What do you think?
Rate this book
Commerce Emperor #1
Commerce Emperor
The world is up for sale, and he's making an offer.When Robin Waybright became the Merchant Hero, all of Pangeal turned into his marketplace; for the Merchant can buy and sell anything. Youth, skills, memories, hair color, joys and illnesses… in the trade of power, every deal can tip the scale.
And Robin needs power. His homeland of Archfrost teeters on the brink of collapse, the sinister Demon Ancestors plot in the shadows, and twenty-one other Heroes, each with their own Class, have been chosen to save the world of Pangeal. Not all of them are friendly.
There’s work to do… and profit to make.Don't miss the next progression fantasy series from Maxime J. Durand, bestselling author of Apocalypse Tamer and The Perfect Run. Featuring a unique, commerce-based progression system, detailed world-building, three-dimensional characters, and a plot loaded with twist and turns!
And Robin needs power. His homeland of Archfrost teeters on the brink of collapse, the sinister Demon Ancestors plot in the shadows, and twenty-one other Heroes, each with their own Class, have been chosen to save the world of Pangeal. Not all of them are friendly.
There’s work to do… and profit to make.Don't miss the next progression fantasy series from Maxime J. Durand, bestselling author of Apocalypse Tamer and The Perfect Run. Featuring a unique, commerce-based progression system, detailed world-building, three-dimensional characters, and a plot loaded with twist and turns!
498 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 6, 2024
251 people are currently reading
124 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
July 12, 2024
A great premise, wasted.
I had hopes for this book going in, but came away disappointed. The premise is great, I found the idea of a non combat class with an interesting spin intriguing. The final result was sort of a mess though.
On the strengths I’d say the premise is its biggest, the overall power system is decent, the characterisation in some cases is good, and there are two short stories (interludes that read as short stories), that though they were poorly paced in their inclusion were actually very good.
On the bad side though I have several points.
1) The main character is a hypocrite. This is by far my biggest critique. He views himself as something of a martyr, proud of his morals and good character. Other characters often remark on what a good guy he is, almost too good, verging on naive. He’s also a monster completely ok with human experimentation. These two things could, perhaps, be married, but it’s done terribly here. There is no introspection of this, no self awareness, he’s never forced to confront it, it’s earnestly presented as totally fine. There’s a few throw away lines about how bad he feels when his experiments die, but no depth to it. Late in the book he reflects on another character's villainous actions “raging at mankind for taking her son away and then inflicting the same trauma on others struck me as the height of hypocrisy”. This is a man that rages against corruption and nobility, but will happily buy 30 years of a woman's life for poaching, or almost kill a man by attempting to buy his soul for grave-robbing (when he himself considers it immoral for wealth to be buried underground). I have read a few of this author's other works and they always seem to be laced with some degree of this pseudo socialist element which I don’t necessarily hate, but it’s hypocritical here. He contemplates restoring someone's eyes and healing his friend's broken arms by selling a prisoner's health to them. He tests whether he can buy strength on a prisoner, and then continues experimenting after they wither away and die. He’s happy to play judge, jury and executioner like he is the ultimate authority. This could work as a character, but not when he’s being portrayed, completely uncontested, as just the loveliest guy you could know — a bleeding heart who gives to his own detriment. He’s giving to people he considers deserving, but if you don’t meet his personal standard all bets are off, he’ll torture you merrily.
2) This is advertised as being about “progression”, it’s not. That’s fine but why say it is, there is no true progression, this is not prog fantasy in any way shape or form.
3) The magic system is weak. The idea of the merchant power is cool, the marks have been done before (and better) but not a terrible idea. The rest of it is this vague idea of “essence” that is wishy washy at best. This links to my above point, there is plenty of fantasy like this but this purports itself to be part of a genre defined by intricate systems with clear progression. The magic system in this is harry potter esque in that it is undefined, inconsistent and not the focus.
4) Harem vibes. To be clear there is not, at least to this point, a harem. The main character is surrounded by beautiful women that all want to fuck him though. There is not one substantive male character (except perhaps a creature that can’t really be considered that) until late in the book, and then he’s a footnote (and gay, cause ofcourse we can’t have any attention pulled from our star hypocrite). He has like 5 women just fawning all over him while at the same time feeding into the delusion that he’s just the loveliest guy ever. It feels slimy. I will say these female characters are not shells, they are well developed for the most part but it just gets tiring. The political elements, the martyrdom, the fawning women — it feels like an author insert, it almost feels masturbatory.
5) The world feels thin. I find this a hard thing to define but there is just no depth to it, it didn’t compel me.
It could have been something, but the MC is unbearable and the surrounding elements weak. I won’t be reading the next one, I wouldn't recommend. The two interludes were really very good and the technical standard of the writing is more than decent. I rate for enjoyment though, and this book actively annoyed me.
I had hopes for this book going in, but came away disappointed. The premise is great, I found the idea of a non combat class with an interesting spin intriguing. The final result was sort of a mess though.
On the strengths I’d say the premise is its biggest, the overall power system is decent, the characterisation in some cases is good, and there are two short stories (interludes that read as short stories), that though they were poorly paced in their inclusion were actually very good.
On the bad side though I have several points.
1) The main character is a hypocrite. This is by far my biggest critique. He views himself as something of a martyr, proud of his morals and good character. Other characters often remark on what a good guy he is, almost too good, verging on naive. He’s also a monster completely ok with human experimentation. These two things could, perhaps, be married, but it’s done terribly here. There is no introspection of this, no self awareness, he’s never forced to confront it, it’s earnestly presented as totally fine. There’s a few throw away lines about how bad he feels when his experiments die, but no depth to it. Late in the book he reflects on another character's villainous actions “raging at mankind for taking her son away and then inflicting the same trauma on others struck me as the height of hypocrisy”. This is a man that rages against corruption and nobility, but will happily buy 30 years of a woman's life for poaching, or almost kill a man by attempting to buy his soul for grave-robbing (when he himself considers it immoral for wealth to be buried underground). I have read a few of this author's other works and they always seem to be laced with some degree of this pseudo socialist element which I don’t necessarily hate, but it’s hypocritical here. He contemplates restoring someone's eyes and healing his friend's broken arms by selling a prisoner's health to them. He tests whether he can buy strength on a prisoner, and then continues experimenting after they wither away and die. He’s happy to play judge, jury and executioner like he is the ultimate authority. This could work as a character, but not when he’s being portrayed, completely uncontested, as just the loveliest guy you could know — a bleeding heart who gives to his own detriment. He’s giving to people he considers deserving, but if you don’t meet his personal standard all bets are off, he’ll torture you merrily.
2) This is advertised as being about “progression”, it’s not. That’s fine but why say it is, there is no true progression, this is not prog fantasy in any way shape or form.
3) The magic system is weak. The idea of the merchant power is cool, the marks have been done before (and better) but not a terrible idea. The rest of it is this vague idea of “essence” that is wishy washy at best. This links to my above point, there is plenty of fantasy like this but this purports itself to be part of a genre defined by intricate systems with clear progression. The magic system in this is harry potter esque in that it is undefined, inconsistent and not the focus.
4) Harem vibes. To be clear there is not, at least to this point, a harem. The main character is surrounded by beautiful women that all want to fuck him though. There is not one substantive male character (except perhaps a creature that can’t really be considered that) until late in the book, and then he’s a footnote (and gay, cause ofcourse we can’t have any attention pulled from our star hypocrite). He has like 5 women just fawning all over him while at the same time feeding into the delusion that he’s just the loveliest guy ever. It feels slimy. I will say these female characters are not shells, they are well developed for the most part but it just gets tiring. The political elements, the martyrdom, the fawning women — it feels like an author insert, it almost feels masturbatory.
5) The world feels thin. I find this a hard thing to define but there is just no depth to it, it didn’t compel me.
It could have been something, but the MC is unbearable and the surrounding elements weak. I won’t be reading the next one, I wouldn't recommend. The two interludes were really very good and the technical standard of the writing is more than decent. I rate for enjoyment though, and this book actively annoyed me.
March 10, 2024
Not what I expected.
This is a fantasy town-building story fueled by an interesting, yet strange magic system, and a very dull and boring plot.
The first few chapters are intriguing and hint for a travel-and-save-the-world adventure book. And then everything crashes down when the plot abruptly transforms into town-restauration and court politics with a hint of slice-of-life.
There's physical violence throughout, and much angst and deep drama, with each of the main characters being scared deeply by loss and grief. And yet, I couldn't find something to compensate the heavy feeling. In many occasions the book feels like a pop-corn book, flirts and banter, with light town-planning elements, while in the background there's a lot of baggage that's not taken care of, and I felt there was no progress with any of their development arches. Flagrant inconsistency between the tone and the backstory.
Not what I expected.
I expected a more refined plot with twists and turns like the "Perfect Run" series. Or a somewhat funny story given the talent shown with "Vainqueur" and the "Apocalypse Tamer" series. I enjoyed, a lot, each of the first books of these series. So I expected more, like memorable characters, some litRPG, or anything cool. Yet this book doesn't inspire me in any way.
Maxine J. Durant definitely has talent and he remains an author I'll follow. Yet after two series that I don't resonate with ("Underland" and "Commerce Emperor") I' will start looking more into the reviews before buying.
I won't continue this if it turns into a series.
This is a fantasy town-building story fueled by an interesting, yet strange magic system, and a very dull and boring plot.
The first few chapters are intriguing and hint for a travel-and-save-the-world adventure book. And then everything crashes down when the plot abruptly transforms into town-restauration and court politics with a hint of slice-of-life.
There's physical violence throughout, and much angst and deep drama, with each of the main characters being scared deeply by loss and grief. And yet, I couldn't find something to compensate the heavy feeling. In many occasions the book feels like a pop-corn book, flirts and banter, with light town-planning elements, while in the background there's a lot of baggage that's not taken care of, and I felt there was no progress with any of their development arches. Flagrant inconsistency between the tone and the backstory.
Not what I expected.
I expected a more refined plot with twists and turns like the "Perfect Run" series. Or a somewhat funny story given the talent shown with "Vainqueur" and the "Apocalypse Tamer" series. I enjoyed, a lot, each of the first books of these series. So I expected more, like memorable characters, some litRPG, or anything cool. Yet this book doesn't inspire me in any way.
Maxine J. Durant definitely has talent and he remains an author I'll follow. Yet after two series that I don't resonate with ("Underland" and "Commerce Emperor") I' will start looking more into the reviews before buying.
I won't continue this if it turns into a series.
April 21, 2024
Loved this book so much! It is one of my favorite books that I have read so far this year! It was an amazing start to a new series full of so many things. I eagerly await what happens next. Robin is one of my favorite characters that the author has written, and all of the main characters are so interesting! I loved the side characters as well so much; each person was well-fleshed and super engaging. The plot was so cool, and a wonderful mix of storylines that helped kept reading on and on! I loved the magic system and worldbuilding so much in this book, as it leaves so many new stories and things to explore. It is a great book. I highly recommend it! I would like to thank the author for such an amazing book!
February 27, 2025
Commerce Emperor: A Progression Fantasy Epic by Maxime J. Durand
Plot and Setting
Character Development
Themes and World-Building
Power and Responsibility: The protagonist's growing influence in both magical and economic spheres likely raises questions about the responsible use of power.
Innovation and Adaptation: The novel may delve into how the protagonist innovates within the commercial system to gain advantages, similar to how characters in traditional progression fantasies discover new uses for their abilities.
Balance of Magic and Commerce: The interplay between magical advancement and economic growth could offer a fresh perspective on the genre's typical power dynamics.
Writing Style and Pacing
Comparison to Contemporaries
Unique Progression System: Unlike the martial arts focus of "Cradle" or the magical academy setting of "Mage Errant," "Commerce Emperor" introduces economic prowess as a key component of character advancement.
World-Building: The integration of commerce into a fantasy setting offers a fresh take on world-building, potentially rivaling the depth found in works like "The Wandering Inn" by Pirateaba.
Character Growth: While many progression fantasies focus on magical or physical growth, "Commerce Emperor" likely explores a broader spectrum of character development, including business acumen and leadership skills.
Thematic Exploration: The novel's focus on commerce allows for unique explorations of power, influence, and responsibility, setting it apart from more combat-focused contemporaries.
Reception and Impact
Conclusion
Maxime J. Durand, known for his engaging character work and storytelling skills, brings his talents to the progression fantasy genre with "Commerce Emperor: A Progression Fantasy Epic." This novel stands out in the crowded field of progression fantasy by blending elements of commerce and empire-building with the traditional power progression narrative, offering readers a unique twist on familiar themes.
Plot and Setting
"Commerce Emperor" likely follows the journey of a protagonist who rises from humble beginnings to become a powerful figure in a world where commerce and magical abilities intertwine. The novel's setting appears to be a richly imagined fantasy world where economic prowess is as crucial as magical skill, providing a fresh backdrop for the progression fantasy genre.
The integration of commerce into the progression system sets "Commerce Emperor" apart from many of its contemporaries. Unlike series such as Will Wight's "Cradle" or John Bierce's "Mage Errant," which focus primarily on magical or martial advancement, Durand's work likely explores how economic acumen can be a path to power in a fantasy setting.
Character Development
Durand is known for his ability to craft compelling characters who undergo significant development throughout their journeys. In "Commerce Emperor," we can expect a protagonist who grows not only in magical or physical prowess but also in business acumen and leadership skills. This multifaceted approach to character progression offers a more nuanced take on the genre's typical "zero-to-hero" arc.
The protagonist's journey in "Commerce Emperor" likely combines the strategic thinking seen in works like "Mother of Learning" by Domagoj Kurmaic with the empire-building elements found in Durand's own "Vainqueur the Dragon" series, creating a unique character arc that resonates with readers.
Themes and World-Building
"Commerce Emperor" explores themes that are both familiar to the progression fantasy genre and unique to its commercial focus:
Power and Responsibility: The protagonist's growing influence in both magical and economic spheres likely raises questions about the responsible use of power.
Innovation and Adaptation: The novel may delve into how the protagonist innovates within the commercial system to gain advantages, similar to how characters in traditional progression fantasies discover new uses for their abilities.
Balance of Magic and Commerce: The interplay between magical advancement and economic growth could offer a fresh perspective on the genre's typical power dynamics.
Durand's world-building skills, evident in his other works, are likely on full display in "Commerce Emperor." The creation of a fantasy world where commerce plays a central role in power structures offers a rich tapestry for exploration, potentially rivaling the intricate worlds found in series like Andrew Rowe's "Sufficiently Advanced Magic".
Writing Style and Pacing
Maxime J. Durand's writing style is known for being accessible and engaging, with a talent for crafting narratives that are difficult to put down. In "Commerce Emperor," this likely translates to a well-paced story that balances action, character development, and the intricacies of commerce-based progression.
The pacing may differ from some contemporaries in the genre. While series like "Cradle" are known for their fast-paced, action-packed narratives, "Commerce Emperor" might offer a more measured progression, with emphasis on strategic decision-making and economic maneuvering alongside more traditional fantasy elements.
Comparison to Contemporaries
When compared to other progression fantasy novels, "Commerce Emperor" stands out in several ways:
Unique Progression System: Unlike the martial arts focus of "Cradle" or the magical academy setting of "Mage Errant," "Commerce Emperor" introduces economic prowess as a key component of character advancement.
World-Building: The integration of commerce into a fantasy setting offers a fresh take on world-building, potentially rivaling the depth found in works like "The Wandering Inn" by Pirateaba.
Character Growth: While many progression fantasies focus on magical or physical growth, "Commerce Emperor" likely explores a broader spectrum of character development, including business acumen and leadership skills.
Thematic Exploration: The novel's focus on commerce allows for unique explorations of power, influence, and responsibility, setting it apart from more combat-focused contemporaries.
Reception and Impact
Reader reviews on Amazon have been positive, with praise for the book's original concept and engaging storytelling. The novel's unique blend of commerce and fantasy elements has resonated with readers, potentially carving out a new niche within the progression fantasy genre.
While specific ratings from platforms like Goodreads are not available, the positive reception on Amazon suggests that "Commerce Emperor" has found an audience appreciative of its innovative approach to progression fantasy.
Conclusion
"Commerce Emperor: A Progression Fantasy Epic" by Maxime J. Durand emerges as a distinctive entry in the progression fantasy genre. By interweaving elements of commerce and empire-building with traditional fantasy progression, Durand has created a novel that offers a fresh perspective on familiar themes.
For readers seeking a progression fantasy that goes beyond the typical martial or magical advancement, "Commerce Emperor" provides a compelling alternative. Its focus on economic power as a means of progression, combined with Durand's engaging storytelling and world-building, makes it a noteworthy addition to the genre.
While it may not feature the rapid-fire action of some contemporaries, "Commerce Emperor" compensates with depth of character development and a unique approach to power dynamics. As the progression fantasy genre continues to evolve, works like "Commerce Emperor" demonstrate the potential for innovation and the exploration of new themes within the established framework of character growth and empowerment.
May 2, 2025
This is surprisingly good, I expected the usual litrpg shenanigans, but colour me surprised. Commerce emperor definitely takes the whole hero and class business seriously and tries to put its own spin on the tale, and I enjoyed it.
April 10, 2024
There are a couple surprises in this book I was not anticipating.
The first I am very pleased with. A title like Commerce Emperor made me worry this was going to be some kind of festival of selfish capitalist money-making-at-all-costs worship. IT IS NOT! The MC is keenly interested in accumulating wealth; however, he wants that wealth to contribute to better living for all. I can support that.
The second surprise wasn't quite as welcome. This is progression only in a very generous reading and in a general sense. If you are looking for leveling, ability selection, attribute growth, or any of the usual concrete trappings you will be disappointed. The closest we get is the classes given to our select few heroes and exploration of abilities (which are pretty cool, not going to lie).
I liked the book once I came to terms with what it is. This is fantasy. It has some interesting world building and characters. I'm intrigued by the main conflict. I'm invested in the MC and the city he's trying to save and all that.
Sure, some things don't quite hold together--and that's all right.
The first I am very pleased with. A title like Commerce Emperor made me worry this was going to be some kind of festival of selfish capitalist money-making-at-all-costs worship. IT IS NOT! The MC is keenly interested in accumulating wealth; however, he wants that wealth to contribute to better living for all. I can support that.
The second surprise wasn't quite as welcome. This is progression only in a very generous reading and in a general sense. If you are looking for leveling, ability selection, attribute growth, or any of the usual concrete trappings you will be disappointed. The closest we get is the classes given to our select few heroes and exploration of abilities (which are pretty cool, not going to lie).
I liked the book once I came to terms with what it is. This is fantasy. It has some interesting world building and characters. I'm intrigued by the main conflict. I'm invested in the MC and the city he's trying to save and all that.
Sure, some things don't quite hold together--and that's all right.
June 9, 2024
What a Wonderful Fantasy Progression Story
I don't believe this is a helpful review. I enjoy another series by these authors, called The Perfect Run, so much that I am afraid to read it more than once a year because I don't want to risk it becoming a bit of a rote experience.
This book reminds me of that series much more than the others I've read from the authors. Hard to explain vibes, after all Commerce Emperor is entirely different. It's in a fantasy setting with its own take on the heroes-are-summoned-to-defeat-the-demon-lord archetype.
However, the MC is a compelling mixture of flawed, traumatized and kind, the MC has grandiose and potentially unattainable goals, the romance elements are heart jerking and often tragic. That's some of the more obvious aspects giving me Perfect Run vibes, but a lot of it just comes down to the reader experience of the writing style, and they nailed that same stride that's in the Perfect Run dead-on, and what a wonderful treat of a read that made it for me.
I recommend picking this one up. And also their other books, just mentioning it in case I was too subtle on that point.
I don't believe this is a helpful review. I enjoy another series by these authors, called The Perfect Run, so much that I am afraid to read it more than once a year because I don't want to risk it becoming a bit of a rote experience.
This book reminds me of that series much more than the others I've read from the authors. Hard to explain vibes, after all Commerce Emperor is entirely different. It's in a fantasy setting with its own take on the heroes-are-summoned-to-defeat-the-demon-lord archetype.
However, the MC is a compelling mixture of flawed, traumatized and kind, the MC has grandiose and potentially unattainable goals, the romance elements are heart jerking and often tragic. That's some of the more obvious aspects giving me Perfect Run vibes, but a lot of it just comes down to the reader experience of the writing style, and they nailed that same stride that's in the Perfect Run dead-on, and what a wonderful treat of a read that made it for me.
I recommend picking this one up. And also their other books, just mentioning it in case I was too subtle on that point.
March 10, 2024
Ohhhh man the book started with a really interesting beginning and I was immediately sucked into the storyline and by time Robin the MC, gained his hero class I absolutely loved the book! Maxime J Durand wrote a tight tale about Robin, and several other heroes that he located on the way to Snowdrift as he was answering to the final behest of his parents all he needed to do was spread their ashes so they would be released back into the ground in their home town to start all over again. And what he found was city deteriorating at a prodigious rate, by a blight. The city that Robin grew up in, and he isn't gonna let that happen, not on his watch. But before they can control the blight they'll half'a kill the demons that have already moved in!
So go ahead and grab the audiobook. And follow Robin, as he and the rest of the heroes face and overcome the challenges... hopefully they'll be able to stop the incursions and eventually save the city! Like I said Maxime J Durand writes a nice tight story! And Eric Jason Miller is just the guy to narrate it for us!
So go ahead and grab the audiobook. And follow Robin, as he and the rest of the heroes face and overcome the challenges... hopefully they'll be able to stop the incursions and eventually save the city! Like I said Maxime J Durand writes a nice tight story! And Eric Jason Miller is just the guy to narrate it for us!
February 22, 2025
This is a generous 2.5 rating because there isn't anything objectionable about the book, and yet.. It's dull and unsatisfying. I've picked a few of Maxime Durand's books over these years and I end up putting the book down then picking it up, again and again. I believe I'm still half through vainqueur for over a year at this point. He's good enough of an author to write a lot to say much of nothing and still avoid blatant repetition. I honestly feel exhausted after a while because I've spent mental energy on faf that SEEMS relevant but is not, and isn't even that enjoyable in a slice of life way either.
Also there is no progression. I don't personally care but don't put it in the TITLE if you don't want disappointed readers railing against false advertisement.
Also there is no progression. I don't personally care but don't put it in the TITLE if you don't want disappointed readers railing against false advertisement.
December 21, 2025
This hits a solid political fantasy note with extremely solid magics--specifically, being the ultimate deal-maker. Not like Trump. More like any fair exchange is immediately and irrevocably binding. A lock of hair for gold? Instant. All your skills for swordsmanship for 10 gold? No problem. Your soul for your freedom?
Ehhh... yeah, that's where this could get very dark, very fast. Fortunately, heroes exist, as do gods and demons. Fun stuff.
I think Maxime Durand is threading some great fine lines between all their fiction. I still love the timey-wimey SF best, but between this dark and serious fantasy versus the humorous dragon, I think I prefer this. They're all quite decent, mind you. But I'm digging how serious this is.
Ehhh... yeah, that's where this could get very dark, very fast. Fortunately, heroes exist, as do gods and demons. Fun stuff.
I think Maxime Durand is threading some great fine lines between all their fiction. I still love the timey-wimey SF best, but between this dark and serious fantasy versus the humorous dragon, I think I prefer this. They're all quite decent, mind you. But I'm digging how serious this is.
May 23, 2024
Some of the author's other books were good, so i will give this a try.
Didn't enjoy this too much. While I love a good Faustian type book about making deals, the rules in place don't allow for a lot of loopholes, or our protagonist thinking outside the box enough.
Also this looks like a "and friends" type book. The protagonist and his buddies come together to defeat evil.
I may give the sequel a try. This wasn't badly written, I just enjoy books with people using the limitations of something to push for more. We will see what happens.
2.5/5 Stars
Didn't enjoy this too much. While I love a good Faustian type book about making deals, the rules in place don't allow for a lot of loopholes, or our protagonist thinking outside the box enough.
Also this looks like a "and friends" type book. The protagonist and his buddies come together to defeat evil.
I may give the sequel a try. This wasn't badly written, I just enjoy books with people using the limitations of something to push for more. We will see what happens.
2.5/5 Stars
March 15, 2024
Not really sure why Maxime decided to shove it under progression genre! Maybe for better sales? If you are progressing then it should be under PF? People get magic from a GODDESS who arbitrarily judges your soul (read spirit of the law not the rule) and bam you got magical powers. It's classic Good and Evil. I got it for PF but really it's Swords & Sorcery Epic Fantasy. It got Princes, Dukes, and Counts for Pete's sake.
March 12, 2024
I love this guy
I just love the perfect run so I have read everything of this author, this is a really Great first book, better than tamer in my opinion, I really liked the characters, please keep em coming
I just love the perfect run so I have read everything of this author, this is a really Great first book, better than tamer in my opinion, I really liked the characters, please keep em coming
March 19, 2024
I love this author's work
But this story doesn't seem as fleshed out as the last one I read. He's preaching a socialist utopia, but it only works if no one lies.
I'll keep reading the series, but was left a bit depressed after reading this one.
But this story doesn't seem as fleshed out as the last one I read. He's preaching a socialist utopia, but it only works if no one lies.
I'll keep reading the series, but was left a bit depressed after reading this one.
May 13, 2024
Worth every penny
Durand has always done good work and it has only gotten better with time, this story is the current culmination of his skill as an author and it shows, it's incredibly compelling and I recommend it to everyone who likes fantasy and a bit of cleverness.
Durand has always done good work and it has only gotten better with time, this story is the current culmination of his skill as an author and it shows, it's incredibly compelling and I recommend it to everyone who likes fantasy and a bit of cleverness.
October 16, 2024
Interesting premise, but boring plot progression. It is supposed to be a town building type stuff, but MC acts like any other hero and does everything except properly build a town which gets relegated to backdrop.
Writing was good, but neither the plot nor the characters made an impression.
Writing was good, but neither the plot nor the characters made an impression.
March 10, 2024
Excellent!
What an intriguing type of magic that makes you think. Very interesting world building with do many layers. The merchant has an amazing power.
What an intriguing type of magic that makes you think. Very interesting world building with do many layers. The merchant has an amazing power.
March 25, 2024
Solid book liked most the characters and plot but lost steam 60% of the way in and feel like the abilities could be explored more.
6.3/10
6.3/10
April 13, 2024
another great series by a legend
The emperor part of the title was a bit much has he hasn’t at that Lv yet. Also also great read.
The emperor part of the title was a bit much has he hasn’t at that Lv yet. Also also great read.
April 21, 2024
Solid story with. . .
Plenty of room to grow. An expansive setting that has a lot of possibilities. Given the main character, a bit slow with the story but is still very enjoyable.
Plenty of room to grow. An expansive setting that has a lot of possibilities. Given the main character, a bit slow with the story but is still very enjoyable.
May 27, 2024
Very good book
This is a fine fantasy adventure novel. It is well written and edited. I especially like the Monk. I anxiously await the sequel.
This is a fine fantasy adventure novel. It is well written and edited. I especially like the Monk. I anxiously await the sequel.
October 19, 2024
Nothing new or outstanding. Good ideas but not as good as I expect from Maxime Durand.
January 22, 2025
I was duped by the really high ratings. This is one of those wish-fulfillment overpowered main character stories. Not only that, the main character is pretty awful.
dnf
April 9, 2025The concept just never quite landed for me. Couldn’t manage to find my investment.
May 9, 2025
I really enjoyed the friendships in this character development was pretty good
Read
June 13, 2025Note to self: not interested.
October 8, 2025
Found something refreshing. I was tired of reading the same tropes. I would rate it 4.5 stars but I am unable to do it.
March 12, 2024
Peters out a bit in the second half. Ticking things off a list kind of thing. Enjoyed the first half a lot, though. Will stick with.
December 30, 2024
Interesting and Unique
The concept and theme of the book are very original even when they are based on a well-used idea. Not really a progression book but, it could become one, depending on where the writing goes. Good read.
The concept and theme of the book are very original even when they are based on a well-used idea. Not really a progression book but, it could become one, depending on where the writing goes. Good read.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews