What do you think?
Rate this book
Fledgling God #2
Melee Mage
Listening Length: 16 hours and 27 minutes.
After getting punched in the face by a golem, Jason discovers he desperately needs two things: A much better offense and a much better defense.
To a hammer, everything looks like a nail, and to a mage, everything is solved with magic. That is, unless your magic is small and restricted like Jason’s. Since he can’t use charms, create shields, or throw fireballs, he needs to find a different way to win battles.
Fortunately, Tyler is back, and as a Natural, he is ready to teach Jason the Way of the Fist. Among other things. (Nudge nudge, wink wink).
And he’ll need all the help he can get, because with Isobel gone, the Louisville Mages are in disarray. That should have been the end of the threat to Jason, his friends, and the House. But she left behind a terrible legacy, and now there is a battle royale for power.
As the last person standing, Jason must find a way to defend the House and get his friends back on their feet. If he can’t do it with magic, then he’ll have to do it as a fighter. He will have to become the Melee Mage.
After getting punched in the face by a golem, Jason discovers he desperately needs two things: A much better offense and a much better defense.
To a hammer, everything looks like a nail, and to a mage, everything is solved with magic. That is, unless your magic is small and restricted like Jason’s. Since he can’t use charms, create shields, or throw fireballs, he needs to find a different way to win battles.
Fortunately, Tyler is back, and as a Natural, he is ready to teach Jason the Way of the Fist. Among other things. (Nudge nudge, wink wink).
And he’ll need all the help he can get, because with Isobel gone, the Louisville Mages are in disarray. That should have been the end of the threat to Jason, his friends, and the House. But she left behind a terrible legacy, and now there is a battle royale for power.
As the last person standing, Jason must find a way to defend the House and get his friends back on their feet. If he can’t do it with magic, then he’ll have to do it as a fighter. He will have to become the Melee Mage.
17 pages, Audible Audio
First published July 2, 2020
290 people are currently reading
119 people want to read
About the author
Michael Taggart
9 books194 followersNOT the author of any books on debts, finance, law or medicine!
My first career was a gunslinger.
At 10 years old I learned everything I needed to know from Louis L'Amour and after rigorous practice in front of my bedroom mirror, I was ready to take on the bad guys. Later, I became a spy after reading some Tom Clancy - and infiltrated the kitchen and the living room and learned all the secrets available from living in a small trailer.
I finally found my true calling when I became a White Wizard and saved Middle Earth. Gandalf took me on as his apprentice and we had many adventures together. I rubbed elbows with Harry Dresden and the Iron Druid, but I always wanted to make my own world.
Finally, Jason, a down on his luck poker player with mage potential showed up, and together we create a whole new supernatural world based in Louisville Kentucky. Now I have the best job of all. I tell stories about the plucky band of adventurers and the strange and wonderful house they inhabit.
It’s a good life and a fun times!
My first career was a gunslinger.
At 10 years old I learned everything I needed to know from Louis L'Amour and after rigorous practice in front of my bedroom mirror, I was ready to take on the bad guys. Later, I became a spy after reading some Tom Clancy - and infiltrated the kitchen and the living room and learned all the secrets available from living in a small trailer.
I finally found my true calling when I became a White Wizard and saved Middle Earth. Gandalf took me on as his apprentice and we had many adventures together. I rubbed elbows with Harry Dresden and the Iron Druid, but I always wanted to make my own world.
Finally, Jason, a down on his luck poker player with mage potential showed up, and together we create a whole new supernatural world based in Louisville Kentucky. Now I have the best job of all. I tell stories about the plucky band of adventurers and the strange and wonderful house they inhabit.
It’s a good life and a fun times!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
August 27, 2021
2.5
I have to admit I wasn't able to recall much from the first book, so I really appreciated that the new one started with a recap although after I read it, I still didn't got the base facts and was a bit confused. So we are in Louisville, KY where we find a sentient house protected by a small group of mages while other mages are trying to conquer said house. During the last battle at the end of the first book the head mage was nearly drained of her power and her love interest, a half troll, went into some kind of stasis which left our main character Jason and his best friend Annabeth, both new mages, in charge. There is also Tyler, an incubus and Jason's friend with benefits but as he's quite often sent on missions somewhere else by house, he's not always present. Even after the recap I can't remember the idea about the house or why there is a mage fight but while I jumped into the first chapter it became obvious that it doesn't matter much because this book is more a mixture of a magical cook book and an imaginative PhD thesis pretending to be a paranormal adventure, some kind of “How I invented French cuisine, Thanks to Marie Curie” or to stay with the subject: “How I detected my brand of magic with the help of Bob the Basher”. It has a lot of goofy charm how Jason overcomes his magical limitations (he has a lot of power but only a short impact range), so he is creating little magical minions, sentient like the house, and sends them to his support. That way we see little fairy grandmothers armed with dustbins to collect residual magic, flying purple octopuses or mossy Ents spreading healing spores and hallucinogenic mushrooms and because the magic of his minions is working much better if they are created with a lot of detail, we also read a lot of details … and the details of the details. For his magical exploration that's surprisingly fun for a time but adding his Wing Chun studies it becomes a bit exhausting.
So in short from the adventure point of view we have a mage battle at the start of the book and a bigger one at the end of the book and between it's about detecting how magic can work, minion shenanigans, attempts to cure your found magic family, talk with your analytical self which seems to be a sassy drag queen with wings, trying to wake up a magical ex-sword that like to become a beautiful vase, put love on your kitten and snuggle with your incubus friend when he's not away or is training you martial arts.
In that way I shouldn't rate it as a paranormal adventure and frankly, I can't rate it as a romance but both is what I expected to read while going in. I had fun seeing Jason grow into his magical self (I wouldn't have made it through this long, long book otherwise) but in the end that's not really enough.
I have to admit I wasn't able to recall much from the first book, so I really appreciated that the new one started with a recap although after I read it, I still didn't got the base facts and was a bit confused. So we are in Louisville, KY where we find a sentient house protected by a small group of mages while other mages are trying to conquer said house. During the last battle at the end of the first book the head mage was nearly drained of her power and her love interest, a half troll, went into some kind of stasis which left our main character Jason and his best friend Annabeth, both new mages, in charge. There is also Tyler, an incubus and Jason's friend with benefits but as he's quite often sent on missions somewhere else by house, he's not always present. Even after the recap I can't remember the idea about the house or why there is a mage fight but while I jumped into the first chapter it became obvious that it doesn't matter much because this book is more a mixture of a magical cook book and an imaginative PhD thesis pretending to be a paranormal adventure, some kind of “How I invented French cuisine, Thanks to Marie Curie” or to stay with the subject: “How I detected my brand of magic with the help of Bob the Basher”. It has a lot of goofy charm how Jason overcomes his magical limitations (he has a lot of power but only a short impact range), so he is creating little magical minions, sentient like the house, and sends them to his support. That way we see little fairy grandmothers armed with dustbins to collect residual magic, flying purple octopuses or mossy Ents spreading healing spores and hallucinogenic mushrooms and because the magic of his minions is working much better if they are created with a lot of detail, we also read a lot of details … and the details of the details. For his magical exploration that's surprisingly fun for a time but adding his Wing Chun studies it becomes a bit exhausting.
So in short from the adventure point of view we have a mage battle at the start of the book and a bigger one at the end of the book and between it's about detecting how magic can work, minion shenanigans, attempts to cure your found magic family, talk with your analytical self which seems to be a sassy drag queen with wings, trying to wake up a magical ex-sword that like to become a beautiful vase, put love on your kitten and snuggle with your incubus friend when he's not away or is training you martial arts.
In that way I shouldn't rate it as a paranormal adventure and frankly, I can't rate it as a romance but both is what I expected to read while going in. I had fun seeing Jason grow into his magical self (I wouldn't have made it through this long, long book otherwise) but in the end that's not really enough.
July 24, 2020
Fun and funny
I enjoy all the little creations.
This book reminds me of Nintendo and atari.
Also like the descriptions of the house.
Good job. I was entertained.
Thanks.
I enjoy all the little creations.
This book reminds me of Nintendo and atari.
Also like the descriptions of the house.
Good job. I was entertained.
Thanks.
August 14, 2020
3 1/2 stars. If you love details of a magic system, this is the book for you. If you love see a character have to develop his skills, either or both, physically and magically, this book is for you.
Jason really begins to grow in this book, both in his skills, emotionally and mentally, as he must do much of the work to keep the House running while his housemates are down for the count. He also must help take care of his housemates. I love the friendship between these people that are becoming a family, though I missed some of the characters who spent most of the book recovering in a "coma".
The focus of this book was definitely in Jason becoming better as a physical fighter and some magic growth. But that isn't to say there isn't any action. I loved how Jason used the lack of cohesion of his opponents against them. At times it is quite funny as the enemy take out each other.
Sometimes the book dragged a little bit as so much time was spent on Jason learning how to make his magic to work. Too much time was spent on some of his little creatures, but they also provide a lot of amusement. That brings me to some questions about his magic. If he can only effect magic a little ways a way from him how can he send out his creations long distance? They aren't the same thing as throwing a stone with magic that would continue after leaving his field of magic because the acceleration would be there, not matter how it was applied. A bigger problem for me is how he can have so many of these creations running around without it using up his magic. Sometimes he gets tired if he creates a lot, but he is having these creations duplicate themselves and there are thousands running around. How could that not serious drain him? He has absorbed some of them but I would think it would have to happen much more often and leave him exhausted all the time.
Still, an enjoyable read. I love the exploration of how Jason uses magic and his funny take on things. Anna is hysterical and the cat is adorable.
Jason really begins to grow in this book, both in his skills, emotionally and mentally, as he must do much of the work to keep the House running while his housemates are down for the count. He also must help take care of his housemates. I love the friendship between these people that are becoming a family, though I missed some of the characters who spent most of the book recovering in a "coma".
The focus of this book was definitely in Jason becoming better as a physical fighter and some magic growth. But that isn't to say there isn't any action. I loved how Jason used the lack of cohesion of his opponents against them. At times it is quite funny as the enemy take out each other.
Sometimes the book dragged a little bit as so much time was spent on Jason learning how to make his magic to work. Too much time was spent on some of his little creatures, but they also provide a lot of amusement. That brings me to some questions about his magic. If he can only effect magic a little ways a way from him how can he send out his creations long distance? They aren't the same thing as throwing a stone with magic that would continue after leaving his field of magic because the acceleration would be there, not matter how it was applied. A bigger problem for me is how he can have so many of these creations running around without it using up his magic. Sometimes he gets tired if he creates a lot, but he is having these creations duplicate themselves and there are thousands running around. How could that not serious drain him? He has absorbed some of them but I would think it would have to happen much more often and leave him exhausted all the time.
Still, an enjoyable read. I love the exploration of how Jason uses magic and his funny take on things. Anna is hysterical and the cat is adorable.
July 16, 2020
I very much enjoyed this book. Any time there is a mixture of magic/fantasy and humor, I'm usually all in, and this was no exception. I spent as much time laughing as I did wondering just how everything was going to resolve, and I can't wait for the next book to come out.
The relationship between Jason and Tyler felt really natural, and I love how the main focus is not on the sex, but on the two of them becoming friends. Just as important as that romantic relationship, though, is the relationships that Jason has built with Annabeth, Sandy, John, Bermuda, Penny, Eggy, and all of his creations. There was no desire to skim past their parts (something I admit to being guilty of on occasion) of the story, they were ALL important, and so well written that I *felt* their closeness.
There is too much to write about here, but if you are looking for a book that mixes magic and humor, this might be a book you want to check out!
The relationship between Jason and Tyler felt really natural, and I love how the main focus is not on the sex, but on the two of them becoming friends. Just as important as that romantic relationship, though, is the relationships that Jason has built with Annabeth, Sandy, John, Bermuda, Penny, Eggy, and all of his creations. There was no desire to skim past their parts (something I admit to being guilty of on occasion) of the story, they were ALL important, and so well written that I *felt* their closeness.
There is too much to write about here, but if you are looking for a book that mixes magic and humor, this might be a book you want to check out!
July 10, 2020
It’s a great follow up from the first book
I’ve enjoyed this book as much as the first one and cannot wait for the next one
The world created in these books reminds me of a computer game with all the stats, action and even surprises along the way
I’m enjoying the relationships and the development of characters
Thank you
I’ve enjoyed this book as much as the first one and cannot wait for the next one
The world created in these books reminds me of a computer game with all the stats, action and even surprises along the way
I’m enjoying the relationships and the development of characters
Thank you
January 22, 2021
Can't wait for the next one!!!
I love this book. The main character is funny and I love the realistic attitude the characters have. They make me think that I would so say something like that. The main character is by far charming in his own goofy way.
I love this book. The main character is funny and I love the realistic attitude the characters have. They make me think that I would so say something like that. The main character is by far charming in his own goofy way.
May 17, 2021
An Amazing Read, like visiting family and friends you love
I candidly admit that I am a procrastinator of professional proportions. That being said once I start a read I am quickly either hooked or bored. (I preface with this to explain why I had this gem of a book in my to be read pile for an inexcusable amount of time- So sorry!!)
Like its predecessor this book had me hooked right from the first page. I truly appreciated the recap given the time between books and once we got into the meat of book two I will readily admit I put off sleep to finish this book in one enjoyable, edge of my seat sitting.
Like visiting with family and friends I love this book had me in stitches one moment and in tears the next. I simply cannot wait to see what happens next.
I candidly admit that I am a procrastinator of professional proportions. That being said once I start a read I am quickly either hooked or bored. (I preface with this to explain why I had this gem of a book in my to be read pile for an inexcusable amount of time- So sorry!!)
Like its predecessor this book had me hooked right from the first page. I truly appreciated the recap given the time between books and once we got into the meat of book two I will readily admit I put off sleep to finish this book in one enjoyable, edge of my seat sitting.
Like visiting with family and friends I love this book had me in stitches one moment and in tears the next. I simply cannot wait to see what happens next.
December 27, 2020
Really loving the story - good second book but I wish it were longer.
I can't wait for the next book to come out so I can continue the story. When the earth called to John I burst into tears and kept crying as the changed to happy tears when Sandy said NO!!! The character development in this book was great, although there wasn't enough growth from Tyler I think. He is just perfect and has stayed perfect. Hoping we get some back story soon and his character can develop more. Hopefully the next book isn't too far away.
I can't wait for the next book to come out so I can continue the story. When the earth called to John I burst into tears and kept crying as the changed to happy tears when Sandy said NO!!! The character development in this book was great, although there wasn't enough growth from Tyler I think. He is just perfect and has stayed perfect. Hoping we get some back story soon and his character can develop more. Hopefully the next book isn't too far away.
July 26, 2020
This is the second book in The : Fledgling God book series
This was another good read I really like the characters of the Magic House I also like the world building a lot is going on and I'm still kinda struggling with what's actually happening with the plot . But I'm definitely sticking in their until the end .
This was another good read I really like the characters of the Magic House I also like the world building a lot is going on and I'm still kinda struggling with what's actually happening with the plot . But I'm definitely sticking in their until the end .
April 29, 2021
Wow! Just, WOW! It’s not often a book 2 hits a grand slam! This hits all the emotions.
Absolutely loved the affect of the mushrooms on Jason!
The ‘workout room’ was soooo awesome to visualize! Can’t wait to discover the renovations to the rest of Jason’s apartment as well!
Can’t wait for book three! This is fast surpassing my enjoyment of Mercedes Lackey’s Magic’s Price trilogy and L.E. Modesitt’s Soprano Sorceress set!
Thank you Michael for a fabulous world to sit and imagine and visualize!
Absolutely loved the affect of the mushrooms on Jason!
The ‘workout room’ was soooo awesome to visualize! Can’t wait to discover the renovations to the rest of Jason’s apartment as well!
Can’t wait for book three! This is fast surpassing my enjoyment of Mercedes Lackey’s Magic’s Price trilogy and L.E. Modesitt’s Soprano Sorceress set!
Thank you Michael for a fabulous world to sit and imagine and visualize!
February 4, 2022
Can't wait to start book 3!!
4/5 A Nice setup for the 3rd installment, cant wait to continue the story and see what the characters come up with!
4/5 A Nice setup for the 3rd installment, cant wait to continue the story and see what the characters come up with!
January 14, 2021
Great story
I really enjoyed how the characters developed in this story and it too some unexpected turns without changing the familiarity of the characters
I really enjoyed how the characters developed in this story and it too some unexpected turns without changing the familiarity of the characters
July 10, 2020
A great blend of detail, humor and captivating story!
I HATE reading books like this!
Just like the face-hugger in Alien these, books wrap themselves around you and you can't let go. You become invested in the characters, enveloped and swept along in a captivating, exhilarating adventure. I love Jason, his witty lines and how he figures out extremely detailed and creative ways to solve problems. I would love to know more about Tyler and his adventures outside of the house. Perhaps a spin-off book series?
This was a great read, I highly recommend it and am anxiously awaiting for the next installment release!
I HATE reading books like this!
Just like the face-hugger in Alien these, books wrap themselves around you and you can't let go. You become invested in the characters, enveloped and swept along in a captivating, exhilarating adventure. I love Jason, his witty lines and how he figures out extremely detailed and creative ways to solve problems. I would love to know more about Tyler and his adventures outside of the house. Perhaps a spin-off book series?
This was a great read, I highly recommend it and am anxiously awaiting for the next installment release!
September 28, 2023
Really good. Start with book 1.
I'm liking that Jason is matter-of-factually resilient due to the hardships he has experienced in his life before book 1 starts. I'm appreciating how thought-through his character development/the world building is.
Recommend. Bounced straight into book 3 after finishing this one.
I'm liking that Jason is matter-of-factually resilient due to the hardships he has experienced in his life before book 1 starts. I'm appreciating how thought-through his character development/the world building is.
Recommend. Bounced straight into book 3 after finishing this one.
April 7, 2021
OMG!!!! I love, love, love this book. Well written with well developed characters. I am so looking forward to reading this book again and again. I have already read the first one quite a few times. I love this series. Mr. Taggart you rock. I can't wait for the next book. Awesome.
December 9, 2021
I give it 4.5 stars, up half a star from book 1!
What I liked:
- There was an AWESOME moment - the wedding scene. Man, the format of that ceremony is just so interesting, and the scale of the supernatural elements so evocative. We get to learn a little more about who the main characters "really are", and get a glimpse of Jason's nature as a... fledgling god, perhaps?
- In some ways, this book is more fleshed out than the first one. There's a clear structure, in the form of a training arc and a "let's put it to practice" battle, which helps maintain the cohesion of the narrative. It's easier to get a sense of time and progression.
- There's a bit less awkwardness in the language. I even saw some synonyms for "love on" this time...
- The training system is really interesting. I like how levels are all relative to one's own progress. That's a much more fair outlook than the traditional RPG system. As Hemingway would say, true nobility is being superior to your former self.
- We get lots of Jason x Tyler action.
What I didn't like:
- A lot of what I didn't like about the first book still applies, mostly to a lesser degree, though. Still wish we'd get more about the All Rune, and stuff. Everyone just accepts that those mystical entities exist but don't question what they are, what they do, and whether they have the same goals.
- Jason's body was retconned. Why? Because he was already so close to perfect in the first book, he needed to be retconned into "mediocre twink" to be able to evolve into "athletic twunk" in this one. He was described as having abs in the first action scene (first book), when he meets the old lady, and now he supposedly gained abs for the first time ever. :shrug:
- I realised one thing about why the narrative feels so constrained by Jason's perspective. It's the classic "tell don't show" problem. He often goes saying things like (not a quote) "He explained how to fight correctly, then we spent hours discussing a battle plan. Lots of progress were made. After that, we were looking ready." Sure it works to set the pacing, but the lack of specifics makes the narrative ungrounded and unfulfilling. It doesn't feel real, because it ends up being too abstract.
I feel mixed feelings about Michael Taggart's writing, because in places he shows he can make really interesting flawed characters (the Dark Lady), and really awesome world-building (the wedding scene), but instead focuses on stuff that doesn't really develop the characters or the world, like training, getting back to health, and fighting. Sure, everyone, especially Jason, earn power-ups by going through those, but their personalities end up underdeveloped. And we miss out on learning more about the big picture. The most we got in that department was from a random infodump by the Dark Lady, which is hardly a substitute for weaving a tapestry of facts about the mages organically.
What I liked:
- There was an AWESOME moment - the wedding scene. Man, the format of that ceremony is just so interesting, and the scale of the supernatural elements so evocative. We get to learn a little more about who the main characters "really are", and get a glimpse of Jason's nature as a... fledgling god, perhaps?
- In some ways, this book is more fleshed out than the first one. There's a clear structure, in the form of a training arc and a "let's put it to practice" battle, which helps maintain the cohesion of the narrative. It's easier to get a sense of time and progression.
- There's a bit less awkwardness in the language. I even saw some synonyms for "love on" this time...
- The training system is really interesting. I like how levels are all relative to one's own progress. That's a much more fair outlook than the traditional RPG system. As Hemingway would say, true nobility is being superior to your former self.
- We get lots of Jason x Tyler action.
What I didn't like:
- A lot of what I didn't like about the first book still applies, mostly to a lesser degree, though. Still wish we'd get more about the All Rune, and stuff. Everyone just accepts that those mystical entities exist but don't question what they are, what they do, and whether they have the same goals.
- Jason's body was retconned. Why? Because he was already so close to perfect in the first book, he needed to be retconned into "mediocre twink" to be able to evolve into "athletic twunk" in this one. He was described as having abs in the first action scene (first book), when he meets the old lady, and now he supposedly gained abs for the first time ever. :shrug:
- I realised one thing about why the narrative feels so constrained by Jason's perspective. It's the classic "tell don't show" problem. He often goes saying things like (not a quote) "He explained how to fight correctly, then we spent hours discussing a battle plan. Lots of progress were made. After that, we were looking ready." Sure it works to set the pacing, but the lack of specifics makes the narrative ungrounded and unfulfilling. It doesn't feel real, because it ends up being too abstract.
I feel mixed feelings about Michael Taggart's writing, because in places he shows he can make really interesting flawed characters (the Dark Lady), and really awesome world-building (the wedding scene), but instead focuses on stuff that doesn't really develop the characters or the world, like training, getting back to health, and fighting. Sure, everyone, especially Jason, earn power-ups by going through those, but their personalities end up underdeveloped. And we miss out on learning more about the big picture. The most we got in that department was from a random infodump by the Dark Lady, which is hardly a substitute for weaving a tapestry of facts about the mages organically.
January 8, 2022
Fun,Fantastic and a terrific second story
Rating: 4.25🌈
That fun, fantastical, and magical Fledgling God series ride is back in its second book, Melee Mage! Yes, Jason and his found family have a huge battle coming and it’s time to learn to do a rumble the magical way! Or is it?
Michael Taggert expounds on the limitations of magic or the concept of relying on just one type of “sense” to protect yourself and the ones you care about.
As usual, it’s the approach that’s… un hem… novel.
Jason has had several life threatening beatings, and magic hasn’t been always the answer in the end. Tyler puts forth the idea that they, Jason and Annabeth, need martial arts training using Wing Chun. This immediately sent me using Google fu… and found an entire ancient discipline devoted to a defensive martial arts. ….*calling now*
Anyway, this turns into one incredible section of Melee Mage, with the House getting involved in their training, a Mr Sparkles…lots of humor and interesting ways to move the characters forward in their physical journey and closeness.
Meanwhile, other elements are still factoring in, new magic, characters, theories about souls, and more fears from outside mages needing power.
Every gain in stability and growth, either of new power or personal levels of awareness, is balanced by an increase in danger and numbers coming for them. A very scary and fragile situation.
This story ends a bit abruptly that leaves us wanting to reach for that next installment that isn’t available as yet. Not exactly a cliffhanger but close.
It leaves one major plot thread unresolved while happily tying up a couple of other ones. However, as a series should, the arc questions float nicely above and around the situations here, keeping us very aware there’s some wild potential angles a coming!
I’m looking forward to seeing how our happily reunited and focused found family will handle what’s ahead.
Fledgling God series:
Misfit Mage #1
Melee Mage #2
Rating: 4.25🌈
That fun, fantastical, and magical Fledgling God series ride is back in its second book, Melee Mage! Yes, Jason and his found family have a huge battle coming and it’s time to learn to do a rumble the magical way! Or is it?
Michael Taggert expounds on the limitations of magic or the concept of relying on just one type of “sense” to protect yourself and the ones you care about.
As usual, it’s the approach that’s… un hem… novel.
Jason has had several life threatening beatings, and magic hasn’t been always the answer in the end. Tyler puts forth the idea that they, Jason and Annabeth, need martial arts training using Wing Chun. This immediately sent me using Google fu… and found an entire ancient discipline devoted to a defensive martial arts. ….*calling now*
Anyway, this turns into one incredible section of Melee Mage, with the House getting involved in their training, a Mr Sparkles…lots of humor and interesting ways to move the characters forward in their physical journey and closeness.
Meanwhile, other elements are still factoring in, new magic, characters, theories about souls, and more fears from outside mages needing power.
Every gain in stability and growth, either of new power or personal levels of awareness, is balanced by an increase in danger and numbers coming for them. A very scary and fragile situation.
This story ends a bit abruptly that leaves us wanting to reach for that next installment that isn’t available as yet. Not exactly a cliffhanger but close.
It leaves one major plot thread unresolved while happily tying up a couple of other ones. However, as a series should, the arc questions float nicely above and around the situations here, keeping us very aware there’s some wild potential angles a coming!
I’m looking forward to seeing how our happily reunited and focused found family will handle what’s ahead.
Fledgling God series:
Misfit Mage #1
Melee Mage #2
April 17, 2021
I'm still enjoying the series, in particular, the detailed exploration of the magic system is a delight.
This book had a flaw not present in the first. The threat of an unstoppable enemy coming to destroy their home was laid out at about the 20% mark but despite this, Jason and friends carried on as if nothing was going to happen. They didn't do any reconnaissance or make plans to fight back. This weight was dragging at my attention while I read further and further (finally addressed at 85%). It felt like that cliche in old movies where the driver would turn to talk to a passenger for whole minutes at a time... ignoring the road ahead.
I'm keen to get into book three though. The home team's transformations are sure to make a stir.
This book had a flaw not present in the first. The threat of an unstoppable enemy coming to destroy their home was laid out at about the 20% mark but despite this, Jason and friends carried on as if nothing was going to happen. They didn't do any reconnaissance or make plans to fight back. This weight was dragging at my attention while I read further and further (finally addressed at 85%). It felt like that cliche in old movies where the driver would turn to talk to a passenger for whole minutes at a time... ignoring the road ahead.
I'm keen to get into book three though. The home team's transformations are sure to make a stir.
October 17, 2020
Good sequel
If you're not a fan of cliffhangers then you should wait for the series to be completed as this one ends in the middle of things just like the first book. The downside of reading them one after the other is you really hear when he repeats things (frequently verbatim) from the first book.
The good bits are the deepening relationships between Jason, Annabeth, and Tyler. Anna Lykit is way over the top but what else would you expect from Jason's "analytical" side? You are also given the first big hint that Jason hasn't come into his own yet.
If you read the first book and enjoyed it, you'll like this one as it is a similar journey as the first just from the physical perspective.
If you're not a fan of cliffhangers then you should wait for the series to be completed as this one ends in the middle of things just like the first book. The downside of reading them one after the other is you really hear when he repeats things (frequently verbatim) from the first book.
The good bits are the deepening relationships between Jason, Annabeth, and Tyler. Anna Lykit is way over the top but what else would you expect from Jason's "analytical" side? You are also given the first big hint that Jason hasn't come into his own yet.
If you read the first book and enjoyed it, you'll like this one as it is a similar journey as the first just from the physical perspective.
May 6, 2021
It’s a good story but not finished
There is at least one more book in this series but at least this book did not end on a ‘cliffhanger’.
The story is good. The first book introduced the foundations of Jason’s magic and of his new reality. This book got him physically in shape with a foundation of physical self defense and more thorough knowledge of his magic - and of Annabeth’s magic.
The editing is pretty good too but there is one instance of the author calling Annabeth ‘Sandy’ (Sandy was unconscious so obviously not who was sitting and talking with Jason).
Annabeth and Jason grew a lot in this book - confidence in both body and magic. Ready for book 3!
There is at least one more book in this series but at least this book did not end on a ‘cliffhanger’.
The story is good. The first book introduced the foundations of Jason’s magic and of his new reality. This book got him physically in shape with a foundation of physical self defense and more thorough knowledge of his magic - and of Annabeth’s magic.
The editing is pretty good too but there is one instance of the author calling Annabeth ‘Sandy’ (Sandy was unconscious so obviously not who was sitting and talking with Jason).
Annabeth and Jason grew a lot in this book - confidence in both body and magic. Ready for book 3!
September 23, 2020
Loved this book
Jason is a new mage and lives in a House of Magic with 3 other mages and Tyler his incubus boyfriend. There is a new battle brewing in Louisville and they must prepare for it. Michael Taggart is a new author. He uses alot of detailed description in his writing so you really get to know the characters and what they think, and how they think and what this world is like. He also uses a ton of humor, lots of love and understanding. The story line is good, his character development is great, and there is spot of action going on. This is book 2 in the series so make sure you read The Fledgling God, the first book in the series before this one. But read it you'll like it.
Jason is a new mage and lives in a House of Magic with 3 other mages and Tyler his incubus boyfriend. There is a new battle brewing in Louisville and they must prepare for it. Michael Taggart is a new author. He uses alot of detailed description in his writing so you really get to know the characters and what they think, and how they think and what this world is like. He also uses a ton of humor, lots of love and understanding. The story line is good, his character development is great, and there is spot of action going on. This is book 2 in the series so make sure you read The Fledgling God, the first book in the series before this one. But read it you'll like it.
April 20, 2021
Gotta say I love seeing a hero who isn’t immediately confident, life is a struggle in many ways and his journey reflects this. I also love how accepting everyone in the house is of each other’s differences, and the details added to the story! The originality of different kinds of mages and magic, & pushing the boundaries of imagination in methods of overcoming obstacles. The training he goes through inspired me to look up some training methods just to get a better understanding. (Not many books inspire me to do outside research) I thoroughly enjoyed this creation. & it’s prequel. I’m so looking forward to the follow up!
July 11, 2020
Great follow up!
This was a great follow up to the first book in the series! I'm so glad there was a synopsis in the beginning of the book though. It had been a while since I read the first book, and I had forgotten some of the details. This book is just a detailed and enjoyable as the first though. I can't wait to find out what happens to Jason, John, Annabeth, Sandy, Tyler and the group they are up against in the next book!
This was a great follow up to the first book in the series! I'm so glad there was a synopsis in the beginning of the book though. It had been a while since I read the first book, and I had forgotten some of the details. This book is just a detailed and enjoyable as the first though. I can't wait to find out what happens to Jason, John, Annabeth, Sandy, Tyler and the group they are up against in the next book!
August 23, 2022
Dude!! WOW!! The detail, the mathematics, the geometry, the training techniques and then explaining all of that!! Just WOW. At some point I wanted to do the pigeon toe stance, just to see what it actually looked like. I admire your research and detail.
Sorry had to let that out. So our Journey with our Mage/Fledgling God continues. He learns a bunch stuff to protect himself, his loved ones and his house (read it you'll understand). There is much growth in this padawan as he finds himself, and his magic and just... his view and vision of doing stuff.
Please keep writing!!
I want to visit that training beach... for the beach, not the training and to give Mr Sparkles a hug !!! LOL
Sorry had to let that out. So our Journey with our Mage/Fledgling God continues. He learns a bunch stuff to protect himself, his loved ones and his house (read it you'll understand). There is much growth in this padawan as he finds himself, and his magic and just... his view and vision of doing stuff.
Please keep writing!!
I want to visit that training beach... for the beach, not the training and to give Mr Sparkles a hug !!! LOL
July 13, 2020
Great continuation of the series
I thoroughly enjoyed the first book in this series, and this is just as good. It’s great to have a gay protagonist who feels like the men I’ve known-has a life outside sex, but still has exciting sex. I’m really enjoying this author and hope to read his work for a long time. Can’t wait for book three!
I thoroughly enjoyed the first book in this series, and this is just as good. It’s great to have a gay protagonist who feels like the men I’ve known-has a life outside sex, but still has exciting sex. I’m really enjoying this author and hope to read his work for a long time. Can’t wait for book three!
August 11, 2020
Loved it!
The gang are back, and ready to rumble! Jason and company are training their heart out for the next throw down. Fast paced and action packed this book was a magnificent continuation to Misfire Mage. Hang onto your jock strap, because you are in for one wild ride!
Also looking forward to part 3!!
The gang are back, and ready to rumble! Jason and company are training their heart out for the next throw down. Fast paced and action packed this book was a magnificent continuation to Misfire Mage. Hang onto your jock strap, because you are in for one wild ride!
Also looking forward to part 3!!
August 16, 2020
Let's a slow start with training and healing but a lot of character development.
A lot of love, feedback loop included, a wedding, and gosh where is my Tyler.
A big fight, boom exploding mages, sweet little Bermuda, and bad ass Jason.
3 cheers for Tea, the Grove, Octa, the Tangle, the cleaning grannies and mushroom healing.
A lot of love, feedback loop included, a wedding, and gosh where is my Tyler.
A big fight, boom exploding mages, sweet little Bermuda, and bad ass Jason.
3 cheers for Tea, the Grove, Octa, the Tangle, the cleaning grannies and mushroom healing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 5, 2020
Outstanding world-building, funny and fun
Love these books. The protagonist is smart but not too smart, meaning he doesn't figure stuff out instantly. He's relateably normal and vulnerable and all he wants is to live his life with his friends. I love the detailed creations he comes up with, and I'm invested in learning all the secrets.
That said, book two was a little bit slow, especially compared to the first one, but the endnotes state the author divided the book in two to do the story justice. Ready for the promised book 3!
Love these books. The protagonist is smart but not too smart, meaning he doesn't figure stuff out instantly. He's relateably normal and vulnerable and all he wants is to live his life with his friends. I love the detailed creations he comes up with, and I'm invested in learning all the secrets.
That said, book two was a little bit slow, especially compared to the first one, but the endnotes state the author divided the book in two to do the story justice. Ready for the promised book 3!
September 9, 2020
Great read full of excitement with a little snark thrown in
Jason, Annabeth, and Tyler are the main characters in this book since Sandy and John are in recovery from the ending of the last book. As I said this book is a great read. Fans of the first book will not be disappointed.
Jason, Annabeth, and Tyler are the main characters in this book since Sandy and John are in recovery from the ending of the last book. As I said this book is a great read. Fans of the first book will not be disappointed.
October 24, 2020
Loved it, read in two days!
I read and reread the first book on kindle unlimited so many times that finally bought it permanently. When I pulled it out to read again, I was so excited to see the second book had come out, I hit the download button so fast! I love the characters so much, the little Grannies and Tea and Bashers and all the others. I can't wait to see what is in the next book. In the meantime, I'm off to the kindle store to made my purchase permanent!
I read and reread the first book on kindle unlimited so many times that finally bought it permanently. When I pulled it out to read again, I was so excited to see the second book had come out, I hit the download button so fast! I love the characters so much, the little Grannies and Tea and Bashers and all the others. I can't wait to see what is in the next book. In the meantime, I'm off to the kindle store to made my purchase permanent!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews