Maxton Hall Recap: James and Ruby’s Romance at Risk Following Betrayal

Just as swiftly as Maxton Hall reunited James and Ruby, the show now threatens to tear them apart following the cheating storyline.

In the Thursday, November 13, episode of the popular Prime Video series, James (Damian Hardung) visited Ruby (Harriet Herbig-Matten) at her home, opening the door for a reconciliation after his infidelity. They initially chose to keep their relationship under wraps until a party where they decided to go public.

James even planned an incredibly romantic date for Ruby, culminating in an intense makeout session. He then invited her back to his house, believing his father — who disapproves of her — would be away. However, bad weather caused James’ father to alter his travel plans and return home, leaving the episode on a cliffhanger.

The likelihood of James’ father meddling in his relationship with Ruby is quite high, given the numerous challenges they have faced in the first three episodes of this season. The season 2 premiere, which aired earlier this month, depicted James grappling with his mother’s sudden death and betraying Ruby right in front of her.

Season 2 of Maxton Hall, based on the second book of Mona Kasten‘s Save You collection, resumes after James and Ruby’s “passionate night together in Oxford.” With Ruby’s greatest ambition within reach, everything seems flawless until a twist of fate in James’ family alters everything. James himself is the one who pulls Ruby back from cloud nine into a painful reality. She is heartbroken, having never felt such strong emotions for anyone as she does for James — and never before has anyone hurt her so profoundly.

The logline continues: “She wishes to reclaim her earlier life—where no one at Maxton Hall was familiar with her, and she was outside the elite circle of her classmates. Yet, she can’t erase James from her mind, especially since he’s making every effort to win her back.”

Before resuming filming for season 2, Herbig-Matten, 22, and Hardung, 27, shared their hopes for their characters’ journeys.

“[I want Ruby] to remain true to herself and to establish boundaries. She’s already doing this, but I hope she continues. Also, I want to emphasize female friendships, which are incredibly important. Don’t let a man ruin your life,” Herbig-Matten told Us Weekly in June 2024.

The actress mentioned that she gained valuable insights while filming the first season, which she plans to carry into season 2.

“From Damian, I learned a lot about exercising after shooting. That helped me to take my mind off things and process the day,” she shared.

Hardung, on the other hand, expressed a desire for James to focus on personal growth.

“I’ve mentioned this often. I genuinely hope that he and his family can attend therapy together and address their issues. Improved communication regarding their wants and needs could help them move forward and ease their struggles,” he explained to Us.

Maxton Hall airs on Prime Video Thursdays.