Duke the Hall

Royal Powers #9

by E.J. Russell

A yuletide wedding brings tidings of comfort, joy… and peril.

Eighteen months ago, Tarik Jaso, Duke of Arles, would have been thrilled if Sander Fiala, Duke of Roses, sank beneath the waves along with his stupid boat.

That was then.

Now, Tarik can’t wait to head out on a private sail with Sander—a sail that will culminate in a highly public, politically significant wedding. Their union will be the first one between North and South Abarran royalty in centuries. If all goes to plan, it will usher in a new era of peace and cooperation between their countries.

But as the big day approaches, their meticulous arrangements begin to fall apart. Can Sander and Tarik weather the storm of political opposition, familial objection, and outright betrayal to reach the altar at last?

Duke the Hall is a 41,000-word M/M superhero rom-com featuring two dukes determined to tie the knot, relatives both helpful and annoying, spiteful thunderstorms, superhero sabotage, and hints that things are not all they seem.

Note: Duke the Hall is not a stand-alone story. It’s the sequel to Duking It Out and as such contains spoilers for the earlier book.

Genres: Fantasy, M M Romance, Romance, Paranormal, Holiday, LGBT, Audiobook

172 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 19, 2020

About the author

E.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.

Reviews

[Gaby · Rating 3 out of 5]

The story is still weird but the romance is cute, these two finally get a break and have their much awaited HEA.

The politics and supernatural aspects still don’t make much sense but alas, it is what it is and Kirt Graves makes it enjoyable.

[Evelyn Bella (there WILL be spoilers) · Rating 4 out of 5]

18 months later and these two are still nervous with each other🥰 (and a teeny tiny bit insecure about being dumped.)

I DON'T know why this sequel was necessary BUT I love that I got to see them existing together and working out the relationship kinks, because book 1 didn't have that, and adorable love declarations and proposals do not a relationship make.

So maybe that was the point???

Regardless. I love these two so I'll allow it.

The supernatural shit is still weird AF and a bit clunky so I wish it wasn't there at all but it didn't detract from my enjoyment of the book.

[Anne Barwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this shared world/series, so grabbed this to read as soon as I spotted it, and enjoyed it as much as the original, Duking it Out. The characters are great, the twist on superpowers a little different from the norm, and I love the humour in the mix.

I enjoyed catching up with Sander and Tariq eighteen months later. Although they’ve been together a while Sander is still struggling with doubts that Tariq is having second thoughts about their wedding. I thought that felt realistic, considering Sander’s history, and his old nickname which some still use. Tariq and Sander are sweet together, in love, and it shows. I loved how they’re able to complement each other’s powers, and how far they’ve both come in controlling them, and using them to their advantage, rather than their powers ruling them.

The supporting cast are great, especially Katalina, Luken, and Bastien. Bastien needs his own HEA. I loved that Cousin Bianca keeps making it rain on Tariq. She was a strong presence in the story, despite not appearing on page. Nicely done. I was very happy to see Hugo and Remy again. I enjoyed their story.

I thought this was a wonderful sequel, and I enjoyed their HEA.

[Rachel Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

Duke the Hall is set within the multi-author 'verse of the Royal Powers series, but more importantly, it is a direct sequel to EJ Russell's first book in the series - Duking It Out, so you must read that one before starting this one.

It's been well over a year since Tarik and Sander met and fell in love. Now they are trying to prepare for a wedding, but things keep happening to throw a wrench into the plans. I love that Tarik and Sander are so comfortable with each other, but still have some insecurities to get through. Sander, especially, is so worried about not being good enough for Tarik, despite everything that Tarik tells him.

I think these two together are such a cute couple. I love their moments together, I love their meddling family and all the quirky traditions. This was a fun story to read, and I'm so glad we got more with these two superpowered royals!

I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the first book with Tarik and Sander so just had to get my hands on this one. It was awesome to see the two still so in love and getting ready for their wedding day! While they each still had their issues, it was easy to see it would all work out for these two because they’re perfect for each other. There was definitely some tense slightly suspenseful scenes, and I hope that was Russell setting it up to write more in this world, as I’m not ready to let it go yet!

[Kkhmonrai · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this sequel to Duking it Out! Sander and Tarik remain my favorite characters in this world (although I would love to see Bastien find a husband). The trials and troubles with trying to bring peace to North and South Abarra, coupled with continued personal attacks, bring some light drama and stress to their nuptials, but wedding *Godparents* Kat and Bastien, and the ever-reliable Luken and Nico, keep the couple's wedding on track. There is some hot, sexy moments, property destruction, a disgruntled royal with weather powers, unusual wedding customs, cockroaches, and a devious plot to stop the wedding. I have enjoyed several of the Royal Powers books, and I can't wait to see them collar and bring the masterminds of all the trouble to justice. I highly highly recommend this sweet, funny, low-angst read.


I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.

[Mary Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

I won't lie, I loved Duking it Out about Sander and Tarik and I couldn't wait to read more about them!
It was a pure pleasure to see them getting their happily ever after even if it took them some time and A LOT of trouble to finally get married.

This story is absolutely LOVELY. It is a wonderful story to read during long, winter evening (and/or night): it is sweet and sexy with a mystery to solve and some serious threads to Tarik and Sander's lives. It is a fast paced, easy read with lovable couple and great characters (including Bianca). I loved every single moment spent in the Kingdom of Abarra.

It is book #9 in the Royal Powers series and even though You do not need to read ALL the books, You definitely NEED to read "Duking it Out" (book #1).

* I was gifted an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review *

[Lillian Francis · Rating 5 out of 5]

The return of Sander and Tarik was adorable. Here they are, 18 months later, celebrating their wedding. I loved this one. Their love shines through on every page even when they are acting insecure about the relationship and the impending nuptials. They have great chemistry and excellent banter. The story is romantic with just an edge of danger.
And there was a hint at the end that there might be more coming. I really hope so.

[Jenn (not Lily) · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 stars
I should probably read the rest of the books that come between this one and the first in the series, but I haven't had the chance yet. It's a fun universe, and I really do want to see what the other authors have done with it. It just hasn't been a pressing urge to dive back in yet. And it still isn't. But this one was fun. I'll get back here someday...

[Natalie H · Rating 3 out of 5]

Whoop, another series done. Well, the dark side drama anyway. Both families together, with only the handful of guests happy with the arrangement. I'm looking forward to Bas and Nico. Felt sorry for Sanders but his show of control was good. Mentions or appearances from the other books and another one in the know about Remy. Happy end for the two dukes.

[Teresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Easy read

We have some intrigue, insecurities, gestures of love, and annoying families, but it all seems to work out in the end. Characters from other books in the series have been mentioned and I’m going to check out the other books too.

[Catarina · Rating 2 out of 5]

Tarik and Sander are still the cutest power couple and I LOOOOOOVED Katalin and Bastien teaming up, but I liked the first book a lot more. All the questions I had about the kidnapping were left unanswered, and if anything, it rose even more. I was really enjoying the *cough* ~situation~ *cough* no spoilers *cough* that Tarik had gotten into, but it was cut so short??? I was waiting for a bit of thriller and the drama of it all but...... it was over before it even began? Guess I’ll have to wait for the third book then...

[Devoted❤️Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

True north

I loved Sander and Tarik from the first time I met them and am so happy we got to catch up with them for their wedding! I also enjoyed seeing some familiar faces pop up here and there. “Together we can do anything.” And they truly had to, to be together. All the obstacles they had to overcome frustrated me but the love they share is inspiring. I’m also very invested in the mystery and who’s behind it all. I hope we discover everything in Bas’s book as I’m so ready to be kinged.

[Janet Hunt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved that we got the sequel to Duking it Out! Sander and Tarik were my favorite of all the supes so far. I loved how supportive that Tarik is with Sander. I felt that Sander felt he was inadequate and worried that Tarik was going to wake up. I loved everything about this story, sooo good!! I’m voluntarily leaving a review form an advanced copy that I received. My reviews are solely based on my thoughts and opinions

[Siobhan Flynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sander and Tarik have so many obstacles to overcome and despair begins to set in. My heart broke when Sander discovered the first attack and such anger to whoever did it. Cousin Bianca is a right royal pain in the backside and a bit bratty. The love both men share shines through even in the worst of times and is really heartfelt. Such a twist as to the identity of the villain when they are found out, is there more to the story? A sweet yet emotional read of courage, love and revenge.

[Raven and Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the original story Duking it Out, the first book in the Royal Powers series. These two guys are my favorite out of all of the other stories. Now we have Tarik and Sander trying to get to the altar, despite everything that seems to be working against them. These two are so in love. I still feel for Sander who obviously still harbors feelings of guilt and inadequacy when it comes to his powers. Honestly he is still expecting Tarik to wise up and walk away from him which broke my heart a little. I love how he and Tarik are still getting to know each other and having to learn to adjust to having someone they know they can count on. Tarik has trouble because he has been so used to being on his own and being known as an ass that he has difficulty remembering there are people who would worry about him. He is also still trying to remember to talk everything through with Sander who still has serious issues with Trust. There is also still the underlying political danger where someone seems to be targeting them both and attempting to drive the two countries even farther apart. That mystery is still hanging out there at the end of this book but who knows where it could ultimately go. It was great to see some of the other characters from the other books at Tarik and Sander’s wedding, especially Remy and Hugo and Merrick and Ryan. This series has been a lot of fun! (I wish I had the power to make a rain cloud hover over someone’s head whenever I was angry at them!)

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Duke the Hall is a sequel to the first book in the Royal Powers series, Duking it Out, which introduces Tarik and Sander. This lovely holiday sequel continues with Tarik and Sander approaching their wedding day despite those that oppose the union.

Sander still feels guilty and inadequate when it comes to his powers and he keeps expecting Tarik to come to his senses and walk away from him. Sander's self-doubt broke my heart but I loved how supportive and loving Tarik was despite Sander's feelings of inadequacies. Tarik has to adjust to talking and communicating with Sander after years of behaving as a grumpy ass.

It was really amazing and wonderful to see familiar faces attending Tarik and Sander's wedding especially Remy, Hugo, Merrick, Ryan, Petre, Mickey, and Lulu. Cousin Bianca was a very familiar name and face and just a general annoyance. There is still a mystery of political intrigue as a mysterious force is trying to keep these two men from uniting and getting married. Some incidents happen throughout the book and the mystery is still unsolved by the end about who is sabotaging and creating all these problems for the supes.

Great sequel to Tarik and Sander's story and best enjoyed in order of the Royal Powers series so you can maximize your reading pleasure :)

[Juniper · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a huge fan of the Royal Powers universe: two (formerly warring) kingdom full of nobles with superpowers, a delicious blend of modernity and high fantasy (you can ride a horse to work every day AND have a cell phone), and lots of imaginative storylines as well as the overarching plot thread rife with conspiracy and intrigue. What’s not to like?

I have to say, too, that Russell’s writing style is well suited to this world, and the characters in this novel are some of my favorites of all time. This is actually the second outing for Sander and Tarik, and if you haven’t read their first adventure, which involves an awesome shipwrecked enemies-to-lovers dynamic, be sure to do so before diving into Duke the Halls, in which the two men get, after much intrigue, both petty and actually malicious, their wedding and the start to their happily ever after. They are each such distinctive personalities, and it’s lovely to see how they mesh together: Sander is more assertive, Tarik a bit more thoughtful (a bit...he’s not an entirely different person). Watching them deal with evil masterminds is almost as much fun as watching them deal with annoying relatives-- special mention to first cousin once-removed Bianca, for being so gloriously horrible.

*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sander and Tarik are, by far, my favorite characters in this series as is this author's writing. What I loved about these men in the first story was their realness, that they were both struggling and were so believable in their actions and reactions. That hadn't changed, thankfully, and both men were wading through disgruntled relatives, another destructive plot dogging their footsteps, and personal insecurities. As they navigated all those things they faced something all real relationships face, a breaking point that can separate, or a tipping point to greater strength together. We know which they'd choose, but Tarik's arrogance and myopic view combined with Sander's insecurities it was a close call.

There was an even bigger plan in the background that threatened them and everything they were fighting for and I thought it was well-written. It could have totally turned into something trite and cliche, but it allowed Sander to finally shed nagging voice in his head and pretty much save the day. It wasn't as simple as that, but all the frustration up to that point got a huge relief where he ultimately stepped up to the plate and hit a homer. Loved that moment.

I'm just as much in love with these men now as I was after Duking it Out. What charmed me then about their genuine personalities, good and not so good, equally frustrated and warmed me now.

[James Quentin · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 rounded up to 3.

The story starts off well with moderate angst and some proper conflict but then ...fizzles out.

One of my biggest peeves is MM sex scenes written poorly by straight women. EJ Russell's are laughably bad, she clearly has no idea what she's talking about and 'fade to black' would actually be better than the unrealistic scene. Here's a hint - if you are having anal sex even semi-regularly you don't need to do the convoluted 'prep' procedure that all MM authors think is essential.

Would be much more realistic for the characters to debate putting a towel down, tbh.

There were several conversations I skipped forward to get rid through the "Tarik was upset as he wandered around in a towel. Sander drank tea," explanations that sapped the momentum. Just get to the crux of the scene.

It's all supposed to be fun, but fun needs to not go to Young Adult "everyone's so nice!" territory and veer into twee.

You definitely can't read these stories as standalone our out of order too. (I read Nico and Bastien's first and am having to go back to the start). The bit with Remy and Hugo only makes sense if you've read book 3 in the series.

Also, the villain never actually appears? Which was a shame because the scene with Otho and Tarik was quite good.

[E. · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 stars

“Duke the Hall” by E.J. Russell continues the adventures of Sander and Tarik, as they cement their relationship with a wedding ceremony. Unfortunately, in addition to the ongoing hostilities between their respective countries, there is someone who is determined to sabotage them, and true love may not be able to win the day.

This adult gay fantasy picks up right after the adventures in “Duking it Out”, and it is part of the ‘Royal Powers’ series that features superhero characters. I enjoyed seeing this couple continue to grow and work out the hiccups and insecurities in their relationship, and I love the little things that reflect their love and desire to be there for each other. I enjoyed some of the manifestations of superpowers depicted in the story (although somebody needs to do something about Cousin Bianca, lol), but I wanted to see more of the main couple’s powers working together. Things seemed a little rushed at the end and there is still the dangling thread of who the illiterate villains are, so I suspect there’s another story in the works. I really enjoy this world and I’m looking forward to reading about more adventures that feature these unique characters.


A copy was provided for review

[Maria E. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 6 of the series, but it's a direct sequel to the first book, "The Duke of Hand and Heart". I have not read books 2 through 5, but I didn't feel that I missed anything, this story just seemed to continue from Book 1. I should start by saying that most of the royals in the story have some unusual superpower, which they (usually) put to good use, but not always. In this story, the two kingdoms of Abarra, which have been warring on and off for some time, are preparing a wedding between the two princes (Tarik and Sander) one from the North and one from the South,in order to finally bring peace to the area. However, there is someone (or a group of someones) who is/are trying to sabotage the wedding. Who's the mastermind creating havoc to prevent Tarik and Sander's wedding? And why? For the record, you won't get the answer in this book, but in this story line Tarik and Sander manage to circumvent all the sabotages and have their wedding and honeymoon without a hitch. Their story is complete in this book. You don't need to read the next book, unless you really want to know who is the person and/or group trying to sabotage the various different royals of Abarra.

[AshPenny37 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Duke The Hall is the follow up to the first in the Royal Powers series and does not stand alone. As we return to Sander and Tarik they're preparing for their wedding, but the threat that caused their desert island adventure in book 1 is still looming…

Tarik and Sander's plans hit challenges at every turn. They must find ways to overcome them whether they're attacks by their hidden enemy, political naysayers, issues with their families, or even their own insecurities getting the better of them. The men are ably supported by Sander's sister, Katalin, and Luken (his right hand man), as well as Tarik's very capable vineyard manager, Nico, and his cousin Bastien. There are some brief cameo appearances by characters from other books in the series, too, which is nice.

Duke It Out is a sweet continuation of Sander and Tarik's story, showcasing their bond and determination to protect each other. 4*

An ARC was provided by GRR in exchange for an honest review.

[Mari Cardenas · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 Stars! 

This is the sequel to Duking It Out, so be sure to at least read that one before Duke The Halls or you'll be missing out on how Tarik and Sander met and fall in love.

Now, 18 months after the events in Duking It Out, Sander and Tarik are getting ready to marry and help unite both their kingdoms, but there are still a lot of enemies that want to stop this from happening. 

I enjoyed this book a lot more than the first book. Sander and Tarik are really good together and I loved seeing them overcome all the hurdles that are thrown at them. Also, King Bastian and Kat, Sander's sister, are amazing as wedding 'godparents'. 

This was such a fun, captivating read and a great way to give Sander and Tarik their well-earned HEA. And if after you finish it, you're still wanting more of them, they feature prominently in King's Ex. 

*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***

[Marge · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was so great to see the guys from Duking It Out 18 months later and preparing for their wedding. Excellent main characters and secondary characters, especially Bas and Kat. It was sad to see the plot against the Royals continuing and the attacks on the wedding prep. This added suspense to the book and had both the guys a bit worried that the other one might decide the hassle was too much to be bothered with. Shenanigans ensued, but the ending was all I could hope for, except we still don't know who the big bad is here. Apparently, that plot holds over to the second series of Royal Powers #2 and King's Ex. I've already started reading it!

[Katherine · Rating 4 out of 5]

This far far too short! I assume there is a book 3, as the ending doesn't reveal who is behind the sabotage aimed at inflaming tensions between Tarik and Sander's countries.

This is a cute continuation of Duking It Out, but unfortunately due to the length, it simply doesn't feel like a complete story. It feels like an interlude, and while it was definitely nice to see Tarik and Sander get their (essentially) happy ever after with a wedding and honeymoon and being free from attack, I was surprised to find I'd reached the end of the novella.

I enjoyed book 1, and probably if I read this straight away after it, I wouldn't feel so dissatisfied at how short and incomplete this feels - definitely if you think of it as a long epilogue to book 1, and a set up to a (I assume the forthcoming) book 3, then it's much more enjoyable.

[Kaylee · Rating 3 out of 5]

Maybe this was because it was based off a previous couple (starting in book 1) but I truly enjoyed the fact that Sander and Tarik actually spoke with each other. They were worried about doing so but still forced themselves and things worked out much better for it. It also didn't take forever for them to do so; it wasn't because of an event or someone else that they did either. Sure, they were encouraged by someone close to them but it didn't drag and... It was refreshing.

Especially for an E.J. Russell book. Often miscommunication/insecurities run the entirety of the relationship on both ends and we're given the runaround.

I liked these two characters and the side characters and thought it was very cute and fitting for these two. The ending was very fitting, liked how they were both training their abilities, and together.

[R · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sander is wedding stressing, thinking Tarik doesn’t want him. Tarik is off doing whatever job needs doing and can’t wait to get back to his man.

A storm causing cousin, bugs, angry people from both North and South Abarra, potent illegal magic, and doubts strong enough to sink a ship, I enjoyed their wedding issues very much.

A cheerful pleasing story about the trust that develops between people contemplating marriage. This story threw in a little bit of Romeo and Julien, stirred in a few superpowers, added really unlikeable relatives, and two men who knew they belonged together in spite of everything.

I received an arc of this book.

[Bianca · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved this new adventure of Sander and Tarik. Now they are trying to get married, but they encounter numerous obstacles in their path.
It was an entertaining and enjoyable read in which we encounter some old friends that participate at this event and some that help the heroes in their quest. It's amazing how their relationship and trust develops and how together they manage to finally tie the knot and get their happiness.
I was really excited to read this story and to get a glimpse in the other characters lives and I'm really looking forward to see what happens next.

[Rachwithheadinabook · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book should only be read after reading Duking it out and it is a continuation of that story in this multi author series, about two countries with citizens who have superpowers. In this book the two Royals are preparing to marry with plenty of fun and frolics along the way.

Just like the first book, I really enjoyed the relationship of Tarik and Sander, the intimacy between them is as good in this book as the first. They are so cute together even when dealing with meddling families. A really good holiday read.