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North King's Unexpected Inevitability

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North King has always been quieter and more reserved, but the youngest of the three King brothers is ready to take his place on the throne. Content with fading into the background, North just goes through the motions of life, enjoying his family and his work.

That is, until he meets the quick-witted, charismatic Aspen Frost. Everybody knows her, but only a few see her for who she truly is, a deep well with dreams and plans of her own. Ready for a different pace, she decides to forge a path she never saw coming... or maybe she never let herself see. Until now.

Both being the youngest, and never being taken seriously by those closest to them, they see each other and form a soul-tied friendship. What starts as late nights and video games slowly turns into something more than they could ever imagine.

But when life wrenches them in opposite directions, will they be able to weather the quickly changing tides together to discover what they could be?

760 pages, Paperback

Published February 14, 2025

398 people are currently reading
940 people want to read

About the author

A.E. Valdez

11 books2,332 followers
https://beacons.page/aevaldezwriter/
Instagram - @a.e.valdezwrites

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5 stars
1,011 (64%)
4 stars
387 (24%)
3 stars
137 (8%)
2 stars
21 (1%)
1 star
1 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 212 reviews
59 reviews8 followers
February 21, 2025
Honest Review

This was an anticlimatic ending to the Three Kings series. While there were moments I thoroughly enjoyed, there was still room for improvement.

Things I enjoyed was the banter and loved showcased between the brothers. These were some of the best scenes in my opinion.

There was a great deal of character inconsistences within the story. Aspen and North claimed to be part of the no settle gang but we have several instances where both were settling. North tryjng to reconcile life and pushing Aspen away was settling and Aspen standing ten toes down for a man clearly trying to push you away was settling.

This story was long with not enough tension or conflict to get us through some of the more monotonous scenes. There were only two major conflicts and several instances in the story where I thought there would be an opportunity for some conflict but it fell flat.

North's inner dialogue felt repetitive. Ther were also several mentions of this man having a mean streak but we only see that a few times with Des and I needed it to be played up a little bit more to find it believable. He kept telling us but we saw little of it on a few occassions.

My favorite part was the epilogue. I was glad to be finished and enjoyed getting a preview into the future.

Again, I enjoyed a few things and overall it was an okay read, but with a book this long I just expected more.
Profile Image for Ebony | ebonylovesbooks.
199 reviews22 followers
March 1, 2025
I’ll start with what I enjoyed: I enjoyed the updates on previous characters from the rise and fall series. I also enjoyed updates on Winter and Eve, and Noelle and Snow. Loved North’s relationship with Demir.

For this book to be 700+ pages I was expecting so much more from the plot, the characters (depth and development). Like I’ve seen other reviews say this felt very repetitive and many parts didn’t feel significant- like at least 200 pages could’ve been removed, possible even more 300+. I felt like many mundane details were just thrown in.

I also didn’t really feel a chemistry and strong connection to North and Aspen. I know North had a lot going on but he didn’t seem very invested in making things clear and apparent about his true intentions with Aspen. As a result, it made it hard for me as a reader to be invested. Their relationship moved from friends to best friends who have sex quickly but the romance and emotional connection and intimacy lacked depth for me.

This was hard for me to get through. But I really wanted to finish this series.

Given I usually love AE Valdez’s work I would still recommend trying out for yourself.
Profile Image for readwithtrinnn.
287 reviews13 followers
February 24, 2025
1000 ⭐️

the third and final instalment in the three kings series, this book has just solidified my love for anything and everything that a.e. valdez writes. this was a THICC book, but it was the perfect ending to an incredible series <33

north and aspen have the banter of best friends, who end up finding the love of true soulmates in one another - and i absolutely adore everything about them! 💌😍 if there is a right way to execute friends-to-lovers, a.e. valdez holds all the secrets! i loved how we got to see aspen and north in the previous books, and this was just a continuation of the love story we were all waiting for.

one thing i loved reading in this book specifically was their stories surrounding both being the youngest sibling in their families. being the oldest myself, this book brought a new light to the thoughts and feelings that seem common for people who are the youngest - i'm telling you, a.e. valdez is all about the details, and it's evident through the way that she writes. a refreshing take on something i'll never understand fully, but thankful that this was an element of the book bc i think it really added to both aspen and north's characters and helped the reader understand them a bit more.

now, i couldn't leave without mentioning my babies from the rise and fall series making (a few) guest appearances <33 i read those books 1-2 years ago, and they're still books i hold close to my heart! harlow and acyn, quinn and kyrell, marisa and asher - my shayla's UGH so happy we got to see them all thriving and living their best lives in this book!

all in all, i've loved this series! just like the rise and fall series, the three king brothers' books will always have a special place in my heart. snow and noelle, winter and eve, and north and aspen <3 if you haven't read these books, idk what to tell you sis. i mean, go pick them up right now! anything that a.e. valdez writes, i will EAT IT UP - and this series is another reason why.
Profile Image for Sheronda H.
490 reviews4 followers
February 19, 2025
Loved it. She was a long book but definitely worth it. My favorite book of the series. North and Aspen’s story was beautiful. I think North is my favorite King brother. He was such a good guy. Loved the four year update at the end. This was a great series.
Profile Image for Darriona.
139 reviews45 followers
August 13, 2025
Aspen and North were really sweet together initially. They really had each other backs through and lifted each other up and I thought their care for each other in general was really nice. Their friendship was cute and their banter was fun. I do wish there was little more angst between the two especially with them going from platonic to romantic. I also feel like with the book being as long as it was I expected more from them overall. There was a lot going on but at times it felt a little repetitive. It began to really drag Sometimes there were things told to us about the characters but we didn’t see as much as I would have liked in action. It felt as though there was a lot left to be desired.
Profile Image for Neek Brown.
94 reviews15 followers
February 14, 2025
The author’s poignant portrayal of grief deeply resonates with me. True love means being truly seen, and the love story between North and Aspen is beautiful. The characters’ growth throughout the book was heartwarming. I cherished every moment!
Profile Image for Ajae Diaz.
126 reviews2 followers
February 14, 2025
baby she is a thick one

So I was gifted an arc read for this book. So thank you for sending me the book. One thing about AE is she knows how to write a beautiful book. This book was written beautifully. NOW I love the friendship between North and Aspen. I'm usually not a friends to lover trope lover but this one was done well. This book did have some events that happened that made me side eye north a few times in the book. Because ideally north was the perfect MMC. Especially when it came to being Aspen friend. But baby I feel like Aspen got the short end of the stick several times throughout the development of their relationship. But overall this was a very entertaining and enjoyable book
Profile Image for Frehiwet A.
104 reviews2 followers
February 28, 2025
One could really do without this, but I’m a masochist so I persevered. Long winded with not much payoff besides knowing their fate
Profile Image for Tiffany Townsend.
30 reviews
February 26, 2025
3.5 stars for me

I love AE Valdez but this one didn’t do it for me.
It’s the kind of book that takes its sweet time getting nowhere fast—but somehow, you don’t entirely mind. If you’re here for action, plot twists, or a sense of urgency, keep it moving. This book is all about vibes, character development, & feelings—so many feelings!!

North is an interesting, introspective lead, & Valdez absolutely nails emotional depth. The writing is sharp, the relationships feel raw and real, & every conversation is dripping with meaning. But let’s be honest: the “plot” is more of a gentle suggestion. It meanders, lingers, & occasionally circles back just to remind you that yes, you are still here, & no, not much has happened. It’s long—not because it needs to be, but because it wants to sit in its emotions & bask in them.

That said, if you love slow-burn relationships, deep character work, + prose that reads like a therapy session you didn’t know you signed up for, this might be for you. If you need a story that actually moves, you might find yourself punching the air lol Either way, Valdez delivers an experience—whether that’s a gift or a test of patience depends on what you’re looking for.
Profile Image for Casey R Kelley.
80 reviews44 followers
February 16, 2025
The Love is Tangible

While I love to see Black women being loved and affirmed unapologetically, there is something so beautiful about seeing Black men love each other as brothers and friends. The male relationships were center in this story and we saw every type, father/son, brothers, cousins, uncles/nephews, and friends. Amidst the playful ribbing, there were deep conversations filled with advice and love.

I enjoyed the romance and see Aspen as the kind of person that is I’m everyone’s best friend. And the cameo’s from the Rise & Fall series made me smile. But seeing this kind of companionship and true love among Black men is a rarity in today’s literature. It reminds me so much of my husband and his best friends.

SN: I really hope we get a story about Reign after he is about 25.
Profile Image for Brittney Thomas .
167 reviews1 follower
February 16, 2025
North faced challenges he never wanted to confront, he emerged on the other side with the unwavering support of his friends, family, and the love of his life. I feel like this is what generational healing looks like. A.E. Valdez’s stories are truly beautiful. The narratives penned by Valdez are essential; they are art and fiction, but they also convey important truths that need to be shared. They represent legacy, black boy joy, and black girl magic, self-love, and care. In this story, people are doing the work to heal, set boundaries and hold space for one another. A.E. Valdez loves us readers deep. It’s inspiring to see these characters support each other, extend grace, and even joke about their flaws. I absolutely love it. I love that Aspen was able to find her way without allowing others to cloud her judgment with their opinions, and she didn't care about Norths money. I knew North was gonna be something special with those glasses. The love and aftercare 👓 🤎 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Now... Whats going on with Reign and Calliope?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Ty Beaver.
34 reviews
February 22, 2025
I was happy to receive this as an ARC & it’s definitely my first 5 star read of 2025. This book was highly anticipated and did not disappoint!

Now she’s a thick one, over 700 pages but I devoured it! Could it have been shorter, yes but I loved how immersed we got to be in the character development.

The way Ms. Valdez developed these characters, the story, the plot twists…all so good!

This book gave me all the feels…literally laughing out loud, crying and smiling. I loved how we really got to experience the togetherness of the family, the true/deep connected friendships & the way the friends supported each other. I loved the display of black men in healthy friendships and relationships, able to show and reciprocate emotions.

A beautiful story of friends to lovers. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Profile Image for SasFlips.
41 reviews1 follower
February 25, 2025
At 700+ pages, I expected way more. Certainly didn't expect 600+pages of a highly contradictory MMC (want her but can't make it official but noone else can have+FMC accepting this.)

I enjoyed their friendship but not their "love story."

At this length, the conflict was non-existent, no passion, no unexpected turn of events, no redemption, it just felt flat.
Profile Image for Jaliesa.
181 reviews11 followers
April 23, 2025
worth the wait & I do mean that literally!

754 Pages….. OMG , this was a perfect way to wrap up this series . & I can truly say I am happy with the ending . This was definitely a journey , but it’s one that you will be happy you traveled.

North king & Aspen … truly soul mates. Aspen was truly a gift and to watch north in her unfold . The friendship was the biggest highlight for me so pure. & with all the things that kept coming their way, it was inevitability for them title is so fitting & Demir Gosh you couldn’t help but fall .


Winter , Snow & North & Reign I just love the relationship the brotherhood it’s impeccable .
Profile Image for bathabilereads.
77 reviews2 followers
September 23, 2025
4.5 ⭐

My One Critique Is That The Book Was Unnecessarily Long And The Chapters At Times Felt Repetitive.

As Always, Lovely Book. If A.E. Valdez Has No Fans? I Am Dead. I Love Her Down 🥺🤍

Hopefully The Next Book Is Mars & Ahvi? We Shall See.
Profile Image for Monique.
421 reviews16 followers
February 16, 2025
A.E. Valdez writes beautifully poignant stories full of vivid imagery and raw emotion, with this story touching on serious topics like grief, addiction, & needing to pivot when life throws a major curveball. Friends to lovers is always tricky as a trope for me (not a favorite) but I think this is the first book where it felt organic without needing a big “OMG I THINK I LOVE MY FRIEND” moment🤣. They knew from the beginning that they were called to be more, but “life be life-ing”. And it was touching watching them work through all the things….WITHOUT A 3RD ACT BREAKUP👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

Also this book is 750+ pages, and I felt every single page of it😮‍💨

Also, random but the book covers for this series has the FMCs on the cover as focal points, which makes sense because the King brothers were insatiable for their ladies & the FMCs also had their own journeys in healing & self discovery as well. BUT my favorite elements of all 3 stories was their brotherhood and watching them each work through the grief of losing their dad…together
Profile Image for Sanje.
142 reviews1 follower
Read
November 23, 2025
3.5 ⭐️ as the youngest, I related to North a lot. He was the absolute sweetest and took the huge “plot twist” with stride. However, I feel as if the romance wasn’t hitting like the other books and the friends to lovers was almost instant since the attraction was there as soon as we got a glimpse of their friendship. The first 50% of the book was much better than the rest imo but I truly did love watching his relationship with his brothers. I also appreciated the cameo of all the previous characters in the rise & fall series!! This was thickkkk for a romance and yet no third act break-up, THANK GOODNESS.
Profile Image for MJ.
291 reviews21 followers
February 24, 2025
I loved this story and that there was no 3rd act break up!! I just felt it was too long and become a little repetitive especially after the 50% mark.
Profile Image for Natashia Crawford.
359 reviews7 followers
February 17, 2025
Firstly, I want to thank the author for allowing me to read and review this advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.

Secondly, I am amazed and grateful that I am able to witness an author who writes a black love story authentically. She showcases that all black romance not toxic. Black women can be loved and are loved by Black men. Thank you, Mrs. Valdez, for your pen!!

Now to my review.. I promise I won't spoil anything....

My Northie. I knew that he was going to take the crown out of these brothers. I loved Winter with his arrogance and Snow with his grumpiness. But baby boy North was a whole level above. There are things that I knew that would be part of his personality, but it was the unknown things that made me fall in love with him even deeper.

North King had a vulnerability about him that was appealing yet heartbreaking to witness. We learn many things about him during his therapy sessions that are both healing and therapeutic to self as a reader. These sessions were not only healing to him, but to myself as well. I could connect to him in ways and I loved that. North also love to have control in all situations. As you dig deeper into the person that North is, you understand what all this means. You understand how he loves. This was beautiful to see develop and unfold as you embark the journey.

Aspen was my favorite FMC in the Kings series. She was quick witted and smart. She knew a lot of random things that may not mean anything until it does. I loved that about her. But what was also captivating to watch was her self doubt turning into confidence. She was a master of a lot of things, and she was a prime example of how people will try to fit you in a box but you don't and won't fit. I loved how she explored what she wanted but stayed authentically who she was.

The relationship between North and Aspen was my favorite. Their bond was unbreakable, and they'd go to war for each other—something I absolutely loved. Valdez have this amazing superpower in the way she writes friends-to-lovers stories that leave you grinning from ear to ear, full of warm, fuzzy feelings. I adored how they supported each other, their playful banter, and the constant encouragement they gave one another. Honestly, the list of things I loved about their dynamic could go on and on.

I highly recommend this book and can't wait to get my hands on the physical copy so that I can annotate and tab all of my favorite quotes. This book was over 700 pages, but the flow was so easy that you don't realize you read that many pages. This is how you develop a story. Well done.
Profile Image for LexRead.
283 reviews21 followers
February 19, 2025
4.25/5 Great book to end the King trilogy…I can appreciate we got detailed character growth from the main characters. Could this book have been less than 700+ pages, most definitely! The romance and friendship between North and Aspen jumped right off the page. It felt real and authentic. I loved loved loved how they consistently showed up for one another and how they allowed each other to express their true feelings without being defensive. Overall, a great romance with plenty of spice. AE Valdez truly doesn’t miss and I would recommend any of her books!

Some elements of this book may be triggering to some. As always, take care of yourself while reading 🫶🏾
Profile Image for BeeStiing.
34 reviews44 followers
February 14, 2025
✨4.75 stars ✨

A.E. Valdez’s writing style is always a breath of fresh air for me. I was honored to receive an ARC!

North’s & Aspen’s story is one of friends to lovers, self-discovery, grief in multiple facets of life, difficult but relatable family dynamics, winging it and embracing what’s happening in the present.

Funny, a little spicy, gripping, emotionally raw, swoon-worthy & thoroughly written with zero loose ends. Character growth all around and I love that for them. I laughed out loud A LOT and will never look at a Twinkie the same. IYKYK.
Profile Image for Jes Kendrick.
15 reviews7 followers
February 18, 2025
Beautifully written

This was a great ending to a beautiful series. The way the stories tied into each other and gave a glimpse of what each character is up to was great.
Profile Image for Natarsha.
101 reviews1 follower
February 18, 2025
I fear North is my favorite brother! This was sooo good. I wish it was longer which is insane, but A.E. knows how to immerse you in the world she creates.
Profile Image for Cardi Blue.
428 reviews6 followers
July 28, 2025
Ugh

Slow burn meets friends to lovers. The book didn’t need to be that long. 200 pages could’ve been cut. But BIG DADDY NORTH!!! Winter is not who he thought he was because North has BDE. The quiet nerd is a freakkkkk.
Profile Image for Jenae.
158 reviews2 followers
February 18, 2025
Every single page and word was needed and loved! North and Pen were a treasure and I can’t believe I’m saying this but he might be my number one knocking Asher out his spot 😭
Profile Image for Krystal Barnes.
387 reviews14 followers
February 26, 2025
Aspen lacked self confidence even though she came off strong!!

Wow North was very strong after revealing how he took care of both brothers in their weak points and no one checked for him and he has the panic attacks. It is so true you have to check for the strong because they break too!

You know I was forewarned going into this but I didn’t like how Aspen was treated by North like he had a panic attack and she was the first person he called but then he found out he possibly had a son and went home to his mom and Aspen had to hunt him down to find out what was wrong with him.

So crazy that because of finding out that he had a son with the devil he constantly pushed Aspen away and being the good person she was she still stayed and because she cared and due to her feelings but was that fair?

Crazy that North had a son and didn’t get to share with his favorite person because of death.

Just hate how he wanted Aspen but it seemed like he was stringing her along why couldn’t she be there from the beginning?

Yeah I just feel like why couldn’t he manage both parenthood and Aspen and yes it seemed like she was getting the short end of the deal and every time she tried to run she ended up telling her feelings to much while he kept saying the timing was off.

It seems like North just pushed Aspen away every chance he could and I didn’t understand when she continued to show up over and over.

I felt like overall this book fell flat it was too long and underwhelming.
23 reviews
May 9, 2025
Northy!!!

I’m really torn on this one. I think of the three brothers, North is my favorite. His character was everything, personality, energy & banter were all 10s. Unfortunately, I think this was my least favorite book of the series. It really felt like it was too long and there were chapters where the story didn’t progress. If this had been somewhere between the lengths of the other 2 books, I probably would’ve loved it. However, for a book this length, it didn’t pack a punch!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 212 reviews

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