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The Portal Wars Saga #2
The Great Northern War
War is Hell, especially when you’re surrounded by enemies.
With the king of Garenland dead and the people eager for revenge, Otto and Wolfric turn their sights north, to Garenland’s ancient enemy, Straken.
The Northern Army marches into enemy territory while back in the capital Otto rushes to train as many war wizards as he can.
Outside forces refuse to leave them alone and Otto is forced to deal with an ever-growing array of foes, unreliable allies, and an enemy that will do anything to see Garenland fall.
Can Otto overcome threats both internal and external to bring the war to a victorious close?
With the king of Garenland dead and the people eager for revenge, Otto and Wolfric turn their sights north, to Garenland’s ancient enemy, Straken.
The Northern Army marches into enemy territory while back in the capital Otto rushes to train as many war wizards as he can.
Outside forces refuse to leave them alone and Otto is forced to deal with an ever-growing array of foes, unreliable allies, and an enemy that will do anything to see Garenland fall.
Can Otto overcome threats both internal and external to bring the war to a victorious close?
316 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 14, 2020
500 people are currently reading
278 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
April 25, 2021
This is a review of the audiobook.
Safely entertaining, but still suffers from the issues that plagued the first volume, namely lack of build-up.
I still have no problem with the MC's choices. He's consistent, if a bit young for his maturity at times. I think the author is missing good opportunities for conflict by making him so uncharacteristically emotionless (he is a teenager after all, and hormones should rage a bit more), but I can accept that it's a byproduct of his being engrossed in his quest for power. Disdain for earthly pleasures is a common trope for scholars.
Unfortunately, the book is flat. Events are just streaming by, without highlight of let-off. The number of POV is getting out of hand and bring precious little to the actual story. On the contrary, it kills any suspense by revealing too much . We lose focus of our MC too often, and for too long. That is a serious problem.
I also have a BIG issue with the narrator, a carry-over from the first book. Inappropriate tone for the context: too many perky or equanimous voices that don't match the action at all. There also was a great lack of voice differentiation in dialogues, which made the experience confusing because we don't know who's talking anymore. At this point, I consider that the narrator is dragging the book down.
But I'll still read the next volume, hoping things get better.
Safely entertaining, but still suffers from the issues that plagued the first volume, namely lack of build-up.
I still have no problem with the MC's choices. He's consistent, if a bit young for his maturity at times. I think the author is missing good opportunities for conflict by making him so uncharacteristically emotionless (he is a teenager after all, and hormones should rage a bit more), but I can accept that it's a byproduct of his being engrossed in his quest for power. Disdain for earthly pleasures is a common trope for scholars.
Unfortunately, the book is flat. Events are just streaming by, without highlight of let-off. The number of POV is getting out of hand and bring precious little to the actual story. On the contrary, it kills any suspense by revealing too much . We lose focus of our MC too often, and for too long. That is a serious problem.
I also have a BIG issue with the narrator, a carry-over from the first book. Inappropriate tone for the context: too many perky or equanimous voices that don't match the action at all. There also was a great lack of voice differentiation in dialogues, which made the experience confusing because we don't know who's talking anymore. At this point, I consider that the narrator is dragging the book down.
But I'll still read the next volume, hoping things get better.
September 2, 2020
Not entirely as advertised
I find myself in a bit of a tangle here. This series doesn't deliver what I expected from it, but I'm still enjoying reading it.
The start is a bit irritating as we jump perspective far too rapidly to really get grounded in what's going on. A short way in this lessens to a degree, and while its clear the author did this to keep events in chronological order, I think the tension could have been maintained by staying in one character perspective longer and letting events "catch up" when things crossed over.
The story continues with Otto and Axel, the main protaginists pursuing the Straken army while also tying up loose ends from where the previous book left off. While I enjoy the steep and dark decline of Otto's character as he becomes more ruthless in his ambition to gain more knowledge from Karonin and become an Arcane Lord... there's very little magic thats shown other than what he already gained previously and a few short battles. New magic is kind of skipped over and done "off screen" in his private study which is very disappointing. The narrative leans more heavily on the politics of Garenland trying to win the war.
Its all done very well and the characters really do push things along, but I can't help feeling a little cheated as the series presented as being more fantasy than politics and it's very much the opposite. Still, I'm enjoying the story so far and will continue along to see what Otto is willing to do to become an Arcane Lord
I find myself in a bit of a tangle here. This series doesn't deliver what I expected from it, but I'm still enjoying reading it.
The start is a bit irritating as we jump perspective far too rapidly to really get grounded in what's going on. A short way in this lessens to a degree, and while its clear the author did this to keep events in chronological order, I think the tension could have been maintained by staying in one character perspective longer and letting events "catch up" when things crossed over.
The story continues with Otto and Axel, the main protaginists pursuing the Straken army while also tying up loose ends from where the previous book left off. While I enjoy the steep and dark decline of Otto's character as he becomes more ruthless in his ambition to gain more knowledge from Karonin and become an Arcane Lord... there's very little magic thats shown other than what he already gained previously and a few short battles. New magic is kind of skipped over and done "off screen" in his private study which is very disappointing. The narrative leans more heavily on the politics of Garenland trying to win the war.
Its all done very well and the characters really do push things along, but I can't help feeling a little cheated as the series presented as being more fantasy than politics and it's very much the opposite. Still, I'm enjoying the story so far and will continue along to see what Otto is willing to do to become an Arcane Lord
August 31, 2022
3.75 Stars
This was a much better read (or listen, in my case; as I'm using the Audio version). The plot is coming together nicely now in the second book. The magic system used is particularly interesting, primarily because it has a unique structure that outlines limitations among different characters based on their ability. Although I'd appreciate a bit more detail about the system's origin.
The protagonist/Arcane Lord in Training is still up to know good by committing some really dark acts as he gets stronger. Admittedly, I like where it's going though and I'd interested to see how things play out for him in the long. Overall, the story is great but can do with a little more depth. It feels a bit rushed in certain scenes as I progressed through the book but I guess the author must be doing something right considering that he still has my attention. On to the third book I go now in anticipation.
This was a much better read (or listen, in my case; as I'm using the Audio version). The plot is coming together nicely now in the second book. The magic system used is particularly interesting, primarily because it has a unique structure that outlines limitations among different characters based on their ability. Although I'd appreciate a bit more detail about the system's origin.
The protagonist/Arcane Lord in Training is still up to know good by committing some really dark acts as he gets stronger. Admittedly, I like where it's going though and I'd interested to see how things play out for him in the long. Overall, the story is great but can do with a little more depth. It feels a bit rushed in certain scenes as I progressed through the book but I guess the author must be doing something right considering that he still has my attention. On to the third book I go now in anticipation.
March 18, 2021
Good continuation of the series, it still feels like the author is trying to make MC act less evil that he is capable off. Thanksfully all dumb characters were dealt with in this installment.
November 22, 2023
Great follow up to the first book, lots of action and drama, and love how the magic works
September 14, 2020
If possible would have given 4.5 but such is life. A fun look at a morally gray MC that does what he believes needs to be done. Interesting with some curveballs that might surprise you.
August 16, 2020
It's ok
The writing is brilliant & story building is good. I just find it's not really to my liking. The first book the main character acted so different like he was a good guy a hero and then towards the end got a little bad. But this book just did it for me he's totally took about face and nearly everyone of the main characters are just murderous doubt I'll read any more of the series tbh.
The writing is brilliant & story building is good. I just find it's not really to my liking. The first book the main character acted so different like he was a good guy a hero and then towards the end got a little bad. But this book just did it for me he's totally took about face and nearly everyone of the main characters are just murderous doubt I'll read any more of the series tbh.
August 18, 2022
This one gets a downgrade from book 1's four stars.
I just didn't "feel" it.
There were few characters to care about and people rarely seemed to be in real danger. The immersion just wasn't really there for me. With the scope and epic-ness, I was hoping for more. I guess, having just come off a Gemmell binge, I was hoping for more feels. It is war after all.
Pros:
1. Some great new characters get introduced. I hope we see more of them in the next one.
2. More magic
3. More evil
4. More war
Cons:
1. "Show, don't tell." It felt a little rushed, like the author was going for those plot points and leaving his characters' experiences and personal growth by the wayside.
2. A slight criticism with regards to the rulers.
You'd also expect the king to have a council of ministers, like 6 to 10 people that he meets with on a regular basis to help him run the kingdom. We don't ever see that, except for the lawyer in book 1.
You'd also expect the above to give Otto the serious side-eye whenever he enters a room, with all the prejudice against wizards.
3. Come to think of it, the prejudice against wizards and the distrust would have been much more pronounced. When they join the army, there would have been spitting and sneers from the common soldiers. And that one bit, you know the one I mean, any nearby soldiers would definitely have been angry and walked away. I wish Axel did too. It would have caused great conflict.
That reminded me a bit of Durotan (Christie Golden), except in Durotan it was handled much better.
4. Missed opportunities. For instance, add a scene where his mother comes for a visit and she has a balancing influence on his alignment, which then causes inner conflict when he has to continue his plans.
Axel is my favourite. I wish more of this book was about him, with Otto going the way he's going, he's interesting, but hard to sympathize with or relate to. In book one when the politics got annoying it was nice to take a break and sneak through the forest with Axel.
On to the next one! I hope it's better.
-----------------------------
Thank you again to the author for making this series available on Youtube.
I just didn't "feel" it.
There were few characters to care about and people rarely seemed to be in real danger. The immersion just wasn't really there for me. With the scope and epic-ness, I was hoping for more. I guess, having just come off a Gemmell binge, I was hoping for more feels. It is war after all.
Pros:
1. Some great new characters get introduced. I hope we see more of them in the next one.
2. More magic
3. More evil
4. More war
Cons:
1. "Show, don't tell." It felt a little rushed, like the author was going for those plot points and leaving his characters' experiences and personal growth by the wayside.
2. A slight criticism with regards to the rulers.
You'd also expect the king to have a council of ministers, like 6 to 10 people that he meets with on a regular basis to help him run the kingdom. We don't ever see that, except for the lawyer in book 1.
You'd also expect the above to give Otto the serious side-eye whenever he enters a room, with all the prejudice against wizards.
3. Come to think of it, the prejudice against wizards and the distrust would have been much more pronounced. When they join the army, there would have been spitting and sneers from the common soldiers. And that one bit, you know the one I mean, any nearby soldiers would definitely have been angry and walked away. I wish Axel did too. It would have caused great conflict.
That reminded me a bit of Durotan (Christie Golden), except in Durotan it was handled much better.
4. Missed opportunities. For instance, add a scene where his mother comes for a visit and she has a balancing influence on his alignment, which then causes inner conflict when he has to continue his plans.
Axel is my favourite. I wish more of this book was about him, with Otto going the way he's going, he's interesting, but hard to sympathize with or relate to. In book one when the politics got annoying it was nice to take a break and sneak through the forest with Axel.
On to the next one! I hope it's better.
-----------------------------
Thank you again to the author for making this series available on Youtube.
April 22, 2024
The series had great potential but unfortunately stays rather two dimensional. The world felt too small and the protagonist´s motivations felt quite contrived.
The protagonist´s development was way too fast and the changes of his personality really extreme.
In the first book he turned from being a nice, introverted and unmotivated weakling into a ruthless, driven and powerful mage. The more the story progressed the more unlikeable and villainous he became and he more and more seemed like a cheaper version of the legendary Warhammer´s Nagash character. I was no fan of the whole love drama arc.
In the second book the mentioned mass murder of innocent witnesses and the actions against good people to hide the protagonist´s own personally motivated fuck up made me sick and convinced me that the protagonist is a villain. This feeling only deepened with the sacrifices.
The enemies acts in the northern war felt idiotic for drama reasons. Without workers and taxpayers the whole conquest is worthless on the short run.
The author should make up his mind what the protagonist can do. Sometimes he watched everything and teleported himself to any place without a problem then he showed himself as helpless and needed to delegate the most important tasks. In the third book he could have solved most problems easily fast by himself..
At the end of the third book the story felt more and more like a fairy tale and i stopped caring..
The protagonist´s development was way too fast and the changes of his personality really extreme.
In the first book he turned from being a nice, introverted and unmotivated weakling into a ruthless, driven and powerful mage. The more the story progressed the more unlikeable and villainous he became and he more and more seemed like a cheaper version of the legendary Warhammer´s Nagash character. I was no fan of the whole love drama arc.
In the second book the mentioned mass murder of innocent witnesses and the actions against good people to hide the protagonist´s own personally motivated fuck up made me sick and convinced me that the protagonist is a villain. This feeling only deepened with the sacrifices.
The enemies acts in the northern war felt idiotic for drama reasons. Without workers and taxpayers the whole conquest is worthless on the short run.
The author should make up his mind what the protagonist can do. Sometimes he watched everything and teleported himself to any place without a problem then he showed himself as helpless and needed to delegate the most important tasks. In the third book he could have solved most problems easily fast by himself..
At the end of the third book the story felt more and more like a fairy tale and i stopped caring..
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 30, 2023
I recently finished reading The Great Northern War, and I must say that I enjoyed the more political turn the author took. The exceptional writing was on full display, and the vivid descriptions of battles left my heart pumping, wanting more. The MC's victories would have been sweeter by delving more into his magical abilities, but unfortunately, the book didn't explore that aspect enough.
While the character development was somewhat lacking, the main character, Otto, remained interesting, albeit more one-sided than in the first book. I also wish the author had shown more prejudice toward the MC rather than just stating it, which would have added more depth to the story. That being said, the military and political aspects of the book were intriguing, and I appreciated the change of pace from the first book. Overall, I would recommend this book to readers of the first book in the series, and I give it four stars.
While the character development was somewhat lacking, the main character, Otto, remained interesting, albeit more one-sided than in the first book. I also wish the author had shown more prejudice toward the MC rather than just stating it, which would have added more depth to the story. That being said, the military and political aspects of the book were intriguing, and I appreciated the change of pace from the first book. Overall, I would recommend this book to readers of the first book in the series, and I give it four stars.
August 24, 2020
Fleshed out characters and a good overarching plot
I've read some of the author's other books and this is definitely one of the better ones. He really managed to put soul into his characters in this (and the previous) book. Even the side characters with the briefest appearances feel real. This is mostly a military fantasy by now (not my favorite, but I expected it), and the battles, tactics and strategies are very solid. I don't really care much about this aspect of the book, being mostly interested in the character conflicts that happen instead.
One criticism is that although the main character is very unique and polished, his development seems to have stopped at the end of the previous book, where he learned some hard but valuable lessons. Still, it doesn't feel like he reached his full potential; he's too detached, as far as we are aware he doesn't really care about much besides himself. And one thing's missing: his goal. He says he wants to become an arcane lord, but we don't really know why. Is it power for power's sake? Seems to be, which really doesn't paint a good picture for the future of this character in particular.
I've read some of the author's other books and this is definitely one of the better ones. He really managed to put soul into his characters in this (and the previous) book. Even the side characters with the briefest appearances feel real. This is mostly a military fantasy by now (not my favorite, but I expected it), and the battles, tactics and strategies are very solid. I don't really care much about this aspect of the book, being mostly interested in the character conflicts that happen instead.
One criticism is that although the main character is very unique and polished, his development seems to have stopped at the end of the previous book, where he learned some hard but valuable lessons. Still, it doesn't feel like he reached his full potential; he's too detached, as far as we are aware he doesn't really care about much besides himself. And one thing's missing: his goal. He says he wants to become an arcane lord, but we don't really know why. Is it power for power's sake? Seems to be, which really doesn't paint a good picture for the future of this character in particular.
September 6, 2022
I've just finished listening to all 7 books of this while I was at work. Although each book gets slightly shorter than the previous one it was still a very long series! It was around 51 hours. I absolutely loved these books. Otto Shenk was a very interesting character and his entire quest for power fascinated me more each book. I was a tiny bit dissatisfied with the ending, but that's how life is! Things don't always end exactly how you expect them to and that's just fine. Anyone interested in reading this book series I absolutely would suggest you do. You won't forget this one!(Copying this onto all 7 books) Thanks James E Wisher.
September 24, 2020
Robuster
I’ve read both books and have found them entertaining. The protagonist is not what you expect from this genre.
It’s a different formula that this author has given us readers.
I found that to be a plus the majority of the time.
The story has flaws. The protagonist isn’t really a likable individual , his brother Axel is by far the more moral brother.
Wolfric, the future king isn’t up to my standards as a sidekick either. ..
I liked the story over all , it was worth my money and effort .
I’ve read both books and have found them entertaining. The protagonist is not what you expect from this genre.
It’s a different formula that this author has given us readers.
I found that to be a plus the majority of the time.
The story has flaws. The protagonist isn’t really a likable individual , his brother Axel is by far the more moral brother.
Wolfric, the future king isn’t up to my standards as a sidekick either. ..
I liked the story over all , it was worth my money and effort .
May 23, 2021
Spectacular Storyline and Character designs
This series so far is quite different from the other magic fantasy novel series that I have read recently. The multiple viewpoints of key characters makes the story more interesting and easier to understand the whole scope of events more than the usual first person storyline style. It is also well written and edited to a more professional level than many other published authors put out. (Liking they didn't put in the time, money, and effort to proofread and edit their books before publishing on Amazon)
This series so far is quite different from the other magic fantasy novel series that I have read recently. The multiple viewpoints of key characters makes the story more interesting and easier to understand the whole scope of events more than the usual first person storyline style. It is also well written and edited to a more professional level than many other published authors put out. (Liking they didn't put in the time, money, and effort to proofread and edit their books before publishing on Amazon)
July 26, 2021
These books are well written and interesting, however I do take issue with the main character having no real redeeming qualities. It's difficult to relate to someone who appears to be a sociopath. I continue to hope something will happen to change that inside of him somehow, but so far his singular purpose is to gain power in any way necessary. Moreover, I don't forsee him getting any more virtuous or having any goals for the betterment of anyone other than himself. It's frustrating and making it difficult for me to decide to continue reading the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 3, 2021
Interesting point of view
Since I enjoyed the author’s other seriesI tried this one. The protagonist is so flawed and damaged I have trouble relating to him and while I recognize why he is less than perfect I find it difficult to rout for him. This unfortunately takes away my desire to read the additional books. There seems to be no main character to champion. Every decent person gets removed or murdered and it becomes more and more offensive to me.
Since I enjoyed the author’s other seriesI tried this one. The protagonist is so flawed and damaged I have trouble relating to him and while I recognize why he is less than perfect I find it difficult to rout for him. This unfortunately takes away my desire to read the additional books. There seems to be no main character to champion. Every decent person gets removed or murdered and it becomes more and more offensive to me.
October 1, 2020
I think it's good
I am still, fence sitting on whether I like or dislike this book. There are three main reasons.
1. The moral ambiguity of the protagonist makes it hard for anyone who isn't a sociopath.
2. The writing and movement of the plot are fluid and work well.
3. The wife plot line really derailed me.
I am still, fence sitting on whether I like or dislike this book. There are three main reasons.
1. The moral ambiguity of the protagonist makes it hard for anyone who isn't a sociopath.
2. The writing and movement of the plot are fluid and work well.
3. The wife plot line really derailed me.
November 10, 2020
Its Ok
The story has some conflict but no real intrigue. Sometimes the conflict resolution isn't even that great. For instance if you ask a few questions and use magic to get rid of the issue permanently in one short paragraph, then there is something left to be desired. I finished the book, but I wouldn't recommend paying more than .99. I won't finish the rest of this series.
The story has some conflict but no real intrigue. Sometimes the conflict resolution isn't even that great. For instance if you ask a few questions and use magic to get rid of the issue permanently in one short paragraph, then there is something left to be desired. I finished the book, but I wouldn't recommend paying more than .99. I won't finish the rest of this series.
February 26, 2022
A great story...
After reading Apocalypse knight, was advised to read this series while waiting on the next book release. I've not been disappointed so far, for a story based on magic there hasn't been alot just enough to show a development and a decent story to show time advancing and not just an OP story. Looking forward to book 3 which I'll be starting now 😁
After reading Apocalypse knight, was advised to read this series while waiting on the next book release. I've not been disappointed so far, for a story based on magic there hasn't been alot just enough to show a development and a decent story to show time advancing and not just an OP story. Looking forward to book 3 which I'll be starting now 😁
December 21, 2023
2023 read #112
4 stars! This fantasy series is just getting better. The world is so creative and the story is so concise. Otto is not a typical main character, when he wants something done...he gets it done. He has no "remorse" which makes him such a cunning ruler. I can't wait to continue this series.
4 stars! This fantasy series is just getting better. The world is so creative and the story is so concise. Otto is not a typical main character, when he wants something done...he gets it done. He has no "remorse" which makes him such a cunning ruler. I can't wait to continue this series.
August 2, 2024
It's an okay enough book for wasting an evening. Though, the bland, generic spells and mostly emotionless teenager protagonist are starting to get on my nerves. Additionally, the lack of build-up to the final battle was such a missed opportunity. There were too many side-things involved just so the author could label his series as epic fantasy.
September 7, 2024
Magic and middle earth action at its best
At my age I've read thousands of books and I quickly tire of weak coming of age characters with interminable crisis of confidence. Great writer, well placed and doesn't get stuck in the microscopic detail which means more time developing the wider story. Love it.
At my age I've read thousands of books and I quickly tire of weak coming of age characters with interminable crisis of confidence. Great writer, well placed and doesn't get stuck in the microscopic detail which means more time developing the wider story. Love it.
February 5, 2025
I don't know why I'm still reading this series. Everyone in the book is a sociopath, but here I am reading it.
I do enjoy the main character, I'm just hoping he has a moment where he realizes he is a horrible human and takes a turn for the better, this could get old and difficult to read if it doesn't change.
I do enjoy the main character, I'm just hoping he has a moment where he realizes he is a horrible human and takes a turn for the better, this could get old and difficult to read if it doesn't change.
August 15, 2020
Liked it
Fast paced page turner with interesting characters that you might not instantly root for. I have read several books and series by this Author and have enjoyed every book. I can't wait for book three.
Fast paced page turner with interesting characters that you might not instantly root for. I have read several books and series by this Author and have enjoyed every book. I can't wait for book three.
September 9, 2020
Wow, this series is amazing
So much is coming together from the first book. I’ve read a few series that start strong but the second book just felt like a filler until the conclusion. Not here, I read the first book in 6 days and the second in two...
So much is coming together from the first book. I’ve read a few series that start strong but the second book just felt like a filler until the conclusion. Not here, I read the first book in 6 days and the second in two...
February 3, 2021
This continues to cover the quest of the ever-more-questionable MC as he gains power and influence for himself and his country. I continue to enjoy it and note that those around him are starting to ask questions. I am really waiting to see how the story finishes - I can't wait!
May 5, 2021
Now stopping at "amoral" station. Next stop evil-town... I think this is my stop.
I'd feel better about Otto's journey to hell if he did a little more struggling with his conscience. If you don't mind inhabiting "dark" characters, this series should still be good for you.
I'd feel better about Otto's journey to hell if he did a little more struggling with his conscience. If you don't mind inhabiting "dark" characters, this series should still be good for you.
November 22, 2021
3.5** something about this book seems so real? Like the actions the characters take seem logical to the characters themselves. Reading other books I sometimes feel things don't happen purely for the sake of plot later.
May 18, 2022
This is the second book I’ve read from James E. Wisher and I must say they were some of the best written novels I have ever read.
I am definitely reading more of them.
The experience was very pleasant. Everything is described with just the correct amount of details and the metaphors he uses makes everything even more enjoyable to read.
What I like most in his books are the character dialogues. Each one has their own voice and personality. It is not bland, just words on paper. They have life.
I am definitely reading more of them.
The experience was very pleasant. Everything is described with just the correct amount of details and the metaphors he uses makes everything even more enjoyable to read.
What I like most in his books are the character dialogues. Each one has their own voice and personality. It is not bland, just words on paper. They have life.
March 12, 2023
Fast paced and fun
I have enjoyed this series and the characters development. Otto is still a seemingly good guy even with access to almost limitless power. I can't wait to see where this story goes.
I have enjoyed this series and the characters development. Otto is still a seemingly good guy even with access to almost limitless power. I can't wait to see where this story goes.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews