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The King's Damaged Heart Was Tainted With Darkness, But Not Even He Could Resist The Radiance Of His Queen.

669 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 26, 2025

205 people are currently reading
282 people want to read

About the author

Brooklyn Cross

39 books2,123 followers
Writing is not just a passion for me. It is a lifeline to my sanity.

I have always loved writing but suffer from severe dyslexia and short-term memory retention issues. I struggled in school while I worked every night on re-training my brain.

I was frequently treated like I would never succeed, and I found myself putting my love for writing on a shelf.

Even at the age of six, I found it easier to communicate with animals than people, which was a big reason why I was drawn to dressage horseback riding. I remained focused on my passion for riding until I had to step away from the competition world for personal reasons.

Today, my desire for writing and storytelling has been rekindled. I have published multiple books and will never let anyone or anything hold me back again.
I am a proud romance author who offers my readers morally grey heroes, a ton of spice, epic journeys, and redemption stories.
-Follow Your Dreams-

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
Profile Image for Jamie Wright.
126 reviews6 followers
October 14, 2025


All these books have been my top tier but this one seriously broke me and put me back together.

The amount of trauma they have all been through and they somehow keep finding strength to keep going.

Ren has been a queen since the first book in my eyes. The ways she managed to have these guys to remain all being alpha males but also make he the most prized possession is amazing.

“She is my wife, and it's staying that way.
Princess is mine, and you better fucking get used to it."

"And let's make sure that we clear something up right now. We don't give a fuck if you're married to Ren. We're not giving her up. So, you'd better get used to that... boss,"

Nash oh mean hearted Nash just needed closure and Ren. He has always has his friends who are his brothers but finding Ren gave him back hope, humanity and purpose (other than taking down his father).

“Do you understand? There's no walking away. No going back. Ill kill anyone who tries to come between us.
I'll fucking burn everything I've ever loved to keep this..." “To keep you. That's dangerous, Princess." “Very.
Fucking. Dangerous."


Watching the relationship between all the guys continue to grow stronger was amazing to read. Watching Eddie and Ren grow closer while he also learn to accept all the guys as well……. Perfect story!!!!

Can’t wait to read mama get the much needed vengeance in the next book.
Profile Image for Natália Loureiro.
194 reviews
December 16, 2025
Electric, frenetic, full of twists and turns, surprises, exposed vulnerabilities, challenges, pain, and lots of emotions.
That ending 🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯

Best book in the series, more mature writing, more consistent characters... I really like the dynamic and that the book isn't so focused on the hot stuff (as is common in reverse harems)... I think the author manages to find a perfect balance.
There's still the maturing of the relationships between them, the sense of family, and seeing how much they complement each other.

Blake, if I criticized you in the past... I'm sorry. You made your mark in this book. Both with the children, with Ren, with Lip, Myles, and in the end.

I can't wait for the conclusion of this story.

____________________________________________

Elétrico, frenético, cheio de reviravoltas, surpresas, vulnerabilidades expostas, desafios., Dores e muitas emoções.
Esse final 🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯

Melhor livro da série, escrita mais madura, personagens mais consistentes… gosto demais da dinâmica e o livro não ser tão focado no hot (como é comum em haréns reversos).. acho que a autora consegue achar um equilíbrio perfeito.
Ainda há o amadurecimento das relações entre eles, o senso de família e verificar o quanto eles se complementam.

Blake, se te critiquei no passado.. perdão. Vc deu o nome nesse livro. Tanto com as crianças, como com Ren, com Lip, Myles e no final.

Ansiosa para a conclusão dessa história.
Profile Image for Nikki.
64 reviews2 followers
October 8, 2025
both gut wrenching and heartwarming

This book has been sitting at the top of my most anticipated releases list, and it didn't disappoint for even a second! It picks up right where Rebellious Rook left off and hooked me from the first page. It's fast paced and packed with action, spice and twists. It's both gut wrenching and heartwarming...and jerked those tears right from me with no remorse.

The way this book was built on the previous ones, including Queens Gambit, is nothing short of impressive foresight and well thought out. This story and world are written spectacularly! While each book dives deeper into one specific relationship in the why choose, they connect as a whole story that is intricately woven. The characters all have such big personalities that they seem to exist off the pages and will be impossible to ever forget.

That ending though, it was just...rude! How can you leave us on that cliff?!?! Brooklyn, I hate you like Nash hates Ren!


*Side note: This is my official notice that I've claimed Eddie.
Profile Image for Em Yardy.
309 reviews20 followers
September 26, 2025
Brooklyn Cross, ma’am, what the hell did you just do to me?!
Volatile King had me in a chokehold from page one and I’m honestly not mad about it. This book is like strapping yourself into an emotional rollercoaster without checking the safety bar secrets, betrayals, jaw-dropping twists, and somehow a Thanksgiving dinner scene that made me laugh so hard I almost snorted wine out my nose. 10/10 balance of trauma and turkey.

Ren? Still the stubborn, fiery queen of chaos we love. And her Kings? Whew. The chemistry is so magnetic I think my Kindle is now a fire hazard. Every look, every word, every “I hate you but also want to climb you like a tree” moment was soaked in tension. Case in point:

“Fuck, you turn me into an animal, Princess. One that will fuck you right now and not give a shit about anything else other than making you mine.”

And then there’s Nash, who basically ripped my heart out and stomped on it.

“I don’t just want you… I need you. The kind of need that can drive a man mad and make a monster out of a saint.”
Smirking, I signed. You were never a saint.

“You’re right… I’m not. Which is why I’ll be the reason your legs tremble, your voice breaks, and your soul forgets how to behave. I’ll own you. Break you. Heal you. Love you. And fuck you so hard, the only thing you’ll remember is my name.”

If that didn’t make you sweat, this will:

“Even if the world crumbles around us, you’ll be the first and last thing I reach for,” I whispered in her ear.

Brooklyn somehow manages to mix all that primal, obsessive energy with tenderness that hits like a freight train:

“Ren, every scar I have is a map of where I’ve been torn apart. But when you look at me like I’m worth something, you sew those pieces back into place.”

And of course the possessive declarations we live for:

“You fucking do something to me that I can’t explain. And I’m going to prove we’re meant to be, because I’m not letting you go. You’re mine, Princess. You are my queen.”

This book is THICK but never once drags, every chapter brings either a gut-punch of emotion, a jaw-dropping reveal, or a spicy scene that will make you blush. And then there’s THAT cliffhanger Brooklyn, ma’am, why must you hurt me like this?

⚠️ Check your triggers, because this story is heavy. But if you want a dark, emotional, unputdownable ride, buckle up. Volatile King will break you, heal you, make you laugh at inappropriate moments, and leave you staring at your Kindle whispering “I need the next book right now.”
Profile Image for Kristen.
513 reviews15 followers
October 8, 2025
Like an 18 wheeler barreling out of control, Brooklyn Cross has yet again smashed her way into my heart and soul with Volatile King. Brilliant writing takes us back into the world of The Kings of Wayward Academy and yet again pummels our emotions. The perfect balance of love, hate, revenge, obsession, passion, lust, compassion, and every other emotion you can possibly think of will be felt throughout this story. So much happens in this book you are constantly gasping, laughing, crying, or fuming. Just when you think it can’t get worse Brooklyn says hold my drink. Page after page these magnificent characters are tested. So many action packed moments with betrayals, reveals, heart gripping grief, twists upon twists, and OMF’nG moments. Each character has their moment and evolves magnificently. The spice per usual is panty incinerating. Some of their gatherings are thankfully quite humorous others not so much. I honestly could not stand when I had to take a break from reading. The amount of love I have for this series and its emotional chaos is infinite. Not enough stars for this book. Each book in the series builds off the last but honestly, there is no way to prepare for all the things and I cannot even begin to imagine where the next one will take us. All the stars for Brooklyn Cross and this epic series.
Profile Image for Tara.
1,031 reviews16 followers
September 25, 2025
What in the hell did I just read! That ending...OMG I'm dying right now. Tears in my eyes, my soul has been crushed but book 7 is set to be obsessively thrilling! I don't think I've cried this much about a book in a very long time, but I am so emotionally invested in these characters and this world that I may have taken some things to heart! This book was action packed and I dove in so quick! It was so hard to put down for real life stuff. After the end of book 5 I never thought the day would come when I had this book in my hands! I was dying for it! I absolutely love Ren and all five of her men, but Nash definitely took a giant step forward for me. Lord the spice is delicious too! The twists and turns in this book will have you screaming & gasping out loud!! If you have not started this book yet, or the series for that matter, WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU WAITING FOR?! If you love dark, reverse harem, academy, sports, OTT men, then you need this!!
1,565 reviews29 followers
September 26, 2025
Allllllrighty then!.. *Let's just take a minute to see if my words will work*...

Yeah, no, I don't think they are! *Give me another minute*...

Ok, it's now the next day and I think the words are there?! Because yip, she went 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦.. and she also done 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵.. and then you would not believe what happened next!

And basically that was my brain throughout this whole read, the twists kept twisting, the turns kept turning, the connection between each of the characters is just pure perfection and the storyline is intense and I absolutely positively wholeheartedly loved it.

I'm not even sure what else I can say? It's a top read from a top series with top characters by a top author.

Five stars will never be enough for this series.
Profile Image for Ashley  Durden.
78 reviews1 follower
November 3, 2025
ARC REVIEW — Volatile King by Brooklyn Cross ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Holy. Cow.
This book was soul-crushing in the most intense, breathtaking way. From the very first chapter, my stomach was in knots—real, honest-to-goodness anxiety that had me on edge and even a little nauseous at times. That’s how deeply Brooklyn Cross pulled me into this war-torn, twisted world.

Every single one of the Kings stepped up and owned their role in the fight. Their loyalty, grit, and sacrifices hit so hard that I found myself holding my breath during scenes. I could feel the stakes rising with every page, and I never once wanted to look away.

And that cliffhanger… holy sh!t. I didn’t see it coming AT ALL. It left me gaping, frantically flipping the last page like, “Wait—no way that’s the end!”

Now I’m counting down the days until Vexatious Queen—because I need answers and I need them yesterday.

If you love dark, gut-wrenching academy mafia romance with high-stakes battles, jaw-dropping twists, and characters who fight like hell for the people they love, this one is a must-read.

🔥 5/5 Stars — Absolutely unforgettable!
Profile Image for XxnightxowlxX74.
1,197 reviews8 followers
September 30, 2025
Queens?…

This was jam packed with so many twists, turns and jaw dropping moments! We get more information but with that cliffhanger, gives side eye to Brooklyn, we now have a helluva lot of questions!!

This series has taken me on such an emotional ride. I have to keep the tissues close cause I never know what’s going to happen next that breaks my heart! This one really has some gut wrenching moments.

I literally can’t wait for the next book! I need to know Who? What? Where? When? Why? How?
Profile Image for Deesirius.
251 reviews4 followers
September 29, 2025
What can I even say about this book? BC absolutely killed it! I never doubted for a second, but wow—this one was a beast! At nearly 670 pages, and it was action-packed from start to finish. We are not worthy!

No filler, no wasted scenes. Just pure intensity and smut so scorching you might not even be able to handle it—especially that one scene halfway through (iykyk 👀).

This was truly Nash’s book, and I’ve been waiting forever for it. Both Myles and Nash are at their most vulnerable here, and it hit so hard. Nash also being the perfect brother/leader was also a great side to see. As for his worship of Ren and his romantic throughts and poetic words towards how much he truly loves this girl....?! This man could have only been written by a woman and it shows.



Blake does get a bit more spotlight, and while he’s still the MMC I connect with the least, I can appreciate the effort to build him up more.

Liam/Theo? ZERO notes. We just need more scenes of them. ⚔️

As for Ren, a regal queen as always. Our queen is putting in the work!

Although dont try to get me on Vicky's side, its not going to happen, we finally get a background the whole Eddie/Vicky thing as well. Something i was eager to know.

Alright....now as for that ending… absolutely brutal. Gut-wrenching, devastating, electrifying—it had my adrenaline spiking. I have zero notes. Just when you think you’re getting this magical conclusion, BC slams us with a DIABOLICAL epilogue. My jaw was literally on the floor.

The cruelest part? The next book doesn’t drop until mid-February. At this rate, I’ll have aged a decade before this series wraps up. Please, Brooklyn—can we get a December release? Because honestly, I have no idea how I’m supposed to survive the next four months without this series.
Profile Image for Feather Dawn.
51 reviews
October 21, 2025
Five Books Later, Still Ferally Obsessed—and Frothing for the Final One 🖤

Mafia heirs, found family, and one FMC who owns them all.

Omg omg omg 😱 this series, you guys… I’m officially in book hangover mode.

The Kings of Wayward Academy has become one of my favorite mafia romance series ever. I just finished book 5 and can’t wait for book 6—it’s a slow burn that just keeps getting deeper, more emotional, and more addictive with every book.

The story starts strong and somehow gets better and better as you go. Every character has their own trauma, growth, and purpose—and by the time you hit book 4, things start connecting in ways that will blow your mind 🤯 It’s smart, it’s layered, and it’s not predictable (beyond the obvious 😉).

And yes, it’s a why choose series, and such a good one. The relationships build naturally over time, the spice doesn’t even really start until book 3, and by book 4? 🔥 Let’s just say it’s earned. The slow burn makes it all hit that much harder.

There are a few dark and disturbing moments—it is mafia after all—but nothing feels gratuitous. Everything has meaning and weight, and it’s all done so well.

I’m so not ready to let go 🖤 The growth, the fallout, the connections… everything just clicks. This series is definitely staying in my top favorites, and let’s be real… at least two of the guys have officially joined my book boyfriend harem. 😏.

If you love mafia romance, academy settings, and characters who will absolutely own your heart—this is one of those “trust me and just read it already” series. 👀🔥
Profile Image for The_Book_Brat.
943 reviews162 followers
September 24, 2025
*Why Choose
*Contemporary
*Multi-PoV
*Academy
*TWs - Dark Themes
*Innocent FMC
*Criminal World
*Slow burn
*Established Harem (5)
*inc MM romance
*6/7
Speechless 😶 🖤
Oh my gosh there’s sooo much going on in this book 😳 this book picks up in the aftermath of the crash that’s left Ren with some issues to work through 😖 it’s heart wrenching to see her struggle after everything she’s already been through! However honestly I think Nash has it the worst in this book 😢 honestly tears were shed when you realise all that his Lawrence and his mother have put him through 😡😡🤬🤬 poor Ren becomes a safe harbour for her men as piece by piece secrets unravel (will say though the thanksgiving dinner scene made me LOL!!) Ghosts from the past crop up for various parts of this and the wider family making everyone question who can really be trusted, but in ways it brings them even closer as a family unit 🥰 I loved that Ren and Eddie get their moments and that their is some element hard earned of revenge 🔫🔪Although a chonk of a book (love it!) something is continuously happening whether it’s emotional growth, a super spicy scene or some sort of drama, it never felt slow and never dragged - it had great pace and balance. It’s an intricate plot that I feel is only gonna explode even more after that cliffhanger 😱
Profile Image for angelictaleslibrary.
520 reviews12 followers
September 26, 2025
Five stars aren’t enough for this masterpiece!

Intense, addictive, and emotionally wrecking in the best way!”

Brooklyn Cross has completely ruined me—in the best way possible. Volatile King grabs you by the throat from page one and refuses to let go. This book is a full-blown emotional rollercoaster: the secrets, the betrayals, the jaw-dropping twists… I was hooked.

The chemistry between Ren and her Kings is beyond magnetic. Every look, every line of dialogue is charged with tension—whether it’s love, rage, or pure obsession. And the character growth? Incredible. You feel every ounce of fear, every flicker of hope, every ounce of pain. No one writes chaos and heartache like Cross does, and she somehow balances it with moments so tender they took my breath away.

This series just keeps getting better, and Volatile King might be my favorite yet. If you’re looking for something dark, emotionally raw, and absolutely unforgettable—this is it.

If I were to sum it up in a sentence: Volatile King is a blazing, heartbreaking, and unputdownable ride—one of the best in the series so far.
Profile Image for Jennifer.
32 reviews
September 26, 2025
I got this book as an arc read so I wanna say thank you for this opportunity. I was a fan the second I picked up the first book.❤️🖤

OK, first of all this book was the best one so far in the series. It started off right where book 4 left off, so many things unfolded that I honestly couldn’t predict them even if I tried I was left speechless. This book was so drama packed I’m talking about like from beginning to end something was always happening no boring parts at all.I’m extremely happy I was able to read this book, but I do want to say Brooklyn … count your days😂 I was not expecting that loss towards the end💔. Also bravo on that ending because wowwww did not see that coming AT ALL . 10/10 cant wait for the next book that one is going to be explosive !
Profile Image for Dawn Higgins.
907 reviews16 followers
September 29, 2025
OMG WOW! what the hell did i just read. Just one word needed for this book "MASTERPIECE".

I have no words how amazing this book was, and that ending has left me with more questions that answers, what a huge cliff hanger that was that i never saw coming at all WOW!
Can't wait to see how this next book can top this one, but i just know it will. Superb again from Brooklyn deserves so much more than 5 stars.
Profile Image for ShaReads.
101 reviews1 follower
October 19, 2025
Did I just rot in bed all day and night and read this entire series. Yes. Yes I did. WHAT A SERIES. I know there’s one more book left but as I wait for the next book to come out I just had to spill my thoughts on what I just read.

The rollercoaster this series had, AMAZING. Truly gave what I’ve been craving. The hurt comfort, THE PAIN OH MY GOODNESS. I was in actually tears for this book and many of the others but this one made me cry. Not only does Ren go through it but each and everyone of the guys as well. So much pain and loss, but twists too I NEED THE NEXT BOOK NOW!!!

AND WHY MY GIRL ELLA. MY SHAYLA 😭😭😭😭😭 U DONT UNDERSTAND HOW DEVASTATING THAT WAS.

💔 heart is broken, give me more 😔
Profile Image for Teresa Juckett (Love Dark Reads) .
2,510 reviews44 followers
October 11, 2025
Once again this author leaves me on the edge of my seat dangling from one of her wtf clifhangers, and I can't wait for more. I have been pulled through wringer ever since I started this series with all the twists and turns and don't see the end in sight only the need for more and more. As I mentioned it does end on a wtf cliffhanger that leaves you wondering wth did I just read.
Profile Image for Bookish Lady Night.
529 reviews15 followers
October 12, 2025
Meltdown Monday: Book Review Volatile King by: Brooklyn Cross

This book shattered me into a thousand pieces while simultaneously building me back together. I am shookish after finishing this book! The amount of twists and turns this series just took has flipped my mind on its axis and I’m literally bursting at the seams for book 7 like when will it get my Smigel hands on it Brooklyn? I am completely and utterly enthralled with this series and its characters. I was gripping my emotional support Kindle for dear life while reading this it was so good! Have tissues… and a fan esp for chapter 42 🥵 because you will go through the gambit of emotions! This is a series so if you have been under a rock and not read it yet be sure to start at book one because nothing will make sense if you jump in on book 6. But the ENTIRE series that’s released is available on KU so you really don’t have any excuses for not reading it. Also Brooklyn where is the door that I can travel through to go live in there!?!? Or being Halloween what spell can I cast to have my own version of the Kings? Love ya! Can’t wait to go live with you and talk all about this book! Oh holy hotness Nash!!!

Favorite Quotes:

“She was a mysterious miracle that had managed to put a broken man back together with a fierceness that challenged me every second. To be better, to be more, to be the best, and worthy.”

“I don’t just want you… I need you. The kind of need that can drive a man mad and make a monster out of a saint.”
Smirking, I signed. You were never a saint.

“Even if the world crumbles around us, you’ll be the first and last thing I reach for,” I whispered in her ear.

“Ren, every scar I have is a map of where I’ve been torn apart. But when you look at me like I’m worth something, you sew those pieces back into place.”

“You fucking do something to me that I can’t explain. And I’m going to prove we’re meant to be, because I’m not letting you go. You’re mine, Princess. You are my queen.”

⚠️ Check your triggers there are several in this book!

🤷‍♀️ Why Choose
💬 Multi-PoV
🏫 Academy
🥀Dark Themes
💁‍♀️Innocent FMC
🔥Slow burn
🥵Established Harem (5)
💗MM romance
Profile Image for kaylaschapterchats.
517 reviews31 followers
September 26, 2025
Um, I'm sorry Brooklyn, what in the actual f*** did I just read. I don't know how Brooklyn does it, but she blows my mind. Absolute perfection!!!

We jumped right back into this world, and it was chaos from the get-go. Ren is faced with a tough road ahead as she recovers from the crash that almost took out herself and her father, Eddie. Yeah, OMG. As Ren heals, more and more secrets are discovered, and let me tell you, it's not what I thought in the slightest. Ren and Nash work out their differences, but just when they find their peace, Nash's world shatters when something or rather someone steps back into his life. His only lifeline is Ren, and I love that he goes to her, I think they both need it and deserve that. I love Nash. I do. He's so unhinged, but his love for Ren is real. Ren and her guys continue to go from strength to strength, but boys can be dumb sometimes and keep Ren in the dark, which she isn't happy about. Ren and Eddie finally get the opportunity to spend time together, and that was the cutest.

I don't want to give anything away, so I will just say terrible things go down with Lawrence, and i did shed some tears, so be prepared. Also, be prepared for the insane cliffhanger, that s*** was f***ing wild, and I never would have guessed, but also, it makes perfect sense. I'm really excited for you to read this. I still have many questions, though, but all good, i'll get answered soon enough.

Also, please check your triggers because your mental health matters 💚

I would like to make note that the Thanksgiving scene made me laugh so hard. It's what was needed 😂

What a read!!! 🙌🙌🙌

Thank you so much, Brooklyn, Brianna, and your lovely team for the opportunity to read this story. I am extremely blessed to be a part of your ARC team 🙏

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 🌶🌶🌶🌶

❄️ why choose
❄️ multiple pov
❄️ found family
❄️ mafia
❄️ dark romance
❄️ hidden marriage
❄️ possessive and unhinged mmc's
❄️ so many dark secrets uncovered
❄️ much more
Profile Image for Erin.
3,526 reviews78 followers
October 22, 2025
“I don’t just want you… I need you. The kind of need that can drive a man mad and make a monster out of a saint.”

OMG! The amount of emotional turmoil, heartbreak, and trauma that is in this part of the story kept me in tears continually throughout. And that ending had me sobbing like crazy. It was one hell of a rollercoaster ride of insane emotions from start to finish.

Ren is growing in strength and fierceness. Little things are getting to her but she’s overcoming them the best way she can and not letting it destroy her.

Nash, Theo, Blake, Myles and Liam continue to love, protect and support Ren through every trauma, heartbreak and tragedy that continues to befall her. I love seeing how much stronger their bond as a unique family is getting tighter and tighter as the story progresses. They are finally coming to terms of the fact that none of them are going anywhere ever.

Nash, oh my gosh, this man goes through so freaking much in this story that it just shattered my heart. The secrets that are revealed to him and the gut-wrenching truths that come out broke me into pieces for him.

The spice is top tier, and nothing compares to the way Brooklyn writes smutty scenes. It’s filthy, smutty and utterly delicious.

The writing is phenomenal, and the storyline is filled with suspense, mystery, violence, brutality, and insanely shocking twists and turns that kept me glued to the pages.

I was not prepared for how things would all play out towards the end and then that epilogue – WTF! I need the next book now!

“You fucking do something to me that I can’t explain. And I’m going to prove we’re meant to be, because I’m not letting you go. You’re mine, Princess. You are my queen.”

Profile Image for Jenn Winning.
410 reviews
September 26, 2025
Seriously, I don’t know what Brooklyn is infusing into these stories, but they just keep getting better and better!!

Filled with so much trauma, grief, betrayal and loss, these characters have been through hell and back! But under all that turmoil is so much growth, recovery, hope, and unconditional love that it makes the pain of the past worth reconciling.

I loved the relationships in this series, but especially in this book. There is so much growth to be had all around. Nash is stepping up and into his role as leader and has the best role models along the way. I love watching him rise to the occasion and actual handle the traumas of his past in order to claim the future he is working to build with Ren and the guys by his side. He and Liam have the best conversations and I simply adore them both.

And let’s talk about the guys. The way they have each other’s backs yet are not afraid to call each other on their bullshit is true brotherly love right there. As Ren points out, they compliment each other so well and fill in the missing piece in each puzzle. I loved watching each of them face their inner demons and shine a little brighter along the way.

And our dear Ren, who remains as stubborn and determined as ever. Traits she will certainly need as we move into the next book in the series. Especially after that cliffhanger ending that left staring at my kindle, mouth agape, hoping there was more to the bomb Brooklyn just dropped on us all.

I cannot wait to see what comes next after the monster revelations in this book. I am ready for Ren to step out of the ashes, don her crown with her kings by her side, and claim her kingdom, once and for all!
Profile Image for Justine Gingras.
128 reviews
September 30, 2025
Rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

POV:  multi

Tropes: Why choose, RH, Dark Academia, Criminal Families / world, mafia ties, MM, MMFMM, Found Family, Hidden/Forced Marriage, Secrets, J/P MMC, Morally Grey

Even if the world crumbles around us, you’ll be the first and last thing I reach for..

Every time I think I have it figured out Brooklyn goes and throws in something new that I wasn’t expecting! BUT! That ending! Oof, I CANNOT wait to see what happens next. Not only did it end with an insane plot twist but also left me with so many questions about what could have possibly happened.

Volatile King picks up right where we were left in the last book and left wondering what was going to happen. The number of secrets, twists and surprises that are unveiled is next level. The Thanksgiving Scene is probably one of my favorites from this series and I even at one point felt a little bad for a certain character that I never thought I would feel bad or like….and I even am starting to like them a little bit…Nash has grown so much and I love his character even more now that he has stepped into his role more.

As always the Kings are pure perfection and I loved every second of them. Ren continued to be the bad@ss FMC that is at the top of my list and love how her character has grown.

I have feelings about two things that happened and without giving it away, I can only hope that we are going to be thrown for another loop when we find out what really happened.
Profile Image for Savanna Hamrick.
172 reviews2 followers
November 9, 2025
It picks up right where Rebellious Rook left off and hooked me from the first page. It's fast paced and packed with action, spice and twists. It's both gut wrenching and heartwarming. While each book dives deeper into one specific relationship in the why choose, they connect as a whole story that is intricately woven. The characters all have such big personalities that they seem to exist off the pages and will be impossible to ever forget.


I love how Ren is relearning her speech. The relationship she has with her men are strong and so real in this book. My heart goes to Nash in this book, he’s been through enough and bringing back his supposed dead ex was the push over along with his son being alive and his father and mother raising him. Ren and Vicky were on a rocky point but after they are going okay. If Vicky says Mya needs to go then that’s a good sign. The spice and plot and emotions were on point. I absolutely love Ren and Eddies father and daughter relationship, they both needed it badly. Thanksgiving dinner made me laugh 10/10 Trauma dumping and Turkey! Ren was a queen as always. She’s still stubborn but it makes her the person she is. This book is THICK but worth the read if you read the other ones in this series. It never drags out, every chapter brings something new and gut punch emotion. The cliffhanger!! MA’AM BROOKLYN😩🫣 you hurt me, why!!!
Profile Image for TrishSparklerReads.
379 reviews8 followers
September 25, 2025
@TrishSparklerReads Bookstagram:

“Volatile King” by Brooklyn Cross
Series:The Kings of Wayward Academy Book 5
(Ends on a Cliffhanger, books should be read in order)
Genre: Dark Romance Academia
POV: Multi

Rating: 5⭐️
Spice: 4🌶️
Darkness: 5🩶

Highlights:
🖤Why Choose
🖤Mafia
🖤Morally Grey MMCs

Thoughts:
This was another stellar book in the Kings series. I loved the convoluted plot and all the unforeseen twists and turns. It was great finally seeing more of Nash’s story and the budding relationship between Ren and her father. The found family aspect of this story continued to grow and we saw REN and her harem grow even closer. The spice was very high and I loved that we finally got a group scene that was super hot. I also really liked how Brooklyn dealt with REN’s brain injury. Her symptoms and progress were realistic and the whole topic was very well handled. I’m chomping at the bit for the final two books as I can’t even imagine what other surprises REN and her boys will face. This series is a five star read across the board.

🛑Please read all the author warnings as there are themes and events that could be triggering in this book. I received a free ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Heather Owen.
167 reviews
September 27, 2025
This is a review for Volatile King book 6 in
The Kings of Wayward Academy series by Brooklyn cross
First and foremost CHECK THE TRIGGER WARNINGS
Second make sure you have a couple boxes of tissues and some water to stay hydrated because this book will make you cry.
To say that this book is a roller coaster of emotions is truly an understatement.

The emotional tug of war starts from the very first chapter and does not end. You will go from raging to tears in the blink of an eye. You will find Hope and lose it and get it back again only to repeat the process. You will find a little compassion for a certain character and might even think they are redeemable. This book is a must read. By the end you won't know what to do or how to feel. And of course as with all the others in this series The cliffy Queen strikes again and this one is a doozy.
This is all I can say without giving spoilers and I hate giving spoilers on a really good book. I hope you enjoy I know I did.
The Kings of Wayward Academy series is a Why Choose MMFMMM Mafia Romance series that must me read in order.
1. Disobedient Pawn
2. Defiant Knight
3. Intolerable Bishop
4. Rebellious Rook
5. Queens Gambit
6. Volatile King
Profile Image for Brooklyn .
39 reviews
November 23, 2025
The fact that Ella died is sooo sad 😭Neal died. Mya, which was the girl Nash was in love with, ended up dying. Nash’s son was died all along. So happy Ren said yes to Nash.

One thing I love is how the relationships worked. So like first it was Liam and Theo, then they added Ren to the mix. No one else was in that relationship.
Another one is first it was just Myles and Ren. Then Blake joined the mix. It was just them 3, no one else.
I feel like Nash having his own relationship with Ren and how it was made / built was really cool.

What happened to Ren was soo sad. Basically someone’s father ( I think Myles’) crashed into the car that Ren, her father (the person that her mom was in love with, but wasn’t her actually father) and a driver. Pretty sure she hit her head. And she ended up having something. It was where she would think and know what to say, but her mouth couldn’t say it. And also she forgot some things, like she has lost some of her memories.
Sign language became her best friend in the beginning after her accident because she couldn’t speak that well, but knew what to say.
Tell me why before the crash, she found out everything her mom was hiding, then that happens, like whyyy???

So 4.75 stars. ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️. 5 /5
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
3,289 reviews70 followers
October 4, 2025
Dark why choose , mafia romance, secrets , Academia and Rivalries , found family , twists and tunes , murder , hidden / forced marriage , revenge , morally gray MMC’s touch her and die vibes , MMFMMM and MM , all the steam you could ever ask for and so much more . Book 6 already , phew this series just keeps getting better and better. I truly am obsessed. Let me just say I was not prepared , not prepared at all fof the crazy and wild ride Brooklyn just took me on . Finally Nash gets his turn to shine in Volatile King . We learn so much more about what makes him tick . And I have to be completely honest there were so many moments I was trying to figure out how I truly felt about him . Did I love him , did I hate him . Well let me just say he definitely manages to redeem himself in this book . What I came to realize is that. Nash has so many different layers and complexities to his character . Words really cannot even start to express all the emotions I was reeling from either . I mean speechless, yelling , laughing, crying and cheering those are only a few . Volatile King really is a journey you simply need to experience for yourself. Trust me you will not be disappointed.
Profile Image for Ariel Bermudez.
101 reviews8 followers
September 22, 2025
✨Received an ARC✨

I don’t have words for how amazing this book is.

This book took me on a roller coaster of emotions and brought so many twists and turns with it.

First off, let’s talk about Ren and her relationship with Eddie. I loved their progression with their father/daughter relationship. His love for her is so sweet and powerful. Her desire to know him and how she truly feels loved and happy is such a heart warming piece of the story.

Next is her relationship with Nash👀 um the bomb that was dropped. I loved how they worked it out. I felt such anxiety for Ren with all that she has gone through and then to have to navigate all of that mess on top of it was just pure crazy.

They boys are amazing as usual. The love, support, and care they show Ren during her recovery is touching. She is worried about being broken and all they care about is her being alive.

I would love to talk about all the other crazy stuff that happened but that would be so much spoilers. This book was just an amazing ride and I cannot wait for the next one.
Profile Image for Tara.
179 reviews2 followers
September 28, 2025
Hands down my favorite book of the series so far. Don’t get me wrong, all of these books have been 4.5 stars and up for me, but this one, THIS ONE, gets all the freaking stars! By far the most emotional book yet. I laughed, I raged, I cried, and cried some more. There are new characters that I fell in love with, and old characters that I thoroughly couldn’t stand in previous books, but damn my resolve has started to crack for them. This story just keeps getting more complex with more twists and turns and surprises I never would’ve predicted. And that cliffhanger?! I CAN’T!
Look, I don’t write long reviews, because I don’t need to reiterate the synopsis that you can just read on the back of the book, nor do I want to spoil anything about the story. If you are looking for a mafia, why choose dark romance that takes place in an academy setting, then give this series a try. I promise you will have a good time..especially if you like longer series. It absolutely needs to be read in order!
Brooklyn, you’re an amazing writer and I am so grateful to be a part of your street team! XO
20 reviews1 follower
October 10, 2025
Nothing like going back to Wayward with Ren and the boys to get me through a MAJOR reading slump.

The pace initially of this book was slower which typically drives me crazy but it flowed so well that you didn't even notice and couldn't put it down. And let's be real, how many of us were impatiently waiting for Nash's book?!

The growth of Nash in this book was perfection. The small cracks we saw in his demeanor over for the first 4 books were small windows into the parts he didn't show. This book dug into every raw emotion and he had so much character development by the end, while still holding true to major parts of his personality.

I've read books with major gotcha moments and cliffhangers that had me immediately needing the next book. But THIS! My mouth was on the floor for the last few chapters. I saw none of it coming and was on an emotional rollercoaster of WHAT IS EVEN HAPPENING.

As always, Brooklyn doesn't disappoint. I can't wait for the next book but also am dreading this series being over!
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