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Arise
Steven was having a pretty good time for a guy who helped release a captured god. He had a nice place in Colorado, a pretty girl sent him a picture of herself in a bikini, and he had neighbors that left him alone. Everything was looking pretty good until he woke up to find two people in his house that were planning on killing him; one was old coworker and the other was an old boss.
It seems that releasing the God of Dreams caused some ripples in places best left alone and Eve's atonement was to kill Steven for his part in the transgression. Wilford wanted to kill Steven because that's just how Wilford is. They all soon find themselves trapped between a runaway God of Dreams bent on expanding his domain and the personification of Fear. If one doesn't get them, the other will.
The only solution is to get the gang back together again and find something that can stop at least one, but preferably both, gods before the world comes crashing down around them. They've got more help this time, though; Wilford is tentatively on their side and a mysterious Native American gentleman has offered some assistance, but just how trustworthy the new allies are remains to be seen.
There's also one more wrinkle for Steven to sort out: The God of Dreams wants his girl.
From a shootout in Tijuana to a strange base in Dulce, New Mexico, Steven has his hands full just trying to stay ahead of the god that wants him dead, the girl he's finding himself more and more smitten with, and new allies that may or may not be up to any good.
Some days it's hard to be one of the henchmen.
It seems that releasing the God of Dreams caused some ripples in places best left alone and Eve's atonement was to kill Steven for his part in the transgression. Wilford wanted to kill Steven because that's just how Wilford is. They all soon find themselves trapped between a runaway God of Dreams bent on expanding his domain and the personification of Fear. If one doesn't get them, the other will.
The only solution is to get the gang back together again and find something that can stop at least one, but preferably both, gods before the world comes crashing down around them. They've got more help this time, though; Wilford is tentatively on their side and a mysterious Native American gentleman has offered some assistance, but just how trustworthy the new allies are remains to be seen.
There's also one more wrinkle for Steven to sort out: The God of Dreams wants his girl.
From a shootout in Tijuana to a strange base in Dulce, New Mexico, Steven has his hands full just trying to stay ahead of the god that wants him dead, the girl he's finding himself more and more smitten with, and new allies that may or may not be up to any good.
Some days it's hard to be one of the henchmen.
- GenresUrban FantasySuperheroes
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 20, 2014
About the author
Eric Lahti
21 books46 followersEric Lahti grew up looking for UFOs and buried treasure in northwest New Mexico. Unfortunately, he never found either of them. Or maybe he did and he's just not telling. He did find some good stories to tell at parties about lights in the skies and gold in the ground, though. When he's not writing, he's programming and practicing his Kenpo. He's also an active blogger, waxing philosophical about a range of topics from writing, to martial arts, to politics and religion. Frankly, he fancies himself something of a Renaissance geek about a wide variety of things. In addition to his current books, Better Than Dead is going to be published relatively soon-ish.
He also runs a blog at Eric Lahti
You can also visit his website that he updates intermittently, check out his Twitterific Tweeting or visit him on Facebook
He also runs a blog at Eric Lahti
You can also visit his website that he updates intermittently, check out his Twitterific Tweeting or visit him on Facebook
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
September 9, 2015
"Without coffee life is not worth living." Steven could just be my soulmate.
"Worst comes to worst, there's only a couple thousand people in this town, we can always just start beating people." This is why I love Eve.
"You guys name your dicks all the time, why can't a girl name her gun?" This is when I fell in love with Jessica.
I absolutely love the MC, Steven. His sarcastic wit is still as entertaining as it was the first time round. His crush on Jessica was freaking adorable.
The only reason I didn't give this a five was because I found some parts quite repetitive (I think I read the back story of Mr. Smith, the arms dealer, three times throughout different parts of the book. I read about the night of Jene's death about two or three times. I was suffering major de javu and began to wonder if I had already read that part of the book)
But aside from this, love love love me some badassery from evil people... who aren't really evil. Are they? They are, but they aren't. Either way, I love them and if they were real, I'd want to join them. Although, Jessica might beat the shit outta me for eyeing off her man.
"Worst comes to worst, there's only a couple thousand people in this town, we can always just start beating people." This is why I love Eve.
"You guys name your dicks all the time, why can't a girl name her gun?" This is when I fell in love with Jessica.
I absolutely love the MC, Steven. His sarcastic wit is still as entertaining as it was the first time round. His crush on Jessica was freaking adorable.
The only reason I didn't give this a five was because I found some parts quite repetitive (I think I read the back story of Mr. Smith, the arms dealer, three times throughout different parts of the book. I read about the night of Jene's death about two or three times. I was suffering major de javu and began to wonder if I had already read that part of the book)
But aside from this, love love love me some badassery from evil people... who aren't really evil. Are they? They are, but they aren't. Either way, I love them and if they were real, I'd want to join them. Although, Jessica might beat the shit outta me for eyeing off her man.
January 25, 2017
Still... I want to edit these so bad. But sooooo worth reading.
September 12, 2016
I am so happy the series continues and look forward to reading the third installment next. Lahti brought it again with Arise. He not only solidified my enormous crush on Jessica but continued to make a band of misfit criminals some of the most sympathetic characters you will stumble across in the literary world.
Arise seamlessly keeps up with the witty dialogue and sarcastic narration of henchmen, but the stakes are higher. Without giving away any spoilers, Lahti has managed to involve powers of the universe (and the galaxy in some parts) in the conflict and climax of this text. I thought he was ambitious with the first book, this takes that ambition to a whole new level and still manages to wrap it up nicely.
The sort of epilogue at the end makes me very excited for what comes next in the third book. I can't wait!
Arise seamlessly keeps up with the witty dialogue and sarcastic narration of henchmen, but the stakes are higher. Without giving away any spoilers, Lahti has managed to involve powers of the universe (and the galaxy in some parts) in the conflict and climax of this text. I thought he was ambitious with the first book, this takes that ambition to a whole new level and still manages to wrap it up nicely.
The sort of epilogue at the end makes me very excited for what comes next in the third book. I can't wait!
March 10, 2015
“Arise” by Eric Lahti is an original and fast paced fantasy thriller. It is told to us by one of the main characters, Steven, as you’d imagine he’d tell us or his friends over a pint of beer: Down to earth and with a good sense of humour (there are some great one-liners in this.)
After ‘it’ happens Steven reunites with Eva and Jessica in a battle against the evil forces. A country in chaos and some tough enemies are to be fought. I don’t want to spoil the plot so I will only say that the book is fast paced and action packed with romance, magic and paranormal beings. For me the most interesting aspect were those beings and the magic powers of some of the characters; very original and a fascinating premise for a story. This should do well with fans of the genre.
After ‘it’ happens Steven reunites with Eva and Jessica in a battle against the evil forces. A country in chaos and some tough enemies are to be fought. I don’t want to spoil the plot so I will only say that the book is fast paced and action packed with romance, magic and paranormal beings. For me the most interesting aspect were those beings and the magic powers of some of the characters; very original and a fascinating premise for a story. This should do well with fans of the genre.
February 24, 2016
It's been a while since I read Eric Lahti's first book Henchman. Usually if I read a second book in a series I have to go back and look at the first one again, but not with Arise which can be read as a standalone. The characterisation Lahti created in his first book was so well developed and his characters memorable I was able to continue with his new work without any trouble. I particularly enjoyed the chapter 'Date Night' where I can see the softer side oft the main character Steven.
Eric Lahti has a style that stands out from other authors I have read. His writing flows effortlessly and his humour never wavers. Arise, an urban fantasy, packs a punch and is full of action, the narrative and dialogue is just as punchy, and Arise has a plot to make the reader think,
Eric Lahti has a style that stands out from other authors I have read. His writing flows effortlessly and his humour never wavers. Arise, an urban fantasy, packs a punch and is full of action, the narrative and dialogue is just as punchy, and Arise has a plot to make the reader think,
September 10, 2015
Henchmen was an utter delight to read, so it's perhaps no surprise that I would like the second in the series, called Arise. I'll admit that Eric Lahti's writing style took me a little while to get into. But for anyone who thinks this will be a hard read, I offer you Steve Buscemi's take on this, as Mr Pink in Reservoir Dogs:
"This is the world's smallest violin, playing just for you."
The MC, Steven, narrates both tales, and the first person narrative totally works. It's interesting to see in book one how he becomes of the Henchmen, and yet if you're expecting more of the same in Arise, yes you do get that, but so much more too.
There's greater character development in this second story, with the delectable Jessica taking more of a central role. She was introduced to readers in a rather unique way in book one, and her role is so much more satisfying here. Every time Jessica is on the page, expect fireworks. You'll get 'em.
One of the most beautiful things about Eric Lahti's series is how he places you in New Mexico, or over the border in Tijuana. The places are described so well, you can feel the sand dust crunch under your tyres. Just make sure you're driving a Lamborghini, otherwise you might not fit into this story.
Arise does not end the series, but answers a lot of questions that remained with me after completing book one. You'll want to know who and what Eve is, and it's a satisfying answer, believe me.
I love the idea of a Valkyrie hanging out with these guys, but she doesn't talk like Helmsworth in Thor (no criticism of him, he plays the role well) - Eve talks like the other Henchmen, and it works.
Honestly, even when the Dreamer sequence kicks in, which admittedly takes the story on a different and unexpected route, it is not that distracting. In fact, I think it was a courageous choice by the author.
Both books are fun filled capers, with realistic martial arts action (YESSSS!!!) and snappy dialogue. I make no pretences here - this is a story that Quentin Tarantino needs to get his mitts on. He would do this justice on the big screen.
Honestly, Henchmen and Arise are two of the most enjoyable books I have read in a while. Often I like thrillers with dark twists, crazy characters and so on. That's not to say this series is light on that - it's got it. But it told with a great style and swagger that simply makes you love the story.
Great lines I liked:-
"Normally, I'm petrified of spiders, but I'm more scared of dying alone and forgotten."
"In fact, ju jitsu was developed by samurai who realised punching a guy in armour would just hurt your head, but throwing a guy in armour would knock the wind right out of him."
Yep. I'm 5'9" and weigh 160 pounds. If a 220 pound guy wants to hurt me, I smash his shins, destroy his leg ligaments, puncture his windpipe with my fingers, and stab his eyes out too. That'll teach him to jump the queue when I'm next in line....
I should also mention the presentation of the book. It's beautifully formatted, with the chapter headings supported by cool imagery. It links back to the author's blog too, which uses similar imagery.
Plot wise, the story is the star, and if Henchmen was an introduction to Steven, Arise could be called Jessica Rising...because of all of them, I enjoyed her character arc the most.
Get this, and the first in the series today.
"This is the world's smallest violin, playing just for you."
The MC, Steven, narrates both tales, and the first person narrative totally works. It's interesting to see in book one how he becomes of the Henchmen, and yet if you're expecting more of the same in Arise, yes you do get that, but so much more too.
There's greater character development in this second story, with the delectable Jessica taking more of a central role. She was introduced to readers in a rather unique way in book one, and her role is so much more satisfying here. Every time Jessica is on the page, expect fireworks. You'll get 'em.
One of the most beautiful things about Eric Lahti's series is how he places you in New Mexico, or over the border in Tijuana. The places are described so well, you can feel the sand dust crunch under your tyres. Just make sure you're driving a Lamborghini, otherwise you might not fit into this story.
Arise does not end the series, but answers a lot of questions that remained with me after completing book one. You'll want to know who and what Eve is, and it's a satisfying answer, believe me.
I love the idea of a Valkyrie hanging out with these guys, but she doesn't talk like Helmsworth in Thor (no criticism of him, he plays the role well) - Eve talks like the other Henchmen, and it works.
Honestly, even when the Dreamer sequence kicks in, which admittedly takes the story on a different and unexpected route, it is not that distracting. In fact, I think it was a courageous choice by the author.
Both books are fun filled capers, with realistic martial arts action (YESSSS!!!) and snappy dialogue. I make no pretences here - this is a story that Quentin Tarantino needs to get his mitts on. He would do this justice on the big screen.
Honestly, Henchmen and Arise are two of the most enjoyable books I have read in a while. Often I like thrillers with dark twists, crazy characters and so on. That's not to say this series is light on that - it's got it. But it told with a great style and swagger that simply makes you love the story.
Great lines I liked:-
"Normally, I'm petrified of spiders, but I'm more scared of dying alone and forgotten."
"In fact, ju jitsu was developed by samurai who realised punching a guy in armour would just hurt your head, but throwing a guy in armour would knock the wind right out of him."
Yep. I'm 5'9" and weigh 160 pounds. If a 220 pound guy wants to hurt me, I smash his shins, destroy his leg ligaments, puncture his windpipe with my fingers, and stab his eyes out too. That'll teach him to jump the queue when I'm next in line....
I should also mention the presentation of the book. It's beautifully formatted, with the chapter headings supported by cool imagery. It links back to the author's blog too, which uses similar imagery.
Plot wise, the story is the star, and if Henchmen was an introduction to Steven, Arise could be called Jessica Rising...because of all of them, I enjoyed her character arc the most.
Get this, and the first in the series today.
October 5, 2015
Since I loved Eric Lahti’s “Henchmen”, I had to read its sequel, “Arise”, too. It’s a book full of action, humor and astonishing wisdom.
It’s an engaging story with strong characters who develop and change in surprising ways. Steven is an extremely charming narrator in spite of (or perhaps because of) his “bad guy” appearance. I wish I knew someone like that.
The plot itself is fascinating enough, but there are also many appealing themes throughout this book. I personally liked Steven’s comments on religion. They mostly concerned fictitious cults of Dreamer, a captured god he had released in “Henchmen”, but one could apply some of these bits of wisdom to other religious traditions as well.
Some gods, Dreamer who is dreams themselves, Fear personified, or Potential Reality seem more real to me than they may appear at first glance. Dreams and Fear do seem to hold some kind of divine power over us mortals. But we can defend ourselves, just like the people in this book. Dreams and Fear also seem to fight each other and force us to get involved. Our dreams are indeed drawn to potential reality. Everything just gets even much more interesting and adventurous in Eric Lahti’s books, where Dreams come more alive and look into people ‘s minds with Dreamer’s amber eyes, while Potential Reality becomes a sexy woman.
Eric is an excellent writer -- his story flows naturally, and you can never know whether his next paragraph will be funny or scary. I cannot wait for the sequel!
It’s an engaging story with strong characters who develop and change in surprising ways. Steven is an extremely charming narrator in spite of (or perhaps because of) his “bad guy” appearance. I wish I knew someone like that.
The plot itself is fascinating enough, but there are also many appealing themes throughout this book. I personally liked Steven’s comments on religion. They mostly concerned fictitious cults of Dreamer, a captured god he had released in “Henchmen”, but one could apply some of these bits of wisdom to other religious traditions as well.
Some gods, Dreamer who is dreams themselves, Fear personified, or Potential Reality seem more real to me than they may appear at first glance. Dreams and Fear do seem to hold some kind of divine power over us mortals. But we can defend ourselves, just like the people in this book. Dreams and Fear also seem to fight each other and force us to get involved. Our dreams are indeed drawn to potential reality. Everything just gets even much more interesting and adventurous in Eric Lahti’s books, where Dreams come more alive and look into people ‘s minds with Dreamer’s amber eyes, while Potential Reality becomes a sexy woman.
Eric is an excellent writer -- his story flows naturally, and you can never know whether his next paragraph will be funny or scary. I cannot wait for the sequel!
March 21, 2015
Wow! Where do I start? Having read Henchmen, the first book of the saga, I was prepared to leave reality at the door and strap in for a wild ride. But Arise makes Henchmen seem quite calm and realistic by comparison.
It was nice to catch up with the characters, although Arise is written in such a way that you don’t have to read Henchmen first; I do recommend you get both though. The story is told through the witty thoughts and actions of Steven, a good / bad-guy, his gang of misfits and a demigoddess! I’m not normally into violence and killing but the humour that shines through the mayhem makes it seem perfectly reasonable. The real bad guys take you into bizarre realms of fantasy and Arise is written in such a way that the unbelievable becomes totally believable.
Gods, aliens, supervillains and secret government projects, weapons, bikes and explosions – Arise has it all. This is a book that should have its own comic book series and deserves to have a 3D high-action movie made about it. It’s insanely entertaining and I can’t wait for book three of the Henchmen saga. No pressure Eric Lahti!
It was nice to catch up with the characters, although Arise is written in such a way that you don’t have to read Henchmen first; I do recommend you get both though. The story is told through the witty thoughts and actions of Steven, a good / bad-guy, his gang of misfits and a demigoddess! I’m not normally into violence and killing but the humour that shines through the mayhem makes it seem perfectly reasonable. The real bad guys take you into bizarre realms of fantasy and Arise is written in such a way that the unbelievable becomes totally believable.
Gods, aliens, supervillains and secret government projects, weapons, bikes and explosions – Arise has it all. This is a book that should have its own comic book series and deserves to have a 3D high-action movie made about it. It’s insanely entertaining and I can’t wait for book three of the Henchmen saga. No pressure Eric Lahti!
February 16, 2015
Arise is the sequel to Henchmen and continues the story of Steven and his gang. I should have read the first book first, but you’re introduced to the gang, who are all back together by 16% into the book. (Don’t you love kindle for these random statistics?) They all have their own skills.
The genre of this book is mixed. It is fantasy/paranormal and also thriller, with a little romance thrown in for good measure. It is well-written and the author has a clear voice throughout. There’s good characterisation and I particularly liked Eve, who was awesome although Steven is the main character, with a sort of laid back humour and he develops in ways you may not expect
As I get older I have to say I don’t like too much detail in violent scenes as I keep seeing them and I’d have preferred less, however I’ve still given it five stars as it’s a great plot and a page turner. So if you liked Henchmen, I’m sure you’ll like Arise.
The genre of this book is mixed. It is fantasy/paranormal and also thriller, with a little romance thrown in for good measure. It is well-written and the author has a clear voice throughout. There’s good characterisation and I particularly liked Eve, who was awesome although Steven is the main character, with a sort of laid back humour and he develops in ways you may not expect
As I get older I have to say I don’t like too much detail in violent scenes as I keep seeing them and I’d have preferred less, however I’ve still given it five stars as it’s a great plot and a page turner. So if you liked Henchmen, I’m sure you’ll like Arise.
October 24, 2015
I enjoyed "Henchman" so much that I dove right into "Arise" with gusto, expecting more of the same stuff that I loved the first time around: great characters, action, and loads of snarky humor. I got that with "Arise" as well, I'm happy to say.
I won't go much into describing the plot here... honestly, it's so bizarre that I doubt I could sum it up in less than 500 words. All I will say is that it was good to have Steven and the rest of his colorful band of thieves together once again, as they try to foil an enemy even greater than themselves ... again.
I did enjoy the book very much; however, in many ways, the two stories felt the same, with its dips into the supernatural and the quasi-metaphysical, and it didn't feel quite as fresh or original to me as the first story did. Other than that, though, I had no complaints at all. The dialogue was as hilariously written as the first, and that was more than enough to carry me through.
I won't go much into describing the plot here... honestly, it's so bizarre that I doubt I could sum it up in less than 500 words. All I will say is that it was good to have Steven and the rest of his colorful band of thieves together once again, as they try to foil an enemy even greater than themselves ... again.
I did enjoy the book very much; however, in many ways, the two stories felt the same, with its dips into the supernatural and the quasi-metaphysical, and it didn't feel quite as fresh or original to me as the first story did. Other than that, though, I had no complaints at all. The dialogue was as hilariously written as the first, and that was more than enough to carry me through.
January 12, 2015
I really enjoyed this urban fantasy. I found it witty, fast paced cleverly written, and I felt like the characters were real. I haven’t read the first book but now I will, though I think this novel stands well on its own. The story is centred on Stephen, a likeable guy, Eva, a woman with magical powers and Jessica who runs a bar in Mexico when we first meet her: throughout the novel there is the pull of a love story between these two. There is no rule of law. Anarchy reigns and the characters do not know until it’s a bit late that they can’t shoot to kill that the ‘bad guys’ are in fact not human but are impervious to bullets. The story races along and I loved the humorous narrative voice of Stephen and the interaction with all the other characters. There is nothing better than finding a new talented writer. This is great story telling Eric Lahti
March 24, 2015
Once again, I am pleased to say that I have found a sequel that can be read as a standalone, which is both the sign of a good writer and a good sequel. If you think of the two books in this series so far, it would be easiest to think in terms of the classic westerns. This story is reminiscent of ‘Return of the Seven’, having seen ‘The Magnificent Seven’. If you haven’t met the characters before, you’ll wish you had, but it doesn’t take long before you’re rooting for the whole team.
This story sees Steven the central character as the catalyst, as the team members are brought together once more to use every resource to deal out their own form of justice. In keeping with their previous antics this is done with considerable injury, death and collateral damage in the ensuing organised mayhem. If you’re happy to have a mix of paranormal with your modern adventure story then this is a must for you.
To put this author’s writing in perspective, the dialogue has more punch than the action scenes I’ve read in some books. There is a dry humour in the narrative, once again handled by Steven, who finds himself with strange abilities on this occasion. There is enough testosterone to keep certain readers happy, and with Eve and Jessica in the story, all the other readers will also be able to drift off into fantasy mode.
The imagery in the Henchmen tales is impressive, but two main areas appeal to me. First is the attention to detail in the weapons and their characteristics, and secondly the well-crafted choreography of the physical conflicts. There is a clear vision of where each fist or foot is at any given time - which makes for a good reading experience.
Well done Eric, and I am now anticipating the next adventure.
This story sees Steven the central character as the catalyst, as the team members are brought together once more to use every resource to deal out their own form of justice. In keeping with their previous antics this is done with considerable injury, death and collateral damage in the ensuing organised mayhem. If you’re happy to have a mix of paranormal with your modern adventure story then this is a must for you.
To put this author’s writing in perspective, the dialogue has more punch than the action scenes I’ve read in some books. There is a dry humour in the narrative, once again handled by Steven, who finds himself with strange abilities on this occasion. There is enough testosterone to keep certain readers happy, and with Eve and Jessica in the story, all the other readers will also be able to drift off into fantasy mode.
The imagery in the Henchmen tales is impressive, but two main areas appeal to me. First is the attention to detail in the weapons and their characteristics, and secondly the well-crafted choreography of the physical conflicts. There is a clear vision of where each fist or foot is at any given time - which makes for a good reading experience.
Well done Eric, and I am now anticipating the next adventure.
October 25, 2015
I was happy to see the merry band of misfits together again as they try to unravel another mystery.
I love to see a well written bunch of characters against a vivid backdrop. It is worth mentioning here that this book is darker in some ways there others.
There are some times though when Eric gets a little over the top when describing how Stephen dislikes the modern world. It drags for me a bit, but not enough to lose a star for it. The fight scenes are vivid and believable. The descriptions left no room for error in my mind, I could see it all. That is a hard thing to do really.
Eve remains my favorite character and he goes into more detail as to who she is and what her ultimate goals are.
I would recommend this book to people who like SCYFI types of stories and military style adventures.
I love to see a well written bunch of characters against a vivid backdrop. It is worth mentioning here that this book is darker in some ways there others.
There are some times though when Eric gets a little over the top when describing how Stephen dislikes the modern world. It drags for me a bit, but not enough to lose a star for it. The fight scenes are vivid and believable. The descriptions left no room for error in my mind, I could see it all. That is a hard thing to do really.
Eve remains my favorite character and he goes into more detail as to who she is and what her ultimate goals are.
I would recommend this book to people who like SCYFI types of stories and military style adventures.
February 28, 2015
Another great read from Eric Lahti. It was really good to reconnect with Steven and the gang as they continue their battle against Dreamer and the gods. A direct, immediate writng style dragged me in and kept me immersed. The twists were unexpected and entertaining, and I'm glad Eric plans further battles for the gang. I shall definitely be looking out for the next in the series. Loved it. Thank you, Eric.
December 28, 2015
A great follow on to the first book. A cool and humorous narrative guides you through this excellent thriller with fantasy and paranormal elements. A bunch of heroes are fighting against the evil forces woith thrown in romance, action and suspense. Cracking read.
November 21, 2014
Personally, I loved it, but I'm kind of biased. :)
June 1, 2017
I happened upon the first book in the Henchmen series (called, appropriately, Henchmen), a while back and absolutely fell in love with the idea of seeing the whole supervillain side of things not just from the bad guy's perspective, but from those nondescript guys who help the bad guys.
Of course, Steven is not quite full on matching outfit army of drone henchman, he's more of a second in command, but all the same, it gave an entirely new perspective to see what might cause these droves of people to follow someone who, to the good guy perspective, wants to watch the world burn.
And so, after reading the first one, I snatched up the second one right away...and have been sitting on it, waiting for it to rise to the top of my queue for months.
And, I have to tell you, the wait was worth it.
Where Henchmen was a solid fun look at the tropes of supervillainy, Arise is a look at what the future might hold for a humble little henchman should he play his cards right.
And Steven, it would seem, is doing a mighty fine job of playing his cards right.
This book takes off shortly after the first one ends, where the world is now reeling from the destruction of Congress, while also now living in a reality that this god, Dreamer, is on the loose.
Arise takes a giant leap forward from its predecessor in how Lahti builds his world and fills it with a whole host of creatures and gods and secret societies. His world is living, growing, melding, and you can't help but envision how the greater world is still trying to move on from the events of the first book.
But what's most spectacular, in my mind at least, is how Steven grows throughout the course of this sequel. There was some dynamics to his character in the first book, but here we seem him become fully immersed in this world he only had a glimpse of in the original. And not only that, but become a fully integral piece of it. A cornerstone to something he hadn't even fully known existed until quite recently.
This book is a great read for those who love to see fresh takes on old concepts, while also appreciates fully developed characters who have actual motivations behind their actions, instead of just being used to push the plot forward.
I'd highly recommend it.
Of course, Steven is not quite full on matching outfit army of drone henchman, he's more of a second in command, but all the same, it gave an entirely new perspective to see what might cause these droves of people to follow someone who, to the good guy perspective, wants to watch the world burn.
And so, after reading the first one, I snatched up the second one right away...and have been sitting on it, waiting for it to rise to the top of my queue for months.
And, I have to tell you, the wait was worth it.
Where Henchmen was a solid fun look at the tropes of supervillainy, Arise is a look at what the future might hold for a humble little henchman should he play his cards right.
And Steven, it would seem, is doing a mighty fine job of playing his cards right.
This book takes off shortly after the first one ends, where the world is now reeling from the destruction of Congress, while also now living in a reality that this god, Dreamer, is on the loose.
Arise takes a giant leap forward from its predecessor in how Lahti builds his world and fills it with a whole host of creatures and gods and secret societies. His world is living, growing, melding, and you can't help but envision how the greater world is still trying to move on from the events of the first book.
But what's most spectacular, in my mind at least, is how Steven grows throughout the course of this sequel. There was some dynamics to his character in the first book, but here we seem him become fully immersed in this world he only had a glimpse of in the original. And not only that, but become a fully integral piece of it. A cornerstone to something he hadn't even fully known existed until quite recently.
This book is a great read for those who love to see fresh takes on old concepts, while also appreciates fully developed characters who have actual motivations behind their actions, instead of just being used to push the plot forward.
I'd highly recommend it.
March 28, 2018
Eric Lahti’s inimitable style, takes us on a second whirlwind ride around the South West, exterminating the bad guys and the indoctrinated, only this time with added deity’s, some frightful hybrids and a fist full of Nazis. Surprisingly It’s not just a gun and gore fest, we uncork Stephens tender side with a hefty nugget of romance, for there’s love in this book. It’s mightily funny too, cynical and satirical of course, and bristling with enlightening facts, possibilities and credible supposition.
Another masterpiece of comic book massaged reality. My favourite line being: “Who do I have to fuck to get a kiss around here?” Glorious.
Another masterpiece of comic book massaged reality. My favourite line being: “Who do I have to fuck to get a kiss around here?” Glorious.
July 16, 2019
Arise picks up several months after the first book ends. Steve, Jessica, and Eve find new enemies and some surprising allies. The god of Dreams has taken over Washington DC and started his own religion, and the other gods are not happy. It's up to the Henchmen to take care of the god they freed or face consequences from the other gods.
There are some good fights and the humor I like from this author. I did find the story just a smidgeon slower than the first book, but it's still a good read.
There are some good fights and the humor I like from this author. I did find the story just a smidgeon slower than the first book, but it's still a good read.
August 30, 2019
Arise picks up where Mr. Lahti's first book, Henchmen, left off. It is the same cast of bad/good guys, but this time they are up against gods, indestructible soldiers, and, dare I say, Nazis. Arise, like its predecessor, is full of action and humor. And you learn a lot about New Mexico in the process.
September 29, 2015
Eric Lahti's follow up to Henchmen shows there's not much rest for the wicked(ly funny). Steven and the gang have to deal with what they've unleashed in the previous book making for a fantastic journey with a perfect mix of real, surreal, and fantastical; all the while advocating for high quality beverages and green chile cheeseburgers. Smart, funny, and unpredictable, I hope the gang gets back together for further adventures.
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