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The Poseidon Trials #2

Surrender of the Brutal King

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Nothing has gone to plan.
Not a single thing.
I entered Poseidon’s palace with one intention – steal a legendary ship and sail it to the darkest, most dangerous depths of the ocean, to try to save my sister.
And now I am fighting for my life in a series of deadly trials designed for water gods and sea monsters, not broken, powerless nymphs.
I was prepared for risk. I was prepared for danger.
I was not prepared for Poseidon, or the soul-deep connection I have with him. His tenuous control teeters closer to the edge the more time I spend with him, and gods help me, I’m starting to hope that he falls – and takes me with him.

Surrender of the Brutal King is the second book in the Poseidon Trials trilogy. Expect magic, mythology, and a searing slow-burn enemies-to-lovers romance that will leave you desperate for more.

205 pages, ebook

Published April 1, 2022

219 people are currently reading
946 people want to read

About the author

Eliza Raine

39 books2,577 followers
Eliza Raine writes Greek mythology inspired fantasy that is fast paced, full of new worlds and creatures and sprinkled with a healthy dose of romance. She lives near Reading in England with her husband, three cats and outrageously cute puppy. She has a BA Hons in History and has a deep-rooted passion for mythology and stories about women who don't need rescuing.
She can usually be found reading fairytale retellings, playing board games or binge-watching Netflix shows.

You can read some of Eliza's stories for free by visiting her website at www.elizaraine.com

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
Profile Image for Lu.
175 reviews1 follower
April 5, 2022
loving this series!

Give me book 3 now! I really really enjoyed this book I can’t wait to see what the third book has in store. I love how Eliza writes adventure and romance, she had me hooked from the start! Pun intended 😂
Profile Image for Rachel.
178 reviews15 followers
June 27, 2023
A thrilling sequel that leaves you yearning for more.

Star rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Spice rating 🌶️🌶️🌶️

The Surrender of the Brutal King pulled me back into the enchanting realm of Olympus, where Almi and Poseidon embark on their journey to claim the trident and crown of Aquarius. The intricate plot had me thoroughly engaged and eager to see what unfolds next.

Almi's character development continues to impress with each book, and witnessing her growth and increasing strength has been an absolute delight. The teamwork between Almi and Poseidon throughout their trials was nothing short of remarkable, and I relished every moment described in the book. The progression of their romance in SOTBK, as they slowly embrace their desires and emotions, was a long-awaited development since the first book. I'm eagerly anticipating further exploration of their relationship and the ultimate outcome.

Let's pause for a moment to appreciate Kryvo, the endearing starfish. The bond between Kryvo and Almi, as well as the starfish's valuable contributions during the trials, captured my heart. I secretly find myself yearning for a starfish friend now. Atlas, however, managed to grate on my nerves, and I eagerly await his eventual departure along with his companions.

I thoroughly enjoyed the further exploration of the Olympus world and the appearance of renowned Greek gods and their unique abilities. Eliza cleverly added them into the story, providing immense pleasure for someone like me who adores books inspired by Greek mythology. Including additional chapters from Poseidon's POV enhanced the overall story, allowing readers to empathize with him and gain a deeper understanding of the events unfolding.

The author possesses a storytelling style that captivates readers and leaves them longing for more. Moreover, the strategically placed cliffhangers kept me on the edge of my seat, urging me to dive straight into the next book. I consider myself fortunate to have discovered Eliza's books later, as I can now binge-read them without the agonizing wait for the next release. However, I can empathize with those who read her books as they were published, these cliffhangers can be agitating, as they disrupt the immersive world she has created.

Nevertheless, Eliza is an incredibly talented writer, and I eagerly anticipate delving into the final installment of the Poseidon Trials, as well as exploring her other future releases.
Profile Image for Sammie.
9 reviews
March 31, 2022
A Nereid fighting for a way to save her sister, a King with deadly secrets, and a Titan seeking revenge. Things just got a hell of a lot more interesting.
Through each twist and turn, I found myself cheering for Almi and Poseidon, while my heart was practically leaping out of my chest. I was as submerged into the book as the realm of aquarius itself. I definitely could not put it down! The world and character building is incredible, and has me wishing to the Gods that such places exist.
I highly recommend to anyone who loves Greek mythology and fantasy.
Surrender of the Brutal King will definitely have you on your toes and falling for the mighty Ocean God himself. I definitely cannot wait for the next book!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Shayay.
2,802 reviews55 followers
April 1, 2022
Another fun, totally awesome adventure! Really enjoy all the books in this series! Exciting action, interesting character dynamics, and trials and tribulations galore! Really enjoy this author’s writing style, and kick booty characters. Excited for the next book!
Profile Image for Stephanie.
134 reviews36 followers
July 11, 2022
Pacing still very good, and stakes just getting higher! I've already started the next book!
Profile Image for AstryaByLouise.
457 reviews3 followers
April 25, 2024
C'est perturbant de voir à quel point ça donne envie de savoir la suite quand on lit les derniers chapitres ! Du coup j'ai directement enchaîné avec le tome 3...

Bonne lecture 📖
Profile Image for Michelle Dohring.
239 reviews3 followers
June 12, 2022
This is the second book in the Poseidon trials. Almi is not prepared to be thrust into a competition. Poseidon and Almi must work together if they have any chance in winning. Poseidon represents everything Almi does not want. He is all about control and rules. He has a miserable temper and a fiery attitude. Yet Almi can feel the passion he suppresses. Almi knows there is more to Poseidon than what he displays. After Almi saves Poseidon she sees that he has a softer vulnerable side.

Poseidon is hiding something from Almi. He wants to protect her. He feels their connection but he fights it. He must. She cannot find out the truth. Poseidon and Almi are swept away by their passion. Their passion is hot and consuming. They have chemistry that devours them.

There are many twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat. The action is nonstop. Their adventure keeps on getting better. Poseidon and Almi must figure out how to cure Aquarius from the stone blight. Will they find the Heart of the Ocean? Will Almi be able to save her sister Lily? Will Almi ever get her water Magic? The author has built an enchanted world with wonderful characters. You get to see Hades and Persephone again. I love the interactions with the characters we have seen in earlier books. The story flows and keeps you turning the pages. The story does end with a cliffhanger. I cannot wait to read book three. I have thoroughly enjoyed this series so far.
Profile Image for Spinneretta.
2,856 reviews22 followers
June 10, 2022
Cliffhanger Warning!

WARNING! Cliffhanger! Again, it’s a big one in this serialized reimagining of Poseidon’s legend, so line up the final book in the trilogy.
This is the second book, it’s not a standalone… and it picks up in the middle of the scene that caused the cliffhanger in book one.

Almi and Poseidon have been forced to participate in Atlas’ trials for the land of Aquarius. Unfortunately for them, Atlas isn’t above manipulation and even outright cheating, making their lives extra difficult.
In the meantime, they have to try and fight the stone blight, and find the answer to the Oracle’s riddle, while dealing with events that keep leading to Poseidon getting weaker.

Almi has some huge events occur in this book, learning a little about herself in the meantime. Poseidon is as closed mouthed as ever, though we hear from his angst ridden self a couple of times, we never do get to learn what it is he is hiding.
It’s all tied up in an action packed story, with a villainous Atlas working hard to undermine everything, and a huge cliffhanger to end it all. Peeks of fan favourite Persephone (from the Hades trials), our favourite blushing starfish, and a Pegasus ride or two, switch things up a little.

An entertaining read, for all fans of Greek Mythology, and of course the author too!
Profile Image for dd_wonderland_of_books.
113 reviews1 follower
July 13, 2022
Any ideas, Kryvo?” “Hide?”

This was a story of the queen of the seas, Poseidon’s wife has been banned to the human world but nothing will stop her from saving her sister.

This was the 3th series in the trials books and every series gets better and better. I loved the world building as it was written so beautiful and in detail but yet not overtaking. The way the story was portrayed was just stunning. It’s a quick and easy story and the trials were just brutal (as expected).

A lot of secrets gets unfolded as the story get on and the ending? I didn’t see all of that coming, the death the coming back, losing and winning and the biggest secret of all was the story of Medusa.

Overall I loved the build up to the ending, I waited until all books were out to read them because I knew that I would read them all at once and couldn’t wait. I am kinda sad that the covers of the paperbacks don’t match the other (only the ebook covers match the previous paperbacks) but else I would’ve bought them too to add to my collection.

I would definitely recommend them to everyone, there is almost no spice other them 1 sex scene in the last chapter of the last book (and that one is also very minimal).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Rebecca Norton.
17 reviews
January 28, 2025
The Poseidon Trials by Eliza Raine and Rose Wilson

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶/5
🧜‍♀️enemies to lovers
🔱gods and goddesses
🧜‍♀️strong, independent FMC
🔱literal god MMC
🧜‍♀️action packed &edge of seat
🔱star fish bestie
🧜‍♀️adorable mythical creatures
🔱 HAPPY ENDING

I LOVE all books by Eliza Raine so going into this I knew it was going to be spectacular. I was not disappointed. This book (collection of 3 books) was so special and I am truly sad it is over. I cannot remember the last time a book made me cry but I had all the feels with Almi and Poseidon. The way their relationship really grew was very well written and I was invested in their happiness. I love all of the sea creatures and Kryvo (starfish bestie) was such a delightful addition to the story. After reading this book, I want to go back and read the first 2 Olympic trial series again because I love being in this world. I can’t recommend this book and this author enough!!!

The Poseidon Trials is third collection in the Dark Gods of Olympus series (the collections being The Hades Trials and The Ares Trials). This is a collection of 3 books in one.
Profile Image for Carole.
2,032 reviews15 followers
March 28, 2022
This second book in the series is a powerful and exciting entry to the Poseidon Trials with the action and adventure continuing to burn up the pages as they fly by at a breakneck pace.
After she risks her life to save Poseidon’s from death Almi begins to question her feelings towards the errant God while still struggling to find the cure for her sister’s ailment.
I have my own theory as to what it might be and can’t wait to see how everything plays out.
“He who possesses the heart of a Nereid shall possess the Heart of the Ocean”
This was a fantastic, well written story that advances the plot to even greater heights as the trials progress and the suspense builds leaving this reader terribly eager for the final act of this incredibly rich narrative with its cliffhanger ending.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for D K.
590 reviews3 followers
July 4, 2022
Action, Humor and so much more! An unputdownable Series!!!

Eliza Raine does it again with this amazing new series!!! BRAVO! I have read all of her previous trilogies like “The Hades Trials” and “The Ares Trials” and each one has been unique, intriguing, packed-full of action, humor, many twists and turns, as well as, romance, and amazing main and second characters. This new trilogy has all it all, in spades! I love both main characters, Poseidon and Almi. Almi is such a quirky and funny character, that just makes you love her and root for her. The second characters are amazing and add so much color to the story....ahhhhh! I cannot get enough. Each trilogy can be read as a standalone and in any order you wish, BUT I do recommend that you read them in order to enhance your reading experience. Highly recommended ❤️❤️❤️
Profile Image for Rachael.
1,174 reviews1 follower
Want to read
April 2, 2022
Blurb:
Nothing has gone to plan.
Not a single thing.
I entered Poseidon’s palace with one intention – steal a legendary ship and sail it to the darkest, most dangerous depths of the ocean, to try to save my sister.
And now I am fighting for my life in a series of deadly trials designed for water gods and sea monsters, not broken, powerless nymphs.
I was prepared for risk. I was prepared for danger.
I was not prepared for Poseidon, or the soul-deep connection I have with him. His tenuous control teeters closer to the edge the more time I spend with him, and gods help me, I’m starting to hope that he falls – and takes me with him.
Profile Image for Addison McDaniels.
9 reviews
June 7, 2022
This book was everything and more. I am enjoying seeing the romance bloom between Almi and Poseidon. I am enjoying that this series seeing the transformation of Poseidon. At first, I initially thought him to be a bit selfish when I finished with Book 1, however I am starting to change my perspective about him. Almi brings out the best in Poseidon even though his not being truthful to her about why he chose her to become his wife. Although I wish this book and the first one was a bit longer, I am enjoying the cliffhangers that Ms. Raine leaves at the end of the book. I cannot wait to see how this series will end in Book 3.
Profile Image for Michelle.
733 reviews2 followers
April 1, 2022
This second book of the trilogy keeps the ball rolling and oh my gosh are things intense! The almost dying, the surprise discoveries, the constant action, and the steamy interactions with the main characters kept me reading straight through in one sitting. This story may be my favorite because it is taking a girl who never had any power though she has always been around it and yet has been incredibly brave, and is making her into a true queen who can stand toe to toe with powerful foes.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
51 reviews3 followers
April 2, 2022
I just had to keep reading. Almi is even better in the book than the first. You can't help but love her and route for her. Poseidon is really starting to grow on me now. He's not as grumpy as he would like is to believe. Eliza creates such a crazy world amd it's so easy to picture it with the way she describes it. The trials are full of adventure amd now I have to wait for the next book. Read this series, you won't regret it. I stayed up half the night because I couldn't stop reading!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Adricrisuruta.
1,844 reviews2 followers
November 29, 2023
Very exciting second part that left me wanting more.
While Atlas goes more and more crazy, the alliance between Poseidon and Almi to win the trials has managed to bring them closer and reveal that there are feelings between them, beyond lust.
Each trial has been a challenge they faced together, successfully or not, but together. Almi has managed to awaken his powers, which have not made him enjoy his reaction to the power of Poseidon.
However, the infinite hatred of Atlas has made everything more dangerous.
Profile Image for Gladys.
14k reviews162 followers
March 27, 2022
This is the next enticing piece of this intriguing series. You do need to read book one, Secret of The Broken King to catch up if you haven't yet. I find the skillfully crafted blend of myth, emotion, drama, romance, action, adventure, twist, danger, tension and sparks, breath stealing and addictive. Try to prepare for that looming cliffy and the wait for the final piece of this stunning trilogy. I know I can't wait to see how it ends. I am volitionally posting a forthright review.
8,813 reviews63 followers
March 28, 2022
Almi must work her way through the deadly trials to save her sister. Poseidon draws in Almi, with their deep connection but is it enough or will they sink to the bottom? Well written book 2 in the series. The vivid detail and well developed world and character building holds your attention through out I can't wait for more!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
18 reviews1 follower
April 4, 2022
Eliza Raine's mythology-based series are absolutely fantastic, and Surrender of the Brutal King was yet another outstanding addition to the line. Her characters are well developed and effortlessly keep the reader's interest. I love the progression of the imperfectly perfect relationships as well as the humor. Those cliffhanger endings though!!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Debbie Eyre.
5,913 reviews116 followers
April 15, 2022
This second book is an incredible addition to this series. Full of magic, mythology, and a searing slow-burn enemies-to-lovers romance this exciting and gripping read had me from the get go. Almi and Poseidon‘s journey continues as they grow closer and face more dangers and the trials continue and that ending!! OMG!!! Tense, action packed and so engrossing I am more then ready for the next book please.
Profile Image for Delaney Zook.
349 reviews14 followers
June 18, 2022
Okay same thing… the book is starting to pick up with the plot and i’m starting to love all the characters even more even our homeboy Poseidon. I even am starting to like the MC… there’s something lovable about her even if she is kind of embarrassing. The plot still is just too fast with little detail. It isn’t terrible, but I wish there was more to really get an idea of what’s going on. The plot is interesting though with all the mythology mixing in.
Profile Image for Nibras ⚡️.
50 reviews
April 4, 2023
Again!!! I got mesmerized again!! I really enjoyed this book as much as i did the first one and I cannot wait to see how all the events will conclude in the last book.
I havent had this much fun in reading in a long time; this is really pulling me out of my little slump!

(Only thing i didnt like: if they knew the next trial would start after each festivity, why the FUCk did they not dress accordingly? lol)
Profile Image for Jennifer.
1,200 reviews7 followers
March 27, 2022
Almi is trying to survive the trials and save her sister from the blight that is affecting Aquarius. Poseidon is keeping secrets. Atlas wants his revenge. The trials are deadly and to navigate them they must work together. They battle their emotions and learn things along the way. A fantastic series with great characters. Love it. I volunteered to read this book via Booksprout.
597 reviews2 followers
March 29, 2022
This second book in the Poseidon Trials has Almi and Poseidon facing more adventures and dangers and growing closer. Their slow burn heats up the pages and sets the stage for an explosive third book that will hopefully answer all the questions and lead to their HEA!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
4,484 reviews21 followers
March 31, 2022
Almi had a plan in the first book but ended up drafted into the Trials. With this one things have not gotten any better. Her connection to Poseidon is getting stronger and they both have to survive to the end. Full of action, danger, surprises, intrigue, and survival mad e it a fun read. Easy to get lost and hard to put down. Had to see what surprises were in store of Almi this time. .
Profile Image for Ashley Stanton.
371 reviews26 followers
April 4, 2022
The fact that the next book doesn't come out for two months is a tragedy.
Just when things were starting to get better between them, everything is ripped away. I cannot wait for the last book to come out. There are so many secrets Poseidon has been keeping and I doubt he can keep it up much longer.
The cliffhangers in this series are killing me though.
152 reviews2 followers
June 17, 2022
A great second installment

Often the second book in a trilogy is the weakest but not this one! We get action, adventure, a small amount of spice. We get insight into Poseidon's head. It was great. It was dual POV but only a few chapters are from Poseidon's POV and they're confusing so some readers might be frustrated by that. Overall a nice quick read with a cliffhanger.
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