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The KING Review
He believed his ex when she told him he was dangerous.
She can’t think of anybody less likely to manipulate her.
Grant King is head of the psychology department at the prestigious University of Talan, overseeing cutting edge teaching and research on love, intimacy, and relationships.
Neve Hart is his student, and the younger sister of a colleague. Far too young for a guy like him, with a kid and the dad bod to match; too wild for the train car of baggage his ex-wife landed him with.
Neve Hart has always been the impulsive, emotionally volatile sister, consistently accused of both knowing exactly what she wants and having no idea. She’s not as smart and grounded as her older sister, famous set theorist and creator of the HART app.
But Neve knows she wants Grant King, so she sets him a challenge. He’s an expert in readable body language, so they’re only allowed to text. No body, no photos, no voice.
Until a voice note “for science” turns into a phone call, a phone call turns into a video call, and a video call turns into crossed boundaries and a panicked message from the emergency room when Neve didn’t know who else to call.
As lines blur between Grant’s past and the future he wants with Neve, he finds himself battling to stay in his daughter’s life against an ex who will do anything to get full custody, even if it means taking him down entirely.
The KING Review is a slow burn, spicy STEM romance, perfect for fans of Ali Hazelwood. It is the second in the HART series of interconnected standalones. They are best read in order. This book is intended for adults only. Please check triggers before reading. A list of content warnings can be found within, and on the author’s website.
She can’t think of anybody less likely to manipulate her.
Grant King is head of the psychology department at the prestigious University of Talan, overseeing cutting edge teaching and research on love, intimacy, and relationships.
Neve Hart is his student, and the younger sister of a colleague. Far too young for a guy like him, with a kid and the dad bod to match; too wild for the train car of baggage his ex-wife landed him with.
Neve Hart has always been the impulsive, emotionally volatile sister, consistently accused of both knowing exactly what she wants and having no idea. She’s not as smart and grounded as her older sister, famous set theorist and creator of the HART app.
But Neve knows she wants Grant King, so she sets him a challenge. He’s an expert in readable body language, so they’re only allowed to text. No body, no photos, no voice.
Until a voice note “for science” turns into a phone call, a phone call turns into a video call, and a video call turns into crossed boundaries and a panicked message from the emergency room when Neve didn’t know who else to call.
As lines blur between Grant’s past and the future he wants with Neve, he finds himself battling to stay in his daughter’s life against an ex who will do anything to get full custody, even if it means taking him down entirely.
The KING Review is a slow burn, spicy STEM romance, perfect for fans of Ali Hazelwood. It is the second in the HART series of interconnected standalones. They are best read in order. This book is intended for adults only. Please check triggers before reading. A list of content warnings can be found within, and on the author’s website.
- GenresContemporaryStem
288 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 30, 2026
About the author
Evita Wren
11 books43 followersEvita Wren is an indie romance author.
She writes heartfelt, spicy, and occasionally funny contemporary (for now!) romance designed to hurt your feelings a little before you get to that sweet HEA.
She enjoys crafting relatable and realistic emotional conflict, character-driven intimacy, and the odd suspense-adjacent twist here and there.
Evita’s favorite things to write are witty banter, well-earned spice after a good slow burn, emotionally resonant character arcs, and realistic bodies (you won’t find washboard abs here unless it fits a character’s lifestyle, which is almost never, sorry!).
She mostly writes MF contemporary, but also MM, FF, and MMF triad/poly relationships (throuples, if you don’t dislike the term like she does).
Her current project is the Edgewater Romance series, beginning with Harper's Landing!
She writes heartfelt, spicy, and occasionally funny contemporary (for now!) romance designed to hurt your feelings a little before you get to that sweet HEA.
She enjoys crafting relatable and realistic emotional conflict, character-driven intimacy, and the odd suspense-adjacent twist here and there.
Evita’s favorite things to write are witty banter, well-earned spice after a good slow burn, emotionally resonant character arcs, and realistic bodies (you won’t find washboard abs here unless it fits a character’s lifestyle, which is almost never, sorry!).
She mostly writes MF contemporary, but also MM, FF, and MMF triad/poly relationships (throuples, if you don’t dislike the term like she does).
Her current project is the Edgewater Romance series, beginning with Harper's Landing!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
May 5, 2026
Evita Wren has done it again. I’ve come to love her storytelling, and this book is no exception. She has such a talent for creating characters you can’t help but fall in love with, and Neve and Grant’s story was beautifully written from start to finish.
Their relationship felt engaging and emotional, with a great balance of romance and chemistry. And yes — for those who enjoy a bit of spice, this book definitely delivers. It adds another layer to the story without taking away from the emotional depth of the characters.
What I continue to admire about Evita’s writing is her ability to tackle more serious subjects in a way that feels accessible and never overwhelming. She allows you to fully immerse yourself in the story while still addressing meaningful themes with care and sensitivity.
Another standout element is how inclusive her books are. It’s genuinely difficult not to find a character you connect with in some way, which makes the reading experience even more personal and enjoyable.
If you haven’t picked up this book — or the series — yet, you are truly missing out. Once you start, it’s very hard to stop, and I’m already looking forward to what comes next.
I received a free copy of this book as an ARC reader, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Their relationship felt engaging and emotional, with a great balance of romance and chemistry. And yes — for those who enjoy a bit of spice, this book definitely delivers. It adds another layer to the story without taking away from the emotional depth of the characters.
What I continue to admire about Evita’s writing is her ability to tackle more serious subjects in a way that feels accessible and never overwhelming. She allows you to fully immerse yourself in the story while still addressing meaningful themes with care and sensitivity.
Another standout element is how inclusive her books are. It’s genuinely difficult not to find a character you connect with in some way, which makes the reading experience even more personal and enjoyable.
If you haven’t picked up this book — or the series — yet, you are truly missing out. Once you start, it’s very hard to stop, and I’m already looking forward to what comes next.
I received a free copy of this book as an ARC reader, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 3, 2026
3.75 stars rounded up.
The plot is pretty good. The spice is very spicy! The tropes aren't all my preference, but that's okay. The characters were well written, though I would've liked a little more about their pasts. I did lower my rating a bit because there were several words that were used too repetitively. Also, it felt like the author used a thesaurus and just picked words throughout to make herself seem smarter. But overall a good story and will read another by Evita!
The plot is pretty good. The spice is very spicy! The tropes aren't all my preference, but that's okay. The characters were well written, though I would've liked a little more about their pasts. I did lower my rating a bit because there were several words that were used too repetitively. Also, it felt like the author used a thesaurus and just picked words throughout to make herself seem smarter. But overall a good story and will read another by Evita!
May 11, 2026
After meeting Neve and Grant in The HART Algorithm, I already knew I needed their story — and wow, this one delivered.
Grant and Neve together were emotional, chaotic, sweet, frustrating at times, and SO good. I loved the whole texting-only setup at the start and how quickly it turned into something way deeper than either of them expected. Their chemistry was incredible, but it was the vulnerability between them that really got me.
Grant completely broke my heart with everything he was carrying from his past and the custody battle, and Neve was such a fun, emotional, impulsive character without ever feeling immature. They balanced each other so well.
This book was emotional, spicy, messy in the best way, and impossible to put down once the feelings really kicked in. Definitely one of those romances where I got way too attached to the characters.
Grant and Neve together were emotional, chaotic, sweet, frustrating at times, and SO good. I loved the whole texting-only setup at the start and how quickly it turned into something way deeper than either of them expected. Their chemistry was incredible, but it was the vulnerability between them that really got me.
Grant completely broke my heart with everything he was carrying from his past and the custody battle, and Neve was such a fun, emotional, impulsive character without ever feeling immature. They balanced each other so well.
This book was emotional, spicy, messy in the best way, and impossible to put down once the feelings really kicked in. Definitely one of those romances where I got way too attached to the characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I don’t even know where to start with this one, because when I say I have been waiting for Grant and Neve’s story, I mean I was absolutely feral for it. You can check my review for The HART Algorithm because I was BEGGING for them! Getting to ARC read this felt like a full circle moment because they were the couple I wanted so badly. It really did exceed all my expectations, but not surprised at all when it comes to Evita Wren. She continues to prove that she can take any trope, any dynamic, and elevate it into something deeply emotional, incredibly intimate, and completely unforgettable.
Grant and Neve are everything I hoped they would be, and more! What makes them so compelling isn’t just their chemistry (which is incredible), but the way they truly see each other.
Grant is carrying so much, like damage from his ex-wife, a shattered sense of self-worth, and this quiet belief that he’s inherently flawed or even dangerous. Watching him navigate that internal struggle was honestly heartbreaking at times. His relationship with his daughter added another layer of vulnerability and depth that made his character feel so real and grounded. Neve, on the other hand, hit in a completely different but equally powerful way. Being labeled the “too much” sister, the emotional one, the impulsive one is something so many people can relate to, including myself. She’s internalized those narratives about herself, and seeing her slowly unlearn them through her connection with Grant was beautiful. She doesn’t just fall for him, but she challenges him, understands him, and actively shows him his worth in a way no one else has. They fell in love, but they also healed each other.
The student/professor dynamic combined with the age gap (42 for Grant and 26 for Neve) could have easily leaned into cliché territory, but Evita handles it with so much care and intentionality. The slow burn is exquisite, especially with the texting-only rule at the start. And that constraint and restraint was genius because I felt like it forces emotional intimacy first. I could see their minds connect before anything else, which makes every escalation, like the voice notes, the calls, and the video feel so worth it. By the time things start crossing lines, I was already completely invested because I could see this deep connection between them and it developed in such a gorgeous way.
And that hospital scene was everything! OMG I was literally just going wild over it because YES! It felt like a real turning point and like a true culmination of all events leading up to this very significant moment between them.
I loved discovering what KING stood for! It gave me the same rush and satisfaction as the HART reveal in The HART Algorithm. There’s something so satisfying about how Evita ties these conceptual threads together across the series, and I love that it is always rooted in science and STEM.
I loved seeing River, Wren, and Vida again! It was such a treat. That continuity adds so much richness to the world, and yes, I will never get over my favorite iconic poly couple.
Evita Wren consistently shines when it comes to representation. I always love how she includes representation and makes it feel so natural and real, and it is never performative. It’s just part of who they are, and that authenticity matters. The ADHD rep for Neve and Sera was integrated well here, and I appreciated it.
Another standout element was body representation. Grant’s insecurity about his body, his belief that he doesn’t fit the “ideal” and his fear that Neve wouldn’t desire him felt painfully real, especially as someone who is plus size. However, I loved how Neve saw him as completely, unapologetically desirable and made sure to make it known to him. You are worthy of love at any size, in any form!
Yes, the spice is hot. Like… very hot! But what I really loved is how it wasn’t just there for shock value. I loved the daddy kink, and I felt like it really showed how both of them had the need for reassurance, control, vulnerability, and trust. It was healing and not just smut, which is such a rare balance to strike.
I absolutely adored this book and the contrast between not enough and too much, and how the right person will love every piece of you and see you and show you your worth.
I loved this book. I love this series. And I will read absolutely anything Evita Wren writes!
Thank you to Evita Wren for the eARC of this book!
Grant and Neve are everything I hoped they would be, and more! What makes them so compelling isn’t just their chemistry (which is incredible), but the way they truly see each other.
Grant is carrying so much, like damage from his ex-wife, a shattered sense of self-worth, and this quiet belief that he’s inherently flawed or even dangerous. Watching him navigate that internal struggle was honestly heartbreaking at times. His relationship with his daughter added another layer of vulnerability and depth that made his character feel so real and grounded. Neve, on the other hand, hit in a completely different but equally powerful way. Being labeled the “too much” sister, the emotional one, the impulsive one is something so many people can relate to, including myself. She’s internalized those narratives about herself, and seeing her slowly unlearn them through her connection with Grant was beautiful. She doesn’t just fall for him, but she challenges him, understands him, and actively shows him his worth in a way no one else has. They fell in love, but they also healed each other.
The student/professor dynamic combined with the age gap (42 for Grant and 26 for Neve) could have easily leaned into cliché territory, but Evita handles it with so much care and intentionality. The slow burn is exquisite, especially with the texting-only rule at the start. And that constraint and restraint was genius because I felt like it forces emotional intimacy first. I could see their minds connect before anything else, which makes every escalation, like the voice notes, the calls, and the video feel so worth it. By the time things start crossing lines, I was already completely invested because I could see this deep connection between them and it developed in such a gorgeous way.
And that hospital scene was everything! OMG I was literally just going wild over it because YES! It felt like a real turning point and like a true culmination of all events leading up to this very significant moment between them.
I loved discovering what KING stood for! It gave me the same rush and satisfaction as the HART reveal in The HART Algorithm. There’s something so satisfying about how Evita ties these conceptual threads together across the series, and I love that it is always rooted in science and STEM.
I loved seeing River, Wren, and Vida again! It was such a treat. That continuity adds so much richness to the world, and yes, I will never get over my favorite iconic poly couple.
Evita Wren consistently shines when it comes to representation. I always love how she includes representation and makes it feel so natural and real, and it is never performative. It’s just part of who they are, and that authenticity matters. The ADHD rep for Neve and Sera was integrated well here, and I appreciated it.
Another standout element was body representation. Grant’s insecurity about his body, his belief that he doesn’t fit the “ideal” and his fear that Neve wouldn’t desire him felt painfully real, especially as someone who is plus size. However, I loved how Neve saw him as completely, unapologetically desirable and made sure to make it known to him. You are worthy of love at any size, in any form!
Yes, the spice is hot. Like… very hot! But what I really loved is how it wasn’t just there for shock value. I loved the daddy kink, and I felt like it really showed how both of them had the need for reassurance, control, vulnerability, and trust. It was healing and not just smut, which is such a rare balance to strike.
I absolutely adored this book and the contrast between not enough and too much, and how the right person will love every piece of you and see you and show you your worth.
I loved this book. I love this series. And I will read absolutely anything Evita Wren writes!
Thank you to Evita Wren for the eARC of this book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I couldn't WAIT to read The King Review after finishing The Hart Algorithm...so much so that I signed up to do my first ARC Review ever. And it sure didn't disappoint. Evita is quickly becoming my favorite indie author. She covers body diversity and neurodivergency in a way that feels so natural rather than performative or forced. I often find many indie books to be blandly written and feel kind of like a wattpad novel. So many are just a checklist of tropes. Not here - her prose is beautiful and uniquely her own and her plots are well thought out and creative.
Onto the actual book... we have our FMC, Neve, the sister of Fia from The Hart Algorithm. She enrolls in the psychology program at the university where Fia, Cade, and Grant (our MMC) all work. She's 26 years old, plus-size and confident, has little to no filter, and feels everything so deeply. She has ADHD (I LOVE Evita's ADHD rep, I've never felt more seen) and has often been made to feel like she's "too much."
Grant. Oh how I adore Professor Daddy Grant. He's the head of the psychology department, 42, and studies the psychology of human sexuality. He's also a single dad of a six year old girl and has the sexy dad bod to go along with it. Oh, and he can cooooooook!! 😍
Grant is incredibly kind and empathetic, but so emotionally damaged from his ex (Marie can kick rocks, fr). She made him TURN THE LIGHTS OFF!!! He's so used to be being put down and undervalued that he's almost shocked at how much Neve is into him. He’s so touch starved I wanted to hug him so badly.
Grant is hesitant to jump in because of the age gap, his daughter, and his position as her professor. Neve is unapologetically relentless and he's putty in her hands. He worries that because of his research on reading body language in romantic and sexual partners, he's destined to be manipulative in his relationships (goddammit Marie). So Neve challenges him to texting only. That quickly goes to voice notes...to pictures...to videos...and so on. He is SO down bad for her and she's all in. Both characters are honest and upfront–no miscommunication trope to be found here and it's SO refreshing.
I typically shy away from age gap and power dynamics, however Evita writes it with such care that I didn't mind it even a little bit. I think it also helps that Neve is a total brat 🫢. Grant is a consent KING, and so is Neve. I'm also not a fan of the "daddy/baby girl" trope but again, it's written so thoughtfully and feels so natural that I actually enjoyed it in this book. It wasn't a kink thrown in for the sake of kink, it made sense to the characters and their relationship. You could FEEL the desperation and the want 🥵. Evita is such an expert in creating that tension and desire that I think I'd be into literally anything if she wrote it.
Anyway, I could go on forever but this is way too long already. I loved it, five stars. My only (very mild) complaint is I hate when romance books get meta, talking about tropes and such, because it takes me out of the moment. But that very well just be me being petty. I literally can’t find a single other thing to critique. Seriously, read this. Even if it’s tropes that you stay away from, trust me, read it anyway!
Evita, thank you so much for the ARC, and thank you for making us curvy ADHD girlies feel seen and celebrated. 🫶
I'm leaving this review voluntarily with no compensation.
Onto the actual book... we have our FMC, Neve, the sister of Fia from The Hart Algorithm. She enrolls in the psychology program at the university where Fia, Cade, and Grant (our MMC) all work. She's 26 years old, plus-size and confident, has little to no filter, and feels everything so deeply. She has ADHD (I LOVE Evita's ADHD rep, I've never felt more seen) and has often been made to feel like she's "too much."
“Something slow and heavy thuds in my chest the second I realize he doesn’t seem to have a single instinct to try and shrink me or make me shrink myself.”
Grant. Oh how I adore Professor Daddy Grant. He's the head of the psychology department, 42, and studies the psychology of human sexuality. He's also a single dad of a six year old girl and has the sexy dad bod to go along with it. Oh, and he can cooooooook!! 😍
Grant is incredibly kind and empathetic, but so emotionally damaged from his ex (Marie can kick rocks, fr). She made him TURN THE LIGHTS OFF!!! He's so used to be being put down and undervalued that he's almost shocked at how much Neve is into him. He’s so touch starved I wanted to hug him so badly.
“You’re not hot despite your body, Grant. You’re hot because of it. All of it."
Grant is hesitant to jump in because of the age gap, his daughter, and his position as her professor. Neve is unapologetically relentless and he's putty in her hands. He worries that because of his research on reading body language in romantic and sexual partners, he's destined to be manipulative in his relationships (goddammit Marie). So Neve challenges him to texting only. That quickly goes to voice notes...to pictures...to videos...and so on. He is SO down bad for her and she's all in. Both characters are honest and upfront–no miscommunication trope to be found here and it's SO refreshing.
I typically shy away from age gap and power dynamics, however Evita writes it with such care that I didn't mind it even a little bit. I think it also helps that Neve is a total brat 🫢. Grant is a consent KING, and so is Neve. I'm also not a fan of the "daddy/baby girl" trope but again, it's written so thoughtfully and feels so natural that I actually enjoyed it in this book. It wasn't a kink thrown in for the sake of kink, it made sense to the characters and their relationship. You could FEEL the desperation and the want 🥵. Evita is such an expert in creating that tension and desire that I think I'd be into literally anything if she wrote it.
“I’m soaked, ruined, and fucking fuming.”
“I could die right now and come back as her fucking kitchen sponge, and I’d be satisfied.
Anyway, I could go on forever but this is way too long already. I loved it, five stars. My only (very mild) complaint is I hate when romance books get meta, talking about tropes and such, because it takes me out of the moment. But that very well just be me being petty. I literally can’t find a single other thing to critique. Seriously, read this. Even if it’s tropes that you stay away from, trust me, read it anyway!
Evita, thank you so much for the ARC, and thank you for making us curvy ADHD girlies feel seen and celebrated. 🫶
“The rest of the world flattens and blurs to grayscale, and Neve stays in hypercolor, like her mere existence raises the saturation in the room, but only around her.”
I'm leaving this review voluntarily with no compensation.
Review of advance copy received from Author
5 stars isn't enough. 10 stars isn't enough. This book is EVERYTHING. I didn't know how she was going to make me love Grant more than Cade but she didn't even really have to try because from the first page I was in Grant's corner ready to fight the world (and Marie 😒). What a precious bean, I can't 😭😭😭 And Neve, my baby girl, the sweetest woman oh my god. I just adore these two and every single piece of them and the way they interwove themselves with one another through healing and acceptance. One thing you can always expect from Evita is she's going to leave you emotionally raw in the best ways. The amount of times I relate to a character is insane but Neve, my baby Neve, she and I are so much alike and when the lows hit I felt them deep in my chest. Don't worry, there's no 3rd act breakup, I swear 😘
Much like the first book by Chapter 4 I was already dying at the banter between these two. Professor Daddy is the single best pet name and I will not be taking questions on the matter 😂 Neve is the opposite of her sister Fia in basically every way. She's loud, she's direct, she's shameless, and she knows what she wants and what she wants is Grant King. After meeting him at a party and him declining her advances it felt almost poetic when she was accepted into the University Psychology program that Grant heads. Right away she sets to picking away at his rock hard exterior. She knows he has baggage and she knows he's got reservations but she doesn't care so long as he's willing to play the game and play the game he does. He plays it, he dominates it, and somehow she still ends up winning 🤭🤭🤭
Grant is 4 years post divorce from a woman that really did a number on him mentally. After being made to believe he could never have an honest relationship with someone because of what he does for a living he decided to close that part of himself off and just focus on his daughter Sera. When Neve pursues him once after a night of drinking he tries to think nothing of it. When it happens again as he's finding out she's now a student in his program he quickly puts a block up for himself. Neve being ever persistent continues her pursuit until Grant has no choice but to find out why? It never in a million years (well at least 4, actually) occurred to him that this gorgeous woman could honestly like him regardless of everything else. To be worthy of something so amazing, the concept doesn't seem real.
So many things about this were absolutely perfect. He calls her angel🥺 When she needs him in a serious moment he's not only there but he refuses to leave her. "I'm here, it's alright. You're safe. I've got you." Literally sobbing 😭😭 Falling for him was inevitable, making him understand he was worthy of it was beautiful. Neve is such an amazing woman. Never did she want to ignore his reality, she only wanted to help make it easier. She wanted him and his child and every messy bit without trying to turn away from it or pretend like it wasn't there. "I hope he knows he can trust me with those parts of himself-the parts he thinks he has to hide, the parts he thinks are ugly. I want them all." Ahhhhhhh stoppppit 🥺
This book wouldn't be signature Evita if it didn't balance the emotional side with absolute filth, oh.my.god. Daddy/baby girl dynamic? Top tier. Aftercare? Always. Kink discovery? For me and them 🥵🥵🥵 The spice menu was delicious and I will happily take seconds, please!? These two are in the running for my favorite couple both in and out of the bedroom. I could not get enough of them.
*For the best reading experience Start with The HART Algorithm and then read All I Want for Christmas is Two.*
Much like the first book by Chapter 4 I was already dying at the banter between these two. Professor Daddy is the single best pet name and I will not be taking questions on the matter 😂 Neve is the opposite of her sister Fia in basically every way. She's loud, she's direct, she's shameless, and she knows what she wants and what she wants is Grant King. After meeting him at a party and him declining her advances it felt almost poetic when she was accepted into the University Psychology program that Grant heads. Right away she sets to picking away at his rock hard exterior. She knows he has baggage and she knows he's got reservations but she doesn't care so long as he's willing to play the game and play the game he does. He plays it, he dominates it, and somehow she still ends up winning 🤭🤭🤭
Grant is 4 years post divorce from a woman that really did a number on him mentally. After being made to believe he could never have an honest relationship with someone because of what he does for a living he decided to close that part of himself off and just focus on his daughter Sera. When Neve pursues him once after a night of drinking he tries to think nothing of it. When it happens again as he's finding out she's now a student in his program he quickly puts a block up for himself. Neve being ever persistent continues her pursuit until Grant has no choice but to find out why? It never in a million years (well at least 4, actually) occurred to him that this gorgeous woman could honestly like him regardless of everything else. To be worthy of something so amazing, the concept doesn't seem real.
So many things about this were absolutely perfect. He calls her angel🥺 When she needs him in a serious moment he's not only there but he refuses to leave her. "I'm here, it's alright. You're safe. I've got you." Literally sobbing 😭😭 Falling for him was inevitable, making him understand he was worthy of it was beautiful. Neve is such an amazing woman. Never did she want to ignore his reality, she only wanted to help make it easier. She wanted him and his child and every messy bit without trying to turn away from it or pretend like it wasn't there. "I hope he knows he can trust me with those parts of himself-the parts he thinks he has to hide, the parts he thinks are ugly. I want them all." Ahhhhhhh stoppppit 🥺
This book wouldn't be signature Evita if it didn't balance the emotional side with absolute filth, oh.my.god. Daddy/baby girl dynamic? Top tier. Aftercare? Always. Kink discovery? For me and them 🥵🥵🥵 The spice menu was delicious and I will happily take seconds, please!? These two are in the running for my favorite couple both in and out of the bedroom. I could not get enough of them.
*For the best reading experience Start with The HART Algorithm and then read All I Want for Christmas is Two.*
May 3, 2026
Somehow, someway, Evita Wren manages to write books with characters that feel so real you think you could reach out and touch them. She has a way of creating and expressing her characters that makes them feel like living, breathing beings. They are multi-dimensional and fully formed, with all the quirks, anxieties, joys and challenges of real life. I’ve read all her books, and this latest just reinforces how freaking awesome she is at capturing human nature and making it come alive in words.
Yeah, that’s pretty much me leading the cheer squad for her, but it’s honestly how I feel.
“The King Review” builds on “The Hart Algorithm,” when we first met Grant and Neve. It was obvious the two were destined for their own book, and Wren delivered beautifully. These two make no sense on paper. Never is much younger, Grant is her professor, they both have baggage. But Wren tears that paper up and lights it on fire in the most satisfying way.
It was so easy to fall for Grant, a man dealing with an acrimonious ex, a dedicated father missing his daughter, a professor trying desperately to avoid the younger woman who somehow looks at him and sees the man he can’t. He has body issues, too, and is suffering the effects of an ex-wife’s emotional abuse.
And then there is Neve. She’s young but determined. She has issues stemming from her parents unhealthy expectations and opinions. She’s been compared to her sister all her life, and been found lacking every single time. But she is also a woman who is smart and compassionate—and knows a good thing when she sees it. She wants Grant for who he is, and she’s willing to do what she has to to make him see the man she sees when she looks at him.
This book is emotional, witty, brave, raw and absolutely wonderful. I highly recommmend it.
PS I would be remiss if I didn’t also mention that Wren yet again writes with inclusivity. She does an incredible job of representation and, as with her first book and every one since, it has both impressed me and made me extremely grateful.
Yeah, that’s pretty much me leading the cheer squad for her, but it’s honestly how I feel.
“The King Review” builds on “The Hart Algorithm,” when we first met Grant and Neve. It was obvious the two were destined for their own book, and Wren delivered beautifully. These two make no sense on paper. Never is much younger, Grant is her professor, they both have baggage. But Wren tears that paper up and lights it on fire in the most satisfying way.
It was so easy to fall for Grant, a man dealing with an acrimonious ex, a dedicated father missing his daughter, a professor trying desperately to avoid the younger woman who somehow looks at him and sees the man he can’t. He has body issues, too, and is suffering the effects of an ex-wife’s emotional abuse.
And then there is Neve. She’s young but determined. She has issues stemming from her parents unhealthy expectations and opinions. She’s been compared to her sister all her life, and been found lacking every single time. But she is also a woman who is smart and compassionate—and knows a good thing when she sees it. She wants Grant for who he is, and she’s willing to do what she has to to make him see the man she sees when she looks at him.
This book is emotional, witty, brave, raw and absolutely wonderful. I highly recommmend it.
PS I would be remiss if I didn’t also mention that Wren yet again writes with inclusivity. She does an incredible job of representation and, as with her first book and every one since, it has both impressed me and made me extremely grateful.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Every time I read anything by Evita Wren I know I am going to laugh, cry, and swoon in equal measure!!
King Review is the kind of age‑gap, student‑professor romance that had me giggling from the start. I loved meeting Neve and Grant in the Hart Algorithm about Neve’s sister Fia and Cade. I was very excited for their story and it absolutely did it for me!
Grant King (42) and Neve Hart (26) shouldn’t make sense on paper because he’s her professor, a single dad with a bruised past, and she’s this bright, persistent spark who refuses to dim herself for anyone. But from the moment they meet, the connection is undeniable. It’s charged, forbidden, and threaded with that slow‑burn ache that makes every stolen moment feel intense.
My girl Neve is everything I love in a younger FMC: sassy, bold, intuitive, and caring in a way that feels instinctive rather than naïve (not like her name). She’s never felt like enough, compared to her sister. She’s always felt like too much for anyone and Grant makes her believe that she is perfect just how she is.
Neve sees Grant clearly as the man he is, the man he tries to hide, and the man he could be if someone finally chose him. And she chooses him over and over. She chooses his daughter too and the mess that goes with his ex-wife too. She pursues him with this relentless, playful confidence, pushing past every wall he tries to build. Every time he pulls back, she steps closer. Every boundary he draws, she tests with a smile. Watching this controlled, self‑contained man slowly crack under the weight of her attention is addictive.
The chemistry between them is instant and magnetic, humming under every conversation and glance. Their dynamic walks that perfect line between forbidden tension and emotional inevitability, you feel the spark long before either of them admits it.
Grant, my man… Professor Daddy. Ugh, I love him so much. He’s a man who has spent years being made to feel lesser by an ex‑wife who weaponized his profession and his empathy against him. A man who shows up for everyone except himself. Neve becomes the first person to reflect his worth back to him, not with grand speeches, but with presence, loyalty, and desire. She reinforces, again and again, that he is good, wanted, and worthy.
The hospital scene is where the story truly cracked me open. Grant stepping in, steady and protective, while Neve lets herself lean on him for the first time…It’s the moment you realize he’s not just falling for her, no he’s choosing her, fully and without hesitation. Or when he stands up to Neve’s parents… this man! So protective and caring. *swoon*
Grant is a devoted father navigating the fallout of a manipulative ex, and the contrast between how his ex-wife treated him and how Neve loves him is stark. Neve doesn’t just want him, she believes in him. And that belief becomes the quiet, steady force that reshapes him.
King Review is messy, tender, charged, and unexpectedly sweet. It’s about desire, yes, but also about being seen, like truly seen by someone who refuses to let you shrink.
A huge thank you to Evita Wren for the early review!
King Review is the kind of age‑gap, student‑professor romance that had me giggling from the start. I loved meeting Neve and Grant in the Hart Algorithm about Neve’s sister Fia and Cade. I was very excited for their story and it absolutely did it for me!
Grant King (42) and Neve Hart (26) shouldn’t make sense on paper because he’s her professor, a single dad with a bruised past, and she’s this bright, persistent spark who refuses to dim herself for anyone. But from the moment they meet, the connection is undeniable. It’s charged, forbidden, and threaded with that slow‑burn ache that makes every stolen moment feel intense.
My girl Neve is everything I love in a younger FMC: sassy, bold, intuitive, and caring in a way that feels instinctive rather than naïve (not like her name). She’s never felt like enough, compared to her sister. She’s always felt like too much for anyone and Grant makes her believe that she is perfect just how she is.
Neve sees Grant clearly as the man he is, the man he tries to hide, and the man he could be if someone finally chose him. And she chooses him over and over. She chooses his daughter too and the mess that goes with his ex-wife too. She pursues him with this relentless, playful confidence, pushing past every wall he tries to build. Every time he pulls back, she steps closer. Every boundary he draws, she tests with a smile. Watching this controlled, self‑contained man slowly crack under the weight of her attention is addictive.
The chemistry between them is instant and magnetic, humming under every conversation and glance. Their dynamic walks that perfect line between forbidden tension and emotional inevitability, you feel the spark long before either of them admits it.
Grant, my man… Professor Daddy. Ugh, I love him so much. He’s a man who has spent years being made to feel lesser by an ex‑wife who weaponized his profession and his empathy against him. A man who shows up for everyone except himself. Neve becomes the first person to reflect his worth back to him, not with grand speeches, but with presence, loyalty, and desire. She reinforces, again and again, that he is good, wanted, and worthy.
The hospital scene is where the story truly cracked me open. Grant stepping in, steady and protective, while Neve lets herself lean on him for the first time…It’s the moment you realize he’s not just falling for her, no he’s choosing her, fully and without hesitation. Or when he stands up to Neve’s parents… this man! So protective and caring. *swoon*
Grant is a devoted father navigating the fallout of a manipulative ex, and the contrast between how his ex-wife treated him and how Neve loves him is stark. Neve doesn’t just want him, she believes in him. And that belief becomes the quiet, steady force that reshapes him.
King Review is messy, tender, charged, and unexpectedly sweet. It’s about desire, yes, but also about being seen, like truly seen by someone who refuses to let you shrink.
A huge thank you to Evita Wren for the early review!
April 19, 2026
ARC review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The King Review is the kind of romance that sneaks up on you starting with rules, logic, and restraint and then slowly unraveling into something deeply emotional and impossible to control.
What hooked me right away was the premise. A psychology professor who studies love and attraction, and a student who refuses to play by the rules? Add in the “text-only” challenge, and it creates this delicious slow burn where everything hinges on words, subtext, and what’s left unsaid.
And let me tell you that tension builds beautifully.
Grant King is not your typical romantic lead. He’s older, worn down, carrying the weight of a past that still has claws in him. He’s careful, controlled, constantly second-guessing himself and that makes every step he takes toward Neve feel risky. You can feel how badly he wants to do the right thing even as he starts crossing lines he swore he wouldn’t.
Then there’s Neve.
She’s chaotic in a way that feels real impulsive, emotional, and often misunderstood. But beneath that? She knows exactly what she wants, and she’s not afraid to go after it. Watching her challenge Grant, push him, and slowly break through his defenses is equal parts frustrating and addictive.
The evolution of their connection from texts to calls to something far more personal is where this story shines. It feels intimate in a way that goes beyond physical, built on vulnerability, curiosity, and emotional exposure.
But it’s not just about them.
Grant’s fight to stay in his daughter’s life adds a whole other layer of tension. The stakes aren’t just emotional they’re real, messy, and high. His past isn’t done with him, and it threatens everything he’s trying to build.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The King Review is the kind of romance that sneaks up on you starting with rules, logic, and restraint and then slowly unraveling into something deeply emotional and impossible to control.
What hooked me right away was the premise. A psychology professor who studies love and attraction, and a student who refuses to play by the rules? Add in the “text-only” challenge, and it creates this delicious slow burn where everything hinges on words, subtext, and what’s left unsaid.
And let me tell you that tension builds beautifully.
Grant King is not your typical romantic lead. He’s older, worn down, carrying the weight of a past that still has claws in him. He’s careful, controlled, constantly second-guessing himself and that makes every step he takes toward Neve feel risky. You can feel how badly he wants to do the right thing even as he starts crossing lines he swore he wouldn’t.
Then there’s Neve.
She’s chaotic in a way that feels real impulsive, emotional, and often misunderstood. But beneath that? She knows exactly what she wants, and she’s not afraid to go after it. Watching her challenge Grant, push him, and slowly break through his defenses is equal parts frustrating and addictive.
The evolution of their connection from texts to calls to something far more personal is where this story shines. It feels intimate in a way that goes beyond physical, built on vulnerability, curiosity, and emotional exposure.
But it’s not just about them.
Grant’s fight to stay in his daughter’s life adds a whole other layer of tension. The stakes aren’t just emotional they’re real, messy, and high. His past isn’t done with him, and it threatens everything he’s trying to build.
May 11, 2026
Rating:⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
The KING Review is book 2 in the HART series. It can be read as a standalone, but some of the side characters are the MCs of the previous stories.
This story is sweet and cute, with a lot of body positivity on both sides of the couple, respect of boundaries, and going through life no matter what it throws at you.
Grant and Neve have a lot staked against their relationship, but I liked how they took their time to get to know each other, and didn't fall into lust no matter how attracted to each other they were. The story is layered, and with different levels of complexity.
There's plenty of spice throughout the story, in line with the strong attraction between the characters that comes out almost from the start.
What didn't completely work for me is the 'forbidden' part of the relationship, the point that creates the stronger obstacle to the relationship. It could have been easily avoided, thus feeling forced, and it also plays against the age gap, that is also a big part of the strain to the couple. It made the MMC feel unbalanced, indecisive, even though a huge part of the story revolves around making choices with wide open eyes. I don't know, the struggle felt real, but it could have easily been avoided, and it made me doubt the MMC character.
Still, this was a cute story, with plenty of spice, but also heartfelt moments. With characters that have complex personalities, and with a plot that keeps you intrigued. If you like an age gap, forbidden romance with a side of Daddy kink, give this one a try.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
The KING Review is book 2 in the HART series. It can be read as a standalone, but some of the side characters are the MCs of the previous stories.
This story is sweet and cute, with a lot of body positivity on both sides of the couple, respect of boundaries, and going through life no matter what it throws at you.
Grant and Neve have a lot staked against their relationship, but I liked how they took their time to get to know each other, and didn't fall into lust no matter how attracted to each other they were. The story is layered, and with different levels of complexity.
There's plenty of spice throughout the story, in line with the strong attraction between the characters that comes out almost from the start.
What didn't completely work for me is the 'forbidden' part of the relationship, the point that creates the stronger obstacle to the relationship. It could have been easily avoided, thus feeling forced, and it also plays against the age gap, that is also a big part of the strain to the couple. It made the MMC feel unbalanced, indecisive, even though a huge part of the story revolves around making choices with wide open eyes. I don't know, the struggle felt real, but it could have easily been avoided, and it made me doubt the MMC character.
Still, this was a cute story, with plenty of spice, but also heartfelt moments. With characters that have complex personalities, and with a plot that keeps you intrigued. If you like an age gap, forbidden romance with a side of Daddy kink, give this one a try.
April 12, 2026
Neve + Grant
The KING Review shares the story of Neve (our agent of chaos & babygirl) and Grant (Professor Daddy). Each of these characters has their flaws BUT each of them together brings out the best in the other. Neve has always been told she was too much... but what if the right man came along and accepted her as she was.. well, Grant does. He allows her to blossom and to be herself even if society and her family see her as 'too much.' She'd never be too much for Grant.
Grant is self conscious. He is such a complex character. He has layers upon layers of love, intelligence and loyalty to those he loves. Grant has a beautiful daughter whom he shares custody with Marie. PS Marie is the reason why Grant second guesses things, doesn't think he's worth anything and often believes he isn't gorgeous. PS HE IS. & Neve is going to do everything in her power to show him just how much she wants him from head to toe.
I loved every bit of this sinfully smart age gap romance. Evita has done it again.
The KING Review is spicy but emotionally intelligent.
Thank you to the author for a beta copy of The KING Review. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The KING Review shares the story of Neve (our agent of chaos & babygirl) and Grant (Professor Daddy). Each of these characters has their flaws BUT each of them together brings out the best in the other. Neve has always been told she was too much... but what if the right man came along and accepted her as she was.. well, Grant does. He allows her to blossom and to be herself even if society and her family see her as 'too much.' She'd never be too much for Grant.
Grant is self conscious. He is such a complex character. He has layers upon layers of love, intelligence and loyalty to those he loves. Grant has a beautiful daughter whom he shares custody with Marie. PS Marie is the reason why Grant second guesses things, doesn't think he's worth anything and often believes he isn't gorgeous. PS HE IS. & Neve is going to do everything in her power to show him just how much she wants him from head to toe.
I loved every bit of this sinfully smart age gap romance. Evita has done it again.
The KING Review is spicy but emotionally intelligent.
Thank you to the author for a beta copy of The KING Review. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 5, 2026
Wow. After reading The HART Algorithm, I expected the same level of banter, humor, and spice—and Evita Wren absolutely delivered. The dialogue is sharp, the characters feel fully alive, and the chemistry? Off the charts. The spicy scenes in this one are on fire—truly next level.
Grant and Neve’s age-gap romance is thoughtful and deeply compelling. They fit together in a way that feels both natural and electric, falling for each other’s quirks and complexities in a way that makes you root for them from the start.
The slow burn here is somehow hotter than most full-throttle romances I’ve read. If you’re in it for the tension and payoff, this book absolutely delivers.
Read this if you love: brilliant characters who know how to play, fiercely devoted dads, and the undeniable satisfaction of terrible people getting exactly what they deserve.
Grant and Neve’s age-gap romance is thoughtful and deeply compelling. They fit together in a way that feels both natural and electric, falling for each other’s quirks and complexities in a way that makes you root for them from the start.
The slow burn here is somehow hotter than most full-throttle romances I’ve read. If you’re in it for the tension and payoff, this book absolutely delivers.
Read this if you love: brilliant characters who know how to play, fiercely devoted dads, and the undeniable satisfaction of terrible people getting exactly what they deserve.
May 10, 2026
Could not put it down. Evita Wren has a way with her story and character constructs. There is so much diversity and inclusivity, I hope the world becomes an Evita Wren book one day and we should all be so lucky. The level of understanding and patience that her characters have, it is truly a gold standard.
Neve and Grant. She is his student and the sister of a co-professor, so it's already complicated from the start. He is the wounded animal here (although she carries her own baggage) but they start flirting, which leads to some very spicy conversations; the burn & tension is pretty unbelievable. My favorite part of all of this, is the fact that he's a dad and has a dad-bod (which was so incredible to read during the spicy scenes, as a dad bod aficionado myself) and is smarting from an ex-marriage that has his head in all sorts of dark places. Neve to rescue, she slowly drags him out of those dark head spaces and lets him truly be seen and loved.
There isn't a lot of drama in this story, which I personally loved. The characters move with a lot of maturity and grace, which is really refreshing and probably one of the main reasons that I absolutely adored it. Also, the spice. THE SPICE IS SPICIN'.
Neve and Grant. She is his student and the sister of a co-professor, so it's already complicated from the start. He is the wounded animal here (although she carries her own baggage) but they start flirting, which leads to some very spicy conversations; the burn & tension is pretty unbelievable. My favorite part of all of this, is the fact that he's a dad and has a dad-bod (which was so incredible to read during the spicy scenes, as a dad bod aficionado myself) and is smarting from an ex-marriage that has his head in all sorts of dark places. Neve to rescue, she slowly drags him out of those dark head spaces and lets him truly be seen and loved.
There isn't a lot of drama in this story, which I personally loved. The characters move with a lot of maturity and grace, which is really refreshing and probably one of the main reasons that I absolutely adored it. Also, the spice. THE SPICE IS SPICIN'.
May 8, 2026
I enjoyed this book! Grant is a professor at the school that Neve is starting to attend. I liked both of their characters, and how they interacted with each other. Grant is such a sweet guy, and I loved how much he cared for his daughter. He had great character growth as he had to start believing in himself again. His ex was a piece of work.
Neve was also a ton of fun. She was so smart and outgoing, but I also enjoyed how she always made sure that Grant was comfortable. She didn’t mind the age gap, but was aware of how Grant needed to go slower than she did. I do wish there was a little more of her and Grant’s relationship, and less about them sleeping together. I would have loved to see more of her and Grant’s daughter too. But this was still a sweet book that I will read again. I did love her relationship with her sister. I loved that she could tell her sister anything even after the childhood that they endured.
Thank you Evita Wren for this ARC. The views are entirely my own.
Neve was also a ton of fun. She was so smart and outgoing, but I also enjoyed how she always made sure that Grant was comfortable. She didn’t mind the age gap, but was aware of how Grant needed to go slower than she did. I do wish there was a little more of her and Grant’s relationship, and less about them sleeping together. I would have loved to see more of her and Grant’s daughter too. But this was still a sweet book that I will read again. I did love her relationship with her sister. I loved that she could tell her sister anything even after the childhood that they endured.
Thank you Evita Wren for this ARC. The views are entirely my own.
May 5, 2026
First off, I loved the story line and the spice was HOTT! It was refreshing to see a character (Neve) be bold and unapologetic going after what, and who, she wants. The spice level was unreal (like 3-4 chapters straight of hot, intense scenes), and touched quite a few different tropes. Loved seeing them explore new boundaries together, and not run away from the issues but face them head on.
Only reason I’m giving this 4 stars is, as someone who hasn’t read the previous book in the series, I had so many characters thrown at me with no clue or backstory as to who they were. I found this with other books as well: great story, but side characters need more explaining. That, and some of the jargon felt very scientific and hard to follow at times.
Overall I really enjoyed reading this and plan to go back and read the previous books!
Only reason I’m giving this 4 stars is, as someone who hasn’t read the previous book in the series, I had so many characters thrown at me with no clue or backstory as to who they were. I found this with other books as well: great story, but side characters need more explaining. That, and some of the jargon felt very scientific and hard to follow at times.
Overall I really enjoyed reading this and plan to go back and read the previous books!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I’ve been waiting for Neve’s story & it didn’t disappoint! This is an age gap romance with secret relationship.
Neve & Grant don’t have it easy. They’ve both got their own traumas, Neve more from childhood & being labelled as “too much” by her parents. Grant more recent from his evil ex, told he’s manipulative & making him feel insecure in himself.
I’m a total sucker for the way Evita writes a MMC with low body confidence. I don’t know what it is about it, but Grant being vulnerable & the Neve showing how much she loves it just did it for me.
There are many hurdles for this pair to jump, with disclosing their relationship to the university, with Grant’s awful ex wife & meeting Grant’s daughter - but one thing you never lose sight of is how much these two mean to each other.
Neve & Grant don’t have it easy. They’ve both got their own traumas, Neve more from childhood & being labelled as “too much” by her parents. Grant more recent from his evil ex, told he’s manipulative & making him feel insecure in himself.
I’m a total sucker for the way Evita writes a MMC with low body confidence. I don’t know what it is about it, but Grant being vulnerable & the Neve showing how much she loves it just did it for me.
There are many hurdles for this pair to jump, with disclosing their relationship to the university, with Grant’s awful ex wife & meeting Grant’s daughter - but one thing you never lose sight of is how much these two mean to each other.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If Evita writes it, I’m going to read it! <3
Picking up shortly after The HART Algorithm, we see that Neve has officially become a student at Talan University at the age of 26. She’s had her eye on Dr. Grant King ever since they met at the bar when she was out with her sister, a colleague of Grants. The two start off with texting, which leads to voice notes, which leads to.... you get the idea. We get to see them navigate this budding relationship while also balancing the Professor/Student side of things, and the whole single dad side too, knowing that his ex-wife is not the best person in the world --that’s putting it nicer than she deserves-- and making sure they get to continue their relationship while navigating everything. I’ve said it once, I’ll say it 100 times, every time, I truly enjoy the way Evita pulls readers into the story so damn quickly. We already had the chance to love these two in the first book, but seeing them get to blossom in their own story, it was lovely. The anxiety/ADHD spirals that we see Neve go through are incredibly relatable. I personally don’t have ADHD, but my daughter and husband do, and we all have anxiety (yay us) so having that represented through both characters and seeing the way that they can spiral, it’s refreshing when characters are just like us. While I won’t give anything away, I will say, Marie can kick rocks – per the lawyer. We even got to see our favorite throuple again, seeing as Neve is friends with Vida, allowing us to see her and the boys again, even if it was brief. Hands down, anything Evita writes I’ll be reading. This book just adds to the list of books that sucked me in, made me feel all the feels, and spit me out. I hope we get more from this universe!
Picking up shortly after The HART Algorithm, we see that Neve has officially become a student at Talan University at the age of 26. She’s had her eye on Dr. Grant King ever since they met at the bar when she was out with her sister, a colleague of Grants. The two start off with texting, which leads to voice notes, which leads to.... you get the idea. We get to see them navigate this budding relationship while also balancing the Professor/Student side of things, and the whole single dad side too, knowing that his ex-wife is not the best person in the world --that’s putting it nicer than she deserves-- and making sure they get to continue their relationship while navigating everything. I’ve said it once, I’ll say it 100 times, every time, I truly enjoy the way Evita pulls readers into the story so damn quickly. We already had the chance to love these two in the first book, but seeing them get to blossom in their own story, it was lovely. The anxiety/ADHD spirals that we see Neve go through are incredibly relatable. I personally don’t have ADHD, but my daughter and husband do, and we all have anxiety (yay us) so having that represented through both characters and seeing the way that they can spiral, it’s refreshing when characters are just like us. While I won’t give anything away, I will say, Marie can kick rocks – per the lawyer. We even got to see our favorite throuple again, seeing as Neve is friends with Vida, allowing us to see her and the boys again, even if it was brief. Hands down, anything Evita writes I’ll be reading. This book just adds to the list of books that sucked me in, made me feel all the feels, and spit me out. I hope we get more from this universe!
April 28, 2026
I was waiting to read Neve’s story seeing as we see her mentioned in The Hart algorithm and All I want for Christmas is two. And this did not disappoint!
Neve is always compared to her sister and is all called “too much.” She plays into this character but you can see it hurts her. She is strong and resilient despite this! And I love her confidence in herself pursuit for her feelings for Grant.
Grant is a loving father but unsure of himself and what a relationship with Neve may mean!
I loved reading the dynamics between these two and how it develops. It’s a great story of healing and also learning to be confident in your self!
And of course I loved diving more into DR hart and her betrothed from the other side of there book.
Neve is always compared to her sister and is all called “too much.” She plays into this character but you can see it hurts her. She is strong and resilient despite this! And I love her confidence in herself pursuit for her feelings for Grant.
Grant is a loving father but unsure of himself and what a relationship with Neve may mean!
I loved reading the dynamics between these two and how it develops. It’s a great story of healing and also learning to be confident in your self!
And of course I loved diving more into DR hart and her betrothed from the other side of there book.
May 1, 2026
SO GOOD
Wheeeeew! Anyone who knows me, knows how much I love an age gap. The King Review delivered with age gap AND professor/student 🥵
Neve (FMC) is all the spunky and brave I wish I could be. She has so much to prove and sets her mind to achieving her wants. Grant (MMC) or should I say, Professor Daddy Grant King 🥵 is everything you want in a supportive partner. He’s considerate, a wonderful dad with the bod, and reads romance novels (are you kidding me??). I was obsessed reading their love story develop.
The King Review had many of my favorite tropes and microtropes. It is also so well written. The settings, character descriptions, and plot were all easy to follow and made for a fun and spicy read!
5⭐️
3🌶️
Wheeeeew! Anyone who knows me, knows how much I love an age gap. The King Review delivered with age gap AND professor/student 🥵
Neve (FMC) is all the spunky and brave I wish I could be. She has so much to prove and sets her mind to achieving her wants. Grant (MMC) or should I say, Professor Daddy Grant King 🥵 is everything you want in a supportive partner. He’s considerate, a wonderful dad with the bod, and reads romance novels (are you kidding me??). I was obsessed reading their love story develop.
The King Review had many of my favorite tropes and microtropes. It is also so well written. The settings, character descriptions, and plot were all easy to follow and made for a fun and spicy read!
5⭐️
3🌶️
April 22, 2026
I want to start by thanking Avita Wren for the opportunity to ARC read The King Review. This is an age-gap romance with a touch of forbidden romance that makes it all the more compelling.
Neve and Grant are incredibly easy to root for. Neve knows exactly what she wants and that’s Grant, her professor. Grant, on the other hand, is guarded and shaped by the manipulation of his ex, which makes him hesitant to let anyone in. Watching Neve slowly break down his walls and find her place in his life was both sweet and satisfying.
This book is short, sweet, and full of moments that will have you smiling, laughing, kicking your feet and the spice is perfect. If you’re anything like me, you won’t want to put it down.
Neve and Grant are incredibly easy to root for. Neve knows exactly what she wants and that’s Grant, her professor. Grant, on the other hand, is guarded and shaped by the manipulation of his ex, which makes him hesitant to let anyone in. Watching Neve slowly break down his walls and find her place in his life was both sweet and satisfying.
This book is short, sweet, and full of moments that will have you smiling, laughing, kicking your feet and the spice is perfect. If you’re anything like me, you won’t want to put it down.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for a copy of this book.
4.5 rounded up to 5
Neve knows exactly what she wants and isn't afraid to go for it. And that thing is Grant King. I characterized Neve as 'plowing ahead pussy-forward' while I was reading this and I think it's a pretty perfect description. And Grant, not to be out matched, when he falls, he falls HARD, while trying to maintain his control.
This books has so many things I want: age gap, professor x student, STEM romance, hilarious banter, unashamed FMC. I love this series!
4.5 rounded up to 5
Neve knows exactly what she wants and isn't afraid to go for it. And that thing is Grant King. I characterized Neve as 'plowing ahead pussy-forward' while I was reading this and I think it's a pretty perfect description. And Grant, not to be out matched, when he falls, he falls HARD, while trying to maintain his control.
This books has so many things I want: age gap, professor x student, STEM romance, hilarious banter, unashamed FMC. I love this series!
May 8, 2026
The King review was the kind of book that snuck up on you and keeps you on the edge of your seat. It had rules, logic and restraint which they unraveled as the book went on.
I absolutely love the plot a grumpy professor and his student slowly falling for each other. They started off just texting as there form of communication but that slowly developed into something more.
I absolutely loved the MMC and MFC. I enjoyed watching their relationship build into something more and then there’s a side characters that we met in book one and all bring something different that story.
It was beautifully written with great details. The only reason I haven’t given it five stars is due to her calling him daddy I just could not get used to it.
Thank you to the offer for the chance to read this as an to copy. I look forward to reading more from this author future.
I absolutely love the plot a grumpy professor and his student slowly falling for each other. They started off just texting as there form of communication but that slowly developed into something more.
I absolutely loved the MMC and MFC. I enjoyed watching their relationship build into something more and then there’s a side characters that we met in book one and all bring something different that story.
It was beautifully written with great details. The only reason I haven’t given it five stars is due to her calling him daddy I just could not get used to it.
Thank you to the offer for the chance to read this as an to copy. I look forward to reading more from this author future.
May 5, 2026
Every time I read anything by Evita Wren I know I am going to laugh, cry, and fall in love, The KING review was the age-gap romance that had me on my toes and giggling from chapter one, i absolutely adored neve and grants story, it checked all the boxes for me, Evita has such a talent for creating her characters, and making you fall head over heels for them, i cant wait to see what the next story she comes out with is, if you pick up this story, i PROMISE you will not regret this ride, and i hope you love Neve and Grants story as much as i did!
May 8, 2026
This was a sweet romance book with characters who are open and unapologetic about their feelings. Neve and Grant are great together, and while I struggled with Neve’s character at the beginning due to how bold she was and how suddenly moves were being made, I grew to really enjoy her character and how gentle her and Grant were with each other. There’s great body positivity in this book, and a lot of well-written spice! Overall, an enjoyable read that sometimes felt repetitive, but wrapped up in a really sweet way. Thank you to the author for an advanced copy!
May 10, 2026
ARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for the opportunity!
holy shit. Don't get me wrong, I like spice. I do. And Evita Wren writes good spice. But there is a good 20% of the book that is all spice. If that is not your thing, then this book is not for you.
Now, the plot was very good. It was really focused on the man's insecurity, which was very interesting to read, instead of the opposite. I thought the whole subversive nature of the tropes was really entertaining and fresh. I would love to read more from Evita. I was highly entertained.
holy shit. Don't get me wrong, I like spice. I do. And Evita Wren writes good spice. But there is a good 20% of the book that is all spice. If that is not your thing, then this book is not for you.
Now, the plot was very good. It was really focused on the man's insecurity, which was very interesting to read, instead of the opposite. I thought the whole subversive nature of the tropes was really entertaining and fresh. I would love to read more from Evita. I was highly entertained.
May 12, 2026
I was excited to read Neve's story after reading her sister in The Hart Algorithm. Neve is a 26 yo, feisty, tell it how it is, neurodivergent, curvy girl. She enrolls in a program that had her in constant contact with Grant. He's 42, kind, caring, d*ddy professor, but is emotionally d@maged and afraid he will "take advantage" because he is an expert at body language and smexuality (he runs the program Neve is participating in).
There is so much consent positive discussion from both characters, which I’m thankful for. This was great story and so fun watching them come together and heal.
There is so much consent positive discussion from both characters, which I’m thankful for. This was great story and so fun watching them come together and heal.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely adored this book! I loved reading about Grant (professor daddy Grant King) & Neve's blossoming relationship. I also appreciated how the main characters were not the norm. Neve is a 26 year old student with adhd & Grant is a 42 year old divorced professor with a 6 year old daughter, Sera. There's enjoyable naughty times. This has a HEA. I loved this book. Thank you Evita Wren for the e-arc!
May 13, 2026
This book was sooo good. It had all the great tropes. age gap, student professor, single dad, great banter. I also have to say this MMC had a dad bod and self esteem issues. I LOVED this!!! I like for once it wasnt a super sexy MMC with a unrealistic body. Also the real life issues they had to face in trying to be together. The FMC had her own issues but together, they balanced each other soooo well. This book is a total package and I adore Evita's writing.
April 28, 2026
I really enjoyed getting to focus on Grant and Neve in this book! We got little glimpses in The HART Algorithm and having them featured was so much fun! Grant is a proud single dad that dotes on his baby girl. Watching him find space for Neve and learning to trust again is so beautiful. Neve is a powerhouse that’s not afraid to go after what she wants.
May 3, 2026
Grant and Neve ate. This book was so good. Both of them were so good together. To hell with the age gap, these two clicked perfectly. Dad bod and all. The spice was superior in this. I devoured this hot and spicy bad boy.
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