King: A Conclusion to Consort

by Rachel Grey

Rue

I put up a good fight. Fate dealt me a raw deal, but I escaped it for a while, enjoying a brief taste of freedom and love. Now, I’m back where I started, but no one can take those memories from me. Especially since I’ve returned with a tangible piece of them–Vaegon, my pup.

I may have been dragged back to the path originally laid out for me, but no one will ever take Vaegon away. Even fate couldn’t be that cruel, could it?

Durin

The elves are convinced that Vaegon is the key to the realm's future. Rue and I are stuck in the dark, not knowing where he is or how long he’ll be there, or if he’ll even be the same when he returns.

All I want is to be with Rue. She needs comfort. She needs me. But if I want to end her suffering, I’ll have to devote most of my time to a battle I’m not sure I even want to fight anymore.

I'm left with no choice. I’ll fulfill my duty, but not out of revenge against the queen, not for the realm’s freedom, and not even because it’s the right thing to do. I’m fighting to reclaim my son and build a world where no one would dare threaten my family again.


King is the conclusion to Book 1 of the Noble Reckoning series, Consort, and cannot be read as a standalone.

Genres: Omegaverse

Unknown Binding

About the author

Rachel is an editor turned author who loves Fantasy and Paranormal Romance, especially Omegaverse.

She's drawn to strong main characters who, despite any trauma or struggle, maintain their control over their bodies and minds and inevitably, end up on top.

Spice is a must, and it must not be typical. No boring stuff allowed.

Reviews

[Danielle Pulliam · Rating 5 out of 5]

**𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘** 𝑲𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒃𝒚 𝑹𝒂𝒄𝒉𝒆𝒍 𝑮𝒓𝒆𝒚 (𝑵𝒐𝒃𝒍𝒆 𝑹𝒆𝒄𝒌𝒐𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑩𝒐𝒐𝒌 2)

Release Date: February 15, 2025

5⭐️4🌶

I loooooved loved loved this little duology. You know when you read something and it immediately sucks you in to it's little world, that's what these books did for me. I can definately tell Rachel Grey wrote these for HERSELF. She was unapologetic about the nitty gritty details of forced consent and finding love again after being $exually abused. Outside of the gritty parts, there was so much magic, cottagecore vibes, magical creatures, and strong characters of both sexes.

I very much enjoyed reading Durin and Rue's conclusion to their fight against evil in their world. Plus, Durin finally learning more about shifters/heats/knots!

Themes/Tropes:
🍁Fated Mates
🍁Fae/Elves/Shifters/Ogres/Other
🍁Knotting
🍁Mating Heats
🍁Evil Queen
🍁Cottagecore
🍁Magical Kingdom

TW:
✨Forced marriage
✨Forced sexual acts
✨Grey consent
✨Gang #ape
✨Heats/knotting

[Mel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, what an ending to a great series. I hope there will be a cross-over so we can see how the characters develop and see more of their story.
The story did break my heart, but it needed to be done to say faerie. Great storyline with action, kidnap, omega standing up for herself, fated scent match mates, and plenty more. Highly recommend both books you won't be disappointed.

[Natali thehauntingofnatt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I cannot even begin with how good this duology is! The tension, the character arcs of both characters!!!! I craved for Vaegon's story and I got what I wanted! Amazing!!

[Kez Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was the perfect ending to this duology. It was fast paced, with action, revenge, revelations and a surprising reunion. I liked that the allies all worked together, and it was emotional seeing the sacrifices that were required for them to succeed. This was a fun mix of Omegaverse, Fae and fated mates bonds.

[Stefanie Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, I need to say a HUGE thank you to the author for sending me a copy of book 2!!! I loved the first book and this book was just as good if not better!!

I felt the pain that Rue went through (girl, you cut my heart out with a spoon...) and I love that she was able to see the good in everything even with everything she was feeling.

P.S. If you ever want to write Vaegon's story, I'm 100% here for it!!!

[Rebel · Rating 5 out of 5]

King, the eagerly awaited sequel to Consort in Rachel Grey's Noble Reckoning series, delivers a powerful and deeply moving tale that resonates with readers on a personal level. This captivating installment delves into the hearts of its characters, Rue and Durin, as they face the challenges fate has thrown their way.

As someone who has experienced the bittersweet taste of freedom and love, I found myself instantly drawn to Rue's story. Her fierce determination to protect her son, Vaegon, and the memories of her past, is an inspiring testament to the strength of a mother's love. Through her struggles, I was reminded of the unbreakable bonds that tie us to those we hold dear, even in the darkest of times.

Durin's character struck a chord with me as he navigated the complexities of duty, love, and family. His internal conflict, as he grapples with the responsibility of fighting for his realm while yearning to be with Rue and Vaegon, is a poignant reminder of the difficult choices we often face in life. Durin's unwavering commitment to creating a better world for his family resonated deeply, highlighting the power of love to motivate and inspire us to fight for what truly matters.

Rachel Grey's masterful storytelling transported me into a world where every emotion is heightened, and the consequences of each decision are felt on a personal level. The intricate blend of fantasy, romance, and political intrigue kept me captivated from beginning to end, as I found myself invested in the characters' journeys and the outcome of their struggles.

King is a must-read for fans of the series and anyone who has ever fought for love in the face of adversity. This emotionally charged installment will leave you reflecting on your own experiences and the power of love to overcome even the most daunting obstacles. As I closed the book, I was left with a renewed sense of hope, eagerly anticipating the next chapter in Rue and Durin's story, and the ultimate triumph of their love over fate's cruel hand.

[Leslie L. Allen · Rating 3 out of 5]

I had the same problem with this book as I did with 'Consort,' the first book in the duet. There was just a disconnect between the reader and the characters. I thought for days afterward about why this was and my only thought is the main characters and even many of the supporting characters were either all good or fully evil. It's really difficult as an adult, to connect with a perfect character. Even when the character is struggling with something, they eventually, and mostly without external input, come to the "right" or "good" decision or behavior. Knowing how gray the world is morally, it was hard to suspend my disbelief for the entire story.

That is not to say the book was terrible. It wasn't. The author has the talent to bring entirely new worlds to life and in-depth systems (like magic) to fruition within those worlds and while the plot was simple, it was still interesting. It was just hard to accept it all when the main characters seemed to accept the horrors of their world under the evil queen far more easily than I suspect most people would. It read more like a fairy tale than an adult romantasy.

The pacing was fast, the plot well fleshed out and as I said, the magical races and magic systems were exceedingly well done. Regardless of my issues with character development and connection with the reader, I enjoyed the duet. If you're looking for something simple, quick and romance/fantasy inclined, you could do worse than this offering. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Dionne Muller · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Rachel Grey's thrilling conclusion to the Consort series, King picks up right where the previous book left off.
Grey masterfully accelerates the pace in this final instalment, hurtling readers through a whirlwind of gripping events and heart-pounding turns.
One of the author's greatest strengths is her ability to so vividly capture raw, powerful emotions on the page, immersing the reader fully in the characters' experiences. From exhilarating triumphs to soul-crushing defeats, King elicits visceral reactions, making it impossible not to become deeply invested in Rue and Durin's epic journey.
Tensions run high as the story races to its climax, with shocking revelations, pulse-pounding action sequences, and poignant moments of tenderness all woven together seamlessly.
Grey's richly detailed writing brings every scene to life, from the grim reality of pack politics to the sweeping fantasy of a world filled with magic and mystery.
While some threads are tied up neatly, others are left intriguingly open-ended, inviting speculation about the characters' futures beyond the final page.
King delivers an immensely satisfying and emotionally resonant finale to this unforgettable saga, cementing the Consort series as a must-read for any fan of the genre.
With its perfect blend of action, suspense, romance and vivid storytelling, King is a spellbinding conclusion that will linger in readers' hearts and minds long after they turn the final page.

[Sara Phillips · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Our bodies can be dirty, but nothing can soil the soul. The only filth that can stain us is from within, born from a wicked heart. Things that happen to you cannot tarnish you."

In the conclusion of this duet, we catch back up with Rue and Durin during the time they are separated following the end of Consort. Luckily, Durin is able to find Rue, and they begin to live their lives again. Fate has other plans than their happiness, however, as their new life is tossed back into shambles when they meet an elf Seer. Reading this part of the book made me sad, as a mother myself, I can only imagine how much pain and suffering Rue faced, even after Vaegon was returned. The emotions felt a little vague from Vaegon, Durin and Rue during the time after they are reunited but maybe it was just all the time they spent apart.

The spicy scenes were mostly reactions to someone being sad, which was very odd to me. Although the very last chapter was a refreshing change to this. The writing felt a little choppy and clipped, which I found in the first book as well. I didn't connect deeply to any of the characters, and the story seemed like a usual telling of light/good defeated dark/bad. I did appreciate how the different races came together at the end to help defeat the evil, though.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Yaasmiyn Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great ending

Rate: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️

Ugh, I can't even begin to tell you how much this book gutted me in the middle of it, and had me so angry with what happened to Durin and Rue, but that said I loved this duology so much.

This story picks up where the first one left off. Rue is forced back to her pack along with her mother, and hopes that Durin will go back to the cave and find her missing then search for her. There she finds out that Durin is the queen's consort, and though it crushes her, she realizes that because he's fae, there's no way that he lied to her about how he felt and what he was doing to stop the queen. When Durinn finds out that she was taken, he does go to get her and their pup, and they go hide with the elves. From there things take a turn for the worse and everything is set on a path that changes life for them. The seer they come across tells them that their baby is the key to helping Durin defeat the queen, but not how things would play out.

I loved the plot of this story and how there were different realms that could have different timelines. I wonder if Rachel Gray is going to introduce the other realms, or more characters that merged with Durin and Rue's world. I can't wait to see what she writes next.

[Tima · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars. Durin, the male fae lead, and Rue, the female omega wolf shifter lead, know they love each other but circumstances have conspired to separate them. Desperate to save his mate, Durin forces his way into her pack’s land, using his magic to protect them and their child.

But they do need to continue the work Durin started to overthrow the fae queen. Can their little family survive the coming conflict?

This story is dual POV, well written, and the second half of this dark fantasy romance, so it does not stand alone. I enjoyed that there was an eventual happy ending and that the antagonists got what they deserved. I still struggled with how much time apart the lead characters endured and the situations that left them both struggling emotionally and mentally. I appreciated the resolution of the story. If you enjoy a darker, emotional, romance, this may be the duet for you.

I received a complimentary copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[TrishSparklerReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

@trishsparklerreads on instagram

“King” by Rachel Grey
Series: Noble Reckoning, Book 2
Genre: Omegaverse Romantasy
Rating: 4⭐️
Spice: 4🌶️
Darkness: 4🩶
POV: Dual

Thoughts:
This Romantasy is even better than the first in the duet. Set in the lush Fae realm, Durin uses Magic, the Rebel Fae and Shifters, and his Mixed Fae son to take on the evil Queen and her noble Fae. The steam between Durin and Rue kicked up from last book’s 2🌶️ to at least a solid 4🌶️. I liked how this book was more quickly paced, from surprising reveals, to the high action of a climactic battle.

If you love a great Romantasy but are not up to a series of 4 or more books- start with “Consort” and then finish up with “King” (approx 250 pgs in each book).

🛑Please read all the author warnings as themes and events in the story could be triggering. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Merissa (Archaeolibrarian) · Rating 5 out of 5]

KING is the grand finale of this duology and absolutely needs to be read after Consort.

Rue has been found and is being taken back to her old Pack. Durin has to do his duty to the queen as it is the change of seasons. What a bleak beginning! But, oh man, it's also such a great beginning. I was immediately right back in the story, with all my hopes and dreams resting on their shoulders.

This author is simply amazing at character-led stories full of emotions, and this one is no different. Did I cheer for Rue when she stood up for herself? Why, yes, I did. Did I sob into my Kleenex when my heart was eviscerated? Yep, I did that too. And did I cry again when something happened to a brave illusionist Fae? Yep, you've got me again.

This is an action-packed story with highs and lows, building to a dramatic ending that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Such an amazing story and one I HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

** same worded review will appear elsewhere **

* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Feb 12, 2025

[Anna Morelock · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an excellent conclusion to the duet! This book starts right where the first one ends. The story sucked me in, and I did not want to stop reading it.

My love for Durin & Rue grew throughout the story. They are both strong in their own ways and the way they love and support each other? Swoon. This book pulled on my emotions a lot. My heart kept breaking for Rue, and I bawled my eyes out when she finally made it to the other realm. She was definitely more forgiving than I would've been.

This book will stick with me for a while. I will be checking out this author's other work. I genuinely like her writing style and would love to read more from this world.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Brandy Womack · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in this series, continuing the story of Rue and Durin. I loved these characters so much in Consort, and it was wonderful to know more of their story. I love how all the different creatures are able to come together to protect their realm and defeat the evil queen. I was heartbroken when the elves took baby Vaegon from Rue and Durin. They had to miss out on so much of his growing years, and for a parent, that is horrible. Finding Vaegon and his pack was healing, the love they had as a pack for each other was amazing. I loved this ending, how Durin knows that no one species should be in charge, but that they all need to rule together.
Thank you to Book Sirens and the author for giving me a chance to read it.

[Anastey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Rachel Grey for sending me this advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

This was a fantastic ending to the duology! The fight scenes were amazing, varied, and action packed. Everything was wrapped up beautifully, with lots of happy endings, and there were a few big surprises too!

There was also a lot of pain and suffering along the way as well, and I wasn't a big fan of the specific way the elves were meddling with the child. It did work out okay in the end, and I know things will get better for the family as time passes. I feel really bad for Rue still, and though the elves mean well, they are still cruel.

[Carol Demmon · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great ending. Rue is returned to her pack where she gives birth to a pup and Durin will arrive to save her. They are together as a family for a day before the pup, Vaegon, is taken from them by the elves. Rue is devastated when they tell her that he has an important role in saving Faerie from the queen and that where he is sent, the aging is faster. Durin is tasked with getting more allies to work with him as his son grows up. This book is full of danger, intrique, sadness and infinite joy. I enjoyed reading this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Nina Diab · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Our bodies can be dirty, but nothing can soil the soul. The only filth that can stain us is from within, born from a wicked heart. Things that happen to you cannot tarnish you.”

I really enjoyed Consort and that cliffhanger! This book picks up right where the last left off with Rue being taken back to her cruel pack alpha. I was completely hooked with the suspense and tension. Once again, but Rue and Durin are imprisoned in the expectations of their societies. But both refuse to break. Rue's strength and determination made me so proud- especially one Vaegon was born. The story was fast-paced and exciting. I couldn't wait to see how everything would turn out! 5 stars

[Lita · Rating 5 out of 5]

This sequel to Consort was as good as the first book. Maybe better with an epic battle culminating at the ending. It kept me engaged - spellbound. Definitely a page turner. The love story was awesome and also sweet. The spice level was wasn't as hot as the first book but only off by maybe half a star. The world building was fantastic and I saw it all in my mind's eye. The characters were three dimensional. I definitely recommend. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Christine Biesheuvel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Light Against Dark
This intense story takes you along with all the struggles the MCs have to go through. A lot of grief, resentment against what fate throws their way, followed by conviction that they are on the right path. I was so happy to renew my acquaintance with the characters from the earlier books (Speechless and Orphaned) and learned what happened to Vaegon before he met his mates.
The final battle is nerve wracking and a crown for this book. I really, really loved this series!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Sara Irons · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rue and Durin have thier work cut out for them. Book two continues right where it left off in book one. If you haven't read book one please read it before this one.

Many twists, turns and lots of heartache lead our characters through a battle they had never imagined. The characters are amazing and the world building is wonderful.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Lollybobbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great fantasy omegaverse! Book two of the duet. Great ending and great plot and story line. Great characters, with development a plenty.

Very much enjoyed the duet and would recommend to all. Have gone and bought the duet, even though got them as an arc to support.

Will say the omegaverse part is very much second and in the background to the fantasy element.

I received this arc for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily and happily.

[Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, what a conclusion!! The action picks up as Durin, Rue, and the residents of Faerie begin to prepare in earnest to take down the queen. There were so many twists and turns that I did not see coming and left me in shock! Once I started reading, I binged this in between working and sleeping because I had to know how it all ends. Such a great duology!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Nicole Deanne Veracruz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn't know until this second book that this was connected to speechless and orphaned. I was so pleasantly surprised because I already loved Vaegon and his pack. My heart broke for what Rue went through. I couldn't stop crying. I love Durin so much. Once I figured out the books were connected i felt dumb for not catching it sooner.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Nessa · Rating 3 out of 5]

I feel sad.
This wasn't how I imagined the story would go and now that it's near Mother's Day, and seeing how Durin and Rue never got to be with their son....it's just...wrong.
I'm not exactly thrilled with the entire plot focused on bringing down the evil Queen as well...there was hardly any romancing worth mentioning about.
I was a little bored.
If you're looking for an intense Omegaverse story, this ISN'T it.

[Frank · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent sequel

Rue is still brilliant but with added fierceness this time.

Durin is still powerful but having to operate within restraints.

You need to have read the first book before going for this one as each character has developed somewhat - "same as before but more so!"

(I was fortunate to receive an ARC however the above is, as ever, my own opinion.)

[Emily Pennington · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rue and Durin . . .

Not only is the story fast-paced and exciting, but the characters bring out so much emotion that resonates with the readers. Rue was admirable and very forgiving despite her treatment. I found this book very engaging and it kept my attention throughout. Will Durin be able to find Rue and reconnect? Or will their lives take another direction entirely?

[Emzy Strong · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fantastic book. The world building is spectacular. The characters are so moving and vivid. They really tugged at the heart strings. I really feel for Durin and Rue. Such a beautiful and heart wrenching story. My pulse was pounding the whole time. I absolutely loved it. So many surprises. I love the way the author chose to end the story. Please give this book a chance.

[Janna Felix · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's better than the first one and an overall good conclusion to this dulogy wrapping up the story of these characters nicely. I also appreciate that the author sent me the second book so I could finish the story!

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

King (book 2) picks up the pace and intensifies the drama for Rue and Durin. With choices between the rock and the hard place, their efforts to survive become frenzied and frantic. Power, destruction, expectations... our characters will never be the same.