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Feral Mage #1
The Red Pine Kingdom Contract
YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT.
That’s the old human saying anyway. For Bryce, it’s a little more literal. He’s a Feral Mage, someone who gains the abilities of monsters by devouring them. This magic has allowed him to excel as a mercenary, rising to the top rank of the guildhall.
Bryce finds more than he bargained for while taking what should have been a simple job. Accompanied by a feral wolfkin and a wannabe monster hunter kitsune, he tries to escort a young snow elf woman to the Red Pine Kingdom. Between monsters, criminals, and a pissed-off swordswoman, danger is an inevitability. The further Bryce gets into this job, the more dangerous it becomes. With the deck stacked against them, there’s only one ace up their sleeves.
BRYCE IS A BIT OF A MONSTER OR SEVERAL.Feral Mage contains unconventional relationships in a world dominated by magic, monsters, and the sword.
That’s the old human saying anyway. For Bryce, it’s a little more literal. He’s a Feral Mage, someone who gains the abilities of monsters by devouring them. This magic has allowed him to excel as a mercenary, rising to the top rank of the guildhall.
Bryce finds more than he bargained for while taking what should have been a simple job. Accompanied by a feral wolfkin and a wannabe monster hunter kitsune, he tries to escort a young snow elf woman to the Red Pine Kingdom. Between monsters, criminals, and a pissed-off swordswoman, danger is an inevitability. The further Bryce gets into this job, the more dangerous it becomes. With the deck stacked against them, there’s only one ace up their sleeves.
BRYCE IS A BIT OF A MONSTER OR SEVERAL.Feral Mage contains unconventional relationships in a world dominated by magic, monsters, and the sword.
344 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 18, 2025
About the author
Chase Kilgore
18 books88 followersAn avid reader with a fondness for Fantasy, Sci-fi, and HaremLit Books. I strive to write interesting worlds and characters like those that drew me to these genres. My debut book, Exile: De'Vas Chronicles Book 1, is my aim to achieve that goal. I hope you enjoy the book and the others to come in the future.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
February 17, 2026
The Feral Mage book #1
I both read the book and listened to the audiobook as circumstances dictated.
Let’s get this out first, so you can decide whether to read the rest of the review. Ratings:
World building – 4
Plot – 3 (2.5 but elevated to 3 by the audio reader’s enthusiasm)
Characters – some interesting
Monsters - underdeveloped
This is more LitRPG than Tolkien
Sex – gratuitous (could have been borrowed from any other book) but confined to several chapters that can be skipped without losing the plot
Writing concept – 4
Writing execution – 2 (no particularly memorable descriptions or dialogue)
If you are a certain type of mage (and mages come with all sorts of backgrounds and natures) you are able to assume one or more of the attributes of the monsters you best in combat.
"“I’m a merc. If there’s no coin in it for me, I’m not fighting,” Bryce said and he let out a heavy sigh. “You would have backed me up in there against those guards?” “Of course, you’re my master. Even if you won’t acknowledge me as your pupil yet,” Janna answered with a smirk as her tails swished."
"“I don’t think she likes you very much.” Bryce shrugged. “We tried to kill each other a few times, and I poisoned her twice. She’ll get over it,” he said before leaving the fire to move toward the wagon."
Bryce is a simple guy whose work pays for his fun. As a feral mage, he has an advantage over the unsuspecting monsters. He works by contract with an agreed payment after, and often, some portion before he fulfills his agreement.
Kilgore tells this yarn from multiple perspectives. We know early on that the larger conflict between elves and men will also have a personal aspect between Bryce and Callie (Lady Queenshield). But, all that is set aside (for a while) as Bryce tries to fulfill his contract to the elf known as Alice and protect her until she can find sanctuary in an elven region.
"“Monster hunters aren’t real?” Alice asked with a surprised tone. Bryce shook his head as he pulled his bedroll away from where Vex laid hers. “Not like how they’re portrayed in the books sold for a copper. Most real monster hunters are mercenaries responding to a bounty or groups of soldiers sent by some noble to take care of it. The risk is too high for the reward to make a career out of it, at least for most,” Bryce sighed as Vex moved her bedroll to be beside his again. “The idiots that call themselves ‘monster hunters’ are just targets for merchants to sell useless flashy gear to. Very few survive their first encounter with a real monster.”"
Now we have to discuss other species: kitsune and wolfkin. The former is a primate (human?) with foxlike attributes and the latter is a primate (human?) with wolflike attributes. Each has an encounter with Brice and then feels a bond with him. Alice is also an important part of this group for most of this book.
"“My Bryce was brave,” Vex declared as she turned in the seat to face Alice. “He didn’t hide, or sneak attack. He walked to the troll and fought it. Then he ate its soul.” He was surprised at the amount Vex had said, then it dawned on him what she had said, and he groaned. “He ate its soul,” Alice repeated softly from the back of the wagon. “Yes,” Vex declared happily. Alice was silent for a moment and Bryce hoped she just believed the wolfkin was a little crazy or messing with her. “You’re an Aspect Mage,” Alice finally said. Bryce looked back at her. “Yes, though most people don’t know that name,” Bryce answered. “Most call those who use my magic Feral Mages.”"
This adventuring band is all female with the exception of Brice. This is, obviously, something that interests the author. Each of demi-humans (Vex and Janna) has a prominent tail or tails which they waggle at Brice or rub up against him. The creature pictured on the book’s cover is one of them. Brice looks at them as bothersome and his disinterest is manifest … until it isn’t.
"“Stupid fox,” the wolfkin said with a grin. “My Bryce doesn’t hunt monsters for the money, he hunts them because he eats them. Stupid vampires are prey that just came to their predator. They saved him from hunting them.” Another bolt struck Bryce. He pulled it out and tossed it to the ground as he continued towards the two cloaked figures. “He eats monsters?” Janna asked softly, as she wondered just what her master was."
I both read the book and listened to the audiobook as circumstances dictated.
Let’s get this out first, so you can decide whether to read the rest of the review. Ratings:
World building – 4
Plot – 3 (2.5 but elevated to 3 by the audio reader’s enthusiasm)
Characters – some interesting
Monsters - underdeveloped
This is more LitRPG than Tolkien
Sex – gratuitous (could have been borrowed from any other book) but confined to several chapters that can be skipped without losing the plot
Writing concept – 4
Writing execution – 2 (no particularly memorable descriptions or dialogue)
If you are a certain type of mage (and mages come with all sorts of backgrounds and natures) you are able to assume one or more of the attributes of the monsters you best in combat.
"“I’m a merc. If there’s no coin in it for me, I’m not fighting,” Bryce said and he let out a heavy sigh. “You would have backed me up in there against those guards?” “Of course, you’re my master. Even if you won’t acknowledge me as your pupil yet,” Janna answered with a smirk as her tails swished."
"“I don’t think she likes you very much.” Bryce shrugged. “We tried to kill each other a few times, and I poisoned her twice. She’ll get over it,” he said before leaving the fire to move toward the wagon."
Bryce is a simple guy whose work pays for his fun. As a feral mage, he has an advantage over the unsuspecting monsters. He works by contract with an agreed payment after, and often, some portion before he fulfills his agreement.
Kilgore tells this yarn from multiple perspectives. We know early on that the larger conflict between elves and men will also have a personal aspect between Bryce and Callie (Lady Queenshield). But, all that is set aside (for a while) as Bryce tries to fulfill his contract to the elf known as Alice and protect her until she can find sanctuary in an elven region.
"“Monster hunters aren’t real?” Alice asked with a surprised tone. Bryce shook his head as he pulled his bedroll away from where Vex laid hers. “Not like how they’re portrayed in the books sold for a copper. Most real monster hunters are mercenaries responding to a bounty or groups of soldiers sent by some noble to take care of it. The risk is too high for the reward to make a career out of it, at least for most,” Bryce sighed as Vex moved her bedroll to be beside his again. “The idiots that call themselves ‘monster hunters’ are just targets for merchants to sell useless flashy gear to. Very few survive their first encounter with a real monster.”"
Now we have to discuss other species: kitsune and wolfkin. The former is a primate (human?) with foxlike attributes and the latter is a primate (human?) with wolflike attributes. Each has an encounter with Brice and then feels a bond with him. Alice is also an important part of this group for most of this book.
"“My Bryce was brave,” Vex declared as she turned in the seat to face Alice. “He didn’t hide, or sneak attack. He walked to the troll and fought it. Then he ate its soul.” He was surprised at the amount Vex had said, then it dawned on him what she had said, and he groaned. “He ate its soul,” Alice repeated softly from the back of the wagon. “Yes,” Vex declared happily. Alice was silent for a moment and Bryce hoped she just believed the wolfkin was a little crazy or messing with her. “You’re an Aspect Mage,” Alice finally said. Bryce looked back at her. “Yes, though most people don’t know that name,” Bryce answered. “Most call those who use my magic Feral Mages.”"
This adventuring band is all female with the exception of Brice. This is, obviously, something that interests the author. Each of demi-humans (Vex and Janna) has a prominent tail or tails which they waggle at Brice or rub up against him. The creature pictured on the book’s cover is one of them. Brice looks at them as bothersome and his disinterest is manifest … until it isn’t.
"“Stupid fox,” the wolfkin said with a grin. “My Bryce doesn’t hunt monsters for the money, he hunts them because he eats them. Stupid vampires are prey that just came to their predator. They saved him from hunting them.” Another bolt struck Bryce. He pulled it out and tossed it to the ground as he continued towards the two cloaked figures. “He eats monsters?” Janna asked softly, as she wondered just what her master was."
March 21, 2025
So far, I've enjoyed every book this author has written. I was a bit uncertain as this is another series (I am assuming) from this author, who doesn't have a large number of published books. Sometimes a new author has a great idea and writes a few good books. When these authors attempt a second series, sometimes the other series fall flat.
In this author's books I have enjoyed how the magic system works. I like the fact that there is no free lunch - you don't have a Gandalf-like character running around casting awesome magic with no costs.
I am looking forward to the next book in both series.
In this author's books I have enjoyed how the magic system works. I like the fact that there is no free lunch - you don't have a Gandalf-like character running around casting awesome magic with no costs.
I am looking forward to the next book in both series.
March 23, 2025
I loved this. It very much focuses on its story and character builds first and foremost. The harem element is added on as a story layer. This is balanced beautifully.
October 19, 2025
I'm always hesitant to read a novel tagged as Harem. In this case there's a good fantasy story with a really interesting magic system. The protagonist, Bryce, is a hard-bitten misanthrope who, deep down, has a heart of gold. In fact, most of the characters are likeable and make for an easy read.
NOTE: If, like me, you tend to skip the lurid sex scenes, there are just two and they are easily skipped by moving to the following chapter.
NOTE: If, like me, you tend to skip the lurid sex scenes, there are just two and they are easily skipped by moving to the following chapter.
April 5, 2025
If you read the other comments, I totally agree the book is great; however, I gave it 4 stars only because I feel the MC's past and past relationships don't quite add up. I assume he's a mid- to high-level mercenary with tons of missions under his belt, but somehow never met a monster worthy enough to add to his repertoire. With how he is talked about in the series, I'm pretty sure he's killed quite a few powerful creatures, so it doesn't quite add up, especially considering his type of magic. I feel that if he weren't drummed up to be some seasoned veteran but just a startup, the storyline would make more sense, as would some of the consciously bad decisions he made.
March 18, 2025
Good ideas, decent writing. Felt like it wobbled a bit too much between grim and fun, though. Not really a fan of that as I avoid grim and gritty stuff. Just be fun. Come on!
March 25, 2025
This book was a really good start to a series.
The MC is what is often called a "feral mage", or one that eats parts of just killed animals to take on their aspects. He's a mercenary, and ends up buying out the debt of a winter elf woman that is working at an inn after completing a contract she told him about. As part of that contract, he accidentally freed a wolf woman, who has decided he's her mate. He rolls his eyes a lot at that, but that's how things start.
There is only one actual lover by the end of the book, and it takes a while before that happens, which is refreshing. There are several other women present: the winter elf, a kitsune, and maybe even more in the future. They have distinct personalities, and can be quite entertaining at times.
I very much look forward to book 2.
The MC is what is often called a "feral mage", or one that eats parts of just killed animals to take on their aspects. He's a mercenary, and ends up buying out the debt of a winter elf woman that is working at an inn after completing a contract she told him about. As part of that contract, he accidentally freed a wolf woman, who has decided he's her mate. He rolls his eyes a lot at that, but that's how things start.
There is only one actual lover by the end of the book, and it takes a while before that happens, which is refreshing. There are several other women present: the winter elf, a kitsune, and maybe even more in the future. They have distinct personalities, and can be quite entertaining at times.
I very much look forward to book 2.
April 22, 2025
Rating 3.5 stars
It was good, but there were a couple of things that I thought could be better. I liked the premise. A feral mage or aspect mage is someone who consumes monsters they fight to take on some of their "aspects". The MC is Bryce and he has a Mantacour aspect and then latter gets a troll aspect. He is a mercenary and spends most of his time between jobs just having a good time until he is out of money. Things change right after he gets his troll aspect.
It was good, but there were a couple of things that I thought could be better. I liked the premise. A feral mage or aspect mage is someone who consumes monsters they fight to take on some of their "aspects". The MC is Bryce and he has a Mantacour aspect and then latter gets a troll aspect. He is a mercenary and spends most of his time between jobs just having a good time until he is out of money. Things change right after he gets his troll aspect.
July 13, 2025
So-so..
--
The Audio I listened to had a technical issue in occasional volume dips throughout the read, lasting less than 5 seconds upon occurrence. I also think the narrator mixed up the voices at times between base narrative voice and character.
--
First off, the story comes across as not knowing what it wants to be. At times nauseatingly so, like being a passenger in car who's driver keeps violating the breaks in a vomit inducing manner.
--
There are also far to many poorly handled minor plot progression points/holes. I found these causing a discordance to the story flow that kept breaking overall immersion.
The author at times fails (purposefully or not for drama and progression..) to portray his main character in a way believable with the already provided backstory and with what the reader has been shown. Like the mc shifting from high capable veteran in one scene to a fng numpty in the next one, some chapters later.
The male MC's female companions are also exceedingly witless, in various ways I will give the author that, but its bordering on caricature.. If I was a woman I'd probably take offense.
Example: MC leaves his companions in a fairly safe place and tells them not to leave until he returns because they are being hunted by all and sundry. Guess what the dozy twits go and do within just a few hours when he doesn't instantly return!? All three are equally stupid. Its facepalm.. no its bash ones brains out against a stone wall level of absurd. On the whole far to many of the side characters are just over the top caricatures in some way.
My first glance evaluation, so to say, of this story had me rating it a solid 3/5 but the further along I got listening the more the sheen wore off. By the end I was considering rating the book a 1/5.
--
The Audio I listened to had a technical issue in occasional volume dips throughout the read, lasting less than 5 seconds upon occurrence. I also think the narrator mixed up the voices at times between base narrative voice and character.
--
First off, the story comes across as not knowing what it wants to be. At times nauseatingly so, like being a passenger in car who's driver keeps violating the breaks in a vomit inducing manner.
--
There are also far to many poorly handled minor plot progression points/holes. I found these causing a discordance to the story flow that kept breaking overall immersion.
The author at times fails (purposefully or not for drama and progression..) to portray his main character in a way believable with the already provided backstory and with what the reader has been shown. Like the mc shifting from high capable veteran in one scene to a fng numpty in the next one, some chapters later.
The male MC's female companions are also exceedingly witless, in various ways I will give the author that, but its bordering on caricature.. If I was a woman I'd probably take offense.
Example: MC leaves his companions in a fairly safe place and tells them not to leave until he returns because they are being hunted by all and sundry. Guess what the dozy twits go and do within just a few hours when he doesn't instantly return!? All three are equally stupid. Its facepalm.. no its bash ones brains out against a stone wall level of absurd. On the whole far to many of the side characters are just over the top caricatures in some way.
My first glance evaluation, so to say, of this story had me rating it a solid 3/5 but the further along I got listening the more the sheen wore off. By the end I was considering rating the book a 1/5.
February 12, 2026
Pretty good, it's somewhat darker than most harem stories, lot's of blood and gore. But I think that is to be expected when you hit someone with sharp or blunt instruments.
While the magic concept is nothing new the setting is refreshing. At no point it felt predictable or like a rehash of other stories, as is super common in this genre.
I like that it doesn't immediately jump to the main character handling world ending threats, this makes the setting much more believable (though it is being hinted that is where it is going).
The only weak point is the main character. He is a young novice feral mage that can absorb monster abilities to use himself, he just got out of his apprenticeship and only has one monster aspect already absorbed.
BUT... He is also a highest rank super experienced veteran mercenary, who studied magic monsters, politics, everything really. He is so good he can solo missions that normally take full parties etc.
Either of these starting points would have been fine but the combination is jarring, the author is obviously struggling with how strong he is during the fights. He is continuously switching between struggling and power fantasy.
If he is such a bad-ass fighter why hasn't he eaten a lot of monsters? If he just started out why is he already one of the best fighters in the world? Pick a lane please...
For example he easily beats a legendary fighter. Then later in the story he fights together with this person against a random assassin, while having all the advantages, and they just get their asses handed to them.
While the magic concept is nothing new the setting is refreshing. At no point it felt predictable or like a rehash of other stories, as is super common in this genre.
I like that it doesn't immediately jump to the main character handling world ending threats, this makes the setting much more believable (though it is being hinted that is where it is going).
The only weak point is the main character. He is a young novice feral mage that can absorb monster abilities to use himself, he just got out of his apprenticeship and only has one monster aspect already absorbed.
BUT... He is also a highest rank super experienced veteran mercenary, who studied magic monsters, politics, everything really. He is so good he can solo missions that normally take full parties etc.
Either of these starting points would have been fine but the combination is jarring, the author is obviously struggling with how strong he is during the fights. He is continuously switching between struggling and power fantasy.
If he is such a bad-ass fighter why hasn't he eaten a lot of monsters? If he just started out why is he already one of the best fighters in the world? Pick a lane please...
For example he easily beats a legendary fighter. Then later in the story he fights together with this person against a random assassin, while having all the advantages, and they just get their asses handed to them.
August 25, 2026
Cozy Harem vagy Harem Lite vagy nem is tudom, milyen zsánernek mondjam. Persze azért nem egy kimondott gyerekkönyv, a szexjelenet az ízlésemhez mérten kicsit ízléstelen volt, le is vontam miatta egy csillagot, de aztán gyorsan adtam helyette egy másikat, mert a varázsfőzettel való fogamzásgátlás terhe a férfira hárult, neki kellett meginnia a remélhetőleg pocsék ízű löttyöt.
A világépítés remek, érdekesek a mágiafajták, amiket használnak a szereplők. Sokféle ismerős lény szerepel a történetben, vámpír, troll, kicune, mantikór, griff stb., ami kicsit megúszóssá teszi a leírásokat, nem kell sokat magyarázni őket. A környezet leírása sincs túltolva, épp csak annyi van belőle, hogy el tudjuk képzelni, hol játszódnak a jelenetek. De nekem ennyi elég, nem panaszként említem.
És érdekesek a karakterek, még a szörnyek is egészen emberiek, nem csak támadnak, és le kell őket győzni, hanem általában van valami okuk is a támadásra. A szereplőknek van múltja, ami érthetővé teszi a szándékaikat, céljaikat. És nem fekete-fehérek, a jóknak is vannak hibái, a rosszaknak is erényei, és van, akiről elsőre nem egyértelmű, hogy melyik csoportba sorolandó. Szóval a karakterábrázolásra sem lehet panaszom.
Megfelelő a tempó is, nem rohan a cselekmény, van idő ismerkedni a szereplőkkel, a világgal, de nem is ül le, hogy unalmassá váljon. Bár nem kiemelkedően zseniális vagy bámulatosan újszerű, ez egy alaposan, gondosan kidolgozott, becsületes írói munka, ami végig fenntartja az érdeklődést. Folytatom is a második kötettel.
A világépítés remek, érdekesek a mágiafajták, amiket használnak a szereplők. Sokféle ismerős lény szerepel a történetben, vámpír, troll, kicune, mantikór, griff stb., ami kicsit megúszóssá teszi a leírásokat, nem kell sokat magyarázni őket. A környezet leírása sincs túltolva, épp csak annyi van belőle, hogy el tudjuk képzelni, hol játszódnak a jelenetek. De nekem ennyi elég, nem panaszként említem.
És érdekesek a karakterek, még a szörnyek is egészen emberiek, nem csak támadnak, és le kell őket győzni, hanem általában van valami okuk is a támadásra. A szereplőknek van múltja, ami érthetővé teszi a szándékaikat, céljaikat. És nem fekete-fehérek, a jóknak is vannak hibái, a rosszaknak is erényei, és van, akiről elsőre nem egyértelmű, hogy melyik csoportba sorolandó. Szóval a karakterábrázolásra sem lehet panaszom.
Megfelelő a tempó is, nem rohan a cselekmény, van idő ismerkedni a szereplőkkel, a világgal, de nem is ül le, hogy unalmassá váljon. Bár nem kiemelkedően zseniális vagy bámulatosan újszerű, ez egy alaposan, gondosan kidolgozott, becsületes írói munka, ami végig fenntartja az érdeklődést. Folytatom is a második kötettel.
January 28, 2026
((Audio Book Review))
I enjoyed this more than I thought I would even as a harem book it's refreshing to not have the MC loaded up with more girls than he can remember before the end of the first book. So if you're looking for a fast burn get the girls book you might end up bored. The story is very enjoyable imo with an added slow burn romance included in it. My only annoyance is with the MC being a passive twat when it comes the his ladies. He always speaks his mind and is fairly direct in everything else he does no matter the persons gender but as soon as a girl who is an obvious (to us) love interest character is involved he becomes passive aggressive. It could be explained away as his inexperience with women but then he should act the same with with all women and not just the ones who have plot glue. It's hard to express but it's obvious enough to me that it was annoying. It's not anime levels of oblivious MC but it's in the same wheel house.
Over all good book and I could see myself rereading it again when ever a new addition comes out for the series.
I enjoyed this more than I thought I would even as a harem book it's refreshing to not have the MC loaded up with more girls than he can remember before the end of the first book. So if you're looking for a fast burn get the girls book you might end up bored. The story is very enjoyable imo with an added slow burn romance included in it. My only annoyance is with the MC being a passive twat when it comes the his ladies. He always speaks his mind and is fairly direct in everything else he does no matter the persons gender but as soon as a girl who is an obvious (to us) love interest character is involved he becomes passive aggressive. It could be explained away as his inexperience with women but then he should act the same with with all women and not just the ones who have plot glue. It's hard to express but it's obvious enough to me that it was annoying. It's not anime levels of oblivious MC but it's in the same wheel house.
Over all good book and I could see myself rereading it again when ever a new addition comes out for the series.
March 24, 2025
Amazing book as usual from this author
This author is rapidly becoming one of my favorites.
This book has an already strong MC who’s just been drifting, waiting for something to care about. He meets a few women who insert themselves in his life and slowly carve out a spot.
There isn’t much spice and what is there is fairly tame and quick but it’s not bad.
The magic system is fun, even if it hasn’t really been explored or explained all that much.
The politicking is fun and all the players are interesting with believable motivations.
The world building is prettt good and makes you want to learn more.
It has flashes of other characters POV at good times that breaks up the reading well.
Overall highly recommend.
This author is rapidly becoming one of my favorites.
This book has an already strong MC who’s just been drifting, waiting for something to care about. He meets a few women who insert themselves in his life and slowly carve out a spot.
There isn’t much spice and what is there is fairly tame and quick but it’s not bad.
The magic system is fun, even if it hasn’t really been explored or explained all that much.
The politicking is fun and all the players are interesting with believable motivations.
The world building is prettt good and makes you want to learn more.
It has flashes of other characters POV at good times that breaks up the reading well.
Overall highly recommend.
September 3, 2025
This book surprised me. I have to admit I bought it with a bunch of LitRPGs but it definitely isn't one. This is a more classic sword and sorcery fantasy. Well, maybe not classic.
Regardless, I enjoyed the read, decent world-building around it, mostly good characters. The women are a bit one-dimensional and they all seem to want to get into our heroes pants.
I was a bit startled by the more, ah, spicy parts; given that apparently I hadn't read the description all that hard I guess. If you're looking for that, it's actually fairly well written.
Is this really 4 stars? I don't know, maybe 3 is more appropriate, but I read the book in a couple of days when I had other things going on, so...
Regardless, I enjoyed the read, decent world-building around it, mostly good characters. The women are a bit one-dimensional and they all seem to want to get into our heroes pants.
I was a bit startled by the more, ah, spicy parts; given that apparently I hadn't read the description all that hard I guess. If you're looking for that, it's actually fairly well written.
Is this really 4 stars? I don't know, maybe 3 is more appropriate, but I read the book in a couple of days when I had other things going on, so...
November 19, 2025
I haven’t actually finished the book. I listened to the audible version and have about 2 hours left.
The problem is that was a while ago and I still feel no real need to go back and finish it.
The story wasn’t bad, enjoyable even.
I can actually remember a few characters that I liked.
I really only hated one character, though she was reoccurring.
I guess this book’s only real sin is that it didn’t make me stay to finish and months later I still don’t really feel the need. I haven’t deleted it from my library though, so there is that.
TLDR: I just don’t think this book was for me. It was overall not bad, but I didn’t finish it, which is why the review is so low. It didn’t make me want to finish it.
The problem is that was a while ago and I still feel no real need to go back and finish it.
The story wasn’t bad, enjoyable even.
I can actually remember a few characters that I liked.
I really only hated one character, though she was reoccurring.
I guess this book’s only real sin is that it didn’t make me stay to finish and months later I still don’t really feel the need. I haven’t deleted it from my library though, so there is that.
TLDR: I just don’t think this book was for me. It was overall not bad, but I didn’t finish it, which is why the review is so low. It didn’t make me want to finish it.
September 26, 2026
Liked it till I didn’t.
The story started off really well; however, the longer it went the more annoying certain characters got.
I like the MC and most of the characters, the story is actually interesting, but over time Vex got REALLY annoying. She is literally that crazy stalker gf that most of us have had at some point. She is insanely possessive and jealous of anyone even breathing the same air as the MC. It was funny at first, but it got extremely overbearing and creepy by the end.
Also Bellamy is just an awful character. She is absolutely correct, she is a horrible teacher and it’s no wonder her students seem to “fail” her all the time since her idea of teaching is basically just torturing someone.
The story started off really well; however, the longer it went the more annoying certain characters got.
I like the MC and most of the characters, the story is actually interesting, but over time Vex got REALLY annoying. She is literally that crazy stalker gf that most of us have had at some point. She is insanely possessive and jealous of anyone even breathing the same air as the MC. It was funny at first, but it got extremely overbearing and creepy by the end.
Also Bellamy is just an awful character. She is absolutely correct, she is a horrible teacher and it’s no wonder her students seem to “fail” her all the time since her idea of teaching is basically just torturing someone.
April 5, 2025
I'm a little proud to see Kilgore increase the technical quality of his writing.
This was a fun book. Vex was a bit much but I'm never too fond of the overly possessive girlfriend trope. I am honestly getting kind of sick of reading about kitsune and would like just a regular ass fox girl if we have to have one. Bryce's reasoning for working alone was never fleshed out, which was disappointing but he's mostly an entertaining character. Callie was almost likable for a minute but she turned out to be a bitch to Alice. I liked the story. Not super political but enough to be interesting.
I'll probably keep my eye out for the next one
This was a fun book. Vex was a bit much but I'm never too fond of the overly possessive girlfriend trope. I am honestly getting kind of sick of reading about kitsune and would like just a regular ass fox girl if we have to have one. Bryce's reasoning for working alone was never fleshed out, which was disappointing but he's mostly an entertaining character. Callie was almost likable for a minute but she turned out to be a bitch to Alice. I liked the story. Not super political but enough to be interesting.
I'll probably keep my eye out for the next one
May 31, 2026
Good first book
Good first book should be enjoyable series. Interesting mage type. Don't know if the focus of the series is gonna be on the Magic, The politics or the romance. The MC is building his group(Harem) or they're building it for him more accurately stated. This series fantasy trope has all the usual suspects. Elves, of various types, and dwarfs and humans.... so far. The MC himself is a loner and a bit of a misfit, as he is a mercenary kills for money. I suspect part of the series is his change in attitude and abilities. Should be interesting to see where the author goes with this.
Good first book should be enjoyable series. Interesting mage type. Don't know if the focus of the series is gonna be on the Magic, The politics or the romance. The MC is building his group(Harem) or they're building it for him more accurately stated. This series fantasy trope has all the usual suspects. Elves, of various types, and dwarfs and humans.... so far. The MC himself is a loner and a bit of a misfit, as he is a mercenary kills for money. I suspect part of the series is his change in attitude and abilities. Should be interesting to see where the author goes with this.
March 22, 2026
Legitimately a good sword and sorcery story. No isekai, no system, no stats, no cultivation, just mercenaries, monsters, mages, and assassins.
If the idea of a tale of a cynical, misanthropic mercenary who is just trying to earn a few gold but somehow keeps stumbling across assassination plots and attempts to unleash continent wrecking disasters, and accidentally rescuing princesses sounds good to you, you'll like this.
Also has a pretty well written romance subplot, which I liked and thought added a bit of depth and balance, but mostly I enjoyed the plot driven narrative, escalating stakes, and dark, gritty fantasy world.
If I have a criticism (and, really, I don't) it's that there's only three books as a write this, and I really want to find out what happens next.
If the idea of a tale of a cynical, misanthropic mercenary who is just trying to earn a few gold but somehow keeps stumbling across assassination plots and attempts to unleash continent wrecking disasters, and accidentally rescuing princesses sounds good to you, you'll like this.
Also has a pretty well written romance subplot, which I liked and thought added a bit of depth and balance, but mostly I enjoyed the plot driven narrative, escalating stakes, and dark, gritty fantasy world.
If I have a criticism (and, really, I don't) it's that there's only three books as a write this, and I really want to find out what happens next.
March 24, 2025
I would give this 6 stars
I enjoyed Chase's other books, but this book takes it to another level. In my mind, the characters in this book are unparalleled. They are all so unique and interesting, especially Vex and Callie. Buy all of them are fantastic in their own way. I loved the multiple POVs, and the story was very fast-paced. It works very well in this book with the amount of ground we covered and doesn't take from the story. I eagerly await the next one!
I enjoyed Chase's other books, but this book takes it to another level. In my mind, the characters in this book are unparalleled. They are all so unique and interesting, especially Vex and Callie. Buy all of them are fantastic in their own way. I loved the multiple POVs, and the story was very fast-paced. It works very well in this book with the amount of ground we covered and doesn't take from the story. I eagerly await the next one!
July 4, 2025
Ok story, but boring and predictable!
The story was very generic, not bad just not exciting and rather boring. The characters were okay but none stood out. The main character was likable but was dragged along by the supporting cast of characters. There really were no thrills or steaks to the protagonists journey. It was okay but I'm already forgetting it. Simple read that maybe younger readers would enjoy.
The story was very generic, not bad just not exciting and rather boring. The characters were okay but none stood out. The main character was likable but was dragged along by the supporting cast of characters. There really were no thrills or steaks to the protagonists journey. It was okay but I'm already forgetting it. Simple read that maybe younger readers would enjoy.
April 5, 2026
Bryce is a feral Mage, which means that he can adopt an aspect of a monster that he has killed. Vex is pictured on the cover and she is a wolfkin. I enjoy the writing and there is humor in there on occasion as well. Bryce rescues her from a Primal Troll and she decides that he is to be her lover. Bryce is more or less a broken man and it will become obvious as the story progresses. However her stubbornness allows her to find a place in his heart. They also pick up a Kitsume who has dreams of being a monster hunter. She is pictured on the cover the second book. There is plenty of action and a bit of romance. I would recommend this series.
April 19, 2026
Know what you’re getting into
This ends up being a very explicitly sexual book. It teases at it for most of the book then takes the plunge.
If you are ok with that then it’s good for what it is. The book is very basic and to the point. It definitely has plot holes but it’s a fast, easy read that creates an interesting imagined realm.
If you want a very deep read then this isn’t it.
This ends up being a very explicitly sexual book. It teases at it for most of the book then takes the plunge.
If you are ok with that then it’s good for what it is. The book is very basic and to the point. It definitely has plot holes but it’s a fast, easy read that creates an interesting imagined realm.
If you want a very deep read then this isn’t it.
March 18, 2025
Book 2 please
I have to say that I had great fun reading this book its a fun story with fun characters ,fun girls fun chicken dogs, I wish it was longer the girl were great vex is best girl could have been a mono romance book and still made back signed a fluffy tail addict ps more vex and longer plx
I have to say that I had great fun reading this book its a fun story with fun characters ,fun girls fun chicken dogs, I wish it was longer the girl were great vex is best girl could have been a mono romance book and still made back signed a fluffy tail addict ps more vex and longer plx
March 19, 2025
What an outstanding story
Although the MC is once again a generic human with magical powers. The story and cast of characters surrounding him is simply great, nothing formulaic (besides the generic MC) about the dialogue, smooth paced story telling and transitions between characters POV. Can't wait for book 2
Although the MC is once again a generic human with magical powers. The story and cast of characters surrounding him is simply great, nothing formulaic (besides the generic MC) about the dialogue, smooth paced story telling and transitions between characters POV. Can't wait for book 2
March 21, 2025
Great new series!
This is only the third book by this author and I can already tell this author will become one of my top 5. The writing is impeccable and the story fun and addictive. That alone is enough to read this book but on top of that you have u pique and lovable characters as well as some very well written romance. Can’t wait for more!
This is only the third book by this author and I can already tell this author will become one of my top 5. The writing is impeccable and the story fun and addictive. That alone is enough to read this book but on top of that you have u pique and lovable characters as well as some very well written romance. Can’t wait for more!
March 22, 2025
Well written with one dissonant
An intriguing story that is well written, with memorable characters. There is one thing that bothered me though: the way Vex is portrayed is quite different from the others - she seems to be in the book as a comic relief, and for bed sport. The rest of the book is quite serious, the story is deep, so it jars a bit.
An intriguing story that is well written, with memorable characters. There is one thing that bothered me though: the way Vex is portrayed is quite different from the others - she seems to be in the book as a comic relief, and for bed sport. The rest of the book is quite serious, the story is deep, so it jars a bit.
May 9, 2025
An amazing start to what I am sure will be a fantastic series.
Feral Mage is a rollercoaster read that builds a fascinating world filled with enthralling characters and an intriguing magic system. Between action and espionage I couldn't put it down and can't wait to get my hands on the sequel.
Feral Mage is a rollercoaster read that builds a fascinating world filled with enthralling characters and an intriguing magic system. Between action and espionage I couldn't put it down and can't wait to get my hands on the sequel.
November 26, 2025
Poorly written
Missing words and strange phrases make this book a chore to read. The very first page had two egregious errors. The story line isn't awful but it isn't ground breaking either. The tired trope of the females all swooning for the MC really brought down the enjoyment of this book. Pass this up until the author learns how to write.
Missing words and strange phrases make this book a chore to read. The very first page had two egregious errors. The story line isn't awful but it isn't ground breaking either. The tired trope of the females all swooning for the MC really brought down the enjoyment of this book. Pass this up until the author learns how to write.
January 27, 2026
Fun romp for the genre. Bryce is a solid and interesting protagonist with some strong Witcher vibes: a lone mercenary whose magic revolves around monster slaying to absorb their magical attributes.
The women are a mixed bag, with some strong characters like Alice and Callie and others that border on the absurd from the moment they are introduced.
The women are a mixed bag, with some strong characters like Alice and Callie and others that border on the absurd from the moment they are introduced.
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