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Valens Heritage #7
Beware of Darkness
Back home in Bartertown once more, Mihalis is working on advancing his plans to turn Bartertown into the kind of place where the rich and powerful come to make those special deals that they prefer to do out of sight of both the public and certain governments. He's also spending a fair deal of his time over at HoJo's, where Talin and Caitin's sisters are still very interested in him. Now if only he would stop being ambushed by assassins afterwards — it's definitely becoming quite annoying.
Uncle Steve's campaign is still a thing, and he might have to put in another appearance with Black and White before it's over, but right now he's become intrigued by a rumor that seems to be circulating around the djevels. Something about a new djevel prince. One that not only has learned to survive here in this new world, but one who's learned to thrive in it.
A certain incubus lord who apparently happens to be him.
For Mihalis, and the lions, this could be something of a game changer. Dealing with the djevels has been proving to be more difficult than first imagined - they're a lot craftier and more cunning than originally thought. So if Mihalis were to encourage this idea, it could be helpful. However there's a possible downside to this whole affair as well. To be a djevel prince Mihalis would have to take their oaths, and taking their oaths ties him directly into their power pool.
And no one knows just what the affects of Mihalis touching that would be...
Under the advise of council I'm not supposed to talk about -REDACTED- or -REDACTED- and how the initial trials of -REDACTED- with his new -REDACTED- performed. However I can tell you that 'Beware of Darkness' does contain more of the -REDACTED- that you've come to -REDACTED-. So, remember that! And don't say you weren't warned! ( No -REDACTED- were -REDACTED-, -REDACTED- chandelier -REDACTED-)
Uncle Steve's campaign is still a thing, and he might have to put in another appearance with Black and White before it's over, but right now he's become intrigued by a rumor that seems to be circulating around the djevels. Something about a new djevel prince. One that not only has learned to survive here in this new world, but one who's learned to thrive in it.
A certain incubus lord who apparently happens to be him.
For Mihalis, and the lions, this could be something of a game changer. Dealing with the djevels has been proving to be more difficult than first imagined - they're a lot craftier and more cunning than originally thought. So if Mihalis were to encourage this idea, it could be helpful. However there's a possible downside to this whole affair as well. To be a djevel prince Mihalis would have to take their oaths, and taking their oaths ties him directly into their power pool.
And no one knows just what the affects of Mihalis touching that would be...
Under the advise of council I'm not supposed to talk about -REDACTED- or -REDACTED- and how the initial trials of -REDACTED- with his new -REDACTED- performed. However I can tell you that 'Beware of Darkness' does contain more of the -REDACTED- that you've come to -REDACTED-. So, remember that! And don't say you weren't warned! ( No -REDACTED- were -REDACTED-, -REDACTED- chandelier -REDACTED-)
- GenresHaremFantasyParanormal
278 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 13, 2023
About the author
Jan Stryvant
60 books559 followersI'm new to the Harem / LitRPG thing (If I'd known more about LitRPG when I wrote Shadow, I might have incorporated more elements of that into it).
I have a FT job, so I work on this when I can. Hopefully the next one will be even better.
https://stryvant.blogspot.com/
I have a FT job, so I work on this when I can. Hopefully the next one will be even better.
https://stryvant.blogspot.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
May 14, 2026
Great book
Another great book in the series. However, it leaves us on a bit of a cliffhanger. I’ll still recommend this book to anyone who enjoys this author.
Another great book in the series. However, it leaves us on a bit of a cliffhanger. I’ll still recommend this book to anyone who enjoys this author.
July 13, 2023
I'm a bit conflicted regarding the direction that this series was going. I have to admit to being totally surprised that I initially found and enjoyed this series. It was definitely one that I never thought that I would end up liking, but I actually did. To put things in perspective, this is a spin off series from the original series - The Valens Legacy - and I have to honestly say that it has not been quite up to the level of that first series. To be fair, there were 18 books in that series and we are now on the 7th book in this spinoff so there has been a lot of content put out there.
Granted, no one is ever going to say that this is high end and articulate literature; but it is a fun and zany story arc about a boy who starts off as a normal teenager, only to find out that he is actually much, much more. A lion no less.....That was the premise of the original series, and we followed Sean Valens as he grew, matured and guided the US through an invasion of demon like creatures from another realm. At the same time, there was almost a young man type of fantasy aspect to it as Sean ends up with many, many wives, tons of kids and there is a seemingly non stop focus on Sean taking his wives and concubines to bed. But, with that being said, that is why it worked. It never took itself too seriously and everything was almost "tongue in cheek". It was SO crazy and SO out there that that is what made it work.
This spin off has now been following the children of Sean and his wives (and boy are there a lot of them) but it is mainly focused on just a few of the oldest kids. I have enjoyed it, but there are times that I've felt like maybe the author was just trying to extend the output of books and I was getting worried that I was going to possibly have to say goodbye to the series.
This book however, brought back a little bit of the things that made the first series such a success. I'm not exactly sure what it was that was different, but it felt like things were back on track. We are now following along as Mihalis learns that he may have some new abilities that may totally change the gameboard. And these abilities shock and surprise everyone -even The First. Unfortunately, no one knows what effect it may have on him by using these abilities. The possibility of things going very wrong are definitely a concern.
Yes, there is still the young boy fascination with sex, and Mihalis spends WAY too much time in bed with his wives, his concubines and some additional characters that made me almost roll my eyes and say, "seriously?" But for the most part, I ignored that part and was interested in this new storyline. There is definitely some potential in where it may lead up.
One thing that stuck out for me - I was listening to this on audio and all of a sudden, I heard the ending phrase, something like.... "thank you for listening to ...." and I thought, "oh my gosh, that's it? It's over?"
To me, that is the best indication of a book that has garnered my interest - when I don't even realize that the book is near the end because I am invested in the storyline.
So - this book seems to be a step in the right direction. Unfortunately, there was another cliffhanger, but with this author, I've come to expect no less.
Granted, no one is ever going to say that this is high end and articulate literature; but it is a fun and zany story arc about a boy who starts off as a normal teenager, only to find out that he is actually much, much more. A lion no less.....That was the premise of the original series, and we followed Sean Valens as he grew, matured and guided the US through an invasion of demon like creatures from another realm. At the same time, there was almost a young man type of fantasy aspect to it as Sean ends up with many, many wives, tons of kids and there is a seemingly non stop focus on Sean taking his wives and concubines to bed. But, with that being said, that is why it worked. It never took itself too seriously and everything was almost "tongue in cheek". It was SO crazy and SO out there that that is what made it work.
This spin off has now been following the children of Sean and his wives (and boy are there a lot of them) but it is mainly focused on just a few of the oldest kids. I have enjoyed it, but there are times that I've felt like maybe the author was just trying to extend the output of books and I was getting worried that I was going to possibly have to say goodbye to the series.
This book however, brought back a little bit of the things that made the first series such a success. I'm not exactly sure what it was that was different, but it felt like things were back on track. We are now following along as Mihalis learns that he may have some new abilities that may totally change the gameboard. And these abilities shock and surprise everyone -even The First. Unfortunately, no one knows what effect it may have on him by using these abilities. The possibility of things going very wrong are definitely a concern.
Yes, there is still the young boy fascination with sex, and Mihalis spends WAY too much time in bed with his wives, his concubines and some additional characters that made me almost roll my eyes and say, "seriously?" But for the most part, I ignored that part and was interested in this new storyline. There is definitely some potential in where it may lead up.
One thing that stuck out for me - I was listening to this on audio and all of a sudden, I heard the ending phrase, something like.... "thank you for listening to ...." and I thought, "oh my gosh, that's it? It's over?"
To me, that is the best indication of a book that has garnered my interest - when I don't even realize that the book is near the end because I am invested in the storyline.
So - this book seems to be a step in the right direction. Unfortunately, there was another cliffhanger, but with this author, I've come to expect no less.
February 24, 2023
Yet another great installment in what can easily be called a genre defining series
I realise this is less of a review and more a rant, but if you're here reading this... if you ended up here by accident, go back to Valens Legacy, read the whole thing then the previous 6 of Heritage. And if you're here because you read the previous ones and want reinforcement in picking up this one..: HELL YEAH, IT'S AWESOME.
My only real complaint: its much too short. Also, one or two more smut scenes would be nice, Jan Stryvant is really good at those and with the plot there was deffo room for more. :)
Now...
Aa the title says, this is yet another great book in the Valens Universe. We're back to Mihalis' story and boy is it a trip! One of the best parts about the series is the world building, the magic and different creatures in it are well thought out, consistent and absolutely riveting. In this book we learn more about the djevels, their power structure, their nature and most importantly to the story, the consequences of being what they are.
I honestly can't wait for book 9, yeah I'm skipping 8 because if the author follows the patter it'll be about someone else, and what the fallout of Mihalis' decisions from this installment will be. I'm sure no. 8 will be as interesting, as so far only book 2 I found lacking (still good, just... meh) so I'm hoping it won't be about SJ, maybe more Troy or even the terror twins (that'd be fun, and possibly more full of goblins).
I realise this is less of a review and more a rant, but if you're here reading this... if you ended up here by accident, go back to Valens Legacy, read the whole thing then the previous 6 of Heritage. And if you're here because you read the previous ones and want reinforcement in picking up this one..: HELL YEAH, IT'S AWESOME.
My only real complaint: its much too short. Also, one or two more smut scenes would be nice, Jan Stryvant is really good at those and with the plot there was deffo room for more. :)
Now...
Aa the title says, this is yet another great book in the Valens Universe. We're back to Mihalis' story and boy is it a trip! One of the best parts about the series is the world building, the magic and different creatures in it are well thought out, consistent and absolutely riveting. In this book we learn more about the djevels, their power structure, their nature and most importantly to the story, the consequences of being what they are.
I honestly can't wait for book 9, yeah I'm skipping 8 because if the author follows the patter it'll be about someone else, and what the fallout of Mihalis' decisions from this installment will be. I'm sure no. 8 will be as interesting, as so far only book 2 I found lacking (still good, just... meh) so I'm hoping it won't be about SJ, maybe more Troy or even the terror twins (that'd be fun, and possibly more full of goblins).
February 15, 2023
Wow.
This book started great, then it to a turn I never saw coming. Blown away is all I can really say without spoilers, honestly I wouldn't know where to begin. If you have read the prior entries then just wait, Mihalis has done something wild, the consequences we have yet to see. My mind is going a mile a minute speculating about the possibilities and where it's going, and now I'm stuck chewing on these ideas while I wait for the next installment. I haven't been this excited for the next book in a series in a long time, and I think those who enjoy these books will feel the same!
This book started great, then it to a turn I never saw coming. Blown away is all I can really say without spoilers, honestly I wouldn't know where to begin. If you have read the prior entries then just wait, Mihalis has done something wild, the consequences we have yet to see. My mind is going a mile a minute speculating about the possibilities and where it's going, and now I'm stuck chewing on these ideas while I wait for the next installment. I haven't been this excited for the next book in a series in a long time, and I think those who enjoy these books will feel the same!
February 15, 2023
Another top notch installment in the Valens Heritage series!
With this one we return to Mihalis and Bartertown.
We get to see how various plans are progressing and being changed by circumstances.
Then we get to see a very large wrench tossed into those well layed plans.
I'm trying to avoid Spoilers, so I'll conclude by saying that books 8 & 9 (if the current pattern holds) can't come soon enough!
With this one we return to Mihalis and Bartertown.
We get to see how various plans are progressing and being changed by circumstances.
Then we get to see a very large wrench tossed into those well layed plans.
I'm trying to avoid Spoilers, so I'll conclude by saying that books 8 & 9 (if the current pattern holds) can't come soon enough!
February 17, 2023
Seems to be stretching a bit thin
I am starting to lose interest in the storyline of Mihalis turning evil and dealing to closely with the enemy. Not sure where the change occurred from really enjoying the story and starting to lose interest happened, but it was somewhere in the middle of this book. His personality is starting to twist and I’m not interested in that as I liked his personality as it was. Still enjoyed the story enough to give it 4 stars.
I am starting to lose interest in the storyline of Mihalis turning evil and dealing to closely with the enemy. Not sure where the change occurred from really enjoying the story and starting to lose interest happened, but it was somewhere in the middle of this book. His personality is starting to twist and I’m not interested in that as I liked his personality as it was. Still enjoyed the story enough to give it 4 stars.
February 26, 2023
the Adventure Continues
the continuation of the story continues to become more interesting and the drama abounds creating chaos and as well as interesting times. there are lots of things going on that create a sense of adventure and also from myself a feeling of I can't wait to read what happens next. I always enjoy reading books by this author and this is definitely one of them. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
the continuation of the story continues to become more interesting and the drama abounds creating chaos and as well as interesting times. there are lots of things going on that create a sense of adventure and also from myself a feeling of I can't wait to read what happens next. I always enjoy reading books by this author and this is definitely one of them. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
April 10, 2023
Now that's more like it
Lets face it- as nice as it is the have the story continue, Valens Heritage is a little weak compared to the original series.
This one is more like the Valens Legacy in pacing, action, and plot.
This starts slow and seems like it's just another entry in a tired series when things get hot about half way through. Now I can't wait for the next one even if it happens to be a Sean Jr. story.
Lets face it- as nice as it is the have the story continue, Valens Heritage is a little weak compared to the original series.
This one is more like the Valens Legacy in pacing, action, and plot.
This starts slow and seems like it's just another entry in a tired series when things get hot about half way through. Now I can't wait for the next one even if it happens to be a Sean Jr. story.
February 16, 2023
Another excellent episode
First off do yourself a favor and start the Valens Heritage from the beginning. It will give you all the backstory, otherwise you will be confused.
This story is another excellent addition to the entire Valens story. I love that Michael is the brooding bad boy who refuses to be the stereotype. Enjoy!
First off do yourself a favor and start the Valens Heritage from the beginning. It will give you all the backstory, otherwise you will be confused.
This story is another excellent addition to the entire Valens story. I love that Michael is the brooding bad boy who refuses to be the stereotype. Enjoy!
February 16, 2023
Great and unexpected twist
Love the whole Valens storyline, and this one continues the excellent writing, strong story and interesting characters in a world where magic exists. And in this continuation of the Mihalis Valens subarc the author has added a huge twist.
Get, read, enjoy!
Love the whole Valens storyline, and this one continues the excellent writing, strong story and interesting characters in a world where magic exists. And in this continuation of the Mihalis Valens subarc the author has added a huge twist.
Get, read, enjoy!
February 18, 2023
Fun! Anxiously awaiting the next book!
The story of Mihalis takes an unexpected turn! Action! Sex! Combat! A coffee house! More sex! A restaurant! A brothel! Demons! Lychans! Even more sex! Medical advances! Politics! ...did I mention the sex?
This book was fun! So, when are we going to see the collected sets of the Valens stories in hardcopy?
The story of Mihalis takes an unexpected turn! Action! Sex! Combat! A coffee house! More sex! A restaurant! A brothel! Demons! Lychans! Even more sex! Medical advances! Politics! ...did I mention the sex?
This book was fun! So, when are we going to see the collected sets of the Valens stories in hardcopy?
February 21, 2023
Another great chapter in the Valens Heritage series
Michael Valens is trying to consolidate his power in the Demon Zone when he stumbled upon a possible way to help him do just that! But the price may be more than he can pay. The prize, total control of not only the DEZ, but of all the demons!.on earthbound one slip and it will mean his life an the end of the Lions existence!
Michael Valens is trying to consolidate his power in the Demon Zone when he stumbled upon a possible way to help him do just that! But the price may be more than he can pay. The prize, total control of not only the DEZ, but of all the demons!.on earthbound one slip and it will mean his life an the end of the Lions existence!
February 27, 2023
I seem to remember that the author planned to cover Mihalis' story in 3 books. It looks like he has come up with a continuing story line that just might rival Sean's - ooh boy, is Mihalis his father's son. Fortunately for me, I am along for the ride and jonesing for the next book in Mihalis' story. What next?
March 7, 2023
Another fine romp
The world of the Heritage generation is getting complex, maybe too complex? Michael of course is front and center in this newest entry but with so many wives and other lovers as well as intertwining his story with the other concurrent story lines; it is a lot to take in. Overall, fascinating and confusing yet worth the time to read.
The world of the Heritage generation is getting complex, maybe too complex? Michael of course is front and center in this newest entry but with so many wives and other lovers as well as intertwining his story with the other concurrent story lines; it is a lot to take in. Overall, fascinating and confusing yet worth the time to read.
March 8, 2023
Into the Fire
Alternate universe, harem adult situations, magic, urban fantasy
In between doing favors for his family, Mihalis strengthens his hold on Bartertown, but the opportunity to permanently subvert the djevels has a definite price. Nicely crafted tale in this long saga. If you've been following this series, it's a good entry that finishes strong. Recommended.
Alternate universe, harem adult situations, magic, urban fantasy
In between doing favors for his family, Mihalis strengthens his hold on Bartertown, but the opportunity to permanently subvert the djevels has a definite price. Nicely crafted tale in this long saga. If you've been following this series, it's a good entry that finishes strong. Recommended.
March 11, 2023
Characters
For me there are too many characters to keep track of. This one married that one who's mother is her..the father is him. I am coming to the conclusion harem style books may not be my thing. Otherwise I like writing. The stories are interesting. Can't beat a book about destroying evil and screwing.
For me there are too many characters to keep track of. This one married that one who's mother is her..the father is him. I am coming to the conclusion harem style books may not be my thing. Otherwise I like writing. The stories are interesting. Can't beat a book about destroying evil and screwing.
April 29, 2023
Most excellent read
If you're looking for a book with awesome characters and a beyond great story, then look no further than the Valens Heritage series. You will not regret starting this series, and if you feel you need to know how it all started, then pick up Black Friday and learn how the Valens Legacy series will suck you into a MOST EXCELLENT READ!
If you're looking for a book with awesome characters and a beyond great story, then look no further than the Valens Heritage series. You will not regret starting this series, and if you feel you need to know how it all started, then pick up Black Friday and learn how the Valens Legacy series will suck you into a MOST EXCELLENT READ!
February 14, 2023
Amazing
Great story, lovely characters. I honestly don't have words to describe how ecstatic I am with the book and how much I crave the next one. Hope you enjoy it and the series as much as me :D
Great story, lovely characters. I honestly don't have words to describe how ecstatic I am with the book and how much I crave the next one. Hope you enjoy it and the series as much as me :D
February 16, 2023
I hope he can control the anger
As much as I want to believe Mike can do it, I know just how difficult it can be to control one's temper. I forsee a lot of physical activity in the future
As much as I want to believe Mike can do it, I know just how difficult it can be to control one's temper. I forsee a lot of physical activity in the future
February 16, 2023
Damn if that didn't feel short
Great rollercoaster of a story. I love when a story twist and turns in unexpected ways. This continues Jan's ability to put raw feelings and emotions into his characters.
Great rollercoaster of a story. I love when a story twist and turns in unexpected ways. This continues Jan's ability to put raw feelings and emotions into his characters.
February 17, 2023
Great sequel, with a good cliffhanger
Mihalis is by far my favorite of the legacy series. I love his dual nature and multiple wives. I liked how this story dug more into his Incubus side and i can't wait to see the next steps he takes.
Mihalis is by far my favorite of the legacy series. I love his dual nature and multiple wives. I liked how this story dug more into his Incubus side and i can't wait to see the next steps he takes.
February 18, 2023
Interesting developments in the Valens Heritage series
I like how Mr. Stryvant does an excellent job integrating new characters, characters from the last series, etc.
I also really want to see where the Mihalis plot line is going, it took an interesting turn in this book.
I like how Mr. Stryvant does an excellent job integrating new characters, characters from the last series, etc.
I also really want to see where the Mihalis plot line is going, it took an interesting turn in this book.
February 19, 2023
Wow!!! Yet another awesome story!!!
To no surprise to those who have read this authors works this is another incredible book!!! I was a bit concerned how this storyline would flow t the beginning b
To no surprise to those who have read this authors works this is another incredible book!!! I was a bit concerned how this storyline would flow t the beginning b
February 21, 2023
Love this book
Wow, what a great book and a great series. I love it so much. It is absolutely amazing. Great progression of the POV character great progression of the series. Super well written fast paced and action.
Wow, what a great book and a great series. I love it so much. It is absolutely amazing. Great progression of the POV character great progression of the series. Super well written fast paced and action.
February 23, 2023
Just another awesome Mihalis story
Much less in the way of action and daring do, and more in the way of world building, character development, and plot twists.
Definitely plot twists...
Much less in the way of action and daring do, and more in the way of world building, character development, and plot twists.
Definitely plot twists...
February 25, 2023
I e of my favorite series of all time
The entire Valens series is absolutely great 👍. Totally original and the best characters in the genre. I highly recommend them. Or anything else by Jan Stryvant.
The entire Valens series is absolutely great 👍. Totally original and the best characters in the genre. I highly recommend them. Or anything else by Jan Stryvant.
February 25, 2023
Poor poor Michael.
This is another good book in this series. I enjoy the author so much that I have no fear of wasting my money buying any of his books. I truly enjoy how grows his characters by totally messing with their mind sets making them get out of their mental box /rutts
This is another good book in this series. I enjoy the author so much that I have no fear of wasting my money buying any of his books. I truly enjoy how grows his characters by totally messing with their mind sets making them get out of their mental box /rutts
March 3, 2023
Love this series.
I have been reading about the Valans since the first book came out. And I am always looking forward to the next installment. There is so much to unpack in such a short book and I end up reading them more than once to get all the nuance. Keep them coming.
I have been reading about the Valans since the first book came out. And I am always looking forward to the next installment. There is so much to unpack in such a short book and I end up reading them more than once to get all the nuance. Keep them coming.
April 21, 2023
A book worthy to read
I have read all of the books and finding them to be outstanding. I love the world and find the large family group really interesting. Now I look forward to the next book .thank you for your hard work
I have read all of the books and finding them to be outstanding. I love the world and find the large family group really interesting. Now I look forward to the next book .thank you for your hard work
May 12, 2023
Woah! Cliff-hanger
What! What's going on with Mike? This was an awesome book, lots of action both in and out of the bedroom, much snark, cons and skulldugery. I loved it!!!! Can't wait for the next book.
What! What's going on with Mike? This was an awesome book, lots of action both in and out of the bedroom, much snark, cons and skulldugery. I loved it!!!! Can't wait for the next book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews