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The False Serpent King
Not yet published
Expected 25 Feb 26Trust no one.
Betrayed, wounded, alone. When Mae said her vows, she lost everything. Not only was her new husband the one responsible for her family’s slaughter, but he is now the false king who sits on her throne, holding both the kingdom and Elle hostage. With an army of witches now poised to ravage her lands, Mae and her scattered allies must rally together to beat back the rising tide of black magic.
When Mae learns about Elle’s fate, she knows it is only a matter of time before Marik puts his malevolent plan into action. Unsure of whom to trust or how long they have, she works to build support from other Houses, treading a path fraught with even more danger and secrets, and finding friends in unexpected places. But forming a resistance to Marik’s reign of terror might prove harder than Mae ever imagined, especially while still picking up pieces of the heart he broke--a heart she desperately wants to give to the man who chose her above all else.
In order to survive the oncoming storm, Mae must fight back the shadows of self-doubt that have haunted her since the moment her world shattered. Can she summon the strength of a true queen, reclaim her throne, and protect those she loves before it is too late?
Betrayed, wounded, alone. When Mae said her vows, she lost everything. Not only was her new husband the one responsible for her family’s slaughter, but he is now the false king who sits on her throne, holding both the kingdom and Elle hostage. With an army of witches now poised to ravage her lands, Mae and her scattered allies must rally together to beat back the rising tide of black magic.
When Mae learns about Elle’s fate, she knows it is only a matter of time before Marik puts his malevolent plan into action. Unsure of whom to trust or how long they have, she works to build support from other Houses, treading a path fraught with even more danger and secrets, and finding friends in unexpected places. But forming a resistance to Marik’s reign of terror might prove harder than Mae ever imagined, especially while still picking up pieces of the heart he broke--a heart she desperately wants to give to the man who chose her above all else.
In order to survive the oncoming storm, Mae must fight back the shadows of self-doubt that have haunted her since the moment her world shattered. Can she summon the strength of a true queen, reclaim her throne, and protect those she loves before it is too late?
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Expected publication February 25, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
February 2, 2026
Holy smokes! I enjoyed the first book but this one blows it out of the water! Already I’m obsessed and can’t wait for book 3. The twists and turns in this I totally didn’t expect. Just when I thought it couldn’t get any better it did. The character development was on point and I loved every minute of it. And our MMC, I’m in love with him. He’s my new book boyfriend! If you want a good story with incredible world building and characters you’ll fall in love with, this is the book for you. I’m already itching for more. I mean what was that ending?! This could end up being a new favorite series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Lost Serpent King by H. J. Nichols delivered everything I hoped for and then went far beyond my expectations. From the very first chapter, I was completely pulled into a richly built world filled with danger, mystery, power, and emotion. The storytelling is immersive, the pacing is strong, and every scene feels intentional—nothing is wasted.
One of the most satisfying aspects of this book is how thoughtfully the story unfolds. Questions raised earlier in the narrative are not forgotten or brushed aside—instead, every lingering question is answered, and it’s done in a way that feels natural, rewarding, and deeply earned. There’s a sense of trust between the author and the reader here, and Nichols absolutely honors that trust.
The characters are compelling and layered, carrying both strength and vulnerability in ways that make them feel real and unforgettable. Their journeys are intense, emotional, and often surprising, keeping me fully invested from beginning to end. The tension builds beautifully, and the stakes never stop rising.
And that ending? Immaculate. The conclusion was amazingly done—powerful, satisfying, and perfectly executed. It tied everything together while still leaving me breathless and wanting more. It’s the kind of ending that makes you sit back, stare at the page, and immediately think, wow… that was worth every second.
This was, without a doubt, a five-star read. H. J. Nichols gave more than expected—more depth, more emotion, more payoff—and I am beyond excited to see what comes next. I cannot wait for the next installment and will be counting the days until I can return to this world again. 🐍👑🔥
One of the most satisfying aspects of this book is how thoughtfully the story unfolds. Questions raised earlier in the narrative are not forgotten or brushed aside—instead, every lingering question is answered, and it’s done in a way that feels natural, rewarding, and deeply earned. There’s a sense of trust between the author and the reader here, and Nichols absolutely honors that trust.
The characters are compelling and layered, carrying both strength and vulnerability in ways that make them feel real and unforgettable. Their journeys are intense, emotional, and often surprising, keeping me fully invested from beginning to end. The tension builds beautifully, and the stakes never stop rising.
And that ending? Immaculate. The conclusion was amazingly done—powerful, satisfying, and perfectly executed. It tied everything together while still leaving me breathless and wanting more. It’s the kind of ending that makes you sit back, stare at the page, and immediately think, wow… that was worth every second.
This was, without a doubt, a five-star read. H. J. Nichols gave more than expected—more depth, more emotion, more payoff—and I am beyond excited to see what comes next. I cannot wait for the next installment and will be counting the days until I can return to this world again. 🐍👑🔥
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh man, where do I even begin? I am truly flabbergasted at the ending, there were so many unexpected twists and turns that I was eating up non stop. I never saw a single thing coming and I usually do. 🫣 I cannot wait to see what happens next. 🥺
I'm so in love with how everything ties together from the first book, the magic is still so cool and intriguing to me, I'm in love with the woodland creatures, the pure yearning coming from a certain someone at all times. 😭 I felt such a connection to Mae in the first book (The lost deer queen) but man I felt so much more connected to her in this one because of how hard she fought at all times regardless of how hopeless she felt. She truly climbed from the darkness and made it her bitch. 🥲
We get a new point of view that I was not expecting but so incredibly glad we got it. 🥲 I can't say much without spoiling anything but Elle has my heart and my soul, her and Mae are one to be reckoned with and I feel myself in both of them. The mental health aspect of these books will always be my favorite thing, I've never connected with a book in that regard until I read these, I feel so seen and not so alone in many ways because of how mental health, grief, and the pure fight to survive because you have to, is portrayed. The lost deer queen and the false serpent king will be a huge part of me forever and I will never not immediately recommend reading both of them. ❤️🔥
I'm so in love with how everything ties together from the first book, the magic is still so cool and intriguing to me, I'm in love with the woodland creatures, the pure yearning coming from a certain someone at all times. 😭 I felt such a connection to Mae in the first book (The lost deer queen) but man I felt so much more connected to her in this one because of how hard she fought at all times regardless of how hopeless she felt. She truly climbed from the darkness and made it her bitch. 🥲
We get a new point of view that I was not expecting but so incredibly glad we got it. 🥲 I can't say much without spoiling anything but Elle has my heart and my soul, her and Mae are one to be reckoned with and I feel myself in both of them. The mental health aspect of these books will always be my favorite thing, I've never connected with a book in that regard until I read these, I feel so seen and not so alone in many ways because of how mental health, grief, and the pure fight to survive because you have to, is portrayed. The lost deer queen and the false serpent king will be a huge part of me forever and I will never not immediately recommend reading both of them. ❤️🔥
Review of advance copy received from Author
After her disaster of a wedding and un-welcomed wedding gift from Marik, Mae is fighting for her life, court and heart. Finding herself with an “ enemy” and a few allies she has to fight her way home. While fighting the wrongs that were happening in her own kingdom Mae finds new allies in unexpected places and unexpected faces.
Marik and Cora have taken the throne and with some unwilling help from a captive they have now made the entire kingdom believe that “Mae” approved and wanted all of these changes. From witches being pushed in every independent kingdom scaring and killing the citizens and livestock. To a tithe that no one wanted and was unprecedented. While some of the ruling houses welcome the changes and witches, others choose not to.
When prophecies are foretold and hidden identities revealed life changes not just for Mae but for Amos, Marik and everyone involved. With the kingdom’s future on the line everyone must fight for their lives and the lives of those whom they love.
This book was such a delight to read! From page one to the last page I was hooked and couldn’t put it down. After book one I craved book two and this book was what I needed. The ending left me with questions and frustrations and so much more. I can’t wait for book three!
Marik and Cora have taken the throne and with some unwilling help from a captive they have now made the entire kingdom believe that “Mae” approved and wanted all of these changes. From witches being pushed in every independent kingdom scaring and killing the citizens and livestock. To a tithe that no one wanted and was unprecedented. While some of the ruling houses welcome the changes and witches, others choose not to.
When prophecies are foretold and hidden identities revealed life changes not just for Mae but for Amos, Marik and everyone involved. With the kingdom’s future on the line everyone must fight for their lives and the lives of those whom they love.
This book was such a delight to read! From page one to the last page I was hooked and couldn’t put it down. After book one I craved book two and this book was what I needed. The ending left me with questions and frustrations and so much more. I can’t wait for book three!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 1, 2026
Can I just say HOLY MOLY?! 😮💨🔥 The False Serpent King somehow manages to outdo the first book—and I genuinely don’t have the words. From start to finish, this story had me on the edge of my seat.
Mae truly comes into her own in this installment, and watching her growth—her confidence, resilience, and inner strength—was one of my absolute favorite parts. And the MMC (keeping names secret because spoilers) 👀—the slow-burn tension, the banter, the chemistry—chef’s kiss. Those moments had me kicking my feet.
This world just keeps getting better. The magic system deepens, the hybrids and courts are explored even more, and everything feels richer and more immersive. Fair warning: once you pick up The Lost Deer Queen and The False Serpent King, you will binge them. No self-control, zero regrets—I guarantee it.
H.J. Nichols… I am begging. I need book three like now. Pretty please. 🙏
Overall rating: 100/5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (and then some).
Mae truly comes into her own in this installment, and watching her growth—her confidence, resilience, and inner strength—was one of my absolute favorite parts. And the MMC (keeping names secret because spoilers) 👀—the slow-burn tension, the banter, the chemistry—chef’s kiss. Those moments had me kicking my feet.
This world just keeps getting better. The magic system deepens, the hybrids and courts are explored even more, and everything feels richer and more immersive. Fair warning: once you pick up The Lost Deer Queen and The False Serpent King, you will binge them. No self-control, zero regrets—I guarantee it.
H.J. Nichols… I am begging. I need book three like now. Pretty please. 🙏
Overall rating: 100/5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (and then some).
February 3, 2026
The amount of love I have for this series I cannot put into proper words. I need to seriously tell all my reader friends and anyone who would listen, to get on this series. I have truly enjoyed reading this second book 🔥 even more than the first. It’s one of those “the first was good but the second was greater” types! It flows so smoothly, that I stayed up till 2am two nights in a row finishing one more chapter. I love the world building, the different courts and understanding how they work and look. The characters are fighters and continue to strive to become the best versions of themselves. I love the twist and turns in every corner, it’s like riding a roller coaster of emotions. How can a book answer sooo many questions and yet leave me with more?
If you are an acotar, crescent city lover than I have no doubt you’d love this hybrid story. 👌🏻
If you are an acotar, crescent city lover than I have no doubt you’d love this hybrid story. 👌🏻
Review of advance copy received from Author
between the twists, action, and multiple POVs, i was very engaged with this book! there’s something special about a book that makes you feel bad for the “villain”, and including those separate chapters for that character really switched my opinion of them. i did not see half of those plot twists coming, and it was exciting and jaw dropping to say the least. and, if i’m being honest, i am a SUCKER for a fated mates trope and when he calls her “mine.” IT GETS ME EVERY TIME!!!
thank you so much, H.J. Nichols for allowing me to be one of your arc readers, i am looking forward to reading the next book in the series, whenever that may be!
thank you so much, H.J. Nichols for allowing me to be one of your arc readers, i am looking forward to reading the next book in the series, whenever that may be!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Raw, emotional, and real. The False Serpent King picks up where The Lost Deer Queen left off, and kept pace with being as authentic and spell-binding as the first. The writing is well done and you can really feel the pain and struggle the characters face throughout the story. Lots of twists, turns, and reveals keep you on your toes from beginning to end. Mae, our FMC is one of the most relatable characters I have ever read. I am looking forward to seeing how this story continues to unfold. A must-read for 2026. Thank you H.J. Nichols for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
oh my GODS!! I HAD TO FORCE MYSELF TO PUT THIS DOWN SO I COULD FUNCTION. This book was absolutely beautiful. Im OBSESSED. I don't know if ill ever have enough of Asmos & Mae. It felt like a roller-coaster of emotions. I was giggling & kicking my feet with one chapter then, crying & begging for my heart to stop screaming. 10/ 10 recommend for everyone!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The False Serpent King completely pulled me under when I read it as part of the ARC team.
This sequel has stronger pacing, more effective twists, and a world that feels fuller and more intentional. Mae’s growth is especially satisfying, and it was rewarding to watch her step into her power with more confidence and clarity. It left me genuinely excited to continue the series! Well done! 🖤🐍
Enemies to mates ✔️
Dangerous fae ✔️
Chosen one destiny ✔️
Morally grey men who blur every line ✔️
This sequel has stronger pacing, more effective twists, and a world that feels fuller and more intentional. Mae’s growth is especially satisfying, and it was rewarding to watch her step into her power with more confidence and clarity. It left me genuinely excited to continue the series! Well done! 🖤🐍
Enemies to mates ✔️
Dangerous fae ✔️
Chosen one destiny ✔️
Morally grey men who blur every line ✔️
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews