Beyond Odin’s Gate

Mysterious Island #2

by Greig Beck, Sean Mangan (Narrator)

The legend of Lemuria the mysterious island and all its wonders and dangers are all too real, and it has been found.

But the ancient stories of the great treasure and horrors that existed through the ice rift and beyond Odin’s Gate could never have prepared them what they discovered – monstrous creatures that lived in the sea, in the air and on land. And now Troy Strom and Anne Walsh are trapped there among them.

But they have a plan, and if they can retrieve the Heart of Odin, a massive ruby, they can use it to escape. Until then, they must learn to live on a primordial island among horrifying life forms that defy the normal rules of evolution. To survive, they need to travel into the dragon’s lair and find the truth about the ancient drekka of myth and what it guards, and also discover the fate of the first Viking clan that set foot there and what they had become.

Genres: Adventure, Fantasy, Horror, Science Fiction, Fiction, Thriller, Action

11 pages, Audible Audio

Published January 4, 2023

About the author

Hi GoodReaders, I’m an Australian author residing in Sydney with my wife, son and a mad Golden Retriever named Jessie. My novels are now available globally, also in Large Print and now in full AUDIO format.

I grew up spending my days surfing at Bondi Beach before entering a career in Information technology which took me around the world. After completing an MBA, i was appointed both an Australasian director of a multinational software company, and tasked with setting up the USA arm of the organisation.

Today, I spend most of my time writing... with plenty left over for surfing.

More information about me and my works can be found at either www.greigbeck.com, or join me on FaceBook (Greig Beck Author).

Reviews

[Peter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Anne and Troy are still on Lemuria with Odin's Heart (the big ruby). Will Tyso and Elle drop by? What about the other party going to Lemuria by boat? Excellent follow up to the first volume. We hear more about the ancient Viking legends, meet animals time forgot and see Troy get in contact with a giant woman... entertaining, compelling, uncanny. This is perfect adventure in the Jules Verne and lost world tradition. The characters aren't exceptionally well drawn but the action keeps you reading to the last line. Really enjoyed the book and can highly recommend it!

[John (JC) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well….Beck has done it again. If you were tense reading the first in this series of three, then you will love the second. My shoulders were in knots by the end of the book. Beck started his recipe with a prehistoric base, added some bad guys, then some sad guys, a dash of sex and finished with a hint of Jules Verne. What more can you ask for?

[Amy · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not bad BUT...

Mr.Beck, just kill off Troy. He is an idiot. This book isnt bad but the characters are pretty bad. I normally love Greig Becks books but these two almost seem to be written by someone else. A bit disappointing.

[Chase · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am a huge fan of this author and eagerly by each book when it is released.

I was a bit dissapointed by this offering though....

There were several time streams, which got confusing.

The characters were not well developed and the main male character seemed to be forming relationships with all the females.

The dinosaurs were not as prolific or scary, not even the giant drekka.

I didn't understand the side takes of escaped animals - is everything going to break out of Lemuria?

And I just plain found the giant cannibalistic Viking descendents a bit stupid :(

I feel like this book needed tighter editing. It's left open ended so there will likely be more sequels, hopefully the plot will be slicker 🤞

[Paul (Life In The Slow Lane) · Rating 5 out of 5]

The dragon (or T-Rex) decided you CAN keep a good man down. No Pepto Bismol needed.

The usual Greig Beck adaptation of a classic novel; in this case The Mysterious Island by the venerable Jules Verne, no less. Even The Nautilus got a mention. Yay! The author has brought this action tale into the 21st century and made the fantastical...believable. I loved the inclusion of all my favourite dinosaurs plus a few that I had to Google. Good work Mr Beck. You've done your research well.

I loved this as much as the original.

[Wayne Fielding · Rating 5 out of 5]

This a re read to get ready for book 3

[Mateicee · Rating 3 out of 5]

„Odins Herz“ von Greig Beck fühlt sich an wie ein wilder Mix aus Jurassic Park, nordischer Mythologie und einem Hauch Jules Verne – ein Abenteuer, das Wissenschaft, Legenden und Action zu einem unterhaltsamen, wenn auch nicht immer stimmigen Cocktail verbindet.

Beck schreibt gewohnt flüssig und angenehm, sodass man leicht in die Geschichte eintaucht. Besonders die Mischung aus moderner Technologie und alten Mythen sorgt anfangs für Spannung und Atmosphäre. Dennoch kann der Roman nicht ganz mit dem ersten Teil mithalten: Einige Kapitel wirken wie Füllmaterial und bremsen den ansonsten dynamischen Handlungsfluss aus.

Unterm Strich ist „Odins Herz“ ein solider Actionroman mit spannenden Ideen und gutem Tempo – wenn auch mit ein paar Längen und weniger Fokus als sein Vorgänger. Wer Abenteuer mit mythologischem Einschlag mag, wird trotzdem auf seine Kosten kommen.

[Ronda Tutt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Addicting

I'm so hooked, ok there has to be another book in this series. Dragons are now in our world and humans are stranded in Lumuria and I've gotta know if they will survive. Will the two worlds collide and the dinosaurs be released into the world above. Get ready for a horrific ending. It will be like Godzilla coming to TOKYO.

The characters are awesome, you like them or you hate them. The ones you hate got ate so all was good.

The writing is visionary, so detailed you can almost feel the fronds of the jungle scrape your skin or feel the heat from the fire.

I'm totally liking the way this author writes.
Excellent read!

[Cody · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hopefully a book 3

Pretty outlandish and yet at the same time, very entertaining. The ending left me wanting one more. We can't have it ending like it did.

[Chance · Rating 3 out of 5]

I hope book 3 turns it around

Sadly Book 2 was abit of a flop compared to the first has we get multiple ways on and off this island compare to the the one path from the first book and the lack characteristics of weapons were bear-boned that only people with in-depth knowledge if guns should know there works to see how they felt in thouse moments. Also I felt the Sub(trying not to spoil) should’ve got a bigger deal of description of it has it was getting so many hints but we got only a third POV node when they found it.

[Anthony Nguyen · Rating 2 out of 5]

A little lower rating than what I expected given some of the other books. Had a difficult time dealing with the main character - he just thinks with the wrong body part and it’s making it difficult to consider him a credible character. Will still read the third book to finish the series, but of all the male leads that Beck relies upon (pretty much 6 foot 2 ex-special forces) this one is the weakest developed.

[Judy & Marianne from Long and Short Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

The legend of Lemuria – the Mysterious Island – has been discovered and the tales of adventure and monsters are all too real. Troy Strom and Anne Walsh are trapped down there, with the creatures and wonders. But if they can retrieve the Heart Of Odin – a massive ruby – it can be used by them to escape. Only their enemies – Elle and Tygo – are not far behind them, even more determined to once again have the Heart Of Odin in their hand, and this time they don’t plan to leave without it.

I found this to be an exciting action/adventure story, filled with paranormal and amazing creatures and monsters. I feel the story covers a number of genres, from Mystery to mild Horror, to Paranormal and Adventure. While it’s the second book in what I expect shall be a trilogy I do feel readers could pick it up and enjoy it without having read the previous installment. I strongly feel for maximum enjoyment the first book should have been read before this – but the plotline, characters and story arc is very well explained by the author so it isn’t strictly necessary. Equally, some new characters and plotlines are introduced here in this book so it adds a lot to the overall arc – that of Lemuria and the mysterious hidden island – and definitely nudges the reader towards interest and curiosity on what will happen in the final installment of the trilogy.

I really enjoyed the fact there were a number of new types of monsters (very hungry monsters) in this book and Beck really needs to be commended on his imagination. I found the monsters he created were realistic, scary and very easy to picture. The fact the monsters managed to eat a fair number of random characters was just a bonus for me. Readers who like monster/horror style of adventure novels should definitely feel Beck does justice to this genre in the book. I was found the book quite amusing/ironic that just as a number of parties were trying to find their way into Lemuria and find the Heart of Odin, equally there was Troy and Anne trying to find their way out. That situation tickled my funny bone.

Overall, I thought this was an exceptionally well written story – full of adventure, monsters, a few really solid plotlines and plenty of interesting characters. I definitely feel Beck is an excellent author and am eager for the final installment in this trilogy. The pace of the story was fast enough to keep me gripped to my seat but didn’t feel too rushed or like it skimmed over anything. There were a few plots interwoven together and as they’re all so clearly linked to the one larger story arc, I feel this helps give the whole book a good cohesion and feel as if we’re rollicking along on a crazy – and monster filled – adventure together. A great book and I’m very eager for the next one to come along.

[BookzBookzBookz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Somehow my reviews are vanishing! I hope this sticks, because Beyond Odin's Gate was incredible! And that cliffhanger...

So we have returned to the hidden island, where our hero and his friend are trapped, struggling to stay alive in a world that's continuously trying to eat them. They've managed to hold on, and it's great they did because someone else has found a way to get to the island. Someone wants to spring a surprise attack for the heart of Odin. Another was given reason for revenge, and all Troy wants to do is get back home! He's been backstabbed, manipulated and on the run for so long, when he sees Elle and her 'Master' return, he's ready for anything.

For me, the best part of Beyond Odin's Gate (The Mysterious Island #2) is that nothing is as it appears to be. I don't mean the obvious betrayal, but for the meat of the story. The adventure. It's such a surprise that when it hit, I knew another instalment of the story was to come. Normally, I'm like, "Oh no- make the story longer!" but I totally understand why he broke it up. I'm hoping for big things. Kinda put me in mind of Beck's Primordia series, though no way near the same!

Can't wait for the next book.

[Vladimir Ivanov · Rating 3 out of 5]

Первая книга цикла, где искатели сокровищ попадали на "затерянный остров с джунглями, динозаврами, древними храмами, гигантскими пауками, гигантскими рубинами и, до кучи, реинкарнацией" — она была ridiculous but fun.

Сиквел же добавил тех же щей, но сильно гуще — в дело вступают бессмертные инопланетные годзиллы размером с гору, динозавры бесконтрольно слоняются по всему земному шару, а в финале, прости господи, появляется капитан Немо на своем "Наутилусе", но отважного капитана тут же съедают трехметровые викинги-каннибалы. Кроме того, герои, которые в первой части книги выглядели в целом адекватными, теперь наперегонки проявляют чудеса тупости, забывают, что с ними происходило в первой части, творят полную дичь. Все это уже way beyond ridiculous и почти совсем не fun.

Написано по-прежнему очень плохо, ученически.

Интерес к творчеству Бека удовлетворен и исчерпан. Мусорный автор, ��и о чем.

[BookishDramas · Rating 4 out of 5]

We left the duo stranded on Lemuria and the villains escaped the island but lost the prize, the big ruby Odin's heart.
This book starts with Anne and Troy traipsing the island trying to prevent becoming a meal.
The legend of the Vikings turn true with them getting to meet the giants. The byline adventure with one of them continues throughout the novel.

The story has serial high points and we hear other legends and also understand the heart of Odin up close and personal.
Greig takes Jules Verne superb novel and turns it up on its head. Nemo makes an appearance in more ways than one. The story has intrigue, action, monster menace, skirmishes, legends redefined, Merlin, villains, cannibals, ships, squids.
I've run out of words.
Superb novel and now going for the finale of the trilogy.

[N.L. McFarlane · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book number two in the series and my goodness did it continue the series with a bang...from start to finish I could not put this book down and the references in there to other books/people were so brilliantly brought in and conveyed. I absolutely love the world that's been created in this story as deadly and difficult as it can be, It's also beautiful in its imagery and structure. The characters are either loveable or you love to hate them with a few unexpected... people later on. As usual, the action is non stop, the twists in the plot have you on the edge of your seat and that ending... I really wish I could say more, but all I can say is, I need more! Books by this author never disappoint, and this is no exception.

[Jacques Hollands · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was a tad critical of the first book in the series, Lemuria. I felt it was too slow, and the story seemed to stutter from scene to scene. The characters also did not appeal to me. While it wasn't bad, the book did not do Greig Beck's reputation justice. He is a fantastic storyteller, and I felt let down. I hoped the book was setting the backdrop and that the series would improve as the newer books were released.

Happily, this was the case. Beyond Odin's Gate was a substantial improvement on the first one. It had more of the grittiness that one gets used to when reading Greig Beck. While it is not as original and vivid as the Journey to the Centre of Earth series, it still provides several hours of pure escapism and delight. I look forward to the final instalment of the series.

[Shereen Lang · Rating 4 out of 5]

Totally hooked on Greig Beck books great writing style and loving the narrator, Sean Mangan.
I found this to be an exciting action/adventure story, filled with paranormal and amazing creatures and monsters. I feel the story covers several genres, from Mystery to mild Horror, to Paranormal and Adventure.
I was found the book quite amusing/ironic that just as a few parties were trying to find their way into Lemuria and find the Heart of Odin, equally there was Troy and Anne trying to find their way of the Lemuria.
Greig Beck has a great imagination with the monster/ insects and sea life.
Was a great read for me, but wish there was a book 3, follow up on the dragon slipping into the forest foliage, what a cliff hanger.

[James Buckley · Rating 5 out of 5]

As with its predecessor, the second volume in Greig Beck’s latest series regarding the legendary lost land of Lemuria (and all its lethal residents) wastes no time accelerating into high gear. Left stranded on the ice-shrouded lost island, Troy Strom and his associate Annie try to survive the deadly island while also attempting to solve a few of its mysteries. But the baddies from the previous volume still want the mysterious jewel known as the Heart Of Odin, and will stop at nothing to recover the jewel. Dinosaurs, danger, and Viking lore all collide in a book I devoured in two sittings, Beck’s winning streak continues, and the conclusion sets up what is sure to be an epic conclusion to the series.

[Michelle DeBartolo-Stone · Rating 2 out of 5]

Elle is a manipulative sociopath who tries to kill Troy and Anne repeatedly or leave them for dead (a pretty good bet). Troy is an idiot who lets Elle repeatedly manipulate him despite the growing mountain of evidence against Elle. Poor Anne is at the mercy of Troy (who supposedly claims to be Anne’s “dear friend”) because he lets Elle manipulate him. Could he really be this stupid? (No-just bad writing). To add insult to injury, Anne is written as a petty, jealous ex-girlfriend. I wish she would tell Troy off, shoot Elle, and ride off into the sunset. Troy should get eaten by the snake. The dragon is too noble a death.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic!

As Troy and Anne struggle to survive after being abandoned amongst the terrifying creatures on the island of Lemuria, Tygo and Elle are planning their return trip to recover Odin's heart. Grieg Beck's writing is so addictive and intense, I must force myself to slow down and savor each reading, or I will consume it in one sitting. I love how he intertwines his stories with the classics of Jules Verne, HG Wells, and Arthur Conan Doyle. Another fantastic read, and I can't wait for the next installment!

[Fred Rayworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mysterious Island 2: Beyond Odin’s Gate was another great read in the continuing sage from Greig Beck. Told in solid third-person, past-tense, the author moved the story at a fast pace. The plot was full of lots of icky bugs, a lot of people get eaten, yet the payoff at the end which leads to the inevitable sequel was still satisfying.

Like the first one, it was a relatively quick read. I had a great time, regardless of any science of geography issues, of which I could care less. It was a believable enough story for me since I suspended my disbelief at the onset. Highly recommended.

[Mr Rob · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beyond Odin's Gate ☠️

Excellent read. Great adventures, prehistoric creatures that have grown much bigger than their original size, a real fire breathing dragon. A tribe of 8ft tall, cannibal viking descendants, a hero, his ex girlfriend, a huge deranged ruby hunting, murdering nut job & his one eyed psycho wife. All this under the Greenland ice pack & part of viking lore/history/mythology. I really enjoyed the way the book came together & told the story of the Mysterious Island. Keep up the good work Mr Beck. 👍👌

[Chimene · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 5

I enjoyed this... although I don't feel I liked it as much as the first... I felt like the storyline went around in circles a little and so I checked out at times which meant restarting a chapter.

That being said, I loved the vivid world of the Mysterious Island. The creatures and habitat were described well.

Troy's character irritated me a little in this story and I can't put my finger on why.

Given how much I loved the first book, I think I'll persevere and try and listen to book 3.

[rita · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good series

I really liked these books, but have a cpl of complaints. First, Troy is the dumbest man around. Ex CIA, but can't understand that the main villaness is evil. Plus, he speaks a fluent forgotten language. He sleeps with a giant chick, and lies to the one woman that cares for him. It's rare to find a series that you like, but don't care if the main character dies. I don't know if there's going to be a 3rd book, but hopefully the main guy can be redeemed.

[William (Mr. Bill) Turner · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Mysterious Island Book 2 - Bring a map!

Another great adventure with echoes of Jules Verne in the story. If you've enjoyed the first book by author Greig Beck, you will be pleased with this adventure. Although not required, I recommend that you read The Mysterious Island, Book 1. I also enjoyed that book.

[Lawrence · Rating 5 out of 5]

Back to the Island

Mysterious Island 2 is a welcome return to a classic story with a modern twist. The characters are well done, the action is virtually non-stop and once again Mr. Beck leaves us wanting more. Looking forward to the next one, especially withe the teasers at the end. Well done!

[Calvin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cannot wait for #3!

Another awesome and exciting hit. Dinosaurs, vikings, monsters, dragons, and everything in between shows up and tries to ruin Troy and Anne's desperate attempts to escape the island. I love the little nods to the Alex Hunter series. As soon as number 3 comes out I'm going to dive right in and see what happens next

[John Haggerty · Rating 4 out of 5]

I just loved book two of this series. I read book one many many months ago with no intention of reading more. Book two was purchased by mistake and it seems like it was meant to be. Loved the action, Viking lore, and the wonderful descriptions of Greenland and the fictional Lemuria. I ordered book three. Peace!

[James · Rating 5 out of 5]

More to come

Troy and Elle return to the island with a select team determined to retrieve the heart of Odin.
Troy and Anne have some how survived and meet the Viking giants.
By the end of the story more have died.