Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Haven #2

Revenge of the Viper

Rate this book
Revenge of the Viper is (Book #2) in the Bestselling series HAVEN, following A Stranger Magic (BOOK #1) which is available as a FREE download on Amazon!

The Great War of Haven ended thirteen years ago but Alisa Dalcome is about to discover that the war did not end for her. Placed on Earth as a sleeper agent for the Majesty of Haven, Alisa had one objective—protect the portal keys at all costs. In the wrong hands the magical keys could jeopardize the safety of everyone on Haven. But Alisa’s relocation was more than just Majesty business; it was also a chance for her to escape her enemies, enemies that still wanted her dead. Alisa wasn’t thinking about herself when she left Haven, she was thinking about her children Sam and Sarah. The Great War had already taken her husband Rylan; she would be damned if she would let it take her children too. But what Alisa didn’t count on was her inquisitive son Sam and his friend Travis. Sam’s world has turned upside down after discovering magic is real. After barely escaping the caves Sam begins to piece together the past day’s events when he stumbles onto his mother’s secret past. With the clues mounting, Sam must dig deeper to uncover the truth that could change his life forever.
But Sam doesn’t realize that his mother’s past has already caught up with them. Hidden within the shadows nearby is Haven’s most malevolent predator—the Viper. A hunter forged from the blackest of magic, it watches, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. Can Sam uncover the truth in time or will his mother’s past collide with the present placing them all in grave danger?

HAVEN SERIES: Known as a place of refuge, Haven is a sanctuary for those with supernatural abilities. Decades of peace between the Witches, Vampires, Goblins, Elves, and Orcs is coming to an end. Now the once tranquil world is shrouded in deception and corruption. Dark secrets tear at the very fabric of their alliance, giving way to an evil that stirs in the shadows. Exhilarating and utterly gripping, the HAVEN series is an action-packed journey full of suspense, magic, mystery, and intrigue.

278 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 17, 2014

24 people are currently reading
528 people want to read

About the author

D.C. Akers

11 books41 followers
D.C. Akers was born in Texas, and after spending several years working in accounting, he began to pursue his childhood dream of becoming a writer. Like many who enjoy the fantasy genre, Akers started reading it as an adolescent. He was fascinated with Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings and Bram Stoker's Dracula. He currently enjoys reading works by Dean Koontz, Heather Brewer, J.K. Rowling, Rick Riordan, and John Grisham.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
77 (43%)
4 stars
56 (31%)
3 stars
33 (18%)
2 stars
9 (5%)
1 star
4 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
Profile Image for Crystal Wright.
73 reviews4 followers
March 27, 2014
Disclosure: I received this book for free to do my review, it did not effect my opinion.

Sam Dalcome's not the average boy he thought he was and the world is a different place than he thought it was only days before. Magic is real and Sam knows it. Sam and Travis work to discover the truth until the Viper shows up. Sam's mom isn't just a waitress that works too hard to provide for her family and they will finally learn about Haven. They will learn the truth as many other truths are uncovered.

The second novel of the Haven series and it definitely is the continuation of the first. The story flows straight through without any sort of time hiccups. I can appreciate the way the family history and Haven is intertwined in the dramatic story in a very fluid way. The writing style is both clear and easy to follow. I think this would be a great book for preteen and up. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes all things magic. This is a curl up and get lost in it, kind of book perfect for a mental break from all things outside of Haven. It lets you relax and enjoy the ride with Sam, even if you worry for him. I enjoyed it.
Profile Image for Niki Overstreet.
17 reviews3 followers
May 3, 2014
Book review written by Misty Overstreet-Roberts, blogger at http://theladypreferstosave.com

This book, the first of a series, is written in a style similar to that of J.K. Rowling, is beautifully mastered, and despite its short length, is very captivating . The story centers on Sam Dalcome, a young teen, who alongside his friend Travis, find their magic-induced world of hijinks and discovery halted after discovering that the world of magic, that they so long for in their imaginations, is real in the ���Haven.���
With this knowledge, the pair sets off on a thrwarted mission to uncover the origins of magic, and the beyond. Sam, sadly must also plays victim, when the knowledge is unearthed, that his mother also dabbled into the realms, that he himself was just discovering.

What becomes clear to the reader early on is that Haven, like any other unknown land, holds a vast history, hidden within the shadows is Haven���s most malevolent predator, and Sam���s nemesis, the Viper. A hunter forged from the blackest of magic, it watches, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. This is the setting for a fantastic novel!

Without spoiling the rest of the book, I can honestly say this page-turning novel, will be well within my mind���s eye until the next installment is released!

n compliance with FTC regulation, I hereby disclaim that I received a free copy of the book from Tomoson Media, in exchange for my review. I was not compensated for this review. All opinions of this book, its author, and publisher, are that of my own.
1 review63 followers
March 10, 2014
I did go and download the first book, A Stranger Magic, so I could completely follow along but it is not entirely necessary. Since the first one is currently free on Amazon, I figured why not add it to my collection. The second book, Revenge of the Viper, pretty much leaves off where the first ends. It goes through and you learn a little more about Sam and his background. With great action and darker magic you learn more about his past and his family. His mom is introduced as a waitress but you soon come to find out she's more than that. The more you read, the more you learn the truth about Haven.
The writing of the books is great. The words and the descriptions of the scenes if very vivid and real. The book(s) are easy to follow. I enjoyed reading the first and second books and can not wait for the next in the series.
I think one of my favorite lines of the book was found towards the end, and it kind of sums up what the series is about for me.
"The world, this world, was not ready for that kind of knowledge. Humans lived in a world of expectance and comprehension. They needed to be able to understand a thing like magic for it to become a normality in their lives."

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.
Profile Image for Athena Nagel.
286 reviews181 followers
March 22, 2014
These two books (Book 1 and 2) grabbed my attention immediately. I love the titles – interesting and intriguing without revealing too much. Covers also are important to me. I realize that in many cases you cannot judge a book by its cover but the reality is, the cover is extremely important in creating a first impression. In this case, the covers did an excellent job of reaching that goal.
So once I reach step three – actually finding out what the stories are about – I knew I had to find out more. I have read so many stories where the lead character is living a normal life day to day only to find out they are something more – so much more. Sam and Sarah find out they are much more than your average humans. And to add in Witches, Vampires, Goblins, Orcs and Elves - how could I possibly resist this series.

Sam and Sarahs mom has to try and protect Haven – a sanctuary for magical beings; as well as her children. But that becomes more and more difficult as upheaval begins and Viper intends to destroy it all.

The books are not long but are so incredibly captivating. It is very difficult to put the stories down and move on with your day… I highly recommend this series.
Profile Image for Kelly.
23 reviews
April 2, 2014
This was my first time reading this author my sister had told me about his first book and I was going to read it and never did . Now having the chance to read both books I am happy I did . I love this author cant wait for the next book to come out.

Sam Dacomes world as he knows it will be turned inside out, when he learns that what he thought about magic is actually true. Sam and his best friend Travis barely escape the caves and while cleaning out the garage Sam comes across his moms hidden box of her past. In the box he finds a ring, letter and 11 pieces of onyx and he starts to put the pieces of the past and today’s events together.

He learns pieces of his moms past which she has had to keep hidden in offer to protect her children , after her husband was killed and the truth will change his life forever. Sam doesn’t realize that digging around her past has put them in contact with the danger shes tried hard to keep them from, and the past is onto them now.

The viper is made from the blackest of magic and is now watching and waiting for his chance to attack them, things as the family and Travis are about to turn out so different now. His moms past outs them in danger and three lives will be changed forever
12 reviews2 followers
March 28, 2014
This review and others are posted on my blog: All In A Day's Kitchen. I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my personal opinion.

This book delivers! The first book of this series ended with a cliffhanger, and it was such a good book, I wanted to get the second one to continue the story. I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion. The first chapter didn't start off as a continuation of the first book, but it was an essential chapter to set up the rest of the characters in the story. D.C. Akers has a way with words, and can get you to see the action that plays out on the paper as you read. This story was full of surprises for Sam and his family, who discover that magic is a very real thing. Who would've thought his mother, the tired waitress, had a crucial role in this second story? I was shocked at just how much about Sam's life had been hidden from him by his mother. This book hit the spot as far as needing closure from the first book, but now I have to wait for the next book in the series, because Akers has left me on the cliff again, and I'm hanging on for the next ride.
Profile Image for Kristin Sumner.
10 reviews9 followers
March 17, 2014
After reading Haven: A Stranger Magic, I had to read Haven: Revenge of the Viper which is book 2 in the Haven Series Collection.

Now, this is the book that reveals everything and all magic! I was introduced to the other realm- Haven and the Majesty. This time around, I could not put my book down. The chapters ended so intriguing you just had to go on to the next- I just had to know what was going to happen. It was like this all the way through.

Alisa’s secret was revealed when Sam found something that had been hidden from him for 13 years. He found magic and more.

I had fallen in love even more with Sam in this chapter as well as Travis. Sarah, surprised me too. She was coming out of her shell and it really made me smile when her and Travis finally talked.

This whole book was full of magic and adventure- which in turn took me away from this world and put me smack dab in theirs.

Now, Sam has a million questions running through his head and so do I. I can’t wait for them to be answered.
Profile Image for Angiewagg.
289 reviews26 followers
May 14, 2014
Revenge of the Viper ( Book 2 )

Thirteen years ago the Great War of Haven ended. Alisa has been placed here on earth as a sleeper and her only job is to protect the portal. If the wrong person were to get the keys it would jeopardize everyone in Haven.
She lost her husband Rylan to the Great War and refuses to lose her children. But Sam & his friend Travis , being the boys they are, just won't leave things alone. And Sam KNOWS that magic IS real. But will his mom listen & believe him.
And he HAS to find out the entire story. But, can he handle what he will find out? And can he save his mom? From the VIPER?
Before he can talk to his mom and find out the entire Dalcome family story. The Viper shows up with ONE objective ~ KILL Sam's entire family.

I am hooked like a fat kid on chocolate cake. I LOVE the way D.C.Akers bring all the characters alive. You feel like you know them and that they are real & you are there with them watching this all unfold. I hope he continues with this series.
Profile Image for Simone.
474 reviews17 followers
May 21, 2014
I received a free copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review.

“Revenge of the Viper” is book two of the Haven series. The story continues where book one left off, with Sam waking up the next morning after his extremely eventful night at the caves. He has many questions, but no one to ask. I mean seriously, who would believe what he saw that night, right? We also learn who the cloaked figure is that has been watching Sam, and the magical world of Haven. The Viper does exact revenge on the Dalcome family, which sets the stage for a book three, as Sam embarks on a dangerous quest to save his sister.


This was a fast paced, action packed fantasy novel that I could not put down! My heart broke for Sam, as his world quickly fell apart. You can easily make an emotional connection with Sam, Sarah, and Travis, as the things they were going through; we all have experienced at some point in our lives. D. C. Akers has woven a complex yet entertaining fantasy series that can be enjoyed by young and old alike.
Profile Image for Linda Mccune skinner.
1 review
March 15, 2014
It has been a long time since I stayed up most of the night reading a book. I did last night. I was just going to finish the chapter and then the battle began. I was caught up breathlessly fighting with Alisa protecting her children. I had tears of grief with Sam's fragile sense of honor. I laughed at the dry since of humor of Vallen. Demetrius became my protector. Let me not forget Travis' ability to diffuse any tense moment with his off handed remarks. And then, there will be Book #3: Haven: Elixir of Life, I cannot wait.

D.C. Akers is a master of suspense. His ability to describe the characters and battle scenes is so realistic, I can see them as if I were watching a video. I was riveted to the written word and scenes before me.

Haven: A Stranger Magic is Book #1 which is available from free on www.Amazon.com and www.Smashwords.com.
3 reviews
March 16, 2014
This installment of the Haven Series is a really quick, well written, and exciting read! There are edge-of-your-seat fight scenes, wicked cool magic, and emotions through the roof... all written engagingly and amazingly. The Vipers are written terrifyingly and I would HATE to get caught by one on a dark night! Strong characters continue to develop and become even more relatable in their reactions to surprising plot points. Said shifting plot means I can hardly wait for the next book to come out so I can read more!
Profile Image for Sasa Mome.
2 reviews
May 7, 2014

The second book, Revenge of the Viper, leaves off where the first ends. You learn a little more about Sam and his background. With great action and darker magic you learn more about his past and his family. His mom is introduced as a waitress but you soon find out she's more than that. The more you read, the more you learn the truth about Haven. Revenge of the Viper is just, as good as the first book. I can't wait to read what happens next in the series.
Profile Image for Allison.
674 reviews36 followers
July 2, 2014
Really liked this one and was sorry to see it end because the 3rd one doesn't appear to be available yet.
Profile Image for Nikki.
315 reviews12 followers
September 21, 2018
Much More Exciting Than The First Booj

I'm glad I decided to get this second book in the Haven series. It was much more exciting, and and the storyline moved along much faster. You were introduced to a lot more characters, and the world in which they came from.

The author wrote a far more exciting and intriguing second book. In my opinion, the first and second book should have been one. Whilst it still has a target audience of pre-teens and teens, it was still a good clean read for older readers who like this genre. I found it easy to follow and quick to read.

Overall, if you read the first book, you really should read this one. It was so much better than the first. I'm really interested in reading the third when it comes out.
Profile Image for Leslie.
406 reviews
February 4, 2019
Quick action (faster to it than the first if I recall from a few years ago) but I thought the series ended here. Then as it was about 80% in realized there was no way this was going to complete the story line before the book ended and sure enough I come to find out there is a book three. Dah. Just as I was getting into it too. What’s more frustrating is apparently this book came out in 2014. It’s now 2019 and book three is yet to come out!!

Overall it was a good read and the fact that I didn’t remember squat from book one didn’t seem to matter much. Just wish book three was out already so I could see what happens...
Profile Image for Lorilyn Andrus.
88 reviews
June 15, 2017
Awesome

Enthralling book. Get swept into a mysterious world of magic, existing on earth, right alongside Sam. One that has always existed, but been hidden, and protected. Can't wait for the next book to be written.
Profile Image for Jen .
96 reviews
January 4, 2022
Good story

A thoroughly enjoyable read, I like all the characters.looking forward to reading the last book in the series. I would recommend to anyone who enjoys fantasy as much as me.
1 review
Want to read
January 12, 2020
The book is an exciting book to read
The suspense,drama and action were properly arranged, it was like watching a 3d movie i give the writer a thumb's up.
Also i couldn't find grammatical errors.
1 review
Want to read
May 24, 2020
This is the best book i have read so far it's the best
Profile Image for Annamarie.
267 reviews3 followers
February 25, 2019
After finding the hidden cave Sam got into trouble with his mum and he had upset his sister so he decides that he would clean out the garage that his mum had asked him to do without complaining.

While cleaning the garage he finds something hidden it has his mums name on it and inside is a letter. Sam reads the letter and when he reads out a certain word a ball in the garage starts to fly around crashing into items knocking them over, Travis turns up just in time to help him to tidy it all back up so that he doesn't get into trouble.

After the strange garage incident the reader is taken to the world of Haven - which is a sanctuary for the supernatural - where a meeting is about to take place between all the elders of each race, during the meeting they are told that the Viper has returned and that Sam and his family were still alive and were living on Earth to keep them safe.

Some of the people at the meeting are outraged at this revelation and they leave after an argument. One of the members of the meeting had figured out that Sam and his family were still alive and the remaining people are told that Sam and his family are in danger.

For the rest of the story some members leave Haven to got to Earth to see the Dalcome are safe but Sam, Travis, his mum and sister are attacked and they have to fight the Viper with the help of the people from Haven. Once the fight is over Sam and his family with his friend Travis go to the cave and they all travel to Haven.

I enjoyed this story, I would have liked to see more of Haven, maybe after everyone had arrived from Earth back to Haven instead of it all being focused on the fight in the Dalcome home.
Profile Image for Martha.
357 reviews34 followers
March 23, 2014
Revenge of the Viper picks up where A Stranger Magic leaves off. The terribly average Sam Dalcome is discovering that he's anything but: together with his best friend Travis, Sam has stumbled onto the existence of magic, something he used to think existed only in books and video games. Now Sam is trying to piece together the events of the past few days and understand why he of all people is suddenly involved.

Things take an even darker turn when Sam discovers that his mother may have a few magical secrets of her own. But there's more at stake here than family secrets: Alisa Dalcome is running for her life, sworn to guard the secrets of her home planet, Haven. Now a being called the Viper is hunting her down, determined to destroy Alisa and her family. Will Sam and his family be able to escape the Viper, or is it too late?

Revenge of the Viper wastes no time getting right into the action. The fight scenes are well constructed and the action moves fluidly between Haven and Earth. There are a lot of new characters and information to introduce all at once in this sequel, but the pace is steady so it doesn't feel like an info dump. I liked that we get to see more of Sam's sister, Sarah, as she continues to discover her ability--hopefully we'll learn more about her powers in the third book, due out next year. There's also a surprising twist in the book that I wasn't expecting, and it makes Sam's quest to uncover his family history even more high-stakes.

This book is aimed at a YA audience, but it would be enjoyable for all ages. The Viper is pretty sinister, but not too scary for a junior-high reader, if you're thinking about passing on these books to kids. (Since it's a YA book, there's also no language or graphic violence to worry about.)
18 reviews1 follower
November 10, 2014
This book is better then the first book, so yesterday, as you know I started reading the first book, Haven: A Stranger Magic, I have been so completely intrigued with this series, that unfortunately I didn't get very much sleep as I was up all night reading the second book, Haven: Revenge of the Viper, as it was very hard to stop reading.

The second book pretty much starts off where the first book ends. It leads you on to know more about Sam and his background. There are great action scenes and at first we know that his mom was introduced as a waitress, but she is so much more than that! The more you read the more you know the truth about Haven. Haven is a refuge for all types of supernatural beings. It is a place that has been at peace for so many years, and that is all going to end. There are dark hidden secrets that are starting to reveal itself, but I won't ruin the fun.

Descriptions of the entry's in the book, appear real and are so very vivid. l love the way D.C.Akers bring the characters alive, as I feel like these are my friends, as I know them, and watch as everything unfolds. This is a definite must read! And I can't wait till the third book is available!
Profile Image for Lexi Hollinger.
69 reviews15 followers
December 19, 2016
Don't get me wrong, I loved the first book. However, this book was a lot harder to get through. It felt like it was dragging in parts. Halfway through the book I almost stopped and read something else. I won't be recommending this book to people.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.