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King's Creek #5
King's Queen
When Aiden King asked me out years ago, I couldn’t believe it. Six months later, I went from mousy librarian to wife of the most wanted bachelor in town. Heck, in the state, probably the country. I moved from a trailer house to a mansion by the river.
Turns out, I shouldn’t have believed it. After years of being alone while Aiden put in long hours at the office, I learned his secret. He needed to marry for a year to fulfill his trust requirements, and the nerdy girl from the wrong side of the tracks was an easy target.
I never thought I’d be the girl asking a handsome millionaire for a divorce. Now, I just want to limp my pride back to my family and find myself again. I want to forget the question that’s eating at me. If he only needed to be married for a year, why has it been five years since we said I do?
***
Work has become my identity. I went into the family business and the responsibility is staggering. One mess up and people can die. I know that all too well and I’ve dedicated myself to doing better. I’m exceptional at my job. Meticulous. Dedicated.
But for a guy who’s such a perfectionist, I really messed up my marriage. It took Kate walking out to get me to wake up and realize what an empty existence I’ve built.
So what does a workaholic do when he realizes his work, and especially the money, means nothing to him? That there’s only one obsession he’s ever had, and she’s staying with her rowdy, overprotective family? Kate’s always been the only one for me. It’s time for this King to loosen his tie and win back his queen.
Turns out, I shouldn’t have believed it. After years of being alone while Aiden put in long hours at the office, I learned his secret. He needed to marry for a year to fulfill his trust requirements, and the nerdy girl from the wrong side of the tracks was an easy target.
I never thought I’d be the girl asking a handsome millionaire for a divorce. Now, I just want to limp my pride back to my family and find myself again. I want to forget the question that’s eating at me. If he only needed to be married for a year, why has it been five years since we said I do?
***
Work has become my identity. I went into the family business and the responsibility is staggering. One mess up and people can die. I know that all too well and I’ve dedicated myself to doing better. I’m exceptional at my job. Meticulous. Dedicated.
But for a guy who’s such a perfectionist, I really messed up my marriage. It took Kate walking out to get me to wake up and realize what an empty existence I’ve built.
So what does a workaholic do when he realizes his work, and especially the money, means nothing to him? That there’s only one obsession he’s ever had, and she’s staying with her rowdy, overprotective family? Kate’s always been the only one for me. It’s time for this King to loosen his tie and win back his queen.
298 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 4, 2021
511 people are currently reading
1802 people want to read
About the author
Marie Johnston
100 books1,059 followersMarie Johnston is an award-winning, best-selling paranormal and contemporary romance writer. She grew up in the upper Midwest and planned to go to college for English. Didn't happen. She started college in accounting and was awful! Grabbing her inner science geek by the pocket protector, she changed to microbiology and medical technology where her only writing involved scientific articles and procedures.
Eventually, she left full-time work for full-time baby raising but kept thinking, "one day, I'd like to write a book." Finally, before any more time passed, Marie decided to buckle down and write. She loves it!
Eventually, she left full-time work for full-time baby raising but kept thinking, "one day, I'd like to write a book." Finally, before any more time passed, Marie decided to buckle down and write. She loves it!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 214 reviews
June 27, 2022
Wow. This was… Umm.. very safe. This author managed to take a story line, that could have been angsty drama gold, and tell it in the the most boring uneventful way possible. Half the book is taken up with hanging out with kids in the family, wrestling, and the hero’s career drama. The little bit we get of the MCs together was a snooze-fest. The hero was a passive dud. Not even remotely jealous/possessive. The heroine was boring.
So much potential…
😴😴😴😴😴😴😴😴😴😴😴
So much potential…
😴😴😴😴😴😴😴😴😴😴😴
April 8, 2023
Is that it?
Given that I'm an angst hater, I can't believe I'm going to write this next statement...not enough angst. The trope where the heroine finds out the H has married her for money, status etc is romance gold. This was kind of flat as all the characters did fairly rationally things: prenups, serving divorce papers, etc...
One saving grace is the manipulative, know it all Grams whose inevitable end could not come fast enough for me.
As usual, read out of order and trying to figure out if it's worth going back in time.
Ho hum.
I give you the Queen of Ennui...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LCRZZ...
Given that I'm an angst hater, I can't believe I'm going to write this next statement...not enough angst. The trope where the heroine finds out the H has married her for money, status etc is romance gold. This was kind of flat as all the characters did fairly rationally things: prenups, serving divorce papers, etc...
One saving grace is the manipulative, know it all Grams whose inevitable end could not come fast enough for me.
As usual, read out of order and trying to figure out if it's worth going back in time.
Ho hum.
I give you the Queen of Ennui...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LCRZZ...
August 19, 2021
I've been waiting to read Aidan and Kate's story for a while now and the wait was so worth it!
Aidan, as the oldest, has always felt pressure to be there for his younger brothers and help support his father. When they find out about the famous clause to their inheritance, he doesn't see any way out of it. But although he's given up almost everything for his family and the company, Aidan wasn't willing to give in to the demand to marry so easily, unless it was on his own terms.
Like many others, I was team Kate right from the start. I loved her character, she was a down to earth woman with a heart of gold and her sadness was heartbreaking to watch as all around her, the other brothers (even the dad!) found love and did it knowing the truth. I definitely understood her turmoil when she finds out everyone knew but her.
What saved this book for me and what I didn't know I would love so much about it is the fact that Kate and Aidan have been in love with each other forever, but they are also pretty much strangers. Aidan was a workaholic, never questioning Kate's easy compliance to his demanding work schedule and Kate, a non-confrontational person, found it easier to give in than disrupt his routine. They both became compliant in their marriage and although they were happy and content, over time, their foundation starts to crumble.
This was a beautiful story of change, growth and baring it all for a forever kind of love. There was no cheating, no OW drama and both MCs (although 100% devoted to each other) do have a communication issue to work out. I loved Aidan and Kate so much and am so glad they get their happily ever after, just like the rest of the Kings have.
P.S. If like me, you're a sucker for a good epilogue, you will love the once at the end of King's Queen. It's a must read if you follow this series!
SAFETY INFO:
Aidan, as the oldest, has always felt pressure to be there for his younger brothers and help support his father. When they find out about the famous clause to their inheritance, he doesn't see any way out of it. But although he's given up almost everything for his family and the company, Aidan wasn't willing to give in to the demand to marry so easily, unless it was on his own terms.
Like many others, I was team Kate right from the start. I loved her character, she was a down to earth woman with a heart of gold and her sadness was heartbreaking to watch as all around her, the other brothers (even the dad!) found love and did it knowing the truth. I definitely understood her turmoil when she finds out everyone knew but her.
What saved this book for me and what I didn't know I would love so much about it is the fact that Kate and Aidan have been in love with each other forever, but they are also pretty much strangers. Aidan was a workaholic, never questioning Kate's easy compliance to his demanding work schedule and Kate, a non-confrontational person, found it easier to give in than disrupt his routine. They both became compliant in their marriage and although they were happy and content, over time, their foundation starts to crumble.
This was a beautiful story of change, growth and baring it all for a forever kind of love. There was no cheating, no OW drama and both MCs (although 100% devoted to each other) do have a communication issue to work out. I loved Aidan and Kate so much and am so glad they get their happily ever after, just like the rest of the Kings have.
P.S. If like me, you're a sucker for a good epilogue, you will love the once at the end of King's Queen. It's a must read if you follow this series!
SAFETY INFO:
January 2, 2022
Uncle Bud
Aiden was the biggest surprise to me. I knew his story would make cry, didn’t realize I’d be crying for him and not Kate.
So much responsibility heaped on his young shoulders. He deserved his HEA with his Queen.
Learning to love again and show his emotions was a struggle. The fact that both Kate and Aiden realized they had been dishonest with each other and themselves was refreshing.
They came out stronger in the end. 🥰💜
I loved the glimpse into the future and next generation of King’s.
Wonderful series filled with loads of steam heat and so much love.
Aiden was the biggest surprise to me. I knew his story would make cry, didn’t realize I’d be crying for him and not Kate.
So much responsibility heaped on his young shoulders. He deserved his HEA with his Queen.
Learning to love again and show his emotions was a struggle. The fact that both Kate and Aiden realized they had been dishonest with each other and themselves was refreshing.
They came out stronger in the end. 🥰💜
I loved the glimpse into the future and next generation of King’s.
Wonderful series filled with loads of steam heat and so much love.
August 31, 2024
It was a good story but I missed the intensity. It was rather mild.
Read
August 6, 2021"Can I get a room for the next three nights?” Preferably as close to Kate as possible? I glanced up. Seven levels. What were the odds I’d land on the same floor?
“I’m so sorry, sir. We don’t have any vacancies.”
None? It was December. A slow month for conferences and sporting events. Ah. “Construction?”
Her smile was sympathetic. “I’m sorry. I can help you find a room in a hotel nearby.”
I hadn’t expected to spend a lot of time with Kate while she was at her convention, but I’d at least hoped to be under the same roof. The roof might house a few hundred rooms, but I’d remained optimistic.
Kate’s attention was on us. “No opening?”
I tucked my wallet back into my slacks. “No problem. I’ll talk with Luna about the bedroom.” Could I use it when the plane wasn’t in use? I didn’t care to sit in another hotel.
“On the plane?” Kate glanced at the young man helping her, then at the woman assisting me. Her gaze landed on me, full of resolve. “Just stay with me.”
“This is your conference.” I could fist pump right now, but I hadn’t meant to intrude this much on her weekend. She was technically working, after all.
“It’s all right, Aiden.”
I thanked Cynthia for her time, gathered my suitcase and Kate’s, and shouldered my tech bag while she finished up.
On the way to the elevator, she handed me a key, hesitant. “There’s two beds. Two queens.”
Damn. “All right.”
Still. Progress was progress. We were talking. She hadn’t asked when we were going to sign the divorce papers. I was making progress whether I was back in her bed or not.
“I’m so sorry, sir. We don’t have any vacancies.”
None? It was December. A slow month for conferences and sporting events. Ah. “Construction?”
Her smile was sympathetic. “I’m sorry. I can help you find a room in a hotel nearby.”
I hadn’t expected to spend a lot of time with Kate while she was at her convention, but I’d at least hoped to be under the same roof. The roof might house a few hundred rooms, but I’d remained optimistic.
Kate’s attention was on us. “No opening?”
I tucked my wallet back into my slacks. “No problem. I’ll talk with Luna about the bedroom.” Could I use it when the plane wasn’t in use? I didn’t care to sit in another hotel.
“On the plane?” Kate glanced at the young man helping her, then at the woman assisting me. Her gaze landed on me, full of resolve. “Just stay with me.”
“This is your conference.” I could fist pump right now, but I hadn’t meant to intrude this much on her weekend. She was technically working, after all.
“It’s all right, Aiden.”
I thanked Cynthia for her time, gathered my suitcase and Kate’s, and shouldered my tech bag while she finished up.
On the way to the elevator, she handed me a key, hesitant. “There’s two beds. Two queens.”
Damn. “All right.”
Still. Progress was progress. We were talking. She hadn’t asked when we were going to sign the divorce papers. I was making progress whether I was back in her bed or not.
June 27, 2022
Went for the tempting blurb but it was so boring and just one note. Drags on and on with the heroine whining constantly and calling him "Aiden King" all the time. The conversations are so yawn-inducing and I don't see it going anywhere. Dropped at 47% because I already wasted my day on it.
Sucks when blurbs are so good and the stories are the opposite and same old recycled tales. Although I wouldn't mind a bit if the reading flow was good but it's just so ughh enough.
Sucks when blurbs are so good and the stories are the opposite and same old recycled tales. Although I wouldn't mind a bit if the reading flow was good but it's just so ughh enough.
May 14, 2022
This is the fifth (and final) book in the Oil Kings series. While this covers Aiden & Kate’s relationship completely – these are best enjoyed after reading the previous books in order, starting with King’s Crown.
I really enjoyed Johnston including a couple that was already married, going through a rough time, and then coming back together again. Poor Aiden had a world of responsibilities foisted on him and never learned to communicate or even have his own desires. Kate has crushed on Aiden since high school and thought she’s met her Prince Charming, only to find out he’d kept some big secrets from her.
I don’t usually enjoy stories that shift back & forth from past to present – but I really like the way Johnston executed it here. It was a great way to get to know Aiden & Kate and how they became the people they are today and how it impacted their marriage and relationship.
I liked that sex wasn’t the only thing bringing them back together. They really were working on being more open and honest. I did not see the eventual resolution for them coming and I totally loved it. These two deserved it so much.
Epilogue! There’s a wonderful series epilogue where we get a slice of life for all the Kings just a bit in the future. It was perfection.
I really enjoyed every book in this series and it’s been such a fun ride. I’m looking forward to more of Johnston’s work.
I really enjoyed Johnston including a couple that was already married, going through a rough time, and then coming back together again. Poor Aiden had a world of responsibilities foisted on him and never learned to communicate or even have his own desires. Kate has crushed on Aiden since high school and thought she’s met her Prince Charming, only to find out he’d kept some big secrets from her.
I don’t usually enjoy stories that shift back & forth from past to present – but I really like the way Johnston executed it here. It was a great way to get to know Aiden & Kate and how they became the people they are today and how it impacted their marriage and relationship.
I liked that sex wasn’t the only thing bringing them back together. They really were working on being more open and honest. I did not see the eventual resolution for them coming and I totally loved it. These two deserved it so much.
Epilogue! There’s a wonderful series epilogue where we get a slice of life for all the Kings just a bit in the future. It was perfection.
I really enjoyed every book in this series and it’s been such a fun ride. I’m looking forward to more of Johnston’s work.
June 27, 2022
4.44 stars
I love marriage in trouble books and this one was no exception. But the epilogue 😤 why was it in Gentry’s POV ??? I didn’t read his book and after everything I read about him in the books that I did read from this series, I would NEVER want to read his book. So why on earth would I want an epilogue from someone I didn’t like? EPILOGUES SHOULD BE ABOUT THE MAIN COUPLE OF THE BOOK. If you’re ending a series and want to do a wrap up on all the characters from the series, MAKE A BONUS EPILOGUE. I could not care less about the characters from books I didn’t read, if I wanted to know how they were doing, I would read their books. I hate when authors do this is actually can ruin a book for me. And if you like epilogues like this one, great I’m glad but it doesn’t change how I feel.
I love marriage in trouble books and this one was no exception. But the epilogue 😤 why was it in Gentry’s POV ??? I didn’t read his book and after everything I read about him in the books that I did read from this series, I would NEVER want to read his book. So why on earth would I want an epilogue from someone I didn’t like? EPILOGUES SHOULD BE ABOUT THE MAIN COUPLE OF THE BOOK. If you’re ending a series and want to do a wrap up on all the characters from the series, MAKE A BONUS EPILOGUE. I could not care less about the characters from books I didn’t read, if I wanted to know how they were doing, I would read their books. I hate when authors do this is actually can ruin a book for me. And if you like epilogues like this one, great I’m glad but it doesn’t change how I feel.
September 7, 2024
Readable marriage in trouble story. Closed off workaholic husband and an ignored wife. She wants a divorce. Sounds like it should be filled with anger, drama, and angst—it’s not. And that’s the problem.
He’s sacrificed their happiness for his family and their oil empire.
The book meanders to nearly the end where he finally makes changes after hearing her give up her hope of having a family. The end is so rushed, we don’t get to see this play out. The reader waits through 95% of the book and we don’t get all the what should have been delicious details.
2.5 rounding down give me all the angst and drama stars.
He’s sacrificed their happiness for his family and their oil empire.
The book meanders to nearly the end where he finally makes changes after hearing her give up her hope of having a family. The end is so rushed, we don’t get to see this play out. The reader waits through 95% of the book and we don’t get all the what should have been delicious details.
2.5 rounding down give me all the angst and drama stars.
June 7, 2024
This really didn't work for me. When I read a marriage in trouble book I expect at the very least some angst, and even a little drama. There was none of that here, the characters were too flat, lacklustre and lacking in chemistry to drum up any sort of feels. The entire story was flat, even Aiden's finale was meh.
Not a winner for me at all
Not a winner for me at all
June 27, 2022
~3.5 ⭐
Nice story, decent amount of character development, a tiny hit of steam and grand gesture by H. Did not actually see that little twist coming!
But at the same time, whilst good it was like lacking a bit of something..like more raw feelings maybe?
Nice story, decent amount of character development, a tiny hit of steam and grand gesture by H. Did not actually see that little twist coming!
But at the same time, whilst good it was like lacking a bit of something..like more raw feelings maybe?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 17, 2021
Boring asf! F in caps!
August 15, 2021
I was right, and that pleases me. I have read only one book by this author before, and it was an established relationship going through a rough patch too. I adored that book, so I was ready to jump into this one. And it was even better than I expected.
Even without reading the previous books in the series, I had no trouble getting in it. Sure, some details were missing–like, I have still no idea what happened exactly to Aiden’s mother–and all the other couples had no history for me, but that was okay. I still got a good sense of the various relationships between the characters. And even reading only the finale, it felt like a good conclusion to this series.
As for the main characters, I fell in love with them. Hard. Their struggles felt real, and I wanted to cuddle them. Kate’s insecurities and Aiden’s extreme sense of responsabilities were perfectly depicted. How they damaged their relationship, and how they heal themselves in order to heal their marriage, was at the center of the story. It was both heartwrenching and beautiful. And the happily ever after was one of the best I’ve read recently.
Every scene, every interaction, every dialogue, has so much meaning, and each help the story go forward–or back a few steps. The journey is long and difficult, but the destination was worth it.
Quickie
- Series: Oil Kings #5 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #billionaire romance #established relationship #divorce
- Triggers: some slight emotional abuse
- Main couple: Kate & Aiden King
- Hotness: 5/5
- Romance: 5/5
- + Aiden’s emotional journey was beautifully written
- – just dismayed it took him 4 years to realize his marriage was failing
Even without reading the previous books in the series, I had no trouble getting in it. Sure, some details were missing–like, I have still no idea what happened exactly to Aiden’s mother–and all the other couples had no history for me, but that was okay. I still got a good sense of the various relationships between the characters. And even reading only the finale, it felt like a good conclusion to this series.
As for the main characters, I fell in love with them. Hard. Their struggles felt real, and I wanted to cuddle them. Kate’s insecurities and Aiden’s extreme sense of responsabilities were perfectly depicted. How they damaged their relationship, and how they heal themselves in order to heal their marriage, was at the center of the story. It was both heartwrenching and beautiful. And the happily ever after was one of the best I’ve read recently.
Every scene, every interaction, every dialogue, has so much meaning, and each help the story go forward–or back a few steps. The journey is long and difficult, but the destination was worth it.
Quickie
- Series: Oil Kings #5 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #billionaire romance #established relationship #divorce
- Triggers: some slight emotional abuse
- Main couple: Kate & Aiden King
- Hotness: 5/5
- Romance: 5/5
- + Aiden’s emotional journey was beautifully written
- – just dismayed it took him 4 years to realize his marriage was failing
November 28, 2022
“And the girl would be oblivious. She’d have no clue that she’d made a sad, lonely boy from King’s Creek feel seen again.”
Well I’ve been waiting for this book since day one. And if you’ve been reading with me, you’ve been waiting for this one too, about as much as King’s Country. IFKYK.
Classic story. Girl from the wrong side of the tracks, crushing on the rich boy in high school. Years later, they have a chance meeting in his office for a community outreach program. Boy sweeps girl off her feet in a whirlwind courtship. They got married quickly and haven’t looked back.
But their marriage is secondary to Aiden’s job. Her desire for children comes tertiary.
So it hurt when the entire family knew about the trust, the stipulations of marriage before 30, and how no one told Kate. How Aiden was supposed to be married before turning 30 for a year. She was devastated when she found out. But why has he stayed married to her? He could just claim the money and run.
❤️🎧📖❤️
Book: King’s Queen
Couple: Aiden and Kate
Series: Oil King’s, Book 5, standalone
Author: Marie Johnston
Narrated by: Maeve York and Jack Maverick
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Kindle Unlimited: ❌
Audio Whispersync: ✅
🗣 Narration 🗣: I ADORE MAEVE SO MUCH!!!! Jack was fantastic too!
📚 Tropes 📚: marriage in trouble, secrets, rich hero, poor heroine, grovel, HEA
⚠️ Safety Squad ⚠️: safe! Steam is low/moderate, time jumps; I dislike time jumps a lot but this wasn’t bad and it didn’t happen a lot.
📚 Similar Books 📚: All Marriage In Trouble: Shey Stahl’s Bad Husband, Tessa Bailey’s Lover Her or Lose Her, CD Reiss’ Marriage Duet
🎵 Katie’s Song Rec 🎵: Daya’s Sit Still, Look Pretty
Well I’ve been waiting for this book since day one. And if you’ve been reading with me, you’ve been waiting for this one too, about as much as King’s Country. IFKYK.
Classic story. Girl from the wrong side of the tracks, crushing on the rich boy in high school. Years later, they have a chance meeting in his office for a community outreach program. Boy sweeps girl off her feet in a whirlwind courtship. They got married quickly and haven’t looked back.
But their marriage is secondary to Aiden’s job. Her desire for children comes tertiary.
So it hurt when the entire family knew about the trust, the stipulations of marriage before 30, and how no one told Kate. How Aiden was supposed to be married before turning 30 for a year. She was devastated when she found out. But why has he stayed married to her? He could just claim the money and run.
❤️🎧📖❤️
Book: King’s Queen
Couple: Aiden and Kate
Series: Oil King’s, Book 5, standalone
Author: Marie Johnston
Narrated by: Maeve York and Jack Maverick
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Kindle Unlimited: ❌
Audio Whispersync: ✅
🗣 Narration 🗣: I ADORE MAEVE SO MUCH!!!! Jack was fantastic too!
📚 Tropes 📚: marriage in trouble, secrets, rich hero, poor heroine, grovel, HEA
⚠️ Safety Squad ⚠️: safe! Steam is low/moderate, time jumps; I dislike time jumps a lot but this wasn’t bad and it didn’t happen a lot.
📚 Similar Books 📚: All Marriage In Trouble: Shey Stahl’s Bad Husband, Tessa Bailey’s Lover Her or Lose Her, CD Reiss’ Marriage Duet
🎵 Katie’s Song Rec 🎵: Daya’s Sit Still, Look Pretty
September 2, 2021
I really enjoyed this one. I think both characters grew a lot and realized where they went wrong. I also really enjoyed that the "issues" that they faced in their marriage had nothing to do with infidelity or anything the such - it was communication and his work.
The heroine was strong and even when they started to reconcile she had grew to realize that she had lost herself during their marriage and still had some work to do before they could completely move forward.
The hero was def the strong silent type. He didn't convey his emotions for his wife at all...until she left him and he realized what he had done wrong. However, just because he's silent doesn't mean he didn't care and didn't listen to her. For him, he simply got caught up in all that was required from him and his role models def weren't the best.
The best part is the end though when you find out the one bit of selfishness the hero had - if you weren't convinced by then of his feelings for the heroine you were after that.
Safe - hero is NOT a manwhore, heroine had a few partners in the past. No cheating.
The heroine was strong and even when they started to reconcile she had grew to realize that she had lost herself during their marriage and still had some work to do before they could completely move forward.
The hero was def the strong silent type. He didn't convey his emotions for his wife at all...until she left him and he realized what he had done wrong. However, just because he's silent doesn't mean he didn't care and didn't listen to her. For him, he simply got caught up in all that was required from him and his role models def weren't the best.
The best part is the end though when you find out the one bit of selfishness the hero had - if you weren't convinced by then of his feelings for the heroine you were after that.
Safe - hero is NOT a manwhore, heroine had a few partners in the past. No cheating.
April 1, 2025
3.5⭐️
This was a good marriage in trouble book!
Workaholic grumpy H
Librarian sweet h
I loved how when Kate learned the reason Aiden married her 4 years ago, she wasted no time in leaving him. She knew she deserved better!
This was a good marriage in trouble book!
Workaholic grumpy H
Librarian sweet h
I loved how when Kate learned the reason Aiden married her 4 years ago, she wasted no time in leaving him. She knew she deserved better!
September 25, 2021
You can’t keep me away from books with the marriage in trouble trope and I am not sorry about it in the slightest
August 11, 2021
This is the last book in the Oil King’s series and it is just as captivating as the previous books. Readers finally get Aiden and Kate’s story. I must admit that I really didn’t like Aiden much after reading the first four books. He seemed to be way too arrogant, stiff and unemotional, as well as a neglectful and disinterested husband. I assumed he thought only of himself and business. This book blows up all my assumptions. It takes Kate leaving him and demanding a divorce to shake up Aiden and get him to examine the life he has made for himself.
Divorce is rarely the fault of one person, and both Kate and Aiden both discover that they were playing roles neither wanted to play. She tried to fit herself into his life to remake herself into the image she thought Aiden would want for his wife. He tried to fulfill the roles his grandparents and father forced him into after the murder of his mother. He was forced to put aside his grief to be a role model for his younger brothers while his father’s grief made him emotionally distant from his sons. He wasn’t given a choice about joining the family business, it was expected of him because he was the oldest son. A costly mistake when he first started in the business made Aiden into the control freak and workaholic he is now. But Kate’s leaving him….that shook his very foundation and precipitated a change that no one in the family could have anticipated….even Aiden and Kate. Kate finally gets a glimpse into what motivates her husband, the pain and anguish he has been hiding from everyone. She also realizes how much she loves him and that he really does love her despite the trust that was the reason for their quick courtship and marriage. But is love enough? She can’t go back to being neglected and coming in second behind the business. Aiden has gotten a chance to see Kate unfiltered and he wants a future with her. Can he make changes that will make Kate give their marriage another chance?
You will have to read this wonderfully insightful book to see how everything plays out. This book does include a look into the lives of the King family in the future that ties everything up in a very satisfying manner. I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Divorce is rarely the fault of one person, and both Kate and Aiden both discover that they were playing roles neither wanted to play. She tried to fit herself into his life to remake herself into the image she thought Aiden would want for his wife. He tried to fulfill the roles his grandparents and father forced him into after the murder of his mother. He was forced to put aside his grief to be a role model for his younger brothers while his father’s grief made him emotionally distant from his sons. He wasn’t given a choice about joining the family business, it was expected of him because he was the oldest son. A costly mistake when he first started in the business made Aiden into the control freak and workaholic he is now. But Kate’s leaving him….that shook his very foundation and precipitated a change that no one in the family could have anticipated….even Aiden and Kate. Kate finally gets a glimpse into what motivates her husband, the pain and anguish he has been hiding from everyone. She also realizes how much she loves him and that he really does love her despite the trust that was the reason for their quick courtship and marriage. But is love enough? She can’t go back to being neglected and coming in second behind the business. Aiden has gotten a chance to see Kate unfiltered and he wants a future with her. Can he make changes that will make Kate give their marriage another chance?
You will have to read this wonderfully insightful book to see how everything plays out. This book does include a look into the lives of the King family in the future that ties everything up in a very satisfying manner. I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
December 4, 2022
This is the last book in the series but can definiteley be read as a standalone because I did.
Aidan, as the oldest, has always felt pressure to be there for his younger brothers and help support his father. Years after her death, it comes to light that their mother left the boys a trust of $100 million, but they have to be married before the age of 30 and stay married for a year.
When they find out about the famous clause to their inheritance, he doesn't see any way out of it. But although he's given up almost everything for his family and the company, Aidan wasn't willing to give in to the demand to marry so easily, unless it was on his own terms.
Aiden asks Kate, someone he knew in high school and recently met again, to marry him. He chose not to tell her about the trust, though, which does cause problems in the long run, when she eventually finds out a few years later.
Her request for a divorce and Aidan's attempts to prove to Kate that he wants to stay married to her are the crux of this story.
I loved the way Aiden and Kate's story was told. I love that they recognized what they wanted and worked towards it. Of course, just wanting it so won't make everything okay. They had to work for it.
I was more annoyed at Aiden than I expected although I like him and Kate - he took a little too long to pull his head out of his a$$ , He is fortunate that Kate is such a forgiving soul - not sure all women would have been. But I loved how they built up their relationship again.
And I did enjoy his attempts to change and towards the end the book was very heartwarming and sweet.
Aidan, as the oldest, has always felt pressure to be there for his younger brothers and help support his father. Years after her death, it comes to light that their mother left the boys a trust of $100 million, but they have to be married before the age of 30 and stay married for a year.
When they find out about the famous clause to their inheritance, he doesn't see any way out of it. But although he's given up almost everything for his family and the company, Aidan wasn't willing to give in to the demand to marry so easily, unless it was on his own terms.
Aiden asks Kate, someone he knew in high school and recently met again, to marry him. He chose not to tell her about the trust, though, which does cause problems in the long run, when she eventually finds out a few years later.
Her request for a divorce and Aidan's attempts to prove to Kate that he wants to stay married to her are the crux of this story.
I loved the way Aiden and Kate's story was told. I love that they recognized what they wanted and worked towards it. Of course, just wanting it so won't make everything okay. They had to work for it.
I was more annoyed at Aiden than I expected although I like him and Kate - he took a little too long to pull his head out of his a$$ , He is fortunate that Kate is such a forgiving soul - not sure all women would have been. But I loved how they built up their relationship again.
And I did enjoy his attempts to change and towards the end the book was very heartwarming and sweet.
August 13, 2021
Absolutely loved this book from beginning to end! King’s Queen was the perfect ending to the Oil Kings series. I was really looking forward to Aiden and Kate’s story. I knew it was going to be captivating, emotional and sweet.
A marriage of convenience turns into forever. After Kate serves Aiden with divorce papers, Aiden get the rude awakening he needs to change the way he views his life. Losing Kate helped him realize there are more important things in life than just work. I loved all the groveling Aiden had to do to win Kate back. It was nice to see a vulnerable side of him. The way he finally opened up to Kate and his family was so emotional and made you fall for him even more. This story makes you realize that communication is key to making relationships work. That was the biggest problem with Aiden. He always bottled up everything and never let anyone in. Once he let go, he learned to appreciate his family and let them in.
This story has officially given me a book hangover! The King family is so wonderful and Kate and her family made this story to cute and entertaining. I enjoyed all the banter with the kids and the way Kate’s brothers teased her. It was slow burn, angsty, beautiful story with some steamy scenes between Aiden & Kate. They are probably my favorite couple. They dealt with a lot, but at the end they made through stronger than ever. That epilogue was so wonderful and made it it better!
A marriage of convenience turns into forever. After Kate serves Aiden with divorce papers, Aiden get the rude awakening he needs to change the way he views his life. Losing Kate helped him realize there are more important things in life than just work. I loved all the groveling Aiden had to do to win Kate back. It was nice to see a vulnerable side of him. The way he finally opened up to Kate and his family was so emotional and made you fall for him even more. This story makes you realize that communication is key to making relationships work. That was the biggest problem with Aiden. He always bottled up everything and never let anyone in. Once he let go, he learned to appreciate his family and let them in.
This story has officially given me a book hangover! The King family is so wonderful and Kate and her family made this story to cute and entertaining. I enjoyed all the banter with the kids and the way Kate’s brothers teased her. It was slow burn, angsty, beautiful story with some steamy scenes between Aiden & Kate. They are probably my favorite couple. They dealt with a lot, but at the end they made through stronger than ever. That epilogue was so wonderful and made it it better!
August 16, 2021
This is the 5th and final book in the Oil Kings series and I think it is by far the best of the bunch!
Aiden and Kate's story begins prior to the first book: King's Crown happening. They are a married couple always in the background of the other stories. Now, when the whole family seems settled and the trusts are where they need to be, Kate realizes she was lied to and wants out of their 4 year marriage.
The whole story is about second chances but overlying all of that is the love of a mother for her sons and what she wanted most for them--fins your own path and be happy. This story is the evolution of Aidan. We find out what makes him tick. And the one thing for sure he needs is Kate. Can he find redemption in her eyes? Can he forgive his father and grandfather and find his own way that makes him happy?
It takes a village---Kate's family, Aiden's brothers and step-mom, friends. Everyone giving support and guidance. Dropping nuggets of wisedom that Aiden has been too busy to see. You can feel the stress melt off Aiden's shoulders as soon as he realizes what he will miss out on if he doesn't make some changes. Kate also takes control of who she is and starts to be true to her self along the way. I loved it all!
Great epilogue and ending to the story. Loved Gentry's take on where his family was going. I would love to catch up with this bunch any time in the future.
*Complimentary copy provided for an honest review.
Aiden and Kate's story begins prior to the first book: King's Crown happening. They are a married couple always in the background of the other stories. Now, when the whole family seems settled and the trusts are where they need to be, Kate realizes she was lied to and wants out of their 4 year marriage.
The whole story is about second chances but overlying all of that is the love of a mother for her sons and what she wanted most for them--fins your own path and be happy. This story is the evolution of Aidan. We find out what makes him tick. And the one thing for sure he needs is Kate. Can he find redemption in her eyes? Can he forgive his father and grandfather and find his own way that makes him happy?
It takes a village---Kate's family, Aiden's brothers and step-mom, friends. Everyone giving support and guidance. Dropping nuggets of wisedom that Aiden has been too busy to see. You can feel the stress melt off Aiden's shoulders as soon as he realizes what he will miss out on if he doesn't make some changes. Kate also takes control of who she is and starts to be true to her self along the way. I loved it all!
Great epilogue and ending to the story. Loved Gentry's take on where his family was going. I would love to catch up with this bunch any time in the future.
*Complimentary copy provided for an honest review.
August 9, 2021
RATING: 4.5 STARS. So I unintentionally started with the last book first, hahaha, but really liked it, so I will definitely go back and read the read of the series. Aiden King is the oldest of four boys and is the one who picked up the slack when his mother passed away and his dad wasn't there emotionally for his children after her passing. Aiden is a workaholic, with the family company always coming first.
Years after her death, it comes to light that their mother left the boys a trust of $100 million, but they have to be married before the age of 30 and stay married for a year. Aiden asks Kate, someone he knew in high school and recently met again, to marry him. He chose not to tell her about the trust, though, which does cause problems in the long run, when she eventually finds out a few years later.
When Kate does find out about the trust and its requirements, she questions why Aiden wanted to marry her and does ask for a divorce. Aiden asks for time and they do wait and talk about it. I did like how they communicated with each other rather than jumping right into signing divorce papers. They gave their marriage a chance, or rather, Kate did as the injured party. She could have just given up when she handed Aiden the paperwork.
There were quite a few things Aiden had to work through that stemmed from his mother's death that would not have come to light or been addressed had Kate not given their marriage another chance.
I loved the epilogue and even though I know everyone's HEA, I want to go back and see how they got there!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Years after her death, it comes to light that their mother left the boys a trust of $100 million, but they have to be married before the age of 30 and stay married for a year. Aiden asks Kate, someone he knew in high school and recently met again, to marry him. He chose not to tell her about the trust, though, which does cause problems in the long run, when she eventually finds out a few years later.
When Kate does find out about the trust and its requirements, she questions why Aiden wanted to marry her and does ask for a divorce. Aiden asks for time and they do wait and talk about it. I did like how they communicated with each other rather than jumping right into signing divorce papers. They gave their marriage a chance, or rather, Kate did as the injured party. She could have just given up when she handed Aiden the paperwork.
There were quite a few things Aiden had to work through that stemmed from his mother's death that would not have come to light or been addressed had Kate not given their marriage another chance.
I loved the epilogue and even though I know everyone's HEA, I want to go back and see how they got there!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 8, 2023
Omg I enjoyed this so much that I finished it in about eight hours.
I have such a soft spot for second chance, heroes who know they messed up and try to win their wives back.
I hadn’t read any of the other books in the series but it wasn’t hard to wrap my head around the other couples and cameos.
I loved the subtle angst and longing, the miscommunication and quiet love between Aidan and Kate. The little glimpse we get into 18 years ago towards the end was simply beautiful.
I really enjoyed this book.
I have such a soft spot for second chance, heroes who know they messed up and try to win their wives back.
I hadn’t read any of the other books in the series but it wasn’t hard to wrap my head around the other couples and cameos.
I loved the subtle angst and longing, the miscommunication and quiet love between Aidan and Kate. The little glimpse we get into 18 years ago towards the end was simply beautiful.
I really enjoyed this book.
May 2, 2024
Well balanced and well written.
What I loved most about their story was that it was so well balanced. The mmc took responsibility for his mistakes, but so did the fmc. The book showed maturity in that the fmc didn’t just blame her husband, she took responsibility for her choices and for choosing not to have a voice when she should’ve.
The story unfolded backwards, I didn’t read the previous books, but I was able to clue into the background characters and I didn’t feel like I missed anything important.
The timing of the book felt true to life, the mmc couldn’t change everything overnight and the fmc was realistic in her expectations. They became a team and communicated.
I really liked the ending and I felt the story was finished and I could close the book without any questions.
What I loved most about their story was that it was so well balanced. The mmc took responsibility for his mistakes, but so did the fmc. The book showed maturity in that the fmc didn’t just blame her husband, she took responsibility for her choices and for choosing not to have a voice when she should’ve.
The story unfolded backwards, I didn’t read the previous books, but I was able to clue into the background characters and I didn’t feel like I missed anything important.
The timing of the book felt true to life, the mmc couldn’t change everything overnight and the fmc was realistic in her expectations. They became a team and communicated.
I really liked the ending and I felt the story was finished and I could close the book without any questions.
August 9, 2021
This is book five in The Oil King's Series and it is Aiden and Kate's story. This is the first time that I have read a book by Marie Johnston but after reading the synopsis I decided to give it a try as it is always a bit of trial and error reading books by new authors to you but I am definitely glad that I took the chance as I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and all it's twists and turns along the way and I can't wait to read more by from her in the future as it was so well written and definitely worth reading. The characters and storyline were really good and you had to keep turning the pages to see what would happen next between Aiden and Kate and I was definitely not disappointed with the outcome. I definitely recommend you read this book and you will definitely not be disappointed.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 11, 2021
Kate and Aiden, at first i was like huh they have chemistry since she had a huge crush on him when he wrestled with her brother. Then that was the quickest marriage proposal and i felt so bad that kate found out his real agreement and couldnt realize what kate thought of the reason he married for four years and not divorce after a year. But secretly aiden loved her even though he didnt know about it until his father talked to him and his brother. Plus kate's parent help out to guide them back together and work out those conflicts and problems. There is much more that i enjoyed from reading this book and enjoyed it alot :)
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 16, 2021
We finally have Aiden and Kate’s story after getting nibbles throughout the other books.
And to be honest. I wasn’t a fan of Aiden. His intentions on marrying Kate in the beginning were selfish although he did love her. But Is love really enough if you don’t let your spouse in? Though Kate herself held back, she still had my sympathy.
Their romance is all about second chances and realizing what’s important in life and love. Nice end to a great family saga.
* I received this book as an ARC for an honest review.
And to be honest. I wasn’t a fan of Aiden. His intentions on marrying Kate in the beginning were selfish although he did love her. But Is love really enough if you don’t let your spouse in? Though Kate herself held back, she still had my sympathy.
Their romance is all about second chances and realizing what’s important in life and love. Nice end to a great family saga.
* I received this book as an ARC for an honest review.
December 30, 2022
i must be SICK in the head to enjoy marriage in trouble tropes 🥸👎
love aiden!! the amount of responsibility that was forced upon himself that made him used to bottling up his feelings had me crying in the club
love aiden!! the amount of responsibility that was forced upon himself that made him used to bottling up his feelings had me crying in the club
dnf
July 26, 2024 37% boring as fuck
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