The Kings' List

Never List #2

by Jade Presley

Don't miss out on the stunning DELUXE LIMITED EDITION while supplies last. This breathtaking collectible is only available on a limited first print run in the U.S. and Canada only, a must-have for any book lover.

They said the trials were over.
They were wrong.

I survived the Choosing. I claimed my mates. I became immortal. But the kings weren’t finished with us yet.

Four princes. Four thrones. And a final season designed to decide if we’re worthy to rule. Every task is a test. Every smile is a lie. The people judge. The council votes. And the kings are waiting for us to fail.

I was never meant to be queen. I was an Ashlander who broke into a palace searching for her sister. Now I stand beside the Legends of Chaos, holding power the kingdom fears and love fierce enough to burn it all down.

To win the crowns, we’ll have to survive the Kings’ List.

Failure isn’t an option.

Because this time, we’re not just fighting for the throne―we’re fighting for each other.

The Never List series is best read in order:
Book 1: The Never List
Book 2 The Kings' List

Genres: Fantasy, Romantasy, Romance, Why Choose, Fantasy Romance, Adult, Spicy

400 pages, Hardcover

Expected publication May 19, 2026

About the author

Jade Presley is a pen name created to write romantasy stories that pair rich world building with characters that will make you blush and leave you thirsting for more. When not writing, I’m going on epic quests during game night or hanging with my family and Irish Wolfhound in my mountain home.

source: Amazon

Reviews

[Laurie Rodriguez]

FYI, I don't know who wrote this description, but this is a *series*. These books are NOT "stand-alones". The first book (The Never List) was left off on a cliff-hanger.

[Corinne’s Chapter Chatter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Second books in a series can be tricky—but this one proves they don’t have to be.

I always get a little nervous about sophomore installments because they’re often the hardest to land. Thankfully, Jade Pressley absolutely delivered here. My only real complaint? Having to wait for book three—especially after that massive cliffhanger… and the fact that it involves my favorite character.

I love a good why choose romance, and this one fully commits to the trope. Rylee is balancing four very different men, and she handles the chaos with gusto and panache. Of course, even in a “why choose,” we all end up with favorites. I won’t reveal mine because it would definitely be a spoiler, but let’s just say I’d happily sacrifice the other three for him.

One of the things I enjoyed most is Rylee’s strength. She endures so much throughout the story, yet keeps pushing forward with love at the center of what motivates her. I also appreciated that while this is technically fantasy, it leans more toward fantasy-light, which keeps the pacing moving and allows the characters and relationships to really shine.

And yes—the spice is SPICY. But what I appreciated most is that the story never loses sight of the plot. The romance and heat enhance the narrative rather than replacing it, which made the whole reading experience feel balanced and engaging.

You’ll definitely want to read book one before diving into this installment to get the full impact. That said, there is some light repetition included to help refresh readers on earlier events, so you wouldn’t feel completely lost if you jumped in here. My only small critique is that a few moments felt slightly repetitive and could have benefited from a bit tighter editing, but nothing that significantly detracted from the overall experience.

Overall, I definitely recommend this one—and now comes the hardest part: waiting for book three after that ending.

If you love why-choose romance, spicy fantasy-light worlds, and characters you can’t help but root for, this series is absolutely worth the ride.

I am thankful to have received a complimentary eARC from Entangled Publishing which gave me the opportunity to share my voluntary thoughts.

[Laurie · Rating 4 out of 5]

BOOK REVIEW: The Kings’s List by Jade Presley

The Kings’ List is book 2 in the Never List series by Jade Presley and it picks up right where the cliffhanger in book 1 left off! Riley and The Legends of Chaos are navigating the aftermath of The Choosing only to find out that the trials are not over yet. They now must complete The Kings’ List, trials designed to determine whether or not the Legends are ready to step into their fathers’ roles and rule the kingdom.

Read this one if you love:
🤎fated mates
🤎why choose
🤎dark romance
🤎magic
🤎lots of action
🤎multiple POV
🤎lots of spice🌶️🌶️🌶️

This spicy romantasy is full of magic, rebellion, trials, suspense and so many secrets! The Faders are still causing mayhem, death and destruction, something new is killing people throughout the kingdom and Riley is receiving strange messages from the goddesses. So many questions still left unanswered and this book ends on a HUGE cliffhanger! This was another fun, spicy read. If you loved The Never List, you will definitely love this book! Now I will be waiting impatiently for book 3! (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️)

Thank you to Jade Presley, Entangled Publishing, LLC (Red Tower Books) and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an eARC of The Kings’ List. All opinions in this review are my own.

[Cyd’s Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for approving me to read this book, I’m rating it 4.0 stars.

I have been desperate to get back in this world & I swear to god I manifested this ARC!

We pick up in the thick of it after book 1 with the dire consequences of the ritual, things look bleak to say the least. Things obviously take a turn or it would be a short read. During this book we get lots more spice which was chefs kiss if i do say so myself, but my fav part of this was exploring the faders, what the kings list is and the mysterious sister causing havoc. As we expand on the plot we get more secrets and revelations plus lots more scheming and misaligned intentions from various angles. I found it hard to put this down.

I’m looking forward to book 3 after that ending, I can’t believe we left it there.

[Meggan · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️

Thank you to the author and NetGalley for an early copy!

These books are just a vibe. A sequel that was just as good as the first!

The Kings List is a why choose romantasy. The pacing is well done, I couldn’t put it down. I appreciated that we got some answers from the first book even with all the new questions thrown at us. Those answers were surprising and I am intrigued by how the story is going to go now. That ending though! I also loved the character developments and that the princes are who they are. I love them. I love this story and I can’t wait for the next!

[Mikaela · Rating 4 out of 5]

So excited to back in this world with my four princes.
Each of them continue to be so unique and loving to Rylee and I’m here for it.
Although the story did seem to start off a little slower, it definitely picked up and I was NOT expecting it to go where it did. More secrets, and truths need to be revealed and excuse me…my nightmare does not deserve that, he’s good. 😭
And I really want to see more of Rylee getting used to her powers, and also share a bit more..our guys deserve it.

[Freya · Rating 4 out of 5]

This author is trying to kill me!! Another crazy cliffhanger?!?! AHHHH!! 🤯 This book had me hooked! You will be held in suspense throughout the whole thing. I stared at the last page in shock for a long time trying to gather my thoughts about everything that was revealed in the last 20% of the book.

Just when they all think it is over and they can go live HEA, the Kings inform them of another list. The King’s List. Each in their own way, the princes show their love and support of Rylee while she learns to control these new powers. We get to see the characters more intimately while they navigate through this list and handle their ongoing dilemmas. This book went in a direction that you will not see coming. I was slack jawed with all the twists and reveals. We get to see more of Erin and learn what she got herself into. The faders get more dangerous and the enhancement drugs become deadlier. Also, King Baydel is a demented a$$hole!!🤬. Ugh, I hate him sooooo much!! Our Prince of Nightmares!!! 😩

🖤Why Choose
💙Fated Mates
❤️Dark Romance
💚Touch Her & Die
🖤Morally Grey Characters
💙Deadly Trials
❤️Spicy 🌶️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️

Thank you to the author, @entangled @redtower and @netgalley for this gifted eARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Kaitlyn Schmid · Rating 5 out of 5]

The King’s List makes my A+++ List!

I absolutely LOVED this sequel to The Never List. If you were a fan of the first book, go read book two immediately. All the elements that I enjoyed in book one are absolutely here. A feisty heroine, four MMC leads that absolutely cannot make me choose, new trials, and LOTS of spice to make a girl blush. The spice hits about 10-15% of the way in, so consider yourself warned if that’s not your thing. For me, 🪄 + 🌶️ = 🤯😱.

This book is really just so much fun. I loved the descriptions of all the different royal cities in book one and really enjoyed getting to learn a little more about some of the neighboring kingdoms. Jade did an amazing job of carrying over some of the small details from book one & I absolutely enjoyed that as well. I only wished that we had gotten more detail or POVs on how some of the negotiations went for the other Legends (not just Rylee & Pierce). But selfishly, I think I thought that because I just wanted more pages to live in this world a little longer.

Thank you Jade Presley and Entangled Publishing for the ARC and having the opportunity to read The King’s List a little early. I cannot sing my praises for this book enough and cannot wait for book three. Rylee and the Legends will be living rent-free in my head for quite some time (especially after that darn cliffhanger). 🖤🦋

[Jordan Zajac · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ahhh this series has me in a chokehold. Thank you so much Jade for sending me an early copy.

The world building, the character depth, the storyline, the romance…all of it is perfectly done and well executed. Sometimes in a why choose, you either feel like the characters blend together or there are some that you don’t love as much. However, that is never the case in Jade’s books and especially not in this series. I have so much love for every single character and they all feel so uniquely them. I will say though, I’m definitely a Jax girl through and through haha. But no surprise there if you know me.

I have been off fantasy books for a while and predominantly have been reading thrillers or contemporary romances. I think I just needed a break from wrapping my head around different worlds, but Jade managed to suck me back in and my love for fantasy is back once again.


If you loved book 1, I promise you will love this book just as much!

[Sissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

The King’s List by Jade Presley
⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3.5/5)
This picks up right where book one left off, and the stakes definitely feel higher. Once Rylee completes the goddess list, she quickly learns the kings have a list of their own for her to tackle… and it’s not any easier 👀
I really enjoyed being back in this world, especially with the added trials and tension. That said, I do think book one was a bit stronger overall, but this was still a fun and engaging continuation of the series.
👑 Why Choose / Reverse Harem

👑 Fated Mates

👑 Trials
✨ Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion! ✨

[Coree, The Book Devourer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this ARC from Jade Pressley, NetGalley and Entangled Publishing, LLC | Entangled: Red Tower Books.  This is my second Jade Pressley book, and I was SO excited to receive the advanced copy to read and review.

If you’ve been around here for a minute, you’ll remember that The Never List was my August TBR Jar Pick for 2025 and I have been waiting with bated breath since I read that book for this sequel and it did not disappoint. To be honest, at the time I’m writing this, I still haven’t process that diabolical cliffhanger ending… I thought the 1st book was mean, this one – Jade Pressley, you will have to find me a good therapist 😊

This book picks up right where book one ended with the aftermath of Rylee participating in the Athenry. Even though she has survived the ceremony, we find out that it wasn’t the only obstacle for her to overcome to be made Queen and for the Legends to take the throne. The Kings have their own criteria for Rylee to complete before they “sign off”; and they are NOT going to make it easy for her at all.  The tasks are designed to ensure that she fails, but she is not going to give up without a fight, and neither will her amazing Legends. Did I say how much I love them? Jax, Axl, Kal, and Pierce love Rylee in unique and individual ways and each bring her what she needs and together, they can literally achieve anything… but will it be enough?

This book is such a ride, and I was there for all of it. The twists and turns seem to literally happen on every page, okay, not every page, but every chapter.  And the spice… oh my, the spice is SPICING! Now that they have essentially bonded in more ways than one, it just seems like the spicy scenes take on so much more of a punch. I did catch myself reading a few of them more than once – thank you Jade 😉 I want to tell you so much, but I can’t, I don’t want to spoil it for you BUT I do! Hahaha!  But I will leave you with one of my favorite quotes from the book:

"Failure isn't an option. Because this time, we're not just fighting for the throne—we're fighting for each other."

That literally sums up the book to me… But please note, that book does end on again, the most DIABOLICAL CLIFFHANGER… but I’ll forgive Jade, if she releases book 3, like really, really soon!

If you love the following, you’ll love this book:

📜Strong and feisty FMC
📜MMCs who are down bad
📜Fated mates
📜Why-choose/reverse harem
📜Deadly trails
📜 Touch her and d!e vibes
📜 Secrets & betrayals
📜 Political intrigue

Rate: 4.75/5⭐️⭐️ ⭐️⭐️.75
Spice: 3.5/5🌶️🌶️🌶️.5

This book comes out on May 19th, and you should definitely get it!

If you want to see full video reviews, see here:

TT – https://www.tiktok.com/@the.book.devo...

IG - https://www.instagram.com/p/DXrXP7egDSG/

[Sonya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Picking up where Book 1 left off; we find the princes: Jax, Kal, Pierce and Axl stressing out over Rylee's ritual into becoming immortal. When the princes gave their powers freely to Rylee during her transformation it left them powerless against any and all threats known and unknown.
Rylee is a fighter. She originally had one goal in mind when entering the palace in the Never List and that was to find her sister; she never in a million years imagined her sister serving as the leader of the faders (rebel group trying to destroy the kingdom and princes); now faced with the dilemma of deciding is her sister is her enemy or a pawn in a larger power play.

Rylee is a walking source of power, and she is desperate to give the princes their power back. Unfortunately, the powers were given freely and now it is up to her mates to teach her how to harness their powers because she is the key to bring the 4 kingdoms together.

But before Rylee, Jax, Kal, Pierce and Axl can ascend the throne; the 4 Kings has issued the challenge of the King's List in which the Rylee and her mates must prove they are worthy of the throne by first winning the favor of the people/nobles and train in combat. Only then can they take the throne and rule.

With the constant Fader attacks on the kingdom and Rylee's sister leaving clues as to what's to come, Rylee and soon learn that there is more going on behind the scenes and someone far worse than the Kings themself is pulling all the strings, but who is the mystery antagonist and why are they using her sister to do their bidding?

This book is spicy. Rylee and her mates finally get the opportunity to strengthen their bond and the love the princes have for Rylee is fierce, protective and without reservation. Rylee has a tough road ahead. With the goddesses constant warnings, the nonstop Fader attacks, unraveling the web her sister in tangled in and finding an enemy that even the 4 kings fear has Rylee on edge but realizing that one of her mates has been taken from her and being used a pawn to draw her out; Rylee is ready to throw caution to the wind and fight for what's hers to have, love and protect no matter the cost.

I can't wait for book 3 because this book ended with Rylee trying to contain her feminine rage and with the devastating news she receives at the end, I believe this will serve as the catalyst necessary for her to unleash everything within her to save everyone she holds dear. I also have my suspicions on who the mystery character introduced at the end of the book is and that she is connected to Rylee.

[Donna's Book Addiction Book review Arc Reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Review – The Never List (Book 2)
Pub Date: 19 May 2026
This sequel raises the stakes in every possible way, delivering a darker, more intense continuation that fully leans into the chaos, power, and emotional complexity introduced in the first book.
From the opening pages, it’s clear this is no longer just a story of survival—it’s a battle for control, identity, and ultimately, the throne. The trials may have ended, but what replaces them is far more dangerous: political manipulation, shifting loyalties, and a constant sense that no one is truly safe. The Kings’ List introduces a new layer of tension, where every decision is scrutinised and every misstep could mean failure.
The protagonist’s evolution is one of the strongest elements of this book. Once an outsider driven by desperation to find her sister, she is now stepping into a role she never wanted but can no longer avoid. Her internal conflict—between who she was and who she is becoming—is handled with depth and authenticity. She is no longer simply reacting to the world around her; she is shaping it.
The dynamic between her and the four princes continues to be a central focus, and it’s executed with intensity. Each relationship feels distinct, adding emotional weight rather than blending into one. The “why choose” element is not just about romance—it’s about trust, power, and the struggle to maintain connection in a world designed to tear them apart. The chemistry is undeniable, but so is the tension, making every interaction feel meaningful.
World-building expands significantly in this instalment. The political structure, the expectations of the people, and the looming presence of the kings all create a layered and immersive setting. There’s a constant undercurrent of danger, reinforced by the idea that everything is a test—even moments that seem safe.
What stands out most is the pacing. The story balances action, intrigue, and emotional development without losing momentum. Just when you think you understand the direction, it shifts, keeping you engaged throughout. The stakes feel real, and the consequences carry weight.
Overall, this is a compelling and addictive sequel that deepens the story while pushing its characters to their limits. It delivers everything you’d want from a romantasy—high stakes, powerful relationships, and a heroine forced to rise beyond her circumstances.
A strong continuation that will leave readers eager for what comes next.

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blindly walking into this story was one of the best thing that I could have done to help both enhance my enjoyment and allow the sumptuous romance to completely infiltrate all of my senses. There is nothing as exquisite and sizzling as immersing yourself in a romance as decadent as this one. The heart and soul that you discover within the pages of this masterpiece stole the very breath from my lungs as it held my own heart captive. When you find yourself as lost to these magnificent characters as I did, there is nothing left to do but to thank the goddess of an author whose incredible talents gave birth to his marvel for her kindness and generosity.

Our beautiful main character Rylee had no royal designs in life except to stay alive one more day and to spend it with her sister. Beyond that she just wanted to keep her friends safe and happy. When she follows her sister and finds herself bound to something she never imagined, all she can do is hang on for the ride. Now, she knows what what she wants. She isn't the same girl that she was, and she has work to do. However, she isn't alone in the days ahead. She has all the help can use and then some. If only they can all stay alive.

The princes know what is at stake. They know what they are risking and what they will not. When your back is to the wall, all you can do is push back with what you have. Your heart has to do the work in that case, and you just have to hold on long enough. Their will is strong, but their hands are tied, and they must rely on the fight in their Chosen to see them though.

When Fate dips its fingers into the lives of those already in chaos, dark plots bleed into dark days. Hope may not be enough to walk through unscathed, but determination and vengeance will get you where you need to be. Just don't lose yourself along the way. What you lose you may not be able to get back. Remember to not let go, and no matter the cost, do not lose your heart.

This series is sure to steal your heart in the very best way possible. These fierce and passionate characters will take you by surprise and teach you surprising lessons along the way. Do not turn your back on them because they will either kill you or ensnare you to them. Nothing is truly as it seems, and just when you think you know what is going on is when the floor opens and you drop through the rabbit's hole. Good luck and keep your eyes open.

[Arlene · Rating 5 out of 5]

First off, I want to thank the team at Entangled Publishing, Red Tower, and the incredible Jade Presley for allowing me the privilege of reading The Kings' List early in exchange for my review.

WHAT. A. RIDE.

The Kings' List starts off right at the edge of the cliffhanger that The Never List left us on, and thankfully so. Jade is truly an expert at crafting emotional, action-packed moments that leave her audience begging for more, and this book is no exception. From the very first pages, the tension picks up immediately, pulling readers right back into the story and refusing to let go.

The story picks up immediately after Rylee survives the last phase of The Choosing Ceremony in the Athanry, only to discover that surviving it isn’t enough to secure her place as queen. The ruling kings still have their own set of trials for her to face, each one seemingly designed to make her fail before the council ever casts their vote. Throughout these trials and tribulations, we are able to see Rylee grow as our main heroine, and the payoff is remarkable.

The true heart of the book is Rylee's relationship with the Legends of Chaos. The author does an amazing job of balancing Rylee's individual connections with each of her mates (The Dreamer, The Player, The Mind, and The Nightmare) while continuing to solidify their group bond. The loyalty, trust, and devotion that the fivesome share is unparalleled, and it is a treat as a reader to see their love continue to grow and flourish from where they started off in the first installment. Don't even get me started on the spice level - now that their bond is solidified and even stronger than before, the need for each other is even more intense, making the spicier moments even HOTTER.

The Kings' List has the perfect combination of high-stakes action and thoughtful character development, allowing the story to feel both exciting and emotionally grounded. Each challenge Rylee faces forces her to become stronger and more determined, showing just how much she has evolved since the beginning of the series.

And the cliffhanger at the end? SHOOK ME TO MY CORE. Once again, I am left shaking the book (or in this case, my Kindle) in agony. To say that I need the next installment in this series is an understatement, and I cannot wait to see what happens next.

TLDR? If you haven't read this series, you NEED to.

[Tiegan | Bookstagram · Rating 4 out of 5]

It has been literal chaos for the Legends of Chaos since they endured the Athanry. Rylee has been stuck in a deep sleep; Faders are still popping up all over Lumathyst; and the princes are acclimating to magical changes which resulted from the desperate decisions they made at the Athanry.

What’s more—their fight isn’t over. The kings of Lumathyst expect Rylee and the Legends to prove themselves worthy of ruling over the realm before Baydel, Lucas, Jullian and Brooks will abdicate their thrones. Rylee and her mates must do this by meeting every challenge the kings pose to them under what is called “The Kings’ List”.

But with forces pulling the gang in a million different directions, and danger and distrust lurking around every corner… Will they be able to prove themselves? The prosperous future that Rylee and the princes imagined for Lumathyst depends on “yes” being the answer.

Tropes:
✨ Why choose (MMMF)
💓 High spice
✨ Dangerous trials and mysteries
💓 “Chosen one” FMC
✨ Morally grey + golden retriever + thoughtful intellectual MMCs (a good mix 🤣)
💓 1st-person multiple-POV narration
✨ Secrets & betrayals
💓 Political missions
✨ Fated mates + murderously protective mate bonds

“The Kings’ List” is a highly immersive romantasy extravaganza that ups the ante on almost every front compared to the book’s predecessor. It keeps you satisfied with generous high-spice romance, keeps you on the edge of your seat with action and violence, and keeps you guessing about the various mysteries unfolding around Rylee and her princes. We’re left wondering what the true intentions and feelings of the kings really are, and why the Faders have been wreaking havoc on the realm.

Kal was my favourite Legend by the end of The Never List, because of how supportive and sunshiney he was around Riley 😍 BUT in TKL, Pierce’s sexiness, thoughtfulness and intelligence really take centre stage! I think many readers will find themselves re-evaluating their favourite prince (but why choose one when you can have them all? 🤣)

While I was entertained throughout TKL, I found that the plot accelerated exponentially in the last 25%. I would describe the last quarter of the book as wrapping shock, satisfaction, catharsis and worry into a tight little rubber band ball. It was so good! And I’m dying to see what happens next!

✨ 4/5
🌶️ 3/5

[Lexie · Rating 3 out of 5]

First and foremost I love Jade Presley and I will read anything this woman writes. So before anyone comes for me remember that.

Now, The Kings List I have a bit of love/hate relationship with you. For starters, this was one of my most anticipated books of 2026. And even though I did have a fun time reading you, you didn’t quite live up to the hype of The Never List. And unfortunately you suffer a little too much of second book death syndrome. Being the middle book in this Romantasy series I knew there was a chance this would happen. But I was hoping it wouldn’t. Sadly, the first page to about 50% of this book falls in that category. However, 50% to the last page of the book doesn’t. Hence why I’m having such a love/hate relationship with you.

So the first half of the book in my opinion doesn’t need to be there. Essentially the first half of the book was one big training montage of Rylee trying to get a grasp on her new found powers and having individual sessions with each of the princes on how to master them. Now listen I understand she needs to learn these things. But for over half the book. .no ma’am. It felt like that first half we completely lost the plot and all that mattered was training and spicy times with the princes.

Speaking of spice. Now don’t get me wrong I’m all here for spice, heck I loved every spice scene. But some of them didn’t need to be there. Like we have world ending dumpster fires happening outside let’s go get to that. But I promise my spice girly friends you will not be disappointed.

I feel like I’ve done a bunch of ranting on this book. So let’s get to the things I loved. Starting with the back half of the book. From 50% to the last page. It was like a light flipped and we remembered the plot and things started happening. And they start happening quickly. The drama, the action and heck even the politics of the world were shining through brilliantly. Plus we got a taste of Rylee’s female rage at the end and it was spectacular. I can’t wait to see her pop off in book 3.

Overall, The Kings List is a rollercoaster ride. It’s not my favorite in the series but I still had a good time and I would still 100% recommend. I also will be reading the third book. Lastly, big thank you to NetGalley, Jade and Entangled Publishing for providing an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Meg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to the author and publisher for a copy of this book <3

The Never List was one of the first ever ARCs I read and is actually the book that influenced me to download NetGalley which changed my life. So when I tell you I beggeddddd for a copy of this book, I’m not even being dramatic.

Jade has once again blown me away with her writing skills. TNL was the first ‘why choose’/poly couple book that I ever read and honestly has been the only one I’ve fully enjoyed and connected with. Jade does an incredible job of separating the boys and making sure they’re all unique and easy to remember and differentiate between which I feel is a hard thing to do, and has previously been an issue with other ‘why choose’ books. So the fact she has so intricately taken time to build up these different personalities is just wonderful and impressive. I adore every single one of them and I think Pierce and Jax are my fave. We all love a bad boy, but Pierce’s brain is so attractive to me. But the way they’re similar is how caring and sweet they are.

The plot is just a rollercoaster. And I love it. There are things that are hinted to in TNL that now finally ‘click’, there are new mysteries and plot twists, and I love that information is fed to us slowly instead of a ‘grand reveal’ all at once. This book made me use my brain which was really fun. The plot is always developing and I think that’s one of my favourite things in this book. It’s not just heavy romance or heavy plot; it’s a great mix of both, but with plot progression mainly taking the front seat. I love that there’s enough going on to be stimulating, but not too much that it’s confusing or overwhelming.

Overall, another excellent read from Jade. She is so incredibly talented and everyone should read a Jade Presley book in their life. Jade is great at taking us on adventures and she is such a talented writer. There’s orgasms, and heartbreak, and shock, oh my!!
This book is spicy, sexy, and exciting all in one. It’s a fun and thrilling read, and I will absolutely be re-reading this book (and series). I’ll be counting down the days til book 3! Speaking of which, I’ll be here ready to ARC read book 3 👀

Nobody will be surprised that this is another 5 star book for me.

Rating: 5/5 stars (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️)

[Shannon Good · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5/5 ⭐
(Still wishing Goodreads did half stars)

The story picks up right where the first left us on the craziest cliffhanger - you definitely need to read The Never List if you want to understand this story. I liked that the action and plot started immediately, and the momentum continued throughout the book. I also loved the combination of the trials and the background of growing tensions in Lumathyst as it provided a lot of excitement and high stakes for Rylee and her princes.

The romance and relationships take center stage. I loved the romance in this book, and it builds and grows from The Never List. I really enjoyed how Rylee has unique relationships with each Legend of Chaos but at the same time they all come together as a group and mesh in harmony. I felt like the spice was more developed than The Never List as the characters matured in their relationships. Kal is still my favorite prince after both books, but I was surprised by Pierce this time around.

I did find the set up for the King's trials a little weird, and it was the only thing I didn't like. The explanation for why they didn't know about the King's list felt weak. I think had this been alluded to at the end of The Never List it would have made it more palatable, but the new stipulations magically appearing all of the sudden felt like a bad excuse for more plot. I still liked the trials and the plot/character development that followed, I just did not like how it was initially presented. This was very small though in the grand scheme of the story, but it is something I was still thinking about after finishing.

Without any major spoilers, the ending l was my favorite part. I would say the last 20% was just an emotional rollercoaster. While I feel The King's List leaves you with a little more certainty than The Never List did, it still ends with plenty of room for plot in the next book.

Thank you so much to Entangled for allowing me to access and advanced copy to read and review. I love reading advanced copies, but now I am in the position to be begging for the next book when this one hasn't released yet. So grateful to have had this opportunity, and I can't wait for my physical/audio preorders. I am especially excited for the audiobook and getting to immerse myself in the finished copy.

[Kat (IG: bookish_kat_reads) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Review of advanced copy from NetGalley

I’ve spent the last few days trying to reconcile the two very different experiences I had while reading The Kings List. I absolutely loved The Never List, it was a standout for me last year, so I went into this sequel with massive expectations. What I found was a classic case of second book syndrome, though one that thankfully finds its feet just when you think it might be losing the plot.

The first half of the story felt jarringly different from the debut. We’ve gone from high-stakes survival to a middle-of-the-series slump where the narrative gets caught in a loop of training sequences and spicy interludes. While I’m usually the first person to advocate for high heat, here it felt like it came at the expense of the plot and pacing. It was as if the urgency of the Kings’ List was put on hold, and I found myself waiting for the story to actually start.

Even the MMCs felt a bit muted during the first few hundred pages. In the first book, their distinct personalities and the unique friction they brought to the group was what made the "why choose" dynamic so compelling. In this instalment, those sharp edges seemed smoothed over, making them feel a little less like individuals and more like interchangeable parts of a collective. It’s hard to stay invested in a possessive, morally grey dynamic when the characters lose the specific traits that made them "unhinged" in the first place.

But then, almost like a switch was flipped, the second half arrived and everything changed. The political intrigue finally sharpened, the action kicked into high gear, and some of the emotional weight I’d been missing came rushing back. The way the plot unravels toward the end is genuinely impressive, moving with a speed that makes the earlier sluggishness worth pushing through. It culminates in an ending that literally had me screaming at the pages.

It’s a real mixed bag of a read. Is it my new favourite? No. But does Jade Presley know how to stick a landing? Absolutely. Despite the rocky start, the payoff and the sheer drama of those final chapters have me back on the hype train. If you’re a fan of the first book, stick with this one through the slow bits, the ending alone ensures I’ll be reaching for book three the second it drops.

[Holly_bookbanter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Jade Presley, and the team at Entangled Publishing for a copy of The Kings’ List in exchange for a review.

I do not even know how to start this review. I finished the book ten minutes ago and after having a meltdown of epic proportions I am now trying to sort out what to say. I have SO many feelings and I don’t know how to unpack them.

This is the sequel to The Never List, a why choose fantasy romance about a woman born in poverty but destined to become so much more. Rylee found herself the unlikely fated mate of the infamous four Legends of Choas, the princes of the realm. With that comes wealth, power, and challenges that will try and break her.

In The Kings’ List the story begins right after Rylee partakes in the ceremony of the Athenry. We learn that despite surviving it, Rylee has not satisfied all of the criteria required to become queen and for the Legends to ascend the throne. The four reigning kings, the fathers of the Legends, have their own little to do list before they will “sign off” on her.

The tasks are designed to do everything in their power to make it so that Rylee doesn’t win the vote of the council, but she is not giving up without a fight, and neither are the Legends.

I was enraptured by this book. The beloved Legends and their absolute and unconditional love for Rylee is everything you want in a romance. The trust and the bond that the five of them share is so intense you can feel it. I loved seeing their bonds strengthen as they all worked together to find the answers they are desperate to find.

The book is fast paced and keeps you engaged at every turn. Jade has a gift for giving you just enough to keep you wanting more and this book is proof of that!

The spice is off the charts hot. The way they express their love and the need and yearning they feel is so intense and I loved seeing how each of them shows their love differently, while still sharing her.

The Kings’ List ends on a cliffhanger of epic proportions because Jade is the queen of leaving you wanting more! I cannot wait to continue this series and see where Rylee and the Legends take us next.

5/5
5/5 spice

[Willie Graham · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐
😱😵NOOOOOOOO!!!!!
Where are the rest of the pages?!?!
You can't do this to me, AGAIN!! 😖

Nobody Warned Me!!
We’ll get to that part…

First, Holy Hot Damn! Ms Presley cranked the heat up in here 🔥
We’re just gonna go ahead and get that out of the way 😁
Yes, the spice was hotter and heavier, but don’t worry. It didn’t take away from the plot. Honestly, a lot of it was quite crucial to their bonding and connecting. And it was Delicious 🤤

Now, for the meat…

🤩 I love when Book 2 is just as good, if not better than its predecessor.
And that happens to be the case here.
The plot was grinding. Pumping out one heart palpitation after another.

We’ve got ‘poor’ Rylee Grey, newly immortal, fated mate to the Legends, and princess of Lumathyst struggling to control all these powers that have been thrust upon her. Not only does she have to learn how to contain them and wield them, but she also has to learn how to return them intentionally to each of their previous owners.
On top of that, she has been informed that before she and the Legends can ascend to the throne, they must complete a set of tasks (trials) set forth by The Kings’ List and obtain a favorable vote and approval from the kings and the Royal Authority Council (RAC).
And if that wasn’t enough to battle with, she is also facing constant opposition from Baydel (I hate that man), warring with the Faders, dealing with a deadly enhancement (drug) spreading across the realm, as well as maintaining royal duties.

And let’s not forget the drama with her sister.

Yeah, this book is Packed with intensity, betrayal, secrets, action, and love.

Bonds and loyalties are tested.

Failure isn’t an option.

I loved every single second of this and was raging because I ran out of pages 😫

☝️ Now, back to the top.
I’m going to do you the courtesy and give you the warning I didn’t get.
There will most definitely be a Book 3 because, like Book 1, this one ends on a 🇰​​🇮​​🇱​​🇱​​🇪​​🇷​ ​🇨​​🇱​​🇮​​🇫​​🇫​​🇭​​🇦​​🇳​​🇬​​🇪​​🇷​!! 😵


🙌 Thank you so much RedTower and Entangled for the gifted eARC!!

Where do I sign up for an ARC of Book 3? 🥰

[Uncaged Reads Uncaged Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

+++I have received a free eARC of this book. This is my honest review+++

Woowee, Jade Presley—when you go hard, you go hard! I honestly think living a reverse harem life with the likes of Jax, Axl, Pierce, and Kal is every woman’s dream if it were only sustainable. The Kings’ List picks up right where The Never List left off, throwing us back into the fray immediately following the Anthanry, with Riley in a coma and the stakes higher than ever.
This installment is a masterclass in balancing intensity with romance. It is fast-paced and plot-driven, avoiding any "middle book slump" while offering expert world-building where the magical elements are woven perfectly into the narrative. The five POV narrative really works in this book. I love that each of the princes has such a unique, well-defined personality, which makes their dynamic with Riley feel authentic as possible. Watching her continue to step into her own power as a badass is the highlight of the series so far. And, of course, let’s just say it is spicy, spicy, spicy.
If you are the type of reader who struggles with cliffhangers, you might be tempted to wait until book three releases, but I wouldn’t recommend it. The experience of reading this now is too good to miss.
You have waited long enough for this sequel. The Kings’ List releases on May 19, 2026. Do yourself a favor and get your preorder in now—you won’t regret it!

I want to thank @netgalley and @entagled_publishing @redtowerbooks for allowing me to read this amazing eARC. I truly feel honored to have had the privilege to read and review it.

[Larissa Geilen · Rating 5 out of 5]

maybe spoiler-ish? not really ??


DUDE WHAT?!

When I tell you I’ve been WAITING for this. Jade, you’ve really outdone yourself with this one!

The King’s List was amazing. I was immediately hooked after The Never List and was eager for the second one. After getting the opportunity to read it early, I devoured it.

Being back in Lumathyst with our boys was a dream come true. While the circumstances are less than ideal for them, it really was like coming home for me. Rylee is such a badass and watching her come into herself and take control of her life (as much as she can) was *chefs kiss.* She is a great FMC who never loses sight of herself and what she’s set out to accomplish. I really appreciate that she didn’t lose herself in this book and that she stays true to her mates, her friends, and her kingdom. The why-choose hits, every. time. 🤭

Presley did a phenomenal job at making the world-expansion feel organic instead of overwhelming. I think sometimes authors spend too much time world building that it’s hard to connect to the characters we all love. Not in this one, I felt like I was there with Rylee and her mates as they set out to conquer their goals! I loved how the different places and the settings grew naturally and never felt forced.

There were some parts that felt a little predictable and the ending could have been a wee bit more thoroug, but I think Jade did a great job of balancing this sexy, steamy romance with the gripping fantasy story that’s unfolding. I think this set us up really nicely for book three, now I just have to wait for what feels like an eternity (I get what Rylee was going thru honestly)! 😭

The ending was DIABOLICAL and I’ll need the next three months to emotionally heal. I’m not sure why she had to do my favorite like that, but I’m already counting down the days until book three.

Jade, sweetie, the release date… now (kidding, kind of)???!? 😌

Thank you SO much Jade Presley and the Entangled Publishing team for this eARC. I’m so grateful! 🥹

[MadgabsmReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was really looking forward to this book after the absolutely brutal cliff hanger The Never List (book 1 in this series) left off on, so I was beyond grateful to have the opportunity to snag early access to The Kings List from Entangled Publishing and Red Tower (thank you guys!). With that being said, I immediately was beyond grateful for the start of this book as it had a small "What Happened Previously" that allowed me to instantly remember exactly where we were in the story without needing to reread The Never List first. I've never had a book with that before, and I thought it was absolutely genius.

Getting into the book itself, we get allllllll the spice that we had in the first book, amplified. I'm talking 10% of the way in you're hitting spice. So if you enjoyed that, it's definitely here! The story stays pretty interesting too with lots of exciting new twists and turns. I will say, however, that yes, this book also ended on a cliff hanger (come on book 3!).

So. I'm sure you're wondering- this all sounds amazing, why only 4 stars? Well, some aspects of this book get overwhelmingly repetitive. Rylee is a strong, incredibly powerful, FMC but yet the Legends are constantly referring to her as someone they have to protect while simultaneously saying how strong she is. Constantly. Let her be strong, no need to refer to her as a delicate flower that needs to be coddled and protected. On the flip side, the Legends and Rylee are almost too soft in most interactions. It really takes away from the strong and powerful leadership when they are incapable of being away from one another, even in the same room, without turning into pining teenagers. I also cannot possibly count how many times I read the words "strong" "beautiful" "incredible" "mates".

Now, with that being said, the story and world building is top notch and worth the eye roll the previously mentioned pieces resulted in. Who saw the twists at the end coming? Certainly not me, and that's how you keep me invested!

[Amara F · Rating 3 out of 5]

*I was given this book as an eArc but my review is based solely on my own thoughts and opinions*

First off, thank you so much for doing a brief recap about the first book. I love when authors do this.

How cool that she can transfer the powers back to them. I didn’t like that they were all basic b’s with no power anymore haha. I like that they have to do an additional

I do feel it a bit mushy. They are all lovey dovey and their personalities are too similar when it comes to her. I’d like them to differentiate themselves, idk I was some morally grey or push back idk, lovey dovey mushy is fine in moderation. They say I love you on like every page haha.

I do appreciate how open and honest they are with each other. You don’t know how much it bugs me when things can be easily solved by just doing that and other books the whole synopsis is just not being honest and I’m like bruh lol.

It does end on a cliffhanger but of course it does haha. Why is it always ending with the sister but we still don’t get any information whatsoever!!! How dare you haha. I guess I gotta read the 3rd.

I enjoy these books but I don’t like obsess/devour them. Like I said, I enjoy these books and will most likely still continue the series. It’s ok to like books and not love them 👏. I give it a 3.25 rating, I just wanted more. I like that they aren’t overly complicated/complex which is nice since a lot of times I tend to get lost. For example, one chapter she will be learning powers with one guy and then the next chapter she’s in another guys town learning their powers, simple jump. Whereas a more complex storyline would have in great detail the journey to the next place/destination, what happens in between that time. What words have been spoken. Instead of I love you on every page, how else can you say/describe that love. I don’t mind a more simplistic Romantasy. I’d say this is perfect for people who read Romantasy and want to dip their toes into why choose.

[Tasha Corbett · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars - why choose fantasy romance - book 2

Spoilers for the Never list - starting right where book 1 ended - the legends gave up their powers to bring Rylee back to life after the corrupted anthanry. Rylee, now in a type of coma has her own demi power and the legends power, soon awakens to find out they now have to meet the terms of the kings list. The kings list is a set of tasks laid out by the kings to ensure she and the legends make a good team to rule before the kings give up their thrones. The faders soon attack and the leader seems to be Rylee's missing sister Erin!

The never list was my first why choose, and the start of many more, but has remained a firm favourite. I was anxiously awaiting the kings list so when i got an invite for arc I jumped straight in. I love being back in Lumathyst! The story is very fast paced and action packed. We have the tasks set by the kings and their chosen council that includes the legends failed pairings, we have the faders and Erin and people showing up dead from a mysterious drug. Rylee now secretly has all 4 legends powers and struggles to control them and can only give them back to the legends in short bursts.

This would have been another 5 stars but I found the spicy scenes too much sometimes. For the book itself they would have been fine if they had been separated out more, but I felt like we would have none then they would come along every chapter. At one point we had 4 chapters in a row. I was just truly invested in the story that I ended up skimming some of the scenes to get back to the story. I felt like in book one they were needed to push the relationships along but in this one some of them felt unnecessary - enjoyable but placed at wrong times.

Another cliff hanger and I know your not supposed to have a favourite but Jax has always been mine, so his ending was devasting.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for offering me a chance to review a free copy of the ebook.

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Why Choose / Reverse Harem
Forced Proximity / Trials
Forbidden Love / Off Limits
Fantasy Romantasy
Fated Mates
Overcoming Odds / Survival
Spice


"Every task is a test. Every smile is a lie."

"The people judge. The council votes. And the kings are waiting for us to fail."

"Now I stand beside the Legends of Chaos, holding power the kingdom fears and love fierce enough to burn it all down."

"To win the crowns, we'll have to survive the Kings' List."

"Failure isn't an option. Because this time, we're not just fighting for the throne—we're fighting for each other."

"Nothing matters if she doesn't wake up.
Do you think for one second that I wouldn't burn this entire damned royal city to the ground if I thought it would bring her back?"

"No life is worth more than another, regardless of where they reside."

"I want you more than I want my next breath.
And that's before the primal mating bond instincts."

Gahhhhh to leave us on a cliffhanger again! This is book 2 in the Never List Series and I’d definitely recommend reading book 1. And I loved the spice! It was Spicing! Never taking away from plot but hot at the same time 🔥 Rylee Grey, who is newly immortal, fated mate to the Legends, and princess of Lumathyst. Is struggling to control her powers that have been thrust upon her. And then on top of that her mates and her, in order to ascend the throne they have to complete the trials to obtain a favorable vote from the kings and royal council.i mean she has a lot on her plate!
Just like the first book, I was glued to the pages. I couldn’t turn the pages quick enough! I was so lost in this world! I can’t believe I have to wait to book 3 and this one isn’t out yet what am I going to do with myself!! I’m impatiently waiting for book 3! Book 2 is Packed with intensity, betrayal, secrets, action, and love.where Bonds and loyalties are tested. Failure isn't an option. I was addicted to this read! I loved every single second of this and was so mad when I got to the cliff hanger! I can’t wait!

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been waiting sooo long for the sequel to The Never List because the first book was incredible! The story of Rylee and her Princes had me hooked from page one and The King's List was no different.
Between reading so fast to find out what was going on with Rylee and how she was possibly going to make her way back and witnessing how broken her Princes were without her I couldn't put the book down. Once reunited, they all find out that potentially surviving the Athanry and becoming queen to her four princes who should be made kings wasn't as straight forward as they all thought. Now they must complete a series of tasks set forth and be judged on how they perform to earn their crowns.
The relationships between the princes and their relationships with Rylee (both collectively and individually) are written so well. The love and care they all show for each other in the face of extreme adversity is so inspiring. Also, the passion they have for each other is so believably HOT. I have always loved the different ways Jax, Axl, Kal, and Pierce love Rylee. They each provide something for her the others can't and that is what makes it so compelling. Working their way through the tasks given and watching how they come out the other side of each was an inspiration, while also making some cracks between the Kings even more apparent.
There are so many new layers within the story. I read so fast and knew I was coming to the end, but really was not expecting what happened at all. Who knew Jade Presley could hurt me more with an ending than she did with The Never List? Genius level cliffhanger.
Now the wait begins for book 3 😅

[Hannah Thibodeau · Rating 5 out of 5]

Huge thank you to Jade Presley, Entangled Publishing for the early readers copy I was gifted ahead of release day!
Ever since that cliffhanger ending in The Never List my thoughts keep turning back to Rylee and her Legends.
I was thrilled that The Kings’ List picks right up where we were left (panicking internally) and continues on a WILD journey full of plot twists I most definitely did NOT anticipate.
It was really great seeing how Rylee builds her bonds stronger with her 4 mates and I certainly can verify the spice was spicing.
We finally get some questions answered, as does Rylee, (come on we have the same questions she does!) and get to meet new characters as well as…. “Old ones”?
Jade Presley very boldly put an emphasis on history and texts and whoever pens it controls the narrative and what people and future generations will view as truth. Love that! It’s going to be interesting to see what The Legends and Rylee uncover as truth and I hope we get more of that in book 3.

Yes there most certainly will need to be a third book and yes you’ll be left on the edge of your seat (you should sit for this ending) and possibly gasping like I was with how book two ends.

Balance, I truly like how it comes into play with power in this story….
If you’re looking for:
⭐️RH
⭐️Romantasy
⭐️Unique Magic System
⭐️Strong FMC
⭐️Fated Mates
⭐️A strong plot full of twists
⭐️Multi POV
Then I recommend you go get The Never List and preorder The Kings’ List!

I miss these 4 MMCs already and am definitely reading this all over again!!