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Last Life #4
The Flame of the North: Last Life, Book 4
Konung Bjørn Sharptooth, ruler of Vintervald, has announced a Great Trial. Whoever emerges victorious shall be wed to the Konung's daughter, Princess Astrid.
In accordance with ancient custom, for the duration of the Great Trial, a ceasefire is declared in Northland. Sworn enemies in the midst of bloody war must put down their weapons, and all those worthy of the princess' hand may come to the capital to try their luck.
Carl III, wanting to impede Northlander raids into his northern borderlands, decides to conclude an alliance with the Konung and sends his youngest son Prince Louis to Vintervald to take part in the Great Trial.
Impressed by Max Renard's mastery as a swordsman, Prince Louis invites him to join the northern embassy, to which Max Renard agrees. After all, the trip to the north with the embassy will serve as a great cover story for him to complete a secret mission from the Duke de Bauffremont.
And while the powers that be think they've found an obedient agent, Max Renard will put his own plan into action.
In accordance with ancient custom, for the duration of the Great Trial, a ceasefire is declared in Northland. Sworn enemies in the midst of bloody war must put down their weapons, and all those worthy of the princess' hand may come to the capital to try their luck.
Carl III, wanting to impede Northlander raids into his northern borderlands, decides to conclude an alliance with the Konung and sends his youngest son Prince Louis to Vintervald to take part in the Great Trial.
Impressed by Max Renard's mastery as a swordsman, Prince Louis invites him to join the northern embassy, to which Max Renard agrees. After all, the trip to the north with the embassy will serve as a great cover story for him to complete a secret mission from the Duke de Bauffremont.
And while the powers that be think they've found an obedient agent, Max Renard will put his own plan into action.
Audible Audio
First published December 15, 2023
About the author
Alexey Osadchuk
35 books547 followersAlexey Osadchuk was born in 1979 in the Ukraine. In the late 1990s his family moved to the south of Spain where they still live today.
Alexey was an avid reader from an early age, devouring adventure novels by Edgar Rice Burroughs, Jack London and Arthur Conan Doyle. In 2010 he wrote his first fantasy novel which was immediately accepted for publication.
He also used to be a passionate online gamer which prompted him to write the story of a man who joins an MMORPG game hoping to raise money for his daughter’s heart surgery. The first book of Mirror World was published In 2013. The English translation of the series is now available on Amazon in its entirety, prompting a reviewer to call Alexey “one of the best LitRPG authors to date”.
Alexey was an avid reader from an early age, devouring adventure novels by Edgar Rice Burroughs, Jack London and Arthur Conan Doyle. In 2010 he wrote his first fantasy novel which was immediately accepted for publication.
He also used to be a passionate online gamer which prompted him to write the story of a man who joins an MMORPG game hoping to raise money for his daughter’s heart surgery. The first book of Mirror World was published In 2013. The English translation of the series is now available on Amazon in its entirety, prompting a reviewer to call Alexey “one of the best LitRPG authors to date”.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
November 26, 2023
This series continues to deliver with another consistent volume. Picking up from the last book, Max has accompanied the third prince to a tournament in the northlands, where we meet a variety of viking-themed clans and a woman who resembles Max's sister from his previous life.
There's plenty of politicking as is usual for the series, though it seems like more fights than usual. While this book seems like it's setting up for some larger events, it never felt like filler. Where other others might have attempted a time-skip, we were instead treated to a fun tournament arc that served double duty of introducing some new important characters while also allowing a few events to advance off-screen back in the home kingdom.
There are many political players moving and multiple plans afoot. I'm excited to see where the next volume takes us.
There's plenty of politicking as is usual for the series, though it seems like more fights than usual. While this book seems like it's setting up for some larger events, it never felt like filler. Where other others might have attempted a time-skip, we were instead treated to a fun tournament arc that served double duty of introducing some new important characters while also allowing a few events to advance off-screen back in the home kingdom.
There are many political players moving and multiple plans afoot. I'm excited to see where the next volume takes us.
December 2, 2023
Rating 4.0 stars
I still like this series. It is both similar and completely different than my normal reading genre. It is similar because it has magic, an MC who is powerful and seems to know exactly what to do and everyone is shocked when he succeeds. The different part is that a large part of the story deals with politics which is not something I normally enjoy. For whatever reason it works for me in this one. Max is up in the north now with the Prince's retinue. He has a secret mission from someone in the royal family. He picks up some more people/warriors to join his group and he causes a splash in the north just like everywhere else he has been. Big picture, I am not really sure where this one is going but I do enjoy the ride so far.
I still like this series. It is both similar and completely different than my normal reading genre. It is similar because it has magic, an MC who is powerful and seems to know exactly what to do and everyone is shocked when he succeeds. The different part is that a large part of the story deals with politics which is not something I normally enjoy. For whatever reason it works for me in this one. Max is up in the north now with the Prince's retinue. He has a secret mission from someone in the royal family. He picks up some more people/warriors to join his group and he causes a splash in the north just like everywhere else he has been. Big picture, I am not really sure where this one is going but I do enjoy the ride so far.
November 24, 2023
I'm abandoning this series
The story is too short, the price is too high, and Alexy needs to fire his editor. Seriously, there are egregious errors that make parts of the story nonsensical. For how much is being charged for this sub 300-page novella, they could afford a decent editor.
The story is too short, the price is too high, and Alexy needs to fire his editor. Seriously, there are egregious errors that make parts of the story nonsensical. For how much is being charged for this sub 300-page novella, they could afford a decent editor.
November 24, 2023
not worth $6.99
I really enjoyed the first 2 books, but honestly the last two were complete wastes of money and the price for them is astonishing considering much better titles exist for half the cost by authors that are consistently putting out great books. I wouldn’t purchase this and would move on to other books. This was just basically a filler until other books release from authors I enjoy and now im going to see if i can get my money back.
I really enjoyed the first 2 books, but honestly the last two were complete wastes of money and the price for them is astonishing considering much better titles exist for half the cost by authors that are consistently putting out great books. I wouldn’t purchase this and would move on to other books. This was just basically a filler until other books release from authors I enjoy and now im going to see if i can get my money back.
November 26, 2023
The story is too short and uneventful for its price. Furthermore it needs a better editor!
I really liked the first book of the series but the more the story progresses the more disatisfied i become. Most parts of the books read like a historical soap opera.
I really liked the first book of the series but the more the story progresses the more disatisfied i become. Most parts of the books read like a historical soap opera.
April 10, 2024
The Flame of the North: A Fun, Political Fantasy Adventure
The Flame of the North is another consistent and action-packed entry in the series. Fans will be happy to find it packed with even more political intrigue than previous books.
The story follows Max on his journey north with the prince's entourage. He encounters Viking-themed clans and a mysterious woman with a striking resemblance to someone from his past life. While the narrative progresses the overarching plot, it avoids feeling bogged down by exposition. Instead, we're treated to an engaging tournament arc that introduces new characters and advances events back home, all without resorting to a time-skip.
Some readers may find the political maneuvering a hurdle, especially if it's not their usual genre. However, the series manages to weave these elements seamlessly into the fast-paced plot. Even for those who aren't fans of politics, Max's sharp wit and ability to stay calm under pressure provide plenty of entertainment.
Though the overall direction remains a bit unclear, this exciting and humorous adventure leaves you eager to see where the next book takes us. Bring on the next installment!
November 25, 2023
A great addition!
I love this series and I was not disappointed by this newest addition. I absolutely adore how clever the mc is as well as his ability to stay cool and insult anyone who tries to intimidate him. I laughed out loud at several good parts! The only thing I have to say in constructive criticism is I hope he picks one or the other, big or huge and not both all the time. Love you author!
I love this series and I was not disappointed by this newest addition. I absolutely adore how clever the mc is as well as his ability to stay cool and insult anyone who tries to intimidate him. I laughed out loud at several good parts! The only thing I have to say in constructive criticism is I hope he picks one or the other, big or huge and not both all the time. Love you author!
December 2, 2023
I wish these books were longer, but then they'd probably be published less often. Oh well.
The style and plot are consistent with the rest of the series. There's more politics in this one but perfectly understandable.
The style and plot are consistent with the rest of the series. There's more politics in this one but perfectly understandable.
April 1, 2025
"The Flame of the North" is the 4th book in Alexey Osadchuk’s gripping "Last Life" series, released in 2024 and narrated with finesse by Ryan Burke. This progression fantasy transports listeners to a frostbitten realm of trials, ambition, and hidden agendas. Osadchuk’s storytelling prowess, paired with Burke’s evocative narration, crafts an enthralling journey that balances high stakes with intimate character moments.
The narrative centers on Max Renard, a swordsman of growing renown, who finds himself drawn into a grand spectacle: the Great Trial announced by Konung Bjørn Sharptooth, ruler of Vintervald. The prize? The hand of Princess Astrid. This ancient custom forces a ceasefire across the war-torn Northland, compelling sworn enemies to lay down their arms and compete. Max joins Prince Louis, the youngest son of Carl III, on a diplomatic mission to Vintervald, driven by the king’s desire to curb Northlander raids. Yet, Max harbors his own plans, weaving a thread of personal agency through the tapestry of political machinations.
A key highlight is the vivid setting of Vintervald, a land as harsh as it is majestic. Osadchuk excels at conjuring a world where icy winds carry whispers of betrayal, and every character - from grizzled warriors to calculating nobles - feels shaped by their environment. The Great Trial itself unfolds as a multifaceted contest, blending physical prowess with cunning strategy, keeping listeners on edge as alliances shift like snowdrifts. Max’s journey is less about brute force and more about navigating this treacherous landscape, making his growth as a tactician a compelling arc.
Ryan Burke’s narration is a revelation. His deep, resonant voice captures the gravitas of Konung Bjørn, while his lighter inflections bring Max’s introspective moments to life. Burke’s ability to differentiate characters - especially in crowded scenes of feasting and scheming - ensures clarity without sacrificing immersion. His pacing mirrors the story’s ebb and flow, lingering on tense exchanges and accelerating through bursts of action, amplifying the audiobook’s emotional depth.
However, "The Flame of the North" isn’t flawless. The sheer number of characters, with their Nordic-inspired names, can blur together in audio format, requiring extra focus to track. Occasional translation quirks - like awkward word choices - momentarily disrupt the rhythm, though they’re minor blemishes on an otherwise polished work. These issues fade against the strength of the narrative’s momentum.
The audiobook shines in its character interplay. Max’s evolving relationship with Prince Louis offers a blend of camaraderie and subtle rivalry, while the Northlanders, particularly Astrid, defy stereotypes with their complexity. Osadchuk plants seeds of intrigue - hints of Max’s past and larger forces at play - that promise future payoffs without overshadowing the present tale.
"The Flame of the North" is a standout addition to the "Last Life" series, perfect for those who relish fantasy with brains over brawn, leaving you craving the next installment in Max’s saga.
The narrative centers on Max Renard, a swordsman of growing renown, who finds himself drawn into a grand spectacle: the Great Trial announced by Konung Bjørn Sharptooth, ruler of Vintervald. The prize? The hand of Princess Astrid. This ancient custom forces a ceasefire across the war-torn Northland, compelling sworn enemies to lay down their arms and compete. Max joins Prince Louis, the youngest son of Carl III, on a diplomatic mission to Vintervald, driven by the king’s desire to curb Northlander raids. Yet, Max harbors his own plans, weaving a thread of personal agency through the tapestry of political machinations.
A key highlight is the vivid setting of Vintervald, a land as harsh as it is majestic. Osadchuk excels at conjuring a world where icy winds carry whispers of betrayal, and every character - from grizzled warriors to calculating nobles - feels shaped by their environment. The Great Trial itself unfolds as a multifaceted contest, blending physical prowess with cunning strategy, keeping listeners on edge as alliances shift like snowdrifts. Max’s journey is less about brute force and more about navigating this treacherous landscape, making his growth as a tactician a compelling arc.
Ryan Burke’s narration is a revelation. His deep, resonant voice captures the gravitas of Konung Bjørn, while his lighter inflections bring Max’s introspective moments to life. Burke’s ability to differentiate characters - especially in crowded scenes of feasting and scheming - ensures clarity without sacrificing immersion. His pacing mirrors the story’s ebb and flow, lingering on tense exchanges and accelerating through bursts of action, amplifying the audiobook’s emotional depth.
However, "The Flame of the North" isn’t flawless. The sheer number of characters, with their Nordic-inspired names, can blur together in audio format, requiring extra focus to track. Occasional translation quirks - like awkward word choices - momentarily disrupt the rhythm, though they’re minor blemishes on an otherwise polished work. These issues fade against the strength of the narrative’s momentum.
The audiobook shines in its character interplay. Max’s evolving relationship with Prince Louis offers a blend of camaraderie and subtle rivalry, while the Northlanders, particularly Astrid, defy stereotypes with their complexity. Osadchuk plants seeds of intrigue - hints of Max’s past and larger forces at play - that promise future payoffs without overshadowing the present tale.
"The Flame of the North" is a standout addition to the "Last Life" series, perfect for those who relish fantasy with brains over brawn, leaving you craving the next installment in Max’s saga.
April 14, 2024
I read this one as an ARC. It's one of the series that I read and check the translation from Russian to English. I hope that I found all the different mistakes, but if not just let them know and they will get it fixed. The folks over at Magic Dome are really good about trying to give you the best story that they can.
This is a great series and I personally look forward to more.
8/10
This is a great series and I personally look forward to more.
8/10
November 24, 2023
Needs editing
3.5 stars but I'm rounding to 4 because I like the story. However, the book desperately needs an editor. There are missing or misused words throughout the novel. As an example, consider this sentence:
Although I could someone understand Louis.
The author probably meant "somewhat" and not "someone".
This feels like a rough draft or something posted as a web serial and not the fourth published book in a series.
3.5 stars but I'm rounding to 4 because I like the story. However, the book desperately needs an editor. There are missing or misused words throughout the novel. As an example, consider this sentence:
Although I could someone understand Louis.
The author probably meant "somewhat" and not "someone".
This feels like a rough draft or something posted as a web serial and not the fourth published book in a series.
June 26, 2024
Northern Shenanigans
Another wonderful adventure with Max Renard and gang!
Well, this was really good. As always, Max did Max stuff. The story is now heading more into the political side. Can't wait to see what shenanigans Max gets up to
Another wonderful adventure with Max Renard and gang!
Well, this was really good. As always, Max did Max stuff. The story is now heading more into the political side. Can't wait to see what shenanigans Max gets up to
January 20, 2024
Never goes where I expect.
I really love that this series keeps surprising me. I think I have an idea of how the story will progress and then I'm surprised. I do wonder why Max hasn't considered that if he could have been born in this world, and that he sees parallels, why would a specific other person not be a possible reincarnation. I love how sneakily he's building up his power both magically and socially. Who will be the next person to learn that he isn't to be trifled with? Another review that did not sync from Amazon.
I really love that this series keeps surprising me. I think I have an idea of how the story will progress and then I'm surprised. I do wonder why Max hasn't considered that if he could have been born in this world, and that he sees parallels, why would a specific other person not be a possible reincarnation. I love how sneakily he's building up his power both magically and socially. Who will be the next person to learn that he isn't to be trifled with? Another review that did not sync from Amazon.
April 11, 2024
3-stars is more than I normally award a book I didn't finish, but that's because I'm not abandoning this book for the usual reasons. Regarding the quality of the writing, this book is kind of on par with the novels that have come before it. However, I realised within the first 30% of this book that this series will not be for me any longer.
My issues with this series are that the books are too short, and the story is all over the place. This combination means that nothing gets developed enough that I grow attached to it (especially the characters and relationships), and I'm getting whiplash from all the direction changes in this series. It's so far beyond its original premise that it hardly matters anymore, and that premise was the only reason I kept reading this series.
For that reason, I'm done here. These books are not for me, but I think if you've loved everything to this point, then I don't see a reason why this one will put you off from what I read.
My issues with this series are that the books are too short, and the story is all over the place. This combination means that nothing gets developed enough that I grow attached to it (especially the characters and relationships), and I'm getting whiplash from all the direction changes in this series. It's so far beyond its original premise that it hardly matters anymore, and that premise was the only reason I kept reading this series.
For that reason, I'm done here. These books are not for me, but I think if you've loved everything to this point, then I don't see a reason why this one will put you off from what I read.
July 23, 2025
Max into the North with lots and lots of magic, old and new enemies, weirdness and inventiveness galore; acquiring many new followers and friends and the regard of a powerful princess with a clear goal, he is forced by circumstances to do a lot of work he didn't plan. Not to speak of saving another mystery young woman, antagonizing a vengeful evil "god" and being played by a cunning king and so it goes again with lots of fast and furious action which gets close to jumping the shark again like in volume 2, but doesn't quite as Max's wry can do narration, the many twists and turns, the lots of things - kind of like the full kitchen sink and more - thrown in just keep the suspension of disbelief going and the pages turn by themselves.
Still very good stuff and book 5 - back in Vestonia and the intrigues there - is next
Still very good stuff and book 5 - back in Vestonia and the intrigues there - is next
January 23, 2024
I received a review copy of this book.
The Flame of the North is the fourth book in the Last Life series, and I have to say, this one revealed quite a bit about what's facing our main character. Good to see that, even in the last chapter, we learn a bit more, (though not all of it of course), to entise us into reading the next book in the series, which I will of course promptly do. Good stuff here, especially if you liked the previous books in the series. I really like the wide array of new characters introduced in this book.
The Flame of the North is the fourth book in the Last Life series, and I have to say, this one revealed quite a bit about what's facing our main character. Good to see that, even in the last chapter, we learn a bit more, (though not all of it of course), to entise us into reading the next book in the series, which I will of course promptly do. Good stuff here, especially if you liked the previous books in the series. I really like the wide array of new characters introduced in this book.
January 30, 2024
better and better
Max heads North with wimpy Prince Louis the weakest man on the planet who has no credibility and less loyalty , Princess Astrid who for some reason wants to marry the loser is the exact opposite , a powerful warrior with a keen mind who values loyalty. The journey and events in the North are excellent and Max grows steadily stronger fighting for his honour and his life , meanwhile his close group of companions grows in numbers and in strength of arms.Looking forward to his return Herouxville and the intrigue of the court.
Max heads North with wimpy Prince Louis the weakest man on the planet who has no credibility and less loyalty , Princess Astrid who for some reason wants to marry the loser is the exact opposite , a powerful warrior with a keen mind who values loyalty. The journey and events in the North are excellent and Max grows steadily stronger fighting for his honour and his life , meanwhile his close group of companions grows in numbers and in strength of arms.Looking forward to his return Herouxville and the intrigue of the court.
April 12, 2024
There were never any stakes or hurdles for Max. This can easily be described as comfy fantasy but honestly, the characters pov were kind of lacking and the entire story felt more like some bad filler, since we didn't learn anything important about max or had any character development except in the last 20 minutes of the novel. You could have easily cut 2/3 of the story and it would have been better.
July 9, 2025
The Flame of the North pushes the series into full gear. There’s a real sense of scale now, with larger conflicts, deeper lore, and more weight behind the choices being made. The pacing is consistent, and the protagonist finally feels like he's come into his own—not just surviving but actively shaping the world around him.
That said, it's starting to get a bit hard to keep track of all the names and characters. The growing cast adds depth, but sometimes it feels like a lot to juggle. Still, this one delivers and keeps the series moving in a good direction.
That said, it's starting to get a bit hard to keep track of all the names and characters. The growing cast adds depth, but sometimes it feels like a lot to juggle. Still, this one delivers and keeps the series moving in a good direction.
November 23, 2023
Great read
Loved the book Great pace to the story the series is one of the best I've read for a few years, the world building is good ,well written fight and action scenes the main character has developed well over the books and the individuals plot twists add to the the storyline keep them coming !
Loved the book Great pace to the story the series is one of the best I've read for a few years, the world building is good ,well written fight and action scenes the main character has developed well over the books and the individuals plot twists add to the the storyline keep them coming !
November 25, 2023
Entertaining Read
Max has gone with Prince Lewis's entourage to the Northern nations for the Great Trial. The winner of the contest will marry Princess Astrid. Max is continually underestimated and made fun of until he wins. I like the action, humor, and, political intrigue. I eagerly await the next book.
Max has gone with Prince Lewis's entourage to the Northern nations for the Great Trial. The winner of the contest will marry Princess Astrid. Max is continually underestimated and made fun of until he wins. I like the action, humor, and, political intrigue. I eagerly await the next book.
January 19, 2024
Good story, too many typos
I enjoy reading a story where the author's first language isn't English. There are some phrases and modes of speaking that are new and I appreciate that. Although some of the strangeness could be chalked up to that, there were too many cases where the wording was just wrong. The responsibility for this would have to lie with the translator.
I enjoy reading a story where the author's first language isn't English. There are some phrases and modes of speaking that are new and I appreciate that. Although some of the strangeness could be chalked up to that, there were too many cases where the wording was just wrong. The responsibility for this would have to lie with the translator.
December 3, 2024
Overpriced for something not professionally edited
I would say 3 1/2 stars but this is very overpriced for 320 page book. Plus, I am coming across typos. Feels like a rip off. I hate leaving a story halfway so I will keep going, but will know not to start anything from this author again.
I would say 3 1/2 stars but this is very overpriced for 320 page book. Plus, I am coming across typos. Feels like a rip off. I hate leaving a story halfway so I will keep going, but will know not to start anything from this author again.
November 23, 2023
minor grammar errors and not quite as good as the rest
Decent but lacking compared to the other books. Too many loose ends and not enough development compared to the other books in the series.
Decent but lacking compared to the other books. Too many loose ends and not enough development compared to the other books in the series.
November 24, 2023
Please sir can I have some more?
This series is fantastic! I love every second of it and can’t wait for more. The action keeps me hooked, the intrigue wouldn’t let me put the book down and I can’t wait to see what happens next! Keep up the great work!
This series is fantastic! I love every second of it and can’t wait for more. The action keeps me hooked, the intrigue wouldn’t let me put the book down and I can’t wait to see what happens next! Keep up the great work!
November 24, 2023
Great book 4.
Great book. I am sad it is over.
Pax
I can't wait for the next 4 or 5 books in this series.
Good Thanksgiving read.
I highly recommend this book as well as the whole series.
Great book. I am sad it is over.
Pax
I can't wait for the next 4 or 5 books in this series.
Good Thanksgiving read.
I highly recommend this book as well as the whole series.
December 4, 2023
I really enjoy Max’s story. This installment continues the political maneuvering but adds a bit more adventure. His time in the Shadow is still my favorite. Lots of open storylines promising an abundance of directions for the story to go.
December 5, 2023
Awesomeness
Much enjoyed, maxs continued journey is a real page turner and I enjoyed it immensely, more intrigue more fights just more of everything you would want in this great series.
Much enjoyed, maxs continued journey is a real page turner and I enjoyed it immensely, more intrigue more fights just more of everything you would want in this great series.
January 18, 2024
Great read!
Alexey Osadchuuk has stolen my admiration. I have now read 4 of his entries of the A Progression Fantasy Series. Each book is a delight to consume. I am anxiously anticipating the next book in the series!
Alexey Osadchuuk has stolen my admiration. I have now read 4 of his entries of the A Progression Fantasy Series. Each book is a delight to consume. I am anxiously anticipating the next book in the series!
January 23, 2024
Great addition to the series.
This is another great entry into the series. With out giving spoilers. It There are some new additions to the troupe.
There are a couple instances of the wrong word being used. But it doesn't detract overall.
This is another great entry into the series. With out giving spoilers. It There are some new additions to the troupe.
There are a couple instances of the wrong word being used. But it doesn't detract overall.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews