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Book Review: King of Sloth by Ana Huang

Posted on January 31, 2025 by Tejashwini

As I eagerly await the release of King of Envy, I found myself drawn back into the Kings of Sin series. And what better way to dive in than with King of Sloth—my absolute favourite? This book isn’t just a story; it’s an experience, one that had me hooked from the very first page.

From the moment I read the line, “If I ruined my brand-new Stella Alonso dress over this, I’d kill him, bring him back to clean up the mess, then kill him again,” I knew I was in for a treat. That line screamed enemies-to-lovers perfection, and it did not disappoint. Enter Xavier Castillo, her client—emphasis on client, because as much as Sloane Kensington may fantasise about strangling him, murder isn’t exactly part of her job description. And we all know what happens when a heroine starts out thinking about killing the love interest—it’s only a matter of time before she falls for him instead.

Plot Summary: 

He’d never wanted anyone enough to chase them…until he met her.

Charming, easygoing, and rich beyond belief, Xavier Castillo has the world at his fingertips. 

He also has no interest in taking over his family’s empire (much to his father’s chagrin), but that hasn’t stopped women from throwing themselves at him…unless the woman in question is his publicist. 

Nothing brings him more joy than riling her up, but when a tragedy forces them closer than ever, he must grapple with the uncertainty of his future—and the realization that the only person immune to his charms is the only one he truly wants.  

***

Cool, intelligent, and ambitious, Sloane Kensington is a high-powered publicist who’s used to dealing with difficult clients. 

However, none infuriate—or tempt—her more than a certain billionaire heir, with his stupid dimples and laid-back attitude. 

She may be forced to work with him, but she’ll never fall for him…no matter how fast he makes her heart beat or how thoughtful he is beneath his party persona. 

He’s her client, and that’s all he’ll ever be. Right?

Ana Huang delivers yet another masterclass in character development. Xavier’s transformation was one of the best-executed arcs I’ve read. Initially, he’s the classic spoiled billionaire—charming but irresponsible, coasting through life on wealth and privilege. Then there’s Sloane, an ambitious, no-nonsense publicist who prides herself on control and professionalism. Their dynamic is electric, filled with sharp banter, undeniable chemistry, and just the right amount of tension.

And then there’s that moment—the moment Xavier calls Sloane Luna. When he finally explains why? Prepare for your heart to melt into a puddle. It’s those small, intimate details that make Huang’s writing so powerful.

Beyond the romance, King of Sloth explores deeper themes of self-discovery, vulnerability, and breaking free from expectations. Sloane learns that slowing down doesn’t mean failure, that taking a break is not a weakness, but a necessity. Often, ambitious heroines in romance novels are portrayed as needing to soften. But here, Sloane’s strength isn’t diminished—it’s balanced. She doesn’t lose herself in love; she finds a version of herself that embraces both ambition and joy.

 Meanwhile, Xavier—who has spent his life avoiding responsibility—finds his purpose, his passion, and something worth fighting for. Watching them evolve, not just as a couple but as individuals, was one of the most rewarding aspects of this book. His arc isn’t just about stepping up; it’s about realising that ambition doesn’t have to be forced—it just has to be personal. Seeing him discover what truly drives him made his character transformation feel even more fulfilling.

Their relationship becomes a safe haven, a place where they can challenge and defy the expectations placed upon them. Xavier resists the pressure to take over his family’s empire, while Sloane sheds the cold, unemotional persona she’s worked so hard to maintain. Love, in this novel, is a force of transformation—a catalyst for growth and healing.

And let’s not forget the swoon-worthy lines that make you want to highlight every other page. Case in point: “I wasn’t a poetic person in the least, but she looked good enough to inspire Shakespeare himself.”

If you love slow-burn romance with sizzling chemistry, witty banter, and deeply layered characters, King of Sloth is an absolute must-read. It’s a story that lingers, one that makes you reflect on your own journey, on love, ambition, and the courage it takes to truly live.

The way Ana Huang structures the narrative makes King of Sloth impossible to put down. The build-up between Xavier and Sloane feels natural yet addictive, making every interaction between them charged with anticipation. This book doesn’t just entertain—it resonates. The themes of burnout, self-worth, and redefining one’s identity struck a personal chord, making the story feel all the more intimate and relatable.

The Kings of Sin series thrives on a richly developed world, and King of Sloth is no exception. The glimpses of other Kings and their dynamics add an extra layer of intrigue, making the reader eager for what’s to come.

Final verdict? 5 out of 5 stars. No notes. Just pure, unfiltered love for this book

Category: Romance

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