What do you think?
Rate this book
The Wicked Wonderland Duet #2
King of Ruin
TRUST
It's the most fragile concept ever created. Built over time. Shown through actions. Tested with loyalty. And broken when hit with the smallest pebble.
My family trusted him.
𝘐 trusted him despite something deep in my core knowing he would be my downfall.
The destruction of Wonderland.
Now, I'm at his mercy. Forced on a bent knee and made to listen to the side of a story I don't want to hear.
Because despite our past, despite what we believe or what we want, there's only one throne, one crown-and even through the looking glass, I can see there isn't room for the both of us.
It's the most fragile concept ever created. Built over time. Shown through actions. Tested with loyalty. And broken when hit with the smallest pebble.
My family trusted him.
𝘐 trusted him despite something deep in my core knowing he would be my downfall.
The destruction of Wonderland.
Now, I'm at his mercy. Forced on a bent knee and made to listen to the side of a story I don't want to hear.
Because despite our past, despite what we believe or what we want, there's only one throne, one crown-and even through the looking glass, I can see there isn't room for the both of us.
350 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 25, 2022
107 people are currently reading
2934 people want to read
About the author
Lee Jacquot
24 books2,052 followersHey there! My name is Lee. I like to think of myself as a bibliophile who belongs to the Ravenclaw house.
I write romances that can sometimes be sweet and spicy or deadly and kinky. I'm a firm believer in happily ever afters and men who always make sure their woman is satisfied first.
When I'm not writing, I'm drowning myself in a good book, losing track of time on the Nintendo Switch with my kids, and laughing or yelling at one of my husbands practical jokes. (He likes to leave fake spiders and roaches around.)
Also, something important to note. I live off Chai and Dean Winchester.
Visit me on Instagram or TikTok to find out about upcoming releases and other fun things! @authorleejacquot
I write romances that can sometimes be sweet and spicy or deadly and kinky. I'm a firm believer in happily ever afters and men who always make sure their woman is satisfied first.
When I'm not writing, I'm drowning myself in a good book, losing track of time on the Nintendo Switch with my kids, and laughing or yelling at one of my husbands practical jokes. (He likes to leave fake spiders and roaches around.)
Also, something important to note. I live off Chai and Dean Winchester.
Visit me on Instagram or TikTok to find out about upcoming releases and other fun things! @authorleejacquot
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 253 reviews
May 30, 2022
TL; WR: READ THIS BOOK. IT'S PHENOMENAL. LEE JACQUOT HAS DONE IT AGAIN.
It takes a special kind of author to write a book like this.
I'll be honest, when Jacquot first sent me the book to beta read, I had low expectations.
I mean, how was she supposed to top QoM? How do you follow that?
And before I go too much further into this review, I want to take a moment to acknowledge that this is not your typical mafia romance with sappy love confessions and a meek FMC.
No, this book is. So. Much. More.
Lee Jacquot is talented.
I've said that before. I've BEEN saying that since Christmas on the Thirteenth Floor.
But, upon reading this book, I have realised that her talent is beyond anything I imagined.
The way Jacquot weaves together a story, the descriptions of action, the SPICE, the tension, the banter and the dynamic between the MCs, and, most of all, EZEKIEL LIAM KANE.
The Story
- The pace was exceptional. Slow and fast at the same time. No lulls in the overall flow.
- The resolutions that were given for all the conflicts in QoM were *chef's kiss*
- The narrative styles further the story and were in line with how the characters would be expected to narrate such a series of events
- The story was not "for shock value" or purposely convoluted. Every plotline had a purpose and every chapter accomplished what it set out to do.
- The story was "realistic" to the characters and their problems.
The Action
- There is quite a bit of action and torture in this book. WARNING, some of it was graphic.
- The way Jacquot describes actions, the adjectives she's chosen, the set-ups, and the descriptions of how the characters/atmosphere changes during the action scenes were IMPECCABLE.
- Jacquot has a gift for providing enough description to the reader so they can picture the action. The vivid detail was never too much or too specific, but just enough.
- Essentially the imagery in this book wss INCREDIBLE
The Spice
If y'all know me, you know that my standard for spice is HIGH.
I mean, I grew up on Wattpad, Ao3, and websites I shall never name, so smut is something I'm VERY picky about.
Does Lee Jacquot write extremely graphic erotica? No.
Does she write smut that gets the heart pumping? Yes.
Let's be honest, most mafia romances have pretty basic smut. More often than not, it's just the MMC being a "Dom" and the meek FMC being even more meek in the bedroom.
Don't get me wrong, I enjoy BDSM, I really do, but half the time it's not even accurate in these books.
And even when the FMC is "strong" she's almost always submissive in bed.
But the MCs in this book? Goddamn.
Onyx and Kane are "switches."
Yes, you heard me right.
The MMC is a switch.
Read that again.
THE
MMC
IS
A
SWITCH
So freaking rare in this subgenre, so difficult to pull off, but Goddammit, Jacquot pulled it off.
I won't give too much away, but I do believe that Kane is most definitely a ✨good boy✨
And remember that fade-to-black scene from QoM? Let's just say that I pushed Lee to include EVERYTHING this time.
I like Jacquot's spice in general. I think that she doesn't just say "he ate her out, she came" but instead, describes the sensations and the actual actions with enough detail to make it enjoyable to read.
Also, in case I didn't mention it, THEY'RE BOTH SWITCHES.
** Note: it's not very BDSM-y, but you catch my drift
The Tension
So, when you read this book after QoM, there was obviously a lot going on that would cause a rift between the MCs.
And in this book, we FINALLY saw an FMC who didn't let her attraction for the MMC get in the way of her anger.
The tension in the side characters was so freaking enjoyable to read. I think it was one of my favourite parts of this book. Especially because we actually got to see inside their minds because of the first-person multi-POV!
The tension in this entire was so palpable, so beautifully written, I loved it in every scene.
The Dynamic and Banter Between Onyx and Kane
The reason this book is a guaranteed five star read for me is because of their dynamic.
Most of the time, when I read dark romance, when I read mafia romance, even when I read sports romance, it's almost guaranteed that the FMC will relent.
No matter how strong she is.
No matter how much of a bad*ss she is.
In the end, she always relents for the MMC.
And this drives me bonkers.
Why is it that FMCs in dark romance books have to be meek and weak with the MMC? Why can't they be strong? Why can't they save the MMCs? Why can't they be ruthless and cunning?
These are questions I ask myself on the regular.
So back in January, when I heard about QoM, I RANNNNNN to go read it. Two and a half hours later, I was riding the best book high of my entire life.
Not only did Lee Jacquot write an FMC who is powerful, smart, physically strong, AND RUTHLESS.
BUT SHE MADE SURE THAT THIS WOMAN WAS BIRACIAL
AND THAT THE READER KNEW IT.
So, back to the dynamic.
Now that I've explained Onyx (I'll get to Kane in a bit), it only makes sense that she had some incredible lines.
Her back and forth with ALL the characters was so fun to read.
Her back and forth with Kane, however, was downright phenomenal.
Exhibit A:
"'Because the people I want to save mean nothing to you, you wouldn’t have even heard me out. You’re a fucking hypocrite.'
"'Step six inches closer and repeat yourself.'"
Exhibit B:
'"Ah, well, let me thank my cunt for saving me,' I say facetiously. 'Tell me, Kane. Does your father know you were fucking the enemy? Would you be punished if he found out?'" ← Onyx
Exhibit C:
"'Tell me you hate me.'
"'Let go of my chains so I can show you.'" ← Onyx
Exhibit D:
"'Interesting thing about felines,” he murmurs, “is their ability to look down on you, even when homeless and starving.'
"'Very true, but the same can be said about a man.'" ← Onyx
Exhibit E:
Onyx → "'Speak to me like that again and I slice that tongue from your mouth.'
"I feel him smile against me. 'Yes, ma’am.'"
(There were better examples, but these were the only ones I could find that didn't spoil anything.)
Onyx stayed true to character. Kane kept pushing for more.
And the result of that was a dynamic that was too freaking fantastic to ignore.
And the sweet moments?
Don't even get me started.
My favourites
1. The Nose Kiss
"'Get out of your head and stay with me. Here. Right now, in this moment.'
"The gold flecks in his eyes shimmer as he searches mine. It makes my stomach flutter with irritation and want. But I don’t get the opportunity to say anything because he closes the small space to my nose and presses a tender kiss on the tip.
"It steals the breath from my lungs. Something so soft and tender is a distant memory to me, and now, it invades my every sense.'"
2. The Hand Care
"I watch quietly as he turns on the faucet, and finds a small first aid kit and a fresh hand towel in the cabinet underneath. He slowly cleans my hand before pouring antiseptic wash over the busted skin. Lifting my hand to the light, he examines his work before drying the surrounding skin and wrapping it in gauze.
"He tears the little white tape with his teeth and secures it. When I think he’s done, he presses a soft kiss over my knuckles and lowers my hand slowly."
The sweet and tender moments that balance out the torture and angst were IMMACULATELY PRESENTED.
Ezekiel Liam Kane
In this book, Kane solidified his spot in as the best mafia book HUSBAND of all time.
We've already discussed him being an MSwitch and his relationship with Onyx.
But what made Kane stand out was his affectionate nature.
We've all read mafia romance books with the big, bad MMC who is a giant villain.
But Kane wasn't that.
He was sweet and kind. He was loving and caring.
Don't get me wrong, he killed people for even speaking Onyx's name in the wrong context.
But he kissed her nose.
HE KISSED HER NOSE.
So many times, in mafia romance specifically, a lot of these tender moments are skipped in favour of spice.
But in this book, Jacquot didn't skip them at all.
Sure there were some spicy scenes that were "make me forget" types.
But overall, Jacquot didn't let their physical chemistry be the only reason they were compatible.
There's a specific scene in this book where the FMC had a breakdown.
And 99% of the time, in dark romance, a breakdown means that they have sex after to "make her forget."
But in King of Ruin, that didn't happen.
Instead, he took care of her.
There was no forced sex.
No awkward "I want to feel good and forget this extremely traumatic experience."
It was just hope and love.
It was beautiful.
Kane was a teddy bear who killed. And I daresay that he is my favourite one.
In summary, King of Ruin took risks and boy, did they pay off.
It was the greatest honour of my life to beta read this book.
I hope Jacquot continues to write stories that challenge the subgenres they are a part of and show all of us that writing romance with BIPOC characters is more than possible.
Content and trigger warnings below. If you're trying to go in blind, then you may find light spoilers in these warnings.
*
*
*
*
*
The list of CW/TWs for this book:
- Captivity/Kidnapping
- Childhood sexual trauma mentions
- Graphics depictions of torture
- Graphic depictions of violence
- Murder
- Graphic sex
- Gun violence
- Child abuse
- Stillbirth mentions
- Emotional abuse
- Physical abuse
- Sex Trafficking
- Human Trafficking
- Sexual assault mentions
- Grief
- Parental death mentions
- Drug abuse mentions
- Post-mortem sexual assault mentions
Original comments before reading:
I CANNOT WAIT FOR THIS BOOK, THE FIRST ONE HAS ME IN A CHOKE-HOLD.
Edit 11/04/2022:
Guys
GUYS
I'M BETA READING THIS BOOK!!!
It's so freaking good, y'all.
I'm literally feral for Ezekiel Kane now. He was a great book boyfriend in QoM, but after reading KoR? He's literally my HUSBAND. So freaking perfect. Sort of reminds me of Sean Bell but the mafia version.
AND THE SPICEEEEEE
Let's just say, I made sure Lee was made aware of how I felt about the fade-to-black scene from QoM. And maybe, just maybe, she might have taken it into consideration.
MAYBE. No spoilers.
I'M SO EXCITED FOR Y'ALL TO READ THIS BOOK!!!!!!
It takes a special kind of author to write a book like this.
I'll be honest, when Jacquot first sent me the book to beta read, I had low expectations.
I mean, how was she supposed to top QoM? How do you follow that?
And before I go too much further into this review, I want to take a moment to acknowledge that this is not your typical mafia romance with sappy love confessions and a meek FMC.
No, this book is. So. Much. More.
Lee Jacquot is talented.
I've said that before. I've BEEN saying that since Christmas on the Thirteenth Floor.
But, upon reading this book, I have realised that her talent is beyond anything I imagined.
The way Jacquot weaves together a story, the descriptions of action, the SPICE, the tension, the banter and the dynamic between the MCs, and, most of all, EZEKIEL LIAM KANE.
The Story
- The pace was exceptional. Slow and fast at the same time. No lulls in the overall flow.
- The resolutions that were given for all the conflicts in QoM were *chef's kiss*
- The narrative styles further the story and were in line with how the characters would be expected to narrate such a series of events
- The story was not "for shock value" or purposely convoluted. Every plotline had a purpose and every chapter accomplished what it set out to do.
- The story was "realistic" to the characters and their problems.
The Action
- There is quite a bit of action and torture in this book. WARNING, some of it was graphic.
- The way Jacquot describes actions, the adjectives she's chosen, the set-ups, and the descriptions of how the characters/atmosphere changes during the action scenes were IMPECCABLE.
- Jacquot has a gift for providing enough description to the reader so they can picture the action. The vivid detail was never too much or too specific, but just enough.
- Essentially the imagery in this book wss INCREDIBLE
The Spice
If y'all know me, you know that my standard for spice is HIGH.
I mean, I grew up on Wattpad, Ao3, and websites I shall never name, so smut is something I'm VERY picky about.
Does Lee Jacquot write extremely graphic erotica? No.
Does she write smut that gets the heart pumping? Yes.
Let's be honest, most mafia romances have pretty basic smut. More often than not, it's just the MMC being a "Dom" and the meek FMC being even more meek in the bedroom.
Don't get me wrong, I enjoy BDSM, I really do, but half the time it's not even accurate in these books.
And even when the FMC is "strong" she's almost always submissive in bed.
But the MCs in this book? Goddamn.
Onyx and Kane are "switches."
Yes, you heard me right.
The MMC is a switch.
Read that again.
THE
MMC
IS
A
SWITCH
So freaking rare in this subgenre, so difficult to pull off, but Goddammit, Jacquot pulled it off.
I won't give too much away, but I do believe that Kane is most definitely a ✨good boy✨
And remember that fade-to-black scene from QoM? Let's just say that I pushed Lee to include EVERYTHING this time.
I like Jacquot's spice in general. I think that she doesn't just say "he ate her out, she came" but instead, describes the sensations and the actual actions with enough detail to make it enjoyable to read.
Also, in case I didn't mention it, THEY'RE BOTH SWITCHES.
** Note: it's not very BDSM-y, but you catch my drift
The Tension
So, when you read this book after QoM, there was obviously a lot going on that would cause a rift between the MCs.
And in this book, we FINALLY saw an FMC who didn't let her attraction for the MMC get in the way of her anger.
The tension in the side characters was so freaking enjoyable to read. I think it was one of my favourite parts of this book. Especially because we actually got to see inside their minds because of the first-person multi-POV!
The tension in this entire was so palpable, so beautifully written, I loved it in every scene.
The Dynamic and Banter Between Onyx and Kane
The reason this book is a guaranteed five star read for me is because of their dynamic.
Most of the time, when I read dark romance, when I read mafia romance, even when I read sports romance, it's almost guaranteed that the FMC will relent.
No matter how strong she is.
No matter how much of a bad*ss she is.
In the end, she always relents for the MMC.
And this drives me bonkers.
Why is it that FMCs in dark romance books have to be meek and weak with the MMC? Why can't they be strong? Why can't they save the MMCs? Why can't they be ruthless and cunning?
These are questions I ask myself on the regular.
So back in January, when I heard about QoM, I RANNNNNN to go read it. Two and a half hours later, I was riding the best book high of my entire life.
Not only did Lee Jacquot write an FMC who is powerful, smart, physically strong, AND RUTHLESS.
BUT SHE MADE SURE THAT THIS WOMAN WAS BIRACIAL
AND THAT THE READER KNEW IT.
So, back to the dynamic.
Now that I've explained Onyx (I'll get to Kane in a bit), it only makes sense that she had some incredible lines.
Her back and forth with ALL the characters was so fun to read.
Her back and forth with Kane, however, was downright phenomenal.
Exhibit A:
"'Because the people I want to save mean nothing to you, you wouldn’t have even heard me out. You’re a fucking hypocrite.'
"'Step six inches closer and repeat yourself.'"
Exhibit B:
'"Ah, well, let me thank my cunt for saving me,' I say facetiously. 'Tell me, Kane. Does your father know you were fucking the enemy? Would you be punished if he found out?'" ← Onyx
Exhibit C:
"'Tell me you hate me.'
"'Let go of my chains so I can show you.'" ← Onyx
Exhibit D:
"'Interesting thing about felines,” he murmurs, “is their ability to look down on you, even when homeless and starving.'
"'Very true, but the same can be said about a man.'" ← Onyx
Exhibit E:
Onyx → "'Speak to me like that again and I slice that tongue from your mouth.'
"I feel him smile against me. 'Yes, ma’am.'"
(There were better examples, but these were the only ones I could find that didn't spoil anything.)
Onyx stayed true to character. Kane kept pushing for more.
And the result of that was a dynamic that was too freaking fantastic to ignore.
And the sweet moments?
Don't even get me started.
My favourites
1. The Nose Kiss
"'Get out of your head and stay with me. Here. Right now, in this moment.'
"The gold flecks in his eyes shimmer as he searches mine. It makes my stomach flutter with irritation and want. But I don’t get the opportunity to say anything because he closes the small space to my nose and presses a tender kiss on the tip.
"It steals the breath from my lungs. Something so soft and tender is a distant memory to me, and now, it invades my every sense.'"
2. The Hand Care
"I watch quietly as he turns on the faucet, and finds a small first aid kit and a fresh hand towel in the cabinet underneath. He slowly cleans my hand before pouring antiseptic wash over the busted skin. Lifting my hand to the light, he examines his work before drying the surrounding skin and wrapping it in gauze.
"He tears the little white tape with his teeth and secures it. When I think he’s done, he presses a soft kiss over my knuckles and lowers my hand slowly."
The sweet and tender moments that balance out the torture and angst were IMMACULATELY PRESENTED.
Ezekiel Liam Kane
In this book, Kane solidified his spot in as the best mafia book HUSBAND of all time.
We've already discussed him being an MSwitch and his relationship with Onyx.
But what made Kane stand out was his affectionate nature.
We've all read mafia romance books with the big, bad MMC who is a giant villain.
But Kane wasn't that.
He was sweet and kind. He was loving and caring.
Don't get me wrong, he killed people for even speaking Onyx's name in the wrong context.
But he kissed her nose.
HE KISSED HER NOSE.
So many times, in mafia romance specifically, a lot of these tender moments are skipped in favour of spice.
But in this book, Jacquot didn't skip them at all.
Sure there were some spicy scenes that were "make me forget" types.
But overall, Jacquot didn't let their physical chemistry be the only reason they were compatible.
There's a specific scene in this book where the FMC had a breakdown.
And 99% of the time, in dark romance, a breakdown means that they have sex after to "make her forget."
But in King of Ruin, that didn't happen.
Instead, he took care of her.
There was no forced sex.
No awkward "I want to feel good and forget this extremely traumatic experience."
It was just hope and love.
It was beautiful.
Kane was a teddy bear who killed. And I daresay that he is my favourite one.
In summary, King of Ruin took risks and boy, did they pay off.
It was the greatest honour of my life to beta read this book.
I hope Jacquot continues to write stories that challenge the subgenres they are a part of and show all of us that writing romance with BIPOC characters is more than possible.
Content and trigger warnings below. If you're trying to go in blind, then you may find light spoilers in these warnings.
*
*
*
*
*
The list of CW/TWs for this book:
- Captivity/Kidnapping
- Childhood sexual trauma mentions
- Graphics depictions of torture
- Graphic depictions of violence
- Murder
- Graphic sex
- Gun violence
- Child abuse
- Stillbirth mentions
- Emotional abuse
- Physical abuse
- Sex Trafficking
- Human Trafficking
- Sexual assault mentions
- Grief
- Parental death mentions
- Drug abuse mentions
- Post-mortem sexual assault mentions
Original comments before reading:
I CANNOT WAIT FOR THIS BOOK, THE FIRST ONE HAS ME IN A CHOKE-HOLD.
Edit 11/04/2022:
Guys
GUYS
I'M BETA READING THIS BOOK!!!
It's so freaking good, y'all.
I'm literally feral for Ezekiel Kane now. He was a great book boyfriend in QoM, but after reading KoR? He's literally my HUSBAND. So freaking perfect. Sort of reminds me of Sean Bell but the mafia version.
AND THE SPICEEEEEE
Let's just say, I made sure Lee was made aware of how I felt about the fade-to-black scene from QoM. And maybe, just maybe, she might have taken it into consideration.
MAYBE. No spoilers.
I'M SO EXCITED FOR Y'ALL TO READ THIS BOOK!!!!!!
December 12, 2022
READ THIS BOOK. IT'S PHENOMENAL. LEE JACQUOT HAS DONE IT AGAIN.
It takes a special kind of author to write a book like this.
I'll be honest, when Jacquot first sent me the book to beta read, I had low expectations.
I mean, how was she supposed to top QoM? How do you follow that?
And before I go too much further into this review, I want to take a moment to acknowledge that this is not your typical mafia romance with sappy love confessions and a meek FMC.
No, this book is. So. Much. More.
Lee Jacquot is talented.
I've said that before. I've BEEN saying that since Christmas on the Thirteenth Floor.
But, upon reading this book, I have realised that her talent is beyond anything I imagined.
The way Jacquot weaves together a story, the descriptions of action, the SPICE, the tension, the banter and the dynamic between the MCs, and, most of all, EZEKIEL LIAM KANE.
The Story
- The pace was exceptional. Slow and fast at the same time. No lulls in the overall flow.
- The resolutions that were given for all the conflicts in QoM were *chef's kiss*
- The narrative styles further the story and were in line with how the characters would be expected to narrate such a series of events
- The story was not "for shock value" or purposely convoluted. Every plotline had a purpose and every chapter accomplished what it set out to do.
- The story was "realistic" to the characters and their problems.
The Action
- There is quite a bit of action and torture in this book. WARNING, some of it was graphic.
- The way Jacquot describes actions, the adjectives she's chosen, the set-ups, and the descriptions of how the characters/atmosphere changes during the action scenes were IMPECCABLE.
- Jacquot has a gift for providing enough description to the reader so they can picture the action. The vivid detail was never too much or too specific, but just enough.
- Essentially the imagery in this book wss INCREDIBLE
The Spice
If y'all know me, you know that my standard for spice is HIGH.
I mean, I grew up on Wattpad, Ao3, and websites I shall never name, so smut is something I'm VERY picky about.
Does Lee Jacquot write extremely graphic erotica? No.
Does she write smut that gets the heart pumping? Yes.
Let's be honest, most mafia romances have pretty basic smut. More often than not, it's just the MMC being a "Dom" and the meek FMC being even more meek in the bedroom.
Don't get me wrong, I enjoy BDSM, I really do, but half the time it's not even accurate in these books.
And even when the FMC is "strong" she's almost always submissive in bed.
But the MCs in this book? Goddamn.
Onyx and Kane are "switches."
Yes, you heard me right.
The MMC is a switch.
Read that again.
THE
MMC
IS
A
SWITCH
So freaking rare in this subgenre, so difficult to pull off, but Goddammit, Jacquot pulled it off.
I won't give too much away, but I do believe that Kane is most definitely a ✨good boy✨
And remember that fade-to-black scene from QoM? Let's just say that I pushed Lee to include EVERYTHING this time.
I like Jacquot's spice in general. I think that she doesn't just say "he ate her out, she came" but instead, describes the sensations and the actual actions with enough detail to make it enjoyable to read.
Also, in case I didn't mention it, THEY'RE BOTH SWITCHES.
** Note: it's not very BDSM-y, but you catch my drift
The Tension
So, when you read this book after QoM, there was obviously a lot going on that would cause a rift between the MCs.
And in this book, we FINALLY saw an FMC who didn't let her attraction for the MMC get in the way of her anger.
The tension in the side characters was so freaking enjoyable to read. I think it was one of my favourite parts of this book. Especially because we actually got to see inside their minds because of the first-person multi-POV!
The tension in this entire was so palpable, so beautifully written, I loved it in every scene.
The Dynamic and Banter Between Onyx and Kane
The reason this book is a guaranteed five star read for me is because of their dynamic.
Most of the time, when I read dark romance, when I read mafia romance, even when I read sports romance, it's almost guaranteed that the FMC will relent.
No matter how strong she is.
No matter how much of a bad*ss she is.
In the end, she always relents for the MMC.
And this drives me bonkers.
Why is it that FMCs in dark romance books have to be meek and weak with the MMC? Why can't they be strong? Why can't they save the MMCs? Why can't they be ruthless and cunning?
These are questions I ask myself on the regular.
So back in January, when I heard about QoM, I RANNNNNN to go read it. Two and a half hours later, I was riding the best book high of my entire life.
Not only did Lee Jacquot write an FMC who is powerful, smart, physically strong, AND RUTHLESS.
BUT SHE MADE SURE THAT THIS WOMAN WAS BIRACIAL
AND THAT THE READER KNEW IT.
So, back to the dynamic.
Now that I've explained Onyx (I'll get to Kane in a bit), it only makes sense that she had some incredible lines.
Her back and forth with ALL the characters was so fun to read.
Her back and forth with Kane, however, was downright phenomenal.
Exhibit A:
"'Because the people I want to save mean nothing to you, you wouldn’t have even heard me out. You’re a fucking hypocrite.'
"'Step six inches closer and repeat yourself.'"
Exhibit B:
'"Ah, well, let me thank my cunt for saving me,' I say facetiously. 'Tell me, Kane. Does your father know you were fucking the enemy? Would you be punished if he found out?'" ← Onyx
Exhibit C:
"'Tell me you hate me.'
"'Let go of my chains so I can show you.'" ← Onyx
Exhibit D:
"'Interesting thing about felines,” he murmurs, “is their ability to look down on you, even when homeless and starving.'
"'Very true, but the same can be said about a man.'" ← Onyx
Exhibit E:
Onyx → "'Speak to me like that again and I slice that tongue from your mouth.'
"I feel him smile against me. 'Yes, ma’am.'"
(There were better examples, but these were the only ones I could find that didn't spoil anything.)
Onyx stayed true to character. Kane kept pushing for more.
And the result of that was a dynamic that was too freaking fantastic to ignore.
And the sweet moments?
Don't even get me started.
My favourites
1. The Nose Kiss
"'Get out of your head and stay with me. Here. Right now, in this moment.'
"The gold flecks in his eyes shimmer as he searches mine. It makes my stomach flutter with irritation and want. But I don’t get the opportunity to say anything because he closes the small space to my nose and presses a tender kiss on the tip.
"It steals the breath from my lungs. Something so soft and tender is a distant memory to me, and now, it invades my every sense.'"
2. The Hand Care
"I watch quietly as he turns on the faucet, and finds a small first aid kit and a fresh hand towel in the cabinet underneath. He slowly cleans my hand before pouring antiseptic wash over the busted skin. Lifting my hand to the light, he examines his work before drying the surrounding skin and wrapping it in gauze.
"He tears the little white tape with his teeth and secures it. When I think he’s done, he presses a soft kiss over my knuckles and lowers my hand slowly."
The sweet and tender moments that balance out the torture and angst were IMMACULATELY PRESENTED.
Ezekiel Liam Kane
In this book, Kane solidified his spot in as the best mafia book HUSBAND of all time.
We've already discussed him being an MSwitch and his relationship with Onyx.
But what made Kane stand out was his affectionate nature.
We've all read mafia romance books with the big, bad MMC who is a giant villain.
But Kane wasn't that.
He was sweet and kind. He was loving and caring.
Don't get me wrong, he killed people for even speaking Onyx's name in the wrong context.
But he kissed her nose.
HE KISSED HER NOSE.
So many times, in mafia romance specifically, a lot of these tender moments are skipped in favour of spice.
But in this book, Jacquot didn't skip them at all.
Sure there were some spicy scenes that were "make me forget" types.
But overall, Jacquot didn't let their physical chemistry be the only reason they were compatible.
There's a specific scene in this book where the FMC had a breakdown.
And 99% of the time, in dark romance, a breakdown means that they have sex after to "make her forget."
But in King of Ruin, that didn't happen.
Instead, he took care of her.
There was no forced sex.
No awkward "I want to feel good and forget this extremely traumatic experience."
It was just hope and love.
It was beautiful.
Kane was a teddy bear who killed. And I daresay that he is my favourite one.
In summary, King of Ruin took risks and boy, did they pay off.
It was the greatest honour of my life to beta read this book.
I hope Jacquot continues to write stories that challenge the subgenres they are a part of and show all of us that writing romance with BIPOC characters is more than possible.
Content and trigger warnings below. If you're trying to go in blind, then you may find light spoilers in these warnings.
*
*
*
*
*
The list of CW/TWs for this book:
- Captivity/Kidnapping
- Childhood sexual trauma mentions
- Graphics depictions of torture
- Graphic depictions of violence
- Murder
- Graphic sex
- Gun violence
- Child abuse
- Stillbirth mentions
- Emotional abuse
- Physical abuse
- Sex Trafficking
- Human Trafficking
- Sexual assault mentions
- Grief
- Parental death mentions
- Drug abuse mentions
- Post-mortem sexual assault mentions
It takes a special kind of author to write a book like this.
I'll be honest, when Jacquot first sent me the book to beta read, I had low expectations.
I mean, how was she supposed to top QoM? How do you follow that?
And before I go too much further into this review, I want to take a moment to acknowledge that this is not your typical mafia romance with sappy love confessions and a meek FMC.
No, this book is. So. Much. More.
Lee Jacquot is talented.
I've said that before. I've BEEN saying that since Christmas on the Thirteenth Floor.
But, upon reading this book, I have realised that her talent is beyond anything I imagined.
The way Jacquot weaves together a story, the descriptions of action, the SPICE, the tension, the banter and the dynamic between the MCs, and, most of all, EZEKIEL LIAM KANE.
The Story
- The pace was exceptional. Slow and fast at the same time. No lulls in the overall flow.
- The resolutions that were given for all the conflicts in QoM were *chef's kiss*
- The narrative styles further the story and were in line with how the characters would be expected to narrate such a series of events
- The story was not "for shock value" or purposely convoluted. Every plotline had a purpose and every chapter accomplished what it set out to do.
- The story was "realistic" to the characters and their problems.
The Action
- There is quite a bit of action and torture in this book. WARNING, some of it was graphic.
- The way Jacquot describes actions, the adjectives she's chosen, the set-ups, and the descriptions of how the characters/atmosphere changes during the action scenes were IMPECCABLE.
- Jacquot has a gift for providing enough description to the reader so they can picture the action. The vivid detail was never too much or too specific, but just enough.
- Essentially the imagery in this book wss INCREDIBLE
The Spice
If y'all know me, you know that my standard for spice is HIGH.
I mean, I grew up on Wattpad, Ao3, and websites I shall never name, so smut is something I'm VERY picky about.
Does Lee Jacquot write extremely graphic erotica? No.
Does she write smut that gets the heart pumping? Yes.
Let's be honest, most mafia romances have pretty basic smut. More often than not, it's just the MMC being a "Dom" and the meek FMC being even more meek in the bedroom.
Don't get me wrong, I enjoy BDSM, I really do, but half the time it's not even accurate in these books.
And even when the FMC is "strong" she's almost always submissive in bed.
But the MCs in this book? Goddamn.
Onyx and Kane are "switches."
Yes, you heard me right.
The MMC is a switch.
Read that again.
THE
MMC
IS
A
SWITCH
So freaking rare in this subgenre, so difficult to pull off, but Goddammit, Jacquot pulled it off.
I won't give too much away, but I do believe that Kane is most definitely a ✨good boy✨
And remember that fade-to-black scene from QoM? Let's just say that I pushed Lee to include EVERYTHING this time.
I like Jacquot's spice in general. I think that she doesn't just say "he ate her out, she came" but instead, describes the sensations and the actual actions with enough detail to make it enjoyable to read.
Also, in case I didn't mention it, THEY'RE BOTH SWITCHES.
** Note: it's not very BDSM-y, but you catch my drift
The Tension
So, when you read this book after QoM, there was obviously a lot going on that would cause a rift between the MCs.
And in this book, we FINALLY saw an FMC who didn't let her attraction for the MMC get in the way of her anger.
The tension in the side characters was so freaking enjoyable to read. I think it was one of my favourite parts of this book. Especially because we actually got to see inside their minds because of the first-person multi-POV!
The tension in this entire was so palpable, so beautifully written, I loved it in every scene.
The Dynamic and Banter Between Onyx and Kane
The reason this book is a guaranteed five star read for me is because of their dynamic.
Most of the time, when I read dark romance, when I read mafia romance, even when I read sports romance, it's almost guaranteed that the FMC will relent.
No matter how strong she is.
No matter how much of a bad*ss she is.
In the end, she always relents for the MMC.
And this drives me bonkers.
Why is it that FMCs in dark romance books have to be meek and weak with the MMC? Why can't they be strong? Why can't they save the MMCs? Why can't they be ruthless and cunning?
These are questions I ask myself on the regular.
So back in January, when I heard about QoM, I RANNNNNN to go read it. Two and a half hours later, I was riding the best book high of my entire life.
Not only did Lee Jacquot write an FMC who is powerful, smart, physically strong, AND RUTHLESS.
BUT SHE MADE SURE THAT THIS WOMAN WAS BIRACIAL
AND THAT THE READER KNEW IT.
So, back to the dynamic.
Now that I've explained Onyx (I'll get to Kane in a bit), it only makes sense that she had some incredible lines.
Her back and forth with ALL the characters was so fun to read.
Her back and forth with Kane, however, was downright phenomenal.
Exhibit A:
"'Because the people I want to save mean nothing to you, you wouldn’t have even heard me out. You’re a fucking hypocrite.'
"'Step six inches closer and repeat yourself.'"
Exhibit B:
'"Ah, well, let me thank my cunt for saving me,' I say facetiously. 'Tell me, Kane. Does your father know you were fucking the enemy? Would you be punished if he found out?'" ← Onyx
Exhibit C:
"'Tell me you hate me.'
"'Let go of my chains so I can show you.'" ← Onyx
Exhibit D:
"'Interesting thing about felines,” he murmurs, “is their ability to look down on you, even when homeless and starving.'
"'Very true, but the same can be said about a man.'" ← Onyx
Exhibit E:
Onyx → "'Speak to me like that again and I slice that tongue from your mouth.'
"I feel him smile against me. 'Yes, ma’am.'"
(There were better examples, but these were the only ones I could find that didn't spoil anything.)
Onyx stayed true to character. Kane kept pushing for more.
And the result of that was a dynamic that was too freaking fantastic to ignore.
And the sweet moments?
Don't even get me started.
My favourites
1. The Nose Kiss
"'Get out of your head and stay with me. Here. Right now, in this moment.'
"The gold flecks in his eyes shimmer as he searches mine. It makes my stomach flutter with irritation and want. But I don’t get the opportunity to say anything because he closes the small space to my nose and presses a tender kiss on the tip.
"It steals the breath from my lungs. Something so soft and tender is a distant memory to me, and now, it invades my every sense.'"
2. The Hand Care
"I watch quietly as he turns on the faucet, and finds a small first aid kit and a fresh hand towel in the cabinet underneath. He slowly cleans my hand before pouring antiseptic wash over the busted skin. Lifting my hand to the light, he examines his work before drying the surrounding skin and wrapping it in gauze.
"He tears the little white tape with his teeth and secures it. When I think he’s done, he presses a soft kiss over my knuckles and lowers my hand slowly."
The sweet and tender moments that balance out the torture and angst were IMMACULATELY PRESENTED.
Ezekiel Liam Kane
In this book, Kane solidified his spot in as the best mafia book HUSBAND of all time.
We've already discussed him being an MSwitch and his relationship with Onyx.
But what made Kane stand out was his affectionate nature.
We've all read mafia romance books with the big, bad MMC who is a giant villain.
But Kane wasn't that.
He was sweet and kind. He was loving and caring.
Don't get me wrong, he killed people for even speaking Onyx's name in the wrong context.
But he kissed her nose.
HE KISSED HER NOSE.
So many times, in mafia romance specifically, a lot of these tender moments are skipped in favour of spice.
But in this book, Jacquot didn't skip them at all.
Sure there were some spicy scenes that were "make me forget" types.
But overall, Jacquot didn't let their physical chemistry be the only reason they were compatible.
There's a specific scene in this book where the FMC had a breakdown.
And 99% of the time, in dark romance, a breakdown means that they have sex after to "make her forget."
But in King of Ruin, that didn't happen.
Instead, he took care of her.
There was no forced sex.
No awkward "I want to feel good and forget this extremely traumatic experience."
It was just hope and love.
It was beautiful.
Kane was a teddy bear who killed. And I daresay that he is my favourite one.
In summary, King of Ruin took risks and boy, did they pay off.
It was the greatest honour of my life to beta read this book.
I hope Jacquot continues to write stories that challenge the subgenres they are a part of and show all of us that writing romance with BIPOC characters is more than possible.
Content and trigger warnings below. If you're trying to go in blind, then you may find light spoilers in these warnings.
*
*
*
*
*
The list of CW/TWs for this book:
- Captivity/Kidnapping
- Childhood sexual trauma mentions
- Graphics depictions of torture
- Graphic depictions of violence
- Murder
- Graphic sex
- Gun violence
- Child abuse
- Stillbirth mentions
- Emotional abuse
- Physical abuse
- Sex Trafficking
- Human Trafficking
- Sexual assault mentions
- Grief
- Parental death mentions
- Drug abuse mentions
- Post-mortem sexual assault mentions
May 30, 2022
Lee has grown so much in her writing. I think that these dark mafia books are amazing and the wonderland twist keep things original. I think Lee’s work is amazing and I’m excited for future releases. These books kept me on my toes!
June 5, 2024
This was pretty decent I’m not gonna lie I won’t remember this mafia book.
May 30, 2022
4.5 🌟
listen, I didn't think this would top book one. and as much as I needed to dive into it, I put it off for some stupid reason. and I'm totally kicking my ass for it. lee jacquot is a mastermind. to create these characters. who are so imperfectly perfect takes a skill like no other. onyx is so strong, she's such a baddie and reading her journey when it comes to her realizing that loving ezekiel is not a weakness was so epic. I love reading a book and finding a character to relate to. this book was slow burn for me - when it came to smut. but somehow the story was at the perfect pace. the character development in this duet is also some of the best I've ever read.
I've read every book by this author. and she never fails to hit the nail on the head for me. her work just keeps getting better and I can't wait to see what else is in store!
listen, I didn't think this would top book one. and as much as I needed to dive into it, I put it off for some stupid reason. and I'm totally kicking my ass for it. lee jacquot is a mastermind. to create these characters. who are so imperfectly perfect takes a skill like no other. onyx is so strong, she's such a baddie and reading her journey when it comes to her realizing that loving ezekiel is not a weakness was so epic. I love reading a book and finding a character to relate to. this book was slow burn for me - when it came to smut. but somehow the story was at the perfect pace. the character development in this duet is also some of the best I've ever read.
I've read every book by this author. and she never fails to hit the nail on the head for me. her work just keeps getting better and I can't wait to see what else is in store!
October 28, 2022
This was…fine. Okay? That’s it, just fine. I liked it far less than Queen of Madness and I liked almost all of the characters far less than I did in the first book as well. At times I really had to force myself to keep reading, especially when it was Onyx’s headspace that I was in. I want him. I hate him! I need him. I don’t need anybody! It was exhausting to say the least. I did like that we got far more insight into Zek’s past though. So…
After Onyx is kidnapped by the head of the Irish mafia, who turns out to be Zek’s daddy, things go sour. She knows that Zek was a plant, they verbally and sometimes physically spar, her crew worries, but Onyx of course never loses her cool or her edge. Sure. Meanwhile she’s both this fragile mess and a big bad bitch, and nothing in between. I felt like I got whiplash with Zek and Onyx, and it didn’t resolve itself until the bitter end. He saves her and then takes something that’s rightfully his so she lashes out and him and blah blah blah.
I speed read the last 25% wanting to slap Onyx the eeeeeeentireeeeeeee time!!!!!! So yeah, that about sums up my thoughts. Oh, and I hated Zek and Fiona’s mother, and I’m glad Zek got his justice. He’s the one who deserved it.
After Onyx is kidnapped by the head of the Irish mafia, who turns out to be Zek’s daddy, things go sour. She knows that Zek was a plant, they verbally and sometimes physically spar, her crew worries, but Onyx of course never loses her cool or her edge. Sure. Meanwhile she’s both this fragile mess and a big bad bitch, and nothing in between. I felt like I got whiplash with Zek and Onyx, and it didn’t resolve itself until the bitter end. He saves her and then takes something that’s rightfully his so she lashes out and him and blah blah blah.
I speed read the last 25% wanting to slap Onyx the eeeeeeentireeeeeeee time!!!!!! So yeah, that about sums up my thoughts. Oh, and I hated Zek and Fiona’s mother, and I’m glad Zek got his justice. He’s the one who deserved it.
September 3, 2023
“she’s the queen of my madness, i am the king of her ruin, and this is our wonderland.”
this was SO freaking good… i’ve already loved the first book, but this one? pls… kane and onyx had me in a chokehold, the plot, the romance… it was amazing 🤧❤️🩹
this was SO freaking good… i’ve already loved the first book, but this one? pls… kane and onyx had me in a chokehold, the plot, the romance… it was amazing 🤧❤️🩹
May 13, 2022
And there you have it folks, this duet is finally complete! And what a tale it has been! I absolutely loved Lee's first dive into dark romance with this duet and I think she has grown so much as an author. I'm so proud of her and impressed with what she's already accomplished in her career so far.
This book picks up pretty much right where the last book ends and the fall out of Zek's betrayal. Or was it really betrayal at all? Some would say yes absolutely. Others would possibly understand that Zek's was just trying to help his family and make things right in a beyond terrible situation.
This is fast paced and action packed. And the spice! I have to give a big shout out to Lee on the spice, because she stepped her spice game up for this one and I could not be prouder. Especially knowing how nervous she was going into the spice in the first book. Girl you did that and you need to pat yourself on the shoulder! There might not to be a crazy amount of spicy scenes in the book, but what there is, completely makes up for it in quality! I was panting! Onyx dominating Zek, them having their power play exchanges, it made me so damn happy. I felt all the tingles in my jingles!
I know some readers have an issue with the multiple POV's and that primarily it only works with RH's, but why does that have to be the case? This is very much a ensemble cast of character so it makes sense to get their POV's! Especially when they are such interesting and captivating characters. The fact that they are each getting their own novella's is so exciting!
I will admit I didn't love the flashbacks. I'm not a big fan of them to begin with and I do think there was too many. I also think some words and phrases were very repetitive to the point of getting a little distracted. But those were my biggest issues!
I think my favorite part of this whole duet is just Onyx. Her character and who she represents is wildly important. She's a POC, a strong and fierce woman who has seen so much pain and heartache, and at the end of the day is a boss and queen! We need more MFC's like Onyx and more MMC like Zek! Men who let their woman shine and understand not being the dominant force all the time doesn't make them any less of a man!
I would love to see Lee come back to these characters in a couple years and have them kicking ass and fighting side by side against a new threat.
With all that said... READ THIS!!!!! *mic drop*
This book picks up pretty much right where the last book ends and the fall out of Zek's betrayal. Or was it really betrayal at all? Some would say yes absolutely. Others would possibly understand that Zek's was just trying to help his family and make things right in a beyond terrible situation.
This is fast paced and action packed. And the spice! I have to give a big shout out to Lee on the spice, because she stepped her spice game up for this one and I could not be prouder. Especially knowing how nervous she was going into the spice in the first book. Girl you did that and you need to pat yourself on the shoulder! There might not to be a crazy amount of spicy scenes in the book, but what there is, completely makes up for it in quality! I was panting! Onyx dominating Zek, them having their power play exchanges, it made me so damn happy. I felt all the tingles in my jingles!
I know some readers have an issue with the multiple POV's and that primarily it only works with RH's, but why does that have to be the case? This is very much a ensemble cast of character so it makes sense to get their POV's! Especially when they are such interesting and captivating characters. The fact that they are each getting their own novella's is so exciting!
I will admit I didn't love the flashbacks. I'm not a big fan of them to begin with and I do think there was too many. I also think some words and phrases were very repetitive to the point of getting a little distracted. But those were my biggest issues!
I think my favorite part of this whole duet is just Onyx. Her character and who she represents is wildly important. She's a POC, a strong and fierce woman who has seen so much pain and heartache, and at the end of the day is a boss and queen! We need more MFC's like Onyx and more MMC like Zek! Men who let their woman shine and understand not being the dominant force all the time doesn't make them any less of a man!
I would love to see Lee come back to these characters in a couple years and have them kicking ass and fighting side by side against a new threat.
With all that said... READ THIS!!!!! *mic drop*
September 20, 2022
Where did this series and author come from? Blew my friggin mind. Easily competing to be the top finds of the year!
April 27, 2022
If I could love this more I would!!
Kane is just perfecton! I won’t fuck you til you beg for it! 🤤🤤🤤
Seeing onyx be vulnerable against her better judgment is beautiful! The utter strength she displays is purposeful and epic!
“ I know the armor you show the world the one you need to in order to thrive. But I want to know more the things people deem as meaningless but are the small pieces that make up who we are!”
The sweet moments between the sexual tension really make this book so beautiful!!
Kane is just perfecton! I won’t fuck you til you beg for it! 🤤🤤🤤
Seeing onyx be vulnerable against her better judgment is beautiful! The utter strength she displays is purposeful and epic!
“ I know the armor you show the world the one you need to in order to thrive. But I want to know more the things people deem as meaningless but are the small pieces that make up who we are!”
The sweet moments between the sexual tension really make this book so beautiful!!
May 1, 2022
King of Ruin is the last book in the wicked wonderland duet and it was freaking prefect.
I loved every second of this book, i was so into the story that everything around me dissapeard. The journey our characters make is so damm good, this book has a lot more emotions then the first. The tension between our main characters is perfection, the new situation they are in and how they both trying to deal with the fallout. I have a huge crush on almost all of the characters, we get so much in this book and again i just loved it. The twist and turns had me screaming, the last few chapters with Onxy had me tearing up and tbh i a few torture scenes had me grossed out. Onxy and Ezekiel are just so perfect for eachother and I really love how the story worked out for them. i liked how both of them didn't forget their "Goal" while still taking care off the other in their own ways. The spicy scenes are really steamy and hot. We even had some cute moments between them that made me swoon.
I'm so happy we get more of the characters in this book, because tbh I want a book about every freaking person even Oliver and the random lawyer. Lee Jacqout has such a good writing style for me, and her characters are amazing. I will for sure read more from her because she has become an auto buy author for me. I can't wait for Maddy's book !
Rating: 5,0 stars
I loved every second of this book, i was so into the story that everything around me dissapeard. The journey our characters make is so damm good, this book has a lot more emotions then the first. The tension between our main characters is perfection, the new situation they are in and how they both trying to deal with the fallout. I have a huge crush on almost all of the characters, we get so much in this book and again i just loved it. The twist and turns had me screaming, the last few chapters with Onxy had me tearing up and tbh i a few torture scenes had me grossed out. Onxy and Ezekiel are just so perfect for eachother and I really love how the story worked out for them. i liked how both of them didn't forget their "Goal" while still taking care off the other in their own ways. The spicy scenes are really steamy and hot. We even had some cute moments between them that made me swoon.
I'm so happy we get more of the characters in this book, because tbh I want a book about every freaking person even Oliver and the random lawyer. Lee Jacqout has such a good writing style for me, and her characters are amazing. I will for sure read more from her because she has become an auto buy author for me. I can't wait for Maddy's book !
Rating: 5,0 stars
May 17, 2022
This duet was SO good! We got more of Ezekiels background this one and I loved it. It was nice to tie together from the first. I hated him but loved him just as much this book, like I understood he was doing what he needed too but my heart hurt for Onyx because she was so badass and they tried to strip that away. Loved how it all came together. I’m SO in love with both Onyx and Ezekiel, it’s so nice to read a book with a woman in charge, both strong characters though! Loved the ending! Really like the family dynamic they had going on! Would love to read more on these two!!!
April 27, 2022
April ARC Reading & Review
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Wicked Wonderland Duet #2
King of Ruin
Authour: @authorleej
"Like Romeo and Juliet. Two families that would never be more than enemies, and a connection impossible to create. The only way to escape such a fate– such madness– is death."
"Then again, it doesn’t matter. She’s the queen of my madness, I am the king of her ruin, and this is our wonderland."
❤🃏🖤
Welcome to Wonderland.... again
Wow that was an emotional ride, this was the perfect ending to this duet. I took my time reading this one because I didn't want it to end and I knew there would be a lot of powerful emotions for these characters.
Ezekiel, this man just wants freedom for himself and his family, but he wasn't expecting to fall for Onyx but of course he did. He now has to prove to her that she can still trust him after what he had to do to protect the ones he loves. He is determined to protect the women in his life at any cost, even his own freedom.
Onyx is angry she let someone in and they betrayed her so much that she can't forgive him and believes that she is becoming weak because of it. Let's just say Onyx is a very stubborn woman and Zek has his work cut out for him.
I felt so many emotions for these two and I was hoping so badly that they could figure things out and be happy together. I was kept on the edge of my seat with these too and I was all here for it. The chemistry of these two was off the charts hot and they knew it too, it was just a guessing game to see who would give in first to their intense bond. I can not say enough about Lee's writing and all the Alice in Wonderland Easter eggs throughout both books.
Thank you @authorleej
for sharing this ARC with me!
#smuttyread #bookinstagrammer #spicyreads #bookaddiction #romance #booknerd #darkromance
#bookreview
#recommendations
#bookstagram
#mafiaromance #z #zek #onyx #AliceinWonderland #queen #king #Ezekiel #secrets #lies #betrayal #mobhanríon #protection #bodyguard #boss
Edit: Canva
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Wicked Wonderland Duet #2
King of Ruin
Authour: @authorleej
"Like Romeo and Juliet. Two families that would never be more than enemies, and a connection impossible to create. The only way to escape such a fate– such madness– is death."
"Then again, it doesn’t matter. She’s the queen of my madness, I am the king of her ruin, and this is our wonderland."
❤🃏🖤
Welcome to Wonderland.... again
Wow that was an emotional ride, this was the perfect ending to this duet. I took my time reading this one because I didn't want it to end and I knew there would be a lot of powerful emotions for these characters.
Ezekiel, this man just wants freedom for himself and his family, but he wasn't expecting to fall for Onyx but of course he did. He now has to prove to her that she can still trust him after what he had to do to protect the ones he loves. He is determined to protect the women in his life at any cost, even his own freedom.
Onyx is angry she let someone in and they betrayed her so much that she can't forgive him and believes that she is becoming weak because of it. Let's just say Onyx is a very stubborn woman and Zek has his work cut out for him.
I felt so many emotions for these two and I was hoping so badly that they could figure things out and be happy together. I was kept on the edge of my seat with these too and I was all here for it. The chemistry of these two was off the charts hot and they knew it too, it was just a guessing game to see who would give in first to their intense bond. I can not say enough about Lee's writing and all the Alice in Wonderland Easter eggs throughout both books.
Thank you @authorleej
for sharing this ARC with me!
#smuttyread #bookinstagrammer #spicyreads #bookaddiction #romance #booknerd #darkromance
#bookreview
#recommendations
#bookstagram
#mafiaromance #z #zek #onyx #AliceinWonderland #queen #king #Ezekiel #secrets #lies #betrayal #mobhanríon #protection #bodyguard #boss
Edit: Canva
April 25, 2022
6 stars I finished this a couple of hours ago and I'm still not quite coherent enough to properly articulate how utterly outstanding this book was. It not only brought all the pieces of QoM together so achingly, but it smashed me to bits. I was honestly worried about Onyx and Zeke for a while. I cannot tell you a thing plot wise about this because it's the second in a duet, but if Queen Of Madness blew you away then you ain't read nothing yet. If you haven't read book 1 in this lightly inspired Alice In Wonderland, mafia dark DARK romance, then I implore you to eat this duet up and you can thank me later. If dark, female led mafia, BBE FMC's are your thing. you'll fall in love with Onyx like I did. I volunteered to read and review an early copy of this. All opinions are my own.
April 28, 2022
Just finish the conclusion to the wicked Wonderland duet and it was amazing. This book starts off where Queen of Madness ended. I was hesitant on how Kane and Onyx would have resolved their issues but I love the journey it took you. While Queen of Madness gets you an insight of Onyx’s past, King of Ruin shows you how Kane was created. I’m so excited for Maddie and her story to come out later this fall.
April 27, 2022
4⭐️
3.5🌶
___________________
Kane.
Kane holds a special place in my heart.
Watching him grow into the confident man in love he becomes was great. Watching him help Onyx grow was even better.
He broke into her like no one had.
This was a great duet!! I had been dying for this and it didn’t disappoint!
3.5🌶
___________________
Kane.
Kane holds a special place in my heart.
Watching him grow into the confident man in love he becomes was great. Watching him help Onyx grow was even better.
He broke into her like no one had.
This was a great duet!! I had been dying for this and it didn’t disappoint!
September 24, 2022
I think we should chip in all of us for “mafia kingpins anonymous” and get them the help they need nay deserve
May 24, 2023
I would read five more books of this series. Absolutely loved it sm
June 21, 2023
The spice was perfection. The character development was extraordinary. Very happy with the way this duet ended.
June 18, 2022
God, I love Onyx and Ezekiel so much! And Maddy and Shi and Olly now too. I hated Fiona in the first book but her character growth was too good to make me keep that hate and I loved her too in this one. Everything was so beautiful and powerful, the details and quotes and chemistry just blew my mind away. I love this book!
August 13, 2022
3.5 rounded up!
May 4, 2022
Oooooeeeee!!
I love these books! I think the first kept my attention a little more then this one But I loved it none the less 🥵😍
I love these books! I think the first kept my attention a little more then this one But I loved it none the less 🥵😍
May 30, 2022
This was a thrilling end to The Wicked Wonderland Duet. I've truly enjoyed the time I've spent with Onyx and Ezekiel, as well as the rest of the cast in this dark mafia duology. Lee is always a pleasure to read... in more than one way!
Where Queen of Madness built the underworld of Seattle, outlining the tension and disputes between the mafia families, King of Ruin dives right into the action as the intricacies of the events from the first book unfold. As always with books rooted in dark mafia and criminal families, please be aware of triggers as you continue their story.
Onyx is wary - she feels as through she's been betrayed by the man she placed her full trust in. Her found-family has been broken and she is at the mercy of the Irish mafia. There is amazing character development as she tries to hold onto her fiery independence despite Ezekiel's betrayal and her ultimate captivity.
It was interesting to see the power play between the two key characters. Both continue their fight for dominance - as well as their own inner battle to not acknowledge the feelings and desires that could jeopardize their positions.
Again, this book uses multiple POVs - mainly Onyx and Ezekiel - but also a scattering of the Embros group and Ezekiel's sister. Flashbacks are used to gain context on Ezekiel's history and, like a puzzle, the reader is able to piece together his motivations: Some known, and some a surprise. It provides a great depth to the situation, as well as helps the reader gain insight on what's happening outside of Onyx's situation and the aftermath of the first book.
The spice in this one continues to live up to Lee's set standards. Where the first book is about the fight for control and dominance, this one takes a bit more of a sweet approach as different angles of their relationship comes to light, and the power structure has shifted. Dare I say there could've been more spice? Yes, but that's almost a guarantee for me as a woman coming into her "prime", if you know what I mean.
The subtle nods to Alice in Wonderland ran throughout, and Lee did an amazing job at entwining small plot points in book one, and even a the beginning of this one, and as they came together at the big reveal, I was honestly floored!
Though I'm sad to see this duology come to an end, there has been a teaser to a novella in the same universe - and perhaps more coming from the amazingly dark mind of the author. Stay tuned!!
Where Queen of Madness built the underworld of Seattle, outlining the tension and disputes between the mafia families, King of Ruin dives right into the action as the intricacies of the events from the first book unfold. As always with books rooted in dark mafia and criminal families, please be aware of triggers as you continue their story.
Onyx is wary - she feels as through she's been betrayed by the man she placed her full trust in. Her found-family has been broken and she is at the mercy of the Irish mafia. There is amazing character development as she tries to hold onto her fiery independence despite Ezekiel's betrayal and her ultimate captivity.
It was interesting to see the power play between the two key characters. Both continue their fight for dominance - as well as their own inner battle to not acknowledge the feelings and desires that could jeopardize their positions.
Again, this book uses multiple POVs - mainly Onyx and Ezekiel - but also a scattering of the Embros group and Ezekiel's sister. Flashbacks are used to gain context on Ezekiel's history and, like a puzzle, the reader is able to piece together his motivations: Some known, and some a surprise. It provides a great depth to the situation, as well as helps the reader gain insight on what's happening outside of Onyx's situation and the aftermath of the first book.
The spice in this one continues to live up to Lee's set standards. Where the first book is about the fight for control and dominance, this one takes a bit more of a sweet approach as different angles of their relationship comes to light, and the power structure has shifted. Dare I say there could've been more spice? Yes, but that's almost a guarantee for me as a woman coming into her "prime", if you know what I mean.
The subtle nods to Alice in Wonderland ran throughout, and Lee did an amazing job at entwining small plot points in book one, and even a the beginning of this one, and as they came together at the big reveal, I was honestly floored!
Though I'm sad to see this duology come to an end, there has been a teaser to a novella in the same universe - and perhaps more coming from the amazingly dark mind of the author. Stay tuned!!
October 8, 2022
dnf around 80% ish. not picked this up in months so it’s not going to happen. didn’t hit like the first book and i’m not sure why, hence the average rating
July 29, 2022
3.5⭐️
October 24, 2023
I loved the first book, and I loved this book too. But personally, for me, the first book was better. I liked Ezekiel in book 1, but after this, I loved him. Seeing the stuff he went through since he was 6 just broke my heart. The stuff Phineas did to him for years was inhumane and nasty. Seeing how Ezekiel went through it all just to be able to have freedom for himself, his mom, and his sister 💔 I didn't like his mom AT ALL. That woman was disgusting (to me) until the end. No matter how much she was heartbroken because Phineas took her baby, BUT STILL she had a 10 year old son who was getting abused weekly and then had to look after his 1 year old sister by himself 😭 This woman didn't care for him or Fiona... and even at the end, knowing what happened, she didn't ask how Ezekiel was and didn't even thank him 💀 she was just none stop asking about her daughter Harlow... as if she didn't have two damn kids that she pushed away and forgotten about. I loved Onyx in the first book and here too I felt bad for her and got why she was mad and why she felt betrayed by Ezekiel, but after some time she started to get on my nerves! Ezekiel was so in love and obsessed with her, he was literally a fool for her and did and would do anything for her. After a while of going through all that abuse and nasty stuff, he made a plan to save himself and run away with his mom and sister, but after he met and fell for Onyx, he couldn't stand the fact that something could happen to her, so he changed his plans 😭 Onyx didn't know it at first, so I got why she felt the way she felt. But after he told her about having a plant to save everyone and also help her get revenge, and all about the stuff that happen to him, I was expecting her to understand him more 💔 The way she acted after he killed Phineas was not okay... She didn't even try to see his side and why he needed and had to be the one to kill the man who took his life and made it miserable 😭 I get Phineas was the one who ordered her parents kill, so she felt like she had to kill him and Sam (who killed her parents and more 🤢) AND Ezekiel made sure she got to be the one to torture and kill Sam. But even after that, she got mad and shot him and destroyed the letter he left for her and on top of this all she didn't even say sorry or anything at the end... But I was really happy and glad that she finally had her closure and took revenge for her parents deaths. I was glad Ezekiel was there for her when she finally let go and grieved for her parents, for her selfless and how she become all these years. Even after that ending wasn't satisfying for me and it didn't like a complete end. Epilogue didn't give anything either 😭 ALSO what happen to Kilo broke my heart but I was glad to see he was okay, and it seemed like he and Ezekiels sister Fiona got something going on, so I hope they will get their own book 🤭 The little part for Maddy and Harlow, at the end made me excited for their book. I don't really like or care about Harlow but I do love Maddy, so I will be reading their book when it's out ❤️
Book Tropes 📝
— dark romance
— mafia romance
— forced proximity
— female mob boss x bodyguard
— alice in wonderland, queen of hearts inspired (not a retelling)
Book Tropes 📝
— dark romance
— mafia romance
— forced proximity
— female mob boss x bodyguard
— alice in wonderland, queen of hearts inspired (not a retelling)
April 30, 2022
I know I’m in the minority, but I wish this would have been one book with several novellas for the side characters. The pacing was off for me and I felt myself going into skim mode 😬. I liked the bones of the story.
May 30, 2022
YESSSSSSSSS!!!!!! This was everything that I wanted and more!! I really didn’t know what to expect from this duet after Queen of Madness but when I say this gave me LIFE!!!! Onyx and Kane are the mafia couple of my dreams!! They are both so stubborn but also have a deep rooted need for redemption. Nothing could’ve prepared me for the ending but so glad it didn’t end in a cliffhanger cause I don’t know if my heart would be able to handle it!! Great read to kick off the summer!! Can’t wait for the novellas!!!!
December 14, 2022
"Then again, it doesn't matter. She's the queen of my madness, I am the king of her ruin, and this is our wonderland."
My expectations were high after Queen of Madness but Lee Jacquot blew my mind again! She outdid herself with this one. This series is hands down one of the best mafia romances I've ever read. The plot, the twists, the characters, the action, the romance, the smut... everything was completely amazing. This will definitely be my joker because I need more people to know this duet.
I can't say much without spoiling huge things. There have been major developments since the end of the first book. I was expecting that cliffhanger, but most definitely not expecting how things turned out from there. The plot twists were so good I couldn't put this book down.
Onyx and Ezekiel. These two. They totally wrecked me. I cried with them but also wanted to strangle them multiple times. But seeing them finding solace in each other? Otherworldly. It helps a lot when the author writes smut like a champ.
I can recommend this duet enough, but please, read the TW. I'm pretty desensitized by now and still got nauseous with some things that happened.
My expectations were high after Queen of Madness but Lee Jacquot blew my mind again! She outdid herself with this one. This series is hands down one of the best mafia romances I've ever read. The plot, the twists, the characters, the action, the romance, the smut... everything was completely amazing. This will definitely be my joker because I need more people to know this duet.
I can't say much without spoiling huge things. There have been major developments since the end of the first book. I was expecting that cliffhanger, but most definitely not expecting how things turned out from there. The plot twists were so good I couldn't put this book down.
Onyx and Ezekiel. These two. They totally wrecked me. I cried with them but also wanted to strangle them multiple times. But seeing them finding solace in each other? Otherworldly. It helps a lot when the author writes smut like a champ.
I can recommend this duet enough, but please, read the TW. I'm pretty desensitized by now and still got nauseous with some things that happened.
July 15, 2022
This one was a brutal but fitting end to the Duet. I wanted more angst and more groveling or something.
The spice was hotter than in QoM 🥵 I hated but also loved the scenes. Ezkeiel and Onyx being a Switch is so hot 🔥 But I would have liked it if Onyx was in charge more. ❤️
The tension and the way secrets and the plot unravels is fantastic. I was expecting Onyx to be more in control. I don't know.
Something just felt missing. I guess I loved King of Carnage and books like that too much and expected this book to be like that 😄🥰
The spice was hotter than in QoM 🥵 I hated but also loved the scenes. Ezkeiel and Onyx being a Switch is so hot 🔥 But I would have liked it if Onyx was in charge more. ❤️
The tension and the way secrets and the plot unravels is fantastic. I was expecting Onyx to be more in control. I don't know.
Something just felt missing. I guess I loved King of Carnage and books like that too much and expected this book to be like that 😄🥰
Displaying 1 - 30 of 253 reviews