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Villains' Code #2.5
Villain's Vignettes: Volume 1
A town of magic and danger, where what one dons becomes who they are.
A desperate priestess in another world calling for a champion, only to receive an unstoppable monster.
A night of joy and giving, of grudges and combat, all as the winter snow falls.
Between grand adventures, what mishaps may occur in the world of the Villains’ Code? These are the smaller selections, short sagas within the greater story.
These are the Villains’ Vignettes.
A desperate priestess in another world calling for a champion, only to receive an unstoppable monster.
A night of joy and giving, of grudges and combat, all as the winter snow falls.
Between grand adventures, what mishaps may occur in the world of the Villains’ Code? These are the smaller selections, short sagas within the greater story.
These are the Villains’ Vignettes.
327 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 19, 2023
261 people are currently reading
319 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
July 2, 2023
I am a huge fan of Drew Hayes' writing, particularly his VILLAINS CODE series. As a fellow writer of superhero prose fiction, I have to bow to the master and admit his worlds are just plain awesome. Generally, people think of his SUPER POWERED series as the better of the two but I'm going to go against the grain and say that I prefer VC. Why? The world-building is stronger and the stakes feel significantly higher. I also liked the characters more. However, the books are thick doorstopper-esque novels and we've only gotten too with Forging Hephaestus and Bones of the Past.
I was very pleased by the fact that Drew Hayes decided to release an anthology of superhero stories (or villain in this case) stories that expand on his world. So, I immediately picked up VILLAINS' VIGNETTE VOLUME ONE when it came out. Much to my surprise, it turned out to be mostly novellas about our (anti)heroes versus the collection of short stories I expected. They also mostly star Ivan (Fornax) and Tori (Hephaestus) as well as the original cast. I don't dislike this but I kind of wish we had gotten some more development for preexisting superheroes and villains.
The book contains the following stories anl each of them have a lot of appealing ideas to them for long-term fans of the series. I have a few complaints about a few but nothing that lowers my score of the collection as a whole. So, if you want my opinion on the whole book, it's, "Great for fans of the series. Probably not a good fit for newcomers wondering if they should check out the first book."
"A Night in Hallowville" is about a town in Iowa being taken over by a Halloween goddess named Spooky Trudi. It actually transforms it into something similar to Marble Gate Dungeon or an MMORPG where it's more like a game show or obstacle course than actual threat. I really enjoyed this oddball quirk of Halloween in the setting and especially the villain, the Fashionistador, who can steal opowers from pieces of superhero costumes. I actually liked the latter so much that I felt they were too harsh on him and I hope he appears in future installments as a redeemed character.
I especially liked the element that putting on a costume of a superhero or villain in Hallowville will give you a diluted version of their powers. However, the powers go up the more synchronous you are with them. A super science genius will get more out of a Doctor Quantum or Doctor Mechanical costume than, say, Glinda the Good Witch. Weirdly, The Wizard of Oz is established as not existing in the setting as well even though superpowers only appeared in the 1950s.
"The Priestess and the Peril" is a dip into high fantasy as Fornax is summoned to a Medieval world being overrun by demons. Ivan's weird morality is on full display as he feels no desire to rescue the planet from oblivion but does want to avenge a friend of his that lived there. It's an interesting commentary on the nature of violence and his Light Side Sith-like morality (something that only exists in Bioware RPGs notably). Specifically, Ivan thinks, "Kill someone for a person and they'll be safe for a day. Teach a person to kill and they'll be safe for a lifetime."
A warning about this story, though, in that ends on a cliffhanger. I'm not sure if it'll be continued, though this being a "volume one" indicates that's very likely. However, I fully expected the story to be self-contained like the others, so it was a surprise when it ended the way it did. Fair warning for readers.
"A Very Villainous Christmas" is another holiday-themed story and Fornax is summoned to the North Pole alongside Tori in order to save Christmas.We get a lot of fun holiday bits and pieces here like Lodestar (Superman/Supergirl) doesn't get along with Santa at all. Also, she did an educational rap in the Nineties that is, by far, her greatest regret. The only regret is our heroes don't do something truly dastardly and load it to the internet.
Should Drew Hayes have included the lyrics to the rap? Yes, absolutely, but leaving it to the imagination is also a valid artistic choice. I also appreciated the vision of a bunch of D-list supervillains playing Santa for kids because that felt surprisingly real.
In conclusion, I really enjoyed Villains' Vignettes vol. 1. It's by no means necessary to read if you're a fan of Villain's Code but there's plenty to enjoy if you are. I hope it's a sign we'll be getting the third book, though.
I was very pleased by the fact that Drew Hayes decided to release an anthology of superhero stories (or villain in this case) stories that expand on his world. So, I immediately picked up VILLAINS' VIGNETTE VOLUME ONE when it came out. Much to my surprise, it turned out to be mostly novellas about our (anti)heroes versus the collection of short stories I expected. They also mostly star Ivan (Fornax) and Tori (Hephaestus) as well as the original cast. I don't dislike this but I kind of wish we had gotten some more development for preexisting superheroes and villains.
The book contains the following stories anl each of them have a lot of appealing ideas to them for long-term fans of the series. I have a few complaints about a few but nothing that lowers my score of the collection as a whole. So, if you want my opinion on the whole book, it's, "Great for fans of the series. Probably not a good fit for newcomers wondering if they should check out the first book."
"A Night in Hallowville" is about a town in Iowa being taken over by a Halloween goddess named Spooky Trudi. It actually transforms it into something similar to Marble Gate Dungeon or an MMORPG where it's more like a game show or obstacle course than actual threat. I really enjoyed this oddball quirk of Halloween in the setting and especially the villain, the Fashionistador, who can steal opowers from pieces of superhero costumes. I actually liked the latter so much that I felt they were too harsh on him and I hope he appears in future installments as a redeemed character.
I especially liked the element that putting on a costume of a superhero or villain in Hallowville will give you a diluted version of their powers. However, the powers go up the more synchronous you are with them. A super science genius will get more out of a Doctor Quantum or Doctor Mechanical costume than, say, Glinda the Good Witch. Weirdly, The Wizard of Oz is established as not existing in the setting as well even though superpowers only appeared in the 1950s.
"The Priestess and the Peril" is a dip into high fantasy as Fornax is summoned to a Medieval world being overrun by demons. Ivan's weird morality is on full display as he feels no desire to rescue the planet from oblivion but does want to avenge a friend of his that lived there. It's an interesting commentary on the nature of violence and his Light Side Sith-like morality (something that only exists in Bioware RPGs notably). Specifically, Ivan thinks, "Kill someone for a person and they'll be safe for a day. Teach a person to kill and they'll be safe for a lifetime."
A warning about this story, though, in that ends on a cliffhanger. I'm not sure if it'll be continued, though this being a "volume one" indicates that's very likely. However, I fully expected the story to be self-contained like the others, so it was a surprise when it ended the way it did. Fair warning for readers.
"A Very Villainous Christmas" is another holiday-themed story and Fornax is summoned to the North Pole alongside Tori in order to save Christmas.We get a lot of fun holiday bits and pieces here like Lodestar (Superman/Supergirl) doesn't get along with Santa at all. Also, she did an educational rap in the Nineties that is, by far, her greatest regret. The only regret is our heroes don't do something truly dastardly and load it to the internet.
Should Drew Hayes have included the lyrics to the rap? Yes, absolutely, but leaving it to the imagination is also a valid artistic choice. I also appreciated the vision of a bunch of D-list supervillains playing Santa for kids because that felt surprisingly real.
In conclusion, I really enjoyed Villains' Vignettes vol. 1. It's by no means necessary to read if you're a fan of Villain's Code but there's plenty to enjoy if you are. I hope it's a sign we'll be getting the third book, though.
October 31, 2023
Nice collection of short stories involving some of the main characters from the series. Fun read. Recommended
June 27, 2024
Villain's Vignettes Volume 1 is a collection of 3 novellas in Drew Hayes's Villain's Code series, taking place after Bones of the Past.
The first one is set during Halloween. A small town becomes home to the spirit of Halloween. By day, it's all fun, games and treats. But, once the sun sets, the town's dark side comes out. Day or night, every costume grants a taste of the power that comes with it, and in a world full of costumed heroes, even the bad guys want some of that for themselves.
The second story finds Ivan summoned to a medieval fantasy world in need of a hero. What happens when the hero turns out to be a monster too? Definitely the most serious of the three stories, and the ending will leave you wanting to know what happens next. Seriously, WTF Drew?!?
Deals were made. Promises must be kept. Christmas must be saved. How bad is it when Santa needs the the help of Fornax and his protoge Hephaestus?
If you are reading VV:V1, you're probably already a fan of the characters and their world. If not, this isn't the entry point you want. Go read Forging Hephaestus and Bones of the Past. They're well worth it. The stories in this book are canon, and definitely will be reflected in book 3 whenever that comes out. In the meantime, we have these fun gems to tide us over. The only complaint I have is that they feel short, especially the 2nd story. It's probably the longest one, but it's a helluva note to leave it on. The Christmas one is definitely the weakest of the stories, but it makes a good palette cleanser to wrap on.
The first one is set during Halloween. A small town becomes home to the spirit of Halloween. By day, it's all fun, games and treats. But, once the sun sets, the town's dark side comes out. Day or night, every costume grants a taste of the power that comes with it, and in a world full of costumed heroes, even the bad guys want some of that for themselves.
The second story finds Ivan summoned to a medieval fantasy world in need of a hero. What happens when the hero turns out to be a monster too? Definitely the most serious of the three stories, and the ending will leave you wanting to know what happens next. Seriously, WTF Drew?!?
Deals were made. Promises must be kept. Christmas must be saved. How bad is it when Santa needs the the help of Fornax and his protoge Hephaestus?
If you are reading VV:V1, you're probably already a fan of the characters and their world. If not, this isn't the entry point you want. Go read Forging Hephaestus and Bones of the Past. They're well worth it. The stories in this book are canon, and definitely will be reflected in book 3 whenever that comes out. In the meantime, we have these fun gems to tide us over. The only complaint I have is that they feel short, especially the 2nd story. It's probably the longest one, but it's a helluva note to leave it on. The Christmas one is definitely the weakest of the stories, but it makes a good palette cleanser to wrap on.
August 14, 2024
This wasn’t bad but I just wasn’t entertained the way I usually am with Drew Hayes books
July 30, 2023
Various short stories rated 3 to 4; 3.5 overall. All basically appetizers - no entrees.
October 25, 2023
It was a fun change of pace from Mr. Hayes's normal writing style, I just wished it was a full Villain's code book.
April 19, 2024
I am extremely partial to Drew Hayes. This one doesn’t disappoint! There are a lot of characters and it’s best to brush up on the first books before diving into it, but the story is clever, the characters are smart, their reactions are genuine and I even teared up when Tory unwrapped her gift.
It is the goriest Hayes book so far, I think, but it’s well worth it
It is the goriest Hayes book so far, I think, but it’s well worth it
February 12, 2024
Each story was fun in its own way, and I have theories on why they might be relevant to the bigger storyline. For now though they're just fun extras until we can get more of the main event. I just want more!!!
February 2, 2025
I liked the first of the 3 stories included, and the other 2 were entertaining enough but not as good. Glad I didn’t skip it though. I just started the next Villain’s Code book and these stories are already mentioned in it.
September 7, 2023
Fun addition to the Villains Code series, there are 3 short stories with characters from the series. But it's a little to a lot cheesy at times.
October 3, 2023
Drew Hayes is to Supervillains what Frank Miller is to Batman. This collection of novellas fills in gaps of your favorite characters from Hayes' Forging Hephaestus universe with hints of what is yet to come. He delights with Halloween hijinks, dives into a distant world imperiled to be rescued from evil by evil and rounds out with a wholesome Christmas romp, with a delightful nod to the lost Science Fiction Christmas special. This was a terribly entertaining read.
August 23, 2024
Nice background stories
The three side-stories are pretty good. The one where one of the main characters gets basically isekaied is my favourite of the three
I really hope there is a volume 2 of this series
The three side-stories are pretty good. The one where one of the main characters gets basically isekaied is my favourite of the three
I really hope there is a volume 2 of this series
July 21, 2025
3 novellas that take place chronologically between books 2 and 3 of the series.
May 20, 2024
Review originally posted at BooksOfMyHeart.net.
This is a collection of novellas from the Drew Hayes world of Villain’s Code.
A Night in Hallowville
I’m a huge fan of Halloween stories. Halloween episodes of TV are almost always my favorite. This story is about a small town that is taken over by Spooky Trudie. Every September 30th at midnight, Spooky Trudie takes over a town and turns it into Hallowville for the entire month of October. At midnight, on October 31st, the town reverts back to normal. There are several rules about Hallowville. You must be in costume, which will give you a taste of the powers of the person you dressed up as (so you can get that meta’s power, but not at the same level as the original. WIthout your costume, you are whisked out of town. There is also a huge difference between day and night in Hallowville. During the day, it is family friendly Halloween fun. Candy, games, etc. At dusk, that all changes. Things get much darker and the risks much greater.
I love Tori/Hephestus as a character and this story, while told in third person, follows her more than anyone else. She is on the villain’s side of things, but she does have some morals that she follows (as does her mentor Fornax/Ivan). I loved spending more time with her and her group of friends from the heroes side of the spectrum. They do not know Tori is a villain, but she does know that they are heroes.
I cannot say how much I loved this story. I really enjoyed the daytime when things were all fun and games. I also loved the evening with the stakes being higher and people’s lives could actually be on the line. I loved watching the group play with powers that they don’t have themselves and learning how things are different and that control is not always easy. There is a new villain in this story, Fashionistador. He steals pieces of people’s costumes to take on their powers, which then kicks those people out of town. The more power he gets, the harder he is to fight. I will say that there is a huge spoiler for the series if you aren’t caught up or haven’t started. There is some pining as there is someone who is lost in the earlier books (I honestly don’t remember which one, it has been so long since I listened to them). That was a little bit over done. But this was still my favorite story of the three.
The Priestess and the Peril
I will be honest, as I was listening to the beginning of this story, I had no idea how it tied into the Villain’s Code world. There is a priestess fighting demons and trying to summon a champion to help her. This is not something that fits into the world of metas I’ve been reading. Then I learn that the champion is Ivan. Now, he doesn’t seem all that scary when he’s Ivan, but as Fornax, he is quite possibly the second most powerful being in the world (Helen/Lodestar being the most powerful and on the side of good). Ivan really shows why he is on the villain’s side when he doesn’t really care about the issues of this world that he’s summoned to. He is all about to leave and ignore the pleas of Perle. Then he learns who she is and owes a favor to her now deceased uncle. Ivan is out for revenge for his old friend’s death.
I did enjoy this story, but it was my least favorite of the three. I think it is the lack of the characters that I love from the series. Ivan is the only crossover. This story does have a cliffhanger, which means that I hope there will be a Volume 2 to get the rest of the story.
A Very Villainous Christmas
This was a very interesting story. I don’t love Christmas stories the way I love Halloween ones, but I do like them. This was a very interesting take on the holiday. The first weird thing is that Ivan is the Guardian of Christmas Magic. Ivan, the person who is Fornax, that scares every hero but Lodestar. He is called to the North Pole, along with his protege, Tori/Hephestus, to help Santa save Christmas. This was a fun story. We get to see into some different sides of the characters. We learn that Helen/Lodestar, the most powerful force for good, doesn’t get along with Santa. Add that to Fornax, the most powerful force of evil does get along with him. Makes you question everything you know about good and evil. I think it goes to show that nothing is 100% good and nothing is 100% evil. There are shades of gray everywhere.
We also get to see more of Ivan’s two children. Rick, the older of the two, has learned of Fornax, where the younger Beth, still sees Ivan as her Daddy. You also see how this affects the great Fornax. I want to see more of Rick and want him to learn more about his father. Ivan isn’t all that bad and I want Rick to learn to see that.
Also, we learn Lodestar has a very hidden secret. She did an educational rap video in the 90s. No one seems to remember it, except for Ivan/Fornax. He is able to obtain a copy. So far, he hasn’t done anything with this copy. And I don’t know if he has plans for it or if there are more copies out there. I want to know more. I’m sure at some point, he will hold this over Lodestar’s head. They have a very interesting relationship.
Summary
I had a great time with these stories. While they are called “vignettes”, they are not short. These three stories are nine and half hours long. But I guess when you compare them to full-length novels. Forging Hephaestus is just under 27 hours and Bones of the Past is 35 plus hours, these are short. I would not start with these stories to see if you will enjoy the series. The stories are short and there is a lot that is assumed that you know from the earlier books. If you like superhero/supervillain stories, I highly recommend this series, but start with the first book. I will say, it is well worth the time. This revisit to this world makes me want to relisten to the first two books. As I write this, I’m between books, so that sounds like the best idea ever. LOL I hope Volume 2 of the vignettes and/or book 3 are out in the near future.
Narration:
Amy Landon narrates the entire series. I’ve really enjoyed her performance from the beginning. I’ve listened to other series with her narration, as well. She is always wonderful. I enjoy the voices she picks for each character, even with a large cast. The male and female voices are always spot on, and even the children for that matter. I think she really brings in the emotion of each scene and adds to the story. She makes me forget that I’m listening to a book because I get lost in the world. I highly recommend trying out her as a narrator.
**I'd like to thank the publisher for providing me with a copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
This is a collection of novellas from the Drew Hayes world of Villain’s Code.
A Night in Hallowville
I’m a huge fan of Halloween stories. Halloween episodes of TV are almost always my favorite. This story is about a small town that is taken over by Spooky Trudie. Every September 30th at midnight, Spooky Trudie takes over a town and turns it into Hallowville for the entire month of October. At midnight, on October 31st, the town reverts back to normal. There are several rules about Hallowville. You must be in costume, which will give you a taste of the powers of the person you dressed up as (so you can get that meta’s power, but not at the same level as the original. WIthout your costume, you are whisked out of town. There is also a huge difference between day and night in Hallowville. During the day, it is family friendly Halloween fun. Candy, games, etc. At dusk, that all changes. Things get much darker and the risks much greater.
I love Tori/Hephestus as a character and this story, while told in third person, follows her more than anyone else. She is on the villain’s side of things, but she does have some morals that she follows (as does her mentor Fornax/Ivan). I loved spending more time with her and her group of friends from the heroes side of the spectrum. They do not know Tori is a villain, but she does know that they are heroes.
I cannot say how much I loved this story. I really enjoyed the daytime when things were all fun and games. I also loved the evening with the stakes being higher and people’s lives could actually be on the line. I loved watching the group play with powers that they don’t have themselves and learning how things are different and that control is not always easy. There is a new villain in this story, Fashionistador. He steals pieces of people’s costumes to take on their powers, which then kicks those people out of town. The more power he gets, the harder he is to fight. I will say that there is a huge spoiler for the series if you aren’t caught up or haven’t started. There is some pining as there is someone who is lost in the earlier books (I honestly don’t remember which one, it has been so long since I listened to them). That was a little bit over done. But this was still my favorite story of the three.
The Priestess and the Peril
I will be honest, as I was listening to the beginning of this story, I had no idea how it tied into the Villain’s Code world. There is a priestess fighting demons and trying to summon a champion to help her. This is not something that fits into the world of metas I’ve been reading. Then I learn that the champion is Ivan. Now, he doesn’t seem all that scary when he’s Ivan, but as Fornax, he is quite possibly the second most powerful being in the world (Helen/Lodestar being the most powerful and on the side of good). Ivan really shows why he is on the villain’s side when he doesn’t really care about the issues of this world that he’s summoned to. He is all about to leave and ignore the pleas of Perle. Then he learns who she is and owes a favor to her now deceased uncle. Ivan is out for revenge for his old friend’s death.
I did enjoy this story, but it was my least favorite of the three. I think it is the lack of the characters that I love from the series. Ivan is the only crossover. This story does have a cliffhanger, which means that I hope there will be a Volume 2 to get the rest of the story.
A Very Villainous Christmas
This was a very interesting story. I don’t love Christmas stories the way I love Halloween ones, but I do like them. This was a very interesting take on the holiday. The first weird thing is that Ivan is the Guardian of Christmas Magic. Ivan, the person who is Fornax, that scares every hero but Lodestar. He is called to the North Pole, along with his protege, Tori/Hephestus, to help Santa save Christmas. This was a fun story. We get to see into some different sides of the characters. We learn that Helen/Lodestar, the most powerful force for good, doesn’t get along with Santa. Add that to Fornax, the most powerful force of evil does get along with him. Makes you question everything you know about good and evil. I think it goes to show that nothing is 100% good and nothing is 100% evil. There are shades of gray everywhere.
We also get to see more of Ivan’s two children. Rick, the older of the two, has learned of Fornax, where the younger Beth, still sees Ivan as her Daddy. You also see how this affects the great Fornax. I want to see more of Rick and want him to learn more about his father. Ivan isn’t all that bad and I want Rick to learn to see that.
Also, we learn Lodestar has a very hidden secret. She did an educational rap video in the 90s. No one seems to remember it, except for Ivan/Fornax. He is able to obtain a copy. So far, he hasn’t done anything with this copy. And I don’t know if he has plans for it or if there are more copies out there. I want to know more. I’m sure at some point, he will hold this over Lodestar’s head. They have a very interesting relationship.
Summary
I had a great time with these stories. While they are called “vignettes”, they are not short. These three stories are nine and half hours long. But I guess when you compare them to full-length novels. Forging Hephaestus is just under 27 hours and Bones of the Past is 35 plus hours, these are short. I would not start with these stories to see if you will enjoy the series. The stories are short and there is a lot that is assumed that you know from the earlier books. If you like superhero/supervillain stories, I highly recommend this series, but start with the first book. I will say, it is well worth the time. This revisit to this world makes me want to relisten to the first two books. As I write this, I’m between books, so that sounds like the best idea ever. LOL I hope Volume 2 of the vignettes and/or book 3 are out in the near future.
Narration:
Amy Landon narrates the entire series. I’ve really enjoyed her performance from the beginning. I’ve listened to other series with her narration, as well. She is always wonderful. I enjoy the voices she picks for each character, even with a large cast. The male and female voices are always spot on, and even the children for that matter. I think she really brings in the emotion of each scene and adds to the story. She makes me forget that I’m listening to a book because I get lost in the world. I highly recommend trying out her as a narrator.
**I'd like to thank the publisher for providing me with a copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
September 4, 2023
Villain’s Vignettes
Volume 1
By Drew Hayes
Hollowville
Summary:
The author’s light-hearted, half-serious world-building continues in VV with the main antagonist—Fashionistador—whose powers were given after surviving a chemical explosion in a costume shop. Able to gain powers based on taking parts of other metas’ costumes, he sets out to become even more powerful inside a town fueled by a domain-based meta (Spooky Trudie) who coincidentally has a Halloween themed domain.
Inside the domain, metas can try out other metas’ powers if they dress like them. The borrowed metas’ powers are enhanced if the costumed meta shares an affinity with them. So naturally:
1. Tori aka Hephaestus, the fiery phase shifter who also is a mechanical genius like Tony Stark, chooses Professor Quantum, who is himself a genius and is so empowered with deductive reasoning that time seems to slow around him.
2. Beverly aka Bahamut, able to transform into a huge flying dragon, chooses Lodestar. Their powers synergize with flight and super strength.
3. Chloe aka Parasol Lady (??) chooses a meta who is lucky enough to steer events away from “dire cataclysms”. Their powers synergize by both being capriciously whimsical.
The Good:
1. Good to see the new meta teams back in action with each other (the villains team under the guise of Halloween costumes this time).
2. Tori’s casual profanity continues to be amusing at the right times.
3. I continue to enjoy the author's creativity with super powers, such as "Veggie Reggie" who can conjure anthropomorphic produce ad infinitum.
The Meh:
1. What task did Chloe actually accomplish: "something or someone she needed to see" ???
2. The final words to the Hollowville story was pretty uninspiring.
3. Chloe continues to get the shaft. Her powers are imho quite possibly the most intriguing among everyone’s, might even merit a stand-alone spinoff from books 1-2 even?? Yet all the author does with her in this story with near identical powers from her costume is stand-in for a couple sign posts to point out the general direction. Laaaaaaaame.
Verdict: 4 ⭐️
The Priestess & The Peril
Summary:
So glad to hear a short story about Ivan/Fornax, especially since technically he wasn't in the previous one.
The author continues to find creative ways to immerse his metas into environments and situations that allow them to unleash their powers without political or socio-economic consequences. Transporting Fornax to another world where an unlikely team forms for a dire quest was perfect for Ivan.
The Good:
1. The ragtag band of adventurers comprised of priestess, a knight, and 2 ultra-murderous individuals. It was quite entertaining to say the least.
3. "One unfortunate demon caught a chunk of its captain's brains on its tongue" -- Oh even Fornax gore can be funny.
4. The final demon's demise was very imaginative and a death Fornax would have approved of.
The Meh:
1. The one gripe I had about the story was the Priestess’ ongoing, almost incessant incredulity of her traveling companions propensities for death and destruction. I get why the plot element was there but felt like it could’ve been toned down after the tenth impossibly stupefying act on Ivan’s part.
Verdict: 5 ⭐️
A Very Villainous Christmas
Summary:
Perhaps saving the best for last, this story gives homage to the main characters from the first 2 books as well as many more cameos, all surrounding how each guild celebrates and/or helps out with the Santa Claus/Christmas initiative.
I’ve compiled a list of the characters mentioned mainly for my reference, and included their aliases where possible, or approximated their aliases and/or descriptions where not:
Tori/Hephaestus, Ivan/Fornax, Helen/Lodestar, Beverly/Bahamut, Chloe/Idiom Girl, Donald/Cyber Geek and his team (Ren/Medley, Lucy/Hat Trick, Irene/?, Warren/Bug Boy), the New Science Sentries, Dr. Maniacal, Christoff/Angel of Vengeance, Tyranny- robotic lady who owns an island, Captain Bullshit-physical manifestations of art, Johnny 3 Dicks-teleporting midget whose tagline is “no matter which way you come, you’ll always get f***ed”, Thuggernaut, Quorum. Also present were prior themes such as the Rex Ren invasion, Ivan’s kids Rick and Beth.
The Good:
1. The urge to re-read all 50 audiobook hours of the first 2 Villain’s Code books became really strong as I read this story. (It’s also given me motivation to finally tackle all 150+ audio hours of the Super Powereds series)
2. Santa Clause (and his Elves) revealed as metas with superhuman powers was the first amazing thing I’ve heard about them since being told they weren’t real.
3. Somewhere I missed the point that Tori’s fire form is not a body with fire around it, like the Human Torch, but living flame, like a Balrog. That made her fire form a bit more awesome, imho.
4. The author explores the source of magical powers inside the world of metas, for those whose powers derive from it. It was yet another layer of intrigue and mystery that captivates me about the Villain’s Code series.
5. The endings were perfect, wrapping up nicely with certain significant others.
The Meh:
1. If you weren’t craving cookies before you started reading, you will be.
2. The reminiscing and feeling sorry for themselves by the New Science Sentries about Ike/Presto’s sacrifice was just on the borderline of tedious in the first novella. I almost listed it as a “meh” there. It’s back. It’s going on this novel’s meh list.
3. Chloe shafted again. No mention of her power at all. Same with Donald, the other meta whose power I love hearing the most about.
Conclusion:
I thoroughly enjoyed VV and can’t wait for the second installment.
4.5 ⭐️
Volume 1
By Drew Hayes
Hollowville
Summary:
The author’s light-hearted, half-serious world-building continues in VV with the main antagonist—Fashionistador—whose powers were given after surviving a chemical explosion in a costume shop. Able to gain powers based on taking parts of other metas’ costumes, he sets out to become even more powerful inside a town fueled by a domain-based meta (Spooky Trudie) who coincidentally has a Halloween themed domain.
Inside the domain, metas can try out other metas’ powers if they dress like them. The borrowed metas’ powers are enhanced if the costumed meta shares an affinity with them. So naturally:
1. Tori aka Hephaestus, the fiery phase shifter who also is a mechanical genius like Tony Stark, chooses Professor Quantum, who is himself a genius and is so empowered with deductive reasoning that time seems to slow around him.
2. Beverly aka Bahamut, able to transform into a huge flying dragon, chooses Lodestar. Their powers synergize with flight and super strength.
3. Chloe aka Parasol Lady (??) chooses a meta who is lucky enough to steer events away from “dire cataclysms”. Their powers synergize by both being capriciously whimsical.
The Good:
1. Good to see the new meta teams back in action with each other (the villains team under the guise of Halloween costumes this time).
2. Tori’s casual profanity continues to be amusing at the right times.
3. I continue to enjoy the author's creativity with super powers, such as "Veggie Reggie" who can conjure anthropomorphic produce ad infinitum.
The Meh:
1. What task did Chloe actually accomplish: "something or someone she needed to see" ???
2. The final words to the Hollowville story was pretty uninspiring.
3. Chloe continues to get the shaft. Her powers are imho quite possibly the most intriguing among everyone’s, might even merit a stand-alone spinoff from books 1-2 even?? Yet all the author does with her in this story with near identical powers from her costume is stand-in for a couple sign posts to point out the general direction. Laaaaaaaame.
Verdict: 4 ⭐️
The Priestess & The Peril
Summary:
So glad to hear a short story about Ivan/Fornax, especially since technically he wasn't in the previous one.
The author continues to find creative ways to immerse his metas into environments and situations that allow them to unleash their powers without political or socio-economic consequences. Transporting Fornax to another world where an unlikely team forms for a dire quest was perfect for Ivan.
The Good:
1. The ragtag band of adventurers comprised of priestess, a knight, and 2 ultra-murderous individuals. It was quite entertaining to say the least.
3. "One unfortunate demon caught a chunk of its captain's brains on its tongue" -- Oh even Fornax gore can be funny.
4. The final demon's demise was very imaginative and a death Fornax would have approved of.
The Meh:
1. The one gripe I had about the story was the Priestess’ ongoing, almost incessant incredulity of her traveling companions propensities for death and destruction. I get why the plot element was there but felt like it could’ve been toned down after the tenth impossibly stupefying act on Ivan’s part.
Verdict: 5 ⭐️
A Very Villainous Christmas
Summary:
Perhaps saving the best for last, this story gives homage to the main characters from the first 2 books as well as many more cameos, all surrounding how each guild celebrates and/or helps out with the Santa Claus/Christmas initiative.
I’ve compiled a list of the characters mentioned mainly for my reference, and included their aliases where possible, or approximated their aliases and/or descriptions where not:
Tori/Hephaestus, Ivan/Fornax, Helen/Lodestar, Beverly/Bahamut, Chloe/Idiom Girl, Donald/Cyber Geek and his team (Ren/Medley, Lucy/Hat Trick, Irene/?, Warren/Bug Boy), the New Science Sentries, Dr. Maniacal, Christoff/Angel of Vengeance, Tyranny- robotic lady who owns an island, Captain Bullshit-physical manifestations of art, Johnny 3 Dicks-teleporting midget whose tagline is “no matter which way you come, you’ll always get f***ed”, Thuggernaut, Quorum. Also present were prior themes such as the Rex Ren invasion, Ivan’s kids Rick and Beth.
The Good:
1. The urge to re-read all 50 audiobook hours of the first 2 Villain’s Code books became really strong as I read this story. (It’s also given me motivation to finally tackle all 150+ audio hours of the Super Powereds series)
2. Santa Clause (and his Elves) revealed as metas with superhuman powers was the first amazing thing I’ve heard about them since being told they weren’t real.
3. Somewhere I missed the point that Tori’s fire form is not a body with fire around it, like the Human Torch, but living flame, like a Balrog. That made her fire form a bit more awesome, imho.
4. The author explores the source of magical powers inside the world of metas, for those whose powers derive from it. It was yet another layer of intrigue and mystery that captivates me about the Villain’s Code series.
5. The endings were perfect, wrapping up nicely with certain significant others.
The Meh:
1. If you weren’t craving cookies before you started reading, you will be.
2. The reminiscing and feeling sorry for themselves by the New Science Sentries about Ike/Presto’s sacrifice was just on the borderline of tedious in the first novella. I almost listed it as a “meh” there. It’s back. It’s going on this novel’s meh list.
3. Chloe shafted again. No mention of her power at all. Same with Donald, the other meta whose power I love hearing the most about.
Conclusion:
I thoroughly enjoyed VV and can’t wait for the second installment.
4.5 ⭐️
January 13, 2025
Really enjoyed this book.
Three awesome short stories featuring our favorite heroes and villains. If you liked the previous novel in this series than this is a must read for you. While this novel is a companion piece and is not needed to understand the main series. It remains a fact that Mr Hayes writings are among the best in the genre and reading this will undoubtedly enhance your reading experience of the main series.
Be prepared to be entertained, shocked and to shout "Where is the rest of it, you can't leave us hanging like that!"
Three awesome short stories featuring our favorite heroes and villains. If you liked the previous novel in this series than this is a must read for you. While this novel is a companion piece and is not needed to understand the main series. It remains a fact that Mr Hayes writings are among the best in the genre and reading this will undoubtedly enhance your reading experience of the main series.
Be prepared to be entertained, shocked and to shout "Where is the rest of it, you can't leave us hanging like that!"
September 2, 2023
If you haven't read the first two Villians Code books, go read them now and round it out with this collectoon of novellas. I have so much love for these characters and needed something to hold us over until the next book. It's always fun to see Tori's problem solving skills and endless supply of sarcasm in action. As with the first two books Amy Landon's narration skills are on point and I can't imagine anyone else voicing them.
June 21, 2023
I absolutely love this series, and now we get to see three short stories. My favorite was the second one.
A Night in Hallowville
The visit of a powerful being, Spooky Trudy, marks the start of Hallowville. This magical village appears during October and allows visitors to become whatever they are dressed as. They don't get the full power of the people they dress as, only an echo of their powers. How much of them they get depends on how they perceive the powers. For most people is a chance to test magic, get flight, superstrength, and all the classics. During the day is a friendly family setup, like a Halloween theme park. During the night, it's a truly spooky experience where safety is not warranted, but playing the town's games could grant you a wish, if you survive.
For Tori, a very science-oriented person, experiencing magic is a challenge. She approaches the town as someone conducting an experiment, but once her friends get in danger, she must embrace the magic to save the day. We get many of our favorite characters of the Villain's Code here, but as always, I love seeing more of Helen, the most powerful being in the world. She goes into Hallowville to help keep people safe and to experience what it is to be someone different.
The Priestess and The Peril
Perle the Priestess was trying to summon a champion to save her world from the demons, but he got a villain, one that will help her get her revenge, but not in the way she wants. Ivan is not a man that would subject himself to be under anyone's control, his magic more powerful than the one of the Priestess that called him. He owes a debt to the Priestess' uncle, so he will help her get retribution. He will help, just not by her rules.
As we follow them in their quest for revenge, we see that the monsters of the world are not always the bad guys and that being good is a matter of perception. Like most stories in The Villain's Code, the setting is morally gray, and we find that, sometimes, we create our own demons. Being good and being bad, it's sometimes a matter of perception.
This is the story I loved the most, to see how Perle's perception changed through the story, how her convictions were set in stone, but while being with Ivan, her perception of the world shattered. My only problem with the story is that it was too short, and I wanted more!
A Very Villainous Christmas
Tori and Ivan are getting ready for Christmas when they are called to the North Pole to help Santa, as Ivan is the Guardian of Christmas Magic.
Again, the story challenges our perceptions as the biggest villain turns out to be the protector of Christmas, and Lodestar, our beloved Hero, is the enemy of Santa, because of misunderstandings, but still.
As we see Ivan fighting to save Christmas, we get snippets of people's Christmas experiences. Once again, we see that the villains are not that bad, and the heroes are not that good.
A Night in Hallowville
The visit of a powerful being, Spooky Trudy, marks the start of Hallowville. This magical village appears during October and allows visitors to become whatever they are dressed as. They don't get the full power of the people they dress as, only an echo of their powers. How much of them they get depends on how they perceive the powers. For most people is a chance to test magic, get flight, superstrength, and all the classics. During the day is a friendly family setup, like a Halloween theme park. During the night, it's a truly spooky experience where safety is not warranted, but playing the town's games could grant you a wish, if you survive.
For Tori, a very science-oriented person, experiencing magic is a challenge. She approaches the town as someone conducting an experiment, but once her friends get in danger, she must embrace the magic to save the day. We get many of our favorite characters of the Villain's Code here, but as always, I love seeing more of Helen, the most powerful being in the world. She goes into Hallowville to help keep people safe and to experience what it is to be someone different.
The Priestess and The Peril
Perle the Priestess was trying to summon a champion to save her world from the demons, but he got a villain, one that will help her get her revenge, but not in the way she wants. Ivan is not a man that would subject himself to be under anyone's control, his magic more powerful than the one of the Priestess that called him. He owes a debt to the Priestess' uncle, so he will help her get retribution. He will help, just not by her rules.
As we follow them in their quest for revenge, we see that the monsters of the world are not always the bad guys and that being good is a matter of perception. Like most stories in The Villain's Code, the setting is morally gray, and we find that, sometimes, we create our own demons. Being good and being bad, it's sometimes a matter of perception.
This is the story I loved the most, to see how Perle's perception changed through the story, how her convictions were set in stone, but while being with Ivan, her perception of the world shattered. My only problem with the story is that it was too short, and I wanted more!
A Very Villainous Christmas
Tori and Ivan are getting ready for Christmas when they are called to the North Pole to help Santa, as Ivan is the Guardian of Christmas Magic.
Again, the story challenges our perceptions as the biggest villain turns out to be the protector of Christmas, and Lodestar, our beloved Hero, is the enemy of Santa, because of misunderstandings, but still.
As we see Ivan fighting to save Christmas, we get snippets of people's Christmas experiences. Once again, we see that the villains are not that bad, and the heroes are not that good.
June 4, 2025
Amazing!!! Just as good as the previous novels!
This was a perfect addition to the villains code universe and JUST the thing to tide us over while we eagerly await the next book in the series to come out! I am a huge fan of Drew Hayes and every single work hes ever produced. He's a genius and can create a thrilling, engaging, entertaining, funny story like NO OTHER! Its almost like he creates magic with his words (to me anyway). Out of all his works so far, and other on-going series i have to say that the villains code books are my favorite. Hayes character development is always perfection but the characters in this series hit different. Something special about them and the whole world in general. I listened and relistened to both the previous books more times than id like to admit whilst waiting for the new addition so this being released in the meantime is very much appreciated and exciting!
Beyond all that i enjoyed this book in a different way than the 2 primary books. Not more or less per say but since it contains several short storys that dont have to tie into a larger plot Drew is able to be more free and zany with his ideas which is where he really shines. The halloween tale with spooky Trudy was a delight. We got to enjoy seeing our beloved villains (and heros) let loose and have some fun while exploring a really cool environment and play around with different powers to test their limits and get a new perspective on both their friends and enemies (which had some really cool results). He also introduced another intriguing character with an amazing power.
In the 2nd story we got to see Ivan really cut loose and go all fornax on some bad guys during some multiverse shenanigans. I love storys that include multiverse mechanics and up until this point it had just been brought up in storys and anecdotes but never really dealt with in depth. I was hoping we would get to delve deeper into another universe and Hayes delivered! Ivan is such an amazing character and part of what makes him so solid and respectable is his immense will power and restraint, even though he has the power to pretty much do whatever he wants. So we dont normally get to see him go all out which is what made the 2nd story so special and enjoyable. We also got introduced to some more solid characters in this new world. Im hoping we'll get to see more from them in the future..
Then last but not least we have a Christmas adventure! Christmas magic, elves, santas and saving christmas! The whole nine yards! Words cannot express how amazing this book was and how much i enjoyed it. It was perfect. I honestly cant think of one single complaint or negative thing to say about it. If you enjoyed the previous books i can assure you with utter confidence that you WILL enjoy this one as well.. Bout to start from the beginning again and await news of Drew Hayes next masterpiece 😁🫡🫣
This was a perfect addition to the villains code universe and JUST the thing to tide us over while we eagerly await the next book in the series to come out! I am a huge fan of Drew Hayes and every single work hes ever produced. He's a genius and can create a thrilling, engaging, entertaining, funny story like NO OTHER! Its almost like he creates magic with his words (to me anyway). Out of all his works so far, and other on-going series i have to say that the villains code books are my favorite. Hayes character development is always perfection but the characters in this series hit different. Something special about them and the whole world in general. I listened and relistened to both the previous books more times than id like to admit whilst waiting for the new addition so this being released in the meantime is very much appreciated and exciting!
Beyond all that i enjoyed this book in a different way than the 2 primary books. Not more or less per say but since it contains several short storys that dont have to tie into a larger plot Drew is able to be more free and zany with his ideas which is where he really shines. The halloween tale with spooky Trudy was a delight. We got to enjoy seeing our beloved villains (and heros) let loose and have some fun while exploring a really cool environment and play around with different powers to test their limits and get a new perspective on both their friends and enemies (which had some really cool results). He also introduced another intriguing character with an amazing power.
In the 2nd story we got to see Ivan really cut loose and go all fornax on some bad guys during some multiverse shenanigans. I love storys that include multiverse mechanics and up until this point it had just been brought up in storys and anecdotes but never really dealt with in depth. I was hoping we would get to delve deeper into another universe and Hayes delivered! Ivan is such an amazing character and part of what makes him so solid and respectable is his immense will power and restraint, even though he has the power to pretty much do whatever he wants. So we dont normally get to see him go all out which is what made the 2nd story so special and enjoyable. We also got introduced to some more solid characters in this new world. Im hoping we'll get to see more from them in the future..
Then last but not least we have a Christmas adventure! Christmas magic, elves, santas and saving christmas! The whole nine yards! Words cannot express how amazing this book was and how much i enjoyed it. It was perfect. I honestly cant think of one single complaint or negative thing to say about it. If you enjoyed the previous books i can assure you with utter confidence that you WILL enjoy this one as well.. Bout to start from the beginning again and await news of Drew Hayes next masterpiece 😁🫡🫣
March 4, 2025
3/5 overall.
Fine, with one story I thought was cute and worth the light time investment it required, but overall admittedly a little grumpy to have had to halt in reading the 3rd book to jump to read plot relevant/referenced shorts.
Vignette #1 - 3.25/5
Very light. Cute enough overall, but definitely was missing more of the depth and grit of the main series, which made for kind of an odd reading experience. But as a throw away short, the setting was kind of cute, and the end bit of the fight where Tori gets an upgrade was fun enough. Fine enough overall as a one time read, but didn't really add anything to the overall series for me.
Vignette #2 - 1.5/5
I... did not enjoy this one at all. I was initially intrigued by the idea of seeing Ivan in his younger years, but having this be from the point of view of an unknown fantasy character in a separate fantasy world made it supremely hard to invest in anything that was happening, and the pov character's repetitive internal wailing about Ivan's violence got real old, real fast. I didnt care for any of the new characters or the world, and Ivan was also just bored violence, so no fun there either. I know it's a vain hope, but very much hoping we don't revisit anything here.
Vignette #3 - 4/5
I actually liked this one! I was tickled by both Ivan and Lodestar's personal relations to the holiday magics. I felt like this hit the mark that the first vignette was aiming for in terms of fun holiday special.
Fine, with one story I thought was cute and worth the light time investment it required, but overall admittedly a little grumpy to have had to halt in reading the 3rd book to jump to read plot relevant/referenced shorts.
Vignette #1 - 3.25/5
Very light. Cute enough overall, but definitely was missing more of the depth and grit of the main series, which made for kind of an odd reading experience. But as a throw away short, the setting was kind of cute, and the end bit of the fight where Tori gets an upgrade was fun enough. Fine enough overall as a one time read, but didn't really add anything to the overall series for me.
Vignette #2 - 1.5/5
I... did not enjoy this one at all. I was initially intrigued by the idea of seeing Ivan in his younger years, but having this be from the point of view of an unknown fantasy character in a separate fantasy world made it supremely hard to invest in anything that was happening, and the pov character's repetitive internal wailing about Ivan's violence got real old, real fast. I didnt care for any of the new characters or the world, and Ivan was also just bored violence, so no fun there either. I know it's a vain hope, but very much hoping we don't revisit anything here.
Vignette #3 - 4/5
I actually liked this one! I was tickled by both Ivan and Lodestar's personal relations to the holiday magics. I felt like this hit the mark that the first vignette was aiming for in terms of fun holiday special.
July 5, 2023
The 3 star rating is a bit misleading, so let me explain. I’m a huge fan of Drew Hayes and the worlds he builds, and I very much enjoy the stories he tells in the Villains’ Code series. My rating is an average of my ratings for each of the three vignettes.
Vignette 1 - 4 stars, I thought this was an amazing concept (Hayes’ fans will know just how much he truly loves Halloween). He played with well-loved characters and put them in a unique and vibrantly alive setting.
Vignette 2 - 2 Stars, This felt almost like a separate world and concept that Hayes puts Ivan in, just to show how truly relentless and horrifying he can be. I will say, Drew wrote the gore and horrifying aspects of combat beautifully with some vivid imagery.
Vignette 3 - 3 Stars, The story was an enjoyable check-in with all of the characters that fans of the main series will be glad to see again. It was a fun and lighthearted reunion that will successfully keep readers satisfied until the next main novel. The only downside was that its cheery plot and lowered stakes felt like too much of a tonal shift after spending the previous 80+ pages with Ivan’s mercilessness and wanton murder.
Vignette 1 - 4 stars, I thought this was an amazing concept (Hayes’ fans will know just how much he truly loves Halloween). He played with well-loved characters and put them in a unique and vibrantly alive setting.
Vignette 2 - 2 Stars, This felt almost like a separate world and concept that Hayes puts Ivan in, just to show how truly relentless and horrifying he can be. I will say, Drew wrote the gore and horrifying aspects of combat beautifully with some vivid imagery.
Vignette 3 - 3 Stars, The story was an enjoyable check-in with all of the characters that fans of the main series will be glad to see again. It was a fun and lighthearted reunion that will successfully keep readers satisfied until the next main novel. The only downside was that its cheery plot and lowered stakes felt like too much of a tonal shift after spending the previous 80+ pages with Ivan’s mercilessness and wanton murder.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 25, 2023
An extension to my favorite series from Drew Hayes. It only gets 4 stars from me, though. The first story I absolutely adored and listened to repeatedly. There was some character building and exploration of the relationships between them I found a lot of fun to read.
Jumping to the third story, it was still good, but a little obviously campy. Rather like nearly every Christmas special ever. So while I enjoyed it, especially enjoyed the firming of the relationship between Ivan and Tori as becoming family, it isn't one I'll repeatedly go back to. It's so nice to have an author that explores more of the himan aspects of the characters instead of relying heavily on tropes. However, if he keeps dropping such heavy hints about another specific character and doesn't do anything about it in the third book of the series I will be severely disappointed. XD
Now, for the middle. It was interesting, and nice to get a view of an event in Ivan's past. This one I only went through once, however. Without all the regular supporting characters, and no Tori.. I was less inclined to come back for seconds. (Or thirds, fourths, fiths, sixths, and on...) Definitely an amusing read, though. :)
Jumping to the third story, it was still good, but a little obviously campy. Rather like nearly every Christmas special ever. So while I enjoyed it, especially enjoyed the firming of the relationship between Ivan and Tori as becoming family, it isn't one I'll repeatedly go back to. It's so nice to have an author that explores more of the himan aspects of the characters instead of relying heavily on tropes. However, if he keeps dropping such heavy hints about another specific character and doesn't do anything about it in the third book of the series I will be severely disappointed. XD
Now, for the middle. It was interesting, and nice to get a view of an event in Ivan's past. This one I only went through once, however. Without all the regular supporting characters, and no Tori.. I was less inclined to come back for seconds. (Or thirds, fourths, fiths, sixths, and on...) Definitely an amusing read, though. :)
October 14, 2023
A delightful aperitif!
Drew Hayes' Villains Code series has rapidly become one of my favorites. As is often the case, after reading an installation in one of his series, the wait for the next one is interminable-seeming.
Since his annual choose your own adventure Halloween series came to an end last year, this collection of stories served to not only bridge the gap between villains code novels, but also bring back the feeling of reading those adventures every year leading up the Halloween. The nod to that writing style inside the villain's code world was heartily appreciated!
The three novella style offerings, serve as a great glimpse into Drew's minds inner working. The wide gamut of storylines and inspirations that he draws on are spread out here in front of the reader in a buffet of enjoyable reading. It may not be necessary, but reading the first two installments of the villains code would bring an entirely different level of understanding to this book.
Drew, great work! I'm delighted as always by what you've created. Thank you.
Drew Hayes' Villains Code series has rapidly become one of my favorites. As is often the case, after reading an installation in one of his series, the wait for the next one is interminable-seeming.
Since his annual choose your own adventure Halloween series came to an end last year, this collection of stories served to not only bridge the gap between villains code novels, but also bring back the feeling of reading those adventures every year leading up the Halloween. The nod to that writing style inside the villain's code world was heartily appreciated!
The three novella style offerings, serve as a great glimpse into Drew's minds inner working. The wide gamut of storylines and inspirations that he draws on are spread out here in front of the reader in a buffet of enjoyable reading. It may not be necessary, but reading the first two installments of the villains code would bring an entirely different level of understanding to this book.
Drew, great work! I'm delighted as always by what you've created. Thank you.
February 17, 2024
Since this is a collection of three novellas, I'll talk about them separately:
This first novella is a superhero Halloween. Interesting bits of information about several of the regular characters and a rather slight but entertaining plot. 3.5 stars.
The second is backstory for Ivan set in a fantasy world. There is almost no threat to any of the characters, all the character development is for previously unknown characters from the fantasy world, the plot is rather incoherent, and the story ends on a cliff-hanger. 1.5 stars.
The last novella is a superhero Christmas. There are short bits of multiple story lines interlaced, and the result isn't a very good story. But there are several good character moments, so I'd rate it 3 stars.
There's nothing here that is essential to any of the other books (as of the time of this review, anyway), so I'd say it's really only for completists.
This first novella is a superhero Halloween. Interesting bits of information about several of the regular characters and a rather slight but entertaining plot. 3.5 stars.
The second is backstory for Ivan set in a fantasy world. There is almost no threat to any of the characters, all the character development is for previously unknown characters from the fantasy world, the plot is rather incoherent, and the story ends on a cliff-hanger. 1.5 stars.
The last novella is a superhero Christmas. There are short bits of multiple story lines interlaced, and the result isn't a very good story. But there are several good character moments, so I'd rate it 3 stars.
There's nothing here that is essential to any of the other books (as of the time of this review, anyway), so I'd say it's really only for completists.
August 13, 2025
I picked this book up when I was about to take a long train ride at a used bookstore. I found it in the Fantasy section, and the back of the book sure did sound like it came from some fantasy series I had never heard of.
Imagine my surprise when it turned out to be a superhero universe.
I think it might be self-published too, and if so, the author put the extra effort in to ensure everything was spelled correctly, one of the biggest problems I have found on those occasions where I read a self-published book.
As for the book itself, it’s fine. The middle story, actually set in a fantasy world, was the one I liked best. I don’t regret reading it in the slightest, but I don’t know that I would go out of my way for more. It might have helped if I knew more about the characters and setting, but the book was entertaining, and that’s all that matters.
Imagine my surprise when it turned out to be a superhero universe.
I think it might be self-published too, and if so, the author put the extra effort in to ensure everything was spelled correctly, one of the biggest problems I have found on those occasions where I read a self-published book.
As for the book itself, it’s fine. The middle story, actually set in a fantasy world, was the one I liked best. I don’t regret reading it in the slightest, but I don’t know that I would go out of my way for more. It might have helped if I knew more about the characters and setting, but the book was entertaining, and that’s all that matters.
October 4, 2023
I wasn't sure where this stood in the time line, so I accidentally spoiled "Bones Of The Past" for myself by reading the first story early, so don't do that.
I really liked this. The "Spooky Trudy" idea is a great one and I really like how the power works and how it's used to show characters using powers outside of their usual powerset.
The fantasy story is good, but I don't think the character involved is really a good fit, which is kind of the whole point.
The Christmas story is possibly my favorite for these characters, just a really fun story that has a good explanation for a lot of Christmas Magic and how it works in this Superhero World.
I really liked this. The "Spooky Trudy" idea is a great one and I really like how the power works and how it's used to show characters using powers outside of their usual powerset.
The fantasy story is good, but I don't think the character involved is really a good fit, which is kind of the whole point.
The Christmas story is possibly my favorite for these characters, just a really fun story that has a good explanation for a lot of Christmas Magic and how it works in this Superhero World.
April 22, 2024
I never really quite got my head around the system of heroes and villains in this world (which I realise encompasses several more books than this one.) The ideas seemed really interesting but perhaps not entirely thought-through, with the mechanics and explanations feeling a bit cumbersome. I was intrigued by some of the more unique powers. I think my main disappointment was that I never got a lot of sense of personality with most of the characters, and definitely never got any real sense of what villain means here.
August 20, 2024
I was so excited to get back into these books. I love the Super Hero/Villain worlds that Drew Hayes created. I pretty much always do the audio books, I am not sure who picks the narrator but the Super Powerds as well as the Villains Code narrators are spot on. I dont even want to pick up the book, I am pretty sure if I did, i would just read it in the audiobook voice.
Back to this book, the three stories were really fun, the first one was by far my favorite, I felt like that could be a whole book on its own. I cant wait to read (but really listen) to book 3!
Back to this book, the three stories were really fun, the first one was by far my favorite, I felt like that could be a whole book on its own. I cant wait to read (but really listen) to book 3!
November 26, 2024
Drew Hayes characters from his Super Powereds series feature in a series of short stories that leave you as enchanted as the series is. While language and violence still feature they are a fun series of reads perfect for the holidays. I could picture the Halloween story as a video game and am just waiting on someone to produce it. Aside from that there is no disappointment as these creative stories entertain to the fullest. If you have read the series, this is a must not miss.
Joseph McKnight
http://www.josephmcknight.com
Joseph McKnight
http://www.josephmcknight.com
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