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Throne Hunters #2

Throne Hunters #2

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Harald Darrowdelve is no longer a laughingstock. He’s a rising threat.

His recent delves into the dungeon have transformed him from a disgraced heir into a name whispered by nobles and feared by rivals. His explosive gain in power has caught the eye of every major House in Flutic—and none of them believe it was luck.

Now Harald must navigate a maze of political seductions, shadowy threats, and veiled demands. Some Houses offer patronage. Others offer thinly veiled ultimatums. All want a piece of the secret that let him ascend.

But Harald’s not looking to sell out. He’s building something of his a crew. A charter. A new way forward. One that just might survive the games the Houses play.

Unless the Houses decide to kill him first.

523 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 17, 2025

178 people are currently reading
56 people want to read

About the author

Phil Tucker

46 books1,301 followers
Thanks for visiting my page! I'm Phil Tucker, a Brazilian/Brit who currently resides in Asheville, NC, where I resist the siren call of the forests and mountains to sit inside and hammer away on my laptop.

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5 stars
471 (62%)
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203 (26%)
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72 (9%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
Profile Image for Morwen.
221 reviews113 followers
June 17, 2025
HAPPY RELEASE DAY!!
__________

4.5 stars rounded up!

This second book is the calm before the storm.
The energy was sizzling after book one, and I expected to see an explosion in this one, but we are to be surprised by some more edging (as Vic would say) 😂

Book 2 feels like a consolidating book before the craziness really kicks in in earnest, a chance to see the good and the bad of each character and make them more solid.

The introduction of Kársek and the concept that different species have different "magic systems" was what I most loved in this installment, as it hints at a complexity of worldbuilding (and maybe even ethics/morals) to come that goes in another whole direction from the 'is the Demon/Angel war truly a black/white situation as it seems or Vorakhar will become our not so morally-grey favorite shadow daddy?'. Which I still believe will happen btw, that angel is shady AF.

The dungeon 'Westworld-like' vibes were another of the new facets where Phil showed us "just the tip" for now, and let us stew until ready to blow our minds.

Vic is getting to me in this review; the amount of semi-accidental innuendo is getting out of hand, so I'd better stop before I get reported.

Throne Hunters 2 is gonna be available on 17 Jun 25 and will be available on Kindle Unlimited and Audible too!

Favorite moments
“Remember: you are an unknown element. They shall be seeking desperately to determine which box to place you in. Don’t let them. When in doubt, just smile. There is no need to answer any question, whether direct or indirect. Smile, incline your head as if acknowledging their wit, and then… just walk away.”

Is it very bad of me to squeeze my eyes and hope with intensity that this author will venture into spicy writing someday? 👀🙈
A moment later he stopped before them, and Harald realized the man had his own distinct scent. He smelled of wild, dark, green places, of the earth and trees, of shadowed dells and still ponds lost under dense canopies.

“This is terrible.” Vic dragged at this face with both hands, distending his features. “Spending time in your company is absolutely terrible for my self-esteem. You make me feel like an underachiever, but not on my own terms.”

“Think of people as mirrors. When they are born, they reflect the world with unblemished, naive perfection. But life is all hammers. Sooner or later, we’re hurt, broken, sundered into hundreds of fragments, both large and small. We become wounded, bitter, resentful, suspicious. We stop being one person, and become a dozen. One version with our friends, another with our employer, a third with our lover. The harder the blow, the greater the fragmentation. I’ve heard it said that one’s goal in life shouldn’t be power or wealth, but repairing one’s mirror and becoming whole once more. To be the same no matter in whose company one finds oneself in.”

The man he’d once been, the harried, haunted boy desperate for approval, had focused all his energies on impressing others, on figuring out who he needed to be so as to fit in, to belong.
The end result was that he’d felt as if he’d belonged nowhere. Now that he no longer cared? Suddenly he felt as if he had a core, a foundation under his feet, a sense of self that nobody could assail.

“Oh. So the Fallen Angel… plucked you from Ironvokol, and set you here to wait for raiders?” The hobgoblin’s heavy brow lowered. “No. I am an Ironok, not the Ironok.”

His thoughts began to grow rigid, aligning themselves with the concerns and focal points of his new Class. He became other than what he had been. Still Kársek, but no longer Kársek the Earth Mover. Over the course of many long hours, he became Kársek the DreadRune. His soul shuddered and creaked. Fissures opened and sealed as it sought to encapsulate what would be needed of it.

“I had no idea you could prove so… persuasive,” she said at last. “You showed no sign of such… overwhelming force of character before.”
“I’m a little shocked myself,” grinned Harald, determined to set her at ease. “Also, I doubt anyone would spend any time with me if I went around talking like that. ‘Pass me the butter, for destiny commands it.’ Right?”



Pre-read
Me: "hey, I might finally start 'One Dark Window' on my Kindle when I can't bring 'The Bone Season' physical copy with me...
Favourite author: "I'm giving out ARC copies of the second book in that series you loved so much, you want?"
I think we all can guess how that went 👀😂

I might love that other book one day, but if this one calls, I run. ✨
Profile Image for Matthew spratte.
13 reviews
June 17, 2025
I BLAZED through this book! Another incredible book by Phil Tucker! Highly recommend you pick up this book! As always when you pick up a Phil tucker book you are guaranteed a high quality book with rich world building, deep characters, and a tightly written plot!
Profile Image for Yahya Alshetairy .
101 reviews13 followers
September 10, 2025
نفس البناء القصصي يتكرر هنا لكن بوتيرة أسرع من الجزء الأول
2 reviews
June 18, 2025
My biggest complaint for book 1 was the confusing currency system, so imagine my delight when one of the first pages in book 2 is a currency scale! Followed by a dungeon guide listing gates, levels, etc.

Book 2 starts right where book 1 left off, with a tall, beautiful stranger knocking on Harald's door.

Harald's floor 4 1000% scale increase has garnered a lot of attention, and now all of the houses are vying to recruit him. Harald wants to retain his independence, but treads a thin line between offending powerful enemies and getting backing and funding for dungeon delving. There's some politics in this book, which I'm not a huge fan of in general, but I understand the why of the politics.

Harald's class and powers are getting pretty strong, but a bit concerning due to the demon's influence. His goldchops are OP (and possibly sentient?), plus he gains a servitor (Harald should probably not be allowed to name things). I really enjoyed his battles with the scarecrows.

Overall, this is another solid book by Phil.
Profile Image for Supreet Singh.
10 reviews
June 26, 2025
painfully boring

The first half of the first book was pretty decent. But after that it’s just a lot of fluff. Overly extended narrative. Long scenes. Nothing exciting truly happens. I have been through half of the second book and it just keeps getting boring.
Profile Image for Kevin.
49 reviews
June 18, 2025
Perfect Book Two for Throne Hunters - can't put it down

Harald is coming to terms with the concept of the Demon Seed and the changes it brings about in him. In simple terms, Harald feels an overwhelming drive to excel; he is compelled to push beyond limits and is addicted to improving his ranking. This relentless pursuit is a core part of his identity and is closely tied to the influence of the Demon Seed.

During this time, the houses learn of his insane rise to power and start jockeying to bring him into their ranks. The politics are brutal, but Harald has amazing friends who support him.

In this book, we gain a deeper understanding of Nessa, further developing her complex and intense character. While the last book touched on her struggles with addiction, this time we dive into the reasons behind it. It's exciting! We also explore Sam’s growth, which parallels Harald’s journey, but focuses more on her self-discovery. I love seeing her progress and evolution. Additionally, we are introduced to a surprise new character who ties everything together. No spoilers!

The story features numerous dungeons, challenging battles, and significant growth in abilities and rankings. However, what sets this book apart from others is how the dungeons and characters exceed all expectations. One of my favorite elements is the hobgoblin stew! How does Phil come up with such creative ideas?

The ending was unexpected, which was my only frustration. Typically, challenges are resolved within the book—like Harald's battle with his nemesis in the previous installment. However, this time we will have to wait for book three to see the resolution; you'll quickly understand the storyline. Book two leaves many threads unresolved (much like Star Wars!), but sets the stage for the upcoming book three.

Overall, this is the best book I've read since "Throne Hunters 1." I guess I'm a fan of Phil's work. He doesn't go too deep into many characters or plots, which keeps the pace relentless. The storyline is full of surprises, and his world-building is exceptional. Highly recommend!
1 review
June 17, 2025
Throne Hunters 2 is a fantastic continuation of what’s shaping up to be a standout progression fantasy series. Phil Tucker raises the stakes in all the right ways—delivering tighter pacing, more explosive action, and deeper worldbuilding that builds meaningfully on the foundation laid in the first book.

One of the highlights for me is the cast of complex, flawed characters. Each of them is grappling with their own personal challenges, and rather than falling into flat archetypes, their growth feels genuine. The group dynamics are particularly compelling—this isn’t your typical “ragtag team” trope. Their friendship feels earned and realistic, built on trust, conflict, and shared struggle, which makes their journey all the more engaging.

The action scenes are top-notch—fast-paced, tactical, and filled with just the right level of tension. Tucker knows how to write combat that feels both cinematic and grounded in the story’s logic. On top of that, the progression and leveling system continues to satisfy, with character power-ups that feel earned rather than handed out, making each development more rewarding.

The book also expands the scope of the world, weaving in political intrigue that adds depth and stakes beyond just personal survival or power gain. It’s a welcome evolution that gives the story more texture and makes the world feel truly alive.

All in all, Throne Hunters 2 is a strong, satisfying sequel that improves on the original in every way. If you're a fan of character-driven progression fantasy with real stakes and a smartly designed world, this series deserves a top spot on your reading list.
12 reviews
June 17, 2025
Still Awesome!!

I'm assuming if you're reading this review that you have already read volume one and want to know if this is as good as that was. It is. Go and get it.

All of the things that made the first book so great are still here. Engaging and twisty plot, well rounded characters, interesting setting, that has enough progression/LitRPG elements to make it super appealing to fans of those genres, but not so much that it would turn off other readers.

If you've read this previously on Royal Road there have been some significant changes to the sequencing and timing of events that have streamlined the story and quickened the pace. It's still the same story that you love but like the theatrical release instead of the extended cut.

If you haven't read book one - read (and like) my review of that (https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2... ) and then buy the book immediately. This is one of my absolute favourite series at the moment and it hits a perfect sweet spot somewhere between "I just want some brainless escapism" and "I want a super complicated literary fantasy epic". There's enough going on and it's well written enough to elevate it far above the the former, but the story is contained enough to make it more accessible than the latter.
You'll thank me later.
Profile Image for James H.
42 reviews4 followers
June 19, 2025
Harald is back (He never really left, book 2 picks up right where book 1 left off which is dearly appreciated) and he is bigger and badder then ever before. What happened to that poor sap of flab from beginning of book 1? Spoiler from book 1 (you were warned), he was brutalized over and over and over and over again on a lower level of the dungeon until the Fallen Angel have him an ability to match the hidden power inside (another book 1 spoiler, its demonic).

So now that Harald has power and a merry band of adventurers to help him progess nothing can go wrong. Right? Right?? Wrong, Harald has another inconceivable challenge ahead of him.

Book two expands on the complexity of all the core characters and begins to round them out nicely making them multi-dimensional and adding a nice depth to this story in conjunction to the quest for growth.

I'm excited to read book 3! I'm curious to see the length and plot of book 3 because I feel like the end of book 2 wasn't the end of a book traditionally and moreso the end of a chapter. Good thing Phil Tucker's a work horse and book 3 will be here (I assume) sooner rather then later.

Read Throne Hunters! I'm sorry if I spoiled book 1 any but what are you doing reading a review about book 2 if you've never read book 1? Who's fault is that? Definitely not mine.
Profile Image for Jordan.
664 reviews13 followers
August 15, 2025
Starts off very strong but did slightly trip in the last 30% or so. Genuinely a great book, with some fun action and skills. If you like the first book you will enjoy #2. That being said, why i say the book tripped up:

Harald becomes quite unlikeable for a short period when he does a night raid (explained, but doesn’t make it better to read) it felt like we’re still circling the same point again and again regarding the seed. A fantastic addition to the cast is introduced, or would be if he didn’t disappear into the background shortly after being introduced, the author does give him some cool scenes near the end, but until then he feels like a background piece that’s been forgotten. The last gripe I have is that it’s getting a little too similar to his other series immortal great souls (another awesome series that I’d recommend) with bigger clan’s interfering and disrupting mc growth. It’s a cool idea, but it’s been done not just by numerous writers but himself, so I really hope the author doesn’t lean into this.

Obviously I sound overly negative, but if you’ve read the first book and you should have, there’s no point expounding on its good points, there’s plenty, and if you’ve read enjoyed it your largely in for more of the same. Better I feel to explain the few weaknesses I can see in an otherwise fun book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Ben.
28 reviews1 follower
June 19, 2025
Just finished this. A solid entry to the series, with strong character personalities, a good storyline, and some great pacing. That said, I'm frustrated in part at Harald's slow progression. We're into book 2, and Harald has really only beaten one person so far.
Everything else is politics, set-up, and a mildly annoying amount of 'parental' admonishment. From Harald's perspective, he gets told off, advised, influenced, and babied almost constantly (at least until near the end, when this does ease off). I never felt the other characters received anywhere near the same treatment.

I wonder if Phil's setting up for Harald to become powerful in truth in the subsequent books (not just in ability and physicality, but also in personality as is showcased somewhat towards the end).

A great book overall, but I'm ready for some real progression in this character's power levels now; if book 3 later this year doesn't deliver, this may be a series I leave (as I did with Bastion's second book unfortunately).
99 reviews3 followers
August 29, 2025
See my review of book1. It's still fun but simple and flawed. Not much else changed for book 2. Stuff happened and time kept passing. I wouldn't really call this an individual book. There was no overarching plot unique to this book. I thought it would build up to Harald's duel just like book 1 did. But then book 2 just decided to end once it hit it's required wordcount.

A few new litrpg additions: He got a magic dog (a genre staple). A lot of the book got stuck on a weird goblin side quest where he learned to psychologically mess with goblins and have them attack each other. This side quest felt very out of place. He was in the dungeon by himself because his demonic impulses made him too hardcore to sleep or stop grinding. Then he proceeds to goof around with goblins for several chapters? This happens a lot in LitRPGs where the author gets bored of the main plot and then just writes something else for no reason. Probably doesn't help that he released each chapter as he wrote them so he couldn't go back and change anything.
23 reviews
July 16, 2025
Great continuation of Book 1..but

Another great installment to this series. If you like D&D or any dungeon crawler / leaving game as wells a a great story I highly recommend these books.

My biggest criticism of book 2 is essentially the last 2-3 chapters. (Spoilers incoming): when first approached by the main houses Harry and Vic discuss multiple times the importance of making a decision quickly.. he then spends the entire book doing the opposite (even though he knows what he’s going to do). This creates the exact scenario they state they wish to avoid. It makes little sense. It also felt clunky in the manner it was executed. House Sonora falls under a greater house.. yet he never discusses the idea of speaking with that house regarding the anting to work for her? Just seemed like some obvious, simpler options existed that would have provided the same ending.
Profile Image for Todd66.
2 reviews
June 17, 2025
Once again I couldn't help but be drawn in by the escapades of Harold and the gang (Vic obviously being the most important, more Vic please). I read this right off the back of reading the first, and getting dropped right back into the action where we left off was exactly what I was after. Mr Tucker never fails to convey a bit of a deeper meaning, and the inner turmoil Harold experiences through the duration of the book as he battles with the influence of the demon seed is an excellent example of that. As gripping as that part of the story is, the relationships between the Throne Hunters themselves is what really stands out. The new additions to the team and the ongoing arcs with Sam and Nessa all have me eager for more! Can't wait for the next book!

This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
65 reviews
June 17, 2025
Series keeps getting better and better

Phil is quickly becoming my favorite author in the genre. It feels like every series he puts out is well worth the read, and Throne Hunters is becoming one of the best series in recent memory. Throne Hunters 2 picks up right where the first one left off, and continues to get better and better. We see continued progression here, further character growth, and learn more and more about the larger forces and conflicts at hand. The cast feels real, and their interactions are part of what makes the series so good. The pacing is excellent and the world/lore is rich, and I hope the series continues for many books to come. I recommend reading Throne Hunters to all fans of the genre—you won’t be disappointed!
2 reviews
June 17, 2025
Disclaimer: I was provided an ARC by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Phil Tucker has done it yet again! I am consistently blown away by how fast he can write without sacrificing quality (he could definitely give George R. R. Martin some advice). I really enjoyed Throne Hunters #1, as it took a often over-done genre and gave it believable characters, a really cool levelling system and a background lore that made me want to keep reading. Throne Hunters #2 is no different. It is a great addition to the series and builds off of the energy that book #1 brought. I am really excited to see where the next book takes the series. If you haven't already, go and pick up both books #1 and #2 - you won't be disappointed!
Profile Image for Becka Schramm.
2 reviews
June 18, 2025
Just like I said for Throne Hunters Book 1, Phil’s books make you want to dive in head first and not break the surface until you’ve finished the book. So, this goes for Throne Hunters: Book 2 as well.

The main characters continue to be great and I loved getting to see them develop individually and as a team in book 2. I also love that this book included a scale and dungeon diagram! The currency system in the first book confused me but I was able to refer back to the diagram to help throughout the book. I also loved getting to see them explore more of the dungeon and learn about the creatures dwelling there.

Another great book by Phil and cannot wait for book 3!! I highly recommend reading this series and any series by Phil.
6 reviews
October 5, 2025
Amazing book, great depth of character and richness. One of my favorite reads this year. The interplay between what is good vs bad and each character riding their emotions up and down, growing. The addiction, the drive to become better, riding the edge and seeing everyone change in this sweeping tapestry while keeping things realistic. I love Harald's character but Vic makes me smile so much with its rapier wit. Nessa is such a beautifully broken character while Sam is more in the background without being forgotten, each of them completing each other. The pleasure of this book is in letting yourself be surprised by the depth of the characters as well as the potential of the world that unfolds gently sometimes and in a sweeping rush sometimes. Looking forward to the next in the series.
13 reviews
June 17, 2025
What a great follow up to Throne Hunters 1! In this book, Harry is thrust into the political scene of the city and we get to see a lot of powerful adventurers from other houses. However, this book balances the political intrigue with plenty of dungeon diving so we still get to see Harry growing stronger and stronger.

The dynamics of the main party are still really interesting and there are a lot of great scenes that build on the relationships established in the first book. This book also explores the Dwarven culture a little more which I really liked a lot. Overall, if you were a fan of book one then you will love this one as well!
2 reviews
June 17, 2025
Much like Harold, we as readers are never left satisfied with what has just passed. I can only obsess over the next chapter, the next arc, the next book. Tucker has done an amazing job following up the first Throne Hunters. It’s truly incredible that every book of his I read raises the bar, yet every time they surpass my expectation.

If you liked the first book, you will love the second. If you haven’t given either a chance yet, do it. You will never find an author that gives you as much bang for your buck than Phil Tucker.
4 reviews
June 17, 2025
The Journey (and Quality) Continues

Harald and gang are back at it again, with loot, advancing powers, powerful enemies and enjoyable banter.

They make some new allies, and are starting to see the chessboard that they will presumably flip over, to play their own game.

Phil Tucker is one of the most eloquent authors in the ProgFantasy/LitRPG space, and that continues in Throne Hunters 2.

If you enjoyed the first book, you will certainly enjoy the second, and will join me in eagerly anticipating the third.
2 reviews
June 21, 2025
This was just what the doctor ordered. Lot’s of questions answered while being handed a whole new round to keep us salivating for more. I loved to see the duality of the people in power, when they showed that they wanted Harold vs trying to force his hands. Cause who doesn’t want to be fawned over at least a little. You’re constantly wanting to believe in a choice, only for tables to turn. Masterful writing, yet again we can’t wait for the next one. If only to devour more of this world with our endless hunger.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
2 reviews
June 17, 2025
Great character development but not much story progression.
After the first installation I had high hopes for TH2. While the story and characters remain interesting and unique, this reads like a web series and not as a novel. The story doesn’t really progress in the first 600 pages and we only get a glimpse of what will happen in further instalments in the last few chapters without much of a climax to this book.
2 reviews
June 18, 2025
I loved this book so much. It’s become one of my favorite series. The growth of the characters evolves with the problems they face. The political intrigue helps move the story line along so that it’s not just about the dungeon delves, which in turn, makes each dungeon delve mean that much more. I really enjoy the side characters and the progress they’ve made throughout the book. Can’t recommend this enough!!!
46 reviews
June 23, 2025
New fav

Everything this man writes is an absolute joy to read! No matter how drastically different the story lines, he will draw you in with his incredible world building and genuine, relatable characters. From Skadi, to James ( Dawn of Void), to Scorio (Great Souls) I have loved every character of his that I've encountered. It has been years since I've added a new name to my favorite authors list, but Phil has made the very short list. EXCELLENT READ.
Profile Image for Marie Coulson.
26 reviews
December 16, 2025
Fun easy read. I like how broken all the characters are, but Phil doesn't allow them to wallow in self-pity or misery (much). They're definitely all hot messes and have distinct personalities. The story itself is pretty standard for a progression fantasy. The MC Harald starts out weak and progresses pretty quickly to strong. My favorite progression fantasy series is another he wrote (Immortal Great Souls), but I think I may like this one more.
10 reviews1 follower
January 2, 2026
I have mixed feelings about this book. On the one hand, the overall story is excellent. On the other hand, it feels like a slogfest. The extended training, battle, and inner monologue scenes were draining. These scenes can honestly be cut in half. The pace of the plot is moving at a crawl as the course of events takes place over about 3 weeks. I will continue the series as I want to know where the story goes. Hopefully book 3 is better.
2 reviews
June 17, 2025
good sequel; can’t wait for more

Throne hunters 2 continues what made the first one so good, expanding on the magic system and continuing to provide a diverse cast of realistically flawed characters that are trying their best. This really feels like where the series can take off, transitioning from
The intro into the full sprint of the rest of the conflict.
2 reviews
June 18, 2025
Another fantastic world to explore from Phil Tucker!

The characterization continues to draw you further and further in until you've gone through half the book without even realizing. This isn't hyperbole, that's actually what I did.

I'm looking forward to exploring where the plot develops from here because at this point I'm completely hooked.
81 reviews1 follower
July 1, 2025
Second book was more enjoyable than the first, but I still have the same gripes. The main character seems like he’s given everything in order to succeed, which negates the lit rpg aspect since Herald doesn’t have to fight to get better. It’s all “herald lucks into this or that” without much precursor, which is disappointing since I know how complex Tucker could make it if he wanted
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews

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