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I Ran Away to Evil #2
I Ran Away to Evil 2
The Dark Lord’s royal guard and the continent’s most famous bard face assassins—and an unexpected attraction—in the second book of this romantasy series.
Cmdr. Gen. Rufus Triever is known throughout Valaria for his dogged bravery and unwavering loyalty to his master, Dark Lord Keith Monfort. What the golden retriever shapeshifter is less known for is his love of music, particularly that of renowned bard Bronwynn Lyriel. And when he’s tasked with shadowing her to discover whether or not she’s secretly an international spy and murderer, his interest goes beyond professional intrigue.
Being best friends with Henrietta Doryn—the new Dark Lady of Nilheim—has its perks, not the least of which is the boost it’s given Bronwynn’s career. Her summer schedule is now full of performances for royals from far and wide. But her newfound spotlight has also threatened to reveal things Brownie would rather keep hidden . . . secrets that could land her in a whole heap of trouble, especially with her tenacious part-canine companion.
As Brownie and Rufus journey through the Dark Enchanted Forest, they can’t ignore the forces drawing them ever closer to each other. But with deadly assassination attempts around every corner and a slew of unfortunate circumstances connecting Brownie to the crimes, their budding relationship might be cut short before they get a chance to truly test their ability to duet.
Blending heart-pounding action with swoon-worthy romance—and perfect for fans of the Legends & Lattes series—I Ran Away to Evil 2 is the continuation of a brilliant romantasy series filled with dungeons, dragons, and debutantes.
The second volume of the hit LitRPG romantasy series—with more than a million views on Royal Road—now available in paperback, ebook, and audiobook!
Cmdr. Gen. Rufus Triever is known throughout Valaria for his dogged bravery and unwavering loyalty to his master, Dark Lord Keith Monfort. What the golden retriever shapeshifter is less known for is his love of music, particularly that of renowned bard Bronwynn Lyriel. And when he’s tasked with shadowing her to discover whether or not she’s secretly an international spy and murderer, his interest goes beyond professional intrigue.
Being best friends with Henrietta Doryn—the new Dark Lady of Nilheim—has its perks, not the least of which is the boost it’s given Bronwynn’s career. Her summer schedule is now full of performances for royals from far and wide. But her newfound spotlight has also threatened to reveal things Brownie would rather keep hidden . . . secrets that could land her in a whole heap of trouble, especially with her tenacious part-canine companion.
As Brownie and Rufus journey through the Dark Enchanted Forest, they can’t ignore the forces drawing them ever closer to each other. But with deadly assassination attempts around every corner and a slew of unfortunate circumstances connecting Brownie to the crimes, their budding relationship might be cut short before they get a chance to truly test their ability to duet.
Blending heart-pounding action with swoon-worthy romance—and perfect for fans of the Legends & Lattes series—I Ran Away to Evil 2 is the continuation of a brilliant romantasy series filled with dungeons, dragons, and debutantes.
The second volume of the hit LitRPG romantasy series—with more than a million views on Royal Road—now available in paperback, ebook, and audiobook!
449 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 12, 2024
132 people are currently reading
321 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
June 2, 2025
4.5⭐
I liked this so much more than the first book!
Rufus is my favorite character in the series, so when I saw that he was the mc of this book (along with Brownie), I knew I just had to read it. I absolutely love this world that is full to the brim with all kinds of magical creatures and races. In this world, nothing feels impossible.
This book didn't feel as disjointed as the previous book, and I also liked this plot much better than the first - and we had some additional horsey hijinks to add to the mix... I also really liked the focus on music. The audiobook narrator, Laura Horowitz, sung snippets of Brownie's songs, and it was lovely!
I couldn't put this down and I'm looking forward to the next book in this series where we follow my second favorite character, Gerda.
I liked this so much more than the first book!
Rufus is my favorite character in the series, so when I saw that he was the mc of this book (along with Brownie), I knew I just had to read it. I absolutely love this world that is full to the brim with all kinds of magical creatures and races. In this world, nothing feels impossible.
This book didn't feel as disjointed as the previous book, and I also liked this plot much better than the first - and we had some additional horsey hijinks to add to the mix... I also really liked the focus on music. The audiobook narrator, Laura Horowitz, sung snippets of Brownie's songs, and it was lovely!
I couldn't put this down and I'm looking forward to the next book in this series where we follow my second favorite character, Gerda.
December 19, 2024
This review is for the audiobook only
-I just can't do it-
The female love interest in this book is a Bard. So... the text includes songs she is singing. The author clearly put her heart into the poetry of the lyrics.
The only way you can do this narration is to have the narrator sing the lyrics.
...and the narrator Laura Horowitz has a lovely singing voice...
And it makes sense to imitate the vocal style of Lord of the Rings when you have someone singing fantasy lyrics solo with no musical accompaniment.
So good job everyone. and once again Laura Horowitz has a wonderful voice.
But I am an uncultured swine and I can't stand solo vocals.
Just imagine "Edge of Night (Pippin's Song)" from Return of the King, but it goes on and on with out an end in sight.
I sat through the first song squirming in my seat. I DNFed at the second song just a few chapters later.
That's two songs in 6% of book and I just cant do that. I might one day try to read this thing, but just don't have the strength for the audiobook, and the fault is entirely mine.
-I just can't do it-
The female love interest in this book is a Bard. So... the text includes songs she is singing. The author clearly put her heart into the poetry of the lyrics.
The only way you can do this narration is to have the narrator sing the lyrics.
...and the narrator Laura Horowitz has a lovely singing voice...
And it makes sense to imitate the vocal style of Lord of the Rings when you have someone singing fantasy lyrics solo with no musical accompaniment.
So good job everyone. and once again Laura Horowitz has a wonderful voice.
But I am an uncultured swine and I can't stand solo vocals.
Just imagine "Edge of Night (Pippin's Song)" from Return of the King, but it goes on and on with out an end in sight.
I sat through the first song squirming in my seat. I DNFed at the second song just a few chapters later.
That's two songs in 6% of book and I just cant do that. I might one day try to read this thing, but just don't have the strength for the audiobook, and the fault is entirely mine.
November 20, 2024
Adorably wholesome fantasy romance can't wait for book 3
November 17, 2024
adorable!
A fun, lighthearted, and adventurous sequel. This book truly lived up to the high expectations of the first book in the series!
A fun, lighthearted, and adventurous sequel. This book truly lived up to the high expectations of the first book in the series!
November 14, 2024
A worthy successor.
I really enjoyed this tale of the General and Bronwynn as they follow Brownie's bardic circuits and solve several of King Keith's assignments to the General. This tale is even more entertaining if you have a gaming background. I highly recommend this series.
I really enjoyed this tale of the General and Bronwynn as they follow Brownie's bardic circuits and solve several of King Keith's assignments to the General. This tale is even more entertaining if you have a gaming background. I highly recommend this series.
February 2, 2025
Love this!! So cute. I love reading wholesome books where everyone has healthy views on relationships and themselves/others. <3 Can't wait for the next book!!
November 27, 2025
wonderful story, great characters
Rating: 4.5⭐️
Cmdr. Gen. Rufus Triever, best friend of the Dark King Keith is enamored with renowned bard Bronwynn Lyriel, and has been from the moment he heard her singing in a tavern a year ago. Bard Bronwynn is the childhood best friend of Henrietta Doryn,the newly wedded Dark Lady of Nilheim.
However the events surrounding the kidnapping of Hetty and the subsequent assassination attempts are still having ramifications for their kingdom and this couple’s many other friends. Including Bronwynn. Who’s suspected of being a spy!
It’s up to Rufus to prove Bronwynn’s innocence, while traveling with her to her shows, a journey of unraveling their mutual secrets. A trip that becomes a slow burn romance, as well as one of investigative fantasy adventure.
We meet so many wonderful characters that are beautifully crafted, each so vividly described and rendered by colorful details that they feel so real. From a highly opinionated, emotionally challenging horse to families who have a surprising diversity and depth of character and diversity. There’s characters who are struggling with past trauma and those who finally realize their potential and need for a new stage in life.
I Ran Away to Evil might be a challenge for those readers who aren’t gamers or familiar with the genre of LitRPG Rom-Com trope.
The LitRPG Rom-Com trope which, if you’re not a gamer, means that the story and or series has a LitRPG, or Literary Role-Playing Game incorporated into its format. Its characters can go on quests, check their stats (which these do often) as far as their various levels and abilities anywhere during the narrative.
It can work well, as it does here. Although I’ve found it can also be a bit more challenging in some other novels. Really depends on the author and reader tastes.
For another fun element, there’s a “Bridgeton” type announcement that’s anonymously written that makes several serious and not so serious statements about ongoing events.
Who is writing this is a mystery to be solved in the final book! The guessing flies hard here.
I love it when I’m reading and the characters and story continues to evolve and surprise me. Happily.
I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
Wonderful story!
Cover design by MsArtsy and Jenny Zemanek
Interior illustrations by Arturo Gómez Martínez and Leah Zink
I Ran Away to Evil: A Cozy LitRPG Rom-Com, books 1-3
Each with a different main couple and storyline that fits within the series arc
Rating: 4.5⭐️
Cmdr. Gen. Rufus Triever, best friend of the Dark King Keith is enamored with renowned bard Bronwynn Lyriel, and has been from the moment he heard her singing in a tavern a year ago. Bard Bronwynn is the childhood best friend of Henrietta Doryn,the newly wedded Dark Lady of Nilheim.
However the events surrounding the kidnapping of Hetty and the subsequent assassination attempts are still having ramifications for their kingdom and this couple’s many other friends. Including Bronwynn. Who’s suspected of being a spy!
It’s up to Rufus to prove Bronwynn’s innocence, while traveling with her to her shows, a journey of unraveling their mutual secrets. A trip that becomes a slow burn romance, as well as one of investigative fantasy adventure.
We meet so many wonderful characters that are beautifully crafted, each so vividly described and rendered by colorful details that they feel so real. From a highly opinionated, emotionally challenging horse to families who have a surprising diversity and depth of character and diversity. There’s characters who are struggling with past trauma and those who finally realize their potential and need for a new stage in life.
I Ran Away to Evil might be a challenge for those readers who aren’t gamers or familiar with the genre of LitRPG Rom-Com trope.
The LitRPG Rom-Com trope which, if you’re not a gamer, means that the story and or series has a LitRPG, or Literary Role-Playing Game incorporated into its format. Its characters can go on quests, check their stats (which these do often) as far as their various levels and abilities anywhere during the narrative.
It can work well, as it does here. Although I’ve found it can also be a bit more challenging in some other novels. Really depends on the author and reader tastes.
For another fun element, there’s a “Bridgeton” type announcement that’s anonymously written that makes several serious and not so serious statements about ongoing events.
Who is writing this is a mystery to be solved in the final book! The guessing flies hard here.
I love it when I’m reading and the characters and story continues to evolve and surprise me. Happily.
I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
Wonderful story!
Cover design by MsArtsy and Jenny Zemanek
Interior illustrations by Arturo Gómez Martínez and Leah Zink
I Ran Away to Evil: A Cozy LitRPG Rom-Com, books 1-3
Each with a different main couple and storyline that fits within the series arc
October 14, 2025
4.5
Phenomenal voice acting, storytelling, clean romance, found family. Very similar story beats to the first book, but it was still its own story too. Loved the relationship built on discussion and appreciation. In the audiobook, our FMC's voice actress sings her songs. They fit very well into the story. Overall, it is a lighthearted story with tense emotional moments. Typical of the series humor and sillyiness which comes with their higher levels. Loved learning the different classes' game mechanics, how it affects them emotionally, and how it changes the way they interact with the world. Madame Potts is so cool. There's a moderate amount of non-sexual petting in this. Many animal hybrid and full animal characters get pets.
Oh and grimel cats are so cool! They're sentient talking cats with wings and magic powers. So, so cool.
You're gonna love our side character in this one. I won't spoil anything~
For christians: random new character is offhandedly a demon again. He's in about 4 chapters out of 120. The previous nonbinary character is still around. Talks of the lesbian wedding. Talks of polyamory within beast folk. Doesn't apply to our MCs, though.
Phenomenal voice acting, storytelling, clean romance, found family. Very similar story beats to the first book, but it was still its own story too. Loved the relationship built on discussion and appreciation. In the audiobook, our FMC's voice actress sings her songs. They fit very well into the story. Overall, it is a lighthearted story with tense emotional moments. Typical of the series humor and sillyiness which comes with their higher levels. Loved learning the different classes' game mechanics, how it affects them emotionally, and how it changes the way they interact with the world. Madame Potts is so cool. There's a moderate amount of non-sexual petting in this. Many animal hybrid and full animal characters get pets.
Oh and grimel cats are so cool! They're sentient talking cats with wings and magic powers. So, so cool.
You're gonna love our side character in this one. I won't spoil anything~
For christians: random new character is offhandedly a demon again. He's in about 4 chapters out of 120. The previous nonbinary character is still around. Talks of the lesbian wedding. Talks of polyamory within beast folk. Doesn't apply to our MCs, though.
January 6, 2025
Since I enjoyed the first book and have a newfound appreciation for the LitRPG fantasy genre, I trudged on—and I’m really glad I did!
I Ran Away to Evil 2 expands the world-building, and it’s a nice change to have two main characters who aren’t fully human. The male love interest, Rufus, is a Therian shapeshifter, while Bronwynn is a half-giantess.
While some scenes weren’t for me, I loved that the book was filled with so many lovable beasts.
Personally, though, since the focus of this sequel are world-building and character introductions, I didn’t connect as much with the main romance.
The quest also feels a bit meandering, which fits with the cozy fantasy vibe, so I assume that’s intentional.
I’m giving it 3.75 stars for the plot, but 5 stars for the excellent production, especially the singing of Bronwynn and the subtle character voice changes when Rufus shifts.
Overall, I definitely want to read more in this universe—even if there are furries involved. Hahaha
Mystic Neptune’s comedic writing is top-notch and the love stories don't have the annoying 3rd act break-ups.
I Ran Away to Evil 2 expands the world-building, and it’s a nice change to have two main characters who aren’t fully human. The male love interest, Rufus, is a Therian shapeshifter, while Bronwynn is a half-giantess.
While some scenes weren’t for me, I loved that the book was filled with so many lovable beasts.
Personally, though, since the focus of this sequel are world-building and character introductions, I didn’t connect as much with the main romance.
The quest also feels a bit meandering, which fits with the cozy fantasy vibe, so I assume that’s intentional.
I’m giving it 3.75 stars for the plot, but 5 stars for the excellent production, especially the singing of Bronwynn and the subtle character voice changes when Rufus shifts.
Overall, I definitely want to read more in this universe—even if there are furries involved. Hahaha
Mystic Neptune’s comedic writing is top-notch and the love stories don't have the annoying 3rd act break-ups.
January 3, 2025
The first book is really great and this one is 3.5 for me; I’m rounding up because the world and situations are still great.
However, it frustrates me that this book attempted partially first person narration, and kept some partially third! The first book was entirely third person and that was perfect— the first book felt like I was reading the System telling the story from alternating POVs, which I find best for this type of story because there are details that I want to know but that the characters themselves shouldn’t be talking about.
In this book, I found it distracting when Rufus spoke about himself like “let me tell you what other people thought about what I did here…” On top of which, it then stood out when coming across editorial errors like switching to first person during Brownie chapters. I want to keep reading this series, so I really hope the next books stick with third person narration. :)
However, it frustrates me that this book attempted partially first person narration, and kept some partially third! The first book was entirely third person and that was perfect— the first book felt like I was reading the System telling the story from alternating POVs, which I find best for this type of story because there are details that I want to know but that the characters themselves shouldn’t be talking about.
In this book, I found it distracting when Rufus spoke about himself like “let me tell you what other people thought about what I did here…” On top of which, it then stood out when coming across editorial errors like switching to first person during Brownie chapters. I want to keep reading this series, so I really hope the next books stick with third person narration. :)
December 5, 2024
This series is still super cute!
In the beginning I was a bit sad that there was a new main character cast and my first book favorites weren't featured as much as I'd have wanted to. I loved them! But the story soon got me over that and I was enjoying myself a lot. (Though I still slightly favor book 1 :) )
But there are fun things to do! And fun riddles. And I'm pretty sure I know who Madame Potts is and am looking forward very much to finding out if I'm right (of course I am, but... it's good to have the author confirm it, you know? :) )
Anyway, love the book, love the overarching story, and love that it's not the last one. I'm looking forward to #3 and who'll feature in that one. Also, grimalcats are awesome and I want one!
In the beginning I was a bit sad that there was a new main character cast and my first book favorites weren't featured as much as I'd have wanted to. I loved them! But the story soon got me over that and I was enjoying myself a lot. (Though I still slightly favor book 1 :) )
But there are fun things to do! And fun riddles. And I'm pretty sure I know who Madame Potts is and am looking forward very much to finding out if I'm right (of course I am, but... it's good to have the author confirm it, you know? :) )
Anyway, love the book, love the overarching story, and love that it's not the last one. I'm looking forward to #3 and who'll feature in that one. Also, grimalcats are awesome and I want one!
April 7, 2025
I didn't enjoy this one as much as the first and in many ways it was similar. But I definitely think I read these two too closely together. The high of the first is still very fresh. And I've learned that I don't like when a character says the word sigh and doesn't actually sigh... Overall I liked the characters, it did feel a little rushed towards the end but you do get to see more of the world in this one. It's still cute but doesn't have the tension the first book had.
June 15, 2025
The audiobook narrator, Laura Horowitz, sung snippets of Brownie's songs, and it was lovely!
This audiobook was great, i loved the chapter headings, the murder horse diva called donna, Browne and Rufus.
This audiobook was great, i loved the chapter headings, the murder horse diva called donna, Browne and Rufus.
August 28, 2025
Another engaging, delightful story in the series. I listened to the audio version, and the narrators did a tremendous job at bringing the story to life. The characters are diverse, the world building is superb, and I'm looking forward to book three!
December 3, 2024
I’ve fallen in love with these characters, and the seamless shift in this book really worked incredibly well. Can’t wait for more!
December 8, 2024
Adorable, if not quite as adorable as book one. I would like to move into this game myself :)
December 20, 2024
These cozy fantasies are totally my jam , when I seen there was a book 2 insta purchase , I love cozy fantasy and this was no different loved it
December 25, 2024
Just as fun... sets up book 3 nicely...
January 9, 2025
a delightful read
A fun, well written, and clever 2nd of 2 (so far) Romancy stories. The game system world is well done and creates interest, but not over the top.
A fun, well written, and clever 2nd of 2 (so far) Romancy stories. The game system world is well done and creates interest, but not over the top.
January 14, 2025
Wonderful
Loved it. Cannot wait for another one. Absolutely delicious story and fun to read. Everything was well balanced story telling.
Loved it. Cannot wait for another one. Absolutely delicious story and fun to read. Everything was well balanced story telling.
January 19, 2025
If anyone needs me I will be off searching for my own sapient horse to go on adventures with. Book two was also a delight.
February 27, 2025
A great sequel, i loved these characters, and I'm so happy we got to see Rufus and Brownie's romance. I can't wait to see who's adventure we get to follow next.
April 5, 2025
Great book with some amazing romance. Still funny and entertaining while this time throwing in a little mystery investigation. Highly recommend.
May 29, 2025
Fun light hearted read.
June 22, 2025
The Quest of your life
Follow the adventures of Rufus, the right hand of His Viciousness, and Bard Brownie as they complete quests and strive for their happily ever after.
Follow the adventures of Rufus, the right hand of His Viciousness, and Bard Brownie as they complete quests and strive for their happily ever after.
July 17, 2025
3,5 - So cozy, so cute. The songs are actually being sung in the audiobook 👏🏻
July 18, 2025
Two opposable thumbs up!
Rufus and Brownie were absolutely adorable together. Story was funny and entertaining. The grimalcats were my favorite.
Narrators were great.
Rufus and Brownie were absolutely adorable together. Story was funny and entertaining. The grimalcats were my favorite.
Narrators were great.
September 16, 2025
Rating: Really Liked It
Spice: Clean Romance
Would I read more by this author? Yes, this trilogy is a lot of fun!
Spice: Clean Romance
Would I read more by this author? Yes, this trilogy is a lot of fun!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews