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Defiance of the Fall #17
Defiance of the Fall 17
Secrets hidden in the annals of history are being unearthed.
Over a year has passed since Zac stepped onto the Left Imperial Expanse, a vast continent hidden by the Limitless Empire. The Outer Courts are opening their gates, setting the stage for the next phase of the trial. Inside, unfathomable opportunities await the fated ones.
The forces of the multiverse are gathered outside, not knowing the empire has plans of its own. The line between past and present is blurred as ancient schemes are set into motion. Seizing fate without being entangled in the Emperor's web is easier said than done. Zac must navigate the threads of history, all while dealing with the wrath of a vengeful god.
Destiny is written by the survivors.
Over a year has passed since Zac stepped onto the Left Imperial Expanse, a vast continent hidden by the Limitless Empire. The Outer Courts are opening their gates, setting the stage for the next phase of the trial. Inside, unfathomable opportunities await the fated ones.
The forces of the multiverse are gathered outside, not knowing the empire has plans of its own. The line between past and present is blurred as ancient schemes are set into motion. Seizing fate without being entangled in the Emperor's web is easier said than done. Zac must navigate the threads of history, all while dealing with the wrath of a vengeful god.
Destiny is written by the survivors.
812 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication December 2, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
September 27, 2026
It's not often that writing a review makes me genuinely sad, but this series has been one of my mainstays for the last five years. The problem with this book, and the reason I DNF'd it at the halfway mark, is really twofold.
First, this series has always had a tendency to get lost in metaphysical navel-gazing as the MC advances. That problem is dramatically magnified here, where we're now stuck in a world built almost entirely around dreams, illusions, and time travel. The villains are evil doppelgangers spreading corruption, making the weird even weirder. Then we get a break with Human Zac, who enters a realm where inanimate objects become sapient. You know, just a little sprinkle of normal.
It's a nonstop bombardment of strange, often nonsensical descriptions and situations, with very little of the great dialogue and action-forward Zac that made this series so much fun in the first place.
Second, and closely related to the first, the author just isn't especially good at description. It's often incomplete, or so deeply rooted in pseudo-profound concepts and metaphysical vagaries that I find myself spending more time figuring out the description than visualizing the scene.
For example, there is a passage describing a new scene as follows:
Wait, what? What astrolabe? There were two statues, with no mention of an astrolabe. What does "radiating paradoxical Continuum and boundless possibility" even mean? Different realities separated by a chasm of causality?
It's exhausting trying to infer what any of this is supposed to mean. Either the author doesn't quite understand some of the words being used, or they're being used in such an abstract and profound way that the intended meaning completely escapes me. Either way, it feels like a failure of storytelling: the prose should help me picture and understand the scene, not turn it into a decoding exercise.
So the previous book already had me a little worried coming into this one, but this one simply became a slog. Eventually I realized that the only reason I was still turning pages was because I hoped the next book would redeem this one, as has happened before.
But I just don't have the energy for that right now.
I may try to pick this up again in the future because, well, the sunk-cost fallacy is always out to get me. But not today.
First, this series has always had a tendency to get lost in metaphysical navel-gazing as the MC advances. That problem is dramatically magnified here, where we're now stuck in a world built almost entirely around dreams, illusions, and time travel. The villains are evil doppelgangers spreading corruption, making the weird even weirder. Then we get a break with Human Zac, who enters a realm where inanimate objects become sapient. You know, just a little sprinkle of normal.
It's a nonstop bombardment of strange, often nonsensical descriptions and situations, with very little of the great dialogue and action-forward Zac that made this series so much fun in the first place.
Second, and closely related to the first, the author just isn't especially good at description. It's often incomplete, or so deeply rooted in pseudo-profound concepts and metaphysical vagaries that I find myself spending more time figuring out the description than visualizing the scene.
For example, there is a passage describing a new scene as follows:
Two enormous statues waited just down the river, one placed on each shore. Just beyond was the shimmering curtain of a memory domain. The statues faced each other with outstretched arms, only inches apart yet fated never to touch. They existed in different realities and were separated by a chasm of causality. One second, they felt like lovers kept apart. The next, they were mortal enemies trying to snatch the mysterious treasure floating in the middle of the river.
The astrolabe radiated paradoxical Continuum and boundless possibility, approaching the limits of what the Heavens would abide.
Wait, what? What astrolabe? There were two statues, with no mention of an astrolabe. What does "radiating paradoxical Continuum and boundless possibility" even mean? Different realities separated by a chasm of causality?
It's exhausting trying to infer what any of this is supposed to mean. Either the author doesn't quite understand some of the words being used, or they're being used in such an abstract and profound way that the intended meaning completely escapes me. Either way, it feels like a failure of storytelling: the prose should help me picture and understand the scene, not turn it into a decoding exercise.
So the previous book already had me a little worried coming into this one, but this one simply became a slog. Eventually I realized that the only reason I was still turning pages was because I hoped the next book would redeem this one, as has happened before.
But I just don't have the energy for that right now.
I may try to pick this up again in the future because, well, the sunk-cost fallacy is always out to get me. But not today.
September 22, 2026
One caveat before I review this.
I actually enjoy wild, crazy tales that keep trying to one-up the crazy conditions needed to cultivate into ++++++ godhoods among a slew of other gods, while always realizing there's at least three whole grades worth of god civilizations ahead of you to kill as you cultivate.
The fact that this book just happens to be a continuation of a crazy fetch-em ancient dead civilization quest that happens to to suck you into memory-civilizations that you can loot and change to affect the future where you came from is just an added bonus.
Of course, if you're dunked head-first into this and you're unable to quite follow what ever the hell is going on at any moment, this MIGHT seem like a clusterfuck of religious gobbligook mixing Tao and Buddhist and countless void, chaos, life, death IDEA formations harboring massive amounts of iconic and archetypal powers that need to be fixed and fitted into massive soul-formations, then it MIGHT seem a bit... fucked.
BUT some of us like this crazy ass shit. It's pretty fucking creative. BONKERS. But creative. Turning already bonkers cultivation storytelling into OP OP OP bonkers cultivation storytelling.
And mad props to it.
Just consider this a quest for YOU, too.
I actually enjoy wild, crazy tales that keep trying to one-up the crazy conditions needed to cultivate into ++++++ godhoods among a slew of other gods, while always realizing there's at least three whole grades worth of god civilizations ahead of you to kill as you cultivate.
The fact that this book just happens to be a continuation of a crazy fetch-em ancient dead civilization quest that happens to to suck you into memory-civilizations that you can loot and change to affect the future where you came from is just an added bonus.
Of course, if you're dunked head-first into this and you're unable to quite follow what ever the hell is going on at any moment, this MIGHT seem like a clusterfuck of religious gobbligook mixing Tao and Buddhist and countless void, chaos, life, death IDEA formations harboring massive amounts of iconic and archetypal powers that need to be fixed and fitted into massive soul-formations, then it MIGHT seem a bit... fucked.
BUT some of us like this crazy ass shit. It's pretty fucking creative. BONKERS. But creative. Turning already bonkers cultivation storytelling into OP OP OP bonkers cultivation storytelling.
And mad props to it.
Just consider this a quest for YOU, too.
September 18, 2026
This series has definitely jumped the shark. The author abandoned most of the established characters in favor of endless gobbledygook scenarios of empty action. Jargon and constant references to new names with no context do not provide meaningful plot or character development. AI would do a better job than this.
September 27, 2026
Complex, confusing and absolutely over the top
Luckily, there were less characters to follow this time. The MC's two bodies are distracting enough. I had to fight through the book as it was quite esoterical with dream sequences, intrigues, kharma and objects that developed sentience..
The contrived cultivation of the MC is another point of conversation..
Luckily, there were less characters to follow this time. The MC's two bodies are distracting enough. I had to fight through the book as it was quite esoterical with dream sequences, intrigues, kharma and objects that developed sentience..
The contrived cultivation of the MC is another point of conversation..
September 19, 2026
I can admit it is a far way from what I wanted, it was much lesser of 4 chapters thinking about DAO before upgrade a skill.
But I do miss ANYTHING about the other sealbearers (1 chapter?) but I didn't found last book that good either, as I really think there would be more than "short stories" about the past (which I had no references too). Now it was mostly 1 memory, however I think this will take Alot of books(I bet minimum double Nevermore (as in this is 2nd of min 6)..
Human Zac is not at his court. If that is memory stuff aswell... Well...
But I do miss ANYTHING about the other sealbearers (1 chapter?) but I didn't found last book that good either, as I really think there would be more than "short stories" about the past (which I had no references too). Now it was mostly 1 memory, however I think this will take Alot of books(I bet minimum double Nevermore (as in this is 2nd of min 6)..
Human Zac is not at his court. If that is memory stuff aswell... Well...
September 25, 2026
Less messy
The introduction to this volume was lacking so for most of the story I was confused. I took a few days to read this instead of finishing in one sitting, but that was purposely done.
Zac’a overarching goal is to restore the peak of chaos to the dao, His efforts in the left imperial expanse are to further the events he started by raising the stele of war many volumes ago. Overall a lot happens in this book, but I’m not sure id miss much if I skipped it entirely. Zac only interacts with 2 of his followers and one of them who has hardly appeared in the whole series has a major moment sort of. Theres some sort of sacrifice but the reason and the outcome aren’t laid out properly so if the character appears in the future I wont be shocked. Which leaves the whole situation feeling a bit hollow and needless.
With some time to see things from a writers perspective, I can see a ton of work went into editing this volume and my overall impression is that the effort was successful. The pacing and flow are excellent and the overall organization flows nicely, but the content is still lackluster. Zac needs a major reset where more of the characters can be involved. Maybe we’re working towards that now. Vilari makes an appearance, and some other characters are mentioned so they aren’t back on earth. The major influences in Zac’s story so far are missing.
The introduction to this volume was lacking so for most of the story I was confused. I took a few days to read this instead of finishing in one sitting, but that was purposely done.
Zac’a overarching goal is to restore the peak of chaos to the dao, His efforts in the left imperial expanse are to further the events he started by raising the stele of war many volumes ago. Overall a lot happens in this book, but I’m not sure id miss much if I skipped it entirely. Zac only interacts with 2 of his followers and one of them who has hardly appeared in the whole series has a major moment sort of. Theres some sort of sacrifice but the reason and the outcome aren’t laid out properly so if the character appears in the future I wont be shocked. Which leaves the whole situation feeling a bit hollow and needless.
With some time to see things from a writers perspective, I can see a ton of work went into editing this volume and my overall impression is that the effort was successful. The pacing and flow are excellent and the overall organization flows nicely, but the content is still lackluster. Zac needs a major reset where more of the characters can be involved. Maybe we’re working towards that now. Vilari makes an appearance, and some other characters are mentioned so they aren’t back on earth. The major influences in Zac’s story so far are missing.
September 16, 2026
Disappointed
With how long it took for this to come out. Author doesn't respect his audience. Hope he will turn things around.
With how long it took for this to come out. Author doesn't respect his audience. Hope he will turn things around.
September 26, 2026
Great addition to the series
Normally by book 17 the series gets boring, but this series is still going strong; I think part of it is that Zac is growing and changing throughout the series.
Normally by book 17 the series gets boring, but this series is still going strong; I think part of it is that Zac is growing and changing throughout the series.
November 6, 2026
Another great one
This book focuses it's time on a very interesting plot. Time slows to focus again on the details of adventures in this strange world, but at a new and higher level of power. The characters are evidently used to this, but it's a novel sight for the readers as the plot has previously required larger time skips to keep focused.
The character interactions with non-Atwood empire companions are especially fun this time around. Ogras also remains endlessly amusing. The world of the specific trial does expand but world building is put aside due to the zoomed-in timescale.
Overall, a good addition to the series and I'm definitely looking forward to the next one.
This book focuses it's time on a very interesting plot. Time slows to focus again on the details of adventures in this strange world, but at a new and higher level of power. The characters are evidently used to this, but it's a novel sight for the readers as the plot has previously required larger time skips to keep focused.
The character interactions with non-Atwood empire companions are especially fun this time around. Ogras also remains endlessly amusing. The world of the specific trial does expand but world building is put aside due to the zoomed-in timescale.
Overall, a good addition to the series and I'm definitely looking forward to the next one.
September 26, 2026
Much ado of nothing
Maybe it is due to the standard I have come to expect from this series, but this book was a massive piece of useless filler and unnecessary exposition. One thought it turned into 3 pages. Other times, one sentence of dialogue will happen, then 6 paragraphs of further repetitive expounding will proceed.
I feel that this book could have been reduced to 250 pages and it would still include quite a bit of needless detail.
This book should have been a single act of a book instead of its own
Maybe it is due to the standard I have come to expect from this series, but this book was a massive piece of useless filler and unnecessary exposition. One thought it turned into 3 pages. Other times, one sentence of dialogue will happen, then 6 paragraphs of further repetitive expounding will proceed.
I feel that this book could have been reduced to 250 pages and it would still include quite a bit of needless detail.
This book should have been a single act of a book instead of its own
October 17, 2026
One step forward and then two steps back... This series has so much potential, but then the author halts all progression in favor of over the top cultivation and as a great reviewer said "...metaphysical naval gazing." It completely sidelines a great cast of characters and instead spends endless word count effort on the main protagonists drawn out evolutions, and yes I say that in plural because you are forced to endure it from split perspectives since the protagonist literally Ying / Yanged themselves.
September 28, 2026
I have read this entire series and feel like I’m reading the ravings of a lunatic
I am a Psychiatrist and avoid those labels when it comes to art and literature as madness can be genius and art. As much as I want to think this is a grand work, the past two books are so far removed from any semblance of plot, order, or really any interest to me. Sheer lunacy and a waste of time in what was one of my favorite series of novels. I do worry about the author a bit.
I am a Psychiatrist and avoid those labels when it comes to art and literature as madness can be genius and art. As much as I want to think this is a grand work, the past two books are so far removed from any semblance of plot, order, or really any interest to me. Sheer lunacy and a waste of time in what was one of my favorite series of novels. I do worry about the author a bit.
October 23, 2026
Binged the last 5 books in a month. My reviews of all the books are generally the same. Great social interactions. Mediocre fighting and imagery. The big moments are always a time where you can’t put it down.
This book however I couldn’t picture any of the scenarios. The ending was ok. But there’s so much repetition and not a lot of forward momentum. A lot of this was done before this. And repeating oh this would be perfect for me and this and that and I really gotta work on that.
This book however I couldn’t picture any of the scenarios. The ending was ok. But there’s so much repetition and not a lot of forward momentum. A lot of this was done before this. And repeating oh this would be perfect for me and this and that and I really gotta work on that.
September 29, 2026
This series used to be about characters interacting, fighting, and actual dialogue. At least half of this book was Zac acting like a profound yet edgy Buddhist monk completely in his own head. It added nothing but what amounted to spam and detracted from the world that was already built. Mental masturbation at its worst.
October 18, 2026
Really good, but
I really enjoy this series, but my only complaint with this installment is that there was a bit too much cultivation, which made the story feel like it wasn't flowing smoothly. While I don't mind that there are a lot of people who do, I am still looking forward to the next book.
I really enjoy this series, but my only complaint with this installment is that there was a bit too much cultivation, which made the story feel like it wasn't flowing smoothly. While I don't mind that there are a lot of people who do, I am still looking forward to the next book.
October 26, 2026
Quality Work
Always a intricate tapestry and the hardest bit of this series is getting all the events & names into your memory. For all of that the action still does well as does the situations that Zac finds himself in as he navigates the leftover realms. A few bits that deal mostly due to trying to remember what happened previously.
Always a intricate tapestry and the hardest bit of this series is getting all the events & names into your memory. For all of that the action still does well as does the situations that Zac finds himself in as he navigates the leftover realms. A few bits that deal mostly due to trying to remember what happened previously.
November 5, 2026
Yeah I give up. 16 books, with the last being rated very low by myself. Quarter through this one and the sunk cost fallacy can't keep up with how much I don't care about anything happening (or even keep track of it).
Read other reviews, but unless you absolutely loved the last book, recommend ending it now. I no longer care what happens.
Read other reviews, but unless you absolutely loved the last book, recommend ending it now. I no longer care what happens.
September 24, 2026
Love the story arc but not enough editing. Too much pointless confusing repetitive discussions about how it won’t work but actually it will because made up pseudo philosophy just gets in the way of a good story. Too much tempering and not enough story
September 27, 2026
Too much bloat
I really like Zac and his entourage, ut the first third of this book was nonsense that barely advanced the plot and provided no context. I hope the series gets back to more of the interpersonal bits and fighting.
I really like Zac and his entourage, ut the first third of this book was nonsense that barely advanced the plot and provided no context. I hope the series gets back to more of the interpersonal bits and fighting.
October 19, 2026
too many side stories
i did enjoy it, but its hard to follow and picture in my head when the side stories change every 10-15 pages for every little new place he visits. its like an escort quest personified and describing every little area is a bit much.
i did enjoy it, but its hard to follow and picture in my head when the side stories change every 10-15 pages for every little new place he visits. its like an escort quest personified and describing every little area is a bit much.
October 19, 2026
Great again
The depth of the story just keeps growing. At some point I will have to reread it all in a row... Maybe when I retire. Still getting better and I can't wait for the next book.
The depth of the story just keeps growing. At some point I will have to reread it all in a row... Maybe when I retire. Still getting better and I can't wait for the next book.
October 21, 2026
awesome series
Love this series of books, axe killing for ever. One hope would be a small reminder of who or what some names are there’s 17 great books and other books between releases can get tough remember names of the more minor characters and items
Love this series of books, axe killing for ever. One hope would be a small reminder of who or what some names are there’s 17 great books and other books between releases can get tough remember names of the more minor characters and items
October 26, 2026
So many plots and characters.
It’s hard keeping up with everything. I wish there were and index or something to
Look up all the different people in the stores. Especially after this many books.
It’s hard keeping up with everything. I wish there were and index or something to
Look up all the different people in the stores. Especially after this many books.
October 31, 2026
This instalment was ok a little less cultivation heavy than previous recent instalments so we're going in the right direction. I feel like things just get more complicated for complications sake maybe? I do wish we spend more time with the other cast of characters near Zac.
November 5, 2026
thank you for the review of last book!
Love these books, love the writing, but get bit confused with all of the details. Having the review from the previous book helped a lot! Thank you.
Love these books, love the writing, but get bit confused with all of the details. Having the review from the previous book helped a lot! Thank you.
September 19, 2026
DNF+Series dropped. Can't read a full chapter without falling asleep.
September 20, 2026
I love the series. But I was bored with this book. Felt like a filler book.
September 21, 2026
Fanfreakingtastic!
What an amazing book! I absolutely loved this book and such wonderful characters! I can not wait for the next book to come out!
What an amazing book! I absolutely loved this book and such wonderful characters! I can not wait for the next book to come out!
September 25, 2026
just word soup at this point. Abandoned
September 26, 2026
good read
As always, another fine read. The action never stops from beginning to end. Highly recommend this series for fantasy readers
As always, another fine read. The action never stops from beginning to end. Highly recommend this series for fantasy readers
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews