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Royal Powers II #1
King's Ex
listening length: 6 hrs and 17 mins
To escape an arranged marriage, the king needs a fake fiancé. Stat.
King Bastien’s father locked him into an ironclad betrothal contract with Lady Helena Rey when the two of them were only seven years old. Bas and Helena have never been friends—and not only because she marked their first meeting by dropping a frog down his shirt. He’s been unsuccessfully petitioning Parliament to annul the damn contract ever since he took the throne nine years ago. But with the deadline for officially confirming the engagement rapidly approaching, Bas is getting desperate.
Enter commoner Nico Pereira, manager of the Royal Crest Vineyards, who nurses a secret crush on the king. He’s at the New Palace to unveil a wine that’s the first joint venture between North and South Abarra. No problem, right? Except Nico has a secret: He has a superpower. Not a very strong superpower, but because powers are a privilege reserved for Royals, it still puts him at risk for arrest and prosecution. Nico can usually mask his limited foresight gift under the guise of being an incredibly efficient administrator. But when King Bastien asks him to be his fake fiancé?
Well. Nico never saw that coming.
Nothing if not loyal, Nico accepts the faux-posal, although close proximity to Bastien makes him more than a little… uncomfortable, and the increased scrutiny of government officials threatens to expose his illegal ability. Good thing this engagement is temporary, because being the king’s ex will be a lot less onerous than prison or exile.
Or, if the attacks from a shadowy conspiracy continue, with being dead.
King’s Ex is a 52,000-word M/M superhero rom-com featuring a fake engagement, class differences, improbably pristine clothing, dueling secrets, a guaranteed HEA, and a kitten.
To escape an arranged marriage, the king needs a fake fiancé. Stat.
King Bastien’s father locked him into an ironclad betrothal contract with Lady Helena Rey when the two of them were only seven years old. Bas and Helena have never been friends—and not only because she marked their first meeting by dropping a frog down his shirt. He’s been unsuccessfully petitioning Parliament to annul the damn contract ever since he took the throne nine years ago. But with the deadline for officially confirming the engagement rapidly approaching, Bas is getting desperate.
Enter commoner Nico Pereira, manager of the Royal Crest Vineyards, who nurses a secret crush on the king. He’s at the New Palace to unveil a wine that’s the first joint venture between North and South Abarra. No problem, right? Except Nico has a secret: He has a superpower. Not a very strong superpower, but because powers are a privilege reserved for Royals, it still puts him at risk for arrest and prosecution. Nico can usually mask his limited foresight gift under the guise of being an incredibly efficient administrator. But when King Bastien asks him to be his fake fiancé?
Well. Nico never saw that coming.
Nothing if not loyal, Nico accepts the faux-posal, although close proximity to Bastien makes him more than a little… uncomfortable, and the increased scrutiny of government officials threatens to expose his illegal ability. Good thing this engagement is temporary, because being the king’s ex will be a lot less onerous than prison or exile.
Or, if the attacks from a shadowy conspiracy continue, with being dead.
King’s Ex is a 52,000-word M/M superhero rom-com featuring a fake engagement, class differences, improbably pristine clothing, dueling secrets, a guaranteed HEA, and a kitten.
7 pages, Audiobook
First published February 26, 2021
70 people are currently reading
283 people want to read
About the author
E.J. Russell
54 books414 followersE.J. Russell –grace, mother of three, recovering actor–writes romance in a rainbow of flavors. Count on high snark, low angst and happy endings.
Reality? Eh, not so much.
Reality? Eh, not so much.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
dnf
July 22, 2021DNF @ 53%
I wanted something lightweight, undemanding, harmless, easy, whatever, and it was that. But it was also way too romance-y for me. Sometimes what I think I want, and what I would actually enjoy, turn out to not be the same thing. So this one is on me, not the book. 🤷🏻♂️
I wanted something lightweight, undemanding, harmless, easy, whatever, and it was that. But it was also way too romance-y for me. Sometimes what I think I want, and what I would actually enjoy, turn out to not be the same thing. So this one is on me, not the book. 🤷🏻♂️
December 4, 2024
This was both long and short at the same time, there’s a lot and I mean A LOT of doubt and hesitation and both MCs think it’s impossible the other one actually wants him, that quickly got boring.
There is a big reveal at the end that is literally the most anticlimactic villain reveal ever and the reason didn’t even make sense.
There is a big reveal at the end that is literally the most anticlimactic villain reveal ever and the reason didn’t even make sense.
February 14, 2021
4 stars!!
I received an ARC from GRR and this is my honest review.
Okay.... this is only my third EJ Russel book but I am in love with her writing style. the banter, the romance, the flow of the story. It's so easy and effortless. I found myself smiling more often than not. It was such a feel good book!!
This is the second book in the series, and reading book 1 "Duking It Out" is important for the overall plot arch.
What I loved....
- Lovable Characters:
Nico who is a Commoner who works in the castle is a adorable and sweet and just a ray of sunshine. but he is also hiding a secret. #HidingInPlainSight
King Bastian who has to be engaged before his birthday to a woman he doesn't even like.
The Plot....
Nico and Bastian have a fake relationship tp get Bs out of marrying Helen. Bas needs to marry for love and Nico is prepared to suck up his feelings and help him do it, even if it isn't really him the king loves. they also have to figure out who Mastermind is! #NotReallyFake
The Romance...
This is kinda insta-love, but for me it worked. I mean this is an alternate universe with Royal super powers... Nico and Bas were sweet together, and I loved the fact that there was no power exploitation because Bas was the king. They were both weary, both having fears and insecurities. #HiddenFeelings
Steam-0-meter...
Low steam... and me being a smut lover didn't mind it one bit! #SweetLovin'
Angst-o-meter:
Low angst ... #Fluffy
The Ending..
It was an HFN ending that I would love to see expanded! Nico and Bas have more things to tell IMO. #MorePlease
Honorable Mentions..
I loved the world building so much and I'm eager to see if their will be more in this universe. #FingersCrossed
I received an ARC from GRR and this is my honest review.
Okay.... this is only my third EJ Russel book but I am in love with her writing style. the banter, the romance, the flow of the story. It's so easy and effortless. I found myself smiling more often than not. It was such a feel good book!!
This is the second book in the series, and reading book 1 "Duking It Out" is important for the overall plot arch.
What I loved....
- Lovable Characters:
Nico who is a Commoner who works in the castle is a adorable and sweet and just a ray of sunshine. but he is also hiding a secret. #HidingInPlainSight
King Bastian who has to be engaged before his birthday to a woman he doesn't even like.
The Plot....
Nico and Bastian have a fake relationship tp get Bs out of marrying Helen. Bas needs to marry for love and Nico is prepared to suck up his feelings and help him do it, even if it isn't really him the king loves. they also have to figure out who Mastermind is! #NotReallyFake
The Romance...
This is kinda insta-love, but for me it worked. I mean this is an alternate universe with Royal super powers... Nico and Bas were sweet together, and I loved the fact that there was no power exploitation because Bas was the king. They were both weary, both having fears and insecurities. #HiddenFeelings
Steam-0-meter...
Low steam... and me being a smut lover didn't mind it one bit! #SweetLovin'
Angst-o-meter:
Low angst ... #Fluffy
The Ending..
It was an HFN ending that I would love to see expanded! Nico and Bas have more things to tell IMO. #MorePlease
Honorable Mentions..
I loved the world building so much and I'm eager to see if their will be more in this universe. #FingersCrossed
March 1, 2021
Fun & Flirty
I really enjoyed reading this story in the Royal Powers verse.
What I liked:
Secret powers
Tasty visions of royal skin
Smart commoners—always they’re smarter than the royals
Sequestering 2 fake fiancées for 24 hours
Sexy times
Sweetness
Misses:
King Bastian isn’t quick on the uptake
Self-doubt by Nico, the commoner—constant doubting
Odd plot conflict/climax—OTT in the house!!
Overall, I enjoyed reading & really like the alternate universe Russell created where people have superpowers in our modern day.
My rec? It’s a quick and fun read, sure!
I really enjoyed reading this story in the Royal Powers verse.
What I liked:
Secret powers
Tasty visions of royal skin
Smart commoners—always they’re smarter than the royals
Sequestering 2 fake fiancées for 24 hours
Sexy times
Sweetness
Misses:
King Bastian isn’t quick on the uptake
Self-doubt by Nico, the commoner—constant doubting
Odd plot conflict/climax—OTT in the house!!
Overall, I enjoyed reading & really like the alternate universe Russell created where people have superpowers in our modern day.
My rec? It’s a quick and fun read, sure!
December 3, 2022
DNF at 57%
My issues:
• This book proceeds at a breakneck pace with no pauses until over halfway through, and it is honestly kind of exhausting to read. I need pauses more often than that, otherwise the urgency gets tiring.
• The number one present “emotion” still, at almost 60%, is horny. Just horny.
• The MCs don’t really know each other outside of said horny, and for some reason, once they’re forced into a room for 24 hours straight, they allegedly have conversations, but we skip right over those. Their connection is not believable. Instead, I have to read about their dithering and horniness again, rather than being shown any of these supposedly amazing conversations that would build a believable romance.
• Honestly, maybe this one gets fixed later, but damn, they have hella boring powers. The other royals have like x-men level powers, and this dude just…doesn’t sweat. Sure, I’d love to have that power, but it makes for hella boring reading.
• All of the issues that the MCs are dithering about nonstop can be solved by simple conversations.
• Does Bastien want a gold star for checks notes not sexually assaulting Nico because he’s a king? Because that’s the vibe I’m getting.
• The repetitive insecurities of Nico got old so fast. Isn’t he super competent in his wine life or whatever? Sure Bastien is a king, but he’s kind of a dumfuck king tbh. Made for boring reading when they kept harping on this.
• I adore fake relationship tropes, but this was a very weak showing.
Overall, this was just bland with no real connection or romance between the main characters.
Read more reviews on my blog:
https://horsetalkreviews.blogspot.com/
My issues:
• This book proceeds at a breakneck pace with no pauses until over halfway through, and it is honestly kind of exhausting to read. I need pauses more often than that, otherwise the urgency gets tiring.
• The number one present “emotion” still, at almost 60%, is horny. Just horny.
• The MCs don’t really know each other outside of said horny, and for some reason, once they’re forced into a room for 24 hours straight, they allegedly have conversations, but we skip right over those. Their connection is not believable. Instead, I have to read about their dithering and horniness again, rather than being shown any of these supposedly amazing conversations that would build a believable romance.
• Honestly, maybe this one gets fixed later, but damn, they have hella boring powers. The other royals have like x-men level powers, and this dude just…doesn’t sweat. Sure, I’d love to have that power, but it makes for hella boring reading.
• All of the issues that the MCs are dithering about nonstop can be solved by simple conversations.
• Does Bastien want a gold star for checks notes not sexually assaulting Nico because he’s a king? Because that’s the vibe I’m getting.
• The repetitive insecurities of Nico got old so fast. Isn’t he super competent in his wine life or whatever? Sure Bastien is a king, but he’s kind of a dumfuck king tbh. Made for boring reading when they kept harping on this.
• I adore fake relationship tropes, but this was a very weak showing.
Overall, this was just bland with no real connection or romance between the main characters.
Read more reviews on my blog:
https://horsetalkreviews.blogspot.com/
April 26, 2021
I adored the characters in this book, but was rather disappointed in the milquetoast “powers” and the odd era/setting that seemed to encompass both contemporary times and 18th Century Western Europe (?). I also think the author missed the perfect opportunity to add some action and excitement to a slightly bland story. That said, I’m a fan of Russell’s writing, but this was a miss for me.
March 29, 2022
A pretty OK read, though less preoccupation with people's backsides would have been a vast improvement.
February 19, 2021
IFTT
Every time I read a Royal Powers book, it makes me wish for a superpower of my own. Maybe reading is mine. Since I first met Bas, I’ve been pining for his HEA and no one could be more perfect for him then Nico, whose HEA I also wanted, with his sexy glasses. “Because love wasn’t neat. Life wasn’t neat. But with the right person beside you, that didn’t matter. With Nico in his arms, Bas could learn to revel in the chaos.” And what a lovely, amazing and, strangely enough, peaceful chaos Bas and Nico bring. These two bewitched me with their charm, their honesty, their vulnerabilities and their strength of their love. Plus, there are some surprises that played with my mind. I hope we return soon as I think Corin needs a HEA too and I’d like to catch up with all the fantastic couples to see what their future holds.
Every time I read a Royal Powers book, it makes me wish for a superpower of my own. Maybe reading is mine. Since I first met Bas, I’ve been pining for his HEA and no one could be more perfect for him then Nico, whose HEA I also wanted, with his sexy glasses. “Because love wasn’t neat. Life wasn’t neat. But with the right person beside you, that didn’t matter. With Nico in his arms, Bas could learn to revel in the chaos.” And what a lovely, amazing and, strangely enough, peaceful chaos Bas and Nico bring. These two bewitched me with their charm, their honesty, their vulnerabilities and their strength of their love. Plus, there are some surprises that played with my mind. I hope we return soon as I think Corin needs a HEA too and I’d like to catch up with all the fantastic couples to see what their future holds.
February 26, 2021
My wish was for Russell to never stop writing in this world, and I hope this book means that wish was granted! I’ve been wanting Bastien’s story since the very first time he was introduced and this was definitely the story he deserved! I loved that there was an expansion of the world building, and we’re getting to see so many new and interesting developments. Plus, as before, these powers are so novel and intriguing, I just want to live in this world! There’s wonderful banter, great chemistry, and characters that I love to see fall in love!
March 14, 2021
Brilliantly written, full of fun, high excitement and great dialogue - I just love this story!
The idea of contemporary royals with just a little bit of superpowers is so completely my jam - which I didn't know until I started reading these books! They're so much fun and so intriguing and exciting. This book is the complete package and kept me engaged from start to finish - suspense, humour and romance; it has it all!
The idea of contemporary royals with just a little bit of superpowers is so completely my jam - which I didn't know until I started reading these books! They're so much fun and so intriguing and exciting. This book is the complete package and kept me engaged from start to finish - suspense, humour and romance; it has it all!
May 23, 2023
Nico and King Bas become a thing to save the King
Royal romance is very complicated at best, especially when contracts, Parliament, the Ministry of Powers, and commoner crowd demonstrations struggle to control who the King marries. Attempts to kill the King and Nico stir up the guard and even kitten Polita has her claws and teeth buried into Mastermind's legs and ankles to save her temporary keeper, Nico.
Mind control, crowd control, and power grabbing makes the New Palace a bad place to be, but treason declared by Helena and family upset their plans to become gods.
Royal romance is very complicated at best, especially when contracts, Parliament, the Ministry of Powers, and commoner crowd demonstrations struggle to control who the King marries. Attempts to kill the King and Nico stir up the guard and even kitten Polita has her claws and teeth buried into Mastermind's legs and ankles to save her temporary keeper, Nico.
Mind control, crowd control, and power grabbing makes the New Palace a bad place to be, but treason declared by Helena and family upset their plans to become gods.
March 18, 2021
I liked King Bastien since I first read about him in Duking It Out. So when I see there is a new book about him, I clicked immediately on that Read for Free button.
And it was nice. It is the same universe as Duking It Out and Duke the Hall, where Royalty have superpowers. Very interesting, just a shame that King Bastien's power is nothing to boast about. Or is it?? King Bastien needed a fiance to get out of a betrothal, Nico the vineyard manager with the crush on the King is there to help, but then feelings got in the way, and then the plot thickened.
I enjoyed reading the book, it was just as low angst, silly and romantic as the other books in this universe. I mean, imagine a world where all royalty have superpowers? The mind truly boggles. But Bastien is a fair ruler, and Nico is very likeable, and the villain is despicable, even if it felt like a last minute addition to add some tension. So I had fun, and in the end, that is what I want from my books.
And it was nice. It is the same universe as Duking It Out and Duke the Hall, where Royalty have superpowers. Very interesting, just a shame that King Bastien's power is nothing to boast about. Or is it?? King Bastien needed a fiance to get out of a betrothal, Nico the vineyard manager with the crush on the King is there to help, but then feelings got in the way, and then the plot thickened.
I enjoyed reading the book, it was just as low angst, silly and romantic as the other books in this universe. I mean, imagine a world where all royalty have superpowers? The mind truly boggles. But Bastien is a fair ruler, and Nico is very likeable, and the villain is despicable, even if it felt like a last minute addition to add some tension. So I had fun, and in the end, that is what I want from my books.
April 22, 2021
Okay read, but I definitely expected more from this story, and the end was so fast and mediocre it left me rather disappointed.
This could easily have been a 5 star read, but ended as an average 3 star story for me.
This could easily have been a 5 star read, but ended as an average 3 star story for me.
February 28, 2021
Aww, just aww!!! This was sweet with a bit of drama that just added to the pleasure of reading another Royal Powers story by this author! Like all the stories I love this one ended way too quickly for my liking, that could have something to do with my not being able to put the book down once I've started reading. I sincerely hope the author has another story from this world planned, like maybe another wedding? ;)
TAGS
-- Super hero/super powers -- Royalty/Commoner -- fake engagement -- long time crush -- such sweet moments -- some drama of course -- one lovable but terrifying kitten(lol) -- enjoyed seeing Tarik & Sander again -- LOVED the MCs... Bastien & Nico -- the end came to quickly -- really want more
December 7, 2024
I actually loved the writing, premise, characters and storyline of this! But it was way too short and as a result it felt rushed. There are so many books out there that drag on and on with internal monologue with no other plot except two people circling each other for 400 pages, but this book has the opposite problem. There was a really interesting plot and the romance was well developed but there everything felt so rushed. I actually would have liked to see the romance and the overall political story a little more fleshed out. This was almost too good to be this short. It’s still worth reading but I just felt like I got wanted to much more.
March 4, 2021
I love EJ Russell's previous contributions to this series and this is no exception.
It's a fun, fake fiance romance with the addition of hidden superpowers.
Nico is Tarik's vineyard manager and he's had a crush on King Bastian forever. For Bastian it's a pair of adorable specs that stirred up previously undiscovered emotions.
Also a previous mystery from an earlier story is revealed.
Loved it.
It's a fun, fake fiance romance with the addition of hidden superpowers.
Nico is Tarik's vineyard manager and he's had a crush on King Bastian forever. For Bastian it's a pair of adorable specs that stirred up previously undiscovered emotions.
Also a previous mystery from an earlier story is revealed.
Loved it.
March 19, 2021
3 Flirty Stars. ⭐⭐⭐
This is case of me reading a book that was a spin off of a longer series. I haven't read the other books so the references to others confused me.
Its a cute book with fun characters. The lone sexy times is hot even though you are rather getting dropped into the middle of rather than reading the lead up to.
This is case of me reading a book that was a spin off of a longer series. I haven't read the other books so the references to others confused me.
Its a cute book with fun characters. The lone sexy times is hot even though you are rather getting dropped into the middle of rather than reading the lead up to.
March 1, 2021
Enjoyable and fluffy and fun
I wish this author more books in this world.
Bastian and Nico were delightful, and there was just enough external strife working against them to keep it interesting.
I wish this author more books in this world.
Bastian and Nico were delightful, and there was just enough external strife working against them to keep it interesting.
Read
December 8, 2021
Trigger & Content Warnings
Ableism
Miscarriage mentioned
Attempted murder
Kidnapping recounted
War mentioned
Ableism
Miscarriage mentioned
Attempted murder
Kidnapping recounted
War mentioned
March 10, 2021
I absolutely loved this marvelous, sweet, grab-you-by-the-feels, charming, delightful, steamy, poignant, tug-at-your-heartstrings, engaging, cute, adorable, and totally awesome addition to the fantastic Royal Powers series.
July 25, 2021
My reading radar must be malfunctioning again, otherwise, how is it possible that I have never heard about this author before? Well, better late than never. I will soon dig up all those tempting tales before this. As for 'King's Ex', the novel is part of a series but can be read as a standalone (which I did). The main characters seem to make an appearance in the previous book, but the author has given enough background story here so nothing is out of order. It has all the usual tropes of a delicious romance: the (fake) marriage contract, superpowers, royalty and secrets of course. I was surprised that the author has included all this in a short romance, but everything has blended amazingly well. Yup! I just love this story.
July 4, 2021
4.3 stars
I really liked the world building in this book. It was interesting to read about a world where royalty has superpowers and same sex couples are possible in the upper echelon.
Bastion was really prim and proper but in a good way. Because of his lineage, he is really concerned about consent (as everyone should be), and he wants to be better than his forefathers who took advantage of the people.
As for Nico, he was very cute and I wish I got to know more about his deceased mother and his background. When did he learn about his powers, etc. And the ending was very sweet but a bit rushed. I wanted so see a bit more but maybe this is a multiple book kind of story. I hope so because it did end right at the best part.
I’m happy that two people that didn’t think they’d ever find love would find each other. And would be a perfect match but I want more !!
I really liked the world building in this book. It was interesting to read about a world where royalty has superpowers and same sex couples are possible in the upper echelon.
Bastion was really prim and proper but in a good way. Because of his lineage, he is really concerned about consent (as everyone should be), and he wants to be better than his forefathers who took advantage of the people.
As for Nico, he was very cute and I wish I got to know more about his deceased mother and his background. When did he learn about his powers, etc. And the ending was very sweet but a bit rushed. I wanted so see a bit more but maybe this is a multiple book kind of story. I hope so because it did end right at the best part.
I’m happy that two people that didn’t think they’d ever find love would find each other. And would be a perfect match but I want more !!
December 7, 2021
so goodreads has this book marked as the first in a series, but upon finishing it, i realized that series is a continuation of another series. which explains why this book felt like being dropped into the middle of a series with zero explanation of anything.
content/trigger warnings; ableism, mentions of past kidnapping, attempted murder, mentions of war, mentions of past miscarriages, kissing, explicit sexual content, gendered slurs,
rep; bastien (mc) is pansexual. nico (mc) is queer (no label used).
aside from being confused by most things not being explained, this was kind of a good time. the characters are charming, there’s some humor, a cute kitten. all good things. my biggest dislike, though, is how the focus is more so on the politic aspect than the romance. (also, why did bastien “order” his cock to “stand down” more than once? who does that.)
as always, pan character talking about their sexuality: “although I’m attracted more to a person than a gender, I tend to prefer men as sexual partners.” / “It’s common knowledge that I’m pan.” / “He hadn’t had this kind of reaction to anyone of any gender expression since…well…ever.”
content/trigger warnings; ableism, mentions of past kidnapping, attempted murder, mentions of war, mentions of past miscarriages, kissing, explicit sexual content, gendered slurs,
rep; bastien (mc) is pansexual. nico (mc) is queer (no label used).
aside from being confused by most things not being explained, this was kind of a good time. the characters are charming, there’s some humor, a cute kitten. all good things. my biggest dislike, though, is how the focus is more so on the politic aspect than the romance. (also, why did bastien “order” his cock to “stand down” more than once? who does that.)
as always, pan character talking about their sexuality: “although I’m attracted more to a person than a gender, I tend to prefer men as sexual partners.” / “It’s common knowledge that I’m pan.” / “He hadn’t had this kind of reaction to anyone of any gender expression since…well…ever.”
May 22, 2021
Reviewed by Taylin 3 1/2 stars
As a child, pansexual Bastien’s ‘Mad King’ father, tied him into a contractual marriage to Lady Helena. Grown-up, the two hate each other. However, Helena contends that she was raised to be Queen, so tough luck. Looking for an out, Nico, an employee of Bastien’s cousin, notices a loophole and the men become fake fiancées. There is a mutual attraction between Bastien and Nico. But at the end of their contract, when Bastien is free to choose his consort, will they walk away?
The story is set in a fictitious country, of the modern-day, as it contains references to movies and tv series that many readers will have recently binge-watched. People within this universe also have wide-ranging superpowers. Legally, they are restricted to royals. However, some commoners are also blessed and must keep their gifts secret. Bastien and Nico are adorable, but I must give an early shout-out here to two scene-stealers – Tarik – Bastien’s blunt, potty-mouthed, cousin, and the kitten who is irresistible.
King’s Ex is told in the third person from the viewpoint of Bastien and Nico. There is some excellent imagery and is cleverly written. It is also a story that occasionally tied my brain in knots.
The opening scenes use dialogue between Bastien and Tarik to outline the monarch’s world. While many of the sentences heralded a tone of familiarity, there were areas that I had to read multiple times before I got my brain around the meaning. E.g. the below quote from the story, “My sister-in-law has a similar power, although hers isn’t restricted to non-mammals.” Similarly, I needed my dictionary to translate words like, invidious, and repudiation. It is one thing to highlight the language and intelligence of a character, but words like these alienated me and broke the flow of reading.
AND, carry on reading, I did – because I couldn’t stop. Once I fell for the characters and the story-line had me hooked, I had to know their fate.
I have given this story 3.5 hearts, which is a good book – better than average. Once I got over the initial onslaught of information and retrieved my dictionary, the story evened out, had some lovely characters, and a good plot.
As a child, pansexual Bastien’s ‘Mad King’ father, tied him into a contractual marriage to Lady Helena. Grown-up, the two hate each other. However, Helena contends that she was raised to be Queen, so tough luck. Looking for an out, Nico, an employee of Bastien’s cousin, notices a loophole and the men become fake fiancées. There is a mutual attraction between Bastien and Nico. But at the end of their contract, when Bastien is free to choose his consort, will they walk away?
The story is set in a fictitious country, of the modern-day, as it contains references to movies and tv series that many readers will have recently binge-watched. People within this universe also have wide-ranging superpowers. Legally, they are restricted to royals. However, some commoners are also blessed and must keep their gifts secret. Bastien and Nico are adorable, but I must give an early shout-out here to two scene-stealers – Tarik – Bastien’s blunt, potty-mouthed, cousin, and the kitten who is irresistible.
King’s Ex is told in the third person from the viewpoint of Bastien and Nico. There is some excellent imagery and is cleverly written. It is also a story that occasionally tied my brain in knots.
The opening scenes use dialogue between Bastien and Tarik to outline the monarch’s world. While many of the sentences heralded a tone of familiarity, there were areas that I had to read multiple times before I got my brain around the meaning. E.g. the below quote from the story, “My sister-in-law has a similar power, although hers isn’t restricted to non-mammals.” Similarly, I needed my dictionary to translate words like, invidious, and repudiation. It is one thing to highlight the language and intelligence of a character, but words like these alienated me and broke the flow of reading.
AND, carry on reading, I did – because I couldn’t stop. Once I fell for the characters and the story-line had me hooked, I had to know their fate.
I have given this story 3.5 hearts, which is a good book – better than average. Once I got over the initial onslaught of information and retrieved my dictionary, the story evened out, had some lovely characters, and a good plot.
March 13, 2021
I adore Tarik and Sanders and was really, really looking forward to getting Bas and Nico's story because they've been fantastic side characters in their previous appearances. What could have been really amazing here with a subplot concerning Nico and the plot thread continuing and hopefully concluding with the Royal Powers themselves only ended up being mediocre when I know for sure this author can work magic with magic.
There's the issue with the powers that need to keep hidden, understandable, and that becomes a surprise near the end and isn't given enough time to resolve into something believable for the couple or for their world from there on out. Whether that will become something discussed in further books, I'm not sure, but I kind of hope so because I didn't get enough of this couple yet and there are just too many questions that need answers.
Similarly, the outcome of their individual powers becoming enhanced needed quite a bit more attention, something at the end to show them coming to terms with them and working together to understand and utilize them would have been greatly appreciated.
The attraction is real, though for one person it hits them out of the blue, and I wish there were more time given to the development of that. Because it's not given enough time to grow there are trust issues that crop up and commitments, smallish ones, broken because they don't have the deeper foundation necessary to have their trust and affection flourish.
While the Mastermind plot thing became a little obvious in who the villain was, the major motivation, the effectiveness of their power on certain individuals and the reason behind its ineffectiveness, those things weren't clear and the explanations felt rushed and unresolved.
There were some really wonderful moments of introspection and when Nico used his brain to find the necessary solutions I was impressed and knew that he was more than just a besotted assistant, he was intelligent and an asset on his own. Bas was kinder and sweeter than anticipated and I really enjoyed finding out what his power was. Overall this was a really sweet story that needed a bit more finesse or length to really sing.
There's the issue with the powers that need to keep hidden, understandable, and that becomes a surprise near the end and isn't given enough time to resolve into something believable for the couple or for their world from there on out. Whether that will become something discussed in further books, I'm not sure, but I kind of hope so because I didn't get enough of this couple yet and there are just too many questions that need answers.
Similarly, the outcome of their individual powers becoming enhanced needed quite a bit more attention, something at the end to show them coming to terms with them and working together to understand and utilize them would have been greatly appreciated.
The attraction is real, though for one person it hits them out of the blue, and I wish there were more time given to the development of that. Because it's not given enough time to grow there are trust issues that crop up and commitments, smallish ones, broken because they don't have the deeper foundation necessary to have their trust and affection flourish.
While the Mastermind plot thing became a little obvious in who the villain was, the major motivation, the effectiveness of their power on certain individuals and the reason behind its ineffectiveness, those things weren't clear and the explanations felt rushed and unresolved.
There were some really wonderful moments of introspection and when Nico used his brain to find the necessary solutions I was impressed and knew that he was more than just a besotted assistant, he was intelligent and an asset on his own. Bas was kinder and sweeter than anticipated and I really enjoyed finding out what his power was. Overall this was a really sweet story that needed a bit more finesse or length to really sing.
November 24, 2021
2.5* rounded up to 3.
It's fine. Like, I was hoping for a fun royal caper similar to Lisa Henry's Red heir, more than the awful Red, White and Blue.
However, it didn't really go anywhere near either. It wasn't the angst-filled love-to-hate-it globetrotter of the latter and it wasn't the laugh-a-minute silliness of the former.
I enjoyed the modern monarchy in a semi-fairytale setting. Mentioning magical powers alongside tablets and characters moaning about the air conditioning.
Nico is a perfectly enjoyable character. Yes, he does the annoying romance genre thing of constantly spilling his drink every time someone even looks at him (God, please M/M authors stop writing this cliche!) and by the end of the book we still knew next to nothing about him, but, meh. At least he was a bit nerdy rather than 'Surprise! A massive hunk!'
Bastien was...vaguely bearable. A bit spoilt, a bit weak-willed. A bit pathetic pretty boy.
I have not read any of the other books in the series so don't know if you get to learn more about them in the stories that came first, like Tarik and Sanders' book. Speaking of, they featured so prominently in this it was a little grating at times. Tarik was annoying and smug and the *constant* references to his story were a wee bit overwhelming. Bastien and Nico started to feel at times as the b-plot in their own story.
There were some interesting plot points that just felt so underdone. Would have wanted more between Bastien and his mother, rather than everything wrapped up in one sentence, the villain's motivations were never even vaguely explained other than "power!" and there was no risk of Bastien and Nico ever not getting together because it all felt so low stakes.
The sex scene was also laughable. Once again, a straight woman who has no idea about sex between two men.
All in all, a fun idea that was so underdeveloped in terms of characters and plot that I'll have forgotten about it in an hour's time.
Oh, also, never include cute animals or anime princesses as plot points. Just don't.
It's fine. Like, I was hoping for a fun royal caper similar to Lisa Henry's Red heir, more than the awful Red, White and Blue.
However, it didn't really go anywhere near either. It wasn't the angst-filled love-to-hate-it globetrotter of the latter and it wasn't the laugh-a-minute silliness of the former.
I enjoyed the modern monarchy in a semi-fairytale setting. Mentioning magical powers alongside tablets and characters moaning about the air conditioning.
Nico is a perfectly enjoyable character. Yes, he does the annoying romance genre thing of constantly spilling his drink every time someone even looks at him (God, please M/M authors stop writing this cliche!) and by the end of the book we still knew next to nothing about him, but, meh. At least he was a bit nerdy rather than 'Surprise! A massive hunk!'
Bastien was...vaguely bearable. A bit spoilt, a bit weak-willed. A bit pathetic pretty boy.
I have not read any of the other books in the series so don't know if you get to learn more about them in the stories that came first, like Tarik and Sanders' book. Speaking of, they featured so prominently in this it was a little grating at times. Tarik was annoying and smug and the *constant* references to his story were a wee bit overwhelming. Bastien and Nico started to feel at times as the b-plot in their own story.
There were some interesting plot points that just felt so underdone. Would have wanted more between Bastien and his mother, rather than everything wrapped up in one sentence, the villain's motivations were never even vaguely explained other than "power!" and there was no risk of Bastien and Nico ever not getting together because it all felt so low stakes.
The sex scene was also laughable. Once again, a straight woman who has no idea about sex between two men.
All in all, a fun idea that was so underdeveloped in terms of characters and plot that I'll have forgotten about it in an hour's time.
Oh, also, never include cute animals or anime princesses as plot points. Just don't.
February 26, 2021
4.25 stars
“King’s Ex” by E.J. Russell is the first book in the ‘Royal Powers II’ series, and it centers around King Bastien, who is caught up in the annual celebration of Bonfire Fortnight and nearing a dreaded deadline that will result in him marrying the woman his father chose for him so many years ago. Nico, the efficient Royal Vineyards manager, discovers a loophole that will save Bastien, but who will save Nico, who has closely guarded secrets of his own that may prove deadly?
This gay fantasy romance novella is part of a multi-author series and is the direct sequel to “Duking It Out” and “Duke the Hall”. Bastien’s perfect storm is nearing, and his desperation causes him to jump at the alternative Nico presents, but their respective secrets make this an interesting study of the superhero powers that are part of this universe.
I’d love to have Bastien’s superpowers with regards to my clothing, lol, and it was fascinating to see the synergy that he has with Nico. There are delightful cameos by several characters from the previous stories in this author’s universe, and the fun repartee between several of the characters add to the feeling of comfort and familiarity that makes these stories so compelling. The dark twist that is resolved is a great addition, as is little Polita, and I hope there are more tales to come that exemplify even more of the powers available to the folks in this world. I’m always happy when I see a new story by this author and I anxiously await even more tales from that fertile and innovative imagination!
A copy of this title was provided for review
“King’s Ex” by E.J. Russell is the first book in the ‘Royal Powers II’ series, and it centers around King Bastien, who is caught up in the annual celebration of Bonfire Fortnight and nearing a dreaded deadline that will result in him marrying the woman his father chose for him so many years ago. Nico, the efficient Royal Vineyards manager, discovers a loophole that will save Bastien, but who will save Nico, who has closely guarded secrets of his own that may prove deadly?
This gay fantasy romance novella is part of a multi-author series and is the direct sequel to “Duking It Out” and “Duke the Hall”. Bastien’s perfect storm is nearing, and his desperation causes him to jump at the alternative Nico presents, but their respective secrets make this an interesting study of the superhero powers that are part of this universe.
I’d love to have Bastien’s superpowers with regards to my clothing, lol, and it was fascinating to see the synergy that he has with Nico. There are delightful cameos by several characters from the previous stories in this author’s universe, and the fun repartee between several of the characters add to the feeling of comfort and familiarity that makes these stories so compelling. The dark twist that is resolved is a great addition, as is little Polita, and I hope there are more tales to come that exemplify even more of the powers available to the folks in this world. I’m always happy when I see a new story by this author and I anxiously await even more tales from that fertile and innovative imagination!
A copy of this title was provided for review
February 26, 2021
I stopped reading fake relationships books a while back, because they all kinda seemed to blend together. But King's Ex is written by EJ Russell and in the Royal Powers universe, so I absolutely had to read it.
It was so creative and all around fun.
The plot might sound simple, the king who faked a fiancé in order to free himself from a unwanted betrothal, but everything got complicated after king Bastien got pretend- engaged to Nico. Many people counted on Bastien's marriage to Helena, plotting has been happening since they were kids, so obviously they didn't react well to their plans going up in smoke. As a consequence, Bastien found himself in some strange and dangerous situations, many times barely making it out alive.
And, in the mean time, Bas and Nico had to show themselves to the world as a couple, excitedly waiting for their wedding. These two men were cute and endearing individually, but became increasingly so when they were around each other. Despite doubts about their different social standings, the secrets they both kept and the dangers increasing around them, Bas and Nico were inexorably drawn to each other, because they finally found someone they could trust and treated the other as special and necessary.
Their romance was the perfect fairy tale, with the added bonus of magical powers thrown in the mix. The story progressed toward a happy ending, of course, and the reveal of an unexpected villain. The moments of tension and fear were amazingly balanced by humor and laughter, the enemies by incredible friends, all wrapped up in a delightful story that put a smile on my face from beginning to the end.
It was so creative and all around fun.
The plot might sound simple, the king who faked a fiancé in order to free himself from a unwanted betrothal, but everything got complicated after king Bastien got pretend- engaged to Nico. Many people counted on Bastien's marriage to Helena, plotting has been happening since they were kids, so obviously they didn't react well to their plans going up in smoke. As a consequence, Bastien found himself in some strange and dangerous situations, many times barely making it out alive.
And, in the mean time, Bas and Nico had to show themselves to the world as a couple, excitedly waiting for their wedding. These two men were cute and endearing individually, but became increasingly so when they were around each other. Despite doubts about their different social standings, the secrets they both kept and the dangers increasing around them, Bas and Nico were inexorably drawn to each other, because they finally found someone they could trust and treated the other as special and necessary.
Their romance was the perfect fairy tale, with the added bonus of magical powers thrown in the mix. The story progressed toward a happy ending, of course, and the reveal of an unexpected villain. The moments of tension and fear were amazingly balanced by humor and laughter, the enemies by incredible friends, all wrapped up in a delightful story that put a smile on my face from beginning to the end.
March 1, 2021
I love this series, and am very happy that there’s more books to look forward to. I’d loved Bastien when he first appeared and loved his and Nico’s story. These two are very sweet, and the fake boyfriend, or in this case fake fiancé trope, was wonderfully played out. I loved the twist with their powers.
I liked how each story in this series adds to the world building. I also enjoy the cameos, and appearances of other characters from previous books. I love how Bastien’s power seem to be one thing, and then strengthens into something very cool. He tries so hard not to fall into the trap of his ancestor then falls in love instead. I liked how both Bas and Nico try very hard to keep everything fake, but fail completely. It’s obvious from their first meeting that they’re smitten with each other. I liked how they got to know each other, and how the story showed that royal life isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Nico’s power was an interesting twist on foresight, with a little bit more to it than just seeing the future.
The supporting cast is wonderful and I enjoyed catching up with Tariq and Katalin in particular. I love Corin and hope he gets his own story. I thought the reveal and identity of the villain was very nicely done, tense, and exciting.
Polita the kitten needs a mention. Not only is she cute, but a force to be reckoned with.
The ending was perfect, and I hope to see these guys playing a part in future stories.
I liked how each story in this series adds to the world building. I also enjoy the cameos, and appearances of other characters from previous books. I love how Bastien’s power seem to be one thing, and then strengthens into something very cool. He tries so hard not to fall into the trap of his ancestor then falls in love instead. I liked how both Bas and Nico try very hard to keep everything fake, but fail completely. It’s obvious from their first meeting that they’re smitten with each other. I liked how they got to know each other, and how the story showed that royal life isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Nico’s power was an interesting twist on foresight, with a little bit more to it than just seeing the future.
The supporting cast is wonderful and I enjoyed catching up with Tariq and Katalin in particular. I love Corin and hope he gets his own story. I thought the reveal and identity of the villain was very nicely done, tense, and exciting.
Polita the kitten needs a mention. Not only is she cute, but a force to be reckoned with.
The ending was perfect, and I hope to see these guys playing a part in future stories.
February 26, 2021
King Bastien has his share of problems. He has a tentative peace to oversee. A relentless bureaucrat wanting to test his super-powers. An arranged marriage he’s desperate to get out of. It all seems hopeless, until Nico, commoner and organizational expert, finds a loophole in the betrothal contract that leads to him agreeing to pose as Bastien’s fiance. Yup-- it’s a royal fake engagement romance. And the royals have superpowers. So do some of the commoners (although they aren’t supposed to). There’s a kitten who might just be a demon in disguise. Plus a conspiracy against the throne, overbearing nobles, and plenty of peril to overcome. It’s a heck of a ride.
I am a fan of this series, and it’s nice, in this third installment, to see the overarching plot (the identity and agenda of Mastermind, etc) come to fruition. I’m also a huge fan of Bastien and Nico-- separately and together. Each presents an immaculate persona to the world, and each gives the other, in private,a chance to be their real selves, imperfections and all. They both have secrets, and Bastien in particular puts real pressure on himself to live up to high standards-- in part because his forebears didn’t. Watching them bring out the best in each other, in multiple ways, despite all their obstacles, makes for a fun and engrossing read.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I am a fan of this series, and it’s nice, in this third installment, to see the overarching plot (the identity and agenda of Mastermind, etc) come to fruition. I’m also a huge fan of Bastien and Nico-- separately and together. Each presents an immaculate persona to the world, and each gives the other, in private,a chance to be their real selves, imperfections and all. They both have secrets, and Bastien in particular puts real pressure on himself to live up to high standards-- in part because his forebears didn’t. Watching them bring out the best in each other, in multiple ways, despite all their obstacles, makes for a fun and engrossing read.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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