What do you think?
Rate this book
Monster Girls in Space #2
Honor's Challenge
A little over four months has passed since Desmond McLaughlin was physically yanked from his home and thrown to the mercy of a conquering alien empire when they demanded he be handed over for training as he was an ‘Adept’, one of the few able to harness the power of magic in the universe.
During that time, he has learned how to manipulate mana and made several friends amongst the aliens whose culture he was now immersed in.
And one lover.
Chloe Vandenberg stumbled into Desmond’s life and his heart. Now that she’s there, she has no intention of wandering off and leaving ‘her Des’. Having joined his team, it is her job as the first amongst his guards to look after him as a high-value target. Together, they will select the others who will fill out his squad for the dangerous path ahead of them in a universe that is far more savage than it appears at first blush.
*** Monster Girls In Space is a Sci-Fi, fantasy, semi-military, men’s romance, progression fantasy about a man becoming a space-wizard amongst a universe full of monster girls (it’s in the title, you should have expected that part). Expect adventure, mischief, magic, fighting, and unconventional relationships in a galaxy that is curious what sort of mischief Humanity will get up to.
During that time, he has learned how to manipulate mana and made several friends amongst the aliens whose culture he was now immersed in.
And one lover.
Chloe Vandenberg stumbled into Desmond’s life and his heart. Now that she’s there, she has no intention of wandering off and leaving ‘her Des’. Having joined his team, it is her job as the first amongst his guards to look after him as a high-value target. Together, they will select the others who will fill out his squad for the dangerous path ahead of them in a universe that is far more savage than it appears at first blush.
*** Monster Girls In Space is a Sci-Fi, fantasy, semi-military, men’s romance, progression fantasy about a man becoming a space-wizard amongst a universe full of monster girls (it’s in the title, you should have expected that part). Expect adventure, mischief, magic, fighting, and unconventional relationships in a galaxy that is curious what sort of mischief Humanity will get up to.
523 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 23, 2024
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
September 2, 2024
So I got to the bit where the captain was like, “ha ha, my crew might be kind of rapey ha ha” and everyone was laughing and slapping each other’s butts and making jokes about pussies, and I thought, this is not really the space adventure I was promised. Pretty juvenile stuff; plus the worldbuilding is rudimentary, and there’s not really a plot to keep you interested. Oh well.
November 10, 2024
Interesting story, but
But… M. Tress needs an editor. The misuse of pronouns and the frequent (very frequent) sentence fragments make reading the book an exercise in frustration.
That said, it really is an interesting story, and the concept of rifts in space, and of the well-guarded adepts that deal with them, is novel enough to have kept my interest despite the grammatical flaws.
[A more minor issue for me, and for anyone else who has served in the Navy, was the vocabulary used about the ship. Sailors and Marines don’t sleep on bunks— they’re called racks. They eat on the mess deck— mess halls are on shore. And officers eat in the wardroom. The quartermaster, as a sergeant, is enlisted and not an officer. Marines are never called soldiers- they think that being compared to the army is an insult.
But, only a sailor or Marine would notice, or care!]
But… M. Tress needs an editor. The misuse of pronouns and the frequent (very frequent) sentence fragments make reading the book an exercise in frustration.
That said, it really is an interesting story, and the concept of rifts in space, and of the well-guarded adepts that deal with them, is novel enough to have kept my interest despite the grammatical flaws.
[A more minor issue for me, and for anyone else who has served in the Navy, was the vocabulary used about the ship. Sailors and Marines don’t sleep on bunks— they’re called racks. They eat on the mess deck— mess halls are on shore. And officers eat in the wardroom. The quartermaster, as a sergeant, is enlisted and not an officer. Marines are never called soldiers- they think that being compared to the army is an insult.
But, only a sailor or Marine would notice, or care!]
September 6, 2025
Was almost a DNF for me.
Writing style is immature and almost YA except for the sexy MA only material.
Frankly the author’s need to over explain everything and repeat already known material was very hard to bear.
Additionally, the saccharine sweet interpersonal dialog with the MC’s female team mates (harem) was pretty irritating.
I won’t be continuing with this series
Writing style is immature and almost YA except for the sexy MA only material.
Frankly the author’s need to over explain everything and repeat already known material was very hard to bear.
Additionally, the saccharine sweet interpersonal dialog with the MC’s female team mates (harem) was pretty irritating.
I won’t be continuing with this series
August 14, 2024
Waaaay too much of the same...among other things
Fair warning, some examples may be used from the story, so, spoiler warning!
As I type this, I'm about 50% through this book and I have to be honest and say that it’s been sort of a slog for me and I’m not sure I will get through the rest although I wanted to give it a fair read before saying anything about it. I feel safe writing this now because at about just over 50% more of the same happens with some random events and encounters that may or may not be pivotal to other situational plot lines that pop up, but it’s not really enough that I think I’ll be THAT wowed to feel differently. My issue is that it’s entirely too much of the same as in meandering plot, too much situational-slice-of-life stuff, more reverse gender role subtle social commentary stuff, not enough interesting plot or interaction with the interesting world around them. Just too much of a whole lot of nothing unless you’re one of the fans of the haremlit or polyamory pretending to be harem at first genres and all you care about is relationship interactions (sort of) and the drama around them or outside of them.
This book also brings up a few criticisms I didn’t levy at book 1, but could’ve, so I’ll do it here since these issues are also what’s keeping me from plowing through and finishing the latter 50%.
Meandering plot: Example – we have a whole chapter about Desmond, Reagon, and Chloe going to work out, a whole bunch of females coming to watch Desmond (mostly) work out and then afterward a shower scene (not what you’re thinking) with us learning how Desmond, Chloe, Reagan (and by extension the whole crew) showers. They have conversations getting ready to work out, conversations while working out, conversations about (males…cough…err) females ogling the (female…oops…cough…er) male at the gym when she/he just wanted to work out. Then sort of the daily interactions of a military member getting to know other military members at their duty station….in the communal shower. Just talking. Talking. Nothing plot related cause as I said in book one, there really is no plot, but this brings me to my aforementioned criticisms.
This book is somewhat similar to another book about a human male going into space to join a female dominated military in a female dominated universe. I won’t name the book for a variety of reasons I won’t get into, but it’s also similar in that book that both authors seemed to lack the ability to make a supposed galactic powerhouse seem moderately competent all the way down to their military. I get it. I served in the US Military, and I’ve worked in government so I know the reality versus the pipedream that government can solve everyone’s problems. That’s not what I’m getting at here with his criticism. The fact I served means I went through bootcamp and what I’ll call for those non-military-types, secondary training and on to OJT (On-the-Job-Training) in my military job. This book, both book 1 (which I was lenient about it) and this book make this military seem beyond incompetent.
First, there was no military indoctrination, and I know how that sounds to those of you who didn’t join the military but what it simply means is a basic level of training to tear down some of a person’s individuality and get them to learn how to…well be part of the military. Simple things like learning to march in formation, basic physical training, learning to respect the chain of command, getting screamed at and getting your ego destroyed and getting humbled, etc. All of that happens in the first few weeks of bootcamp/basic training. The Adepts get/got none of that. They’re essentially thrown into what we’d call second-level training (Each branch has a different name for it) and while in that level of training thrown into OJT randomly. A trainee shouldn’t be anywhere near a mission nor a temporary/permanent duty assignment.
That just seems beyond incompetent. Especially when they haven’t been even 50% trained on what to do, how to act, how to report to command, etc. etc. etc. Nah, in this book the cadets are sent to assignments (as if they were permanently assigned to these duty stations, although temporary) for….training? What? This isn’t even getting into the stupidity of having guards who can’t be armed while guarding their charges, but their charge can be armed because of status? Yet the whole reason Adepts have guards is because other factions may try to take them out. WTF is their guard supposed to do against an armed attack if their adept is somehow incapacitated by an enemy and the guards are left to fend it off with fisticuffs? Yes, lot of this was revealed in book 1 but is exacerbated in this book.
I guess I got annoyed when it was said at some point that they were tossed in a situation without training for something like zero gravity. I felt that for a military force that primarily functions in that environment…you know the void of outer space…that should’ve been primary training for their…well military members. You know how the Navy teaches people how to, at least, float real good in water since you know…the navy primarily functions in…well water. The Adepts (and guards) are constantly unaware of normal things they should’ve been taught by now in basic classes on military culture, conduct, etc. I mean in this book Desmond & company start a fight with another Adept and company over words. WORDS. On a ship. I get it. I been there. Don’t get me wrong. I get it.
Romance speed – Its high speed written with the illusion of being slow burn. I’ve seen some complain that the romance in this book is high speed whereas book 1 was slow. No, you were cleverly tricked with book 1 because most of Chloe and Desmond’s interactions were through messages. Tress has enough awareness to have Chloe at least admit in this book that when she and Desmond got together and started living together that it didn’t take that long for him to jump her and get the intimate ball rolling. So, you kind of had the same pattern here. The only main difference is Reagan. For a large portion of their interaction, Desmond, for some odd reason is standoffish to the reality that females in space share one male. Although he already knows that to be a thing. Then with the third girl, his initial interactions with her are similar to Chloe in book 1. Through messages, calls, etc. until they are together and then it’s off to the races. So, yes, you read some of that right, you have to deal with Desmond hemming and hawing about being shared for some strange reason which makes it seem like a contrived attempt to prolong what you already know is going to happen…especially with Reagan.
Character Development – it’s really lacking mainly because this is a meandering situational-slice-of-life story about the semi-daily life of a cadet in training. So, there’s nothing really there to challenge the characters outside of racial prejudice and status issues. Which leads me to also say that because of godauthor Tress, MC suffers very little consequences for his actions and/or decisions. Case and point – he’s been around long enough to know that this alien society has its flaws. The biggest being prejudices and (sexual harassment…err) unwanted attention from the opposite sex, etc. My beef here is that going along with the aforementioned complaints about military etiquette and respect for the chain of command, etc. Desmond and crew run into the usual racial taunts and crossbreed/half-breed taunts toward either himself or Chloe. What does Desmond do? React physically. Ends up in a serious altercation in front of the ship’s Captain (high level authority figure while onboard her vessel) and as the altercation escalates (Desmond started the escalation), he wants to purely act like the victim in the end when they could’ve just ignored the taunts. What am I getting at. Well, I know in history where people were oppressed by a system, they didn’t always buck against it at every angle, every chance because the system, was of course against them. In this case that’s not even the case. Desmond and crew could’ve ignored the taunts, moved on and reported it up the chain if such a thing was available and I assume it is given how Throneblood acted with cadets acting on their prejudices in training, so it’s safe to say that the larger military should have some means of dealing with this if this government is going to go about adding new civilizations and races to itself.
So, these characters are static and make the same types of decisions with little resistance and often easy-to-solve ramifications as a result. Their motivations are limited to what you’ve already seen. Their beliefs are limited to what you’ve already seen. Etc. Etc. Etc. It was at this point that I truly realized why I lacked the enthusiasm to keep going. There’s nothing here interesting me about the characters or the story to want to. The universe around it is interesting but we’re stuck with Desmond, his guards, and so far, a training montage, random events, random encounters, etc. By now most soap opera space military sci-fi stories would’ve had Desmond and crew far out of training and fighting whatever space big bad they were destined to fight or whatever.
I think I’m still being lenient giving it 3 stars. Mostly because I recognize that this type of storytelling is entertainment for some people so I can’t outright just call it horrible. Of course, your mileage may vary.
Fair warning, some examples may be used from the story, so, spoiler warning!
As I type this, I'm about 50% through this book and I have to be honest and say that it’s been sort of a slog for me and I’m not sure I will get through the rest although I wanted to give it a fair read before saying anything about it. I feel safe writing this now because at about just over 50% more of the same happens with some random events and encounters that may or may not be pivotal to other situational plot lines that pop up, but it’s not really enough that I think I’ll be THAT wowed to feel differently. My issue is that it’s entirely too much of the same as in meandering plot, too much situational-slice-of-life stuff, more reverse gender role subtle social commentary stuff, not enough interesting plot or interaction with the interesting world around them. Just too much of a whole lot of nothing unless you’re one of the fans of the haremlit or polyamory pretending to be harem at first genres and all you care about is relationship interactions (sort of) and the drama around them or outside of them.
This book also brings up a few criticisms I didn’t levy at book 1, but could’ve, so I’ll do it here since these issues are also what’s keeping me from plowing through and finishing the latter 50%.
Meandering plot: Example – we have a whole chapter about Desmond, Reagon, and Chloe going to work out, a whole bunch of females coming to watch Desmond (mostly) work out and then afterward a shower scene (not what you’re thinking) with us learning how Desmond, Chloe, Reagan (and by extension the whole crew) showers. They have conversations getting ready to work out, conversations while working out, conversations about (males…cough…err) females ogling the (female…oops…cough…er) male at the gym when she/he just wanted to work out. Then sort of the daily interactions of a military member getting to know other military members at their duty station….in the communal shower. Just talking. Talking. Nothing plot related cause as I said in book one, there really is no plot, but this brings me to my aforementioned criticisms.
This book is somewhat similar to another book about a human male going into space to join a female dominated military in a female dominated universe. I won’t name the book for a variety of reasons I won’t get into, but it’s also similar in that book that both authors seemed to lack the ability to make a supposed galactic powerhouse seem moderately competent all the way down to their military. I get it. I served in the US Military, and I’ve worked in government so I know the reality versus the pipedream that government can solve everyone’s problems. That’s not what I’m getting at here with his criticism. The fact I served means I went through bootcamp and what I’ll call for those non-military-types, secondary training and on to OJT (On-the-Job-Training) in my military job. This book, both book 1 (which I was lenient about it) and this book make this military seem beyond incompetent.
First, there was no military indoctrination, and I know how that sounds to those of you who didn’t join the military but what it simply means is a basic level of training to tear down some of a person’s individuality and get them to learn how to…well be part of the military. Simple things like learning to march in formation, basic physical training, learning to respect the chain of command, getting screamed at and getting your ego destroyed and getting humbled, etc. All of that happens in the first few weeks of bootcamp/basic training. The Adepts get/got none of that. They’re essentially thrown into what we’d call second-level training (Each branch has a different name for it) and while in that level of training thrown into OJT randomly. A trainee shouldn’t be anywhere near a mission nor a temporary/permanent duty assignment.
That just seems beyond incompetent. Especially when they haven’t been even 50% trained on what to do, how to act, how to report to command, etc. etc. etc. Nah, in this book the cadets are sent to assignments (as if they were permanently assigned to these duty stations, although temporary) for….training? What? This isn’t even getting into the stupidity of having guards who can’t be armed while guarding their charges, but their charge can be armed because of status? Yet the whole reason Adepts have guards is because other factions may try to take them out. WTF is their guard supposed to do against an armed attack if their adept is somehow incapacitated by an enemy and the guards are left to fend it off with fisticuffs? Yes, lot of this was revealed in book 1 but is exacerbated in this book.
I guess I got annoyed when it was said at some point that they were tossed in a situation without training for something like zero gravity. I felt that for a military force that primarily functions in that environment…you know the void of outer space…that should’ve been primary training for their…well military members. You know how the Navy teaches people how to, at least, float real good in water since you know…the navy primarily functions in…well water. The Adepts (and guards) are constantly unaware of normal things they should’ve been taught by now in basic classes on military culture, conduct, etc. I mean in this book Desmond & company start a fight with another Adept and company over words. WORDS. On a ship. I get it. I been there. Don’t get me wrong. I get it.
Romance speed – Its high speed written with the illusion of being slow burn. I’ve seen some complain that the romance in this book is high speed whereas book 1 was slow. No, you were cleverly tricked with book 1 because most of Chloe and Desmond’s interactions were through messages. Tress has enough awareness to have Chloe at least admit in this book that when she and Desmond got together and started living together that it didn’t take that long for him to jump her and get the intimate ball rolling. So, you kind of had the same pattern here. The only main difference is Reagan. For a large portion of their interaction, Desmond, for some odd reason is standoffish to the reality that females in space share one male. Although he already knows that to be a thing. Then with the third girl, his initial interactions with her are similar to Chloe in book 1. Through messages, calls, etc. until they are together and then it’s off to the races. So, yes, you read some of that right, you have to deal with Desmond hemming and hawing about being shared for some strange reason which makes it seem like a contrived attempt to prolong what you already know is going to happen…especially with Reagan.
Character Development – it’s really lacking mainly because this is a meandering situational-slice-of-life story about the semi-daily life of a cadet in training. So, there’s nothing really there to challenge the characters outside of racial prejudice and status issues. Which leads me to also say that because of godauthor Tress, MC suffers very little consequences for his actions and/or decisions. Case and point – he’s been around long enough to know that this alien society has its flaws. The biggest being prejudices and (sexual harassment…err) unwanted attention from the opposite sex, etc. My beef here is that going along with the aforementioned complaints about military etiquette and respect for the chain of command, etc. Desmond and crew run into the usual racial taunts and crossbreed/half-breed taunts toward either himself or Chloe. What does Desmond do? React physically. Ends up in a serious altercation in front of the ship’s Captain (high level authority figure while onboard her vessel) and as the altercation escalates (Desmond started the escalation), he wants to purely act like the victim in the end when they could’ve just ignored the taunts. What am I getting at. Well, I know in history where people were oppressed by a system, they didn’t always buck against it at every angle, every chance because the system, was of course against them. In this case that’s not even the case. Desmond and crew could’ve ignored the taunts, moved on and reported it up the chain if such a thing was available and I assume it is given how Throneblood acted with cadets acting on their prejudices in training, so it’s safe to say that the larger military should have some means of dealing with this if this government is going to go about adding new civilizations and races to itself.
So, these characters are static and make the same types of decisions with little resistance and often easy-to-solve ramifications as a result. Their motivations are limited to what you’ve already seen. Their beliefs are limited to what you’ve already seen. Etc. Etc. Etc. It was at this point that I truly realized why I lacked the enthusiasm to keep going. There’s nothing here interesting me about the characters or the story to want to. The universe around it is interesting but we’re stuck with Desmond, his guards, and so far, a training montage, random events, random encounters, etc. By now most soap opera space military sci-fi stories would’ve had Desmond and crew far out of training and fighting whatever space big bad they were destined to fight or whatever.
I think I’m still being lenient giving it 3 stars. Mostly because I recognize that this type of storytelling is entertainment for some people so I can’t outright just call it horrible. Of course, your mileage may vary.
May 11, 2025
A decent next installment.
I had reservations to read this after the first one8 left me on the fence. It's already going to suffer from the flaws of the first book... that aside it's solid. While not a great work it's solid work a few flaws but still managing to entertain. I was on the fence whether to give this 3 or 4, it's maybe 3.5 stars.
The eh. There are a lot of incidents that occur but feel like they have little weight behind them. Incident occurs, MC uses people not knowing what he is (Adept not Terran) to flex the legal system in his favor. It was a little flat in the first book but the author is still using it and it's moving from old to annoying. Unlike in the rifts it feels like zero stakes and were it not the fact the people he freaking with are obviously scum, would border on abuse of the system to get what he wants. There's zero nuance in them either because the foils are obvious scumbags, they're carted off to justice never to be seen again.
I already talked about the science fails in the review of the first book, and we're stuck with those obviously so won't rehash. Those weak parts aside I do enjoy many of the characters.
KU and them being a quick read means I might pick up the next and see what else develops. I'm /just/ invested enough I don't want to abandon the series altogether, So for a quick read you might enjoy. The smut is decent, not a ton but I don't want smut to interfere with a story, and the chapters are helpfully marked if you want to skip it altogether.
I had reservations to read this after the first one8 left me on the fence. It's already going to suffer from the flaws of the first book... that aside it's solid. While not a great work it's solid work a few flaws but still managing to entertain. I was on the fence whether to give this 3 or 4, it's maybe 3.5 stars.
The eh. There are a lot of incidents that occur but feel like they have little weight behind them. Incident occurs, MC uses people not knowing what he is (Adept not Terran) to flex the legal system in his favor. It was a little flat in the first book but the author is still using it and it's moving from old to annoying. Unlike in the rifts it feels like zero stakes and were it not the fact the people he freaking with are obviously scum, would border on abuse of the system to get what he wants. There's zero nuance in them either because the foils are obvious scumbags, they're carted off to justice never to be seen again.
I already talked about the science fails in the review of the first book, and we're stuck with those obviously so won't rehash. Those weak parts aside I do enjoy many of the characters.
KU and them being a quick read means I might pick up the next and see what else develops. I'm /just/ invested enough I don't want to abandon the series altogether, So for a quick read you might enjoy. The smut is decent, not a ton but I don't want smut to interfere with a story, and the chapters are helpfully marked if you want to skip it altogether.
January 28, 2025
The storyline advances apace
This story in a dungeon delving saga that takes place in interstellar space instead of being planet bound. The dungeons are called rifts, but its the same theme. The writing is good and the storyline advances without getting bogged down in back to back dungeons and monsters or even too much mystic theory. There is a good balance of all elements, including training, to keep the story moving forward without getting bogged down.
The characters are multidimensional with excellent relationship building as well as their back stories, dreams, foibles, strengths and weaknesses. The cadets go to classes for lectures as well as hands-on training in simulations. There's no silly leveling up using XP, but through practice and obtaining gear.
I really enjoyed the last section of the book where the squad visited Chloe's home. Special mention also for the incident with the Aelfa cadet that was apparently targeted for assassination. I think that could be an interesting side story that could be developed since only powerful forces would dare such a thing. The MC could be sucked into intrigue by those sinister forces.
This story in a dungeon delving saga that takes place in interstellar space instead of being planet bound. The dungeons are called rifts, but its the same theme. The writing is good and the storyline advances without getting bogged down in back to back dungeons and monsters or even too much mystic theory. There is a good balance of all elements, including training, to keep the story moving forward without getting bogged down.
The characters are multidimensional with excellent relationship building as well as their back stories, dreams, foibles, strengths and weaknesses. The cadets go to classes for lectures as well as hands-on training in simulations. There's no silly leveling up using XP, but through practice and obtaining gear.
I really enjoyed the last section of the book where the squad visited Chloe's home. Special mention also for the incident with the Aelfa cadet that was apparently targeted for assassination. I think that could be an interesting side story that could be developed since only powerful forces would dare such a thing. The MC could be sucked into intrigue by those sinister forces.
July 27, 2024
A great sequel
The start of the series was already good,and the second book continues in excellent form.
Desmond continues to be an awesome character, Chloe lets Reagan and Sasha have room to grow into the relationship, and we get a fair bit of interesting rift info, ability improvements, and other goodies. While I think things move a bit fast with the new relationships, I'm willing to give the author credit as there are cultural and sociological reasons for it. I do hope we have a bit more time in the next book to flesh things out even more. I know some people like the harem series to constantly add to them, but I think it detracts from things and makes many characters feel like cardboard cutouts. I know 6 is mentioned as a max squad size and I hope it stays around that, or if it needs to go higher it's via another adept and her guards so it'll at least somewhat make sense.
Anyway, I recommend the series yet again, especially if you like Daniel schinhofen's aether reborn series as they have a fair bit in common in all the best ways. Also the author has a patreon and web novel so check them out, both are worth it to give them some extra support.
The start of the series was already good,and the second book continues in excellent form.
Desmond continues to be an awesome character, Chloe lets Reagan and Sasha have room to grow into the relationship, and we get a fair bit of interesting rift info, ability improvements, and other goodies. While I think things move a bit fast with the new relationships, I'm willing to give the author credit as there are cultural and sociological reasons for it. I do hope we have a bit more time in the next book to flesh things out even more. I know some people like the harem series to constantly add to them, but I think it detracts from things and makes many characters feel like cardboard cutouts. I know 6 is mentioned as a max squad size and I hope it stays around that, or if it needs to go higher it's via another adept and her guards so it'll at least somewhat make sense.
Anyway, I recommend the series yet again, especially if you like Daniel schinhofen's aether reborn series as they have a fair bit in common in all the best ways. Also the author has a patreon and web novel so check them out, both are worth it to give them some extra support.
didn-t-like-it
October 17, 2025Note to self: it’s fine, but the harem part is starting to not work for me. We’ll see.
The cutesy nicknames are more cringy than anything.
So, here's my problem. This was a sci-fi, fantasy/magic, military, space story with a dash of harem on the side for spice. This book, it became slice of life harem with the dregs of a space sci-fi story.
It had potential too, the story seemed interesting. Melting pot of alien races, a decent enough MC, interesting powers, rifts, military weapons elements to balance the magic, training, etc. All the fun bits, plus some sexy alien girls.
But, this book veered so hard into harem, with all the cringyness that follows, it soured the whole thing for me. Bad dialog, stereotypical companions, and leaving the story behind in favor of harem building.
Not my jam, time to move on.
The cutesy nicknames are more cringy than anything.
So, here's my problem. This was a sci-fi, fantasy/magic, military, space story with a dash of harem on the side for spice. This book, it became slice of life harem with the dregs of a space sci-fi story.
It had potential too, the story seemed interesting. Melting pot of alien races, a decent enough MC, interesting powers, rifts, military weapons elements to balance the magic, training, etc. All the fun bits, plus some sexy alien girls.
But, this book veered so hard into harem, with all the cringyness that follows, it soured the whole thing for me. Bad dialog, stereotypical companions, and leaving the story behind in favor of harem building.
Not my jam, time to move on.
August 11, 2024
Great story
Honestly I put off reading this series for awhile. I'm not usually that into scifi type books, but we'll monster girls. I'm both sad and happy I held off. Sad because it's an awesome story and I should have read it sooner, but happy because if I had read it sooner I'd have had to wait longer before I could read book three. As it is the 9 days I'll have to wait will be killing me.
So awesome story, great MC and awesome monster girl support. The women are strong in their own right and not just fluff. The MC is a weaker to strong character that isn't the typical Alpha male. Sure of himself but willing to learn and listen. Takes advice but knows how to lead without having to constantly remind everyone he's in charge.
Great characters for a great story with great writing. And lots of nods in there to a few of my other favorite authors and movies.
I'm loving it.
Honestly I put off reading this series for awhile. I'm not usually that into scifi type books, but we'll monster girls. I'm both sad and happy I held off. Sad because it's an awesome story and I should have read it sooner, but happy because if I had read it sooner I'd have had to wait longer before I could read book three. As it is the 9 days I'll have to wait will be killing me.
So awesome story, great MC and awesome monster girl support. The women are strong in their own right and not just fluff. The MC is a weaker to strong character that isn't the typical Alpha male. Sure of himself but willing to learn and listen. Takes advice but knows how to lead without having to constantly remind everyone he's in charge.
Great characters for a great story with great writing. And lots of nods in there to a few of my other favorite authors and movies.
I'm loving it.
August 15, 2024
Great addition to the growing series! LOVED this sequel and of course am already ready for book three!
Plenty of character development for the main characters, and various side characters, plus further world building shared and shown. I really like the military concepts that come into play that will be entertaining for those with such life experience, but those same things won't detract for anyone who does not. The Slice of Life content was enjoyable, and well interspersed among the action and overall plot. Fair power structure in the magic system, with pros and cons and reasonable limitations, while still having a kick-ass MC team. And a very well balanced pacing of the more personal relationships, which is rare in the harem genre. Well done there, that shines as quality.
Plenty of character development for the main characters, and various side characters, plus further world building shared and shown. I really like the military concepts that come into play that will be entertaining for those with such life experience, but those same things won't detract for anyone who does not. The Slice of Life content was enjoyable, and well interspersed among the action and overall plot. Fair power structure in the magic system, with pros and cons and reasonable limitations, while still having a kick-ass MC team. And a very well balanced pacing of the more personal relationships, which is rare in the harem genre. Well done there, that shines as quality.
July 23, 2024
Great addition, eagerly awaiting more.
Strong addition to the series and highly enjoyable. Great character development and world building. Action and slice of life makes for a relatable read instead of impractical and highly unlikely. Not over powered, not rushing development of abilities, not a one man conquers all right off the bat and not a never ending problem one right after another. The book flows realistically and organically. Intimate scenes enhanced the feel of the book and felt organic, not rushed or even the main theme unlike some others in the harem genre. Looking forward to more from this series.
Strong addition to the series and highly enjoyable. Great character development and world building. Action and slice of life makes for a relatable read instead of impractical and highly unlikely. Not over powered, not rushing development of abilities, not a one man conquers all right off the bat and not a never ending problem one right after another. The book flows realistically and organically. Intimate scenes enhanced the feel of the book and felt organic, not rushed or even the main theme unlike some others in the harem genre. Looking forward to more from this series.
July 26, 2024
awesome sequel and can’t wait for more action
I really loved the events in this book and how Desmond and the team grows not only in numbers but personal growth as well though I would love to hear if they grab enlisted armies from earth yet since I figured they already had the soldier tithe situated when Desmond left so I would assume a small human expedition force would be assembled to learn at the nearest outpost. I also love the Jorgia arc plot teased and I wonder if any surprises are going to revealed about humans and mana when Desmond goes into higher tier rifts like the natural body regeneration trait. Micah is the best little bro.
I really loved the events in this book and how Desmond and the team grows not only in numbers but personal growth as well though I would love to hear if they grab enlisted armies from earth yet since I figured they already had the soldier tithe situated when Desmond left so I would assume a small human expedition force would be assembled to learn at the nearest outpost. I also love the Jorgia arc plot teased and I wonder if any surprises are going to revealed about humans and mana when Desmond goes into higher tier rifts like the natural body regeneration trait. Micah is the best little bro.
August 30, 2024
Keeps a good balance.
A stumbling block that many harem authors hit is keeping a good balance
The story processes nicely, with enough detail that we know what's going on without going into an over burden of detail that can make a story tedious.
As far as the sci-fi goes, the author doesn't seem to give out bogus information, it is all magi-tech.
The only odd stumble I have with the story is the wake drives. However, it is not a devastating issue (yet). I did give it 5 stars as, it deserves 5 stars, read my other reviews if you want to understand that.
I am about to start book 3. I like the story well enough thus far that I figured it was worth my time to review.
A stumbling block that many harem authors hit is keeping a good balance
The story processes nicely, with enough detail that we know what's going on without going into an over burden of detail that can make a story tedious.
As far as the sci-fi goes, the author doesn't seem to give out bogus information, it is all magi-tech.
The only odd stumble I have with the story is the wake drives. However, it is not a devastating issue (yet). I did give it 5 stars as, it deserves 5 stars, read my other reviews if you want to understand that.
I am about to start book 3. I like the story well enough thus far that I figured it was worth my time to review.
March 8, 2025
Wonderful Story!!
Great world building, characters who grow and develop and a good plot line. It has the spicy content and it is just an excellent story. You know, everyday guy who is put in a position to become heroic and does it because it's the right thing to do. There's a REASON this kind of story arch has been around for centuries. It's a compelling theme and well written. I love this series and buy the new ones when they come out.
Best recommendation I know is I spend my money on this, and if you like the basic idea of Monster Girl harem then I recommend you try this.
Great world building, characters who grow and develop and a good plot line. It has the spicy content and it is just an excellent story. You know, everyday guy who is put in a position to become heroic and does it because it's the right thing to do. There's a REASON this kind of story arch has been around for centuries. It's a compelling theme and well written. I love this series and buy the new ones when they come out.
Best recommendation I know is I spend my money on this, and if you like the basic idea of Monster Girl harem then I recommend you try this.
July 17, 2025
Freaking Great
I have to admit, it has been so long since I've read such a fantastic military sci Fi book and with harem too. What more could you ask for!!! I didn't put it down till the end. I love military sci fi, but when you added the harem element I thought I was in heaven. You got the military terminology right, even the yes ma'am were included. Not too many people who try to write these type of books get the little things right and you did. I'm just hoping you write a whole lot more just like this one, and I'm getting the next one as soon as I'm done writing this. FAN-FREAKING-TASTIC JOB!!!
I have to admit, it has been so long since I've read such a fantastic military sci Fi book and with harem too. What more could you ask for!!! I didn't put it down till the end. I love military sci fi, but when you added the harem element I thought I was in heaven. You got the military terminology right, even the yes ma'am were included. Not too many people who try to write these type of books get the little things right and you did. I'm just hoping you write a whole lot more just like this one, and I'm getting the next one as soon as I'm done writing this. FAN-FREAKING-TASTIC JOB!!!
August 5, 2024
catgirls finally
Dang the space Academy has been there for a year now with him, trying to learn what to be a space mage now he has a harem with four members gotta be a power couple but like good things it has its problems like evil, nobles, psychotic girls who might be insane because gender ratios make them cray cray.
I wish he would actually go back to earth cause I really wanna see what’s going on after a year after first contact I really want to see what he does If he meets either the ambassador or CIA people either would be interesting development.
Dang the space Academy has been there for a year now with him, trying to learn what to be a space mage now he has a harem with four members gotta be a power couple but like good things it has its problems like evil, nobles, psychotic girls who might be insane because gender ratios make them cray cray.
I wish he would actually go back to earth cause I really wanna see what’s going on after a year after first contact I really want to see what he does If he meets either the ambassador or CIA people either would be interesting development.
September 10, 2024
Still engaging
Still enjoy the series. it's slow not too intense. A few erotic scenes but nothing major. Seemed to have gotten away from any of the litRPG components as there are no stats. I am disappointed that there's not a little more structure to the magic/Mana system. Overall enjoyable. The MC is not O.P, though he is at the top end. The healing factor is unique but expensive to use. Was hoping He had a little more bonus in the Mana area... maybe he does is just not measured at this point either way i'm certainly going to read the next book.
Still enjoy the series. it's slow not too intense. A few erotic scenes but nothing major. Seemed to have gotten away from any of the litRPG components as there are no stats. I am disappointed that there's not a little more structure to the magic/Mana system. Overall enjoyable. The MC is not O.P, though he is at the top end. The healing factor is unique but expensive to use. Was hoping He had a little more bonus in the Mana area... maybe he does is just not measured at this point either way i'm certainly going to read the next book.
February 7, 2025
Training and adventure
Alternate universe, magic, SF advanced technology, interstellar, harem adult situations
Desmond builds his team in book 2, adding Reagan and Sasha. Plenty of world/society building along with action. Over 500 pages of story for the price, and solid development of story. My only question is with the healing ability, why can't he expand and develop the healing further, to include physical regeneration, even if it has to be done in stages? He's a former gamer, this should be a no-brainer. Excellent editing. Ready for book 3.
Alternate universe, magic, SF advanced technology, interstellar, harem adult situations
Desmond builds his team in book 2, adding Reagan and Sasha. Plenty of world/society building along with action. Over 500 pages of story for the price, and solid development of story. My only question is with the healing ability, why can't he expand and develop the healing further, to include physical regeneration, even if it has to be done in stages? He's a former gamer, this should be a no-brainer. Excellent editing. Ready for book 3.
August 12, 2025
Year one of military space wizard academy continues on much the same as in the first book. There was some more world/galaxy-building, but not much has come of it yet. There is still no specific conflict, but it seems to be dropping hints of things to come...maybe. I can't help but think of Desmond as a dwarf by the way he is presented with his "mountain climbing" predilection (kind of a less cool Miles Vorkosigan). I do cringe at his theatrics and "poetry" enthusiasm occasionally. That being said I am enjoying this series so far, but just hoping it expands its scope and direction soon.
July 25, 2024
I am really enjoying this series, and this 2nd book was a very strong update to it. The plot flows very nicely, the harem grows by 2, and the MC continues to be a well rounded character.
I particularly have enjoyed the slow but steady growth of the harem. Nice tension is allowed to build up before someone joins. That's a stark but welcome difference to what we normally get in haremlit.
I very much look forward to book 3.
I particularly have enjoyed the slow but steady growth of the harem. Nice tension is allowed to build up before someone joins. That's a stark but welcome difference to what we normally get in haremlit.
I very much look forward to book 3.
July 28, 2024
It got better!
We all know that over time media has changed and fewer and fewer sequels are just as good as the first book because it’s more of a continuation of the story rather than introducing everything new, well not this story! New twists and turns throughout the story that kept me on the edge of my seat with giddy excitement.
Spoiler below *Warning*
I love Sasha and how she melds with the team. She’s so cute with them!
We all know that over time media has changed and fewer and fewer sequels are just as good as the first book because it’s more of a continuation of the story rather than introducing everything new, well not this story! New twists and turns throughout the story that kept me on the edge of my seat with giddy excitement.
Spoiler below *Warning*
I love Sasha and how she melds with the team. She’s so cute with them!
April 24, 2025
We got our first four for the team!
I loved all the new characters in this one, and our new teammates are amazing in their own ways. There is more action in this one as we finish our first year. I actually really like that Des's team is good but not the best in his class. It makes the story better because they're not just focusing on winning everything. I will be reading the next one soon!
I loved all the new characters in this one, and our new teammates are amazing in their own ways. There is more action in this one as we finish our first year. I actually really like that Des's team is good but not the best in his class. It makes the story better because they're not just focusing on winning everything. I will be reading the next one soon!
July 29, 2024
This series checks all the boxes on my reading preferences. The world building is interesting and I really like the members of "The Clan or Herd" Like the slice of life with plenty of action and a bit spice added. My favorite series of the year so far. Please keep this series going. Following this author. 5 Stars.
August 6, 2024
A beautiful balance of lore and love
The world building is wonderful with enough lore drops to satisfy without turning into exposition. The magic system seems solid with the right amount of "he is the main character because he is special". Finally the relationships are believable given the established social norms.
The world building is wonderful with enough lore drops to satisfy without turning into exposition. The magic system seems solid with the right amount of "he is the main character because he is special". Finally the relationships are believable given the established social norms.
August 14, 2024
Great follow up
Book 2 expands the world and our knowledge of how things work
I was more than happy to continue to read about how Desmonds life continues (so as to not spoil anything). Love all the characters in this book, they're so sweet and adorable in their own way
Looking forward to book 3
Book 2 expands the world and our knowledge of how things work
I was more than happy to continue to read about how Desmonds life continues (so as to not spoil anything). Love all the characters in this book, they're so sweet and adorable in their own way
Looking forward to book 3
August 21, 2024
simply an amazing series
I’m so glad I picked this series up, the world building, slice of life, character development, combat, just simply everything about this series is top notch. I love it from the bottom of my heart. Definitely one of my favorite series. Welp I’m jumping to the next book right away
I’m so glad I picked this series up, the world building, slice of life, character development, combat, just simply everything about this series is top notch. I love it from the bottom of my heart. Definitely one of my favorite series. Welp I’m jumping to the next book right away
August 26, 2024
It's good, but after book one and book two, the whole repetitive blushing gets on your t*ts, pun intended.
I like the story a lot, the fighting is good, the steamy scenes are steamy, but all that pampering and cuddling gets to be too much after a while.
But honestly, that could just be me, and you could very well have a blast reading this.
So give it a go.
I like the story a lot, the fighting is good, the steamy scenes are steamy, but all that pampering and cuddling gets to be too much after a while.
But honestly, that could just be me, and you could very well have a blast reading this.
So give it a go.
August 5, 2024
Continues to deliver
Pretty interesting book, liked a lot of the ending and its good to see them getting better and smarter at their jobs. Not to mention the family dynamics of their little group. I enjoyed it over all.
Pretty interesting book, liked a lot of the ending and its good to see them getting better and smarter at their jobs. Not to mention the family dynamics of their little group. I enjoyed it over all.
September 4, 2024
Very nicely done! Rich world building, good story telling and characters that you actually care about. Great pacing and the story held my interest throught the series. I felt sad at the end of book 3 because I had to say goodbye to such wonderful friends. Keep it up!
September 10, 2024
Worth my time.
The relationships are sweet and solid.
The new things that come up are interesting.
I enjoy the 'terran' phrases and statements that start getting used as they just seem to fit.
There is still much to learn. More please.
The relationships are sweet and solid.
The new things that come up are interesting.
I enjoy the 'terran' phrases and statements that start getting used as they just seem to fit.
There is still much to learn. More please.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews