Book Review: Cruel King by Rina Kent
If there’s one thing I love about reading, it’s finding that gem of a story that pulls you in and doesn’t let go. Rina Kent’s Cruel King: A Dark New Adult Romance (Royal Elite) caught my attention as soon as I saw its vibrant presence on BookTok—and boy, did it live up to the hype! This captivating prequel dives headfirst into a world of suspense, romance, and the kind of complicated relationships we can’t help but root for.
The story centers around Levi and Astrid, two characters whose lives are fraught with turmoil and secrets. Levi, the self-proclaimed king of Royal Elite School, sets absurd rules for Astrid, who goes from a facade of invisibility to the reclaimed spotlight, but at an unexpected, and often perilous, cost. What initially struck me was the intense push-and-pull dynamic between these characters. Levi is not your conventional fairy tale prince; he’s enigmatic and, at times, unbearably cruel. This makes for a compelling enemy-to-lovers storyline that unravels in unpredictable twists.
Astrid, whose plight pulls at your heartstrings, navigates the complex hierarchy of high school life while grappling with her own trauma. Her transformation—shifting from a “small fly” to someone who fights back—is nothing short of inspiring. The moment when she declares, “He thought he broke me, but he shouldn’t have let me pick up the pieces,” resonated with me; it’s a powerful assertion of resilience wrapped in a dark romance.
Kent’s writing style is engaging and accessible, making every twist feel immediate and impactful. The pacing is precisely what you want in a dark romance; it lingers where it needs to while propelling you forward through tension-filled chapters. I found myself laughing and gasping in equal measure, often reflecting on how easily Kent weaves humor into emotionally charged moments. For instance, the banter between Astrid and her friends gave the book a lightness that balanced out the heavier themes beautifully.
One of the standout elements of Cruel King is its rich exploration of familial relationships. Levi’s struggles with his own past echo those of Astrid’s, creating a compelling backstory that brought depth to their characters. The intricate family dynamics add an extra layer to the narrative, making the emotional stakes feel real.
For anyone who enjoys a heady mix of dark themes, compelling characters, and steamy romance, Cruel King is a must-read. It’s a tale filled with mystery and angst, reminding us that love isn’t always pretty but can still be incredibly transformative. I can’t help but think that this book sets a thrilling foundation for the series ahead—I’m already eager to see where Kent takes us next.
So grab your reading glasses and settle in—Rina Kent has crafted a world where even the cruelest of kings can find redemption, and where the bravest of princesses can lead the charge. If you love stories that evoke both laughter and tears, look no further. Cruel King has your name written all over it!
You can find Cruel King: A Dark New Adult Romance (Royal Elite) here >>