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The Magician's Brother #8
Defiler's Curse
In the quest to save my life, I delved into unnatural powers and changed myself utterly. I mastered new forms of Magic and discovered others. I expanded my knowledge, learned and grew; both as a Magician and as a man.
It wasn’t enough.
All I managed to do was to buy myself some time, and now that time is running out.
My brother has fought me every step of the way. He even murdered my one hope of a cure and, in his demented desire to finish the job, went digging into mysteries he had no business with.
Now he’s been taken. Body and Soul; possessed by the first conqueror, the monster who destroyed mankind’s first stab at complex civilisation.
Desmond was dangerous when he was simply the First Shadow. An idiot with power is still lethal. Now, he has the power of an Archon coupled with the ability and intellect of the very first Black Magician.
I couldn’t stop him before.
What the hell am I going to do now?
It wasn’t enough.
All I managed to do was to buy myself some time, and now that time is running out.
My brother has fought me every step of the way. He even murdered my one hope of a cure and, in his demented desire to finish the job, went digging into mysteries he had no business with.
Now he’s been taken. Body and Soul; possessed by the first conqueror, the monster who destroyed mankind’s first stab at complex civilisation.
Desmond was dangerous when he was simply the First Shadow. An idiot with power is still lethal. Now, he has the power of an Archon coupled with the ability and intellect of the very first Black Magician.
I couldn’t stop him before.
What the hell am I going to do now?
786 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 6, 2023
58 people are currently reading
44 people want to read
About the author
H.D.A. Roberts
9 books180 followershttps://www.facebook.com/The-Magician...
hdaroberts@gmail.com
hdaroberts@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
October 27, 2023
Good conclusion, great series... cringe relationship dialogue.
Overall I really enjoyed the series. It created a really, really cool world with magic and monsters that was entertaining, fast paced and thrilling. The largest complaint I have in the series is the constant belittling of the protagonist from his friends and family. The author tried to disguise this in the guise of love, but it was so abusive and belittling in demeaning to the main character it pulled you out of the immersion of the story and was truly distasteful at times. The main character as the protagonist wanted to value life above all however that included keeping villains alive that would kill his loved ones, even in the name of self-defense which makes the story contradict itself because the main character is not a pacifist. It didn't make the character more interesting it made him appear stupid and unable to grasp simple logical concepts in life when the author tries to have him as a very intelligent and cunning person. Aside from that, some of the dialogue within the relationships was rather cringe and borderline Middle School dance note passing.
All that criticism aside the series overall was really good entertaining and fun to read it made me turn pages and ignore some of the dialogue in relationship encounters but other than that I enjoyed it and look forward to more in the world the author has built.
Overall I really enjoyed the series. It created a really, really cool world with magic and monsters that was entertaining, fast paced and thrilling. The largest complaint I have in the series is the constant belittling of the protagonist from his friends and family. The author tried to disguise this in the guise of love, but it was so abusive and belittling in demeaning to the main character it pulled you out of the immersion of the story and was truly distasteful at times. The main character as the protagonist wanted to value life above all however that included keeping villains alive that would kill his loved ones, even in the name of self-defense which makes the story contradict itself because the main character is not a pacifist. It didn't make the character more interesting it made him appear stupid and unable to grasp simple logical concepts in life when the author tries to have him as a very intelligent and cunning person. Aside from that, some of the dialogue within the relationships was rather cringe and borderline Middle School dance note passing.
All that criticism aside the series overall was really good entertaining and fun to read it made me turn pages and ignore some of the dialogue in relationship encounters but other than that I enjoyed it and look forward to more in the world the author has built.
September 15, 2023
Good but Power Inconsistency
I think the plot was well done for the most part. The reason for three stars is because the author got lazy at crucial junctions to derive said plot. Firstly I feel it was lackluster the way he indisposed the other Archons. There were utilized magics in the same book that could have easily neutralized the atomic energy. Even if time was slowed they still could have just teleported them out. Or caused a singularity in the middle of explosion to absorb it. Or even just funneled the energy through a spell form ( which was done through the book by the MC) he repeatedly used atomic energy and on scale’s arguably greater then the explosion that held them. That’s not even mentioning the fact that something like that shouldn’t even be a threat to prepared archons. The second sloppy aspect was letting in the death goddess Willy nilly. It didn’t make sense at any level and you can tell it only happened to drive the story. The harem aspect was thankfully not as prevalent but the interactions with the females around him are still annoying and unrealistic. Lastly the difference in power levels throughout the book are inconsistent and need to be smoothed out. They can barely handle a building of wizards and a small bomb but can then turn around and take on a powerful dimensional/goddess monster? It’s doesn’t scale right.
I think the plot was well done for the most part. The reason for three stars is because the author got lazy at crucial junctions to derive said plot. Firstly I feel it was lackluster the way he indisposed the other Archons. There were utilized magics in the same book that could have easily neutralized the atomic energy. Even if time was slowed they still could have just teleported them out. Or caused a singularity in the middle of explosion to absorb it. Or even just funneled the energy through a spell form ( which was done through the book by the MC) he repeatedly used atomic energy and on scale’s arguably greater then the explosion that held them. That’s not even mentioning the fact that something like that shouldn’t even be a threat to prepared archons. The second sloppy aspect was letting in the death goddess Willy nilly. It didn’t make sense at any level and you can tell it only happened to drive the story. The harem aspect was thankfully not as prevalent but the interactions with the females around him are still annoying and unrealistic. Lastly the difference in power levels throughout the book are inconsistent and need to be smoothed out. They can barely handle a building of wizards and a small bomb but can then turn around and take on a powerful dimensional/goddess monster? It’s doesn’t scale right.
September 16, 2023
Outstanding
In the beginning of the series you start to see some tropes and it patterns that make you fear the author may lean s little too hard on them reducing the quality and maybe even your interest in the story. I'm happy to say that the author gets more refined, each book feels tighter and more satisfying. It makes the things you enjoy and the parts you worry about actually good. This book may be the best of the best as to how all things and reasons we've read this far are concerned. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and it's ending as well as where it might take us in the future. Besides, pitiably couldn't trust abutting I could say specifically* because I'm likely to lie so the author gets the support and encouragement to write another and I selfishly get my portal into the next installment.
In the beginning of the series you start to see some tropes and it patterns that make you fear the author may lean s little too hard on them reducing the quality and maybe even your interest in the story. I'm happy to say that the author gets more refined, each book feels tighter and more satisfying. It makes the things you enjoy and the parts you worry about actually good. This book may be the best of the best as to how all things and reasons we've read this far are concerned. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and it's ending as well as where it might take us in the future. Besides, pitiably couldn't trust abutting I could say specifically* because I'm likely to lie so the author gets the support and encouragement to write another and I selfishly get my portal into the next installment.
October 18, 2023
Total Garbage
If you like everyone trying to outquip each other, no matter how serious the situation is, you might like this novel. Every character is a sarcastic @$$. It doesn't feel like there are any stakes when everyone is joking about everything, even when they're literally dying. It kills all sense of the dramatic and makes this series a silly waste of time.
I'm sorry that I tried to give it another chance. No more.
If you like everyone trying to outquip each other, no matter how serious the situation is, you might like this novel. Every character is a sarcastic @$$. It doesn't feel like there are any stakes when everyone is joking about everything, even when they're literally dying. It kills all sense of the dramatic and makes this series a silly waste of time.
I'm sorry that I tried to give it another chance. No more.
March 13, 2025
I was disappointed with the last two books.
September 17, 2023
I can’t think of anything that I didn’t enjoy in this book
OMG! That was nigh unto perfect!
I can’t gush enough about this book! I have loved Matthew’s journey throughout this series, but his growth and coming into his own, in this book, were truly epic. I completely didn’t foresee the depth of betrayal that he faced. And some of his choices were horrifying. But I love that he’s still the same, insanely clever, powerhouse that he’s always been.
I can’t wait to see what other misfortunes befall him as he settles into his role after this.
OMG! That was nigh unto perfect!
I can’t gush enough about this book! I have loved Matthew’s journey throughout this series, but his growth and coming into his own, in this book, were truly epic. I completely didn’t foresee the depth of betrayal that he faced. And some of his choices were horrifying. But I love that he’s still the same, insanely clever, powerhouse that he’s always been.
I can’t wait to see what other misfortunes befall him as he settles into his role after this.
September 28, 2023
incredible just truly incredible!
I’m an avid reader and this serious has become one of my all time favorites. A lot of the other reviews have already said it all and in much more glamorous terms than I ever could. But let me put all you doubters to rest with this statement. I have been reading over 70 books a year since I was 14 (now 38) and all of them have been fantasy novels and series. And this series has (like a sneaky Graves plot) somehow ended up in my top five book series of all time! It’s phenomenal and a truly incredible work of literature !
I’m an avid reader and this serious has become one of my all time favorites. A lot of the other reviews have already said it all and in much more glamorous terms than I ever could. But let me put all you doubters to rest with this statement. I have been reading over 70 books a year since I was 14 (now 38) and all of them have been fantasy novels and series. And this series has (like a sneaky Graves plot) somehow ended up in my top five book series of all time! It’s phenomenal and a truly incredible work of literature !
October 14, 2023
Absolutely Fantastic
I've really enjoyed this whole series. So much, I may have taken a break from other books I was reading as soon as I saw this one available. As in, I did exactly that. The characters are great. The world is absolutely fantastic. The humor is top notch. Even when I'm wanting to yell at the MC to stop being dumb, it's only because I'm so invested. It all fits perfectly. I just hope the series keeps going.
Also, the first few books are already available on audible. I consider them WELL worth adding to a collection.
I've really enjoyed this whole series. So much, I may have taken a break from other books I was reading as soon as I saw this one available. As in, I did exactly that. The characters are great. The world is absolutely fantastic. The humor is top notch. Even when I'm wanting to yell at the MC to stop being dumb, it's only because I'm so invested. It all fits perfectly. I just hope the series keeps going.
Also, the first few books are already available on audible. I consider them WELL worth adding to a collection.
October 16, 2023
#1 book for 2023
Once again Roberts has created a masterpiece of literary art and fiction. A book that perfectly captures the readers imagination and attention to create an entire world that can all to easily be mistaken for reality. Every character truly feels alive with there own dreams, goals, ambitions and personalities that truly make this book stand out from the rest as a pinnacle of literacy and speak to the masterful skill of HDA Roberts as an author with few peers. Thank you for such an amazing story. I greatly look forward to reading your next series. Sincerely CB
Once again Roberts has created a masterpiece of literary art and fiction. A book that perfectly captures the readers imagination and attention to create an entire world that can all to easily be mistaken for reality. Every character truly feels alive with there own dreams, goals, ambitions and personalities that truly make this book stand out from the rest as a pinnacle of literacy and speak to the masterful skill of HDA Roberts as an author with few peers. Thank you for such an amazing story. I greatly look forward to reading your next series. Sincerely CB
February 1, 2025
Was this book entertaining/did it keep my attention? Yes. Do I consider it great literature? No.
The base story of this entire series is fascinating and highly entertaining. The characters... if they were as fleshed out as the world they inhabited, this series would be incredible. Sadly, while I acknowledge that the author attempts to give each character their own personality, they end all end up very similar. I sincerely wish Roberts would provide a second edition of these books .
The base story of this entire series is fascinating and highly entertaining. The characters... if they were as fleshed out as the world they inhabited, this series would be incredible. Sadly, while I acknowledge that the author attempts to give each character their own personality, they end all end up very similar. I sincerely wish Roberts would provide a second edition of these books .
September 9, 2023
One of the Greats!
As usual…. a laugh out loud, cry openly, absolute masterpiece of book. With enough magic and entertainment to keep me reading wayyy beyond 2am. I love this series and the stories progression and characters. I believe this is one of the greatest stories I’ve ever read or heard about in the past 10 years of my reading addiction. Truly a great book!
As usual…. a laugh out loud, cry openly, absolute masterpiece of book. With enough magic and entertainment to keep me reading wayyy beyond 2am. I love this series and the stories progression and characters. I believe this is one of the greatest stories I’ve ever read or heard about in the past 10 years of my reading addiction. Truly a great book!
June 12, 2024
wow, that’s great
Ok I have read, and loved all the books, they have built on a universe and characters that I have grown to love, so no problem there.
However
I don’t know how long till the next book comes out and that is hard to live with
The books are great and I hope however reads this enjoys the series as much as I did/do!
Have fun
Ok I have read, and loved all the books, they have built on a universe and characters that I have grown to love, so no problem there.
However
I don’t know how long till the next book comes out and that is hard to live with
The books are great and I hope however reads this enjoys the series as much as I did/do!
Have fun
September 9, 2023
Enjoyable as always
As usual love this series cant wait for the next one. Though i worry what comes next with so much power he has access to shadow Black primal magic defiled what evers happening with the fairy magic and how theyre going tl react to the Black Matthew
As usual love this series cant wait for the next one. Though i worry what comes next with so much power he has access to shadow Black primal magic defiled what evers happening with the fairy magic and how theyre going tl react to the Black Matthew
September 9, 2023
Wonderful!
This book has been well worth the wait! It is one of the best things I’ve read in a very long time, full of unexpected plot, twists that keep you on the edge of your seat!
HDA outdid himself on this one!
This book has been well worth the wait! It is one of the best things I’ve read in a very long time, full of unexpected plot, twists that keep you on the edge of your seat!
HDA outdid himself on this one!
September 11, 2023
top 3 best series ever
I love this series, definitely a series that I will buy in paperback so I can reread it. World building is great, it never goes how I expect it to go and just overal great.
I love this series, definitely a series that I will buy in paperback so I can reread it. World building is great, it never goes how I expect it to go and just overal great.
September 12, 2023
BEST EVER!!!!!!!
I love this series! HDA Roberts keep doing what you’re doing! Though side not I think it needs a little editing but it wasn’t such a problem that I can give any less than a 5/10 star review.
I love this series! HDA Roberts keep doing what you’re doing! Though side not I think it needs a little editing but it wasn’t such a problem that I can give any less than a 5/10 star review.
September 12, 2023
A logical magician
Great extension to the series closes some enemies out and shows what shadow borne can do with the right choices. - wanted to see some more regular things rather than constant battles but definitely keeps the pace of adventure at full speed
Great extension to the series closes some enemies out and shows what shadow borne can do with the right choices. - wanted to see some more regular things rather than constant battles but definitely keeps the pace of adventure at full speed
September 26, 2023
Funniest protagonist ever
Hands down the amount of grief poor Mathew gives and recieves in this novel alone was some of the funniest nonsense I've ever read him and Killian bickering in the final battle of the novel had me cackling
Hands down the amount of grief poor Mathew gives and recieves in this novel alone was some of the funniest nonsense I've ever read him and Killian bickering in the final battle of the novel had me cackling
September 26, 2023
Amazing story continues
I’ve read this series cover to cover and this newest one is arguably one of my favorites.
The amount of times that I catch myself smiling or laughing while reading this book is pretty embarrassing :)
I’ve read this series cover to cover and this newest one is arguably one of my favorites.
The amount of times that I catch myself smiling or laughing while reading this book is pretty embarrassing :)
October 25, 2023
Wonderful series!
Loved this whole series. Fast paced with so much action, humor, and all the things you run into when people hate you for your magic. I loved the hero and his friends. Definitely recommended.
Loved this whole series. Fast paced with so much action, humor, and all the things you run into when people hate you for your magic. I loved the hero and his friends. Definitely recommended.
November 8, 2023
“The Magician’s Brother Series”
Great books with lots of humor, I loved them all. If wishes were horses, I would hope he would write some more in this series. Then beggars could ride, and ride along with each story! Maybe someday he will, needs must!
Great books with lots of humor, I loved them all. If wishes were horses, I would hope he would write some more in this series. Then beggars could ride, and ride along with each story! Maybe someday he will, needs must!
November 14, 2023
great read. the whole series
I wasn’t sure about these books. They kept popping up on my recommendations in good reads, and on kindle. Boy am I glad I gave in and got the first one. I cannot wait for the next one to come out. I will be looking into more of HDA. Robert’s books
I wasn’t sure about these books. They kept popping up on my recommendations in good reads, and on kindle. Boy am I glad I gave in and got the first one. I cannot wait for the next one to come out. I will be looking into more of HDA. Robert’s books
November 30, 2023
8 books and I loved them
Holding my attention for 8 books is a challenge and in this case a treat. Enjoyable, and entertaining. This captures the imagination and Will keep you in captivity for the whole series.
Holding my attention for 8 books is a challenge and in this case a treat. Enjoyable, and entertaining. This captures the imagination and Will keep you in captivity for the whole series.
December 19, 2023
Keep digging a hole and after awhile it just gets ridiculous.
Keeping making the same mistake over and over amounts to the same thing. This book reached a tipping point. It just became ridiculous.
Keeping making the same mistake over and over amounts to the same thing. This book reached a tipping point. It just became ridiculous.
September 10, 2023
Totally worth the wait.
It was refreshing to watch Matthew finally have some reward for his fight with Black Magic and grow into his role as a crisis manger and leader.
It was refreshing to watch Matthew finally have some reward for his fight with Black Magic and grow into his role as a crisis manger and leader.
September 11, 2023
the greatest series ever!
This was awesome! So worth the wait! I definitely recommend to anyone who likes to read! I can’t wait for the next one!!
This was awesome! So worth the wait! I definitely recommend to anyone who likes to read! I can’t wait for the next one!!
September 11, 2023
Roller coaster of emotions!
One of my favorite books of the series so far!! I can wait for more books but just wish they didn't take a year in between to come out!
One of my favorite books of the series so far!! I can wait for more books but just wish they didn't take a year in between to come out!
September 13, 2023
Very fun
There are a few grammatical errors but nothing that detracts from the story. Overall a great read and I can't wait for the audible books to come out.
There are a few grammatical errors but nothing that detracts from the story. Overall a great read and I can't wait for the audible books to come out.
September 14, 2023
Outstanding addition to the series.
I wish the books got here sooner, but if this is what it takes for the quality delivered, then I am happy to wait
I wish the books got here sooner, but if this is what it takes for the quality delivered, then I am happy to wait
September 16, 2023
a good continuation
An excellent continuation of the series.
A nice change of pace from the last one.
Can’t wait for the next book when it arrives.
An excellent continuation of the series.
A nice change of pace from the last one.
Can’t wait for the next book when it arrives.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews