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Divine Apostasy #3
Uru's Third Temple
Ruwen’s life is inside out, literally. Trapped in the Spirit Realm by a hostile god’s magic, Ruwen’s spells, abilities, and skills no longer work. Worse, his secret Cultivation ability is now blindingly evident.
A critical clue, given to Ruwen during the betrayal, makes him question the motives behind the treachery and offers a path home. But the Spirit Realm is dangerous, and with no other options, Ruwen must embrace his Cultivation, learn to harness his power, and create his Core. Failure will leave him defenseless and guarantee an eternity of pain and suffering.
And as Ruwen struggles to find a way forward, he is stunned to discover plans that span over ten thousand years. Secrets involving his missing parents, the gods, and himself.
To face what’s coming, Ruwen must risk everything for the skills to survive.
A critical clue, given to Ruwen during the betrayal, makes him question the motives behind the treachery and offers a path home. But the Spirit Realm is dangerous, and with no other options, Ruwen must embrace his Cultivation, learn to harness his power, and create his Core. Failure will leave him defenseless and guarantee an eternity of pain and suffering.
And as Ruwen struggles to find a way forward, he is stunned to discover plans that span over ten thousand years. Secrets involving his missing parents, the gods, and himself.
To face what’s coming, Ruwen must risk everything for the skills to survive.
498 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 22, 2020
755 people are currently reading
231 people want to read
About the author
A.F. Kay
18 books334 followersAFK is the pen name of Ripht, a monk still wandering the Crypt of Dalnir looking for the Lumpy Goo that refuses to drop his Fighting Baton. Some of AFK's best memories happened online, and the Divine Apostasy, a LitRPG series, is his attempt to relive those days in some small part. He hopes you find a piece of yourself in this series and join him on the journey.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
August 11, 2020
Rating 3.0 stars
This was just okay. I liked the progression from book 1 to book 2 but this was completely different. The main character was level 6 at the end of book 2. He was still trying to get a grip on being a worker and learning that the magic that worker classes provided could be useful. His main goal was hiding that he was a champion because he was a target with how weak he was. In this book he was trapped in a different realm. He did not have access to any of the magic or access to his void band. So all the stuff I had enjoyed learning about for the last 2 books wasn't there for the first 3/4 of the book. Instead he needed to focus on cultivation and strengthening his body. It was a complete change in the way the story unfolded. Instead of being weak and trying to figure out what to due using intelligence. In this book he was a badass fighter who always went head long into battle to protect his friends. He had battles against multiple opponents who were much stronger than him.
This was just okay. I liked the progression from book 1 to book 2 but this was completely different. The main character was level 6 at the end of book 2. He was still trying to get a grip on being a worker and learning that the magic that worker classes provided could be useful. His main goal was hiding that he was a champion because he was a target with how weak he was. In this book he was trapped in a different realm. He did not have access to any of the magic or access to his void band. So all the stuff I had enjoyed learning about for the last 2 books wasn't there for the first 3/4 of the book. Instead he needed to focus on cultivation and strengthening his body. It was a complete change in the way the story unfolded. Instead of being weak and trying to figure out what to due using intelligence. In this book he was a badass fighter who always went head long into battle to protect his friends. He had battles against multiple opponents who were much stronger than him.
April 8, 2024
This book already started poorly.
I'm already disliking this book, as it seems we will have a stupid protagonist.
This book is really for a younger more foolish audience (or at least the author is behaving like his readers are stupid).
I thought the book was getting better, but then the protagonist's "girlfriend" opens her mouth, or the protagonist starts to blame himself.
I hate these kid logic books. "Let's have people blow up and get angry and blame the protagonist for no reason, or things that weren't his fault to begin with", or "let's react way out of proportion to create stupid unnecessary drama to make it seem as if our characters actually have a relationship".
I will probably read the sequel because I want to see what happens, but the characters interrelationships are horrible.
2/5 Stars
I'm already disliking this book, as it seems we will have a stupid protagonist.
This book is really for a younger more foolish audience (or at least the author is behaving like his readers are stupid).
I thought the book was getting better, but then the protagonist's "girlfriend" opens her mouth, or the protagonist starts to blame himself.
I hate these kid logic books. "Let's have people blow up and get angry and blame the protagonist for no reason, or things that weren't his fault to begin with", or "let's react way out of proportion to create stupid unnecessary drama to make it seem as if our characters actually have a relationship".
I will probably read the sequel because I want to see what happens, but the characters interrelationships are horrible.
2/5 Stars
August 21, 2025
Once again, this book blew my mind with the twists and turns the story went with! So much information is dropped in terms of lore and the story of how everything came to be. Ruwen and Syph's broship is hands down the best thing about this series! I love seeing them interact and only share 1 braincell between them. It's always hilarious and I end up laughing super hard at the dumb things they say and do.
The romance subplot was handled amazingly well, and each couple is well matched together. You can tell that the characters are going to have a long loving relationship full of trust. I cannot wait to pick up book 4 and see where Ruwen ends up next!
The romance subplot was handled amazingly well, and each couple is well matched together. You can tell that the characters are going to have a long loving relationship full of trust. I cannot wait to pick up book 4 and see where Ruwen ends up next!
May 19, 2024
This is starting to ramp up on the bad litrpg tropes. Random mechanisms (like even more extreme time dilution), but without real consequences except a few comments, conversation continue almost as if nothing happen after one party has been somewhere else for several years. Add to that champions trapped for centuries have learned nothing and advanced nothing in hundreds of years, and ends up having to have how things work explained by MC, instead of the other way around.
Only saved by the still relatively good context, but this is a schlock entry.
Only saved by the still relatively good context, but this is a schlock entry.
April 5, 2021
Better than 1 & 2
The protagonist is easier to like. He has a ton of growth. The side characters don’t grow much but the author still incorporates them into the story well.
The journeys are more fun in this book. The time dilation isn’t as critical and a reader can enjoy the flow without having to think about the flow.
One critic about the book is the author has added a few side quest lines that I’m sure will add to the story in the end but at this point can get frustrating. A lot of Litrpg authors tend to use the quantity method in story telling instead of following the quality route. So time will tell if the author will continue to use it.
The protagonist is easier to like. He has a ton of growth. The side characters don’t grow much but the author still incorporates them into the story well.
The journeys are more fun in this book. The time dilation isn’t as critical and a reader can enjoy the flow without having to think about the flow.
One critic about the book is the author has added a few side quest lines that I’m sure will add to the story in the end but at this point can get frustrating. A lot of Litrpg authors tend to use the quantity method in story telling instead of following the quality route. So time will tell if the author will continue to use it.
May 7, 2024
Most of this one was focused on Wuxia-like myths. Not my favorite. It seemed the main character growth went too far but oriented itself towards the end.
May 3, 2025
The book unlike the reviews say, is very sensible and amazing. until 97%.. then it goes batshit crazy. really really batshit crazy. everybody goes out of character, gets mad at each other then be happy with each other and then I don't know what happens.
November 25, 2021
Fun and engaging, strong and weak points
I'd enjoyed the book series so far , but I do think there are some of the authors decisions in formating and in and info dumping character sheets brings the story down a notch. It is told in 3rd person limited and is appropriate for those young adult and above. Having read through the 1st 5 books I will say that this series does have strong RPG elements that for the majority feel natural and a part of the world but are a bit glaring for those no accustomedto the genre. With some of the formatting, agian with the character sheets in particular, Being reader or listener speedbumps.
Catching up on a week of reviews that consists mostly of this series I do feel I got a bit negative for book 2 and 1.. There are moments in which I have laughed a lot throughout the series including book 3. The characters and their relationships feel real. Making the naming convention a part of the story itself yet itself was interesting and a fun thing to see. As a hobby writer I am impressed with the author and his ability to make engaging characters. I do think part of my dislike is because of the genre and my preference for a more story focused progression or cultivation aspect.
Still based upon being pulled out of the story and cliffhangery aspects of the seires I do think it is still a 3 star story. With each story being more of chunks of a bigger complete story previous and later offerings affect my opinion of this book.
I do see qhere the author had to put a limiter in a way one the main protagonist because of how powerful he is. These self imposed shackles does add to this story in a way.
Having the character half to choose not to act in some way that is clearly beneficial for himself and others gives gives the situation an interesting span. That said it does also have a bit of the feel of an author trying to write himself out of a hole. It works but we see it.
Enjoyed it, worth the read, listen.
I'd enjoyed the book series so far , but I do think there are some of the authors decisions in formating and in and info dumping character sheets brings the story down a notch. It is told in 3rd person limited and is appropriate for those young adult and above. Having read through the 1st 5 books I will say that this series does have strong RPG elements that for the majority feel natural and a part of the world but are a bit glaring for those no accustomedto the genre. With some of the formatting, agian with the character sheets in particular, Being reader or listener speedbumps.
Catching up on a week of reviews that consists mostly of this series I do feel I got a bit negative for book 2 and 1.. There are moments in which I have laughed a lot throughout the series including book 3. The characters and their relationships feel real. Making the naming convention a part of the story itself yet itself was interesting and a fun thing to see. As a hobby writer I am impressed with the author and his ability to make engaging characters. I do think part of my dislike is because of the genre and my preference for a more story focused progression or cultivation aspect.
Still based upon being pulled out of the story and cliffhangery aspects of the seires I do think it is still a 3 star story. With each story being more of chunks of a bigger complete story previous and later offerings affect my opinion of this book.
I do see qhere the author had to put a limiter in a way one the main protagonist because of how powerful he is. These self imposed shackles does add to this story in a way.
Having the character half to choose not to act in some way that is clearly beneficial for himself and others gives gives the situation an interesting span. That said it does also have a bit of the feel of an author trying to write himself out of a hole. It works but we see it.
Enjoyed it, worth the read, listen.
December 29, 2021
Here we go with the review for book 3 of A F Kay's Divine Apostasy series. Although, I'm not really sure why a prospective reader would need a review at this point. I mean, I get it from the author's perspective, as it helps to ensure the book shows up more in the algorithms, which means more people are exposed to it, which means more people will buy it. But from the reader's perspective? That's a little bit harder to pin down. I mean, if you've already read the Shade's First Rule and The Second Betrayal, then I would think that you would need no further encouragement beyond the knowledge that Uru's Third Temple is out in order to purchase it and begin reading.
But, just in case that's not enough for you, then let me add this statement. Of the 4 books released in the series thus far, this one is my favorite. We learn so much regarding the larger story at play in this book (although, admittedly, it still is not enough to answer all questions - but that's to be expected, anyway). From understanding the betrayal of the second novel and it's place in the larger story, to Ruwen's growth in his cultivation abilities, to the introduction of Uru's previous champions, there is so much in this novel that really delves into that larger puzzle and how Ruwen actually fits into it. The journey of life is not easy when a goddess is driving the car.
I will again add a plug for the audiobook version, if you prefer those to reading the ebooks. Travis Baldree continues the narration of the series and, as before, does a masterful job of it. So, whether you are reading or listening, you will not be disappointed with Uru's Third Temple. Go ahead, scroll back up and click that purchase button. It's absolutely worth it.
But, just in case that's not enough for you, then let me add this statement. Of the 4 books released in the series thus far, this one is my favorite. We learn so much regarding the larger story at play in this book (although, admittedly, it still is not enough to answer all questions - but that's to be expected, anyway). From understanding the betrayal of the second novel and it's place in the larger story, to Ruwen's growth in his cultivation abilities, to the introduction of Uru's previous champions, there is so much in this novel that really delves into that larger puzzle and how Ruwen actually fits into it. The journey of life is not easy when a goddess is driving the car.
I will again add a plug for the audiobook version, if you prefer those to reading the ebooks. Travis Baldree continues the narration of the series and, as before, does a masterful job of it. So, whether you are reading or listening, you will not be disappointed with Uru's Third Temple. Go ahead, scroll back up and click that purchase button. It's absolutely worth it.
August 4, 2020
Continues to impress
The third book ties the first two together quite well! I am really enjoying this storyline- I am impressed with the elegant combination of misc. story elements from sundry LitRPG sub-genres as well as elements from xianxia and wuxia.
- minor spoiler warning- While this was an outstanding book, it felt a bit rushed as the main characters left the spirit realm (infernal realm?). It started off well, but after the clans of cultivators finished the trial by combat I was left scratching my head a bit. The character phoenix seemed interesting and i was prepared for the group to spend more time with them, perhaps to be hassled further by those who didn’t accept the fight verdict. Lots of unanswered questions.
There was a section of rewards followed by thorough analysis of skills, attributes, strategy and game mechanics that lasted far too long for my taste, it took up nearly a quarter of the pages near the end which was very disappointing. The fleshing of mechanics was interesting, but the mechanical explanations were tiresome
And then we stopped the book in the middle of a rising action. Just like this review.
The third book ties the first two together quite well! I am really enjoying this storyline- I am impressed with the elegant combination of misc. story elements from sundry LitRPG sub-genres as well as elements from xianxia and wuxia.
- minor spoiler warning- While this was an outstanding book, it felt a bit rushed as the main characters left the spirit realm (infernal realm?). It started off well, but after the clans of cultivators finished the trial by combat I was left scratching my head a bit. The character phoenix seemed interesting and i was prepared for the group to spend more time with them, perhaps to be hassled further by those who didn’t accept the fight verdict. Lots of unanswered questions.
There was a section of rewards followed by thorough analysis of skills, attributes, strategy and game mechanics that lasted far too long for my taste, it took up nearly a quarter of the pages near the end which was very disappointing. The fleshing of mechanics was interesting, but the mechanical explanations were tiresome
And then we stopped the book in the middle of a rising action. Just like this review.
August 15, 2020
The writing for this book feels quite a bit weaker than the first two books. Things that stood out as being subpar would be the stilted character interactions. For Example, the Champians might as well be paper cutout given their lack of devolvement. They are quite literally NPC's in an escort quest with no role really in any of the story outside of existing. And the rest of the cast isn't much better.
If I was to guess, this story feels rushed. Like the Spirit realm, part of the story should have been expanded out. And all the current cast should have been developed a lot more. And the Thrid temple bit should have been completely dropped for the next book since it feels like a separate story arch that doesn't mesh well with the divine realm arch
If I was to guess, this story feels rushed. Like the Spirit realm, part of the story should have been expanded out. And all the current cast should have been developed a lot more. And the Thrid temple bit should have been completely dropped for the next book since it feels like a separate story arch that doesn't mesh well with the divine realm arch
October 25, 2022
Great Adventure Series
The character creation and development is fantastic! Every book you see a different adventure that melds seamlessly with the characters while keeping you wondering what's next. A great read!
The character creation and development is fantastic! Every book you see a different adventure that melds seamlessly with the characters while keeping you wondering what's next. A great read!
April 1, 2023
Not as strong for me. The thing about these books is that there seems to be an overarching story but each one gets distracted from it.
Ruwen gets a ridiculous amount of power in this one. Like super OP and I’m not sure it really fit the narrative. Also the character development is really sudden and jarring at times and doesn’t fit well.
Also he spent 4+ years training so now he’s that much older than the others surely? But doesn’t act it etc. weird
Ruwen gets a ridiculous amount of power in this one. Like super OP and I’m not sure it really fit the narrative. Also the character development is really sudden and jarring at times and doesn’t fit well.
Also he spent 4+ years training so now he’s that much older than the others surely? But doesn’t act it etc. weird
May 23, 2021
I think the book is trying to hard to be a cultivation novel while also being a litrpg which is causing issues for me.
I also think main character Ruin has an OP problem like in "The Beginning After The End" series.
I am continuing to read because I enjoy the recordings by Travis Baldree on Audible so much.
I also think main character Ruin has an OP problem like in "The Beginning After The End" series.
I am continuing to read because I enjoy the recordings by Travis Baldree on Audible so much.
October 25, 2020
The slide has begun
I struggled with this book and how unnecessary a lot of the content was. It may be entertaining to some but I found it convoluted and unsatisfying in comparison with the two earlier books
I struggled with this book and how unnecessary a lot of the content was. It may be entertaining to some but I found it convoluted and unsatisfying in comparison with the two earlier books
November 8, 2022
Once I'm addicted to this series. I just can't stop listening to it. The characters are phenomenal. The story is fantastic and the narrator is a gem.
October 27, 2022
The timeline is concerning
So this is a good sequel and everything I like is still there but it has a problem that is puzzlingly common in many books and other forms of media of this kind of genre : things are happening so fast. All three of these books have taken place in two months except that’s actually like maybe a couple weeks cause of differing time between realms. At one point the main character is asked how long he’s been a champion for and it’s 4 days. Two books took place in four days and the character has formed extremely deep bonds with people, grown drastically in power and the world has shifted significantly. In four days. Even if you were being very charitable with the time variances and things and took it as experienced time it wouldn’t be much at all. It just makes how close the characters are less believable and their relationships carry less weight than if we knew they had been together a long time. Also this character is still 16 as he was in the beginning of the series and well on his way to becoming a god. At this rate he’ll be the most powerful being in the universe before his 18’th. 4 stars cause I still love the characters and the world and plot are compelling but star deducted because I’m seeing concerning elements that I feel have a chance of eventually ruining this series. New elements of time and an architect role are introduced at the end too and perhaps I’ve just been poisoned by seeing other series that I’ve really liked turn into garbage but I can definitely see things that could become huge issues in terms of a too powerful, too quick character and relationships and character beats that don’t feel earned or lived in cause of poor pacing. I’d be sad if this series turns out like that but time will tell - I’m gonna read the next and hope for the best.
So this is a good sequel and everything I like is still there but it has a problem that is puzzlingly common in many books and other forms of media of this kind of genre : things are happening so fast. All three of these books have taken place in two months except that’s actually like maybe a couple weeks cause of differing time between realms. At one point the main character is asked how long he’s been a champion for and it’s 4 days. Two books took place in four days and the character has formed extremely deep bonds with people, grown drastically in power and the world has shifted significantly. In four days. Even if you were being very charitable with the time variances and things and took it as experienced time it wouldn’t be much at all. It just makes how close the characters are less believable and their relationships carry less weight than if we knew they had been together a long time. Also this character is still 16 as he was in the beginning of the series and well on his way to becoming a god. At this rate he’ll be the most powerful being in the universe before his 18’th. 4 stars cause I still love the characters and the world and plot are compelling but star deducted because I’m seeing concerning elements that I feel have a chance of eventually ruining this series. New elements of time and an architect role are introduced at the end too and perhaps I’ve just been poisoned by seeing other series that I’ve really liked turn into garbage but I can definitely see things that could become huge issues in terms of a too powerful, too quick character and relationships and character beats that don’t feel earned or lived in cause of poor pacing. I’d be sad if this series turns out like that but time will tell - I’m gonna read the next and hope for the best.
May 4, 2025
This one picked up the ball a heap, but sorta fumbled it a bit near the end.
So this one was much better than the first two, a massive improvement with the mc and the way things were written and done with him.
The only thing that jumped for me is it went and dropped the ball pretty weirdly at the end of chp59 and into 60 with the relations between mc and Hamma.
Seeing as this is a review I will say possible spoilers but also not really bc you’ve probably read it at this point.
Basically a plot point was dropped in between those two and had me confused and asking w t f.
It made zero sense as to their reactions with absolutely no context provided at all with Hammer. Mc even makes a comment about it as he wasn’t even born at that point. That plot line was not developed well at all, other than a throwaway line that again made zero sense. Hits you in the face and leaves you reeling wondering if you skipped a book here.
And then promptly skips past it as if it didn’t happen at all.
Also when you put into perspective that, at most, all these people have know each other for like less than 2 weeks, wayyyyyyy too much inter personal development has happened in that time.
That can be skipped if suspension of disbelief is maintained, but when certain points like mentioned above yank you out, real quick you start to poke holes and ruin it for yourself. Which loops into making it harder to get back into it.
Other than that though, it was pretty good and even great at points and so I will continue happily to the next.
So this one was much better than the first two, a massive improvement with the mc and the way things were written and done with him.
The only thing that jumped for me is it went and dropped the ball pretty weirdly at the end of chp59 and into 60 with the relations between mc and Hamma.
Seeing as this is a review I will say possible spoilers but also not really bc you’ve probably read it at this point.
Basically a plot point was dropped in between those two and had me confused and asking w t f.
It made zero sense as to their reactions with absolutely no context provided at all with Hammer. Mc even makes a comment about it as he wasn’t even born at that point. That plot line was not developed well at all, other than a throwaway line that again made zero sense. Hits you in the face and leaves you reeling wondering if you skipped a book here.
And then promptly skips past it as if it didn’t happen at all.
Also when you put into perspective that, at most, all these people have know each other for like less than 2 weeks, wayyyyyyy too much inter personal development has happened in that time.
That can be skipped if suspension of disbelief is maintained, but when certain points like mentioned above yank you out, real quick you start to poke holes and ruin it for yourself. Which loops into making it harder to get back into it.
Other than that though, it was pretty good and even great at points and so I will continue happily to the next.
January 18, 2024
dnf crash and burned. lost interest and it turned into a grind just to finish reading the 3rd book. MC is just too op and too stupid. Is he really gonna sit there and think about how weak and vulnerable he could be if he doesnt assign his attribute points evenly? yep- despite the fact that by pure op he gains 2x the attribute points/level than the average person, and considerably extra free atteibutes on top of that for each stage of cultivation that the average honcho doesnt get. oh and lets not forget about the op % increases in attributes as a whole that he freely gets from additional op class perks that others dont, cultivation powers, and all class powers up to level five minimum, whilst the average honcho has to make do with a single class with limited choice in abilities and spells. MC could assign his free attribute points all to charisma and still remain relatively equal in all other stats with his peers. Has his own personal Alexa that can make his a master martial artist in less than an hour realtime, a dungeon home base that gives him a significant resource and training time advantage that others dont have, a doting girlfriend, starchild quite literally is his name. Stupid. Im not gonna finish this series. Wake me up when he is a normal person that actually has to overcome challenges beyond "I have to be able to survive as an op level 1 against average level 20s."
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 30, 2024
I really like this serie so far.
However I have some problems regarding the MC (and others) big emotional crises when someone dies. . THEY resurrect! MC must die each time he wants to change class anyway, and I am pretty sure he will change several times more..
The punishment for dying isn't really great either, especially in higher levels where attributes basically is decided by their % boosts gear etc.MC still think about when he died at lvl 1 and got some debuff having stats under his starting point. He puts in points in not needed stats in wisdom to not get foolish debuff, which he now have to die 30x or something to get..
I see it is not a "cheap" death, but if you don't start using dying as a portal, I really don't see the major issue that his girlfriend sacrificed herself to get rid of the high lvls. (Major OP buff, would probably be obligatory for healers to use this pretty often....)
However. I soldier through (🤡) these minor emotional crises they have regarding dying and blame it on the characters age (16... When you are the center of the universe (well MC kinda is, but not in the "Noone can understand how horrible I have it" way, when they're told they need to come home when other kids do or similar...)
However I have some problems regarding the MC (and others) big emotional crises when someone dies. . THEY resurrect! MC must die each time he wants to change class anyway, and I am pretty sure he will change several times more..
The punishment for dying isn't really great either, especially in higher levels where attributes basically is decided by their % boosts gear etc.MC still think about when he died at lvl 1 and got some debuff having stats under his starting point. He puts in points in not needed stats in wisdom to not get foolish debuff, which he now have to die 30x or something to get..
I see it is not a "cheap" death, but if you don't start using dying as a portal, I really don't see the major issue that his girlfriend sacrificed herself to get rid of the high lvls. (Major OP buff, would probably be obligatory for healers to use this pretty often....)
However. I soldier through (🤡) these minor emotional crises they have regarding dying and blame it on the characters age (16... When you are the center of the universe (well MC kinda is, but not in the "Noone can understand how horrible I have it" way, when they're told they need to come home when other kids do or similar...)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 13, 2020
Alert
First, my review: “This was a fun book. I am glad that I read it. You should try it too.”
Over the past year it has become apparent that my reviews are somewhat antagonistic and I apologize to those of you that have taken offense. I think I had hoped to change peoples’ minds about reviewing works of art and that seems to have backfired spectacularly. However, I am still going to be true to myself and write what I believe.
To the author: Thank you for this chance to escape reality and enjoy the world you created! Keep up the good work.
To my fellow reviewers: Messaging me and reviewing my reviews is as productive as trying to shovel water out of the ocean. Stop. I get it. Let’s just all live peacefully.
To potential readers: Art needs to be experienced at an individual level. You are the only one that can determine what you like and don’t like. Don’t let others make that decision for you. You should definitely read the book and completely ignore all of the reviews. You are a much better judge of what you will like than anyone here.
Cheers
First, my review: “This was a fun book. I am glad that I read it. You should try it too.”
Over the past year it has become apparent that my reviews are somewhat antagonistic and I apologize to those of you that have taken offense. I think I had hoped to change peoples’ minds about reviewing works of art and that seems to have backfired spectacularly. However, I am still going to be true to myself and write what I believe.
To the author: Thank you for this chance to escape reality and enjoy the world you created! Keep up the good work.
To my fellow reviewers: Messaging me and reviewing my reviews is as productive as trying to shovel water out of the ocean. Stop. I get it. Let’s just all live peacefully.
To potential readers: Art needs to be experienced at an individual level. You are the only one that can determine what you like and don’t like. Don’t let others make that decision for you. You should definitely read the book and completely ignore all of the reviews. You are a much better judge of what you will like than anyone here.
Cheers
January 13, 2021
I have read the first three books. The first book was good and definitely worth the read, but was very frustrating for me. The MC was born with abnormally high intelligence, yet was an idiot. He did the dumbest stuff over and over. I know there is a difference between intelligence and wisdom, but he had average wisdom yet acted like he had -10 wisdom. However, as the MC develops, learns, and experiences new things through the first book, and especially the 2nd and 3rd books, he becomes very intelligent actually.
The second thing I hate about the first book is how much they kick his ass and make him suffer. It just kind of got me in a down mood. However, but the end of the first book, this is gone as something happens to make up for it.
The 2nd and third books are amazing, and this series is now one of my favorites.
I rated the first book 4 stars, the other two are 5 stars. I can't wait till the 4th book comes out in two months.
The second thing I hate about the first book is how much they kick his ass and make him suffer. It just kind of got me in a down mood. However, but the end of the first book, this is gone as something happens to make up for it.
The 2nd and third books are amazing, and this series is now one of my favorites.
I rated the first book 4 stars, the other two are 5 stars. I can't wait till the 4th book comes out in two months.
July 29, 2020
Fantastic Third Addition to the Series!
And here’s why... The MC and supporting cast continue to be great anchors for this fantastic story. Throughout this book we see steady growth of the MC in particular, both in his character as a person and in personal power, with a very large part of it focused around the cultivation aspects of this world. A lot of great world building here and the end of the book scales up the MC with an extremely solid foundation to become a player in world level events that have been foreshadowed while definitely having his work cut out for him if he truly wants to step up.
Oh and still plenty of chuckles and LOLs at the antics of the MC and his best friend which I continue to find both hilarious and extremely endearing.
I am hugely excited for the fourth novel in the series, it can’t come soon enough!
And here’s why... The MC and supporting cast continue to be great anchors for this fantastic story. Throughout this book we see steady growth of the MC in particular, both in his character as a person and in personal power, with a very large part of it focused around the cultivation aspects of this world. A lot of great world building here and the end of the book scales up the MC with an extremely solid foundation to become a player in world level events that have been foreshadowed while definitely having his work cut out for him if he truly wants to step up.
Oh and still plenty of chuckles and LOLs at the antics of the MC and his best friend which I continue to find both hilarious and extremely endearing.
I am hugely excited for the fourth novel in the series, it can’t come soon enough!
September 1, 2020
Excellent balance of world build, character dev, and plot
This is the third book of the seies that starts with:
The Shade's First Rule
Lots of adventure a bare minimum of reflection to keep the character development alive but not the focus. Very plot driven with a RPGlit usesage that makes the scalability logical and relateable. The gals should get more development but the focus is mostly on Ruwen the main character. Their are plenty of Female leaders and role models for you social justice warriors and plenty of blood battles for you blood thirsty pulpites. Its a super story with no end in sight can't wait to read the next volume. Get it now you wont be disappointed. I listened to a portion of the first book driving but the RPGlit stats were kinda hard to follow in that format, but the action was well voice acted. Enjoy.
This is the third book of the seies that starts with:
The Shade's First Rule
Lots of adventure a bare minimum of reflection to keep the character development alive but not the focus. Very plot driven with a RPGlit usesage that makes the scalability logical and relateable. The gals should get more development but the focus is mostly on Ruwen the main character. Their are plenty of Female leaders and role models for you social justice warriors and plenty of blood battles for you blood thirsty pulpites. Its a super story with no end in sight can't wait to read the next volume. Get it now you wont be disappointed. I listened to a portion of the first book driving but the RPGlit stats were kinda hard to follow in that format, but the action was well voice acted. Enjoy.
October 24, 2020
Still going strong!
While I don’t think the third book quite live up to the first two, it was still very good.
I want more expansion on the world around them, so far we’ve only really seen a couple locations and haven’t heard much else about what the rest of the world is like. We do learn a bit more about the grand plan and what fate has in store but even that seems so minuscule. It does however have an incredible system and explains cultivation and the classes really well.
The pace in this felt a bit jumpy, like we were being pulled around. Ruwen (realized him name seems a bit similar to Ruin, coincidence??) finally gets some much needed power/leveling for a character that is supposed to be a champion which has been much needed.
Still one of the best LitRPG series out there. Can’t wait for the next book and the conflicts it will bring.
While I don’t think the third book quite live up to the first two, it was still very good.
I want more expansion on the world around them, so far we’ve only really seen a couple locations and haven’t heard much else about what the rest of the world is like. We do learn a bit more about the grand plan and what fate has in store but even that seems so minuscule. It does however have an incredible system and explains cultivation and the classes really well.
The pace in this felt a bit jumpy, like we were being pulled around. Ruwen (realized him name seems a bit similar to Ruin, coincidence??) finally gets some much needed power/leveling for a character that is supposed to be a champion which has been much needed.
Still one of the best LitRPG series out there. Can’t wait for the next book and the conflicts it will bring.
March 13, 2023
Dopo il primo così cosà, il secondo ottimo questo è buono. Mi sento di confermare il Rank A delle serie. La parte più debole è quella sulla cultivation, mentre invece le interazioni, i poteri e gli intrighi politici sono ben fatti. Si vede che l’autore ha pianificato la storia fin dall’inizio con davvero pochi interventi ex machina.
Il fatto di aver aggiunto anche la componente di Base building a un romanzo che è già cultivation, rpg e dungeon core alza ancora di più l’asticella sulle aspettative future. Il fatto che adesso sappiamo quanto potente può diventare Ruwen rende il tutto ancora più interessante.
Finito questo mi sono buttato sul volume 4 senza aspettare.
https://senpaibestia.com/tutto/a-f-ka...
Il fatto di aver aggiunto anche la componente di Base building a un romanzo che è già cultivation, rpg e dungeon core alza ancora di più l’asticella sulle aspettative future. Il fatto che adesso sappiamo quanto potente può diventare Ruwen rende il tutto ancora più interessante.
Finito questo mi sono buttato sul volume 4 senza aspettare.
https://senpaibestia.com/tutto/a-f-ka...
January 7, 2024
Extremely interesting take on cultivation & magic!
This is the 3rd book in this series, but my 1st review. Why? Because I've been consuming them at breakneck speed. But, since it's nearly midnight, I'm taking the time.
GET THIS SERIES! NOW!
I don't usually buy series more than 2 ahead, in case their quality drops off. I've already bought all of the books out at this time (01/06024), and I plan on going back and writing reviews for the 1st 2 books.
MC (and supporting characters) are interesting, fun, complex, and well worth getting to know.
Storyline evolves as the characters develop. Abilities are not easily given, and the characters have to work hard to grow, making the story flow.
I REALLY, REALLY, REALLY LIKE THIS SERIES. GET IT!
This is the 3rd book in this series, but my 1st review. Why? Because I've been consuming them at breakneck speed. But, since it's nearly midnight, I'm taking the time.
GET THIS SERIES! NOW!
I don't usually buy series more than 2 ahead, in case their quality drops off. I've already bought all of the books out at this time (01/06024), and I plan on going back and writing reviews for the 1st 2 books.
MC (and supporting characters) are interesting, fun, complex, and well worth getting to know.
Storyline evolves as the characters develop. Abilities are not easily given, and the characters have to work hard to grow, making the story flow.
I REALLY, REALLY, REALLY LIKE THIS SERIES. GET IT!
October 23, 2021
Great series
I finally started reading this series earlier this week. I had been meaning to read it for a while. I’m very glad I did. I’m an avid sci-go/fantasy/lit rpg/cultivation reader and the first three books have been a treat. I use whisper sync and switch between the written and audible versions depending on what I’m doing. The writing is good, the story is great. I lose myself while reading and have a great time doing so. I highly recommend this series. And now to dive into the next book in the series.
I finally started reading this series earlier this week. I had been meaning to read it for a while. I’m very glad I did. I’m an avid sci-go/fantasy/lit rpg/cultivation reader and the first three books have been a treat. I use whisper sync and switch between the written and audible versions depending on what I’m doing. The writing is good, the story is great. I lose myself while reading and have a great time doing so. I highly recommend this series. And now to dive into the next book in the series.
April 20, 2024
A truly enjoyable read
So far, so good. I'm really enjoying this stroll through Uru's lands and beyond. The characters are complex, and the twists are super twisty. While there are a few moments where I find my face in my palm, and where I started shaking my head with how easily things were foreshadowing. None of it detracted from the overall joy I felt reading the whole book. Fortunately, there are several books already published, so I can just move on to the next one. That said I'm dreading reaching the end of that list, for surely it's not nearly over.
So far, so good. I'm really enjoying this stroll through Uru's lands and beyond. The characters are complex, and the twists are super twisty. While there are a few moments where I find my face in my palm, and where I started shaking my head with how easily things were foreshadowing. None of it detracted from the overall joy I felt reading the whole book. Fortunately, there are several books already published, so I can just move on to the next one. That said I'm dreading reaching the end of that list, for surely it's not nearly over.
December 3, 2025
fun but inconsistent
The power scaling is so all over the place I genuinely cannot figure out who can beat what. Sift has a lead body but can still give ruwen a run for his money in durability and strength? A few level 18s can fight a level 30? But the copper level ruwen can also fight gem level cultivators like phoenix? It’s all over the place. And the relationships confuse me cuz they have all known eachother less than a month altogether so them being so close is weird. Overall the story is fun but has some major major holes.
The power scaling is so all over the place I genuinely cannot figure out who can beat what. Sift has a lead body but can still give ruwen a run for his money in durability and strength? A few level 18s can fight a level 30? But the copper level ruwen can also fight gem level cultivators like phoenix? It’s all over the place. And the relationships confuse me cuz they have all known eachother less than a month altogether so them being so close is weird. Overall the story is fun but has some major major holes.
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