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Ascendant #1
Ascendant
The world’s most powerful ascendant is transformed into his younger self—with no memory of who he truly is—and must harness his forgotten skills to survive.
While celebrating his latest victory, Exarch Niramyn carelessly lets his guard down. Seeing his chance, the mighty Myzalik—Nym’s rival of a thousand years—casts a spell that sends him back to adolescence, with no idea who he really is or how he came to be washed up on the beach of Bloodfin Cove. Fortunately, the kindly Ciana comes along and saves him. But she quickly realizes he’s no ordinary child. For one thing, he has magical abilities she’s never seen in someone so young. And for another, he can fly.
Of course, not everyone welcomes Nym with open arms. When he kills a man who threatens him and Ciana, he’s forced to flee into the woods lest anyone should seek vengeance. Winding up in the town of Zoskan, he starts working for Cern the alchemist, and soon his unusual gifts are noted at the local mage’s guildhall, his raw power and magical acumen clearly well beyond his years. His training thus begins in earnest, and before he knows it, he’s looking for a way to attend the school of magic known as the Academy.
But how to afford the tuition? When a local thief blackmails him into breaking into the home of a wealthy noble family, Nym seizes the opportunity to ally himself with them instead. However, his old crime is sure to catch up with him eventually, and he still hasn’t discovered who he really is or why he can do what he can do. Will Nym ever regain his lost talents—or will he be stuck in the form of a mageling forever?
The first volume of the hit progression-fantasy series—with more than a million views on Royal Road—now available on Kindle, Kindle Unlimited, and Audible!
While celebrating his latest victory, Exarch Niramyn carelessly lets his guard down. Seeing his chance, the mighty Myzalik—Nym’s rival of a thousand years—casts a spell that sends him back to adolescence, with no idea who he really is or how he came to be washed up on the beach of Bloodfin Cove. Fortunately, the kindly Ciana comes along and saves him. But she quickly realizes he’s no ordinary child. For one thing, he has magical abilities she’s never seen in someone so young. And for another, he can fly.
Of course, not everyone welcomes Nym with open arms. When he kills a man who threatens him and Ciana, he’s forced to flee into the woods lest anyone should seek vengeance. Winding up in the town of Zoskan, he starts working for Cern the alchemist, and soon his unusual gifts are noted at the local mage’s guildhall, his raw power and magical acumen clearly well beyond his years. His training thus begins in earnest, and before he knows it, he’s looking for a way to attend the school of magic known as the Academy.
But how to afford the tuition? When a local thief blackmails him into breaking into the home of a wealthy noble family, Nym seizes the opportunity to ally himself with them instead. However, his old crime is sure to catch up with him eventually, and he still hasn’t discovered who he really is or why he can do what he can do. Will Nym ever regain his lost talents—or will he be stuck in the form of a mageling forever?
The first volume of the hit progression-fantasy series—with more than a million views on Royal Road—now available on Kindle, Kindle Unlimited, and Audible!
390 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 12, 2024
553 people are currently reading
217 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
May 3, 2024
interesting regression
MC doesn’t go back in time, but is reverted to pre-teen with no memories. But manages to have an insane level of potential.
I like how he is ignored by people searching for him because he is untrained.
Competently written.
Gonna get the next book.
MC doesn’t go back in time, but is reverted to pre-teen with no memories. But manages to have an insane level of potential.
I like how he is ignored by people searching for him because he is untrained.
Competently written.
Gonna get the next book.
February 10, 2025
"Ascendant" by EmergencyComplaints, published in 2024 and narrated by Todd Haberkorn, is a bold entry into the progression fantasy genre, blending regression fantasy with a coming-of-age narrative. This audiobook, the 1st in a series, follows Nym, a powerful ascendant magically reverted to adolescence with no memory of his true self, as he navigates a world of magic, danger, and self-discovery. With its roots in Royal Road's million-plus views (Royal Road is a website for authors - see reference at the end of this review for more info), "Ascendant" delivers a mix of action, intrigue, and character growth, though it occasionally stumbles under its ambitious scope. Todd Haberkorn's narration elevates the experience, making it a compelling listen for fans of the genre.
One of the audiobook's key highlights is its unique premise: Nym, once the mighty Exarch Niramyn, is stripped of his memories and powers by his archrival, Myzalik, and awakens on the beach of Bloodfin Cove. This regression fantasy twist sets the stage for a journey of rediscovery, as Nym must harness his latent abilities while grappling with his new, vulnerable identity. EmergencyComplaints excels at crafting a structured progression system, with Nym's magical growth tied to quantifiable milestones like spell mastery and physical development. The SEE principle (Senses, Exaggeration, Energize) from memory techniques is mirrored here, as Nym's vivid, sensory-rich experiences—like flying or battling foes—make his journey memorable and immersive.
The worldbuilding is another strength, with a richly detailed setting that includes mage guilds, noble families, and undead threats. Nym's interactions with characters like Ciana, who rescues him early on, and Cern, an alchemist, add depth and relatability. However, some secondary characters feel underdeveloped, serving more as plot catalysts than fully realized individuals. The pacing is brisk, with action-packed sequences balanced by moments of introspection, though the audiobook's reliance on genre conventions—like rapid power-ups—might feel familiar to seasoned progression fantasy readers. EmergencyComplaints mitigates this with plausible setbacks, such as Nym's rookie mistakes, which ground his arc and add tension.
Todd Haberkorn's narration is a standout, bringing energy and nuance to the audiobook. His youthful, dynamic voicing of Nym captures the character's blend of naivety and latent power, while his differentiation of supporting characters enhances the listening experience. However, some listeners might find his pacing slightly rushed during quieter scenes, which can dilute emotional weight. Despite this, Haberkorn's performance is well-suited to the genre's fast-paced, action-driven nature, making the 15-hour plus runtime engaging.
References
- Royal Road: this is a web-based platform for serialized fiction. Royal Road is a popular site where authors, often writing in genres like fantasy, sci-fi, and litRPG, share their work chapter by chapter, allowing readers to engage with ongoing stories.
One of the audiobook's key highlights is its unique premise: Nym, once the mighty Exarch Niramyn, is stripped of his memories and powers by his archrival, Myzalik, and awakens on the beach of Bloodfin Cove. This regression fantasy twist sets the stage for a journey of rediscovery, as Nym must harness his latent abilities while grappling with his new, vulnerable identity. EmergencyComplaints excels at crafting a structured progression system, with Nym's magical growth tied to quantifiable milestones like spell mastery and physical development. The SEE principle (Senses, Exaggeration, Energize) from memory techniques is mirrored here, as Nym's vivid, sensory-rich experiences—like flying or battling foes—make his journey memorable and immersive.
The worldbuilding is another strength, with a richly detailed setting that includes mage guilds, noble families, and undead threats. Nym's interactions with characters like Ciana, who rescues him early on, and Cern, an alchemist, add depth and relatability. However, some secondary characters feel underdeveloped, serving more as plot catalysts than fully realized individuals. The pacing is brisk, with action-packed sequences balanced by moments of introspection, though the audiobook's reliance on genre conventions—like rapid power-ups—might feel familiar to seasoned progression fantasy readers. EmergencyComplaints mitigates this with plausible setbacks, such as Nym's rookie mistakes, which ground his arc and add tension.
Todd Haberkorn's narration is a standout, bringing energy and nuance to the audiobook. His youthful, dynamic voicing of Nym captures the character's blend of naivety and latent power, while his differentiation of supporting characters enhances the listening experience. However, some listeners might find his pacing slightly rushed during quieter scenes, which can dilute emotional weight. Despite this, Haberkorn's performance is well-suited to the genre's fast-paced, action-driven nature, making the 15-hour plus runtime engaging.
References
- Royal Road: this is a web-based platform for serialized fiction. Royal Road is a popular site where authors, often writing in genres like fantasy, sci-fi, and litRPG, share their work chapter by chapter, allowing readers to engage with ongoing stories.
August 31, 2024
MC is a moron and I can't take it.
Every -and I reiterate, EVERY- major problem the MC has is self-inflicted.
The inciting event where the mage-king is turned back into a boy? Happens because he is fat dumb and happy while enjoying the misfortune of a rival he has literally humiliated for hundreds of years without bothering to reconcile or eliminate the enemy.
Makes the first enemy of his new life? Because he didn't pay attention and can't keep his mouth shut.
Flees his first home? Because he can't keep his mouth shut.
Loses his first job to a busybody? Because he can't keep his mouth shut, and then doesn't bother to negotiate, fight back or look for alternatives.
Descends into abject poverty? Because of failure to prepare even a little, and then fails to leave town when it becomes apparent that he needs to regroup.
It goes on, and on, and on like this.
The whole appeal of the Second Life genre is in the phrase, "If I knew then what I know now." The opportunity to power-level through life is irresistible. But thus utter moron of an MC does nothing but squander onr opportunity after another.
I quit at 51%. I don’t know what book the other reviewers were reading, but this is terrible.
Every -and I reiterate, EVERY- major problem the MC has is self-inflicted.
The inciting event where the mage-king is turned back into a boy? Happens because he is fat dumb and happy while enjoying the misfortune of a rival he has literally humiliated for hundreds of years without bothering to reconcile or eliminate the enemy.
Makes the first enemy of his new life? Because he didn't pay attention and can't keep his mouth shut.
Flees his first home? Because he can't keep his mouth shut.
Loses his first job to a busybody? Because he can't keep his mouth shut, and then doesn't bother to negotiate, fight back or look for alternatives.
Descends into abject poverty? Because of failure to prepare even a little, and then fails to leave town when it becomes apparent that he needs to regroup.
It goes on, and on, and on like this.
The whole appeal of the Second Life genre is in the phrase, "If I knew then what I know now." The opportunity to power-level through life is irresistible. But thus utter moron of an MC does nothing but squander onr opportunity after another.
I quit at 51%. I don’t know what book the other reviewers were reading, but this is terrible.
July 1, 2024
This one clicked with me. We see so many coming-of-age stories where children choose to fight against ridiculous odds and win. In this story Nym, a ten-year-old boy, chooses to run away from most situations. The town guard is after you, run away. A professional thief wants to recruit you, run away. A giant monster kicks your ass, run away. It's not only the smart thing to do, it's the only sane thing to do.
The setting is a combination of medieval and frontier society – interesting but not ground-breaking. I liked the magic system, with its multiple challenges; accessing different thresholds of power, filtering power to suit the task, multitasking... oh, and don't cross the streams (mix the levels). Good stuff!
The author wasn't trying too hard. Both the characters and the plot had time to breathe. Nym had time to settle in and try new things. Sure it was mostly a repressive and unfair world for an orphan with amnesia, but there were enough bright spots to keep up the reader's hope.
With luck, the series will continue at this level. If it does, it'll look good on my re-read shelf.
The setting is a combination of medieval and frontier society – interesting but not ground-breaking. I liked the magic system, with its multiple challenges; accessing different thresholds of power, filtering power to suit the task, multitasking... oh, and don't cross the streams (mix the levels). Good stuff!
The author wasn't trying too hard. Both the characters and the plot had time to breathe. Nym had time to settle in and try new things. Sure it was mostly a repressive and unfair world for an orphan with amnesia, but there were enough bright spots to keep up the reader's hope.
With luck, the series will continue at this level. If it does, it'll look good on my re-read shelf.
April 19, 2024
Well worth reading
This is an excellent book. Realistic characters with plenty of depth; the plot doesn't give the MC an easy time, but there are plenty of positives: this isn't grimdark; it's charming, captivating, and well-paced.
The magic system is consistent and reasonably straightforward (but with enough novelty to keep interest). Growth feels natural and hardwon, despite the unique advantages that the MC has. World building is very well woven into the story.
Will certainly be reading the next.
This is an excellent book. Realistic characters with plenty of depth; the plot doesn't give the MC an easy time, but there are plenty of positives: this isn't grimdark; it's charming, captivating, and well-paced.
The magic system is consistent and reasonably straightforward (but with enough novelty to keep interest). Growth feels natural and hardwon, despite the unique advantages that the MC has. World building is very well woven into the story.
Will certainly be reading the next.
June 19, 2024
Rating 4.0 stars
I found this book through a Goodreads friend, Gareth Otton. We have similar tastes and he gave this book a 5 star rating, so I figured this was a no brainer for picking it up. I am glad I did. He is an author himself and even though we have similar tastes, I feel we come to it from 2 different directions. With him being an author, his reviews tend be be focused more on the writing. The prose, the character development, and how everything comes together to tell the story. I come from a different direction. For me it is how the story makes me feel. I would prefer a story with mediocre writing that makes me feel great than a story with great writing that makes me feel okay. I tend to put myself in the MCs place (if I can), so if there are things that are happening to the MC that are great for the story but not really for the MC, I wouldn't like it as much. That is where this one falls for me. I did really like it and and the writing was much more sophisticated than usual for a progression fantasy. Usually I can tell where the author is going way before it gets there. In this one the author made different choices. He set up scenarios where it would have been easy to follow well established troupes but instead went in a different directions. What made it even more impressive is that I understand the reasoning the MC made those choices and I can't argue with pretty much anything he did. It did get a little slow at times, but my main gripe is how difficult everything was for the MC. He should have been super OP but hardly anything seemed to work out for him. Since putting myself in the MCs place is my habit, I ended up being a little flustered. From an intellectual point of view I was ecstatic with something new. From an emotional point I view, I was a little flustered.
The synopsis pretty much spells out the highlights that happened in this book, so there isn't much else to say there, but here is something quick. Super powerful mage gets attacked by an enemy and is turned into a child. The only way to survive is to block all his memories until he can build his strength again. I guess his memories will open up after he reaches certain milestones. He ends up being able to do magic which is pretty rare but not unheard of. He has no memory and has no money so nobody will teach him. He has to do everything himself. Things happen and he goes to a bigger town. He thinks he will be able to do some work with his magic to make money since it is so rare. Overall, I really enjoyed this book and am looking forward to the next one. Not quite 5 stars for me because of what I mentioned above, but I would have no problem recommending this to anyone.
I found this book through a Goodreads friend, Gareth Otton. We have similar tastes and he gave this book a 5 star rating, so I figured this was a no brainer for picking it up. I am glad I did. He is an author himself and even though we have similar tastes, I feel we come to it from 2 different directions. With him being an author, his reviews tend be be focused more on the writing. The prose, the character development, and how everything comes together to tell the story. I come from a different direction. For me it is how the story makes me feel. I would prefer a story with mediocre writing that makes me feel great than a story with great writing that makes me feel okay. I tend to put myself in the MCs place (if I can), so if there are things that are happening to the MC that are great for the story but not really for the MC, I wouldn't like it as much. That is where this one falls for me. I did really like it and and the writing was much more sophisticated than usual for a progression fantasy. Usually I can tell where the author is going way before it gets there. In this one the author made different choices. He set up scenarios where it would have been easy to follow well established troupes but instead went in a different directions. What made it even more impressive is that I understand the reasoning the MC made those choices and I can't argue with pretty much anything he did. It did get a little slow at times, but my main gripe is how difficult everything was for the MC. He should have been super OP but hardly anything seemed to work out for him. Since putting myself in the MCs place is my habit, I ended up being a little flustered. From an intellectual point of view I was ecstatic with something new. From an emotional point I view, I was a little flustered.
The synopsis pretty much spells out the highlights that happened in this book, so there isn't much else to say there, but here is something quick. Super powerful mage gets attacked by an enemy and is turned into a child. The only way to survive is to block all his memories until he can build his strength again. I guess his memories will open up after he reaches certain milestones. He ends up being able to do magic which is pretty rare but not unheard of. He has no memory and has no money so nobody will teach him. He has to do everything himself. Things happen and he goes to a bigger town. He thinks he will be able to do some work with his magic to make money since it is so rare. Overall, I really enjoyed this book and am looking forward to the next one. Not quite 5 stars for me because of what I mentioned above, but I would have no problem recommending this to anyone.
May 14, 2024
I absolutely loved this book. The synopsis does a good job of explaining what this novel is about, so I won't retread old ground. Instead, I'll focus on why this book stands out from other progression novels with a similar premise.
1. Character-led story
While the plot of this novel is intriguing on its own, it is definitely the actions of the protagonist that drive this story. It allows for a lot of natural progression through the novel, gives the main character plenty of room to grow, and does the same for the characters surrounding him as well. I can't think of a single instance in this novel where the direction the story took didn't contradict the characters that have been built up in this novel. Sadly that's rare in many books in this sub-genre, where the plot often drives the story in contradiction to where you'd expect the characters to go.
2. Logical Actions
Leading on from the last point, all of the actions in this book felt like they were logical actions to take given the information the characters have at the moment. Again this is another rarity as so often the story will force illogical actions to keep everything flowing smoothly. Because this wasn't the case here, this story often took directions that surprised me, as normally, the story would have followed more familiar paths and story tropes.
3. Leans into the premise
This is one of the biggest pros for me here. This story understands what is interesting about this story, and it leans into that premise. Steering clear of these familiar traps I have seen other series fall into keeps this novel riding high on what makes it great in the first place, and as a result, I blew through this book in a single sitting, completely blowing past the limits on the time I had allowed myself for reading this morning and making me late on other important tasks.
Overall Verdict
This was an absolutely amazing first novel, and I am only gutted that the next one isn't ready to go yet. Part of me wants to head over to Royal Road and start binging the story over there, and I might just do that. For now, though, I can't recommend this book highly enough. I thoroughly enjoyed my time reading it, and can't wait to see what happens next.
1. Character-led story
While the plot of this novel is intriguing on its own, it is definitely the actions of the protagonist that drive this story. It allows for a lot of natural progression through the novel, gives the main character plenty of room to grow, and does the same for the characters surrounding him as well. I can't think of a single instance in this novel where the direction the story took didn't contradict the characters that have been built up in this novel. Sadly that's rare in many books in this sub-genre, where the plot often drives the story in contradiction to where you'd expect the characters to go.
2. Logical Actions
Leading on from the last point, all of the actions in this book felt like they were logical actions to take given the information the characters have at the moment. Again this is another rarity as so often the story will force illogical actions to keep everything flowing smoothly. Because this wasn't the case here, this story often took directions that surprised me, as normally, the story would have followed more familiar paths and story tropes.
3. Leans into the premise
This is one of the biggest pros for me here. This story understands what is interesting about this story, and it leans into that premise. Steering clear of these familiar traps I have seen other series fall into keeps this novel riding high on what makes it great in the first place, and as a result, I blew through this book in a single sitting, completely blowing past the limits on the time I had allowed myself for reading this morning and making me late on other important tasks.
Overall Verdict
This was an absolutely amazing first novel, and I am only gutted that the next one isn't ready to go yet. Part of me wants to head over to Royal Road and start binging the story over there, and I might just do that. For now, though, I can't recommend this book highly enough. I thoroughly enjoyed my time reading it, and can't wait to see what happens next.
September 2, 2025
I don't know who reviews these books as this book current has a 4.41 rating. I couldn't finish this book- twice. First time I gave up because the entire first two story lines, which were just set up, took way too long and insisted on stupidity to move the story forward.
MC, a world shatteringly powerful magic user, loses a magic duel by trickery and as a result loses his memory and is turned into a 10 year old. MC is resued by a young women who becomes a pseudo older sister to him. They live on their own by the shore trapping to feed themselves but are constantly harassed by a character whose sole aspect is being evil. Evil character catches MC alone and goes to kill him just because he can, but MC has magic so kills evil character. "Big sister" insist on telling the guard. The same guard that didn't care about evil character's harassment but does, for no apparent reason, care about evil character's disappearance. MC runs away to the next town over and even though MC thinks guard will come after him stops in that town and does nothing to hide and several things to call attention to himself. JUST INCREDIBLY STUPID STORY TELLING.
I quit reading when MC, sure enough, encounters guards he ran away from. Even worse, author included a child bully in the first town that is with the guards. The entire character of the bully is bully. Just terrible writing.
So, at 27% of the way through this book there was nothing interesting happening and the character development was largely nonexistant. I therefore quit and wrote this review in the hopes of preventing my future self from touching this book again.
MC, a world shatteringly powerful magic user, loses a magic duel by trickery and as a result loses his memory and is turned into a 10 year old. MC is resued by a young women who becomes a pseudo older sister to him. They live on their own by the shore trapping to feed themselves but are constantly harassed by a character whose sole aspect is being evil. Evil character catches MC alone and goes to kill him just because he can, but MC has magic so kills evil character. "Big sister" insist on telling the guard. The same guard that didn't care about evil character's harassment but does, for no apparent reason, care about evil character's disappearance. MC runs away to the next town over and even though MC thinks guard will come after him stops in that town and does nothing to hide and several things to call attention to himself. JUST INCREDIBLY STUPID STORY TELLING.
I quit reading when MC, sure enough, encounters guards he ran away from. Even worse, author included a child bully in the first town that is with the guards. The entire character of the bully is bully. Just terrible writing.
So, at 27% of the way through this book there was nothing interesting happening and the character development was largely nonexistant. I therefore quit and wrote this review in the hopes of preventing my future self from touching this book again.
October 13, 2024
Not LitRPG but still good. Love the characters, love the story, enjoyable magic system. Plot is meh. Story won't actually start until the MC grows up and gets his memories back (not this book, maybe not next book either). This book is practically slice of life by comparison. Also, nice to read a book where people are genuinely nice to the MC. It was weird how strikingly odd it felt to read a story where people helped the MC because of simple kindness.
*A note on slice of life. It's Not slice of life. Probably. It's close, but the MC is too grindy/driven for SOL it just feels that way because 1) no system and 2) the MC is a very good approximation of the child hes supposed to be.
*Note 2, some readers will find a specific aspect of this author's writting utterly intolerable, and , truth be told, on another day, I might have been among them. You see the MC is a terrible fighter (which is theoretically contrary to the whole premise of the book). He has absolutely zero battlefield awareness, even while obviously in combat, and is a bit of a pacifist. Foolishly stunning opponents who are bigger/stronger and trying to kill him. He's also prone to bouts or deus ex magica where he will be "gifted" by a new, lifesaving spell right before being stabbed or disembowed or whatever. To this, i say "see note one." Still, some people will get irritated by an MC who literally just stands in place while a murderer tries to kill him, only to "remember" how to cast fireball at the last second, blowing them both up, but obviously the MC has plot armor so its fine.
*A note on slice of life. It's Not slice of life. Probably. It's close, but the MC is too grindy/driven for SOL it just feels that way because 1) no system and 2) the MC is a very good approximation of the child hes supposed to be.
*Note 2, some readers will find a specific aspect of this author's writting utterly intolerable, and , truth be told, on another day, I might have been among them. You see the MC is a terrible fighter (which is theoretically contrary to the whole premise of the book). He has absolutely zero battlefield awareness, even while obviously in combat, and is a bit of a pacifist. Foolishly stunning opponents who are bigger/stronger and trying to kill him. He's also prone to bouts or deus ex magica where he will be "gifted" by a new, lifesaving spell right before being stabbed or disembowed or whatever. To this, i say "see note one." Still, some people will get irritated by an MC who literally just stands in place while a murderer tries to kill him, only to "remember" how to cast fireball at the last second, blowing them both up, but obviously the MC has plot armor so its fine.
September 20, 2024
I really enjoyed this story, which approaches the Isekai/Reincarnation/Body Swap genre in a different way. The story of Nym’s ascension (pun intended) in the world is interesting in its treatment, even if, I must admit, it is not always captivating.
I read some comments from people who were unsettled, especially between the two books, by a change in perspective, but I personally appreciated this shift. I believe that this type of story cannot remain at the same level, and in the case of Exarch Niramyn, it MUST evolve in this direction.
For those who have played the game “Spore,” the idea is the same for me. We start by focusing strictly on the character, their feelings, desires, ambitions, and research, but as their adventures progress, we take a step back to look at things on a regional, then national, international, global scale, etc. In any case, that’s how things unfold between the first and second books, so I expect it to continue in this manner.
In short, an interesting adventure, even if biased by the abnormal and rapid power growth of little Nym, although it is explained.
I read some comments from people who were unsettled, especially between the two books, by a change in perspective, but I personally appreciated this shift. I believe that this type of story cannot remain at the same level, and in the case of Exarch Niramyn, it MUST evolve in this direction.
For those who have played the game “Spore,” the idea is the same for me. We start by focusing strictly on the character, their feelings, desires, ambitions, and research, but as their adventures progress, we take a step back to look at things on a regional, then national, international, global scale, etc. In any case, that’s how things unfold between the first and second books, so I expect it to continue in this manner.
In short, an interesting adventure, even if biased by the abnormal and rapid power growth of little Nym, although it is explained.
October 12, 2025
Dnf 11%. Main character goes from being an arrogant, unlikable and ruthlessly violent adult to an arrogant, unlikable and ruthlessly violent child. The character reset is a pointless exercise since he remembers magic and his father's instructions (ruthless violence) pretty much right away. Virtually every other character is stupid, a bully or both, presumably to provide opportunities for the aforementioned ruthless violence. I feel like the story's first chapters were kind of a bait and switch implying an arrogant man changing through adversity and learning a few things, but nope. This appears to be more of a strong guy who has no doubts about his own awesomeness fights his way to revenge while remaining strong, which I don't find very interesting. To be fair, I only read 11% and I may be misjudging it and if what you want is a strong mage reclaiming his place, your opinion will likely differ from mine. I may have been more tolerant of him if I hadn't just finished Silver Linings' excellent Series Die. Respawn. Repeat. which was the complete opposite, so I dunno, maybe it's me.
November 6, 2024
I liked another series that the author wrote under a different penname . So I'm willing to give this a go.
Like how the author's other series was based on Legend of the Arch Magus, I think this is also based on another story, but I can't remember what.
While reading this I'm having a serious sense of Deja Vu. A wizard who lost his memory and gains bits and pieces back when in mortal danger?
This book started poorly, and I was considering dropping it, but by the end I enjoyed it, and will pick up the sequel.
Maybe I will remember which book this reminds me of.
3/5 Stars
Like how the author's other series was based on Legend of the Arch Magus, I think this is also based on another story, but I can't remember what.
While reading this I'm having a serious sense of Deja Vu. A wizard who lost his memory and gains bits and pieces back when in mortal danger?
This book started poorly, and I was considering dropping it, but by the end I enjoyed it, and will pick up the sequel.
Maybe I will remember which book this reminds me of.
3/5 Stars
May 13, 2024
Awesome
Ok, there is nothing but goodness in this book. I love the characters, humor, and unexpected surprises. This author made it happen! There was a book I was attempting to read before I decided on this one. I got to 70% done and just couldn't continue. This book, I couldn't put it down. 24 hours later? I am looking for the next book in the series.
Good job with characters, world building, and lore. I can't wait for the next book. I'm literally sitting here afraid to see how long I have to wait for my next installment!
Ok, there is nothing but goodness in this book. I love the characters, humor, and unexpected surprises. This author made it happen! There was a book I was attempting to read before I decided on this one. I got to 70% done and just couldn't continue. This book, I couldn't put it down. 24 hours later? I am looking for the next book in the series.
Good job with characters, world building, and lore. I can't wait for the next book. I'm literally sitting here afraid to see how long I have to wait for my next installment!
July 17, 2024
Lovely novel
I’ve read the other book by this author, which runs in a similar vein to the plot of this book, however, this is in someways more lighthearted than the other. The author does a good enough job with his writing style, environmental descriptions, and main character power progression as well as progression in terms of his overall emotional and mental development. It was an entertaining read that while not being capable of competing with the likes of Lord of the rings or some of the fantasy classics, doesn’t need to, it was definitely fun.
I’ve read the other book by this author, which runs in a similar vein to the plot of this book, however, this is in someways more lighthearted than the other. The author does a good enough job with his writing style, environmental descriptions, and main character power progression as well as progression in terms of his overall emotional and mental development. It was an entertaining read that while not being capable of competing with the likes of Lord of the rings or some of the fantasy classics, doesn’t need to, it was definitely fun.
July 23, 2024
Really enjoyable! Fun, fast and well written.
With no expectations I was really surprised at how well a story this is. The premise is simple as is the world building, but it's so full of character building and descriptive scenes with minimum word use. It's so enjoyable to read something that isn't over written or full of info dumps, or filler.
Dialogue is well paced and logical, the main character maintains his agency to determine his own path even though he has to overcome obstacles. Just an enjoyable series, very enjoyable storytelling, I can't wait to read book 2!
With no expectations I was really surprised at how well a story this is. The premise is simple as is the world building, but it's so full of character building and descriptive scenes with minimum word use. It's so enjoyable to read something that isn't over written or full of info dumps, or filler.
Dialogue is well paced and logical, the main character maintains his agency to determine his own path even though he has to overcome obstacles. Just an enjoyable series, very enjoyable storytelling, I can't wait to read book 2!
July 30, 2024
between 4 and 5 stars.
Hard to say what to rank this one at. On the one hand, I was thoroughly entertained. I’m invested in the characters. The MC’s decisions make sense given context and those he befriends are like-able as is he.
On the other hand, the pacing felt slow-ish. Certainly not terribly, it was still interesting, but I recall my mind wandering at time while reading even though I didn’t put it down. It’s not an action packed fast paced story, but it does have action and it’s well written.
Would recommend. I’ll be checking out book 2.
Hard to say what to rank this one at. On the one hand, I was thoroughly entertained. I’m invested in the characters. The MC’s decisions make sense given context and those he befriends are like-able as is he.
On the other hand, the pacing felt slow-ish. Certainly not terribly, it was still interesting, but I recall my mind wandering at time while reading even though I didn’t put it down. It’s not an action packed fast paced story, but it does have action and it’s well written.
Would recommend. I’ll be checking out book 2.
March 7, 2025
An archmage, who may be the most powerful mage in the world, escapes a battle by thrusting himself into the body of a 10 year old to hide. Unfortunately, he does not have any memory from his time as an archmage. So, the 10 year old has an exceptional affinity for magic and has immense power, but lacks the knowledge to create and wield spells. He learns along the way. By the end of this book, the boy is about 1 year older. It is an engaging story, not much different from similar stories, though.
September 18, 2025
I listened to the audiobook, and it was a great experience overall. The worldbuilding is rich and immersive, the magic system is clever, and the sense of progression feels earned and satisfying.
I gave it 5 stars more for the experience than anything else — it pulled me in and kept me there. While the sequence of bad decisions did bother me at times, they all made sense for the characters and added depth instead of taking away from the story.
It was a captivating listen, and it stuck with me.
I gave it 5 stars more for the experience than anything else — it pulled me in and kept me there. While the sequence of bad decisions did bother me at times, they all made sense for the characters and added depth instead of taking away from the story.
It was a captivating listen, and it stuck with me.
July 17, 2024
My new favorite series
I figured I would give the book a shot and I was not disappointed. I find that a lot of books I like to read(litrpgs mostly)lack depth or that authors tend to release books that are like 200 pages to just keep pumping them out. This book isn’t that. It’s filled with depth and twists and turns. I like that I genuinely don’t know what will happen next. I couldn’t put this book down. I look forward to the rest of the series!!!
I figured I would give the book a shot and I was not disappointed. I find that a lot of books I like to read(litrpgs mostly)lack depth or that authors tend to release books that are like 200 pages to just keep pumping them out. This book isn’t that. It’s filled with depth and twists and turns. I like that I genuinely don’t know what will happen next. I couldn’t put this book down. I look forward to the rest of the series!!!
August 13, 2024
Average
The plot was nice but the delivery a bit boring. The protagonist once again feels very autistic and is solely focused on becoming stronger. He is a absolute loner and actively avoids company most of the time. Neither is there much humour or real action in the book.
The protagonist has huge potential but only fumbles around, is too full of himself and has to be saved by heavy plot again and again..
The plot was nice but the delivery a bit boring. The protagonist once again feels very autistic and is solely focused on becoming stronger. He is a absolute loner and actively avoids company most of the time. Neither is there much humour or real action in the book.
The protagonist has huge potential but only fumbles around, is too full of himself and has to be saved by heavy plot again and again..
December 21, 2025
The premise of this story has been done many times, so I was hesitant to start this series. But the Goodreads reviews were strong and I'm glad I trusted them. The world is truly unique and the characters are even better. I'm constantly surprised by the plot twists and I'm loving the magic system. This is one of the best fantasy books I've read in a while. I have high hopes for the rest of the series.
September 29, 2024
good book excellent story fast paced.
Fast paced enjoyable book somewhat likable character if a little arrogant. I like the story progression and I like how the book ended no cliffhanger. Going on to read the next book as well worth the four stars, very good world building. Just want to see more power progression. Give it a try.
Fast paced enjoyable book somewhat likable character if a little arrogant. I like the story progression and I like how the book ended no cliffhanger. Going on to read the next book as well worth the four stars, very good world building. Just want to see more power progression. Give it a try.
December 26, 2024
pretty good
The MC is interesting and mostly likable. Some minor inconsistencies that could be chalked up to circumstances as yet unexplained. World building is good though mostly limited to the MC’s fairly restricted POV.
Good story. The writing could be a lot more active. Lots of exposition and inner dialogue stuff that really slows things down.
The MC is interesting and mostly likable. Some minor inconsistencies that could be chalked up to circumstances as yet unexplained. World building is good though mostly limited to the MC’s fairly restricted POV.
Good story. The writing could be a lot more active. Lots of exposition and inner dialogue stuff that really slows things down.
September 3, 2025
On and on and on....
I enjoy books that build a character and then they go off and fight the big fight then end up getting the girl... that is not this book! 1 crazy story leads into another then more of the same and more.
I read 63% before deciding that I just can't continue being bored and not wanting to read.
Gave up after 6 days!
I enjoy books that build a character and then they go off and fight the big fight then end up getting the girl... that is not this book! 1 crazy story leads into another then more of the same and more.
I read 63% before deciding that I just can't continue being bored and not wanting to read.
Gave up after 6 days!
October 28, 2025
new life plus
A super powerful archmage above archmages gets depowered, his memory wiped, and his body reset to 10 years old, then dropped in the middle of nowhere with no resources.
A bit of the cold, arrogant divinity perks through, but learning about survival while trying to learn magic may help humanize this new version of a powerful mage.
A super powerful archmage above archmages gets depowered, his memory wiped, and his body reset to 10 years old, then dropped in the middle of nowhere with no resources.
A bit of the cold, arrogant divinity perks through, but learning about survival while trying to learn magic may help humanize this new version of a powerful mage.
January 31, 2026
Free book on Audible. Kid-friendly. Similar to a cultivation LitRPG but a different twist: the MC is attacked in the very beginning with a reverse-aging attack. He survives it, but he's 10 years old and has lost all his powers. He needs to regain them and remember who he was. He has a tough time doing that. People keep treating him like a child.
March 22, 2024
Good story
Faced paced, decent plot. All characters other than the MC feel a little underdeveloped. The hints at the wider universe might get back for the second novel, might not. Depends on how much time for something only moderately entertaining.
Faced paced, decent plot. All characters other than the MC feel a little underdeveloped. The hints at the wider universe might get back for the second novel, might not. Depends on how much time for something only moderately entertaining.
April 14, 2024
give it to me straight
The book is well written and entertaining . the characters are well thought out and consistent . The world seems lived in and dynamic and full of possibilities.
I give it five pineapples on my proprietary scale 🍍🍍🍍🍍🍍
The book is well written and entertaining . the characters are well thought out and consistent . The world seems lived in and dynamic and full of possibilities.
I give it five pineapples on my proprietary scale 🍍🍍🍍🍍🍍
May 30, 2024
Fantastic book!
It was hard to put this book down. The plot is insanely creative, flows smoothly and quickly, and the characters grab you on page 1 and never let go. Highly recommended. On to book 2!
It was hard to put this book down. The plot is insanely creative, flows smoothly and quickly, and the characters grab you on page 1 and never let go. Highly recommended. On to book 2!
June 12, 2024
ascendant
Best story in a long while, well written and interesting from start to finish, difficult not to read the entire book in a longline single session. Can’t wait for the next book
Best story in a long while, well written and interesting from start to finish, difficult not to read the entire book in a longline single session. Can’t wait for the next book
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