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Ethereal Earth #3
Blight Marked
Becoming a target is never great, but it’s a little worse when the people trying to kill you are technically the good guys.
Gabe escaped the Ether with the ultimate prize, and he thought that meant he was done with deadly cosmic games. But the nightmares infesting his life have different plans, and they’re not asking nicely before dragging him back in. It turns out holding all the power in the universe doesn’t mean much if you have no idea what to do with it.
So together with Heather, he embarks on a frantic race to collect the remaining six Iglas and stave off the coming darkness. And in the process, they discover just how much deeper their problems go. With new threats lashing at them from every side, and old ones tightening their grip, it becomes a contest against chaos to see who will dictate the future of existence: the assorted protectors of Earth, an all-consuming darkness...or a conman who would really rather not.
Blight Marked is the third book in the Ethereal Earth series, an ongoing story about reality, illusions, and all the ridiculous crap in the gray space between.
Gabe escaped the Ether with the ultimate prize, and he thought that meant he was done with deadly cosmic games. But the nightmares infesting his life have different plans, and they’re not asking nicely before dragging him back in. It turns out holding all the power in the universe doesn’t mean much if you have no idea what to do with it.
So together with Heather, he embarks on a frantic race to collect the remaining six Iglas and stave off the coming darkness. And in the process, they discover just how much deeper their problems go. With new threats lashing at them from every side, and old ones tightening their grip, it becomes a contest against chaos to see who will dictate the future of existence: the assorted protectors of Earth, an all-consuming darkness...or a conman who would really rather not.
Blight Marked is the third book in the Ethereal Earth series, an ongoing story about reality, illusions, and all the ridiculous crap in the gray space between.
397 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 11, 2020
74 people are currently reading
215 people want to read
About the author
Josh Erikson
9 books179 followersJosh Erikson doesn't have any fancy credentials to tell you about here. He lives in rural Nebraska (US) with his wife and two children, where he mostly reads, writes, and reads about writing. His many awards and accolades include some beautiful photoshopped certificates he printed at home and a yo-yo trick contest he once won at a fun fair in a grocery store parking lot.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
January 27, 2020
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
4.5/5 stars
This series is pure entertainment, get on this as soon as you can!
Hero Forged was good, Fate Lashed was incredible, and thankfully the second book wasn’t a fluke. Blight Marked, the third book in the ongoing Ethereal Earth series by Josh Erikson, retained the overall quality displayed in Fate Lashed. At the same time, Erikson also managed to include more of the fun and entertaining dialogues from Hero Forged into this book. Several readers have said that Fate Lashed was relatively more serious in tone, although I grew to loved the series because Erikson did that, there were times where I missed the fun and, at times, hilarious dialogues in the first book. One out of many examples, you can’t say that you don’t like good banter with a pun like this right? RIGHT?
Ehem.
Anyway, Blight Marked read like a combination between Hero Forged and Fate Lashed, and it worked; Hero Forged felt more like a prototype/origin story for the rest of the series to shine now. I found the central themes in Blight Marked that revolve around love, family, changes, self-righteousness, self-confidence, and differences in belief to be very relatable, especially in our current society. There’s no break for Gabe and his growing list of companions, and there’s also no shortage of high-stake threats coming for them. The ones hunting Gabe and his friends aren’t all bad guys now; some of them are technically good people—with different and firm beliefs that they’re the one doing the right thing—that stand on a different side of the fence.
Readers who have caught up would know this, but for those who don’t, there’s something about Gabe you should know, he LOVES talking and complaining; it is a part of him, and it’s his coping mechanism. Admittedly, even though I understood his reasons and the dialogues were almost always fun to read, there were a few scenes that, in my opinion, ended up being a bit too long than necessary. However, the character development of Gabe throughout the series so far has been steadily natural and believable. In Hero Forged, Gabe complained about the situation he found himself in, while in Fate Lashed he grew insecure and he complained about his relationship for Heather. In Blight Marked Gabe is becoming a better man who’s more mature and accepting of his power and situation. Complaining is still there, of course, but I loved how he slowly complained less as the story went. By the end of this book, it felt satisfying to see how far he has come and developed since the first book.
Gabe’s characterizations were further amplified by the relationship he has with his companions and Heather. The relationship progression between Gabe and Heather was very evident and crucial throughout the narrative, especially in the middle section of the book. With this, romance became a huge focus of the story, and if you know my reading taste, you’ll know that I am VERY picky about this. I feel like a lot of fantasy authors often fail in writing romance that doesn’t make me want to claw my eyes out from reading them. Erikson managed to not only make the relationship between Gabe and Heather non-infuriating to read, but he also successfully wrote a relationship progression that felt genuine and believable.
Erikson once again delivered a climactic sequence that’s super engaging and action-packed. I don’t want to spoil you the content here, they were surprising, thrilling, and they wowed me; the climax sequence in Fate Lashed was awesome already, I didn’t expect Erikson to magnificently accomplish a better and grander one. Not gonna lie, due to how good Fate Lashed conclusion was, sometimes I felt impatient to get to the final sections of the book because I want to see whether Erikson can nail it again, and he did. I honestly think that the last 30% of the book ended up being the best section of the series so far.
It feels incomplete for me to review a book in Ethereal Earth without mentioning the brilliance of CONscience, the excerpts that started Gabe’s chapters. Erikson continues to fill these excerpts with relatable passages that contained some of his best writing. Plus, the fact that they’re written in Gabe’s first-person perspective made these excerpts crucially important in repeatedly enhancing Gabe’s characterizations. Erikson’s clean prose also shines during these sections, and they made me eager to find out what’s offered in each subsequent chapter.
Overall, Blight Marked was an engrossing read that’s both evocative and heart-hammering in equal measure. The dialogues were entertaining, the humor was hilarious, the action sequences were engaging, the romance was empathizing, and the world-building was intricately built. Blight Marked has established Ethereal Earth as one of those PLUS ULTRA rare urban fantasy series where each new installment receives my high anticipation. During several sections in the last 30% of the novel, I honestly thought that Blight Marked was going to be the final book of the series, it is good to know that there will be more to come after this, and I will be anticipating its arrival.
Official release date: 11th March 2020
You can pre-order the book from: Amazon UK | Amazon US
The quotes in this review were taken from an ARC and are subject to change upon publication.
You can find this and the rest of my reviews at Novel Notions
Special thanks to my Patrons on Patreon for giving me extra support towards my passion for reading and reviewing!
My Patrons: Alfred, Devin, Hamad, Mike, Miracle, Nicholas.
4.5/5 stars
This series is pure entertainment, get on this as soon as you can!
“Deep down we all believe we’re frauds. But it’s only when we stop believing that it actually becomes true.”
Hero Forged was good, Fate Lashed was incredible, and thankfully the second book wasn’t a fluke. Blight Marked, the third book in the ongoing Ethereal Earth series by Josh Erikson, retained the overall quality displayed in Fate Lashed. At the same time, Erikson also managed to include more of the fun and entertaining dialogues from Hero Forged into this book. Several readers have said that Fate Lashed was relatively more serious in tone, although I grew to loved the series because Erikson did that, there were times where I missed the fun and, at times, hilarious dialogues in the first book. One out of many examples, you can’t say that you don’t like good banter with a pun like this right? RIGHT?
“I feel like you’re setting yourself up for some kind of elevation pun, and I’m not really—“
“Though I suppose it’s more of a ladderal move,” he cut in.”
She nodded sadly and bent to start down the hole. “Yep. Good lord.”
Ehem.
Anyway, Blight Marked read like a combination between Hero Forged and Fate Lashed, and it worked; Hero Forged felt more like a prototype/origin story for the rest of the series to shine now. I found the central themes in Blight Marked that revolve around love, family, changes, self-righteousness, self-confidence, and differences in belief to be very relatable, especially in our current society. There’s no break for Gabe and his growing list of companions, and there’s also no shortage of high-stake threats coming for them. The ones hunting Gabe and his friends aren’t all bad guys now; some of them are technically good people—with different and firm beliefs that they’re the one doing the right thing—that stand on a different side of the fence.
“Change is powerful magic. Belief too. Put them together, and it turns out you might even make a real person out of walking cardboard cutout of one.”
Readers who have caught up would know this, but for those who don’t, there’s something about Gabe you should know, he LOVES talking and complaining; it is a part of him, and it’s his coping mechanism. Admittedly, even though I understood his reasons and the dialogues were almost always fun to read, there were a few scenes that, in my opinion, ended up being a bit too long than necessary. However, the character development of Gabe throughout the series so far has been steadily natural and believable. In Hero Forged, Gabe complained about the situation he found himself in, while in Fate Lashed he grew insecure and he complained about his relationship for Heather. In Blight Marked Gabe is becoming a better man who’s more mature and accepting of his power and situation. Complaining is still there, of course, but I loved how he slowly complained less as the story went. By the end of this book, it felt satisfying to see how far he has come and developed since the first book.
“However, wishing is not the same as doing—though it does scratch a similar itch and is therefore a dangerous habit to take up.
Gabe’s characterizations were further amplified by the relationship he has with his companions and Heather. The relationship progression between Gabe and Heather was very evident and crucial throughout the narrative, especially in the middle section of the book. With this, romance became a huge focus of the story, and if you know my reading taste, you’ll know that I am VERY picky about this. I feel like a lot of fantasy authors often fail in writing romance that doesn’t make me want to claw my eyes out from reading them. Erikson managed to not only make the relationship between Gabe and Heather non-infuriating to read, but he also successfully wrote a relationship progression that felt genuine and believable.
“You may not have been built for a relationship, but I wasn’t built to have magic either. And look where we are! Two people doing everything the wrong way to get the right result…That’s kind of our thing.”
Erikson once again delivered a climactic sequence that’s super engaging and action-packed. I don’t want to spoil you the content here, they were surprising, thrilling, and they wowed me; the climax sequence in Fate Lashed was awesome already, I didn’t expect Erikson to magnificently accomplish a better and grander one. Not gonna lie, due to how good Fate Lashed conclusion was, sometimes I felt impatient to get to the final sections of the book because I want to see whether Erikson can nail it again, and he did. I honestly think that the last 30% of the book ended up being the best section of the series so far.
“I won’t play the game your way. I don’t sacrifice pieces, asshole. I cheat.”
It feels incomplete for me to review a book in Ethereal Earth without mentioning the brilliance of CONscience, the excerpts that started Gabe’s chapters. Erikson continues to fill these excerpts with relatable passages that contained some of his best writing. Plus, the fact that they’re written in Gabe’s first-person perspective made these excerpts crucially important in repeatedly enhancing Gabe’s characterizations. Erikson’s clean prose also shines during these sections, and they made me eager to find out what’s offered in each subsequent chapter.
“Here’s something they don’t tell you when they hand out instructions for life: things move much slower when you hate where you are…What kind of deity would design an hour of sex to go by in a complete blur, while ten minutes of an opera feels like the slow gasping death of a thousand galaxies? A monster one, that’s what kind.”
Overall, Blight Marked was an engrossing read that’s both evocative and heart-hammering in equal measure. The dialogues were entertaining, the humor was hilarious, the action sequences were engaging, the romance was empathizing, and the world-building was intricately built. Blight Marked has established Ethereal Earth as one of those PLUS ULTRA rare urban fantasy series where each new installment receives my high anticipation. During several sections in the last 30% of the novel, I honestly thought that Blight Marked was going to be the final book of the series, it is good to know that there will be more to come after this, and I will be anticipating its arrival.
“One of the hardest lessons I’ve had to learn is that comfort and fulfillment rarely exist in the same place at the same time. When I’ve had lots of the first, my life has been pretty pointless. And when I’ve had plenty of the second, it’s not pleasant for its own sake…That’s why we’re so amazed when something manages to tick both boxes. Why we try so hard to find…and why we hold on so fiercely when we do.”
Official release date: 11th March 2020
You can pre-order the book from: Amazon UK | Amazon US
The quotes in this review were taken from an ARC and are subject to change upon publication.
You can find this and the rest of my reviews at Novel Notions
Special thanks to my Patrons on Patreon for giving me extra support towards my passion for reading and reviewing!
My Patrons: Alfred, Devin, Hamad, Mike, Miracle, Nicholas.
March 1, 2020
Gabe is in trouble. Yeah, yeah you say, of course he is. That’s his thing. Except now he’s in TROUBLE. Serious end of the world stuff. More than before. Doubly more. Triply more. Whatever. Trust me, the shit has seriously hit the fan this time. If he doesn’t get hold of the remaining six Iglas, darkness will swallow the world whole, and Gabe is not having that happen just as his relationship with Heather is finally staring come together. His ‘why me’ attitude isn’t cutting it, it’s time to save the planet goddammit.
I always start with a plan. But I almost never finish with one.
Of course, WE know that he really IS the right man for the job, even if he doesn’t quite believe himself. And so what we have in this book is his journey to understanding and acceptance, the final steps on his path towards ‘there is no spoon’. There’s some pretty astute commentary on show, a con-artist’s playbook giving sounder advice than any self-help manual I’ve ever seen. In fact, there are so many relatable moments of self-realisation that I started to worry that Josh Erikson had snuck into my mind and was trying to write me a way out of my own problems. Thankfully, it wasn't mine, but Gabe's. As before, the CONscience chapter openers give us access to Gabe’s reflections on his own story, linking the conflicting emotions directing his inner life and the overarching narrative. They prime the reader for the choices and changes Gabe is going to make, while often giving a sneaky hint about big reveals to come. I’ve rarely seen a format like this used so effectively and here it seemed more vital than ever. It’s one of the most successful aspects of the series and one I really enjoy.
All it really takes to be a hero is to avoid slouching as you go save the day.
The absolute best bit is the comedy though. If you liked the jokes in Hero Forged but wanted more of everything, this is definitely for you. And then some. More pop culture references, more puns, more sly in-jokes, more acerbic wit, more relatable self-depreciation, more bitching with flair. I’m usually a smirk kinda girl, but this made me laugh aloud several times. It’s not just Gabe bringing it either, the whole cast are on top form. Everyone’s got such an attitude and I’m here for it. If you can’t save the world with a quip and a bit of dark-hearted banter, why even bother? I’m not even sure whether all of these characters were actually funny before, but the collective dedication to humour only served to enhance my already sincere appreciation for the complexity and appeal of each of them. Especially Aka Manah, who is excellently utilised. During a significant part of the book, I actually liked him more than the good guys. He easily matches Gabe’s level of repartee and his long suffering ‘look at the shit I have to put up with’ role frequently had me nodding in agreement. On top of this, the way his character is used to highlight the unworthiness of some of the humanity Gabe is working so hard to save is beautiful in its perfection. He’s an ends justify the means kinda god, but Erikson makes it very easy for us to see things from his side. It’s wonderfully unnerving. Particularly as we’re never allowed to lose sight of his unorthodox (brutally violent) methods.
All this humour was the perfect foil for the introspection, not just balancing it but building upon it to reveal the essence of who Gabe really is and why he continues to fight. Comedy, like life, is about connection, it doesn’t work as well if you’re alone. Before, Gabe was using humour as a shield to distance and protect himself, now it’s more of an act of openness. The difference is palpable. Most of this is probably due to his changed relationship with Heather, which was nothing but angst in the past, and here developed into something genuinely moving. It was a to-and-fro between equals that felt real and worthy of the time spent on it. I could see them fighting for each other, to the death if need be. To get that balance right, to make the reader feel and understand that level of connection and emotion, is some skill. Especially cynical people like me who look at romance with more than a little side eye.
All of the above adds up to a seriously epic book that ends with a spectacular finale of world shattering proportions. But wait! Don’t be sad… there’s more. I’m so excited about the direction this series is heading. Promises made. Deals to be kept. Monsters, mayhem, magic. Readers, we are in for something special.
ARC via author
I always start with a plan. But I almost never finish with one.
Of course, WE know that he really IS the right man for the job, even if he doesn’t quite believe himself. And so what we have in this book is his journey to understanding and acceptance, the final steps on his path towards ‘there is no spoon’. There’s some pretty astute commentary on show, a con-artist’s playbook giving sounder advice than any self-help manual I’ve ever seen. In fact, there are so many relatable moments of self-realisation that I started to worry that Josh Erikson had snuck into my mind and was trying to write me a way out of my own problems. Thankfully, it wasn't mine, but Gabe's. As before, the CONscience chapter openers give us access to Gabe’s reflections on his own story, linking the conflicting emotions directing his inner life and the overarching narrative. They prime the reader for the choices and changes Gabe is going to make, while often giving a sneaky hint about big reveals to come. I’ve rarely seen a format like this used so effectively and here it seemed more vital than ever. It’s one of the most successful aspects of the series and one I really enjoy.
All it really takes to be a hero is to avoid slouching as you go save the day.
The absolute best bit is the comedy though. If you liked the jokes in Hero Forged but wanted more of everything, this is definitely for you. And then some. More pop culture references, more puns, more sly in-jokes, more acerbic wit, more relatable self-depreciation, more bitching with flair. I’m usually a smirk kinda girl, but this made me laugh aloud several times. It’s not just Gabe bringing it either, the whole cast are on top form. Everyone’s got such an attitude and I’m here for it. If you can’t save the world with a quip and a bit of dark-hearted banter, why even bother? I’m not even sure whether all of these characters were actually funny before, but the collective dedication to humour only served to enhance my already sincere appreciation for the complexity and appeal of each of them. Especially Aka Manah, who is excellently utilised. During a significant part of the book, I actually liked him more than the good guys. He easily matches Gabe’s level of repartee and his long suffering ‘look at the shit I have to put up with’ role frequently had me nodding in agreement. On top of this, the way his character is used to highlight the unworthiness of some of the humanity Gabe is working so hard to save is beautiful in its perfection. He’s an ends justify the means kinda god, but Erikson makes it very easy for us to see things from his side. It’s wonderfully unnerving. Particularly as we’re never allowed to lose sight of his unorthodox (brutally violent) methods.
All this humour was the perfect foil for the introspection, not just balancing it but building upon it to reveal the essence of who Gabe really is and why he continues to fight. Comedy, like life, is about connection, it doesn’t work as well if you’re alone. Before, Gabe was using humour as a shield to distance and protect himself, now it’s more of an act of openness. The difference is palpable. Most of this is probably due to his changed relationship with Heather, which was nothing but angst in the past, and here developed into something genuinely moving. It was a to-and-fro between equals that felt real and worthy of the time spent on it. I could see them fighting for each other, to the death if need be. To get that balance right, to make the reader feel and understand that level of connection and emotion, is some skill. Especially cynical people like me who look at romance with more than a little side eye.
All of the above adds up to a seriously epic book that ends with a spectacular finale of world shattering proportions. But wait! Don’t be sad… there’s more. I’m so excited about the direction this series is heading. Promises made. Deals to be kept. Monsters, mayhem, magic. Readers, we are in for something special.
ARC via author
March 31, 2020
Review copy of audiobook received from author in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 stars.
Josh Erikson has utterly upped his game in Blight Marked. A heady concoction of compelling character development, interesting worldbuilding, exhilarating action scenes and great humour, the only thing that made it even better was Erikson's stellar self-narration.
Now, I can't exactly call myself well-read in the urban fantasy subgenre, but I've read the more well-known published series like Dresden Files, Kate Daniels and The Iron Druid Chronicles as well as the self-published Heartstrikers. The first three I would say are more standard urban fantasy fare, while Heartstrikers has a more original worldbuilding. I would say that Ethereal Earth straddle somewhere in between those two spectrums, and differentiating itself with a significantly larger world-at-peril narrative. Hence, the story felt way more epic; as we are dealing with a cosmic power that could completely annihilate all in existence, as well as the power of creation itself.
But first, let's talk about our dear main protagonist, Gabriel Delling; ex-con artist turned magic-wielding human that is not beholden to any rule book. Gabe is way over his head in having to deal with powers beyond his imagination. As a consequence of the ending in the previous book, everyone that is not a friend or part of his team is after him now. And let's not forget the evil god who purportedly was on his side for the greater good (that does sound a bit paradoxical, doesn't it?) From the first book, Gabe has been grappling with his world being turned upside down and inside out. Our reluctant hero has grown a lot into accepting his legacy. While it's true that he may still whine and complain about it, he gets things done. More crucially is how he finally settled into his relationship with Heather as the dynamics between these two characters play such a pivotal role in overall story. Gabe's character growth throughout these three books had been compellingly authentic and endearing. Those CONScience excerpts at the beginning of each chapter continued to be a brilliant addition in fleshing out Gabe's psyche. And could even possibly give some of the popular self-help books out there a run for their money.
Erikson evidently exercised a lot of care in ensuring that the characterisation of Gabe takes precedence over just telling an entertaining action-packed story. He is flawed but has a nobility which made him easy to root for. In fact, I wished that he could get a break sometimes as chaos and mayhem doggedly pursue him at every turn. Not to mention the continued presence and machinations of Aka Manah who pretty much was the seed of all Gabe's troubles since book one. I have to say though, Aka Manah is one of the best characters in the series. He has developed beyond the archetypal evil god persona into something more complex, and surprisingly relatable.
Even though I felt that Gabe's character development took precedence, this does not in any way mean that the rest of the elements of a great story had been compromised. In fact, what made Ethereal Earth such engaging and entertaining books is the right balance that Erikson was able to achieve between characters, plot and worldbuilding, as well as a healthy dose of great humour. This book is replete with seemingly insurmountable obstacles for Gabe to overcome, which usually come in the form of heart-pounding and epic action scenes filled with all sorts of monsters and creatures, and ultimately the cosmic powers itself. The climax of Blight Marked was one of the most epic I've come across in urban fantasy to date; seriously, it was like a world-ending, series-finale level of epic. Best of all, there will be more to come.
What made it all even better was how the characters lived and breathed through Erikson's impeccable self-narration. It has now become impossible for me to think of Gabe without hearing Erikson's voice. As such, even though the ebook ARC was available earlier, I waited for the audiobook publication because I was certain I'd enjoy the story more that way. Erikson animated the story in my mind with his dexterous and skilled delivery - his character nuances and inflections were spot on and the cadences were just right, be it an introspective or emotional moment, or the humourous banter (which works incredibly well), or all the big cinematic action scenes.
Blight Marked has elevated the Ethereal Earth series to greater heights. It ticked all the right boxes which make urban fantasy so fun and entertaining, then knocked it out of the park with its superb character work and outstanding audio narration.
You can purchase the book and audiobook from: Amazon UK | Amazon US
You can find this and my other reviews at Novel Notions.
4.5 stars.
Josh Erikson has utterly upped his game in Blight Marked. A heady concoction of compelling character development, interesting worldbuilding, exhilarating action scenes and great humour, the only thing that made it even better was Erikson's stellar self-narration.
Now, I can't exactly call myself well-read in the urban fantasy subgenre, but I've read the more well-known published series like Dresden Files, Kate Daniels and The Iron Druid Chronicles as well as the self-published Heartstrikers. The first three I would say are more standard urban fantasy fare, while Heartstrikers has a more original worldbuilding. I would say that Ethereal Earth straddle somewhere in between those two spectrums, and differentiating itself with a significantly larger world-at-peril narrative. Hence, the story felt way more epic; as we are dealing with a cosmic power that could completely annihilate all in existence, as well as the power of creation itself.
"I always start with a plan. I just wish I could ever finish with one."
But first, let's talk about our dear main protagonist, Gabriel Delling; ex-con artist turned magic-wielding human that is not beholden to any rule book. Gabe is way over his head in having to deal with powers beyond his imagination. As a consequence of the ending in the previous book, everyone that is not a friend or part of his team is after him now. And let's not forget the evil god who purportedly was on his side for the greater good (that does sound a bit paradoxical, doesn't it?) From the first book, Gabe has been grappling with his world being turned upside down and inside out. Our reluctant hero has grown a lot into accepting his legacy. While it's true that he may still whine and complain about it, he gets things done. More crucially is how he finally settled into his relationship with Heather as the dynamics between these two characters play such a pivotal role in overall story. Gabe's character growth throughout these three books had been compellingly authentic and endearing. Those CONScience excerpts at the beginning of each chapter continued to be a brilliant addition in fleshing out Gabe's psyche. And could even possibly give some of the popular self-help books out there a run for their money.
"Sometimes the end result of a thing is so much better than the component parts that it really doesn't matter what it was before it fell into your lap. People are the same... except they can continue to improve. I have to believe that is true, and that we can all become what we want without being held back by what we were. There's darkness in all of our lives, right? That doesn't mean we should have to wallow in it”
Erikson evidently exercised a lot of care in ensuring that the characterisation of Gabe takes precedence over just telling an entertaining action-packed story. He is flawed but has a nobility which made him easy to root for. In fact, I wished that he could get a break sometimes as chaos and mayhem doggedly pursue him at every turn. Not to mention the continued presence and machinations of Aka Manah who pretty much was the seed of all Gabe's troubles since book one. I have to say though, Aka Manah is one of the best characters in the series. He has developed beyond the archetypal evil god persona into something more complex, and surprisingly relatable.
"All it really takes to look like a hero is to avoid slouching as you go to save the day. But the point is that you do go, isn't it? The showmanship is just to make sure you get credit for it."
Even though I felt that Gabe's character development took precedence, this does not in any way mean that the rest of the elements of a great story had been compromised. In fact, what made Ethereal Earth such engaging and entertaining books is the right balance that Erikson was able to achieve between characters, plot and worldbuilding, as well as a healthy dose of great humour. This book is replete with seemingly insurmountable obstacles for Gabe to overcome, which usually come in the form of heart-pounding and epic action scenes filled with all sorts of monsters and creatures, and ultimately the cosmic powers itself. The climax of Blight Marked was one of the most epic I've come across in urban fantasy to date; seriously, it was like a world-ending, series-finale level of epic. Best of all, there will be more to come.
"Deep down most of us believe we're frauds. But it's only when we stop believing that it actually becomes true."
What made it all even better was how the characters lived and breathed through Erikson's impeccable self-narration. It has now become impossible for me to think of Gabe without hearing Erikson's voice. As such, even though the ebook ARC was available earlier, I waited for the audiobook publication because I was certain I'd enjoy the story more that way. Erikson animated the story in my mind with his dexterous and skilled delivery - his character nuances and inflections were spot on and the cadences were just right, be it an introspective or emotional moment, or the humourous banter (which works incredibly well), or all the big cinematic action scenes.
Blight Marked has elevated the Ethereal Earth series to greater heights. It ticked all the right boxes which make urban fantasy so fun and entertaining, then knocked it out of the park with its superb character work and outstanding audio narration.
You can purchase the book and audiobook from: Amazon UK | Amazon US
You can find this and my other reviews at Novel Notions.
November 20, 2020
I’ve had this book marked as “currently reading” for most of 2020. Who am I kidding? I’ve not touched this in months so it is time to officially class it as my latest DNF.
I loved the first Ethereal Earth book and while I never felt the second book measured up to the first book in terms of quality I did still enjoy it so I’m not quite sure why I never managed to get into this third instalment of the series at all. It is disappointing as I really wanted to love this one!
Rating: 2 stars.
Audio Note: I loved Josh Erikson’s performance of the first two books of the series but for some reason I just did not gel with him so well during this third book. I’m not even sure why not. Maybe it just caught me at the wrong time?
I loved the first Ethereal Earth book and while I never felt the second book measured up to the first book in terms of quality I did still enjoy it so I’m not quite sure why I never managed to get into this third instalment of the series at all. It is disappointing as I really wanted to love this one!
Rating: 2 stars.
Audio Note: I loved Josh Erikson’s performance of the first two books of the series but for some reason I just did not gel with him so well during this third book. I’m not even sure why not. Maybe it just caught me at the wrong time?
April 25, 2020
If I’ve made it to the third installment of a series, it’s a very strong sign that it’s my favorites of all-time series. I used to be a completionist when it came to series – even if I wasn’t enjoying it much anymore I needed to know how it ended. That’s done a 180 in recent years with it becoming rare for me to get past the first book in the series.
The world is expanded even further in this one and omg there’s a sprite character and she honestly is one of my favorite things ever. I continue to find the new aspects of the world building both engaging and entertaining.
The tone was more appealing to me in this one when compared to Fate Lashed. Gabe had some shit to work out, and since he didn’t know what to do for most of the book there was this overall feeling of unease and anxiety. I like this one more. It had a careful optimism and fresh new start feeling to it. I very much so enjoyed reading about Gabe and Heather’s blooming relationship, and what exactly they were going to be about their succubus-soul-stealing dilemma.
Acamana being inside of Gabe’s dad took on a whole new level of “wtf”, even for the God of Lies it was a little over the top. New family shit gets stirred up and I kind of wish it was more relevant than it was much of the time.
I continued to enjoy Gabe’s tendency to mouth off, the puns, the dad jokes, the pop culture references – I’m here for all of it. The references weren’t overused, there was just enough to give an undertone of nostalgia and familiarity that keeps me warm to this series. The writing feels professional and polished with dialogue that’s both amusing and charming. Breezy prose that falls out of the way of the story made me forget I was reading propelled me through this story in no time.
This is also a most excellent listen on audiobook. Per typical, I adored the audio version and will continue to listen to new installments for as long as the author makes them.
TLDR: If you’ve made it this far, you’ll love this one too
Ratings:
Plot: 12/15
Characters: 13.5/15
World Building: 14/15
Writing: 14/15
Pacing: 13/15
Originality: 13.5/15
Personal Enjoyment: 10/10
Final Score: 90/100
The world is expanded even further in this one and omg there’s a sprite character and she honestly is one of my favorite things ever. I continue to find the new aspects of the world building both engaging and entertaining.
The tone was more appealing to me in this one when compared to Fate Lashed. Gabe had some shit to work out, and since he didn’t know what to do for most of the book there was this overall feeling of unease and anxiety. I like this one more. It had a careful optimism and fresh new start feeling to it. I very much so enjoyed reading about Gabe and Heather’s blooming relationship, and what exactly they were going to be about their succubus-soul-stealing dilemma.
Acamana being inside of Gabe’s dad took on a whole new level of “wtf”, even for the God of Lies it was a little over the top. New family shit gets stirred up and I kind of wish it was more relevant than it was much of the time.
I continued to enjoy Gabe’s tendency to mouth off, the puns, the dad jokes, the pop culture references – I’m here for all of it. The references weren’t overused, there was just enough to give an undertone of nostalgia and familiarity that keeps me warm to this series. The writing feels professional and polished with dialogue that’s both amusing and charming. Breezy prose that falls out of the way of the story made me forget I was reading propelled me through this story in no time.
This is also a most excellent listen on audiobook. Per typical, I adored the audio version and will continue to listen to new installments for as long as the author makes them.
TLDR: If you’ve made it this far, you’ll love this one too
Ratings:
Plot: 12/15
Characters: 13.5/15
World Building: 14/15
Writing: 14/15
Pacing: 13/15
Originality: 13.5/15
Personal Enjoyment: 10/10
Final Score: 90/100
February 11, 2020
Gabe and company are back for more banter-filled adventures in this third installment in the Ethereal Earth series. Picking up shortly after Fate Lashed left off, Blight Marked wastes no time hooking the reader and speeding to a satisfying—and epic!—conclusion. Along the way there is plenty of humorous banter, lots of adventure, more puns than you can shake a stick at, and loads of authentic character development. If you haven’t started reading Erikson, you should.
There is so much that I loved in this story, it’s difficult to know exactly where to start. As I mentioned, there is plenty of Erikson’s trademark banter and it continues to be a lot of fun. In fact, there is probably more funny banter in this one than there was in Fate Lashed. There’s just something so satisfying about a duo or team that can manage witty rejoinders back and forth while battling with a battalion of elves—or a company of knights. It’s a little zany, but without becoming entirely comedic. Blight Marked is an urban fantasy adventure that draws you in with the fun banter and pop culture references. But it’s much more than that as well. There is plenty of character development in this novel, and I think we see that most clearly with the main character, Gabe. The story is told from his perspective, and by the third novel in we have a pretty good idea what sort of person he is. But throughout this novel Gabe is forced to confront—and, through him, we’re forced to confront as readers—how different he is. The Gabe in Blight Marked is not the same Gabe from Hero Forged. He’s experienced too much, and like any living and breathing human, those experiences have shaped and changed him. This isn’t really a coming-of-age tale, but there are elements of that here and they’re used to great effect. This is particularly clear to see when it comes to Gabe’s interactions with Heather. That relationship is definitely changing and growing as both of the characters grow and change. I’m loving it. Another area where Erikson’s story excels is with antagonists. This series has always had interesting and engaging antagonists. But in this installment, Erikson knocks it out of the park. I don’t want to risk any major spoilers, but I loved how I could easily see the antagonists being the protagonists in another story. There are no mustache twirling masterminds here, no dark lords seeking ultimate power for nebulous reasons. Rather, the antagonists oppose Gabe and his team for legitimate reasons. They disagree fundamentally about the nature of reality, the problem in front of them, and so obviously they won’t see eye to eye on the solution. It’s very true to real life, and I appreciate that very much. Whether we’re dealing with Enoch or with Aka Manah, I loved the antagonists in this one. There’s plenty more I could mention—Gabe is beginning to understand his magic more in this story, and I loved that aspect. The world is expanding as we continue to learn more about Umbra and the various organizations that exist. There is a ton to enjoy, and I hope you don’t waste any time in picking up the book and doing so.
There is very little I didn’t like in this one. You could criticize the main plot as being essentially a fetch quest. However, it never really felt like that was the case. The story moves quickly, and there were moments where I felt like it moved perhaps too quickly. This is particularly true in terms of what ends up happening with some of the Igla. Frankly, I could have seen some elements of the plot really taking place over two books. I’m not disappointed that they didn’t, because I think what we got in this one is great. But, even so, there were moments when I almost got whiplash from the plot moving from one thing to another so quickly—but again, not in a way that messed up my enjoyment.
Blight Marked ensures that the Ethereal Earth series will continue to be one of my favorite urban fantasy series. The dialog, the character development, the antagonists, the world building, all of these are beyond excellent and I can’t wait to see where Erikson takes us next. In the meantime, pick up a copy of Blight Marked—which is currently available for preorder—and enjoy! Or, if you haven’t started the series yet, get in on the ground floor with Hero Forged. You don’t want to miss these!
8.8/10
4.4/5 stars.
5 – I loved this, couldn’t put it down, move it to the top of your TBR pile
4 – I really enjoyed this, add it to the TBR pile
3 – It was ok, depending on your preferences it may be worth your time
2 – I didn’t like this book, it has significant flaws and I can’t recommend it
1 – I loathe this book with a most loathsome loathing
There is so much that I loved in this story, it’s difficult to know exactly where to start. As I mentioned, there is plenty of Erikson’s trademark banter and it continues to be a lot of fun. In fact, there is probably more funny banter in this one than there was in Fate Lashed. There’s just something so satisfying about a duo or team that can manage witty rejoinders back and forth while battling with a battalion of elves—or a company of knights. It’s a little zany, but without becoming entirely comedic. Blight Marked is an urban fantasy adventure that draws you in with the fun banter and pop culture references. But it’s much more than that as well. There is plenty of character development in this novel, and I think we see that most clearly with the main character, Gabe. The story is told from his perspective, and by the third novel in we have a pretty good idea what sort of person he is. But throughout this novel Gabe is forced to confront—and, through him, we’re forced to confront as readers—how different he is. The Gabe in Blight Marked is not the same Gabe from Hero Forged. He’s experienced too much, and like any living and breathing human, those experiences have shaped and changed him. This isn’t really a coming-of-age tale, but there are elements of that here and they’re used to great effect. This is particularly clear to see when it comes to Gabe’s interactions with Heather. That relationship is definitely changing and growing as both of the characters grow and change. I’m loving it. Another area where Erikson’s story excels is with antagonists. This series has always had interesting and engaging antagonists. But in this installment, Erikson knocks it out of the park. I don’t want to risk any major spoilers, but I loved how I could easily see the antagonists being the protagonists in another story. There are no mustache twirling masterminds here, no dark lords seeking ultimate power for nebulous reasons. Rather, the antagonists oppose Gabe and his team for legitimate reasons. They disagree fundamentally about the nature of reality, the problem in front of them, and so obviously they won’t see eye to eye on the solution. It’s very true to real life, and I appreciate that very much. Whether we’re dealing with Enoch or with Aka Manah, I loved the antagonists in this one. There’s plenty more I could mention—Gabe is beginning to understand his magic more in this story, and I loved that aspect. The world is expanding as we continue to learn more about Umbra and the various organizations that exist. There is a ton to enjoy, and I hope you don’t waste any time in picking up the book and doing so.
There is very little I didn’t like in this one. You could criticize the main plot as being essentially a fetch quest. However, it never really felt like that was the case. The story moves quickly, and there were moments where I felt like it moved perhaps too quickly. This is particularly true in terms of what ends up happening with some of the Igla. Frankly, I could have seen some elements of the plot really taking place over two books. I’m not disappointed that they didn’t, because I think what we got in this one is great. But, even so, there were moments when I almost got whiplash from the plot moving from one thing to another so quickly—but again, not in a way that messed up my enjoyment.
Blight Marked ensures that the Ethereal Earth series will continue to be one of my favorite urban fantasy series. The dialog, the character development, the antagonists, the world building, all of these are beyond excellent and I can’t wait to see where Erikson takes us next. In the meantime, pick up a copy of Blight Marked—which is currently available for preorder—and enjoy! Or, if you haven’t started the series yet, get in on the ground floor with Hero Forged. You don’t want to miss these!
8.8/10
4.4/5 stars.
5 – I loved this, couldn’t put it down, move it to the top of your TBR pile
4 – I really enjoyed this, add it to the TBR pile
3 – It was ok, depending on your preferences it may be worth your time
2 – I didn’t like this book, it has significant flaws and I can’t recommend it
1 – I loathe this book with a most loathsome loathing
April 8, 2020
Full review is here, on my blog!~
This is the continuing story of Gabe Delling, who is a (former? still kind of?) con man who is now, more or less… uh… the superpowered savior of the world.
After the events of the last book, Gabe and his girlfriend/succubus Heather are in a race to beat the bad guys to a number of super powerful artifacts, which will threaten the entire universe as they know it if left in the hands of evil. The stakes are so high that even the other, less bad but still bad guys are on board to help!
I really enjoyed Hero Forged and Fate Lashed, and thankfully Blight Marked was just as fun as its predecessors. Gabe is a fantastic character, in my opinion, because he’s ridiculously easy to cheer for. Even despite being a con man, he’s still just… a good dude. We see quite well throughout the series how much Gabe grows as a character. I wanted everything good for him, so this adventure, full of lots of ups and a few downs, was quite riveting. His relationship with Heather is often adorable, and I love the dialog between them, especially when it’s full of puns and nerdy references.
A few new characters are introduced here, some of them, like Lauren, were shocking. My favorite was Penny, who is a water sprite whose glamour makes her appear like a child. She has the temperament and curiosity of a child (which can be admittedly annoying at times), but can definitely hold her own in a fight against powerful foes. Recurring characters I liked are back, like Dante the minotaur, and James, the not-so-run-of-the-mill crime boss.
One of my favorite parts of this series are the introductions to each chapter, written as exerpts from Gabe’s autobiography, CONscience. Where most of the book is in the third person, these bits are in the first person, and in each we get some words of wisdom from Gabe, and more or less see him learn lessons as things happen to him. It’s a remarkable bit of character building, and it does a lot to make Gabe intriguing and likable.
Like the two previous audiobooks, Blight Marked is narrated by its author, and Josh Erikson nailed it yet again. I suppose it goes without saying that he would know best where to put emphasis and so on and so forth, but he does a really great job bringing each character to life. Definitely one of the better author narrators that I have ever heard.
So, all told, I quite liked Blight Marked, and I thought it was a wonderful addition to the Ethereal Earth series. Fans of Urban Fantasy that has humans paired up with succubi, minotaur, and evil Zoroastrian gods.
Thanks to the author for the review copy of the audiobook. Opinions are all mine.
This is the continuing story of Gabe Delling, who is a (former? still kind of?) con man who is now, more or less… uh… the superpowered savior of the world.
After the events of the last book, Gabe and his girlfriend/succubus Heather are in a race to beat the bad guys to a number of super powerful artifacts, which will threaten the entire universe as they know it if left in the hands of evil. The stakes are so high that even the other, less bad but still bad guys are on board to help!
I really enjoyed Hero Forged and Fate Lashed, and thankfully Blight Marked was just as fun as its predecessors. Gabe is a fantastic character, in my opinion, because he’s ridiculously easy to cheer for. Even despite being a con man, he’s still just… a good dude. We see quite well throughout the series how much Gabe grows as a character. I wanted everything good for him, so this adventure, full of lots of ups and a few downs, was quite riveting. His relationship with Heather is often adorable, and I love the dialog between them, especially when it’s full of puns and nerdy references.
A few new characters are introduced here, some of them, like Lauren, were shocking. My favorite was Penny, who is a water sprite whose glamour makes her appear like a child. She has the temperament and curiosity of a child (which can be admittedly annoying at times), but can definitely hold her own in a fight against powerful foes. Recurring characters I liked are back, like Dante the minotaur, and James, the not-so-run-of-the-mill crime boss.
One of my favorite parts of this series are the introductions to each chapter, written as exerpts from Gabe’s autobiography, CONscience. Where most of the book is in the third person, these bits are in the first person, and in each we get some words of wisdom from Gabe, and more or less see him learn lessons as things happen to him. It’s a remarkable bit of character building, and it does a lot to make Gabe intriguing and likable.
Like the two previous audiobooks, Blight Marked is narrated by its author, and Josh Erikson nailed it yet again. I suppose it goes without saying that he would know best where to put emphasis and so on and so forth, but he does a really great job bringing each character to life. Definitely one of the better author narrators that I have ever heard.
So, all told, I quite liked Blight Marked, and I thought it was a wonderful addition to the Ethereal Earth series. Fans of Urban Fantasy that has humans paired up with succubi, minotaur, and evil Zoroastrian gods.
Thanks to the author for the review copy of the audiobook. Opinions are all mine.
January 29, 2023
2023 reread
Reread took a bit longer than planned. But I had a long week at work and also went away over the weekend for fun plans. Gonna read a few other stuff now before I dive into Dawn Razed for a palate cleanser. (also reading too many book in the same series back to back tends to give me the worst hangover and slump once I'm done with all the books)
2020 read
The series continues to deliver. I can't say much without spoiling anything. But the stakes are set even higher as the last book and the hunt for the remaining Iglas continues. Old and new friends are joined in our ragtag team.
Next book's gonna be CRAZY
Reread took a bit longer than planned. But I had a long week at work and also went away over the weekend for fun plans. Gonna read a few other stuff now before I dive into Dawn Razed for a palate cleanser. (also reading too many book in the same series back to back tends to give me the worst hangover and slump once I'm done with all the books)
2020 read
The series continues to deliver. I can't say much without spoiling anything. But the stakes are set even higher as the last book and the hunt for the remaining Iglas continues. Old and new friends are joined in our ragtag team.
Next book's gonna be CRAZY
April 2, 2020
This review was originally posted on RockStarlit BookAsylum!
Despite my reading slump, I was excited to get back in the world of Gabriel, Heather, Dante and the others to find out how their story continues. Blight Marked takes up the mantel right where we cast it off at the end of Fate Lashed . If you are already familiar with the Ethereal Earth series by Josh Erikson , then you already have a good idea what to expect. Rest assured, you won't be disappointed.
These books are getting better as the series progresses, and that's troubling, because I have no idea what comes after a 5* rated book. 5.5*? Thankfully that's a problem I have to worry about once the next book is in my hands. Until then, let's focus on Blight Marked , shall we? I have to warn you here though, that if you didn't read Fate Lashed , then this review might contain some spoilers for you and thus you shall proceed with caution.
Heather and Gabe doesn't get too much time to recover after what happened with them in China and come to terms with the changes. 6 more Iglas are waiting to be collected and there is no time to waste. Their enemies are on their heels and everyone wants to grab for the power and if Gabe gets killed in the bargain, well, all the better. So they not only have to fight against monsters from Gabe's nightmares, but also somehow evade to be captured. Things are getting even more complicated with Aka Manah's involvement who plays Gabe and Heather like a master pupeteer. Oh, and did I mention that the Endless Dark is knocking on the metaphorical door of Earth? Just a normal day in Gabe Delling's life, nothing to see here.
The pace of Blight Marked could shame the shinkansen as the action sequences follow each other with some occasional down time to catch our breaths. And for Gabe to deal with his feelings towards Heather, his parents and his role in the grand scheme of things. And of course Aka Manah is there to "motivate" him into learning some new handy tricks regarding his magic. But beside the old characters we are all familiar with, we get some new ones, such as Penny, the water sprite. She is damn annoying, but apparently look isn't everything. It's easy to underestimate someone who is small and totally out of the norm, but once you fuck with them... you are better be ready to pay the consequences. Just saying.
When I started reading, I didn't exactly know what to expect: will they search for Iglas from now on, 1 Igla a book? Will this become repetitive? Thankfully Josh Erikson had better ideas and that absolutely won't be the case. But then, that shows who is the writer between the two of us.
Blight Marked kind of reads like an action movie of which I'm not a huge fan of, but what makes this book better than those movies is Gabe's sarcasm and humor. Plus the fact that he is havng a great character arc throughout the series and I really appreciate that, because what really sells this series to me is the characters. And the humor. Okay, who am I kidding? I'm totally here for the CONScience snippets at the beginning of the chapters. I just love how Josh Erikson waves those parts into the story in a way that it gives us a chance to look into the thoughts of Gabe so we could better understand how he thinks and why he makes the decisions he does.
Blight Marked sets the bar one step higher yet and though the story concludes nicely, it also sets up the next installment to be something we can look forward to. Blight Marked is a fast, witty and emotional roller-coaster ride and I can't wait to see what the next stop will bring.
"Sometimes the end result of a thing is so much better than the component parts that it really doesn't matter what it was before it fell into your lap. People are the same... except they can continue to improve. I have to believe that's true, and that we can all become what we want without being held back by what we were. There's darkness in all of our lives, right? That doesn't mean we should have to wallow in it."
Despite my reading slump, I was excited to get back in the world of Gabriel, Heather, Dante and the others to find out how their story continues. Blight Marked takes up the mantel right where we cast it off at the end of Fate Lashed . If you are already familiar with the Ethereal Earth series by Josh Erikson , then you already have a good idea what to expect. Rest assured, you won't be disappointed.
These books are getting better as the series progresses, and that's troubling, because I have no idea what comes after a 5* rated book. 5.5*? Thankfully that's a problem I have to worry about once the next book is in my hands. Until then, let's focus on Blight Marked , shall we? I have to warn you here though, that if you didn't read Fate Lashed , then this review might contain some spoilers for you and thus you shall proceed with caution.
Heather and Gabe doesn't get too much time to recover after what happened with them in China and come to terms with the changes. 6 more Iglas are waiting to be collected and there is no time to waste. Their enemies are on their heels and everyone wants to grab for the power and if Gabe gets killed in the bargain, well, all the better. So they not only have to fight against monsters from Gabe's nightmares, but also somehow evade to be captured. Things are getting even more complicated with Aka Manah's involvement who plays Gabe and Heather like a master pupeteer. Oh, and did I mention that the Endless Dark is knocking on the metaphorical door of Earth? Just a normal day in Gabe Delling's life, nothing to see here.
The pace of Blight Marked could shame the shinkansen as the action sequences follow each other with some occasional down time to catch our breaths. And for Gabe to deal with his feelings towards Heather, his parents and his role in the grand scheme of things. And of course Aka Manah is there to "motivate" him into learning some new handy tricks regarding his magic. But beside the old characters we are all familiar with, we get some new ones, such as Penny, the water sprite. She is damn annoying, but apparently look isn't everything. It's easy to underestimate someone who is small and totally out of the norm, but once you fuck with them... you are better be ready to pay the consequences. Just saying.
"Then her hands were holding onto the big horns to either side of her, and she was smiling like a kid on the world's deadliest pony."
When I started reading, I didn't exactly know what to expect: will they search for Iglas from now on, 1 Igla a book? Will this become repetitive? Thankfully Josh Erikson had better ideas and that absolutely won't be the case. But then, that shows who is the writer between the two of us.
"I love surprises. What I hate, are the ones I don't see coming."
Blight Marked kind of reads like an action movie of which I'm not a huge fan of, but what makes this book better than those movies is Gabe's sarcasm and humor. Plus the fact that he is havng a great character arc throughout the series and I really appreciate that, because what really sells this series to me is the characters. And the humor. Okay, who am I kidding? I'm totally here for the CONScience snippets at the beginning of the chapters. I just love how Josh Erikson waves those parts into the story in a way that it gives us a chance to look into the thoughts of Gabe so we could better understand how he thinks and why he makes the decisions he does.
Blight Marked sets the bar one step higher yet and though the story concludes nicely, it also sets up the next installment to be something we can look forward to. Blight Marked is a fast, witty and emotional roller-coaster ride and I can't wait to see what the next stop will bring.
April 10, 2020
I've said it before... but I'll say it once more. I'm not a fan of urban fantasy. It's just not my cup of tea. In fact, I can name the number of urban fantasy series I like on one brutally maimed hand. I also don't like pop culture references in literature because they feel cheap, tugging on the old heart strings to make us feel misplaced affection. This series is urban fantasy and is loaded with pop culture references. I mention this because it needs pointing out what the books are up against... because I really enjoy them!
This books is kinda the end of the trilogy, but also feels like the beginning of something new. It has the pacing of a horse race, the snark of a Ferris Bueler, and throws restraint out the window. Honestly, it's kinda like if the Green Lantern was part of Infinity War as written through the perspective of Deadpool. Yes, I can also do pop culture references.
But honestly, I don't want to talk about the plot or story or characters. I just want to talk about the narration. The series was both written and narrated by Josh Erikson, and he puts his all into the narration. The emotion he has written into his story comes through in his acting of it, and it adds an entirely new level to it. He does a fantastic job of the different voices (except that pesky English accent ;) ) and has the dramatic timing down to a T. His narration is what pushes this series from good to great.
4 stars and well earned!
This books is kinda the end of the trilogy, but also feels like the beginning of something new. It has the pacing of a horse race, the snark of a Ferris Bueler, and throws restraint out the window. Honestly, it's kinda like if the Green Lantern was part of Infinity War as written through the perspective of Deadpool. Yes, I can also do pop culture references.
But honestly, I don't want to talk about the plot or story or characters. I just want to talk about the narration. The series was both written and narrated by Josh Erikson, and he puts his all into the narration. The emotion he has written into his story comes through in his acting of it, and it adds an entirely new level to it. He does a fantastic job of the different voices (except that pesky English accent ;) ) and has the dramatic timing down to a T. His narration is what pushes this series from good to great.
4 stars and well earned!
May 30, 2022
Follow me on Twitter: Twitter.com/wolfmantula
For more reviews, go to www.wolfmantula.com/book-reviews
Josh really knows how to put a fun and exciting story together, filled with Star Wars and other one-liner puns that give the perfect comedic relief that Gabe is known for. But man did he up the ante when it came to the groups and creatures Gabe and his friends had to face! Zombies, a Kraken, a dragon and The Templars!
“wishing is not the same as doing–though it does scratch a similar itch and is therefore a dangerous habit to take up.”
The character throughout the series have all been fantastic, but there is a new one that we get to meet and might just be my favorite, Penny the water sprite is just the best! You’re going to love her too! Josh has done a really good job of doing his own narration, delivers another great job and even did a bit of flexing with his narrating abilities with one character that had multiple voices. Incredible work.
“I’ve faced monsters and demons and zombie constructs and a giant freaking dragon.and it turns out the most dangerous thing among them was me.”
I loved this! There was a spot where I feel like Josh missed a fantastic opportunity for Gabe to drop one of his quippy one-liners during the kraken scene. Not that missing it was bad, but knowing the character and how he reacts to things, I was a bit sad that a “I think we’re going to need a bigger boat” or a “release the Kraken” line wasn’t in there.
For more reviews, go to www.wolfmantula.com/book-reviews
Josh really knows how to put a fun and exciting story together, filled with Star Wars and other one-liner puns that give the perfect comedic relief that Gabe is known for. But man did he up the ante when it came to the groups and creatures Gabe and his friends had to face! Zombies, a Kraken, a dragon and The Templars!
“wishing is not the same as doing–though it does scratch a similar itch and is therefore a dangerous habit to take up.”
The character throughout the series have all been fantastic, but there is a new one that we get to meet and might just be my favorite, Penny the water sprite is just the best! You’re going to love her too! Josh has done a really good job of doing his own narration, delivers another great job and even did a bit of flexing with his narrating abilities with one character that had multiple voices. Incredible work.
“I’ve faced monsters and demons and zombie constructs and a giant freaking dragon.and it turns out the most dangerous thing among them was me.”
I loved this! There was a spot where I feel like Josh missed a fantastic opportunity for Gabe to drop one of his quippy one-liners during the kraken scene. Not that missing it was bad, but knowing the character and how he reacts to things, I was a bit sad that a “I think we’re going to need a bigger boat” or a “release the Kraken” line wasn’t in there.
January 29, 2024
Deaths Forgotten
Blight Marked is a straightforward continuation of its predecessor’s race for plot devices. It inherits the same weaknesses: inadequate worldbuilding and undefined supernatural powers. Even the meta-commentary of the novel wears thin, because laughing about the repetitive nature of a fetch quest doesn’t diminish the tedium. All that keeps me engaged are the cast’s personalities and the antagonist’s sarcastic quips.
This former clone of the Dresden Files has moved beyond the urban environment and complexities of hiding the supernatural world alongside the modern one. Instead, behold generic landscapes: caverns, forests, islands and oceans! Upon these empty canvases are set-piece battles: dozens to hundreds of magic-wielding combatants attacking one another in frenzied free-for-alls that lack tactics or strategy. We barely know the cast’s supernatural powers, much less the factions that crawl out of the woodwork to fight the protagonist. Forget characters or backgrounds, the enemies don’t even have a plan of attack. Blight Marked spends nearly all its page count on fights, and the results are NPC mobs with undefined superhuman powers flailing about featureless terrain.
All the conflicts build to a crescendo as the stakes become all-encompassing. Here, my frustrations with the protagonist boil over. The series has progressed at a frenetic pace, and we’ve never had the time to understand his motivations. The author prevents the hero from developing. Even with existence itself at stake, this selfish bastard needs his love interest to be in mortal danger before he acts. There’s a half-hearted attempt at the trolley problem — questioning the morality of sacrificing one to save many — but the scenario isn’t just flawed, but also hypocritical. The hero has cut down hundreds of lives with the intent to act, proving he’s not opposed to Utilitarianism. It’s just that those were unnamed NPC mobs, but now we must consider a person with both a name and a background.
In his afterword, the author mentions that each novel in the Ethereal Earth series was to have a different feel. Mission accomplished. Unfortunately, if readers can’t expect the same entertaining formula, we need a superbly characterized cast and detailed world as the playground. Blight Marked provides neither, instead rushing to an apocalyptic third act of pitched battles. It’s entertaining throughout but ultimately hollow.
Not Recommended, with Reservations.
Blight Marked is a straightforward continuation of its predecessor’s race for plot devices. It inherits the same weaknesses: inadequate worldbuilding and undefined supernatural powers. Even the meta-commentary of the novel wears thin, because laughing about the repetitive nature of a fetch quest doesn’t diminish the tedium. All that keeps me engaged are the cast’s personalities and the antagonist’s sarcastic quips.
This former clone of the Dresden Files has moved beyond the urban environment and complexities of hiding the supernatural world alongside the modern one. Instead, behold generic landscapes: caverns, forests, islands and oceans! Upon these empty canvases are set-piece battles: dozens to hundreds of magic-wielding combatants attacking one another in frenzied free-for-alls that lack tactics or strategy. We barely know the cast’s supernatural powers, much less the factions that crawl out of the woodwork to fight the protagonist. Forget characters or backgrounds, the enemies don’t even have a plan of attack. Blight Marked spends nearly all its page count on fights, and the results are NPC mobs with undefined superhuman powers flailing about featureless terrain.
All the conflicts build to a crescendo as the stakes become all-encompassing. Here, my frustrations with the protagonist boil over. The series has progressed at a frenetic pace, and we’ve never had the time to understand his motivations. The author prevents the hero from developing. Even with existence itself at stake, this selfish bastard needs his love interest to be in mortal danger before he acts. There’s a half-hearted attempt at the trolley problem — questioning the morality of sacrificing one to save many — but the scenario isn’t just flawed, but also hypocritical. The hero has cut down hundreds of lives with the intent to act, proving he’s not opposed to Utilitarianism. It’s just that those were unnamed NPC mobs, but now we must consider a person with both a name and a background.
In his afterword, the author mentions that each novel in the Ethereal Earth series was to have a different feel. Mission accomplished. Unfortunately, if readers can’t expect the same entertaining formula, we need a superbly characterized cast and detailed world as the playground. Blight Marked provides neither, instead rushing to an apocalyptic third act of pitched battles. It’s entertaining throughout but ultimately hollow.
Not Recommended, with Reservations.
March 15, 2020
Still tied for my favorite urban fantasy series.
May 19, 2020
If you haven’t read the first book of the series, Hero Forged, you can check out my review of it here. Some spoilers for the previous books below.
“Josh Erikson continues to astound in Blight Marked, the third outing of the Ethereal Earth series,” is how I began writing this review. Then, I realized I’d said something almost exactly the same in my review for Josh’s previous book, Fate Lashed. I hate to repeat myself – it would be nice, JOSH, if you screwed up once in a blue moon. (!) Would make my job a lot EASIER, Josh!
But no, Josh Erikson does an excellent job indeed, chronicling the continued exploits of former con artist Gabriel Delling in his boldest adventure yet. Never have the stakes been as high as in Blight Marked, with the Darkness that ends universes encroaching on our own. Gabe and his allies, armed with guns, pointy things, and a dash of magic, find themselves racing against the literal End Times in their attempt to collect the only magical items in the world that may hold the Darkness back from ending reality. Ambitious lot, Gabe and his pals!
Unfortunate, then, that their efforts have not gone unnoticed. As a result of Gabe and Heather’s activities during the climax of Fate Lashed, everyone who doesn’t know our protagonists well enough to trust them has it in mind that Gabey is up to no good. That means a whole slew of new enemies making the life of our charming leads harder. Templars, pointy-eared fae, the bloody sasquatch, Blight Marked has it all!
But lest you forget it, at the heart of this series rests the romance between Gabe and Heather, succubus extraordinaire. The bond between these two underlies every interaction not just between them but with the outside world. What a writer of lesser skill might have used as a gimmick is given psychological depth and is used to offer insight on the two characters most key to the story Erikson has been telling over the last three years.
That said, this is the last I hope to see of our female lead, Heather, doubting the relationship between her and Gabe. It was done very well, this “will they/won’t they” aspect to their romance but enough is enough! I reckon if you manage to save the world and each other as many times as these two have, and still doubt that you’re with the right person, you deserve a slap*.
The support cast is nothing to sneer at, either. With some nifty new additions and plenty of familiar faces making a return, the cutting dialogue, fun quips and camaraderie never cease. Aka Manah is as ever the scene-stealer, his schemes and contingents always shaking up the status quo, making our protagonists sweat and forcing them to reveal what they’re made of. Just about every single one of these characters goes through some form of development, changing and growing as the story advances – and I can’t think of anyone whose growth I disliked by the closing of Blight Marked.
As always, Josh Erikson narrates his own book. The performance is spectacular, and I honestly can’t picture myself ever reading this novel when I have access to the audiobooks on my Audible account – thanks to Josh for sending me a code for this one! While I’m at it, allow me to also point out how great the cover to this one is – some of the finest cover design I’ve seen.
What I enjoy about Josh Erikson’s writing the most is that he has succeeded where so many authors fail, in that each of his books introduces rich new themes while holding onto the familiar aspects of previous installments. Thus Blight Marked moves on from the questions of how the popular imagination breathes life into gods and monsters, and instead asks if these stories, once given life, can step outside their cannon. The answer to this question, Blight Marked tells us, is both yes and no – and the examples for both speak for themselves. I’d love to dig into these but that would be spoilers…
What’s in the cards for Book 4? A return to some of the more urban fantasy elements of the series, judging by the ending – and plenty of thrilling new adventures, I’m willing to bet. Either way, I am eager to listen to the next book in the series.
You should read this novel if:
You enjoy high-concept fantasy that seamlessly darts between geeky humour and earnestness;
Excellent action scenes – fast and beyond engaging, making use of vivid language;
Richly emotional characters;
A delightfully evil old Zoroastrian deity whose style and charisma make every scene he’s in damn-near unforgettable;
Several Star Wars jokes as bad as my own!
And more! Prob’ly.
*I mean no offense to any world saviour couples who have broken up post-world saving.
“Josh Erikson continues to astound in Blight Marked, the third outing of the Ethereal Earth series,” is how I began writing this review. Then, I realized I’d said something almost exactly the same in my review for Josh’s previous book, Fate Lashed. I hate to repeat myself – it would be nice, JOSH, if you screwed up once in a blue moon. (!) Would make my job a lot EASIER, Josh!
But no, Josh Erikson does an excellent job indeed, chronicling the continued exploits of former con artist Gabriel Delling in his boldest adventure yet. Never have the stakes been as high as in Blight Marked, with the Darkness that ends universes encroaching on our own. Gabe and his allies, armed with guns, pointy things, and a dash of magic, find themselves racing against the literal End Times in their attempt to collect the only magical items in the world that may hold the Darkness back from ending reality. Ambitious lot, Gabe and his pals!
Unfortunate, then, that their efforts have not gone unnoticed. As a result of Gabe and Heather’s activities during the climax of Fate Lashed, everyone who doesn’t know our protagonists well enough to trust them has it in mind that Gabey is up to no good. That means a whole slew of new enemies making the life of our charming leads harder. Templars, pointy-eared fae, the bloody sasquatch, Blight Marked has it all!
But lest you forget it, at the heart of this series rests the romance between Gabe and Heather, succubus extraordinaire. The bond between these two underlies every interaction not just between them but with the outside world. What a writer of lesser skill might have used as a gimmick is given psychological depth and is used to offer insight on the two characters most key to the story Erikson has been telling over the last three years.
That said, this is the last I hope to see of our female lead, Heather, doubting the relationship between her and Gabe. It was done very well, this “will they/won’t they” aspect to their romance but enough is enough! I reckon if you manage to save the world and each other as many times as these two have, and still doubt that you’re with the right person, you deserve a slap*.
The support cast is nothing to sneer at, either. With some nifty new additions and plenty of familiar faces making a return, the cutting dialogue, fun quips and camaraderie never cease. Aka Manah is as ever the scene-stealer, his schemes and contingents always shaking up the status quo, making our protagonists sweat and forcing them to reveal what they’re made of. Just about every single one of these characters goes through some form of development, changing and growing as the story advances – and I can’t think of anyone whose growth I disliked by the closing of Blight Marked.
As always, Josh Erikson narrates his own book. The performance is spectacular, and I honestly can’t picture myself ever reading this novel when I have access to the audiobooks on my Audible account – thanks to Josh for sending me a code for this one! While I’m at it, allow me to also point out how great the cover to this one is – some of the finest cover design I’ve seen.
What I enjoy about Josh Erikson’s writing the most is that he has succeeded where so many authors fail, in that each of his books introduces rich new themes while holding onto the familiar aspects of previous installments. Thus Blight Marked moves on from the questions of how the popular imagination breathes life into gods and monsters, and instead asks if these stories, once given life, can step outside their cannon. The answer to this question, Blight Marked tells us, is both yes and no – and the examples for both speak for themselves. I’d love to dig into these but that would be spoilers…
What’s in the cards for Book 4? A return to some of the more urban fantasy elements of the series, judging by the ending – and plenty of thrilling new adventures, I’m willing to bet. Either way, I am eager to listen to the next book in the series.
You should read this novel if:
You enjoy high-concept fantasy that seamlessly darts between geeky humour and earnestness;
Excellent action scenes – fast and beyond engaging, making use of vivid language;
Richly emotional characters;
A delightfully evil old Zoroastrian deity whose style and charisma make every scene he’s in damn-near unforgettable;
Several Star Wars jokes as bad as my own!
And more! Prob’ly.
*I mean no offense to any world saviour couples who have broken up post-world saving.
January 30, 2021
*I proof-read this novel and received a free ARC of the final book, with no obligation to review at all. This review is unbiased and represents my own personal opinions.*
Blight Marked is the third in Josh Erikson’s Ethereal Earth series, and if you haven’t already read Hero Forged and Fate Lashed then go and do that, right now! This is a series that builds on the characters and main plotline as it goes, so while technically you could read them out of order, why on earth would you want to miss out on the exciting backstory so far?!
Fellow Harry Dresden fans will find some similarities here, in terms of snarky tone and worldbuilding elements, but Erikson is better at writing his female characters with agency and distinct personalities, and his hero – Gabe – is less prickly-machismo outsider and more uncertain, scraping-by-and-winging-it outsider. A little less abrasive, a little easier to identify with!
Here the pace and stakes are upped again from previous instalments, and Gabe and Heather are facing the vast, empty nothing at the end of everything, whilst battling what appears to be the whole world – human and supernatural. Still, they have each other, and I was delighted to see their core team expanding to encompass a wide range of skills and eccentricities: Dante, Hwei-Ru, James and Ken are all present, and there is a new ally in the form of little Penny – a childlike water spirit. The resulting personality mix and ensuing banter are a joy to read.
Aka Manah, Paul-the-Hound, bokor Reznik and the Templars also return, less joyfully. Disappointingly for Aka Manah (or is it?), he is no longer the centre of Gabe’s attention in the fight against evil, as this time around Gabe’s daddy issues are shunted aside to make room for some pretty distracting mummy issues. Good job he’s not in the middle of a race to find the remaining iglas, save the world and so forth… Oh dear!
Completely immersive, this instalment manages to be even better than the previous two (which I raved about here and here) – action-packed, magical, snarky, urban-fantasy fun from start to finish. Another great addition to my favourites shelf!
‘By the time his feet hit the ground, Gabe was proud of three things. First, that he hadn’t screamed once, despite really, really wanting to. Second, that he’d somehow avoided bashing into the walls as he’d frantically struggled to keep his balance. And third, that he’d landed with entirely dry pants. As far as he was concerned, that was his greatest accomplishment to date. Now all he was left with was figuring out why anyone on earth would ever want to do that recreationally.
He carefully unclipped his harness and gave Heather every ounce of nonchalance he could muster. “Not too bad.”
She watched him for a second, then shook her head and laughed softly as she came to help him get free. “I saw when you hit the halfway mark, Gabey. You looked like Pinocchio coming to life on his strings.”’
– Josh Erikson, Blight Marked
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
https://bookshineandreadbows.wordpres...
Blight Marked is the third in Josh Erikson’s Ethereal Earth series, and if you haven’t already read Hero Forged and Fate Lashed then go and do that, right now! This is a series that builds on the characters and main plotline as it goes, so while technically you could read them out of order, why on earth would you want to miss out on the exciting backstory so far?!
Fellow Harry Dresden fans will find some similarities here, in terms of snarky tone and worldbuilding elements, but Erikson is better at writing his female characters with agency and distinct personalities, and his hero – Gabe – is less prickly-machismo outsider and more uncertain, scraping-by-and-winging-it outsider. A little less abrasive, a little easier to identify with!
Here the pace and stakes are upped again from previous instalments, and Gabe and Heather are facing the vast, empty nothing at the end of everything, whilst battling what appears to be the whole world – human and supernatural. Still, they have each other, and I was delighted to see their core team expanding to encompass a wide range of skills and eccentricities: Dante, Hwei-Ru, James and Ken are all present, and there is a new ally in the form of little Penny – a childlike water spirit. The resulting personality mix and ensuing banter are a joy to read.
Aka Manah, Paul-the-Hound, bokor Reznik and the Templars also return, less joyfully. Disappointingly for Aka Manah (or is it?), he is no longer the centre of Gabe’s attention in the fight against evil, as this time around Gabe’s daddy issues are shunted aside to make room for some pretty distracting mummy issues. Good job he’s not in the middle of a race to find the remaining iglas, save the world and so forth… Oh dear!
Completely immersive, this instalment manages to be even better than the previous two (which I raved about here and here) – action-packed, magical, snarky, urban-fantasy fun from start to finish. Another great addition to my favourites shelf!
‘By the time his feet hit the ground, Gabe was proud of three things. First, that he hadn’t screamed once, despite really, really wanting to. Second, that he’d somehow avoided bashing into the walls as he’d frantically struggled to keep his balance. And third, that he’d landed with entirely dry pants. As far as he was concerned, that was his greatest accomplishment to date. Now all he was left with was figuring out why anyone on earth would ever want to do that recreationally.
He carefully unclipped his harness and gave Heather every ounce of nonchalance he could muster. “Not too bad.”
She watched him for a second, then shook her head and laughed softly as she came to help him get free. “I saw when you hit the halfway mark, Gabey. You looked like Pinocchio coming to life on his strings.”’
– Josh Erikson, Blight Marked
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
https://bookshineandreadbows.wordpres...
July 26, 2021
Fun book but with a difficult pacing and the reason behind is interesting world with nice characters but a boring and annoying main character. Multiple POV (Heather, of course) would be amazing. Curious to see to where this story will go because every time i finished a book it's a different surprise that i was not expecting.
April 8, 2020
The pace was really break neck for this book. The ending was Deus ex machina times X but has become normal for this series. Will definitely continue reading the next books in the series. It's fun.
March 15, 2020
Well holy $#!+
Josh Erikson has already proven himself to be at the absolute top of the urban fantasy game, yet once again he has outdone himself and blown away everything that's come before.
If you only read one urban fantasy series in your lifetime, this should be the one!
Now, I've said this before but it bears repeating. I am normally 100% against fiction authors narrating their own books. For most, the author's brain gets in the way of the narration and they just can't let go of their ideals, so end up trying to do things their voice just isn't capable of doing.
The end result, of course, being an audiobook that just sounds terrible. I know of maybe 3 or 4 authors who can pull it off.
So with that thought in mind, I cannot overstate this fact. Josh Erikson is one of the most skilled narrators I have ever had the pleasure of listening to. Easily in the top 5 of all narrators ever.
Each and every one of his voices is unique, perfectly crafted, and fits the character like a glove. His female voices are every bit as believable as the rest. His control of vocal inflections is phenomenal, and his shifts in tempo to indicate tension in a scene just might be the best I've ever heard.
I would give the performance ten stars if I could.
Now, the number one thing that has struck me about this series from the very beginning is the voice. Although the book is written in third person, the voice feels very much like Gabe (except the parts that aren't Gabe, and those have a totally different voice) throughout.
The second thing that blew me away from the start was the depth of the characters. Even the ones we don't see very often or for very long just have this depth of personality that makes them feel completely real.
On a side note, I have to give the author props for writing what is without a doubt the most intense, exhilarating, breath taking (and simultaneously non-graphic) sex scene I have ever read in any genre!
There's one aspect to this series that I've undergone a dramatic shift over, and that is the chapter introductions. It's these little first person excerpts from the fictional book the main character is writing.
Honestly, when I started the first book I wasn't fond of them. It felt like unnecessary departures at best and telly spoilers at worst.
But somewhere between the second book and this one my opinion changed. I can't say if they just grew on me or if I started seeing more value in them or if the content of them changed. But somewhere along the line I started appreciating them and by the time I got to the end of this book I actually found myself looking forward to them!
Now, let's talk for a minute about the single thing that sets these books apart from every other urban fantasy I've ever read.
While, yes, there is the voice. There is the general lack of a "cheese" factor. There is the lack of a teenage protagonist, and therefore no ridiculous "coming of age" romance and no story of growing up, which lends it a maturity absent from most UF. There is the totally unique mythology and magic system. And there is the lack of the author trying to throw every mythical creature under the sun into the story.
All of that is true.
But none of it is the BIG THING.
The big thing, which is present from the very beginning of Hero Forged, is the sheer EPIC scale of this story.
It's the reason I have a hard time classifying the Ethereal Earth series as urban fantasy. For me, it's more like epic fantasy in an urban setting. That's how big it is. The scope is massive, it has a gigantic cast of characters, and the stakes are universe-shatteringly huge.
It's almost like The Wheel of Time but in the real world (ish). That's how big it is (at least, it seems that way to me).
Now, in general I'm not a huge fan of books written with as big a focus on comedy as these. I can't be certain, but I suspect the reason I'm good with it in these books is because the humor style is so similar to my own. In so many ways, Gabe seems like a guy I'd love to know in real life, in large part because he'd be the guy constantly making me crack up while also cracking up at the ridiculously sarcastic jokes I tend to make.
Okay, let's talk criticisms for a moment.
Anyone who follows my reviews will know that I always have them, even in the books I love.
So let me surprise you for a moment.
While yes, there is some (a lot of) slightly awkward phrasing, passive voice, etc. in the writing, it just doesn't bother me because it's 100% consistent with Gabe's voice. There is, perhaps, an excess of "happy coincidences" or luck that drives things on, but again, it's all so consistent with the characters and world the author has built that it just doesn't bother me.
There's not a single thing in this book that jarred me out of the story. Nothing made me stop and question WTH when I should have been reading. There was not one instance of feeling something didn't make sense or needed to be explained better. Similarly, nothing was so on the nose that I had to roll my eyes at it.
In short, this book continues with a brilliantly epic story built on phenomenally real characters that I have grown to love as deeply as my best friends.
Josh Erikson is one of the extremely few authors who can bring me to tears, both happy and sad, for the sometimes terrible and sometimes wonderful things happening to his characters.
This book makes 3 for 3 that he has successfully done so, and in this one he did it multiple times!
Which brings us, I think, to the ending.
I know from previous experience that this author knows how to put together a fantastic ending, so I was definitely expecting something incredible.
But nothing prepared me for the pure amount of EPIC, the sheer level of AWESOME that is the end to this book. In a way, things sort of come full circle between a couple of the characters, which was amazing to see. And the author has definitely mastered the art of building in escalating climaxes that build and build until it seems there can't be anything bigger coming. And then completely blowing away your expectations to give you an ending that leaves you feeling utterly breathless.
Bravo, Mr Erikson. Bravo.
Josh Erikson has already proven himself to be at the absolute top of the urban fantasy game, yet once again he has outdone himself and blown away everything that's come before.
If you only read one urban fantasy series in your lifetime, this should be the one!
Now, I've said this before but it bears repeating. I am normally 100% against fiction authors narrating their own books. For most, the author's brain gets in the way of the narration and they just can't let go of their ideals, so end up trying to do things their voice just isn't capable of doing.
The end result, of course, being an audiobook that just sounds terrible. I know of maybe 3 or 4 authors who can pull it off.
So with that thought in mind, I cannot overstate this fact. Josh Erikson is one of the most skilled narrators I have ever had the pleasure of listening to. Easily in the top 5 of all narrators ever.
Each and every one of his voices is unique, perfectly crafted, and fits the character like a glove. His female voices are every bit as believable as the rest. His control of vocal inflections is phenomenal, and his shifts in tempo to indicate tension in a scene just might be the best I've ever heard.
I would give the performance ten stars if I could.
Now, the number one thing that has struck me about this series from the very beginning is the voice. Although the book is written in third person, the voice feels very much like Gabe (except the parts that aren't Gabe, and those have a totally different voice) throughout.
The second thing that blew me away from the start was the depth of the characters. Even the ones we don't see very often or for very long just have this depth of personality that makes them feel completely real.
On a side note, I have to give the author props for writing what is without a doubt the most intense, exhilarating, breath taking (and simultaneously non-graphic) sex scene I have ever read in any genre!
There's one aspect to this series that I've undergone a dramatic shift over, and that is the chapter introductions. It's these little first person excerpts from the fictional book the main character is writing.
Honestly, when I started the first book I wasn't fond of them. It felt like unnecessary departures at best and telly spoilers at worst.
But somewhere between the second book and this one my opinion changed. I can't say if they just grew on me or if I started seeing more value in them or if the content of them changed. But somewhere along the line I started appreciating them and by the time I got to the end of this book I actually found myself looking forward to them!
Now, let's talk for a minute about the single thing that sets these books apart from every other urban fantasy I've ever read.
While, yes, there is the voice. There is the general lack of a "cheese" factor. There is the lack of a teenage protagonist, and therefore no ridiculous "coming of age" romance and no story of growing up, which lends it a maturity absent from most UF. There is the totally unique mythology and magic system. And there is the lack of the author trying to throw every mythical creature under the sun into the story.
All of that is true.
But none of it is the BIG THING.
The big thing, which is present from the very beginning of Hero Forged, is the sheer EPIC scale of this story.
It's the reason I have a hard time classifying the Ethereal Earth series as urban fantasy. For me, it's more like epic fantasy in an urban setting. That's how big it is. The scope is massive, it has a gigantic cast of characters, and the stakes are universe-shatteringly huge.
It's almost like The Wheel of Time but in the real world (ish). That's how big it is (at least, it seems that way to me).
Now, in general I'm not a huge fan of books written with as big a focus on comedy as these. I can't be certain, but I suspect the reason I'm good with it in these books is because the humor style is so similar to my own. In so many ways, Gabe seems like a guy I'd love to know in real life, in large part because he'd be the guy constantly making me crack up while also cracking up at the ridiculously sarcastic jokes I tend to make.
Okay, let's talk criticisms for a moment.
Anyone who follows my reviews will know that I always have them, even in the books I love.
So let me surprise you for a moment.
While yes, there is some (a lot of) slightly awkward phrasing, passive voice, etc. in the writing, it just doesn't bother me because it's 100% consistent with Gabe's voice. There is, perhaps, an excess of "happy coincidences" or luck that drives things on, but again, it's all so consistent with the characters and world the author has built that it just doesn't bother me.
There's not a single thing in this book that jarred me out of the story. Nothing made me stop and question WTH when I should have been reading. There was not one instance of feeling something didn't make sense or needed to be explained better. Similarly, nothing was so on the nose that I had to roll my eyes at it.
In short, this book continues with a brilliantly epic story built on phenomenally real characters that I have grown to love as deeply as my best friends.
Josh Erikson is one of the extremely few authors who can bring me to tears, both happy and sad, for the sometimes terrible and sometimes wonderful things happening to his characters.
This book makes 3 for 3 that he has successfully done so, and in this one he did it multiple times!
Which brings us, I think, to the ending.
I know from previous experience that this author knows how to put together a fantastic ending, so I was definitely expecting something incredible.
But nothing prepared me for the pure amount of EPIC, the sheer level of AWESOME that is the end to this book. In a way, things sort of come full circle between a couple of the characters, which was amazing to see. And the author has definitely mastered the art of building in escalating climaxes that build and build until it seems there can't be anything bigger coming. And then completely blowing away your expectations to give you an ending that leaves you feeling utterly breathless.
Bravo, Mr Erikson. Bravo.
April 25, 2021
The third book in the Ethereal Earth series is in many ways another example of all the plusses and minuses of the first two. There is some witty repartee between Gabe and Heather and some cute self-referential allusions, though the references to pop culture, video gameplay, and standard fantasy tropes don't feel ironic as much as homages to the source material.
However, the battle and fight scenes are still oddly both too long and too confusing. The characters as written are both weak, flawed, and lacking in all the skills required for the adventure they undertake, but somehow they are always able to win and overcome forces both more powerful and knowledgable than they. It is a superhero movie in text, and while that can engender some terrific plots, it also denies buyin as the results are predictable and unrealistic. It is a plot that is a series of boss battles and leveling up.
As of April 2021 this is the third book in what may be a much longer series.
August 20, 2020
Overall: +6/10
It got a bit formulaic and doesn't deviate much from earlier books. Nothing really new and the wow factor was totally diluted.
There are threads left for another set of books perhaps, but I'm not really vested unless there's significant improvement.
Writing/Plot/Pace: +6
Same as earlier reviews of mine. The book really misses the oomph effect despite having an end of world theme, which is disappointing. Also the schtick of useless protagonist who pulls a rabbit when loved ones are in danger is done too many times and just feels repetitive.
Characterization: +5
None of the characters matured. They were same as earlier books with no learning from experience. Even the antagonist is diluted (you get confused as in....is it destiny or normal cycle or is it truly evil?)
It got a bit formulaic and doesn't deviate much from earlier books. Nothing really new and the wow factor was totally diluted.
There are threads left for another set of books perhaps, but I'm not really vested unless there's significant improvement.
Writing/Plot/Pace: +6
Same as earlier reviews of mine. The book really misses the oomph effect despite having an end of world theme, which is disappointing. Also the schtick of useless protagonist who pulls a rabbit when loved ones are in danger is done too many times and just feels repetitive.
Characterization: +5
None of the characters matured. They were same as earlier books with no learning from experience. Even the antagonist is diluted (you get confused as in....is it destiny or normal cycle or is it truly evil?)
March 24, 2020
This series is done for me. Let me sum it up in my mind.
1 ) Fetch quest, of the same thing they performed last book
2 ) High school level romantics ( YA ), Heather needs to go; more annoying than a barbie doll.
3 ) No balance to the world, meaning everyone wants to kill poor Gabe. There is no faction for Good or Law to keep most of these umbra's in check.
4 ) Waaaaaaaaay to much inner monologue.
5 ) Bad of the baddies just re-spawned? again no balance.
6 ) The Old God/Demon , only one still; no Good old timer to help pick on someone his own size? no balance.
1 ) Fetch quest, of the same thing they performed last book
2 ) High school level romantics ( YA ), Heather needs to go; more annoying than a barbie doll.
3 ) No balance to the world, meaning everyone wants to kill poor Gabe. There is no faction for Good or Law to keep most of these umbra's in check.
4 ) Waaaaaaaaay to much inner monologue.
5 ) Bad of the baddies just re-spawned? again no balance.
6 ) The Old God/Demon , only one still; no Good old timer to help pick on someone his own size? no balance.
March 29, 2020
Great Urban Fantasy! I can’t get enough of this series! A++
Each book just keeps getting better and better. One of the best and funniest urban fantasy series I’ve ever read. I look forward to the next book and rereading this series. I will recommend it to all my friends and family. It’s got everything I’m looking for in a book/series; action, mystery, mythology, gods and monsters, love and friendship all mixed with humor and epic battles. This story kept me up late to finish ‘just one more chapter’ till I finished it. Do yourself a favor and check out this series.
Each book just keeps getting better and better. One of the best and funniest urban fantasy series I’ve ever read. I look forward to the next book and rereading this series. I will recommend it to all my friends and family. It’s got everything I’m looking for in a book/series; action, mystery, mythology, gods and monsters, love and friendship all mixed with humor and epic battles. This story kept me up late to finish ‘just one more chapter’ till I finished it. Do yourself a favor and check out this series.
April 30, 2020
I enjoyed this more than Fate Lashed because of the character and story progression. Gabe and Heather still make an awesome duo and their relationship in this book is done much better than the previous.
The plot and characters were the strongest part for me. The conflict is huge and there is a lot of action, though at times I felt too much as I almost became exhausted with how long things went on.
Looking forward to the next installment and may give the audiobook a try since I continue to hear good things about it.
The plot and characters were the strongest part for me. The conflict is huge and there is a lot of action, though at times I felt too much as I almost became exhausted with how long things went on.
Looking forward to the next installment and may give the audiobook a try since I continue to hear good things about it.
August 24, 2020
Solid finish
This is a really good book in a really good series. The Ction is top-notch, characterization is very deep and realistic, character growth is meaningful and impacts plot, dialogue is snappy and smart, plot has interesting twists and turns. A really good series in a rich world that could go far.
This is a really good book in a really good series. The Ction is top-notch, characterization is very deep and realistic, character growth is meaningful and impacts plot, dialogue is snappy and smart, plot has interesting twists and turns. A really good series in a rich world that could go far.
June 1, 2020
Absolutely phenomenal series. A smartass conman bumbles his way into an insane situation and gradually becomes a better person with each book. The dialogue is snappy and fun, and the action doesn't stop. Cannot recommend enough.
January 10, 2023
Another really great entry to the series. If you liked the first 2 books you will also have a great time with this. Nice character development and moves along pretty quickly considering it’s the longest book so far. Highly recommend this series and I can’t wait to pick up the next book!
January 14, 2020
This book is not out yet. However I am so excited to connect with old friends!
April 27, 2020
Man I love this series and Penny was a delight.
June 24, 2020
Review coming soon ...
July 12, 2020
Every book has been an improvement. This has quickly become my favorite ongoing Urban Fantasy series.
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