Reviewers on platforms like Audible and Instagram highlight the following about the audio experience:

Many dark romance fans also listen to audio dramas on platforms like YouTube or Patreon, where creators release one chapter per week. These listeners mistakenly search for "cruel king audiobook upd" expecting episodic drops. Cruel King is a traditional audiobook, not a serial.

The audiobook is available through major retailers like Audible and is often included in subscriptions like BookBeat or Storytel .

Rina Kent has also hinted at a Cruel King: Levi’s POV bonus chapter coming exclusively to audio for the 1-year anniversary of this release.

The Royal Elite series, including the prequel Cruel King , has been picked up by major publishers like (North America) and Evermore/Penguin UK (International). This traditional relaunch means the original indie versions will eventually be replaced by these new editions. New Release Date : January 27, 2026.