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The Second Dark Ages #1
The Dark Messiah
Michael returns to fulfill a promise to his love, but the world isn't the same place.
Michael, the Archangel himself, has returned after a hundred and fifty years rejuvenating in the Etheric Dimension. Now, the most powerful male Vampire the world had ever known is back.
The problem? The world went through an Apocalypse and what little honor and justice that previously existed, is gone. Further, his love has left to the stars somewhere, fighting for those on Earth.
Now, Michael has to figure out where he is, where he needs to go, help those who need help and figure out how to follow in his love's path. Because if there is one thing that Honor Demands, it is that he make good on his promise to Bethany Anne.
Those feeding themselves on the backs of others have very little time to realize an important fact.
This Dark Messiah has little compunction about killing.
** As noted in other series set in the Kurtherian Universe, there IS cursing in this book, occasionally, it's funny, too. **
Kurtherian Gambit Series Titles Include:
First Arc
Death Becomes Her (01) - Queen Bitch (02) - Love Lost (03) - Bite This (04)
Never Forsaken (05) - Under My Heel (06) Kneel Or Die (07)
Second Arc
We Will Build (08) - It’s Hell To Choose (09) - Release The Dogs of War (10)
Sued For Peace (11) - We Have Contact (12) - My Ride is a Bitch (13)
Don’t Cross This Line (14)
Third Arc (Due 2017)
Never Submit (Jan) (15) - Never Surrender (16) - Forever Defend (17)
Might Makes Right (18) - Ahead Full (19) - Capture Death (20)
Life Goes On (21)
**New Series**
The Second Dark Ages
The Dark Messiah (01)
The Darkest Night (02) Mar 2017
Darkest Before The Dawn (03) July 2017
Light Is Breaking (04) Nov 2017
The Boris Chronicles
* With Paul C. Middleton *
Evacuation
Retaliation
Revelation Dec 2016
Restitution 2017
Reclaiming Honor
* With JUSTIN SLOAN *
Justice Is Calling (01)
Claimed By Honor (02) Jan 2017
The Etheric Academy
* With TS PAUL *
ALPHA CLASS (01) Dec 2016/Jan 2017
ALPHA CLASS (02) Feb/Mar 2017
ALPHA CLASS (03) May/June 2017
Terry Henry “TH” Walton Chronicles
* With Craig Martelle *
Book 1 – Nomad Found (Out)
Book 2 – Nomad Redeemed (Jan 2017)
Book 3 - Nomad Unleashed (2017)
Book 4 - Nomad Supreme(2017)
SHORT STORIES
Frank Kurns Stories of the Unknownworld 01 (7.5)
You Don’t Mess with John’s Cousin
Frank Kurns Stories of the Unknownworld 02 (9.5)
Bitch’s Night Out
Frank Kurns Stories of the Unknownworld 03 (13.25)
* With Natalie Grey *
BELLATRIX
Anthologies
Glimpse
Honor in Death
(Michael’s First Few Days)
Beyond the Stars: At Galaxy's Edge
Tabitha’s Vacation
Michael, the Archangel himself, has returned after a hundred and fifty years rejuvenating in the Etheric Dimension. Now, the most powerful male Vampire the world had ever known is back.
The problem? The world went through an Apocalypse and what little honor and justice that previously existed, is gone. Further, his love has left to the stars somewhere, fighting for those on Earth.
Now, Michael has to figure out where he is, where he needs to go, help those who need help and figure out how to follow in his love's path. Because if there is one thing that Honor Demands, it is that he make good on his promise to Bethany Anne.
Those feeding themselves on the backs of others have very little time to realize an important fact.
This Dark Messiah has little compunction about killing.
** As noted in other series set in the Kurtherian Universe, there IS cursing in this book, occasionally, it's funny, too. **
Kurtherian Gambit Series Titles Include:
First Arc
Death Becomes Her (01) - Queen Bitch (02) - Love Lost (03) - Bite This (04)
Never Forsaken (05) - Under My Heel (06) Kneel Or Die (07)
Second Arc
We Will Build (08) - It’s Hell To Choose (09) - Release The Dogs of War (10)
Sued For Peace (11) - We Have Contact (12) - My Ride is a Bitch (13)
Don’t Cross This Line (14)
Third Arc (Due 2017)
Never Submit (Jan) (15) - Never Surrender (16) - Forever Defend (17)
Might Makes Right (18) - Ahead Full (19) - Capture Death (20)
Life Goes On (21)
**New Series**
The Second Dark Ages
The Dark Messiah (01)
The Darkest Night (02) Mar 2017
Darkest Before The Dawn (03) July 2017
Light Is Breaking (04) Nov 2017
The Boris Chronicles
* With Paul C. Middleton *
Evacuation
Retaliation
Revelation Dec 2016
Restitution 2017
Reclaiming Honor
* With JUSTIN SLOAN *
Justice Is Calling (01)
Claimed By Honor (02) Jan 2017
The Etheric Academy
* With TS PAUL *
ALPHA CLASS (01) Dec 2016/Jan 2017
ALPHA CLASS (02) Feb/Mar 2017
ALPHA CLASS (03) May/June 2017
Terry Henry “TH” Walton Chronicles
* With Craig Martelle *
Book 1 – Nomad Found (Out)
Book 2 – Nomad Redeemed (Jan 2017)
Book 3 - Nomad Unleashed (2017)
Book 4 - Nomad Supreme(2017)
SHORT STORIES
Frank Kurns Stories of the Unknownworld 01 (7.5)
You Don’t Mess with John’s Cousin
Frank Kurns Stories of the Unknownworld 02 (9.5)
Bitch’s Night Out
Frank Kurns Stories of the Unknownworld 03 (13.25)
* With Natalie Grey *
BELLATRIX
Anthologies
Glimpse
Honor in Death
(Michael’s First Few Days)
Beyond the Stars: At Galaxy's Edge
Tabitha’s Vacation
358 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 23, 2016
1142 people are currently reading
564 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 162 reviews
September 19, 2024
The Dark Messiah
By Michael Anderle
This was a fun and unusual vampire messiah story with unique characters and lots of action. This is a re-read because I have bought more books in the series and wanted to refresh my memory.
By Michael Anderle
This was a fun and unusual vampire messiah story with unique characters and lots of action. This is a re-read because I have bought more books in the series and wanted to refresh my memory.
August 28, 2017
Awesome 10+ stars
This has everything. Michael is back. Havoc and mayhem abound. Seriously, there is blood and gore everywhere.
Michael shows up naked where he disappeared. He is also hairless. Bald as the day he was born. He also hurts everywhere. His memory was slowly returning and his memories of Bethany Anne comes flooding back and he remembers his promise to return to her.
He becomes the black messiah. He is an honourable vampire fighting for the defenceless and making judgement against those who cause harm. He is in a time after the world had screwed itself. Devastation everywhere. People living in violent conditions. He makes his way to the old Colorado TQB headquarters. The one he saved when the bomb went off. There he finds presents left by BA including a dark full length coat and weapons.
He helps people a long the way and ends up in New York. Rescues a few. But the battle in New York is spectacular. I honestly would love to see that on the big screen. Thousands of The Forsaken come in hot air ships from Europe under the control of The Duke's sons direction. The people of New York come together and fight back. The Duke is Michael's son David's son. I know a bit confusing but that's family for you.
Anyway, Michael wants to make BA proud. So he becomes justice. Killing those who deserve to be dead. He knows he has to clean up the world before he can venture out in the stars.
It really is an awesome instalment. Some off the fight scenes would put many blockbusters to shame. It's absolutely brilliant. An excellent paranormal off shoot from the original series. I would definitely recommend it. It's different with lots of action. Enjoy!
This has everything. Michael is back. Havoc and mayhem abound. Seriously, there is blood and gore everywhere.
Michael shows up naked where he disappeared. He is also hairless. Bald as the day he was born. He also hurts everywhere. His memory was slowly returning and his memories of Bethany Anne comes flooding back and he remembers his promise to return to her.
He becomes the black messiah. He is an honourable vampire fighting for the defenceless and making judgement against those who cause harm. He is in a time after the world had screwed itself. Devastation everywhere. People living in violent conditions. He makes his way to the old Colorado TQB headquarters. The one he saved when the bomb went off. There he finds presents left by BA including a dark full length coat and weapons.
He helps people a long the way and ends up in New York. Rescues a few. But the battle in New York is spectacular. I honestly would love to see that on the big screen. Thousands of The Forsaken come in hot air ships from Europe under the control of The Duke's sons direction. The people of New York come together and fight back. The Duke is Michael's son David's son. I know a bit confusing but that's family for you.
Anyway, Michael wants to make BA proud. So he becomes justice. Killing those who deserve to be dead. He knows he has to clean up the world before he can venture out in the stars.
It really is an awesome instalment. Some off the fight scenes would put many blockbusters to shame. It's absolutely brilliant. An excellent paranormal off shoot from the original series. I would definitely recommend it. It's different with lots of action. Enjoy!
August 22, 2017
It's awesome to finally get Michael back and have him kick ass and rain down his special brand of unholy justice on the fuckwits, dipshits and other such unsavoury types. But I just don't do well with post apocalyptic / dystopian scenarios... Imma skip to the good stuff. I hope his reunion with BA isn't too far off. 'Cause couples who kick ass together and all that.
April 6, 2018
3.5 stars.
Anderle writes better males.
Anderle writes better males.
May 10, 2021
Michael is BACK!
I'm so glad you didn't leave Michael dead. That he was healing in the Etheric makes a lot of sense.
I'm so glad you didn't leave Michael dead. That he was healing in the Etheric makes a lot of sense.
March 20, 2018
Michael is back in top form and with a vengeance. This is the first book in The Second Dark Ages series which in itself is a part of The Kurtherian Gambit universe. You could almost say that it is a subseries of the main story arc in The Kurtherian Gambit series. It takes place some time before the return of the Queen Bitch to Earth and focuses on Michael (the Archangel) when he is just rejuvenated from his little close encounter with a nuclear device.
I really liked this book. I loved The Kurtherian Gambit series, perhaps except the last one, and this book brings us back to the style and story of the first books in that series. These were the books I liked best in the series so that suits me perfectly.
As the blurb states Michael has little compunction about killing. Actually that might be an understatement. For Michael killing is usually the first, second and third solution to most of the problems he is facing. Swift and clean. Eh, on second thought strike that last bit. Swift maybe but killing by übervampires or Pricolici weres is rather messy actually.
If you have read any books in The Kurtherian Gambit series then you pretty much know what to expect from this book. Fun and cocky dialogue, strong and likable characters and, of course, language suitable for grown ups (not the whiny and/or easily offended kind). I quite like the authors way of describing events whether it is with or without language for grown ups.
The only gripe I have is that sometimes Michael somehow magically shows up at the right spot at the right time so that he can have one of his chats with the right persons that turns out to be essential allies later in the story. Even though this is urban fantasy it is a little to “magical” for me
.
Appart from that I really enjoyed the book. The rest of the series is already downloaded to my tablet.
I really liked this book. I loved The Kurtherian Gambit series, perhaps except the last one, and this book brings us back to the style and story of the first books in that series. These were the books I liked best in the series so that suits me perfectly.
As the blurb states Michael has little compunction about killing. Actually that might be an understatement. For Michael killing is usually the first, second and third solution to most of the problems he is facing. Swift and clean. Eh, on second thought strike that last bit. Swift maybe but killing by übervampires or Pricolici weres is rather messy actually.
If you have read any books in The Kurtherian Gambit series then you pretty much know what to expect from this book. Fun and cocky dialogue, strong and likable characters and, of course, language suitable for grown ups (not the whiny and/or easily offended kind). I quite like the authors way of describing events whether it is with or without language for grown ups.
The only gripe I have is that sometimes Michael somehow magically shows up at the right spot at the right time so that he can have one of his chats with the right persons that turns out to be essential allies later in the story. Even though this is urban fantasy it is a little to “magical” for me
.
Appart from that I really enjoyed the book. The rest of the series is already downloaded to my tablet.
December 14, 2023
DNF - I must try harder to not buy books by this author. I am not the demographic this is written for. The misogyny is deep, probably unconsciously so, seriously misogynistic to the point of being cheesy to someone on the outside looking in. I laughed out loud inappropriately at "serious" inner-thoughts of the main character. But I remember the first time I laughed was when the book started off with him being annoyed that he had no hair at all, then shortly thereafter did something with his eyebrows.
I don't know how far I got. I tried.
This book is probably popular with guys that live as heroes in their own mind.
Better book blurbs would help direct books to the right demographic and prevent bad reviews - also it would save people money and time from buying the wrong book and getting irritated.
I don't know how far I got. I tried.
This book is probably popular with guys that live as heroes in their own mind.
Better book blurbs would help direct books to the right demographic and prevent bad reviews - also it would save people money and time from buying the wrong book and getting irritated.
April 1, 2022
One word - Awesome!
I loved this book, and the return of Michael just makes my heart so pleased - 'though maybe the ne'er-do-wells that cross him in this story feel quite differently!
But, what they got, and deservedly so, is Justice!
Justice might be cold at heart sometimes, but, when taking down great evil, I guess you need to leave emotions behind, to stay sane and, despite all that he's been through, I find Michael to be very sane - and hot, too! Lol
I always had a thing about Yul Brynner growing up, so find a smooth head quite sexy, myself! Lol
Anyhoo, back to the story while I cool down a little - I love that Justice, and Honour (yes, I'm British, so spell stuff differently), is the focus point in these books.
There seems to be too little of it in our so-called Leaders today, so I find myself enjoying books more, where that is the focus of a story - and love, too.
Michael and Bethany Anne feel like the epitome of real love, where they would sacrifice themselves for the other, if needed but, because they are so bad ass, they prefer to fight for Justice and Honour, and Love, together, side by side!
I'm really excited as to where these books are leading, as Michael waits for a way to get back to Bethany Anne, and I'm loving the new characters being introduced to the fray, too, so will have to see how they develop as Michael's companions.
It's so good to be excited about reading so many awesome berks right now, so I guess I'd better get back to my list, which tells me that book one of Reclaiming Honor,: Justice is Calling, is the next book to be read, chronologically!
I loved this book, and the return of Michael just makes my heart so pleased - 'though maybe the ne'er-do-wells that cross him in this story feel quite differently!
But, what they got, and deservedly so, is Justice!
Justice might be cold at heart sometimes, but, when taking down great evil, I guess you need to leave emotions behind, to stay sane and, despite all that he's been through, I find Michael to be very sane - and hot, too! Lol
I always had a thing about Yul Brynner growing up, so find a smooth head quite sexy, myself! Lol
Anyhoo, back to the story while I cool down a little - I love that Justice, and Honour (yes, I'm British, so spell stuff differently), is the focus point in these books.
There seems to be too little of it in our so-called Leaders today, so I find myself enjoying books more, where that is the focus of a story - and love, too.
Michael and Bethany Anne feel like the epitome of real love, where they would sacrifice themselves for the other, if needed but, because they are so bad ass, they prefer to fight for Justice and Honour, and Love, together, side by side!
I'm really excited as to where these books are leading, as Michael waits for a way to get back to Bethany Anne, and I'm loving the new characters being introduced to the fray, too, so will have to see how they develop as Michael's companions.
It's so good to be excited about reading so many awesome berks right now, so I guess I'd better get back to my list, which tells me that book one of Reclaiming Honor,: Justice is Calling, is the next book to be read, chronologically!
February 28, 2018
The Dark Messiah - a review by Rosemary Kenny
Wow oh wow!!! This amazing book by the wonderful Michael Anderle deserves 10 out 10 stars or more!
It has everything you could wish for in a spectacular sci-fi fantasy - Vampires, like the eponymous Dark Messiah, Michael, awake after 150 years, with the need to once more provide the world with his unique brand of Justice and Honor. Also battles to help Were Gerry save daughter Jacqueline, and Were Nathan, who liaises with Vampires to fight their enemy overlords, the Enforcers.
Into the mix comes a new generation of 'enhanced' Vampire, Valerie, (Bethany Anne's offspring) and her allies, including the police, who take the fight for Justice to the capital and fights against the Nosferatu, (zombie vampires), evil 'father', the Duke and her 'brother' Donovan, in America to seize power, as in France - only Valerie can defeat him.
Up in space Michael's 'wife', Bethany Anne and alien vampires Aiko and Yuko have allied with (human) Mark, who has great tech expertise and can use it to help them help Michael to restore balance and Honor in Europe, by defeating the Duke.
Master of the Kurtherian Gambit Universe Michael has penned the most outstanding, exciting fantasy-thriller I've read so far this year - and probably for more time to come.
So much action and so many thrills take place to keep the eager sci-fi epic reader turning the pages. You'll be up all night - like me!
Wow oh wow!!! This amazing book by the wonderful Michael Anderle deserves 10 out 10 stars or more!
It has everything you could wish for in a spectacular sci-fi fantasy - Vampires, like the eponymous Dark Messiah, Michael, awake after 150 years, with the need to once more provide the world with his unique brand of Justice and Honor. Also battles to help Were Gerry save daughter Jacqueline, and Were Nathan, who liaises with Vampires to fight their enemy overlords, the Enforcers.
Into the mix comes a new generation of 'enhanced' Vampire, Valerie, (Bethany Anne's offspring) and her allies, including the police, who take the fight for Justice to the capital and fights against the Nosferatu, (zombie vampires), evil 'father', the Duke and her 'brother' Donovan, in America to seize power, as in France - only Valerie can defeat him.
Up in space Michael's 'wife', Bethany Anne and alien vampires Aiko and Yuko have allied with (human) Mark, who has great tech expertise and can use it to help them help Michael to restore balance and Honor in Europe, by defeating the Duke.
Master of the Kurtherian Gambit Universe Michael has penned the most outstanding, exciting fantasy-thriller I've read so far this year - and probably for more time to come.
So much action and so many thrills take place to keep the eager sci-fi epic reader turning the pages. You'll be up all night - like me!
December 26, 2019
Michael is back!
I’m a bit late coming to the party with this review but, as they say, better late than never! The Kurtherian Gambit is one of my favourite series. There are times when it is difficult to read since it’s written in American rather than English but I just change the words and sentence structure in my mind as I read. LOL!
But Michael is back. It only took him approximately 150 years but that makes the shock to the baddies even stronger. Bethany Anne is to the forefront of his mind at all times and when he finds a ‘dishonourable’ situation it has to be rectified. It is interesting that sometimes a person you would automatically think to be dishonourable actually isn’t. It was nice to meet Gerry again if only briefly but his daughter is going to be a strong character I can see.
Anyone who has read the main series and wondered just how things worked out on Earth need to read this. I’m looking forward to finding out just how Michael will join up with BA. The thing about MA’s series is that they never seem to run out of steam. I’ve read other authors where it gets to the point that I feel that they are just trying to milk a storyline for as long as they can and I just give up. MA’s books aren’t like that. In fact I’m usually stomping at the bit while waiting for the next book. As you can see I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes sf.
I’m a bit late coming to the party with this review but, as they say, better late than never! The Kurtherian Gambit is one of my favourite series. There are times when it is difficult to read since it’s written in American rather than English but I just change the words and sentence structure in my mind as I read. LOL!
But Michael is back. It only took him approximately 150 years but that makes the shock to the baddies even stronger. Bethany Anne is to the forefront of his mind at all times and when he finds a ‘dishonourable’ situation it has to be rectified. It is interesting that sometimes a person you would automatically think to be dishonourable actually isn’t. It was nice to meet Gerry again if only briefly but his daughter is going to be a strong character I can see.
Anyone who has read the main series and wondered just how things worked out on Earth need to read this. I’m looking forward to finding out just how Michael will join up with BA. The thing about MA’s series is that they never seem to run out of steam. I’ve read other authors where it gets to the point that I feel that they are just trying to milk a storyline for as long as they can and I just give up. MA’s books aren’t like that. In fact I’m usually stomping at the bit while waiting for the next book. As you can see I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes sf.
March 31, 2021
3 The Tree Of Justice Stars
The Dark Messiah is the first book in The Second Dark Ages series by Michael Anderle.
This is precisely second class Michael, the ArchAngel lore. It’s nice and all to have him back, but going the motions to catch him up and reconnect him to Bethany Anne’s forces left on Earth is going to be trying.
I like these new additions to his team. Jacqueline, Gerry’s daughter, is an interesting addition. I’m both sad that Gerry could not survive to see Bethany Anne, and therefore salvation, find Earth again. As I am equally overjoyed that we were introduced to a descendant of his line before he passed. I can’t wait to witness her evolution and figure out where to map her on the BGT scale. (Bethany/Gabrielle/Tabitha)
We’ve only been given glimpses of Yuko and Co. Akio is currently searching Michael out. Hopefully in the next book he will actually catch up to him. Bringing two sides of the same force back together, once again. One step closer to Michael and Bethany Anne being reunited.
Let’s see what kind of devastation Europe deserves, shall we?
The Dark Messiah is the first book in The Second Dark Ages series by Michael Anderle.
This is precisely second class Michael, the ArchAngel lore. It’s nice and all to have him back, but going the motions to catch him up and reconnect him to Bethany Anne’s forces left on Earth is going to be trying.
I like these new additions to his team. Jacqueline, Gerry’s daughter, is an interesting addition. I’m both sad that Gerry could not survive to see Bethany Anne, and therefore salvation, find Earth again. As I am equally overjoyed that we were introduced to a descendant of his line before he passed. I can’t wait to witness her evolution and figure out where to map her on the BGT scale. (Bethany/Gabrielle/Tabitha)
We’ve only been given glimpses of Yuko and Co. Akio is currently searching Michael out. Hopefully in the next book he will actually catch up to him. Bringing two sides of the same force back together, once again. One step closer to Michael and Bethany Anne being reunited.
Let’s see what kind of devastation Europe deserves, shall we?
May 6, 2024
Playing catch-up took me 18 hours of reading (intermittently, over 2 days)...
The time invested was worth it! I wish I'd given in to my initial urge to begin Michael Anderle's series four years ago, but I like not having to wait for the next installment to be printed/released. I did, after all, need to get the all the frivolous rom-coms, hockey fantasy fiction (that became so tedious after just a few) out of my system. I'm seriously hooked. I love reading books with intriguing plotlines that veer off course due to hilariously unpredictable characters with all too familiar instincts for getting into trouble, all while delivering the zaniest, funniest dialogues possible. Having internal debates with EI's and AI's though -- genius!
Michael promises and delivers his reformed version of The Dark Messiah (I would love a look into a brain that can concoct these storylines, characters, and titles, btw), and gives hope to a reunion with BA (hopefully well before another millennia passes). Great offshoot to the original series - brilliant execution! Five stars.
The time invested was worth it! I wish I'd given in to my initial urge to begin Michael Anderle's series four years ago, but I like not having to wait for the next installment to be printed/released. I did, after all, need to get the all the frivolous rom-coms, hockey fantasy fiction (that became so tedious after just a few) out of my system. I'm seriously hooked. I love reading books with intriguing plotlines that veer off course due to hilariously unpredictable characters with all too familiar instincts for getting into trouble, all while delivering the zaniest, funniest dialogues possible. Having internal debates with EI's and AI's though -- genius!
Michael promises and delivers his reformed version of The Dark Messiah (I would love a look into a brain that can concoct these storylines, characters, and titles, btw), and gives hope to a reunion with BA (hopefully well before another millennia passes). Great offshoot to the original series - brilliant execution! Five stars.
March 4, 2018
Anderle/the dark messiah
This is the first time I've read his book. It was very hard to stay with the story because at first of switching back and forth between dialogue, but if you can stay with it and read on,you find out about the who and why of the story. The main character in the story ,is the dark messiah ,named michael. Who was brought back from the apocalypse to earth which had been through it and had change. If you stay with the story line , you find yourself liking the story and look forward to how Michael moved forward in a world that has changed and try to bring order and normalcy and honor back to the people who survived the apocalypse on earth and in the myst of all of this, looking for his one true love Bethany who is also looking for him to help him , and by the way Michael is a vampire. Looking to read the next series to see what happens ,and hoping not as hard to reas.
This is the first time I've read his book. It was very hard to stay with the story because at first of switching back and forth between dialogue, but if you can stay with it and read on,you find out about the who and why of the story. The main character in the story ,is the dark messiah ,named michael. Who was brought back from the apocalypse to earth which had been through it and had change. If you stay with the story line , you find yourself liking the story and look forward to how Michael moved forward in a world that has changed and try to bring order and normalcy and honor back to the people who survived the apocalypse on earth and in the myst of all of this, looking for his one true love Bethany who is also looking for him to help him , and by the way Michael is a vampire. Looking to read the next series to see what happens ,and hoping not as hard to reas.
August 10, 2020
Great beginning book in a series. Well worth the read.
I gave this book a five out of five because it is The best out of the four book series. And the action is phonetic and fast-paced. Michael is Michael the patriarch and he is at his best in this book. His character starts to change and grow and become less Kelly Kelly so do the books in the rest of the series but I enjoyed this one the best. There should’ve been additional books in the series where he end Akio could learn and grow from each other they make a fantastic team. The book is worth reading and it should have more positive reviews. This is my second time reading this book and the first time I reviewed it, it is worth the read and most of the series is worth the read as well. You can tell I’m not a fan boy since I said most of The series. Read it judge for yourself.
I gave this book a five out of five because it is The best out of the four book series. And the action is phonetic and fast-paced. Michael is Michael the patriarch and he is at his best in this book. His character starts to change and grow and become less Kelly Kelly so do the books in the rest of the series but I enjoyed this one the best. There should’ve been additional books in the series where he end Akio could learn and grow from each other they make a fantastic team. The book is worth reading and it should have more positive reviews. This is my second time reading this book and the first time I reviewed it, it is worth the read and most of the series is worth the read as well. You can tell I’m not a fan boy since I said most of The series. Read it judge for yourself.
March 3, 2025
One dimensional characters: especially women (to a degree that it becomes sexist BS at some points). Found myself rolling my eyes quite often at much of the dialogue/ inner monologues (again, especially regarding female characters). There was no suspense in the book really considering the main character is godlike and seemingly indestructible so there was no chance of him losing a fight. It seemed like there was barely any plot and the focus of the book was really just as much carnage as possible but I didn’t realize until after I finished it that even though it’s book 1 of its mini-series, this saga is part of an even larger series so maybe if I had knowledge of those I would have a better understanding of the plot. I don’t think I could bear to read all of them though so I guess I’ll never know.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2025
DNF @ ~30%
This book feels like it's the middle of an existing series, not the start of something. There's also a weird sort of casual sexism, and the main character is instantly overpowered, which lends to the feeling that I'm reading something established already. And maybe I am, this author puts out books at an absurd pace, so there's every chance that this is the continuation of something I never read.
The setting is sort of interesting, and I do enjoy urban fantasy, but the combination of feeling like I had missed the beginning of the story and a general dislike of a character who is - and is expected to be - better than everything he comes up against as a matter of course, rather than having earned it, just encouraged me to put down the book and find something more interesting to read.
This book feels like it's the middle of an existing series, not the start of something. There's also a weird sort of casual sexism, and the main character is instantly overpowered, which lends to the feeling that I'm reading something established already. And maybe I am, this author puts out books at an absurd pace, so there's every chance that this is the continuation of something I never read.
The setting is sort of interesting, and I do enjoy urban fantasy, but the combination of feeling like I had missed the beginning of the story and a general dislike of a character who is - and is expected to be - better than everything he comes up against as a matter of course, rather than having earned it, just encouraged me to put down the book and find something more interesting to read.
May 30, 2017
A cool book...but with a lot of history
You know what it's like to go a party and everyone there seems alright and the music is okay....but you don't really know anyone so while you're not having a "bad" time you're not having a great time either? It's kind of like that...this book is really, really good, the action is tasty the plot moved fast enough even if it is a bit scattered, but if your the kind that needs to feel like you've got fresh stakes to get into a story this book might not be for you. It had the sense of a really great side story or prequel or sequel....but I'd never read one of the other stories so while I was never lost I did have the feeling of being left out or being witness to moment that's not necessarily meant for me.
You know what it's like to go a party and everyone there seems alright and the music is okay....but you don't really know anyone so while you're not having a "bad" time you're not having a great time either? It's kind of like that...this book is really, really good, the action is tasty the plot moved fast enough even if it is a bit scattered, but if your the kind that needs to feel like you've got fresh stakes to get into a story this book might not be for you. It had the sense of a really great side story or prequel or sequel....but I'd never read one of the other stories so while I was never lost I did have the feeling of being left out or being witness to moment that's not necessarily meant for me.
June 9, 2020
OMG! I don't even know where to begin accept that I should have started this book at series #19 of the "The Kurtherian Gambit series" with Bethany Anne. But it's fine, this book's still so freaking good. For those who decided to start the series...you can get started with this Dark Messiah#1 after the Gambit # 17-19. If you didn't or couldn't (like I couldn't) reading after the end of the Gambit series is ok.
Author Michael Anderle, I don't want your wife to be jealous but I freaking love you, your books, your writing styles and the thousands plus curse words you add to your series. lol
BTW! For those who love explicit sex scenes, you will not find those in here or the Gambit series.
Author Michael Anderle, I don't want your wife to be jealous but I freaking love you, your books, your writing styles and the thousands plus curse words you add to your series. lol
BTW! For those who love explicit sex scenes, you will not find those in here or the Gambit series.
October 5, 2023
(Straying from my normal ratings since this is book 1 of a side series. For fans of the world it's a 4 )
Decent and amusing enough entry for a side Kurtherian series
Mix of steam/post apocalyse-p,unk style novel due to something that happens after Bethany Anne takes TQB to space.
Michael has returned through means he still needs to understand, he knows time has passed but not how long nor where his friends are. The world has changed and he has decided to be a wild west esque batman.
We do get one tearful reunion with a mainline character and hints at possible others. I can appreciate the path taken in this exploration of the world.
Only one thing I can't forgive
"Justice Enforcers" ... really?
Audiobook by graphic audio A++ work as always
Decent and amusing enough entry for a side Kurtherian series
Mix of steam/post apocalyse-p,unk style novel due to something that happens after Bethany Anne takes TQB to space.
Michael has returned through means he still needs to understand, he knows time has passed but not how long nor where his friends are. The world has changed and he has decided to be a wild west esque batman.
We do get one tearful reunion with a mainline character and hints at possible others. I can appreciate the path taken in this exploration of the world.
Only one thing I can't forgive
"Justice Enforcers" ... really?
Audiobook by graphic audio A++ work as always
December 18, 2018
I can see why a lot of people give it four stars. The story elements are a lot of fun! Post-apocalyptic, vamps, nano-technology and touch of outer-space. That's a tough combo to pull off and I think he did it very well. But the only reason I don't LOVE it is the story was just a bit narrow for me. Very linear with little to no risk or suspense. Lot's of fun action but the main char was so O.P. it was kind of obvious how things would turn out. I would say it's a YA style but the content was a little too mature to be YA. Overall not-disappointed, but it's 50/50 if I go on to read the second.
August 31, 2019
What a discovery! Can't wait to start reading the main series, the longest one. Had no idea I was jumping in the story that's so developed or better said such a developed universe. It was easy to follow though. Have read book 2 straight after book 1 lol
Now I'm taking a break but not for long. It's an easy read, full of action, the characters are sometimes totally unbelievable or to be honest all the time but I guess this is why I like it haha
Never thought I'd fall for so little meat in the books, at least book 2 was a bit worse than the 1st one. Still loving in though.
Can't wait to read the books the author co-authored with other writers
Now I'm taking a break but not for long. It's an easy read, full of action, the characters are sometimes totally unbelievable or to be honest all the time but I guess this is why I like it haha
Never thought I'd fall for so little meat in the books, at least book 2 was a bit worse than the 1st one. Still loving in though.
Can't wait to read the books the author co-authored with other writers
July 15, 2020
Michael's Return
This must read KU library selection is a continuation of the Kurtherian Gambit, set one, and We Will Build, set two. I interrupted reading set two at 40% after learning of The Second Dark Ages series and it's significance. This book is about Michael, the Patriarch, who was a main character in books 1-9. He is caught in a backpack nuke blast and thrown into the etheric in book nine leaving questions about whether he indeed died. But his love, Bethany Anne, "The Queen Bitch", refused to believe he's gone forever. As did I. And fan of Michael and (impatient) hopeful romantic that I am, I couldn't wait a hundred and fifty of Michael and BA's years to read his books. Now it's on to book two, which I've already checked out of the KU library.
This must read KU library selection is a continuation of the Kurtherian Gambit, set one, and We Will Build, set two. I interrupted reading set two at 40% after learning of The Second Dark Ages series and it's significance. This book is about Michael, the Patriarch, who was a main character in books 1-9. He is caught in a backpack nuke blast and thrown into the etheric in book nine leaving questions about whether he indeed died. But his love, Bethany Anne, "The Queen Bitch", refused to believe he's gone forever. As did I. And fan of Michael and (impatient) hopeful romantic that I am, I couldn't wait a hundred and fifty of Michael and BA's years to read his books. Now it's on to book two, which I've already checked out of the KU library.
December 19, 2017
Pleasantly surprised by this book. Had not heard of the Kurtherian fan base, just saw this recommended somewhere here and picked it up. First I've read of any (ok to pick this up as number 1) and I'll keep going. It's entertaining and moves quickly. It's not trying to be the next great War and Peace and does have tropes that bother some reviewers. But it's fun and definitely worth a read. Generally I avoid post apocalyptic anything or space anything (Urban Fantasy is my genre of choice). I was happy I hadn't let that deter me from picking up this particular one.
June 14, 2018
Finally!!!! I found Michael.
I'm rather slow it would seem in that I'm just now getting back to Michael after he disappeared in a nuclear blast in Colorado. I can only blame Michael Anderle and his crew of very talented authors, as I have been reading various books in the Kurtherian Gambit Universe and the Oriceran Universe. I'm waiting for a book to be released and decided to see what I had missed in the KGU. Hence this series.....very good book, I have the entire series so I will be spending a few days reading. Next book here I come......
I'm rather slow it would seem in that I'm just now getting back to Michael after he disappeared in a nuclear blast in Colorado. I can only blame Michael Anderle and his crew of very talented authors, as I have been reading various books in the Kurtherian Gambit Universe and the Oriceran Universe. I'm waiting for a book to be released and decided to see what I had missed in the KGU. Hence this series.....very good book, I have the entire series so I will be spending a few days reading. Next book here I come......
August 12, 2023
He’s baaaaack!
It’s about time Michael decided out he needed to get himself back to Earth. Even if it is with no hair!! Oh my! Once he finally makes it back to the base in Colorado he is surprised to see it deserted. Finding the supplies and the note left by Bethany Anne he is once more turned loose on the world. Just with a bit more patience than Michael 1.0.
Now with Jennifer, a young Were, and Mark, a young vampire, they set out for Europe to dispatch a Foresaken…who happens to be his grandson.
This is going to get very interesting.
It’s about time Michael decided out he needed to get himself back to Earth. Even if it is with no hair!! Oh my! Once he finally makes it back to the base in Colorado he is surprised to see it deserted. Finding the supplies and the note left by Bethany Anne he is once more turned loose on the world. Just with a bit more patience than Michael 1.0.
Now with Jennifer, a young Were, and Mark, a young vampire, they set out for Europe to dispatch a Foresaken…who happens to be his grandson.
This is going to get very interesting.
December 25, 2016
Holy Messiah Batman!
Bravo! Michael! I am really pumped about the next book. I was excited to finally be able to start delving into the who Michael is at his core and boy, did you deliver. If you haven't already been reading the TKG series well you should, but if you haven't don't worry about not being able to follow the story. You will love it. Welcome to the Kurtherian Universe.
Bravo! Michael! I am really pumped about the next book. I was excited to finally be able to start delving into the who Michael is at his core and boy, did you deliver. If you haven't already been reading the TKG series well you should, but if you haven't don't worry about not being able to follow the story. You will love it. Welcome to the Kurtherian Universe.
December 31, 2017
Can’t get enough
I’ve been trying to read this series and side series as they came out originally but it is a little difficult. And I’m trying really hard to not go through and read spoilers or the end of the books to find out when Michael and Bethany Anne get back to each other. It’s really difficult. I just can’t get enough of these characters and this world that has been created.
I’ve been trying to read this series and side series as they came out originally but it is a little difficult. And I’m trying really hard to not go through and read spoilers or the end of the books to find out when Michael and Bethany Anne get back to each other. It’s really difficult. I just can’t get enough of these characters and this world that has been created.
March 2, 2018
Excellent!
While there is a lot I could say: Yay! Michael made it and he’s back!
Even though his instinct is to kill all who are unjust, his actions are tempered a little, as he knows Bethany Anne only approves of killing when it is deserved. This is good, as his actions are more honorable as a result.
There are several new characters introduced too and I’m looking forward to seeing how things work out for all of them.
While there is a lot I could say: Yay! Michael made it and he’s back!
Even though his instinct is to kill all who are unjust, his actions are tempered a little, as he knows Bethany Anne only approves of killing when it is deserved. This is good, as his actions are more honorable as a result.
There are several new characters introduced too and I’m looking forward to seeing how things work out for all of them.
January 30, 2019
The Dark Messiah Kicks Butt!
Finally, a story where Michael, the original vampire is back & in true Kick Butt & To Heck With The Names form! His focus on Honor & Justice is totally in line with his history and beliefs. It is such a pleasure to see him in action. I'm also very much looking forward to seeing how his two New companions will work out & how their character & personality will develop. Awesome start to a great New story ark! Keep up the great work Michael!! :)
Finally, a story where Michael, the original vampire is back & in true Kick Butt & To Heck With The Names form! His focus on Honor & Justice is totally in line with his history and beliefs. It is such a pleasure to see him in action. I'm also very much looking forward to seeing how his two New companions will work out & how their character & personality will develop. Awesome start to a great New story ark! Keep up the great work Michael!! :)
April 12, 2020
Brilliant and emotional
Michael Anderle, you are a genius!! The emotions experienced in this book went from one end of the scale to the other. Never in all the books I have read, was I so extremely happy to have the return of a main character. Now, we see justice served once again, whilst the search of how to get to his love is on.
Now to download and read the next book in this series.
Michael Anderle, you are a genius!! The emotions experienced in this book went from one end of the scale to the other. Never in all the books I have read, was I so extremely happy to have the return of a main character. Now, we see justice served once again, whilst the search of how to get to his love is on.
Now to download and read the next book in this series.
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