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Kings of Rittenhouse #1
Shameless King
A deliciously steamy enemies with benefits romance. Declan McAvoy. Voted Biggest Flirt. Highest goal scorer in Kings of Rittenhouse Prep history. Everyone’s impressed, well except one person…After a blow out in high school, Makenna Halstead and I were happy to never have to cross paths again. Except life has a way of knocking you straight in the teeth with a puck when you least expect it. She hasn’t just returned to my life, she crashed into it like a wrecking ball...into my college kingdom, into my class, and smack dab into the seat next to mine. My new lab partner to be exact. For years we hated each other... I may be King on the ice, but she is the Ice Queen. She has no problem calling me out, doesn’t back down, and her piercing blue eyes have me picturing more than than just my arms wrapped around her. Now we’re stuck with each other and there’s no getting around that fact that we have to work together. My hockey career hangs in the balance. Problem? Oh, yeah.I can’t deny it. I want her. More than I ever thought I could want a woman. I’ve got one semester–only four months–to convince her everything she thought about me was wrong. Will my queen let me prove to her I’m the King she can’t live without? Only one way to find out...
312 pages, Paperback
First published June 28, 2018
3128 people are currently reading
24544 people want to read
About the author
Maya Hughes
42 books6,284 followersMaya Hughes is an Amazon Top 20 author of swoon worthy, laugh out loud, and emotional new adult and contemporary romances.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,240 reviews
June 26, 2018
➳Enemies to lovers? More like soul-mates ready to combust with an abundance of chemistry that makes you want to hug, punch, and adore this romance novel filled with raw passion and true banter between Declan and Makenna...
➳I wish I could always say "wow, this upcoming series has so much potential for more, making me crave for more of this author's writing," for every single novel I come across. Especially for a new author to me in which I have never read before so I need to come to a sense of getting to know their writing. Unfortunately not every single romance novel that I have read has always caught my attention of uniqueness. It is indeed rare to find that spark that as a romance reader always seems to like or crave. Yes, sometimes tropes are always welcomed when wanting to sooth the soul for something familiar. But that cannot be said for Maya Hughes in this brand new installment to a new upcoming series that will make you want more and more of the Kings of Rittenhouse Prep.
➳There aren't a lot of college/sports romances that catch my attention of being my favorites. By far, Elle Kennedy and Kristen Callihan have a special place in my heart of ADORING their sports romances from the OFF CAMPUS and GAME ON series. Maya officially has me on the edge of my seat wanting to read more of the KINGS hockey boys. Lets count the line up shall we? We have Emmett, the swoon worthy and very down-right emotional in every rough and soft aspect guy. Then we have Declan, the guy who is full of himself but also is not as privileged as some of the other guys. We also have Colm, we don't know much about him just yet but he is very invested in wanting to achieve at life. Next would be Heath, the blue-eyed, blonde environmentalist/astronomer (he is a laugh for sure). And last but not least, my all time favorite right now because of his broody, mysterious, and beyond sexy attitude, Ford (no one is taking or claiming Ford because he is mine...)
➳Now, let's move on to the story shall we? This first novel to a brand new series coming soon focuses on Declan and Makenna, two individuals whom in high school have always bantered each other and have fought a strong pulsating chemistry that both do not want to admit they have. The perfect good-to-shoes, the want to be valedictorian, and also Standford University attendee, Makenna lives a life filled with studying and no partying but stay focused to become a doctor. Declan on the other hand, is the strong minded guy who knows he will be making it to the big leagues of the NHL. After a couple of years of not seeing each other after a brutal candor party, and after some life altering decisions, Makenna and Declan find themselves in the same path of being in the same class and not only that, but also as partners for the whole year. Having totally different opinions about each other, Mak and Declan soon learnt to realize that their true colors have been deceived all this time. Getting to know one another both emotionally at first, and then physically is what makes them one of my favorite characters out there in the romance world. They both become their inner keys that finally open up the doors to their feelings towards each other;
➳As mentioned before, there are four more other guys that we still have to properly meet in this upcoming series. Four male specimen whom seriously have my head wrapped around so many un-answered questions. Who is coming next? As of right now Maya has not released who will be next but at the end of SHAMELESS KING she does provide with some "hmmm" pensive thoughts as to whom MIGHT be coming next. Without saying much for the lack of spoilers, just know that no matter what story comes next, Maya will indulge us with some powerful stuff of what can be predicted of the five KINGS hockey players.
➳Overall, I want to say a massive thank you to Maya for reaching out to read this new compelling sports romance that seriously has me on the edge of my nerves wanting to read more. Craving the world of the KINGS and what the next step towards their true life is. If you are interested in this sports romances—have enjoyed the college romances by Elle Kennedy and Kristen Callihan— this first installment will take your breathes away wanting for more. Don't miss out on this book because trust me when I say that you will regret it.
➳ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review...
US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DPSYJH5/
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07DPSYJH5/
CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B07DPSYJH5/
AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B07DPSYJH5/
FREE in Kindle Unlimited
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➳I wish I could always say "wow, this upcoming series has so much potential for more, making me crave for more of this author's writing," for every single novel I come across. Especially for a new author to me in which I have never read before so I need to come to a sense of getting to know their writing. Unfortunately not every single romance novel that I have read has always caught my attention of uniqueness. It is indeed rare to find that spark that as a romance reader always seems to like or crave. Yes, sometimes tropes are always welcomed when wanting to sooth the soul for something familiar. But that cannot be said for Maya Hughes in this brand new installment to a new upcoming series that will make you want more and more of the Kings of Rittenhouse Prep.
➳There aren't a lot of college/sports romances that catch my attention of being my favorites. By far, Elle Kennedy and Kristen Callihan have a special place in my heart of ADORING their sports romances from the OFF CAMPUS and GAME ON series. Maya officially has me on the edge of my seat wanting to read more of the KINGS hockey boys. Lets count the line up shall we? We have Emmett, the swoon worthy and very down-right emotional in every rough and soft aspect guy. Then we have Declan, the guy who is full of himself but also is not as privileged as some of the other guys. We also have Colm, we don't know much about him just yet but he is very invested in wanting to achieve at life. Next would be Heath, the blue-eyed, blonde environmentalist/astronomer (he is a laugh for sure). And last but not least, my all time favorite right now because of his broody, mysterious, and beyond sexy attitude, Ford (no one is taking or claiming Ford because he is mine...)
➳Now, let's move on to the story shall we? This first novel to a brand new series coming soon focuses on Declan and Makenna, two individuals whom in high school have always bantered each other and have fought a strong pulsating chemistry that both do not want to admit they have. The perfect good-to-shoes, the want to be valedictorian, and also Standford University attendee, Makenna lives a life filled with studying and no partying but stay focused to become a doctor. Declan on the other hand, is the strong minded guy who knows he will be making it to the big leagues of the NHL. After a couple of years of not seeing each other after a brutal candor party, and after some life altering decisions, Makenna and Declan find themselves in the same path of being in the same class and not only that, but also as partners for the whole year. Having totally different opinions about each other, Mak and Declan soon learnt to realize that their true colors have been deceived all this time. Getting to know one another both emotionally at first, and then physically is what makes them one of my favorite characters out there in the romance world. They both become their inner keys that finally open up the doors to their feelings towards each other;
"She unlocked something in me I hadn't been able to unlock myself. I could skate for her, and nothing else mattered. She was everything..."
➳As mentioned before, there are four more other guys that we still have to properly meet in this upcoming series. Four male specimen whom seriously have my head wrapped around so many un-answered questions. Who is coming next? As of right now Maya has not released who will be next but at the end of SHAMELESS KING she does provide with some "hmmm" pensive thoughts as to whom MIGHT be coming next. Without saying much for the lack of spoilers, just know that no matter what story comes next, Maya will indulge us with some powerful stuff of what can be predicted of the five KINGS hockey players.
➳Overall, I want to say a massive thank you to Maya for reaching out to read this new compelling sports romance that seriously has me on the edge of my nerves wanting to read more. Craving the world of the KINGS and what the next step towards their true life is. If you are interested in this sports romances—have enjoyed the college romances by Elle Kennedy and Kristen Callihan— this first installment will take your breathes away wanting for more. Don't miss out on this book because trust me when I say that you will regret it.
➳ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review...
US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DPSYJH5/
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07DPSYJH5/
CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B07DPSYJH5/
AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B07DPSYJH5/
FREE in Kindle Unlimited
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June 28, 2018
This was my first book of Ms.Hughes but I'm very much looking to read more from her now. :) I really enjoyed Declan & Makenna's story and if you're looking for a "Enemies to Lover" book, I think you should give it a chance. ;)
*ARC kindly provided by author in exchange for an honest review. ❤
Expected publication: June 28th 2018
A deliciously steamy enemies with benefits romance.
Declan McAvoy. Voted Biggest Flirt. Highest goal scorer in Kings of Rittenhouse Prep history.
Everyone’s impressed, well except one person…
After a blow out in high school, Makenna Halstead and I were happy to never have to cross paths again. Except life has a way of knocking you straight in the teeth with a puck when you least expect it. She hasn’t just returned to my life, she crashed into it like a wrecking ball...into my college kingdom, into my class, and smack dab into the seat next to mine. My new lab partner to be exact.
For years we hated each other... I may be King on the ice, but she is the Ice Queen. She has no problem calling me out, doesn’t back down, and her piercing blue eyes have me picturing more than than just my arms wrapped around her.
Now we’re stuck with each other and there’s no getting around that fact that we have to work together. My hockey career hangs in the balance. Problem? Oh, yeah.
I can’t deny it. I want her. More than I ever thought I could want a woman. I’ve got one semester–only four months–to convince her everything she thought about me was wrong.
Will my queen let me prove to her I’m the King she can’t live without?
Only one way to find out...
*ARC kindly provided by author in exchange for an honest review. ❤
Expected publication: June 28th 2018
A deliciously steamy enemies with benefits romance.
Declan McAvoy. Voted Biggest Flirt. Highest goal scorer in Kings of Rittenhouse Prep history.
Everyone’s impressed, well except one person…
After a blow out in high school, Makenna Halstead and I were happy to never have to cross paths again. Except life has a way of knocking you straight in the teeth with a puck when you least expect it. She hasn’t just returned to my life, she crashed into it like a wrecking ball...into my college kingdom, into my class, and smack dab into the seat next to mine. My new lab partner to be exact.
For years we hated each other... I may be King on the ice, but she is the Ice Queen. She has no problem calling me out, doesn’t back down, and her piercing blue eyes have me picturing more than than just my arms wrapped around her.
Now we’re stuck with each other and there’s no getting around that fact that we have to work together. My hockey career hangs in the balance. Problem? Oh, yeah.
I can’t deny it. I want her. More than I ever thought I could want a woman. I’ve got one semester–only four months–to convince her everything she thought about me was wrong.
Will my queen let me prove to her I’m the King she can’t live without?
Only one way to find out...
June 18, 2018
I am a big sucker for "enemies to lover" books, and an even bigger sucker for "sport" themed ones.... So I really hit the jackpot with this baby ;) This is a new to me author and I am happy to say, that I really enjoyed reading this one !!
This story is about Declan and Makenna, highschool frenemies. Declan is the popular hockeyplayer. Every one wants a piece of him and he doesn't mind giving it away. Yes he is a "player" in more ways than one :P
Makenna is the school's icequeen and nerd. She doesn´t have time to play around. She has plans...big plans...and having some fun isn´t part of it.
It´s safe to say that these two weren´t the best of friends in highschool. But fast forward a couple of years and they are about to come face to face again...in college. But that´s not all.....
They also share a class and are forced to work on a project together....one they both have to pass. Working so closely together, has them slowly turning into friends....and later on, into much more...
These two burned the freaking sheets they were so HOT together...
If there is one thing this book didn´t lack...it was steam...damn
Now this series is about a group of hockey playing friends. Half of them are only in the first couple of chapters though...which I found very disappointing, because I was really starting to like them all.
That's also a very good sign, because it means I want more of them and so I want to read all their book :P Especially Emmett and Heath's books.
This one was pretty mild on the angst scale, and I myself could have used a bit more, but I am still very curious about the next one. Can't wait.
My reviews are posted on DirtyBooksObsession
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July 23, 2020actually enjoyed the 11% that i read of this but i haven't picked it up since i started it back in March so it's gonna go on the "on pause" shelf for now
Want to read
June 8, 2018
COVER REVEAL!
Stand-alone.
Release: June 28, 2018
Pre-order: Coming soon!
Blurb:
Book Blurb:
A deliciously steamy enemies with benefits romance.
Declan McAvoy. Voted Biggest Flirt. Highest goal scorer in Kings of Rittenhouse Prep history.
Everyone’s impressed, well except one person…
After a blow out in high school, Makenna Halstead and I were happy to never have to cross paths again. Except life has a way of knocking you straight in the teeth with a puck when you least expect it. She hasn’t just returned to my life, she crashed into it like a wrecking ball...into my college kingdom, into my class, and smack dab into the seat next to mine. My new lab partner to be exact.
For years we hated each other... I may be King on the ice, but she is the Ice Queen. She has no problem calling me out, doesn’t back down, and her piercing blue eyes have me picturing more than than just my arms wrapped around her.
Now we’re stuck with each other and there’s no getting around that fact that we have to work together. My hockey career hangs in the balance. Problem? Oh, yeah.
I can’t deny it. I want her. More than I ever thought I could want a woman. I’ve got one semester–only four months–to convince her everything she thought about me was wrong.
Will my queen let me prove to her I’m the King she can’t live without?
Only one way to find out...
July 2, 2018
DAYUM!!!!
Color me surprised with a bag of skittles! I went into this story somewhat blind and after speaking with the author, I knew I wanted to read this story and I’m so glad I did. I was impressed, giggly at times, frustrated, and dare I say it, in love! For a new to me author, Maya Hughes knocked it out of the park with her storytelling and her ability to keep me interested in the story from beginning to end. I didn’t see this one coming from her and what was more unexpected to me, was the fact that I now have a new favorite book boyfriend and I have no plans of letting him go.
Declan McAvoy has always been a hard worker in everything he does. Balancing school and his love of hockey is a challenge but with his determination and drive, getting it done is his end game. Being king on the ice is nothing new for this College Senior and working towards going pro is his dream goal. With a face like his and having any woman at his beck and call, Life right now could not get any better for Declan. But that all changes when his school record shows that he needs to repeat a certain class in order to graduate on time. Declan is a hard worker and passing the class is not an issue. Being partners with a girl who hates him? Yea.. that’s going to be a HUGE problem.
If there is one person that Makenna Halstead can’t stand, it’s the hockey king Declan McAvoy. There has always been something about that man that rubbed her the wrong way. Chalk it up to his cockiness, his ability to turn the room temperature a hundred degrees hotter with just one look, or his ongoing banter that always leaves her in a piss poor mode. Whatever the case may be, Makenna knows that being around Declan is no good for her so avoiding him at all cost will be the best thing. But that plan quickly goes to shreds when she learns that not only does he have the same class as her, but their now partners on a few projects.
What will happen when these two get close?
Can they put aside their differences or will the sexual chemistry prove too much for them?
As I’ve said before, this book really surprised me and I loved that. It was unexpected, with a wittiness and a freshness that you couldn’t help but find yourself smiling and just truly enjoying the journey. Makenna was headstrong and she knew what she wanted but my favorite thing was seeing her slowly do things out of her comfort zone. I also liked that these two were the complete opposites of each other but it worked for them. Their chemistry was sizzling, and nothing ever felt forced between them. Declan had his own issues and so did Makenna but when they got together, nothing else mattered.
Aside from one issue I had, I enjoyed everything about this story and I really can't wait to see what’s going to happen next with a few characters. This is definitely going on my 2018 favorite list for sure!!
dnf
June 29, 2018DNF @ 14%
March 15, 2020
3 Stars
Overall Opinion: This was alright. I didn't love it and I also didn't hate it. I did, however, struggle with the h and the conflict in the end. I wanted her to grovel some more! I felt jipped in the end as well because I didn't get that much closure for the couple - as the epilogue focused more on setting up the next book (which bugs me). There is an extended epilogue if I sign up for the author's newsletter or something, but I'm honestly not all that interested. On to the next!
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Makenna and Declan's story. They knew each other in high school and butted heads, so it isn't a surprise to either of them that they are both upset about being assigned partners in a class that they both have to do well in. They continue to butt heads but then form a truce and a friendship that eventually turns into more. There is some past baggage that they both bring that they have to work through and some hot sexy times...and they get a HFN ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Makenna and Declan's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good until the end. I did skim some there because I was frustrated with the h and I also felt like it was filled up with too much sex and not enough groveling/big decisions about their future.
Instalove: No, they take a while to develop stronger feelings (hate-to-love type scenario)
H (Hero) rating: 3.5 stars. Declan. I definitely liked him more than the h. There were times where I felt like he could do better than her tbh.
h (heroine) rating: 2.5 stars. Makenna. I struggled with her. I didn't mind her at first, but then she would be judgmental and make assumptions about the H while seeming too self centered. She also had a whole martyr thing going on with her family that always seems to push my buttons (in a bad way), and then she behaved badly (IMO) to cause their conflict and I didn't feel like she made up for it which cemented my dislike for her.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- it did feel like the scenes took away from the story a little, especially at the end.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Surprisingly none
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This ended abruptly with what I would call a HFN ending. I wanted a farther glimpse into their future
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
Overall Opinion: This was alright. I didn't love it and I also didn't hate it. I did, however, struggle with the h and the conflict in the end. I wanted her to grovel some more! I felt jipped in the end as well because I didn't get that much closure for the couple - as the epilogue focused more on setting up the next book (which bugs me). There is an extended epilogue if I sign up for the author's newsletter or something, but I'm honestly not all that interested. On to the next!
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Makenna and Declan's story. They knew each other in high school and butted heads, so it isn't a surprise to either of them that they are both upset about being assigned partners in a class that they both have to do well in. They continue to butt heads but then form a truce and a friendship that eventually turns into more. There is some past baggage that they both bring that they have to work through and some hot sexy times...and they get a HFN ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Makenna and Declan's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good until the end. I did skim some there because I was frustrated with the h and I also felt like it was filled up with too much sex and not enough groveling/big decisions about their future.
Instalove: No, they take a while to develop stronger feelings (hate-to-love type scenario)
H (Hero) rating: 3.5 stars. Declan. I definitely liked him more than the h. There were times where I felt like he could do better than her tbh.
h (heroine) rating: 2.5 stars. Makenna. I struggled with her. I didn't mind her at first, but then she would be judgmental and make assumptions about the H while seeming too self centered. She also had a whole martyr thing going on with her family that always seems to push my buttons (in a bad way), and then she behaved badly (IMO) to cause their conflict and I didn't feel like she made up for it which cemented my dislike for her.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- it did feel like the scenes took away from the story a little, especially at the end.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Surprisingly none
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This ended abruptly with what I would call a HFN ending. I wanted a farther glimpse into their future
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
June 7, 2018
"I wasn't going to let her forget how I made her feel. Because she made me forget anything else existed when we were together. I'd stop at nothing short of giving her everything she needed and more."
Maya Hughes, welcome to my go-to romance authors.
College romance has this something special that always makes me go back for more. When I first discovered the NA genre, I went on a college NA reading spree and I devoured any popular book falling in this subgenre that I could get my hands on. I just couldn't get enough. But I'll be completely honest, since then, I has been kind of hard to find a book as good as the ones I read back then. Or at least, one that made me feel as content and satisfied.
Enters Shameless King. Oh goodie, do you guys remember the hyped The Deal by Elle Kennedy? The college/sports romance that sent everyone in a frenzy over muscled sexy hockey players? This new series by Maya Hughes has the same goodness and elements I loved but brings them, in my opinion, to a new level. Or in other words, this book was even better. I enjoyed it far more and now it's me the one back in that hockey players frenzy.
And I can't freaking wait to put my hands on the second instalment already.
So, going back to Shameless King and all its goodness. This book has all the banter of a good from enemies to lovers romance, it's steamy and sweet and surprisingly emotional. The backstories of the main characters, Declan and Mak, are rock solid and Mak's one gave me all the feels (okay yes, I even cried a tiny bit at some point). I absolutely adored how Declan and Mak's relationship evolved, from hating each other and being the snarkiest when they were together, to learning to work side by side and building a friendship, to finally, stop denying the sparks that have always been between the two of them and letting themselves go. To each other's arms, obviously.
*swoons*
And the best part? This is a series that will follow the group of hockey players introduced as secondary characters in this book.
All in all, addictive sports/college romance with all the banter characteristic from an enemies to lovers. Steamy, sweet and low in angst and drama, this is your summer read to bring the temperature even higher. And hockey, aaaaaaaaaaaall the bulky hockey players.
*I received an eARC from the author in exchange for an honest review
Maya Hughes, welcome to my go-to romance authors.
College romance has this something special that always makes me go back for more. When I first discovered the NA genre, I went on a college NA reading spree and I devoured any popular book falling in this subgenre that I could get my hands on. I just couldn't get enough. But I'll be completely honest, since then, I has been kind of hard to find a book as good as the ones I read back then. Or at least, one that made me feel as content and satisfied.
Enters Shameless King. Oh goodie, do you guys remember the hyped The Deal by Elle Kennedy? The college/sports romance that sent everyone in a frenzy over muscled sexy hockey players? This new series by Maya Hughes has the same goodness and elements I loved but brings them, in my opinion, to a new level. Or in other words, this book was even better. I enjoyed it far more and now it's me the one back in that hockey players frenzy.
And I can't freaking wait to put my hands on the second instalment already.
So, going back to Shameless King and all its goodness. This book has all the banter of a good from enemies to lovers romance, it's steamy and sweet and surprisingly emotional. The backstories of the main characters, Declan and Mak, are rock solid and Mak's one gave me all the feels (okay yes, I even cried a tiny bit at some point). I absolutely adored how Declan and Mak's relationship evolved, from hating each other and being the snarkiest when they were together, to learning to work side by side and building a friendship, to finally, stop denying the sparks that have always been between the two of them and letting themselves go. To each other's arms, obviously.
*swoons*
And the best part? This is a series that will follow the group of hockey players introduced as secondary characters in this book.
All in all, addictive sports/college romance with all the banter characteristic from an enemies to lovers. Steamy, sweet and low in angst and drama, this is your summer read to bring the temperature even higher. And hockey, aaaaaaaaaaaall the bulky hockey players.
*I received an eARC from the author in exchange for an honest review
June 27, 2018
Declan McAvoy is the jock hockey player with aspiration to the NHL. Makenna Halstead is the aloof studious girl with aspirations for Stanford. They are both full of assumptions and misread each other at every pass in high school. But when a turn of events in college throws them together with the same goal, they get the chance to see each other for who they really are.
Told via their alternating first person POV, the story opens with the tale of these two and their friends in high school as they approach graduation. While included in the ARC I received, this is technically the series prologue, now available as a separate free novella (Kings of Rittenhouse - A Shameless King Prequel.) It’s a lot of introductions to make and follow, but these supporting characters are getting their own books at some point. Then the story jumps back to prom (I assume this is the prologue to the actual book) before moving forward four years in the future to their senior year of college. I’ll admit, I struggled a little in these early parts. And then I struggled with a scene that would have benefited from an editorial deletion. Declan waking up hung-over with another girl, though one he thankfully did not have sex with before passing out, didn’t add anything to the story and just delayed any kind of connection between him and Mak. Aside from being unromantic, it also felt really unnecessary.
But once the story settled into Mak and Declan getting to know each other and working together, the romantic development started to shine through. Though I hadn’t felt a whole lot of chemistry between them prior, that changed once they hit the sheets.
First, wow, how refreshing that the hero feels owned instead of the heroine for once! That line was a nice change of pace. Second, Declan was quite impressive in the bedroom. He’s like the energizer bunny with a rechargeable battery.
It was totally hot yet heartfelt at the same time.
I might have even been tempted to read those chapters more than once. ;-)
Declan turned out to be a pretty solid guy. I adored how he was all in for Mak and didn’t give up once he got to really know her. I also got a kick out of how the tables got turned on Declan; the “ghosted” scenes with the guys was cute.
Both Mak and Declan have some family baggage that they have to work through, but the themes fit the new adult college romance angle.
As for future books, I’m definitely intrigued by Heath and interested in his story. He seemed like he has the has potential to make his girl swoon. I was sorta fascinated by him so I hope his book is hot like this one too. Avery and Emmet’s story would be a pass for me though based off his fall into manwhore land. Everyone else I’m still trying to keep straight. ;-)
Safety Recap:
*I received this ARC as a review request from the author. All reviews written by Book-Bosomed Book Blog are honest opinions. In the interest of providing unbiased book reviews and to avoid misleading other readers, it is the blog’s policy not to withhold or delay any reviews no matter the star rating. To the best of my knowledge, this title was presented to the blog without any conditions or stipulations.
“I’d entered a different plane where a guy like Declan stood waiting for me outside work like an 80s movie version of a prince.”
Told via their alternating first person POV, the story opens with the tale of these two and their friends in high school as they approach graduation. While included in the ARC I received, this is technically the series prologue, now available as a separate free novella (Kings of Rittenhouse - A Shameless King Prequel.) It’s a lot of introductions to make and follow, but these supporting characters are getting their own books at some point. Then the story jumps back to prom (I assume this is the prologue to the actual book) before moving forward four years in the future to their senior year of college. I’ll admit, I struggled a little in these early parts. And then I struggled with a scene that would have benefited from an editorial deletion. Declan waking up hung-over with another girl, though one he thankfully did not have sex with before passing out, didn’t add anything to the story and just delayed any kind of connection between him and Mak. Aside from being unromantic, it also felt really unnecessary.
But once the story settled into Mak and Declan getting to know each other and working together, the romantic development started to shine through. Though I hadn’t felt a whole lot of chemistry between them prior, that changed once they hit the sheets.
“…beckoning me closer like a siren to the rocks of pleasure, ready to shred me. But I didn’t want to change course now. I couldn’t. She owned me.”
First, wow, how refreshing that the hero feels owned instead of the heroine for once! That line was a nice change of pace. Second, Declan was quite impressive in the bedroom. He’s like the energizer bunny with a rechargeable battery.
It was totally hot yet heartfelt at the same time.
I might have even been tempted to read those chapters more than once. ;-)
“Watching her come apart was my favorite sight in the world. I’d rather watch her than hockey. I roared out her name and followed her…”
Declan turned out to be a pretty solid guy. I adored how he was all in for Mak and didn’t give up once he got to really know her. I also got a kick out of how the tables got turned on Declan; the “ghosted” scenes with the guys was cute.
Both Mak and Declan have some family baggage that they have to work through, but the themes fit the new adult college romance angle.
As for future books, I’m definitely intrigued by Heath and interested in his story. He seemed like he has the has potential to make his girl swoon. I was sorta fascinated by him so I hope his book is hot like this one too. Avery and Emmet’s story would be a pass for me though based off his fall into manwhore land. Everyone else I’m still trying to keep straight. ;-)
Safety Recap:
*I received this ARC as a review request from the author. All reviews written by Book-Bosomed Book Blog are honest opinions. In the interest of providing unbiased book reviews and to avoid misleading other readers, it is the blog’s policy not to withhold or delay any reviews no matter the star rating. To the best of my knowledge, this title was presented to the blog without any conditions or stipulations.
on-pause
August 20, 2021on pause @46%
i'm almost done with 50% of this book and for the life of me, i cannot continue. wanted to read something with the off-campus vibes to it and i could have read The Deal but god knows i've reread that book so many times, it's embarrassing to even admit. but rn, nothing in this book is standing out. everything feels so meh. the writing, the characters, this plot, everything is meh. i wanted to keep reading for the chemistry/tension between the MCs but i can't. coz there's none. I'll maybe get back to it later but i know it'll be quite a struggle to finish this book.
i'm almost done with 50% of this book and for the life of me, i cannot continue. wanted to read something with the off-campus vibes to it and i could have read The Deal but god knows i've reread that book so many times, it's embarrassing to even admit. but rn, nothing in this book is standing out. everything feels so meh. the writing, the characters, this plot, everything is meh. i wanted to keep reading for the chemistry/tension between the MCs but i can't. coz there's none. I'll maybe get back to it later but i know it'll be quite a struggle to finish this book.
June 13, 2018
"Her taste made me wild. Her mouth was sin , her pussy was bliss, and her body was everything I should have been warned about. Addiction was real when it came to her."
_________
Do I enjoy picking out naughty quotes to entice you? Fuck yes, I do. 😌
•
I generally don't find myself drawn to contemporary college/new adult romances but Maya Hughes is now an exception. When she asked me to read her new upcoming novel, Shameless King, I was sold on the enemies to lovers (because HELLO! one of my most favorite tropes) and on Maya's overall personality (which is actually something that I pay attention to when introducing myself to a new author).
•
ANYWAY, Shameless King- add it to your TBR's! I started it last night, thinking I'd get a few chapters in and fall asleep. NOPE. I was up until 3am, because I couldn't stop reading. I LOVE Declan and Mak. They have a history, and it only makes the tension (sexual and otherwise) more delicious. Throw in hockey and some family drama for each of our leads and it hooked me hard. Not to mention the sexy bits were 💯🔥.
•
Mak is set in her ways, Declan wants to disrupt them in any way he can- they are polar opposites and you know what they say (as cliche as it is). I liked Mak, I didn't relate in any way to her, and sometimes I wanted to shake her violently and yell at her to loosen the fuck up and live HER life, not someone elses, but I did like her.
•
Declan, oh Declan- he is a stereotype and yet not- he works hard to prove to others how talented and amazing he is, but learns that the only one he has to prove it to is himself, and that's character growth gold in the simplest form. Doesn't hurt that he is swoony as fuck. 😌
•
While the story is Declan and Mak's journey from loathing to love, Maya makes it hard to resist the secondary characters in the story. The rest of the Kings and their friends/siblings are woven throughout the story with ease and the tidbits of information are enough to get you excited for the upcoming novels in this interconnected standalone series.
•
Thank you, Maya, for reaching out to me, I'm so happy you did and look forward to more of the Kings of Rittenhouse! 😍
_________
Do I enjoy picking out naughty quotes to entice you? Fuck yes, I do. 😌
•
I generally don't find myself drawn to contemporary college/new adult romances but Maya Hughes is now an exception. When she asked me to read her new upcoming novel, Shameless King, I was sold on the enemies to lovers (because HELLO! one of my most favorite tropes) and on Maya's overall personality (which is actually something that I pay attention to when introducing myself to a new author).
•
ANYWAY, Shameless King- add it to your TBR's! I started it last night, thinking I'd get a few chapters in and fall asleep. NOPE. I was up until 3am, because I couldn't stop reading. I LOVE Declan and Mak. They have a history, and it only makes the tension (sexual and otherwise) more delicious. Throw in hockey and some family drama for each of our leads and it hooked me hard. Not to mention the sexy bits were 💯🔥.
•
Mak is set in her ways, Declan wants to disrupt them in any way he can- they are polar opposites and you know what they say (as cliche as it is). I liked Mak, I didn't relate in any way to her, and sometimes I wanted to shake her violently and yell at her to loosen the fuck up and live HER life, not someone elses, but I did like her.
•
Declan, oh Declan- he is a stereotype and yet not- he works hard to prove to others how talented and amazing he is, but learns that the only one he has to prove it to is himself, and that's character growth gold in the simplest form. Doesn't hurt that he is swoony as fuck. 😌
•
While the story is Declan and Mak's journey from loathing to love, Maya makes it hard to resist the secondary characters in the story. The rest of the Kings and their friends/siblings are woven throughout the story with ease and the tidbits of information are enough to get you excited for the upcoming novels in this interconnected standalone series.
•
Thank you, Maya, for reaching out to me, I'm so happy you did and look forward to more of the Kings of Rittenhouse! 😍
Read
November 19, 2018Shameless King is almost here and I'm so excited to have a FREE prequel available on Amazon and iBooks for a limited time!
Grab your FREE copy of Kings of Rittenhouse TODAY!
Kings of Rittenhouse
Amazon
iBooks
Google Play
Shameless King
Amazon
Grab your FREE copy of Kings of Rittenhouse TODAY!
Kings of Rittenhouse
Amazon
iBooks
Google Play
Shameless King
Amazon
March 2, 2023
You know that feeling, when you kind of like the book, but at the same time it's kind of 'meh', but you can't put your finger on what's specifically wrong with the story? this is it. this is that kind of book 🤷🏼♀️😶
This was a solid hockey college romance. The hockey part was great to my layman's eyes. I liked the hero and how actually "into" the heroine and their potential relationship he was straight after their first time together.
The weakest point to me was the relationship development: they liked to argue with each other in high school, so upon meeting in college continued to dislike each other and bash one another. Then they were forced to be study partners for the whole semester, and we've seen around 10 chapters of them studying together, but they never had a heart to heart, never grew closer or bantered, or did anything together beyond studying, that would signify the shift in their relationship. Just one night after finishing their paper, they drank some beer, had a decent convo and BAM! S-E-X!
Also, there were some elements in this book that were straight up unnecessary dead weight. The heroine reserved a study room in the library, and next door was a guy named Seth. We got a whole scene of them meeting, some mild sparks and interest were there, they exchanged numbers and then NOTHING! No OM drama, no jealousy, no friendship, no being enemies...What was the point of Seth? You know that saying "If there's a gun in your story/play/film etc., it HAS to go off!" Well...the gun didn't go off!
This was a solid hockey college romance. The hockey part was great to my layman's eyes. I liked the hero and how actually "into" the heroine and their potential relationship he was straight after their first time together.
The weakest point to me was the relationship development: they liked to argue with each other in high school, so upon meeting in college continued to dislike each other and bash one another. Then they were forced to be study partners for the whole semester, and we've seen around 10 chapters of them studying together, but they never had a heart to heart, never grew closer or bantered, or did anything together beyond studying, that would signify the shift in their relationship. Just one night after finishing their paper, they drank some beer, had a decent convo and BAM! S-E-X!
Also, there were some elements in this book that were straight up unnecessary dead weight. The heroine reserved a study room in the library, and next door was a guy named Seth. We got a whole scene of them meeting, some mild sparks and interest were there, they exchanged numbers and then NOTHING! No OM drama, no jealousy, no friendship, no being enemies...What was the point of Seth? You know that saying "If there's a gun in your story/play/film etc., it HAS to go off!" Well...the gun didn't go off!
January 13, 2020
“You’re mine now, Books. I was playing the long game. Now you’ll never be rid of me.”
When I started to read this book I didn’t think that I was going to enjoy it because after finishing kings of rittenhouse all wanted to read was Emmett and Every’s book but omg I loved these two.
I’ve only read two books by this author but I’m ready to start calling her one of my favorite authors. All Maya’s characters are lovable, especially her male characters. She creates the kind of male characters that makes you wish they were real so you could get a man like them 😫. Her female characters are all cute and strong that you can’t help but love them. These two characters, of course, weren’t the exception.
I loved these two. In kings of rittenhouse we saw how much they hated/couldn’t stand each other and this book we see more of that and we also get to see them realizing that they, in fact, are perfect for each other.
Once again, I can’t wait to read Emmet and Every’s book. Those two have been my favorites since I read the prequel and I need to read their book now 😫.
When I started to read this book I didn’t think that I was going to enjoy it because after finishing kings of rittenhouse all wanted to read was Emmett and Every’s book but omg I loved these two.
I’ve only read two books by this author but I’m ready to start calling her one of my favorite authors. All Maya’s characters are lovable, especially her male characters. She creates the kind of male characters that makes you wish they were real so you could get a man like them 😫. Her female characters are all cute and strong that you can’t help but love them. These two characters, of course, weren’t the exception.
I loved these two. In kings of rittenhouse we saw how much they hated/couldn’t stand each other and this book we see more of that and we also get to see them realizing that they, in fact, are perfect for each other.
Once again, I can’t wait to read Emmet and Every’s book. Those two have been my favorites since I read the prequel and I need to read their book now 😫.
April 23, 2020
2.5 stars
Meh 🤷 no depth to the story or characters and things were brushed over when they should have been dealt with properly. Also why even have an epilogue if the characters have not progressed in their relationship or their situation is addressed. I just don't understand.
Meh 🤷 no depth to the story or characters and things were brushed over when they should have been dealt with properly. Also why even have an epilogue if the characters have not progressed in their relationship or their situation is addressed. I just don't understand.
January 10, 2019
I hadn't planned on him at all, but sometimes life had a way of interfering with the best laid plans.
Hockey romance became my favourite with Ms. Kennedy's Off-Campus series, featuring delicious muscled college students. And Kristen Callihan's Game On series made me fall in love with sports romance. It is always exciting discovering new authors, especially when they promise an upcoming hockey sports romance.
So, when Maya Hughes appeared on my radar, I almost died of happiness. Shameless King features my sacred triad: college setting, sports romance and enemies-to-lovers trope. I couldn't want anything more. So why not five stars? Because after some deliberation, I realised some things prevented me from wanting to rate Shameless King that.
» Too much repetition during the beginning.
» Character development could have been more rounded. Relationship wise, Declan and Makenna showed significant progression and this was demonstrated well. However, their individuality felt flat and two-dimensional at times.
» Declan's personal issues were kind of awkward, making it difficult for me to fully wrap my head around it. It could have become a significant point of contention with some more work, rather than leaving it as what feels to me to be a minor background annoyance.
Outside of these points Shameless King is still an enjoyable read that matched my criteria. I've been desperate for another hockey romance.
Seeing her this open and needy and demanding, all wrapped into one beautiful package, made my cock throb in anticipation of giving her everything she needed.
Something readers either don't mind or absolutely detest is an overwhelming amount of character introductions. And that happens in Shameless King.
In between meeting the five Kings of Rittenhouse and various side characters, Ms. Hughes doesn't divulge too much information, leaving an air of mystery to surround these vastly different personalities. While Declan wasn't my ideal candidate, Ford one hundred percent is, with his shy and mysterious personality. I cannot wait for his book!
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January 5, 2019
I only read this book so That I could get a better understanding of book #3’s couple (Ruthless King). Lucky for me, I ended up enjoying this one more than I thought I would. I’ll probably give book 2 a crack now that I’m liking this series.
Told in dual POV, stand-alone in a series and the epilogue was a short HFN which I wasn’t too upset about because I know that I’ll be seeing more of this couple as this series progresses.
Told in dual POV, stand-alone in a series and the epilogue was a short HFN which I wasn’t too upset about because I know that I’ll be seeing more of this couple as this series progresses.
July 2, 2018
Everyone who knows me knows I love Enemies to lovers! They are a weakness of mine!
This one was so good! But I also had a lot of dejavu moments and that was a bit scary!
I enjoyed it so much it had so much fun and also seriousness in it! But I wish we got a bit more closure with a few things it can be that I'm a whiner on that one.
I'm very curious to Avery and Emmett, but also I don't really liked Avery after the prologue in the first preview. But now Mak hinted at a more complex story so I'm curious!
This one was so good! But I also had a lot of dejavu moments and that was a bit scary!
I enjoyed it so much it had so much fun and also seriousness in it! But I wish we got a bit more closure with a few things it can be that I'm a whiner on that one.
I'm very curious to Avery and Emmett, but also I don't really liked Avery after the prologue in the first preview. But now Mak hinted at a more complex story so I'm curious!
September 26, 2021
2.75⭐️
its not a bad book, but just very unoriginal and boring. i feel like every standard college romance book is written this way and i just wish there was a twist of uniqueness in this but sadly there wasn't any here. i mean if this is your first college sports romance book then ya you'll love it, but as someone who has read many, i just knew everything that will happen.
i think i like the side characters and i cant wait to get into their books, but mak and dec weren't anything special. they were cute and fluffy with each other and i loved how dec was all over her, but i don't think i'll remember them. scratch that i don't think i'll remember anything in this book.
the beginning is also very hard to get into. i mean it literally just dragged on and on. i just wanted everything to get to the point and it didn't. its a pretty fast read after you suffer the first 90 pages.
“She always smelled like books and strawberries. Like you were out reading in the middle of a field under the summer sun.”
its not a bad book, but just very unoriginal and boring. i feel like every standard college romance book is written this way and i just wish there was a twist of uniqueness in this but sadly there wasn't any here. i mean if this is your first college sports romance book then ya you'll love it, but as someone who has read many, i just knew everything that will happen.
i think i like the side characters and i cant wait to get into their books, but mak and dec weren't anything special. they were cute and fluffy with each other and i loved how dec was all over her, but i don't think i'll remember them. scratch that i don't think i'll remember anything in this book.
the beginning is also very hard to get into. i mean it literally just dragged on and on. i just wanted everything to get to the point and it didn't. its a pretty fast read after you suffer the first 90 pages.
June 16, 2018
Sexy, hockey romance? Yes, please! Right MEOW!!! (lol!)
Declan and Mackenna have such fun banter and their sexytimes are SO HOT... When they come together, it is explosive and so so good. As I was reading, the story kind of reminded me of a mash-up of 10 Things I Hate About You meets Fallen Crest High set in the world of college hockey.
Either way, I devoured this sexy romance, and even better, it's the kick-off to MORE books focusing on the different teammates...
So don't miss out--you are going to LOVE this story!
xoxo
Declan and Mackenna have such fun banter and their sexytimes are SO HOT... When they come together, it is explosive and so so good. As I was reading, the story kind of reminded me of a mash-up of 10 Things I Hate About You meets Fallen Crest High set in the world of college hockey.
Either way, I devoured this sexy romance, and even better, it's the kick-off to MORE books focusing on the different teammates...
So don't miss out--you are going to LOVE this story!
xoxo
December 19, 2018
After reading the short prequel Kings of Rittenhouse, I was eager to see how Mak and Declan's story played out in Shameless King. I'm a huge sports romance fan (particularly hockey) and enemies to lovers has fast become one of my favorite tropes, so this was right up my alley. Maya Hughes is a new to me author and this was a great start to the series! It was an addicting read for me and I couldn't put it down. The prologue gives us a glimpse into an event mentioned in the prequel, but the book itself takes place 3-4 years afterwards. It definitely helps to read the prequel novella before jumping into this book since it lays a lot of the foundation for this group of friends as well as Mak and Declan's history.
The story was part enemies to lovers, part second/missed chance, and some slow burn thrown in for good measure. Declan and Mak had awesome chemistry and their back and forth ribbing and button pushing was fantastic. It made the build up so much more thrilling and I couldn't wait for everything to boil over. Yes, they're both immature and make rash decisions at times, but this is an NA romance, so I kind of expect it. I was really moved by Mak's past though and all the pressures and expectations she forced upon herself (knowingly and unknowingly). It was heartbreaking at times, especially given the current situation with her father's health. Declan's history didn't make as much sense to me though and I felt like the antagonistic relationship with his father felt out of place. The drama at the end wasn't a huge surprise, but how it unfolded and resolved fell kind of flat for me. I still really enjoyed this one though and I'm left just as intrigued by Emmett and Avery as I was after the prequel. I love the seeds the author is planting for future story lines!
The story was part enemies to lovers, part second/missed chance, and some slow burn thrown in for good measure. Declan and Mak had awesome chemistry and their back and forth ribbing and button pushing was fantastic. It made the build up so much more thrilling and I couldn't wait for everything to boil over. Yes, they're both immature and make rash decisions at times, but this is an NA romance, so I kind of expect it. I was really moved by Mak's past though and all the pressures and expectations she forced upon herself (knowingly and unknowingly). It was heartbreaking at times, especially given the current situation with her father's health. Declan's history didn't make as much sense to me though and I felt like the antagonistic relationship with his father felt out of place. The drama at the end wasn't a huge surprise, but how it unfolded and resolved fell kind of flat for me. I still really enjoyed this one though and I'm left just as intrigued by Emmett and Avery as I was after the prequel. I love the seeds the author is planting for future story lines!
June 28, 2018
***AVAILABLE NOW - FULL REVIEW***
4.5 Button Pushing CROWNS
Lovers of sports romances, prepare to fall in love with the new Kings of Hockey. Not only does Maya Hughes deliver and fun, sexy sports romances with a lovable hero and heroine but she also delivers a host of hockey players I’m enamored with. I’m already desperate for more!
Declan is the hero we love in a sports romance: sexy, confident, a good person, skilled on and off the ice. She really hits all the marks with this guy. Plus, there is an authentic background that makes him sympathetic. We want him to get the girl as much as we want him to make it to the professional league.
Mak is a ball buster. She has her mind set on a goal and she refuses to let anyone or anything get in her way, including Declan. I love watching her challenge him, push his buttons right back, and eventually let loose with him.
This story is fun and sexy, everything a sports romance should be. The banter between the characters and the chemistry between Declan and Mak keeps the story moving quickly. The dialogue will have you laughing, and the chemistry in the bedroom is combustible. The conflict of the story is one readers will see coming, and it explodes rather quickly. However, the resolution is well paced, and where she leaves the characters gives readers the HEA they long for.
Shameless King has launched a brand new sports romance, and I can't tell you how excited I am for every single story she has lined up. I am definitely entranced with the world Maya Hughes has created.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 Button Pushing CROWNS
Lovers of sports romances, prepare to fall in love with the new Kings of Hockey. Not only does Maya Hughes deliver and fun, sexy sports romances with a lovable hero and heroine but she also delivers a host of hockey players I’m enamored with. I’m already desperate for more!
Declan is the hero we love in a sports romance: sexy, confident, a good person, skilled on and off the ice. She really hits all the marks with this guy. Plus, there is an authentic background that makes him sympathetic. We want him to get the girl as much as we want him to make it to the professional league.
Mak is a ball buster. She has her mind set on a goal and she refuses to let anyone or anything get in her way, including Declan. I love watching her challenge him, push his buttons right back, and eventually let loose with him.
This story is fun and sexy, everything a sports romance should be. The banter between the characters and the chemistry between Declan and Mak keeps the story moving quickly. The dialogue will have you laughing, and the chemistry in the bedroom is combustible. The conflict of the story is one readers will see coming, and it explodes rather quickly. However, the resolution is well paced, and where she leaves the characters gives readers the HEA they long for.
Shameless King has launched a brand new sports romance, and I can't tell you how excited I am for every single story she has lined up. I am definitely entranced with the world Maya Hughes has created.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
September 13, 2021
3.5⭐️
“You’re good at keeping me from going overboard, and I keep you in line. I think that’s a good combination.”
“I was all rough and tumble, and she was sweet and refined. But somehow, we fit together in our perfect imperfection.”
**Synopsis:**
Declan and Mak knew each other in high school, but were not fans of each other. Fast forward three years and now they are at the same college, in the same class and paired together for a college assignment.
They decide to call a truce seeing as they both need a good grade in the class. Ultimately the truce leads to something more.
~ “It seems like we’re both relying on someone we don’t trust, so we might as well make the best of it and get this shit done so we can see each other for the least amount of time possible.”
** The following are my thoughts about this book: **
* * a bit predictable and Mak’s freak out over the paper was a bit over the top.
* * there was something missing in the transition from “we are being forced to work together on this paper and I can’t stand you” to “I’m so hot for you and let’s jump into bed and have a relationship”.
* * I didn’t feel like Mak and Declan’s relationship grew outside of the bedroom. I would have liked to spend more time with them growing as a couple rather than just the sex aspect
* * So in addition to growth as a couple, I thought character development was a bit light. Declan turned a corner with his dad and that was good. But, I would have liked Makenna to to grow more and see her really start to live outside the “I need to be perfect for my brother” cloud. Yes, she also turned a corner but she just didn’t come off as confident in who she was.
* * because I wasn’t getting enough growth and I got frustrated that Makenna went into hiding when she and Declan hit a rough patch, I started skipping paragraphs here and there in the last 20% of the book.
* * I’m a little confused about the overall premise of the Kings or Rittenhouse. Yes, I read the prequel and I got the connection with the guys. All made sense. But then they head off in different directions after high school and that thread of connection formed between the guys was severed in this book. This introduces some new teammates and there are some visits from the “Kings”, but I just felt the relationships formed in the prequel were obliterated with this book. I’m not invested in the “Kings” now. 😔
**Overview:**
- Content Warning: death of sibling (in the past, off page), sick and terminally ill parent (on page), child abandonment
- Setting: University of Philadelphia
- Do you need to read previous books in series?: I thought the prequel was going to end up important to some backstory for this book. But, honestly you could skip the prequel and be just fine
- POV: Dual POV
- Tropes: enemies to lovers, sports, college
- Who is the Hero? Declan McAvoy (age: 22). Senior in college. Hoping to go pro
* The following words/phrases were used to describe Hero: loves hockey, out to prove to his absent dad (former pro hockey player) that he can make it without his help, hard worker
* H likable? Yes.
- Who is the Heroine? Makenna Halstead (age: 22). With only 1 more year to go at Stanford, Makenna transferred to U of Philly to be near her family. Pre-med
* The following words/phrases were used to describe Heroine: Ice Queen, never has fun, feels guilt about her brother’s death, living for her brother, high strung, weary
* h likable? she was ok. Her “I have to be perfect” attitude was a turn off.
- h virgin? No
- First time they kiss: 47%
- First time they sleep together: 49%
- Safe sex? Yes. Condoms were used
- First time they say I Love You 92%
- steamy? Yes
- OW/OM drama? No
- H/h cheat? No
- Time apart? 2 weeks
- Did I skip pages? Yes
- Big secrets? No
- Did I cry? No
- Did I laugh? No
- Did I swoon🥰? Not really
- Cliffhanger? No
- HEA? HFN
- Epilogue? a couple months later. Some things were left unanswered. Do they last and get a true HEA? What career will Mak settle on? Will Declan make it to the pros? Maybe it will be wrapped up in future books, but I was disappointed I didn’t get a good view into their future.
- Recommend? I was excited for this series, but this book was a tad disappointing. I’m not sure if I’m going to continue the series or not.
**Quotes**
“Normally, she walked with her shoulders square and a stomp that could shatter bone.”
“Are we going somewhere in particular? Or were you trying to walk me somewhere private to murder me and secure yourself a new partner.”
“She loved her den of solitude back in the library where it was so quiet you could hear a mouse fart.”
“She’d sooner disembowel herself with a rusty spoon than turn something in she hasn’t proofread fifteen times and forced me to proof at least twice.”
“I’m just a bit high-strung sometimes.” I darted my gaze away.
“Sometimes! Come on, you’re the entire string section of an orchestra.”
“You’re mine now, Books. I was playing the long game. Now you’ll never be rid of me.”
“You’re good at keeping me from going overboard, and I keep you in line. I think that’s a good combination.”
“I was all rough and tumble, and she was sweet and refined. But somehow, we fit together in our perfect imperfection.”
**Synopsis:**
Declan and Mak knew each other in high school, but were not fans of each other. Fast forward three years and now they are at the same college, in the same class and paired together for a college assignment.
They decide to call a truce seeing as they both need a good grade in the class. Ultimately the truce leads to something more.
~ “It seems like we’re both relying on someone we don’t trust, so we might as well make the best of it and get this shit done so we can see each other for the least amount of time possible.”
** The following are my thoughts about this book: **
* * a bit predictable and Mak’s freak out over the paper was a bit over the top.
* * there was something missing in the transition from “we are being forced to work together on this paper and I can’t stand you” to “I’m so hot for you and let’s jump into bed and have a relationship”.
* * I didn’t feel like Mak and Declan’s relationship grew outside of the bedroom. I would have liked to spend more time with them growing as a couple rather than just the sex aspect
* * So in addition to growth as a couple, I thought character development was a bit light. Declan turned a corner with his dad and that was good. But, I would have liked Makenna to to grow more and see her really start to live outside the “I need to be perfect for my brother” cloud. Yes, she also turned a corner but she just didn’t come off as confident in who she was.
* * because I wasn’t getting enough growth and I got frustrated that Makenna went into hiding when she and Declan hit a rough patch, I started skipping paragraphs here and there in the last 20% of the book.
* * I’m a little confused about the overall premise of the Kings or Rittenhouse. Yes, I read the prequel and I got the connection with the guys. All made sense. But then they head off in different directions after high school and that thread of connection formed between the guys was severed in this book. This introduces some new teammates and there are some visits from the “Kings”, but I just felt the relationships formed in the prequel were obliterated with this book. I’m not invested in the “Kings” now. 😔
**Overview:**
- Content Warning: death of sibling (in the past, off page), sick and terminally ill parent (on page), child abandonment
- Setting: University of Philadelphia
- Do you need to read previous books in series?: I thought the prequel was going to end up important to some backstory for this book. But, honestly you could skip the prequel and be just fine
- POV: Dual POV
- Tropes: enemies to lovers, sports, college
- Who is the Hero? Declan McAvoy (age: 22). Senior in college. Hoping to go pro
* The following words/phrases were used to describe Hero: loves hockey, out to prove to his absent dad (former pro hockey player) that he can make it without his help, hard worker
* H likable? Yes.
- Who is the Heroine? Makenna Halstead (age: 22). With only 1 more year to go at Stanford, Makenna transferred to U of Philly to be near her family. Pre-med
* The following words/phrases were used to describe Heroine: Ice Queen, never has fun, feels guilt about her brother’s death, living for her brother, high strung, weary
* h likable? she was ok. Her “I have to be perfect” attitude was a turn off.
- h virgin? No
- First time they kiss: 47%
- First time they sleep together: 49%
- Safe sex? Yes. Condoms were used
- First time they say I Love You 92%
- steamy? Yes
- OW/OM drama? No
- H/h cheat? No
- Time apart? 2 weeks
- Did I skip pages? Yes
- Big secrets? No
- Did I cry? No
- Did I laugh? No
- Did I swoon🥰? Not really
- Cliffhanger? No
- HEA? HFN
- Epilogue? a couple months later. Some things were left unanswered. Do they last and get a true HEA? What career will Mak settle on? Will Declan make it to the pros? Maybe it will be wrapped up in future books, but I was disappointed I didn’t get a good view into their future.
- Recommend? I was excited for this series, but this book was a tad disappointing. I’m not sure if I’m going to continue the series or not.
**Quotes**
“Normally, she walked with her shoulders square and a stomp that could shatter bone.”
“Are we going somewhere in particular? Or were you trying to walk me somewhere private to murder me and secure yourself a new partner.”
“She loved her den of solitude back in the library where it was so quiet you could hear a mouse fart.”
“She’d sooner disembowel herself with a rusty spoon than turn something in she hasn’t proofread fifteen times and forced me to proof at least twice.”
“I’m just a bit high-strung sometimes.” I darted my gaze away.
“Sometimes! Come on, you’re the entire string section of an orchestra.”
“You’re mine now, Books. I was playing the long game. Now you’ll never be rid of me.”
April 12, 2020
Having read and loved Maya Hughes Fulton U series I have had The Kings of Rittenhouse series on my TBR for quite some time but I haven’t really had the time until now. So when I saw that the fifth one is releasing soon and I had a week of social distancing I figured now was my chance.
And to be honest it took me a little bit to connect with the characters. But as I am sure most of you realise this is more a fact that life is so damn distracting at the minute and I am finding it really hard to keep my mind on anything at the moment. Luckily the writing was great and I knew it was a me issue and not a book issue so I put on my headphones and locked myself away in my room for a few hours and I was hooked.
Makenna was such a high strung over achiever and if I didn’t know why she was so neurotic I would have found her really unlikable. But obviously there was a reason for how she got to where she was at and her story was just heartbreaking. It’s really weird how people deal with their same life experiences in such unique and individual ways. But it’s also what makes us human and interesting. So once I saw where Makenna’s quirks were coming from I just wanted her to relax and see the silver lining in all of the rain clouds.
Declan was the perfect compliment. He came across as this super slacker who just coasted by, but he was being pushed on by his own demons. And I liked that he realised that his demons were his own creation when he saw them next to Makenna's. But I really loved that he took the time to see under Makenna’s crusty exterior and once he did he was infatuated with her. Because she really needed him to drag her out of her cocoon.
Together these two were a great compliment of each other and I really loved the introduction to the Kings. I am so glad that they are all on KU and I can’t wait to binge them over the next few days.
And to be honest it took me a little bit to connect with the characters. But as I am sure most of you realise this is more a fact that life is so damn distracting at the minute and I am finding it really hard to keep my mind on anything at the moment. Luckily the writing was great and I knew it was a me issue and not a book issue so I put on my headphones and locked myself away in my room for a few hours and I was hooked.
Makenna was such a high strung over achiever and if I didn’t know why she was so neurotic I would have found her really unlikable. But obviously there was a reason for how she got to where she was at and her story was just heartbreaking. It’s really weird how people deal with their same life experiences in such unique and individual ways. But it’s also what makes us human and interesting. So once I saw where Makenna’s quirks were coming from I just wanted her to relax and see the silver lining in all of the rain clouds.
Declan was the perfect compliment. He came across as this super slacker who just coasted by, but he was being pushed on by his own demons. And I liked that he realised that his demons were his own creation when he saw them next to Makenna's. But I really loved that he took the time to see under Makenna’s crusty exterior and once he did he was infatuated with her. Because she really needed him to drag her out of her cocoon.
Together these two were a great compliment of each other and I really loved the introduction to the Kings. I am so glad that they are all on KU and I can’t wait to binge them over the next few days.
May 21, 2021
This lady knows how to write a book that i'm gonna love.
it says is an enemies to lovers romance, but for me enemies you fight/bully but here they just teased each other in high school, and now years later they have a class together.
this audiobook made me feel their feelings, it was perfect!
i only have one book left of this series, but from the ones I've already read 3/4 are on my favorite books of 2021 shelf
it says is an enemies to lovers romance, but for me enemies you fight/bully but here they just teased each other in high school, and now years later they have a class together.
this audiobook made me feel their feelings, it was perfect!
i only have one book left of this series, but from the ones I've already read 3/4 are on my favorite books of 2021 shelf
June 4, 2018
What an amazing sports romance. I loved this story. Shameless King is such a dynamic story. It had everything I love in a college, sports, romance novel. There is secrets and drama. There is also spectacular supporting characters and wonderful scenes. This is the first in what I am hoping to be a series.
The plot of this story is interesting. Two people who have a history thrown together for the sake of the grades? Sign me up. What I think I love most about this story is that I really connected with the male character before the female. Usually I am immediately drawn to the female character, but I was happy to be drawn to the male character this time.
I loved Declan. He has so much going on in his head. I love his focus on his sport and the journey he goes through in this story. It took me a little bit longer to warm up to Makenna. I felt for her and her past, but I had a hard time understanding her personality. Once I was able to understand to her, I loved her character as well. She has her own journey to go over.
The heat in this book is flipping on point. These two characters really heat it up once they give into their primal desires. What I love most about the heat is the fact that Makenna is a little minx. She really came into her own. I loved how strong her was and how she was willing to voice her wants and desires.
The writing style of this book was good. The pace was steady. I liked how the author slowly revealed the past to us. I really enjoyed the minor characters. I am happy that the author said they would get their own stories, especially since each holds more than meets the eye.
In conclusion, I loved Shameless King and all that came along with it. This was a 5 star read for me. I didn’t want to put it down. I cannot wait to continue this series. Not only am I invested in these two main characters, but I am also invested in the minor characters in this book as well. This author created a whole universe for me to follow.
Plot: 5/5
Characters: 5/5
Heat: 5/5
Writing Style: 5/5
Overall: 5/5
*Reviewed for Seraphim Book Reviews*
The plot of this story is interesting. Two people who have a history thrown together for the sake of the grades? Sign me up. What I think I love most about this story is that I really connected with the male character before the female. Usually I am immediately drawn to the female character, but I was happy to be drawn to the male character this time.
I loved Declan. He has so much going on in his head. I love his focus on his sport and the journey he goes through in this story. It took me a little bit longer to warm up to Makenna. I felt for her and her past, but I had a hard time understanding her personality. Once I was able to understand to her, I loved her character as well. She has her own journey to go over.
The heat in this book is flipping on point. These two characters really heat it up once they give into their primal desires. What I love most about the heat is the fact that Makenna is a little minx. She really came into her own. I loved how strong her was and how she was willing to voice her wants and desires.
The writing style of this book was good. The pace was steady. I liked how the author slowly revealed the past to us. I really enjoyed the minor characters. I am happy that the author said they would get their own stories, especially since each holds more than meets the eye.
In conclusion, I loved Shameless King and all that came along with it. This was a 5 star read for me. I didn’t want to put it down. I cannot wait to continue this series. Not only am I invested in these two main characters, but I am also invested in the minor characters in this book as well. This author created a whole universe for me to follow.
Plot: 5/5
Characters: 5/5
Heat: 5/5
Writing Style: 5/5
Overall: 5/5
*Reviewed for Seraphim Book Reviews*
Read
June 28, 2018DNF @40%
Bored and it doesn’t really feel like a enemies to lovers to me:(
Bored and it doesn’t really feel like a enemies to lovers to me:(
February 13, 2021
‧͙⁺˚*･༓☾☆ 3.5 stars ☆☽༓･*˚⁺‧͙
I’m surprised cause I didn’t expect for me to like it this much! this was sweet. I wasn’t sold at the beginning cause idk I couldn’t get into it, but once they become friends??? Ugh, so sweet.
Mak
I liked her. She seemed like a complete different person once she started having sex, though. But I’m not complaining.
Declan
He was refreshingggg. A guy who TALKS about his feelings??? Ugh, so hot. He obviously had a crush for Mak. It was noticeable since the beginning, but once he acknowledged it?? So cute!!!!!! It was really sweet!! He was a fcking champ in the conflict.
Conflict
Refreshing. And predictable. BUT it was good cause it was refreshing. The conflict actually made sense and Mak took her time and Declan just waited for her. He wasn’t like “oh she’s done she broke up with me, let me go fuck someone else” or “fuck her, i’m mad blabla” like no. He was a nice guy and knew this was more than him. Ugh, so hot.
Why not 5 stars?
- The whole thing about her degree rubbed me the wrong way once she decides it’s okay to follow her dreams. Cause honestly, we never know her dreams. She never says being a doctor is what she WANTS, so yeah, not great there.
- There are a few things they don’t talk with each other and I didn’t like that. Because like, they don’t really talk, they fucked. And when they DID talk, they skipped important bits.
- Felt superficial at time cause of the talking and cause of the quick QUICK pace. Every chapter jumped like a week and a month and idk, it was too fast for me. Just a little bit.
I liked this!!! Next one is teacher/student trope and it’s not my favorite, so we’ll see if I like it!!!
I’m surprised cause I didn’t expect for me to like it this much! this was sweet. I wasn’t sold at the beginning cause idk I couldn’t get into it, but once they become friends??? Ugh, so sweet.
Mak
I liked her. She seemed like a complete different person once she started having sex, though. But I’m not complaining.
Declan
He was refreshingggg. A guy who TALKS about his feelings??? Ugh, so hot. He obviously had a crush for Mak. It was noticeable since the beginning, but once he acknowledged it?? So cute!!!!!! It was really sweet!! He was a fcking champ in the conflict.
Conflict
Refreshing. And predictable. BUT it was good cause it was refreshing. The conflict actually made sense and Mak took her time and Declan just waited for her. He wasn’t like “oh she’s done she broke up with me, let me go fuck someone else” or “fuck her, i’m mad blabla” like no. He was a nice guy and knew this was more than him. Ugh, so hot.
Why not 5 stars?
- The whole thing about her degree rubbed me the wrong way once she decides it’s okay to follow her dreams. Cause honestly, we never know her dreams. She never says being a doctor is what she WANTS, so yeah, not great there.
- There are a few things they don’t talk with each other and I didn’t like that. Because like, they don’t really talk, they fucked. And when they DID talk, they skipped important bits.
- Felt superficial at time cause of the talking and cause of the quick QUICK pace. Every chapter jumped like a week and a month and idk, it was too fast for me. Just a little bit.
I liked this!!! Next one is teacher/student trope and it’s not my favorite, so we’ll see if I like it!!!
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