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Second Age of Retha #2
The Desperate Quest: A MMORPG and LitRPG Online Adventure
Chronicles of Retha was meant to be a full submersion video game filled with adventure and magic…but it has become a prison.
Kit and her party of misfit players have managed to collect two of the four seals that are required to face Malignus—Retha’s ultimate villain whose defeat may be the only way out of the game. Unfortunately for Kit—who is stuck playing as a defective elf dancer—the quest only grows more difficult.
The remaining seals are hidden in areas of Retha that Kit and her low-leveled party can’t fight through. Even worse, they will need to unite other players and guilds to face Malignus--an unlikely event as riots have spread across the game world.
Unwilling to give up, Kit and her party band together with Solus Miles—one of the best players in the game—and throw everything they have against Malignus.
But is their strength enough, or will Retha be their end?
Kit and her party of misfit players have managed to collect two of the four seals that are required to face Malignus—Retha’s ultimate villain whose defeat may be the only way out of the game. Unfortunately for Kit—who is stuck playing as a defective elf dancer—the quest only grows more difficult.
The remaining seals are hidden in areas of Retha that Kit and her low-leveled party can’t fight through. Even worse, they will need to unite other players and guilds to face Malignus--an unlikely event as riots have spread across the game world.
Unwilling to give up, Kit and her party band together with Solus Miles—one of the best players in the game—and throw everything they have against Malignus.
But is their strength enough, or will Retha be their end?
316 pages, Paperback
Published March 19, 2019
187 people are currently reading
237 people want to read
About the author
A.M. Sohma
5 books346 followersAuthor by day, but a hunter (or very frazzled cleric) by night, A. M. Sohma is a lover of books, video games, and sweet armor sets. She aims to write entertaining stories with relatable characters, and spends her days lurking in libraries or wasting time on the internet.
If you want to waste time with her, find her at amsohma.com!
If you want to waste time with her, find her at amsohma.com!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
May 15, 2023
Kit and her band of misfits are back, and I couldn’t be happier! These characters have officially stolen my heart and I love them all so, so much! Even Solus Miles who I didn’t have much of an opinion on in the first book. 🥰😍🥰😍🥰😍 I also like Luther’s addition to our tight knit group even if he was a pain to begin with. 😂
The stakes and humor grow higher and I love how detailed this “fantasy” world is even though it’s only a video game—the worldbuilding for this series is top notch! 👌 And then there’s of course a giant spider because what’s a fantasy series without a giant spider? And the end battle was INTENSE but oh so good!
Back to Solus Miles (who I really didn’t get much of a firm grasp on in the first book), I really feel as if I was let in more on his character and really grew to like him a lot. And the ending in his POV… 😭💔 I felt SO bad and sad for him as I sense he’s got a really deep wound that keeps him so aloof and separate from everyone. He’s still a huge mystery, but I already love him. And his blunt humor is just THE BEST. Can I borrow it sometime?
I’m so excited for the third book I’ve already started it, lol!!!!!
‼️Content‼️
Language: heck; what the heck; screwing off; dang; arse; crappy; crud; gee; hellhole; hell (to describe a situation); perverted; darn it
Violence: fighting with weapons and magic (not detailed); monsters attack characters; giant spiders attack characters
Sexual: a guy flirts with a girl; Kit’s dancer outfit bares her middle
Drug/Alcohol: characters are accidentally poisoned
Other: magic; magical races, creatures, objects, and abilities; characters in a video game are “killed” and “die” to immediately come back to life; characters are trapped inside a video game; a bad guy is a necromancer and uses dark magic; a character is “cursed”
The stakes and humor grow higher and I love how detailed this “fantasy” world is even though it’s only a video game—the worldbuilding for this series is top notch! 👌 And then there’s of course a giant spider because what’s a fantasy series without a giant spider? And the end battle was INTENSE but oh so good!
Back to Solus Miles (who I really didn’t get much of a firm grasp on in the first book), I really feel as if I was let in more on his character and really grew to like him a lot. And the ending in his POV… 😭💔 I felt SO bad and sad for him as I sense he’s got a really deep wound that keeps him so aloof and separate from everyone. He’s still a huge mystery, but I already love him. And his blunt humor is just THE BEST. Can I borrow it sometime?
I’m so excited for the third book I’ve already started it, lol!!!!!
‼️Content‼️
Language: heck; what the heck; screwing off; dang; arse; crappy; crud; gee; hellhole; hell (to describe a situation); perverted; darn it
Violence: fighting with weapons and magic (not detailed); monsters attack characters; giant spiders attack characters
Sexual: a guy flirts with a girl; Kit’s dancer outfit bares her middle
Drug/Alcohol: characters are accidentally poisoned
Other: magic; magical races, creatures, objects, and abilities; characters in a video game are “killed” and “die” to immediately come back to life; characters are trapped inside a video game; a bad guy is a necromancer and uses dark magic; a character is “cursed”
December 8, 2017
Enjoyable sequel, looking forward to more
I enjoyed the first book in this series for the silliness - a lead character of an elf dancer that hates her character stuck in game and unable to escape - as is everyone else on the server.
I read the first book a few months so, so the brief recap at the beginning was appreciated but not overdone. The reference to Kit's elf ears first was an amusing homage to Legolas, but soon grew tired from repetition.
The first half of the book seemed slow, a gradual build to the racing finale. The mix of level grinding and strategy to succeed was well done without becoming tedious. The interplay between characters shows how relationships can develop between strangers online to turn them to friends. Well done, I'll be watching for the next book in the series and more from this author.
I enjoyed the first book in this series for the silliness - a lead character of an elf dancer that hates her character stuck in game and unable to escape - as is everyone else on the server.
I read the first book a few months so, so the brief recap at the beginning was appreciated but not overdone. The reference to Kit's elf ears first was an amusing homage to Legolas, but soon grew tired from repetition.
The first half of the book seemed slow, a gradual build to the racing finale. The mix of level grinding and strategy to succeed was well done without becoming tedious. The interplay between characters shows how relationships can develop between strangers online to turn them to friends. Well done, I'll be watching for the next book in the series and more from this author.
Read
April 3, 2024Another fun installment in the series! On to Book 3!
January 1, 2018
Both this and The Luckless made me realize something kind of important - MMORPGs always sound like a lot of fun to me, but I don't think I'd survive in them.
THE DESPERATE QUEST is the continuation of Kitten Lovemuch (aka Kit) and her band of sometimes merry, but mostly cheerfully bickering band of fellows as they try to find a way to log out of EC. I found it fascinating to watch as Kit layered strategy after strategy on to defeat monsters and bosses above their various levels. She kept dying, and receiving few skills that SOUND useful, but she truly had a tactician's mind as she continued to find ways to make it all work.
The addition of Luther (a surly, level 71 Monk) and increased presence of Solus Miles kept the group from becoming too comfortable. Since in-game time moved swifter than real life, these people have now spent "weeks" together as their characters which has done a lot to bolster their ability to work together.
This book concluded the first part of the story - the fight against Malignus, with books 3 & 4 (scheduled for Spring 2018 release) being the second part and one presumes the continued quest on how everyone is restored to real life.
I'm not above stating that I sincerely hope Solus Miles and Kit manage to be friends outside of the game as well. As Sohma is an alter-ego for an author I really love (K.M. Shea, she of the MBRC books) I'm mostly hopeful I'll get some romance.
THE DESPERATE QUEST is the continuation of Kitten Lovemuch (aka Kit) and her band of sometimes merry, but mostly cheerfully bickering band of fellows as they try to find a way to log out of EC. I found it fascinating to watch as Kit layered strategy after strategy on to defeat monsters and bosses above their various levels. She kept dying, and receiving few skills that SOUND useful, but she truly had a tactician's mind as she continued to find ways to make it all work.
The addition of Luther (a surly, level 71 Monk) and increased presence of Solus Miles kept the group from becoming too comfortable. Since in-game time moved swifter than real life, these people have now spent "weeks" together as their characters which has done a lot to bolster their ability to work together.
This book concluded the first part of the story - the fight against Malignus, with books 3 & 4 (scheduled for Spring 2018 release) being the second part and one presumes the continued quest on how everyone is restored to real life.
I'm not above stating that I sincerely hope Solus Miles and Kit manage to be friends outside of the game as well. As Sohma is an alter-ego for an author I really love (K.M. Shea, she of the MBRC books) I'm mostly hopeful I'll get some romance.
September 10, 2023
Fun sequel, I like the characters.
August 20, 2018
Kit had not logged into Chronicles of Retha since her old guild, Milk Crown, was disbanded. Her cousin Bruce, as a joke hacked her account, creating the most ridiculous character, a dancer elf, and ensured her reputation was hated and shunned by all factions. It may have been funny, if not for a corruption error that occurred on the server trapping her and hundreds of others in game. She has been told of a means to log out, the completion if an epic world storyline, but with her ridiculous appearance no one will take her seriously. She and her group fight against the odds, trying to complete the quest and get others to believe them for when they are ready. This world event is epic, no one on this server has completed it, and without the support of others it seems she herself has little chance. Bad stats, bad reputation, and impossible odds, but she had never been one to take the easy path, and now is no exception.
The Desperate Quest is book two in Second Age of Retha by A. M. Sohma. It is only now, as I added this, that I realised this was actually the second book otherwise I would have started with the first. The fact that I didn't feel I had missed anything is a testament to the author's skill to create self-contained storylines. Kit makes a brilliant party leader and how refreshing it is for a LitRPG's main character to be a support character rather than a tank or DPS. This was a really fun story to follow, the epic quest for the seals alongside the characters own development and rising tension as time trapped in the game extends. From exploration to battle this book has a lot to offer, it is well paced, enjoyable, and unique. I can't wait to see what happens in the next book.
The Desperate Quest is book two in Second Age of Retha by A. M. Sohma. It is only now, as I added this, that I realised this was actually the second book otherwise I would have started with the first. The fact that I didn't feel I had missed anything is a testament to the author's skill to create self-contained storylines. Kit makes a brilliant party leader and how refreshing it is for a LitRPG's main character to be a support character rather than a tank or DPS. This was a really fun story to follow, the epic quest for the seals alongside the characters own development and rising tension as time trapped in the game extends. From exploration to battle this book has a lot to offer, it is well paced, enjoyable, and unique. I can't wait to see what happens in the next book.
April 6, 2024
Yay! Finally getting around to writing a review for this one! I really don't know where to start. You know how there are those authors that, as soon as they finish a new book, you buy it immediately? This author, K.M. Shea (or A.M. Sohma) is one of those for me. Seriously, I barely read the book description, it's just an automatic download thing for me. It's been amazing watching her grow as an author with each book she writes. Her Second Age of Retha series is a deviation from her usual fairy tale/fantasy books, but they are some of my favorite books she's written so far!
This is the second book in the series, and the action is definitely upped a notch. The author has done a fantastic job of explaining the gaming language without beating you over the head with reminders every chapter. It just dives right in, but is still completely understandable even if you aren't that much of a gamer (like me). No spoilers, but I will say I was pleasantly surprised by the ending of this one. Normally, the author's endings don't really take me by surprise. Which is not a bad thing, I don't read this author's books for their smash bang endings. What draws me to K.M. Shea's books are the characters, their hilarious banter, and the wonderful journeys they go on. This book is no exception. I loved watching these characters adapt to seemingly impossible situations within the game, and of course, getting to explore the world of the game itself! I was always really fascinated at how Kit strategized around her and her groups supposed shortcomings. The battle at the end of this one is probably one of my favorite she has written. I really had no idea how they were going to accomplish what they were trying to do, but the resolution of it was very clever and unique.
Overall, this is a super fun, light read that I could not put down. Definitely recommend, if that's what you're looking for!
(Also, all of her books are very clean, so good to read, no matter the age group.)
This is the second book in the series, and the action is definitely upped a notch. The author has done a fantastic job of explaining the gaming language without beating you over the head with reminders every chapter. It just dives right in, but is still completely understandable even if you aren't that much of a gamer (like me). No spoilers, but I will say I was pleasantly surprised by the ending of this one. Normally, the author's endings don't really take me by surprise. Which is not a bad thing, I don't read this author's books for their smash bang endings. What draws me to K.M. Shea's books are the characters, their hilarious banter, and the wonderful journeys they go on. This book is no exception. I loved watching these characters adapt to seemingly impossible situations within the game, and of course, getting to explore the world of the game itself! I was always really fascinated at how Kit strategized around her and her groups supposed shortcomings. The battle at the end of this one is probably one of my favorite she has written. I really had no idea how they were going to accomplish what they were trying to do, but the resolution of it was very clever and unique.
Overall, this is a super fun, light read that I could not put down. Definitely recommend, if that's what you're looking for!
(Also, all of her books are very clean, so good to read, no matter the age group.)
November 24, 2019
It ended...and I was not happy. Because it ended. Moaning aside, I really liked this book. A.M Sohma/her other identity has done it again--produced a wonderful book that is clean, entertaining, and an adventure to read. I love Kit (of course) and Vic (a girl after my own heart), and all the other characters. The world-building is still wonderful, the plot is still interesting, and I am still amazed that AM Sohma can have so many different stories/story lines in her head at one time, and that she is able to get them on paper so fast. While I feel very unhappy I have to wail until spring for this book (okay, I'd be unhappy if I had to wait a day for the next book, but still...), I am also grateful because no other author I know produces as many good books as she does as fast as she does. Let's see...specific details about the book that aren't spoilers:
Kit is a wonderful, sarcastic character with excellent leadership abilities who is easy to relate to.
Riko is an entertaining hoarder with excellent magic abilities
Prowl is highly sarcastic (and therefore highly entertaining...does anyone see a theme here?), loyal, and his and Riko's relationship is a lot of fun to read about.
Cookie--sweet, slightly violent girl in Kit's band with everyone else, friend to Vic. Reminds me that opposite personalities make good friends, not that I need reminding. Her and Vic's banter is fun to read.
Gil: Sweet Southern (as you can tell from the manners) Crusader. Counters the highly sarcastic personalities of the group.
Luther: I didn't like Luther. Even once he did get past his pubescent qualities.
Solus Miles: I wanted to know what he thought at the end...that's ALL I really wanted...no such look. Anyway, Miles is sarcastic, an interesting balance to Kit, and a character I want to know more about.
The Book in general: Ten out of five stars! I loved it!
Kit is a wonderful, sarcastic character with excellent leadership abilities who is easy to relate to.
Riko is an entertaining hoarder with excellent magic abilities
Prowl is highly sarcastic (and therefore highly entertaining...does anyone see a theme here?), loyal, and his and Riko's relationship is a lot of fun to read about.
Cookie--sweet, slightly violent girl in Kit's band with everyone else, friend to Vic. Reminds me that opposite personalities make good friends, not that I need reminding. Her and Vic's banter is fun to read.
Gil: Sweet Southern (as you can tell from the manners) Crusader. Counters the highly sarcastic personalities of the group.
Luther: I didn't like Luther. Even once he did get past his pubescent qualities.
Solus Miles: I wanted to know what he thought at the end...that's ALL I really wanted...no such look. Anyway, Miles is sarcastic, an interesting balance to Kit, and a character I want to know more about.
The Book in general: Ten out of five stars! I loved it!
September 27, 2017
Well, if you have read the first book (and I'm assuming you have, because what reason would you have to jump into a series at part 2?), then I expect you are here to find out if the series takes a nose-dive in the second book, or if it's worth continuing on with Kit's adventure. The short answer is, yes, it is absolutely worth continuing, so pick up book 2! And if, for some reason, you find yourself in possession of this book, but haven't read the first, it does take a little time to summarize previous events. Personally, I find that superfluous. Honestly, the books are so short that not only is a recounting of events unnecessary, but I'd hope that when the series is complete, a single-volume edition might make an appearance.
Anyway, not only did this book continue excellently from where the first left off, but I feel that without the need for as much setup and explanation of the game world and jargon (which most of us who would have an interest in this genre already understand), the second book easily surpasses the first. "The Desperate Quest" is easily at least as funny as "The Luckless", possibly more so. The characters receive a bit more development, although for the most part, the story is pretty much dialogue with little to no backstory or world building. Again, this is done extremely well, and I doubt anyone reading this is going to feel like there were missed opportunities. I don't like to include anything resembling a spoiler in my reviews, so I will simply say that I was surprised and impressed by the ending of this part of the story. I wasn't expecting the ending (although to be fair, I'm not the sort of person who tries to predict coming events, unless the story is being way too obvious about it), and it's going to be a rough wait for Second Age of Retha #3.
Anyway, not only did this book continue excellently from where the first left off, but I feel that without the need for as much setup and explanation of the game world and jargon (which most of us who would have an interest in this genre already understand), the second book easily surpasses the first. "The Desperate Quest" is easily at least as funny as "The Luckless", possibly more so. The characters receive a bit more development, although for the most part, the story is pretty much dialogue with little to no backstory or world building. Again, this is done extremely well, and I doubt anyone reading this is going to feel like there were missed opportunities. I don't like to include anything resembling a spoiler in my reviews, so I will simply say that I was surprised and impressed by the ending of this part of the story. I wasn't expecting the ending (although to be fair, I'm not the sort of person who tries to predict coming events, unless the story is being way too obvious about it), and it's going to be a rough wait for Second Age of Retha #3.
July 8, 2019
Yes, I read this book in one day. It's an A.M. Sohma (better known under her K.M. Shea name) book.
While I'm not a gamer by any means, I still enjoyed both this book and the first one in the series. The main characters are stuck in a virtual reality game and have to go through all sorts of game-related levels and adventures to get out. It is hilariously funny, and I can't wait for the next book in this series.
The only thing I wasn't sure I liked was some of the ending. I have a feeling the next book is going to be a bit bitter sweet as some of the main characters from the first two books might not be returning in later books. I've grown really attached to all of them!
Re-read review: Reading it the second time shortly after the release of the third book, I think I liked it even better the second time! I certainly liked the ending better. So good and I love this series!
While I'm not a gamer by any means, I still enjoyed both this book and the first one in the series. The main characters are stuck in a virtual reality game and have to go through all sorts of game-related levels and adventures to get out. It is hilariously funny, and I can't wait for the next book in this series.
The only thing I wasn't sure I liked was some of the ending. I have a feeling the next book is going to be a bit bitter sweet as some of the main characters from the first two books might not be returning in later books. I've grown really attached to all of them!
Re-read review: Reading it the second time shortly after the release of the third book, I think I liked it even better the second time! I certainly liked the ending better. So good and I love this series!
August 24, 2018
Basically the same review as the previous book ;)
I know quite a few people are saying that these books don't really seem to have real stakes, but I think this one becomes quite gripping at times so... It probably depends on how engaged you are in the book.
I will be quite disappointed though if K.M. Shea (A.M. Sohma whatever) leaves half the cast out of the next book though. I think it'd start to fall flat without them.
Anyway, good stuff. Fun quick read
I know quite a few people are saying that these books don't really seem to have real stakes, but I think this one becomes quite gripping at times so... It probably depends on how engaged you are in the book.
I will be quite disappointed though if K.M. Shea (A.M. Sohma whatever) leaves half the cast out of the next book though. I think it'd start to fall flat without them.
Anyway, good stuff. Fun quick read
September 14, 2020
The second book in the Second Age of Retha was so good! I am even deeper in love with this series, and I especially loved seeing a little bit more of Solus Miles. A very brooding and mysterious knight. I don’t often use the word brooding, but that word definitely describes Miles. He was definitely a fun addition to the party especially with his obsession for leveling which Kit is not pleased with.
“The Desperate Quest” is the second book in the Second Age of Retha series about a girl named Kit who is stuck in a full immersion game. Her only hope is to beat the ultimate villain in the game with the help of Solus Miles who is one of the best players and a ragtag group of low level players. Unfortunately, Kit is stuck in an elf dancing character that is basically useless, and who makes her look like a total newbie. This does not impress the many other guilds and players that Kit needs to unite to get out of the game. She has to work with her team and Solus Miles to find a way to bring everyone together and defeat the villain before it’s too late.
This was such a good book! You get to see the whole gang again with a new character, Luther, who has even more snark and bite than Prowl and Axel. But, at the end of the book, you really warm up to him. It was definitely hysterical watching the rest of the gang interact with him. I loved seeing Riko and Prowl’s interactions as well. Their banter is so funny, and even in the midst of battle, they love to go at each other. Riko’s obsession with money is also hilarious especially when she tries to push Kit to Solus Miles because he’s rich.
The action was also really interesting. I liked how she balanced the fact that they are in a bad situation, but they’re also in a video game. It was definitely a different view from the fantasy adventure books I mainly read. Even if they die, they’ll just be respawned, but at the same time, there is always a sense of urgency because they need to get out. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who wants a funny, clean, and awesome book. I know that it is a video game story, but I think that even non-gamers can enjoy it.
“The Desperate Quest” is the second book in the Second Age of Retha series about a girl named Kit who is stuck in a full immersion game. Her only hope is to beat the ultimate villain in the game with the help of Solus Miles who is one of the best players and a ragtag group of low level players. Unfortunately, Kit is stuck in an elf dancing character that is basically useless, and who makes her look like a total newbie. This does not impress the many other guilds and players that Kit needs to unite to get out of the game. She has to work with her team and Solus Miles to find a way to bring everyone together and defeat the villain before it’s too late.
This was such a good book! You get to see the whole gang again with a new character, Luther, who has even more snark and bite than Prowl and Axel. But, at the end of the book, you really warm up to him. It was definitely hysterical watching the rest of the gang interact with him. I loved seeing Riko and Prowl’s interactions as well. Their banter is so funny, and even in the midst of battle, they love to go at each other. Riko’s obsession with money is also hilarious especially when she tries to push Kit to Solus Miles because he’s rich.
The action was also really interesting. I liked how she balanced the fact that they are in a bad situation, but they’re also in a video game. It was definitely a different view from the fantasy adventure books I mainly read. Even if they die, they’ll just be respawned, but at the same time, there is always a sense of urgency because they need to get out. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who wants a funny, clean, and awesome book. I know that it is a video game story, but I think that even non-gamers can enjoy it.
January 28, 2023
Better than second. I wish there was more interaction between FMC and MMC. Maybe in the next book.
November 14, 2017
Review en Castellano porque estoy demasiado emocionada como para ponerme a traducir. (y soy muy perezosa)
Recomendado para: todos los que aprecien una lectura repleta de humor, batallas intensas, personajes inteligentes (¿sabéis lo raro que es encontrar libros donde los personajes reflexionan racionalmente?) y variados. Ah y unos toques de romance sano y limpio (vamos, "clean romance" o no detalles gráficos).
Reseña:
Una secuela de nivel, a lo que ya en su momento fue un libro fantástico. A. M. Sohma tiene la maravillosa habilidad de construir un relato que rezuma inteligencia e ironía. No solo los diálogos son refrescantes y están escritos con gracia (cosa que tristemente hoy en día se ve poco), sino que también las escenas que se plantean rebosan de ingenio:
Por otro lado, se nota que hay un interés por que la historia mantenga su coherencia. La importancia de "levear" a los personajes y de utilizar una buena estrategia de batalla es clave, y si fuese de otra manera, la historia perdería (creo) parte de su interés. Como saben las personas que han jugado a juegos de rol, resulta muchas veces agotador y largo reforzar a los personajes,
En fin, este libro (junto con el primero) has sido un descubrimiento para mí. Lo único que no me gusta es que tengo que esperar meses hasta poder continuar la historia. Al menos la espera hará que disfrute más cuando pueda leer el siguiente.
Sólo me queda expresar un último deseo: ojalá se publicase en España traducido y en papel. Es uno de esos libros que releería una y otra vez, hojearía, dejaría a otras personas e intentaría convencer al mundo entero que se lo tiene que leer.
Laura
Recomendado para: todos los que aprecien una lectura repleta de humor, batallas intensas, personajes inteligentes (¿sabéis lo raro que es encontrar libros donde los personajes reflexionan racionalmente?) y variados. Ah y unos toques de romance sano y limpio (vamos, "clean romance" o no detalles gráficos).
Reseña:
Una secuela de nivel, a lo que ya en su momento fue un libro fantástico. A. M. Sohma tiene la maravillosa habilidad de construir un relato que rezuma inteligencia e ironía. No solo los diálogos son refrescantes y están escritos con gracia (cosa que tristemente hoy en día se ve poco), sino que también las escenas que se plantean rebosan de ingenio:
Por otro lado, se nota que hay un interés por que la historia mantenga su coherencia. La importancia de "levear" a los personajes y de utilizar una buena estrategia de batalla es clave, y si fuese de otra manera, la historia perdería (creo) parte de su interés. Como saben las personas que han jugado a juegos de rol, resulta muchas veces agotador y largo reforzar a los personajes,
En fin, este libro (junto con el primero) has sido un descubrimiento para mí. Lo único que no me gusta es que tengo que esperar meses hasta poder continuar la historia. Al menos la espera hará que disfrute más cuando pueda leer el siguiente.
Sólo me queda expresar un último deseo: ojalá se publicase en España traducido y en papel. Es uno de esos libros que releería una y otra vez, hojearía, dejaría a otras personas e intentaría convencer al mundo entero que se lo tiene que leer.
Laura
May 24, 2022
Kit and her new friends are still stuck in the video game, Chronicles of Retha. This is one book where you really do need to read the series in order. Book 1, The Luckless, leaves the characters halfway through with their quest to defeat Malignus. The Desperate Quest picks up where Luckless left off, finishing this quest.
I loved: Kit's sense of humor and snark, getting to know Solus Miles, and watching the ways that Kit and her team could work together to outsmart the game against all odds. I have reread the ending of this book at least 3 times!
The pacing of this book was a little slow for me. I found out that the series will have 4 books, and that helps me set my expectations better. I am excited that there are two books left, because I do want more (desperately), and I am not ready to leave Retha yet.
Whether you are into video games or not, I think this is a great series. The setting really comes to life, and I could relate to the characters. I especially love Kit with her snark and sense of humor. I can't wait to see what the rest of the series brings!
Content: clean (no language, no kissing, video game action/violence)
I loved: Kit's sense of humor and snark, getting to know Solus Miles, and watching the ways that Kit and her team could work together to outsmart the game against all odds. I have reread the ending of this book at least 3 times!
The pacing of this book was a little slow for me. I found out that the series will have 4 books, and that helps me set my expectations better. I am excited that there are two books left, because I do want more (desperately), and I am not ready to leave Retha yet.
Whether you are into video games or not, I think this is a great series. The setting really comes to life, and I could relate to the characters. I especially love Kit with her snark and sense of humor. I can't wait to see what the rest of the series brings!
Content: clean (no language, no kissing, video game action/violence)
January 23, 2019
The second book in the Second Age of Retha was even better than the first one. It took all that was great with the first book and added more of it, which was exactly what I wanted. The same cast is back and they add some more characters to their crew that I liked just as much, there is a little more Solus Miles (although still not enough), the world is expanded upon and the plot make some real progress (something I've found is semi rare in litrpg).
The book ends on a real cliffhanger and I'm excited to see where it goes from here.
The book ends on a real cliffhanger and I'm excited to see where it goes from here.
January 18, 2019
Disappointing heterosexual.
Sorry, but it was. I really liked it apart from that, the growth of characters and how the rest of the community were finally starting to listen.
Solus Miles was there, and he grew on me by not being a utter prat this time. A little slow about who Kit was (Come on man! Use your head!), but equally determined to help the group level up and lend a helping hand.
Kit's skills continued to be hilarious, and just picturing her bouncing and spinning while everyone else fights for their lives is enjoyable. Her luck is so, so bad, but she powers on anyway which I really liked. More of a leader this time, finally accepted her role and acted on it.
The characters continue to be great. Riko teaching the newer members how to turn over a joint for the most expensive items, that new monk being an arse but stepping up for the group against the (gross gross gross) spiders. And Vic's fiendish delight at burning them was so so accurate.
Loved the finally battle, and all the players that were desperate to get out. I was wondering what happened if you had medical complications, so I'm glad this was addressed.
But yeah, it bothered me that pretty much everyone was so neatly matched up? And all straight couples as well, which irked me a little. Well, a lot. I also though that Cookie was a lot younger than Prowl so he needed to back off... I just would have liked to see just a bit more diversity.
I will still be reading the next one, obviously. :)
Sorry, but it was. I really liked it apart from that, the growth of characters and how the rest of the community were finally starting to listen.
Solus Miles was there, and he grew on me by not being a utter prat this time. A little slow about who Kit was (Come on man! Use your head!), but equally determined to help the group level up and lend a helping hand.
Kit's skills continued to be hilarious, and just picturing her bouncing and spinning while everyone else fights for their lives is enjoyable. Her luck is so, so bad, but she powers on anyway which I really liked. More of a leader this time, finally accepted her role and acted on it.
The characters continue to be great. Riko teaching the newer members how to turn over a joint for the most expensive items, that new monk being an arse but stepping up for the group against the (gross gross gross) spiders. And Vic's fiendish delight at burning them was so so accurate.
Loved the finally battle, and all the players that were desperate to get out. I was wondering what happened if you had medical complications, so I'm glad this was addressed.
But yeah, it bothered me that pretty much everyone was so neatly matched up? And all straight couples as well, which irked me a little. Well, a lot. I also though that Cookie was a lot younger than Prowl so he needed to back off... I just would have liked to see just a bit more diversity.
I will still be reading the next one, obviously. :)
July 12, 2020
Kitten Lovemuch - saviour of Retha? For a character with a truly improbably ridiculous avatar, the real-life Kit has managed within the limitations of her avatar to achieve something everyone else in the Retha game thought impossible - defeat what everyone (except the gamemasters) thought to be the end boss monster. That got her improvised raid group out of the glitched game, but now she has to get everyone online out. That means that she has to unite as many players as possible and lead them to take on the ultimate evil bad guy. If she can't, everyone online dies unable to leave the game. No pressure, right? Fortunately, she has the most skillful, well-renowned of royal knights supporting her and following her lead. And bonus, he happens to be darned easy on the eyes and rich. Not bad for an accidental husband. I cannot decide if Kitten has horribly bad or horribly inconveniently good luck - all I know is that the author has given us a character who, despite self-doubt, profound limitations and really annoying circumstances, still takes a stand to do what is right and because of her ridiculous appearance, inspires others to step up. This is a textbook case of not judging a book by its cover.
January 25, 2023
8/10 - I liked the first book, but I really enjoyed this second book. They are great clean fun. And I would feel comforable recommending them to anyone (any age, male or female) who enjoys fantasy. My biggest pet peeve is the cover art!! Kit (the MC) is stuck in a full emersion type of game "Chronicles of Retha" as lowly elf dancer (lowest and most despised of the suppor characters), that being the case her character is forced to wear a skimmpy outfit. I get that the illustrator was making the covers authentic, but Seriously?!?! Despite this being a squeaky clean fun read, I feel really weird recommending a book series to people when the girl is half naked on all the covers. 🤦♀️ Sorry, enough with the rant.
I am not a gamer – Mario Kart and Nancy Drew are the extent of my gaming expirence – but I am enjoying this series. I would imagine that it would be even more fun and enjoyable for a reader who actually plays video games.
I am not a gamer – Mario Kart and Nancy Drew are the extent of my gaming expirence – but I am enjoying this series. I would imagine that it would be even more fun and enjoyable for a reader who actually plays video games.
March 22, 2025
Felt pretty much exactly the same about this installment as the first - writing style is simplistic and tends to get bogged down in technical MMORPG lingo and descriptions, but overall the story is fun and very quick. The overall plot structure is great, although since there isn't much tension until the end because they're in a video game (other than the much larger scale tension that is the fact that they're stuck), I think the story would have really benefitted from more tension and relationship building between the characters. The flip side is sometimes there's a lot of tension and some weird decisions where there shouldn't be because they're in a video game. Specifically, it's weird that most people stuck in the game aren't willing to try the big quest; there's literally no reason not to whether they believe her or not. This is particularly inexplicable for the MMC, and that decision just makes him super unlikable. Still it moves fast and was hard to put down.
April 13, 2023
wow - definitely a huge rise from #1 to #2. The fellowship develops a very nice team dynamic between the members, the addition of the monk is fine and the part between Kit and Miles is just wonderful to see. The quest is good.
Also the tension at the end of the book was well written - I couldn't put the book away even if it was WAYYY after my time - but I wouldn't have slept anyway if i didn't know how the second book ends.
Only little drawback was the end - the game companies actions and the helpless GMs don't really make sense for me. If the GMs are only needed to heal Kit's reputation with the different parties then it would have been enough to explain that as the outcome to slay the big evil servant.
Anyway - this book is a lot tighter than the first one and I recommend it!
Also the tension at the end of the book was well written - I couldn't put the book away even if it was WAYYY after my time - but I wouldn't have slept anyway if i didn't know how the second book ends.
Only little drawback was the end - the game companies actions and the helpless GMs don't really make sense for me. If the GMs are only needed to heal Kit's reputation with the different parties then it would have been enough to explain that as the outcome to slay the big evil servant.
Anyway - this book is a lot tighter than the first one and I recommend it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 20, 2020
The Desperate Quest is even better than the first book.
The Desperate Quest is above all else a fun read that consistently made me smile. It is packed full of humorous quips, banter and wonderful interactions between the characters.
Speaking of characters: The Desperate Quest is filled to the brim with interesting characters with unique personalities. Their personalities are clearly on display in all of their actions, whether it is in the middle of a battle or while they are resting at a campsite. The main character Kit is absolutely amazing, She is intelligent, funny and a great leader!
A.M. Sohma's writing style is also lovely! It is easy and quick to read. She also keeps the reader engaged throughout the entire book. There is never a boring moment.
The Desperate Quest is above all else a fun read that consistently made me smile. It is packed full of humorous quips, banter and wonderful interactions between the characters.
Speaking of characters: The Desperate Quest is filled to the brim with interesting characters with unique personalities. Their personalities are clearly on display in all of their actions, whether it is in the middle of a battle or while they are resting at a campsite. The main character Kit is absolutely amazing, She is intelligent, funny and a great leader!
A.M. Sohma's writing style is also lovely! It is easy and quick to read. She also keeps the reader engaged throughout the entire book. There is never a boring moment.
October 28, 2020
Enthralling book/series. I didn’t think I would like this book b/c video games almost ruined my marriage. However I love the authors other books under open name KM Shea. So I tried this book. I am hooked on this series! I can’t wait for book 4 to come out! The characters are well developed. They have Video & life development. It helped me understand my husband and sons more in their love of the characters they have made in their video games. I also gained more of an understand and empathy for having friends never meet in person.
Story line- Kit is stuck in a full submersion game with a wimpy, defenseless character. Kit needs to beat the ultimate villain in the game to log off.
Kit recruits others to her cause, while she is scoffed by others.
Story line- Kit is stuck in a full submersion game with a wimpy, defenseless character. Kit needs to beat the ultimate villain in the game to log off.
Kit recruits others to her cause, while she is scoffed by others.
September 16, 2017
I absolutely loved this book, the characters are well developed, and the world of Retha is incredibly interesting. Rather than having a middle book slump in the series, the amount of action picks up, while the plot progresses naturally. The author's gaming tactical sense, hilarious sense of humor, and complex character dynamics will ensure that I will read this book time and time again.
Minor Spoiler below
I called "Salted Caramel" setting sail.
That is what our book club has named the ship of Cookie and Prowl.
Minor Spoiler below
I called "Salted Caramel" setting sail.
That is what our book club has named the ship of Cookie and Prowl.
August 3, 2018
I loved this book. I read it rather too fast for my liking, but I couldn't stop! I was surprised by many a twist and laughed out loud more than once.
A great plot with really nicely developed characters. Not just the main, but also the sides. Many a moment to make a gamer chuckle, but being a gamer is most certainly not a requirement for enjoying these books. The world, the adventure and the foibles of its characters make it relatable and lovable, opening up a genre I hadn't really dived into before.
Can't wait for the next one in the series!
A great plot with really nicely developed characters. Not just the main, but also the sides. Many a moment to make a gamer chuckle, but being a gamer is most certainly not a requirement for enjoying these books. The world, the adventure and the foibles of its characters make it relatable and lovable, opening up a genre I hadn't really dived into before.
Can't wait for the next one in the series!
January 1, 2019
Part 2 of book 1 basically as this picks up right where one finished or...close enough. We get to see more of Solus, who I greatly like, but do not want to. He is the possible love interest due to him being indirectly "married" (I am calling it marriage no matter what people say!) to Kit. The reason I don't want to get attached is that they are in a game and they are trying to get out and those feelings can make things happen. I'm not giving any spoilers, however at the same time, I would also kick Solus for how his answer had hurt Kit.
August 19, 2020
I don't even like RPG
You know when all the books in your library are read and so you pull up a favorite author's site to see if there's anything, maybe even in a different genre, that you haven't read? Well, that was me and how I found this series, and I truly expected, given the world it was in, that I'd probably not be interested. It just proves that a talented writer can ensnare you despite the subject. So, while I still have zero interest in RPG, I am on the 3rd in series and "all in" for the adventure to continue.
You know when all the books in your library are read and so you pull up a favorite author's site to see if there's anything, maybe even in a different genre, that you haven't read? Well, that was me and how I found this series, and I truly expected, given the world it was in, that I'd probably not be interested. It just proves that a talented writer can ensnare you despite the subject. So, while I still have zero interest in RPG, I am on the 3rd in series and "all in" for the adventure to continue.
February 8, 2021
Kit is the hero we all secretly want to be. She's smart, sassy, and while she worries she can't do it, she just charges right on ahead and does the thing everyone says she can't do. She really gets to shine in this book. Her relationships with her friends continues to grow and honestly that ending. Wow, just wow. I want to be Kit when I grow up even though I think I might be older than her! We also get to see more of Solus Miles and I just want more, more! They are adorable together! I have to warn...be ready to jump right into The Revived because you WILL NOT WANT TO STOP.
September 21, 2017
Amazing series!!!!
I've read all of your books written as K.M. Shea at least 5 times and I love them all! I was really excited to read this new series and once again you've hooked me! The action and a touch of romance is awesome. The suspense is killing me I can't wait for the next books! Lol I'll probably reread these a couple time until they come out. I completely recommend anyone to read this series!
I've read all of your books written as K.M. Shea at least 5 times and I love them all! I was really excited to read this new series and once again you've hooked me! The action and a touch of romance is awesome. The suspense is killing me I can't wait for the next books! Lol I'll probably reread these a couple time until they come out. I completely recommend anyone to read this series!
February 24, 2019
Surprisingly good
I've been reading through this author's books for a few weeks. I left this for last, really hesitating on it. Didn't seem like my style. But loving the author I thought I'd give it a try. I loved it. Very cool concept of being fully submerged in an online rpg game. I'm sad she's not going to be able to continue the series for a while so I'm be sad and impatiently waiting after I'm all caught up.
I've been reading through this author's books for a few weeks. I left this for last, really hesitating on it. Didn't seem like my style. But loving the author I thought I'd give it a try. I loved it. Very cool concept of being fully submerged in an online rpg game. I'm sad she's not going to be able to continue the series for a while so I'm be sad and impatiently waiting after I'm all caught up.
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