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Once & Forever Kings #2
Veiled in Argent
Camelot endures. Old love has been reforged in flame. The Once races toward the Future, leaving the world irrevocably changed.
"For all the days that were taken from us... and for every single moment of forever that I want at your side..."
Nine months have passed since the day Morgan and Aaron went crashing back into each other's arms. While hesitant to leave that small world all their own, life in the neon city moves at a pace far beyond that of home. Spending their days combatting the rifts, navigating the scrutiny of the public eye, and managing the hottest up-and-coming club—and their nights tangled up in one another—Etna's bad boy witch and his ex-cop turned merc are making their own path.
With a single question, Aaron has plans to walk that path forever—no matter what ghosts of their past come screaming out of the dark.
"What is magic even worth if it costs me the ones I want to share it with?"
Saving the day came at a terrible cost for Shane McMillan. Now the second apprentice of Morgan Fell, learning things he'd only dreamed of, every step toward his lost power seems more hopeless. When a solid lead brings yet more disappointment, Shane makes a deal with the devil, and the price of what he wants most becomes far too steep.
Hold on tight for the ride back into Etna City with the second installment of Once & Forever Kings. Veiled in Argent promises a rollercoaster of heated romance, laugh out loud banter, and plenty of open door spice. Morgan, Aaron, and their magical found family return—and the fight for forever begins.
"For all the days that were taken from us... and for every single moment of forever that I want at your side..."
Nine months have passed since the day Morgan and Aaron went crashing back into each other's arms. While hesitant to leave that small world all their own, life in the neon city moves at a pace far beyond that of home. Spending their days combatting the rifts, navigating the scrutiny of the public eye, and managing the hottest up-and-coming club—and their nights tangled up in one another—Etna's bad boy witch and his ex-cop turned merc are making their own path.
With a single question, Aaron has plans to walk that path forever—no matter what ghosts of their past come screaming out of the dark.
"What is magic even worth if it costs me the ones I want to share it with?"
Saving the day came at a terrible cost for Shane McMillan. Now the second apprentice of Morgan Fell, learning things he'd only dreamed of, every step toward his lost power seems more hopeless. When a solid lead brings yet more disappointment, Shane makes a deal with the devil, and the price of what he wants most becomes far too steep.
Hold on tight for the ride back into Etna City with the second installment of Once & Forever Kings. Veiled in Argent promises a rollercoaster of heated romance, laugh out loud banter, and plenty of open door spice. Morgan, Aaron, and their magical found family return—and the fight for forever begins.
418 pages, Paperback
Published June 3, 2025
2 people are currently reading
41 people want to read
About the author
Jonathan Hawker
5 books38 followersJonathan Hawker is a queer fantasy author, with a love for magic, all things supernatural, and endlessly witty banter.
Born and raised in Michigan, he lives with his husband, Keiri, and their three cats. Between writing, he enjoys gaming—both video and tabletop—constant EDM music, and of course, reading as much MM fiction as he can get his hands on.
Born and raised in Michigan, he lives with his husband, Keiri, and their three cats. Between writing, he enjoys gaming—both video and tabletop—constant EDM music, and of course, reading as much MM fiction as he can get his hands on.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
June 23, 2025
I really enjoyed Veiled in Argent! This story was even better than the first book. Everything from the magic and the action to the relationships and the spice was dialed up a notch. Aaron and Morgan are an amazing couple and I’m excited to see where the story goes next!
May 20, 2025
Buckle up everyone because I don't think y'all are ready for this. I was NOT and I am NOT OK.
Things are heating up in Etna and Aaron and Morgan are right in the middle of it all as expected. I feel like no matter what I say I can't do this series justice because it's just that good. Book 1, while fantastic in its own right, really set the stage for Veiled in Argent to shine.
Action starts immediately for our wayward round table as Aaron and Morgan venture deeper into the secrets and conspiracies Esotech holds. I think what's so special about this series is balancing the very intricate plot and world building, while managing to maintain the desperately romantic storyline. To be honest, although it definitely is a romance, the label doesn't really do it justice since I'd read it for the complex and exciting action plot alone. Basically it's got all you could want, and yes. I want it.
On top of all this, I've fallen in love with all the characters surrounding Aaron and Morgan. Daphne, Shane, Frey, and all the other members of the round table each add their own spark to the story and all do their very best to steal the spotlight when given the chance.
Also I read the no spice version of book 1 and um. Well 😂 let's just say I was not prepared for the heat to be the way it was. Mainly because Aaron and Morgan love each other so much so it's all just so emotional and connected and god I am such a push over sap but the moment queer people love each other I keel over and die.
This series is quite unique and expensive and I'm so glad I found it. Packed full of sprawling adventures and queer joy, this futuristic retelling of the Arthurian legends will satisfy mythology geeks and sci-fi lovers alike.
Veiled In Argent is out June 3rd!
*Thanks so much to the author for an ARC!
Things are heating up in Etna and Aaron and Morgan are right in the middle of it all as expected. I feel like no matter what I say I can't do this series justice because it's just that good. Book 1, while fantastic in its own right, really set the stage for Veiled in Argent to shine.
Action starts immediately for our wayward round table as Aaron and Morgan venture deeper into the secrets and conspiracies Esotech holds. I think what's so special about this series is balancing the very intricate plot and world building, while managing to maintain the desperately romantic storyline. To be honest, although it definitely is a romance, the label doesn't really do it justice since I'd read it for the complex and exciting action plot alone. Basically it's got all you could want, and yes. I want it.
On top of all this, I've fallen in love with all the characters surrounding Aaron and Morgan. Daphne, Shane, Frey, and all the other members of the round table each add their own spark to the story and all do their very best to steal the spotlight when given the chance.
Also I read the no spice version of book 1 and um. Well 😂 let's just say I was not prepared for the heat to be the way it was. Mainly because Aaron and Morgan love each other so much so it's all just so emotional and connected and god I am such a push over sap but the moment queer people love each other I keel over and die.
This series is quite unique and expensive and I'm so glad I found it. Packed full of sprawling adventures and queer joy, this futuristic retelling of the Arthurian legends will satisfy mythology geeks and sci-fi lovers alike.
Veiled In Argent is out June 3rd!
*Thanks so much to the author for an ARC!
June 2, 2025
I was lucky enough to receive an early arc of Veiled in Argent, and let me tell you, this book is absolutely PHENOMENAL. Awakening in Sapphire is hands down one of my favorite books of all time, and Jonathon did not disappoint with the sequel.
Set nine months after the events of Awakening in Sapphire, Veiled in Argent is a thrill ride from start to finish. It continues Morgan and Aaron’s story as they take a major step in their relationship, and also adds in scenes from our lovable disaster witch-in-training Shane’s point of view. Warning: you WILL want to smack him—and then give him a hug.
The found family at the heart of this series is one of my absolute favorites. The love and affection and easy acceptance they all have for each other is beautiful, and there are moments that I guarantee will make you cry.
With gorgeous prose and heart wrenching emotion, Aaron and Morgan’s legendary romance will leave you breathless, as will the shocking twists and turns of the high-octane storyline. Filled with both magic and tech, Veiled in Argent continues Sapphire’s perfect mashup of cyberpunk and fantasy, a neon backdrop to powerful magic that will remind you of anime-style battles.
Even in its darker moments, Veiled in Argent is overflowing with heart and soul and queer joy. The deep, abiding love Aaron and Morgan have for each other is steadfast and everlasting, a bond so strong it will resonate with you long after the last page is turned.
Veiled in Argent is the second book of the Once & Forever Kings series, and releases June 3, 2025. You DON’T want to miss it!!
Set nine months after the events of Awakening in Sapphire, Veiled in Argent is a thrill ride from start to finish. It continues Morgan and Aaron’s story as they take a major step in their relationship, and also adds in scenes from our lovable disaster witch-in-training Shane’s point of view. Warning: you WILL want to smack him—and then give him a hug.
The found family at the heart of this series is one of my absolute favorites. The love and affection and easy acceptance they all have for each other is beautiful, and there are moments that I guarantee will make you cry.
With gorgeous prose and heart wrenching emotion, Aaron and Morgan’s legendary romance will leave you breathless, as will the shocking twists and turns of the high-octane storyline. Filled with both magic and tech, Veiled in Argent continues Sapphire’s perfect mashup of cyberpunk and fantasy, a neon backdrop to powerful magic that will remind you of anime-style battles.
Even in its darker moments, Veiled in Argent is overflowing with heart and soul and queer joy. The deep, abiding love Aaron and Morgan have for each other is steadfast and everlasting, a bond so strong it will resonate with you long after the last page is turned.
Veiled in Argent is the second book of the Once & Forever Kings series, and releases June 3, 2025. You DON’T want to miss it!!
April 5, 2025
Veiled in Argent
The most anticipated read of 2025 was everything I hoped it would be. The long awaited return to Etna and the outstanding characters created by Jonathan Hawker is finally here.
Picking up following the events of Awakening in Sapphire our loveable heroes, Aaron Jones otherwise known as Mine 😍 and the grumpy sunshine we all love to love Morgan Fell, are back and continue to battle unseen forces in their bid to protect the city and its inhabitants.
The twists, turns, and suspenseful mystery surrounding the unknowns behind the curtain pulling invisible strings will keep you on the edge of your seat right until the epilogue. A story so thrilling it had me in tears, both with joy and sadness. It was truly an emotional rollercoaster. I never wanted to get off.
If Awakening in Sapphire was Magical Mythical and downright addictive then Veiled in Argent can only be described as Legandary, Suspenseful, and Downright Awesome.
Hawker's style of writing is such that you find yourself immersed in the story, feeling like you are part of the narrative and not merely a passenger. I dare you not to fall further in love with these characters and the family they have created.
The most anticipated read of 2025 was everything I hoped it would be. The long awaited return to Etna and the outstanding characters created by Jonathan Hawker is finally here.
Picking up following the events of Awakening in Sapphire our loveable heroes, Aaron Jones otherwise known as Mine 😍 and the grumpy sunshine we all love to love Morgan Fell, are back and continue to battle unseen forces in their bid to protect the city and its inhabitants.
The twists, turns, and suspenseful mystery surrounding the unknowns behind the curtain pulling invisible strings will keep you on the edge of your seat right until the epilogue. A story so thrilling it had me in tears, both with joy and sadness. It was truly an emotional rollercoaster. I never wanted to get off.
If Awakening in Sapphire was Magical Mythical and downright addictive then Veiled in Argent can only be described as Legandary, Suspenseful, and Downright Awesome.
Hawker's style of writing is such that you find yourself immersed in the story, feeling like you are part of the narrative and not merely a passenger. I dare you not to fall further in love with these characters and the family they have created.
June 4, 2025
Impeccable!!
Starting the second book in a fantasy series is always stressful. The characters all start so happy and honestly I could’ve just had 400 pages of House Fell’s shenanigans and been happy but as is always the case with these stories it’s all building to something.
The way this story kept me constantly on the edge of my seat, I was totally overwhelmed but in the best way.
The love I have for Aaron & Morgan and the whole gang is infinite.
I really love that these boys are put through the wringer but never ever question their love for each other. I don’t think I would cope if the conflict came from within their relationship.
So many twists I didn’t see coming, the author did a really good job of springing those on me.
Loved every minute of this and can hardly believe I have to WAIT for the next one
Starting the second book in a fantasy series is always stressful. The characters all start so happy and honestly I could’ve just had 400 pages of House Fell’s shenanigans and been happy but as is always the case with these stories it’s all building to something.
The way this story kept me constantly on the edge of my seat, I was totally overwhelmed but in the best way.
The love I have for Aaron & Morgan and the whole gang is infinite.
I really love that these boys are put through the wringer but never ever question their love for each other. I don’t think I would cope if the conflict came from within their relationship.
So many twists I didn’t see coming, the author did a really good job of springing those on me.
Loved every minute of this and can hardly believe I have to WAIT for the next one
June 1, 2025
Jonathan Hawker has become my new go-to for fantasy. I devoured this book in two days. Veiled in Argent picks up where we left off in Awakening in Sapphire. The boys…the boys are so swoon-worthy. Their relationship gave me all the feels. Make no mistake, though, this book has plot for days and the twists and turns it takes will have you holding onto your seat. This is a must-read if you love #mmromance and #fantasy.
June 5, 2025
Veiled in Argent
Aaron and Morgan
Yes! I have been so excited to read Veiled in Argent since first reading Awakening in Sapphire this past November. But waiting has been worth it!!! These characters and their story are nothing short of amazing. It's definitely a must-read! Once again, their story is a top read for me. I'll be patiently waiting for the next book.
Aaron and Morgan
Yes! I have been so excited to read Veiled in Argent since first reading Awakening in Sapphire this past November. But waiting has been worth it!!! These characters and their story are nothing short of amazing. It's definitely a must-read! Once again, their story is a top read for me. I'll be patiently waiting for the next book.
September 15, 2025
This was everything I loved about Awakening in Sapphire but better if that’s even possible. I love Jonathan’s ability to paint such beautiful pictures with his words. That ENDING hello???? This was such a ride and I cannot wait for the next chapter or Morgan and Aaron’s story.
May 5, 2025
OM GOODNESS THIS BOOK WAS SO GOOD!! I swear every other page I was like oh this is gonna happen AND THEN SOMETHING COMPLETELY DIFFERENT HAPPENS! This book was so incredibly amazing and I need the next one like yesterday!
July 6, 2025
Jonathan Hawker is one of my favorite queer fantasy authors of all time!
Aaron "Officer" Jones and Morgan (Love of my life) Fells come to life in the second fantasy retelling of Arthurian Lore. The round table meets cyber punk in the explosive city of Etna. Need I say more? Yes? ok.
Shane and Daphne warm and break my your heart with their story and discovering who they are at their core. And who could forget our fae fried Frey who enchants us over and over again with their magic.
There is spice... a lot of it, and then some. Best of all ther is action and adventure from cover to cover. READ THIS BOOK ASAP!
Aaron "Officer" Jones and Morgan (Love of my life) Fells come to life in the second fantasy retelling of Arthurian Lore. The round table meets cyber punk in the explosive city of Etna. Need I say more? Yes? ok.
Shane and Daphne warm and break my your heart with their story and discovering who they are at their core. And who could forget our fae fried Frey who enchants us over and over again with their magic.
There is spice... a lot of it, and then some. Best of all ther is action and adventure from cover to cover. READ THIS BOOK ASAP!
September 24, 2025
Here. We. Go. Again!
I swear, I didn’t think this series could get any bloody better and then I read THIS! This book was one of my most anticipated reads of 2025 and I was lucky enough to receive an arc and it hit every single spot! The way I become immersed in this world from page 1 is such a gift!
Veiled in Argent is the 3rd instalment in the Once and Forever Kings series! As predicted. This was funny, sweet, swoony, everything I expect from Mr Hawker when he is writing about our beautiful boys, Morgan and Aaron!
I cannot even put into words how excellent this man’s writing is. It’s witty, it’s realistic, it’s heartbreakingly beautiful. No one writes on page love declarations like Jonathan Hawker. Those damn words are enough to melt the coldest of hearts.
This book, much like its predecessor, is action packed, fast paced, sweeter than sugar, funnier that funny and has a found family aspect that I yearn to read. Oh, and a Shane, a beautiful, funny soul we all want to hug and keep safe!
Urgh, I love this series so god damn much! As I’ve already said, I received an arc of this book which blew my mind THEN I read the acknowledgements and SAW MY NAME! Did I cry? Yes? Did I take a picture so I can show everyone I know? Also YES! Please, for your own sake, pick up this series! It’s like a big, warm hug! The fourth instalment of this series cannot come quick enough..
Congratulations Johnny, on another fantastic book ❤️
***ARC***
I swear, I didn’t think this series could get any bloody better and then I read THIS! This book was one of my most anticipated reads of 2025 and I was lucky enough to receive an arc and it hit every single spot! The way I become immersed in this world from page 1 is such a gift!
Veiled in Argent is the 3rd instalment in the Once and Forever Kings series! As predicted. This was funny, sweet, swoony, everything I expect from Mr Hawker when he is writing about our beautiful boys, Morgan and Aaron!
I cannot even put into words how excellent this man’s writing is. It’s witty, it’s realistic, it’s heartbreakingly beautiful. No one writes on page love declarations like Jonathan Hawker. Those damn words are enough to melt the coldest of hearts.
This book, much like its predecessor, is action packed, fast paced, sweeter than sugar, funnier that funny and has a found family aspect that I yearn to read. Oh, and a Shane, a beautiful, funny soul we all want to hug and keep safe!
Urgh, I love this series so god damn much! As I’ve already said, I received an arc of this book which blew my mind THEN I read the acknowledgements and SAW MY NAME! Did I cry? Yes? Did I take a picture so I can show everyone I know? Also YES! Please, for your own sake, pick up this series! It’s like a big, warm hug! The fourth instalment of this series cannot come quick enough..
Congratulations Johnny, on another fantastic book ❤️
***ARC***
June 25, 2025
I just cant get enough of Morgan and Aaron. Witty banter and heartfelt love in two of my very favorite characters I've ever read ❤️ 5 stars everytime ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
June 3, 2025
Veiled in Argent is an absolutely incredible sequel to Awakening in Sapphire. Morgan and Aaron are back, and their story continues to be as engrossing, swoony, fun, and surprising as ever. When I first started this series, I wasn't sure what I would be getting into. While I had been aware of Arthurian Legend for a long while, mostly through cultural osmosis, I wouldn't say that I had been particularly knowledgeable about the specifics when I first picked up Sapphire. And *still* Hawker was able to weave a story so interesting and so compelling that I was able to get lost in it every single time I picked it up. So OF COURSE I had to read the second book in the series too. Honestly, Morgan and Aaron are some of the best MCs I've ever read, and Hawker's storytelling is nothing short of masterful. If you pick up the Once and Forever Kings series, you will find a story with a wonderful romance, hilarious banter, fully fleshed-out side characters, and incredible twists. Veiled in Argent is the perfect continuation of Morgan and Aaron's enchanting and magical love story, and I cannot wait for more.
June 3, 2025
I fell in love with Morgan and Aaron in book 1, but nothing could have prepared me for the vice-like hold they would have over me after book 2!
Already much beloved characters, to see their continued growth with each other and with their friends is truly amazing, and Jonathan has done a wonderful job of capturing each moment.
Much like all people who have loved ones they could not live without, more than one character tries to shoulder all the burdens. Enchantment awaits within spellbinding adventures, but no magic is stronger than the connection these characters have with each other. I guessed at some of the major plot points following book 1, but I did not guess all of them, and Jonathan still managed to surprise me on more than one occasion.
I adore Morgan, but Shane is now a close 2nd 😍 Sorry Aaron... 😅
Already much beloved characters, to see their continued growth with each other and with their friends is truly amazing, and Jonathan has done a wonderful job of capturing each moment.
Much like all people who have loved ones they could not live without, more than one character tries to shoulder all the burdens. Enchantment awaits within spellbinding adventures, but no magic is stronger than the connection these characters have with each other. I guessed at some of the major plot points following book 1, but I did not guess all of them, and Jonathan still managed to surprise me on more than one occasion.
I adore Morgan, but Shane is now a close 2nd 😍 Sorry Aaron... 😅
May 1, 2025
Omg!! Another cliffhanger,arg! End cliffhanger rant.
This is book two staring Aaron (King Arthur) & his broody witch Morgan LaFey and their cast of friends. I don’t normally read books like this, I don’t know much about Camelot but I love this series so far. Jonathan is a fantastic writer, he pulls you into this world and takes you on a wild journey of magic, witchcraft, technology of tomorrow & the love story of Aaron and Morgan. You have to read Awakening in Sapphire before this book and I’m assuming you have and you in for a ride with this story. There is spice and spice is spicy, like omg “is it hot in here or is it the book?” lol.
I’m not going to tell you anything else because I don’t to ruin the story for you. If you are wavering, just read it!!!
This is book two staring Aaron (King Arthur) & his broody witch Morgan LaFey and their cast of friends. I don’t normally read books like this, I don’t know much about Camelot but I love this series so far. Jonathan is a fantastic writer, he pulls you into this world and takes you on a wild journey of magic, witchcraft, technology of tomorrow & the love story of Aaron and Morgan. You have to read Awakening in Sapphire before this book and I’m assuming you have and you in for a ride with this story. There is spice and spice is spicy, like omg “is it hot in here or is it the book?” lol.
I’m not going to tell you anything else because I don’t to ruin the story for you. If you are wavering, just read it!!!
May 20, 2025
How did I not know there would be a third book?? I was so invested here, absolutely engrossed for the whole thing, including the moments I was panicking about what was going to happen. I loved seeing Aaron and Morgan together from the start in this one. I'm convinced all members of House Fell could lead their own story. And wow is the evil really evil.
I so appreciate the intricate storyline here, and weaving of the Arthurian legend. Very much a fan of the intricacies. Can't wait for the next one!
I so appreciate the intricate storyline here, and weaving of the Arthurian legend. Very much a fan of the intricacies. Can't wait for the next one!
June 9, 2025
Veiled in Argent really stands to show that the theory is true. The second is always better than the first!
Awakening in Sapphire draws you in and leaves you craving more, but Argent redefines every character in all new dimension. You truly get to understand where the story is going to go from here on.
Jonathan did an incredible job balancing the soft tender moments of romance with the incredibly vivid action packed scenes of Etna. Reminding you that this series will push the limits of what both Sci-Fi and Romantasy should strive for.
Awakening in Sapphire draws you in and leaves you craving more, but Argent redefines every character in all new dimension. You truly get to understand where the story is going to go from here on.
Jonathan did an incredible job balancing the soft tender moments of romance with the incredibly vivid action packed scenes of Etna. Reminding you that this series will push the limits of what both Sci-Fi and Romantasy should strive for.
September 26, 2025
AAAAAAAAAHHH!!!!!
I LOVED every single page of this book. devoured. DEVOURED. (But in my slow, savoring way because I'm a slow reader.)
the upped spice level from book 1 was amazing, and SO WELL written. The pacing is perfection, I was never bored, I was never wondering when the next plot point was coming, or why a sex scene was happening. Everything was just solid and perfect, and beautiful.
Emphasis on the beautiful, because this. is. beautiful. the story. the love. the characters. everything!!
And, so.............I need the next installment. NEED IT.
I LOVED every single page of this book. devoured. DEVOURED. (But in my slow, savoring way because I'm a slow reader.)
the upped spice level from book 1 was amazing, and SO WELL written. The pacing is perfection, I was never bored, I was never wondering when the next plot point was coming, or why a sex scene was happening. Everything was just solid and perfect, and beautiful.
Emphasis on the beautiful, because this. is. beautiful. the story. the love. the characters. everything!!
And, so.............I need the next installment. NEED IT.
Read
June 9, 2025DNF 25% - just a bit bored, and tired of everyone finding the happy couple so dreamy
August 16, 2025
Veiled in Argent is the second book in the Once and Forever Kings series.
I'm going to suffer because I skipped from the first book to the second in no time and I have to wait for the third one. Yes, there is a third, and I thank the author every day for this.
Back in Etna, Morgan and Aaron continue his story of love, facing fame and the obstacles that life throws at them.
It follows the events of the first book, in their fight against the company that has imprisoned witches to get their power. But in this book, we know who is behind this company, which is an old acquaintance of the boys. I say no more.
Secrets are revealed, some secondary characters fall in love and there is a cliffhanger at the end, which leaves you wanting to jump into the third book.
The book is very good, I enjoyed it very much. Looking forward to reading the third one.
·I received a copy of this and this is my voluntary and honest opinion·
I'm going to suffer because I skipped from the first book to the second in no time and I have to wait for the third one. Yes, there is a third, and I thank the author every day for this.
Back in Etna, Morgan and Aaron continue his story of love, facing fame and the obstacles that life throws at them.
It follows the events of the first book, in their fight against the company that has imprisoned witches to get their power. But in this book, we know who is behind this company, which is an old acquaintance of the boys. I say no more.
Secrets are revealed, some secondary characters fall in love and there is a cliffhanger at the end, which leaves you wanting to jump into the third book.
The book is very good, I enjoyed it very much. Looking forward to reading the third one.
·I received a copy of this and this is my voluntary and honest opinion·
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews