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Camelot Court #1
The King's Maiden
Twenty-five thousand dollars to let some entitled, rich guy boss me around for a month?
Sign. Me. Up.
Most days, I did that for free and called it being female.
But it turns out the rumors circulating campus are true.
A secret society wants to pay me for their privilege.
Life has thrown me nothing but lemons since I lost my father.
Crippling student loans. Unpaid medical bills. Overdue rent.
Enter The Quest, the solution to all my problems.
To win it, I have to become a Maiden,
Navigate a snake pit of secrets and betrayal,
And fight to resist temptation, all for the chance at a fresh start.
Submitting to D’Arthur University’s brotherhood of Knights won’t be an easy feat.
Camelot Court’s most notorious members will test my honor and my limits.
But to the victor goes the spoils…
And The Quest is one game I can’t afford to lose.
~
The King’s Maiden is first in a four-book series and ends on a cliffhanger. The series will conclude with resolution and a form of happiness for the characters. This is a Why Choose romance, which means the FMC will end up with more than one love interest. If tensions rise high enough, swords may cross in future books or bonus material. Anything is possible when the ultimate prize is to love without limits.
Sign. Me. Up.
Most days, I did that for free and called it being female.
But it turns out the rumors circulating campus are true.
A secret society wants to pay me for their privilege.
Life has thrown me nothing but lemons since I lost my father.
Crippling student loans. Unpaid medical bills. Overdue rent.
Enter The Quest, the solution to all my problems.
To win it, I have to become a Maiden,
Navigate a snake pit of secrets and betrayal,
And fight to resist temptation, all for the chance at a fresh start.
Submitting to D’Arthur University’s brotherhood of Knights won’t be an easy feat.
Camelot Court’s most notorious members will test my honor and my limits.
But to the victor goes the spoils…
And The Quest is one game I can’t afford to lose.
~
The King’s Maiden is first in a four-book series and ends on a cliffhanger. The series will conclude with resolution and a form of happiness for the characters. This is a Why Choose romance, which means the FMC will end up with more than one love interest. If tensions rise high enough, swords may cross in future books or bonus material. Anything is possible when the ultimate prize is to love without limits.
429 pages, Paperback
First published January 23, 2025
126 people are currently reading
11750 people want to read
About the author
Elle Parker
5 books130 followersIn 2023, Elle began writing again while processing grief and giving voice to pain she’d repressed for a long time. She found she had a lot of stories inside her, all shaped by her experiences as a mother, Registered Nurse, and female with ADHD and—what she hopes is very lovable—anxiety.
Elle’s characters are flawed, tiny pieces of her soul, and her stories often involve unpacking trauma, finding her characters’ voices, and reclaiming the freest, truest versions of who they are. Elle’s writing journey has been very much the same for her own life. Her stories vary in genre, sub-genres, and tropes, because she couldn’t pick just one.
But luckily, 2023 was also the year Elle Parker learned she didn’t always have to choose.
Elle’s characters are flawed, tiny pieces of her soul, and her stories often involve unpacking trauma, finding her characters’ voices, and reclaiming the freest, truest versions of who they are. Elle’s writing journey has been very much the same for her own life. Her stories vary in genre, sub-genres, and tropes, because she couldn’t pick just one.
But luckily, 2023 was also the year Elle Parker learned she didn’t always have to choose.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 299 reviews
January 24, 2025
As a lover of all things Arthurian, I obviously had to give this book a read. It's set in the modern day, and has enough secrets to fill Merlin's beard. They drove me a bit bananas, not gonna lie. I know we'll get answers at some point during the series, but I want them NOW!!
It's also not a bad thing to learn things as we go, I'm just upset that I can't figure everything out, hah. Like, I kinda get the point of The Quest, but also...not. Everything about it is so mysterious, and it seemed like we'd finally get to know more about it, and then BAM, cliffhanger ending.
When I tell you my gasts were flabbered because WHAT???? I was not expecting that at all. And I need to know what happens next, I can't wait for May!!
But anyway, The King's Maiden was a really easy read, I had no trouble getting into it, and I knew from the prologue that I'd like it. I didn't want to put it down, it's kind of addicting.
Elle Parker's writing is so smooth for a debut author, and the jokes were pretty funny too.
The Arthurian lore wasn't featured as much as I was expecting, but the references were there. I'm hoping more vibes will come into play in the next installments.
Now for the romances, out of the three, I can't tell which I like most. We spent the most time with Landon, but I can definitely be swayed Kingston's or Max's way in the future, especially since Mordred is my baby.
Speaking of, Vivian!!! I need her OUT, she's such a menace. I could literally hear her shrieks through my screen!!
Adding Elaine was a nice touch, I feel like she acted true to her character. And Gia was a great best friend, I need to see her set up with a Knight of her own.
And of course Quinn, our lovely main character, I love how she kept poking at everyone, trying to get a rise out of them, instead of doing what was expected of her. It only made me like her more. Her banter with Max in particular made my day every time it happened.
One thing that bugged me is the bathroom scene, the steamy one. Yes, only because of hand washing, and I hate that I noticed it, but I did. I saw another person mention it in their review so it wasn't just me.
On a lighter note, we got the dance scene to compensate. It was probably my favourite scene in the book, more of that please and thank you.
Now gimme book 2!!
*Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
It's also not a bad thing to learn things as we go, I'm just upset that I can't figure everything out, hah. Like, I kinda get the point of The Quest, but also...not. Everything about it is so mysterious, and it seemed like we'd finally get to know more about it, and then BAM, cliffhanger ending.
When I tell you my gasts were flabbered because WHAT???? I was not expecting that at all. And I need to know what happens next, I can't wait for May!!
But anyway, The King's Maiden was a really easy read, I had no trouble getting into it, and I knew from the prologue that I'd like it. I didn't want to put it down, it's kind of addicting.
Elle Parker's writing is so smooth for a debut author, and the jokes were pretty funny too.
The Arthurian lore wasn't featured as much as I was expecting, but the references were there. I'm hoping more vibes will come into play in the next installments.
Now for the romances, out of the three, I can't tell which I like most. We spent the most time with Landon, but I can definitely be swayed Kingston's or Max's way in the future, especially since Mordred is my baby.
Speaking of, Vivian!!! I need her OUT, she's such a menace. I could literally hear her shrieks through my screen!!
Adding Elaine was a nice touch, I feel like she acted true to her character. And Gia was a great best friend, I need to see her set up with a Knight of her own.
And of course Quinn, our lovely main character, I love how she kept poking at everyone, trying to get a rise out of them, instead of doing what was expected of her. It only made me like her more. Her banter with Max in particular made my day every time it happened.
One thing that bugged me is the bathroom scene, the steamy one. Yes, only because of hand washing, and I hate that I noticed it, but I did. I saw another person mention it in their review so it wasn't just me.
On a lighter note, we got the dance scene to compensate. It was probably my favourite scene in the book, more of that please and thank you.
Now gimme book 2!!
*Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
January 5, 2025
Arc Review
⚠️Spoilers below⚠️
tropes: secret society, billionaire heirs, spicy slow burn, forbidden romance, forced proximity, who hurt you
If you dnf books because of instalust, just go ahead and leave this off your tbr. Our first glimpse of this world through Landon’s eyes is quite literally a view of Quinn’s ass. I, however, am an instalust apologist. In my head, Quinn definitely listens to Bed Chem by Sabrina Carpenter and thinks of a handful of Camelot Court men.
This first book has the bones of an even better story to come in future books. Quinn has clear motivations to get through The Quest, but alas she’s just a girl surrounded by really hot, distracting guys that all keep a lot of secrets.
Were there moments where Quinn made decisions that I wouldn’t have? Yes, especially when influenced by her very millennial coded best friend, but that’s my Aquarius sister so I’m gonna stand by her! Even more so when it concerns her attraction to an Aries, Leo, AND a Gemini… I fear I understand her all too well. I do need Quinn to start swinging on people (vivian) . and quickly!
By the end of The King’s Maiden, we still don’t know all that much about any of our leading men or what they’re really hiding. We do know that they are freaks and good at chess maybe? Landon is a certified munch™, but while he’s leading in the World Eaters Championship, Kingston and Max—and dare I add Peter—are definitely plotting. I don’t know who or what exactly they’re each plotting on, but I guess I’ll just have to read book 2 to find out. Based on that cliffhanger ending … maybe Landon is more of a multitasker than I give him credit for 🤭
⚠️Spoilers below⚠️
tropes: secret society, billionaire heirs, spicy slow burn, forbidden romance, forced proximity, who hurt you
If you dnf books because of instalust, just go ahead and leave this off your tbr. Our first glimpse of this world through Landon’s eyes is quite literally a view of Quinn’s ass. I, however, am an instalust apologist. In my head, Quinn definitely listens to Bed Chem by Sabrina Carpenter and thinks of a handful of Camelot Court men.
This first book has the bones of an even better story to come in future books. Quinn has clear motivations to get through The Quest, but alas she’s just a girl surrounded by really hot, distracting guys that all keep a lot of secrets.
Were there moments where Quinn made decisions that I wouldn’t have? Yes, especially when influenced by her very millennial coded best friend, but that’s my Aquarius sister so I’m gonna stand by her! Even more so when it concerns her attraction to an Aries, Leo, AND a Gemini… I fear I understand her all too well. I do need Quinn to start swinging on people (vivian) . and quickly!
By the end of The King’s Maiden, we still don’t know all that much about any of our leading men or what they’re really hiding. We do know that they are freaks and good at chess maybe? Landon is a certified munch™, but while he’s leading in the World Eaters Championship, Kingston and Max—and dare I add Peter—are definitely plotting. I don’t know who or what exactly they’re each plotting on, but I guess I’ll just have to read book 2 to find out. Based on that cliffhanger ending … maybe Landon is more of a multitasker than I give him credit for 🤭
January 24, 2025
The spice, the plot, the intrigue, all of it had me sitting down eating this book right up.
Quinn’s innocence mixed with her don’t back down attitude make for an intriguing FMC. Along with out MMC’s seems like she’s in for a lot of fun.
And that cliff hanger 😭😡 now I have to impatiently wait for the next book and I can’t wait to see what happens next
Overall
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️/5
Quinn’s innocence mixed with her don’t back down attitude make for an intriguing FMC. Along with out MMC’s seems like she’s in for a lot of fun.
And that cliff hanger 😭😡 now I have to impatiently wait for the next book and I can’t wait to see what happens next
Overall
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️/5
January 24, 2025
I’m completely blown away and in awe of Elle Parker’s writing for The King’s Maiden. I absolutely devoured this book and I need book 2 immediately, please 🙏🏽
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
“𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙨𝙞𝙜𝙣𝙚𝙙 𝙪𝙥 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙌𝙪𝙚𝙨𝙩.”
“𝙌𝙪𝙞𝙣𝙣, 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙘𝙝𝙤𝙨𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚 𝙖 𝙈𝙖𝙞𝙙𝙚𝙣, 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙩 𝙢𝙚𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪’𝙙 𝙗𝙚𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤 𝙖 𝙆𝙣𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩.”
“𝙉𝙤𝙬, 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙗𝙚𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙚.”
“𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙢𝙚𝙖𝙣𝙨 𝙮𝙤𝙪’𝙧𝙚 𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙚. 𝘼𝙡𝙡 𝙤𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪.”
“𝙔𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙗𝙤𝙙𝙮 𝙞𝙨 𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙚.”
“𝙔𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙥𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙪𝙧𝙚.”
“𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙥𝙖𝙞𝙣.”
“𝘼𝙡𝙡 𝙤𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙥𝙖𝙞𝙣 𝙞𝙨 𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙚, 𝙌𝙪𝙞𝙣𝙣.”
OH MY GOD. The writing from this book is superb, legit, has me glued to my kindle. Elle caused me some emotional damage in some of these chapters, my eyes had tears and were threatening to spill over. My heart was twisting and aching in my chest. H O L Y C R A P!
Quinn recently lost her last living parent in a tragic accident, she’s faced with living without any parental guidance and is attending university. So, when she finds out she can score $25,000 to let some rich guy “boss her around for a month” to score cash, she signed up quickly. But let’s be so for real, it’s so much more than that!
So many secrets, rules, lies, and betrayal. My absolute favorite concoction in a book. But here are a few rules to remember, when you decide to read this book.
𝙁𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙤𝙬 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙪𝙡𝙚𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙍𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙢𝙗𝙚𝙧.
“𝙂𝙤𝙤𝙙 𝙜𝙞𝙧𝙡𝙨 𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙤𝙧𝙜𝙖𝙨𝙢𝙨, 𝙈𝙖𝙞𝙙𝙚𝙣.”
“𝘽𝙖𝙙 𝙜𝙞𝙧𝙡𝙨 𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙥𝙪𝙣𝙞𝙨𝙝𝙚𝙙.”
Tropes:
🔥Why Choose
🔥King Arthur Retelling
🔥Dark Academia - College
🔥Secret Society
🔥Forced Proximity
🔥He Falls First
🔥Enemies to Lovers
🔥Opposites Attract
🔥Virgin FMC
🔥Who Hurt You?
🔥Slow Burn
🔥Broke College Girl
🔥Billionaire Elite’s Sons
🔥He Protects Her
🔥He Wants Her, But Can’t Have her
🔥Shibari
🔥Public Play
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
“𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙨𝙞𝙜𝙣𝙚𝙙 𝙪𝙥 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙌𝙪𝙚𝙨𝙩.”
“𝙌𝙪𝙞𝙣𝙣, 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙘𝙝𝙤𝙨𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚 𝙖 𝙈𝙖𝙞𝙙𝙚𝙣, 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙩 𝙢𝙚𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪’𝙙 𝙗𝙚𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤 𝙖 𝙆𝙣𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩.”
“𝙉𝙤𝙬, 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙗𝙚𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙚.”
“𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙢𝙚𝙖𝙣𝙨 𝙮𝙤𝙪’𝙧𝙚 𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙚. 𝘼𝙡𝙡 𝙤𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪.”
“𝙔𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙗𝙤𝙙𝙮 𝙞𝙨 𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙚.”
“𝙔𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙥𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙪𝙧𝙚.”
“𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙥𝙖𝙞𝙣.”
“𝘼𝙡𝙡 𝙤𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙥𝙖𝙞𝙣 𝙞𝙨 𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙚, 𝙌𝙪𝙞𝙣𝙣.”
OH MY GOD. The writing from this book is superb, legit, has me glued to my kindle. Elle caused me some emotional damage in some of these chapters, my eyes had tears and were threatening to spill over. My heart was twisting and aching in my chest. H O L Y C R A P!
Quinn recently lost her last living parent in a tragic accident, she’s faced with living without any parental guidance and is attending university. So, when she finds out she can score $25,000 to let some rich guy “boss her around for a month” to score cash, she signed up quickly. But let’s be so for real, it’s so much more than that!
So many secrets, rules, lies, and betrayal. My absolute favorite concoction in a book. But here are a few rules to remember, when you decide to read this book.
𝙁𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙤𝙬 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙪𝙡𝙚𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙍𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙢𝙗𝙚𝙧.
“𝙂𝙤𝙤𝙙 𝙜𝙞𝙧𝙡𝙨 𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙤𝙧𝙜𝙖𝙨𝙢𝙨, 𝙈𝙖𝙞𝙙𝙚𝙣.”
“𝘽𝙖𝙙 𝙜𝙞𝙧𝙡𝙨 𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙥𝙪𝙣𝙞𝙨𝙝𝙚𝙙.”
Tropes:
🔥Why Choose
🔥King Arthur Retelling
🔥Dark Academia - College
🔥Secret Society
🔥Forced Proximity
🔥He Falls First
🔥Enemies to Lovers
🔥Opposites Attract
🔥Virgin FMC
🔥Who Hurt You?
🔥Slow Burn
🔥Broke College Girl
🔥Billionaire Elite’s Sons
🔥He Protects Her
🔥He Wants Her, But Can’t Have her
🔥Shibari
🔥Public Play
January 18, 2025
This book was a lot of fun! I was drawn in by the mystery of The Quest and what being a Maiden meant. Quinn was an endearing character. While grappling with the trauma of her past, she navigates through the viper’s nest that is Camelot Court. I do think it was a wild choice for her to sign up to be obedient to some random dude when that is not usually in her nature. Her rebellions certainly kept things interesting.
I liked this book not just for what I read unfolding but all the different plots alluded to in the background. There are so many players involved that I think this series will be one that constantly keeps you guessing. I’m so excited about that!
I liked this book not just for what I read unfolding but all the different plots alluded to in the background. There are so many players involved that I think this series will be one that constantly keeps you guessing. I’m so excited about that!
January 16, 2025
Hear me out...
...Camelot retelling...lust...lies and secrets. Oh and there is not just one, not two but three guys that make our Quinn's lady parts do a happy dance. Well at least that is what she wants.
I was all in from the first pages because Quinn just that FMC that is a breath of fresh air. Quinn has you rooting for her and laughing along with her inner monologue and the friendship she has with Gia her best friend, I loved. Knowing what she wants, standing up for herself and not backing down. With everything that she has gone through from losing her parents to trying to make ends meet she has a plan to make it to the end of the quest.
Along the way three guys don't make it easy for her. They all bring something different out of her and at the time you see they care. We get the Arthur figure, the loyal knight and the black knight that's ready to take down the king.
Landon and Quinn the emotion these two bring out in each other was so good and those heartbreaking moments they both saw something similar in each other. The interactions with Kingston and Max also brought out certain emotions. Kingston wanting to protect Quinn because he saw her as the person who could help him safe Camelot Court, he was sweet within his moments with her. Max fired her up, not the Landon didn't but not like Max. There is this red hot lust that happens between them but is instantly doused with Max's coldness.
With all of that going on she still has to be "trained" at lets just say when Quinn gives in Mr. Landon Scott did not come to play and yet that line of betraying his king/best friend is being flirted with. You just want that line to be erased.
The game that is being played by more than one player in the shadows has you guessing what is going to happen next and excuse me but that cliffhanger what? I'm here for it and yet at the same time how did that happen?
I was hooked from the first page to the last and I am in need of the next one.
...Camelot retelling...lust...lies and secrets. Oh and there is not just one, not two but three guys that make our Quinn's lady parts do a happy dance. Well at least that is what she wants.
I was all in from the first pages because Quinn just that FMC that is a breath of fresh air. Quinn has you rooting for her and laughing along with her inner monologue and the friendship she has with Gia her best friend, I loved. Knowing what she wants, standing up for herself and not backing down. With everything that she has gone through from losing her parents to trying to make ends meet she has a plan to make it to the end of the quest.
Along the way three guys don't make it easy for her. They all bring something different out of her and at the time you see they care. We get the Arthur figure, the loyal knight and the black knight that's ready to take down the king.
Landon and Quinn the emotion these two bring out in each other was so good and those heartbreaking moments they both saw something similar in each other. The interactions with Kingston and Max also brought out certain emotions. Kingston wanting to protect Quinn because he saw her as the person who could help him safe Camelot Court, he was sweet within his moments with her. Max fired her up, not the Landon didn't but not like Max. There is this red hot lust that happens between them but is instantly doused with Max's coldness.
With all of that going on she still has to be "trained" at lets just say when Quinn gives in Mr. Landon Scott did not come to play and yet that line of betraying his king/best friend is being flirted with. You just want that line to be erased.
The game that is being played by more than one player in the shadows has you guessing what is going to happen next and excuse me but that cliffhanger what? I'm here for it and yet at the same time how did that happen?
I was hooked from the first page to the last and I am in need of the next one.
January 23, 2025
Woah!! It has been a long time since I’ve had a book captivate me to the level that this one did! I read it in less than 24 hours and was so in it that I was having a real hard time having to pull myself out to adult throughout the day. 😂 I was literally wandering around the house doing chores with my kindle in my face lol.
But seriously it was not at all what I expected. I saw the tropes but the cover almost made this book look like it was going to be this soft story. The cover is very pretty do not get me wrong but it did NOTHING to share what was within the pages.
This was one of the best “conquer the challenge” style books I’ve read. The concept of the challenges connected with the King Arthur vibes was so unique. The spice was tastefully done. There were so many twists and turns and the characters were so well developed you felt like you were there with them.
The FMC has such strength to her even through major trauma, anxiety, and asthma. She has not had it easy and the world was not making it any easier. She was still willing to stay true to who she was and what she wanted. She also had the eye of three of the “Knights”.
Her Knight she was assigned to is a total dreamboat with his broody attitude but also super caring and thoughtful mind/ heart. He is always intentional and sees the bigger picture.
The one she is meant for can’t have her yet so he is still crushing on her from afar but Elle did such a good job that I truly don’t know if he has good or bad intentions.
And then that brings us to the third knight that caught her eye and he is the bad boy. Secrets for days, crass, but secretly a good guy with lots of anger and resentment. He also has some mysterious things going on around him that I have no clue the direction it’s going to go!
The ending… oh that ending leaves you on a cliffhanger of all cliffhangers but I’m totally here for it!
I can guarantee you that not everything is as it seems in this story! Absolutely loved and am now going to wait patiently for this next book to arrive! ♾️🌟
🌟 King Arthur retelling
🌟 Secret society
🌟 Virgin FMC
🌟 Forced proximity
🌟 Forbidden romance
🌟 Slow burn
🌟 creatively spicy
🌟 Whitty banter
But seriously it was not at all what I expected. I saw the tropes but the cover almost made this book look like it was going to be this soft story. The cover is very pretty do not get me wrong but it did NOTHING to share what was within the pages.
This was one of the best “conquer the challenge” style books I’ve read. The concept of the challenges connected with the King Arthur vibes was so unique. The spice was tastefully done. There were so many twists and turns and the characters were so well developed you felt like you were there with them.
The FMC has such strength to her even through major trauma, anxiety, and asthma. She has not had it easy and the world was not making it any easier. She was still willing to stay true to who she was and what she wanted. She also had the eye of three of the “Knights”.
Her Knight she was assigned to is a total dreamboat with his broody attitude but also super caring and thoughtful mind/ heart. He is always intentional and sees the bigger picture.
The one she is meant for can’t have her yet so he is still crushing on her from afar but Elle did such a good job that I truly don’t know if he has good or bad intentions.
And then that brings us to the third knight that caught her eye and he is the bad boy. Secrets for days, crass, but secretly a good guy with lots of anger and resentment. He also has some mysterious things going on around him that I have no clue the direction it’s going to go!
The ending… oh that ending leaves you on a cliffhanger of all cliffhangers but I’m totally here for it!
I can guarantee you that not everything is as it seems in this story! Absolutely loved and am now going to wait patiently for this next book to arrive! ♾️🌟
🌟 King Arthur retelling
🌟 Secret society
🌟 Virgin FMC
🌟 Forced proximity
🌟 Forbidden romance
🌟 Slow burn
🌟 creatively spicy
🌟 Whitty banter
November 7, 2025
The King’s Maiden by Elle Parker is a modern day why choose college romance loosely inspired by King Arthur. While it weaves aspects of Camelot and its lore throughout the story, it isn’t a fantasy or historical romance — but it’s still a good time.
It reminded me of the L.O.R.D.S. series by Shantel Tessier but significantly tamped down. Think secret society, privileged males, unimaginable wealth, and a mysterious annual “Maiden Quest” competition.
I’ll be honest — I didn’t always know what was going on while reading this. Our FMC, Quinn Everly, is a stranger to this world of wealth and debauchery and the story mostly unfolds from her perspective. We’re offered bits of the King’s and Knight’s POV but it almost always reinforces that there’s more at play than what we’ve been allowed to understand.
I read this on a whim because I wasn’t in the mood to get into any of the more serious reads I have coming up. I didn’t expect to finish it in one night… but I definitely did. Is it a profound literary experience? No. But it fed the part of my soul that would happily spend all day in bed watching Real Housewives.
I’m looking forward to shamelessly enjoying the rest of the Camelot Court series, which will be four books and is slated for rapid release!
It reminded me of the L.O.R.D.S. series by Shantel Tessier but significantly tamped down. Think secret society, privileged males, unimaginable wealth, and a mysterious annual “Maiden Quest” competition.
I’ll be honest — I didn’t always know what was going on while reading this. Our FMC, Quinn Everly, is a stranger to this world of wealth and debauchery and the story mostly unfolds from her perspective. We’re offered bits of the King’s and Knight’s POV but it almost always reinforces that there’s more at play than what we’ve been allowed to understand.
I read this on a whim because I wasn’t in the mood to get into any of the more serious reads I have coming up. I didn’t expect to finish it in one night… but I definitely did. Is it a profound literary experience? No. But it fed the part of my soul that would happily spend all day in bed watching Real Housewives.
I’m looking forward to shamelessly enjoying the rest of the Camelot Court series, which will be four books and is slated for rapid release!
December 28, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
The way this audiobook had me in a CHOKEHOLD
Quinn is our poor starving student FMC who decides to apply to the Camelot (rich people society vibes) quest where if she wins she’ll clear her debts. And she desperately needs money.
We meet the handsome, serious dashing Landon aka sir Lancelot who becomes her knight to guide her through the first phase of the quest.
We also learn he can’t fall for her because the King of Camelot Court (his bestie Kingston, don’t worry they’re all in their 20s) has chosen her to be his Queen if she wins (but he’s picking favourites.)
Then we meet Max, their enemy… and the lovely Quinn feels something with all of them, oh and she’s a virgin (with traumatic experience surrounding that choice to stay one 👀)
We learn that this quest is basically a chess match and different players are trying to check the king. We have catty competitors, supportive besties, a touch of miscommunication and we end on a cliffy where I literally said WHAT out loud!
Add to your TBR if you love:
- Camelot retelling
- strong FMC (but she also an emotional girlie)
- why choose
- slow burn love/ fast burn spice (oral/fingers only)
- BDSM/ safe words
- anxiety / trauma rep
- virgin FMC
The way this audiobook had me in a CHOKEHOLD
Quinn is our poor starving student FMC who decides to apply to the Camelot (rich people society vibes) quest where if she wins she’ll clear her debts. And she desperately needs money.
We meet the handsome, serious dashing Landon aka sir Lancelot who becomes her knight to guide her through the first phase of the quest.
We also learn he can’t fall for her because the King of Camelot Court (his bestie Kingston, don’t worry they’re all in their 20s) has chosen her to be his Queen if she wins (but he’s picking favourites.)
Then we meet Max, their enemy… and the lovely Quinn feels something with all of them, oh and she’s a virgin (with traumatic experience surrounding that choice to stay one 👀)
We learn that this quest is basically a chess match and different players are trying to check the king. We have catty competitors, supportive besties, a touch of miscommunication and we end on a cliffy where I literally said WHAT out loud!
Add to your TBR if you love:
- Camelot retelling
- strong FMC (but she also an emotional girlie)
- why choose
- slow burn love/ fast burn spice (oral/fingers only)
- BDSM/ safe words
- anxiety / trauma rep
- virgin FMC
January 7, 2025
i started this book the minute it arrived in my inbox (i couldn’t sleep 😅), and finished it in less than 48 hours. this book filled a Tate James sized hole in my heart that i didn’t know i had 🥹
first, Gia & Quinn’s friendship is the definition of girlhood, and i love to see it. Quinn has gone through a lot, and i feel for her! she’s definitely an independent women who isn’t afraid to speak her mind! i do hope we get more of Gia (or her own series!)
second, Landon, Kingston & Max, i have a few words for you: secret secrets are no fun, secret secrets hurt someone! come on, fellas!! however, Max is my favourite, and i cannot wait to get more of him 😍
Elle, thank you so much for trusting me with an advanced copy of your book! i cannot wait to see where this series goes, and i cannot wait for this to be released to the world 🥰
TROPES:
👍🏻 why choose
📓 dark academia
👑 King Arthur retelling
🫦 forbidden romance
🔐 forced proximity
🗝️ secret society
❤️🔥 slow burn (but spicy!)
⚔️ enemies to lovers
💰 billionaire heirs
🩹 who hurt you
📿 light 🐝DSM
first, Gia & Quinn’s friendship is the definition of girlhood, and i love to see it. Quinn has gone through a lot, and i feel for her! she’s definitely an independent women who isn’t afraid to speak her mind! i do hope we get more of Gia (or her own series!)
second, Landon, Kingston & Max, i have a few words for you: secret secrets are no fun, secret secrets hurt someone! come on, fellas!! however, Max is my favourite, and i cannot wait to get more of him 😍
Elle, thank you so much for trusting me with an advanced copy of your book! i cannot wait to see where this series goes, and i cannot wait for this to be released to the world 🥰
TROPES:
👍🏻 why choose
📓 dark academia
👑 King Arthur retelling
🫦 forbidden romance
🔐 forced proximity
🗝️ secret society
❤️🔥 slow burn (but spicy!)
⚔️ enemies to lovers
💰 billionaire heirs
🩹 who hurt you
📿 light 🐝DSM
January 24, 2025
A rewriting of the myth of the court of Camelot as we have never seen before! Between this mysterious secret society created by the rich heirs of the d'Arthur school and the plots that seem to take place there, we can only feel involved from the first pages. There are still so many secrets that I am waiting for answers to! I am so excited for book 2 of this serie.
February 5, 2025
Read this if you like:
✨slow burn
✨enemies to lovers
✨rich boy/poor girl
✨forced proximity
✨secret society
A King Arthur retelling? Based in a college secret society? Yes please! This was definitely a fun read for me.
I really enjoyed the dynamics of the secret society and what was expected of Quinn, and how she learned to either trust herself or someone else to allow it to happen.
We meet 3 separate male characters who all have unique relationships with Quinn, some I liked some I felt left a little to be desired. I wish some of the relationships had been explored more, but I’m sure that will come in the next book in the series!
The book is definitely a slow burn filled with a lot of tension. It has a fun premise and was an enjoyable read. I look forward to the next book!
Thank you to the author and The Author Agency for the arc in exchange for my honest review!
✨slow burn
✨enemies to lovers
✨rich boy/poor girl
✨forced proximity
✨secret society
A King Arthur retelling? Based in a college secret society? Yes please! This was definitely a fun read for me.
I really enjoyed the dynamics of the secret society and what was expected of Quinn, and how she learned to either trust herself or someone else to allow it to happen.
We meet 3 separate male characters who all have unique relationships with Quinn, some I liked some I felt left a little to be desired. I wish some of the relationships had been explored more, but I’m sure that will come in the next book in the series!
The book is definitely a slow burn filled with a lot of tension. It has a fun premise and was an enjoyable read. I look forward to the next book!
Thank you to the author and The Author Agency for the arc in exchange for my honest review!
January 16, 2025
These people are certified HORN DOGS and my god are they all insane, but I could not get enough of their shenanigans. I have absolutely no idea wtf is going on but sign me up for book 2 because this is MESSY and I am thriving.
They’re all idiots. They’re all secretive. They’re all horny. I have no idea what to expect.
Also, I worry Landon isn’t eating enough ✨real food✨ and someone please protect Max’s 🍆 from that harpy he’s paired with. I’m scared for him.
I received an arc. I’m still lost on the plot of this series. I am vibing real hard with it though it’s so chaotic.
They’re all idiots. They’re all secretive. They’re all horny. I have no idea what to expect.
Also, I worry Landon isn’t eating enough ✨real food✨ and someone please protect Max’s 🍆 from that harpy he’s paired with. I’m scared for him.
I received an arc. I’m still lost on the plot of this series. I am vibing real hard with it though it’s so chaotic.
January 20, 2025
✨ 𝘐'𝘮 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴 ✨
Hello hello, readers. I know we are so close to #onyxstorm but while you are preparing to go to battle, I wanted to share with you this amazing book that I had the pleasure to read for @theauthor.agency and @whychooseparkerbooks.
In this contemporary world, a King Arthur society is very much a reality with the great promise that if Queen Guinevere was better prepared for her role, she wouldn't have her affair with Sir Lancelot, and therefore, the Arthurian kingdom would have prospered. So every year, 12 maidens are chosen by 12 knights for 30 days of challenges, pleasure, and submission with the great prize of having the kingdom and a lot of money. Will our FMC Quinn Everly be able to overcome the trauma in the process and trust her knight to win the game and checkmate her opponents in what is a much bigger game? And most importantly, she will be able to get them all?
Let me tell you, I'm very surprised. When I started the book, an Arthurian remake in the modern world, I was intrigued and scared that the story would fall flat, but every page was a turn, every chapter a fast-paced event, and every sentence an addiction.
I loved our main characters. While Quinn is a woman with a lot of trauma, her character is very relatable, and her process is not linear, and that made the story true at her heart. I will say that it is not for everyone; there is a light BDSM and a lot of trauma, and especially the MMCs will not give you the info. It is book 1 of 5 and will be out 1/23, while the second book is set to release in May.
I don't know what Elle put in this book, I was addicted. I pulled a night read to finish it and the cliff at the end was crazy. I can't wait to know more about the big game and about all our male main characters (yes, there are multiple).
I'm still very shocked about how much I loved this story, and if you are looking for a good time team, this is certainly for you.
I give it a full 🌟🌟🌟🌟/5. My 4 stars are because some parts are a little bit repetitive but overall not disruptive for the story.
Bravo Elle! Yes, please think of me for the next Arc, I love you thank you HAHAHAHHA -Michey
Hello hello, readers. I know we are so close to #onyxstorm but while you are preparing to go to battle, I wanted to share with you this amazing book that I had the pleasure to read for @theauthor.agency and @whychooseparkerbooks.
In this contemporary world, a King Arthur society is very much a reality with the great promise that if Queen Guinevere was better prepared for her role, she wouldn't have her affair with Sir Lancelot, and therefore, the Arthurian kingdom would have prospered. So every year, 12 maidens are chosen by 12 knights for 30 days of challenges, pleasure, and submission with the great prize of having the kingdom and a lot of money. Will our FMC Quinn Everly be able to overcome the trauma in the process and trust her knight to win the game and checkmate her opponents in what is a much bigger game? And most importantly, she will be able to get them all?
Let me tell you, I'm very surprised. When I started the book, an Arthurian remake in the modern world, I was intrigued and scared that the story would fall flat, but every page was a turn, every chapter a fast-paced event, and every sentence an addiction.
I loved our main characters. While Quinn is a woman with a lot of trauma, her character is very relatable, and her process is not linear, and that made the story true at her heart. I will say that it is not for everyone; there is a light BDSM and a lot of trauma, and especially the MMCs will not give you the info. It is book 1 of 5 and will be out 1/23, while the second book is set to release in May.
I don't know what Elle put in this book, I was addicted. I pulled a night read to finish it and the cliff at the end was crazy. I can't wait to know more about the big game and about all our male main characters (yes, there are multiple).
I'm still very shocked about how much I loved this story, and if you are looking for a good time team, this is certainly for you.
I give it a full 🌟🌟🌟🌟/5. My 4 stars are because some parts are a little bit repetitive but overall not disruptive for the story.
Bravo Elle! Yes, please think of me for the next Arc, I love you thank you HAHAHAHHA -Michey
January 15, 2025
4.5⭐️
1.75🌶️
Wow, it’s been such a long time since a book completely pulled me in like The King’s Maiden! I tore through it in less than 24 hours and found myself literally wandering around doing chores with my Kindle glued to my face. 😂 Quinn and Gia’s friendship is everything—such a pure portrayal of girlhood, and I love it. Quinn is my girl: fiercely independent, funny, and unafraid to speak her mind. She’s gone through so much, and you really feel for her. I’d honestly love to see more of Gia in the future (maybe her own series? Fingers crossed!).
This King Arthur retelling takes the classic legend and flips it in such a unique way. And let’s talk about how great it is that we don’t even have to stress over Lancelot and Guinevere because this is a “why choose” book, thank goodness! The three MMCs—Kingston, Landon, and Max Dread—are impossible to pick between. Like Quinn, I could never decide, so shoutout to her for living her best life.
The characters all bring something special to the table. Kingston is mysterious and clearly hiding something (and I’m dying to know what). Landon? Oh my god, obsessed. He’s so loyal but has this darkness that makes you want to dig deeper into him. And Max Dread—our grumpy boy—is the definition of a tough exterior hiding layers we haven’t unraveled yet. I’m very much into questionable assholes, so naturally, I’m intrigued.
Quinn’s personality is such a standout for me—witty, strong, and able to hold her own even when she’s navigating new sides of herself. I sped through this book laughing, swooning and cackling. The balance of humor, spice (still recovering from that dancefloor scene, wow), and twists was spot-on, and the plot had just enough suspense to keep me turning pages like a maniac. There are secrets everywhere, and I feel like we’ve just barely scratched the surface of Camelot Court.
That ending, though. Absolute killer! It’s definitely setting up for bigger things in the rest of the series, and I can’t wait to see what happens next. My only real gripe was that bathroom scene. It was such a great spicy moment—why’d it have to start with her peeing and no handwashing? 🙃 Felt unnecessary, but hey, we survived.
For a debut novel, Elle absolutely crushed this. The banter, the action, the tension, the world-building—it all worked so well. And the MMCs? Whew, I can’t wait to see how their dynamics develop with Quinn. I’m begging for book two already! Elle, you have a forever fan. Bring it on. 🙌
1.75🌶️
Wow, it’s been such a long time since a book completely pulled me in like The King’s Maiden! I tore through it in less than 24 hours and found myself literally wandering around doing chores with my Kindle glued to my face. 😂 Quinn and Gia’s friendship is everything—such a pure portrayal of girlhood, and I love it. Quinn is my girl: fiercely independent, funny, and unafraid to speak her mind. She’s gone through so much, and you really feel for her. I’d honestly love to see more of Gia in the future (maybe her own series? Fingers crossed!).
This King Arthur retelling takes the classic legend and flips it in such a unique way. And let’s talk about how great it is that we don’t even have to stress over Lancelot and Guinevere because this is a “why choose” book, thank goodness! The three MMCs—Kingston, Landon, and Max Dread—are impossible to pick between. Like Quinn, I could never decide, so shoutout to her for living her best life.
The characters all bring something special to the table. Kingston is mysterious and clearly hiding something (and I’m dying to know what). Landon? Oh my god, obsessed. He’s so loyal but has this darkness that makes you want to dig deeper into him. And Max Dread—our grumpy boy—is the definition of a tough exterior hiding layers we haven’t unraveled yet. I’m very much into questionable assholes, so naturally, I’m intrigued.
Quinn’s personality is such a standout for me—witty, strong, and able to hold her own even when she’s navigating new sides of herself. I sped through this book laughing, swooning and cackling. The balance of humor, spice (still recovering from that dancefloor scene, wow), and twists was spot-on, and the plot had just enough suspense to keep me turning pages like a maniac. There are secrets everywhere, and I feel like we’ve just barely scratched the surface of Camelot Court.
That ending, though. Absolute killer! It’s definitely setting up for bigger things in the rest of the series, and I can’t wait to see what happens next. My only real gripe was that bathroom scene. It was such a great spicy moment—why’d it have to start with her peeing and no handwashing? 🙃 Felt unnecessary, but hey, we survived.
For a debut novel, Elle absolutely crushed this. The banter, the action, the tension, the world-building—it all worked so well. And the MMCs? Whew, I can’t wait to see how their dynamics develop with Quinn. I’m begging for book two already! Elle, you have a forever fan. Bring it on. 🙌
January 26, 2025
This book owns me—body, soul, and dangerously obsessed heart. 💀🔥
Quinn is broke, pissed off at life, and in desperate need of cash.
She thought she was just signing up for a month of taking orders from rich boys in exchange for some much-needed cash. Instead? She landed herself smack in the middle of The Quest—a cutthroat game of power, secrets, and desire, where the Camelot Court’s Knights rule, and she just became their newest obsession.
And let’s talk about those Knights. ✨ Kingston—The dark, brooding one. The one you just know will ruin you deliciously. ✨ Landon—The golden boy with shadows in his eyes. The protector, but at what cost? ✨ Max—The wildcard. Too smooth. Too cocky. Too damn irresistible.
And just when you think you have a favorite, one of them will whisper something like…
🔥 “You signed up for The Quest. That means you’re mine. All of you.” 🔥 “Your body is mine. Your pleasure. Your pain. All of it.”
… and suddenly, you’re feral.
This book is a deadly mix of spice, secrets, and betrayal, and I ate it up like a last meal.
The tension? Thick as sin.
The slow burn? Torture in the best way.
And the cliffhanger? Elle Parker, we need to talk.👀💀
🔥 TROPE ALERT—because we love to suffer: 👑 King Arthur Retelling (but make it sexy) 🎓 Dark Academia (class is in session, and the lesson is lust) 🗝️ Secret Society (where power = danger = desire) 🖤 Enemies to Lovers (because of course) 🏡 Forced Proximity (hello tension, my old friend) 💋 He Falls First (and hard) 🫣 He Wants Her, But Can’t Have Her (forbidden fruit has never tasted so good) 💰 Billionaire Elite Sons (rich, reckless, and ready to ruin lives) 🩹 Who Hurt You? (because trauma bonding is hot, apparently) 🔥 Slow Burn (torture, sweet torture) 💵 Broke College Girl (but make her iconic) 🛡️ He Protects Her (whether she wants it or not)
📖 Read it. Love it. Obsess over it. Then scream with me while we wait for book two.
Quinn is broke, pissed off at life, and in desperate need of cash.
She thought she was just signing up for a month of taking orders from rich boys in exchange for some much-needed cash. Instead? She landed herself smack in the middle of The Quest—a cutthroat game of power, secrets, and desire, where the Camelot Court’s Knights rule, and she just became their newest obsession.
And let’s talk about those Knights. ✨ Kingston—The dark, brooding one. The one you just know will ruin you deliciously. ✨ Landon—The golden boy with shadows in his eyes. The protector, but at what cost? ✨ Max—The wildcard. Too smooth. Too cocky. Too damn irresistible.
And just when you think you have a favorite, one of them will whisper something like…
🔥 “You signed up for The Quest. That means you’re mine. All of you.” 🔥 “Your body is mine. Your pleasure. Your pain. All of it.”
… and suddenly, you’re feral.
This book is a deadly mix of spice, secrets, and betrayal, and I ate it up like a last meal.
The tension? Thick as sin.
The slow burn? Torture in the best way.
And the cliffhanger? Elle Parker, we need to talk.👀💀
🔥 TROPE ALERT—because we love to suffer: 👑 King Arthur Retelling (but make it sexy) 🎓 Dark Academia (class is in session, and the lesson is lust) 🗝️ Secret Society (where power = danger = desire) 🖤 Enemies to Lovers (because of course) 🏡 Forced Proximity (hello tension, my old friend) 💋 He Falls First (and hard) 🫣 He Wants Her, But Can’t Have Her (forbidden fruit has never tasted so good) 💰 Billionaire Elite Sons (rich, reckless, and ready to ruin lives) 🩹 Who Hurt You? (because trauma bonding is hot, apparently) 🔥 Slow Burn (torture, sweet torture) 💵 Broke College Girl (but make her iconic) 🛡️ He Protects Her (whether she wants it or not)
📖 Read it. Love it. Obsess over it. Then scream with me while we wait for book two.
January 20, 2025
4.5⭐️ A huge thank you to Elle Parker for sharing an e-ARC of The King’s Maiden with me in exchange for an honest review!
I am shook. This was so GOOD! I was initially drawn to this book because I LOVE the “why choose” trope. This book had the very beginnings of why choose happening, but not alot like I expected. I know as the series progresses, I can see a TOP-TIER why choose plot happening though. This is a modern King Arthur retelling, and I did not know anything about King Arthur going into this. Luckily I don’t feel like it is necessary to know anything because the important parts that you would need to know are explained in the book. I think the overall plot was very intriguing and kept me hooked the entire time. I got similar vibes to the “Legacy of Gods” series with the “secret society” and hosting a “game”, but that is where the similarities ended and I was pleasantly surprised with the turn this book took! The cliffhanger has me DYING for book 2, because I NEED to know what happened and I NEED these secrets to be revealed!!!!!! I really enjoyed Quinn’s character and LOVED how strong willed and snarky she was. Watching her constantly give the guys a run for their money was so good. Additionally, I felt that the relationship between Landon and Quinn was very believable and I enjoyed watching the progression and their trust being built. I am eager to have some of the secrets we know as readers be revealed to Quinn as well as having the secrets we don’t know revealed to us. I will 100% be picking up book 2 as soon as I can and I encourage anyone who loves the why choose trope as well as college romance to pick this up!
I am shook. This was so GOOD! I was initially drawn to this book because I LOVE the “why choose” trope. This book had the very beginnings of why choose happening, but not alot like I expected. I know as the series progresses, I can see a TOP-TIER why choose plot happening though. This is a modern King Arthur retelling, and I did not know anything about King Arthur going into this. Luckily I don’t feel like it is necessary to know anything because the important parts that you would need to know are explained in the book. I think the overall plot was very intriguing and kept me hooked the entire time. I got similar vibes to the “Legacy of Gods” series with the “secret society” and hosting a “game”, but that is where the similarities ended and I was pleasantly surprised with the turn this book took! The cliffhanger has me DYING for book 2, because I NEED to know what happened and I NEED these secrets to be revealed!!!!!! I really enjoyed Quinn’s character and LOVED how strong willed and snarky she was. Watching her constantly give the guys a run for their money was so good. Additionally, I felt that the relationship between Landon and Quinn was very believable and I enjoyed watching the progression and their trust being built. I am eager to have some of the secrets we know as readers be revealed to Quinn as well as having the secrets we don’t know revealed to us. I will 100% be picking up book 2 as soon as I can and I encourage anyone who loves the why choose trope as well as college romance to pick this up!
January 9, 2025
I received an ARC for this and also had the opportunity to do an early read through as well! This book is amazing, so a big thank you to Elle!
This King Arthur retelling is a unique take on the well known legend, but one where maybe you don't see the problem with Lancelot and Guinevere's relationship because this is a why choose book! Thank goodness for that too. The three MMCs competing for your heart are Landon, Max Dread, and Kingston. Quinn almost immediately struggles with who she's more attracted to, but if you're like me you lean towards Landon all the way haha. You get good, steamy moments, with all 3 guys, but you're with Landon for the majority of the book. The POV is mostly through Quinn's perspective, but we get glimpses into each guy occasionally. Keep in mind this is book 1 in a series, so you have to know that Elle is probably setting up for the upcoming books!
Quinn struggles financially, so when she sees an opportunity to become a Maiden for a chance to win $25,000, she signs up while drinking boxed wine. The Quest proves to be full of secrets and betrayals that Quinn has to learn how to navigate while battling her increasing attraction to them all. Elle's writing really pulls you into the struggle, while keeping you entranced with the idea of the quests (sign me up!) and still making you feel all the feels in the midst of the steamy moments.
In this why choose book, you'll appreciate that Quinn speaks her mind and maintains her values, even though she explores a new side of her desires. You should know that this does end on a cliffhanger that I didn't see coming, but it only makes you want the next book now!
Great characters, intriguing plot, and steamy smut make for a 5 star book in my opinion.
This King Arthur retelling is a unique take on the well known legend, but one where maybe you don't see the problem with Lancelot and Guinevere's relationship because this is a why choose book! Thank goodness for that too. The three MMCs competing for your heart are Landon, Max Dread, and Kingston. Quinn almost immediately struggles with who she's more attracted to, but if you're like me you lean towards Landon all the way haha. You get good, steamy moments, with all 3 guys, but you're with Landon for the majority of the book. The POV is mostly through Quinn's perspective, but we get glimpses into each guy occasionally. Keep in mind this is book 1 in a series, so you have to know that Elle is probably setting up for the upcoming books!
Quinn struggles financially, so when she sees an opportunity to become a Maiden for a chance to win $25,000, she signs up while drinking boxed wine. The Quest proves to be full of secrets and betrayals that Quinn has to learn how to navigate while battling her increasing attraction to them all. Elle's writing really pulls you into the struggle, while keeping you entranced with the idea of the quests (sign me up!) and still making you feel all the feels in the midst of the steamy moments.
In this why choose book, you'll appreciate that Quinn speaks her mind and maintains her values, even though she explores a new side of her desires. You should know that this does end on a cliffhanger that I didn't see coming, but it only makes you want the next book now!
Great characters, intriguing plot, and steamy smut make for a 5 star book in my opinion.
January 25, 2025
This was such an intriguing and spice-filled dark acadamia/secret society romance. Quinn is weighted down by debts and decides to enter a competition from a fraternity on campus designed after King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table. If she wins, she’ll get a butt-load of money, but she has to be a maiden to one of the Knights and do everything he says.
I was hooked from page one with this story. I really enjoyed the author’s witty and humorous writing style. The mysterious of the book also kept me hooked to find out what was going on and what would happen. I also enjoyed the sexual chemistry between Quinn and three of the men that she meets. I’m glad the author warned in the blurb that this would be a why choose story because otherwise it would have made me wonder if she would end up having to choose. But I also appreciate that this seemed to be a bit of a slow burn at least as far as the romance aspect of the relationships seemed to go. My only points against this that prevented me from a higher rating were that I didn’t quite understand why these three men were so instantly drawn to the FMC. I also felt that the pacing was a little off; it was hard to believe that all the events in 30 days and I was confused by how many days went past between each event. Overall though, I thought this was a fantastic book, especially for a debut author. This ends on a cliffhanger, and man oh man do I want to get my hands on the next book already!
I was hooked from page one with this story. I really enjoyed the author’s witty and humorous writing style. The mysterious of the book also kept me hooked to find out what was going on and what would happen. I also enjoyed the sexual chemistry between Quinn and three of the men that she meets. I’m glad the author warned in the blurb that this would be a why choose story because otherwise it would have made me wonder if she would end up having to choose. But I also appreciate that this seemed to be a bit of a slow burn at least as far as the romance aspect of the relationships seemed to go. My only points against this that prevented me from a higher rating were that I didn’t quite understand why these three men were so instantly drawn to the FMC. I also felt that the pacing was a little off; it was hard to believe that all the events in 30 days and I was confused by how many days went past between each event. Overall though, I thought this was a fantastic book, especially for a debut author. This ends on a cliffhanger, and man oh man do I want to get my hands on the next book already!
February 1, 2025
I can't believe this is the debut novel by Elle Parker. Because this was written so damn good, it felt like she has 20 books to her name. Right from the start this book had me hooked until I finished it!
The characters were put together very well, reading the book from mostly Quinn her POV but also a couple from Landon, Kingston and Max and it made the book so good! You really learn a lot about Quinn, but also the guys in the chapters from their POV. The developmnet of the characters but also the total story made this book quick to read and I just wanted to go on and on with reading it. I wanted to know the secrets and I wanted to know how the story between Quinn and especially Landon would develop. The spicy scenes were spot on and fit perfectly into the storyline.
The twists Parker put into the book had me on edge and the ending of the book made me want to throw my ereader.. Safe to say I can't wait to read book 2!
I want to thank Chaotic creatives services for the chance to read and review this book.
The characters were put together very well, reading the book from mostly Quinn her POV but also a couple from Landon, Kingston and Max and it made the book so good! You really learn a lot about Quinn, but also the guys in the chapters from their POV. The developmnet of the characters but also the total story made this book quick to read and I just wanted to go on and on with reading it. I wanted to know the secrets and I wanted to know how the story between Quinn and especially Landon would develop. The spicy scenes were spot on and fit perfectly into the storyline.
The twists Parker put into the book had me on edge and the ending of the book made me want to throw my ereader.. Safe to say I can't wait to read book 2!
I want to thank Chaotic creatives services for the chance to read and review this book.
January 21, 2025
4.5 stars!
The King’s Maiden had me guessing with every change of POV. What is going through these character’s heads is insane and relished every single page. Quinn signed up for “The Quest” which is a game in a secret campus society that reflects midevil times. Think BDSM and college kids instead of jousting and sword fights. But she has no clue exactly what she signed up for, and more importantly, who.
As she goes through the 30 days of being a Maiden to a Knight, she finds herself falling for 3 very different men, although, she keeps telling herself that she is not falling for one of them (keep telling yourself that sweetie).
There is a huge cliffhanger at the very end that left me wanting more and I can’t wait for the rest of the series to come out so I can find out who planned that one word to come out of the Knight’s mouth.
The King’s Maiden had me guessing with every change of POV. What is going through these character’s heads is insane and relished every single page. Quinn signed up for “The Quest” which is a game in a secret campus society that reflects midevil times. Think BDSM and college kids instead of jousting and sword fights. But she has no clue exactly what she signed up for, and more importantly, who.
As she goes through the 30 days of being a Maiden to a Knight, she finds herself falling for 3 very different men, although, she keeps telling herself that she is not falling for one of them (keep telling yourself that sweetie).
There is a huge cliffhanger at the very end that left me wanting more and I can’t wait for the rest of the series to come out so I can find out who planned that one word to come out of the Knight’s mouth.
March 9, 2025
5/5 stars, 3/5 peppers
- Loose modern day King Arthur retelling
- Secret society
- Billionaire
- Slow burn but still SPICYYYY
- Forbidden
- Forced Proximity
- Love Triangle
I ATE THIS BOOK UP, LEFT NO CRUMBS!!!
This is book 1 in what will be a 4 book series and does end on a cliffhanger. The writing is phenomenal. And holy crap is it addictive. It is so mysterious and secretive, there is so much going on and we only really know a tiny fraction of it. I absolutely can't wait to see where this story goes.
Quinn, our FMC, needs money after losing her parents and she hears about the Camelot Court Quest which has a $25,000 prize. Enter all the secrets, lies, betrayals. Hot guys. Backstabbing girls. It's hot as hell even though it's a slow burn.
The ending freaking killed me and I can't wait for book 2
- Loose modern day King Arthur retelling
- Secret society
- Billionaire
- Slow burn but still SPICYYYY
- Forbidden
- Forced Proximity
- Love Triangle
I ATE THIS BOOK UP, LEFT NO CRUMBS!!!
This is book 1 in what will be a 4 book series and does end on a cliffhanger. The writing is phenomenal. And holy crap is it addictive. It is so mysterious and secretive, there is so much going on and we only really know a tiny fraction of it. I absolutely can't wait to see where this story goes.
Quinn, our FMC, needs money after losing her parents and she hears about the Camelot Court Quest which has a $25,000 prize. Enter all the secrets, lies, betrayals. Hot guys. Backstabbing girls. It's hot as hell even though it's a slow burn.
The ending freaking killed me and I can't wait for book 2
August 8, 2025
Why choose
College
Secret society
Spicy
Duet full cast narration - Alexis Paige, JF Harding, Theo Sinclair, & Grayson Owens
Superb narration! They all are amazing and did a wonderful job giving life to this story.
Wow just wow. 😳
I love a good why choose and this one is amazing I can not wait to hear more of this series. This does end in a cliffhanger.
Quinn is in college and struggling to pay her bills and tuition after loosing her parents tragically. She is applying for jobs but with no experience she can’t get hired anywhere. She hears of The Maidens Quest with possibility to win a large sum of money that would help pay her tuition. What it takes to win might shock her and is it worth it…
This is a Legend of King Arthur retelling and it is well done. If you hadn’t told me this is the authors debut novel I would never believe it. Elle Parker’s writing is so well done and captivating. The plot and character development is fantastic.
I need more. Need book two asap
College
Secret society
Spicy
Duet full cast narration - Alexis Paige, JF Harding, Theo Sinclair, & Grayson Owens
Superb narration! They all are amazing and did a wonderful job giving life to this story.
Wow just wow. 😳
I love a good why choose and this one is amazing I can not wait to hear more of this series. This does end in a cliffhanger.
Quinn is in college and struggling to pay her bills and tuition after loosing her parents tragically. She is applying for jobs but with no experience she can’t get hired anywhere. She hears of The Maidens Quest with possibility to win a large sum of money that would help pay her tuition. What it takes to win might shock her and is it worth it…
This is a Legend of King Arthur retelling and it is well done. If you hadn’t told me this is the authors debut novel I would never believe it. Elle Parker’s writing is so well done and captivating. The plot and character development is fantastic.
I need more. Need book two asap
February 3, 2025
Arrgghh that ending. Oh man was this sooo freaking good. I am so hooked on this story, on these character's. It seems as if the other character's have their own agenda against their king. I just love the theme of Arthur and the Knights at the round table. I so need the next book after that shocking or should I say not so shocking ending. I had a feeling that was how it was going to play out. I was intrigued about this story as It's something I haven't read, but I loved the story of Arthur, and after reading the blurb I knew I had to read it, best decision ever. Go grab this and read it, but I will say it is a slowburn, but the edging is 🔥🔥
February 2, 2025
Wow wow wow!!! Omg I need the next book asap!!! Quinn is a spitfire and I can’t wait to see what she does next!! I also need to know all of the secrets!! Landon and Kingston are obviously hiding some heavy stuff and I can’t wait to find out what they are! And Max Dread!? I can’t wait to find out what moves he’s going to make on this big ol chessboard.
Gia is awesome, Vivian is a definite “c you next Tuesday”, and Elaine? Well.. the jury is not in her favor at the moment!
I highly recommend this book! It’s a great read!
Gia is awesome, Vivian is a definite “c you next Tuesday”, and Elaine? Well.. the jury is not in her favor at the moment!
I highly recommend this book! It’s a great read!
July 28, 2025
Review for Audio version:
5⭐️ 2.75🌶 😭2.5
Narrators: 5⭐️
I just can't get enough of this book and series. I've read the ebook 2x and now I've listened to it. The audio just adds so much more to the story! The narrators did such a fantastic job bringing this to life! There were a few moments that I struggled to hold back tears because Alexis Paige did such a good job with the emotional parts of the book. I just feel like she was legit crying while recording because it was so touching and real!
5⭐️ 2.75🌶 😭2.5
Narrators: 5⭐️
I just can't get enough of this book and series. I've read the ebook 2x and now I've listened to it. The audio just adds so much more to the story! The narrators did such a fantastic job bringing this to life! There were a few moments that I struggled to hold back tears because Alexis Paige did such a good job with the emotional parts of the book. I just feel like she was legit crying while recording because it was so touching and real!
January 30, 2025
Review to come
July 10, 2025
*I listened to the audiobook*
A very interesting take on a modern retelling of Camelot and King Arthur. Wonderful debut from Elle Parker. As someone who has always obsessed over Camelot, I really enjoyed this. Can't wait for book 2. Dang cliffy. Lol.
Full Cast narration by Alexis Paige, JF Harding, Grayson Owens, and Theo Sinclair.
A very interesting take on a modern retelling of Camelot and King Arthur. Wonderful debut from Elle Parker. As someone who has always obsessed over Camelot, I really enjoyed this. Can't wait for book 2. Dang cliffy. Lol.
Full Cast narration by Alexis Paige, JF Harding, Grayson Owens, and Theo Sinclair.
January 9, 2025
Oh my gosh.
The plot. The characters. The emotions.
I'm hooked.
This book captured my attention by the first chapter, and I finished it in a single day - not joking! I couldn't put it down! I had to know what happened next with every chapter - with the ever relatable Quinn and heart-throb Landon, bad-boy Max, and with the elusive but heart-wrenching "can't-help-but-love-him" Kingston.
I need to know what happens next!
The plot. The characters. The emotions.
I'm hooked.
This book captured my attention by the first chapter, and I finished it in a single day - not joking! I couldn't put it down! I had to know what happened next with every chapter - with the ever relatable Quinn and heart-throb Landon, bad-boy Max, and with the elusive but heart-wrenching "can't-help-but-love-him" Kingston.
I need to know what happens next!
January 23, 2025
This is the modern day retelling of King Arther’s court that you didn’t know you needed but will totally LOVE!
“Twenty five thousand dollars to let some entitled, rich guy boss me around for a month?” 🤑 This is the premise of The Quest…
Quinn is drowning in student debt, medical bills and rent payments when she sees a chance to put her financial worries behind her. All she has to do is win The Quest and claim the prize money.
Kingston, Landon and Max, however, are going to shape their maidens as they see fit, making Quinn’s task a little more difficult than she bargained for…
Read if you like:
👍🏼 Why choose
📓 Dark Academia
❤️ Enemies to Lovers
🗝️ Secret Society
💰 Billionaire Heirs
🔒 Forbidden Romance
⚠️ Warning: This book ends on a cliffhanger! It will 💯 leave you begging for the next book!
“Twenty five thousand dollars to let some entitled, rich guy boss me around for a month?” 🤑 This is the premise of The Quest…
Quinn is drowning in student debt, medical bills and rent payments when she sees a chance to put her financial worries behind her. All she has to do is win The Quest and claim the prize money.
Kingston, Landon and Max, however, are going to shape their maidens as they see fit, making Quinn’s task a little more difficult than she bargained for…
Read if you like:
👍🏼 Why choose
📓 Dark Academia
❤️ Enemies to Lovers
🗝️ Secret Society
💰 Billionaire Heirs
🔒 Forbidden Romance
⚠️ Warning: This book ends on a cliffhanger! It will 💯 leave you begging for the next book!
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