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Kings Rising

Book 3 in the series:Captive Prince

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Who Would Like This Book:

Kings Rising wraps up the Captive Prince trilogy with all the political intrigue, worldbuilding, and slow-burn romance fans have come to love. If you enjoy clever, twisty plots, complex characters who actually evolve, and enemies-to-lovers dynamics, this is your catnip. Damen and Laurent’s journey from rivals to equals is filled with clever dialogue, emotional highs and lows, and just the right amount of wit (seriously, the banter is top-tier). If you adore a satisfying emotional payoff and want more than just action - think strategic mind-games, relationship development, and rich fantasy settings - you’ll probably devour this.

Who May Not Like This Book:

Some readers felt this final book wasn’t as tightly plotted as earlier installments, with resolutions that felt rushed or too convenient. If you crave relentless action or dislike slow-burn romances, you may find yourself impatient in the earlier half. Others found the focus on political maneuvering, occasional plot holes, and a handful of deus ex machina moments a bit frustrating. There are also heavy themes (including abuse and references to slavery) that could be triggering or uncomfortable for some.

A gripping and dramatic finale - full of feels, intrigue, and emotional growth. Not flawless, but for fans of the series, it’s a mostly satisfying end that delivers everything you’ve been waiting for from Damen and Laurent.

About:

Kings Rising by C.S. Pacat is the final installment in the Captive Prince series, focusing on the intense relationship between the two main characters, Laurent and Damen. The book is praised for its intricate plot twists and character development, particularly the complex and captivating character of Laurent. The writing style is described as enthralling, with deliberate word choice and multi-layered prose that keeps the reader engaged throughout the series.

Characters:

The characters are intricately developed, with Damen and Laurent showcasing a mix of strength and vulnerability.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is straightforward yet layered, with engaging dialogue and deliberate word choice.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot features complex political intrigue and the evolution of a romantic relationship, culminating in unexpected twists and resolutions.

Setting:

The setting is an alternate historical fantasy world marked by intricate political tensions between two distinct cultures.

Pacing:

The pacing fluctuates between slow romantic build-up and action-packed moments, with some sections feeling rushed or drawn out.
Damen stood at the base of the dais steps as his name spread in tones of shock and disbelief over the courtyard. Nikandros knelt before him, his army knelt before him. It was like coming home, until h...

Notes:

Kings Rising is the final book in the Captive Prince trilogy by C.S. Pacat.
The story blends elements of political intrigue, romance, and personal conflict.
Laurent, a key character, is described as complex, intelligent, and often surprising.
There are themes of slavery and power dynamics explored throughout the series.
The relationship between Damen and Laurent evolves from enemies to lovers, showcasing deep emotional growth.
Many readers felt the ending was abrupt but still satisfying, leading to discussions on the nature of closure in stories.
Laurent's intelligence is a recurring topic, with readers noting he often anticipates events several steps ahead.
The book features significant plot twists that leave readers shocked and engaged.
Readers expressed a desire for more character interactions and world-building, specifically regarding friendship dynamics in the army.
C.S. Pacat's writing has been praised for its quality and character development, especially compared to her earlier works.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

The book includes content warnings for themes of slavery, violence, betrayal, and abuse.

Has Romance?

Romance plays a significant, high role in the narrative, particularly the relationship between Damen and Laurent.

From The Publisher:

The stunning conslusion of worldwide phenomenon-from the boldly original author of Captive Prince and Prince's Gambit.

His identity now revealed, Damen must face his master Prince Laurent as Damianos of Akielos, the man Laurent has sworn to kill.

On the brink of a momentous battle, the future of both their countries hangs in the balance. In the south, Kastor's forces are massing. In the north, the Regent's armies are mobilising for war. Damen's only hope of reclaiming his throne is to fight together with Laurent against their usurpers.

Forced into an uneasy alliance the two princes journey deep into Akielos, where they face their most dangerous opposition yet. But even if the fragile trust they have built survives the revelation of Damen's identity-can it stand against the Regents final, deadly play for the throne?

Ratings (32)

Incredible (12)
Loved It (13)
Liked It (5)
It Was OK (1)
Did Not Like (1)

Reader Stats (41):

Read It (35)
Want To Read (5)
Not Interested (1)

3 comment(s)

Incredible
3 months

and how am i to recover from this?

 
Loved It
1 year

The last book in this amazing series. Well, the whole series is great.

Although, I didn't like the beginning of this story.

What Laurent tells Damen is just cruel and I see no purpose of that. In my opinion Laurent leave Damane when he needs him. I was disappointed.

Also, I would like to see some epilogue to this story, it would be nice to see Laurent and Damen finally happy after three books and how their relationship works.

Anyway, it was a great pleasure to read this series. Looking for more like that.

 
Incredible
1 year

even better on the reread. a million stars, no notes. will probably reread 50 more times. maybe I'll get a captive prince tattoo someday. Or name my next child Damianos. if you're ever in a slump, pick this up. it might put you right back into a slump when you're done though because I haven't found anything that compares.

 

About the Author:

C. S. Pacat is the author of the Captive Prince trilogy. Born in Australia and educated at the University of Melbourne, she has since lived in a number of different cities, including Tokyo and Perugia. She currently resides and works…

 
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