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The Beginning after the End #1-2
The Beginning after the End: Publisher's Pack #1-2
King Grey has unrivaled strength, wealth, and prestige in world governed through martial ability. However, solitude lingers closely behind those with great power. Beneath the glamorous exterior of a powerful king lurks the shell of man, devoid of purpose and will.
Reincarnated into a new world filled with magic and monsters, the king has a second chance to relive his life. Correcting the mistakes of his past will not be his only challenge, however. Underneath the peace and prosperity of the new world is an undercurrent threatening to destroy everything he has worked for, questioning his role and reason for being born again.
Reincarnated into a new world filled with magic and monsters, the king has a second chance to relive his life. Correcting the mistakes of his past will not be his only challenge, however. Underneath the peace and prosperity of the new world is an undercurrent threatening to destroy everything he has worked for, questioning his role and reason for being born again.
13 pages, Audible Audio
First published December 3, 2019
16 people are currently reading
351 people want to read
About the author
TurtleMe
36 books1,400 followersTae Ha Lee, writing under the pen name TurtleMe, is a fantasy novelist and webcomic author. Blending elements of Western and Eastern literature, TurtleMe creates a unique and compelling reading experience that resonates with global audiences. His award-winning series, The Beginning After the End, has been translated into over ten languages and has captivated readers worldwide.
Tae Ha, a proud UC Berkeley graduate, currently resides in Seattle with his beloved wife and dog. To find out more, follow @turtleme93 on Instagram.
Tae Ha, a proud UC Berkeley graduate, currently resides in Seattle with his beloved wife and dog. To find out more, follow @turtleme93 on Instagram.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
June 17, 2023
2 Stars for the narrator
The story starts out great till you realize the main character Arth has 0 struggles to obtain anything.
Any limitations introduced get disregarded just a few chapters later as if the writer got bored of the premise a few chapters in.
* Is warned to never reveal a secret or show a mysterious magic-veiled item to then go and tell about it to the first person who asks or to take the mysterious item everywhere he goes on display.
* Can't leave a place for 7 years, nah "things have changed" you can go now.
* He wants a good weapon and any weapon he sees that costs 20x to 1000x what he could afford in a year to then receive a mysterious legendary sword that everyone regards as trash and he gets it for free.
At one point Arth said He's getting tired of everyone gawking about his amazing overpoweredness.
Maybe I'm being too critical of a book that might be meant for a younger audience, but that's a bit hard to justify when Arth - a middle-aged man trapped in an 8-year-old's body starts explaining how he's not sexually attracted to any of the grownups and might need a few years till children his "own" age don't act so childish for him to justify being sexually attracted.
The story starts out great till you realize the main character Arth has 0 struggles to obtain anything.
Any limitations introduced get disregarded just a few chapters later as if the writer got bored of the premise a few chapters in.
* Is warned to never reveal a secret or show a mysterious magic-veiled item to then go and tell about it to the first person who asks or to take the mysterious item everywhere he goes on display.
* Can't leave a place for 7 years, nah "things have changed" you can go now.
* He wants a good weapon and any weapon he sees that costs 20x to 1000x what he could afford in a year to then receive a mysterious legendary sword that everyone regards as trash and he gets it for free.
At one point Arth said He's getting tired of everyone gawking about his amazing overpoweredness.
Maybe I'm being too critical of a book that might be meant for a younger audience, but that's a bit hard to justify when Arth - a middle-aged man trapped in an 8-year-old's body starts explaining how he's not sexually attracted to any of the grownups and might need a few years till children his "own" age don't act so childish for him to justify being sexually attracted.
March 25, 2020
This was really good. I was so hooked that I skipped sleep to finish this.
The story drew you in, then held you captive.
This was the first book of 2020 that I enjoyed so much.
I will definitely be reading the sequels, and I might try the author's other books.
What I saw in reviews (that wasn't this edition) was that their was a lot of grammatical errors, but this book had extra editing. Everything just flowed so smoothly.
3.5/5 Stars
The story drew you in, then held you captive.
This was the first book of 2020 that I enjoyed so much.
I will definitely be reading the sequels, and I might try the author's other books.
What I saw in reviews (that wasn't this edition) was that their was a lot of grammatical errors, but this book had extra editing. Everything just flowed so smoothly.
3.5/5 Stars
January 12, 2021
I discovered the books through the comic version. This book is one of the most enjoyable ones that I've read in the year of 2020. It's kept me hooked throughout the series, to the point where I almost read the whole series in a day.
I won't bother explaining the story here, as you can just read the description of the book to find out.
I'd rate the overall world of the series with a five. It's fairly different yet similar to our own world, with there being magic, yet still giant cities and settlements. There are multiple different human-like races, such as elves and dwarves. There are monsters and dragons, yet, because of the fact that adventuring and killing said monsters is an actual job you can be paid handsomely for in this world, it is still fairly peaceful for normal civilians.
The character development is also fairly interesting. As you read, you can see how the protagonist changes, even if ever so slightly, with the experiences and challenges he goes through.
Major spoiler upcoming here. In the series, the protagonist and co. encounter a monster like they've never seen before, and due to three of their party members already dying to it, one of the surviving ones goes crazy and decides to betray the protagonist and the rest for his own survival. This development reminds me of our own world, and how similar the characters can be to actual humans. In our world, there are people who will betray others for the sake of surviving, even if it means throwing others down a hole to die in their stead. It is fairly refreshing to read a fantasy book that isn't afraid to dive into these sorts of topics.
In the world of the series, there is royalty and nobility. Our protagonist isn't part of either, and this results in him sometimes being abused by nobles, although it mostly backfires in their faces. This is a small example of what too much power or a lack thereof, can do to people, and it's interesting to see it be put into use in this series on multiple occasions.
Overall, this is one of my most favorite reads of 2020, and one that I would reread on occasion. I'd recommend this book if you're into books with dragons and magic and don't mind things like explicit death and blood.
I won't bother explaining the story here, as you can just read the description of the book to find out.
I'd rate the overall world of the series with a five. It's fairly different yet similar to our own world, with there being magic, yet still giant cities and settlements. There are multiple different human-like races, such as elves and dwarves. There are monsters and dragons, yet, because of the fact that adventuring and killing said monsters is an actual job you can be paid handsomely for in this world, it is still fairly peaceful for normal civilians.
The character development is also fairly interesting. As you read, you can see how the protagonist changes, even if ever so slightly, with the experiences and challenges he goes through.
Major spoiler upcoming here. In the series, the protagonist and co. encounter a monster like they've never seen before, and due to three of their party members already dying to it, one of the surviving ones goes crazy and decides to betray the protagonist and the rest for his own survival. This development reminds me of our own world, and how similar the characters can be to actual humans. In our world, there are people who will betray others for the sake of surviving, even if it means throwing others down a hole to die in their stead. It is fairly refreshing to read a fantasy book that isn't afraid to dive into these sorts of topics.
In the world of the series, there is royalty and nobility. Our protagonist isn't part of either, and this results in him sometimes being abused by nobles, although it mostly backfires in their faces. This is a small example of what too much power or a lack thereof, can do to people, and it's interesting to see it be put into use in this series on multiple occasions.
Overall, this is one of my most favorite reads of 2020, and one that I would reread on occasion. I'd recommend this book if you're into books with dragons and magic and don't mind things like explicit death and blood.
September 12, 2020
Your usual isekai trope, I just like it.
August 30, 2024
Prose is ok, story isn't.
This book, while having many faults, wasn't so badly written as to be painful to listen to or read but it was by no means good.
Firstly, the MC is reincarnated but lived his previous life on another world. This previous life is mentioned several times and he even pops back to his old world once to retire from his job but it is completely irrelevant. I can't really see why the author framed the story like that.
Secondly we have this guy stipulated as being in his mid 30s being surrounded by 5-9 year old girls who he constantly calls beauties and who are all infatuated with him. Not only is this a bit creepy but it is tiresome too. Every girl is attracted to him, every man is jealous/awed by him, every women thinks he's adorable. Ergh.
Then there's the plot. Nothing happens. He gains more powers/abilities and impresses everyone everywhere by being the best at everything in every way. There's no adversary who isn't beaten in seconds. No opponent who can outwit him. Every move and judgment call he makes is perfect and everyone he needs on his side instantly respects and allies with him.
Also, the other characters are a bit flat. They are either good or evil and the bits written from their perspectives rarely give any insight that wasn't obvious.
This seems to be written like a litRPG: Dungeons, Monster cores, Crafting etc. However it isn't a litRPG and so some of these set pieces seem really odd in the story.
So yeah, the plot, characters and setting aren't great but it is competently written from a prose point of view and well narrated so if you particularly like this author/narrator then give it a go. Otherwise I would not recommend.
This book, while having many faults, wasn't so badly written as to be painful to listen to or read but it was by no means good.
Firstly, the MC is reincarnated but lived his previous life on another world. This previous life is mentioned several times and he even pops back to his old world once to retire from his job but it is completely irrelevant. I can't really see why the author framed the story like that.
Secondly we have this guy stipulated as being in his mid 30s being surrounded by 5-9 year old girls who he constantly calls beauties and who are all infatuated with him. Not only is this a bit creepy but it is tiresome too. Every girl is attracted to him, every man is jealous/awed by him, every women thinks he's adorable. Ergh.
Then there's the plot. Nothing happens. He gains more powers/abilities and impresses everyone everywhere by being the best at everything in every way. There's no adversary who isn't beaten in seconds. No opponent who can outwit him. Every move and judgment call he makes is perfect and everyone he needs on his side instantly respects and allies with him.
Also, the other characters are a bit flat. They are either good or evil and the bits written from their perspectives rarely give any insight that wasn't obvious.
This seems to be written like a litRPG: Dungeons, Monster cores, Crafting etc. However it isn't a litRPG and so some of these set pieces seem really odd in the story.
So yeah, the plot, characters and setting aren't great but it is competently written from a prose point of view and well narrated so if you particularly like this author/narrator then give it a go. Otherwise I would not recommend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 8, 2025
The Light Novel is the the source for the current Spring 2025 anime season version of The Beginning after the End: Publisher's Pack #1-2. I listened to the audiobook published by Podium Audio. Both the story and narration were very good and kept me engaged for the 12 hr long narration.
I especially liked his interaction with Tessa, her grandfather, and the Elven kingdom. The first 2 volumes of the LN takes Art from his rebirth up to his entry into the Magic Academy.
This may be a standout series this anime season.
It follows the life of the late King Grey after his untimely and mysterious death. Reborn as Arthur Leywin, he seeks to correct his past mistakes in the vibrant new continent of Dicathen, a world of magic and fantastical creatures. Equipped with the knowledge of a powerful king in his mid-thirties, Arthur navigates his new life as the magic-wielding child of two retired adventurers and gains purpose through each of his new experiences—something he lacked in his previous life. (Credit Wikipedia)
Read for the GR Japanese Light Novels Book Club: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
I especially liked his interaction with Tessa, her grandfather, and the Elven kingdom. The first 2 volumes of the LN takes Art from his rebirth up to his entry into the Magic Academy.
This may be a standout series this anime season.
It follows the life of the late King Grey after his untimely and mysterious death. Reborn as Arthur Leywin, he seeks to correct his past mistakes in the vibrant new continent of Dicathen, a world of magic and fantastical creatures. Equipped with the knowledge of a powerful king in his mid-thirties, Arthur navigates his new life as the magic-wielding child of two retired adventurers and gains purpose through each of his new experiences—something he lacked in his previous life. (Credit Wikipedia)
Read for the GR Japanese Light Novels Book Club: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
July 12, 2025
I love Travis Baldree as a narrator on audible. So good!! The Book itself...just ok. I like the premise of the book. Reborn with the memories of your previous life to use to make better choices (we've all wanted that). The problem was the descriptions of the magic and internal thoughts about what to do in a situation. The detailed information about the magic system internally discussed comes from nowhere. We're to assume that "He read it in a book" (at 6 months old?). Then we are told he's training but the details of that are left out. It's only part of a story told. If you're nerdy and want to know the details about magic in a suspended reality. This could be a book for you.
Also, half way through the 1st book we all of a sudden have a different character's perspective. In a snippet. It was super weird and continues randomly through the end of the audiobook. It doesn't make sense to me being so inconsistent and it wasn't just one other character. It was just internal thoughts of that character too. Annoying.
Also, half way through the 1st book we all of a sudden have a different character's perspective. In a snippet. It was super weird and continues randomly through the end of the audiobook. It doesn't make sense to me being so inconsistent and it wasn't just one other character. It was just internal thoughts of that character too. Annoying.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 3, 2020
I enjoyed this. I'd initially spotted this as a comic on the Tapas app, and read book one when it was on offer. So when this popped up on audible, I thought I'd give it go.
It's great fun, with a likable protagonist and an interesting world. It shows that it was initially written as an episodic web novel though as the pacing can be a bit off in places. Still, would totally recommend and I'm going to pick up the next installment (books 3 and 4)
The narrator did a great job distinguishing characters and I would definitely listen to more read by him
It's great fun, with a likable protagonist and an interesting world. It shows that it was initially written as an episodic web novel though as the pacing can be a bit off in places. Still, would totally recommend and I'm going to pick up the next installment (books 3 and 4)
The narrator did a great job distinguishing characters and I would definitely listen to more read by him
May 6, 2021
This is purely my review of the audio version of the book and has little to do with the content. I could listen to Travis read cereal boxes and be enthralled. His performance was second to none and he really brings life to the characters and settings in this book. Fantastic job and excellent deviation between characters using different inflection timing and tone for the different characters and even accounting for the situation they are in. Basically it is what you expect from Travis an outstanding performance! The book was also good.
August 2, 2025
This was one I was looking forward to and just had to slog through to finish. I feel like the power creep is ridiculous for the main character - and I couldn't get behind a 4 year old fighting adults. Like, come on.
I can say this is the most poorly written story that I've gone through in awhile.
I was listening on Audible and generally like the narrator, Travis Baldree, and I think he did an okay job with it. But the story - blech.
I can say this is the most poorly written story that I've gone through in awhile.
I was listening on Audible and generally like the narrator, Travis Baldree, and I think he did an okay job with it. But the story - blech.
September 4, 2020
This hardly felt like two books, it really seemed like a single book. Which is great because the author is great at keeping the story moving without any lags or lulls. I also like the concept of a character who is born again and actually realizes he's been born again. Lots of fun!
October 12, 2023
I was pleasantly surprised how much I enjoyed this audiobook. The reincarnation trope is one of my favorites. Having the main character start right before birth was a fun twist. If you enjoy this trope, this is a great audiobook. The narrator is absolutely fabulous.
February 5, 2024
3.5☆ It was entertaining although I'm not a big fan of a child as the mc. I've seen lots of people enjoy this series so I will be continuing. If I didn't see so many people talking about this series, I can't say I would keep reading after finishing the first book.
May 20, 2025
I randomly stumbled across this book somewhere. Looked it up on audible later and found that it was free for me. Its a really nice read. I found it unique too. And if you like magic to have its own system and rules and all that, it has that stuff too. Currently at the beginning of book 2
September 5, 2020
The narrator does a great job to tell this story.
September 9, 2020
for a gaming type story its pretty good.
March 2, 2021
fun little rebirth Litrpg
November 21, 2021
I was pleasantly surprised when I started this series and how it really hooked me.
March 29, 2022
This was an awesome read, loved going through the manga for this!!
November 20, 2022
couldn't finish it. Was just too boring. Main character is the epitome of a "Mary Sue".
November 27, 2022
I would give anything for baby Art.
March 2, 2023
Great story teller, interesting start to a promising story.
March 2, 2023
(This series starts out pretty good, but I ended up rating the 7th book a 1/5 and dropping the series.)
The main character is thankfully not a jerk and generally behaves in believable ways.
The main character is thankfully not a jerk and generally behaves in believable ways.
April 27, 2023
While not bad, it didn't make me want to keep with the series
May 18, 2023
I always fin re-reading books entertaining you can find a million little things you missed, or something you missed the last time. That said, I would love an Elf princess as a childhood best friend.
June 17, 2025
In the beginning it honestly took me a while to actually start and get into the story, but once I started I could not put it down. From start to finish every twist and turn of Art(Note's) journey I was in awe. I am more of a dark romance and romantasy reader. However this story captured and held all of my attention. From the first time you meet Arthur as King, to his infant stage, his 4yr stage and so on. Each stage of his life he took in strides and made sure he either taught himself or was taught all he could about what he could do. I throughly enjoyed Sylvie and all her stages too. Lastly the narration. Though this is a narrator I have never listened to before I honestly can say as I move forward into the storyline I could not imagine anyone else as the voice of Art other then Travis Baldree he did an absolute fabulous job.
January 21, 2020
This was a solid 4 star, but the endless minutia details on the magic system and way the story kind of wandered lost me near the end. Good story and even though I'm not too much in the minutia of magic this one was ok at first, it just became too much. Good way to end the story and I'll likely be back for the next installment. Hopefully, he can move onto more story development in the next book(s).
November 3, 2025
It's such a shame that the first season of the anime for this series does not do the books justice. The Beginning after the End is a fabulous story. In the same vein as "Solo Leveling" the MC is over powered but has had to fight to get there. I thoroughly enjoyed all the novels. Highly recommended.
February 11, 2020
Decent enough story. Lots of info dumps that got tedious. Interesting set up with the reincarnation angle which led to some awkward spots when describing other characters from the main characters POV.
May 6, 2020
I love the main character this series is great
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews