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Royal Powers #1
Duking It Out
Royal dukes from rival countries, shipwrecked on a deserted island. The grudge match of the century—or a love story of super-heroic proportions?
Sander Fiala, Duke of Roses, is fourth in line to the South Abarran throne, even though his rogue power earned him the nickname “The Monster of Roses” and got him banished from the Castle. But right before he’s about to set off on his annual birthday sailing trip, the Queen asks him to meet with the notoriously volatile North Abarran Duke of Arles.
Tarik Jaso, Duke of Arles, expects the worst from people because—let’s face it—people are the worst. His superpower bombards him with any and all electronic transmissions, which…yeah, people suck. So when he’s attacked and wakes up in the cabin of a stranded boat, he knows he’s royally screwed. Because the man looming over him—the man he’d gone toe-to-toe with right before the attack—is the infamous Monster of Roses.
Tarik is positive the Monster is behind his kidnapping. Sander is sure the whole thing is Tarik’s fault. As they work toward rescue, Tarik realizes that the disturbingly hot Sander is no monster, and Sander discovers that Tarik’s temper masks a caring soul wrapped in a cantankerous (though undeniably sexy) body.
For their burgeoning connection to endure, they’ll have to duke it out with political factions, dark conspiracies, and centuries of traditions that keep them on opposite sides of the border.
But first? They have to get off this damn island.
Duking It Out is a 46,000-word M/M enemies to lovers, opposites attract, superhero rom-com, featuring Only One Bed, a grumpy duke who should know better than to jump to conclusions, a self-doubting duke who’s good with his hands (heh), gossipy seagulls, competent assistants, a guaranteed HEA, and (unfortunately) capes.
Sander Fiala, Duke of Roses, is fourth in line to the South Abarran throne, even though his rogue power earned him the nickname “The Monster of Roses” and got him banished from the Castle. But right before he’s about to set off on his annual birthday sailing trip, the Queen asks him to meet with the notoriously volatile North Abarran Duke of Arles.
Tarik Jaso, Duke of Arles, expects the worst from people because—let’s face it—people are the worst. His superpower bombards him with any and all electronic transmissions, which…yeah, people suck. So when he’s attacked and wakes up in the cabin of a stranded boat, he knows he’s royally screwed. Because the man looming over him—the man he’d gone toe-to-toe with right before the attack—is the infamous Monster of Roses.
Tarik is positive the Monster is behind his kidnapping. Sander is sure the whole thing is Tarik’s fault. As they work toward rescue, Tarik realizes that the disturbingly hot Sander is no monster, and Sander discovers that Tarik’s temper masks a caring soul wrapped in a cantankerous (though undeniably sexy) body.
For their burgeoning connection to endure, they’ll have to duke it out with political factions, dark conspiracies, and centuries of traditions that keep them on opposite sides of the border.
But first? They have to get off this damn island.
Duking It Out is a 46,000-word M/M enemies to lovers, opposites attract, superhero rom-com, featuring Only One Bed, a grumpy duke who should know better than to jump to conclusions, a self-doubting duke who’s good with his hands (heh), gossipy seagulls, competent assistants, a guaranteed HEA, and (unfortunately) capes.
Audible Audio
First published July 6, 2020
131 people are currently reading
745 people want to read
About the author
E.J. Russell
54 books416 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 192 reviews
October 8, 2024
I mostly read this because it has Kirt Graves as the narrator, and I could listen to him reading me his grocery list.
This is a sort of enemies-to-lovers, where one MC is a dick and the other is a naive sweet boy who is misunderstood. For plot reasons, they get stranded on a deserted island and of course, romance ensues. There is very minimal angst and an HFN ending.
I saw there is a sequel that I'll probably read so we'll see how their HEA develops.
This is a sort of enemies-to-lovers, where one MC is a dick and the other is a naive sweet boy who is misunderstood. For plot reasons, they get stranded on a deserted island and of course, romance ensues. There is very minimal angst and an HFN ending.
I saw there is a sequel that I'll probably read so we'll see how their HEA develops.
August 13, 2022
Get you a buddy read who made you watch a sweet short gay movie on youtube to cheer you up from a bad read 😂 LMAO JK it was unintentional, but he still made my day ;)) 😋 Anyway, review time <3
200th 2022 read with Mr. Jokester, Hugo
I struggled with a lot of aspects in this book, the politics, plotline and the POVs. I was so confused with what was going on since the beginning. It was not at all easy to get into it along with the difficult writing and yeah, that was overall so sad because it didn’t get better. I keep complaining to Hugo about it though, and at least I had someone getting through this. And had to get him to explain things to me which makes it better but still. I only could get glimpse of the storyline where it started to makes sense to me by 30% which around 4 chapters in. However, it was all still super blurry to me and I didn’t understand most part of it. I had to put it down a couple times because of distractions and also accidentally zoned out a couple times..then I was shocked they suddenly had sex BWHAHHAW 😂😭
This book probably would have good tension and cute moments to swoon for if i experienced it in a better way because the banters were actually likeable, but there’s nothing else to say when I couldn’t even get what I was reading. It felt like my mood was draining the whole time.
It was also soo weird that one of the MCs was described as demisexual, but the sexual attraction was quite insta. It was done so wrong and I am pissed.
Like I said, I can’t even begin to explain what was happening with the plot since I forgot almost entire thing about this book 😂 but it’s a buddy read and I always enjoy Hugo’s company 🥰 soooo 2 stars.
(He’s making me watch another gay movie. brb!)
200th 2022 read with Mr. Jokester, Hugo
I struggled with a lot of aspects in this book, the politics, plotline and the POVs. I was so confused with what was going on since the beginning. It was not at all easy to get into it along with the difficult writing and yeah, that was overall so sad because it didn’t get better. I keep complaining to Hugo about it though, and at least I had someone getting through this. And had to get him to explain things to me which makes it better but still. I only could get glimpse of the storyline where it started to makes sense to me by 30% which around 4 chapters in. However, it was all still super blurry to me and I didn’t understand most part of it. I had to put it down a couple times because of distractions and also accidentally zoned out a couple times..then I was shocked they suddenly had sex BWHAHHAW 😂😭
This book probably would have good tension and cute moments to swoon for if i experienced it in a better way because the banters were actually likeable, but there’s nothing else to say when I couldn’t even get what I was reading. It felt like my mood was draining the whole time.
It was also soo weird that one of the MCs was described as demisexual, but the sexual attraction was quite insta. It was done so wrong and I am pissed.
Like I said, I can’t even begin to explain what was happening with the plot since I forgot almost entire thing about this book 😂 but it’s a buddy read and I always enjoy Hugo’s company 🥰 soooo 2 stars.
(He’s making me watch another gay movie. brb!)
October 17, 2020
Cute enemies to lovers! ❤️👏❤️
After muddling through an inordinate number of names, monikers and titles, I was finally able to settle into this novella.
Power through the first chapter and know that the only names that you need to remember are our MC’s.
One of our lovers was a demisexual. Maybe I’m ignorant here, but I though individuals who identified as such didn’t feel a sexual attraction until there was an emotional attraction. Well, that’s out the window here. Is this Demi-erasure?
Anyway, aside from the avalanche of names and Demi-issues with insta-love, I really enjoyed this. I think it would have benefited from being longer—and more sexy times!
My rec? A great beach read 😉
After muddling through an inordinate number of names, monikers and titles, I was finally able to settle into this novella.
Power through the first chapter and know that the only names that you need to remember are our MC’s.
One of our lovers was a demisexual. Maybe I’m ignorant here, but I though individuals who identified as such didn’t feel a sexual attraction until there was an emotional attraction. Well, that’s out the window here. Is this Demi-erasure?
Anyway, aside from the avalanche of names and Demi-issues with insta-love, I really enjoyed this. I think it would have benefited from being longer—and more sexy times!
My rec? A great beach read 😉
July 9, 2020
Really Good Read
I had fun reading this feel good, quirky , slow burn , paranormal, Rom-Com story.
Really enjoyed the world building . Loved Tarik and Sander the MC as well as the menagerie of intriguing and interesting secondary characters; even the "villain" was hysterically funny.
I had fun reading this feel good, quirky , slow burn , paranormal, Rom-Com story.
Really enjoyed the world building . Loved Tarik and Sander the MC as well as the menagerie of intriguing and interesting secondary characters; even the "villain" was hysterically funny.
Read
August 26, 2020DNF at maybe 10%
One MC is identified as demi-sexual. The author has an interesting definition of demi since the MC is immediately attracted to the other MC and goes from attraction (ummmm...) but hating him, to still not trusting him (still sexually attracted though), to sex within maybe a day? While it would be refreshing to see demisexuals get some positive representation in romance, I think more research should be done before trying to use it. I lost interest since it appeared to be just another insta-love and jump in the sack story when I had been hoping for more relationship building.
One MC is identified as demi-sexual. The author has an interesting definition of demi since the MC is immediately attracted to the other MC and goes from attraction (ummmm...) but hating him, to still not trusting him (still sexually attracted though), to sex within maybe a day? While it would be refreshing to see demisexuals get some positive representation in romance, I think more research should be done before trying to use it. I lost interest since it appeared to be just another insta-love and jump in the sack story when I had been hoping for more relationship building.
July 16, 2020
I absolutely loved the originality to this story. It was a unique blend of royalty, superheroes, enemies to lovers/opposites attract, as well as the forced proximity and there's-only-one-bed tropes.
Sander has lived a very isolated, lonely young life, due to a tragedy when he was younger involving his powers. Since then, he has kept away from electronics and people out of fear of hurting them. He winds up stranded on a deserted island with a member of their opposing country, Tarik, and the two must work together to survive and hopefully be rescued.
I really loved all of the characters with their powers and their superhero name and how it blended our world with an imaginary one. Sanders and Tarik together were charming, sweet, they had great chemistry together, and brought out the best of each other when they were together. Their powers were perfect to work together, and I just LOVED the ending!
Very sweet, I definitely loved reading about Sanders and Tarik together!
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Sander has lived a very isolated, lonely young life, due to a tragedy when he was younger involving his powers. Since then, he has kept away from electronics and people out of fear of hurting them. He winds up stranded on a deserted island with a member of their opposing country, Tarik, and the two must work together to survive and hopefully be rescued.
I really loved all of the characters with their powers and their superhero name and how it blended our world with an imaginary one. Sanders and Tarik together were charming, sweet, they had great chemistry together, and brought out the best of each other when they were together. Their powers were perfect to work together, and I just LOVED the ending!
Very sweet, I definitely loved reading about Sanders and Tarik together!
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
March 4, 2021
A fun, light enemies-to-lovers stranded on an island story. The first chapter is a bit full of confusing info, but once settled into the story, I enjoyed the characters and chuckled over some of the lines an predicaments.
Want to read
November 20, 2020Thank you for the gift, Santa’s Drunk Little Helper Elf!!
October 7, 2024
Every time I read a 'shipwrecked on an island', my first thought is... Oh, great, more weird lube decisions.
Alas. No anal sex here. BUT, the story really was fantastical and lighthearted, even if the romance progressed just a tad too fast.
Given the length, though, that was to be expected.
“I see a major flaw in this plan.”
“You would. You’re the most pessimistic man I’ve ever met.”
Enemies to lovers where they're not really enemies. More of Romeo/Juliet where they're from warring factions(countries in this case).
Suffice it to say, the enmity doesn't last long. Tarik gets over himself soon enough and literally 3 days later has become Sander's biggest defender(and lover).
This was just the sweetest. I love how even at the end, they were still kind of nervous around each other. So adorable.
Alas. No anal sex here. BUT, the story really was fantastical and lighthearted, even if the romance progressed just a tad too fast.
Given the length, though, that was to be expected.
“I see a major flaw in this plan.”
“You would. You’re the most pessimistic man I’ve ever met.”
Enemies to lovers where they're not really enemies. More of Romeo/Juliet where they're from warring factions(countries in this case).
Suffice it to say, the enmity doesn't last long. Tarik gets over himself soon enough and literally 3 days later has become Sander's biggest defender(and lover).
This was just the sweetest. I love how even at the end, they were still kind of nervous around each other. So adorable.
July 8, 2022
3.5 stars, but rounding up.
This was a cute: enemies to lovers/stranded on a desert island/ sharing one bed/ star crossed lovers/ royals/ superpowers book.
Tarik took a bit to warm up to, but once he got his head out of his ass he was a great partner for Sander.
I wished this book was longer or had more books in the series about the characters in this book, like Bas! Maybe in the future! I know this series is comprised of different authors but the same universe, unfortunately the ratings for most of them are low…
This was a cute: enemies to lovers/stranded on a desert island/ sharing one bed/ star crossed lovers/ royals/ superpowers book.
Tarik took a bit to warm up to, but once he got his head out of his ass he was a great partner for Sander.
I wished this book was longer or had more books in the series about the characters in this book, like Bas! Maybe in the future! I know this series is comprised of different authors but the same universe, unfortunately the ratings for most of them are low…
June 17, 2021
I skimmed the last chapters. The whole villainous plot was ridiculous and the author should have researched demisexuality before using it in a book.
June 3, 2022
Such a clever and creative universe! E.J. Russell has an amazing imagination, and it's even better listening to Kirt Graves bring Duking It Out to life.
These are such quirky characters, and they have great chemistry... I love enemies to lovers, and seeing these two grow to accept one another is so much fun.
an audiobook copy of Duking It Out was provided to me for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
These are such quirky characters, and they have great chemistry... I love enemies to lovers, and seeing these two grow to accept one another is so much fun.
an audiobook copy of Duking It Out was provided to me for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
May 9, 2023
Electromagnetic Dukes attract oppositely.
When small kingdoms resulting from the split of one larger country in the past are dealing with problems that constantly irritate the relationships and borders while causing rumors and dissention at all levels of interactions, it is sometimes a miracle when the constant interruptions and negatives of daily royal life are removed by being stranded on an isolated small island that is hidden from view to prevent discovery of the two Dukes, one from each kingdom, that represent the squabbles and difficulties of communication between people and kingdoms.
When survival is the top priority of both while dealing with their personal limitations and limited supplies on the boat with little support from the sea and island resources. Relying on each other while discovering the realities of each other brings out new emotions and understanding between the Dukes as the learn more about their royal powers and how to use and control them.
Relying on their countries and families to save them brings better cooperation between the countries. Marriage across country lines unites the countries in new ways even if the marriage is a bit unusual.
The bad guy in the stupid hero outfit gets the dungeon but his coconspirators do not get caught, but that may be in a sequel.
When small kingdoms resulting from the split of one larger country in the past are dealing with problems that constantly irritate the relationships and borders while causing rumors and dissention at all levels of interactions, it is sometimes a miracle when the constant interruptions and negatives of daily royal life are removed by being stranded on an isolated small island that is hidden from view to prevent discovery of the two Dukes, one from each kingdom, that represent the squabbles and difficulties of communication between people and kingdoms.
When survival is the top priority of both while dealing with their personal limitations and limited supplies on the boat with little support from the sea and island resources. Relying on each other while discovering the realities of each other brings out new emotions and understanding between the Dukes as the learn more about their royal powers and how to use and control them.
Relying on their countries and families to save them brings better cooperation between the countries. Marriage across country lines unites the countries in new ways even if the marriage is a bit unusual.
The bad guy in the stupid hero outfit gets the dungeon but his coconspirators do not get caught, but that may be in a sequel.
August 19, 2021
Nice short read.
I really liked it.
I really liked it.
July 10, 2020
Dukes from feuding neighboring kingdoms—who also just happen to be superheroes—are shipwrecked together on an island and fall in love. Fun, right?
The premise sounds rather fluffy, but there’s a hurt/comfort aspect to the book, too. Sander isolates himself on his estate, Roses, because his uncontrollable powers have killed people. He’s referred to as the “Monster of Roses,” and he truly does see himself as monstrous. On the island, though, all Tarik sees is a gentle and honorable man who was involved in a horrible accident. He helps Sander figure out how to master his power—and, more importantly, how to forgive himself for what happened. And of course, Sander and Tarik fall for each other in the process.
It’s pretty much instalove, which normally isn’t my thing, but . . . Look, it’s royal superheroes. I’m not going worry about realism for this one. 😊
Recommended if you are looking for a quick, mostly light read. It’s part of a multi-author series, which includes an upcoming book with the memorable title of “Pauper Prince Saves the Posh Pullet.” That’s going right on my TBR pile, because how can I resist?
A copy of this book was provided for review; all opinions expressed are my own.
The premise sounds rather fluffy, but there’s a hurt/comfort aspect to the book, too. Sander isolates himself on his estate, Roses, because his uncontrollable powers have killed people. He’s referred to as the “Monster of Roses,” and he truly does see himself as monstrous. On the island, though, all Tarik sees is a gentle and honorable man who was involved in a horrible accident. He helps Sander figure out how to master his power—and, more importantly, how to forgive himself for what happened. And of course, Sander and Tarik fall for each other in the process.
It’s pretty much instalove, which normally isn’t my thing, but . . . Look, it’s royal superheroes. I’m not going worry about realism for this one. 😊
Recommended if you are looking for a quick, mostly light read. It’s part of a multi-author series, which includes an upcoming book with the memorable title of “Pauper Prince Saves the Posh Pullet.” That’s going right on my TBR pile, because how can I resist?
A copy of this book was provided for review; all opinions expressed are my own.
September 23, 2020
Not sure where this series is heading but it sure started on the right foot!
I absolutely loved Sander and Tarik, their personalities and their relationship.
Easiest 5 star.
I absolutely loved Sander and Tarik, their personalities and their relationship.
Easiest 5 star.
June 13, 2021
WEIRDEST 'ONE BED' PREDICAMANT EVER.
I enjoy super human stories, if the worldbuilding is good, and if the characters are good. This one's a solid win on both counts. There is a lot of conflict, but all of it is woven into the characters, and dealt with in believable ways, even in so short a time. In other words, all the drama is earned.
I bought Duke the Hall some time ago, so now I get to read it in context. :)
I enjoy super human stories, if the worldbuilding is good, and if the characters are good. This one's a solid win on both counts. There is a lot of conflict, but all of it is woven into the characters, and dealt with in believable ways, even in so short a time. In other words, all the drama is earned.
I bought Duke the Hall some time ago, so now I get to read it in context. :)
July 28, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.75 stars
Duking it Out is the first in the Royal Powers collection, a multi-author series set in a shared world where the royals of North and South Abarran have an assortment of superpowered abilities. I am a big super powers fan, and I love enemies to lovers and forced proximity stories, so this one called out to me. I think Russell does a nice job here with the “stranded on a desert island” theme. It is clear that that Tarik has a lot of hostility toward Sander, partly stemming from Sander’s reputation as having killed people in his youth, and part due to Tarik’s generally prickly nature. Tarik is sure that Sander is behind their marooning and it takes a while for things to warm up between them. There is a definite sense of the pair being stranded and having to figure things out, though they aren’t trapped for that long as far as I can tell. There are some nice moments as the guys work together that lead to a thawing of their relationship and eventually to more.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
3.75 stars
Duking it Out is the first in the Royal Powers collection, a multi-author series set in a shared world where the royals of North and South Abarran have an assortment of superpowered abilities. I am a big super powers fan, and I love enemies to lovers and forced proximity stories, so this one called out to me. I think Russell does a nice job here with the “stranded on a desert island” theme. It is clear that that Tarik has a lot of hostility toward Sander, partly stemming from Sander’s reputation as having killed people in his youth, and part due to Tarik’s generally prickly nature. Tarik is sure that Sander is behind their marooning and it takes a while for things to warm up between them. There is a definite sense of the pair being stranded and having to figure things out, though they aren’t trapped for that long as far as I can tell. There are some nice moments as the guys work together that lead to a thawing of their relationship and eventually to more.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
August 13, 2022
Buddy read with @iman
The story 3 stars
The narration 3.5 stars
The ending was worth it after all that struggles at the beginning, but the whole story was mid at most I'm not really a fan of the info dumping at the beginning and the politics god the politics it was definitely a struggle to get into I'm glad me and Iman were on the same page
For the characters
The mcs were okay not really complex but they're a match to each other on their own way, also one of the problem that I have with one of the characters is that the demisexual rep it was just doesn't sit well with me.
I really like the ending than the whole story it was soo good if only most of the story were constructed more on that I would've liked it more I wouldn't revisit this in My mind it was just an okay story can be confusing at times tho but I still appreciate the concept.
The story 3 stars
The narration 3.5 stars
The ending was worth it after all that struggles at the beginning, but the whole story was mid at most I'm not really a fan of the info dumping at the beginning and the politics god the politics it was definitely a struggle to get into I'm glad me and Iman were on the same page
For the characters
The mcs were okay not really complex but they're a match to each other on their own way, also one of the problem that I have with one of the characters is that the demisexual rep it was just doesn't sit well with me.
I really like the ending than the whole story it was soo good if only most of the story were constructed more on that I would've liked it more I wouldn't revisit this in My mind it was just an okay story can be confusing at times tho but I still appreciate the concept.
September 11, 2020
Okay, it was Not Bad. Just a light little story about royals with superpowers getting mixed up in a plot to take them both out of the picture and/or to start a war between their two nations. But generally it’s just a romcom so there’s not a lot to be unpacked here.
There were in the beginning some truly eyeroll-worthy moments from Tarik, which he claims are because he’s subjected constantly to the filth of humanity from being “Wavelength” (i.e. he is able to send and receive any and all electronic transmissions), but I’m like, what if you were just a dick, bro? What if.
In the end there’s a little bit of “oooohh, there might be a different more sinister plot here!!” but it doesn’t seem like it’s going to pan out to like, a second book?
An enjoyable enough little story.
There were in the beginning some truly eyeroll-worthy moments from Tarik, which he claims are because he’s subjected constantly to the filth of humanity from being “Wavelength” (i.e. he is able to send and receive any and all electronic transmissions), but I’m like, what if you were just a dick, bro? What if.
In the end there’s a little bit of “oooohh, there might be a different more sinister plot here!!” but it doesn’t seem like it’s going to pan out to like, a second book?
An enjoyable enough little story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 8, 2020
A cute, but rapid-cycling enemies-to-lovers story. Like if some asked me what story I most wanted to read, I would say a story about enemies trapped on a deserted island who reluctantly fall for each other. And like, this kinda was that, but not done enough justice. It a story about royals who also have super-powers and I found the world-building super odd. Though set in modern times, there were so many anachronisms that when they mention things like ibuprofen or The Incredibles it felt like a smack in the face. That said, it's a cute, short, enjoyable read.
July 21, 2020
I found the beginning very confusing with lots of long names that made them hard to remember.
September 18, 2020
Embarassingly overwritten
July 14, 2020
Sander Fiala, Duke of Roses, is a Monster, or so he's been known as since the accident that took his father and 16 others. He's never quite been able to control his powers. When he comes face to face with Tarik Jaso, Duke of Arles, he's taken aback by his gorgeous face and wonderful head of curls. But then Tarik goes off on a tirade against him and Sander's perhaps not quite so entranced any longer. No matter, the two of them are dukes of rival kingdoms, so they wouldn't be able to be anything more than political rivals anyway.
But when someone conspires to take both dukes out by setting them adrift on Sander's now damaged boat, the two men will be free to give into and explore that initial attraction. But, will they give in in time to start something before their imminent rescue happens?
At first I was completely lost when I started reading. But it didn't take long before I was engrossed by this pair of opposites: Tarik, grumpster with the power to hear everyone's electronic emissions, and sweet Sander with the uncontrollable ability to move things with his hands by harnessing the power within him. I like how Sander got under Tarik's skin and that Tarik was easily able to see that Sander was the opposite of his reputation. Their chemistry is electric *wink wink* and the ending was as sweet as these two are together. I cannot wait to explore this world of Royal Superheroes more now!
ARC via Gay Romance Reviews for an honest review.
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October 1, 2020
What a fun read about two dukes whose vineyards border each other and whose reputations precede each other . . . until they somehow get kidnapped together . . . and end up stranded on a deserted isle.
This is a brief, sweet escape with royalty who can't get out of their own way until they come face to face with the enemy . . . who turn out to be dashingly humanizing.
CODA* An earlier reviewer claimed that a plethora of names in the first few pages taxed patience to the point of not wanting to finish. There were indeed a lot of names in the set-up pages, sometimes for the same character (e.g., a duke referred to by a royal title, a proper name, and then a family nickname). Don't let this discourage you. Clarity soon follows, and the characters, especially the two rival dukes are smartly and affectionately drawn.
This is a brief, sweet escape with royalty who can't get out of their own way until they come face to face with the enemy . . . who turn out to be dashingly humanizing.
CODA* An earlier reviewer claimed that a plethora of names in the first few pages taxed patience to the point of not wanting to finish. There were indeed a lot of names in the set-up pages, sometimes for the same character (e.g., a duke referred to by a royal title, a proper name, and then a family nickname). Don't let this discourage you. Clarity soon follows, and the characters, especially the two rival dukes are smartly and affectionately drawn.
January 13, 2021
It's funny because E.J. Russell has become one of those authors that I read in between heavy stuff and it's sometimes hit or miss. I did enjoy the Fae Out of Water series. It wasn't perfect but it was fun.
I really enjoyed this one as well. It was pretty solid for me with very few holes that I could see and it seems that there's some mystery that continues throughout the series with different authors but doesn't take away from this one.
It still wasn't super deep but, I don't know, it seems like this has become one of my go-to feelgood authors and she didn't disappoint this time at all.
I really enjoyed this one as well. It was pretty solid for me with very few holes that I could see and it seems that there's some mystery that continues throughout the series with different authors but doesn't take away from this one.
It still wasn't super deep but, I don't know, it seems like this has become one of my go-to feelgood authors and she didn't disappoint this time at all.
February 23, 2021
Not much to say about this one. Enemies to lovers stuck on a deserted island. Once they got past the hate and suspicion it was pretty sweet. I liked the powers and the monikers.
July 12, 2020
A rating. Two enemies stuck on a deserted island together? Oh yeah, I liked this one a LOT! I'm anxious to see if the rest of the series is as fun.
July 29, 2020
Okay soooo I actually quite enjoyed this book! There were some things that kept me from giving this book more stars, so I wanted to share them:
- this world is really cool!!! I loved it. Unfortunately, the author didn't deem to give us any world building which really was a shame!! There was so much more explaining needed at the beginning and it was disappointing we didn't get it (is this the first book in a series or not?? of course you need to give some worldbuilding).
- sometimes it was really hard knowing who's point of view we're reading or what is happening during an action scene. I am not sure if my brain was scattered or if the writer didn't really do a good job in the writing department
- the whole demisexuality really disappointed and upset me. I mean, if you want one of the heroes to be demisexual, fine, but please DO LEARN what it actually means! Google definition in 1 second: "Demisexuality is a sexual orientation where people only experience sexual attraction to folks that they have close emotional connections with. In other words, demisexual people only experience sexual attraction AFTER an emotional bond has formed." Tarik was definitely not it!! He was a total normal guy. Definitely thinking in sexual terms before getting to know people.
- Also what the heck was the problem in sleeping in one bed? And why would it be hard to sleep in shorts??? Are they super uncomfortable or what??? Also what's wrong with sleeping on the beach if necessary since there isn't a living thing there and they have blankets in case it's cold anyway? ...Okay, I am exaggerating here, I wouldn't want to sleep on the beach either but they could have a least thought about it in their head (?), but no, they didn't even consider it and their minds went to the gutter right way (again -> demisexual? no way)
- lastly, I really wish there was a sequel featuring these Dukes :(. I want more of them together
- this world is really cool!!! I loved it. Unfortunately, the author didn't deem to give us any world building which really was a shame!! There was so much more explaining needed at the beginning and it was disappointing we didn't get it (is this the first book in a series or not?? of course you need to give some worldbuilding).
- sometimes it was really hard knowing who's point of view we're reading or what is happening during an action scene. I am not sure if my brain was scattered or if the writer didn't really do a good job in the writing department
- the whole demisexuality really disappointed and upset me. I mean, if you want one of the heroes to be demisexual, fine, but please DO LEARN what it actually means! Google definition in 1 second: "Demisexuality is a sexual orientation where people only experience sexual attraction to folks that they have close emotional connections with. In other words, demisexual people only experience sexual attraction AFTER an emotional bond has formed." Tarik was definitely not it!! He was a total normal guy. Definitely thinking in sexual terms before getting to know people.
- Also what the heck was the problem in sleeping in one bed? And why would it be hard to sleep in shorts??? Are they super uncomfortable or what??? Also what's wrong with sleeping on the beach if necessary since there isn't a living thing there and they have blankets in case it's cold anyway? ...Okay, I am exaggerating here, I wouldn't want to sleep on the beach either but they could have a least thought about it in their head (?), but no, they didn't even consider it and their minds went to the gutter right way (again -> demisexual? no way)
- lastly, I really wish there was a sequel featuring these Dukes :(. I want more of them together
May 30, 2022
I believe I could read E.J. Russell's grocery list and find it entertaining. I love every one of Russell's books, but I think this may be my all time favorite, and that's saying something.
Enemies to lovers stranded on a desert isle and forced to cooperate. What I really love is the nuanced characters who seem one way on the surface, but peel away the layers and you have someone different than originally envisioned.
I loved the different powers bestowed to royals, and how the story takes place in the modern world. I liked Sander immediately, and wanted him to get the HEA he deserved. Tarik took a little more time, like, another chapter, then bam! He grew on me. Especially when he helped poor Sander.
Like all E.J. Russell books, highly recommended!
Enemies to lovers stranded on a desert isle and forced to cooperate. What I really love is the nuanced characters who seem one way on the surface, but peel away the layers and you have someone different than originally envisioned.
I loved the different powers bestowed to royals, and how the story takes place in the modern world. I liked Sander immediately, and wanted him to get the HEA he deserved. Tarik took a little more time, like, another chapter, then bam! He grew on me. Especially when he helped poor Sander.
Like all E.J. Russell books, highly recommended!
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