The Phantom of the Earth, Books 1-5

The Phantom of the Earth #1-5

by Raeden Zen

An alternate cover edition can be found here and here.

Herbert's DUNE meets Banks' THE PLAYER OF GAMES in The Phantom of the Earth, a spellbinding science fiction epic set deep underground after the fall of civilization on Earth's surface.

Here are the five thought-provoking postapocalyptic stories that lovers of science fiction can't stop talking about, gathered together in one volume for the first time. The futuristic theories, conspiracies, political maneuvering, and characters within these visionary tales will stay with you long after you finish.

In the Great Commonwealth of Beimeni, a subterranean civilization in North America, expansion long ago gave way to peace and prosperity in the face of the history's most devastating plague. Immortality is the reward for service and loyalty in Beimeni, a place where the physical blends with the metaphysical and power consolidates in the hands of those with a genetic edge. The fissures first spread slowly, then swiftly, until now the Great Commonwealth finds itself on the brink of economic devastation, challenged by forces from within that know its secrets and its crimes.

At the center of the conflict lie the Selendias of Piscator, founders of the resistance with an uncanny connection to the zeropoint field; and the Barão Strike Team, three researchers tasked with finding a cure to the Reassortment Strain, the plague that nearly wiped humanity from the Earth. Traveling from the uninhabitable but pristine surface to the habitable but inhospitable underground, this is a story about dedication to dreams, battle for survival, discovery and connection, song and celebration, undoing past misdeeds, and sacrifice for the greater good.

Genres: Science Fiction, Amazon, Apocalyptic, Fiction, Post Apocalyptic, Fantasy, Unfinished

1042 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 10, 2015

About the author

Raeden Zen is a speculative and supernatural fiction author. When he isn't writing, you can find him hanging out with his family and friends, reading, eating exotic foods, enjoying movies, swimming, procrastinating with social media, or watching sports. He lives in New York City.

Reviews

[Sean · Rating 3 out of 5]

Disclaimer: ARC copy from Netgalley.

The Phantom of the Earth, by Raeden Zen, is a semi-interesting book. I got the omnibus edition, which has all five books. From the description: "In the Great Commonwealth of Beimeni, a subterranean civilization in North America, expansion long ago gave way to peace and prosperity in the face of the history's most devastating plague. Immortality is the reward for service and loyalty in Beimeni, a place where the physical blends with the metaphysical and power consolidates in the hands of those with a genetic edge. The fissures first spread slowly, then swiftly, until now the Great Commonwealth finds itself on the brink of economic devastation, challenged by forces from within that know its secrets and its crimes. At the center of the conflict lie the Selendias of Piscator, founders of the resistance with an uncanny connection to the zeropoint field, and the Barão Strike Team, three researchers tasked with finding a cure to the Reassortment Strain, the plague that nearly wiped humanity from the Earth. Traveling from the uninhabitable but pristine surface to the habitable but inhospitable underground, this is a story about dedication to dreams, battle for survival, discovery and connection, song and celebration, undoing past misdeeds, and sacrifice for the greater good."

The description is accurate. The problem with this book is that it is HIGHLY technical. If you don't have a background in science, you will be extremely lost when reading this. It provides techniques for gene splicing, genome enhancements, as well as zero-point energy field manipulation that most people have never heard of. The premise of the story was good, but it got so bogged down in a subterranean world that I got lost trying to remember where I was. I had to constantly refer to the map so I could make sure I was going the right way in my mind. It was really disappointing because the characters were well-written and very fleshed out, but the love of the story got bogged down in the science the author kept slogging into the story.

I only recommend this book if you enjoy reading about highly technical scientific techniques or a post-Armageddon-like world.

[Raeden Zen · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Phantom of the Earth omnibus went live about one week ago. It's the result of years of editing and revision and input from more than thirty people including readers, writers, editors, artists, and other professionals spread around the world...

Jubilee introduces a new world, characters, and technologies, including the intersection of quantum physics and synbio.

Gambit includes a journey across the galaxy. I wanted it to be executed with a unique methodology in sci-fi, a challenge given the genre's rich history. The astrophysicist I worked with leveraged the story's paradigm, which assumes humans are highly advanced in their understanding of quantum physics, to devise the faster-than-light (FTL) travel methodology. It's outlined creatively in Appendix 3.

Synthesis includes a raid into a semi-intelligent, self-adjusting maze at a depth of 2,750 meters, cross-cut with a chaotic celebration in a capital city 2,500 meters deep.

Maelstrom shifts the story to a new generation in a world where humans become adults in less than 40 days.

Flaws brings it all together in a time travel tale that relies on the FTL methodology introduced in Gambit.

The appendixes provide some history and perspective to the world and characters.

Postapocalyptic speculative fiction has a long and intriguing history with decades-old novels that continue to influence the world. I'm pleased to contribute to that history with an omnibus I'm excited to finally have floating around the Internet...

[Scott Sammons · Rating 2 out of 5]

Well written, never ending story, held together by cliffhangers.

The quality of writing, editing, publishing, technical support, etc is fantastic. The characters, world building, plot, timing, are well thought out and well presented. My dislike for this series and author is based on what I believe to be a breach of contract with me as a reader and consumer who spent time and money in the expectation of receiving a story. A story with a beginning, middle, and an end. There is no end in sight, after reading five books the loose ends from book one are still loose. Despite the professional presentation, this author fails to close the deal and complete the contract with the customer.

I for one have had enough. I wish that I could have known what I was signing up for when I started the first book. It is a shame that so much talent, skill, and hard work was wasted on a story that fails to reach a climax.

The amount of filler and fluff, pumped into this series of books seems fraudulent. Between maps, tables, and appendicitis repeated in each book, and the boilerplate reiterations there is a full third of the series that could be deleted. When I buy a meal with one third being inedible garnish, I am rarely happy. If I walk away from that meal hungry, I am not happy and am not likely to give the chef, or the restaurant a second chance, or a good review. In the case of "The Phantom of the Earth" series, after a week's reading, I am still hungry, not happy, and looking forward to my next book by a different author.

[Raeden Zen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I listened to the audible version narrated by John Lee. Mr. Lee really brought the characters and story to life. Highly recommended.

[Melinda · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Beautiful, Fabrege Egg, Work of Art

Raeden Zen has lovingly created a beautiful, Fabrege Egg of a sci-fi series collected in this multibook omnibus. This is like no other apocalyptic story you have read previously. His glorious artwork, in-depth research, credible forecasting and masterfully crafted story meld into an experience that will be remembered long after you finish the books.

Mr. Zen has created vivid, complex characters who populate a fully realized and gorgeous world where he spins storylines that capture your imagination and attention and hold it through the entire series of books. Not only do you get the rich, beautifully crafted novels, but also gorgeous artwork that illustrates key scenes in the stories. The lush color palettes of these pieces, along with the scope and detail of the compositions allow the art to contribute significantly to the overall experience of Zen's World: Phantom of the Earth. He has now gone even further and commissioned new covers for each book, which just adds to the beauty of the series.

The story encompasses a near Earth that has been hit by a self-adaptive virus that was created using synthetic DNA engineering as a weapon to target specific humans in the current war. The virus is dubbed the Reassortment Strain and due to sabotage, the virus breaks lab containment and spreads into the atmosphere. The ever-changing nature of Reassortment is so adaptable and deadly that humans cannot survive above ground and cannot find a cure for the virus, so they are forced to live deep underground. These books focus on a future, underground empire in the land below the former United States of America.

Humans have evolved through necessity and synthetic genetic engineering to live a life compatible with the requirements of life deep underground. The entire empire is focused on curing Reassortment and living back on the surface. They have also developed the technology to travel to new planets to find a new home. Most importantly, immortality has been achieved, which creates an entirely different dynamic on population control and the power conveyed by controlling the immortality treatment.

Scientific breakthroughs that lead to significant increases in quality of life are what is valued and rewarded in the empire. Many of the protagonists are famous scientists of differing disciplines who are driving the agenda of the empire in league with Emperor Massamovian. The most famous and infamous scientists are those assigned to curing Reassortment, even though it has been hundreds of years since its release.

The physical world is overlayed by a telepathic creation called the zero point field, which is bolstered by hardware to facilitate worldwide consensus and individual, virtual reality. Every member of society takes part in these created realities, though some have the mental power to change the physical world through the zero point field, entrap others in their visions and even drastically change the world.

Politics, rivalry, madness, science, love, hate, survival and honor drive the fabulous character-driven storylines of Phantom of the Earth. These books were clearly a labor of love, and Zen's World is a work of science fiction art. The Phantom of the Earth series is a wondrous experience that should be read by all fans of science fiction. I wish every author would invest this much time and effort perfecting all the details in his work.

The only issues with the omnibus were some very minor Kindle formatting issues with pictures overlaying text, and the unintended foreshadowing of events by some of the appendices. These are minor quibbles when measured against the imaginative creation represented by this omnibus.

This omnibus is analogous to Frank Herbert's Dune crossed with Iain Banks Player of Games.

Highly Recommended

[Casey Catherine · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this series as a beta reader back in April. It absolutely stands out from other apocalyptic novels that I've read. The settings and characters were so well written and developed that it was impossible not to like them, dislike them, and even feel for them when necessary. The characters are certainly unique and diverse, even the descriptions of the characters were different, which was very interesting to read. Overall, the dialogue was well written and appropriate. It definitely focused on what each character wanted at that point in the story.

I found one line really unique and I kept remembering it while I was reading. “May it end as grandly as it began.” I’m not sure why it appealed to me, but it seemed to be more of a positive way of saying “the end is yet to come” but without the sense of ending. There was another significant quote from one of the books, “Life is pleasant. Death is peaceful. It’s the transition that’s troublesome.” – Isaac Asimov was a very standout quote to start the book. Altogether, it was a very interesting series.

At some points it reminded me of a video game called Mass Effect that I have seen my siblings play. The dystopian universe and unique character names reminded me of it.

One of the downsides for me was all of the scientific language and the constant need to refer to the appendix provided. It seemed too scientifically challenging for a common person at times. I think you have to be very into science and science fiction to thoroughly enjoy this book for all that it is worth.

[Jay Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an outstanding story of the future of the earth after a virus has made the surface uninhabitable. The story is brilliantly told, and contains support material that enhances the realism of the story. This omnibus set includes five books and 1649 pages. Unfortunately, the drama is so compelling it is most difficult to stop the reading at any point. The trans humans of this future world have many features we don't have, but the story and appendices get us to an understanding of how the evolution has taken place. For me, a physics major, the high point was the scientific accuracy of the many elements used to create the world under the surface, and to create the material goods and human skills that make this world habitable. While I may rave about the accuracy of this future world, be assured that the story depends on human frailties that can be found even in the most advance humanoids. Reading this series is a tremendous undertaking, but you will savor and enjoy every minute of it.

[Aammton Alias · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have had the great pleasure and wonderful opportunity to read The Omnibus for The Phantom of the Earth whilst on a train ride across Europe. This is an exciting and yet bleak post apocalyptic future world, with advanced humanoids, who struggle to maintain their humanity, in the face of resource challenges and the unethical in this new world. I am most awed by the depth of details, multitude complex characters and best of all, the different technological advances! Highly recommended for sci-fi and post apocalyptic fans. I downloaded this book using kindle unlimited. Be warned this is an epic story that ill plunge into a new world, yes it is over 1600 pages!

[Kat Watkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing read

Great read start to finish, my only dislike is that there want more. I have stayed up late at night reading this series...

[Vanessa Kings · Rating 5 out of 5]

“The Phantom of the Earth Omnibus Edition” contains all 5 books in the series and it’s a great way to have the complete collection to re-read whenever you want. And trust me; you will want to re-read this!

On “The Song of the Jubilee” the author put so much time and dedication into investigating the facts about molecular biology, that he even contacted a real biologist to help him with the details. This made the story more than believable, adding to the exquisite writing style and perfectly developed characters, to turn this book into a masterpiece.

“The Gambit with Perfection” is another epic adventure and perfectly written book. With this book we know more about what’s going inside and outside the Earth. Having the basics already explained in book one, we just have to follow the characters on their journeys. We even get more and different points of view than with the first book, which allows us to understand them better.

When I finished the second book of The Phantom of the Earth series, I went away and bought the Omnibus edition, which contains all 5 books, so I could start the third one and don’t have to stop reading until I buy the fourth.

“The Synthesis and the Animus” is even more captivating than the previous 2 books in this series, fast-paced and full of action, it gets easier and easier to understand the points of view and motivations of the characters. You already know them and, by now, I’m sure you picked your favorite.

“The Descent into the Maelstrom” is book four on the Phantom of the Earth series, I finished it on record time; it’s just too full of action to get bored at all. The fourth book of the series is so far my favorite, because it focuses on two young characters and how they grow or develop into adults on such a short amount of time.

On “The Restoration of Flaws”, the fifth and last book, we finally get all the answers that we have been seeking through the whole story, we understand a lot more of what’s happening and after some twists and surprises, we finally get our closure, at least for now.

There is no doubt that this series is a must read for all the lovers of science fiction and I wouldn’t be surprised if I see it on the big screen someday. It is perfectly written, not just for the writing style and quality of words, but because it keeps just the right amount of suspense though all five books, which is pretty hard to do without boring the reader on the way.

I absolutely loved the series and I can’t wait to read more about this author. Hopefully, some spin off of The Phantom of the Earth will be released soon.

[Randal Jr. · Rating 5 out of 5]

What would the world be like if, in the future, humans no longer dominated the Earth’s surface?

Science fiction is surely one of the hardest genres in which to produce an epic story, because along with creating the plausible details of a fictional, futuristic world, you must give life to a broad array of characters (often not human) that can be related to and empathized with in both their internal and external struggles. Not only does this author create a broad array of believable characters, but he has meticulously constructed in unfathomable detail the post-human version of Earth on which they live.

The Great Commonwealth of Beimeni will look vaguely familiar, and the painstakingly annotated map will quickly orient readers to the various localities described in the novels. In addition to the map and charts, several appendices provide a thorough background on every aspect of this future world’s culture, from the thirty precepts which by which the
Commonwealth is governed to the process by which the earth was terraformed. Explanation of travel through space and time, cultural oaths, poems, and songs of the Beimeni, transhuman theology, and a robust glossary of terminology are also available in the appendices previously mentioned.

Throughout the series of books there is a helpful resource built into the story called “Marstone’s Database.” Described as a government database containing “classified dossiers on citizens of the Great Commonwealth of Beimeni,” this database conveniently (and ingeniously) gives the reader information about relevant characters throughout the story. In a genre where it would be easy to become lost in the details, the author has thoughtfully prepared readers with any information needed to engage their minds in the plot as it unfolds.

The Phantom of the Earth is a tremendous undertaking for its reader, as I can only imagine it was for its author. It is however a worthwhile endeavor, justly rewarding for those who read it faithfully from start to finish. Above all, this impressively detailed, passionately created glimpse of a possible post-human future is sure to be regarded as a notable addition to science fiction literature.

[Rizaldy Fernandez · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Phantom of the Earth Omnibus Edition is actually a set of five books namely: The Song of the Jubilee, The Gambit with Perfection, The Synthesis and the Animus, The Descent into the Maelstrom, and The Restoration of Flaws. Although each book stands out on its own, I think that each of them gives focus on a certain topic or idea which will be important in the main story arc. Each book is well assisted by the "Marstone’s Database" which helps readers go through the complexity of the series.

For me, I honestly think that the first two books serves as an introduction to the whole world stated in the series. The "action" art actually started on the third book, "The Synthesis and the Animus", which was then followed up by the two books that followed. The fifth and the last on the series, well answers all the remaining questions one should have throughout the series.

As a whole, the series is one of those "love 'em or hate 'em" kind of books. If you are a voracious reader, a sci-fi genre lover, a "nerdish" type of person who loves everything science from molecular biology to quantum physics, you'll love this book. What sets it apart, for me, I can say that it has a more realistic feel to it, mainly because of the number of characters of the series. Other author tends to limit the number of characters giving some characters too many of a role or too complex of an attitude. Here, like reality, many characters, different perspective and for the readers, different feel for each. I love the supporting details, the explanations and the build up on each book. The tension in the political system, might I say is different from other books with "futuristic politics" plot. The post apocalyptic setting and reasons, though not unique stands out well compared to others. Settings, plot, characters and story build up, makes this a great (long) read.

[Chantel · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Phantom of the Earth Omnibus Edition includes 5 books which are The Song of the Jubilee, The Gambit with Perfection, The Synthesis and the Animus, The Descent into the Maelstrom, and The Restoration of Flaws. I must say that this series is a longer read, but it is definitely worth it in the end.

The two main stories follow Johann and Broden. Broken is desperately trying to find a cure to the virus that has overtaken Earth, therefore leaving the land uninhabitable forcing all humans to live underground. Now, Johann is trying his best to lead the rebels within the underground political structure after realizing the society is spiraling into a depression.

The story is incredibly accurate and it is obvious that there was a ton of attention to detail as far as humans having to live underground. The author made this a thing that would be obtainable. Another great aspect of the books is the “Marston’s Database.” This database allows the reader to gain information about different characters throughout the book as well as maps to keep the reader aware of where everything is taking place.

Overall, “The Phantom of the Earth” series is a great read, but takes a lot of dedication. As stated earlier, even though it is a long read, it is worth it in the end. This is definitely a book for a sic-fi lover as well. If you are not interested in theory or science, this series might be a struggle.

[William Birdsong · Rating 5 out of 5]

Epic Adventure

Long read, but a good one. The characters in the story are presented well from the first person perspective. Need a rest before going on. Thanks, bb.

[Mia Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Superb Science Fiction Adventure Series!

"The Phantom of the Earth-Omnibus Edition" is a fascinating story and a great science fiction and a unique dystopian story.

In this story, woven around five books the author describes his composed and fictional future and impresses the reader's mind with series of incidents combining a great number of characters.The author has clearly explained incidents in every aspect visualizing a clean and clear image in the reader's mind.The story reveals a large amount of details about transhuman species and the post-human life.The story binds together with social and cultural trends apart from the present so that according to my opinion I think reader gets it highly interesting when he keeps reading further.The story catches the readers attention while soaking his mind more deeper in to the story.

The author has done a great deal of research in revealing the most sophisticated high tech facilities in genetic engineering and his colors are shown when describing them.Due to the problems these species encounter they need a cure and a political solution.The story is woven around those two aspects which makes the story highly interesting.

[Harleysharpe · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series is just absolutely amazing. It takes the concept of selective evolution, genetic modification, and many more cutting edge ideas. Add in some futuristic tech. A setting that is detailed complete with maps, Birth rate charts, and political diagrams. Mix all that together and you get this set of books. The author clearly put heavy thought into the series. Some people will love or hate the illustrations that are found sparingly used during the book. Personally I appreciated them for helping to paint the cities a little better. It is set in a future where mankind has been driven underground by it’s own creations. Not machines. But by a genetically modified virus that affects only humans. The opening of the series sets the pacing perfectly. The virus continues to slip through the cracks. Worm it’s way deeper into the soil. Mankind’s days are limited and are running out. That’s all the spoilers I’ll give here though. I do like the synthetic telepathy and psi abilities. It’s done in a way I haven’t see used before. Good original spin on that. And the author does a great job at painting that aspect.

[Carol Keen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very, very long book. I don't mind long books, but I struggled to get into this one for a while. Names and tech were being throw at me faster than I could process. If you keep pushing, it gets better. Just don't bog down in the front part. My Kindle said it was a 17 hour read, it is 1650 pages of reading. Wow!

The premise that it starts with is that a virus has been created that kills all humans. Humanity, what is left of it, is underground trying to figure out how to undo what was done.

What is good about this book? It picks up, a lot, and has FIVE books in this edition. See, a good reason for 17 hours or reading. Soon we are across the galaxy and on all kinds of adventures. Babies to adults in just 40 days, wow what a time jump from 9 months.

I enjoyed this huge collection of highly in-depth books. My copy came from Net Galley in exchange for my honest review and nothing more.

[Bill Sullivan · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Phantom of the Earth saga by Raeden Zen is a series of 5 books that deal with the future of mankind after a disaster that forces them to live underground. I was privileged to be asked to read this before it's publication. The world that the author has created is amazing and well thought out. Mankind has changed and has the potential to live forever but some of our baser instincts have remained and in what should be utopia is not. We are given viewpoints from several characters and as the story unfolds we see the turmoil and hardships they undergo. Raeden Zen has put together an intricate story that keeps the reader interested and vested in the characters. The story is fast paced and keeps you guessing. It delves into moral questions and is entertaining. He has created a good read.
4.5 out of 5 stars

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

A magnificent piece of literature!

I’m very impressed with this novel! The way Raeden Zen describes and explains everything -that for many could be very complicated to understand- in such an elegant and walkover way. From scientific knowledge to psychological development of the characters, it’s a long journey that you will gladly take until the end.
This Omnibus of the first five books of The Phantom of the Earth series, they took me by surprise from the very beginning. Writing science fiction is not easy, but Raeden took every sci-fi cliché into a wonderful different world. I’m dazzled by all the research the author did for this novel, even if it’s fantasy you can see that all the scientific information is accurate and everything unfolds without plot holes.

So, if you are a science fiction fan or not, or you know someone who is, buy or gift this book. You won’t be disappointed!

[Jay Douglass · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story is very intricate and at times a bit technical. Therefore I had to re-read certain parts to get it, but that's just me. Others will be able to absorb the plot the first time.

A somewhat Dystopian view of the future society though not all gloom and doom either.

Raeden Zen is a talented writer who is able to deliver a compelling storyline with a steady cadence that will leave the reader immersed in this future world. There is lively prose and the insights are fascinating, although the book is at times quite a dense read, as mentioned earlier. That said the plot is fluid.

The author has come up with superb effort in writing this series, a yeoman task indeed.

[Janja K · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really love to read interesting dystopian science-fiction novels and the The Phantom of Earth Series is definitely a great example of that! The series is well written and great to read - it has great characters, interesting plot and is a great mix of fiction, but it has a realistic feel as well, which make the reading very exciting. I especially love how the author created the new underground world - a new living environment for people with all the images, so you can get a great idea of the area where the stories take place.
Overall, very captivating read, I enjoyed reading it and I am sure, especially if you love science fiction, you will enjoy it too. I recommend!

[Dannya · Rating 4 out of 5]

So far I have only read the first book but I will add more as I read the remaining 4 books
The Song of The Jubilee:
It took a few chapters for me to really get into this book but when I did, I got caught up in it. At first I was a little disappointed that this SiFi had more fiction than science, especially given my background in biology and my particular interest in medical microbiology and genetics, but the story line more than made up for it. Now I can't wait to see what will happen next. This is a good read for people who like science fiction, futuristic societies, and adventure.

[Cathleen · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an ARC from the Publisher, AuthorBuzz and Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.

"The Phantom of the Earth" is an exceptional story. I was fascinated by the world created by this author. What happens after a virus nearly decimates humanitys.

I will admit that I struggled a lot as this series is full of scientific theory and concepts that are a bit over my head.

If you are a science fiction reader and enjoy stories with a lot of scientific terms you should add this series to your TBR list.

[Tarah Yeager · Rating 5 out of 5]

The books are excellent science-fiction novels! The story involves the Reassortment Strain breaking out across Earth and thus making it inhabitable. Humans have evolved to withstand the effects of the virus, and have found a way to live under the Earth’s surface. I was surprised at how accurate every solution in the books are! The series is very well-written! The scenes are described so well that they can be envisioned. I definitely recommend these reads for anyone interested in science-fiction!

[Matt W. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very intricate, fast paced story, filled with well-written characters and a plotline that will keep you interested until the last page! The world building is handled very well, and while technically science-fiction, has enough plausibility to be believable. Overall a great read that I will be suggesting to all my sci-fi and adventure reading friends. This review was given in exchange for am ARC copy of the book.

[Sarah Katharina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started reading thinking that it would take me a long time to finish, but to my surprise the story-line and drama kept me wanting more and more. I could not put it down after the first book. The ideas and facts of what the world would be like in the future are very interesting. The author uses real facts and has done research on every aspect of his work. I would recommend The Phantom of the Earth to any dystopian fiction fan; it may very well become your next favorite series.

[Joelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

A love story turned tragic, a villain out to conquer all for himself, vigilantes who take things into their own hands, a heroine to save them all. Overall it was a good series but unbelievable. For living underground after a virus has wiped out most of humanity the society was very advanced and had unrealistic topography given the conditions. The characters were not quite believable although interesting as the story was also interesting but unbelievable.

[Amber · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this series. I thought it was absolutely imaginative and well thought out. The setting is gorgeously described, and the story is interesting. The characters each add something different to the complex world, and have a nice depth to them. The end is satisfying. This is a series I can see reading again and again.

I was given an advance copy by the author for review.

[Tayyab Ali · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was great. I can't say enough good things about it. There was something for everyone, a good story, wonderful characters, and just enough to keep you turning the pages. Couldn't put it down once I started reading. I highly recommend "The Phantom of the Earth", excellent story by Readen Zen.

[Betty Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Phantom of the Earth is a page turner. One thing that I really enjoyed about the book was having more than one book in the set. One of the best supernatural books that I have read to date. It was great to be able to go from one to the other and you didn't have a chance to forget where you were. Raeden Zen is a wonderful writer. I look forward to reading more books by Raeden Zen.