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The Alchemist #2
The Alchemist: Book 2
The ritual proved successful, granting Ed a miraculous escape from a dying world and an opportunity to start a new life. What he did not expect was that this vibrant new world would be filled with dangers waiting around every corner.
Barely giving him any time to adjust, fate dealt its cruel hand once more. Ed lost his family and landed in the clutches of their enemies. But could this really discourage a talented alchemist, who has already accomplished the impossible once before?
Having escaped, Ed got another chance at a normal life. He has to start from scratch, but this wouldn’t pose a problem for someone who consistently defied the odds.
Ahead of him lies a new life in the capital, new friends and enemies, and a struggle to maintain his freedom. The abilities of a true alchemist are too powerful to escape the watchful eye of the authorities.
Will Ed be able to deal with the challenges, find balance, and finally live a normal life?
Barely giving him any time to adjust, fate dealt its cruel hand once more. Ed lost his family and landed in the clutches of their enemies. But could this really discourage a talented alchemist, who has already accomplished the impossible once before?
Having escaped, Ed got another chance at a normal life. He has to start from scratch, but this wouldn’t pose a problem for someone who consistently defied the odds.
Ahead of him lies a new life in the capital, new friends and enemies, and a struggle to maintain his freedom. The abilities of a true alchemist are too powerful to escape the watchful eye of the authorities.
Will Ed be able to deal with the challenges, find balance, and finally live a normal life?
311 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 7, 2024
438 people are currently reading
65 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
March 25, 2025
"The Alchemist, Book 2," written by Roman Romanovich and narrated by Nick Flesher, is a captivating continuation of a portal progression fantasy series that thrives on its blend of intricate world-building, character depth, and alchemical intrigue. It offers an immersive journey into a vibrant yet perilous new world. Romanovich, a seasoned author with a background in psychology, crafts a narrative that balances action and introspection, while Flesher’s narration brings a dynamic energy to the tale, making it a standout listening experience.
The story picks up with Ed, the resourceful alchemist protagonist, who has escaped a dying world through a miraculous ritual, only to find himself thrust into a realm teeming with danger. This 2nd installment explores Ed’s struggle to adapt after losing his family and falling into the hands of their enemies. Romanovich excels at portraying Ed’s resilience, a trait that shines as he navigates a fresh start in the capital. The stakes feel higher here, with new friends and foes emerging, each adding layers to the political and social tapestry of this fantastical setting. The narrative deftly avoids over-explaining, allowing listeners to piece together the world’s rules and Ed’s alchemical prowess through subtle hints and organic dialogue.
One of the key highlights is Ed’s internal conflict - his desire for a normal life clashing with the extraordinary abilities that make him a target. Romanovich’s psychological insight is evident in how Ed grapples with this duality, questioning whether his talents will ever allow him peace or if they’ll perpetually draw the attention of powerful authorities. The capital itself becomes a character, bustling with opportunity and treachery, its vibrancy brought to life by Flesher’s expressive narration. His pacing enhances the tension of action scenes and softens during Ed’s quieter, reflective moments, creating a balanced rhythm that keeps listeners engaged.
The audiobook shines in its character development, particularly with Ed’s evolving relationships. New allies offer camaraderie and wit, while enemies introduce complex moral shades, avoiding one-dimensional villainy. The alchemy system remains a fascinating cornerstone, with Ed’s innovations hinting at broader implications for the world - though he’s cautious about their potential misuse. This tension adds a philosophical edge to the story, elevating it beyond typical fantasy fare.
Flesher’s performance is a triumph, his voice adapting seamlessly to the cast and the shifting tones of Romanovich’s prose. His delivery amplifies the emotional weight of Ed’s losses and the excitement of his discoveries, making the audiobook a richer experience than the text alone might offer. While the plot occasionally feels dense with subthreads, it never loses momentum, promising much for future installments.
"The Alchemist, Book 2" is a compelling blend of escapism and substance, ideal for fans of character-driven fantasy with a twist of intellectual depth. Romanovich and Flesher together ensure this sequel builds on its predecessor’s strengths, leaving you eager for Ed’s next chapter.
The story picks up with Ed, the resourceful alchemist protagonist, who has escaped a dying world through a miraculous ritual, only to find himself thrust into a realm teeming with danger. This 2nd installment explores Ed’s struggle to adapt after losing his family and falling into the hands of their enemies. Romanovich excels at portraying Ed’s resilience, a trait that shines as he navigates a fresh start in the capital. The stakes feel higher here, with new friends and foes emerging, each adding layers to the political and social tapestry of this fantastical setting. The narrative deftly avoids over-explaining, allowing listeners to piece together the world’s rules and Ed’s alchemical prowess through subtle hints and organic dialogue.
One of the key highlights is Ed’s internal conflict - his desire for a normal life clashing with the extraordinary abilities that make him a target. Romanovich’s psychological insight is evident in how Ed grapples with this duality, questioning whether his talents will ever allow him peace or if they’ll perpetually draw the attention of powerful authorities. The capital itself becomes a character, bustling with opportunity and treachery, its vibrancy brought to life by Flesher’s expressive narration. His pacing enhances the tension of action scenes and softens during Ed’s quieter, reflective moments, creating a balanced rhythm that keeps listeners engaged.
The audiobook shines in its character development, particularly with Ed’s evolving relationships. New allies offer camaraderie and wit, while enemies introduce complex moral shades, avoiding one-dimensional villainy. The alchemy system remains a fascinating cornerstone, with Ed’s innovations hinting at broader implications for the world - though he’s cautious about their potential misuse. This tension adds a philosophical edge to the story, elevating it beyond typical fantasy fare.
Flesher’s performance is a triumph, his voice adapting seamlessly to the cast and the shifting tones of Romanovich’s prose. His delivery amplifies the emotional weight of Ed’s losses and the excitement of his discoveries, making the audiobook a richer experience than the text alone might offer. While the plot occasionally feels dense with subthreads, it never loses momentum, promising much for future installments.
"The Alchemist, Book 2" is a compelling blend of escapism and substance, ideal for fans of character-driven fantasy with a twist of intellectual depth. Romanovich and Flesher together ensure this sequel builds on its predecessor’s strengths, leaving you eager for Ed’s next chapter.
January 19, 2025
The Alchemist (The Alchemist, #1) by Roman Romanovich
Introduction
Author Background
Genre Context: Portal Progression Fantasy
A portal mechanism for world transition
Character development from weakness to strength
Unique world mechanics and magic systems
Themes of self-discovery and perseverance
Plot and Premise
Writing Style and Narrative Techniques
Themes and Literary Elements
Personal growth and self-discovery
The interplay between power and responsibility
The nature of transformation, both physical and spiritual
Adaptation to new environments and challenges
Comparison to Contemporary Works
Strengths
Psychological Depth: Romanovich's background as a psychologist results in characters with complex motivations and realistic psychological profiles, adding depth to the narrative.
Unique Blend of Genres: The combination of portal fantasy, progression elements, and alchemical themes offers a fresh take on traditional fantasy tropes.
Author's Experience: With over seventy books under his belt, Romanovich brings a wealth of storytelling experience to this new series.
Series Potential: As the first book in a planned five-part series, "The Alchemist" has the opportunity to set up a rich, expansive world with long-term character arcs and plot developments.
Potential Weaknesses
Genre Conventions: While the psychological elements may set it apart, the book still operates within the conventions of portal fantasy and progression fantasy, which may feel familiar to seasoned readers of the genre.
Complexity: The blend of psychological depth and fantasy elements may be challenging for some readers, potentially requiring a higher level of engagement than typical genre fiction.
Series Dependency: As the first book in a series, it may leave some plot threads unresolved, which could be frustrating for readers seeking a more self-contained story.
Conclusion
Introduction
The Alchemist is the inaugural installment in Roman Romanovich's "A Portal Progression Fantasy Series," marking a significant entry into the burgeoning subgenre of portal progression fantasy. Published on March 26, 2024, this novel blends elements of traditional fantasy with a unique focus on character development and psychological depth, setting the stage for an ambitious five-part series.
Author Background
Roman Romanovich brings a distinctive perspective to the fantasy genre, drawing from his extensive background as both a prolific author and a practicing psychologist. With over seventy books to his name, Romanovich's journey as a writer is marked by a commitment to continuous learning and improvement. His experience as a psychologist significantly influences his writing, allowing him to create layered stories and complex characters that resonate with readers on a deeper level.
Genre Context: Portal Progression Fantasy
Portal progression fantasy is a subgenre that combines elements of portal fantasy and progression fantasy. It typically involves characters traveling through a "portal" from the real world into a magical or fantastical realm, serving as a catalyst for the character's journey of growth and development. Key characteristics include:
A portal mechanism for world transition
Character development from weakness to strength
Unique world mechanics and magic systems
Themes of self-discovery and perseverance
Plot and Premise
While specific plot details for "The Alchemist" are limited, the novel likely follows the conventions of portal progression fantasy. Readers can expect a narrative that involves characters being transported to a fantastical world where they must navigate challenges and grow in power or skill. The title suggests a focus on alchemy, which may play a central role in the protagonist's journey and the magic system of the world.
The book's length of 333 pages indicates a substantial narrative that allows for detailed world-building and character development. As the first in a series, "The Alchemist" sets up the foundational elements of the world, introduces key characters, and establishes the central conflicts that will drive the overarching story.
Writing Style and Narrative Techniques
Romanovich's background in psychology significantly influences his writing style, resulting in a narrative approach that is both engaging and psychologically nuanced. His ability to create complex characters with realistic motivations and psychological profiles adds depth to the story, setting it apart from more straightforward entries in the genre.
The author's experience in world-building and character development, honed through his extensive writing career, is evident in "The Alchemist." The use of vivid imagery to describe the alchemical processes and the fantastical world, coupled with character-driven storytelling, creates a captivating reading experience.
Themes and Literary Elements
"The Alchemist" explores several compelling themes:
Personal growth and self-discovery
The interplay between power and responsibility
The nature of transformation, both physical and spiritual
Adaptation to new environments and challenges
The alchemical process itself likely serves as a central symbol for personal and spiritual transformation, with Romanovich's psychological background allowing for a nuanced exploration of these themes.
Comparison to Contemporary Works
When compared to contemporary works in the portal progression fantasy genre, "The Alchemist" stands out for its psychological depth and complex character development. While it shares common elements with popular series like "Cradle" by Will Wight and "Mother of Learning" by Nobody103, Romanovich's unique blend of psychological insight and fantasy storytelling sets it apart.
Unlike some works in the genre that focus primarily on action and power progression, "The Alchemist" appears to place equal emphasis on the internal journey of its characters. This approach may appeal to readers seeking a more introspective and psychologically rich fantasy experience.
Strengths
Psychological Depth: Romanovich's background as a psychologist results in characters with complex motivations and realistic psychological profiles, adding depth to the narrative.
Unique Blend of Genres: The combination of portal fantasy, progression elements, and alchemical themes offers a fresh take on traditional fantasy tropes.
Author's Experience: With over seventy books under his belt, Romanovich brings a wealth of storytelling experience to this new series.
Series Potential: As the first book in a planned five-part series, "The Alchemist" has the opportunity to set up a rich, expansive world with long-term character arcs and plot developments.
Potential Weaknesses
Genre Conventions: While the psychological elements may set it apart, the book still operates within the conventions of portal fantasy and progression fantasy, which may feel familiar to seasoned readers of the genre.
Complexity: The blend of psychological depth and fantasy elements may be challenging for some readers, potentially requiring a higher level of engagement than typical genre fiction.
Series Dependency: As the first book in a series, it may leave some plot threads unresolved, which could be frustrating for readers seeking a more self-contained story.
The book's impact on the genre may be significant if it successfully integrates psychological depth with traditional fantasy elements. It has the potential to appeal to a broad audience, from fans of portal fantasy to readers interested in character-driven narratives with psychological underpinnings.
Conclusion
"The Alchemist" by Roman Romanovich represents an intriguing addition to the portal progression fantasy subgenre. By leveraging his background in psychology and extensive writing experience, Romanovich offers a potentially fresh perspective on familiar fantasy tropes. The novel's strengths lie in its promise of psychological depth, unique thematic blend, and the author's proven storytelling abilities.
While it remains to be seen how well "The Alchemist" balances its various elements, the book stands as a promising start to a new series that could push the boundaries of what readers expect from portal fantasy. Romanovich's psychological insights, combined with the allure of alchemical magic and character progression, create a compelling foundation for a series that may well leave a lasting impact on the genre.
For readers seeking a fantasy novel that offers more than just surface-level adventure, "The Alchemist" by Roman Romanovich appears to be a worthy contender. As the series progresses, it will be interesting to see how the author develops the world, characters, and themes introduced in this inaugural volume, potentially setting a new standard for psychologically nuanced fantasy literature.
June 24, 2024
Less action and development
The first book was good but had a couple of POV switches that I didn't enjoy. This book, however, is a lot more boring. There's no real development of the main character, and the author doesn't give us much in the way of detail of what he's creating when he goes off by himself to craft whatever he wants to craft. Also, it felt like there should be a lot more powers that his seals could do as a powerful alchemist in his past. For example, maybe he should be able to stop sound stop smells he's worried about money he should be able to do something about that I just don't think that he has really put effort into making this a fully flesh novel. This had several point of view switches with the emperor talking about him which didn't feel like it was earned. Also the villain perspectives are also put in here, so it really felt like we got the main character's point of view maybe 50% of the book. For an already short book, that's not enough. I like it and I'll continue to read the series. I just wish that it was longer and fleshed out and didn't feel like there was so much filler in terms of making several chapters other people talking about what's already happened.
The first book was good but had a couple of POV switches that I didn't enjoy. This book, however, is a lot more boring. There's no real development of the main character, and the author doesn't give us much in the way of detail of what he's creating when he goes off by himself to craft whatever he wants to craft. Also, it felt like there should be a lot more powers that his seals could do as a powerful alchemist in his past. For example, maybe he should be able to stop sound stop smells he's worried about money he should be able to do something about that I just don't think that he has really put effort into making this a fully flesh novel. This had several point of view switches with the emperor talking about him which didn't feel like it was earned. Also the villain perspectives are also put in here, so it really felt like we got the main character's point of view maybe 50% of the book. For an already short book, that's not enough. I like it and I'll continue to read the series. I just wish that it was longer and fleshed out and didn't feel like there was so much filler in terms of making several chapters other people talking about what's already happened.
January 10, 2026
Good continuation of series
Russian literature has a feel all its own. It tends towards the melancholy, with dark heros and lots of political intrigue. This series, set in an alternate universe very similar to ours, follows this pattern. If you like that sort of thing, this series will suit you just fine.
There is a *lot* of graphic violence, but the sex is only hinted at. Go figure! If it were a movie, it would be rated R. Kids should not read it.
There is a hysterical exchange about watches being magic items that is some of the funniest and best writing of any author I've ever read.
Our hero, Ed, gets his inheritance restored, along with his Family name, becoming Edgar Sokolov once again. It is not nearly enough to do anything but pay for his education, though.
Ed continues his studies and experiments. The Emperor will likely be interested is a lot of it if he can be convinced to share.
I like the book quite a bit, but the intrigue is getting too convoluted. I feel like I need one of those string diagrams like the police use just to keep all the connections straight in my head. That's enough to drop it down a star.
I give it 8/10 Dragons 🐉🐉🐉🐉🐉🐉🐉🐉 Well written, no typos, world-building is good even if slowly revealed. Characters are complex and well-developed.
No huge info dumps, even at the beginning. It goes straight into the action, which I appreciate.
Looking forward to reading the rest of the series! Recommend to buy or borrow.
Russian literature has a feel all its own. It tends towards the melancholy, with dark heros and lots of political intrigue. This series, set in an alternate universe very similar to ours, follows this pattern. If you like that sort of thing, this series will suit you just fine.
There is a *lot* of graphic violence, but the sex is only hinted at. Go figure! If it were a movie, it would be rated R. Kids should not read it.
There is a hysterical exchange about watches being magic items that is some of the funniest and best writing of any author I've ever read.
Our hero, Ed, gets his inheritance restored, along with his Family name, becoming Edgar Sokolov once again. It is not nearly enough to do anything but pay for his education, though.
Ed continues his studies and experiments. The Emperor will likely be interested is a lot of it if he can be convinced to share.
I like the book quite a bit, but the intrigue is getting too convoluted. I feel like I need one of those string diagrams like the police use just to keep all the connections straight in my head. That's enough to drop it down a star.
I give it 8/10 Dragons 🐉🐉🐉🐉🐉🐉🐉🐉 Well written, no typos, world-building is good even if slowly revealed. Characters are complex and well-developed.
No huge info dumps, even at the beginning. It goes straight into the action, which I appreciate.
Looking forward to reading the rest of the series! Recommend to buy or borrow.
November 1, 2024
This guy is supposed to be a powerful and experienced alchemist from a brutal world where you can’t trust anyone. So, if he’s survived in such a cutthroat environment, he should be super cautious and meticulous, right? But then, after he loses his new family, he just totally drops his guard and starts acting like a clueless teenager.
I get that he was happy to have a normal life, but come on! After everything he went through, you'd expect him to learn something. Instead, he keeps making these stupid mistakes that nearly get him killed over and over again. It’s like all that experience just vanished! Where's his killer instinct? Where did his caution go? It's so frustrating to see him screw up time and time again, making it feel like this is his first go at life.
Seriously, how does he go from being this cautious survivor to a reckless mess? It completely ruins the character for me and takes me out of the story. I really wanted to see him grow and use what he learned, but instead, it just feels like he’s stuck in a loop of bad decisions.
I get that he was happy to have a normal life, but come on! After everything he went through, you'd expect him to learn something. Instead, he keeps making these stupid mistakes that nearly get him killed over and over again. It’s like all that experience just vanished! Where's his killer instinct? Where did his caution go? It's so frustrating to see him screw up time and time again, making it feel like this is his first go at life.
Seriously, how does he go from being this cautious survivor to a reckless mess? It completely ruins the character for me and takes me out of the story. I really wanted to see him grow and use what he learned, but instead, it just feels like he’s stuck in a loop of bad decisions.
July 1, 2024
Did not finish
Do not continue series
The first book was quite "meh", but this just takes it to a new level. It's like I'm sitting in a dentist's office while the hygienist reads off studies on gum health. I could not care less about the MC, and the constant "interludes" for what I assume will eventually be the secondary MC or antagonist are just totally pointless and add nothing to the book. The MC is supposed to be an adult that lived a hard life on another world before porting over to this one, but he acts like a child, makes SUPER dumb decisions, and just seems so haphazard in his motivations.
Do not continue series
The first book was quite "meh", but this just takes it to a new level. It's like I'm sitting in a dentist's office while the hygienist reads off studies on gum health. I could not care less about the MC, and the constant "interludes" for what I assume will eventually be the secondary MC or antagonist are just totally pointless and add nothing to the book. The MC is supposed to be an adult that lived a hard life on another world before porting over to this one, but he acts like a child, makes SUPER dumb decisions, and just seems so haphazard in his motivations.
July 14, 2025
Meh! Glaring character inconsistency.
In the first book, Ed was a highly trained Alchemist who survived his apocalyptic world, hunted multiple destructive alchemists and finally invented a way to leave his world, starving for human interaction and affection.
In this book, Ed is a young, naive and weak man, that makes obvious mistakes and does not have his emotions under control. I does not fit.
Aside from that the story was neither very exciting nor realistic. I don’t see how Ed can play catch up in not only one but two schools, research magic, get stronger, train physically and expand his social circle - all at the same time. His school day to day was not even interesting.
In the first book, Ed was a highly trained Alchemist who survived his apocalyptic world, hunted multiple destructive alchemists and finally invented a way to leave his world, starving for human interaction and affection.
In this book, Ed is a young, naive and weak man, that makes obvious mistakes and does not have his emotions under control. I does not fit.
Aside from that the story was neither very exciting nor realistic. I don’t see how Ed can play catch up in not only one but two schools, research magic, get stronger, train physically and expand his social circle - all at the same time. His school day to day was not even interesting.
May 28, 2024
Lately, I have been exposed
Recently I became exposed to Russia fantasy literature, I had no expectations, but I am really enjoying how this story arc is going in ways that isn't easy to predict. I find it fascinating, I have been reading since I was a child so most of the time I can predict how a story is going to flow not so much with this author's narrative way of writing, kudos. Keep up your great work.
Recently I became exposed to Russia fantasy literature, I had no expectations, but I am really enjoying how this story arc is going in ways that isn't easy to predict. I find it fascinating, I have been reading since I was a child so most of the time I can predict how a story is going to flow not so much with this author's narrative way of writing, kudos. Keep up your great work.
June 26, 2024
Great story, however very Slow start at the beginning.
I'm enjoying this series, and that includes this book the second edition. However the beginning was so slow almost 200 pages of plot development. Little bit of editing issues but nothing to cause the reading pace to falter. The interludes were short and also contributed to the story, not delay it. Overall I really enjoy the story, look forward to book three.
I'm enjoying this series, and that includes this book the second edition. However the beginning was so slow almost 200 pages of plot development. Little bit of editing issues but nothing to cause the reading pace to falter. The interludes were short and also contributed to the story, not delay it. Overall I really enjoy the story, look forward to book three.
October 24, 2024
Accidentally read this one first instead of the #1, and it worked surprisingly well. I would recommend the author start including in the title the number of the book in the series or at least a subtitle to distinguish between books. I can't be the first confused by this and am unlikely to be the last.
Overall a well done book with no glaring flaws I can point out. But nothing exemplary enough for me to rate above 3 stars.
Overall a well done book with no glaring flaws I can point out. But nothing exemplary enough for me to rate above 3 stars.
March 20, 2025
Hiding Alchemy from Demons
Intrigue, influence, magic vs none, & skills are needed in the academy, but not everyone has them and some more then the rest.
Ed is in a different, body in a new world, needing to learn to survive while not getting killed. Having a social life is hardest because he doesn't want people to learn that he has skills that can hurt even the strongest of his enemies, but are not of this world.
Fun read with lots of challenges and fights.
Read in 4 days
Intrigue, influence, magic vs none, & skills are needed in the academy, but not everyone has them and some more then the rest.
Ed is in a different, body in a new world, needing to learn to survive while not getting killed. Having a social life is hardest because he doesn't want people to learn that he has skills that can hurt even the strongest of his enemies, but are not of this world.
Fun read with lots of challenges and fights.
Read in 4 days
March 29, 2025
This novel will appeal to an audience that enjoys Russian intrigue, generations long family feuds, etc. The plot is inconsistent, the main character is quixotic, and the storyline wanders around in uninteresting ways. I thought the first novel was better. I did not enjoy the sequel, and I won't bother with anything more in this series.
October 3, 2025
Too good
It's too good. I care about Ed and his potential rivalry with Roman was good. The friends that Ed makes, improvements to his alchemy, studying in two institutes and managing friends of both groups are good.
I care more about Ed and his future endeavors and it's a satisfying and fast read.
Looking forward to more.
It's too good. I care about Ed and his potential rivalry with Roman was good. The friends that Ed makes, improvements to his alchemy, studying in two institutes and managing friends of both groups are good.
I care more about Ed and his future endeavors and it's a satisfying and fast read.
Looking forward to more.
May 8, 2024
a definite follow
Interesting, good pace and likable characters. The character though possessed of considerable knowledge does not fall back on narcissistic peach and pontification as similar characters often do.
Interesting, good pace and likable characters. The character though possessed of considerable knowledge does not fall back on narcissistic peach and pontification as similar characters often do.
May 8, 2024
Excellent follow up
This second book is even better than the first. I love the mix of action, drama, and school life. The MC grows in power and personality. I also love the complexity related to his revenge and the dilemma he faces. Looking forward to the next one!
This second book is even better than the first. I love the mix of action, drama, and school life. The MC grows in power and personality. I also love the complexity related to his revenge and the dilemma he faces. Looking forward to the next one!
May 10, 2024
Outworlder ALCEMIST!
A five star continuing story of an outworlder
transferred from a dead World to a slanted Russian Civilization. Its quite a good read.
Lots of killing and blood....you will love it.
A five star continuing story of an outworlder
transferred from a dead World to a slanted Russian Civilization. Its quite a good read.
Lots of killing and blood....you will love it.
May 12, 2024
Good read but short
Book was interesting , it was good but way to short at least make it 700 pages. Getting a bit tired of his body being so weak tho. Hopefully the next book is much longer.
Book was interesting , it was good but way to short at least make it 700 pages. Getting a bit tired of his body being so weak tho. Hopefully the next book is much longer.
May 26, 2024
Definitely one of the better progression fantasies I have read recently. MC is great and does not make stupid decisions which is a breath of fresh air. He also acts like the adult he actually is. Highly recommend and I will look forward to the next book.
May 26, 2024
Waste if time
To much of nothing, once he went to uni everything just stopped, just talk and talk, supposedly he was a alchemist but all he did was compare himself to others nothing really changes except he turned into a wimp
To much of nothing, once he went to uni everything just stopped, just talk and talk, supposedly he was a alchemist but all he did was compare himself to others nothing really changes except he turned into a wimp
June 27, 2024
Nothing ever happens...
The protagonist arrives at university. Otherwise not much happens. There is no character development worth mentioning and not many social interactions. I found the few fights and the plot itself lacking and underwhelming.
I won´t continue the series.
The protagonist arrives at university. Otherwise not much happens. There is no character development worth mentioning and not many social interactions. I found the few fights and the plot itself lacking and underwhelming.
I won´t continue the series.
August 23, 2024
Seems too large a workload
The workload seems too much for him to actually study and stuff. Also I think he needs a lab and more money because things seem way too expensive. Oh maybe a motorcycle
The workload seems too much for him to actually study and stuff. Also I think he needs a lab and more money because things seem way too expensive. Oh maybe a motorcycle
November 12, 2024
Entertaining
Ed continues to puzzle out how his alchemy can help him defeat powerful aristocrats. Study, preparation, battle, and intrigue ensue. I like the action, intrigue, and magic system. I look forward to the next book.
Ed continues to puzzle out how his alchemy can help him defeat powerful aristocrats. Study, preparation, battle, and intrigue ensue. I like the action, intrigue, and magic system. I look forward to the next book.
December 24, 2024
These Russian books are turning out great so far, so I might try a few others.
For some reason, book one felt longer. I don't know if it was because more things happen in a wider time frame, but you really noticed the shortness.
I will pick up the sequel.
3/5 Stars
For some reason, book one felt longer. I don't know if it was because more things happen in a wider time frame, but you really noticed the shortness.
I will pick up the sequel.
3/5 Stars
June 24, 2025
P D Good...
What can an old man say? "he is not a literary expert," I guess. Giving a fantasy book 5 stars seems like fingernails on chalk on a board. Nonetheless, give the devil his due. 5 Big Stars...
What can an old man say? "he is not a literary expert," I guess. Giving a fantasy book 5 stars seems like fingernails on chalk on a board. Nonetheless, give the devil his due. 5 Big Stars...
November 12, 2025
New Challenges
How is it possible to stay under the radar when you are doing something no one else can do and it’s in public? It’s getting harder for Ed Sokolov to hide his true identity
How is it possible to stay under the radar when you are doing something no one else can do and it’s in public? It’s getting harder for Ed Sokolov to hide his true identity
May 10, 2024
Great book
Great book I can't wait to read the next book in the series I would recommend this author to anyone
Great book I can't wait to read the next book in the series I would recommend this author to anyone
May 11, 2024
awesome book and series
Love this series of books. The action is good. Story has a great storyline. Can’t wait to read the next one.
Love this series of books. The action is good. Story has a great storyline. Can’t wait to read the next one.
May 14, 2024
Good
A good entry into the book series, I am looking forward to seeing what happens in the next book released.
A good entry into the book series, I am looking forward to seeing what happens in the next book released.
May 23, 2024
the plot thickens
Ed’s character is evolving , he’s learning new tactics and defences . The plot thickens as new factors are introduced .
Ed’s character is evolving , he’s learning new tactics and defences . The plot thickens as new factors are introduced .
May 24, 2024
Main character not a simp
It was like I read a book from 20 yrs ago.the main character was was great stayed a man didn't become a puss .great story line .I missed books like this.
It was like I read a book from 20 yrs ago.the main character was was great stayed a man didn't become a puss .great story line .I missed books like this.
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