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Under The Oak Tree - Novel #2
Under the Oak Tree: Volume 2 (The Novel) (Under the Oak Tree
Most fairytales end with a wedding and a happily-ever-after—but this is no fairytale. The updated and official translation of Under the Oak Tree, the #1 webnovel on MANTA, continues in this second volume.
As her first winter in Anatol turns to spring, Lady Maximilian finds herself confronting an unfamiliar hope. Her voice and her magic strengthen every day; the only parts of Calypse Castle left to refurbish are its gardens, which she plans to fill with blooming flowers; and the way her husband, the recalcitrant war hero Sir Riftan, looks at her from across their bedroom makes her feel, for the first time in her life, that she might be worthy of love and affection.
However, Maxi's life is never that easy. Just as she begins to feel at home with Riftan, Maxi receives a surprise visit from Princess Agnes, the renowned sorceress who might have become Riftan's wife if he'd decided to divorce Maxi after the Dragon Campaign. Not at all what Maxi expected, the princess stirs up complicated emotions and politics that could lead to monumental changes in Maxi and Riftan's relationship.
This volume collects chapters 77-133 of the original webnovel by Suji Kim.
As her first winter in Anatol turns to spring, Lady Maximilian finds herself confronting an unfamiliar hope. Her voice and her magic strengthen every day; the only parts of Calypse Castle left to refurbish are its gardens, which she plans to fill with blooming flowers; and the way her husband, the recalcitrant war hero Sir Riftan, looks at her from across their bedroom makes her feel, for the first time in her life, that she might be worthy of love and affection.
However, Maxi's life is never that easy. Just as she begins to feel at home with Riftan, Maxi receives a surprise visit from Princess Agnes, the renowned sorceress who might have become Riftan's wife if he'd decided to divorce Maxi after the Dragon Campaign. Not at all what Maxi expected, the princess stirs up complicated emotions and politics that could lead to monumental changes in Maxi and Riftan's relationship.
This volume collects chapters 77-133 of the original webnovel by Suji Kim.
406 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 30, 2025
217 people are currently reading
1684 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 167 reviews
August 21, 2025
Did a cheeky reread of one of my fav couples ever and omagosh it actually brought back all the best feels 😫😫 I missed them so much like truly will never get over their soulmatery.
I’m def feeling homesick after my reread 💔
RiftanMaxi are THE toxic but softest couple I’ve ever read and nothing will ever come close or hold a candle to how much they mean to me.
The growth of maxi’s character? I’ve never been prouder. And seeing Riftan squirm when maxi puts him in place is always 🤭🤭 god I love them SFM.
ೃ⁀➷ Thank you NetGalley and Del Rey for the ARC! ♥︎
I’m def feeling homesick after my reread 💔
RiftanMaxi are THE toxic but softest couple I’ve ever read and nothing will ever come close or hold a candle to how much they mean to me.
The growth of maxi’s character? I’ve never been prouder. And seeing Riftan squirm when maxi puts him in place is always 🤭🤭 god I love them SFM.
ೃ⁀➷ Thank you NetGalley and Del Rey for the ARC! ♥︎
December 11, 2025
Am savurat fiecare moment din această poveste agonizant de lentă.
Nota mea este pentru toată seria.
Nota mea este pentru toată seria.
November 30, 2025
2.5
Disclaimer: I hate this book with a passion but for some reason I am addicted to this series, I’m not a hate-reader but I am when it comes to this series because I’m in sheer disbelief that something like this can be published in the Year 2025! BUT it’s laced with crack or something because it’s so entertaining, I think I’m getting flashbacks to my Wattpad days.
Maxi is the Y/N final pick-me boss.
I genuinely don’t understand how Riftan is supposed to be the love interest when he:
- infantilizes her
- thinks she’s stupid and treats her like a pet most of the time
- does not care about her interests
- has no interest in opening up to her
- only uses her for her body and most times with murky consent
- does not respect her
- the ONE time he could’ve showed his dominant side that’s not weaponized against her was when there were some random girls flirting with him and HE didn’t shut it down???? Tf????? He even stammered and Maxi herself had to tell the girlies to back tf off her husband and he went all like ‘uhhh…yeah I guess back off girls…’ WHAT. And then he tries to pounce on her two pages later because of how ‘hard’ that made him? Like sorry, that doesn’t make you an alpha male, that actually shows you cannot stand up and respect your woman but then again, RIFTAN DOES NOT RESPECT MAXI, he doesn’t care about her beyond the bedroom.
Besties, we deserve a man who yearns and respects his woman. This is not romance but a fkn cautionary tale.
Disclaimer: I hate this book with a passion but for some reason I am addicted to this series, I’m not a hate-reader but I am when it comes to this series because I’m in sheer disbelief that something like this can be published in the Year 2025! BUT it’s laced with crack or something because it’s so entertaining, I think I’m getting flashbacks to my Wattpad days.
Maxi is the Y/N final pick-me boss.
I genuinely don’t understand how Riftan is supposed to be the love interest when he:
- infantilizes her
- thinks she’s stupid and treats her like a pet most of the time
- does not care about her interests
- has no interest in opening up to her
- only uses her for her body and most times with murky consent
- does not respect her
- the ONE time he could’ve showed his dominant side that’s not weaponized against her was when there were some random girls flirting with him and HE didn’t shut it down???? Tf????? He even stammered and Maxi herself had to tell the girlies to back tf off her husband and he went all like ‘uhhh…yeah I guess back off girls…’ WHAT. And then he tries to pounce on her two pages later because of how ‘hard’ that made him? Like sorry, that doesn’t make you an alpha male, that actually shows you cannot stand up and respect your woman but then again, RIFTAN DOES NOT RESPECT MAXI, he doesn’t care about her beyond the bedroom.
Besties, we deserve a man who yearns and respects his woman. This is not romance but a fkn cautionary tale.
September 7, 2025
Headlines:
Adventures
Learning each other
Give and take
I devoured the second volume novel of this series, it was captivating. I hold complete bias for Maxi and Riftan but Suji Kim keeps everything interesting and fresh with relationship hurdles and a plot full of adventure.
I was most delighted to see Maxi outside of the castle, respected for some of her developing talents and crucially, her belief in herself. Maxi is such an endearing character, her growth over books 1 & 2 is immense and beautiful to see her coming into a sense of worth. She still has anxiety and uncertainty in her relationship, but there was a sense of some firmer footing in those aspects.
Talking of growth, Riftan was forced to see Maxi in a different light outside of the bedroom. There was nothing easy about this but it was so satifying to see him capitulate! I love how their emotional intimacy is developing, the feelings are full x 100 and the longings continue.
Where this volume left off isn't cliff hanger territory but it's a pause before more exciting times, so I cannot wait to read on. Roll on next year for volume 3.
Thank you DelRey UK/Inklore for the eARC
Adventures
Learning each other
Give and take
I devoured the second volume novel of this series, it was captivating. I hold complete bias for Maxi and Riftan but Suji Kim keeps everything interesting and fresh with relationship hurdles and a plot full of adventure.
I was most delighted to see Maxi outside of the castle, respected for some of her developing talents and crucially, her belief in herself. Maxi is such an endearing character, her growth over books 1 & 2 is immense and beautiful to see her coming into a sense of worth. She still has anxiety and uncertainty in her relationship, but there was a sense of some firmer footing in those aspects.
Talking of growth, Riftan was forced to see Maxi in a different light outside of the bedroom. There was nothing easy about this but it was so satifying to see him capitulate! I love how their emotional intimacy is developing, the feelings are full x 100 and the longings continue.
Where this volume left off isn't cliff hanger territory but it's a pause before more exciting times, so I cannot wait to read on. Roll on next year for volume 3.
Thank you DelRey UK/Inklore for the eARC
November 26, 2025
The novel was alr, but the ML needs to be castrated.🤷🏻♀️
August 26, 2025
Significantly less spicy than the first novel but in a good way, Riftan was too horny and Maxi was the weakest woman alive. In the second installment, Maxi grows a backbone and Riftan holds his urges in check, so both are more palatable. I'm really enjoying the magic learning and just about every time Ruth shows up, he seems the most real of all the characters.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
December 31, 2025
Just like in vol 1, I was rooting for Maxi the entire time. Her journey toward confidence and self-worth is slow, uneven, and often painful but it feels incredibly real. Every small step she takes feels like a victory. This volume leans heavily into emotional growth rather than nonstop action, and I appreciated that. Maxi’s inner struggles are just as important as the external conflicts and seeing her push herself despite fear made me genuinely proud of her. She’s not a loud or bold heroine, but her quiet resilience is powerful.
Riftan remains intense and deeply devoted, sometimes to a fault, and their relationship continues to be shaped by misunderstandings and unspoken wounds. It can be frustrating, but it also makes their bond feel complex and human.
Overall, Vol. 2 strengthened my attachment to the story because it strengthened Maxi. If you’re someone who roots for character growth and emotional payoff, this installment delivers.
I cannot wait for Vol 3!!
Riftan remains intense and deeply devoted, sometimes to a fault, and their relationship continues to be shaped by misunderstandings and unspoken wounds. It can be frustrating, but it also makes their bond feel complex and human.
Overall, Vol. 2 strengthened my attachment to the story because it strengthened Maxi. If you’re someone who roots for character growth and emotional payoff, this installment delivers.
I cannot wait for Vol 3!!
December 9, 2025
At a certain point I thought, “oh this is how I die… an aneurysm.” I forgave Maxi in the first volume: young, doe-eyed, virgin bride. Repressed and abused her whole life then taken away to her war hero husband’s land, not knowing what to expect from him or their relationship. But come on? Can we please stop acting the battered, scared, invalid child and just start acting a teeeeensy bit more badass? Seriously, I grow zits bigger than the pair of cajones she has by the end of this volume.
October 27, 2025
5 ⭐️ “Under the Oak Tree” remains one of my absolute favorite series. Genuinely, it lives rent-free in my mind and I am always thinking about these characters, and I WISH that more people knew about them.
For my fellow long-term fans of the series, this covers roughly (re: the ebook translations before the traditional publishing) Season 1, Vol. 2 (the very end of it) through Season 1, Vol. 4 (about mid-way through).
We get all the sweet and awkward parts of their relationship developing (Riftan’s concern “you’re bleeding?!” never fails to crack me up), seeing Maxi come into her own in running the castle, and training her magic.
This really is a big turning point in their relationship — Riftan gets to see Maxi struggle & then hold her own (somewhat lol) on their way from Anatol to Livadon. I think that is what really makes me love this story — Maxi struggles and fights for every bit of progress in her story. It is rarely easy for her — so often in fantasy novels, the FMC struggles for just a little bit and then becomes an utter warrior quickly - and while I do love that in those books, what I love for Maxi is that she fights and works hard for every single scrap of progress she makes. Even if the face of what looks like an insurmountable task, she does not give up. Even when her insecurities and doubts sometime get a hold of her, she fights and puts in the work anyway.
Riftan is genuinely the blueprint even though I want to bang their heads together like coconuts and scream “COMMUNICATE.” Maxi’s doubt about the depths of his feelings is so funny (and frustrating) to read sometimes, because it is very clear to us that truly, all the man wants to do is lay facedown in her lap and never leave. There is “down bad” and then there is Riftan Calypse. Truly, I don’t know if I have ever read another MMC like him.
Thank you so much @netgalley and the publishers for this eARC — I have my preorder in for the beautiful physical copy to join the first one, and I frequently go back and read all my highlights & bookmarks (I am always one minor encouragement from rereading) — to be honest, I am already mentally planning to reread both my physical copies once this one is released!
For my fellow long-term fans of the series, this covers roughly (re: the ebook translations before the traditional publishing) Season 1, Vol. 2 (the very end of it) through Season 1, Vol. 4 (about mid-way through).
We get all the sweet and awkward parts of their relationship developing (Riftan’s concern “you’re bleeding?!” never fails to crack me up), seeing Maxi come into her own in running the castle, and training her magic.
This really is a big turning point in their relationship — Riftan gets to see Maxi struggle & then hold her own (somewhat lol) on their way from Anatol to Livadon. I think that is what really makes me love this story — Maxi struggles and fights for every bit of progress in her story. It is rarely easy for her — so often in fantasy novels, the FMC struggles for just a little bit and then becomes an utter warrior quickly - and while I do love that in those books, what I love for Maxi is that she fights and works hard for every single scrap of progress she makes. Even if the face of what looks like an insurmountable task, she does not give up. Even when her insecurities and doubts sometime get a hold of her, she fights and puts in the work anyway.
Riftan is genuinely the blueprint even though I want to bang their heads together like coconuts and scream “COMMUNICATE.” Maxi’s doubt about the depths of his feelings is so funny (and frustrating) to read sometimes, because it is very clear to us that truly, all the man wants to do is lay facedown in her lap and never leave. There is “down bad” and then there is Riftan Calypse. Truly, I don’t know if I have ever read another MMC like him.
Thank you so much @netgalley and the publishers for this eARC — I have my preorder in for the beautiful physical copy to join the first one, and I frequently go back and read all my highlights & bookmarks (I am always one minor encouragement from rereading) — to be honest, I am already mentally planning to reread both my physical copies once this one is released!
December 30, 2025
3.5 Stars
Format: Audiobook
This was giving me the biggest sense of déjà vu until I remembered that I had read ahead on the webtoon after completing the first book. 😅
I have mixed feelings about this one because on one hand I loved Maxi finally starting to develop her own backbone and strengthening her magic skills, but on the other hand Riftan was in his full Tamlin-era and giving me the ick.
Overall, the writing of these books reads very much like “telling” rather than “showing” but it helps to have the comic on hand so you can see the gorgeous artwork to fully experience the story.
Format: Audiobook
This was giving me the biggest sense of déjà vu until I remembered that I had read ahead on the webtoon after completing the first book. 😅
I have mixed feelings about this one because on one hand I loved Maxi finally starting to develop her own backbone and strengthening her magic skills, but on the other hand Riftan was in his full Tamlin-era and giving me the ick.
Overall, the writing of these books reads very much like “telling” rather than “showing” but it helps to have the comic on hand so you can see the gorgeous artwork to fully experience the story.
November 16, 2025
Even if you've read the ebook releases, this is worth revisiting - the cleaned up print version of the story is much better while still retaining the ludicrous "just talk to each other!" elements.
November 24, 2025
Look, I know it's not well written or literary, or anything of the sort. But I'm obsessed.
November 22, 2025
plot? never heard of her
November 2, 2025
TL;DR: Unfortunately this was not an improvement on the first book.
Source: NetGalley - Thank you to the publisher!!
Plot: Maxi spends a lot of time being deeply self conscious and Riftan spends just as much time thinking with his dick.
Characters: I was so disappointed by them.
Setting: Not strong at all, I wish we’d gotten more.
Fantasy: The fantasy was fine! I enjoyed the magic though some more details would have been nice.
Thoughts:
I had a lot of positive thoughts and feelings about volume one of this series, and I had so much hope for the improvement of the characters in volume two. Maxi was on the way to learning magic, she seemed to have finally gotten some legs under her and was pulling herself up. Riftan, I had hoped, was coming to see her as a capable woman and not a delicate piece of meat he got to stick it in. Sadly both of them kept to the attitudes and flaws they had.
I cannot even tell you the plot because I was so disappointed by the characters. This one was not for me, it didn’t work in a way that translated in my brain. Even now after finishing it all I can think about is how frustrated I was with Maxi and how gross Riftan turned out to be (which was probably my biggest disappointment with the novel).
I can’t recommend this and honestly, I might not recommend the first book anymore either simply because this follow up was so poorly done. If you enjoyed the first book you could enjoy this one, I’m sure but I can’t in good faith recommend you continue.
Source: NetGalley - Thank you to the publisher!!
Plot: Maxi spends a lot of time being deeply self conscious and Riftan spends just as much time thinking with his dick.
Characters: I was so disappointed by them.
Setting: Not strong at all, I wish we’d gotten more.
Fantasy: The fantasy was fine! I enjoyed the magic though some more details would have been nice.
Thoughts:
I had a lot of positive thoughts and feelings about volume one of this series, and I had so much hope for the improvement of the characters in volume two. Maxi was on the way to learning magic, she seemed to have finally gotten some legs under her and was pulling herself up. Riftan, I had hoped, was coming to see her as a capable woman and not a delicate piece of meat he got to stick it in. Sadly both of them kept to the attitudes and flaws they had.
I cannot even tell you the plot because I was so disappointed by the characters. This one was not for me, it didn’t work in a way that translated in my brain. Even now after finishing it all I can think about is how frustrated I was with Maxi and how gross Riftan turned out to be (which was probably my biggest disappointment with the novel).
I can’t recommend this and honestly, I might not recommend the first book anymore either simply because this follow up was so poorly done. If you enjoyed the first book you could enjoy this one, I’m sure but I can’t in good faith recommend you continue.
November 25, 2025
Review to come! 🌳
(FINAL REVIEW:)
This was the second installment of a manwha that I got hooked on back in 2020 and man did this fix my once in a blue moon itching for romance. Again, I have no idea what it is about this book and characters that make me devour it and have me kicking my feet giggling like a schoolgirl, but man this will go down as one of my favorite romantasy plots.💋
The book picks up a few days after the conclusion of the first book. Maxi has gotten more comfortable with her life at Calypse Castle and her role as the Lady of the Castle and wife of Riftan. I liked that she continues to grow as a person in this, and that she does take a stand against Riftan when he gets overbearing. Speaking of him, while I know that he has his reasons and that there will be chapters in his POV, man is it getting hard to give the man some grace in this volume. 😮💨
I won’t talk more about the plot and what happens in this book as I don’t want to accidentally spoil it for people who are interested in reading this at some point or another, but just know that if I, as someone who doesn’t particularly enjoy romance as the sole focus or one of the big focuses in fantasy books, can enjoy this, then maybe this might be a sign that it might be worth picking up. Again, you should look into the trigger warnings before getting into this series though because it does deal a lot with child abuse and how one learns to come out of it (for both Maxi and Riftan, though his POV isn’t always there), so it would be best to think about this before diving into this. ‼️
But thank you again goes to Inklore Books and NetGalley for accepting my request to read this in exchange for an honest (and a little late) review, and to the author, Kim, for getting me into the full aspect of romantasy with these characters. ❤️
Publication date: November 18!
Overall: 4.5/5 ⭐️
(FINAL REVIEW:)
This was the second installment of a manwha that I got hooked on back in 2020 and man did this fix my once in a blue moon itching for romance. Again, I have no idea what it is about this book and characters that make me devour it and have me kicking my feet giggling like a schoolgirl, but man this will go down as one of my favorite romantasy plots.💋
The book picks up a few days after the conclusion of the first book. Maxi has gotten more comfortable with her life at Calypse Castle and her role as the Lady of the Castle and wife of Riftan. I liked that she continues to grow as a person in this, and that she does take a stand against Riftan when he gets overbearing. Speaking of him, while I know that he has his reasons and that there will be chapters in his POV, man is it getting hard to give the man some grace in this volume. 😮💨
I won’t talk more about the plot and what happens in this book as I don’t want to accidentally spoil it for people who are interested in reading this at some point or another, but just know that if I, as someone who doesn’t particularly enjoy romance as the sole focus or one of the big focuses in fantasy books, can enjoy this, then maybe this might be a sign that it might be worth picking up. Again, you should look into the trigger warnings before getting into this series though because it does deal a lot with child abuse and how one learns to come out of it (for both Maxi and Riftan, though his POV isn’t always there), so it would be best to think about this before diving into this. ‼️
But thank you again goes to Inklore Books and NetGalley for accepting my request to read this in exchange for an honest (and a little late) review, and to the author, Kim, for getting me into the full aspect of romantasy with these characters. ❤️
Publication date: November 18!
Overall: 4.5/5 ⭐️
December 31, 2025
2.5 ⭐️ rounded up to 3 ⭐️ because the book picked up in the middle after Maxi started standing up for herself more and her and Riftan's relationship started to grow slowly.
But they still have a communication issue and I found it hard to deal with Maxi's insecurities and constant crying during the first half. It made sense in book 1, but it bothered me in book 2 and made Maxi less likeable to me.
But they still have a communication issue and I found it hard to deal with Maxi's insecurities and constant crying during the first half. It made sense in book 1, but it bothered me in book 2 and made Maxi less likeable to me.
November 24, 2025
2nd book is better than first. I liked how Maxi is growing as a character. She is starting to stand up for herself and push herself to be more. She still has trauma and has issues, but she has definitely grown as a character.
We got more of Riftan's backstory in this, and I feel he will have trauma of his own.
My complaint is the lack of a definite villain. We're learning of a monster army, but 2 books in, and that's all we know.
We got more of Riftan's backstory in this, and I feel he will have trauma of his own.
My complaint is the lack of a definite villain. We're learning of a monster army, but 2 books in, and that's all we know.
December 13, 2025
Life lessons from Under the Oak Tree Vol 2: a partnership only works if you take care of each other - and allow yourself to be cared for
4.5⭐️
4.5⭐️
December 31, 2025
So good, next book please!
December 13, 2025
there is CRACK in these books.
even so, let’s wonder why the main male lead is so unlikable.. oh I know. he has a stick up his lower shi.
GOD I wanted to smack people many times during this book. the story got better tho (at least something is happening) and it was refreshing to see this girl finally growing a backbone, for five minutes though, cause she always ends up doing what this dude wants. At least we’re getting new characters I guess??
I don’t know how I’m going to be entertained last book because it left on a monotone premise again.. Riftan going to war, Maxi sulking. and if there’s something I loathee is misplaced yearning.
forgot to add.. these mfs can’t communicate for shit. has a problem been resolved between them? NO they just never talk about it and just bang.
even so, let’s wonder why the main male lead is so unlikable.. oh I know. he has a stick up his lower shi.
GOD I wanted to smack people many times during this book. the story got better tho (at least something is happening) and it was refreshing to see this girl finally growing a backbone, for five minutes though, cause she always ends up doing what this dude wants. At least we’re getting new characters I guess??
I don’t know how I’m going to be entertained last book because it left on a monotone premise again.. Riftan going to war, Maxi sulking. and if there’s something I loathee is misplaced yearning.
forgot to add.. these mfs can’t communicate for shit. has a problem been resolved between them? NO they just never talk about it and just bang.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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November 15, 2025Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy
Under the Oak Tree: Volume 2 (The Novel) by Suji Kim is the third person-POV fantasy romance continuation of the story of Maxi and Riftan. After being married for a while, Maxi and Riftan have settled into their new life together, but tensions arise as Maxi becomes more determined to use her magic and she and Riftan don’t always see eye-to-eye.
Words cannot express how much I love this series. Maxi and Riftan’s story is the absolute best fantasy romance out there and I am in awe of how Kim Suji wields their insecurities to explore how it would impact a romantic relationship without making either character unlikeable. This book has some of my favorite moments of the series, because this is when the cracks really start to show and when Maxi starts being more assertive. I’m obsessed with the moment at the festival when Riftan is so overcome with desire that he drags Maxi away because it not only shows how much he needs her, but how Maxi is starting to change and be bolder.
This is also the book that starts to deal more with family planning and the anxiety around possibly being infertile. There is no confirmation in this book whether or not Maxi can have children, but she knows her mother struggled to get pregnant and then carry children full term and Maxi’s own cycle is very inconsistent. So many people deal quietly with fertility and it’s so important to books discussing those fears and the various ways in which they manifest.
I need book three now. I need to read in Maxi’s POV about her relationship with her sister and the furthering of her relationship with Rosetta and what I know is going to come.
I would recommend this to fans of romantasy and readers who love complicated relationships
Under the Oak Tree: Volume 2 (The Novel) by Suji Kim is the third person-POV fantasy romance continuation of the story of Maxi and Riftan. After being married for a while, Maxi and Riftan have settled into their new life together, but tensions arise as Maxi becomes more determined to use her magic and she and Riftan don’t always see eye-to-eye.
Words cannot express how much I love this series. Maxi and Riftan’s story is the absolute best fantasy romance out there and I am in awe of how Kim Suji wields their insecurities to explore how it would impact a romantic relationship without making either character unlikeable. This book has some of my favorite moments of the series, because this is when the cracks really start to show and when Maxi starts being more assertive. I’m obsessed with the moment at the festival when Riftan is so overcome with desire that he drags Maxi away because it not only shows how much he needs her, but how Maxi is starting to change and be bolder.
This is also the book that starts to deal more with family planning and the anxiety around possibly being infertile. There is no confirmation in this book whether or not Maxi can have children, but she knows her mother struggled to get pregnant and then carry children full term and Maxi’s own cycle is very inconsistent. So many people deal quietly with fertility and it’s so important to books discussing those fears and the various ways in which they manifest.
I need book three now. I need to read in Maxi’s POV about her relationship with her sister and the furthering of her relationship with Rosetta and what I know is going to come.
I would recommend this to fans of romantasy and readers who love complicated relationships
December 8, 2025
Thank you Netgalley for a copy of this story
After I read the first novel I wasn't sure if I would be continuing the series but after reading more of the webtoon I'm interested in how this ends so I've decided to get into the novels.
This is less spicy then the first which made this more enjoyable for me since Maxis inner monologue during the spicy scenes in the first volume made me not like it. Her inner monologue did change in this so the few scenes they had she was more into.
While I like Maxi and loved that she is starting to grow a back bone I'm not sure how to feel about Riftan. While he does try and contain his sexual urges in this I still don't like how he treats her. He's overprotective and just the way he tends to speak to her is frustrating. He's very hot and cold with her and it's frustrating to read at times. I'd love to see him soften for her. I think maybe his brusque manner is from being around mercenaries all his life. it seems the most he's been around a woman in princess Agnes and he's ruder to her since he doesn't have feelings for her. Either way I just want him to be nicer to his wife and open up to her instead of thinking her trying to get to know him is an interrogation. He seems to like when she is soft and open with him I don't understand why he wouldn't think she would like that in return
After I read the first novel I wasn't sure if I would be continuing the series but after reading more of the webtoon I'm interested in how this ends so I've decided to get into the novels.
This is less spicy then the first which made this more enjoyable for me since Maxis inner monologue during the spicy scenes in the first volume made me not like it. Her inner monologue did change in this so the few scenes they had she was more into.
While I like Maxi and loved that she is starting to grow a back bone I'm not sure how to feel about Riftan. While he does try and contain his sexual urges in this I still don't like how he treats her. He's overprotective and just the way he tends to speak to her is frustrating. He's very hot and cold with her and it's frustrating to read at times. I'd love to see him soften for her. I think maybe his brusque manner is from being around mercenaries all his life. it seems the most he's been around a woman in princess Agnes and he's ruder to her since he doesn't have feelings for her. Either way I just want him to be nicer to his wife and open up to her instead of thinking her trying to get to know him is an interrogation. He seems to like when she is soft and open with him I don't understand why he wouldn't think she would like that in return
October 12, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley and the author for an advanced copy of this book.
I have been a massive fan of the original website series for years and already own the first novel so was very excited to have the opportunity to read the second novel in the book series. I shall be purchasing a physical copy!
This continues from where the first book finished and I was not disappointed. Like with the first book, Suji Kim captures the feel of the series and the characters perfectly. I really enjoyed revisiting the story of Riftan and Maxi. The story telling is enjoyable and easy to get into. The characters are funny and likeable.
If you like knights, romance, magic and adventure, you'll enjoy Under the Oak Tree.
For me, these books are an easy, snuggle-on-the-sofa-for-a-good-old-romance-with-some-magic-and-spice kind of books. Perfect for this time of year!
I have been a massive fan of the original website series for years and already own the first novel so was very excited to have the opportunity to read the second novel in the book series. I shall be purchasing a physical copy!
This continues from where the first book finished and I was not disappointed. Like with the first book, Suji Kim captures the feel of the series and the characters perfectly. I really enjoyed revisiting the story of Riftan and Maxi. The story telling is enjoyable and easy to get into. The characters are funny and likeable.
If you like knights, romance, magic and adventure, you'll enjoy Under the Oak Tree.
For me, these books are an easy, snuggle-on-the-sofa-for-a-good-old-romance-with-some-magic-and-spice kind of books. Perfect for this time of year!
November 21, 2025
Again a slow pace, but considering this is an ongoing webnovel, it tracks.
I get so frustrated with Riftan. He’s so hot and cold, and most of the time he treats Maxi like crap. I get so frustrated with Maxi. I know she’s been abused most her life, and she shows such strength when she’s determined to learn something new, but she hides her feelings from Riftan. But when these two come together and are on the same page, wow. They act like they are truly in love.
I’m hoping to read Riftan’s POV novel soon, so hopefully I get more backstory and understanding into his character.
Book three is preordered!
I get so frustrated with Riftan. He’s so hot and cold, and most of the time he treats Maxi like crap. I get so frustrated with Maxi. I know she’s been abused most her life, and she shows such strength when she’s determined to learn something new, but she hides her feelings from Riftan. But when these two come together and are on the same page, wow. They act like they are truly in love.
I’m hoping to read Riftan’s POV novel soon, so hopefully I get more backstory and understanding into his character.
Book three is preordered!
January 1, 2026
Divorce, babe. Divorce.
I enjoyed the first volume of this series, but in this one I can't forgive nothing happening for over 400 pages and Riftan being an asshole the ENTIRE FUCKING BOOK or Maxi being a wet blanket who refuses to stand up for herself. There was no communication and resentment only built up in between their sex scenes.
There was very little connecting tissue in this book, just scenes threaded together with some vague semblance of a plot. I'm giving it two stars because I am still invested in the story.
Will I read book 3? Probably so.
I enjoyed the first volume of this series, but in this one I can't forgive nothing happening for over 400 pages and Riftan being an asshole the ENTIRE FUCKING BOOK or Maxi being a wet blanket who refuses to stand up for herself. There was no communication and resentment only built up in between their sex scenes.
There was very little connecting tissue in this book, just scenes threaded together with some vague semblance of a plot. I'm giving it two stars because I am still invested in the story.
Will I read book 3? Probably so.
November 18, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Del Ray for an advanced copy!
Rating: 4/5
I enjoyed this book more than volume one. We see Maxi finally get a backbone and stand up to Riftan, but there is still so much disconnect between the two. It’s very obvious they’re both obsessed with each other but aren’t willing to share their innermost thought with the other. I’m very much looking forward to reading the next!
Rating: 4/5
I enjoyed this book more than volume one. We see Maxi finally get a backbone and stand up to Riftan, but there is still so much disconnect between the two. It’s very obvious they’re both obsessed with each other but aren’t willing to share their innermost thought with the other. I’m very much looking forward to reading the next!
November 22, 2025
I don’t wanna wait for the next oneeeee! It was sooooo good, I love the novels! I’m so engrossed in the words than I am with the graphic novels which I don’t really focus on cause I think the pictures are so pretty but the novels has the detail I enjoy 😍
January 5, 2026
I enjoyed this novel more than the first. Most of the book was Maxi traveling, but her internal and physical struggles kept it interesting.
September 16, 2025
Ce livre ne sort qu'au mois de novembre mais j'ai eu la chance de le découvrir bien avance!! Autant vous dire que quand j'ai reçu le mail d'acceptation, je suis tombée des nues!!! J'adore le manga Under The Oak Tree (j'ai déjà dévoré tous les chapitres disponibles), je voulais découvrir le roman! Ce second volume retranscrit les chapitres 77 à 133 du webtoon et j'ai retrouvé l'ambiance du manga dans ce livre! J'ai adoré l'intrigue mais aussi l'évolution de la relation entre Riftan et Maxi! Cette dernière évolue aussi, prend progressivement confiance en elle et ose dire non! J'ai tellement hâte d'avoir la suite de leur histoire et je vais croiser les doigts pour qu'une traduction arrive rapidement!
En bref, un second tome à la hauteur du premier !
En bref, un second tome à la hauteur du premier !
October 1, 2025
4⭐️
2🌶️
🎧(Narrator: A.Jo; 5/5 🎤)
Themes/Tropes: Overcoming stutter, healing magic, going on a quest, personal growth/development
Firstly, a big thank you to PRB Audio and Suji Kim for the chance to read an Advanced Listener Copy of Under the Oak Tree: Volume 2. I went straight from reading volume one into reading this ALC, which I think is the good way to go because I think it’s really one large story broken apart vs. several stories in a series, like many romantic fantasy series.
This story picks right up along the timeline of when volume one ends. I enjoy this series but I was really hoping they would get further into the back story of Riftan and why he cares so deeply about Maxi. It did a tiny bit of Riftan’s backstory, but barely. I did like Maxi’s growth in this book but Riftan has a horrible temper that is really off putting. He overly babies Maxi instead of helping her grow, but he does seem to love her although neither have used that word yet.
Overall, solid read. Will be excited for the next installment.
🚨Spoiler Alert: Stop here to avoid plot spoilers 🚨
The book kicks off with news that Princess Agnes is coming to do a land inspection and will be coming with 20-30 people to stay. Riftan has become distant to Maxi and Maxi is worried the Princess coming could mean they’d divorce. That the Princess was coming to seduce Riftan, since she was almost his bride. Maxi did all the preparation for the castle and this was her first hosting as the lady of the castle.
The princess arrives and is beautiful and grace, but is wearing pants and is very uninhibited. Maxi shows the Princess around and she seems confident and has boundless energy. Riftan says he tolerates the Princess, but has zero romantic interest in her. Riftan takes the Princess to help fend off monsters by their road project and they get into a big Wyvern attack that a lot of soldiers were getting wounded by, so Maxi goes to help. She uses her healing magic but almost uses out her mana. Riftan saves her but then is very upset she put herself in danger and tells her she cannot do that again.
On one of the Princess’s last days at the Calypse castle; they attend a town festival where Maxi has fun playing and dancing; she even shows some jealousy of a woman who tries hitting on Riftan. Riftan and Maxi sneak off to the forest for some “couple time” and then the Princess shoots off fireworks that interrupt them. The Princess says she has to get back because there is a bit of a monster uprising and implies Maxi may need to go to help, but that she should come too. The Princess says Maxi has magic talent in the healing arts and she should use it.
Once the Princess leaves, Maxi goes back to not being able to do anything outside of the house chores. Due to Riftan’s displeasure, she stops studying magic but becomes listless. Riftan takes her on an outing where he admits that he feels unworthy of her due to her Nobel lineage and that he knows her father only let them wed because he was certain Riftan would die on the campaign he was going to in the Duke’s stead. But now that Riftan lived he was going to spoil her, but Maxi can’t find the nerve to tell Riftan that she was worth less than the dogs in her father’s eyes.
Riftan was out on another official duty, when a soldier gets injured with werewolf venom. Maxi doesn’t want to upset Riftan, but she goes to help him even though she’s never done a venom curing before. But she was able to do it. The soldiers found that there was a sign that the monsters were banning together to wreak havoc. They eventually get called to join the monster battle by the king, but there aren’t enough mages to go with, so Maxi volunteers to go. Riftan did NOT want her to go and was very angry. The soldiers advocated for her to go and she proved herself capable.
They departed for battle. Maxi was struggling to deal with the long days on the horse, the monster attacks en route, Riftan’s cold demeanor, and the dirty living conditions. Eventually, she found her footing and Riftan found his way back to her. They eventually made it to the port they were headed to, in order to go to the main battle. They board a ship to take them to the main land, where Riftan had convinced Maxi to stay at a monestary until the battle is over. The book ends with them together on the ship for their last night together at sea.
2🌶️
🎧(Narrator: A.Jo; 5/5 🎤)
Themes/Tropes: Overcoming stutter, healing magic, going on a quest, personal growth/development
Firstly, a big thank you to PRB Audio and Suji Kim for the chance to read an Advanced Listener Copy of Under the Oak Tree: Volume 2. I went straight from reading volume one into reading this ALC, which I think is the good way to go because I think it’s really one large story broken apart vs. several stories in a series, like many romantic fantasy series.
This story picks right up along the timeline of when volume one ends. I enjoy this series but I was really hoping they would get further into the back story of Riftan and why he cares so deeply about Maxi. It did a tiny bit of Riftan’s backstory, but barely. I did like Maxi’s growth in this book but Riftan has a horrible temper that is really off putting. He overly babies Maxi instead of helping her grow, but he does seem to love her although neither have used that word yet.
Overall, solid read. Will be excited for the next installment.
🚨Spoiler Alert: Stop here to avoid plot spoilers 🚨
The book kicks off with news that Princess Agnes is coming to do a land inspection and will be coming with 20-30 people to stay. Riftan has become distant to Maxi and Maxi is worried the Princess coming could mean they’d divorce. That the Princess was coming to seduce Riftan, since she was almost his bride. Maxi did all the preparation for the castle and this was her first hosting as the lady of the castle.
The princess arrives and is beautiful and grace, but is wearing pants and is very uninhibited. Maxi shows the Princess around and she seems confident and has boundless energy. Riftan says he tolerates the Princess, but has zero romantic interest in her. Riftan takes the Princess to help fend off monsters by their road project and they get into a big Wyvern attack that a lot of soldiers were getting wounded by, so Maxi goes to help. She uses her healing magic but almost uses out her mana. Riftan saves her but then is very upset she put herself in danger and tells her she cannot do that again.
On one of the Princess’s last days at the Calypse castle; they attend a town festival where Maxi has fun playing and dancing; she even shows some jealousy of a woman who tries hitting on Riftan. Riftan and Maxi sneak off to the forest for some “couple time” and then the Princess shoots off fireworks that interrupt them. The Princess says she has to get back because there is a bit of a monster uprising and implies Maxi may need to go to help, but that she should come too. The Princess says Maxi has magic talent in the healing arts and she should use it.
Once the Princess leaves, Maxi goes back to not being able to do anything outside of the house chores. Due to Riftan’s displeasure, she stops studying magic but becomes listless. Riftan takes her on an outing where he admits that he feels unworthy of her due to her Nobel lineage and that he knows her father only let them wed because he was certain Riftan would die on the campaign he was going to in the Duke’s stead. But now that Riftan lived he was going to spoil her, but Maxi can’t find the nerve to tell Riftan that she was worth less than the dogs in her father’s eyes.
Riftan was out on another official duty, when a soldier gets injured with werewolf venom. Maxi doesn’t want to upset Riftan, but she goes to help him even though she’s never done a venom curing before. But she was able to do it. The soldiers found that there was a sign that the monsters were banning together to wreak havoc. They eventually get called to join the monster battle by the king, but there aren’t enough mages to go with, so Maxi volunteers to go. Riftan did NOT want her to go and was very angry. The soldiers advocated for her to go and she proved herself capable.
They departed for battle. Maxi was struggling to deal with the long days on the horse, the monster attacks en route, Riftan’s cold demeanor, and the dirty living conditions. Eventually, she found her footing and Riftan found his way back to her. They eventually made it to the port they were headed to, in order to go to the main battle. They board a ship to take them to the main land, where Riftan had convinced Maxi to stay at a monestary until the battle is over. The book ends with them together on the ship for their last night together at sea.
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