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Ace of Spades
For thirty-two years, I was his devoted right hand man. Until loyalty stopped being enough.
I built Algerone Caisse-Etremont's mercenary empire from nothing. Cleaned up his messes, silenced his enemies, buried his secrets.
All except one.
The betrayal he never saw coming. The one that shattered everything.
Now he looks at me like I'm a stranger wearing a familiar face. Keeps me close because he needs me, distant because I haven't earned forgiveness. I'd drop to my knees and beg if he gave me the chance.
He won't. Not yet.
Then someone tries to buy me.
Our biggest rival thinks he can make the right offer. Like thirty-two years of loyalty has a price tag.
He's wrong about the money.
But he's right about one thing—I can break.
And the moment Algerone's hands close around my throat, the moment he finally takes what we've spent decades pretending didn't exist, I see it
I was never his employee.
I was always his.
And I'll kill for the right to prove it.
Welcome to the Kings of Fortune series, where power has a price and loyalty cuts both ways. This spin-off from Wayward Sons can be read as a complete standalone—no prior reading required.
I built Algerone Caisse-Etremont's mercenary empire from nothing. Cleaned up his messes, silenced his enemies, buried his secrets.
All except one.
The betrayal he never saw coming. The one that shattered everything.
Now he looks at me like I'm a stranger wearing a familiar face. Keeps me close because he needs me, distant because I haven't earned forgiveness. I'd drop to my knees and beg if he gave me the chance.
He won't. Not yet.
Then someone tries to buy me.
Our biggest rival thinks he can make the right offer. Like thirty-two years of loyalty has a price tag.
He's wrong about the money.
But he's right about one thing—I can break.
And the moment Algerone's hands close around my throat, the moment he finally takes what we've spent decades pretending didn't exist, I see it
I was never his employee.
I was always his.
And I'll kill for the right to prove it.
Welcome to the Kings of Fortune series, where power has a price and loyalty cuts both ways. This spin-off from Wayward Sons can be read as a complete standalone—no prior reading required.
335 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 15, 2026
61 people are currently reading
190 people want to read
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January 24, 2026
“So here’s our truth.” His green eyes bored into mine. “I choose you anyway. Not because I forgive you. Not because love conquers all or any of that horseshit. But because the alternative would require me to become someone I’m not. Someone who can let go. And we both know I’m too fucked up for that.”
The honesty of it knocked the air from my lungs more effectively than Shaw’s bullet.
“This is what we are now,” he continued. “Scarred. Angry. Choosing each other daily despite the damage. Can you live with that? Knowing I wake up pissed about what you took from me, then choose you anyway because I’m too twisted to do anything else?”
“Yes,” I managed. “Because I’m just as twisted. I’d rather have your anger than anyone else’s love. Because the day we met, I decided you were worth my price, and that hasn’t changed.”
i’m obsessed!!! the tension and yearning (for 32 fucking years 😭) between Maxime and Algerone omg. i loved Maxime!! i know he was the one who betrayed Algerone, but his unwavering loyalty towards him, despite Algerone giving him the cold shoulder, i just wanted to give him a hug. i also understood Algerone’s perspective and why he was so angry after discovering what Maxime had kept from him (not only bc of the what, but also the simple fact that Algerone trusted him for so many years only for that trust to waver and second guessing everything they had been through). i loved their moments throughout this whole book, but especially once we finally see them give in to how they feel, despite the conflict still looming over them and how they couldn’t resist the pull anymore. 🥹 oh, and i personally love that it was Algerone who made the first move all those years ago, even if it led to Maxime rejecting him bc he wanted Algerone’s focus to be towards the empire they were trying to build. i haven’t read the books of Algerone’s kids but i noticed they have their own series so i do wanna get around to it at some point and i hope Reid will have his own book in the future! i’d love to read more about him. i also loved the plot and how action packed it was. the scenes with Shaw had me stressed but i loved seeing Algerone in torture mode lol.
The honesty of it knocked the air from my lungs more effectively than Shaw’s bullet.
“This is what we are now,” he continued. “Scarred. Angry. Choosing each other daily despite the damage. Can you live with that? Knowing I wake up pissed about what you took from me, then choose you anyway because I’m too twisted to do anything else?”
“Yes,” I managed. “Because I’m just as twisted. I’d rather have your anger than anyone else’s love. Because the day we met, I decided you were worth my price, and that hasn’t changed.”
i’m obsessed!!! the tension and yearning (for 32 fucking years 😭) between Maxime and Algerone omg. i loved Maxime!! i know he was the one who betrayed Algerone, but his unwavering loyalty towards him, despite Algerone giving him the cold shoulder, i just wanted to give him a hug. i also understood Algerone’s perspective and why he was so angry after discovering what Maxime had kept from him (not only bc of the what, but also the simple fact that Algerone trusted him for so many years only for that trust to waver and second guessing everything they had been through). i loved their moments throughout this whole book, but especially once we finally see them give in to how they feel, despite the conflict still looming over them and how they couldn’t resist the pull anymore. 🥹 oh, and i personally love that it was Algerone who made the first move all those years ago, even if it led to Maxime rejecting him bc he wanted Algerone’s focus to be towards the empire they were trying to build. i haven’t read the books of Algerone’s kids but i noticed they have their own series so i do wanna get around to it at some point and i hope Reid will have his own book in the future! i’d love to read more about him. i also loved the plot and how action packed it was. the scenes with Shaw had me stressed but i loved seeing Algerone in torture mode lol.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 16, 2026
L Eveland gives us a magnificent love story within a tale of corporate espionage in the weapons manufacturing sector. As you would expect this comes with all the tactical ops action, strategic cross manoeuvres, double agents that would entail, told at a fast pace but still serving as a backdrop for the question the author chooses the romance plot to answer.
Can love exist without forgiveness. Ah this was a tough ride for the protagonists. And I love the way L Eveland decided to bare all explore all in the midst of a significantly complicated dominance/ submission dynamic between the two. To take that apart from the burden already placed on this second chances, boss employee relationship, it required a deft hand the Eveland seems to effortlessly display. I loved the gravitas of the language used the certainty, the hard lines, the inevitability. I loved the powder keg of desire they inevitably give in to unchecked instinctive in their roles.
Maxime has done wrong there is no denying that no redemption so then what is there. How do they also love do they choose it? He’s carried that burden for 23 years, pressed under it, does that feel like enough when we don’t really know if he’d choose differently. Would Algerone see a third way, what would that look like divorced from the unforgivable betrayal?
Can love exist without forgiveness. Ah this was a tough ride for the protagonists. And I love the way L Eveland decided to bare all explore all in the midst of a significantly complicated dominance/ submission dynamic between the two. To take that apart from the burden already placed on this second chances, boss employee relationship, it required a deft hand the Eveland seems to effortlessly display. I loved the gravitas of the language used the certainty, the hard lines, the inevitability. I loved the powder keg of desire they inevitably give in to unchecked instinctive in their roles.
Maxime has done wrong there is no denying that no redemption so then what is there. How do they also love do they choose it? He’s carried that burden for 23 years, pressed under it, does that feel like enough when we don’t really know if he’d choose differently. Would Algerone see a third way, what would that look like divorced from the unforgivable betrayal?
January 21, 2026
This is Maxime and Algerone's story. All those years Maxime devoted to his boss but by keeping his children's presence from Algerone, he broke his trust and Algerone won't forgive him. It doesn't matter Maxime has always loved him and would do anything for him. It doesn't matter Algerone always wanted him. It's a festering hatred that can't be overcome until Algerone realizes he needs Maxime too. Two older guys, so much history, deep hurts but also deep love. I received a copy of this and this is my voluntary opinion.
January 20, 2026
Im not sure I accurately describe how excited I was for the release of Ace of Spades. I was completely hooked from the first chapter and honestly just makes me want to do a complete reread of the original series and this one again.
I loved that we got an older couple to read. Algerone & Maxime had some major obstacles to overcome, but when the lies of the past are exposed and after three decades of repressed feelings, it shows that even the most painful lies can start to be forgiven. It was a bumpy road to get to, but the important part is we get their HEA.
Im beyond excited to see where this series goes next
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
I loved that we got an older couple to read. Algerone & Maxime had some major obstacles to overcome, but when the lies of the past are exposed and after three decades of repressed feelings, it shows that even the most painful lies can start to be forgiven. It was a bumpy road to get to, but the important part is we get their HEA.
Im beyond excited to see where this series goes next
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
January 16, 2026
Gosh, this was a heart-wrenching experience!
Maxime and Algerone are both older protagonists, I loved that!
Maxime St. Germain is the COO of Algerone Caisse-Etremont’s company, for already thirty-two years.
Algerone is the CEO of the mercenary empire, built from the ground up. Maxime is his right hand, Algerone trusted him, until he couldn’t anymore.
"Don't mistake this for forgiveness," he said against my ear, his rhythm growing erratic. "This doesn't absolve you of anything. You're just convenient."
Maxime knows he deserves these words, even though it’s another punch to his already shattered heart.
He doesn’t want absolution, he just wants to be near Algerone, like he has been the last thirty-two years.
My heart, I cried for all those years of… read it yourself.
Algerone’s triplets sons Xavier, Xander, and Xion play a big part in this story.
Almost forgot, but hugely important in this story, there are the business troubles and rivalry.
Personal matters and business attacks, everything is excellently written and combined!!
Agony, pining, hurt, love, it’s all there. What I love in this kind of story is that it doesn’t matter how professional, rough, tough, or harsh these grey characters are, through all the misery and violence, love is what’s important, love is the most important thing, even the one as f* up as theirs.
Amen and hallelujah!
There are trigger warnings!
Maxime and Algerone are both older protagonists, I loved that!
Maxime St. Germain is the COO of Algerone Caisse-Etremont’s company, for already thirty-two years.
Algerone is the CEO of the mercenary empire, built from the ground up. Maxime is his right hand, Algerone trusted him, until he couldn’t anymore.
"Don't mistake this for forgiveness," he said against my ear, his rhythm growing erratic. "This doesn't absolve you of anything. You're just convenient."
Maxime knows he deserves these words, even though it’s another punch to his already shattered heart.
He doesn’t want absolution, he just wants to be near Algerone, like he has been the last thirty-two years.
My heart, I cried for all those years of… read it yourself.
Algerone’s triplets sons Xavier, Xander, and Xion play a big part in this story.
Almost forgot, but hugely important in this story, there are the business troubles and rivalry.
Personal matters and business attacks, everything is excellently written and combined!!
Agony, pining, hurt, love, it’s all there. What I love in this kind of story is that it doesn’t matter how professional, rough, tough, or harsh these grey characters are, through all the misery and violence, love is what’s important, love is the most important thing, even the one as f* up as theirs.
Amen and hallelujah!
There are trigger warnings!
February 6, 2026
This may sound crazy, but I have such a soft spot for Maxine. I never truly hated him, and to a certain extent, I understood why he did what he did; something I think most readers did too. Was it right? No. But Maxine loved that man for 32 years, steadfast and unwavering. While I understood why he received so much backlash, I couldn’t help but feel for him the entire time. Love can make people do truly terrible things, and when you’re faced with losing the person you love most in the world, you might make an unforgivable choice. In real life, what Maxine did would be inexcusable; but this is fiction, and I have a soft spot for characters like him.
January 28, 2026
Could have been so much better!!!! I wish there was a little more built up instead it kind of felt like I was just thrown in and I should just understand what there relationship has always been like.
Read
January 15, 2026Thank you L Eveland for letting me read this for you! I have and will continue to read any story put out by this author (they're one of my guilty pleasure reads for sure!)
To start, this is the story of Algerone (the twins estranged father) & Maxime (the reason they're estranged). If you haven't read the Wayward Sons series, I encourage you to read those first so you can fully appreciate all of the relationships and nuances that are addressed in this book.
I greatly enjoyed the fact that both of these characters were older as you don't see that often enough in conjunction with this sort of mafia/serial killer/dark romance vibe so it was refreshing to say the least! Honestly, Algerone & Maxime were not and still aren't my favorite characters but by the end of Ace of Spades I didn't dislike them quite so much. Seeing their side of things and watching them work through these big changes later in life after pushing everything aside was realistic and well maintained. I loved the cameos from Xavier, Xion & Xander and felt that without them their love story wouldn't have felt quite as believable.
To start, this is the story of Algerone (the twins estranged father) & Maxime (the reason they're estranged). If you haven't read the Wayward Sons series, I encourage you to read those first so you can fully appreciate all of the relationships and nuances that are addressed in this book.
I greatly enjoyed the fact that both of these characters were older as you don't see that often enough in conjunction with this sort of mafia/serial killer/dark romance vibe so it was refreshing to say the least! Honestly, Algerone & Maxime were not and still aren't my favorite characters but by the end of Ace of Spades I didn't dislike them quite so much. Seeing their side of things and watching them work through these big changes later in life after pushing everything aside was realistic and well maintained. I loved the cameos from Xavier, Xion & Xander and felt that without them their love story wouldn't have felt quite as believable.
January 19, 2026
I knew from the first few chapters that this would be a top read of the month. L Eveland knows how to draw you in and make you work for that HEA.
Algerone and Maxime have known, and wanted, each other for 32 years. The tension between them is so palpable, you could touch it. It’s simmered for three decades, and there’s no stopping it once it boils over. Circumstances and certain choices have made it incredibly hard for them to fall into their attraction. Add on meddlesome rivals, theft of a dangerous weapon, and a company on the verge of collapse to make it even harder.
This was pain and agony. Maxime’s actions led him down a path where forgiveness and redemption really aren’t possible. But still he stays with the man who’s owned his heart since the beginning. He knows he can’t be forgiven, and he doesn’t want it. He simply wants to be by his heart’s side. Watching Algerone wrestle with what Maxime did while still loving him was heartbreaking. How could he still love someone who betrayed him the way Maxime did?
Yet, these two prove that it’s possible. Somehow, they work. Their relationship is messy and probably a bit toxic, but it works for them. It’s beauty and pain intertwined.
I quite liked these older MCs, and I’m very excited to see where this series goes. I’m hoping a certain head of security is next.
I got an advanced copy and this is my voluntary review.
Algerone and Maxime have known, and wanted, each other for 32 years. The tension between them is so palpable, you could touch it. It’s simmered for three decades, and there’s no stopping it once it boils over. Circumstances and certain choices have made it incredibly hard for them to fall into their attraction. Add on meddlesome rivals, theft of a dangerous weapon, and a company on the verge of collapse to make it even harder.
This was pain and agony. Maxime’s actions led him down a path where forgiveness and redemption really aren’t possible. But still he stays with the man who’s owned his heart since the beginning. He knows he can’t be forgiven, and he doesn’t want it. He simply wants to be by his heart’s side. Watching Algerone wrestle with what Maxime did while still loving him was heartbreaking. How could he still love someone who betrayed him the way Maxime did?
Yet, these two prove that it’s possible. Somehow, they work. Their relationship is messy and probably a bit toxic, but it works for them. It’s beauty and pain intertwined.
I quite liked these older MCs, and I’m very excited to see where this series goes. I’m hoping a certain head of security is next.
I got an advanced copy and this is my voluntary review.
January 17, 2026
Ace of Spades - L Eveland
Maxime! You Naughty Boy!
This book is on fire from page one. It is a story of a lifetime of love and devotion, no matter how twisted it may seem.
Ace of Spades picks up where Xavier and Leo’s story ends, and Algerone has been healing his grave injuries for 18 months. Maxime is by his side as his personal caretaker. These two were made for each other, even if they do not know it yet.
Xavier, Xander, and Xion all have roles, which I loved because their books were my favorite in the Wayward Sons series. Their characters have developed as they have aged a little and have settled with their partners.
This twisted tale explores Algerone and Maxime’s most vulnerable aspects and takes a deeper look at their history and how that history is being used against them. More secrets are revealed, and a near-death experience makes them seriously consider what the future will hold for them.
I enjoyed reading the first book in the new series, Kings of Fortune, and cannot wait to see whose story is next.
This is my first review as an ARC reader! Thank you, L
Maxime! You Naughty Boy!
This book is on fire from page one. It is a story of a lifetime of love and devotion, no matter how twisted it may seem.
Ace of Spades picks up where Xavier and Leo’s story ends, and Algerone has been healing his grave injuries for 18 months. Maxime is by his side as his personal caretaker. These two were made for each other, even if they do not know it yet.
Xavier, Xander, and Xion all have roles, which I loved because their books were my favorite in the Wayward Sons series. Their characters have developed as they have aged a little and have settled with their partners.
This twisted tale explores Algerone and Maxime’s most vulnerable aspects and takes a deeper look at their history and how that history is being used against them. More secrets are revealed, and a near-death experience makes them seriously consider what the future will hold for them.
I enjoyed reading the first book in the new series, Kings of Fortune, and cannot wait to see whose story is next.
This is my first review as an ARC reader! Thank you, L
January 26, 2026
This absolutely wrecked me.
This is a powerful second-chance love story wrapped inside corporate espionage, mercenary politics, and ruthless power plays and somehow the romance still hits hardest. Algerone and Maxime are older protagonists, layered with decades of history, betrayal, loyalty, and unspoken longing. The weight of time in this book is palpable.
The central question...can love exist without forgiveness?...is explored so beautifully and painfully. Maxime knows he did wrong and doesn’t seek absolution, only closeness. Algerone’s anger, control, and restraint feel earned, and the dominance/submission dynamic adds another layer of tension to an already complicated boss/employee relationship.
The writing is sharp, heavy, and deliberate. Desire simmers under control, duty, and resentment, and when it breaks through, it’s explosive. Add in business rivalries, espionage, and Algerone’s sons playing key roles, and the story never lets up.
This was angsty, emotional, and deeply satisfying. A hard road, but a well-earned HEA and I’m beyond excited to see where this series goes next.
This is a powerful second-chance love story wrapped inside corporate espionage, mercenary politics, and ruthless power plays and somehow the romance still hits hardest. Algerone and Maxime are older protagonists, layered with decades of history, betrayal, loyalty, and unspoken longing. The weight of time in this book is palpable.
The central question...can love exist without forgiveness?...is explored so beautifully and painfully. Maxime knows he did wrong and doesn’t seek absolution, only closeness. Algerone’s anger, control, and restraint feel earned, and the dominance/submission dynamic adds another layer of tension to an already complicated boss/employee relationship.
The writing is sharp, heavy, and deliberate. Desire simmers under control, duty, and resentment, and when it breaks through, it’s explosive. Add in business rivalries, espionage, and Algerone’s sons playing key roles, and the story never lets up.
This was angsty, emotional, and deeply satisfying. A hard road, but a well-earned HEA and I’m beyond excited to see where this series goes next.
February 1, 2026
DNF'd at 83%
The story started out really good, had a lot of potential but around the 50% Mark you could kind of tell that the author just gave up on editing. There are numerous times chapter 17 or 18, where the author misgenders their own non-binary character multiple times. There's also a lot of glaring continuity errors. Towards the point where they're heading to Macau.
At one point in time it's 6 hours away, and then it suddenly in a day or two and then they've had days together, but then the assassination attempt on one of the characters which had taken place in the beginning, was suddenly only a couple of days away.
It definitely feels very rushed and I couldn't continue to read it with the continuity errors as bad as they were. It is a brand new release so hopefully the author will go back and fix it but it was really disappointing. The quality of the editing was disappointing.
I also found that it was really lacking the introduction of the two main characters and how they grew work together. And apparently it reads as a standalone but there's clearly some information that's missing that we don't get. Overall, it just feels rushed and lacking.
The story started out really good, had a lot of potential but around the 50% Mark you could kind of tell that the author just gave up on editing. There are numerous times chapter 17 or 18, where the author misgenders their own non-binary character multiple times. There's also a lot of glaring continuity errors. Towards the point where they're heading to Macau.
At one point in time it's 6 hours away, and then it suddenly in a day or two and then they've had days together, but then the assassination attempt on one of the characters which had taken place in the beginning, was suddenly only a couple of days away.
It definitely feels very rushed and I couldn't continue to read it with the continuity errors as bad as they were. It is a brand new release so hopefully the author will go back and fix it but it was really disappointing. The quality of the editing was disappointing.
I also found that it was really lacking the introduction of the two main characters and how they grew work together. And apparently it reads as a standalone but there's clearly some information that's missing that we don't get. Overall, it just feels rushed and lacking.
February 1, 2026
rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
darkness: 🖤🖤🖤
feelings: 😱🥵☠️😍🫠😡
I was anxiously awaiting the release of this book! After the cliffhanger ending of Playing with Fire, I was on the edge of my seat!
And what a story L. Eveland has delivered! I have been fascinated by Algerone and Maxime ever since I first encountered them. My initial dislike quickly turned into curiosity. The tension between the two became increasingly apparent until Maxime's betrayal was revealed.
Ace of Spades had me hooked from the very first page. I felt every emotion deep in my soul. The world-building is outstanding and the background research is excellent. Delving into the inner thoughts of these two enigmatic characters was fascinating. The tension between Algerone and Maxime is so electrifying!
The story of the book is just as captivating as the chemistry between Algerone and his right-hand man.
The fact that Xavier, Xander, and Xion were incorporated into the story is the icing on the cake.
I'm already so excited to find out who the future main characters of this new series will be.
Highly recommended!
spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
darkness: 🖤🖤🖤
feelings: 😱🥵☠️😍🫠😡
I was anxiously awaiting the release of this book! After the cliffhanger ending of Playing with Fire, I was on the edge of my seat!
And what a story L. Eveland has delivered! I have been fascinated by Algerone and Maxime ever since I first encountered them. My initial dislike quickly turned into curiosity. The tension between the two became increasingly apparent until Maxime's betrayal was revealed.
Ace of Spades had me hooked from the very first page. I felt every emotion deep in my soul. The world-building is outstanding and the background research is excellent. Delving into the inner thoughts of these two enigmatic characters was fascinating. The tension between Algerone and Maxime is so electrifying!
The story of the book is just as captivating as the chemistry between Algerone and his right-hand man.
The fact that Xavier, Xander, and Xion were incorporated into the story is the icing on the cake.
I'm already so excited to find out who the future main characters of this new series will be.
Highly recommended!
February 10, 2026
LISTEN!!!! I KNOW Maxime did such a horrible thing, like honestly. I could not stand him from the moment we met him in Vicious Cycle. I was immediately irritated with him. After Playing with Fire, I was like how on earth are they going to have an HEA after Algerone found out what Maxime did.
I am, unfortunately, a HUGE grudge holder…very notorious for it and it’s not my best quality so I knew going in, I needed it to not be something forgiven super quickly and boy did this hold up. Not to spoil anything but this book is not about forgiveness. That’s not something that happens. And this is exactly how their story needed to go. My heart HURT for Maxime in this. Not excusing anything he did but in my eyes, he redeemed himself greatly in this. Algerone and Maxime are not perfect, they are flawed and have a slightly toxic relationship but they are exactly what they need to be.
I am so excited about the rest of this series and very intrigued as to who the next book will be about!
I am, unfortunately, a HUGE grudge holder…very notorious for it and it’s not my best quality so I knew going in, I needed it to not be something forgiven super quickly and boy did this hold up. Not to spoil anything but this book is not about forgiveness. That’s not something that happens. And this is exactly how their story needed to go. My heart HURT for Maxime in this. Not excusing anything he did but in my eyes, he redeemed himself greatly in this. Algerone and Maxime are not perfect, they are flawed and have a slightly toxic relationship but they are exactly what they need to be.
I am so excited about the rest of this series and very intrigued as to who the next book will be about!
January 25, 2026
This is a Dark Romance with some heavy topics so make sure you check the TWs before heading in.
🌶🌶🌶
I was so intrigued to see where Algerone and Maxime's story was going to go. After all the truths were laid bare you really wonder how anything can move forward and L. Eveland did not disappoint. This wasn't about forgiveness because there was none this was about acceptance. Algerone had to accept what Maxime had done and he also had to accept that he couldn't live without Maxime. It hurt boy did it hurt and I knew it was going to but the HEA between these two was so hard fought you couldn't help but root for it even if it's slightly toxic. I would definitely say this is one of L. Eveland's more angsty books so if you love the tension and push and pull then this one will be perfect for you! Very excited to see where this new series goes!
🌶🌶🌶
I was so intrigued to see where Algerone and Maxime's story was going to go. After all the truths were laid bare you really wonder how anything can move forward and L. Eveland did not disappoint. This wasn't about forgiveness because there was none this was about acceptance. Algerone had to accept what Maxime had done and he also had to accept that he couldn't live without Maxime. It hurt boy did it hurt and I knew it was going to but the HEA between these two was so hard fought you couldn't help but root for it even if it's slightly toxic. I would definitely say this is one of L. Eveland's more angsty books so if you love the tension and push and pull then this one will be perfect for you! Very excited to see where this new series goes!
February 14, 2026
DNF 44%
I constantly felt like I should have read some story before this one to understand what’s happening.
Maxime betrayed algerone (what a ridiculous name). So instead of cutting him out of his life Maxime is still the COO of the company. But he is not forgiven. No no no. Because he is a traitor and has to be constantly treated like dirt.
If you don’t want to forgive him fine but don’t do whatever you are doing.
The guy with the ridiculous name decides to fuck Maxine only to tell him he was just convenient. Then a few pages later he hits him with a crop to subspace only to not provide aftercare. Because and that was my tripping point Maxime does everything for the A-guy and is ridden by guilt but he never asks anything for himself. What the actual fuck. The guy is devoted for over 30 years and this asshole knows it.
No I will not read that shit. Fuck off. Not recommended.
I constantly felt like I should have read some story before this one to understand what’s happening.
Maxime betrayed algerone (what a ridiculous name). So instead of cutting him out of his life Maxime is still the COO of the company. But he is not forgiven. No no no. Because he is a traitor and has to be constantly treated like dirt.
If you don’t want to forgive him fine but don’t do whatever you are doing.
The guy with the ridiculous name decides to fuck Maxine only to tell him he was just convenient. Then a few pages later he hits him with a crop to subspace only to not provide aftercare. Because and that was my tripping point Maxime does everything for the A-guy and is ridden by guilt but he never asks anything for himself. What the actual fuck. The guy is devoted for over 30 years and this asshole knows it.
No I will not read that shit. Fuck off. Not recommended.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 23, 2026
Algerone & Maxime have been together for over 32 years, building up Lucky Losers Inc, but in the Wayward series Maxime dropped a bombshell, he kept the secret that Algerone was a father, now it was all in the open, choices have to been made.
I have been looking forward to Algerone and Maxime's story, as since they were introduced, you could see the yearning from Maxime. Helping Algerone to recover kept him close, but it took time for Algerone and a lot of internal struggling and their backstory was revealed.
When industrial espionage, nearly putting the company on its knees, they all need to work together including the triplets who were betrayed.
This was full of action, suspense and mystery, what Algerone could do with his cane, I enjoyed every minute and if we get a story about Reid I would be so happy
I have been looking forward to Algerone and Maxime's story, as since they were introduced, you could see the yearning from Maxime. Helping Algerone to recover kept him close, but it took time for Algerone and a lot of internal struggling and their backstory was revealed.
When industrial espionage, nearly putting the company on its knees, they all need to work together including the triplets who were betrayed.
This was full of action, suspense and mystery, what Algerone could do with his cane, I enjoyed every minute and if we get a story about Reid I would be so happy
January 16, 2026
These two are so devoted to each other. For more than 32 years. The way they fight and protect each other is just amazing. Also the way, they always protect what’s theirs. I like the way they read each other, just one like they know what’s wrong. These two were always meant to be. They both have the same kind of darkness. I like how Algerone won’t forgive Maxime . But he wants him anyway because he can never let him go. This man Maxime is so loyal. He’ll take on any obstacle that gets in his way. I like the spice and the fact that it took them this long to get together. Also, I like the journey of them finally accepting and just letting their true feeling show. What I like the most was the fact that the triplets are starting to come into their life more. Overall enjoyed their story and how they became who they are. And I cannot wait to see what else L Eveland writes this year.
January 21, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️
(ARC)
So i enjoyed this book for what it was. I wasn't the biggest fan of Maxime or Algerone in the wayward sons series but i was interested to see how their story would play out, especially with the groveling and the massive betrayal between them and i think it was handled the best way it could have been, with Maxime not being absolved or forgiven for his misdeeds, but for them to be acknowledged and for them to focus on being better in the future, not only for the couple but also for the triplets. I did really like learning more about Algerone's backstory and how he became the man he is now. Overall i enjoyed the book and im intrested to see what comes next from this series.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
(ARC)
So i enjoyed this book for what it was. I wasn't the biggest fan of Maxime or Algerone in the wayward sons series but i was interested to see how their story would play out, especially with the groveling and the massive betrayal between them and i think it was handled the best way it could have been, with Maxime not being absolved or forgiven for his misdeeds, but for them to be acknowledged and for them to focus on being better in the future, not only for the couple but also for the triplets. I did really like learning more about Algerone's backstory and how he became the man he is now. Overall i enjoyed the book and im intrested to see what comes next from this series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you L. Eveland for a copy of this book. This review is entirely my own.
Algerone and Maxime are here!!! We meet these two earlier in the series and from the start you can see there was something between them. Finding out the secret that Maxime was keeping and how it broke a fracture between them, you could see that there was going to be a lot of work for these two.
This book is the first in this series but is interconnected to the Wayward series. It is full of spice and action and two men that are fighting what is between them while trying to fight their way back to each other. Once I started reading, I could not put it down and did not want the story to end. You can feel the yearning and the pain but you can also feel the the deepest feelings between these two.
It is a great start to the series and I am excited to see what happens next.
Algerone and Maxime are here!!! We meet these two earlier in the series and from the start you can see there was something between them. Finding out the secret that Maxime was keeping and how it broke a fracture between them, you could see that there was going to be a lot of work for these two.
This book is the first in this series but is interconnected to the Wayward series. It is full of spice and action and two men that are fighting what is between them while trying to fight their way back to each other. Once I started reading, I could not put it down and did not want the story to end. You can feel the yearning and the pain but you can also feel the the deepest feelings between these two.
It is a great start to the series and I am excited to see what happens next.
January 16, 2026
I received an Advanced Reader Copy.
It was kind of refreshing to be in Max's mind. To get to know the whys in the things he did, but also to know how remorseful he felt about some of his decisions. He is a man that always needs to feel needed, organized, and on schedule. Al had every right to be mad at Max and if things had been different then the boys would have had a better life, especially Xion. My heart still goes out to Xion and every thing he's been through. I loved how every one came together in the end. The love that was expressed and the buildings of being a family. A fitting end to the story.
It was kind of refreshing to be in Max's mind. To get to know the whys in the things he did, but also to know how remorseful he felt about some of his decisions. He is a man that always needs to feel needed, organized, and on schedule. Al had every right to be mad at Max and if things had been different then the boys would have had a better life, especially Xion. My heart still goes out to Xion and every thing he's been through. I loved how every one came together in the end. The love that was expressed and the buildings of being a family. A fitting end to the story.
January 19, 2026
So this being my first book by this author I didn’t know what Maxime did to betray Algerone. When I did find out I wondered how Algerone would ever forgive him. This story however isn't just about forgiveness as we get action in the form of betrayals from various people in the company Algerone created. And we all know when there is betrayal there are consequences. Consequences that I very much enjoyed and were deserved. Not only that but the reader gets sweet scenes that show just how much history there is between Algerone and Maxime. And that sometimes wearing a paper crown can mean so much.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 23, 2026
Thank you for the book; here is my honest opinion:
4.5⭐️Loved it! I didn’t know I even wanted more of Maxime and Algerone’s story but this was compelling! I also loved the excuse to jump back into the Wayward Sons world. I loved the mix of betrayal, resentment, rage, devotion, and love. Honestly, I’m not sure what Maxime did is forgivable, Algerone and the triplets won’t ever get that time back. But, these two are so fundamentally intertwined and dependent, how do you move forward? This is how, with groveling, rage, and determination to be together- not in forgiveness or desire, but because Algerone and Maxime have no other choice. Looking forward to more!
4.5⭐️Loved it! I didn’t know I even wanted more of Maxime and Algerone’s story but this was compelling! I also loved the excuse to jump back into the Wayward Sons world. I loved the mix of betrayal, resentment, rage, devotion, and love. Honestly, I’m not sure what Maxime did is forgivable, Algerone and the triplets won’t ever get that time back. But, these two are so fundamentally intertwined and dependent, how do you move forward? This is how, with groveling, rage, and determination to be together- not in forgiveness or desire, but because Algerone and Maxime have no other choice. Looking forward to more!
January 27, 2026
I loved the wayward sons series and was super excited to finally get Algerone and Maxime's story. At the end of the last book Maxime had committed the ultimate betrayal of the man he loved, and this story picks up and shows how their love is both broken and inevitable. I loved the drama, action and pull between the characters. Completely toxic relationship dynamics, but I guess after 32 years you have to be messed up to still long for the person you cannot have. Binged in one go and now sad I've finished it :( Please write more of this series as the world these characters live in has so many possibilities.
January 25, 2026
This series follows on from the Wayward Sons series and this book features Algerone and his right hand man Maxime.
At the end of the Wayward series Maxime is in a difficult place. He has confessed to keeping Algerone's children from him.
However, there are more serious things happening. The prototype Lucky Losers is developing has been stolen by an arch rival and the team have to get it back.
Of course Maxime and Algerone's relationship does develop into a romantic one with some BDSM thrown in.
It will be interesting to see what book 2 focuses on.
At the end of the Wayward series Maxime is in a difficult place. He has confessed to keeping Algerone's children from him.
However, there are more serious things happening. The prototype Lucky Losers is developing has been stolen by an arch rival and the team have to get it back.
Of course Maxime and Algerone's relationship does develop into a romantic one with some BDSM thrown in.
It will be interesting to see what book 2 focuses on.
January 26, 2026
Shy of amazing
This book was delightful. I love an actual dark romance with the dark elements. Give me gore, give me 🩸, HOWEVER, the only reason this was not a five star was because the editing was painful. How did one of the main characters go from 48 years old to 54 years old? And there was a section where I couldn’t remember who I was reading about. AND THEN, there was the same dialogue over and over and over again. We get it, he’s not sorry and he would do it over again. I didn’t need to know that every chapter. Other than that….a solid read
This book was delightful. I love an actual dark romance with the dark elements. Give me gore, give me 🩸, HOWEVER, the only reason this was not a five star was because the editing was painful. How did one of the main characters go from 48 years old to 54 years old? And there was a section where I couldn’t remember who I was reading about. AND THEN, there was the same dialogue over and over and over again. We get it, he’s not sorry and he would do it over again. I didn’t need to know that every chapter. Other than that….a solid read
January 21, 2026
Dark and twisted
Maxime has been Algeron's right hand man for 30 years, filled with unquestioning loyalty and secretly loving him.
Except he's harbored a secret that shattered everything between them.
Algernon no longer trusts him until Maxime is in danger and then he recognizes that he's just as equally devoted to him as well.
I loved that the MC's were older and didn't try to fix one another, they simply accepted each other as they are.
Maxime has been Algeron's right hand man for 30 years, filled with unquestioning loyalty and secretly loving him.
Except he's harbored a secret that shattered everything between them.
Algernon no longer trusts him until Maxime is in danger and then he recognizes that he's just as equally devoted to him as well.
I loved that the MC's were older and didn't try to fix one another, they simply accepted each other as they are.
January 16, 2026
I do not know how to write reviews,not really into it but I’ve waited for maxime and Algerone book to come out, I was so excited and couldn’t wait for the book to come out and it was all worth it
This was beautiful,the plot and both of em love ittt
10 stars if possible ⭐️this book was/is beautifully written❤️
This was beautiful,the plot and both of em love ittt
10 stars if possible ⭐️this book was/is beautifully written❤️
January 18, 2026
This is the story of Algerone and Maxime who for the last 30 plus years, Maxime being his right hand man helping build his empire. This book is a spinoff of Wayward Sons and it starts out hot and continues until the end. When they realize that their relationship is more than just business is very heartwarming. It keeps you reading until the end and wanting more.
January 18, 2026
Ace of Spades is the first book in the new Kings of Fortune series, it's a spinoff from the Wayward Sons series but can be read without reading it first but is so much better if you do. This is such a hot, steamy, action packed read about Max and Algerone. I loved this book and I can't wait for the next in the series.
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