They touch, kiss, and give in to every desire pulling them closer. Falling in love was never part of the plan—but now, it feels inevitable. Still, neither dares to admit it, trapped by fears and a past that won’t let go. Beneath their fake marriage, longing simmers, and silence becomes their cruelest enemy.
Meanwhile, a greater war brews outside.
Queen Ngozi and Prince Kenneth are still playing dirty. Lies, sabotage, and betrayal threaten everything.
But it only takes one event to turn the reluctant heir into a prince determined to seize the throne—by any means necessary.
For Zaysh, claiming the crown is no longer a burden. It’s a mission. A promise. A war he’s ready to win.
📖Mary does it again! Spicy, Love Filled, Lust, plot twists, betrayal, revenge, murder and intrigue WARNING- this book will cause you to click your finger on your kindle like you never have before! Please be mindful if you have not read Book 1 you MUST do so.
I need more because I just cannot get enough of this world. I never wanted this book world to end. All of the characters are relatable and make you laugh, cry, angry, sad and all the in between emotions. The main emotion I felt was the romance and the love built and established between Ayoka & Zaysh. My heart is so happy when reading their love story unfold. It’s hard to pick my favorite character because you fall in love with all of them— yes, even Kayin’s hilarious self. If you want all the feels: love, laughter, mystery, intrigue and suspense you should definitely read Book 2!
📚Genre: Urban Romance, Black Romantic Fiction with A LOT of spice
Arc Review : Wow just wow when I tell y'all I ate the second book up ?!? The spiciest book I ever read tbh and I've read a lot of spicy books .
Not only was everything between the FMC and MMC so explosive , you could feel their passion, how much they truly loved one another , even if they couldn't admit it .
I cannot wait to continue this series. absolutely amazing .
I had the absolute pleasure of receiving Zaysh: The Crowned Prince (Book 2) as an ARC, and let me just say—Mary C. Kim did not come to play. If Book 1 was a slow burn, then Book 2 came in blazing, with spice hitting by page five. I literally had to clutch my pearls.
Zaysh and Ayoka’s connection deepens in a way that’s messy, passionate, and real—holding each other down through all the chaos swirling around them. Their chemistry was electric, but it’s the emotional depth and loyalty that had me truly invested.
Chuka and Kayin were everything. Their banter felt effortless, their brotherhood authentic, and they brought some much-needed laughter between all the drama.
Let’s talk plot twist… that damn queen. I had a feeling something was coming, but not like that. She had me screaming at the pages . If you know, you know.
Mary C. Kim did what a sequel is supposed to do: raise the stakes, deepen the love, deliver the spice, and still manage to keep you emotionally invested the whole way through. From romance to revenge, betrayal to brotherhood, this was a full ride!
This one was funnier than the first one. I swear Kayin is a total nutcase🤣😂. That plot twist though…was a doozy. The only reason this one wasn’t a 5⭐️ for me was because Ayo and Zay ANNOYED THE HECK OUT OF ME with the trivial back and forth being afraid to SPEAK on their feelings…ugh😤
So book 1 was such a slow burn and clearly for a good reason because honey book 2 is super fast paced and filed with spicy scenes and a great storyline. This book will have you holding your breath. The heat was on high! The drama was off the charts. It was like a soap opera. It wasn’t a dry part in this book.
Zaysh & Ayoka love for each other was undeniable and just absolutely amazing once they actually admitted it to each other. They had me on a ride. This book was on fire 🔥…
I love the brotherhood that Zaysh received. The banter and laughter was so much fun to read. Kayin is a fool. I would love a book on him lol 😂
First of all, a huge thanks to the author for this masterpiece and the arc copy.
From the moment I picked up Zaysh: The Crown Prince, i already knew I was in for a wild ride but I wasn’t prepared for how chaotic, emotional and absolutely beautiful this story would be.
After the intense cliffhanger at the end of Book 1, I was already anticipating and had many questions in mind and Book 2 definitely gave me those answers in the most perfect way. The tension and yearning that had been simmering finally reached its limit and exploded, the deep secrets, the intense fight for the crown, the layered relationship, and the steamy, spicy scenes…. I couldn’t be more excited.
The chemistry between Zaysh and Ayoka is so strong and elite, from a fake marriage build on lies to something more deeper and emotional mixed with lots of passion and vulnerability. That first moment they finally gave in to their feelings and desires after holding back for long? I was in a chokehold. Like I could feel every ounce of their tension breaking apart together.
My favorite characters in the books are Mama Ife and Ayoka. Now let’s talk about them:
Mama Ife is the kind of person everyone needs in their life, she’s supportive, down to earth, wise and always ready to give the advice you didn’t even know you needed. She was a true mother figure to Ayoka and her brothers, her character was beautiful and absolutely went beyond my expectations. And her humor? Those unfiltered words that flys out of her mouth always had me laughing!! And I screamed when Ayoka finally called Mama Ife for her “lessons”in Oyo😭😭
Ayoka is the true definition of a femme fetale, a mind blowing character. Her no-nonsense attitude, natural instincts and authority with that quiet strength she possessed blew me away. She was definitely born to be seated on the throne because no one would have done it better. I loved her big heart, her determination and the softness she has around her. The love and devotion she has for her husband nearly brought tears to my eyes and had me wishing for something that deep, even though I know it’s fiction.
The hilarious banter between the brothers-in-law had me laughing all through😂, and don’t get me started on the plot twist because whattttt??? I didn’t expect that part ( can’t spill ) but it’s a part about the queen, mismatched identities, and lots of secrets!!
Everything about this book felt so real, from the beginning of the book, to the correct names, towns, the clothes of different tribes and how the culture of the Igbo’s and Yoruba’s was portrayed. For a French writer, you told everything so well and you did absolutely amazing and I applaud you for that.
Overall, this sequel is very interesting and good, it isn’t just a love story. It is a book full with depth, royal romance, loyalty, love, revenge, tension and emotional rollercoaster. I laughed, screamed, gasped, cussed a little😂 Book 2 absolutely brought and tied everything together, the writing is beautiful, the pacing is smooth and the emotions hit every single mark.
This series will forever hold a place in my heart and I honestly can’t wait for other readers to feel the magic and greatness packed into every pages of this book.
ARC REVIEW: I had the pleasant opportunity to read book too early! And let me say I was NOT disappointed! This book took me on so many emotions just like book one and it was worth every single page!
ZAYSH: a leader a man of his word a fighter and a man with BIG 🍆 energy !!! And when I say he left no walls untouched and my jaw on the floor! The cliffhanger that was left in book one does not come close to explaining what he offered in book 2! He put it down in more ways than one and he for sure stood on business ‼️‼️‼️‼️!! Outside of the bedroom and the chemistry that he displayed throughout his character in the story he also had another side to him! A man who loved hard a man who fought for exactly what he wanted, and a man willing to risk to prove that he was worthy! He did not let no obstacle stand in his way, especially when Ayoka’s brother challenged him and made him prove himself to have the hand of his sister!
AYOKA: a leader herself, a woman of dreams! Throughout the story, she fought hard to fight her feelings against what she knew was true she tried to put up a wall in a fence to protect her heart, but she couldn’t do it for too long! She was in denial of what she really wanted and how her feelings for Zaysh became more than what she bargained for! but as the plot continues to thicken, she realize that she couldn’t hide any longer. She realizes that maybe this is what she truly wanted. Maybe he is the person for her, but she definitely made him fight for that spot and he definitely did. Their chemistry is unmatched their love language together made the story so perfect.
BOTH SIDES OF THE FAMILY: the family aspect on both sides was an interesting dynamic as well, throughout the story, you’ll see love, lost, love, gained heartache, betrayal, and a lot of shocking twist, and turns the one that stood out to me the most which I will not spoil for you guys was a plot twist that I was definitely not expecting, though there may have been hints in book one and book 2 I definitely did not see it coming but it explained a lot and it was definitely crazy!! Outside of the family drama and everything else. The banter between the family was hilarious. The bond that they shared amongst each other was cute. I love the inside jokes I love their morals and values as family and how they stood beside each other through thick and thin. They STOOD ON BUSINESS!
this book is a definite five stars just like book one ! There were no words skipped no pages skipped. I did not want the story to end. I truly admired their growth from Book one to book 2 and how it ended. They both deserve their happy ending with a lot of plots and a lot of twists a lot of secrets unhidden a lot of betrayal this is definitely a story that will have you riding the roller coaster that you wish would never end. I give my hats off to the author. She really did her big one with this one, though I wish their story could continue. I’m excited to see more of them, possibly from others perspectives in the story it will definitely be worth the weight. I hope you guys enjoy it just as much as I did. It is definitely a ride. You do not want to come off of.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I received Zaysh the Crowned Prince Book 2 as an ARC, and let me just say it was everything I hoped for and so much more. The long-awaited slow burn finally exploded, and whewwww it was worth every single page. Zaysh would not leave Ayo alone… I’m talking spice in nearly every chapter! If Book 1 was the tease, Book 2 delivered the heat. Zaysh and Ayo’s love grows into something neither of them expected passionate, loyal, and emotionally deep. Watching them navigate their connection while the world around them shifts? Chef’s kiss. Now, I have to shout out my favorite duo: Chuka and Kayin. They had me cracking up! Chuka especially got more shine this time around, and I loved that for him. Honestly, he needs his own book like... yesterday. The friendship and banter between the guys gave major The Best Man vibes with a side of chaos, and I was here for it. And that plot twist? I had my suspicions, but I definitely didn’t see that coming. That damn queen... IYKYK. 😩 This sequel did exactly what a Book 2 is supposed to do: raise the stakes, turn up the heat, and deepen the love. Easily one of my favorite reads of the year!
Tick Tick Boom. This book came in hot—had me holding my breath from the first page, waiting on the next hit. That sexual pressure Zaysh put on Ayoka? Lawd. And that chosen number 7? Yeah… it’ll never look the same again. The man was playing chess while everybody else was still figuring out checkers.
That plot twist? Straight outta nowhere. I knew Queen Ngozi was miserable, but baby, that betrayal was the kind that’ll make you gasp and clutch your pearls. Ayoka’s family wrapping Zaysh in their arms was everything, but let’s be clear—he had the ultimate piece on the board… his Queen. Bonds were locked in, forces merged, and the strength of family was on full display.
And that gala scene? The princess eyeing Zaysh like a snack, only for Ayoka to flip it and get the last laugh? Whew. A savage, royal-level marriage announcement. Now I’m feening for Chuka’s story. And Mother Ife? Sis is the truth—teaching skills in every realm of pleasure. I need her book yesterday.
Thank you so much to Mary C Kim author for putting me on her ARC team.
I enjoyed seing Zaysh growth in this book, you can really see that he is more mature, responsible, and developing every qualities to become a great king. I liked seeing him pining for Akoya, do cute things for her, and I wish we saw more of that.
I liked the drama part of the book, it was very entertaining with good twists and turns.
I know that there would be some hunchin’ and I was able to go throught most of it ,but at some point it felt like sexual intimacy was the only form of intimacy portrayed and it was awkward. For example, in moments of sadness and grief they were comforting each other in a sexual way and that made me cringe.
Please someone stop Mama Ife (not really thought, she’s too out of pocket🤣)
Madam C. Kim you did not come to play with this! When i said i hope it picks up where we left off!! It did. Ayoka stood no chance of redemption when it came to that first time with Zaysh, and the emotional rollercoaster my girl went through was real. The way Ayoka stood up to the Queen and backed her man up when she was being an ass was needed. The queen was doing too much the whole book and I wanted hands to be thrown (lmao). Zay and Ayoka's bond was so beautiful to watch grow. That twist with Chuka at the end? Totally unexpected—and I feel a spinoff coming, not just for him but for Kayin too. This book had drama, passion, and heart. A royal romance done right! I absolutely loved being an ARC reader for Madam
I have read a lot of books and always give a star rating but I have never felt compelled to write a review. This series gave everything and left no crumbs. I male lead with BDE, a female lead who doesn’t play about her man. The character development what’s chefs kiss. The slow burn was so worth it. It gives plot, drama, unpredictability, and spiceeee for days 🔥. Descriptions so good you can actually visualize every page. I have not been this impressed in a long time. This is my first read from this author but I am now a fan for sure. Don’t read reviews that give the plot away. Just read the series. You will not regret it.
Y’all Part 2 was everything I was waiting for after reading part 1. They fawked and they fawked goodT in this book. But that’s not all. Zaysh and Ayoka built loyalty, love, and a strong foundation. Ayoka really became her husband’s ride or die!
Can I just say the brotherhood that was shown in part 2 between Zaysh, Kayin, Thyam, Chuka, and Uka was one I didn’t realize I needed or wanted. That damn Pu$$Y Slayer Lieutenant is an entire fool.
The pen was working honey. Book 1&2 is was in a state that needed to be rendered. I loved every bit of the love hate relationship. The tug and pull .oh my this is truly a book to read. The love they found and have for one another and the brotherhood was everything. The sad parts the areas that make you want to be in the book and show up and out was everything.
Uche nd Ayoka were finally at the point that love won. Even with all the deception from Ngozi and Kenneth the truth came out, Zaysh took his rightful place, karma found the deceivers and the royal couple truly got their HEA! So sad that deceitful wench had the king killed and attempted to kill his true love Amarachi. Love won!!! This was such a great read, I loved it!!!!
WOOW!! The author did not disappoint. When I say my desires was fulfilled and more, I mean that. The character development and growth in both Ayoka and Zaysh was so beautiful to see! The Plot-twists, Drama and Spice in this book had my jaw to the floor. I was hooked from start to finish- No dull moment when reading this! Lowkey waiting for Chukas story now👀??
I found book 2 took me a lot longer to read than book 1. I don't believe it has anything to do with the book, and I think it's just because they finally were happy and figured out their relationship. Much of the angst in the book didn't revolve around their relationship but other people in their lives, moreso zaysh. There seemed to be some hinting that their would be a book for Chuka and Kayin from the way they were dropping future snippets that didn't get resolved. I look forward to more.
Part 2 was everything I needed and more. Zaysh and Ayoka stopped playing and the was going to town. They couldn’t get enough of each other.The people who were against Zaysh didn’t expect him to step up but Zaysh said he coming for everything that he’s owed
I had the lovely privilege of getting an ARC copy butttt OMGG miss Mary has done it again!!! The story telling and smut is so interesting and intriguing!! I love how Zaysh has grown and I just love the love story!! Ayoka is such a baddie I’m in love!!!!
Bravo, bravo!!!! This entire series was great. This was a romantic comedy with a hint of tragedy. This was the second book I've read from this author and I'll be looking for more. Y'all just read the damn book.
I really enjoyed this series. Like the author stated, book 1 was a slow burn but mannnn, did book 2 speed up. Yes indeed. It was well written and funny, especially Kayin. I want to read his story and Chunka. Top writing and well written Ms. Kim. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Yeah this was a great read!!!! I need part 3 cuz I’m invested on knowing what happens with Zaysh and Ayoka as well as everyone else. I feel a plot twist coming through again with Olouchi and his mom.
This book is a must-read, I couldn't put it down. The fact that it was in French first, then turned to English, you can't even tell. It's no typos or anything. This book had so many twists that I had to stop and take a breather.
A must read to follow book 1. It picks up where book 1 left us. You get suspense, mystery, and spice. Mary does not disappoint. I recommend Book 1 and 2. Mary, you and your team did an excellent job and I look forward to reading more of your work.
Mary C KIM came back in book 2 with a spice throughout the whole book. I love how she developed the characters in this book. The first book was a slow burn, but book 2 has the fire!!! Uche and Ayoka love wins in the end. There are so many ups and downs that it will keep you on the edge.
Uche turned Ayoka every which way but loose in part 2! Sheesh I’m glad Ayoka found her voice and used it and thanks to King Uche, Queen Ayoka was born. I loved this series. First time reading from this author, but it won’t be my last. Awesome Read
I was lucky enough to get an ARC of Zaysh: The Crowned Prince (Book 2), and let me tell you—Mary C. Kim did not come to play. Picking up right where that jaw-dropping cliffhanger left off, this sequel wastes zero time and throws you straight into a whirlwind of passion, danger, and royal intrigue.
The tension and longing that smoldered in Book 1 finally combust here, creating a love story that’s both fiery and deeply vulnerable. Zaysh and Ayoka’s fake marriage, built on lies and political necessity, transforms into a connection so raw and real you can practically feel it vibrating off the page. When they finally surrender to their feelings? That moment is pure romance adrenaline—a breaking dam of emotion, lust, and devotion.
Zaysh is every inch the commanding heir—fierce, loyal, and dangerously magnetic, radiating the kind of energy that says he always keeps his promises (in and out of the bedroom). Ayoka matches him step for step—a queen in every sense of the word. Her quiet strength, unwavering self-respect, and throne-worthy presence make her impossible not to root for.
The plot is royal chaos at its finest: betrayals, palace politics, and a high-stakes battle for the crown. Amid the tension, the brotherhood between Zaysh, Chuka, and Kayin delivers laugh-out-loud banter and warmth that feels like a Nollywood-meets-The Best Man mashup. Chuka, in particular, steals scenes—if he and Kayin don’t get a spinoff, we riot.
And that twist? My God. That queen. Just when you think you’ve got the palace games figured out, Mary C. Kim drops a reveal that flips everything on its head. It’s bold, unexpected, and so well-executed you’ll have to put the book down just to process.
The cultural detail is exquisite—authentic Igbo and Yoruba representation woven seamlessly into names, settings, clothing, and traditions. It grounds the drama in a vibrant, lived-in world and adds an extra layer of richness to every scene.
This isn’t just a romance—it’s a story about loyalty, revenge, resilience, and love that can survive in the shadows of betrayal. I laughed, I gasped, I yelled at the page, and I loved every single second.
Zaysh: The Crowned Prince (Book 2) doesn’t just meet sequel expectations—it obliterates them. The stakes are higher, the love runs deeper, and the heat? Off the charts. Mary C. Kim has solidified this series as a must-read for fans of steamy, high-drama, Black royal romance.
Spice Level: 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶 (7/5) – No, that’s not a typo. If Book 1 was a slow burn, Book 2 is a five-alarm blaze that ignites by page five. Prepare to clutch your pearls, fan yourself, and maybe keep a glass of ice water nearby.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
My Rating System: 1⭐️: The book didn’t hold my interest and/or had significant issues that overshadowed any redeeming qualities for me, but generally not my cup of tea. Most likely did not finish the book. 2⭐️: The book didn’t quite resonate with me, and while my experience wasn’t remarkable, I did finish it. It had some redeeming qualities and potential but fell short in execution. Recommendable, though with some reservations. 3⭐️: Good read, but didn’t quite stand out. Still worth recommending to others. 4⭐️: Really enjoyed it and stayed engaged throughout. Would read the book again. Definitely recommendable. 5⭐️: Incredible writing that made me deeply connect with the characters. I was completely absorbed in the world and didn’t want it to end. This book stayed with me even when I wasn’t reading it. I'd gladly reread it and highly recommend it to everyone!