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The Magitech Chronicles #5
Krox Rises: Magitech Chronicles, Book 5
The Godswar has come again.
Nebiat has seized godhood, and now controls Krox, the most powerful elder god in the sector. Both Ternus and Shaya know she is coming, but their preparations cannot save them. She launches a strike at Ternus that cripples their home world, and shatters their fleets.
Voria desperately struggles to find a way to raise Shaya, or to rise as a goddess herself. She will do anything to oppose Nebiat, but fears it will not be enough.
Aran must confront the awful truth about the Skull of Xal, and make a deal with demons in order to gain the strength they so desperately need to overcome Krox.
And Nara must face the most awful choice of all. Will she murder the woman she most respects, or let the sector burn?
Possibilities narrow. Krox rises. Shaya will fall.
Nebiat has seized godhood, and now controls Krox, the most powerful elder god in the sector. Both Ternus and Shaya know she is coming, but their preparations cannot save them. She launches a strike at Ternus that cripples their home world, and shatters their fleets.
Voria desperately struggles to find a way to raise Shaya, or to rise as a goddess herself. She will do anything to oppose Nebiat, but fears it will not be enough.
Aran must confront the awful truth about the Skull of Xal, and make a deal with demons in order to gain the strength they so desperately need to overcome Krox.
And Nara must face the most awful choice of all. Will she murder the woman she most respects, or let the sector burn?
Possibilities narrow. Krox rises. Shaya will fall.
Audible Audio
Published February 18, 2019
146 people are currently reading
92 people want to read
About the author
Chris Fox
87 books672 followersBy day I am an iPhone developer architecting the app used to scope Stephen Colbert’s ear. By night I am Batman. Ok maybe not. One can dream though, right?
I’ve been writing since I was six years old and started inflicting my work on others at age 18. By age 24 people stopped running away when I approached them with a new story and shortly thereafter I published my first one in the Rifter.
Wait you’re still reading?
Ok, the facts I’m supposed to list in a bio. As of this writing I’m 38 years old and live just north of the Golden Gate Bridge in the beautiful town of Mill Valley. If you’re unsure how to find it just follow the smell of self-entitlement. Once you see the teens driving Teslas you’ll know you’re in the right place.
I live in a tiny studio that I can cross in (literally) five steps and don’t own an oven. But you know what? It’s worth it. I love developing iPhone apps and if you want to work in San Francisco you accept that rent for a tiny place costs more than most people’s mortgage.
If you and about 2 million other people start buying my books I promise to move out of Marin to a house in the redwoods up in Guerneville. No pressure. Wait that’s a lie. Pressure.
I’ve been writing since I was six years old and started inflicting my work on others at age 18. By age 24 people stopped running away when I approached them with a new story and shortly thereafter I published my first one in the Rifter.
Wait you’re still reading?
Ok, the facts I’m supposed to list in a bio. As of this writing I’m 38 years old and live just north of the Golden Gate Bridge in the beautiful town of Mill Valley. If you’re unsure how to find it just follow the smell of self-entitlement. Once you see the teens driving Teslas you’ll know you’re in the right place.
I live in a tiny studio that I can cross in (literally) five steps and don’t own an oven. But you know what? It’s worth it. I love developing iPhone apps and if you want to work in San Francisco you accept that rent for a tiny place costs more than most people’s mortgage.
If you and about 2 million other people start buying my books I promise to move out of Marin to a house in the redwoods up in Guerneville. No pressure. Wait that’s a lie. Pressure.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
March 2, 2019
As with previous volumes, Ryan burke's narration is very good. His voices are distinct, varied, and consistent. His pacing, tempo, and vocal inflections are all excellent.
Once the story finally actually started, it was another fast paced adventure featuring powerful magic, petty gods, intelligent magical weapons, demons, dragons, and intrigue. All the great, fun things we've come to expect from Chris Fox.
However, and I suppose this is new only because I started with the 4-book set, as it's clear from the text that this is normal, but I hate, Hate, HATE the complete waste of time that is the recap at the opening of the book. It adds artificial length to the book and really gets on my nerves.
Honestly, the recap is one of my biggest hatreds in series books. They're unnecessary, boring, and, frankly, insulting.
That aside, I'm still annoyed with the "spell level" designations, it still feels like if we're going to have spell levels then we should go full-on litRPG and have rules and stats for everything.
Some of the elements (such as Krox himself) are a bit over the top and difficult to take seriously.
And while it has improved by leaps and bounds, the dialogue still leaves something to be desired.
In spite of all that, however, the writing is solid, the characters continue to grow ever more fascinating (especially Voria, holy crap! You have to read about her in this one!), and while a bit ridiculous, the plot is fun and exciting.
You're not going to find a lot of depth or meaning here, but let's face it, we don't read Chris Fox for those things.
If depth and meaning are what you're after, you're much better off with Steven Erickson, Brandon Sanderson, Robert Jordan, or Brandon Barr.
I definitely want to continue this series, but now I have to wait for the next one to come out in audio...
Once the story finally actually started, it was another fast paced adventure featuring powerful magic, petty gods, intelligent magical weapons, demons, dragons, and intrigue. All the great, fun things we've come to expect from Chris Fox.
However, and I suppose this is new only because I started with the 4-book set, as it's clear from the text that this is normal, but I hate, Hate, HATE the complete waste of time that is the recap at the opening of the book. It adds artificial length to the book and really gets on my nerves.
Honestly, the recap is one of my biggest hatreds in series books. They're unnecessary, boring, and, frankly, insulting.
That aside, I'm still annoyed with the "spell level" designations, it still feels like if we're going to have spell levels then we should go full-on litRPG and have rules and stats for everything.
Some of the elements (such as Krox himself) are a bit over the top and difficult to take seriously.
And while it has improved by leaps and bounds, the dialogue still leaves something to be desired.
In spite of all that, however, the writing is solid, the characters continue to grow ever more fascinating (especially Voria, holy crap! You have to read about her in this one!), and while a bit ridiculous, the plot is fun and exciting.
You're not going to find a lot of depth or meaning here, but let's face it, we don't read Chris Fox for those things.
If depth and meaning are what you're after, you're much better off with Steven Erickson, Brandon Sanderson, Robert Jordan, or Brandon Barr.
I definitely want to continue this series, but now I have to wait for the next one to come out in audio...
November 1, 2020
The fifth entry of author Chris Fox’s Magitech Chronicles science-fiction series opens with Nebiat coping with becoming a god, finding controlling the Mind of Krox to be challenging, and bringing doom to the world of Ternus and its moons. Meanwhile, Aran, who visits Alamo Station, witnesses this event, experiencing the gradual destruction of the station. Aran regularly visits the prisoners aboard the Talon, including Kheross, who fears for his daughter. Ikadra and Voria also explore the First Spellship, encountering the Mirror of Shaya. Voria herself aims to ascend to godhood so she can fight Nebiat.
Several supernatural experiences end the novel, which is very much on par with its precursors, which isn’t always a good thing, as the story is generally forgettable and feels fragmented at times, with unclear indication of what races the various characters are, whether dragon or human, although some of the battle scenes are well-written. The series in general doesn’t execute its fusion of science-fiction and fantasy as well as other franchises such as say, Star Wars, but those with a passing interest in both genres might find something to celebrate in this book and its precursors.
Several supernatural experiences end the novel, which is very much on par with its precursors, which isn’t always a good thing, as the story is generally forgettable and feels fragmented at times, with unclear indication of what races the various characters are, whether dragon or human, although some of the battle scenes are well-written. The series in general doesn’t execute its fusion of science-fiction and fantasy as well as other franchises such as say, Star Wars, but those with a passing interest in both genres might find something to celebrate in this book and its precursors.
February 2, 2023
Chris Fox has a serious issue that a lot of authors do. He forces plot. Many of the decisions the characters make have little sense or direction to them, they just...do them because the plot demands they do. Instead of figuring out a way to make the actions make sense he just plows on through. I have seen this called "the author showing his hand" but Chris Fox punches the reader in the face with his hand in this regard. Nara killing Voria, she does it because "otherwise she would have been killed already if she didnt do it." No...this does not work. The staff Ikadra even SAYS it does not work that way, meaning Fox knew it was a terrible plot hole. Nara did not NEED to kill Voria at all, literally nothing changed by her doing it or not, and then she just gets away with doing it because..."everything worked out in the end!" Her other reasoning is "big bad thought i would take her place" which again, makes no sense. The plot holes continue to get larger and larger as the stories go on. Chris Fox is incredibly lazy when it comes to writing proper plot choices and hiding his hand in the work. He has created an interesting world but he advances his plots within plots so much that he loses the sub plots in order to push the even bigger ever more dangerous threat you didnt know about that makes the previous threat paltry in comparison. The reader never has a chance to absorb the current threat because there is always a "bigger threat" that is either revealed or hinted at once we start to get into the current threat. The plot suffers repeatedly from these divergences to the bigger threat which in turn creates gaps in plot that Fox cannot or seemingly is unwilling to write in a way that makes sense.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 14, 2020
Even though this book is, in some ways, more of the same in the Magitech Chronicles, Chris Fox truly has a richly imagined universe that has given him plenty of room for character development and even change. Even as the stakes rise the action heats up and sacrifices are made. The book never really feels like any particular character truly has a "cannot die" sort of role (though Aron comes close), so the imminent danger of all the main characters remains for the most part.
All of the developments and even plot twists were nicely set up and executed. I found myself quickly moving on to the next book in the series - really great job by Fox!
All of the developments and even plot twists were nicely set up and executed. I found myself quickly moving on to the next book in the series - really great job by Fox!
May 13, 2019
An epic book with only one flaw
If I could hive this book 4.99 stars I would, so I settled on five. It is an interesting and engrossing book but there is just one point of contention... Why was the royal rumble between the gods only really one chapter long? I get that you cant focus on one thing for too long without it losing meaning... But I would have liked more description or more to their battle. But then again I am probably picking at threads here, the book was awesome and I read it in a few days so... I would recommend it!
If I could hive this book 4.99 stars I would, so I settled on five. It is an interesting and engrossing book but there is just one point of contention... Why was the royal rumble between the gods only really one chapter long? I get that you cant focus on one thing for too long without it losing meaning... But I would have liked more description or more to their battle. But then again I am probably picking at threads here, the book was awesome and I read it in a few days so... I would recommend it!
July 26, 2020
So we have a great opening, followed by the rest of thr first half being lacklustre. The main crew go get characters that I don't care about, and Cruise gets leopard armour. Voria's story isn't set up well, I feel, and comes out of nowhere. The humour in this seems really out of place.
Nara's story does shift, but we don't get the response from Talifax.
The end battle was quite confusing to figure out what was going on.
There are a fair amount of manoeuvres going on, this is definitely a middle book.
Nara's story does shift, but we don't get the response from Talifax.
The end battle was quite confusing to figure out what was going on.
There are a fair amount of manoeuvres going on, this is definitely a middle book.
January 15, 2019
I have enjoyed this series so far. I gave it 4 stars but it’s a borderline 4. I have given books I enjoyed more 4 stars as well. Overall, it’s a good story and worth reading. There were a couple of moments where it slowed just a bit. I like the concept and feel it’s creative. When I have time and also remember, will fill in some specifics on what I like and don’t like
It’s a good read though!
It’s a good read though!
December 31, 2018
I really appreciated the size and scope of this book. As someone who really loves worldbuilding, the author does a great job of continuing to build upon what has come before and spinning things off in a brand new direction. I'm usually get tired of a series after three or four books but this one makes me just as excited for the sixth as I was for the second.
February 26, 2019
When did Aran become so stupid and weak? Lets people walk all over him and gives in to obvious plots that will harm him because it's "politics" and he doesn't want to look bad? well, it made me hate his character and the whole book i was hoping he would die. not gonna bother getting the next book this ruined it for me.
May 30, 2019
I didn't believe this series could get any better but Chris has outdone himself with this one. It has all the heart stopping action you could ever want, a story plot that just sucks you in and you will become apart of the story. I loved the escape and cannot wait to read the next one, which I will start right after this review.
September 21, 2023
The characters are reaching their peak but there is more to come, I am sure.
I enjoyed the battles and the usual level-ups upon contact with gods. What I am realizing though is that folk rarely walk on land...they are almost always on their spaceships.
Also, I don't think I would want to be a god. The mages seem to have more fun.
If you love intergalactic battles, you'll love this book.
I enjoyed the battles and the usual level-ups upon contact with gods. What I am realizing though is that folk rarely walk on land...they are almost always on their spaceships.
Also, I don't think I would want to be a god. The mages seem to have more fun.
If you love intergalactic battles, you'll love this book.
January 28, 2019
Great read
Chris Fox continues to thoroughly entertain his readers with clear and concise storylines. Really enjoyed this latest book and am waiting for the next book. Keep them coming Chris,
Chris Fox continues to thoroughly entertain his readers with clear and concise storylines. Really enjoyed this latest book and am waiting for the next book. Keep them coming Chris,
February 3, 2019
Another fun Magitech book.
The author does a great job of bringing the reader along for the ride. I have enjoyed each book for this one equally, as I am sure will be the same for the future books. Keep up the great writing.
The author does a great job of bringing the reader along for the ride. I have enjoyed each book for this one equally, as I am sure will be the same for the future books. Keep up the great writing.
February 21, 2019
The saga continues
Another excellent story continues as gods and goddesses rise and hidden players come to the fore of a new godwar.
An exciting new tale in the magitech chronicles and a worthy addition to the series, well enjoyed
Another excellent story continues as gods and goddesses rise and hidden players come to the fore of a new godwar.
An exciting new tale in the magitech chronicles and a worthy addition to the series, well enjoyed
October 10, 2019
To be continued
Box 5 was just as fast paced and actionable as the other books. I should just say to read my reviews of the first four! I enjoyed it and will be back and continue with the next one! Fun read.
Box 5 was just as fast paced and actionable as the other books. I should just say to read my reviews of the first four! I enjoyed it and will be back and continue with the next one! Fun read.
August 16, 2021
Great read , getting sucked into this storyline is so worth it
Old gods, old like hp lovecraft old. Great storytelling and characters you love, cringe and hate. Well done . Cracking open the next book shortly
Old gods, old like hp lovecraft old. Great storytelling and characters you love, cringe and hate. Well done . Cracking open the next book shortly
December 27, 2018
Great book
Another great book! Can’t wait for the next one in the series, love seeing the characters grow and develop more.
Another great book! Can’t wait for the next one in the series, love seeing the characters grow and develop more.
January 3, 2019
Book 5 Already?
Such a cool series and so full of detail. This series keeps you enthralled and is more like a tv show than a book.
Such a cool series and so full of detail. This series keeps you enthralled and is more like a tv show than a book.
February 7, 2019
Recommended
Action, adventure, magic, romance, and battles by the bucket loads! I can’t wait for the next one in the series
Action, adventure, magic, romance, and battles by the bucket loads! I can’t wait for the next one in the series
February 16, 2019
5 stars
Book 5 was every bit as good as the previous 4. The characters continue to evolve and the plot twists and turns. Ready for book 6 now.
Book 5 was every bit as good as the previous 4. The characters continue to evolve and the plot twists and turns. Ready for book 6 now.
March 31, 2019
Great Read
The characters keep growing. Some had a little less time than others. Still it was worth it. Can't to read the next book.
The characters keep growing. Some had a little less time than others. Still it was worth it. Can't to read the next book.
August 15, 2019
I really enjoyed this book.
Book 6 is less about world building and more about character building. What would you be if you were suddenly a god?
Book 6 is less about world building and more about character building. What would you be if you were suddenly a god?
February 2, 2020
Great read!
Great read indeed the further into the story the better in my opinion. Look forward to the next book in the series and hope it will be as great or better.
Great read indeed the further into the story the better in my opinion. Look forward to the next book in the series and hope it will be as great or better.
February 3, 2020
I tired to like this series, but just couldn't...
March 27, 2021
It’s at this point that the series started to waver a little for me
July 30, 2024
It's so cheesy and bad and I love it!
September 16, 2025
It was bad. Just can’t give it a two. But it was not good.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews