Book Review: Under the Oak Tree Vol 2 - The Novel by Suji Kim

Title: Under the Oak Tree Vol 2 - The Novel (ARC)

Author: Suji Kim

Release Date: November 18, 2025

Rating: 3.5

Synopsis

Following Volume 1 where Maxi and Riftan had to navigate their forced marriage and being separated for three years due to war, and get to know each other, Volume 2 takes place where Maxi and Riftan are beginning to actually communicate with each other and are learning to listen. Maxi is learning magic, Riftan is preparing for another campaign, and they must, reluctantly, learn that they need help from each other in order to achieve their goals despite only wanting what’s best, and safe, for each other. Communication is a valuable part of marriage.

Review

Coming off of Vol 1, where Maxi and Riftan had just been reunited after Riftan’s  3 year dragon campaign, and must learn to be a married couple, Vol 2 really starts to develop Maxi as a character. She is learning to stand up for herself, learning that her strengths are more than her weaknesses, and that her husband is the first person to truly care about her safety. There are times when Riftan isn’t at his heroic greatness, and ultimately shows more of his weaknesses than strengths. This Volume was a refreshing change to the usual trope of Knights x Damsels in Distress. If you enjoyed Vol 1, I think you’ll enjoy Vol 2 even more. I really felt like I got to get to know the characters in such a deeper way that made me want to keep reading. If you are a fan of Under the Oak Tree, then I would definitely recommend checking out Vol 2. 

Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher, Del Rey & Inklore for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.