Duking It Out cover art

Duking It Out

Royal Powers, Book 1

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Duking It Out

By: E.J. Russell
Narrated by: Kirt Graves
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About this listen

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.

©2020 Ellen J. Russell (P)2022 Ellen J. Russell
Fantasy Fiction Literature & Fiction Paranormal Paranormal Romance Romance Science Fiction & Fantasy Royalty

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I loved this story when I read the ebook, and the audiobook made me love it even more. Part of that is Kirt Graves fantastic ability to really infuse these characters with life and emotion in his narration. The story can seem a little confusing at first, because there is history and super powers we don't know about, but rest assured, the author slowly reveals this history in such a way that you can't help but empathize with both Sander and Tarik (but especially Sander). I love the way Tarik turns out to be so much deeper than his initial presentation, and I especially adored how he supported Sander once he realizes how much they have in common. I love the humorous snark and banter between the MCs, and I am really looking forward to listening to the rest of the Royal Powers books in audiobook form.

I received a free copy of this audiobook at my request and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.

Absolutely Love It!

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This story was so sweet, their banter was super entertaining and their spicy moments were hot!

I was a little confused at the plot twist but otherwise I was happy for them in the end!

Such a great listen.

What a funny, sweet story!

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A fantastic start to the new series by EJ Russell. Great characters and interesting world, a story that needs to be listen to especially with Kirt Graves as the narrator. Hope the rest of the series make it to audible soon.
This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review.

Super Royally Good

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This was a great listen. Not going to lie; I was confused at the beginning and wondered what I missed somewhere. But once everything came together, I enjoyed the ride. The narration was very well done.

Duking It Out

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Listener received this title free

I've never come across a series that combines royalty and superpowers, and I'm surprised by how well it worked! Sander and Tarik may have started out as rivals from feuding countries, but when a kidnapping landed them both on a deserted island, they had to quickly find a way to work together to survive. It was fun to watch them bicker and fight during the first few hours, but what I enjoyed even more was watching them soften towards each other as they spent more time isolated on the island. Tarik initially came across as a giant a-hole, but he ended up being Sander's biggest cheerleader before all was said and done. Sander, for his part, went through a healing journey of his own as he laid bare his deepest regrets and learned to trust in his mastery of his superpower. What started out as a worst case scenario turned into a happy retreat for Sander and Tarik, made all the sweeter by their steamy romantic connection. Had it not been for my worry that they'd eventually die from malnutrition, I would have been completely happy for them to live out the rest of their lives in peace on that island. Unfortunately, the reveal of the villain took this story on a very weird turn, and not even the swoony romantic proposal could bring me fully back on board. It wasn't that the villain themself was the problem, it was the way their narrative of events didn't match up with anyone else's, which made the whole dastardly plot fall flat and seem unbelievable. I assume the author is setting up for a larger, series-wide plotline, but I'm not buying what's been presented as truth so far.

**I voluntarily listened to a free copy of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.

Superpowered royals

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