Doc Holyday never expected to be in a new world with a new name, but Lady Luck made him an offer he couldn’t refuse. Her deal came with perks; he gained the ability to heal and he could periodically avoid taking damage from any single attack. Lady Luck had assured him that the list of perks would grow over time. The offer also came with a major drawback, however— Doc had to help save the world.
While that would be a tall order for anyone, Doc was never one to back down from a challenge. Luckily, pun intended, Doc struck it rich on a mining expedition, staking a claim worth more than the whole town of Deep Gulch.
Using his new wealth, Doc hired the local clan of dwarves to work the claim. He offered them not only a better wage, but respect as well. Similarly, he was able to hire the secretary away from what had been the wealthiest man in town, and freed several of the town’s merchants from the crippling debt they’d been saddled with.
All of this has made him a target for the bigwigs who run the town. Doc isn’t worried, though, because he has friends to help him along. But will they be enough to handle Goodman and Suez? And the Church of Apoc, which is bound to notice him?
(This book contains adult situations, including but not limited to: sex, gambling, abuse, drug use, harem, and murder. It also contains graphic sex scenes, which portray elements of BDSM. You’ve been warned.)
Daniel James Schinhofen is a self-published author in the burgeoning genre of LitRPG/Gamelit. He published his first book, Last Horizon: Beta, in October of 2016, and has recently published his fifteenth book. A best-selling author on Amazon multiple times, his four series have achieved name recognition in the genre. When not slavishly typing away at the next book, Daniel tries to unwind with video games, playing with his dog Sugar, or going for walks around his neighborhood. His books can be found easily via his website http://schinhofenbooks.com/. Daniel can be found via Twitter using the handle @DJSchinhofen.
This is second in an isekai story that builds over time. I recommend reading in order.
You know what you're getting with this one, having read the first. It does not disappoint. I found it easily as engaging and with no sour notes. Okay. One. It has a cliffhanger ending and those are an abomination. I'll be removing a full star for that.
I don't have much else to say, frankly. You know what you are getting. The pace is good. The characters sharp and clear. And the story engaging.
A note about Steamy: There are a bunch of explicit sex scenes, though not as many as you'd think. Still within my steam tolerance, though on the high side of it. Further, I think Shinhofen does a great job choosing which to include and which not to, only showing those that build the relationships rather than simple gratuitous sexy times.
I was looking forward to this book hoping that it could expand on the sparse world and characters of the previous book. Instead it is more of the same.
1) Most characters are one dimensional. Every girl exists to ogle the main character and have intercourse with him. The dwarves' identity is marginalized people who are good at mining. The main character is a goody two shoes that tries to help everyone and also takes on as many wives as will have him. 2) There is no tension. This book at least gives the main character the goal of cleansing the entire planet somehow, but there is no real sense of urgency and challenge. The main character does whatever he wants, it succeeds, and he sleeps with a plethora of girls at the end. Hardly the most interesting story out there. 3) The worldbuilding doesn't make immediate sense. The town is written like a fairly small town, with no major trade or industry aside from one old mine. However, it seems to be drowning in people that regularly find themselves with enough disposable income to lose repeatedly in poker games to the main character. On top of that, even though there are established people in the town who clean everyone at the table out (the mc is one of such people) everyone seems to be eager to play with them and the gambling houses never throw them out or enact any kind of measures (probably since the rest of the customers are strangely rich and dumb enough to keep coming in anyway) I'm sure these inconsistencies can be explained away, but if it required in depth justification, then it isn't something that is relatable or pleasing to read in the first place. 4) I touched on this in the last point, but the characters are illogical. Not nearly as bad as some other books, but just enough to make you want an explanation for some of the choices that are made. 5) Did I mention that the only things that happen in this story are the mc wants to do something, it works out, and then he sleeps with someone(s)?
This is another good example of the authors work, solid world building interesting magic systems and quarks. However he has started to end all of his books on cliffhangers in a way that just leaves it feeling unfinished. Still worth the read but cost it overall points from a 4 to a 3.
Great second novel in a series, with continued development of characters and plot. A bit of a shaggy dog tale in some places, but everything does advance the plot. Looking forward to the continuing adventures of Doc and his friends and family.
A good book, but too much "slice of life" upset the pacing for me. I know others like that, but this is a subjective issue, and I don't need to read a whole lot about multiple weddings. It's not a 5, but it's a solid 4 imo.
something is wrong here It's either him or it's me Was 2 stars right up until the end My first inclination is that anything wrong with my perception of this book is my fault. Except that Ather's guard, Dungeon Walkers, and Luck's Voice have all tasted of the same flat soda. Please don't get me wrong, I love Daniel Schinhofen- but not as much lately as I used to. One of the reasons why is that all his recent books seem like carbon copies of each other where the flaws get magnified and any uniqueness is drown out in a sea of noise. I'm just tired of the Wedding speech. the wedding speech by the groom about the groom. The endless disposable characters who pop up just to tell (not show) how awesome the MC is. The amount of page space dedicated to the MC discussing his own humility. and the repetitive nature of all on going Schinhofen books. Also, FYI when I read the same pillow talk for the umpteenth time... it starts to feel disingenuous. I know that this character is not a manipulative deceiver, but she comes across as one when I'm reading the same thing over and over.
Like I said above -Maybe this is just me. Schinhoen is one of the good guys, one of the best. It's mid-winter February in new-England here and the second year of Covid and I'm inclined to have a touch of cabin fever. I've been feeling burnt out on music and food as well. But the copy/paste nature of all his latest books is getting to blatant to deny.
Great character and world development with a few good action scenes. Mr Schinhofen is very good at making me care about his characters. I can't say I love cliffhanger endings like this, they always feel like a gimmick to get readers to buy the next book and Mr Schinhofens writing is too good to need that. Not even close to being enough to take away a star, but needed to be said. Love your books...now write faster!
While still a fun ride, this suffers from "sophomore slump" a little. This happens and then that happens, and then another woman falls in love with Doc. Lady Luck rides to the rescue a few times; the situations and solutions are clever. It's nice that the women drive much of the decision making, though some readers will balk at the polyamory.
Also, this one ends on a cliffy.
This is a long series, and I'll be cruising through it.
I really am loving this series! The western theme really works for me. I didn't think it would work but it really does. The addition of the magical races is awesome. Only minor complaint is I hate cliff hangers now I have to wait till you right the next one pouting
Great second book. Like the review title says this book is a slow burn the entire way. Lots of smaller conflicts but no major “battle”. You can tell that this town will be his backstop for the coming fight with darkness but he just needs to get the bad folks out.
This one is probably more of a world expanding book from the first more great characters added more conflict rising and more tension building must read its just as great as his other works cant wait for more
Liked the first one better, the mc is sorta wishy washy, like a televangelist, goody two shoes who is kinda sordid behind closed doors. Will read the next one, but my least favorite of the authors work to date.
I really like this author's writing but I am picking up on a trend that not much happens in the second book in the series. That is the case with this book as well. It is an easy read and interesting but there wasn't much there. the MC didn't get more powerful. Nothing really happened with the enemies that are amassing. That wont stop me from picking up the next book.
I am a big fan of this author, and I was looking forward to the new book in this series. It was good and the story was moving along and things were spiffy...
Then he did The Bad Thing.
Metaspoiler: The book ends in a midscene cliffhanger. That is an automatic one-star rating from me. That is disrespectful to the reader. It gets them emotionally invested and then gives them no resolution. Maybe it gets them to read the next book, but when the next book isn’t even out, it’s a cheap trick for no good reason.
Introduction: Greetings, fellow beings of HowlStrom. I am Kiba Snowpaw, an alpha male Ice Wolf with the power of ice magic, hailing from our icy realm. Today, I bring forth a review of an audiobook that has resonated with the cold winds of our land. As the winter season grips our world once every century, so too does this tale grip the heart.
Basic Plot Summary: Doc Holyday finds himself in a new world, bestowed with gifts by Lady Luck. While the power to heal and occasionally evade damage are significant boons, they come with the responsibility of saving this world. Doc rises to the challenge, striking gold in a mining expedition, which brings both wealth and adversaries. As he navigates the treacherous terrains of power and politics, he must confront the influential figures of Deep Gulch and the looming threat of the Church of Apoc.
Analysis/Evaluation: The story masterfully blends elements of fantasy with the rugged charm of the Wild West. The narrative is rich, with layers of intrigue, power dynamics, and personal growth. The world-building is intricate, reminiscent of the vast icy landscapes of HowlStrom, where every snowflake tells a story.
Characters: Doc Holyday stands out as a beacon of resilience and determination. His interactions with the dwarves, the secretary, and the merchants of the town showcase his character's depth, compassion, and strategic acumen. The antagonists, Goodman and Suez, add layers of complexity, challenging Doc at every turn.
Structure: The story flows seamlessly, with each chapter building upon the last. The pacing is well-balanced, allowing for character development while maintaining tension and intrigue.
Impact: "Cashing In" serves as a testament to the power of resilience, the importance of allies, and the challenges that come with newfound power. It's a tale that resonates deeply, echoing the eternal struggles of HowlStrom.
Hook and Thesis: The allure of a new world, a pact with Lady Luck, and the weight of destiny set the stage for an epic tale of courage, strategy, and determination.
Praise and Critique: The narrative is compelling, with well-fleshed-out characters and a meticulously crafted world. However, the inclusion of adult themes might not resonate with all readers. It's essential to approach this tale with an open mind, understanding the context and the world the author has created.
Comparison: While unique in its essence, "Cashing In" evokes the spirit of classic westerns, intertwined with the magic and allure of fantasy epics. It stands tall, much like the icy peaks of HowlStrom.
Conclusion: In the cold embrace of HowlStrom, where the winds whisper tales of old, "Cashing In" finds its place as a story of courage, strategy, and the human (or wolf) spirit. It's a tale I, Kiba Snowpaw, would recommend to any soul brave enough to venture into the depths of destiny and power.
May the icy winds of HowlStrom guide you. Until our paths cross again.
*Audiobook review* Book 2: All honey, no adventure. Book one was pretty interesting (1890 West with magic, gambling,elven tribes, dwarven clans, wild dryade and plane old bigot humans). Book 2...so much missed opportunity as the story was just the same thing but the racism was set to 11. About 70% of the book is fluff and sweetness as the MC spends time romancing and lusting towards his wives, girlfriends and any woman with a heart beat. This also includes MC treating the other races as people which shocks everybody and everyone going "My word...". There is also lots of fuzzy moments from people thanking the MC for gifting them with health and money. The author creates a whole world, where the MC has to stop the coming darkness and all he cares about what his wives are treated right.
The biggest annoyance is the racism; which made me hate humans more. The author makes a great deal of effort to make humans the dominant asshole race and focus on that. Racism in business, law, family and in everyday life. This isn't you every day racism but 1890 racism; a special type where it was common an acceptable for the strong to put down the different and without anyone batting an eye. It wasn't a fun read and I think he has done an amazing job in capturing the passive racism as some people cultivate in the real world.
The author created an amazing story and an unique world. I really wish this wasn't a book on harems and more about cowboy magic, gambling, fighting the on coming darkness and just exploring this alternative world. What it became is a polygamist romance novel in the magical west. Lastly, the author ends book 2 as cliffhanger. I am starting the believe that the MC will never leave the small town to combat evil and racism in a global scale. Lastly, if you get the audiobook; get ready to hear laugher and chuckeling every 5 seconds. Lots of people laugh for no reason whatsoever.
First, my review: “This was a fun book. I am glad that I read it. You should try it too.”
Second, I am not a bot...at least I don’t think I am. Yes this is copy pasta (just learned that term, so fun!) simply because I feel like any book I read deserves acknowledgement but at the same time my feelings on reviews conflict with the normal review process.
I enjoyed this book, so my goal is to promote it and help the author. If you are a potential reader, just stop reading now and take the above as all you need to know. I am not going to share my reasoning, thoughts on the book, or any opinions that would influence your decision to read it. It is my opinion that 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. Or not if you don’t think this book is for you. That choice is all yours and the beauty of art appreciation. You are a much better judge of what you will like than anyone here.
If you are a member of the IAK Guild (thanks, Jason) or part of the review police, feel free to criticize me and challenge my philosophy on reviewing art. I think we all love a good debate. The forums are open and I welcome your comments. I was wrong in my previous request to get you to stop. Your blatant disregard for that request has led to some fun discussions. Growth is important for us all.
But settles for just good. The characters are consistent, the world building is deliberately paced, the relationships appear natural (despite being male fantasy), and the threats are a challenge I want to see. However, there are problems. Several antagonists from book one still have unclear motivations. The random death of a familiar side character is still pointless, since any character would have the same message. Only half the intimate scenes served the story, with the others being pure titillation (a waste of the limited page space). The challenges presented are unworthy of the protagonist, who glides through this book unimpeded until a forced face plant on the last page. For no reason, the hero is suddenly a bloody mess at the end of the book and, while that will help some relations, it serves no narrative purpose. It reads as a blatant pull at the reader's emotions, an unsubtle manipulation insulting in simplicity and obviousness. It soured the entire book.
Overall, this is a quiet story of relationships and powerbuilding, with threats on a slow burn in the background, that ends on an insulting note that soured the whole book.
I enjoy that the book isn't just padded with smut, but is there a reason that wedding needs an entire chapter? Because that feels like padding. That entire chapter could have been a paragraph at most.
I honestly thought this series would be different from reading book one, but it seems that was a bluff (haha? poker joke?). It's the same marry a bunch of women that Schinhofen does. This book has been more relationship issues than actual story compared to book one.
It seems book one was a fluke, and we are back to regular Schinhofen programming. It's already a slog reading through blushing brides and chapter long ceremonies.
I can't believe I was actually excited to read this book. The author is fast falling back into bad habits.
Look at that! The book ended on a cliffhanger, I never saw that coming!!! (He still does cliffhangers I see).
From finishing this book, I think it barely added anything compared to the foundation that book one laid down. This book was just filler.
I will read the next one because I want to see it ended, but I wouldn't be eager as I was for this book. It's obvious now the author isn't changing his Operational Procedure.
I have been very eagerly awaiting book two in this I series, because book one was so interesting and a great BBC read.
This series is similar to the author’s “Binding Words” series, but it has enough intriguing differences to keep it unique. Firstly, the MC is not OP like he is in BW (though there’s a very good reason for the OP-ness there). Secondly it’s setting is Western-themed, which is just plain cool. Lastly, the world itself: races, characters religion, history, technology, magic, and characters lplot are very different from BW. It’s fun to read something that feels very “Gunsmoke” like, while able adding magic, beastkin, and mayhe to the mix. (“Miss Kitty” really is a cat-girl...)
Book two does not disappoint! The issues and plot immediately expand to cover the immediate action and issues from before, then it quickly ramps up from there. Plus politics, and choosing which side you’re on. There’s even a teensy bit of LitRPG and sex thrown in.
Definitely recommended (16*): I can see fantastic fun ahead!
My Rating System: 5- Perfect for my taste, could not physically stop reading/listening, wanted more afterword. 4- Almost perfect, could not stop reading/listening, probably wanted more afterword. 3- Enjoyed the book, could see others loving it, need to think if I want more. 2- Can see why others might like the book, but I could not, I do not want more. 1- What is this? What went wrong? Why did they do this? This doesn't make any sense! (No idea who it is for but definitely not for me).
[Audiobook Version]
This was a good continuation of the series. I want to enjoy it as much as others but the story so far is very similar to the Binding Words series. The setting and characters are unique which greatly helps the story. However, it is so close to the other series it is hard to separate them which is unfortunate. I still like the series and it's great overall, I just wish the repetition would be cut down.
I can't say I loved the book as nothing really happens, there is some personal growth for the character and the cast of character I guess. But no story development, it feels like ihis is the 2nd half of book one and the author broke it up into 2 books to sell more book. There is no progresses in the plot in any noticable way, I forgot the main plot for most of the book and even the bio on the book is misleading. Over all the writing was good but it was just a repeat of the same thing over and over. Like example he gets married to wife 1 and then 2 days later marries 2nd wife and other than a name change it was a chapter rewrite. And the book ends in a trop cliff hanger. I don't think I'll be buying the next book in the series.
Just keeps getting better and better, if you like litrpg harem and sexy stories set in a twisted version of the Wild West (in a different universe) then this is the series for you, beast girls, elves , dwarves, humans etc. Reading this series is a breath of fresh air in what normally is guy wakes up in a different universe but it’s medieval times with fantasy creatures and harem elements, this series kicks it up a notch and puts it in the Wild West times it still has sexy women, strong characters and a great plot that kept me reading for hours a real page Turner, I urge people to buy this book and read his other series as once you start you can not put the book down and will be waiting for the next one to be published.
The harem members are uninteresting and bland, and the MC suffers from white knight syndrome. This series doesn’t seem to be going anywhere. It reminds me of just a watered down version of his Binding Words series. It would be more interesting if there was an decent antagonist or plot. Instead we get “corruption” and undefined darkness with little reason or explanation. I find this to be a trend in most of the authors series. Finally, if the author ever reads this. Please for the love of god write a book/series about a harem Chef that owns a bathhouse side business. Maybe that will get you over your obsession with food and bathing. I don’t mind reading about slice of life scenes like this, but in every book you write it comes up five or more times. It’s getting old.
Doc continues with his new life, grows his group of friends and allies en counters a few more enemies. This is for the most part more of the Slice of Life part of the story, as not all that much happens plotwise. As such there need not be said too much about this book. If you liked the first one, you are bound to like this one as well.
Having said that. I really am not a fan of Cliffhanger endings to ongoing series. I understand that these kind of stories are more of an ongoing affair than discrete stories. But even so a book needs a satisfactory conclusion. Loose treads and open plot-lines are fine, but as it is the story feels unfinished. Especially at the time when this series only had two books to it.
I really enjoyed the second book in the series it was a lot of fun to read. I like the way the characters interact with each other. They continue to entertain and I like the way the bad guys are portrayed as well as the strong female leads. The strong male lead in The story is not infallible but he is smart, and strong when needed and kind-hearted. The romance scenes are not fade to Black and the romance is well done and adds depth to the love between the main character and his wives. I plan on buying the next book when it comes out I hope it comes out soon.