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Breaking Storm : A Dark MM Sci-Fi/Fantasy Romance

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The Imperials of Helion are about to learn what survives the storm.

Ryneth Kyron was never meant to make it home.

What should have been a simple job off-world ends in a cage. Auctioned by the Concordant, injured, and trapped far from everything he knows, Ryneth survives by being exactly what he has always been: furious, defensive, and impossible to break. Then the Imperial family realizes what he is. One of theirs. And instead of setting him free, they hand him to Daven Caelith.

Daven Caelith keeps what he’s given.

Beautiful, controlled, and dangerous in ways Helion’s elite often forget until it’s too late, Daven knows how to play his role. He knows how to smile, how to perform, how to make people underestimate him. But the moment Ryneth is placed in his hands, something shifts. What should have been temporary turns possessive fast. Because Ryneth isn’t just angry. He pulls. He sparks. And as the enemies circling them close in, Daven and Ryneth are forced into a battle neither of them expected, one that will drag them out of Helion’s glittering halls and into the heart of the storm.


This is a dark MM sci-fi romance, which means some themes may be disturbing to some readers. These include, but are not limited to, dub-con, violence, captivity, trafficking/auction themes, an obsessively possessive male lead, and explicit sexual content not suitable for all readers. Please be sure to read the Author’s Note for a complete list of warnings. HEA guaranteed!

424 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 30, 2026

36 people are currently reading
135 people want to read

About the author

Lola Malone

24 books320 followers
My name is Lola Malone and I'm a European-based author who has endeavored into the world of writing dark, morally gray characters who occupy fictive colleges.

When I'm not reading, writing, or fantasizing about other worlds and stories, I'm probably at the gym or away, visiting historic sites with my husband and three sons.

Follow me on my socials!

IG: @lolamalonebooks
TT: @lolamalonebooks

Patreon: @lolamalonebooks



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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
Profile Image for Felix.
211 reviews12 followers
Review of advance copy
April 27, 2026
Ngl this is a really good book. The world building was amazing, the story was really good. Everything was perfect. I love it
Profile Image for Plaguedoll.
238 reviews3 followers
May 1, 2026
Like the two previous books, Breaking Storm follows one of the Helion imperial princes, and this time we learn about Daven and his Fated One, Ryneth.

Living on a destitute planet with a foster mother and brothers, he sets out to Helion to take a job offer, hoping to make enough money to take care of his family. On his flight to the planet, his transport is hijacked, and everyone is taken prisoner.

Daven and Ryneth’s relationship starts off very rocky, with Ryneth not trusting Daven at all, while also holding disdain for Daven’s arrogance. The other imperial princes (and their fateds) have big roles in the story, with all of them trying to solve the mystery of two opposing groups (essentially terrorists / gangs) pulling Helion into their war with each other while also hating the imperial dynasty itself.

I really enjoyed the story and found Daven and Ryneth to be well written, and their relationship had just enough struggle to be interesting without being too much. My only real complaint? The main conflict in the story ended…well… it was anticlimactic. I was baffled by how quickly everything wrapped up. I would have loved to see a bit more to it after all that drama, especially when it came to Ryneth.

3.75/5 rounded up
*ARC review, my opinions are my own!
Profile Image for Julia (bookish.jka).
977 reviews322 followers
May 2, 2026
"Heat rushed through him anyway, humiliating and impossible to hide, and he hated that some weak part of him still wanted to give Daven exactly what he was asking for."

Lola Malone's Claimed by Kingsseries is set in the same universe as Chani Lynn Feener's dark sci-fi MM romance books (which I loved!) but on a different planet and with different characters and storylines.

Breaking Storm : A Dark MM Sci-Fi/Fantasy Romance is book 3 in the series, following the life and loves of the Helion imperial princes.

This is Daven and Ryneth's story.

What To Expect:

🖤MM sci-fi romance
🖤Dark themes
🖤Fated mates
🖤Opposites attract
🖤Morally grey MMC
🖤Steamy first times
🖤Dub con
🖤HEA

3.5 stars

Profile Image for Kat.
206 reviews12 followers
May 4, 2026
So, this is the first sci-fi fantasy I've read outside of Star Wars and The Hurricane Wars. If you like either of those universes then Breaking Storm has that same blend of intergalactic politics, high stakes, crime syndicates, and a ruling empire on the capital world Helion.

Helion is where Ryneth hopes to work and earn enough money to help his foster family. He's optimistic and hopeful. Yet it all goes wrong when he is kidnapped by Concordant, a syndicate who sell people to the highest bidder. And then his life truly gets turned upside down when he's rescued by the Luminary and handed over to one of Helion's princes - Daven.

Daven is an absolute, unapologetic psychopath and I love him. He's arrogant, cold, and powerful. But as soon as he sets eyes on Ryneth, this man is DOWN SO BAD. He will do anything to convince Ryneth that they are meant to be together. There is a captor/captive element and a lot of dubious consent as Daven is obsessed with Ryneth before the other man gives into his growing feelings.

Which is kind of understandable as Ryneth has been through a lot! He's struggling with trust, safety and identity. He doesn't want to appear weak and for anything bad to happen again. So he resists Daven at every turn, only adding to the thick tension between them.

But even he can't resist Daven's pull forever. I absolutely loved the cat and mouse they play within the overarching world (the world building is amazing) and the found family that Ryneth finds with the royal princes. The only thing I was wishing for was a little more emotional connection between the characters. The spice was HOT and those moments were brilliantly written, but I would have loved to see more of Ryneth coming to terms with his feelings. It just left me wishing for some first-person thoughts at a few points.

But I will definitely be picking up the other books in the series because I love sci-fi and this had all the elements I crave in a dark romance too.

4⭐️ 4🌶️

🖤 captor x captive
🖤 very dubious consent
🖤 touch him & ☠️
🖤 he's OBSESSED
🖤 he cooks for him
🖤 fated mates
Profile Image for LauraSt.
1,685 reviews55 followers
May 5, 2026
4.5 STARS

This is a dark MM sci-fi romance about a man who gets taken, sold, and trapped far from everything he knows… only to be handed over to an imperial prince who decides he’s his. What starts as survival turns into something way more dangerous: obsession, possession, and a bond neither of them can escape.

And I was INVESTED.

Daven… yeah, no.
THE MOUTH ON THIS MAN SHOULD BE STUDIED.
HOT. HOT. HOT.

He is unhinged in the BEST way. Ultra possessive, manipulative, a little bit of an asshole… and I ate it up every single time. No shame.

And Ryneth??
That man has been THROUGH IT.

He genuinely cannot fathom a life where he’s safe, happy, or not constantly on edge. So watching him fight his feelings for Daven, while also dealing with the fact that they’re fated and he can’t escape him?? The internal struggle?? SO GOOD.

It’s like he resents wanting him because wanting him feels like losing control all over again… and that tension carried HARD.

The plot was super engaging too. There was always something happening, always something building, and I was locked in the whole time.

My only issue, and why it’s not a full 5, is that after SUCH a big buildup… the resolution felt too fast. I needed more. Like give me five extra chapters, I’m begging.

Also at times the POV felt a little messy, so I had moments where I felt slightly disconnected from the story.

BUT outside of that?? I really, really loved this.

I haven’t read a sci-fi MM in a minute and this reminded me WHY I should. I was genuinely surprised by how much I enjoyed it.

Also the side characters?? I’m invested.
Which means yes, I will absolutely be going back to read books 1 and 2.

You don’t have to read them to enjoy this one… but honestly? Why wouldn’t you.

Quick note: this is DARK. There’s dub-con, captivity, heavy themes… I personally eat that up, but definitely check your triggers.

Overall?? Obsessed with the vibes, obsessed with the dynamic, slightly robbed on the ending action wise but the sweetness of their ending definitely made up for it.

Still a win.
Profile Image for Katherine (Chronically Reading) Owen.
64 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy
April 24, 2026
Helion’s factions collide in the deadly third instalment of the Claimed by Kings series by Lola Malone. This time, the story is centred on Ryneth, an electricity powered Dariux (genetically enhanced human) and Daven, a prominent member of Helion’s most elite family. They were introduced at the end of the previous book, Burning Ice, where Ryneth and associates rescued Ryneth from his imprisonment.

The two main characters are immediately drawn to one another, though Daven’s overbearing and arrogant nature and Ryneth’s PTSD and general common sense make this connection unwelcome by the latter. As in previous Claimed by Kings (and many dark romances), consent appears to be an afterthought when compared to the consuming bond of the Fated Mate TM. A good reason to have checked the trigger warnings before embarking.

As the romance seemed largely similar to the previous entries (which I read in preparation for this ARC), I was more keen to see the overarching plot of Helion/Dariux/Attica etc advance. Particularly when it comes to characters like Moargan and Helianth’s (the human, not the cat) mother, Norma Zephyranth. Also to see more of Vandor, as he seems slightly shady.

I genuinely have sympathy for Attica’s political concerns (if not their methods) as the public execution/rape/slavery/orgy of the Aureate does not seem judicially sound. Theo continues to suffer at everyone’s hands and sometimes I hope he snaps and starts throwing hands. But he probably won’t, as atrocities seem to be acceptable if one is getting a regular servicing by a handsome and virile elite.

Anyway, I’m still keen to see where the series goes and hope Theo gets his revenge arc soon, then keeps Aviel on as a slave to make him his breakfast tiganos.

I received this ARC from BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Holly.
247 reviews
May 3, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

First — thank you to the author and BookSirens for the ARC!

I’ve read all three books in this series as ARCs so far, and Breaking Storm might have officially cemented my problem with toxic men… because Daven??? yeah. that’s my man now.

This book follows Ryneth and Daven, and if you like morally gray, possessive, “I saw him once and now he belongs to me” energy… welcome home.

Ryneth is hurt, reactive, and hanging on by a thread — and I loved him for it. He doesn’t trust, he doesn’t bend easily, and he absolutely does not make things simple. Then Daven walks in, takes one look at him, and basically decides mine with zero hesitation.

And listen… is it healthy? no.
did I eat it up anyway? also no shame, yes.

This is very much obsessive, fated mates, high-intensity attachment where consent is… let’s just say complicated. It’s dark, it’s messy, and it leans hard into that “he shouldn’t want him, but he literally cannot stop” dynamic.

🌶️ Spice: high. not subtle. not gentle. very on brand for the relationship.

Daven is the kind of character who doesn’t ask, he takes — but at the same time there’s this underlying control and calculation that makes it even worse (better??). And Ryneth pushing back against that, fighting it while still being pulled in, made their dynamic so addictive.

The tension is constant. It’s not a slow burn — it’s more like immediate combustion with emotional damage layered on top.

I will say, this one leans more into the relationship than major plot progression, but honestly I didn’t care because I was fully locked into their dynamic the entire time.

Overall, this was dark, possessive, slightly unhinged, and exactly the kind of toxic book boyfriend situation I never learn my lesson from.

I will absolutely be continuing this series and collecting more problematic favorites along the way.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Chrissy_reads2727.
46 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 25, 2026
Spoiler Free ARC Review!

This is the 3rd book in an interconnected standalone sci-fi series, I have not read the first two but am absolutely running to read them after reading Breaking Storm! I must know all the other couples stories!

This story follows Ryneth and Daven.

Ryneth lives on the planet Duren. A dry and desolate place. He lives with his foster mom and foster siblings. While he's young, he's been working since 14 to help provide for his family and protect it from whispered dangers beyond the ward. He finally gets an opportunity to make some real money off-world in Helion but during transport the unthinkable happens. The whispered dangers of Concordant have found him and taken all the workers on board hostage to bought by the highest bidder. Only Ryneth is hiding a power under his skin, a power that he doesn't understand and can't control. Which only makes him more valuable.

Daven is a prince of Helion and protector of his planet. Each member of the royal family has a unique power, Daven's is air manipulation, making him exceedingly powerful. When on a rescue mission on planet he comes face to face with a man with sparks under his skin, beautiful snd vulnerable. He decides in that moment, this man is his, whether he likes it or not.

From one type of captivity to another, Ryneth goes. Only this cage is shiny and gold plated. What do these royals want with him? Why are they protecting him? Why won't Daven let him go? Does he even want him to? What happens when you fall in love with your captor?

This is the first book I've read from Lola Malone and it won't be the last! Don't let the sci-fi aspect scare you off, this spice in this book was SPICY, Daven's dirty talk alone will have you sweating and panting for more 😮‍💨🥵🫠
Profile Image for True Loveislovereview.
2,947 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy
April 26, 2026
What a great concept, sci-fi combined with fantasy.

On his way to his new job at Helion to gain money for his foster family, Ryneth Kydonia and the other passengers are kidnapped and sold.
After being rescued, he landed under the protection of Imperial Prince Daven Caelith.
With other words, he’s being captured against his will.

When Daven laid eyes on Ryneth he knew he had to have him. Ryneth’s features are beautiful, it’s not only his beauty, he’s feisty, and has also exceptional static powers.

Ryneth hates the evil, smiling Daven, hates how he keeps him captive, hates how he uses his power to overwhelm Ryneth, hates how he knows how to arouse him. He tried to resist with everything he had, but Daven is too powerful.
Daven is Ryneth’s owner, and oh boy does he show it around.
While Daven is a dark personality, and doesn’t understand the word ’no’, he’s passionate, possessive, and would move planets to keep Ryneth safe.

The further development shows more about Ryneth and Daven, their personalities, and their different backgrounds. It shows Ryneth is something special, and Daven is not the only one who wants Ryneth.
This is just the tip of the iceberg, without spoiling I can say, there are threats.

Fasten your seatbelts and experience the ride through the eye of the storm.
What a super duper entertaining story this was. It’s dark, and the environments are amazingly crafted. I want a TV series about it!!
The characters are consistently portrayed, and their smexy moments are intense.
The whole picture was wonderfully put together! Applause!
Profile Image for Rebecca.
448 reviews
May 7, 2026
“You still don’t get it, do you? You’re the static in my storm.”


I definitely enjoyed this MM dark sci-fi fantasy dystopian romance. Breaking Storm is the third standalone in The Claimed By Kings series. Expect a quick-burn romance with fated mates, abduction, dub-con/non-con elements, and plenty of morally gray tension — this is definitely a dark romance so check the TW if you think you may have triggers.

I was immediately pulled in by the vivid world-building, and the strong opening kept me invested in the story. The blend of sci-fi, fantasy, and dystopian elements created an immersive setting filled with magic, lore, mystery, and political tension. While the pacing was fast and engaging, the book leaned more heavily into the spice than the plot as it progressed, which was a little disappointing after such a compelling prologue and first few chapters. Still, Ryneth and Daven’s story was addictive to read.

Ryneth has a bit of a golden retriever personality, while Daven gave me strong Damon Salvatore vibes — brooding, possessive, and morally gray in the best way.

That said, there were moments where the story felt overshadowed by the spice, and some scenes began to feel repetitive. I also felt the world-building started out incredibly strong but became less clear as the story went on, to the point where I occasionally had to backtrack to remind myself of certain details.

Overall, though, this was a really enjoyable read. Even though it was my first book by this author, I’d definitely pick up more of their work in the future.
Profile Image for Readbookswithcats .
482 reviews11 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 19, 2026
Breaking Storm is the third standalone in this series. Ryneth is taking a job, off planet, to send money home to his foster family. Midway through his trip, his ship is attacked and he is taken captive, put in a cage, tortured and placed in an auction where he is sold. Prince Daven, the nephew to the Imperial of Helion, is part of a crew to rescue the prisoners and kill/capture the crew. They arrive too late, the entire operation has left, leaving only one prisoner behind, Ryneth, who was shooting static at anything and everything in his panic.
They get the prisoner freed and get him treated, the entire time the Prince can’t stay away. The Imperial decides to leave Ryneth in Daven’s care, much to Ryneth’s horror.
Daven makes it quite clear that he owns the man and will have him, no matter what. His air powers keep the static at bay. Ryneth just wonders if he was freed from one prison only to jump into another.

MM romance
Royalty
Sci/fi
Fated mates
Powers
Abduction
Rich/poor
Class divide
Morally grey
Non con
Dub con
Part of Chani Lynn Feener’s Universe

I really enjoyed this book! Ryneth was relatable and I felt for him this whole book. Daven was possessive and could be a bit of a jerk but, also, very attentive and passionate about Ryneth. The overall plot for the series has expanded and while one part is wrapped up, another one is causing trouble. Loved seeing the other couples, and the friendships forming. I now need more!!! Please and thank you! 😊
Profile Image for Ashley Dead.inside_but_reads.
221 reviews35 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 20, 2026
This is a Dark Sci-Fi Romance so make sure you check the TWs before heading in. This is also part of The Claimed By Kings Series. These stories are written as standalones though so they don't need to be read in order.

🌶🌶🌶🌶

Ryneth was just trying to make some extra money for his foster family by taking a job on another planet Helion. While on route to Helion Ryneth's ship was hijacked by bad guys. They took everyone on the ship and planned to sell them off at an auction. Seeing something special in Ryneth he was sold at a super special auction but before he was able to be shipped out the Helion special forces broke up the party. Prince Daven was apart of the special forces and one of the ones to find Ryneth and he immediately took notice of him. Daven is not someone who has ever been told no so when he was uhh "Gifted" Ryneth to um "Protect" him he was way more excited then Ryneth was. Ryneth has to now deal with trading one cage for another but fate may of had a hand in this new path.
Ok that was a extremely obtuse over view of what is happening but this story is super twisty turney so I don't want to give anything away! I loved this world and I will be absolutely going back to read the other Prince's stories! You got powers and fated mates and holy hell the spice was ON POINT 🔥 I was sucked in right away and did not want to put this down! So if you looking for an otherworldly escape definitely check this one out!
Profile Image for Feral Mel.
35 reviews
April 30, 2026
🌩️💚“You still don’t get it, do you? You’re the static in my storm." 💚🌩️

I finished Breaking Storm earlier this week and I’m still not over Ryneth and Daven. From the jump I was sucked into this intense, high stakes chaos where survival and power collide. And then these two show up and it is just tension, chemistry, and this addictive push and pull that had me fully locked in.

Ryneth going from survival mode straight into something far more dangerous once Daven decides he is keeping him is honestly unhinged and I LOVE IT. The whole “you are mine but I might ruin you” energy is basically constant and I ate it up. The forced proximity, the obsession, the way everything builds between them until it feels completely consuming… swooooon.

Daven is all control and intensity, Ryneth is fire and resistance and wanting control even when everything is pulling him in another direction, and together they are just ELECTRIC. I loved that messy emotional back and forth and how impossible it was for them to really stay away from each other.

Also I am not even a sci-fi girlie but Helion completely pulled me in. It is huge, dangerous, messy, and so easy to get lost in.

Honestly I was swept away by this storm. 💚⛈️

I was so happy to receive this ARC, and I am already fully planning to dive into the rest of the series because I am not ready to leave this world or these characters yet.
Profile Image for Nicole.
24 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 20, 2026
ARC Review ✨️

“ꜰᴇᴇʟ ᴛʜᴀᴛ, ᴀᴇᴛʜᴇʀᴀ? ᴛʜᴀᴛ’ꜱ ᴍᴇ ᴍᴀʀᴋɪɴɢ ʏᴏᴜ ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴍʏ ʜᴀɴᴅꜱ.”

3.5/5⭐️
2/5 🌶

•Dark Sci-fi
•Captor x Captive
•Fated Mates
•Forced Proximity
•Mutual Obsession
•Touch Him & Die
•Rescue & Revenge

Ryneth drew me in right away. He was leaving his planet for a noble reason and unfortunately it didnt go as planned. He was determined to take care of himself and his family... enter Daven.

Daven is possessive off the bat. As soon as he saw Ryneth it was game over. He carried him through a forced tour of his penthouse of all things. 🤣 I loved his filthy mouth and unhinged obsession.

This could be read as a standalone but I highly recommend reading the other books in the series first, I wish I had! The writing style is very poetic and the 3rd person writing made it hard to follow at times. Every so often I was confused about the world and the other character's relationships & connections.

I have read a few science fiction/dystopian novels and there were a few things that jumped out at me. Having a few things mentioned that are very much Earth things, like coffee, pancakes and elephants. It took me out of the story a bit and made me feel like Helion wasn't a different planet. It was something that I could definitely just overlook, but I just noticed those things off and on.
Profile Image for Kata.
574 reviews52 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 21, 2026
Dark MM sci-fi / fantasy romance with tropes like pining & longing, fated mates, touch him and die, captor x captive and mutual obsession. Part of the Claimed by Kings series, but can be read as a standalone.

I really enjoyed this book. The chemistry between the MMCs was great and I liked their relationship development. The world of the book and the magic system were interesting and the storyline kept me hooked.

Ryneth was a sweetie and I loved that he got his happy ending. Daven was the obsessive, possessive MMC who might’ve been a jerk at times, but I still loved him.

This was the first Lola Malone book I’ve read, and now I’m interested in reading more!


“Pretty meant watched. And watched meant questions. Questions meant trouble.”
“You’re coming home with me. And once we’re behind my doors, you’re going to learn exactly what happens when you keep fighting me like that.”
“Your body is already screaming for it. Tell me how you lived, aethera. Who waited for you at home?”
“You don’t get to interrogate me every time I blink wrong.”
“No. That’s not how this works. You don’t get to walk into my life and own me.”
“Like maybe everything doesn’t feel like it’s about to fall apart when I’m with you.”


I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review. Receiving ARC didn’t affect my opinion of the book.
Profile Image for ari.
118 reviews10 followers
April 30, 2026
breaking storm by lola malone

stars : 5 stars

breaking storm was such a ride!! it delivered what i wanted and so much more!

ryneth and daven’s dynamic had me hooked right from the start. i really liked how intense their relationship felt, and the tension between them was so good. daven is definitely possessive and morally grey, but that worked really well for the kind of dark romance this was. i also really felt for ryneth and everything he goes through, especially with how quickly his life changes.

their chemistry was probably my favourite part of the book. the obsession, the possessiveness, and the spice were all done so well, and every scene between them kept me invested. daven’s dirty talk alone deserves a mention because wow.

i also really enjoyed the world building. the powers, planets, factions, and politics added so much to the story and made it feel bigger than just the romance. it never felt like the plot was lacking, and i liked that there was always something happening to keep the pacing moving.

couple-wise: 5 stars
plot and world building: 5 stars

overall, this was such an addictive dark sci-fi romance. great chemistry, strong world building, and a couple that really kept me hooked. i really love the world building lola always delivers with this series!

I RECIEVED AN ARC FROM THE AUTHOR. THIS IS MY HONEST OPINION
Profile Image for Chels.
42 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 26, 2026
✨I signed up for an ARC & was blessed with one!✨
🎢👀

What a ride this series has been. The storyline connection between all three books, kept me hooked! I did not know it was a series until after I received the ARC copy, so I went back and as quickly as possible, read the other two books.

All around, a great read.
A dark Sci-fi romance, fated mates..
A real storyline to follow and the spice to go with it.
100% recommend you to READ this book, this series! It's worth it. Take your time, enjoy the storm. 💚💚

This book, I think confused me a little more than the other two. Maybe it was the multiple issues coming together and all that.. I don't want to give much away, so I won't say much besides I think the most confusing part for me was the connection to the wife, it feels like I'd need to go back and write everything they said down about her and piece it together because my brain is bleehh.

I think this would be a great graphic novel or something lol. I need a visual because some of it hurts my head trying to piece together..
The buildings themselves would be cool to see in drawings or pictures.. it's hard to put that together.

I LOVED IT. I'm not complaining, this is a personal problem. My brain sucks sometimes. Lol.

“My beautiful storm,” Ryneth murmured. “You became everything I was afraid to want.”

"You still don’t get it, do you? You’re the static in my storm.”
“You’re the only thing in this universe that could ever bring me to my knees.” - Daven 💚
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Anamval.
106 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 28, 2026
WOW!!! 6 ⭐
This was just a great book, and I just realize it’s part of a series??? Already on my TBR btw

Check TW*
Dark romance, sci-fi/fantasy, dystopian

What I liked: let’s just say EVERYTHING! I couldn’t put it down its fast paced, fast burn, fast everything the plot was plotting, the writing freaking awesome, the characters ( I mean there was a point where I wanted to know everything about the other couples and characters that’s when I discovered it was a series and this was the third book)

It was just perfect! The world building, the powers, the factions, the entire political system, the planets, the characters and side characters…
The character growth was everything…ok Daven will always be a red flag but a fading red flag.. hahah man the way he just wanted to give everything to his aethera 😩he (and everyone) knew he wasn’t the good guy but as long as Ryneth was happy he was content, and Ryneth how he went from shy to freaking sassy hahaha loooved it the confidence and the protectiveness towards Daven, they´re just perfect!

Love them both! And I can’t wait for the next book even if they aren’t the main couple we´ll get glimpse of them

Already a huge fan!!

Thank you Lola for an opportunity to read this AMAZING arc. This is my honest review
Profile Image for tobifun.pp.
419 reviews11 followers
April 30, 2026
rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
darkness: 🖤🖤🖤
feelings: 😭🥰😱🥵☠️😍🫠😡🥹😄

I’ve been eagerly awaiting Ryneth and Daven’s story, and I wasn’t disappointed. The book has everything I could have hoped for.

Returning to Helion was like visiting relatives—admittedly slightly unhinged and possessive ones. This fascinating world had me completely captivated again right away.

As soon as we accompany Ryneth on his journey to Helion, we’re swept into a dark vortex and witness firsthand what this young man must suffer.

Daven rescues him from the clutches of these monsters, but he isn’t the safe haven one might initially hope for. He is possessive and shows no regard for Ryneth’s wishes. Over time, however, a genuine relationship develops, and Ryneth visibly flourishes. He becomes a valuable member of the Imperials.

The plot is intricate, dark, and gripping. An old threat escalates, and a new, even more sinister one is introduced. I hope I don’t have to wait too long for the next story in the Imperials of Helion series. My preferred next pairing would be Aries and Theo. I’m so curious about what goes on between the two of them behind closed doors.

I highly recommend reading the TWs!

Profile Image for Savannah.
67 reviews3 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 19, 2026

ARC Review: Breaking Storm 🌩️💚
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“It’s like my blood recognizes you. It’s screaming for you.”
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Welcome back to Helion. The City of Light. Where Imperials rule, possess, and consume. But now, they must learn if they can weather the storm.

Ryneth is steadfast, unbreakable, and a survivor. That is, until he finds himself auctioned by the Concordant. Daven is controlled and lethal, but the moment he lays eyes on Ryneth, Helion turns on its axis. There’s a spark, and I’m not just talking about Ryneth’s gift. Breaking Storm is a salacious mix of possession, electricity, regality, and sci-fi elements we’ve come to expect from The Claimed By Kings series.

What I Loved:

Worldbuilding & Immersion: When it comes to the necessary worldbuilding a sci-fi book requires, Lola takes no shortcuts. You are immersed in Helion from the prologue, and as we traverse the “city of light,” you envision its supremacy. From gladitorial-eque fights that capture Daven’s vigor to a bonding ceremony palpable enough to feel Ryneth’s and Daven’s connection, Malone has penned a masterclass in immersive writing.

Morally Grey & Heat: Much like Breaking Storm predecessors, Daven is enamored and possessive of his aethera. Which means there is nothing and no one that will stop him from having Ryneth. Like most morally grey characters, Daven is protective, unhinged, and all consumed by his need for Ryneth. Again, another thing Lola captures and does so well. Then there’s the heat… don’t worry, you’ll get plenty. Expect scenes so sizzling and wanton you’ll be breathless.

For me, Breaking Storm continues Lola’s streak of penning dark, gripping, and kinky reads. It’s her worldbuilding ability and craftsmanship of the Imperial dominion that will always have me coming back to Helion and begging for more.

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#mmromance #scifi #spicyreads #forcedproximity #posessive #morallygrey
20 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 16, 2026
What a kinky ride with a nice plot

This book about Daven and Ryneth is a smutty, kinky delicious package. Ryneth and his use of his abilities in the bedroom 😮‍💨 please give me even more of this! If you like you smut with a side of non-con and kink, served with some sci-fi plottiness, this could definitely be for you.

I really wish I had read the books prior, because there seems to be more kinky deliciousness in those (hello Theo and Aviel and that beautiful leash). Now you know where you will find me.

My only real issue is how Daven is all about his foster baby brother Tavi and taking care of him because he is sick, but his foster mom and his other siblings, which he says he loves and adores and they are described as nice, but no need to talk to them. What??? If I were stranded on another planet I would demand to see especially the foster mother, if possible, to make sure they are all okay, hear how they are all doing from her perspective! She would also have information on Travis well being. 🤷‍♀️

4,0⭐️

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Anne.
166 reviews1 follower
April 30, 2026
ARC REVIEW

Ryneth just wanted to start a new job and help his foster family, but instead he ends up kidnapped and sold, which already tells you this isn’t going to be a light read. When he’s “rescued,” he ends up with Prince Daven… and yeah, it doesn’t feel like freedom at all.
Daven is instantly obsessed with Ryneth. Not just because of how he looks, but because of his attitude and his power. Ryneth, on the other hand, can’t stand him. He hates being controlled and fights it as much as he can, which made their dynamic really intense and honestly kind of addictive to read

The dynamic between Ryneth and Daven is the main thing that kept me hooked. It’s dark, messy, and very push-and-pull. If you like possessive, morally grey characters, Daven is definitely that. Ryneth, on the other hand, isn’t weak at all, he pushes back, which made their interactions even more interesting.
The world-building was also really solid. Everything felt immersive without being overwhelming, and there’s clearly more going on beneath the surface. You can tell the story is building toward something bigger.
Profile Image for Valma_books.
22 reviews1 follower
May 2, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5


I have never usually been a fan of Sci fi books but this book changed that! The world building and the plot was really good and I think that’s why I loved it so much!!

I loved Ryneth so much and the way he left his family so he could provide for them despite leaving all he’s known just shows how strong he was! I loved Ryneth’s stubbornness and refusal to just give himself over to Daven!

Daven was so so so obsessed with Ryneth from the first time he saw him! He was so protective and possessive all the time! But he was also really sweet and attentive at times and I think that’s what made me love him overall!

Their chemistry when Ryneth finally let himself be with Daven was so perfect!!
Their spice was so intense and it only made their chemistry hotter!

I loved seeing all the other couples and characters!! It felt all a bit like a family and I was here for it!

Definitely going to be reading more of the authors books! I have read Crown of Thorns and that book was so so good! And so was this one! So definitely going to put more of the author’s books on my tbr!


Profile Image for Eiji Reads.
95 reviews12 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 24, 2026
In exchange for an honest review, I got to read an advance readers copy of the story by the author.

So here is the deal I do like reading a good story and I read quite a lot and long stories that got intriguing story plots and great chemistry between the characters, but when things feel a bit forced its hard for me to say something is good just to please for a review. I like the premise of the story the Sci-Fi element of the story were good and the world building were interesting, but when there is so much sex scenes in the book and the story drown in a chemistry between the main characters that feels more forced and not as romantic its hard for me to like it. This is the first time I’m reading one of Lola`s books so I don’t know how the other stories she has written are like, but this one fell a bit short for me in comparison to some other stories I have read with similar theme. I like the magic system and the futuristic world and the galaxy that have been made for the story it makes it into an interesting plot I just wish there were a bigger focus on the story than maybe the chemistry between Ryneth and Daven.

If you like a lot of smut then this book will definitely be one for you, but if you’re like me and like more story driven plots this one can feel a bit overwhelming by some of the moments between the main characters. But please dont let this discurrage you from reading this story becuse this is just my opinion and toughts,sometimes a story just dont vibe with me. Also Congrats to Lola for a new book realese!
Profile Image for Robin T.
232 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 22, 2026
Ryneth is poor.. dirt poor all he wants to do is earn money to help his family. Other jobs would be safer but he can make good money on planet Helion. But the way the other on the transport talk about planet Helion makes him wonder if he made the right choice. He hides his hands deep in his pocket as blue static rolls across his fingers. And then in a flash the transport is taken and they are all to be sold as slaves.

Daven Caelith is beautiful, dangerous, conrolled and is one of the rulers on Helion. When on a mission to take down criminals and save prisoners He is struck with this feeling.. one He can't place but its urging him forward. There in a cage on the floor half alive he finds Ryneth.

Man I loved this book! It is dark with some duncon so be aware of triggers. Its quite spicy 4/5 and its got a really good story line. You don't see characters from other books.. which i liked. But you dont have to have read previous stories to read this one. I can see myself reading this over and over.
Profile Image for Cara.
682 reviews28 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 20, 2026


Breaking Storm is the third book in the Claimed by Kings series. I jumped right into it without having read the first two, but it works perfectly well as a standalone novel. I have to read the first two now because I absolutely loved this one.

Ryneth arrives in Helion, seeking a better future for his family, but in his first few days, he is kidnapped by a criminal organization, sold, rescued, and left in the “care” of one of the princes, Daren, much to Ryneth’s dismay and horror. Both have special abilities, which drive the plot forward alongside the investigation into the criminal organization.


A mix of science fiction with dark elements and plenty of spice, the author develops an impressive worldbuilding alongside morally ambiguous characters, along with steamy scenes .


I need to read the first two books, and I'm looking forward to the next one in the series, though I'm not sure if there will be one.

Profile Image for Books_withtish.
211 reviews6 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 28, 2026
Where do I begin! This was hot! 🥵 I want a Daven & Ryneth in my life.. After jumping on a shuttle ready to work Ryneth ends up in the arms of Daven and finds out he is not who he thought he was. Daven is a prince and sets his eyes on him from start and they fall pretty much into bed straight away with the electrical current running through them! I do wish I had read the books before this so I could truly understand who the other characters are and how they became who they did and who they’re with! So i would recommend reading them first but I was kindly asked to arc read this and I always love Lola’s work so ofc I accepted! I’m interest to see more of this story as it goes on and I truly enjoyed watching Ryneth become into his own and he was so hot doing it! Daven literally couldn’t keep his hands of him! Happy to arc read this and I’m definitely
Going to read the first 2 soon… out 30/4
Profile Image for Jasmine.
54 reviews
May 6, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶🌶🌶
Breaking Storm by Lola Malone
I had the honor of reading an ARC for Breaking Storm by Lola Malone. I loved everything about this book: the plot, the spice, the characters, the dynamics, the writing style. Everything was perfect. I loved how Daven wanted to protect Ryneth immediately and knew that Ryneth was his mate as soon as he layed eyes on him. The love these two share is so beautiful and chaotic. The dynamic and protectiveness between Daven and Ryneth was everything. I really enjoyed the push and pull, and the fight for dominance. I like how they calm each other, but can also draw out one another's power. I love the way the imperial family is so loyal and protective of one another. They would literally destroy planets to save their family and friends. I honestly just loved this whole story, side characters and all. It's definitely one of those books where you don't want it to end. I didn't read books one and two yet, so I will be immediately starting those! 😍🥹🥵💯🔥
Profile Image for Jenyx.
22 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 17, 2026
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to receive the book before its release. Alongside Chani, Lola Malone is my favorite author, and the universe this series is set in warms my heart every single time.

The book was incredibly good, which was to be expected from Lola Malone. It didn’t become my favorite in the series — for me, the first book is still too special to top. Still, it was impossible to put down, and I thoroughly enjoyed the entire story. The dynamic between the main characters was excellent, and Daven has definitely earned a special place in my heart.

I also have to mention that I’m already really, really looking forward to the next book — the little teaser at the end completely caught my attention and got me excited.
2,325 reviews21 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 25, 2026
It's a return to Helion. You should read the first books just to get what's going on.

Ryneth is on his way to Helion to work when his shuttle is taken by the Concordant and he and all the passengers are to be sold into slavery. But Ryneth is special. When the Imperial family including Daven, the Prince tries to rescue the passengers, they are all gone except for Ryneth and they recognize from his powers that he is one of them. Daven instantly wants him and his possessiveness and obsession kicks in. He railroads right over Ryneth's wants and immediately starts his seduction. Ryneth is helpless under Daven's touch, power, and lack of consenual persuasion. This one is full of that spicy heat and possessive vibes that Lola writes so well. A great sci-fi pleasure that fits right into the rest of the series of this volatile Imperial powerhouse family.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews