I devoured *The Bastard King*—it’s everything you could want in a fantasy romance! The strong, fearless female lead, combined with dragons, magic, and a corrupt society, makes for a captivating story. I couldn't stop listening, starting the audiobook before bed and picking it up first thing in the morning. Anthony Ferguson’s narration was incredible, bringing the intensity of the characters and the world to life. If you're a fan of action-packed fantasy with a swoon-worthy romance, this is a must-read!

2 ☆
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DNF @23%. The premise of the story is what caught my attention: "I am fire and death. My very presence brings terror and panic. For most, I am the last thing they will ever see. For there is only one thing I live for—freeing my kin." Unfortunately, the story was slow-paced, and I just couldn't get into it. I thought it was going to be a fast-paced, action-packed story.The Bastard King is book 1 in the Bastard Duology series. I will try listening to it once it's released.
The narrator did an okay job; he was easy to listen to and understand. The storyline was just too slow-paced for me. I wanted something a little faster.
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Thank you, Netgellay, and Tantor Audio for the audiobook in exchange for my honest review.

❖ dragon shifter x hellbent (I forgot her species)
❖ kinda insta connection
❖ first instalment in duopoly
❖ FMC driven by revenge

Apparently, this is a spin-off ? Because some character appeared in an other series "dragon king" (do not quote me one that) . If it is a spin-off it didn't felt like I was missing out on something . You can totally read it without reading the other series.

As for the book, it was entertaining but the rythme felt odd . The first 150 pages were really fast paced and it was announcing a good journey for the characters .
My issue started when the characters settled in a city . It was long for no reason. If those pages were used to develop the love story I wouldn't have mind but nothing happened. Some stuff were brought up about what's going on in the city but there were no explanations . The religious aspect could have been SO interesting but they were just dumb priest following order . If you want to sacrifice children at least do it for a reason..

The characters could have been so much better .
They felt empty (?)
Both of them are strongly attracted to one another a that from page 1 and there was no explanation about it . Why do they feel like that ? How?
Thus it feel like they will learn about a mate bond or something. Who knows ?
Kora is pretty annoying. I get the whole "I'm seeking revenge for my family" but I'm kinda over it .
I'm tired of FMC feeling like they should have done better even though they were actual child when their family perished.
And that "I don't need anyone" speech every two pages makes me want to die . Seriously.
I took her so long to change her mind and still it wasn't enough.
I would have like some deep dive into her species . Her species are technically immortal, they can jump from a building and will only die for a few minutes . But the two times were this ability was shown was for stupid reasons, she wanted to be a hero to save one kid and ended up killing 10 persons + herself .

As for Dereck, I don't have much to say because when we have his pov nothing much happened .
His storyline is actually interesting. His memory loss, his kinds and why he is at Vilette services .
We didn't have much answer on anything and I feel like book two will either be hella short or hella long.

This was a wild ride! If you're looking for a fast-paced, intrigue-filled fantasy with a dash of spice, this is your jam.

Pros:
Plot: The plot was a rollercoaster! I was constantly guessing what would happen next, and the secrets kept me on the edge of my seat.
Characters: Derek and Kora were both complex and interesting. I loved their secrets and how they slowly revealed themselves.
World-building: Grant did a fantastic job creating a unique fantasy world filled with hellhounds, druids, and other fascinating creatures.
Romance: The romance was hot, hot, hot! I loved the immediate chemistry between Derek and Kora.

Cons:
Cliffhanger: I'm both excited and frustrated by the cliffhanger! I need to know what happens next!
Narrator: Anthony Ferguson did a great job with the male voices, but I would have loved to hear a female narrator for Kora.

Would I recommend it? Absolutely! If you're a fan of fantasy, romance, and a little bit of spice, you'll love The Bastard King. Just be prepared for a cliffhanger that will leave you wanting more.

The author and the narrator did a fantastic job with this story. The Bastard King was an amazing and it kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time. This story was full of action, mystery, suspense, magic, revenge, danger, betrayal, steamy scenes and more. I enjoyed all of the characters in this story, even the evil ones but you won't know whose truly even until the very end with a cliffhanger that will have you wanting more. Kora is determined to have vengeance against those who destroyed her family, but she never expected Derek to enter her life. Derek and Kora both have secrets they keep close to their hearts, however when those secrets and the real enemies are revealed, both of their lives are on the line and knowing who to trust becomes even harder. I'm definitely looking forward to both reading and listening to the next book in this series because I need to know what happens next. Readers looking for a paranormal romance story that is action packed until the very end should not miss out on this story. It's one that I don't think will disappoint readers, and is one I will be recommending to my paranormal romance book loving friends.

DNF'd 20% of the way through. I really did not like it. I found the story boring and the world building lacking. I didn't understand the character or what they saw in one another and what really made me stop was the spicy scenes because it was so awkward with the way it was. I was not a fan of this audio book.

*The Bastard King* by Donna Grant is an electrifying, dragon-filled romance that delivers both heat and heart. Antony Ferguson’s narration brings this intense story to life with a voice that perfectly captures the brooding power of the male protagonist, a dragon shifter driven by vengeance and duty. Ferguson’s deep, commanding tone pulls you into every battle, every tender moment, making the audiobook an immersive experience that’s hard to pause.

The chemistry between the two main characters is palpable, and Ferguson’s narration enhances their emotional depth. He seamlessly shifts between the fiery passion of their connection and the tension of their conflicting loyalties. The plot is fast-paced, packed with action, and filled with secrets that keep you on your toes. If you're looking for a thrilling paranormal romance with a stellar narration, *The Bastard King* is a must-listen that will leave you eagerly awaiting the next book!