this journey with me.
This is an arc review and (a lot) of my own opinions. Thanks to Booksirens!
Here we are in book three of six of Anyta Sunday’s series, The King’s Man. Our duo of Quin and Cael are on the run. Well, they don’t start out on the run, I’m getting ahead of myself. Book III sees the danger continue to mount, the stakes grow ever higher, and the feelings start to bubble over the top. The forward warns that this is, “a torturous slow-burn love story”, but great googly-moogly! I need these two to kiss. But after the events of this book… well. Without spoilers, I’ll wager that things might take a while yet.
Strong Series Gets Stronger
The King’s Man continues to excite and compel me to read faster, faster, faster. I am dying to know what happens. Worries grow, about what has to happen, a sense of dread that to break the triangle that’s emerged, bad things have to happen. I’ll just throw my towel in: I am team Quin, I desperately love that man, and I need for him to be okay, and happy, and with Cael.
Reviewing ALL SIX.
I’m so excited that Anyta Sunday offered her whole series on BookSirens for arc readers. I hope others are flying through the series like I am. I am obsessed. One facet of my personal ADHD deck of cards is hyper-fixation. Well, this series is literally all I can think about these days. I don’t fixate on just anything, though. It has to be goooood for my mind to snag onto. The King’s Man is it for me.
Plot Developments
Book III is plot-heavy. A lot happens to drive the narrative forward. To where? Well, your guess is as good as mine. But here we go, let’s dive in. If you do not want ANY spoilers, I’d skip this part. I have tried to leave out important details, but everyone has their spoiler comfort level.
Outcasts
At the end of Book II, Cael and Akilah are sent to an island of outcasts, for people who have been shunned within the Royal City. There, he meets Quin‘s mother, who has long been poisoned. I don’t remember why she’s on the island. She needs an antidote that only the High Duke can provide.
High Duke, He’s the Worst
I somehow haven’t mentioned the High Duke yet, but he is the big bad of this series. He is the Regent and he will do anything to remain in power, including spelling wyvern so that they’re more powerful and oh yeah he poisoned the Queen Mother. The High Duke forces Cael into a horrible no-win situation, threatening his family and loved ones. Lots of spoilery stuff happens and Quin and Cael end up on the run.
Sense of Duty
Quin is going to buckle under the pressure, some of which he’s putting on himself. He should ask for help. But who can he trust? I want to flick him on the head like he does Cael.
Quin feels it is his duty to keep the evil that is the High Duke contained and focused on him. Despite the fact that it’s too big of a battle for him to complete on his own, he feels that it’s his responsibility to keep the High Duke’s attention. To save others. To bear the burden. He can’t do it alone. I hope he realizes that soon.
The Will of the People
For years, the king has been an invisible ruler. The people of the Kingdom haven’t seen him, don’t even know what he looks like. Part of this was so he could move around better. But the people think that he doesn’t care. There is growing resentment. The people have an incomplete picture of what’s going on in the kingdom. They don’t understand that the High Duke is corrupt and evil.
Palpable Danger
The evil High Duke spins Quin’s departure from the city. He puts up wanted posters. So both Quin and Cael are in grave danger when they peek out of their hiding spot. The danger is palpable. There’s an oppressive feeling of the walls closing in on all sides. It feels like it’s only a matter of time before Quin is captured and sent back to the High Duke. If Cael is seen, it would be disastrous for everyone.
They can’t help but bring attention to themselves, though. Especially Cael, who continues to operate as if he’s unaware of the dangers. He just leaves his horse with all his stuff and goes off, telling the horse he’ll be right back?? That’s like leaving your car windows down and unlocked in the middle of the city, little bro, what are you doing?
Saviours
ANYWAY, things happen, and on their journey, they are trapped in a quarantined village. The villagers are shut inside the city walls, people are sick and dying, and there will be no food coming in. Most importantly, no healing herbs. Things are dire.
Cael is one of the only healers there. He knows how to treat the outbreak if he had the supplies, but there’s a huge problem. Ever since the earthquakes in Book I, a poisonous miasma has blocked the villagers from being able to forage for life-saving herbs. You know our duo is gonna help.
Vespertines
The term vespertine derives from Latin: vespertīnus, which means "evening".
Cael and Quin form an uneasy alliance with some Vespertines, a group of people mentioned a few times in the series already, but I’m not super clear on who they are exactly. They are like bounty hunters, I suppose, pretty badass fighting with whips. Initially, they capture Quin, but they end up allying with one another to help the village. I know, you can feel the betrayal coming.
As an aside, Vespertine by Indra Vaugn is a good book about a Catholic priest and a rockstar, good story.
Oh Yeah, Nicostratus is Still in the Story
Nicostratus has been in the background for this book. He’s someone we remember every so often while Cael and Quin are fully on page for the majority of the book. But eventually he strolls back into the story.
Potential Betrayal?
Oof, my mind is branching off in so many directions about this dude. For this love triangle to work itself out, something big has to happen. And why is it my gut feeling that he’s gonna betray them?
Why do you think that, Fae? Well, let me tell you. I think he’s playing the long game, that he is not actually so incorruptible. It’s just that he’s characterized as so good. He’s too good. It just doesn’t make sense. Maybe I’m just plotting.
I’m Here / I’m In Danger
After he reenters the story, Nicostratus lands in the thick of danger in short order. Attacked by Crusaders, another group of people who want power and magic, he almost immediately needs rescuing. Bad things happen.
That’s where we end. Cael plans to go off with Nicostratus.
Glows
Slow Burn Obliviousness
The slow burn keeps bubbling along. Quin, oh Quin. I think Quin has loved Cael since forever. I’m convinced it was Quin he met as a child, and that Quin was Maskios. So Quin has harbored feelings for years. Cael is obtuse when it comes to all things Quin. Cael believes Nicostratus was Maskios, but I think all things point to it being Quin. I don’t know if it’s just that the readers know more or if Cael is just super oblivious. He is deep in denial about his feelings. He even tells Quin that he doesn’t reciprocate Quin's feelings. Which, ouch. Even so, Quin feels a sense of ownership over Cael's life. Cael feels the same. But the problem is that Cael can’t admit to why he feels that way.
Pacing
We’re flying now. I honestly can’t tell if this book was shorter than the other two or if I’m just flying through it now because it’s that exciting. The pacing is where it needs to be for the third book of a series, though. Keep us pushing through, we need to not stall out in the middle.
Keep The Readers Guessing
This story has as many twists and turns as the canals surrounding the Royal City. It could go anywhere. It’s a major glow that I genuinely don’t know where the story will end up. So many stories follow the same guidelines, use the same tropes. Sometimes predictability is comforting, but this exhilaration I’m feeling comes from a story that I cannot pinpoint what’s going to happen. It’s thrilling (and makes me anxious!)
Grows
Introduction Pages
Many questions remain unanswered at this point. And dare I suggest:
You know how some books have an index at the start of the book that introduces key characters, vocabulary and culture points? I think this series needs this. I say this with trepidation because some people really, really don’t like those things. But with so many names, so much lore that readers have to understand, it might be helpful. Like who are the Vespertines? Who are the Crusaders? What is linea vs. par-linea. What is the Queen Mother’s name?
Writing Style
Sunday continues to improve at revealing important story elements while keeping readers in the dark about later surprises. Her cards are still held close. While I don’t feel like readers are fully in the dark anymore, at the same time there’s still a huge degree of suspense. I don’t know where the story will go. It’s exciting, and it’s due in part to the writing style.
Character Developments
The character development in this book surpasses the first two by far, when it comes to our two main characters. Readers have their finger on the pulse of Cael for sure, and Quin to a slightly lesser degree.
The Nicostratus Problem
Nicostratus is the wild card at this point. My money is on Nicostratus being somehow in cahoots with the Duke or out for his own good at the end of the day. I have conflicted feelings about him. I think Cael feels the same. I’m confused about this character and what he’s been up to this entire series.
We’re halfway through at this point, and I know very, very little about Nicostratus besides the fact that he is portrayed as very good, very loyal, very light and always jovial.
He Can’t Be
But think about his life experience. He couldn’t possibly live the life he has and end up that way. He’s been tortured, beaten, and trained for ruthless precision in the military. There has to be darkness within him. Not that I want him to be, but any probing at his life experience screams that he has to be just as traumatized by the realities of their world as everyone else. I feel like he has to be one of those ‘surprise, I’m bad’ characters.
Needs More Development
I don’t know, man. Nicostratus‘s character isn’t developed enough on page for readers to fully understand him. It’s highly possible the next book will change that, and readers will know more. Is this guy good or is this guy bad? I don’t think that Nicostratus can work out in this situation.
Quin, My Love
I love Quin. Desperately, I want to protect him. I feel like Quin has these deep longing, pining sort of feelings for Cael. It’s clear (to me) now that Cael and Quin are the ones who have been dancing around one another for as long as we’ve been looking in on their lives.
And oh, Cael.
Our oblivious little cinnamon roll is definitely, definitely feeling some sort of way for Quin. He doesn’t admit to it, not even to himself. But it’s so very clear.
Love Triangle
So, then. We’re stuck in a love triangle that has to work itself out somehow. This is why I don’t like love triangle stories. I don’t like the Nicostratus loose end, and knowing that for the narrative to progress, it has to go somewhere. Nicostratus has to do something to push Cael back to Quin.
End Game: Quin and Cael
At this point, I am fully in on Quin and Cael. Maybe Silvius was Nicostratus, sure. But Maskios was Quin. The boy in the tree was Quin. The boy with the wyvern was Quin. I have to read the first book again. Because I was confused through a lot of the first book. But I’m pretty certain of all those things. And my gut tells me that Cael should be with Quin, not Nicostratus. So something’s gotta give.
What Will Happen Next?
I can imagine many scenarios where the narrative might head to at this point. I’m conflicted over where this series may go. The next book has to focus on Nicostratus and Cael, and what will happen to ultimately drive Cael back to Quin. It has to do that. Maybe we’ll stay with Nicostratus and Cael for all of book IV before focusing back in on Quin and Cael in book V and VI. Or maybe it’ll be quick. I hope Cael doesn’t get hurt too much along the way. Physically or emotionally.
Halfway There
If you’ve already read books I and II, my recommendation is heck yes, you should continue reading. This series is amazing. If you haven't begun yet, stop here, go back to the beginning. As much as I worry about where the story is going, I absolutely recommend you take this journey with me.
May 17, 2025
After the way book two ended, I was eager to see where Cael's journey would take him next. Things started out bleak, with him and his beloved akla trapped on an island with no way out. True to Cael's nature, he gave the island's inhabitants a spark of hope prior to escaping with the prince as fugitives, and from there the adventure only grew more perilous. This time Cael had to puzzle out the source of an infection spreading through a small town, and it was fascinating to follow along and see how he put the pieces together. The quest for a cure had high stakes, with the entire town under quarantine, their resources spread thin, and Quin himself needing to earn back his people's trust. Quin and Cael continued to demonstrate how they would self-sacrifice for one another, their pull to protect and care for each other something that led both of them into dire situations. I was riveted as I read through the twists and turns of their investigation, and just when I was worried there was no way out they came through with a sudden burst of clarity to salvage the situation. The relationships between Quin, Cael, and Nico continued to twist themselves into knots, and while Cael still didn't confront his feelings for Quin, I could definitely feel the tension building between the three of them. The final battle at the end of the book came to a shocking conclusion, and my heart is aching for Cael's loss and the uncertain future it left him with.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
June 6, 2025
I would like to thank GRR for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
*NOTE 1:
this review for The King's Man III comes after reading both The King's Man III & IV!
*NOTE 2:
The King's Man series (from Book III on) is panning out to be its own thing and my mind is officially free from the earlier comp nods!
Lots of achy and annoying things happened in this installment, the emotional ups and downs were wild, the healing magic drama and the self-sacrificing energy were kicked up 100%, and this love triangle had me nervous and on edge the whole time!
Really love the healing magic in this series, and this installment expanded on the inner workings a bit more with all the action that took place! There was the skillful treating of: infection while under enforced quarantine, more poisoning, more bloody business from fighting, and of course all the near-death experiences one book can handle! So many levels here, and like i'd said before, the plant-based (with some venom from snakes and wyverns and insects etc thrown in) magical healing-arts in this world is really really doing it for me!
There was also some exploration of the emotional landscape: Feelings were confessed, Cael's stunning life-changing loss had him down, depressed and struggling, and then ofc life decisions were made from that headspace -which we all know will shortchange all players in the game- to end off Book III.
***Megaera has been heinous the whole way through and (as of IV) is very much still NOT a favourite of mine.
*NOTE 1:
this review for The King's Man III comes after reading both The King's Man III & IV!
*NOTE 2:
The King's Man series (from Book III on) is panning out to be its own thing and my mind is officially free from the earlier comp nods!
Lots of achy and annoying things happened in this installment, the emotional ups and downs were wild, the healing magic drama and the self-sacrificing energy were kicked up 100%, and this love triangle had me nervous and on edge the whole time!
Really love the healing magic in this series, and this installment expanded on the inner workings a bit more with all the action that took place! There was the skillful treating of: infection while under enforced quarantine, more poisoning, more bloody business from fighting, and of course all the near-death experiences one book can handle! So many levels here, and like i'd said before, the plant-based (with some venom from snakes and wyverns and insects etc thrown in) magical healing-arts in this world is really really doing it for me!
There was also some exploration of the emotional landscape: Feelings were confessed, Cael's stunning life-changing loss had him down, depressed and struggling, and then ofc life decisions were made from that headspace -which we all know will shortchange all players in the game- to end off Book III.
***Megaera has been heinous the whole way through and (as of IV) is very much still NOT a favourite of mine.
May 27, 2025
Book Three 4 stars and Four 4 stars
Cael and Akilah (his dearest friend, companion, and almost sister) are banished to a dead island. No hope can grow there. Cael shows the islanders how to save themselves and he is once again united with Quin. Facing an even worst disaster, trapped in a dying town, his magic might save everyone but it might kill him.
I really like Cael and Quin (the deposed king) together. I think they are more of a fit than Cael and Nicostratus (the Prince). The trouble is that the prince is his first love and Cael can’t let him go. When Cael loses his most treasured possession his world crumbles and Quin is there to prop him up. While trying to retrieve the future he has always envisioned he is once again placed in danger and must look into himself to save the day. Coming between Nicostratus and Quin is dangerous in innumerable ways so he sacrifices his split heart and bows out from both men.
I received an arc of this book
This series reads like an old fashioned serial. One disastrous episode to the next keeps the story moving forward. I’ve had visions of the heroine (or in this case, hero) tied to the train tracks, waiting to be rescued. The author keeps ramping up the trials that Cael must endure. Making new friends, helping old enemies, and making new ones, always trying to find a way out of his new reality.
Cael and Akilah (his dearest friend, companion, and almost sister) are banished to a dead island. No hope can grow there. Cael shows the islanders how to save themselves and he is once again united with Quin. Facing an even worst disaster, trapped in a dying town, his magic might save everyone but it might kill him.
I really like Cael and Quin (the deposed king) together. I think they are more of a fit than Cael and Nicostratus (the Prince). The trouble is that the prince is his first love and Cael can’t let him go. When Cael loses his most treasured possession his world crumbles and Quin is there to prop him up. While trying to retrieve the future he has always envisioned he is once again placed in danger and must look into himself to save the day. Coming between Nicostratus and Quin is dangerous in innumerable ways so he sacrifices his split heart and bows out from both men.
I received an arc of this book
This series reads like an old fashioned serial. One disastrous episode to the next keeps the story moving forward. I’ve had visions of the heroine (or in this case, hero) tied to the train tracks, waiting to be rescued. The author keeps ramping up the trials that Cael must endure. Making new friends, helping old enemies, and making new ones, always trying to find a way out of his new reality.
June 15, 2025
Cael isn’t dead
Just to let you know how compelling I found this book, I usually review a book (if I like it) right away after I finish it and I found this series so great that I just kept reading and now have to go back to review. At the end of the last book in this series by Anyta Sunday we are left not knowing if Cael is dead or not, but considering he IS the main character I had some hopes. This book is a little hard to review because the whole series is really one book cut up into parts and it’s all really great.
Ms Sunday says in her bio that she likes slow burn romance and that really shows with Cael and Quin. Sometimes it’s hard to tell if they even like each other, but the journey they go on together is marvelous to read and the illustrations add a nice touch. There is a sad bit at the end of this book that was a big twist to how things will play out. It’s also hard to review these books without giving things away so I will just say that if I could I would give this whole series ten stars.
Just to let you know how compelling I found this book, I usually review a book (if I like it) right away after I finish it and I found this series so great that I just kept reading and now have to go back to review. At the end of the last book in this series by Anyta Sunday we are left not knowing if Cael is dead or not, but considering he IS the main character I had some hopes. This book is a little hard to review because the whole series is really one book cut up into parts and it’s all really great.
Ms Sunday says in her bio that she likes slow burn romance and that really shows with Cael and Quin. Sometimes it’s hard to tell if they even like each other, but the journey they go on together is marvelous to read and the illustrations add a nice touch. There is a sad bit at the end of this book that was a big twist to how things will play out. It’s also hard to review these books without giving things away so I will just say that if I could I would give this whole series ten stars.
June 1, 2025
Here my random thoughts while reading:
I doesn’t begin well for me, Cael wants to end things—for the others safety, of course—but don’t even have the honesty to give a confirmation when asked. I still don’t like him
The quantity of drama—and pages—is ridiculously unnecessary. And the things he does to Quin—caning him?, seriously?—unbelievable. The frigging king of moral is he now? Only to lying himself few sentences later. It’s not funny. And something similar happened with the pills, judging first instead of listening and learn.
If the ones who sealed Quinn’s powers (vespertines) are with them, then, why not unsealing? I don’t understand.
In this book seems Cael has real feelings for Nicostratus instead of mistake them or fooling himself like it seemed before. I just don’t understand—nor like—what the author is doing with all this.
Were they master and son at the old fortress or master and nephew? The kid call him uncle.
What kind of people says “I should never have save you?” to someone who has always taken care o them? Cael does, the immature, selfish child that he is. What a main character, I don’t get why people like him. Quin is the best though, I like him more and more every page.
I honestly want to skip book IV and probably V, this is being unnecessary long.
«Despite his pain, despite his limitations, he always does what he wants.»
I doesn’t begin well for me, Cael wants to end things—for the others safety, of course—but don’t even have the honesty to give a confirmation when asked. I still don’t like him
The quantity of drama—and pages—is ridiculously unnecessary. And the things he does to Quin—caning him?, seriously?—unbelievable. The frigging king of moral is he now? Only to lying himself few sentences later. It’s not funny. And something similar happened with the pills, judging first instead of listening and learn.
If the ones who sealed Quinn’s powers (vespertines) are with them, then, why not unsealing? I don’t understand.
In this book seems Cael has real feelings for Nicostratus instead of mistake them or fooling himself like it seemed before. I just don’t understand—nor like—what the author is doing with all this.
Were they master and son at the old fortress or master and nephew? The kid call him uncle.
What kind of people says “I should never have save you?” to someone who has always taken care o them? Cael does, the immature, selfish child that he is. What a main character, I don’t get why people like him. Quin is the best though, I like him more and more every page.
I honestly want to skip book IV and probably V, this is being unnecessary long.
«Despite his pain, despite his limitations, he always does what he wants.»
June 15, 2025
In this book Cael's life is gone completely out of the racks, he is seeing his world with new and jaded eyes.
He starts to see he is not right in how he sees things, but is unable to stop making the same mistakes. Quick to judge and slow to forgive and accept his own failures, still has a really big heart focused on healing any and everyone.
Nicostratus appears more naive in this instalment, with less depth as a character, where Quin grows more and more interesting and well written.
There's nothing capable of stopping Cael of achieving his dream of healing, except his own views about it.
His own blindness makes him lose what he values most and reacts in fear and despair, hurting the one who has been his rock all along.
I sure hope to see some growing in him, he's naive in his stubbornness and quite prone to hurt the ones he loves and love him in return without any afterthought in his head about how he is the one common in all those hurts.
He starts to see he is not right in how he sees things, but is unable to stop making the same mistakes. Quick to judge and slow to forgive and accept his own failures, still has a really big heart focused on healing any and everyone.
Nicostratus appears more naive in this instalment, with less depth as a character, where Quin grows more and more interesting and well written.
There's nothing capable of stopping Cael of achieving his dream of healing, except his own views about it.
His own blindness makes him lose what he values most and reacts in fear and despair, hurting the one who has been his rock all along.
I sure hope to see some growing in him, he's naive in his stubbornness and quite prone to hurt the ones he loves and love him in return without any afterthought in his head about how he is the one common in all those hurts.
May 15, 2025
𝓜𝔂 𝓱𝓮𝓪𝓻𝓽𝓯𝓮𝓵𝓽 𝓰𝓻𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓽𝓾𝓭𝓮 𝓽𝓸 𝓑𝓸𝓸𝓴 𝓢𝓲𝓻𝓮𝓷𝓼 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓪𝓾𝓽𝓱𝓸𝓻 𝓯𝓸𝓻 𝓪𝓵𝓵𝓸𝔀𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓶𝓮 𝓽𝓸 𝓻𝓮𝓬𝓮𝓲𝓿𝓮 𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓼 𝓐𝓡𝓒!
I’m not sure my heart can take much more of this slowly burning romance. It’s so frustrating, and I don’t know how Cael is going to make it work without hurting someone.
As with the first two books, The King’s Man: Book III is impressive, continuing this high fantasy series. This book had less action, but it is full of stress, wondering when the tides are going to turn.
While I enjoyed the book, it is probably my least favorite so far. It’s not that anything was wrong with the book, but the MCs about drove me out of my mind. However, I am still super-excited to continue and learn what happens next.
Happy reading!
~𝓘 𝓻𝓮𝓬𝓮𝓲𝓿𝓮𝓭 𝓪𝓷 𝓐𝓡𝓒 𝓸𝓯 𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓼 𝓫𝓸𝓸𝓴 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓘 𝓪𝓶 𝓵𝓮𝓪𝓿𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓶𝔂 𝓱𝓸𝓷𝓮𝓼𝓽 𝓻𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀.~
I’m not sure my heart can take much more of this slowly burning romance. It’s so frustrating, and I don’t know how Cael is going to make it work without hurting someone.
As with the first two books, The King’s Man: Book III is impressive, continuing this high fantasy series. This book had less action, but it is full of stress, wondering when the tides are going to turn.
While I enjoyed the book, it is probably my least favorite so far. It’s not that anything was wrong with the book, but the MCs about drove me out of my mind. However, I am still super-excited to continue and learn what happens next.
Happy reading!
~𝓘 𝓻𝓮𝓬𝓮𝓲𝓿𝓮𝓭 𝓪𝓷 𝓐𝓡𝓒 𝓸𝓯 𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓼 𝓫𝓸𝓸𝓴 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓘 𝓪𝓶 𝓵𝓮𝓪𝓿𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓶𝔂 𝓱𝓸𝓷𝓮𝓼𝓽 𝓻𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀.~
July 14, 2025
I love a good magical fantasy story and this was a good third installment of Anyta's new 6-book series.
But... this book felt like way more of a downer than the first two books, with Cael and the King hopelessly trapped in a plague-ridden town, with very few supplies and even less hope.
Also, the Cael's conflicted emotions toward his beloved Nicostratus and his brother, the King, wasn't the most comfortable of feelings. It gave me future infidelity vibes and I wasn't a fan.
3.5 stars.
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May 19, 2025
Yes, yes, yes, this series just keeps getting better and better! It's still the slowest of slow burns. Cael is in complete denial and is just my sweet oblivious man. Quin is finally open with his feelings, but unfortunately Cael is just the most stubborn man. Still! I'm used to Anyta's brand of clueless characters and delicious slow burns and I wouldn't have it any other way.
I love the way things are tying together. The sickness from the trials, the bad magistrates, all of it is dropped like breadcrumbs throughout each book so when you see it pop up again you're like ahhhh, that's why. You're gonna wanna binge these because I always end absolutely needing the next book. My heart is currently hurt and I need it healed!
I love the way things are tying together. The sickness from the trials, the bad magistrates, all of it is dropped like breadcrumbs throughout each book so when you see it pop up again you're like ahhhh, that's why. You're gonna wanna binge these because I always end absolutely needing the next book. My heart is currently hurt and I need it healed!
June 6, 2025
This was a difficult book in the series. The kingdom is firmly under control of an evil, corrupt uncle. Cael is believed dead by almost everyone and Quin, the king, is on the run, in disguise. Nicostratus believes Cael is deceased and, so, is in mourning. Poison, disease, and despair infiltrate the kingdom.
There are not really any happy moments in this story, although there are points of respite and healing. Although it is billed as a slow-burn romantasy, there has not been any romance to this point in the series, just some innuendo and hints. Still, there is a lot of action, tension, and high angst life-and-death circumstances. Some magic provides healing and relief. I plan to continue reading the series, hoping for some victory, happy times, and real romance.
There are not really any happy moments in this story, although there are points of respite and healing. Although it is billed as a slow-burn romantasy, there has not been any romance to this point in the series, just some innuendo and hints. Still, there is a lot of action, tension, and high angst life-and-death circumstances. Some magic provides healing and relief. I plan to continue reading the series, hoping for some victory, happy times, and real romance.
July 14, 2025
Book three is full of strife and turmoil for our characters. It's also heartbreaking. Cael can be dense at times. Everyone can see what is happening, except for Cael.
Quin is doing his best to hold everything inside. Having something within your reach but unable to touch can be more painful than any other thing in life.
Nicostratus is doing what he thinks is best but sometimes your best still isn't enough.
The characters are absolutely amazing and the world building is wonderful. The slow flow of the story pulls you in and doesn't let go.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Quin is doing his best to hold everything inside. Having something within your reach but unable to touch can be more painful than any other thing in life.
Nicostratus is doing what he thinks is best but sometimes your best still isn't enough.
The characters are absolutely amazing and the world building is wonderful. The slow flow of the story pulls you in and doesn't let go.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 3, 2025
This is the third book in the fantasy series The King’s Man. This book continues the adventure of Cael and Quin. When I started this series, I thought Cael would end up with Prince Nicostraus. Then as I continued the series, I wasn’t sure which of the brothers would win his heart. This book brings us to new settings with new characters. The author does an excellent job at building this world. What I love about this series is that you never know where the story is going to go. I loved this book so much I immediately had to start on book 4 to know where the adventure was going.
June 8, 2025
Book III starts where Book II left. Cael continues to draw trouble. In fact, he appears to be a magnet. Quin comes to his rescue when he can. The burn between the two is slow but steady. You cannot help but fall in love with Cael and his men. Their life is not easy as they fight conspiracies and court intrigue that gets deadlier and deadlier. I cannot wait for the next book. I highly recommend this series but start at the beginning.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
June 14, 2025
********** Contains Spoilers**********
I’m new to Anyta Sunday’s work and I’m looking forward to reading more. I’ve reviewed both books III & IV separately since I received a combined file through GRR.
Book III - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - I enjoyed this book and thought that it was another good addition to the King’s Man Series. I enjoyed immersing myself in this exciting world that Anyta has created. Everyone believes that Cael died after he attempted to execute Quin, on his a*sehole of an uncle’s orders. He at least got a warning to Quin on what he was being forced to do. Quin then turned around and made Cael drink life stealing tea in front of everyone but used the potion that Florentius made and brought Cael back to life. Quin did it so Cael could start fresh away from everything. I think Cael and Quin make an amazing team but man they do like to one up each other on who’s going to sacrifice themselves for the other, as well as those in need.
Hmmm I don’t blame Cael for being upset about his loss but what he said to Quin after he told him to truth, no matter how much he knew the news would hurt Cael was a d*ck move. I also don’t blame Quin for leaving without saving goodbye, considering everything that they went through together during this book. Only time will tell who he’ll end up with. I do think that there’s more chemistry between him and Quin but maybe that’s because we’ve only gotten to see snippets of him and Nicostratus together so far. Hopefully we get more of them together during this book, so I could see if my thoughts change.
Book IV - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - I enjoyed this book and thought that it was another good addition to the King’s Man Series. I enjoyed immersing myself in this exciting world that Anyta has created. There were a lot of twists and turns during this book. Poor Cael is on a downward spiral after getting his magic stripped from him in order to save his life, after he jumped in front of a spear heading towards Quin. He took his pain and anger out on Quin after he told him the truth that his magic is gone for good, whereas Nicostratus gave him false hope in order to not hurt Cael further. Quin pushed Cael throughout this book to remind him that he can heal without magic, using his quick thinking and problem solving. Cael and Quin have quite a few tension filled moments during this book. At the end of this book Cael is on his own journey to Iskeldir to learn their crude healing practices since he’s lost his magic. Nicostratus requested that Cael leave as he’s noticed Cael and Quin’s budding attraction and nothing will come between the brothers’, not even Cael. Quin begrudgingly accepts that it has to be done since they have their roles to play.
I’m looking forward to reading King’s Man V & VI 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******
I’m new to Anyta Sunday’s work and I’m looking forward to reading more. I’ve reviewed both books III & IV separately since I received a combined file through GRR.
Book III - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - I enjoyed this book and thought that it was another good addition to the King’s Man Series. I enjoyed immersing myself in this exciting world that Anyta has created. Everyone believes that Cael died after he attempted to execute Quin, on his a*sehole of an uncle’s orders. He at least got a warning to Quin on what he was being forced to do. Quin then turned around and made Cael drink life stealing tea in front of everyone but used the potion that Florentius made and brought Cael back to life. Quin did it so Cael could start fresh away from everything. I think Cael and Quin make an amazing team but man they do like to one up each other on who’s going to sacrifice themselves for the other, as well as those in need.
Hmmm I don’t blame Cael for being upset about his loss but what he said to Quin after he told him to truth, no matter how much he knew the news would hurt Cael was a d*ck move. I also don’t blame Quin for leaving without saving goodbye, considering everything that they went through together during this book. Only time will tell who he’ll end up with. I do think that there’s more chemistry between him and Quin but maybe that’s because we’ve only gotten to see snippets of him and Nicostratus together so far. Hopefully we get more of them together during this book, so I could see if my thoughts change.
Book IV - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - I enjoyed this book and thought that it was another good addition to the King’s Man Series. I enjoyed immersing myself in this exciting world that Anyta has created. There were a lot of twists and turns during this book. Poor Cael is on a downward spiral after getting his magic stripped from him in order to save his life, after he jumped in front of a spear heading towards Quin. He took his pain and anger out on Quin after he told him the truth that his magic is gone for good, whereas Nicostratus gave him false hope in order to not hurt Cael further. Quin pushed Cael throughout this book to remind him that he can heal without magic, using his quick thinking and problem solving. Cael and Quin have quite a few tension filled moments during this book. At the end of this book Cael is on his own journey to Iskeldir to learn their crude healing practices since he’s lost his magic. Nicostratus requested that Cael leave as he’s noticed Cael and Quin’s budding attraction and nothing will come between the brothers’, not even Cael. Quin begrudgingly accepts that it has to be done since they have their roles to play.
I’m looking forward to reading King’s Man V & VI 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******
May 24, 2025
I really liked this continuation of Cael's story. It's very exciting and he hardly ever seems to be able to catch a breath with everything that's happening. I love the writing style. The world-building is phenomenal and the story so emotional at times and then quite light-hearted at others. The romance part is still very slow-burn but the tension is palpable. I'm kind of hoping it doesn't end in an either/or scenario.
June 3, 2025
This is book three of Anyta Sunday’s series, The King’s Man. After their escape from book 2, things don't get easier for Cael and Quinn. The pacing never slows. Cael is still being a bit of a butt head over Quinn. Villagers are dying, soldiers are coming, there's a medicine shortage. Arghhhh, the angst.
A quick read. Exciting action. A bit of a slog relationship wise. I'm addicted. I need more.
I received an advanced copy of combined books 3 & 4 and this is my review.
A quick read. Exciting action. A bit of a slog relationship wise. I'm addicted. I need more.
I received an advanced copy of combined books 3 & 4 and this is my review.
June 5, 2025
Plenty of smoldering slow burn and lots and lots of plot to be found here, and it’s easier than ever to be pulled into the story. Cael is a deeply interesting character, and I mean that in mostly good ways. I have plenty of thoughts and feelings on each new setting, character, and narrative development, which just makes going along for the ride that much more engrossing. Can’t wait to see what happens next. 4.5 stars.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book
June 6, 2025
Ooh, the tension and yearning in this one is getting so intense. It’s bordering on frustrating to see Cael and Quin so obviously perfect for one another but not admitting it. I do also love Nicostratus but my heart is set on Quin for Cael. The excitement and slow burn tension is definitely keeping me on my toes though! The world and characters continue to build interestingly, and after the ending here I need more. On to the next!
June 9, 2025
Anyta has continued to azmaze me with her emotional plots, her hard fought for relationships, her characters and the passion that flows through each chapter...some romantic, some horrifying and some sweet.
For Cael and Quin, nothing comes easy or without risks and painful choices.
GRR has once again come through for me with an ARC that never leaves me without tears and desire for retribution f0r some of the most evil characters.
May the High Duke meet his reward!
Will Cael have to give up on his love for Quinn?
Will he choose Nicostraus?
Please keep Florentius safe!
Anyta and GRR, thank you for this ARC!
It's a wonderful series...I highly recommend it!
For Cael and Quin, nothing comes easy or without risks and painful choices.
GRR has once again come through for me with an ARC that never leaves me without tears and desire for retribution f0r some of the most evil characters.
May the High Duke meet his reward!
Will Cael have to give up on his love for Quinn?
Will he choose Nicostraus?
Please keep Florentius safe!
Anyta and GRR, thank you for this ARC!
It's a wonderful series...I highly recommend it!
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