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3.72 AVERAGE
3.72 AVERAGE
fast-paced
I did not finish this book (for now)
I’m on chapter 42. This book definitely had short chapters wich made it easier to read but it was not my cup of tea, dark romance is probably not for me. But I will finish it since I’m 72% in
I’m on chapter 42. This book definitely had short chapters wich made it easier to read but it was not my cup of tea, dark romance is probably not for me. But I will finish it since I’m 72% in
dark
emotional
sad
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
4.75/5 "Astrid once told me I was a dark night. It's on dark nights that stars like her shine the brightest." Wow! This is my first book by Rina and I am not disappointed! The love that Astrid and Levi had for each other was consuming in the best way! The fights, the heartbreak...I just cannot get over them! Between Astrid finding out about what happened with her mother and Levi's dad and then finding out what the wicked stepmother Victoria did as well as what Nicole did...I just ugh!!! I cannot wait to see what else is in store for me!
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
Jesus christ. How can only a couple of years make such a difference in someone's writing. This book was pretty atrocious plot wise, and writing wise. Idk. But I still have to read these because I like the Legacy of Gods series marginally. Also confused on why Aiden and Elsa get three books. About to see if I like them together better than this bland ass tropey couple that had me yawning. Whateves.
adventurous
hopeful
mysterious
relaxing
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
dark
emotional
sad
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
dark
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content, Toxic relationship, Violence, Sexual harassment
My First Taste of Rina Kent: A Cutesy Dark Romance Surprise
I just finished Cruel King by Rina Kent—and let me tell you, it’s been quite a ride. This was my first Rina Kent novel, and honestly, I didn’t know exactly what to expect. I chose to start with her Royal Elite books, knowing they lay the foundation for the later Gods of Fury series, which I've heard so much about. And yes, I'm that kind of reader—I like to start with the origin stories, especially when they involve the parents of future main characters. Give me the full lore!
Now, let’s talk first impressions: Cruel King felt like a cutesy dark romance. Not what I anticipated, but still enjoyable. Was it dark? Sure—but not the kind of dark that keeps you up at night. Think moody bad boy with a moral compass, not villain with no mercy. It was tamer than what I usually dive into, especially if you're coming from something like Haunting Adeline or Blood of Hercules. Compared to those, Cruel King is basically dark romance with training wheels.
But what really made the book shine? The characters. Especially the supporting cast.
I was instantly drawn to the "Four Horsemen"—or as Levi (our male lead) affectionately calls them, the “Four Arseholes.” Honestly? Iconic. They stole the show for me. I already know I’m in deep with this series purely because of them. Each one of them oozes mystery, danger, and yes, that dark romance allure we all secretly crave. But Aiden? Aiden owns my attention.
He’s the classic unreadable genius—cold exterior, chess mastermind, and emotionally unavailable in the best way possible. That whole "play the player, not the game" vibe? Yes, please. He's the type of character that dark romance girls lose sleep over, and I’m 100% ready to fall down the Aiden rabbit hole. Luckily, it seems the next three books in the series are about him. Manifesting a full obsession.
Also—quick side note—I saw limited edition versions on Amazon. Do I want them? Absolutely. But first, I need to declutter a bit. Some of my current shelf warmers are probably heading to Vinted soon to make room for these beauties. Books are trophies, and I fully intend to display these like the hard-earned romantic victories they are.
So, overall? Cruel King was a lighter entry into the dark romance world than I’m used to, but it was still a solid, enjoyable read. It may not be the darkest, spiciest book on the shelf, but it did its job: it hooked me into the world, and now I’m not going anywhere. If this was the appetizer, I’m ready for the full-course chaos that Aiden and the rest will bring.
Bring on the darkness.
I just finished Cruel King by Rina Kent—and let me tell you, it’s been quite a ride. This was my first Rina Kent novel, and honestly, I didn’t know exactly what to expect. I chose to start with her Royal Elite books, knowing they lay the foundation for the later Gods of Fury series, which I've heard so much about. And yes, I'm that kind of reader—I like to start with the origin stories, especially when they involve the parents of future main characters. Give me the full lore!
Now, let’s talk first impressions: Cruel King felt like a cutesy dark romance. Not what I anticipated, but still enjoyable. Was it dark? Sure—but not the kind of dark that keeps you up at night. Think moody bad boy with a moral compass, not villain with no mercy. It was tamer than what I usually dive into, especially if you're coming from something like Haunting Adeline or Blood of Hercules. Compared to those, Cruel King is basically dark romance with training wheels.
But what really made the book shine? The characters. Especially the supporting cast.
I was instantly drawn to the "Four Horsemen"—or as Levi (our male lead) affectionately calls them, the “Four Arseholes.” Honestly? Iconic. They stole the show for me. I already know I’m in deep with this series purely because of them. Each one of them oozes mystery, danger, and yes, that dark romance allure we all secretly crave. But Aiden? Aiden owns my attention.
He’s the classic unreadable genius—cold exterior, chess mastermind, and emotionally unavailable in the best way possible. That whole "play the player, not the game" vibe? Yes, please. He's the type of character that dark romance girls lose sleep over, and I’m 100% ready to fall down the Aiden rabbit hole. Luckily, it seems the next three books in the series are about him. Manifesting a full obsession.
Also—quick side note—I saw limited edition versions on Amazon. Do I want them? Absolutely. But first, I need to declutter a bit. Some of my current shelf warmers are probably heading to Vinted soon to make room for these beauties. Books are trophies, and I fully intend to display these like the hard-earned romantic victories they are.
So, overall? Cruel King was a lighter entry into the dark romance world than I’m used to, but it was still a solid, enjoyable read. It may not be the darkest, spiciest book on the shelf, but it did its job: it hooked me into the world, and now I’m not going anywhere. If this was the appetizer, I’m ready for the full-course chaos that Aiden and the rest will bring.
Bring on the darkness.
Read better stories by Rina Kent, fun quick read, would probably reread if I’m in a book slump but other than that nothing really special.
I don't play with books that already have what I presume will be on of the MMC hosting at SA and coercion. The football team passing her around was a plan? No thanks