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Under The Oak Tree - Novel #2
Under the Oak Tree: Volume 2
Most fairytales end with a wedding and a happily-ever-after—but this is no fairytale. The updated and official translation of
Under the Oak Tree
, the #1 webnovel on MANTA, continues in this second volume.
As her first winter in Anatol turns to spring, Lady Maximilian finds herself confronting an unfamiliar hope. Her voice and her magic strengthen every day; the only parts of Calypse Castle left to refurbish are its gardens, which she plans to fill with blooming flowers; and the way her husband, the recalcitrant war hero Sir Riftan, looks at her from across their bedroom makes her feel, for the first time in her life, that she might be worthy of love and affection.
However, Maxi's life is never that easy. Just as she begins to feel at home with Riftan, Maxi receives a surprise visit from Princess Agnes, the renowned sorceress who might have become Riftan's wife if he'd decided to divorce Maxi after the Dragon Campaign. Not at all what Maxi expected, the princess stirs up complicated emotions and politics that could lead to monumental changes in Maxi and Riftan's relationship.
This volume collects chapters 77-133 of the original webnovel by Suji Kim.
As her first winter in Anatol turns to spring, Lady Maximilian finds herself confronting an unfamiliar hope. Her voice and her magic strengthen every day; the only parts of Calypse Castle left to refurbish are its gardens, which she plans to fill with blooming flowers; and the way her husband, the recalcitrant war hero Sir Riftan, looks at her from across their bedroom makes her feel, for the first time in her life, that she might be worthy of love and affection.
However, Maxi's life is never that easy. Just as she begins to feel at home with Riftan, Maxi receives a surprise visit from Princess Agnes, the renowned sorceress who might have become Riftan's wife if he'd decided to divorce Maxi after the Dragon Campaign. Not at all what Maxi expected, the princess stirs up complicated emotions and politics that could lead to monumental changes in Maxi and Riftan's relationship.
This volume collects chapters 77-133 of the original webnovel by Suji Kim.
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First published June 30, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
August 21, 2025
Did a cheeky reread of one of my fav couples ever and omagosh it actually brought back all the best feels 😫😫 I missed them so much like truly will never get over their soulmatery.
I’m def feeling homesick after my reread 💔
RiftanMaxi are THE toxic but softest couple I’ve ever read and nothing will ever come close or hold a candle to how much they mean to me.
The growth of maxi’s character? I’ve never been prouder. And seeing Riftan squirm when maxi puts him in place is always 🤭🤭 god I love them SFM.
ೃ⁀➷ Thank you NetGalley and Del Rey for the ARC! ♥︎
I’m def feeling homesick after my reread 💔
RiftanMaxi are THE toxic but softest couple I’ve ever read and nothing will ever come close or hold a candle to how much they mean to me.
The growth of maxi’s character? I’ve never been prouder. And seeing Riftan squirm when maxi puts him in place is always 🤭🤭 god I love them SFM.
ೃ⁀➷ Thank you NetGalley and Del Rey for the ARC! ♥︎
September 7, 2025
Headlines:
Adventures
Learning each other
Give and take
I devoured the second volume novel of this series, it was captivating. I hold complete bias for Maxi and Riftan but Suji Kim keeps everything interesting and fresh with relationship hurdles and a plot full of adventure.
I was most delighted to see Maxi outside of the castle, respected for some of her developing talents and crucially, her belief in herself. Maxi is such an endearing character, her growth over books 1 & 2 is immense and beautiful to see her coming into a sense of worth. She still has anxiety and uncertainty in her relationship, but there was a sense of some firmer footing in those aspects.
Talking of growth, Riftan was forced to see Maxi in a different light outside of the bedroom. There was nothing easy about this but it was so satifying to see him capitulate! I love how their emotional intimacy is developing, the feelings are full x 100 and the longings continue.
Where this volume left off isn't cliff hanger territory but it's a pause before more exciting times, so I cannot wait to read on. Roll on next year for volume 3.
Thank you DelRey UK/Inklore for the eARC
Adventures
Learning each other
Give and take
I devoured the second volume novel of this series, it was captivating. I hold complete bias for Maxi and Riftan but Suji Kim keeps everything interesting and fresh with relationship hurdles and a plot full of adventure.
I was most delighted to see Maxi outside of the castle, respected for some of her developing talents and crucially, her belief in herself. Maxi is such an endearing character, her growth over books 1 & 2 is immense and beautiful to see her coming into a sense of worth. She still has anxiety and uncertainty in her relationship, but there was a sense of some firmer footing in those aspects.
Talking of growth, Riftan was forced to see Maxi in a different light outside of the bedroom. There was nothing easy about this but it was so satifying to see him capitulate! I love how their emotional intimacy is developing, the feelings are full x 100 and the longings continue.
Where this volume left off isn't cliff hanger territory but it's a pause before more exciting times, so I cannot wait to read on. Roll on next year for volume 3.
Thank you DelRey UK/Inklore for the eARC
August 26, 2025
Significantly less spicy than the first novel but in a good way, Riftan was too horny and Maxi was the weakest woman alive. In the second installment, Maxi grows a backbone and Riftan holds his urges in check, so both are more palatable. I'm really enjoying the magic learning and just about every time Ruth shows up, he seems the most real of all the characters.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
October 27, 2025
5 ⭐️ “Under the Oak Tree” remains one of my absolute favorite series. Genuinely, it lives rent-free in my mind and I am always thinking about these characters, and I WISH that more people knew about them.
For my fellow long-term fans of the series, this covers roughly (re: the ebook translations before the traditional publishing) Season 1, Vol. 2 (the very end of it) through Season 1, Vol. 4 (about mid-way through).
We get all the sweet and awkward parts of their relationship developing (Riftan’s concern “you’re bleeding?!” never fails to crack me up), seeing Maxi come into her own in running the castle, and training her magic.
This really is a big turning point in their relationship — Riftan gets to see Maxi struggle & then hold her own (somewhat lol) on their way from Anatol to Livadon. I think that is what really makes me love this story — Maxi struggles and fights for every bit of progress in her story. It is rarely easy for her — so often in fantasy novels, the FMC struggles for just a little bit and then becomes an utter warrior quickly - and while I do love that in those books, what I love for Maxi is that she fights and works hard for every single scrap of progress she makes. Even if the face of what looks like an insurmountable task, she does not give up. Even when her insecurities and doubts sometime get a hold of her, she fights and puts in the work anyway.
Riftan is genuinely the blueprint even though I want to bang their heads together like coconuts and scream “COMMUNICATE.” Maxi’s doubt about the depths of his feelings is so funny (and frustrating) to read sometimes, because it is very clear to us that truly, all the man wants to do is lay facedown in her lap and never leave. There is “down bad” and then there is Riftan Calypse. Truly, I don’t know if I have ever read another MMC like him.
Thank you so much @netgalley and the publishers for this eARC — I have my preorder in for the beautiful physical copy to join the first one, and I frequently go back and read all my highlights & bookmarks (I am always one minor encouragement from rereading) — to be honest, I am already mentally planning to reread both my physical copies once this one is released!
For my fellow long-term fans of the series, this covers roughly (re: the ebook translations before the traditional publishing) Season 1, Vol. 2 (the very end of it) through Season 1, Vol. 4 (about mid-way through).
We get all the sweet and awkward parts of their relationship developing (Riftan’s concern “you’re bleeding?!” never fails to crack me up), seeing Maxi come into her own in running the castle, and training her magic.
This really is a big turning point in their relationship — Riftan gets to see Maxi struggle & then hold her own (somewhat lol) on their way from Anatol to Livadon. I think that is what really makes me love this story — Maxi struggles and fights for every bit of progress in her story. It is rarely easy for her — so often in fantasy novels, the FMC struggles for just a little bit and then becomes an utter warrior quickly - and while I do love that in those books, what I love for Maxi is that she fights and works hard for every single scrap of progress she makes. Even if the face of what looks like an insurmountable task, she does not give up. Even when her insecurities and doubts sometime get a hold of her, she fights and puts in the work anyway.
Riftan is genuinely the blueprint even though I want to bang their heads together like coconuts and scream “COMMUNICATE.” Maxi’s doubt about the depths of his feelings is so funny (and frustrating) to read sometimes, because it is very clear to us that truly, all the man wants to do is lay facedown in her lap and never leave. There is “down bad” and then there is Riftan Calypse. Truly, I don’t know if I have ever read another MMC like him.
Thank you so much @netgalley and the publishers for this eARC — I have my preorder in for the beautiful physical copy to join the first one, and I frequently go back and read all my highlights & bookmarks (I am always one minor encouragement from rereading) — to be honest, I am already mentally planning to reread both my physical copies once this one is released!
November 24, 2025
Look, I know it's not well written or literary, or anything of the sort. But I'm obsessed.
November 25, 2025
Review to come! 🌳
(FINAL REVIEW:)
This was the second installment of a manwha that I got hooked on back in 2020 and man did this fix my once in a blue moon itching for romance. Again, I have no idea what it is about this book and characters that make me devour it and have me kicking my feet giggling like a schoolgirl, but man this will go down as one of my favorite romantasy plots.💋
The book picks up a few days after the conclusion of the first book. Maxi has gotten more comfortable with her life at Calypse Castle and her role as the Lady of the Castle and wife of Riftan. I liked that she continues to grow as a person in this, and that she does take a stand against Riftan when he gets overbearing. Speaking of him, while I know that he has his reasons and that there will be chapters in his POV, man is it getting hard to give the man some grace in this volume. 😮💨
I won’t talk more about the plot and what happens in this book as I don’t want to accidentally spoil it for people who are interested in reading this at some point or another, but just know that if I, as someone who doesn’t particularly enjoy romance as the sole focus or one of the big focuses in fantasy books, can enjoy this, then maybe this might be a sign that it might be worth picking up. Again, you should look into the trigger warnings before getting into this series though because it does deal a lot with child abuse and how one learns to come out of it (for both Maxi and Riftan, though his POV isn’t always there), so it would be best to think about this before diving into this. ‼️
But thank you again goes to Inklore Books and NetGalley for accepting my request to read this in exchange for an honest (and a little late) review, and to the author, Kim, for getting me into the full aspect of romantasy with these characters. ❤️
Publication date: November 18!
Overall: 4.5/5 ⭐️
(FINAL REVIEW:)
This was the second installment of a manwha that I got hooked on back in 2020 and man did this fix my once in a blue moon itching for romance. Again, I have no idea what it is about this book and characters that make me devour it and have me kicking my feet giggling like a schoolgirl, but man this will go down as one of my favorite romantasy plots.💋
The book picks up a few days after the conclusion of the first book. Maxi has gotten more comfortable with her life at Calypse Castle and her role as the Lady of the Castle and wife of Riftan. I liked that she continues to grow as a person in this, and that she does take a stand against Riftan when he gets overbearing. Speaking of him, while I know that he has his reasons and that there will be chapters in his POV, man is it getting hard to give the man some grace in this volume. 😮💨
I won’t talk more about the plot and what happens in this book as I don’t want to accidentally spoil it for people who are interested in reading this at some point or another, but just know that if I, as someone who doesn’t particularly enjoy romance as the sole focus or one of the big focuses in fantasy books, can enjoy this, then maybe this might be a sign that it might be worth picking up. Again, you should look into the trigger warnings before getting into this series though because it does deal a lot with child abuse and how one learns to come out of it (for both Maxi and Riftan, though his POV isn’t always there), so it would be best to think about this before diving into this. ‼️
But thank you again goes to Inklore Books and NetGalley for accepting my request to read this in exchange for an honest (and a little late) review, and to the author, Kim, for getting me into the full aspect of romantasy with these characters. ❤️
Publication date: November 18!
Overall: 4.5/5 ⭐️
November 24, 2025
2nd book is better than first. I liked how Maxi is growing as a character. She is starting to stand up for herself and push herself to be more. She still has trauma and has issues, but she has definitely grown as a character.
We got more of Riftan's backstory in this, and I feel he will have trauma of his own.
My complaint is the lack of a definite villain. We're learning of a monster army, but 2 books in, and that's all we know.
We got more of Riftan's backstory in this, and I feel he will have trauma of his own.
My complaint is the lack of a definite villain. We're learning of a monster army, but 2 books in, and that's all we know.
November 16, 2025
Even if you've read the ebook releases, this is worth revisiting - the cleaned up print version of the story is much better while still retaining the ludicrous "just talk to each other!" elements.
November 26, 2025
The novel was alr, but the ML needs to be castrated.🤷🏻♀️
November 2, 2025
TL;DR: Unfortunately this was not an improvement on the first book.
Source: NetGalley - Thank you to the publisher!!
Plot: Maxi spends a lot of time being deeply self conscious and Riftan spends just as much time thinking with his dick.
Characters: I was so disappointed by them.
Setting: Not strong at all, I wish we’d gotten more.
Fantasy: The fantasy was fine! I enjoyed the magic though some more details would have been nice.
Thoughts:
I had a lot of positive thoughts and feelings about volume one of this series, and I had so much hope for the improvement of the characters in volume two. Maxi was on the way to learning magic, she seemed to have finally gotten some legs under her and was pulling herself up. Riftan, I had hoped, was coming to see her as a capable woman and not a delicate piece of meat he got to stick it in. Sadly both of them kept to the attitudes and flaws they had.
I cannot even tell you the plot because I was so disappointed by the characters. This one was not for me, it didn’t work in a way that translated in my brain. Even now after finishing it all I can think about is how frustrated I was with Maxi and how gross Riftan turned out to be (which was probably my biggest disappointment with the novel).
I can’t recommend this and honestly, I might not recommend the first book anymore either simply because this follow up was so poorly done. If you enjoyed the first book you could enjoy this one, I’m sure but I can’t in good faith recommend you continue.
Source: NetGalley - Thank you to the publisher!!
Plot: Maxi spends a lot of time being deeply self conscious and Riftan spends just as much time thinking with his dick.
Characters: I was so disappointed by them.
Setting: Not strong at all, I wish we’d gotten more.
Fantasy: The fantasy was fine! I enjoyed the magic though some more details would have been nice.
Thoughts:
I had a lot of positive thoughts and feelings about volume one of this series, and I had so much hope for the improvement of the characters in volume two. Maxi was on the way to learning magic, she seemed to have finally gotten some legs under her and was pulling herself up. Riftan, I had hoped, was coming to see her as a capable woman and not a delicate piece of meat he got to stick it in. Sadly both of them kept to the attitudes and flaws they had.
I cannot even tell you the plot because I was so disappointed by the characters. This one was not for me, it didn’t work in a way that translated in my brain. Even now after finishing it all I can think about is how frustrated I was with Maxi and how gross Riftan turned out to be (which was probably my biggest disappointment with the novel).
I can’t recommend this and honestly, I might not recommend the first book anymore either simply because this follow up was so poorly done. If you enjoyed the first book you could enjoy this one, I’m sure but I can’t in good faith recommend you continue.
Read
November 15, 2025Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy
Under the Oak Tree: Volume 2 (The Novel) by Suji Kim is the third person-POV fantasy romance continuation of the story of Maxi and Riftan. After being married for a while, Maxi and Riftan have settled into their new life together, but tensions arise as Maxi becomes more determined to use her magic and she and Riftan don’t always see eye-to-eye.
Words cannot express how much I love this series. Maxi and Riftan’s story is the absolute best fantasy romance out there and I am in awe of how Kim Suji wields their insecurities to explore how it would impact a romantic relationship without making either character unlikeable. This book has some of my favorite moments of the series, because this is when the cracks really start to show and when Maxi starts being more assertive. I’m obsessed with the moment at the festival when Riftan is so overcome with desire that he drags Maxi away because it not only shows how much he needs her, but how Maxi is starting to change and be bolder.
This is also the book that starts to deal more with family planning and the anxiety around possibly being infertile. There is no confirmation in this book whether or not Maxi can have children, but she knows her mother struggled to get pregnant and then carry children full term and Maxi’s own cycle is very inconsistent. So many people deal quietly with fertility and it’s so important to books discussing those fears and the various ways in which they manifest.
I need book three now. I need to read in Maxi’s POV about her relationship with her sister and the furthering of her relationship with Rosetta and what I know is going to come.
I would recommend this to fans of romantasy and readers who love complicated relationships
Under the Oak Tree: Volume 2 (The Novel) by Suji Kim is the third person-POV fantasy romance continuation of the story of Maxi and Riftan. After being married for a while, Maxi and Riftan have settled into their new life together, but tensions arise as Maxi becomes more determined to use her magic and she and Riftan don’t always see eye-to-eye.
Words cannot express how much I love this series. Maxi and Riftan’s story is the absolute best fantasy romance out there and I am in awe of how Kim Suji wields their insecurities to explore how it would impact a romantic relationship without making either character unlikeable. This book has some of my favorite moments of the series, because this is when the cracks really start to show and when Maxi starts being more assertive. I’m obsessed with the moment at the festival when Riftan is so overcome with desire that he drags Maxi away because it not only shows how much he needs her, but how Maxi is starting to change and be bolder.
This is also the book that starts to deal more with family planning and the anxiety around possibly being infertile. There is no confirmation in this book whether or not Maxi can have children, but she knows her mother struggled to get pregnant and then carry children full term and Maxi’s own cycle is very inconsistent. So many people deal quietly with fertility and it’s so important to books discussing those fears and the various ways in which they manifest.
I need book three now. I need to read in Maxi’s POV about her relationship with her sister and the furthering of her relationship with Rosetta and what I know is going to come.
I would recommend this to fans of romantasy and readers who love complicated relationships
October 12, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley and the author for an advanced copy of this book.
I have been a massive fan of the original website series for years and already own the first novel so was very excited to have the opportunity to read the second novel in the book series. I shall be purchasing a physical copy!
This continues from where the first book finished and I was not disappointed. Like with the first book, Suji Kim captures the feel of the series and the characters perfectly. I really enjoyed revisiting the story of Riftan and Maxi. The story telling is enjoyable and easy to get into. The characters are funny and likeable.
If you like knights, romance, magic and adventure, you'll enjoy Under the Oak Tree.
For me, these books are an easy, snuggle-on-the-sofa-for-a-good-old-romance-with-some-magic-and-spice kind of books. Perfect for this time of year!
I have been a massive fan of the original website series for years and already own the first novel so was very excited to have the opportunity to read the second novel in the book series. I shall be purchasing a physical copy!
This continues from where the first book finished and I was not disappointed. Like with the first book, Suji Kim captures the feel of the series and the characters perfectly. I really enjoyed revisiting the story of Riftan and Maxi. The story telling is enjoyable and easy to get into. The characters are funny and likeable.
If you like knights, romance, magic and adventure, you'll enjoy Under the Oak Tree.
For me, these books are an easy, snuggle-on-the-sofa-for-a-good-old-romance-with-some-magic-and-spice kind of books. Perfect for this time of year!
November 21, 2025
Again a slow pace, but considering this is an ongoing webnovel, it tracks.
I get so frustrated with Riftan. He’s so hot and cold, and most of the time he treats Maxi like crap. I get so frustrated with Maxi. I know she’s been abused most her life, and she shows such strength when she’s determined to learn something new, but she hides her feelings from Riftan. But when these two come together and are on the same page, wow. They act like they are truly in love.
I’m hoping to read Riftan’s POV novel soon, so hopefully I get more backstory and understanding into his character.
Book three is preordered!
I get so frustrated with Riftan. He’s so hot and cold, and most of the time he treats Maxi like crap. I get so frustrated with Maxi. I know she’s been abused most her life, and she shows such strength when she’s determined to learn something new, but she hides her feelings from Riftan. But when these two come together and are on the same page, wow. They act like they are truly in love.
I’m hoping to read Riftan’s POV novel soon, so hopefully I get more backstory and understanding into his character.
Book three is preordered!
November 18, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Del Ray for an advanced copy!
Rating: 4/5
I enjoyed this book more than volume one. We see Maxi finally get a backbone and stand up to Riftan, but there is still so much disconnect between the two. It’s very obvious they’re both obsessed with each other but aren’t willing to share their innermost thought with the other. I’m very much looking forward to reading the next!
Rating: 4/5
I enjoyed this book more than volume one. We see Maxi finally get a backbone and stand up to Riftan, but there is still so much disconnect between the two. It’s very obvious they’re both obsessed with each other but aren’t willing to share their innermost thought with the other. I’m very much looking forward to reading the next!
November 22, 2025
I don’t wanna wait for the next oneeeee! It was sooooo good, I love the novels! I’m so engrossed in the words than I am with the graphic novels which I don’t really focus on cause I think the pictures are so pretty but the novels has the detail I enjoy 😍
November 22, 2025
plot? never heard of her
September 16, 2025
Ce livre ne sort qu'au mois de novembre mais j'ai eu la chance de le découvrir bien avance!! Autant vous dire que quand j'ai reçu le mail d'acceptation, je suis tombée des nues!!! J'adore le manga Under The Oak Tree (j'ai déjà dévoré tous les chapitres disponibles), je voulais découvrir le roman! Ce second volume retranscrit les chapitres 77 à 133 du webtoon et j'ai retrouvé l'ambiance du manga dans ce livre! J'ai adoré l'intrigue mais aussi l'évolution de la relation entre Riftan et Maxi! Cette dernière évolue aussi, prend progressivement confiance en elle et ose dire non! J'ai tellement hâte d'avoir la suite de leur histoire et je vais croiser les doigts pour qu'une traduction arrive rapidement!
En bref, un second tome à la hauteur du premier !
En bref, un second tome à la hauteur du premier !
October 1, 2025
4⭐️
2🌶️
🎧(Narrator: A.Jo; 5/5 🎤)
Themes/Tropes: Overcoming stutter, healing magic, going on a quest, personal growth/development
Firstly, a big thank you to PRB Audio and Suji Kim for the chance to read an Advanced Listener Copy of Under the Oak Tree: Volume 2. I went straight from reading volume one into reading this ALC, which I think is the good way to go because I think it’s really one large story broken apart vs. several stories in a series, like many romantic fantasy series.
This story picks right up along the timeline of when volume one ends. I enjoy this series but I was really hoping they would get further into the back story of Riftan and why he cares so deeply about Maxi. It did a tiny bit of Riftan’s backstory, but barely. I did like Maxi’s growth in this book but Riftan has a horrible temper that is really off putting. He overly babies Maxi instead of helping her grow, but he does seem to love her although neither have used that word yet.
Overall, solid read. Will be excited for the next installment.
🚨Spoiler Alert: Stop here to avoid plot spoilers 🚨
The book kicks off with news that Princess Agnes is coming to do a land inspection and will be coming with 20-30 people to stay. Riftan has become distant to Maxi and Maxi is worried the Princess coming could mean they’d divorce. That the Princess was coming to seduce Riftan, since she was almost his bride. Maxi did all the preparation for the castle and this was her first hosting as the lady of the castle.
The princess arrives and is beautiful and grace, but is wearing pants and is very uninhibited. Maxi shows the Princess around and she seems confident and has boundless energy. Riftan says he tolerates the Princess, but has zero romantic interest in her. Riftan takes the Princess to help fend off monsters by their road project and they get into a big Wyvern attack that a lot of soldiers were getting wounded by, so Maxi goes to help. She uses her healing magic but almost uses out her mana. Riftan saves her but then is very upset she put herself in danger and tells her she cannot do that again.
On one of the Princess’s last days at the Calypse castle; they attend a town festival where Maxi has fun playing and dancing; she even shows some jealousy of a woman who tries hitting on Riftan. Riftan and Maxi sneak off to the forest for some “couple time” and then the Princess shoots off fireworks that interrupt them. The Princess says she has to get back because there is a bit of a monster uprising and implies Maxi may need to go to help, but that she should come too. The Princess says Maxi has magic talent in the healing arts and she should use it.
Once the Princess leaves, Maxi goes back to not being able to do anything outside of the house chores. Due to Riftan’s displeasure, she stops studying magic but becomes listless. Riftan takes her on an outing where he admits that he feels unworthy of her due to her Nobel lineage and that he knows her father only let them wed because he was certain Riftan would die on the campaign he was going to in the Duke’s stead. But now that Riftan lived he was going to spoil her, but Maxi can’t find the nerve to tell Riftan that she was worth less than the dogs in her father’s eyes.
Riftan was out on another official duty, when a soldier gets injured with werewolf venom. Maxi doesn’t want to upset Riftan, but she goes to help him even though she’s never done a venom curing before. But she was able to do it. The soldiers found that there was a sign that the monsters were banning together to wreak havoc. They eventually get called to join the monster battle by the king, but there aren’t enough mages to go with, so Maxi volunteers to go. Riftan did NOT want her to go and was very angry. The soldiers advocated for her to go and she proved herself capable.
They departed for battle. Maxi was struggling to deal with the long days on the horse, the monster attacks en route, Riftan’s cold demeanor, and the dirty living conditions. Eventually, she found her footing and Riftan found his way back to her. They eventually made it to the port they were headed to, in order to go to the main battle. They board a ship to take them to the main land, where Riftan had convinced Maxi to stay at a monestary until the battle is over. The book ends with them together on the ship for their last night together at sea.
2🌶️
🎧(Narrator: A.Jo; 5/5 🎤)
Themes/Tropes: Overcoming stutter, healing magic, going on a quest, personal growth/development
Firstly, a big thank you to PRB Audio and Suji Kim for the chance to read an Advanced Listener Copy of Under the Oak Tree: Volume 2. I went straight from reading volume one into reading this ALC, which I think is the good way to go because I think it’s really one large story broken apart vs. several stories in a series, like many romantic fantasy series.
This story picks right up along the timeline of when volume one ends. I enjoy this series but I was really hoping they would get further into the back story of Riftan and why he cares so deeply about Maxi. It did a tiny bit of Riftan’s backstory, but barely. I did like Maxi’s growth in this book but Riftan has a horrible temper that is really off putting. He overly babies Maxi instead of helping her grow, but he does seem to love her although neither have used that word yet.
Overall, solid read. Will be excited for the next installment.
🚨Spoiler Alert: Stop here to avoid plot spoilers 🚨
The book kicks off with news that Princess Agnes is coming to do a land inspection and will be coming with 20-30 people to stay. Riftan has become distant to Maxi and Maxi is worried the Princess coming could mean they’d divorce. That the Princess was coming to seduce Riftan, since she was almost his bride. Maxi did all the preparation for the castle and this was her first hosting as the lady of the castle.
The princess arrives and is beautiful and grace, but is wearing pants and is very uninhibited. Maxi shows the Princess around and she seems confident and has boundless energy. Riftan says he tolerates the Princess, but has zero romantic interest in her. Riftan takes the Princess to help fend off monsters by their road project and they get into a big Wyvern attack that a lot of soldiers were getting wounded by, so Maxi goes to help. She uses her healing magic but almost uses out her mana. Riftan saves her but then is very upset she put herself in danger and tells her she cannot do that again.
On one of the Princess’s last days at the Calypse castle; they attend a town festival where Maxi has fun playing and dancing; she even shows some jealousy of a woman who tries hitting on Riftan. Riftan and Maxi sneak off to the forest for some “couple time” and then the Princess shoots off fireworks that interrupt them. The Princess says she has to get back because there is a bit of a monster uprising and implies Maxi may need to go to help, but that she should come too. The Princess says Maxi has magic talent in the healing arts and she should use it.
Once the Princess leaves, Maxi goes back to not being able to do anything outside of the house chores. Due to Riftan’s displeasure, she stops studying magic but becomes listless. Riftan takes her on an outing where he admits that he feels unworthy of her due to her Nobel lineage and that he knows her father only let them wed because he was certain Riftan would die on the campaign he was going to in the Duke’s stead. But now that Riftan lived he was going to spoil her, but Maxi can’t find the nerve to tell Riftan that she was worth less than the dogs in her father’s eyes.
Riftan was out on another official duty, when a soldier gets injured with werewolf venom. Maxi doesn’t want to upset Riftan, but she goes to help him even though she’s never done a venom curing before. But she was able to do it. The soldiers found that there was a sign that the monsters were banning together to wreak havoc. They eventually get called to join the monster battle by the king, but there aren’t enough mages to go with, so Maxi volunteers to go. Riftan did NOT want her to go and was very angry. The soldiers advocated for her to go and she proved herself capable.
They departed for battle. Maxi was struggling to deal with the long days on the horse, the monster attacks en route, Riftan’s cold demeanor, and the dirty living conditions. Eventually, she found her footing and Riftan found his way back to her. They eventually made it to the port they were headed to, in order to go to the main battle. They board a ship to take them to the main land, where Riftan had convinced Maxi to stay at a monestary until the battle is over. The book ends with them together on the ship for their last night together at sea.
November 20, 2025
Guess what? I still love this story. Yup, I truly, unapologetic, I love this story. And I really like that this books expands on the first one. These two are in deep now and while happy for now was on the horizon a monster army is going to put these two through their paces.
A lot of people are frustrated with Maxi in this one, deservedly so, she does make some stupid ass decisions but I understand and sympathize with what she's trying to accomplish and why. So I never sit there angry with her over the fact she depleted her manna, or she fought to go on a journey that was horribly dangerous and she was unprepared for. She knew it was but she went anyway. Girl was nearly ended by a goblin and nearly got drowned by a kelpie. Yet, she's still in it and she's trying her damned best. That deserves some fraction of praise.
The author was also good enough to write in several scenes of her putting in the hours long work to get better, in a hurry mind you, so that she could be useful to the Remdragon Knights. That would make a difference in the rising tension of the novel. The conflict between her and Riften doing their best to keep each other safe while maintaining these ideals in their heads is a good read even if I want to bang their heads together and tell them to sit and TALK.
The only real criticism I have was the juvenile fight about her being in the infirmary and how she had one of the knights talk to Riften when she refused to do so- in the most high school way. That really rubbed me the wrong way. Also the jealousy thing with Princess Agnes just refused to die. I know Maxi has self esteem issues that she will battle her entire life but it was clear Riften onlyy admired Agnes as a comrade in arms. I know Agnes was brought in to highlight Maxi's want to be a mage like her but it could have been done better. However despite those issues, I like Agnes as a character, I really like she was manipulative but she wasn't after Riften sexually. She had another political reason for being in the story. And the whole jealousy thing wasn't neatly solved but they did become friends without relying on the tired trope of fake cheating or melodrama.
I think the real reason people are very upset with Maxi is that they are so used to totally boring girlbosses. They don't see how Maxi's recklessness (and boy that girl does not value her life at all in this book) is due to her insane fear Riften will see she's not the precious treasure he makes her out to be. She has to be useful or she will spiral out into self doubt and depression. It doesn't matter what the cost is or the damage after.
When reading these adventures and near death experiences with her keep in mind- if she's not useful, she's nothing. With war on the horizon things are not looking good for our troublesome twosome. I can't wait to read more.
A lot of people are frustrated with Maxi in this one, deservedly so, she does make some stupid ass decisions but I understand and sympathize with what she's trying to accomplish and why. So I never sit there angry with her over the fact she depleted her manna, or she fought to go on a journey that was horribly dangerous and she was unprepared for. She knew it was but she went anyway. Girl was nearly ended by a goblin and nearly got drowned by a kelpie. Yet, she's still in it and she's trying her damned best. That deserves some fraction of praise.
The author was also good enough to write in several scenes of her putting in the hours long work to get better, in a hurry mind you, so that she could be useful to the Remdragon Knights. That would make a difference in the rising tension of the novel. The conflict between her and Riften doing their best to keep each other safe while maintaining these ideals in their heads is a good read even if I want to bang their heads together and tell them to sit and TALK.
The only real criticism I have was the juvenile fight about her being in the infirmary and how she had one of the knights talk to Riften when she refused to do so- in the most high school way. That really rubbed me the wrong way. Also the jealousy thing with Princess Agnes just refused to die. I know Maxi has self esteem issues that she will battle her entire life but it was clear Riften onlyy admired Agnes as a comrade in arms. I know Agnes was brought in to highlight Maxi's want to be a mage like her but it could have been done better. However despite those issues, I like Agnes as a character, I really like she was manipulative but she wasn't after Riften sexually. She had another political reason for being in the story. And the whole jealousy thing wasn't neatly solved but they did become friends without relying on the tired trope of fake cheating or melodrama.
I think the real reason people are very upset with Maxi is that they are so used to totally boring girlbosses. They don't see how Maxi's recklessness (and boy that girl does not value her life at all in this book) is due to her insane fear Riften will see she's not the precious treasure he makes her out to be. She has to be useful or she will spiral out into self doubt and depression. It doesn't matter what the cost is or the damage after.
When reading these adventures and near death experiences with her keep in mind- if she's not useful, she's nothing. With war on the horizon things are not looking good for our troublesome twosome. I can't wait to read more.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 1, 2025
Disclaimer: I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Under the Oak Tree is a novelization of the Under the Oak Tree webcomic by Suji Kim. In Volume 1, the story focuses on a young noble lady, Maximillian, and her growth as a new wife to the most reputable and fearsome knight in the kingdom, Sir Riftan. Faced with challenges in the previous book, we saw Maxi slowly begin to accept herself and her new role in an ancient, monster-infested world.
Volume 2 continues very much in the same way with similar pacing. Maxi has flourished in her new role as Lady and adapted to her new life with Riftan and the knights. We meet a few new faces as well and Maxi continues to learn more about herself and how she best fits in with Riftan's world.
Maxi's growth also continues in Volume 2 and where we saw her start to make significant changes to growing her self-confidence in Volume 1, Volume 2 is where she really starts to stand on her own as both a lady and a prospective mage.
I'm still not keen on Riftan as a love interest as some of his controlling actions and words I would consider going way too far to the point he is disrespectful to his comrades and his wife but I am relieved to see Riftan is on a growth journey of his own and slowly starting to realize his desperate overprotectiveness is not always appropriate--especially when it comes to Maxi. He sees her as a delicate rosebud but he has yet to learn that roses have thorns. I especially enjoy the parts that reveal that Riftan can sometimes be just as naive as Maxi. Especially as Riftan often chides Maxi for her recklessness, as if he had a paternal role but during these moments they serve as a reminder of his naivety and youth as well.
Again, much like the first book, the real charm here is watching Maxi's character growth. Watching her confidence and willpower boom in comparison to where she first started has been a real treat. It's not difficult to root for her success or happiness, she is such a sweet character and her relationships with other characters really show just how capable she is and how worthy she is to get everything she wants.
Note: Volume 2 picks up immediately where Volume 1 left off at Chapter 12 rather abruptly so it is my recommendation to go back and reread Chapter 11 prior to starting Volume 2.
Under the Oak Tree is a novelization of the Under the Oak Tree webcomic by Suji Kim. In Volume 1, the story focuses on a young noble lady, Maximillian, and her growth as a new wife to the most reputable and fearsome knight in the kingdom, Sir Riftan. Faced with challenges in the previous book, we saw Maxi slowly begin to accept herself and her new role in an ancient, monster-infested world.
Volume 2 continues very much in the same way with similar pacing. Maxi has flourished in her new role as Lady and adapted to her new life with Riftan and the knights. We meet a few new faces as well and Maxi continues to learn more about herself and how she best fits in with Riftan's world.
Maxi's growth also continues in Volume 2 and where we saw her start to make significant changes to growing her self-confidence in Volume 1, Volume 2 is where she really starts to stand on her own as both a lady and a prospective mage.
I'm still not keen on Riftan as a love interest as some of his controlling actions and words I would consider going way too far to the point he is disrespectful to his comrades and his wife but I am relieved to see Riftan is on a growth journey of his own and slowly starting to realize his desperate overprotectiveness is not always appropriate--especially when it comes to Maxi. He sees her as a delicate rosebud but he has yet to learn that roses have thorns. I especially enjoy the parts that reveal that Riftan can sometimes be just as naive as Maxi. Especially as Riftan often chides Maxi for her recklessness, as if he had a paternal role but during these moments they serve as a reminder of his naivety and youth as well.
Again, much like the first book, the real charm here is watching Maxi's character growth. Watching her confidence and willpower boom in comparison to where she first started has been a real treat. It's not difficult to root for her success or happiness, she is such a sweet character and her relationships with other characters really show just how capable she is and how worthy she is to get everything she wants.
Note: Volume 2 picks up immediately where Volume 1 left off at Chapter 12 rather abruptly so it is my recommendation to go back and reread Chapter 11 prior to starting Volume 2.
October 16, 2025
ARC Review of Under The Oak Tree Vol.2 by Suji Kim
* * * * *
A big thank you to Netgalley for allowing me the oppurtunity to read this amazing story from a different angle, from the world-adored manga that I love as well. Danger, love, plots, war, magic and secrets.
Lady Maximilian's life as improved since joining her husband at his estate, growing under Riftan's care, training from Ruth, and getting the support of her staff and people. She knows she still has much to learn, but for the first time in her young life, she is very happy.
Of course, challenges are still being thrown their way.
From a powerful beautiful princess, to a rising war that threatens to tear them apart, Max and Riftan must face another few obstacles before they can finally reach that happily ever after.
This being the second novel, I would strongly urge others to read the first, as this provides more backstory to Max's past with her chilldhood, her stutter, her growing abilities in magic, and how hers and Riftan's marriage blossomed to the point where it is now.
From the manga, you are given an illustration of the happenings. However, in the written word such as this, your mind changes things but also involves more detail that you don't get entirely from the manga. I can recall all the happenings of the illustrations throughout the book, from what is to happen and how it is pictured, from the princess's arrival, the goblins, the fighting, the voyage at sea, but still this written version is more intimate.
Especially the love scenes between Max and Riftan. Wink, wink!
Although their romance is sweet, Max wishes to grow and become stronger to be the partner Riftan needs. However, big strong knight Riftan puts his baby wife in a corner, away from the danger and keeping her out of harms way. Way too overprotective, and not seeing how Max wishes to be the ruler she wishes to be especially for him. When Max decides to join him on his journey to where the war is raging, it is another conflict in their marriage.
Even if I had not read the manga, I would have loved to read this novel all the same. Love the characters, the setting, the action and romance between our MCs. Would love to read the third volume when it comes out and see how it captures the already viewable chapters in their world and what is yet to come.
* * * * *
A big thank you to Netgalley for allowing me the oppurtunity to read this amazing story from a different angle, from the world-adored manga that I love as well. Danger, love, plots, war, magic and secrets.
Lady Maximilian's life as improved since joining her husband at his estate, growing under Riftan's care, training from Ruth, and getting the support of her staff and people. She knows she still has much to learn, but for the first time in her young life, she is very happy.
Of course, challenges are still being thrown their way.
From a powerful beautiful princess, to a rising war that threatens to tear them apart, Max and Riftan must face another few obstacles before they can finally reach that happily ever after.
This being the second novel, I would strongly urge others to read the first, as this provides more backstory to Max's past with her chilldhood, her stutter, her growing abilities in magic, and how hers and Riftan's marriage blossomed to the point where it is now.
From the manga, you are given an illustration of the happenings. However, in the written word such as this, your mind changes things but also involves more detail that you don't get entirely from the manga. I can recall all the happenings of the illustrations throughout the book, from what is to happen and how it is pictured, from the princess's arrival, the goblins, the fighting, the voyage at sea, but still this written version is more intimate.
Especially the love scenes between Max and Riftan. Wink, wink!
Although their romance is sweet, Max wishes to grow and become stronger to be the partner Riftan needs. However, big strong knight Riftan puts his baby wife in a corner, away from the danger and keeping her out of harms way. Way too overprotective, and not seeing how Max wishes to be the ruler she wishes to be especially for him. When Max decides to join him on his journey to where the war is raging, it is another conflict in their marriage.
Even if I had not read the manga, I would have loved to read this novel all the same. Love the characters, the setting, the action and romance between our MCs. Would love to read the third volume when it comes out and see how it captures the already viewable chapters in their world and what is yet to come.
October 30, 2025
🐿️I was given this review copy by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. All opinions are my own
🐿️Review: The series should've started with this book
My biggest complaint about volume one is that nothing happens, there's no stakes. They just have lots of sex and remodel the house. In volume 2, complication comes in via a potential love triangle. There's actually some combat this time around, and Maxi learns how to stand up for herself more. Riftan learns how to be a husband outside of the "spicy" times that romantasy cares about so much, and while he's still not the winner of the man of the year award, he does have some much needed growth.
Under the Oak Tree is slow: it's taken 800 pages to start to go somewhere interesting. I'm invested enough at this point to finish the series whenever the next books come out, but I wish that the series had started here and let book 1 be much briefer, 2-3 chapters at most.
🐿️☆ Fun Factor 3/5
🐿️☆ Writing Style 3/5 (Simplistic and childish)
🐿️☆ Characters 3/5
🐿️☆ Plot 2/5
🐿️☆ Setting 3/5 (They get out of the castle THANK GOD)
🐿️☆ Feels 1/5
💖☆ Romance 2/5 (Riftan tries to be a little better this time)
🙈☆ Spiciness 5/5 (They have on page sex several times)
🐿️☆ Gore 1/5
🐿️If this were a movie it'd be rated: R for HBO late night TV special levels of horniness on screen, sexual assault, child abuse, mild fantasy violence, heavy language
🐿️☆FOR FANS OF: People that wanted some stakes from the first book, but still wanted that cozy vibe and simple prose.
🐿️Ultimate verdict: ⭐⭐⭐/5
🐿️☆☆☆Best Character Award goes to:☆☆☆ Riftan and Maxi get some growth this time around and both are better in this volume than the first.
Under the Oak Tree ratings so far:
🐿️Under the Oak Tree, Vol. 1⭐⭐
🐿️ Under the Oak Tree, Vol. 2⭐⭐⭐
🐿️[Book 3 ] TBD
Under the Oak Tree average score for me so far: 2.5
🐿️Review: The series should've started with this book
My biggest complaint about volume one is that nothing happens, there's no stakes. They just have lots of sex and remodel the house. In volume 2, complication comes in via a potential love triangle. There's actually some combat this time around, and Maxi learns how to stand up for herself more. Riftan learns how to be a husband outside of the "spicy" times that romantasy cares about so much, and while he's still not the winner of the man of the year award, he does have some much needed growth.
Under the Oak Tree is slow: it's taken 800 pages to start to go somewhere interesting. I'm invested enough at this point to finish the series whenever the next books come out, but I wish that the series had started here and let book 1 be much briefer, 2-3 chapters at most.
🐿️☆ Fun Factor 3/5
🐿️☆ Writing Style 3/5 (Simplistic and childish)
🐿️☆ Characters 3/5
🐿️☆ Plot 2/5
🐿️☆ Setting 3/5 (They get out of the castle THANK GOD)
🐿️☆ Feels 1/5
💖☆ Romance 2/5 (Riftan tries to be a little better this time)
🙈☆ Spiciness 5/5 (They have on page sex several times)
🐿️☆ Gore 1/5
🐿️If this were a movie it'd be rated: R for HBO late night TV special levels of horniness on screen, sexual assault, child abuse, mild fantasy violence, heavy language
🐿️☆FOR FANS OF: People that wanted some stakes from the first book, but still wanted that cozy vibe and simple prose.
🐿️Ultimate verdict: ⭐⭐⭐/5
🐿️☆☆☆Best Character Award goes to:☆☆☆ Riftan and Maxi get some growth this time around and both are better in this volume than the first.
Under the Oak Tree ratings so far:
🐿️Under the Oak Tree, Vol. 1⭐⭐
🐿️ Under the Oak Tree, Vol. 2⭐⭐⭐
🐿️[Book 3 ] TBD
Under the Oak Tree average score for me so far: 2.5
August 28, 2025
Under the Oak Tree Volume 2 carries forward the fragile yet deeply touching romance between Lady Maximilian ("Maxi") and the war-scarred Sir Riftan as their life together finally transitions from strained tranquility to genuine mutual understanding. Maxi finds herself emerging from the winter of self-doubt as spring brings newfound confidence, soft hope, and the tentative promise of healing.
What I adored most about this volume is the evolution of Maxi’s voice and magic—she’s not just surviving in Calypse Castle anymore; she’s beginning to thrive. The scenes where she gardens, breaks into the castle’s neglected corners, and quietly contemplates her worth as she looks at Riftan across their bedroom are so intimate and emotionally grounded—they made me believe in her worthiness of love.
Volume 2 also deepens the emotional stakes by introducing Princess Agnes, a brilliant and impossibly poised sorceress who once could have been Riftan’s wife. Her arrival adds an urgent, uncomfortable tension—Maxi’s fear that Riftan might choose someone else, and Riftan’s complex, unwritten feelings—push both characters to confront what they truly mean to each other.
The pacing here strikes a beautiful balance—steady without dragging, emotional without swamping the story. Maxi’s inner growth is heartfelt, and Riftan’s gradual thaw reveals a softness that feels earned, not rushed. Seeing Maxi take the reins in helping to create a new magical device with the sorcerer Ruth showcases her capability in a way that’s both empowering and sweet.
Still, it’s not without its minor ripples. Some plot points—like the political implications of Agnes’s visit or the deeper lore of Anatol—felt touched upon rather than fully explored. While that keeps the focus on character development, readers craving a bit more worldbuilding or intrigue may find themselves wanting just a little more depth beyond the emotional core.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Under the Oak Tree: Volume 2 is a gently triumphant second act: a story of quiet resilience, blossoming love, and the courage it takes to believe in stability and belonging. With its tender character arcs and emotional clarity, it earns its four stars and leaves me eagerly waiting for the next chapter in Maxi and Riftan’s journey.
What I adored most about this volume is the evolution of Maxi’s voice and magic—she’s not just surviving in Calypse Castle anymore; she’s beginning to thrive. The scenes where she gardens, breaks into the castle’s neglected corners, and quietly contemplates her worth as she looks at Riftan across their bedroom are so intimate and emotionally grounded—they made me believe in her worthiness of love.
Volume 2 also deepens the emotional stakes by introducing Princess Agnes, a brilliant and impossibly poised sorceress who once could have been Riftan’s wife. Her arrival adds an urgent, uncomfortable tension—Maxi’s fear that Riftan might choose someone else, and Riftan’s complex, unwritten feelings—push both characters to confront what they truly mean to each other.
The pacing here strikes a beautiful balance—steady without dragging, emotional without swamping the story. Maxi’s inner growth is heartfelt, and Riftan’s gradual thaw reveals a softness that feels earned, not rushed. Seeing Maxi take the reins in helping to create a new magical device with the sorcerer Ruth showcases her capability in a way that’s both empowering and sweet.
Still, it’s not without its minor ripples. Some plot points—like the political implications of Agnes’s visit or the deeper lore of Anatol—felt touched upon rather than fully explored. While that keeps the focus on character development, readers craving a bit more worldbuilding or intrigue may find themselves wanting just a little more depth beyond the emotional core.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Under the Oak Tree: Volume 2 is a gently triumphant second act: a story of quiet resilience, blossoming love, and the courage it takes to believe in stability and belonging. With its tender character arcs and emotional clarity, it earns its four stars and leaves me eagerly waiting for the next chapter in Maxi and Riftan’s journey.
October 24, 2025
*Thank you to @netgalley and @inklorebooks for the ARC of Under the Oak Tree Vol. 2 (Novel)*
I have a love/hate relationship with web novel series that get picked up to be traditionally published mainly because the transition from a weekly/bi-weekly chapter drop to a full fledged novel isn’t always executed well.
This was the case for the first volume of Under the Oak Tree. It felt as though the chapters from the web novel were bunched together and thrown almost haphazardly into a book. It had a beginning and a middle, but the ending fell off. It didn’t feel like a complete novel; it felt like a collection of chapters strewn together, so when I started Volume 2 I was a little peeved that the first chapter was titled Chapter 12 because it once again followed the formatting of a collection of chapters rather than a work of its own in a series.
While I was annoyed at first by this formatting, I enjoyed the overall narrative of the book. It started off slow but it really began to build after the 25% mark when Maxi (the main protagonist) started to come in to her own character.
Instead of being this helpless woman who is too scared to do anything because of past traumas, she became much more confident in who she is and who she wants to be, so much so that she was able to stand firm against her loving, but highly controlling husband (Riftan).
These moments of character development for Maxi is what kept me turning the page. If she had stayed helpless and allowed her husband and the people around her to let her be this frail and delicate lady, then I would have dropped this series immediately. Not because I think women can’t be soft and feminine but because I think women are complex enough to be both soft yet firm when it comes to standing up for what they believe in.
I finished this novel feeling like I need to know what happens next, and I think it’s a sign that the story is good. The writing is not perfect and I think that’s has to do more with the fact that it is a work in translation, but I think the plot and the characters are charming enough to make up for it.
I have a love/hate relationship with web novel series that get picked up to be traditionally published mainly because the transition from a weekly/bi-weekly chapter drop to a full fledged novel isn’t always executed well.
This was the case for the first volume of Under the Oak Tree. It felt as though the chapters from the web novel were bunched together and thrown almost haphazardly into a book. It had a beginning and a middle, but the ending fell off. It didn’t feel like a complete novel; it felt like a collection of chapters strewn together, so when I started Volume 2 I was a little peeved that the first chapter was titled Chapter 12 because it once again followed the formatting of a collection of chapters rather than a work of its own in a series.
While I was annoyed at first by this formatting, I enjoyed the overall narrative of the book. It started off slow but it really began to build after the 25% mark when Maxi (the main protagonist) started to come in to her own character.
Instead of being this helpless woman who is too scared to do anything because of past traumas, she became much more confident in who she is and who she wants to be, so much so that she was able to stand firm against her loving, but highly controlling husband (Riftan).
These moments of character development for Maxi is what kept me turning the page. If she had stayed helpless and allowed her husband and the people around her to let her be this frail and delicate lady, then I would have dropped this series immediately. Not because I think women can’t be soft and feminine but because I think women are complex enough to be both soft yet firm when it comes to standing up for what they believe in.
I finished this novel feeling like I need to know what happens next, and I think it’s a sign that the story is good. The writing is not perfect and I think that’s has to do more with the fact that it is a work in translation, but I think the plot and the characters are charming enough to make up for it.
November 18, 2025
Under the Oak Tree Part 2 picks up seamlessly where the previous part left off and continues the story of Maxi and Riftan.
Maxi is still getting used to life in Anatole and wants to learn more magic with Ruth. But soon, an important visitor is expected: Princess Agnes, a talented magician and Riftan's partner in the previous expedition, is visiting Anatole. Maxi must learn to assert herself as Lady Calpyse and is still uncertain about her relationship with Riftan, especially with the beautiful and powerful Agnes around. But this is not the only thing troubling the couple, as news soon arrives that could separate them again...
Riftan and Maxi's relationship grows closer, and Maxi slowly blossoms and becomes more courageous. This is true both in her feelings for Riftan and in her role as Lady Calypse. However, her feelings for Riftan and her urge to assert herself, be a good wife and help her husband clash with Riftan's wishes that Maxi, as his wife, should want for nothing, be safe and simply enjoy her life by his side. Because of this, the two grow closer, but it also causes conflict, as they are unable to communicate properly with each other.
‘How could you be so oblivious to a man going through torture right in front of you?’
The story is simply heartbreakingly beautiful and is one of my absolute favourite books. You can understand both sides, and despite all the uncertainties, it's clear that they love each other and that their feelings for each other, along with the uncertainties and miscommunication, could also destroy them. It's such a beautiful bittersweet feeling. Although the two are together, Maxi always has a certain longing and yearning. Riftan is one of my all-time favourite male leads, despite and because of his flaws, and he would do anything for Maxi, and Maxi would do the same for him.
The book is far from finished, and I'm really looking forward to finally holding the next instalments in my hands as beautiful hardcovers and following the story of Maxi and Riftan.
Many thanks to the team at Kim, Del Rey/Random House Worlds/Inklore and NetGalley for the free e-ARC.
Maxi is still getting used to life in Anatole and wants to learn more magic with Ruth. But soon, an important visitor is expected: Princess Agnes, a talented magician and Riftan's partner in the previous expedition, is visiting Anatole. Maxi must learn to assert herself as Lady Calpyse and is still uncertain about her relationship with Riftan, especially with the beautiful and powerful Agnes around. But this is not the only thing troubling the couple, as news soon arrives that could separate them again...
Riftan and Maxi's relationship grows closer, and Maxi slowly blossoms and becomes more courageous. This is true both in her feelings for Riftan and in her role as Lady Calypse. However, her feelings for Riftan and her urge to assert herself, be a good wife and help her husband clash with Riftan's wishes that Maxi, as his wife, should want for nothing, be safe and simply enjoy her life by his side. Because of this, the two grow closer, but it also causes conflict, as they are unable to communicate properly with each other.
‘How could you be so oblivious to a man going through torture right in front of you?’
The story is simply heartbreakingly beautiful and is one of my absolute favourite books. You can understand both sides, and despite all the uncertainties, it's clear that they love each other and that their feelings for each other, along with the uncertainties and miscommunication, could also destroy them. It's such a beautiful bittersweet feeling. Although the two are together, Maxi always has a certain longing and yearning. Riftan is one of my all-time favourite male leads, despite and because of his flaws, and he would do anything for Maxi, and Maxi would do the same for him.
The book is far from finished, and I'm really looking forward to finally holding the next instalments in my hands as beautiful hardcovers and following the story of Maxi and Riftan.
Many thanks to the team at Kim, Del Rey/Random House Worlds/Inklore and NetGalley for the free e-ARC.
August 30, 2025
Under the Oak Tree is a story I first read as a webcomic, so this story is a soft spot for me and I was excited to continue reading the second installment of the novelization.
The previous novel left off in the winter, leaving this one to pick up at the turn from Maxi’s first winter at Anatol to spring. Though Maxi is learning to grow her confidence in herself and her relationship with Riftan, she is challenged by the arrival of Princess Agnes, a renowned sorceress who traveled with Riftan during the Dragon Campaign.
This installment of the novelization felt very different from the first: there is a lot more emotional growth for the main characters and Maxi really begins to come into herself. There is less emphasis on spice and more on the inner feelings of the characters and how these feelings influence them to do the things they do - something that was sorely needed after the previous novel where Maxi and Riftan were prone to never really talking through their feelings. I appreciated how the novel shows, rather than tells, Maxi’s confidence develop as she strains against Riftan’s overprotectiveness. In addition, the steady pacing allows for this natural growth of emotional depth without the development feeling rushed. I expected this part of the story to read slowly but I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly I read through it. Though there was less action, the plot was just as absorbing as the prior novel.
If there is anything to criticize, it would be that the worldbuilding is a bit glossed over in several areas. Though Princess Agnes’ visit takes up the bulk of the plot in this novel, the political influences behind her visit are very lightly covered despite its importance in Riftan’s fate. Overall however, this was an enjoyable return to a comfortable story with improvements from the first novel and I will eagerly look forward to the third.
✨ 4 stars! ✨
Thank you to NetGalley and Del Rey, Random House Worlds, Inklore | Inklore for providing an ARC. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
The previous novel left off in the winter, leaving this one to pick up at the turn from Maxi’s first winter at Anatol to spring. Though Maxi is learning to grow her confidence in herself and her relationship with Riftan, she is challenged by the arrival of Princess Agnes, a renowned sorceress who traveled with Riftan during the Dragon Campaign.
This installment of the novelization felt very different from the first: there is a lot more emotional growth for the main characters and Maxi really begins to come into herself. There is less emphasis on spice and more on the inner feelings of the characters and how these feelings influence them to do the things they do - something that was sorely needed after the previous novel where Maxi and Riftan were prone to never really talking through their feelings. I appreciated how the novel shows, rather than tells, Maxi’s confidence develop as she strains against Riftan’s overprotectiveness. In addition, the steady pacing allows for this natural growth of emotional depth without the development feeling rushed. I expected this part of the story to read slowly but I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly I read through it. Though there was less action, the plot was just as absorbing as the prior novel.
If there is anything to criticize, it would be that the worldbuilding is a bit glossed over in several areas. Though Princess Agnes’ visit takes up the bulk of the plot in this novel, the political influences behind her visit are very lightly covered despite its importance in Riftan’s fate. Overall however, this was an enjoyable return to a comfortable story with improvements from the first novel and I will eagerly look forward to the third.
✨ 4 stars! ✨
Thank you to NetGalley and Del Rey, Random House Worlds, Inklore | Inklore for providing an ARC. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
August 30, 2025
Lady Maximilian “Maxi” Calypse – nee Croyso – has been flourishing in her new surroundings. She strives to be a good and competent Lady of the Castle for Riftan. Maxi works diligently to speak without a stutter and to practice her healing magic. However, an unexpected visit from Princess Agnes may undermine all her progress. Maxi even worries that the army of monsters plaguing the realm will take her husband on another campaign. Can Maxi’s magical ability be beneficial to Riftan? Or will his overprotectiveness strain their relationship?
Maxi has shown incredible growth in this installment. She is still timid. And her confidence in her abilities and herself wavers. But she is slowly learning to overcome those fears and her self-doubts. I admire her determination in standing up to Riftan. Maxi no longer wants to remain in the gilded cage he erected for her. She instead wants to be an equal, a helpmate to lessen the day-to-day burdens Riftan carries.
Sadly, I have not yet read the first volume of the novel. I have, however, read the first book of the comic. I remember loving the storyline and the characters involved. Wounded or tortured hero and heroines are my favorites. I like seeing such characters overcome their shortcomings and difficulties. And Maxi is doing just that. She is pushing past her limits.
The novel does delve more into Maxi’s point of view. Her insecurities. Her fears. Her determinations. I just wish the author switched to Riftan’s point of view.
I am now fully invested in this story, both the novel AND the web comic. I cannot wait for the next installments of both.
Maxi has shown incredible growth in this installment. She is still timid. And her confidence in her abilities and herself wavers. But she is slowly learning to overcome those fears and her self-doubts. I admire her determination in standing up to Riftan. Maxi no longer wants to remain in the gilded cage he erected for her. She instead wants to be an equal, a helpmate to lessen the day-to-day burdens Riftan carries.
Sadly, I have not yet read the first volume of the novel. I have, however, read the first book of the comic. I remember loving the storyline and the characters involved. Wounded or tortured hero and heroines are my favorites. I like seeing such characters overcome their shortcomings and difficulties. And Maxi is doing just that. She is pushing past her limits.
The novel does delve more into Maxi’s point of view. Her insecurities. Her fears. Her determinations. I just wish the author switched to Riftan’s point of view.
I am now fully invested in this story, both the novel AND the web comic. I cannot wait for the next installments of both.
October 5, 2025
Thank you to Del Rey and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC. It's one of my favorites!
This volume compiles chapters 77-133 of Suji Kim's original web novel, although it feels different reading it as a novel. When the first version/edition of the novel came out, the English translation somehow felt like it needed a little work, and I'm glad to see that for both volume 1 and 2, they did a good job with the editing and translation.
The novel is much more advanced than the webcomic, as volume 2 of the comic covers chapters 25 to 45, which has just been published in print.
As for the story, it's very inspiring to see how Maxi grows, overcoming her shyness and making herself heard when she wants to accompany Riftan and his knights because they don't have a mage to help them as they cross several territories full of monsters, and she is the only capable healer available. Riftan refuses to expose her to danger, believing that as a lady she should not have to worry, and in a way it is understandable because he cares deeply for her, but there is a whole communication issue in that he does not really know that she has lived her whole life not as a refined lady but as a young woman mistreated by her father.
But Maxi is not intimidated and seeks to make herself heard by the knights and get them on her side, arguing that she is the one who has to accompany them, since she shows several times that even though she has only recently begun to learn how to use her magic, she is capable of helping them, and also because she knows she wants to be close to Riftan, and in the end, he cannot deny it either.
This volume compiles chapters 77-133 of Suji Kim's original web novel, although it feels different reading it as a novel. When the first version/edition of the novel came out, the English translation somehow felt like it needed a little work, and I'm glad to see that for both volume 1 and 2, they did a good job with the editing and translation.
The novel is much more advanced than the webcomic, as volume 2 of the comic covers chapters 25 to 45, which has just been published in print.
As for the story, it's very inspiring to see how Maxi grows, overcoming her shyness and making herself heard when she wants to accompany Riftan and his knights because they don't have a mage to help them as they cross several territories full of monsters, and she is the only capable healer available. Riftan refuses to expose her to danger, believing that as a lady she should not have to worry, and in a way it is understandable because he cares deeply for her, but there is a whole communication issue in that he does not really know that she has lived her whole life not as a refined lady but as a young woman mistreated by her father.
But Maxi is not intimidated and seeks to make herself heard by the knights and get them on her side, arguing that she is the one who has to accompany them, since she shows several times that even though she has only recently begun to learn how to use her magic, she is capable of helping them, and also because she knows she wants to be close to Riftan, and in the end, he cannot deny it either.
October 23, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Del Rey, Random House Worlds, Inklore for this ARC. After reading Under the Oak Tree Volume 1 earlier this year—and naming it my book of the year—I was absolutely elated to be approved for an advance copy of Volume 2. Many thanks!
Under the Oak Tree: Volume 2 is a deeply satisfying continuation that enriches the story in every way. This volume keeps Maxi at the heart of the narrative as she steps further into her own strength. We see her actively challenge her negative thoughts, confront her fears, and push herself to grow rather than hide. Her journey is quiet but powerful—built on determination, vulnerability, and the desire to stand confidently in her own worth.
Riftan and Maxi’s relationship continues to navigate the tension between Riftan’s protective instincts and Maxi’s need for independence, yet the love between them remains steady and genuine. Their missteps and misunderstandings feel honest, and the emotional intimacy—often shown in small, thoughtful moments—makes their evolving bond incredibly rewarding to follow.
This volume weaves romance, character development, and broader world tensions seamlessly, while setting the stage for even greater stakes ahead. Fans of the first book will not be disappointed—if anything, they’ll admire Maxi even more for her resilience and quiet courage.
November 3, 2025
First, a big thank you to NetGalley for the ARC of Suji Kim’s novel “Under the Oak Tree: Volume 2 (The Novel)" – “Most fairytales end with a wedding and a happily-ever-after—but this is no fairytale. The updated and official translation of Under the Oak Tree, the #1 webnovel on MANTA, continues in this second volume.”
I loved this second volume of Under the Oak Tree; it was everything I wanted. Suji Kim keeps everything interesting and fresh with relationship hurdles and a plot full of adventure. Overall, it’s a nice balance of character development and peril.
I loved seeing Maxi outside of the castle, respected for some of her developing talents and her own growth. Maxi is such a lovely character, her growth over books 1 & 2 is huge. She still has anxiety and uncertainty in her relationship, but there was a sense of balance and respect.
Riftan was forced to see Maxi outside of the bedroom. I love how their emotional intimacy is developing. I think that what really makes me enjoy this story is Maxi struggles and fights for every bit of progress in her story. It is rarely easy for her. Even when her insecurities and doubts sometimes get a hold of her, she fights and puts in the work anyway. Which is a nice change of pace from the instant warrior type fantasy stories.
Maxi’s doubt about the depths of Riftan’s feelings is so funny, and of course sometimes frustrating, to read, because it is very clear to us that truly, all the man wants to do is lay face down in her lap and never leave. This book is great if you are a fan of Dianne Duvall’s “a Sorceress of His Own.”
I received an ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I loved this second volume of Under the Oak Tree; it was everything I wanted. Suji Kim keeps everything interesting and fresh with relationship hurdles and a plot full of adventure. Overall, it’s a nice balance of character development and peril.
I loved seeing Maxi outside of the castle, respected for some of her developing talents and her own growth. Maxi is such a lovely character, her growth over books 1 & 2 is huge. She still has anxiety and uncertainty in her relationship, but there was a sense of balance and respect.
Riftan was forced to see Maxi outside of the bedroom. I love how their emotional intimacy is developing. I think that what really makes me enjoy this story is Maxi struggles and fights for every bit of progress in her story. It is rarely easy for her. Even when her insecurities and doubts sometimes get a hold of her, she fights and puts in the work anyway. Which is a nice change of pace from the instant warrior type fantasy stories.
Maxi’s doubt about the depths of Riftan’s feelings is so funny, and of course sometimes frustrating, to read, because it is very clear to us that truly, all the man wants to do is lay face down in her lap and never leave. This book is great if you are a fan of Dianne Duvall’s “a Sorceress of His Own.”
I received an ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
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