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Tsun-Tsun TzimTzum #2
The Hindering Ones
My name's Noah Kilmartin. I'm from Ruddock, Ohio, and I'm about 85% unqualified to save the universe from the slavering demonic hordes of the super evil bitch queen Lilith.
But I haven't failed yet.
Somehow I've passed the five trials, accumulated a team of powerful companions, and made it through the portal into Ghogiel. It feels like I've done so much already, but truth is, I'm just getting started. A whole universe lies before me, chock full of Lilith's followers and demons, and it's my job to not only find my way to her personal realm, but do so without losing my sanity, morality, or any of my companions.
Wish me luck. I'm going to need it.
Warning and minor spoilers: "The Hindering Ones" is an 18+ book intended for mature readers. It contains graphic sex, medieval violence, and nudity.
Listening Length: 30 hours and 48 minutes
But I haven't failed yet.
Somehow I've passed the five trials, accumulated a team of powerful companions, and made it through the portal into Ghogiel. It feels like I've done so much already, but truth is, I'm just getting started. A whole universe lies before me, chock full of Lilith's followers and demons, and it's my job to not only find my way to her personal realm, but do so without losing my sanity, morality, or any of my companions.
Wish me luck. I'm going to need it.
Warning and minor spoilers: "The Hindering Ones" is an 18+ book intended for mature readers. It contains graphic sex, medieval violence, and nudity.
Listening Length: 30 hours and 48 minutes
31 pages, Audible Audio
First published June 18, 2019
354 people are currently reading
196 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
July 7, 2019
The first book had a lot of promise, but there was also a lot standing in its way that I hoped might be addressed in this book. Unfortunately, this book doubles down on what I didn't like in the first book and because of that, I stopped reading about a third of the way in.
The primary issue for me is the protagonist. In the first book, I thought he went a bit too far beyond sympathetic loser to the point where he was more in the category of pathetic, and that only doubles down here. Where he should be learning and growing from his trials, becoming surer of himself and worthy with every chapter, instead we still have the snivelling little wimp who won't stand up for himself, won't make a decision and is just unlikeable.
The second massive issue is Brielle who is just flat out unlikeable. This was also true in the first book but I thought that the author might have taken the opportunity of having both the protagonist and Brielle alone together to work this out. Instead, Brielle has doubled down on her poisonous ways while the protagonist doubles down on his snivelling awe of her just because she's pretty...
** Side note and Mini rant! -- The stereotype that a down on his luck loser or basically any guy with a penis will become a complete moron around any pretty woman who is in his vicinity might just be the most annoying and overused stereotype in the world. Men can indeed be stupid around pretty women, but as with all things in life, there are limits. A gorgeous woman who treats you like shit will soon learn that her looks will only get her so far. A hateful shrew is repugnant to everyone no matter what she looks like, and every time I read about a protagonist bending over backwards to impress someone who is so horrible just because of physical attraction drives me mad. Please, authors of the world, get over this. It's just not believable. Sorry about that. Back to the review **
Overall, this book just wasn't for me and though I feel like there's a lot of fun still to be had in this series, I'm bowing out.
The primary issue for me is the protagonist. In the first book, I thought he went a bit too far beyond sympathetic loser to the point where he was more in the category of pathetic, and that only doubles down here. Where he should be learning and growing from his trials, becoming surer of himself and worthy with every chapter, instead we still have the snivelling little wimp who won't stand up for himself, won't make a decision and is just unlikeable.
The second massive issue is Brielle who is just flat out unlikeable. This was also true in the first book but I thought that the author might have taken the opportunity of having both the protagonist and Brielle alone together to work this out. Instead, Brielle has doubled down on her poisonous ways while the protagonist doubles down on his snivelling awe of her just because she's pretty...
** Side note and Mini rant! -- The stereotype that a down on his luck loser or basically any guy with a penis will become a complete moron around any pretty woman who is in his vicinity might just be the most annoying and overused stereotype in the world. Men can indeed be stupid around pretty women, but as with all things in life, there are limits. A gorgeous woman who treats you like shit will soon learn that her looks will only get her so far. A hateful shrew is repugnant to everyone no matter what she looks like, and every time I read about a protagonist bending over backwards to impress someone who is so horrible just because of physical attraction drives me mad. Please, authors of the world, get over this. It's just not believable. Sorry about that. Back to the review **
Overall, this book just wasn't for me and though I feel like there's a lot of fun still to be had in this series, I'm bowing out.
September 4, 2019
Wow! Very long and very detailed book! I wonder if the author has been responding to the praise for his other series (Rise of the Shadow Rogue) as the MC is starting to act (or mature) like Kellik does in terms of how he interacts with people in this world.
The positives are apparent, this is a very fully fleshed out fantasy epic which really delivers on the action, despite how long it is. Truk shows an amazing ability to hold interest during exposition and world building which has been further improved on since the last book. The descriptions of the world are very powerful and suck you into 'feeling like you are there' for the entire length of the book.
The problem is that this charming, out of nowhere fantasy harem has lost some of it's original charm along the way. Luckily not too many new characters have been introduced and the author has chosen to build on those we already know, but now everything is so dark and mature, the interactions seemed to have lost their 'spark'. It isn't bad writing, but I was feeling less and less invested in characters I used to be attached to in the previous book because of the heavy mood that hangs over the entire book.
That being said, I think some characters such as Brielle, haven't actually been handled well as concepts. The bitchy princess in the last book, now just acts like a bitchy wife, and it's fairly draining having to read her constantly antagonistic dialogue. The fact that Noah has grown some balls from the last book and gives it straight back to her hasn't made it anymore fun to read.
This being said I'm still very much interested in this series and this author, as Mike Truk has shown an ability to always make stories fascinating even when flawed.
The positives are apparent, this is a very fully fleshed out fantasy epic which really delivers on the action, despite how long it is. Truk shows an amazing ability to hold interest during exposition and world building which has been further improved on since the last book. The descriptions of the world are very powerful and suck you into 'feeling like you are there' for the entire length of the book.
The problem is that this charming, out of nowhere fantasy harem has lost some of it's original charm along the way. Luckily not too many new characters have been introduced and the author has chosen to build on those we already know, but now everything is so dark and mature, the interactions seemed to have lost their 'spark'. It isn't bad writing, but I was feeling less and less invested in characters I used to be attached to in the previous book because of the heavy mood that hangs over the entire book.
That being said, I think some characters such as Brielle, haven't actually been handled well as concepts. The bitchy princess in the last book, now just acts like a bitchy wife, and it's fairly draining having to read her constantly antagonistic dialogue. The fact that Noah has grown some balls from the last book and gives it straight back to her hasn't made it anymore fun to read.
This being said I'm still very much interested in this series and this author, as Mike Truk has shown an ability to always make stories fascinating even when flawed.
Want to read
March 9, 2019Has this 2nd book been released yet? Don’t see it available on Amazon. Thanks
May 20, 2020
Never have I seen such a gross mismatch between raw writing talent and utter storyboarding incompetency.
The prose is simply beautiful at times. Descriptions of scenery and action are not only gripping but paint an intensely lively world that draws in even the most impatient reader. When the book gets going, the intensity will leave you on the edge of your hammock.
However, characters and consistency make the book a difficult recommendation. People either seem to have multiple personalities between which they randomly flip, or hold steadfast to a single personality and undergo absolutely zero character development. For instance, the main character will deliver rousing speeches one moment, fumble over his words the next, then go immediately to a smooth talker one page over. Several of the companions shrug off events that normally spur some internal or external change, merrily continuing on like a meat trolley stuck on the rails of thoughtless writing.
More subjectively speaking, most characters range from somewhat dislikable to downright despicable -- unintentionally. It's not a book with a typical main character insert, nor is the main character anyone wishes to be. If you can manage to ignore the main character entirely, then you may be able to stomach reading further. Then again, it's not like the other characters are any better. Many of them are tropes that go nowhere, and exist simply to remind the reader of the painful experience that is reading this book.
I think this book is fundamentally misclassified as a harem. Most books of this sort are power fantasies with insertable, or at least tolerable, main characters and willing women. Without going into spoilery detail**(see spoiler section for details), this book does not fit the criteria above. Calling it a harem is like calling the show Friends a harem. I wouldn't blame you if this book turned you off the genre, or even reading altogether. But before you go, please give it another shot with an author that doesn't seem like (s)he is out to violate the Geneva convention on human torture.
[[SPOILERS]]
One woman occasionally rapes him to gain power, one woman detests him, one refuses altogether, another would rather spend her time fantasizing about her dead boyfriend than do anything intimate with him, leaving one woman anyone could even consider a borderline member of a harem. What do we call a harem with 1 member in it? At some level I don't really care if a book is a harem or not, but if you buy a ticket to an action movie and you get a horror show, you'd be baffled too.
Despite what I've said, this book is valuable in one respect. The next time you read something truly insufferable, something vile, a legitimate literary abomination, you'll be able to remember back and say "Boy, at least it isn't Tsun Tsun TzimTzum".
And that's a gift unto itself.
The prose is simply beautiful at times. Descriptions of scenery and action are not only gripping but paint an intensely lively world that draws in even the most impatient reader. When the book gets going, the intensity will leave you on the edge of your hammock.
However, characters and consistency make the book a difficult recommendation. People either seem to have multiple personalities between which they randomly flip, or hold steadfast to a single personality and undergo absolutely zero character development. For instance, the main character will deliver rousing speeches one moment, fumble over his words the next, then go immediately to a smooth talker one page over. Several of the companions shrug off events that normally spur some internal or external change, merrily continuing on like a meat trolley stuck on the rails of thoughtless writing.
More subjectively speaking, most characters range from somewhat dislikable to downright despicable -- unintentionally. It's not a book with a typical main character insert, nor is the main character anyone wishes to be. If you can manage to ignore the main character entirely, then you may be able to stomach reading further. Then again, it's not like the other characters are any better. Many of them are tropes that go nowhere, and exist simply to remind the reader of the painful experience that is reading this book.
I think this book is fundamentally misclassified as a harem. Most books of this sort are power fantasies with insertable, or at least tolerable, main characters and willing women. Without going into spoilery detail**(see spoiler section for details), this book does not fit the criteria above. Calling it a harem is like calling the show Friends a harem. I wouldn't blame you if this book turned you off the genre, or even reading altogether. But before you go, please give it another shot with an author that doesn't seem like (s)he is out to violate the Geneva convention on human torture.
[[SPOILERS]]
One woman occasionally rapes him to gain power, one woman detests him, one refuses altogether, another would rather spend her time fantasizing about her dead boyfriend than do anything intimate with him, leaving one woman anyone could even consider a borderline member of a harem. What do we call a harem with 1 member in it? At some level I don't really care if a book is a harem or not, but if you buy a ticket to an action movie and you get a horror show, you'd be baffled too.
Despite what I've said, this book is valuable in one respect. The next time you read something truly insufferable, something vile, a legitimate literary abomination, you'll be able to remember back and say "Boy, at least it isn't Tsun Tsun TzimTzum".
And that's a gift unto itself.
August 11, 2019
Hmmm...
I guess the next volume didn't live up to my expectations.
As usual, the dialogue ws just perfect. As usual the narrator freaking kills it.
I enjoyed the intrigue, mind you. Some of it was foreseeable, but I didn't mind.
The philosophical argument was interesting, some good points were raised, by both parties. The nature of the sphere of Goghiel was quite well implemented.
But,
I'm starting to loose interest in the story itself, though. Midway through the story, I started feeling like like I was reading an Isekai version of Dragon Ball Z.
The author abused Power of Friendship, Super Mode and Evil Gloating, and that just spoiled it for me.
In as much as I like the human dynamics the author has created, they seem to exist for their own sake now, and not as much as support for an actual "story". So at this stage, I'm uncertain if I'll pick up the next book.
I probably will if Leo Barnabas is still reading it though.
I guess the next volume didn't live up to my expectations.
As usual, the dialogue ws just perfect. As usual the narrator freaking kills it.
I enjoyed the intrigue, mind you. Some of it was foreseeable, but I didn't mind.
The philosophical argument was interesting, some good points were raised, by both parties. The nature of the sphere of Goghiel was quite well implemented.
But,
I'm starting to loose interest in the story itself, though. Midway through the story, I started feeling like like I was reading an Isekai version of Dragon Ball Z.
The author abused Power of Friendship, Super Mode and Evil Gloating, and that just spoiled it for me.
In as much as I like the human dynamics the author has created, they seem to exist for their own sake now, and not as much as support for an actual "story". So at this stage, I'm uncertain if I'll pick up the next book.
I probably will if Leo Barnabas is still reading it though.
June 23, 2019
Really wanted to give this one four stars but I just couldn't. The big plot reveal of the villain's identity at the end was blatantly obvious and something of a let-down and while I applaud the fact that the author's working to make Brielle a complex character, she sadly comes across as a poison-tongued harpy for a large percentage of the book, with her only redeeming dialog finally coming in the last chapter.
There's a few glaring errors too that slipped through the proofreading process where they are correctly spelled words but are the WRONG words, either words of similar sounds (sew and sow as a grievous example) or a completely different word than the author intended. This does lead to several moments of having to scratch your head and decipher what the author actually intended to say.
There's a few glaring errors too that slipped through the proofreading process where they are correctly spelled words but are the WRONG words, either words of similar sounds (sew and sow as a grievous example) or a completely different word than the author intended. This does lead to several moments of having to scratch your head and decipher what the author actually intended to say.
June 25, 2019
What a journey
I seriously love these books. Mr. Truk, please write them faster. Can't wait to see what Noah and companies adventures take them.
I seriously love these books. Mr. Truk, please write them faster. Can't wait to see what Noah and companies adventures take them.
June 28, 2019
Normally I really like long stories, and I like how this series combines Dark Fantasy with some elements of the Cultivation genre.
But man oh man, it is just painful to spend that much time slogging through a story when its arc and "twists" are so blindingly obvious.
But man oh man, it is just painful to spend that much time slogging through a story when its arc and "twists" are so blindingly obvious.
July 2, 2019
I find that I'm really enjoying Mike Truk's writing, and this is another solid book. The character development is significant, both in type and effect on the story, and I felt that it flowed very well.
That said, Noah to me seems unsuited psychologically to the realities of what he must do, but I'm sure that's the whole point. Finding the operational level of ruthlessness required to accomplish the mission is a careful balancing act, and we can see how without his entire team Noah struggles with that balance.
Plotting from the points provided by the first two books, the remainder of the fight against Lilith will be a study of various psychological and emotional pressures placed on Noah and his Companions. This is tricky to negotiate without descending into maudlin "I love you" "I love you more" stuff that I see in too many of these harem stories. Everything at this point gives the indication of avoiding that trap, so I look forward to the next book and hope that I'm right.
That said, Noah to me seems unsuited psychologically to the realities of what he must do, but I'm sure that's the whole point. Finding the operational level of ruthlessness required to accomplish the mission is a careful balancing act, and we can see how without his entire team Noah struggles with that balance.
Plotting from the points provided by the first two books, the remainder of the fight against Lilith will be a study of various psychological and emotional pressures placed on Noah and his Companions. This is tricky to negotiate without descending into maudlin "I love you" "I love you more" stuff that I see in too many of these harem stories. Everything at this point gives the indication of avoiding that trap, so I look forward to the next book and hope that I'm right.
June 19, 2019
The story continues to grow and improve.
I received a advance copy of this book for a honest review. The author has done a good job in telling his story in his way. The characters are interesting and the development of the characters is very interesting. The MC has started to really develop into a strong character and has started to take charge of the group by exploring the unique powers of the bond the Savior has with his companions. The world the characters are in is a harsh dark world that tests the team's goodness and ability to trust each other and work together. Overall it was a excellent book and I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
I received a advance copy of this book for a honest review. The author has done a good job in telling his story in his way. The characters are interesting and the development of the characters is very interesting. The MC has started to really develop into a strong character and has started to take charge of the group by exploring the unique powers of the bond the Savior has with his companions. The world the characters are in is a harsh dark world that tests the team's goodness and ability to trust each other and work together. Overall it was a excellent book and I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
June 25, 2019
Excellent read
Obviously a talented writer with an amazingly expansive imagination. The world and the characters are very well written. Looking forward to more in the series.
Obviously a talented writer with an amazingly expansive imagination. The world and the characters are very well written. Looking forward to more in the series.
October 21, 2019
Purchased E-Book, and have zero affilations.
Technical stuff first;
The book is long in length and while there are some small issues with proof reading, I did not find them to detract from the story. The structure and pacing of the book is done well and Mike Truk (as I have said in previous reviews) has the ability to write to a very high standard in this regard. Mike presents plenty of detail and description which allows the reader to be drawn into this world.
My bias;
I read and heavily criticized book 1 of “Tsun-Tsun TzimTzum” and had originally decided not to read this second book. However, after reading Mike’s other “Shadow Rogue” series (I am a firm believer in giving authors a second chance), I decided I would revisit this series and picked up the second book.
All that said;
Mike is a talented author but has again committed several critical mistakes with this novel. Primary among them is the protagonist who crosses the line from sympathetic to just pathetic, reeling from one ‘I messed up, I’ll do better’ to another with prodigious pace, before committing the same mistakes again and repeating the cycle with almost zero personal development.
Noah (said protagonist) is so pathetic, whiny and emotional that even his situation, being surrounded by a ‘harem’ (more on this later) of five beautiful women whom (via story) he is required to consistently bed, is not enough to make anyone want to be anything close to in his shoes. I also had a chance to listen to about a chapter of the audiobook, the voice actor reading the novel makes these issues worse by over-acting them emotional side of things.
The ‘harem’ consists of 5 skilled and talented women whom with the exception of 1 (maybe 2 depending on interpretation) would not touch, romance or even befriend Noah (not that I blame them) if circumstances didn’t force the issue, stating as much to his face. They (again with the exception of 1 or 2) range from open hostility towards their ‘Savior” to cold, dispassionate and outright rejecting the idea of ‘bonding’ (read sex) with him, despite the fate of the all creation being held in the balance (he is literally that pathetic).
Because of these factors, I find that I don’t care about Noah or his companions. I don’t sympathize with him, because he is portrayed as someone who would breakdown when confronted with pressures and difficulties of choosing dinner from a combo menu. That is unless he gets mad, in which case he ‘flips’ makes decisions (some of them good) and his pathetic nature is delayed by a page or two until he calms down and ‘flops’.
The overall story (aside from the main protagonist, some of his companions and about half of the support cast) is well though out. The world (or sphere in this case) is a clever design, smartly constructed and fairly original. The survival aspects of the story are on point and make sense within the authors world. There are a few plot holes, and the “surprise villainy twist” was fairly evident within two chapters of being introduced. Though they were generally well portrayed and written.
The emotional turmoil in this book woefully overdone, like really overdone. I cannot help but feel this novel would be half its size if Mike Truk had not focused so heavily on the ‘emotions’ of the character. Some is good, and can create buy-in with characters, too much, especially when combined with pathetic heroes and detestable supporting cast (again not all of these were bad), just makes the reader angry.
Conclusion;
2 Stars.
+2 for the technical skill involved.
+2 for the world building.
+2 for the pacing and length of the novel.
-3 for the completely WORTHLESS protagonist and his flip/flop wishy/washy pathetic self.
-1 for the ‘emotions’ being so overdone that they make day-time soap operas seem like a technical documentary.
I hope that Mike Truk continues to write, he has the talent to create some truly interesting stories. By the same token, I hope that in the future he focuses more on good character development and world building (leaving the emotional dilemmas and interpretations of their meaning to the readers). That being said, I have serious doubts if I will buy book 3. I read for enjoyment and excitement, this series just leaves me feeling annoyed and angry at the characters (and not in a good way).
Technical stuff first;
The book is long in length and while there are some small issues with proof reading, I did not find them to detract from the story. The structure and pacing of the book is done well and Mike Truk (as I have said in previous reviews) has the ability to write to a very high standard in this regard. Mike presents plenty of detail and description which allows the reader to be drawn into this world.
My bias;
I read and heavily criticized book 1 of “Tsun-Tsun TzimTzum” and had originally decided not to read this second book. However, after reading Mike’s other “Shadow Rogue” series (I am a firm believer in giving authors a second chance), I decided I would revisit this series and picked up the second book.
All that said;
Mike is a talented author but has again committed several critical mistakes with this novel. Primary among them is the protagonist who crosses the line from sympathetic to just pathetic, reeling from one ‘I messed up, I’ll do better’ to another with prodigious pace, before committing the same mistakes again and repeating the cycle with almost zero personal development.
Noah (said protagonist) is so pathetic, whiny and emotional that even his situation, being surrounded by a ‘harem’ (more on this later) of five beautiful women whom (via story) he is required to consistently bed, is not enough to make anyone want to be anything close to in his shoes. I also had a chance to listen to about a chapter of the audiobook, the voice actor reading the novel makes these issues worse by over-acting them emotional side of things.
The ‘harem’ consists of 5 skilled and talented women whom with the exception of 1 (maybe 2 depending on interpretation) would not touch, romance or even befriend Noah (not that I blame them) if circumstances didn’t force the issue, stating as much to his face. They (again with the exception of 1 or 2) range from open hostility towards their ‘Savior” to cold, dispassionate and outright rejecting the idea of ‘bonding’ (read sex) with him, despite the fate of the all creation being held in the balance (he is literally that pathetic).
Because of these factors, I find that I don’t care about Noah or his companions. I don’t sympathize with him, because he is portrayed as someone who would breakdown when confronted with pressures and difficulties of choosing dinner from a combo menu. That is unless he gets mad, in which case he ‘flips’ makes decisions (some of them good) and his pathetic nature is delayed by a page or two until he calms down and ‘flops’.
The overall story (aside from the main protagonist, some of his companions and about half of the support cast) is well though out. The world (or sphere in this case) is a clever design, smartly constructed and fairly original. The survival aspects of the story are on point and make sense within the authors world. There are a few plot holes, and the “surprise villainy twist” was fairly evident within two chapters of being introduced. Though they were generally well portrayed and written.
The emotional turmoil in this book woefully overdone, like really overdone. I cannot help but feel this novel would be half its size if Mike Truk had not focused so heavily on the ‘emotions’ of the character. Some is good, and can create buy-in with characters, too much, especially when combined with pathetic heroes and detestable supporting cast (again not all of these were bad), just makes the reader angry.
Conclusion;
2 Stars.
+2 for the technical skill involved.
+2 for the world building.
+2 for the pacing and length of the novel.
-3 for the completely WORTHLESS protagonist and his flip/flop wishy/washy pathetic self.
-1 for the ‘emotions’ being so overdone that they make day-time soap operas seem like a technical documentary.
I hope that Mike Truk continues to write, he has the talent to create some truly interesting stories. By the same token, I hope that in the future he focuses more on good character development and world building (leaving the emotional dilemmas and interpretations of their meaning to the readers). That being said, I have serious doubts if I will buy book 3. I read for enjoyment and excitement, this series just leaves me feeling annoyed and angry at the characters (and not in a good way).
November 25, 2022
Protagonists’ stupidity and obvious villain ruins a decent read
It continues right after the events of the first book, training is over and the journey officially begins to reach the main antagonist, Lilith. The group needs to traverse through an almost dead planet to reach Lilith’s world.
So, the protagonists, Noah, overcame many trials and tribulations during his training in the first book. Noah made many mistakes, but it was understandable, considering his situation. However, he continues to make the same mistakes, claiming that he will do otherwise. He is surrounded by strangers (aliens, pretty much), and continues to trust them and then betrayed. Noah is told by several people that Lilith will use subtle means to try to corrupt everyone, but has no problem to continue to trust people (except, one of his companions).
Which, bring us to the obvious villain. As soon as this character was mentioned, and how that person was described and revered. Everyone trusted that person, even, Imogen, which was supposed to be the smart one from the group. I stopped reading, and just skipped towards the betrayal part, because there was no point reading further if I already knew the conclusion for that character.
I was hoping Noah to become wiser, but highly disappointed. Noah’s situations are ‘sink or swim,’ and he usually sinks. However, due to plot armor, he survives and continues swimming. The book could just end by Lilith sending Noah beautiful women and seduce him.
It continues right after the events of the first book, training is over and the journey officially begins to reach the main antagonist, Lilith. The group needs to traverse through an almost dead planet to reach Lilith’s world.
So, the protagonists, Noah, overcame many trials and tribulations during his training in the first book. Noah made many mistakes, but it was understandable, considering his situation. However, he continues to make the same mistakes, claiming that he will do otherwise. He is surrounded by strangers (aliens, pretty much), and continues to trust them and then betrayed. Noah is told by several people that Lilith will use subtle means to try to corrupt everyone, but has no problem to continue to trust people (except, one of his companions).
Which, bring us to the obvious villain. As soon as this character was mentioned, and how that person was described and revered. Everyone trusted that person, even, Imogen, which was supposed to be the smart one from the group. I stopped reading, and just skipped towards the betrayal part, because there was no point reading further if I already knew the conclusion for that character.
I was hoping Noah to become wiser, but highly disappointed. Noah’s situations are ‘sink or swim,’ and he usually sinks. However, due to plot armor, he survives and continues swimming. The book could just end by Lilith sending Noah beautiful women and seduce him.
August 5, 2020
A Long V-e-r-y Long Book 2
Unlike most harem fantasy novelists, Mike Truk does not use sex as the main attraction to his storyline. He really writes a fun, action packed, sometimes gory, but we'll detailed adventure. Book 2 in this series is picks up well from the first book but fair warning, it sometimes seems as messy overkill in getting through the middle third of the or so of this leg of the companions journey. Though I like the character build of the team of companions, the hero (Noah) to me is developed with inconsistencies. Too many "fucks" i.e. and immaturity of presence to lead a team of warriors. I catch myself rolling my eyes and re-read in my mind what feels right to me. But that's just me. I like where the story has taken me and have purchased book 3. It should continue to be fun.
Unlike most harem fantasy novelists, Mike Truk does not use sex as the main attraction to his storyline. He really writes a fun, action packed, sometimes gory, but we'll detailed adventure. Book 2 in this series is picks up well from the first book but fair warning, it sometimes seems as messy overkill in getting through the middle third of the or so of this leg of the companions journey. Though I like the character build of the team of companions, the hero (Noah) to me is developed with inconsistencies. Too many "fucks" i.e. and immaturity of presence to lead a team of warriors. I catch myself rolling my eyes and re-read in my mind what feels right to me. But that's just me. I like where the story has taken me and have purchased book 3. It should continue to be fun.
January 31, 2021
Much better than the first book
This one dragged for long stretches, feeling quite depressing and hopeless, which made it a hard read, but that was advertised as the main point of the story from the first book. It took forever to get the rewarding sexy bits and into the meat of the story, but was tense and exciting the whole way through, with a very good ending that definitely let me wanting to read the next book. It made me sad how poor the first book was in this series, particularly the first half of it, as I almost quit reading it a few times. I got the first 3 books for free, and think the author was smart doing that. After finishing this one I feel like the story is still only really just getting started. I will review the 3rd book as I can, and if it's as good as this will very likely start buying into the series.
This one dragged for long stretches, feeling quite depressing and hopeless, which made it a hard read, but that was advertised as the main point of the story from the first book. It took forever to get the rewarding sexy bits and into the meat of the story, but was tense and exciting the whole way through, with a very good ending that definitely let me wanting to read the next book. It made me sad how poor the first book was in this series, particularly the first half of it, as I almost quit reading it a few times. I got the first 3 books for free, and think the author was smart doing that. After finishing this one I feel like the story is still only really just getting started. I will review the 3rd book as I can, and if it's as good as this will very likely start buying into the series.
August 17, 2021
Kind of tough to read
Not sure if I'm reading the same book as others who claimed there was some character development. Brielle remains an awful person and character, constantly belittling the MC and sometimes others as well, even up til the very end. Seems like she's going to be even worse on their next journey. I find myself skipping through pages whenever I see her name. No one really grows, the MC claims to learn from his mistakes but constantly makes foolish decisions. We get no backstory as to why these women seem so broken. Kinda boring and old to have them act so weak, especially since four out of his five women would absolutely destroy him in a fight. Also the book was a bit too long and seemed dragged out. I'll give the next book a small chance but if it's this all over again with no actual growth I think I'll pass on this series
Not sure if I'm reading the same book as others who claimed there was some character development. Brielle remains an awful person and character, constantly belittling the MC and sometimes others as well, even up til the very end. Seems like she's going to be even worse on their next journey. I find myself skipping through pages whenever I see her name. No one really grows, the MC claims to learn from his mistakes but constantly makes foolish decisions. We get no backstory as to why these women seem so broken. Kinda boring and old to have them act so weak, especially since four out of his five women would absolutely destroy him in a fight. Also the book was a bit too long and seemed dragged out. I'll give the next book a small chance but if it's this all over again with no actual growth I think I'll pass on this series
June 17, 2020
I have a love/hate relationship with this book. Great writing & the characters are well developed while being interesting. Imogen is consistently the coolest here, but man Noah starts to be incredibly annoying & stupid at times. He is obviously being corrupted the entire time bit by bit, and it took it being rubbed in his nose for him to see it. However, it doesn't really detract from the book since it makes sense based on Ghogiel's attributes and the way the corruption works. Still it's incredibly frustrating at time "I didn't keep it in my pants and now we are screwed" 20 minutes later "I can't wait to do it with someone I have only known for a short time."
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 16, 2020
A classic in the making
Wow...this book took me forever to get through. And that isn't saying that it is hard to read. It is just really long. But it is worth the read. Amazing story, amazing character development, and the twists, while somewhat predictable, still kept enough surprises that you were still left going "DAMN!" when the reveal takes place. I immensely recommend this book. And this series. I have a ton of other books I need to get caught up on now that I am finally done with this one, but #3 is waiting for me. And I can't wait to see what happens next.
Wow...this book took me forever to get through. And that isn't saying that it is hard to read. It is just really long. But it is worth the read. Amazing story, amazing character development, and the twists, while somewhat predictable, still kept enough surprises that you were still left going "DAMN!" when the reveal takes place. I immensely recommend this book. And this series. I have a ton of other books I need to get caught up on now that I am finally done with this one, but #3 is waiting for me. And I can't wait to see what happens next.
September 2, 2025
This one really takes off and comes into its own. The MC here does begin to grow and evolve if you stick with it. The butting heads with Brielle is difficult and I can see how it would turn people off of continuing. I find it incredibly refreshing and satisfying seeing them grow and come closer even through all the horrific trauma and darkness.
This is where I stopped the series, not for lack of interest but because I know it's unfinished. When I have a less monstrous TBR, or when some news hits that the author is still working on it, I would gladly come back.
This is where I stopped the series, not for lack of interest but because I know it's unfinished. When I have a less monstrous TBR, or when some news hits that the author is still working on it, I would gladly come back.
February 24, 2020
Mind Blowing, Edge of Your Seat Style Suspense!
What ... A .... Ride! I mean wow, action, intrigue, heartache, growth, acceptance, betrayal, a nice dash of "SPICE" all culminate to bring a truly unique story to life. The fun doesn't stop for Noah and gang as they battle the forces of Lilith in the daunting realm of Ghogiel! I am on pins and needles waiting for the release of the 3rd book in this Epic series!!!
What ... A .... Ride! I mean wow, action, intrigue, heartache, growth, acceptance, betrayal, a nice dash of "SPICE" all culminate to bring a truly unique story to life. The fun doesn't stop for Noah and gang as they battle the forces of Lilith in the daunting realm of Ghogiel! I am on pins and needles waiting for the release of the 3rd book in this Epic series!!!
June 12, 2020
Outstanding
The second book in this series rocked! Noah and his team fight their way across an inhospitable environment, making allies and being tested, as to who they are. Limits corruption twists their paths and seaming friends turn into traitorous enemies. But through it all they hold to the source and each other to battle their way through multiple tests and trials. This is an excellent series I strongly recommend that you read it!
The second book in this series rocked! Noah and his team fight their way across an inhospitable environment, making allies and being tested, as to who they are. Limits corruption twists their paths and seaming friends turn into traitorous enemies. But through it all they hold to the source and each other to battle their way through multiple tests and trials. This is an excellent series I strongly recommend that you read it!
October 17, 2021
MC naiveite and stupidity and lust makes the journey in Gogiel quite the jarring ordial. Plotwise not very deep and quite see through. The biggest thing positivity in this is the mc's growth, which happens very slowly because he is an idiot. The book is grim and cyclical in format. It made me quite tired in multiple parts. so I had to muster myself to read it.
It does have good things. Most characters are good. The evil is multilayered
It does have good things. Most characters are good. The evil is multilayered
February 17, 2020
Excellent Book
This is a wonderful story filled with action, adventure, plots, fights, betrayals and sex we follow our hero, Noah, on his quest to get to the Black Tower and the portal inside. The interactions between the characters can be intense. The world-building is first rate. This is a fun read.
This is a wonderful story filled with action, adventure, plots, fights, betrayals and sex we follow our hero, Noah, on his quest to get to the Black Tower and the portal inside. The interactions between the characters can be intense. The world-building is first rate. This is a fun read.
June 26, 2019
Well written and enjoyable. Sex scenes not required so can be skipped if not your thing. Finished in 3 days. Sometimes a bit predictable, but the author has thrown in enough twists or unexpected bits that it kept me engaged and not skipping sections. Will read next in series.
February 3, 2021
An amazing book with a plot twist that was hard to see and harder to feel. A lot of emphasis on character development in this book with quite a bit of growth in strength to the protagonist. An excellent book by Mike Truk overall.
August 28, 2021
Great addition
This book proves to be an excellent addition to an already gripping story. I welcome the increased length and detail provided, with each character believable strengths and inner demons. Wonderful!
This book proves to be an excellent addition to an already gripping story. I welcome the increased length and detail provided, with each character believable strengths and inner demons. Wonderful!
April 13, 2023
The story falls into two parts - first the mc with Brielle then the other part when they meet Victor. The world is very dystopian. The author makes it too easy to spot the bad guy so you wait for half a book until even the MC finally get who the bad one is. I hate watching stupids.
September 11, 2019
3.5 to maybe 4 stars, not as good as the first book but still good.
February 18, 2020
Great.
I loved this book and can't wait for number 3. The writing was excellent and the story riveting. Hope it comes soon.
I loved this book and can't wait for number 3. The writing was excellent and the story riveting. Hope it comes soon.
February 19, 2020
What a great book!
Improves on the first book and really goes in a fun direction. Sexy and dark with evil and great pacing all the way through.
Improves on the first book and really goes in a fun direction. Sexy and dark with evil and great pacing all the way through.
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