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Metaframe War #6
The Key of Ahknaton
A Thrilling Dark Fantasy Action Adventure
Hunters and vampires are fighting a secret war for control of the fabric of reality. Whoever acquires mastery of the reality shifting powers of the Metaframe will become the new gods of the universe.
"Imagine if you could change the rules of the game, what rules would you choose?"
THE MIROVAR FORCE TEAM HAS BEEN SHATTERED!
Anton Slayne and his friends travel to the fabled fortress of Matahat al Diydan to seek sanctuary at the hand of an old enemy - the Red Ghost - ruler of the Red Empire.
Cornelius Crane and his rebellious general, Chloe Armitage, confront the horror of Mekra’s machinations on the blood-soaked streets of Romania. He carries the mystical Key of Ahknaton upon his person. The Metaframe waits to be used, its reality shifting powers both feared and desired by all who know of it.
The Key can open any door and give birth to any reality. Whoever uses it first could win or lose everything - only one thing is certain.
CHAOS WILL RISE
Hunters and vampires are fighting a secret war for control of the fabric of reality. Whoever acquires mastery of the reality shifting powers of the Metaframe will become the new gods of the universe.
"Imagine if you could change the rules of the game, what rules would you choose?"
THE MIROVAR FORCE TEAM HAS BEEN SHATTERED!
Anton Slayne and his friends travel to the fabled fortress of Matahat al Diydan to seek sanctuary at the hand of an old enemy - the Red Ghost - ruler of the Red Empire.
Cornelius Crane and his rebellious general, Chloe Armitage, confront the horror of Mekra’s machinations on the blood-soaked streets of Romania. He carries the mystical Key of Ahknaton upon his person. The Metaframe waits to be used, its reality shifting powers both feared and desired by all who know of it.
The Key can open any door and give birth to any reality. Whoever uses it first could win or lose everything - only one thing is certain.
CHAOS WILL RISE
348 pages, Paperback
First published October 29, 2021
2 people are currently reading
46 people want to read
About the author
Graeme Rodaughan
17 books403 followersI have one rule: Deliver an immersive reading experience that will transport you from the everyday world into a realm of fantastic imagination - and leave you there until you're forced to come up for air...
I'm in love with character driven high-octane, action packed, thrilling stories with epic heroes and mighty villains. I want suspense, I want characters with depth who I really care what happens to them, and who I will both love and hate. I love fantasy and science fiction and I want both in the same story. I want pace, and more pace, and yet time for emotional intimacy and heart-rending scenes.
This is what I dedicate myself to writing - and why - because I love it.
P.s. I love villains that matter and I loathe poorly drawn villains. I also hate gloat speeches, deus ex machinas, and evil conflated with madness...
If I DNF a book, I normally do not rate it - unless there is an egregious issue with the story. My review ratings are as follows.
5 stars: A book I love enough that I'd happily read it again. It may have some issues, but they weren't enough to disturb my enjoyment.
4 stars: Enjoyed it, but may never read it again.
3 stars: Just made it through, probably considered DNF'ing it more than once.
2 stars: A rare rating. I read this book, it has some very serious flaws and I recommend not reading it.
1 star: Hated this book. This book is garbage and would look good in a dystopian dumpster fire.
Of special note, for authors I know - If I read your book, I will do so silently and in private. If I have something good to say about it, I will add it to my shelves and publish a rating/review. Otherwise, I will remain silent. Also, I won't read your book just because you read one of mine and liked it. I.e. I don't do reciprocal reviews. They create a sense of obligation (a conflict of interest) that interferes with honest and authentic reviews. So, please do not ask me for a reciprocal review.
I'm in love with character driven high-octane, action packed, thrilling stories with epic heroes and mighty villains. I want suspense, I want characters with depth who I really care what happens to them, and who I will both love and hate. I love fantasy and science fiction and I want both in the same story. I want pace, and more pace, and yet time for emotional intimacy and heart-rending scenes.
This is what I dedicate myself to writing - and why - because I love it.
P.s. I love villains that matter and I loathe poorly drawn villains. I also hate gloat speeches, deus ex machinas, and evil conflated with madness...
If I DNF a book, I normally do not rate it - unless there is an egregious issue with the story. My review ratings are as follows.
5 stars: A book I love enough that I'd happily read it again. It may have some issues, but they weren't enough to disturb my enjoyment.
4 stars: Enjoyed it, but may never read it again.
3 stars: Just made it through, probably considered DNF'ing it more than once.
2 stars: A rare rating. I read this book, it has some very serious flaws and I recommend not reading it.
1 star: Hated this book. This book is garbage and would look good in a dystopian dumpster fire.
Of special note, for authors I know - If I read your book, I will do so silently and in private. If I have something good to say about it, I will add it to my shelves and publish a rating/review. Otherwise, I will remain silent. Also, I won't read your book just because you read one of mine and liked it. I.e. I don't do reciprocal reviews. They create a sense of obligation (a conflict of interest) that interferes with honest and authentic reviews. So, please do not ask me for a reciprocal review.
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January 24, 2024Author Shocker! Early Draft Plan Found in Open Grave! "(Slaps document on table) Frack! Look at this rubbish!"
DRAFT PLAN
[1] Chiara and Anton discover to their horror they are half brother and sister. (Anton's mum had a secret one night stand with Chiara's dad.)
[2] In disgust, Chiara abandons the rest of the team. She reconciles with her father and accepts a job as the Red Ghost's right hand girl.
[3] Louise is discovered finagling the Shadowstone finances, but successfully pins it on James.
[4] James is indicted, tried and imprisoned for a crime he didn't commit.
[5] Li and Peter have a madly passionate love affair. Li also sleeps (once) with Anton while drunk. Li gets pregnant and does not know who the father is.
[6] Dalian Morte gets a fatal illness. Chiara nurses him until he dies. Then succeeds her father as the new Red Ghost.
[7] Akimitsu frees Mekra. She seeks out Chloe and declares "I am your great, great, .... grandmother, join with me to defeat Crane."
[8] Chloe accepts Mekra's offer and together they conduct a hostile corporate takeover of Crane's empire. They stab Crane to death in his boardroom. Seconds later, Chloe betrays and kills Mekra, and assumes full control of the Vampire Dominion.
[9] Tamsah declares his love for Li. She leaves Peter, and they open a dojo together in New York. Three years later, they have a successful multi-state franchise and are raising Li's son who is named Dalian...
[10] Scarred by their experiences with Li and Chiara, Anton and Peter discover a hidden passion for each other. Peter gives up on weapons and becomes a stand-up comedian and makes $millions in Vegas. Unable to find a role for himself and secretly jealous of Peter's fame and success, Anton becomes addicted to drugs and hires himself out as a gigolo to make money.
[11] James becomes a gang boss in prison, breaks out and exacts revenge upon Louise in an orgy of torture and violence.
[12] After a brief sexual encounter with an out-of-work circus clown, Anton remembers that his (nominal) father is still imprisoned in silver at Rikers. Riven with guilt he hitch hikes his way to New York. He frees William in a heart-felt scene.
[13] Newly freed from silver, a ravenous William Slayne bites Anton and nearly kills him. Shocked at what has happened, he converts Anton, "To save him from death."
[14] Anton, on discovering he is a vampire chooses to walk into the sunlight...
END
What Recommendation?: '? 'Still a Crazy Hot Mess,' stars!!!
P.s. Final manuscript completed on the 20th August 2021.
DRAFT PLAN
[1] Chiara and Anton discover to their horror they are half brother and sister. (Anton's mum had a secret one night stand with Chiara's dad.)
[2] In disgust, Chiara abandons the rest of the team. She reconciles with her father and accepts a job as the Red Ghost's right hand girl.
[3] Louise is discovered finagling the Shadowstone finances, but successfully pins it on James.
[4] James is indicted, tried and imprisoned for a crime he didn't commit.
[5] Li and Peter have a madly passionate love affair. Li also sleeps (once) with Anton while drunk. Li gets pregnant and does not know who the father is.
[6] Dalian Morte gets a fatal illness. Chiara nurses him until he dies. Then succeeds her father as the new Red Ghost.
[7] Akimitsu frees Mekra. She seeks out Chloe and declares "I am your great, great, .... grandmother, join with me to defeat Crane."
[8] Chloe accepts Mekra's offer and together they conduct a hostile corporate takeover of Crane's empire. They stab Crane to death in his boardroom. Seconds later, Chloe betrays and kills Mekra, and assumes full control of the Vampire Dominion.
[9] Tamsah declares his love for Li. She leaves Peter, and they open a dojo together in New York. Three years later, they have a successful multi-state franchise and are raising Li's son who is named Dalian...
[10] Scarred by their experiences with Li and Chiara, Anton and Peter discover a hidden passion for each other. Peter gives up on weapons and becomes a stand-up comedian and makes $millions in Vegas. Unable to find a role for himself and secretly jealous of Peter's fame and success, Anton becomes addicted to drugs and hires himself out as a gigolo to make money.
[11] James becomes a gang boss in prison, breaks out and exacts revenge upon Louise in an orgy of torture and violence.
[12] After a brief sexual encounter with an out-of-work circus clown, Anton remembers that his (nominal) father is still imprisoned in silver at Rikers. Riven with guilt he hitch hikes his way to New York. He frees William in a heart-felt scene.
[13] Newly freed from silver, a ravenous William Slayne bites Anton and nearly kills him. Shocked at what has happened, he converts Anton, "To save him from death."
[14] Anton, on discovering he is a vampire chooses to walk into the sunlight...
END
What Recommendation?: '? 'Still a Crazy Hot Mess,' stars!!!
P.s. Final manuscript completed on the 20th August 2021.
September 3, 2025
My second time around reading this book was just as awesome as the first time!
A small backstory:
All the factions are converging toward one ultimate goal which is to keep Cornelius Crane, the leader of the Vampire Dominon from accessing the Metaframe.
All the pawns are moving into position which includes:
The Mirovar Force Team are gearing up to take on all the vampires as now they have more to face than ever before and hoping they can keep their casualties to a minimum since they are still reeling from heavy losses they took in the last book, The Crane War.
Louise Wesson (Shadowstone) is also on the move toward causing a ruckus against Crane unbeknownst to him; General Chloe Armitage still has her own agenda to be free from Crane and with her trusty sidekick James along for the ride to help her, Chloe could just have an advantage toward achieving that goal; a new threat arrives with the vampire Mekra as she causes a disruption which turns things topsy-turvy for not only Crane, but everyone that is in this war!
Who will win this war? Who will be left standing? Who will fall? Does Crane access the Metaframe? Does Chloe finally free herself from Crane? What is Mekra's role within this war? No spoilers here as you will just need to read the book and this series!
Tons of action erupts in this book as it seems to be more than in previous books as swords are unsheathed and ready for battle:
along with the firepower of guns lighting up the pages of this book;
Thoughts:
The war has literally "ramped" up into high gear and the story goes into full throttle at a high rate of speed almost like you are on a vampire bullet train!
The author, Graeme Rodaughan goes into extensive detail with everything that happens within the story and takes the action up a notch delivering powerful battles between the vampires and the vampire hunters!
The action is pristine as always which like all the other books in this series you feel that you are surrounded by panoramic movie screens as you feel the explosions and gunfire erupt around you!
Settle down in your cozy chair with munchies and soda; dim the lights and step into this action packed book! Keeping this book at five "Raging Ramp" stars as it deserves nothing less!
Highly recommend for Dark Fantasy/Action/Vampire fans!
A small backstory:
All the factions are converging toward one ultimate goal which is to keep Cornelius Crane, the leader of the Vampire Dominon from accessing the Metaframe.
All the pawns are moving into position which includes:
The Mirovar Force Team are gearing up to take on all the vampires as now they have more to face than ever before and hoping they can keep their casualties to a minimum since they are still reeling from heavy losses they took in the last book, The Crane War.
Louise Wesson (Shadowstone) is also on the move toward causing a ruckus against Crane unbeknownst to him; General Chloe Armitage still has her own agenda to be free from Crane and with her trusty sidekick James along for the ride to help her, Chloe could just have an advantage toward achieving that goal; a new threat arrives with the vampire Mekra as she causes a disruption which turns things topsy-turvy for not only Crane, but everyone that is in this war!
Who will win this war? Who will be left standing? Who will fall? Does Crane access the Metaframe? Does Chloe finally free herself from Crane? What is Mekra's role within this war? No spoilers here as you will just need to read the book and this series!
Tons of action erupts in this book as it seems to be more than in previous books as swords are unsheathed and ready for battle:
along with the firepower of guns lighting up the pages of this book;
Thoughts:
The war has literally "ramped" up into high gear and the story goes into full throttle at a high rate of speed almost like you are on a vampire bullet train!
The author, Graeme Rodaughan goes into extensive detail with everything that happens within the story and takes the action up a notch delivering powerful battles between the vampires and the vampire hunters!
The action is pristine as always which like all the other books in this series you feel that you are surrounded by panoramic movie screens as you feel the explosions and gunfire erupt around you!
Settle down in your cozy chair with munchies and soda; dim the lights and step into this action packed book! Keeping this book at five "Raging Ramp" stars as it deserves nothing less!
Highly recommend for Dark Fantasy/Action/Vampire fans!
August 4, 2024
The Order of Thoth and it's various force teams lie shattered by King Cornelius Crane and his stooge, General Chloe Armitage.
Anton Slayne, Peter Lamb and Li Wu find themselves facing the endgame with no allies.
The ancient mother of all vampires, Mekra is soon to break out of her thousand years old prison.
It seems that the whole world's tipped on a knifes edge (as usual with this series) and our heroes face their most challenging circumstances yet.
So begins book VI of The Metaframe War, containing awesome and lovable characterisations, bloody battle scenes, a fast plot and relatable writing.
This one reads like it's trying to combine the two last books into one mega finale and I absolutely loved it.
Highly recommended for fantasy enthusiasts looking for a fast, light and thrilling supernatural read.
Anton Slayne, Peter Lamb and Li Wu find themselves facing the endgame with no allies.
The ancient mother of all vampires, Mekra is soon to break out of her thousand years old prison.
It seems that the whole world's tipped on a knifes edge (as usual with this series) and our heroes face their most challenging circumstances yet.
So begins book VI of The Metaframe War, containing awesome and lovable characterisations, bloody battle scenes, a fast plot and relatable writing.
This one reads like it's trying to combine the two last books into one mega finale and I absolutely loved it.
Highly recommended for fantasy enthusiasts looking for a fast, light and thrilling supernatural read.
September 12, 2021
I participated in an ARC/Beta read for this book with the fine folks over at the GR group, Castle Dracula. I believe this become officially published in November. Make sure to mark your calendar because if you are a fan of the series, you are gonna want it straightaway. For sure.
The Key of Ahknaton, like its predecessor books, takes place right after the thrilling conclusion of the prior volume, The Crane War.
I thought nothing could really top the scope of book 5 or appear more important to the development or the story-lines, but book 6 (this one) at least matches it. We have more threads converging until the weave into a rope that is going to wrap around your reader neck and not let go until you finish the last word of the epilogue.
The characters are showing even more depth (on all sides of the multi-faceted conflict) and the impact from the near constant battles is starting to take its toll, both emotionally and in numbers.
As with the prior volumes, TKOA leaves you wanting more, but be assured there will be more. There's a twist at the end that will make you realize that all the agenda-planning, bullets, sword-play, and scheming will never make the various factions safe.
This is a rich and complex story full of nuances and details that you will want very much to think about, absorb, and read as it all plays out.
I highly recommend this book. If you haven't started the series, well, don't drag me down into your personal hell of literary action/thriller/vamp deprivation. But the fix is easy. Reading volume 1.
I want to thank the author, the very fine human being, Graeme Rodaughan, for having me participate in this very fun group read and for everyone else that participated in the beta/arc group.
The Key of Ahknaton, like its predecessor books, takes place right after the thrilling conclusion of the prior volume, The Crane War.
I thought nothing could really top the scope of book 5 or appear more important to the development or the story-lines, but book 6 (this one) at least matches it. We have more threads converging until the weave into a rope that is going to wrap around your reader neck and not let go until you finish the last word of the epilogue.
The characters are showing even more depth (on all sides of the multi-faceted conflict) and the impact from the near constant battles is starting to take its toll, both emotionally and in numbers.
As with the prior volumes, TKOA leaves you wanting more, but be assured there will be more. There's a twist at the end that will make you realize that all the agenda-planning, bullets, sword-play, and scheming will never make the various factions safe.
This is a rich and complex story full of nuances and details that you will want very much to think about, absorb, and read as it all plays out.
I highly recommend this book. If you haven't started the series, well, don't drag me down into your personal hell of literary action/thriller/vamp deprivation. But the fix is easy. Reading volume 1.
I want to thank the author, the very fine human being, Graeme Rodaughan, for having me participate in this very fun group read and for everyone else that participated in the beta/arc group.
November 4, 2021
Wow!! Wow!! Wow!!🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
The sixth book, in the Metaframe series, is spectacular!
The Key of Ahknaton, concluded flawlessly, all the plot created in the five previous books.
I didn't expect what happened , to my favorite characters, or those that I hated. I was pleasantly surprised.
The plot was fluid, full of suspense and action.
This book marks the end of an era, and is also the beguining of exciting, new adventures.
Bravo, Graeme Rodaughan!!
I can't wait to read the next book!
I highly recommend it!
The sixth book, in the Metaframe series, is spectacular!
The Key of Ahknaton, concluded flawlessly, all the plot created in the five previous books.
I didn't expect what happened , to my favorite characters, or those that I hated. I was pleasantly surprised.
The plot was fluid, full of suspense and action.
This book marks the end of an era, and is also the beguining of exciting, new adventures.
Bravo, Graeme Rodaughan!!
I can't wait to read the next book!
I highly recommend it!
May 11, 2022
Man, this installment of the Metaframe War damn near broke me. In the midst of intense battle scenes there would be these instances of raw emotion that were absolutely killer. So well done. This book really makes you wrap your head around the concept of an honorable death. And it totally sets the stage for an insane finale to this war. So many players, so many unknowns. I am ready!!
September 18, 2021
***ARC received from the author in exchange for an honest review. Reading in Castle Dracula group***
This is the sixth installment of the series, definitely a turning point. The story continues from where the previous adventure ended, gathering the factions for an unavoidable confrontation where it all began and where Ahknaton's tomb awaits silently.
The current story is well thought out, many questions are finally answered, and some subplots are developed and finished.
As we have already been accustomed to from previous books, there is no shortage of action scenes, with adrenaline-pumping battles or ultra-modern firearms. Deceptions, twists and, why not, personal dramas are just some of the hallmarks of this series.
I like the setting of this series, especially for some features that I noticed:
1. As often happens, there is not only good versus evil, but human groups are also divided among themselves, increasing the chaos in the struggle
2. There are different characteristics in the story that can be seen in the characters: ultra-technological weapons combined with the use of ancient swords and weapons, organizations with modern structures, flanked by ancient traditions and beliefs
3.
So far, I’ve enjoyed the whole series, but this book in particular. In addition, having read it in a group allowed me to better understand the story, also thanks to discussions with others and above all with the author.
At this point I look forward to reading the last book, which I'm sure will be a perfect conclusion to the series.
This is the sixth installment of the series, definitely a turning point. The story continues from where the previous adventure ended, gathering the factions for an unavoidable confrontation where it all began and where Ahknaton's tomb awaits silently.
The current story is well thought out, many questions are finally answered, and some subplots are developed and finished.
As we have already been accustomed to from previous books, there is no shortage of action scenes, with adrenaline-pumping battles or ultra-modern firearms. Deceptions, twists and, why not, personal dramas are just some of the hallmarks of this series.
I like the setting of this series, especially for some features that I noticed:
1. As often happens, there is not only good versus evil, but human groups are also divided among themselves, increasing the chaos in the struggle
2. There are different characteristics in the story that can be seen in the characters: ultra-technological weapons combined with the use of ancient swords and weapons, organizations with modern structures, flanked by ancient traditions and beliefs
3.
So far, I’ve enjoyed the whole series, but this book in particular. In addition, having read it in a group allowed me to better understand the story, also thanks to discussions with others and above all with the author.
At this point I look forward to reading the last book, which I'm sure will be a perfect conclusion to the series.
January 1, 2022
Chloe fans, this book is for you.
Before getting started with The Key of Ahknaton, the book opens with a short story out of Chloe's past titled The Enforcer. Set at the end of WWII, the story features Crane sending Chloe on a mission to obtain a very special child. All is definitely not what it seems. In typical Rodaughan fashion, there is plenty of Ramp master, Vampire and Red Empire action to go around and for the first time we see the true potential of the Metaframe in action, with a side of cosmic horror for good measure. While technically you could skip over this and start book five immediately, you'll be missing out on one heck of an action filled short story and some additional insight into Chloe's hatred of Crane.
After that side trip into Chloe's past, The Key of Ahknaton picks up immediately where The Crane War left off. I thought that book 5 blew me away. Book 6, this one, was just as engaging. There are so many twists and turns it's hard to review this book without spoilers so I'm going to be a bit vague. The world building and character arcs continue, some in surprising directions, giving a lot of new information to process. The big convergence at the end has taken this story in an unexpected direction that in hindsight I can now see was hinted at as a possibility all along.
I can't believe there is only one book to go. I'm excited to see how what remains of the Order of Thoth saves the day. Things aren't looking very good for humanity at the moment.
A big thank you to the author, Graeme Rodaughan, for inviting me into the Beta read with the folks in Castle Dracula.
Before getting started with The Key of Ahknaton, the book opens with a short story out of Chloe's past titled The Enforcer. Set at the end of WWII, the story features Crane sending Chloe on a mission to obtain a very special child. All is definitely not what it seems. In typical Rodaughan fashion, there is plenty of Ramp master, Vampire and Red Empire action to go around and for the first time we see the true potential of the Metaframe in action, with a side of cosmic horror for good measure. While technically you could skip over this and start book five immediately, you'll be missing out on one heck of an action filled short story and some additional insight into Chloe's hatred of Crane.
After that side trip into Chloe's past, The Key of Ahknaton picks up immediately where The Crane War left off. I thought that book 5 blew me away. Book 6, this one, was just as engaging. There are so many twists and turns it's hard to review this book without spoilers so I'm going to be a bit vague. The world building and character arcs continue, some in surprising directions, giving a lot of new information to process. The big convergence at the end has taken this story in an unexpected direction that in hindsight I can now see was hinted at as a possibility all along.
I can't believe there is only one book to go. I'm excited to see how what remains of the Order of Thoth saves the day. Things aren't looking very good for humanity at the moment.
A big thank you to the author, Graeme Rodaughan, for inviting me into the Beta read with the folks in Castle Dracula.
October 18, 2022
There are two things that Graeme Rodaughan does very well - plot and characters. The grand sweeping epic that is The Metaframe comes a little closer to completion with this action-packed, blood soaked thrill ride.
The world building on display here is to be admired. Graeme is not one to shy away from big ideas, that's for sure. And how can you not love (or love to hate) his list of characters? From Cornelius Crane to Mekra to the always intriguing Chloe Armitage, this guy knows how to plumb the depths of character for motivation!!
Highly recommended for fans of horror or kick-ass vampires!!!
The world building on display here is to be admired. Graeme is not one to shy away from big ideas, that's for sure. And how can you not love (or love to hate) his list of characters? From Cornelius Crane to Mekra to the always intriguing Chloe Armitage, this guy knows how to plumb the depths of character for motivation!!
Highly recommended for fans of horror or kick-ass vampires!!!
April 29, 2022
Great and original story
I can't wait for the final installment cause I am excited about it and I'm also a little sad cause I read thru this series nonstop all week I couldn't stop myself I had to know if the ramp masters would win but not to worry I won't spoil it u have to read it to understand what I'm feeling anyway enjoyed it and I am patiently waiting for the next installment hopefully it won't be to long of a wait
I can't wait for the final installment cause I am excited about it and I'm also a little sad cause I read thru this series nonstop all week I couldn't stop myself I had to know if the ramp masters would win but not to worry I won't spoil it u have to read it to understand what I'm feeling anyway enjoyed it and I am patiently waiting for the next installment hopefully it won't be to long of a wait
October 21, 2023
So. Much. Death!
Curious Epilogue.
What the hell is going to happen now?
*Mourns loses*
Curious Epilogue.
What the hell is going to happen now?
*Mourns loses*
January 29, 2023
The best book of the series thus far. Allow me to explain in list fashion.
- The Metaframe, which I pictured as a Cosmic Rubik's Cube, now might be a portal to existential annihilation. With black, oily tentacles. My heart palpitates at the thought of where this might go.
- In true form from the prior books, the body count in this book is huge. Double digits, if we want to include named characters. Which we do.
- Chloe Armitage has quickly moved into the front seat of my transport, with all her shiny armor-clad, sword-wielding, puppy-loving badassedness. Yes, Chloe is the Man.
- Immature ol' googly-eyed Anton finally figures it out. (As an aside, I'd like to thank the author for not making this book All About Anton. Thank you, thank you, thank you.)
- Chiara Morte, in all her infinite self-centeredness, finally gets her comeuppance.
Probably the best part of this book was a lengthy backstory, which took about 20% of the book's narrative. Crazy Nazi scientists, badass Chloe Armitage, and a young Metaframe adept on a dark and storm night in a tower. Great stuff!
I am eagerly awaiting Rodaughan's release of the final book in this series. Pins and needles, I am. Can't wait to read what happens next!
- The Metaframe, which I pictured as a Cosmic Rubik's Cube, now might be a portal to existential annihilation. With black, oily tentacles. My heart palpitates at the thought of where this might go.
- In true form from the prior books, the body count in this book is huge. Double digits, if we want to include named characters. Which we do.
- Chloe Armitage has quickly moved into the front seat of my transport, with all her shiny armor-clad, sword-wielding, puppy-loving badassedness. Yes, Chloe is the Man.
- Immature ol' googly-eyed Anton finally figures it out. (As an aside, I'd like to thank the author for not making this book All About Anton. Thank you, thank you, thank you.)
- Chiara Morte, in all her infinite self-centeredness, finally gets her comeuppance.
Probably the best part of this book was a lengthy backstory, which took about 20% of the book's narrative. Crazy Nazi scientists, badass Chloe Armitage, and a young Metaframe adept on a dark and storm night in a tower. Great stuff!
I am eagerly awaiting Rodaughan's release of the final book in this series. Pins and needles, I am. Can't wait to read what happens next!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 10, 2021
So nice to finally see how this chapter fully ends after the initial beta read a few months back, and it doesn't dissappoint. I read this as part of the ARC read with the Castle Dracula group as i have all the others in the series so far.
So much happens in this book in terms of plot movement its unreal, theres the usual fast paced combat as well as some very interesting back story for both the metaframe and our favourite bad guy Chloe. Crane is moving as are the surviving members of the Order of Thoth and it's all boiling down to one hell of a showdown.
Lots of plot threads from previous chapters are wrapped up here but alongside that we get a good few new larger plots opening up or being given more meat.
It's sad that it's all nearly over but at the same time that insatiable readers addiction of wanting to know what happens next cant wait to see how it all concludes. Great job Graeme once again.
So much happens in this book in terms of plot movement its unreal, theres the usual fast paced combat as well as some very interesting back story for both the metaframe and our favourite bad guy Chloe. Crane is moving as are the surviving members of the Order of Thoth and it's all boiling down to one hell of a showdown.
Lots of plot threads from previous chapters are wrapped up here but alongside that we get a good few new larger plots opening up or being given more meat.
It's sad that it's all nearly over but at the same time that insatiable readers addiction of wanting to know what happens next cant wait to see how it all concludes. Great job Graeme once again.
May 8, 2023
Well my weekend is over as is my binge with the Metaframe and I’m bummed. This is why I wait to start a series until it’s all out, I’m a binge-reader when I find something I’m loving because I can’t stand having to wait for the next installment! I was so sure that this one would be the end based on its title that I didn’t do my homework!
Loved this one, the fighting the dying, the maturing (hothead Anton continues to grow up!) the plotting, the scheming and oh clever Chloe…maybe not so clever after all?
I wonder how many books are planned now because I don’t see any way this could be wrapped up in only one more book? I’ll just have to wait and see.
What a fun ride though, totally could see this made into a movie or TV series (although generally my experience is that if I loved the book I didn’t like it’s screen version).
Loved this one, the fighting the dying, the maturing (hothead Anton continues to grow up!) the plotting, the scheming and oh clever Chloe…maybe not so clever after all?
I wonder how many books are planned now because I don’t see any way this could be wrapped up in only one more book? I’ll just have to wait and see.
What a fun ride though, totally could see this made into a movie or TV series (although generally my experience is that if I loved the book I didn’t like it’s screen version).
November 14, 2021
A must-read for the reveals, justice meted out in large doses, and action-packed battle sequences. A fitting penultimate lead-up to the upcoming finalé The Metaframe Adept.
December 25, 2021
Image Friendly Version
If Chloe is your favorite character this one’s for you. Even if she isn’t, prologue aside, this is the best book Graeme has written. The factions, the surprises, the violence, the body count - good times.
If Chloe is your favorite character this one’s for you. Even if she isn’t, prologue aside, this is the best book Graeme has written. The factions, the surprises, the violence, the body count - good times.
July 11, 2021
PART I
The novel begins with some clever ideas: the Egyptian gods Thoth and Set are actually aliens from another galaxy. Then we see Heinrich Himmler rise to power with Dr. Frankenstein's help.
Those are cool ideas, yet neither of these bits are fleshed out as well as they could be. The overview of Himmler's ambitions would have really come to life as dialog between him and Frankenstein. Instead, this partnership of horror and evil incarnate comes off surprisingly flat.
Their ally, an American banker, speaks in a brash tone befitting an audacious businessmen of the 1930s. Other times, he speaks the same stilted phrases that Himmler himself uses.
The heart of the story begins with our engaging villainess, Chloe Armitage, This part too suffers from being told in overview—at first. Had her thoughts been converted primarily to dialog with the evil Cornelius Crane, the whole thing would have played better.
Once the action begins, in a hail of bloodshed of which Rodaughan is a master, the story definitely picks up. The book focuses on Chloe, in the last days of World War II, but also upon a child prodigy, Angelina.
The book is basically one long scene, with otherworldly revelations and action galore. Despite a sluggish beginning, it's an adrenaline rush from then on. The writing is a bit rough here and there, with a preponderance of passive voices. But the characters and plot are on-spot. Rare for me, I could not put Part I down after the prologue and finished it in one night.
The climax is fantastic, touching on a Lovecraftian horror that is all the more horrifying for falling within the outer reaches of plausibility. The final denouement is fitting for this portion of the Metaframe series.
PART II
In Part II, we are back to current time and the established characters. However, there's no particular connection between this Part and the first Part, beyond the appearance of Chloe Armitage.
Rodaughan spends a great deal of time inside some of his characters' heads, as they brag about their grandiose schemes with unquestionable certainty. Only Louise has a speck of self-doubt or worry, which makes the rest of them come off rather monomaniacal. I don't believe this was Rodaughan's intent, but honestly, I found myself skimming over entire pages of this stuff. Simply presenting those thoughts as dialog with any other character would have brought those scenes to life.
Example: “Mekra’s spirit was nearby, guiding his actions with inspired suggestions and kind advice. Her words were liquid honey within his mind.” That would be so much better as a scene between Mekra and Akimitsu, where we hear those suggestions and that advice.
Rodaughan is capable of writing great dialog, like when Crane makes a confession to Chloe. I just wish we saw more of it.
The Metaframe has been a great series and Rodaughan is a good writer. He takes a backseat to no one when it comes to writing action. On the other hand, those lengthy monologues inside someone's head wear me down. Events seem to stretch out more and more, so that there's really very little advancement of the plot from the beginning of a book to the end. Despite the incredible actions scenes, not much happens on an emotional level.
One nice thing that's developed in the series, even if it's an added layer of complication, is having more than just three groups in contention. Besides the vampires and the two groups of rival vampire-killers, we have the vampires' human servants, a second group of rival vampires, a third group of vampire-killers, and a species of dino-men. Wait, it gets even more chaotic: within most of these groups is a traitor or two. No complaints; that makes the series more realistic.
For the first time, we see Mekra, the first vampiress, in action, and fans of Chloe Armitage may find a new female vampire vying for their affections. The dialog Rodaughan gives her is lilting and seductive and I found myself rooting for her over the pretentious Crane... or even the Slaynes! And a number of previously-established characters won't make it to the end.
However, sentences like “The vampires where twice as fast” and “The Shadowstone and Romanian military and paramilitary positions where overwhelmed” just shouldn't happen. Sadly, even if 'where' was replaced with 'were', those sentences would still be in the passive voice. Nazis (a plural) are often referred to as Nazi's (possessive). Other examples include: “Two other thing’s he’d learned” and “Fortunately, they are a solitary creature.”
Similar boo-boos can be found on most pages, and that takes away from the reading experience. This book could really use a final edit.
Score: 3.5, rounded down.
The novel begins with some clever ideas: the Egyptian gods Thoth and Set are actually aliens from another galaxy. Then we see Heinrich Himmler rise to power with Dr. Frankenstein's help.
Those are cool ideas, yet neither of these bits are fleshed out as well as they could be. The overview of Himmler's ambitions would have really come to life as dialog between him and Frankenstein. Instead, this partnership of horror and evil incarnate comes off surprisingly flat.
Their ally, an American banker, speaks in a brash tone befitting an audacious businessmen of the 1930s. Other times, he speaks the same stilted phrases that Himmler himself uses.
The heart of the story begins with our engaging villainess, Chloe Armitage, This part too suffers from being told in overview—at first. Had her thoughts been converted primarily to dialog with the evil Cornelius Crane, the whole thing would have played better.
Once the action begins, in a hail of bloodshed of which Rodaughan is a master, the story definitely picks up. The book focuses on Chloe, in the last days of World War II, but also upon a child prodigy, Angelina.
The book is basically one long scene, with otherworldly revelations and action galore. Despite a sluggish beginning, it's an adrenaline rush from then on. The writing is a bit rough here and there, with a preponderance of passive voices. But the characters and plot are on-spot. Rare for me, I could not put Part I down after the prologue and finished it in one night.
The climax is fantastic, touching on a Lovecraftian horror that is all the more horrifying for falling within the outer reaches of plausibility. The final denouement is fitting for this portion of the Metaframe series.
PART II
In Part II, we are back to current time and the established characters. However, there's no particular connection between this Part and the first Part, beyond the appearance of Chloe Armitage.
Rodaughan spends a great deal of time inside some of his characters' heads, as they brag about their grandiose schemes with unquestionable certainty. Only Louise has a speck of self-doubt or worry, which makes the rest of them come off rather monomaniacal. I don't believe this was Rodaughan's intent, but honestly, I found myself skimming over entire pages of this stuff. Simply presenting those thoughts as dialog with any other character would have brought those scenes to life.
Example: “Mekra’s spirit was nearby, guiding his actions with inspired suggestions and kind advice. Her words were liquid honey within his mind.” That would be so much better as a scene between Mekra and Akimitsu, where we hear those suggestions and that advice.
Rodaughan is capable of writing great dialog, like when Crane makes a confession to Chloe. I just wish we saw more of it.
The Metaframe has been a great series and Rodaughan is a good writer. He takes a backseat to no one when it comes to writing action. On the other hand, those lengthy monologues inside someone's head wear me down. Events seem to stretch out more and more, so that there's really very little advancement of the plot from the beginning of a book to the end. Despite the incredible actions scenes, not much happens on an emotional level.
One nice thing that's developed in the series, even if it's an added layer of complication, is having more than just three groups in contention. Besides the vampires and the two groups of rival vampire-killers, we have the vampires' human servants, a second group of rival vampires, a third group of vampire-killers, and a species of dino-men. Wait, it gets even more chaotic: within most of these groups is a traitor or two. No complaints; that makes the series more realistic.
For the first time, we see Mekra, the first vampiress, in action, and fans of Chloe Armitage may find a new female vampire vying for their affections. The dialog Rodaughan gives her is lilting and seductive and I found myself rooting for her over the pretentious Crane... or even the Slaynes! And a number of previously-established characters won't make it to the end.
However, sentences like “The vampires where twice as fast” and “The Shadowstone and Romanian military and paramilitary positions where overwhelmed” just shouldn't happen. Sadly, even if 'where' was replaced with 'were', those sentences would still be in the passive voice. Nazis (a plural) are often referred to as Nazi's (possessive). Other examples include: “Two other thing’s he’d learned” and “Fortunately, they are a solitary creature.”
Similar boo-boos can be found on most pages, and that takes away from the reading experience. This book could really use a final edit.
Score: 3.5, rounded down.
August 4, 2022
Awesome
This series was a real page turner right from the very beginning. I thought the last book would finish the story. BUT NO Graeme Rodaughan left the door open. Waiting for the next chapter.
This series was a real page turner right from the very beginning. I thought the last book would finish the story. BUT NO Graeme Rodaughan left the door open. Waiting for the next chapter.
April 18, 2023
Loved it! Can’t wait for the next book!
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