“She was never part of the plan, but she became the only thing worth risking everything for.”
Caleb Jaxson doesn’t need complications. Running the Kingdom demands loyalty, violence, and sacrifice. But when Ellie steps into his world—sharp, beautiful, and hiding secrets of her own—he knows he can’t let her go, even if it means unraveling everything he’s built.
Ellie didn’t come to the Kingdom to fall in love. She came to survive. But Caleb is a storm she can’t escape, and soon she’s tangled in a dangerous game of power, passion, and past sins that refuse to stay buried.
In a world where loyalty is lethal and love is a liability, Caleb will do anything to protect her. Even if it means starting a war.
Because when it comes to her, he’ll burn the Kingdom to the ground.
MARIAH KINGSLEY This books was chef’s kiss. It’s rare to find a 5 star this year but to me this was.
The kind of love that CJ and El felt for one another was so exquisitely written that it is uncommon to discover a book in which the two major characters simultaneously yearning, longing for one another. I loved how CJ didn't play games with El. For about eight days in a row, this man literally scorched the Earth for my girl; the title does not do him justice. I will always remember him as a major male character. I mean CJ gave BDE and was a real boss you only got one warning and that was it. I also like how we were able to see the characters through their eyes as we read about them, which helped to construct their past and character development. The author is skilled at blending and layering in a way that allows you to see clear how deep the relationship is. Both El and CJ had significant objectives and missions that somewhat prevented them from being completely together, but CJ allowed El to decide if their relationship was official not only because of her trauma but also because he merely wanted her to be happy.
I'll admit that it was annoying not knowing who the point of view of each chapter was thirty percent of the time, but it became easier to tell who was who after you got to know each character. I'm curious about the sisters' relationship with Jude and Mack and how it relates to the new, unidentified antagonist.
I liked the characters and I enjoyed the storyline, but the way it was written was a struggle for me. The switching of povs had me fighting for my life. I'm already NOT a fan of multiple povs, but the fact that she doesn't state WHO is talking is wild. Due to that it took me much longer than it should have to read this book. It also paced slow to me, but that could have been because I spent too much time trying to figure out who was talking 🥴
What I liked: The characters. CJ the Mmc, the King of Darkness had a childhood that caused him to grow up before his time and his heart was hardened, but he had a soft spot for Ellie. He did not play about her period. Listen that is an understatement because he was willing to go to war about her. I loved the way he loved her. He supported her out loud, but quietly too. He made sure she was safe, never pressuring her to choose. He was sweet with a huge side of crazy. Ellie had the worst childhood. She had to survive situations that no one should ever face. She made it her life's mission to save women and children like herself, putting her own wants on the back burner. I loved her sisters...Eden was spicy outwardly, but mushy on the inside while Eve was her exact opposite. I am super intrigued with the relationships both of them were building. However, idk if I can fight for my life with the povs 🥴
I was lucky enough to advance read When It Comes to Her by Mariah Kingsley!
This book devoured me in the best way possible. Caleb Jaxson is the kind of dark, dangerous, and fiercely loyal anti-hero that you can’t help but fall for. And Ellie? She’s sharp, resilient, and hiding layers that keep you hooked. Their relationship is pure intensity—nothing screams love like burning the world down to protect the one you love.
The tension, the stakes, the chemistry—it’s all off the charts. This story gives major Narcos vibes with a heart-pounding mix of violence, loyalty, power, and passion. I was on the edge of my seat from beginning to end, and the twists? Completely unexpected but so well done.
I seriously can’t wait to see where the Kingdom goes next. If you love dark romance, unforgettable characters, and a plot that keeps your pulse racing, this one’s a must-read. 🔥
Where do I begin? This book sucks you in from beginning to end! I found myself rooting for CJ as he tried make the best out of the hand he was dealt. As he grows up in a world designed to devour the very hope of the hopeless CJ chooses to map out his own path and fight the ever growing darkness within. Then he meets El, who brings light into his life and becomes his drug of choice. Until someone tries to snuff out that light and unleashes the darkness CJ has fought so hard to control. As CJ spirals into the darkness he takes the reader on a journey that keeps you on the edge of your seat hoping that he finds his way back into the light before it’s too late. Can’t wait to see what see what happens in book two!!!
Where do I start?! I absolutely loved this book. This is my first read by Mariah Kingsley and it sure won't be my last! CJ and El are perfection for each other! She is the light to his darkness. This book literally had me hooked from the very beginning to the end and I can't wait to read the rest of this series! The chemistry between these two is off the charts. I love that he literally burned down the earth for her. From the very beginning all he wanted to do was protect her. There are so many scenes that I loved throughout the book, but I don't want to give too much away. This is a 100% must read!
One of my favorite lines from the book. "Your hands are bloody, my love, and some would say your soul belongs in hell, but there is no one in all the world I trust more than you."
I absolutely loved this book! I think it might be my favorite book from this author! CJ and Ellie have both been through the wringer in their childhood situations. They managed to pull themselves through the darkest of times and make their own mark on the world. But when they cross paths a whole new journey unfolds before them and they find themselves at a crossroads, will they risk it all for love or will their childhood trauma rip them apart before it all begins? Hang on tight as this author takes you on a ride into the unknown where you question who the bad guy is and if love can prevail!
What a great book. This is my first time reading a book by this author and I’m beyond impressed. The love that Caleb had for El was out of this world. Like so many MMCs always say they would burn the world down for their love, baby Caleb did just that. I didn’t see it really as a dark romance, but just two wounded characters. I initially thought I wouldn’t like Caleb Sr, but he was a man stuck in grief. I can’t wait to read more about the Kingdom.
This book was a ride! I walked in blind, not even reading the synopsis because a friend recommended it and said we had to talk about it. Yes, we do! CJ was everything and I mean, EVERYTHING! The way he catered to Ellie made my heart stop. My favorite part was the bookstore, hands down! I loved the mystery of this book because I didn’t know who to trust but turns out that being the King went a long way! Brava, Ms. Kingsley. Well done!
When it Comes to Her was an unexpected 💎!! Caleb and Ellie have been been friends for years and find home within eachother 💗.. Unfortunately the life they each have chosen makes forever be a bit challenging. This book had everything, I was so delighted to review this book. Can't wait for the other books..
DNF after the first few chapters. The POV’s switch often within the chapters & the author doesn’t note whose POV it is. Once you read a little you’re able to figure out the POV, but I ain’t tryna do all of that. It makes it confusing & you’ll have to go back & reread stuff.
What a book! Filled with shocking turns and suspense, Kingsley brings you a tale spun from a mind only a USA TODAY BESTSELLER can. This book leaves you gasping for more and I need it now!
This was a slow burn for me. The changes in POV were difficult to follow at first and the first half of the book seemed repetitive. I love CJ down!!! He did not play about El.