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The Royal They
‘Stories and fairy tales are the same thing, dear child. The difference is only in the way the ending is told.’
After the death of their father, Indridi finds themself in the midst of a panic attack. They spent their entire life learning how to follow in his footsteps. But when the pressure of it finally sinks in, right before their coronation, they unravel.
The young Dryad Prince decides to leave the kingdom, and embark on their own adventure. An adventure of self discovery and reflection.
Their journey veers off track when they happen upon a cargo carriage carrying A frail-built Orc, a Dwarf filled with wit and spunk, and a handsome Dark Elf with thighs that could crack a melon in half.
While Indridi intended to run away from their problems, they continuously find themself running toward Flynden, the Dark Elf from the carriage. The Dryad becomes enamoured with the idea of his affection. Little do they know, the feeling is mutual.
As destiny takes hold of the group of runaways, their lives become entangled in a whirlwind of chaos, love, friendship, kidnapping, and a bit of necromancy.
The Royal They is a high stakes fantasy romance, packaged as a love letter to Cozy Fantasy. Imagine your favourite bedtime stories, with just a bit more blood, sex, and tears.
After the death of their father, Indridi finds themself in the midst of a panic attack. They spent their entire life learning how to follow in his footsteps. But when the pressure of it finally sinks in, right before their coronation, they unravel.
The young Dryad Prince decides to leave the kingdom, and embark on their own adventure. An adventure of self discovery and reflection.
Their journey veers off track when they happen upon a cargo carriage carrying A frail-built Orc, a Dwarf filled with wit and spunk, and a handsome Dark Elf with thighs that could crack a melon in half.
While Indridi intended to run away from their problems, they continuously find themself running toward Flynden, the Dark Elf from the carriage. The Dryad becomes enamoured with the idea of his affection. Little do they know, the feeling is mutual.
As destiny takes hold of the group of runaways, their lives become entangled in a whirlwind of chaos, love, friendship, kidnapping, and a bit of necromancy.
The Royal They is a high stakes fantasy romance, packaged as a love letter to Cozy Fantasy. Imagine your favourite bedtime stories, with just a bit more blood, sex, and tears.
- GenresQueer
204 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2024
4 people are currently reading
80 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
February 17, 2025
What an absolutely delightful read! A fun fantasy romp with a lovable cast of characters and some sweet, delectable spice. Indridi and Flyn were adorable together and I enjoyed their dynamic tremendously. And every single side character was unique, a perfect group of magic mercenaries. Loved this book! 💖💕💖
November 1, 2024
A Charming, Sweet and Spicy Ride!
I saw this entire story play out in my head like an enthralling anime. The cozy adventurer vibes and delightful found family had me laughing out loud. (Arik is best boy).
The spice was hot and tender, the banter was sublime. Dridi's magic was so vivid and holy crap KJ does such a good job with their battle sequences. Definitely don't pass this up.
I saw this entire story play out in my head like an enthralling anime. The cozy adventurer vibes and delightful found family had me laughing out loud. (Arik is best boy).
The spice was hot and tender, the banter was sublime. Dridi's magic was so vivid and holy crap KJ does such a good job with their battle sequences. Definitely don't pass this up.
October 14, 2024
I loved this story. The world and character building were brilliant. I felt like I was right there in the midst of the adventure.
Indridi is set to rule the kingdom following the death of their father, but this is not the life they want, and so they run off on their own adventure.
Flynnden, a dark elf running from his past, carries a secret that is set to unravel all he's worked to keep hidden.
I fell in love with both these characters, and omg, how cute is Charlie? The intrigue, secrets, plots, and the spice was spicing.
Indridi is set to rule the kingdom following the death of their father, but this is not the life they want, and so they run off on their own adventure.
Flynnden, a dark elf running from his past, carries a secret that is set to unravel all he's worked to keep hidden.
I fell in love with both these characters, and omg, how cute is Charlie? The intrigue, secrets, plots, and the spice was spicing.
October 13, 2024
This was one of my most anticipated ARCs of the year and KJ did not miss a beat! This was such a fun cozy fantasy romance. Dridi and Flyn will always have a special place in my heart. I giggled, gasped, and screamed so many times! And the side characters?? I didn’t think I’d love Arak as much as I do but he’s one of the best! The spice was perfectly crafted and the love between these characters was just so tender. I can’t wait for more in this series and from KJ!
October 14, 2024
and just like that I already miss Flyn and Dridi and all the midnight mercenaries 😭😹 I really enjoyed every single second of The Royal They. It was adventurous and heartwarming and seeing all the friendships and dynamics bloom with nothing but 1000% support was the best thing ever.
every Arik moment was gold and i loved seeing how Charlie came to meet Dridi too.
the whole book felt like watching the best ever DnD campaign between a group of best friends and i thoroughly enjoyed it.
every Arik moment was gold and i loved seeing how Charlie came to meet Dridi too.
the whole book felt like watching the best ever DnD campaign between a group of best friends and i thoroughly enjoyed it.
November 1, 2024
Dryads, and Orcs, and Elves...oh my!
This adventure is packed with whimsical fun and spice.
I can't say enough how much I enjoyed this book for the perspective and empathy it gave me for they/them readers. It's the first book I've read with a main character told from this perspective, and it was so well executed.
A wholly inclusive and sweet(ish) book.
This adventure is packed with whimsical fun and spice.
I can't say enough how much I enjoyed this book for the perspective and empathy it gave me for they/them readers. It's the first book I've read with a main character told from this perspective, and it was so well executed.
A wholly inclusive and sweet(ish) book.
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November 10, 2024DNF 25% - Cute, but the writing feels a bit all over the place - like sometimes you’re reading from Dridi’s POV and sometimes it’s third person, and it’s stopped me from really settling in.
October 18, 2024
If you want a magical, spellbinding story that not only enthralls your imagination but also takes you along the a journey as if you were part of it, then read this book!
The Royal They is a classical story of a runaway Prince that feels unprepared to take on the duties of leadership, who finds more than just the courage to face their fears along the way. Stumbling upon a travelling caravan the Prince finds themselves among soon to be friends. Friends that will fight side by side to keep the lives they are carving out for themselves together as they form their guild, The Midnight Mercenaries. And some friends that become a whole lot more.
The pairing of Indridi, a non-binary dryad elf, and Flynden, a mountain of a dark elf, was simply perfect. Their insecurities about their pasts played a large and believable part in the lead up to them finally admitting to the other how they felt. But this also played a significant part in the strength of their relationship. If they can overcome their inner conflicts, surely they can conquer their enemies. As long as they do so together.
Every side character plays an important part, to the point I am pressed to truly consider them 'side-characters'. Arik was the perfect best friend for Indridi, providing a sunny and positive outlook to all of Indridi's misgivings. Even Tamara, a grouchy, no nonsense dwarf, is a cornerstone personality to the found family, although she would only reluctantly admit to calling them that.
The sprinklings of spice (where the spice shaker may have been missing it's lid at the time) fit perfectly into the progression of the story and the development of the relationship between Indridi and Flynden.
The high fantasy setting is given a Terry Pratchett style twist with infusions of humour, mystery, ancient rivalries, and a talking book that will keep any reader on the edge of their seats. Either from suspense or fits of laughter.
A wonderful, magical read and I hope to see more of the Midnight Mercenaries again!
The Royal They is a classical story of a runaway Prince that feels unprepared to take on the duties of leadership, who finds more than just the courage to face their fears along the way. Stumbling upon a travelling caravan the Prince finds themselves among soon to be friends. Friends that will fight side by side to keep the lives they are carving out for themselves together as they form their guild, The Midnight Mercenaries. And some friends that become a whole lot more.
The pairing of Indridi, a non-binary dryad elf, and Flynden, a mountain of a dark elf, was simply perfect. Their insecurities about their pasts played a large and believable part in the lead up to them finally admitting to the other how they felt. But this also played a significant part in the strength of their relationship. If they can overcome their inner conflicts, surely they can conquer their enemies. As long as they do so together.
Every side character plays an important part, to the point I am pressed to truly consider them 'side-characters'. Arik was the perfect best friend for Indridi, providing a sunny and positive outlook to all of Indridi's misgivings. Even Tamara, a grouchy, no nonsense dwarf, is a cornerstone personality to the found family, although she would only reluctantly admit to calling them that.
The sprinklings of spice (where the spice shaker may have been missing it's lid at the time) fit perfectly into the progression of the story and the development of the relationship between Indridi and Flynden.
The high fantasy setting is given a Terry Pratchett style twist with infusions of humour, mystery, ancient rivalries, and a talking book that will keep any reader on the edge of their seats. Either from suspense or fits of laughter.
A wonderful, magical read and I hope to see more of the Midnight Mercenaries again!
October 28, 2024
Can I begin by saying, Flynden 👀 Mine, I've claimed, come fight me...
Anyways back to the main point, being the first book in the Royal Tales series and I'm completely hooked, I want moooooorrrreeeeee.... Can all four books be available already 😭 this Romantasy was just on point, and let me tell y'all's that I had been waiting for this book from the moment I got sneak peaks, then had the absolute pleasure of reading the first chapter, then we had the character art being revealed (absolutely amazing) the world building, the dynamic between the characters, the spice 👀 was definitely spicing 🥵🌶️🔥 had me taking a cold shower late at night 🤣 I am in love.
Indridi a royal non-binary dryad, runs away the day of their coronation, wanting a different life and just not ready to lead a kingdom, just so happens to set on this adventurous journey that leads them straight to Flynden, a dark elf also on the run from his own shadows... The rest happens to be history in the moment because they are electric ⚡ but eventually duties, and the past they all seem to be running from catches up to disturb the lil balance they seem to have created. What happens next? Well I guess you have to grab the book to find out 😁 it won't disappoint. Loved it 💚💛
Anyways back to the main point, being the first book in the Royal Tales series and I'm completely hooked, I want moooooorrrreeeeee.... Can all four books be available already 😭 this Romantasy was just on point, and let me tell y'all's that I had been waiting for this book from the moment I got sneak peaks, then had the absolute pleasure of reading the first chapter, then we had the character art being revealed (absolutely amazing) the world building, the dynamic between the characters, the spice 👀 was definitely spicing 🥵🌶️🔥 had me taking a cold shower late at night 🤣 I am in love.
Indridi a royal non-binary dryad, runs away the day of their coronation, wanting a different life and just not ready to lead a kingdom, just so happens to set on this adventurous journey that leads them straight to Flynden, a dark elf also on the run from his own shadows... The rest happens to be history in the moment because they are electric ⚡ but eventually duties, and the past they all seem to be running from catches up to disturb the lil balance they seem to have created. What happens next? Well I guess you have to grab the book to find out 😁 it won't disappoint. Loved it 💚💛
October 8, 2024
The Royal They was so incredibly cute and fun! I was lucky enough to receive an ARC for this, and let me tell you, I was so excited when it came in. I was hooked from the very first sentence. The Royal They is written in a way that lets you completely fall into the story. And the MCs, Flyn and Dridi, were cute AF. I especially loved Dridi. I found them to be very endearing, and was rooting for them from the first page. From a romance standpoint, Dridi and Flyn's connection is really well written. They're very sweet together, and the way KJ wrote them, I could tell how into each other they were early on. Definitely recommend this for folks who are looking for something cozy, sweet, fantastical, and fun!
October 29, 2024
If you love books like Gary of 100 Days or Sent to Fantasy World and Now All the Men Want me - you will LOVE this.
From the very first sentence, it pulls you in. It reads just like you would expect a fairy tale for adults to read. There is humor, there is heart, there is spice and it is all rolled into one unforgettable experience.
That twink who is having a panic attack learns who they are, and grows with the help of all of their friends while participating in a variety of side quests. (Honestly, this would make a really fun video game to play as well.) It is a fast paced, impossible to put down adventure that fills a niche that is in dire need of more stories like these.
5 out of 5, would recommend and read again. And again. And again...
From the very first sentence, it pulls you in. It reads just like you would expect a fairy tale for adults to read. There is humor, there is heart, there is spice and it is all rolled into one unforgettable experience.
That twink who is having a panic attack learns who they are, and grows with the help of all of their friends while participating in a variety of side quests. (Honestly, this would make a really fun video game to play as well.) It is a fast paced, impossible to put down adventure that fills a niche that is in dire need of more stories like these.
5 out of 5, would recommend and read again. And again. And again...
January 2, 2025
4.5/5 ⭐️
I really enjoyed The Royal They. Indridi and Flynden were a cute couple and their romance was very spicy. The assortment of incredible characters felt very much like a fun D&D group coming together to tell a story full of magic, adventure, love, and fighting for the greater good. The only issue I had with this book was the pacing. Some moments felt incredibly rushed, while others felt a little slow. But regardless, I’m still looking forward to The Royal Them!
I really enjoyed The Royal They. Indridi and Flynden were a cute couple and their romance was very spicy. The assortment of incredible characters felt very much like a fun D&D group coming together to tell a story full of magic, adventure, love, and fighting for the greater good. The only issue I had with this book was the pacing. Some moments felt incredibly rushed, while others felt a little slow. But regardless, I’m still looking forward to The Royal Them!
December 17, 2024
This book was such fun to read. Cosy fantasy that follows a DnD questing vibe, The Royal They follows dryad Prince Indridi as he flees his responsibilities and sets out on his own. With strong found family and frequent stops at taverns for food and drink, can I suggest a warm blanket and a few snacks to hand before settling in to read this wonderful fantasy story.
February 1, 2025
THE Royal THEY
5/5
LGBT COZY FANTASY
ROYAL HEIR RUNS AWAY FROM HIS
RESPONSIBILITIES AFTER HIS FATHER DIES. AND YOU KNOW WHAT I WOULD TOO.
THEY RUN OFF TO LIVE A NORMAL LIFE AND GO ON FUN FANTASY ADVENTURES.
- NON BINARY REP
- COMP MEDIA: ANYTHING BY T KINGFISHER.
FAIRY TAIL THE ANIME
- SPICY
- CHARLIE THE SALAMANDER IS AN ICON
- MAIN STORY LINE IS DOPE AND I CAN'T WAIT FOR THE NEXT BOOK.
5/5
LGBT COZY FANTASY
ROYAL HEIR RUNS AWAY FROM HIS
RESPONSIBILITIES AFTER HIS FATHER DIES. AND YOU KNOW WHAT I WOULD TOO.
THEY RUN OFF TO LIVE A NORMAL LIFE AND GO ON FUN FANTASY ADVENTURES.
- NON BINARY REP
- COMP MEDIA: ANYTHING BY T KINGFISHER.
FAIRY TAIL THE ANIME
- SPICY
- CHARLIE THE SALAMANDER IS AN ICON
- MAIN STORY LINE IS DOPE AND I CAN'T WAIT FOR THE NEXT BOOK.
November 4, 2024
The world needs more they/thems in romance! There were parts of this book that I wanted to be brought to life more through showing rather than telling, sometimes the emotional impact I wanted wasn’t there because of it.
The inclusivity and sweetness of the story was very enjoyable, though!
The inclusivity and sweetness of the story was very enjoyable, though!
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews