What do you think?
Yugen
What happens when the chosen one isn't chosen?
Vian has survived ten years of Guardian training. Dreaming of adventure and glory. He's a wizard-warrior with the highest exam scores in his cohort. He's also got a dark secret slumbering behind his eyes—uncontrollable magic that activates with eye contact. If his fellow Guardians discover it, they'll be duty-bound to kill him.
The night before their final trial, Ridvik tells him they've both been hand-selected for the Wolves. An hour later, Vian learns the Ridvik gets the elite assignment, and Vian gets shipped off to a fortress basement. His job? Watch the rocks glow. Pull a rope if one stops glowing. Stay safe, stay protected, and never see anything remotely resembling the danger or adventure he's been craving.
But Vian's adventure is only beginning. The Goddess of Destiny isn't finished with her nephew, and she's offering everything he's ever his dead brother back, a chance at greatness, and all the power he could dream of. Meanwhile, the man who trained him offers something else entirely—a chance to escape the Guardians, the crap job, and decide his own fate.
Too bad divine gifts always come with a price. And sometimes the biggest choice isn't between good and evil—it's between the adventure you think you want and the person you're meant to become.
One day you're serving alcohol to pompous Guardians who didn't earn their rank. The next you're standing back to back with the ones who did. Then you're getting your ass literally paddled by middle management while your friend wiggles his bare butt at the guy with the paddle.
Welcome to military life. It's exactly as stupid as you think it is.
Trigger WARNING: This book mirrors reality. People are frequently shit. They abuse each other; physically, mentally, sexually. Yugen does not flinch away. Proceed at your own risk.
Vian has survived ten years of Guardian training. Dreaming of adventure and glory. He's a wizard-warrior with the highest exam scores in his cohort. He's also got a dark secret slumbering behind his eyes—uncontrollable magic that activates with eye contact. If his fellow Guardians discover it, they'll be duty-bound to kill him.
The night before their final trial, Ridvik tells him they've both been hand-selected for the Wolves. An hour later, Vian learns the Ridvik gets the elite assignment, and Vian gets shipped off to a fortress basement. His job? Watch the rocks glow. Pull a rope if one stops glowing. Stay safe, stay protected, and never see anything remotely resembling the danger or adventure he's been craving.
But Vian's adventure is only beginning. The Goddess of Destiny isn't finished with her nephew, and she's offering everything he's ever his dead brother back, a chance at greatness, and all the power he could dream of. Meanwhile, the man who trained him offers something else entirely—a chance to escape the Guardians, the crap job, and decide his own fate.
Too bad divine gifts always come with a price. And sometimes the biggest choice isn't between good and evil—it's between the adventure you think you want and the person you're meant to become.
One day you're serving alcohol to pompous Guardians who didn't earn their rank. The next you're standing back to back with the ones who did. Then you're getting your ass literally paddled by middle management while your friend wiggles his bare butt at the guy with the paddle.
Welcome to military life. It's exactly as stupid as you think it is.
Trigger WARNING: This book mirrors reality. People are frequently shit. They abuse each other; physically, mentally, sexually. Yugen does not flinch away. Proceed at your own risk.
- GenresFantasy
308 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2026
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
March 31, 2026
*Review of advanced copy received from author*
This book is a heartbreaking tail of our MMC Vian’s pursuit of justice.
A beautifully weaved tale that combines fantasy with sci-fi in a military setting.
Found family, a unique magic system, impossible choices, military, trials, and betrayal are just a few of the things that happen in this book.
Vian trained his whole life to be a guardian, it’s all he wanted but everything falls apart and nothing goes his way.
What happens when the chosen one isn’t chosen?
10/10 I absolutely loved Vian story and the ending is pure perfection!
This book is a heartbreaking tail of our MMC Vian’s pursuit of justice.
A beautifully weaved tale that combines fantasy with sci-fi in a military setting.
Found family, a unique magic system, impossible choices, military, trials, and betrayal are just a few of the things that happen in this book.
Vian trained his whole life to be a guardian, it’s all he wanted but everything falls apart and nothing goes his way.
What happens when the chosen one isn’t chosen?
10/10 I absolutely loved Vian story and the ending is pure perfection!
April 1, 2026
I was given the chance to read this book as an ARC. I am usually very picky when it comes to my books because I am the type that never DNFs, so I always try to read books very close to my comfort zone. Well this one is literally the definition of a book I would choose to read.
It is a combination of sci-fi and fantasy, sprinkled with a lot of trauma. Just my cup of tea. The writing was amazing, easy to follow while building a complex world. The characters were so well written, I won’t say likable because realistically speaking there were 3 likable characters🫣 the rest of them were amazingly done villains.
All you need to know about the plot is that it follows Vian and all the injustices that are done to him. It touches upon hard topics and I would recommend checking the trigger warnings before digging into it as some of them may be very close to reality. The pace is not rushed but not slow either. It’s just perfect.
The ending was spot-on, and definitely left open for book 2 (pleaseeeeeee)?????
This was my first ARC and I am so excited it got to be this book and make this experience unforgettable. I was in the worst reading slump and it definitely opened my appetite for reading💖
Happy reading❤️
It is a combination of sci-fi and fantasy, sprinkled with a lot of trauma. Just my cup of tea. The writing was amazing, easy to follow while building a complex world. The characters were so well written, I won’t say likable because realistically speaking there were 3 likable characters🫣 the rest of them were amazingly done villains.
All you need to know about the plot is that it follows Vian and all the injustices that are done to him. It touches upon hard topics and I would recommend checking the trigger warnings before digging into it as some of them may be very close to reality. The pace is not rushed but not slow either. It’s just perfect.
The ending was spot-on, and definitely left open for book 2 (pleaseeeeeee)?????
This was my first ARC and I am so excited it got to be this book and make this experience unforgettable. I was in the worst reading slump and it definitely opened my appetite for reading💖
Happy reading❤️
May 2, 2026
I had the pleasure of receiving this as an e-ARC and voluntarily will be giving my honest review. This was a phenomenal read! The world building was on point and it is a little bit of Sci-Fi with Fantasy and military. Its was a heartbreaking story of Vian try to find justice!! The writing was wonderful.
“This book mirrors reality. People are frequently shit. They abuse each other; physically, mentally, sexually. Yugen does not flinch away. Proceed at your own risk.”
“This book mirrors reality. People are frequently shit. They abuse each other; physically, mentally, sexually. Yugen does not flinch away. Proceed at your own risk.”
April 10, 2026
I was give an advanced copy of Yugen to read. Yugen is a sci-fi, fantasy, military-based story of a man named Vian. The author is a military veteran and they include some of the grim realities of military life.
Trigger warnings include institutional abuse and on-the-page sexual assault.
This book was very different from my typical reads but I am so glad I took the journey. Vian has trained his whole life to become a Guardian. He has the top scores and everything you be chosen into the highest class of Guardians. However, he is chosen to become one of the lowest class, a Rock Guardian. Why? Vian’s growth and development was written well and felt authentic.
The world that Vian lives in is vey unique. A mix of high technology with spaceships, androids, blasters, and hoverboards with low-tech horses, swords, campfires, and good-old fishing in a stream. The ending of the book was crazy and unpredictable but soo good!
Trigger warnings include institutional abuse and on-the-page sexual assault.
This book was very different from my typical reads but I am so glad I took the journey. Vian has trained his whole life to become a Guardian. He has the top scores and everything you be chosen into the highest class of Guardians. However, he is chosen to become one of the lowest class, a Rock Guardian. Why? Vian’s growth and development was written well and felt authentic.
The world that Vian lives in is vey unique. A mix of high technology with spaceships, androids, blasters, and hoverboards with low-tech horses, swords, campfires, and good-old fishing in a stream. The ending of the book was crazy and unpredictable but soo good!
April 15, 2026
From start to finish this book was a whirlwind. The struggle of Vian and his trials shows in every page of this book. Starting with losing his brother and being forced to hide his true magic, he completes his trial only to be put in the lowest Guardian position. Once there he is singled out by who was supposed to be a mentor, but ended up being a torturer. I can not wait for the next book
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 26, 2026
ARC received from the author, my thoughts are my own.
⭐️Rating: 3.25
🌶️ level: 1 (open-door scenes, dubious consent/coercion… I don’t consider what happened in this book as “spice” as it is more dubcon and coercion. I would NOT recommend this book for anyone under the age of 18. -Straight up rape in ch 26)
📖Genre(s): Space opera, Fantasy
📚Sub genre(s): new adult, sci-Fi
🎭Tropes and themes: magical military, conscription, parallel universe, divine beings, meddling gods/goddesses, interplanetary govt (not defined), civil unrest/political regimes (very brief mentions), MM/lbgtq+, justice gets served, rebirth (in a sense)
💥Triggers: some gore, murder, dubious consent, sexual assault, rape (very jarring scene - ch 26), sexual manipulation/ coercion/abuse of power, alcohol use, being drugged (multiple sources)
🗒️Other notables: 3rd person POV with some first person interior monologue
✨Some highlights: the temple scenes were pretty dang cool - parallel realities/alternate universe, prose “showing” vs “telling” is pretty dang good
😒 Wasn’t a fan of: lack of voice distinction in the audiobook, sci-Fi elements are really just kind of in the background
🌊 flow, plot, and pacing: the flow moves at a good pace, though the plot development feels… kind of obscure. It feels like a stone skipping across water -we get tiny bits and pieces of what direction this is supposed to be heading with skips to the next hint of where it’ll be going… The story has so many elements going on, that it could really go in several directions. I had a hard time getting an idea of what the main plot thread was.
💭 My thoughts:
This book blends high tech sci-fi elements with fuedal-esque fantasy elements in an interesting duality. You have castles and banners and guardians (which remind me of knights), stewards, nobility, and royals. There’s also a weird dystopian military element, and a magic system.
It’s an intriguing blend of new and old and magical… and the premise has so much promise.
This story focuses largely on the guardians aspect. We follow the MMC around and explore his personal experiences. There is an emphasis on the relationships of the characters which gives this story a bit of a space opera vibe… though there’s several threads indicating a larger scale plot…
I did have a hard time picking up on the grand plot… We get brief hints/threads that there is something bigger... the Divine’s machinations throughout the story being one of them.
There is so many elements going on in this book, it’s hard to latch on to one thing. War with the Dökkálfar- how did this war start?, interplanetary civil unrest and possible civil war - just how big is the scope of this government? (it’s undefined), the alternate realities, pocket dimensions?, dystopian military- how did the conscription come to be? Why do they kill those with divinity powers?, divine beings- what’s that all about?, feudalesque hierarchy briefly mentioned- outside of the military, who’s running this show?, and atmosphere contrast with advanced technology (spaceships, fortresses, etc)… I guess I found myself missing the lore aspect. This is only the first book, so it would make sense to not answer allll the questions… but I felt like I was missing something here.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. I enjoyed the exploration of Vian’s character. I loved seeing his growth from beginning to end. Experiencing his emotions. Reading ch 26 was very hard to read. It made me sick, and my heart broke alongside Vian’s.
I like the ending chapters of this book. I like that justice does get served. The story is left wide open for more books, and I’m curious to see what direction it heads in.
⭐️Rating: 3.25
🌶️ level: 1 (open-door scenes, dubious consent/coercion… I don’t consider what happened in this book as “spice” as it is more dubcon and coercion. I would NOT recommend this book for anyone under the age of 18. -Straight up rape in ch 26)
📖Genre(s): Space opera, Fantasy
📚Sub genre(s): new adult, sci-Fi
🎭Tropes and themes: magical military, conscription, parallel universe, divine beings, meddling gods/goddesses, interplanetary govt (not defined), civil unrest/political regimes (very brief mentions), MM/lbgtq+, justice gets served, rebirth (in a sense)
💥Triggers: some gore, murder, dubious consent, sexual assault, rape (very jarring scene - ch 26), sexual manipulation/ coercion/abuse of power, alcohol use, being drugged (multiple sources)
🗒️Other notables: 3rd person POV with some first person interior monologue
✨Some highlights: the temple scenes were pretty dang cool - parallel realities/alternate universe, prose “showing” vs “telling” is pretty dang good
😒 Wasn’t a fan of: lack of voice distinction in the audiobook, sci-Fi elements are really just kind of in the background
🌊 flow, plot, and pacing: the flow moves at a good pace, though the plot development feels… kind of obscure. It feels like a stone skipping across water -we get tiny bits and pieces of what direction this is supposed to be heading with skips to the next hint of where it’ll be going… The story has so many elements going on, that it could really go in several directions. I had a hard time getting an idea of what the main plot thread was.
💭 My thoughts:
This book blends high tech sci-fi elements with fuedal-esque fantasy elements in an interesting duality. You have castles and banners and guardians (which remind me of knights), stewards, nobility, and royals. There’s also a weird dystopian military element, and a magic system.
It’s an intriguing blend of new and old and magical… and the premise has so much promise.
This story focuses largely on the guardians aspect. We follow the MMC around and explore his personal experiences. There is an emphasis on the relationships of the characters which gives this story a bit of a space opera vibe… though there’s several threads indicating a larger scale plot…
I did have a hard time picking up on the grand plot… We get brief hints/threads that there is something bigger... the Divine’s machinations throughout the story being one of them.
There is so many elements going on in this book, it’s hard to latch on to one thing. War with the Dökkálfar- how did this war start?, interplanetary civil unrest and possible civil war - just how big is the scope of this government? (it’s undefined), the alternate realities, pocket dimensions?, dystopian military- how did the conscription come to be? Why do they kill those with divinity powers?, divine beings- what’s that all about?, feudalesque hierarchy briefly mentioned- outside of the military, who’s running this show?, and atmosphere contrast with advanced technology (spaceships, fortresses, etc)… I guess I found myself missing the lore aspect. This is only the first book, so it would make sense to not answer allll the questions… but I felt like I was missing something here.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. I enjoyed the exploration of Vian’s character. I loved seeing his growth from beginning to end. Experiencing his emotions. Reading ch 26 was very hard to read. It made me sick, and my heart broke alongside Vian’s.
I like the ending chapters of this book. I like that justice does get served. The story is left wide open for more books, and I’m curious to see what direction it heads in.
May 4, 2026
You ever judge a book by its cover… and then read the little synopsis on the back and think, why not? I’ll give it a chance. That was me with Yugen. And to be honest, I’m not usually a fantasy reader—so keep that in mind.
Right from the beginning, the author does an incredible job introducing Vian and the harsh reality of Guard life. You can feel that something bigger is coming, that the story is going to build—but the question is how?
And it absolutely delivers.
The challenges Vian faces are unlike anything I expected. From being tempted with the chance to reunite with someone he’s lost, to making choices he believes are right—only to be punished by those who prey on the powerless—it’s intense and emotional. His journey isn’t just about survival, it’s about sacrifice, growth, and choosing others even when it costs him everything.
Watching Vian grow into the Guard he was always meant to be was one of the best parts of this book. As his powers develop and he begins to understand them, you really see him step into who he’s supposed to become—Yugen.
This book completely pulled me in. I kept wanting to know more, needing to know what would happen next.
And that ending…
WHAT kind of ending was that?! I was not expecting it at all.
Now I’m stuck waiting and hoping there’s a second book because that ending was just not fair. I need more. I especially want to see Vian’s (aka Yugen’s) powers grow stronger and hopefully dive deeper into his elder family.
Overall: Even as someone who doesn’t usually read fantasy, this book had me hooked—and now I’m fully invested.
Right from the beginning, the author does an incredible job introducing Vian and the harsh reality of Guard life. You can feel that something bigger is coming, that the story is going to build—but the question is how?
And it absolutely delivers.
The challenges Vian faces are unlike anything I expected. From being tempted with the chance to reunite with someone he’s lost, to making choices he believes are right—only to be punished by those who prey on the powerless—it’s intense and emotional. His journey isn’t just about survival, it’s about sacrifice, growth, and choosing others even when it costs him everything.
Watching Vian grow into the Guard he was always meant to be was one of the best parts of this book. As his powers develop and he begins to understand them, you really see him step into who he’s supposed to become—Yugen.
This book completely pulled me in. I kept wanting to know more, needing to know what would happen next.
And that ending…
WHAT kind of ending was that?! I was not expecting it at all.
Now I’m stuck waiting and hoping there’s a second book because that ending was just not fair. I need more. I especially want to see Vian’s (aka Yugen’s) powers grow stronger and hopefully dive deeper into his elder family.
Overall: Even as someone who doesn’t usually read fantasy, this book had me hooked—and now I’m fully invested.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I was given the opportunity to be an ARC reader for the author and I'm so happy for the experience!
The book itself is well written, (I noticed one mistake but it was quickly fixed as soon as I brought it up). I loved the flow of the story, it was smooth? Not sure if that's a way to explain it but it wasn't too fast or too slow in terms of how things progressed. The book has an interesting mix of sci-fi, fantasy, and action, which makes it really fun to read. I loved it, maybe because it felt more unique? Of course, that's the charm of indie authors.
The main character, Vian, was my absolute favorite; though without giving spoilers to potential readers, he has some horrible things happen to him which made me so angry. (I actually talked to the author about this, and they loved hearing the reaction lol). This made the ending *chefs kiss* perfect.
I would include more but I don't want to spoil anything for those that will read this book but know that it's really good, and it will make you want to slap people through the paper haha.
Though please be warned, if you have PTSD or uncomfortable with things like sexual assault, this will be rough for you.
Overall, I loved this book!
Can't wait for a possible book 2!
The book itself is well written, (I noticed one mistake but it was quickly fixed as soon as I brought it up). I loved the flow of the story, it was smooth? Not sure if that's a way to explain it but it wasn't too fast or too slow in terms of how things progressed. The book has an interesting mix of sci-fi, fantasy, and action, which makes it really fun to read. I loved it, maybe because it felt more unique? Of course, that's the charm of indie authors.
The main character, Vian, was my absolute favorite; though without giving spoilers to potential readers, he has some horrible things happen to him which made me so angry. (I actually talked to the author about this, and they loved hearing the reaction lol). This made the ending *chefs kiss* perfect.
I would include more but I don't want to spoil anything for those that will read this book but know that it's really good, and it will make you want to slap people through the paper haha.
Though please be warned, if you have PTSD or uncomfortable with things like sexual assault, this will be rough for you.
Overall, I loved this book!
Can't wait for a possible book 2!
Review of advance copy received from Author
What happens when the chosen one isn’t chosen? This story leans into that question in a way that feels both personal and unsettling.
Vian trained his entire life to become a Guardian, only to be cast aside at the last moment and assigned to a meaningless post. From there, the story becomes less about destiny and more about control, who has it, who doesn’t, and how easily it can be taken.
Vian is forced into impossible choices, caught between power, freedom, and the cost of both. What stands out most is his internal struggle to hold onto his morals in a system that continually undermines them. His growth feels earned, shaped by loss, manipulation, and the weight of decisions that offer no clear right answer.
The blend of dark fantasy and sci fi within a military setting is seamless, supported by a unique magic system and strong character dynamics. The found family elements add depth, while the betrayals land with real impact.
This book doesn’t shy away from heavy themes, including trauma and assault, and how those experiences are handled or ignored within systems of power.
At its core, this is a story about agency about losing control of your path, and what it takes to reclaim it.
Vian trained his entire life to become a Guardian, only to be cast aside at the last moment and assigned to a meaningless post. From there, the story becomes less about destiny and more about control, who has it, who doesn’t, and how easily it can be taken.
Vian is forced into impossible choices, caught between power, freedom, and the cost of both. What stands out most is his internal struggle to hold onto his morals in a system that continually undermines them. His growth feels earned, shaped by loss, manipulation, and the weight of decisions that offer no clear right answer.
The blend of dark fantasy and sci fi within a military setting is seamless, supported by a unique magic system and strong character dynamics. The found family elements add depth, while the betrayals land with real impact.
This book doesn’t shy away from heavy themes, including trauma and assault, and how those experiences are handled or ignored within systems of power.
At its core, this is a story about agency about losing control of your path, and what it takes to reclaim it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh, wow! Thank you to the author for providing an ARC via BookFunnel—this review reflects my honest opinion.
When I first heard the premise—a dark military fantasy featuring a main character burdened with an unwanted power that makes even eye contact dangerous, layered with rigid military hierarchy and hints of an alternate universe—I was immediately intrigued.
Trigger Warning ⚠️
There is a one-page scene depicting sexual assault. It presents a very real and unsettling scenario, highlighting the abuse of power within the Guardians’ inner workings.
I was completely hooked—more than I expected to be. The world-building is crafted with such precision and clarity that I never felt lost; instead, I could vividly picture the setting and fully understand its purpose. The character development felt organic and authentic, as though I were witnessing a real person navigate their struggles.
And the ending… wow. I won’t spoil anything, but it absolutely floored me. The events and revelations in Chapter 45 were completely unexpected and deeply impactful. And that epilogue? I need to know what happens next!
When I first heard the premise—a dark military fantasy featuring a main character burdened with an unwanted power that makes even eye contact dangerous, layered with rigid military hierarchy and hints of an alternate universe—I was immediately intrigued.
Trigger Warning ⚠️
There is a one-page scene depicting sexual assault. It presents a very real and unsettling scenario, highlighting the abuse of power within the Guardians’ inner workings.
I was completely hooked—more than I expected to be. The world-building is crafted with such precision and clarity that I never felt lost; instead, I could vividly picture the setting and fully understand its purpose. The character development felt organic and authentic, as though I were witnessing a real person navigate their struggles.
And the ending… wow. I won’t spoil anything, but it absolutely floored me. The events and revelations in Chapter 45 were completely unexpected and deeply impactful. And that epilogue? I need to know what happens next!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I had the opportunity to read Yugen by Devin Vandril early in exchange for my honest review, and this one definitely stands out.
This is a darker, military-leaning sci-fi fantasy that follows Vian, a recruit training to become one of the guardians… without fully understanding his own past. That mystery alone pulls you in, but it’s the way everything slowly unfolds that really keeps you hooked.
I do want to mention that there are some very dark scenes in this book that could be triggering for certain readers, so please be sure to check content warnings beforehand.
That said, I thoroughly enjoyed this read. The worldbuilding is immersive without feeling overwhelming, and the characters feel real in that way where you’re either completely rooting for them… or absolutely not. T here’s not much middle ground here.
And the ending? Not a cliffhanger—but still the kind that makes you sit there for a second like “wait… 👀”. I would love to see a continuation because I’m not ready to be done with Vian or his story just yet.
If you enjoy darker sci-fi fantasy with a military edge, complex characters, and a story that keeps you thinking, this is definitely one to check out.
This is a darker, military-leaning sci-fi fantasy that follows Vian, a recruit training to become one of the guardians… without fully understanding his own past. That mystery alone pulls you in, but it’s the way everything slowly unfolds that really keeps you hooked.
I do want to mention that there are some very dark scenes in this book that could be triggering for certain readers, so please be sure to check content warnings beforehand.
That said, I thoroughly enjoyed this read. The worldbuilding is immersive without feeling overwhelming, and the characters feel real in that way where you’re either completely rooting for them… or absolutely not. T here’s not much middle ground here.
And the ending? Not a cliffhanger—but still the kind that makes you sit there for a second like “wait… 👀”. I would love to see a continuation because I’m not ready to be done with Vian or his story just yet.
If you enjoy darker sci-fi fantasy with a military edge, complex characters, and a story that keeps you thinking, this is definitely one to check out.
May 2, 2026
Living in a military society where magic will get you killed, and mourning the loss of his brother as he approaches his final test, young recruit and potential Guardian, Vian, must hide his own magical abilities which activate via eye contact. In spite of his forced lack of social engagement, lest prolonged eye contact activate his magic, Vian consistently demonstrates high scores in his class, and by all accounts should receive a mission upon completion of his final test that reflects his value to the Guardians and his skills. But when Vian discovers he is to be assigned to be a Rock Guardian, stuck watching glowing rocks all day instead of the heroic assignments he fantasized about, everything turns on its head. Vian finds himself facing challenges he never thought possible: mind games with goddesses, friendships tested, parallel universes, betrayal- and more. While the complexity of the world building had this book at a mildly slow start, once the exposition was established and the plot picked up, it didn’t disappoint! Vian’s journey keeps you turning the pages, and the ending was amazing! I highly recommend this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Yugen by Devin Vandriel delivers a compelling and sometimes uncomfortable journey through a world grounded in resilience, pain, and magic. The story follows Vian, a young man who has spent his entire life training to join the Guardians, only to be placed in a group that leaves him frustrated and disillusioned. What unfolds is an emotional exploration of injustice and endurance, featuring moments that can be triggering for some readers due to the repeated abuse and mistreatment Vian suffers.
While the pacing felt a bit slow at times, and Vian himself wasn’t always the most likable protagonist, I occasionally caught myself hoping for his downfall, which might say more about how complex he’s written, the story still manages to engage. The world feels surprisingly expansive despite not being vast in scope, and the unique magic system stands out as one of the book’s greatest strengths.
Overall, Yugen is an immersive read with emotional depth and inventive worldbuilding. It may not be perfect, but its layered storytelling and ambitious themes make it well worth your time.
While the pacing felt a bit slow at times, and Vian himself wasn’t always the most likable protagonist, I occasionally caught myself hoping for his downfall, which might say more about how complex he’s written, the story still manages to engage. The world feels surprisingly expansive despite not being vast in scope, and the unique magic system stands out as one of the book’s greatest strengths.
Overall, Yugen is an immersive read with emotional depth and inventive worldbuilding. It may not be perfect, but its layered storytelling and ambitious themes make it well worth your time.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
I went into this expecting a decent read and walked away completely caught off guard
This story doesn't hold back.
It throws the main character into one brutal situation after another, layering pain, pressure, and impossible choices until you're left wondering how much one person can realistically survive. But that's what makes the journey hit so hard because somewhere in all that chaos, something shifts.
What once felt like breaking points slowly become defining moments There's a weight to this story that doesn't just fade when you finish it settles in and stays with you.
The journey feels intense and consuming, yet somehow still incredibly fulfilling. It catches you off guard, not only with how layered it is, but with how deeply it lingers afterwards
Seeing his transformation unfold felt natural, almost unavoidable like every moment led him exactly where he needed to be.
Nothing about it felt rushed or artificial. Every step of his growth felt genuine, like something he truly fought for and became.
I went into this expecting a decent read and walked away completely caught off guard
This story doesn't hold back.
It throws the main character into one brutal situation after another, layering pain, pressure, and impossible choices until you're left wondering how much one person can realistically survive. But that's what makes the journey hit so hard because somewhere in all that chaos, something shifts.
What once felt like breaking points slowly become defining moments There's a weight to this story that doesn't just fade when you finish it settles in and stays with you.
The journey feels intense and consuming, yet somehow still incredibly fulfilling. It catches you off guard, not only with how layered it is, but with how deeply it lingers afterwards
Seeing his transformation unfold felt natural, almost unavoidable like every moment led him exactly where he needed to be.
Nothing about it felt rushed or artificial. Every step of his growth felt genuine, like something he truly fought for and became.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Stolen memories, military trials, forbidden magic, friendship, and so much more!
This book reminds me a lot of the book Enders Game. There are lot of different plots going on, all of which revolve around the main character Vian. It was a little slow to start but once Vian transitions from recruit to guardian, it really picks up.
To me this book, shows a lot of character growth despite the terrible things that happen to the main character. It feels very relatable that we as people can take the anger and negative emotions from a terrible situation and turn it into something good for ourselves and not for others.
I’ve never read a book that combines so much sci-fi and fantasy elements but still talked about real world problems in a way that felt safe. This book approaches topics that we as a society are told not to talk about because they are inappropriate but the author has brought these topics into the light and made them heard and relatable!
10/10 would recommend reading!
This book reminds me a lot of the book Enders Game. There are lot of different plots going on, all of which revolve around the main character Vian. It was a little slow to start but once Vian transitions from recruit to guardian, it really picks up.
To me this book, shows a lot of character growth despite the terrible things that happen to the main character. It feels very relatable that we as people can take the anger and negative emotions from a terrible situation and turn it into something good for ourselves and not for others.
I’ve never read a book that combines so much sci-fi and fantasy elements but still talked about real world problems in a way that felt safe. This book approaches topics that we as a society are told not to talk about because they are inappropriate but the author has brought these topics into the light and made them heard and relatable!
10/10 would recommend reading!
May 29, 2026
Janessa Keeling’s spectacular Fantasy SciFi Adventure novel “Yugen,” which she wrote under the pen name of Devin Vandriel, follows the main character Vian who is a young service member as he traverses through multiple traumatic instances of systematic abuse within the military complex and experiences the mental, emotional, and physical consequences of that abuse, which he sadly finds continuing to be enabled and even perpetrated by his superior officers and other service members. While this novel focuses on a fictional character, the themes dealing with systematic abuse, recurrent trauma, and mental health issues are very real and must be considered much more often in our society to help encourage systemic change and ensure the safety of our service members. This novel is deep, visceral, and impactful and provides a glimpse into the dark side of military culture that truly needs to be exposed and recognized as a real and pervasive problem that needs to be changed.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was provided with an Advance Reader's Copy of 'YUGEN' by Devin Vandriel. As the book fell outside my usual reading preferences, it presented a challenge to step out of my comfort zone. Initially, the narrative proved difficult to immerse myself in, but as I progressed through the first few chapters, the story gained momentum and became engrossing. The characters, particularly the male main character, were crafted in such a way that they drew me into the world Devin Vandriel created. The male main character's integrity is a trait that would be commendable for any male figure in literature to emulate. The conclusion was unexpected, leaving me eager to explore further developments in the world and characters. Overall, I commend Devin Vandriel's work as a promising debut from an emerging author.
June 28, 2026
Good read just out of my normal genre reads.
3.5/5
Yugen by Devin Vandriel was an interesting blend of fantasy, sci-fi, and military elements with a unique magic system and an ambitious world.
The world-building was the strongest part of the story, and Vian's journey kept me curious enough to see where everything was headed. However, the pacing felt uneven, and there were sections that dragged, making it harder to stay fully invested. The darker themes added emotional weight, but at times they overshadowed the plot more than I would have liked.
Overall, it was a solid read with plenty of potential, even if it didn't completely click for me. I'm glad I gave it a chance, and I'd recommend it to readers who enjoy darker military fantasy with complex world-building and aren't afraid of heavy subject matter.
3.5/5
Yugen by Devin Vandriel was an interesting blend of fantasy, sci-fi, and military elements with a unique magic system and an ambitious world.
The world-building was the strongest part of the story, and Vian's journey kept me curious enough to see where everything was headed. However, the pacing felt uneven, and there were sections that dragged, making it harder to stay fully invested. The darker themes added emotional weight, but at times they overshadowed the plot more than I would have liked.
Overall, it was a solid read with plenty of potential, even if it didn't completely click for me. I'm glad I gave it a chance, and I'd recommend it to readers who enjoy darker military fantasy with complex world-building and aren't afraid of heavy subject matter.
September 1, 2026
I’m going to confess. This isn’t normally the type of book I read. But it sounded good and I loved the authors vibes. She’s so much fun🥰 But I’m really glad I gave this one a chance. I absolutely loved Vian. Loved the shit Jin’s they got stuck with. Loved the fantasy/sci-fi military. It was great. I was immediately drawn in by the world building. It was phenomenal and so original for me. The description was spot on, allowing an amazing imagery to play out in my move while I read. I loved a good movie in the mind while I’m reading a great book.
I loved Vian and how determined they were. And their type of magic was so cool. I was definitely invested in this story from beginning to end. This was fun and chaotic. Spicy and witty. It literally packed everything I would hope for in a good book.
I loved Vian and how determined they were. And their type of magic was so cool. I was definitely invested in this story from beginning to end. This was fun and chaotic. Spicy and witty. It literally packed everything I would hope for in a good book.
May 3, 2026
So this was an interesting book, it focuses on 2 povs Vian who is the main character and Brantly. Vian has horrible luck and due to an accident that unlocked forbidden powers he has been stationed in the lowest position a guardian can be in. This is where he gets targeted by a rapist who tries to groom him. When he decides to use his powers it all kinda goes downhill for him and he ends up breaking numerous rules that gets him taken by the executioners.
Now Brantley on the other hand is in the highest power position at this location but all he wants is to escape and be free. He plans to manipulate Vian to get what he wants, willing to do anything he can so he can flee.
Now Brantley on the other hand is in the highest power position at this location but all he wants is to escape and be free. He plans to manipulate Vian to get what he wants, willing to do anything he can so he can flee.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I just finished arc reading Yugen and really enjoyed this book. It had me on an emotional roller coaster!
The story was well written and it was set at a perfect pace. It had a sci-fi/fantasy vibe with action, heartbreak, betrayal, family drama, honor, forbidden magic and more!
I loved following Vian through his entire journey. His pain hit hard and the connections he made through his journey showed his character. Please check your trigger warnings before reading this book.
Devin Vandriel ended this book perfectly leaving it open for book #2!
The story was well written and it was set at a perfect pace. It had a sci-fi/fantasy vibe with action, heartbreak, betrayal, family drama, honor, forbidden magic and more!
I loved following Vian through his entire journey. His pain hit hard and the connections he made through his journey showed his character. Please check your trigger warnings before reading this book.
Devin Vandriel ended this book perfectly leaving it open for book #2!
Review of advance copy received from Author
He trained his whole life to be the chosen one… just to be cast aside.
Yugen hurt in the best way. Vian’s story is raw, frustrating, and so real—you feel every ounce of his anger, his need to matter, his slow unraveling. This isn’t a hero’s journey… it’s what happens when the hero is forgotten.
Dark, emotional, and quietly haunting—this one stays with you. This Author writes with a quiet intensity that sneaks up on you and doesn’t let go.
Their storytelling is sharp, emotional, and deeply immersive—you don’t just read it, you feel it.
Definitely an author to watch.
Yugen hurt in the best way. Vian’s story is raw, frustrating, and so real—you feel every ounce of his anger, his need to matter, his slow unraveling. This isn’t a hero’s journey… it’s what happens when the hero is forgotten.
Dark, emotional, and quietly haunting—this one stays with you. This Author writes with a quiet intensity that sneaks up on you and doesn’t let go.
Their storytelling is sharp, emotional, and deeply immersive—you don’t just read it, you feel it.
Definitely an author to watch.
June 24, 2026
Fantastic read!!!!
The character development was on point and the action scenes were very well written.
This story of a young man struggling to reach his goals while fighting an uphill battle is a stark reminder of daily life and was easy to identify with.
Vian was amazing and I loved the fact that even when faced with opportunities to do so, he didn’t compromise his morals and kept fighting the fight.
It’s a story of friendship, betrayal and survival.
Each aspect was portrayed in a unique and powerful way making this a must read.
The character development was on point and the action scenes were very well written.
This story of a young man struggling to reach his goals while fighting an uphill battle is a stark reminder of daily life and was easy to identify with.
Vian was amazing and I loved the fact that even when faced with opportunities to do so, he didn’t compromise his morals and kept fighting the fight.
It’s a story of friendship, betrayal and survival.
Each aspect was portrayed in a unique and powerful way making this a must read.
July 24, 2026
This book was gifted as an ARC by the author; and my GOD was this UNIQUE.
I know usually I yap, yap, yap; but I gotta be careful. I don’t want to spoil any of this because genuinely, just take the risk and jump in.
One thing I will bark about is that I AM FINALLY PLEASED TO SAY WE HAVE A MMC AS AN MMC. I don’t know why exactly, but there’s something super refreshing about male main characters . I’m a huge fan, and as the bio warns at the very start of this all; this book is meant to be REAL (even if it’s fictional).
People are flawed and we all do so many things for so many reasons.
I know usually I yap, yap, yap; but I gotta be careful. I don’t want to spoil any of this because genuinely, just take the risk and jump in.
One thing I will bark about is that I AM FINALLY PLEASED TO SAY WE HAVE A MMC AS AN MMC. I don’t know why exactly, but there’s something super refreshing about male main characters . I’m a huge fan, and as the bio warns at the very start of this all; this book is meant to be REAL (even if it’s fictional).
People are flawed and we all do so many things for so many reasons.
Review of advance copy
This book is amazing! Devin does an amazing job of writing this book. Setting the scene in a book like this isn't always easy. But while reading I felt like I could picture the words from the book into pictures in my head. This was a fast paced read into a different world than your typical fantasy. Watch your trigger warnings with this one. But I will say the triggers are written very accurately. The trigger scenes are well done, making you feel empathetic for Vian.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Caution Before Reading: Read the trigger warnings.
Vian's story is a fantasy, coming of age tale in a uniquely designed world.
Vian wants nothing more than to be a guardian.
He faces so many challenges along his path.
Vian unfortunately goes through some difficult situations and bestows trust where it shouldn't be given but his overcoming of challenges... you have to read to find out.
Vian's story is a fantasy, coming of age tale in a uniquely designed world.
Vian wants nothing more than to be a guardian.
He faces so many challenges along his path.
Vian unfortunately goes through some difficult situations and bestows trust where it shouldn't be given but his overcoming of challenges... you have to read to find out.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you Janessa Keeling for my gift!!
A wonderful story that is a mashup of military, sci-fi and fantasy. This story is very heartfelt and heartbreaking. Please read these triggers or like me dive in. Her writing style is perfect and is at a great pace. She paints a picture with how descriptive she writes. You will go on an emotional rollercoaster the further you read, but it is so worth it. Please grab your tissues and plunge into this wonderful world.
A wonderful story that is a mashup of military, sci-fi and fantasy. This story is very heartfelt and heartbreaking. Please read these triggers or like me dive in. Her writing style is perfect and is at a great pace. She paints a picture with how descriptive she writes. You will go on an emotional rollercoaster the further you read, but it is so worth it. Please grab your tissues and plunge into this wonderful world.
May 3, 2026
Wow- this is not an easy book to read, but it is worth it! It follows the main character,Vian, in a mashup of sci-fi, fantasy, and action as Vian is assigned what seems to be a meaningless position after his quest to become a Guardian. The character building is good but the world building is what really captivated me. And the ending.... oh my!
Author Keeling doesn't pull many punches with the portayal of on screen issues showing the abuse of power.
Author Keeling doesn't pull many punches with the portayal of on screen issues showing the abuse of power.
July 14, 2026
This was a grim, dark, but fascinating story. I don't read fantasy very often, so I wasn't sure I'd like this one. But I had a good time reading Yugen. The magic system was interesting, and I really liked the sci-fi elements mixed in with the fantasy. There were some pretty intense moments and heinous characters. I had trouble getting through some of the more disturbing scenes. I received a free copy of this story and write this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This military syfi fantasy is a very well written book. Now I normally am not a big tech in my fantasy book person. However it was done very well here. It dose have some potentially upsetting topics that are covered so read with caution. IE assault and death. It is not a book I would read if you are low on the brain power that day. The politics can get a little complex.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews