The Grandmaster's Gamble

by Paul G. Zareith

An unparalleled academic genius of his generation - Norman has a bright future ahead. While he may be the rising star of the famed Illustrious Academy, in the brutally competitive Irvanian socio-political landscape, opportunist vultures lurk at every corner and no tactic is too low.

The biggest obstacle in the way of his grand ambitions though, is an ancient alien parasite that has made his body its nest. Oh, and there is also the problem of a high profile murder investigation that is likely to destroy his career.

Will Norman be able to reassert control over his life? Or will he succumb in his pursuit of the forgotten arts of soul harvesting and become something else... Find out in this grimdark cyberpunk fantasy.

Sometimes being the best among the best is still not good enough.

Genres: Science Fiction

200 pages, ebook

Published July 1, 2024

About the author

Avid fiction aficionado and fantasy author dabbling in the grimdark, arcane and all things forbidden and forgotten.

Reviews

[Kate Sibson]

Disclaimer: I read this as a judge for SPSFC#4, as part of Team Ground Control to Major Tom. However, the following is my own personal review and does not reflect on the team's final score.

The Grandmaster's Gamble is a relatively short novel (Amazon says 200 pages) and, in my opinion, is shows. There is a lot about this story that is intriguing and there are hints of what could be some spectacular world building but we never seem to get that to the juicy part. I would have liked a bit more detail about the various aspects but I think the author is playing the secretive, hidden plot game. This can work well as long as there is a great reveal somewhere but it wasn't in this book. I hope it is in the planned sequels.

I've never really seen any other Sci-fi be described as grimdark. I am assuming that this would be like Event Horizon and the Hellbound Heart, which have historically been called Sci-fi horror. I'm OK with this being grimdark. It fits well with its fantasy counterparts, so if it works for one why not the other? And this does fit the label. This has multiple triggers that people should be aware of (death, suicidal ideations, animal death, gore etc etc) and the atmosphere does fit neatly into the grimdark feel of things. A sense of boding of things to come sits on the narration, occasionally giving a warning tingle down the spine. This I enjoyed. This I can get onboard with. Nothing wrong with a bit of boding in Sci-fi! The atmosphere feels strangulated and a bit claustrophobic, adding to that warning feeling. It works and I thought this was one area of the book that was done well.

The plot started off well with some intriguing titbits on offer. Three students at a prestigious academy have to come up with increasingly complex research projects. Due to this, the three search for a lost city of the Yaskh, an extremely powerful civilisation that ascended centuries before. What they find could change the the future of the universe. One student dies, one breaks their leg and another gets infected by a controlling and powerful parasite that might be ale to fulfil their wildest dreams but for a very steep price. Enter the Nightwryms! I do like the plot and think there are some clever ideas here. However, the execution of it did leave me wanting more. I felt that we were offered tantalising glimpses but were never offered the whole package. It is almost as if the Author heard someone say "Show, don't tell" and thought "well, what if I don't show either?" and ran with that, Little bits of information are scattered throughout the book and it's up to you to figure it out. Some people will adore that but I don't mind being told things, every so often.

The characters were an odd bunch. Our main POV, Norman, is an difficult character to pin down. He is obviously extremely clever and ambitious but he comes off as very cold. He is not adverse to putting people in danger to get what he wants and there does seem to be a distinct lack of empathy. However, I can't tell if he is supposed to be like that or it is the prose leaving me cold. The prose is very clinical, to the point of impartiality in the narration, which does give it a very unemotive feel. It's like if some one unfamiliar with the story is reading it out like a text book. Also, Norman is not a likeable character but not in a fun way. That kind of made it hard for me to care about the proceedings. Other than Norman, things just tend to happen to everyone else and that is usually Norman.

There were definitely things I loved about The Grandmaster's Gamble. I love ancient secrets coming to light. I loved the Idea of the GodKing and hope we see more of that in future books (it is briefly touched on here). I want to know what happened between the Yaskh and the Nightwryms. And what is going on with the weird not-human-anymore race and the blood sourcery. I have many many questions. And I think that is, ultimately, my issue with The Grandmaster's Gamble - I was left with more questions than answers. Again, I don't mind some unanswered questions, even when they are mahor plot points I can cope. But there were too many questions and that left me frustrated. I didn't think there was enough detail in the plot or world building to leave me interested going into the next book. Am I ever going to get that detail or it is vague glimpses forever? I think I will quit while I'm ahead.

Intriguing plot points, a lot of cosmic horror redefined as grim dark but not enough detail to keep my satisfied. If you like to fill in details yourself, you will probably love this, as it is a good story. It's just not for me.

[S.Z. Estavillo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC for GRANDMASTER’S GAMBLE and was drawn into the vivid world almost immediately. I really thought the opening scenes set the tone and pacing. What struck me was the multifaceted characters, who were both complex and resilient. Much of the writing was unflinching and honest. I was rooting for the characters from the beginning, especially Nazaar Martuf Al’Hakn. Their awakening was both harrowing and intriguing just as Kiri’s storyline is both gut-wrenching and captivating. I felt their struggle was very much human.

Zareith created a universe with skillful worldbuilding. I also felt that one of the novel’s strengths is its pacing. The author does a good job at shifting between the different storylines, and time periods are handled very well, maintaining a brisk pace that never feels rushed. Each chapter ends with a hook that propels the reader forward, making it difficult to put the book down.

Overall, GRANDMASTER’S GAMBLE is a gripping, thought-provoking read that combines action, suspense, and deep character exploration. Paul G. Zareith has set a high bar for the Nightwyrms’ Resurgence series, and I am eagerly looking forward to the next installment. This book is a must-read for fans of dark, immersive science fiction and fantasy.

[Lumie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Paul G. Zareith for the ARC.

-I found the plot really interesting overall, but I had a hard time getting into because I felt a little confused as to what was going on and what everything meant and who the characters were. Although once I got over the confusion a little bit, despite it being still there throughout the whole entirety of the book, I still felt intrigued and submerged in this sci-fi world. There were so many elements which made it feel really immersive.

-I didn’t particularly deeply connect with the characters but they were fine. Again, there was a bit of confusion as to who was who and what relation they had towards each other, but eventually it ended up making sense.

-It really does leave us think about what is going to happen next. From a shocking reveal to then ending not long after, I am curious to find out more and discover more of this world and these characters.

[Tuliriemu · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first time reading Paul G. Zareith and I really enjoyed it. I found the characters believable and the story intriguing. I can't wait to learn more about the alien species and how Norman copes with everything that has happened so far.

[João Freitas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Astounding read from start to finish. Paul G. Zareith has created an unique world that begs to be explored, leading the reader into a quest of cascading questions while leaving breadcrumbs of answers that prevent them to get lost. Amazing characters that are easily remembered and recognized that feel human and real. I’m starting the next one right away and I can’t wait to uncover more about this universe.

[Sian · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Grandmaster’s Gamble - by Paul G Zareith

4 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Synopsis 💭

“In the depths of the cosmos, slumbers a malevolence that humanity has long forgotten.
An unsuspecting researcher knocks on a door, completely unprepared for what awaits on the other side.
As he tackles a murder investigation, an imperial treason conspiracy and backstabbing - the intertwined fates of two civilizations hang in balance.
As a dark history suppressed centuries ago resurfaces, the direction of the future will be set by one epic gamble.”

This was my first science fiction read and I really enjoyed it! It was completely different to anything I’ve read before and opened up a whole new world of literature for me.

I struggled slightly with pronunciations of characters and worlds but that was to be expected in such a heavy sci-fi setting so it wasn’t off putting at all, it just took me a while to get my head round it.

This story had it all, aliens, multiverses, thriller style twists, shocking horror moments and I really enjoyed the game Yokidon, it reminded me a lot of Quidditch! The illustrations at the end were a nice touch and really solidified the characters.

This book is the first in a series so it ends on a cliffhanger which leaves a lot of excitement for the next instalment.

If you are wanting to broaden your horizon and give sci-fi a try then this story is great and if you’re already a sci-fi fan then you’ll love this!

A big thank you to the author Paul for reaching out to me and offering me this free ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Tiffany J McLay · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fantastic book! The intellect alone that is needed just to write this book is incredible.
At a few points, I was looking up words and ideas to understand which personally I love.

The story itself is rich in lore and in science. The descriptions were indepth and allowed for great visualization.

I look forward to reading more by Paul G Zareith.

[E. P. Soulless · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review was originally posted on r/GrimDarkEpicFantasy by u/SoullessEddie.

So, is the Grandmaster’s Gamble any good? Short answer—yes. Notwithstanding, you’ll find a few clichés, one or two questionable narrative choices, and a little weaker mid-section, but the story more than makes up for its package's shortcomings with vivid descriptions of the unseemly, its mythical ambitions, and a setup for future installments. The book features a believable plotline in a Sci-Fi setting with sparse, yet poignant, Grimdark elements. The Grandmaster’s Gamble could be plausibly described as a mutation between the classical setting and take on Sci-Fi of Asimov’s Foundation, watered-down Dune, and sprinkled with gem-dust from the likes of I Have No Mouth, and I Must Scream. If you know, you know.

Now, let Eddie tell you why this book is worth your time without spoiling anything major… 

The Grandmaster’s Gamble was the second story of Paul’s that I’ve read, and while I’m not a big Sci-Fi buff, I’ve had a lot of fun with the offering over two days. It delivered on its core promises and then some, but mayhap has a higher barrier for entry than many similar works. While not flawless, this indie showcases an adept understanding of narrative structures, pay-offs, juggling of multiple PoVs without overtly fogging, and execution of some of the most memorable sensory effects I’ve read in recent memory. Not exactly nightmare fuel, but gruesome enough.

0.80 | Themes — The Grandmaster’s Gamble explores familiar ground—ambition, loyalty, power, selfishness, corruption—but filters it through a darker, more parasitic lens. The result is a story where symbiosis becomes manipulation, and service to a cause feels more like Stockholm syndrome than sacrifice. What intrigued me most was how Paul blurs control and dependency. Characters cling to things they resent or fear, suggesting that autonomy is always negotiable when survival or purpose is on the line. As someone who’s toyed with parasitic presences, I found Paul’s take refreshingly invasive—equal parts disturbing and thoughtful.

0.70 | Characterization — The Nightwyrm’s depictions are something to behold, while the rest of the cast lags behind. Norman is jaded and a little angsty, which is understandable given his arc. Kiri remains a compelling conscience for the rest of the cast. Other characters like the two Greymuses, or other more mysterious figures, fade into the background a little bit. Dialogue could be sharper. At times, the conversations feel a bit dull, NPC-like, other times, forced and self-serving, attempting to display the author’s flourish, rather than move the plot or convey important information. All that said, I’m nitpicking and despite my acrid call-outs, the characters stand above the average work of fiction in the indie world. The portrayal of Norman’s metastasizing dilemmas will—and I hazard a guess here—only get more sophisticated in the sequel, and carries weight. All in all, we’ve a solid cast that does not overwhelm, but could use a bit of that magic polish to truly capture our attention—the seeds are already there.

0.85 | Plot — Without spoiling anything, the plot is unique, and takes the reader on an unexpected journey while not unnecessarily breaking your brain like many Sci-Fi’s attempt to do and fail on the execution. Paul took the high road and constructed well, brick by brick. Kudos for showing restraint. I’ve noted a few PoV slips where the author is eager to explain things beyond the current PoV’s knowledge, which I would categorize as an unnecessary wink at the reader. Trust us to connect the dots on our own. We know Norman is smart and wouldn’t pick a random asteroid, or that Kiri’s past was not a rose garden. This kind of exposition could have been handled better in an otherwise memorable and pleasingly unexpected storyline.

0.75 | World-building — The world is more than a stage. It feels almost claustrophobic, Alien-like (movie), despite its expansive, multiplanetary scope. It eases us into the setting with thoughtful scenes that flow and are explored quite naturally. Paul may have taken cues from Warhammer lore, which is a crowd pleaser in Grimdark circles, of course, but it fits into his setting seamlessly. As an example, the implied larger-than-life God King is more of a background figure and does not impact the story. It just gives it more tonal dissonance and a looming presence. My favorite detail is the looped train line that evokes certain ouroborian distrust in the reader. I didn’t much care for the academia setting, but that’s more of a personal preference. The city of Norman’s studies feels alive, and while not quite a character in itself, its presence is tickling the back of your head at every turn of the page.

0.85 | Prose — The Grandmaster’s Gamble has stand-out diction. Uses big words that fit the Sci-Fi setting and the vocabulary of the genius protagonist, but it could be a turn-off for a less attuned reader. A bit of wordiness in certain paragraphs could also be streamlined, as well as cutting redundancies or re-statements. Either way, the flurry of words comes off the pages with ease, logically, and does not distract you unless you ask it to. I found the formatting slightly unorthodox and would shuffle/merge some paragraphs if I were to edit it, but that falls more under next line-level scrutiny and personal preference. Overall, nearly clean and reads almost by itself.
Paul’s work is anything but generic. While I cannot claim that I understood everything, uncovered every hidden layer, every single sub-plot, and every hint, there is no doubt in my mind that the Grandmaster’s Gamble is a well-executed Sci-Fi that does a lot with very little. The book has around 200 pages, but unlike many bloated pieces of fiction makes do with sizable, piecemeal portions.

Running Total: 3.95 / 5.00 — A Gamble Worth Taking

[Sameer Gudhate · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ever stumbled upon a book that grabs you by the collar and pulls you into a dark, twisted universe where nothing is as it seems? That’s exactly what Paul G. Zareith’s "The Grandmaster's Gamble" does. It’s a grimdark sci-fi adventure that not only takes you to the depths of space but also delves into the darkest corners of human nature. For those who enjoy a blend of intricate plots and a touch of the macabre, this debut novel is quite the ride.

The story kicks off with an unsuspecting researcher knocking on a door, unknowingly about to plunge into a vortex of murder, conspiracy, and backstabbing. What begins as a murder investigation quickly spirals into a high-stakes game of imperial treason, with the fate of two civilizations hanging in the balance. The unique mix of grimdark and sci-fi elements makes this book stand out, offering a fresh take on the genre with its deeply woven plot and intense atmosphere.

Paul G. Zareith’s writing is sharp and vivid. His prose is both detailed and direct, painting a universe that feels as expansive as it is claustrophobic. The language is rich without being overwrought, and the narrative voice is engaging, pulling you into the story with ease. Zareith excels at balancing descriptive world-building with dynamic action scenes, making for a gripping read that’s hard to put down.

The characters are where Zareith truly shines. They’re complex, flawed, and incredibly human. The protagonist’s journey from a naive researcher to a central figure in a galactic conspiracy is compelling and well-executed. The supporting cast is equally rich, each with their own secrets and motives that add depth to the narrative. The book also tackles significant themes such as trust, betrayal, and the murky ethics of power, presenting ideas that are both original and thought-provoking.

The pacing of "The Grandmaster's Gamble" is expertly handled, with a well-structured plot that keeps you hooked from start to finish. The story weaves multiple plotlines together seamlessly, creating a tapestry of intrigue and suspense. Plot twists are well-placed and impactful, enhancing the overall narrative without feeling contrived. The use of alternating perspectives and shifting timelines adds a layer of complexity that keeps the reader engaged and guessing.

At its core, this book explores themes of power, corruption, and the inherent darkness within humanity. Zareith doesn’t shy away from the grim realities of his characters and their universe. The resurfacing of a long-suppressed dark history serves as an allegory for real-world issues like historical revisionism and the cyclical nature of power struggles. These themes are handled with nuance, encouraging readers to reflect on broader societal issues.

Emotionally, this book packs a punch. The sense of betrayal and high stakes create a rollercoaster of emotions. There are moments of intense suspense, heart-wrenching decisions, and thought-provoking dilemmas that make the reader deeply invested in the characters’ fates. Zareith’s ability to evoke such strong emotions is a testament to his storytelling prowess.

One of the book’s greatest strengths is its character development. The protagonist’s transformation is believable and compelling, and the world-building is incredibly immersive. The narrative is gripping, with a dark, atmospheric tone that draws you in. Memorable passages, like the protagonist uncovering the true extent of the conspiracy, showcase Zareith’s skill in creating tension and intrigue.

While the book is largely successful, it isn’t without its flaws. Some readers might find the complex plot and multitude of characters overwhelming at times. Additionally, the grimdark elements, while effective, can feel overly bleak, potentially alienating readers who prefer a lighter tone. However, these issues are minor compared to the overall quality of the storytelling.

"The Grandmaster's Gamble" resonated with me on multiple levels. As a fan of both sci-fi and grimdark genres, I appreciated Zareith’s ability to merge these elements seamlessly. The themes of betrayal and the moral complexities of power struck a chord, making me reflect on similar real-world issues. My only bias might be my fondness for richly detailed world-building and flawed characters, which Zareith delivers in spades.

In summary, "The Grandmaster's Gamble: A Grimdark Sci-Fi Adventure" is a compelling start to "The Nightwyrms' Resurgence" series. Paul G. Zareith has crafted a dark, intricate tale that will appeal to fans of both genres. The book’s strengths in character development, world-building, and narrative tension far outweigh its minor flaws. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a thought-provoking and emotionally engaging read. Here’s hoping for more captivating stories from Zareith in the future.

#GrimdarkSciFi #PaulGZareith #BookReview #NightwyrmsResurgence #SciFiAdventure

[Geetha Krishnan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got an ARC for the second book of this series and decided to read the first one to get the background. Though this was touted as grimdark, I must say that it didn’t seem all that dark to me. There is some scenes of violence and torture, some blood and gore, but overall, nope. Not dark enough.

I’m beginning to think my definition of dark and other people’s definition of dark are completely at odds, lol.

The book starts with a prologue which doesn’t make much sense until much later. The opening chapter depicts a torture scene, and then we have some flashbacks leading to the main story. For a short book, there’s a lot of plot in this one.

Norman is a genius, living in the Irvanian empire, attending the Illustrious Academy, whose gruelling ten year curriculum leaves most students gasping in the dust. But Norman isn’t most students, and he’s determined to make his future in the protectorate. He’s fascinated with the ancient Yskh culture which has now disappeared. They had many technological marvels that he hopes to reverse engineer.

With the help of two of his fellow students, Kiri and Remus, Norman finds his way to an uncharted planet which has remnants of Yskh civilization in the form of a ziggurat. Norman and his friends come across an alien parasitic life form that the Yskh called the Nightwyrm. It injures Kiri and kills Remus but spares Norman on the condition he will help it find a refuge. But to ensure his co-operation, one of the parasites invade Norman’s body.

Remus is the son of an influential senator, however, and no matter how well they cover it up, neither Kiri nor Norman can handle the repercussions from his death. Add to it, the fact that Kiri is part of an underground rebellion and that she has stolen Norman’s proprietary tech to give them, and Norman’s life is completely fucked.

I found this extremely enjoyable and entertaining. It’s a plot driven story, but with the plot being so intricate, it was quite the ride. There were a few issues that a round of editing would have taken care of, but nothing that took away from my enjoyment. At times, I even forgot I was reading, so immersed was I.

If you love Sci Fi, aliens, first contact and mysteries, you will love this book.

[Windsor Grace · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was provided this book by the author, Paul G. Zareith, for a review. I can truly say, I loved the book. It’s the first of a series and I cannot wait to read the rest of the story. It hooked me from the beginning and I couldn’t wait to discover what was happening.

The world-building in this book is incredible. The characters are in the far future, or another world, where the universe was conquered and settled. Humans live on many different planets and are aware of alien species and cultures. Kiri, Remus, and Norman explore a lost planet they found through a million-year-old text. Once they arrive, the defense system of the planet attacks them and they take refuge in an ancient pyramid. Once inside, the trio discovers an ancient race that attaches themselves to Norman.

Norman heads back to the Illustrious Academy, where he studies, and tries to live and work with this creature attached to him. This is where things start to get crazy. The creature sends shots of pain through Norman’s body when it is displeased with him. It helps him predict the movements of other humans, shows him illness in his colleagues, and generally inserts itself into his everyday life.

As Norman continues his research into the culture of the people from the lost planet, the Magisterium, the government, begins to suspect him of wrongdoing. As we go on, the book is leading up to something that doesn’t happen in this book. It reminded me of Hyperion in the way it leads up to events in books to come.

Norman is a fascinating character and I can’t wait to learn more about him in the coming volumes. The way he deals with conflict is to outsmart and outwit. But he’s not quite as clever as he thinks he is. 
The creature is often a step ahead of him, forcing its will. This book is mostly science fiction, with aspects of cosmic horror. If you enjoy those two genres, I believe you will like this book. I loved it.

[Prisha Rohra · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has fantastic world building. In the distant future, or on a different planet, the characters live in a settled and conquered universe. Humans are aware of alien species and cultures because they inhabit several worlds. Norman, Kiri, and Remus investigate a forgotten planet they discovered via a text dating back millions of years. When they get there, the planet's defense system attacks them, so they flee into an old pyramid. Once inside, Norman is approached by an ancient race that the three discovers.

I'm eager to find out more about Norman in the upcoming volumes because he seems like such an intriguing guy. The creature pushes its will and is frequently one step ahead of him. There are elements of cosmic horror mixed in with the science fiction in this book. I think you'll like this book if you appreciate those two genres.

Zareith used deft world building to construct a cosmos. The novel's pace strikes me as another one of its strong points. The author adeptly navigates between the several tales, and the handling of time periods keeps the action moving at a fast pace without ever seeming hurried. Every chapter closes with an intriguing hook that draws the reader in and makes it hard to put the book down.

Grandmaster's Gamble is an overall compelling and thought-provoking book that blends action, suspense, and in-depth character development. I am excitedly awaiting the next episode of Paul G. Zareith's Nightwyrms Resurgence series, as he has set a high standard. For anyone who enjoy dark, compelling science fiction and fantasy, this novel is a must-read.

Since this book is the first in a series, it closes on a suspenseful note that will make readers eager for the next instalment.

[G. W. reviewers · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story begins with a researcher knocking on a door, not knowing it will lead to murder, secrets, and betrayal. What starts as solving a murder quickly becomes a dangerous game of treason that could affect two civilizations. This book mixes dark storytelling with sci-fi, making it unique. It has a complex plot and intense atmosphere that keeps you hooked.

Paul G. Zareith's writing is clear and vivid. He describes the universe in detail, making it feel vast yet close. The language is rich but easy to follow, and the story pulls you in effortlessly. Zareith is good at balancing world-building with exciting action scenes, making the book hard to put down.

"The Grandmaster's Gamble" connected with me deeply. I love sci-fi and dark stories, and Zareith blends these perfectly. The themes of betrayal and power made me think about real-life issues. I especially liked the detailed world-building and flawed characters.

In short, "The Grandmaster's Gamble: A Grimdark Sci-Fi Adventure" is a great start to finish . Paul G. Zareith has created a dark, complex story that fans of both genres will enjoy. The book's strong characters, detailed world, and suspenseful story make it a must-read. I recommend it to anyone who wants a thought-provoking and engaging book. I look forward to more stories from Zareith in the future!

.......Highly recommended.........

[Book_withquotes · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Grandmaster’s Gamble by Paul G. Zareith is a riveting start to the Nightwyrms’ Resurgence series, blending dark storytelling with immersive sci-fi elements. Set in a universe where humans coexist with alien species across various planets, the novel follows a researcher whose routine investigation spirals into a treacherous game of murder, treason, and cosmic intrigue.

Zareith’s world-building is exceptional, creating a vivid and expansive universe filled with rich detail. The pacing is brisk, with each chapter ending on a hook that propels the reader forward. The multifaceted characters, particularly Norman, are complex and flawed, making their struggles feel deeply human despite the far-future setting. While the novel’s complex plot and numerous characters can be initially overwhelming, they ultimately contribute to a richly layered narrative that rewards patient readers.

The book’s dark atmosphere, combined with elements of cosmic horror and thrilling twists, make it a compelling read for fans of both science fiction and grimdark genres. Overall, The Grandmaster’s Gamble is a thought-provoking and suspenseful novel that leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next installment. Zareith has crafted a gripping tale that is sure to captivate those who enjoy dark, immersive science fiction.

[Nick Snape · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am a sucker for a story with Cthulhu-like undertones. Not going to lie, that dark, lingering impossibility that hangs over such stories with the sheer enormity of what ordinary people face has me hooked. Paul G Zareith has a tale here that imbues that same feeling in the reader, with a complex back story that emerges through the woes and intellectual brilliance of its main character. And perhaps that’s where the novel bogs down. There are so many ideas and grand schemes going on that fleshing these out more, especially in the latter stages of the book, and signposting their arrival would immerse the reader in the story and not just the mythos he has created. A solid read, and in a world with so much potential, I look forward to taking a peek from behind the sofa at what comes next.

[Ryan M Patrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Grandmaster's Gamble is a decidedly dark sci-fi novel, full of twists and turns and a shocking ending that will the reader wanting to read the sequel as soon as possible. The novel is a well-blended murder-mystery with a setting that's a mix of cyberpunk, dark academia, and sci-fantasy with vivid descriptions and well-written action. It's not perfect, there's a steep learning curve into the incredibly detailed world and the characters outside of Norman and Kiri can be somewhat flat, but the plot moves along at a rapid clip and never feels like it drags at any point. It's a fun read that moves along well and I'm looking forward to the next book in the series!

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

He seems to be going far but there is a twist to his tale when he has an alien inside him. Even though he is the brightest of the bright, it still may not be enough for the battle he is facing. He needs to find a way to get through it all to get where he needs to be. See how he gets on
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and was pulled into his struggles

[Heather Bolin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a really intriguing sci-fi. I was pleasantly surprised by the story line and the characters. It has twists that I never saw coming. I can't wait to start the next book in this series.