Eyes of Kings

Flesh and False Gods #3

by Chloe Gong

The action-packed finale to Chloe Gong’s New York Times bestselling Flesh & False Gods trilogy—inspired by Shakespeare’s Antony and Cleopatra—brings readers the ultimate showdown for power among gods and men.

War beckons in the kingdom of Talin. On one side sits Calla Tuoleimi and Anton Makusa, and on the other, the recently dethroned August Shenzhi and Calla's own predecessor Sinoa Tuoleimi. Neither will rest until the opposition is buried.

Calla assumed victory would be easy. She wears the divine crown after a violent coup, wielding the most powerful weapon in the kingdom. Then the provinces start to whisper of the old gods returning to earth, and suddenly the game board is flipped upside-down.

Anton thought he aligned himself with victory. When he swore to serve as Calla’s general, he understood the battle they were waging. But he fears Calla is no longer herself with the crown. Rather, he fears that Calla is returning to who she once was.

August would sacrifice anything for victory. He has waited his entire life for the throne, and surrender is not an option. In the face of age-old immortals challenging his terrain and the possibility of betrayal from his closest and most cherished guard, he must be careful who he trusts.

Because when the war ends, there can only be one king.

Genres: Fantasy, Adult, Romantasy, Romance, Fiction, Historical Fiction, Science Fiction

384 pages, ebook

Expected publication August 4, 2026

About the author

Chloe Gong is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of critically acclaimed fantasy and science fiction novels, including These Violent Delights, Immortal Longings, and Coldwire. Her books have been published in over twenty countries and she was named one of Forbes’ 30 Under 30 for 2024. Chloe graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a degree in English and International Relations. Born in Shanghai and raised in Auckland, New Zealand, she is now located in New York City. Visit her online at thechloegong.com and on Instagram, X, and TikTok at @thechloegong.

Reviews

[xuntung · Rating 5 out of 5]

i know it’s not out but i hate trolls

[rina · Rating 3 out of 5]

‎ ‎ ੭୧‎ ‎ 3 stars‎ ‎ . ۫

overall thoughts — A bittersweet finale and a solid end to a series that has meant a lot to me ☹️🤍 I went in with mixed expectations after the sequel, but I'm still glad I got to return to this universe one last time.

Immortal Longings was one of my favourite reads of 2023, and while the later books didn't quite hit the same for me, this series will always hold a special place in my heart. I loved revisiting this world and seeing my favourite characters again, even if some of them felt different from how I originally connected with them in book 1.

Many of the same elements from Vilest Things carried into this book. The prose is still dense at times, and the plot introduces a lot of new information throughout. I personally would have loved more focus on existing plot points and character dynamics, but there were still plenty of engaging moments that kept me invested.

Some character arcs didn't fully work for me, though I can see what Chloe was aiming for. I already had these sentiments building after reading the 2nd book, but this finale has only further solidified my thoughts. Calla was meant to come across as an icon of female rage, but to me, her rage feels slightly petty and unsatisfying. Anton essentially only exists to please Calla - which might be an interesting toxic dynamic to read about for others - but I do wish he had more motivation outside of Calla.

Anton and Calla's relationship in a nutshell:



Some POVs did not grab me as much as others. I would have loved more from Otta!! Especially a POV! Would have died to see that ☹ The ending wasn't bad at all - Chloe definitely delivered what she promised...🤭 I do wish the rest of the book leaned even harder into the angst, but I enjoyed the direction it took. Also, the ending felt a bit ambiguous?? Chloe, please say there could potentially be another book in this universe 🤭

Despite my mixed feelings on AntonCalla, I did however DEVOUR INHALE CONSUME every single AugustGalipei crumb. OHMYGOSH the way AugustGalipei moved me!! NO ONE IS DOING IT LIKE THEM. I WISH they had more page time because their chemistry is fucking insane!!!! Unmatched!!!! I'm happy their relationship got some closure, but selfishly I still wanted more interactions 😭 Move aside AntonCalla, the people (me, I am the people) want more AugustGalipei!!!! I would sell my soul to have more books in this universe, or a side story, or an epilogue - anything centered on them. Chloe, I'm begging <3

‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ “ I have done awful, terrible things for you, August. The only one that will have me is you. The only person I will have is you. ”

I dropped to my knees after reading this. I am not normal about them <3

final thoughts — While not my favourite book in the trilogy, this was still a meaningful and enjoyable conclusion to a world I've loved for years. I'm grateful I got to experience this finale early and spend time with these characters once more. Patiently waiting for Chloe's next release!!

Thank you to Chloe Gong and Saga Press for the ARC! Eyes of Kings releases August 4, 2026.

CW: death, murder, minor sexual content

────

update: 04/24/26
let my thoughts marinate more, and tbh, i actually enjoyed this much more than book 2. i didn't have too bad of a time, so i'm boosting it to 3 stars!

────

finished: 04/24/26 𖥻𓈒 ꒱ ੭
hmmm i need to let my thoughts marinate before i set a rating 🤔

pre read: 04/23/26 𖥻𓈒 ꒱ ੭
cue me screaming when i got the arc!! if this finale does not RUIN me, i am rating it 1 star. you cannot, and i repeat CANNOT, tease the death trope the entire series and not deliver 😭😭😭 beyond grateful that i get to come home to this universe early 🥹

[TheRosePages]

My mind, body and qi needs this book

[Sophie (lambsbooks)]

Let us all SOB over the fact that this is a Cleopatra and Antony retelling and Chloe has stated multiple times it is not a romance because it doesn’t fit romance parameters and I AM TERRIFIED

SOMEONE SAVE ME FROM HEARTBREAK

[Alina Vale]

Sooo it’s a trilogy now 😋😋

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

*Thank you to Saga Press, an imprint of Simon & Schuster, for the free copy for review.*

Review: Gong pens an epic conclusion with breakneck action and delicious twists!

“Eyes of Kings” follows Calla Tuoleimi and Anton Makusa as they go head-to-head with the recently dethroned August Shenzhi and Calla's own predecessor Sinoa Tuoleimi for the throne.

The die has been cast, leaving readers with no choice but to watch the inevitable unfold as Gong’s players take to her bloody political arena one last time. Divine power is the name of the game and the playing field shifts with the return of the old gods to Talin. Their entrance not only expands upon her world and the lore established in previous books, but also provides the final piece to the puzzle that is Talin and Calla’s intertwined origins. With the veil lifted, the true depth of Gong’s magic system becomes clear and an uneasy sense of foreboding begins to surface. The gods are wildly unpredictable, their temperaments ranging from benevolent to heartless, and it is fascinating to see them take to the stage. The twin cities of San-Er quickly become a pressure cooker as rebel groups, palace guards, Weisannas, and the gods poise for battle. With the stakes and tension raising ever higher, every move Calla, Anton, and August make must count, leaving readers on tenterhooks for the duration of the novel.

Like its source of inspiration, the love between Calla and Anton, twisted as it is, continues to occupy the spotlight. Qi becomes a cruel mistress in their relationship, simultaneously driving a wedge between them and creating a toxic codependency. The intense longing, angst, and fleeting moments of tenderness make it impossible to look away despite the rot that has set in.

While the explosive final chapter is anticipated, the end comes about in a woefully unexpected way. There is no softening the devastating blow Gong delivers, and yet the book is all the better for it.

➤ 5 stars

Review cross-posted to: Book Blog | Bookstagram | Amazon

[✰DoveyV✰]

oh my god the cover is perfect 😍

can't wait for this one, the end of this trilogy is going to be insane

[lau ⋆]

THIS IS GOING TO BE A TRILOGY?!?!

[katcxfe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eyes of Kings is the epic conclusion of the Flesh and False Gods Adult fantasy series by Chloe Gong. This series was inspired by Shakespeare’s Cleopatra and Anthony. We followed Princess Calla Tuoleimi throughout the series.

In 'Immortal Longings,' we are introduced to her, and she is living in hiding, five years after she murdered her parents. She enters a game where she can get unimaginable riches, but more importantly, her uncle greets the victor, which will give her a chance to kill him. In "Vilest Things', we follow Calla after the games and the consequences of her choices during them.

Eyes of Kings is such a great conclusion to the Flesh and False Gods series. The ending made me want to stare at a wall for five days, but I thought it was a good conclusion. I love the expansion of the lore in this book, and it's my favorite part. I love it when fantasy books have such great lore, and the expansion of that in this book made me so happy to see. Eyes of Kings is my favorite read in the trilogy. I love seeing things come together over the span of these three books, and I think people will be quite pleased with the conclusion of this series.

Thank you to Chloe Gong and Saga Press for the Advanced Reader Copy!

Eyes of Kings comes out August 4th, 2026.

[mo • lesmotsdemo · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is my favorite book in the trilogy. The characters and their relationship dynamics deepened in this finale, and the plot was more layered and intense. The pace was on the faster side and steady which added to the high stakes and the intensity of the plot. Calla was the most interesting character for me, her chapters were the ones that gripped me the most. And I loved the ending. In a way I saw it coming, but at the same time it was so much better than what I was waiting for. It is a very solid and underrated trilogy.

Thank you to Edelweiss and Saga Press for a digital review copy.

[Ash (inkwordsandash)]

we have a title!! eye of kings and a gorgeous gold cover

[Minju Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

*Manuscript provided by author for early review*

The deciding triumph. The last hurrah. Chloe Gong shatters the world of San-Er one last time in the brilliant, deadly finale Eyes of Kings, the third and final instalment in the Flesh and False Gods series.

This was certainly a thrill and a terror all at once. As a long-time fan of Chloe, I both knew what to expect and also was left completely in the dark of what could happen in EoK. Between Vilest Things and this book, I’d already gone through the stages of grief, landing on acceptance of who I believed would win. As it is so early on before the release, my review cannot delve fully into the frigid depths of what happens, but readers can be assured that Eyes of Kings will shine as the favourite of the three.

As a testament to her skills in writing such bestsellers these past years, Gong brings out her full arsenal for the final book. Anything from high politics and nods to Shakespeare, to her own cruel twists on history and what could’ve been, she doesn’t hold back on her shots. Every line, every chapter, is outlined with such care and intent that I was on the edge of my seat from cover to cover.

The worst part of a trilogy is ensuring that the second book is better than the first, the third more than the second. But even though this is her first trilogy, Gong shows that her books can extend far beyond her typical two novels, taking her time expanding on the worldbuilding, lore, and character arcs to ensure that everything is satisfied by the last chapter in book three. While Immortal Longings focuses on the games, and Vilest Things centres on the state of Talin, before and now, Eyes of Kings is packed with history, magic systems, and the final play for the throne.

For inspiration, though much of it is taken from actual history and Shakespeare’s Antony and Cleopatra, I’d say Gong also samples from one of her favourites, HBO’s Succession. We had many conversations surrounding the likenesses and parallels between F&FG and the show, and there were definitely moments where I felt similar notions, particularly with my two favourite characters, August and Galipei. It is a masterful execution of the craft in plucking such fine subtleties from other artworks to weave into your own.

The “longing” in this book is like no other. Trust does not exist anymore, and characters are left wondering if there are sides to pick, or if they are left alone. The war for the throne sets apart even the closest of allies, of lovers, of friends old and new. Gong expertly layers on the angst and ache, separated only by the briefest moments of camaraderie and kindness.

And for the cast of Eyes of Kings, there is a sense of finality as they approach their individual ends. Now or never, they give their all for their respective objectives, even if it means hurting the ones they love most.

Calla Touleimi bears the crown. She exudes power everywhere she goes, holding the favour of the gods as her very person. Reunited with her lover, she begins strategizing to finish the war ravaging from the alleys of the twin cities to the outermost provinces, while balancing the new threat at hand. But even now, she cannot shake the gaze that her only ally turns outside the walls, seeking out what he once had.

Anton Makusa, general to the king, loves her more than anything. He seeks to find her victory, no matter the cost. And yet, a part of him murmurs distrust, a nervous ticking in the back of his consciousness. Something like a string tugging him away from his beloved to his past.

August Shenzhi, shoved out of his adopted birthright and his beloved capital, lurks in the province of Eigi, waiting, scheming. It is bittersweet - the conflict with his most trusted guard, the adversary he once held as his only friend and equal. The other player at his side is not to be believed, and yet he has no other choice but to nod along, head held high. But the crown will be his, only if he plays the right cards in the right order.

Galipei Weisanna wakes up to a world flipped upside down. His prince no longer rules San-Er, but he sees a path - destined for him or not, he will take any chance to fulfill his only purpose. The usurpers must pay for chaos that split the country in two, for the treachery that wretched the rightful king from his sovereignty.

Otta Avia, whoever she may be, now properly steps onto stage, shaking the final game pieces in her hand. None of the other players can discern the actions she will take - only that she seeks nothing but complete control of the crumbling empire, the price paid for in death.

Amidst all this, thunder rumbles over Talin. There are whispers, a rustling in the provinces. The gods have returned, the villagers say. They have come down from the heavens to cast their judgement. It pours down like the rain flooding their homes, the fields, like the blood soaking the cramped streets of a desperate, starving San-Er.

The pieces have taken their places on the board. The dice are cast. All but one must fall. And the sun will rise on a new day.

I cannot thank Chloe Gong enough for entrusting me to be the first in experiencing Eyes of Kings. Torturous, depraved, and yet so freeing, it was an honour to fight in this battle. Perfect for any readers seeking a high-stakes political fantasy, endless twists of the knife, and a permanent ache in your heart. As one famous author once said, “These violent delights have violent ends. You have always known this.”

The third and final book of the Flesh and False Gods trilogy hits shelves August 4th, 2026.

[elly]

chloe, i’ll give u my entire savings and devote part of my soul to you if you tell me what happens next rn!!!! (i already did both anyways…)

[Val · Rating 1 out of 5]

lemme not say anything.

[Abby · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm sorry, Anton, I wasn't familiar with your game

Eyes of Kings is the third and final book in the Flesh & False Gods trilogy, a fantasy series based on Shakespeare's Antony and Cleopatra. This was one of my most anticipated reads of the year, so I reread both previous books before diving into this one (which I 100% recommend to get the best experience out of this series). I also started actually reading Antony & Cleopatra in the midst of my reread, so now I've started catching all the more subtle references, and that alone definitely made this a more enjoyable read for.

Calla Tuoleimi - accompanied by Anton Makusa - sits on the throne of Talin following a coup that steals what power August Shenzhi and Sinoa Tuoleimi (in Otta Avia's body) once managed to acquire. Now, another civil war tears across the country, but there are other players in the game, and they're all vying for control. In terms of plot, this book falls closer to the events of Vilest Things than Immortal Longings. It's much heavier on politics than action, which was my biggest struggle with this book. Upon finishing, I was torn on how to rate the book because it took me a while to remember why I was invested. I actually think the character dynamics carried me through the first 2/3 of the book, as well as the subtle mysteries and crazy plot twists woven into the story. I will say I managed to call most of the twists this time, but it was one of those cases where I enjoyed piecing together the clues from foreshadowing, and I liked seeing my theories proven right. The ending is just as epic as I expected for a trilogy, as action-packed and twisty as this one. It truly is the best (and only) ending fitting for the series, and I'm not afraid to admit that the last few chapters single-handedly boosted my rating.

I think I screamed at each character at least once in my annotations. They're all flawed, and most of them are morally grey, but their dynamics and arcs are written with such complexity that I can never hate them. Calla Tuoleimi, where to start? I truly loved the execution of her arc and the completion of her story from past to present. In many ways, she reminds me of Rin from The Poppy War, and I think they both deserve a spot on my favorite FMCs list. I wasn't super in love with Anton during the first two books, but he grew on me immensely in this one. I can see the argument that he acts as a prop for Calla in many respects, but I loved that dynamic and how it bred both obsession and tension between them. Their relationship intrigues me in so many ways, and I adored it. I am also no different from many other readers in that some of my favorite dynamics came from August and Galipei. I was not expecting so much angst from them, and it tore at my heart. Half of my reading journal updates are ranting about August and his poor decision-making. I don't want to spoil anything, so all I'll say is that there are plenty of August/Galipei crumbs to savor. A lot of the side characters get a larger role in this book, and similar to earlier books, I think I'll need a reread to truly appreciate their POV chapters. I didn't mind the lack of Otta POVs as much, I think because she never interested me as much as Calla, but some readers may be disappointed. The characters all strike the perfect balance of romance and angst, and the latter definitely kept me reading for the first half of the book.

Eyes of Kings is the epic conclusion to the Flesh and False Gods trilogy, featuring beautifully tragic and obsessive characters based on Shakespeare's Antony & Cleopatra.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the free e-ARC!

4.5/5

[maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chloe Gong delivers chaos and heartbreak for the final time in the kingdom of Talin.

The fight for the crown of the kingdom of Talin is nearly over. Calla Tuoleimi wears the divine crown. At her right sits Anton Makusa, whose blind loyalty to Calla might just be his downfall. They are not out of the woods yet, given that August Shenzhi will not go down without a fight.

Losing the throne and the support of most of his kingdom is August’s worst nightmare come to life. Additionally, his most loyal guard, Galipei Weisanna, still has not recovered from their last encounter with Anton and Calla, and he is left with no choice but to join forces with Sinoa Tuoleimi, Calla’s predecessor. This unlikely alliance is not one built on trust, but need. After all, they both have the same goal: To rule over Talin.

As old gods find their way back to Earth looking to reclaim their territories, the fight for the crown of the kingdom suddenly has more than two camps. That is, if there even is a kingdom left to rule at the end of this war.

Personally, I loved the shift from an action-based book like Immortal Longings — with fast-paced scenes centered around the king’s games in San-Er— to a more politically focused plot in Eyes of Kings. I also really enjoyed the gradual growth of the world throughout the book, starting in the twin cities of San-Er to the setting expansion into other provinces within the kingdom of Talin. While we explored them in Vilest Things, in this installment we find out who they are backing in this war, their thoughts about the rulers of Talin, and what they are looking to gain from this conflict.

As I mentioned before, Eyes of Kings doesn’t have as many action scenes as its predecessors, but that doesn’t mean that the story is stagnant. This book reads like a chess game with the characters always moving towards a bigger goal.

One aspect of the book that I really enjoyed is that these characters are truly morally grey. There are no heroes or villains. They all manipulate and kill people with no regard, as long as they are able to reach their end goal of ruling Talin. At the end of the day, each of these characters has a motivation and a reason why they want to rule. While some reasons are better than others, the end doesn’t justify the means.

Over the years, we have seen Chloe Gong explore different genres and topics in her books, but one thing has remained consistent: her ability to deliver a plot twist. It was very easy to see where the story was headed, very similar to that feeling of impending doom where you know what will happen but the execution of how it happens is very different from any idea you could’ve come up with. And in my opinion, that is the best way to write a plot twist.

While I understand that there were many story arcs to end, I do wish we had seen a little more of the dynamic between August and Galipei in this book. Their dynamic in this book was so scrumptious and I could not get enough of it. Calla and Anton’s relationship has been fast paced and obsessive since the beginning, but it reached new heights of blind devotion in this book, which was interesting to read amid the revelations and trials these characters were going through.

Although I am sad to say goodbye to this series, I don’t think Chloe Gong could’ve written a more beautiful and devastating ending worthy of the messy world of Talin

Eyes of Kings is hitting bookshelves on August 4th, 2026, and the final installment of the Flesh & False Gods Trilogy is not one you want to miss.

Thank you Saga Press and Chloe Gong for an advanced reader’s copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Kwincy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eyes of Kings is THE grand finale of all grand finales. The stakes are higher than ever.

Calla Toulemi knows she will win. She has to. She has the divine crown, she has San-Er, and she has her general. Anton Makusa will follow her to the ends of the Earth. He worships the ground she walks on and the air she breathes.

August Shenzhi will not give up. Just outside the safety of the capital’s walls, he schemes. He will take his rightful place on the throne. He has spent too long waiting for this moment, it will not be stolen from him. His sister, Otta Avia, will guide him to this victory. No matter the cost, no matter the sacrifices, he will be victorious.

When the time comes where they must face each other, the world shifts. Secrets are revealed, allegiances are swayed, and rules are changed. The citizens of Talin claim to have seen the old gods in the provinces, wielding qi in ways no mortal could. The game they’re playing is very quickly coming to an end. There can only be one king. Both sides will do whatever it takes to win.


ok thank you so much for reading my mediocre writing above! it really doesnt do chloe justice but maybe my personal thoughts below will make up for it.

i have to start with the worldbuilding and detail chloe has put into talin. you are truly pulled into the world and feel as though you are fighting these battles and uncovering secrets alongside the characters. i felt like i was standing in the room with them. i’m someone who hasn’t always been the best at visualizing fantasy worlds, but i’ve never had that problem with the flesh and false gods trilogy. every tiny detail is intentional and adds to the bigger picture, the city of san-er, and the country of talin as a whole.

the characters are even more captivating. i found myself sympathizing with both sides and struggling to choose which one i wanted to win. i didn’t know how to feel about august and galipei at the beginning of this series, but by the end i was rooting for them and rallying for them to find peace in this conflict. on the other side, i was rooting for calla to finally put an end to the tyrants she has spent so long fighting. it felt so strange to be cheering on both sides of this conflict when, as chloe said, there can only be one king.

i don’t know how to put into words exactly how this book made me feel. i think the best way to describe it would be to say it feels like falling. falling and falling through the sky and you’re not sure how you will land. will someone catch you? will you break on impact? will you land in the sea, feeling safe, only to drown within minutes? the fall is addicting. it’s an adrenaline rush. i turned page after page and never wanted it to end. i loved every minute of it.

i have always admired chloe’s writing and storybuilding. i’ve read all her books and watching the way each book twists and turns is so exciting. she seriously knows how to write a betrayal, a plot twist, or a big reveal. eyes of kings is easily my favorite in this trilogy and i’m fairly convinced it will be yours too. chloe gong truly has done it again. eyes of kings is available august 4, 2026.

thank you so much simon & schuster and chloe gong for trusting me with an early copy! my book friends know i am NOT a writer but i really did my best to describe the way this book made me feel.

[Dotti · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 4.5 stars

Eyes of Kings is Chloe Gong’s epic finale to her Flesh and False Gods series. The series is introduced to us as a retelling of Antony and Cleopatra, one of Shakespeare’s histories. Our story follows Calla, Anton and August as they reckon with the events of the previous book. This review will have plot spoilers for the first two books in the series, but not this book.

Please note: I did a full reread of both previous books. I remembered the big twists around identity, but not many of the smaller details. The book did a solid job of refreshing for people who had some memory, but I think the reread would be worth it if you have the memory of a goldfish.

Our story leaves mostly where the previous book had left off—August has control of his body again and has allied with Otta Avia, the Crescent Society has created unrest in the city, Calla wears the divine crown, and Anton has sworn allegiance to her. All four want power for themselves and are willing to sacrifice others for it. But, unbeknownst to them, Calla claiming the crown has allowed a pantheon of gods to emerge, and both the providences and the city are overwhelmed by immense power.

This layering of conflicts could feel overwhelming, but Gong makes the many layers feel compelling without being bogged down. Just as the magic system expanded in the second book by introducing the sigil mechanism, the magic system grows with the introduction of the many different members of the pantheon. The worldbuilding is well done, bringing a layer of mythology into the story that has previously been absent, while still centering around our triad and their complicated dynamics.

Our story also opens up more perspectives in a way that I found engaging. We get to see the perspectives of multiple various government officials and rebel members, the occasional member of the pantheon, Calla’s friends and allies, and August’s guards. I do wish that Otta had a few more chapters to her perspective, simply because her characterization was complex and I would have loved to see more.

This book is not a Romantasy in the primary definition of the book. The story follows fantasy pacing, does not guarantee a happy ending for any of our specific characters, and our characters all have moments of immoral decisions. I found myself changing allegiances often, unsure of exactly what I wanted to happen, but the ending felt very appropriate and satisfying. However, I do fear that readers who want an uncomplicated, purely-positive ending will feel disappointed.

I enjoyed this story immensely. The writing was gripping, keeping me engaged through multiple conflicts and perspectives. The magic system expanded, the world opened, and the complexity increased, without sacrificing character development. If you enjoyed the first two books, I think this is a worthy conclusion.

Thank you to Saga Press, Chloe Gong and NetGalley for this advanced reader copy!

[Peyton Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you so much to Saga Press for the ARC to read and review before release day!

Eyes of Kings kicks off right after the end of Vilest Things, pulling together the events of the past two books in a brutal conclusion of war amongst gods and mortals.

I’ve discovered that it’s hard to write an ARC review for the third book in such an intense trilogy, because how do I properly describe the tension I felt the entire time without spoiling anything?

This is the type of book you carry a looming dread with you as you read. Chloe Gong does a spectacular (and also evil) job of feeding you bits of hope as the story moves on. I wasn’t quite sure whether to feel confident in the ending I wanted or panic that it wouldn’t happen. These warring emotions were so stark as I read (in the best way possible).

And, despite my desire for certain characters to resist their inevitable end goal/character arc, it was fascinating to still witness it all happen. I knew where they would end up; it was implied throughout the entire trilogy, and despite that, Chloe was able to make me think maybe this time would be different. She held all my hopes and dreams hostage in this book, and despite the brutality of it, I was thoroughly impressed at how she was able to make me see-saw between sticking to what I predicted and questioning myself. A whirlwind of thoughts and emotions in all the best ways.

I also really loved how this book was the final stage of the buildup of godly power and history we’ve been seeing woven throughout the trilogy. In book one, there were the barest whispers of the gods and pantheon, a few implications and nudges. Book two, it all really began to bloom. But book 3 was where it all came to life, and it was ELECTRIC. It was so satisfying to see it all come to life after only hearing about it and seeing bits and pieces. This was godly magic at its most heightened version. Brutal and also mystical. There were so many unique facets of godly existence and magic that were explored in this book as well. Once I feel like a lot of books don’t ever touch on or utilize the uniqueness of! I would take a million more books just exploring all the different gods and their powers and patrons.

This was the conclusion the trilogy was headed towards, and the right one. Chloe Gong knows how to wield that inevitability and make you hope otherwise. It’s brutal and also leaves you questioning who the real winner is, if there are any at all. Absolutely fantastic.

Thank you again to Saga Press for the free copy of Eyes of Kings (and Chloe, too, for making it happen for us NileCorp people hehe), to read and review before it releases on August 4th!

[Sophie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Chloe Gong and Saga Press for the ARC!

Chloe Gong's mind-blowingly epic conclusion to the Flesh & False Gods trilogy is bound to have readers leaving a piece of their heart within the pages.

The Flesh & False Gods series introduces readers to a vast, constantly developing world that they'll love to get lost in. Each book in the trilogy feels so different, but they manage to fit together to make the most wonderful puzzle. It can be difficult to find a series where every book feels so precisely perfect, but Chloe Gong has pulled it off flawlessly. The addictive pacing and evolution of the story follow through each book, getting better with each one you read. Eyes of Kings dives deep into the history of Talin and the pasts of the characters we have all grown to love. The politics of the world shine through as battle commences and characters are faced with a final journey.

Chloe Gong has always been great at writing plot twists, but they feel particularly smooth in this book. Each one is introduced effortlessly. You won't be able to predict that they're coming, but it will make so much sense once they do. This trilogy takes on an immensely deep plot with so many layers and stories, and it is all managed excellently.

This journey with Calla and Anton is one I dread leaving behind. The worldbuilding in this series, this book especially, sucks you into the world with the characters in a way not every book can. These characters have such a special place in my heart, and reading their finale is both beautiful and painful. The tremendous storytelling abilities of Chloe Gong make a finale so much harder to read, yet it is perfect in every single way. I was desperate to find out the ending, yet devastated to reach the last page.

From heart-pounding beginning to sobering end, Eyes of Kings will have readers trembling as they turn each page in a race to the conclusion. Readers of the first two books will fall desperately in love, and readers who have not taken their first steps into Talin will be rushing to do so.

[Girl_that_readss · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.75

Eyes of Kings is truly the epic finale of the Flesh and False Gods trilogy.

Readers return to the kingdom of Talin for a tense political showdown between Calla and Anton, who are up against a dethroned August and Calla’s predecessor, Sinoa Tuoleimemi. Only this time, there are some new players on the game board. The old gods have returned. With their immense power and unpredictable personalities, they pose quite a challenge to our four competitors.

Everything from the last two books came full circle while also expanding on the magic system and world-building one final time. I appreciated how intricate and precise everything was. The foreshadowing was done masterfully. While I found the twists to be predictable, I was still eagerly (and a little anxiously) awaiting to see who the victor would be.

The characters continued to grow on me, especially Anton. The lines of love and obsession between him and Calla were blurred even further in this book. Filled with angst, longing, and a sprinkle of fleeting and more gentle moments between the two, you can’t help but find yourself invested in their relationship, no matter how twisted it might be.

I also appreciated the roles other characters played in the grapple for the crown. Each side character served some kind of purpose towards the end. As with any finale, I’m sad to say goodbye to (most) of these characters. I’ve grown more attached to them than I would have thought.

The last few chapters… I saw parts of them coming, and others completely blew me away. I was so emotionally invested. I don’t think that any of Chloe’s previous novels have ever elicited such strong reactions from me. I honestly don’t think I’ve ever felt so deeply while reading the end of any book. Chloe Gong is truly a mastermind.

Find out who ends up victorious on August 4th, wherever books are sold!

Thank you to Simon & Schuster Canada for a physical ARC in exchange for an honest review!

[Carmela Agatha Enriquez (agathafeelingg.reads) · Rating 3 out of 5]

📖 ARC REVIEW 📖

Thank you @sagapressbooks for an early copy of Eyes of Kings by Chloe Gong. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. 🤍

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐/5
Release date: August 4th, 2026

🛑Read on with caution; review may contain spoilers🛑

Eyes of Kings was one of my most anticipated releases this year because I absolutely loved the first two books in the Flesh & False Gods trilogy, especially Vilest Things. Unfortunately, this finale ended up feeling underwhelming for me.

The revelations about who Calla truly was and how her actions since childhood shaped the events of the series were genuinely exciting and added so much intrigue to the mystery. The action scenes were also intense and thrilling, which kept me invested throughout the book. However, the execution just didn’t fully land for me. The world-building felt chaotic again, almost like all the structure built up in the second book shattered back into the confusion of the first installment.

I also struggled with the character development in this book. Anton felt reduced to little more than a power source for Calla once she wore the divine crown, while Otta, despite being positioned as the villain, lacked the presence of one. Most of her actions were told through August’s POV, and I honestly think having chapters from Otta’s perspective would have made her feel far more compelling and threatening. Calla herself also felt lackluster compared to the previous books; her motivation to make the kingdom better seemed to disappear once the crown came into play.

Overall, I still found the mystery compelling and the fight scenes exciting, but as the conclusion to a trilogy I had been so invested in, this one just didn’t hit as hard as I hoped it would.

[Alyshia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Eyes of Kings is a satisfying conclusion to a trilogy I have genuinely enjoyed. Chloe Gong's Antony and Cleopatra-inspired Flesh & False Gods series has been a rich, ambitious undertaking, and this finale sticks the landing.

A small practical note first: I would have loved a summary at the beginning. This is a meaty story with a lot of moving parts, and jumping back in cold took me a little while to find my footing. If you're planning to read this one, a reread of your notes or a quick plot refresher beforehand would serve you well.

Once I was back in the world, I was reminded of why I love this series. The societal and religious framework, the tension between old gods and new kings, is genuinely fascinating world-building that Gong handles with real nuance. There are stretches in the middle where the pacing slows and engagement wavers, but the payoff more than earns the patience it requires.

The reveals are excellent, and the ending comes together in what I can only describe as a perfectly imperfect way: messy and earned and true to the story. Calla's journey comes full circle in a way that felt both surprising and inevitable, which is exactly what a finale should do.

A strong conclusion to a strong trilogy. Highly recommended for fantasy readers who like their world-building complex and their endings hard-won. 4/5 from me!

[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Sharp, Lush, and Emotionally Charged Ride

Eyes of Kings is another vivid, atmospheric triumph from Chloe Gong, filled with the tension, longing, and razor‑edged intrigue she writes so well. The world feels rich and layered, and the emotional undercurrents between the characters give the story a steady pulse that kept me turning pages.

What stands out most is the intensity of the relationships; complicated, magnetic, and full of weight. Gong balances political danger with personal stakes in a way that feels both intimate and sweeping. The pacing builds beautifully, and the twists land with satisfying impact.

There were moments where I wanted just a little more clarity or space to breathe, but the overall experience is gripping and beautifully crafted. Gong’s storytelling continues to shine with its blend of elegance, tension, and heart.

A compelling, immersive read that delivers drama, emotion, and a world you can sink into. 4.5 Stars

Thank you to Edelweiss and Simon & Schuster for this ARC copy. This is my review.

[☆millie☆ · Rating 2 out of 5]

~2 stars

I've been a huge Chloe Gong fan since These Violent Delights and I've tried so hard to enjoy this series but I think I finally have to admit that it's simply not for me. My main problem with it is that the majority of the characters feel so flat and hollow compared to those of her other works, and as a result I found it difficult to care about what was happening in the story. As well as that, some of the descriptions and world-building are very dense (as they were in the first two instalments of the series) and this makes for a very dull reading experience especially when you're already not attached to the characters. The one thing I did enjoy was the relationship between August and Galipei, I really wish they had been the main couple rather than Anton and Calla because I was far more interested in them.

Thank you to Saga Press for providing me with an eARC via NetGalley.

[Vk · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Saga press and NetGalley for giving me this arc!!

As a big Chloe Gong fan I always have big expectations and this did not disappoint. I personally think that this book was the best of the trilogy. I loved all the different POVs and really liked seeing more of Galipei and Chami etc. I think the side characters in this book are so well done as well, they each have distinct characteristics that makes it easy to remember and identify them. I would have maybe liked to see more from Otta’s point of view but other than that I found it a really interesting read! Definitely my favorite of the series!

[always reading ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 stars
A satisfying and bittersweet conclusion to the Flesh and False Gods trilogy. Even though I fully expected some elements of the ending, considering this is a Cleopatra and Antony retelling, it still hurt. It was tense, with high stakes that left me on the edge of my seat. There were some plot twists I never saw coming; they had me shook. I loved the unique magic system, all the political intrigue, and the world she built. I thought Eyes of Kings was not only a great finale to the trilogy but also the best book of the series. Each book just got better, which isn't something I see often. Overall this was a fantastic series.

[Josh Escandon · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, thank you to Saga Press, an imprint of Simon & Schuster, for the free e-copy of Eyes of Kings by Chloe Gong for review. I thoroughly enjoyed reading Eyes of Kings and saw it as a fitting conclusion to the Flesh & False Gods trilogy. Eyes of Kings retains the great world-building and character-driven action of the first two novels in the series. I will say the first third of the novel was a little slow, but it worked overall as it built towards the searing climax of the novel and series.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

Chloe Gong doesn't disappoint with this powerful, sharp conclusion to the Flesh & False Gods series. No one steampunks Shakespeare like she does (and, honestly, she's one of a select few authors who can dedicate their books to Shakespeare without seeming like an imposter). I was with her for every Antony & Cleopatra reference--and for the body-hopping violent coups and couplings in this.

[Marie Lou · Rating 4 out of 5]

It took my until 15% in to remember everything from book 1 and 2, and the multiple kind of unrelated POVs didn’t help but after that I was hooked. The story is much bigger than how it started and I’m here for it. The ending was exactly perfect although the open ended aspect is making me hopeful that the story will somehow continue! Gongs skills are unparalleled - she is the queen.