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The Beginning after the End #8
Ascension
Volume 8 of The Beginning After The End
I had to accept that I wasn’t just Arthur Leywin anymore, and that I could no longer be limited by the circumstances of my birth. If I was going to escape, if I was going to go toe-to-toe with the most powerful beings in this world, I needed to push myself to my utmost limit...and then I needed to push even further.
After nearly dying as a victim of his own strength, Arthur Leywin wakes to find himself far from the continent where he was born for the second time. Alone, broken, and with no way to tell his family he’s alive, Arthur must rebuild his strength to survive. As he ascends through an ancient dungeon filled with hostile beasts and devious trials, he discovers an ancient, absolute power - a power that will either ruin him or take him to new heights. But the dungeon won’t give up its knowledge easily. Before he can plunder its depths, Arthur must learn to untangle the threads of fate. He must band together with the unlikeliest of allies if he hopes to escape with his life.
I had to accept that I wasn’t just Arthur Leywin anymore, and that I could no longer be limited by the circumstances of my birth. If I was going to escape, if I was going to go toe-to-toe with the most powerful beings in this world, I needed to push myself to my utmost limit...and then I needed to push even further.
After nearly dying as a victim of his own strength, Arthur Leywin wakes to find himself far from the continent where he was born for the second time. Alone, broken, and with no way to tell his family he’s alive, Arthur must rebuild his strength to survive. As he ascends through an ancient dungeon filled with hostile beasts and devious trials, he discovers an ancient, absolute power - a power that will either ruin him or take him to new heights. But the dungeon won’t give up its knowledge easily. Before he can plunder its depths, Arthur must learn to untangle the threads of fate. He must band together with the unlikeliest of allies if he hopes to escape with his life.
924 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 19, 2021
561 people are currently reading
1736 people want to read
About the author
TurtleMe
47 books1,409 followersTae Ha Lee, writing under the pen name TurtleMe, is a fantasy novelist and webcomic author. Blending elements of Western and Eastern literature, TurtleMe creates a unique and compelling reading experience that resonates with global audiences. His award-winning series, The Beginning After the End, has been translated into over ten languages and has captivated readers worldwide.
Tae Ha, a proud UC Berkeley graduate, currently resides in Seattle with his beloved wife and dog. To find out more, follow @turtleme93 on Instagram.
Tae Ha, a proud UC Berkeley graduate, currently resides in Seattle with his beloved wife and dog. To find out more, follow @turtleme93 on Instagram.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 168 reviews
June 30, 2021
very bad but i'm too deep to stop now
March 22, 2021
Incredible
If you’ve made it this far you already know what you’re in for. Easily the best one yet. Absolutely amazing.
If you’ve made it this far you already know what you’re in for. Easily the best one yet. Absolutely amazing.
January 28, 2023
Notes:
4 Stars for Narration by Travis Baldree
3.5 Stars for Key Story Concepts
1.5 Stars for Plot Progression
Between books 7 & 8, there's a leap of faith in the plot progression that didn't work for me. The ideas are cool and have lots of potential, but it comes across as a jumbled mess. I'm hoping the elements will settle down in the next book, but I kinda doubt it.
4 Stars for Narration by Travis Baldree
3.5 Stars for Key Story Concepts
1.5 Stars for Plot Progression
Between books 7 & 8, there's a leap of faith in the plot progression that didn't work for me. The ideas are cool and have lots of potential, but it comes across as a jumbled mess. I'm hoping the elements will settle down in the next book, but I kinda doubt it.
April 12, 2021
Good book, bad sequel
First let me say this was a well written book, with good world building and emotional moments. This book, however, was not a good sequel. All that time building relationships and investment in the characters only to reboot. Come on man, i mean we spent 7 BOOKS rooting for Tessia! only for you to be like, “here is a hot horn girl, who cares about tessia”. I am very dissatisfied in this book
First let me say this was a well written book, with good world building and emotional moments. This book, however, was not a good sequel. All that time building relationships and investment in the characters only to reboot. Come on man, i mean we spent 7 BOOKS rooting for Tessia! only for you to be like, “here is a hot horn girl, who cares about tessia”. I am very dissatisfied in this book
November 21, 2021
It had so much potential going for it and for 7 books now the relationship between Tessia and Arthur has been building only for the author too throw all that aside on a whim. Talk about destroying an entire series for your readers. Also everything that's happened before this matters like not at all. Because the author pushed the reset button on everything so Arthur had to start from scratch. The series has honestly been declining the last 2 books. For me this is the The real END of this series I'm done and I want nothing to do with this frankly idiotic author. I will say I enjoyed the other 6 books way more but when the author starts with more and more POV. Add too the fact that they don't matter and added very little to the story. Like in the last book with what was it like 4 different POV. Well it just takes away from the story. Then betraying your readers like this. Yeah no frankly I hope others stop reading or listening to anything from this author. I am pissed off and was left with the bitter taste of ashes in my mouth.
April 17, 2021
Good but seems like a step back in the story
Mild spoilers follow
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So I enjoyed the book but am slightly confused why it was required to strip him of magic entirely just to give him aether powers. Why couldn’t he have both? I don’t know, like i said mixed feelings. Then 80% of the book is just him training trying to learn this new power and introduce a new love interest. Just seemed out of place at this point honestly. I don’t know where we’re going at this point besides all Asuras are bad...
Mild spoilers follow
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So I enjoyed the book but am slightly confused why it was required to strip him of magic entirely just to give him aether powers. Why couldn’t he have both? I don’t know, like i said mixed feelings. Then 80% of the book is just him training trying to learn this new power and introduce a new love interest. Just seemed out of place at this point honestly. I don’t know where we’re going at this point besides all Asuras are bad...
May 20, 2025
Arthur lost his quadra-elemental mana manipulation but gained more powerful aether-based powers. But I do admit that I liked his mana manipulation better (because fire, water, earth, wind - with ice and lighting!).
The early chapters were interesting but then some of the later chapters are needlessly long. Was I the only one bored reading the snowy caldera chapters?
I was so glad when it was over! But then there were only two chapters left. Lol.
The early chapters were interesting but then some of the later chapters are needlessly long. Was I the only one bored reading the snowy caldera chapters?
I was so glad when it was over! But then there were only two chapters left. Lol.
November 23, 2022
Necessary build-up, yet drawn out.
Obviously, the aether needs to be mastered, but I believe it could have been better written by having more time pass in the novel than just having more pages, considering this is one of the longest novels in the series.
Obviously, the aether needs to be mastered, but I believe it could have been better written by having more time pass in the novel than just having more pages, considering this is one of the longest novels in the series.
June 13, 2021
Kind of drawn out
It's not bad by no means, its just the same kind of story from when Author was in school and dealing with Lucas.
It's like move on from this trope already.
It's not bad by no means, its just the same kind of story from when Author was in school and dealing with Lucas.
It's like move on from this trope already.
August 3, 2021
Omg omg omg
I love this series, the story, the writing all of it gets better and better. Honestly the writing seemed a bit childish at first but I can see through the writing in each book the maturing of the writer and my excitement only continues to grow. I can’t wait to see where the story goes from here, but I really don’t want it to ever end!! I find it appropriate for almost all ages. In one book, someone loses his peeper in a fight but apart from that, there are no real adult situations as far as sex/violence/language. Just some minor profanity in book 8. Great series though for all fantasy/isekai fans.
I love this series, the story, the writing all of it gets better and better. Honestly the writing seemed a bit childish at first but I can see through the writing in each book the maturing of the writer and my excitement only continues to grow. I can’t wait to see where the story goes from here, but I really don’t want it to ever end!! I find it appropriate for almost all ages. In one book, someone loses his peeper in a fight but apart from that, there are no real adult situations as far as sex/violence/language. Just some minor profanity in book 8. Great series though for all fantasy/isekai fans.
March 21, 2021
Amazing book that I will keep coming back to read
I love this book so much words can’t describe it. I feel as if i feel the emotions of the characters and it makes you feel so much more invested into the story than a regular book would 100% recommend this book to people who even don’t like fantasy books because of how good it is.
I love this book so much words can’t describe it. I feel as if i feel the emotions of the characters and it makes you feel so much more invested into the story than a regular book would 100% recommend this book to people who even don’t like fantasy books because of how good it is.
March 19, 2021
LOVED IT
JUST FINISHED IT AFTER PRE ORDERING IT AND LOVED IT. MUCH LONGER THAN HIS PREVIOUS BOOKS AN OPENS UP SO MANY MORE POSSIBILITIES OF WHATS TO COME IN THE FUTURE. SOOOOOO GOOD
JUST FINISHED IT AFTER PRE ORDERING IT AND LOVED IT. MUCH LONGER THAN HIS PREVIOUS BOOKS AN OPENS UP SO MANY MORE POSSIBILITIES OF WHATS TO COME IN THE FUTURE. SOOOOOO GOOD
June 26, 2023
3/5 I picked this series up again after having not read it for about 2 years. It was a struggle to reorientate my self with the cast and with everything going on and I don’t think I remember everything I should but I still went with it because I want to finish the series of which this is book 8. Which is still incomplete with book 10 just releasing.
The novel starts another new plot arc and it feels like we’re starting from scratch. Arthur is once again relearning everything and starting over with essentially a brand new body. We are also introduced to yet another new set of characters as Arthur is touring tombs and collecting abilities to get more powerful and return to his family and end the war they’re trapped in between two warring god races. If it sounds confusing and convoluted it’s because it is.
Sprinkled in every 4 or 5 chapters is a POV chapter starring Ellie the sister which occasionally kill the pace but they are our only eyes into what’s going on back in Dicathen. That and the fact that this novel is way longer, probably around 650pages, makes it drag a bit.
Not to completely dump on the book I really do enjoy the characters and setting. TurtleMe also writes a great action sequence. The overall plot is appealing to me as well when it’s not just 5-10 page rants about training.
I still want to know how this story ends and I absolutely adored the first 4-5 books before it started to becoming this overly complicated epic but I’m not sure I have to motivation to do it. We’ll see it’s not terrible but books of this size need to keep me a little more vested.
The novel starts another new plot arc and it feels like we’re starting from scratch. Arthur is once again relearning everything and starting over with essentially a brand new body. We are also introduced to yet another new set of characters as Arthur is touring tombs and collecting abilities to get more powerful and return to his family and end the war they’re trapped in between two warring god races. If it sounds confusing and convoluted it’s because it is.
Sprinkled in every 4 or 5 chapters is a POV chapter starring Ellie the sister which occasionally kill the pace but they are our only eyes into what’s going on back in Dicathen. That and the fact that this novel is way longer, probably around 650pages, makes it drag a bit.
Not to completely dump on the book I really do enjoy the characters and setting. TurtleMe also writes a great action sequence. The overall plot is appealing to me as well when it’s not just 5-10 page rants about training.
I still want to know how this story ends and I absolutely adored the first 4-5 books before it started to becoming this overly complicated epic but I’m not sure I have to motivation to do it. We’ll see it’s not terrible but books of this size need to keep me a little more vested.
June 12, 2025
I'm seven books into this series and I still can't put it down. This started out with watching a few anime episodes that caught my interest enough to purchase the entire collection in novel format. The writing is superb, and the story has kept my attention so well that I am getting less than 5 hours of sleep at night.
July 21, 2021
I have enjoyed these books so much! Travis is easily my favorite narrator. Other than that reinventing the lead character this far into the series is strange. It is unusual, and it is unique. It was a good book, much better than the last two. I didn't like it all that much though because of the loss of several character arcs that were fun and the complete changing of several others. It would be near impossible to explain without spoiling, but basically this is a square peg in a round series. There was a character added that I thought I would really enjoy, but he ended up being not nearly as interesting as I expected. Overall it was very enjoyable, but it changed the way you look at the rest of the series and made them almost unnecessary. Oh and Elinore had the worst chapters they were long winded and not interesting.
May 25, 2025
Just put the fries in the bag bro
مين قالك إني مهتمة هيبقي قوي تاني ازاي عشان تعمل مجلد كامل عنه
مين قالك إني مهتمة هيبقي قوي تاني ازاي عشان تعمل مجلد كامل عنه
July 15, 2021
I want to start by saying, this series started good and even though all the books ended with cliffhangers. It had character growth, you feel invested in Arthur and his friends. The series has good action sequences, world building and English structure is well written.
Now getting into why maked it 3 star, it has 3 stars instead of 1 for the above reasons.
The main character Gray/Arthur needs to be portrayed as someone who understands what's before his eyes. Like plain facts shouldn't be written as mystery, that just makes him look dumb,stupid or ignorant fool. And it makes the reader who root for the character look foolish. Myself as a reader would rather hope for him to grow and be shown as not stupid or I will simply grow to hate the character and avoid reading new books in this series.
*spoilers ahead*
If the character is stupid in all aspects I know I can't expect something else from him. But, Gray seems to have 2 lifetimes of experience and understands magical arts, Ether techniques, strategic mindset, can create new techniques which even Godlike Asuras haven't done. And yet he is stupid looking when some villain tells him this is what I am going to do, and still Gray sounds whining and says what's happening ,I don't understand. That's just shameful.
One clear example is Elijah is used as Vessel and Niko is reincarnated. This is spelled out to Gray, and Niko again explains he wants Tessia to be used as vessel for Cecilia. Knowing all this and still when book 8 is ending. Gray is shocked and is unable to understand why "Tessia"(who is obviously turned into Cecilia) is fighting alongside Niko. Why is she not using her full powers, these questions just make him look stupid.
And every single time someone is held hostage by a villain so, the hero stops fighting and gives up, this is just overused in this series. Afraid to fight back because hostage might be harmed. Seriously, it's getting old and tiresome. Make it some other reason for losing. The self sacrifice is meaningless if the thing you try to avoid happens anyway.
Elven King and Queen sacrifice to save Tessia.
Tessia goes back out even after all the warnings and Gray has to sacrifice himself (But Silvi sacrifices herself to save Gray) to save Tessia from becoming Cecilia and yet Tessia goes and sacrifice herself to save Ellie. And Tessia becomes Cecilia anyway. It's just whole bunch of elves die because of their kind and Queen trying to save their daughter Tessia. Which is ultimately useless anyway.
The book seems to follow the Principle of ,War has victims and the masses don't matter in a global scheme of things as we have no vested interest in people we don't know the names of. But, when you have built character and let them die for no good reason it's just wasteful of those sacrifices and still end up doing same stupid thing and getting captured.
Now, if Gray has acted like he understood what's happening when seeing Tessia being an ally with Niko. Even if things didn't work out as he was working hard to save them. At least it wouldn't make Gray look stupid.
Now all this being said, Tessia character has been built up over 7 books and still they just replace her with another love interest in book 8 it's just wrong. Gray knows he was fooled by Karia and easily accepts her and trusts to spill a lot of his secrets. It's just not adding up to his character that we know. People who has read all 8 books know what I am talking about in this review.
Now getting into why maked it 3 star, it has 3 stars instead of 1 for the above reasons.
The main character Gray/Arthur needs to be portrayed as someone who understands what's before his eyes. Like plain facts shouldn't be written as mystery, that just makes him look dumb,stupid or ignorant fool. And it makes the reader who root for the character look foolish. Myself as a reader would rather hope for him to grow and be shown as not stupid or I will simply grow to hate the character and avoid reading new books in this series.
*spoilers ahead*
If the character is stupid in all aspects I know I can't expect something else from him. But, Gray seems to have 2 lifetimes of experience and understands magical arts, Ether techniques, strategic mindset, can create new techniques which even Godlike Asuras haven't done. And yet he is stupid looking when some villain tells him this is what I am going to do, and still Gray sounds whining and says what's happening ,I don't understand. That's just shameful.
One clear example is Elijah is used as Vessel and Niko is reincarnated. This is spelled out to Gray, and Niko again explains he wants Tessia to be used as vessel for Cecilia. Knowing all this and still when book 8 is ending. Gray is shocked and is unable to understand why "Tessia"(who is obviously turned into Cecilia) is fighting alongside Niko. Why is she not using her full powers, these questions just make him look stupid.
And every single time someone is held hostage by a villain so, the hero stops fighting and gives up, this is just overused in this series. Afraid to fight back because hostage might be harmed. Seriously, it's getting old and tiresome. Make it some other reason for losing. The self sacrifice is meaningless if the thing you try to avoid happens anyway.
Elven King and Queen sacrifice to save Tessia.
Tessia goes back out even after all the warnings and Gray has to sacrifice himself (But Silvi sacrifices herself to save Gray) to save Tessia from becoming Cecilia and yet Tessia goes and sacrifice herself to save Ellie. And Tessia becomes Cecilia anyway. It's just whole bunch of elves die because of their kind and Queen trying to save their daughter Tessia. Which is ultimately useless anyway.
The book seems to follow the Principle of ,War has victims and the masses don't matter in a global scheme of things as we have no vested interest in people we don't know the names of. But, when you have built character and let them die for no good reason it's just wasteful of those sacrifices and still end up doing same stupid thing and getting captured.
Now, if Gray has acted like he understood what's happening when seeing Tessia being an ally with Niko. Even if things didn't work out as he was working hard to save them. At least it wouldn't make Gray look stupid.
Now all this being said, Tessia character has been built up over 7 books and still they just replace her with another love interest in book 8 it's just wrong. Gray knows he was fooled by Karia and easily accepts her and trusts to spill a lot of his secrets. It's just not adding up to his character that we know. People who has read all 8 books know what I am talking about in this review.
November 11, 2023
Boring af.
April 3, 2021
Could Grey maybe not be...
I love the story and the world, but man... Grey is a bit of a dickhead. Or a lot of a dickhead. Considering the internal emphasis he has o those he cares about, he does a really garbage job of showing it when they're around. People start to care for him and he treats them like garbage, despite how he himself seems to feel about them in turn. It's become something of a running theme and certainly a downer through it all.
I'm not even saying this to warn off readers. I really just hope the author sees this and just maybe finds himself a bit influenced by it? I'm sure he has the MC set this way for a reason, but I haven't found it to be at all endearing. It's a character flaw, that has only grown more irritating with time. Yeah, this has become something of a rant. Oh well.
I love the story and the world, but man... Grey is a bit of a dickhead. Or a lot of a dickhead. Considering the internal emphasis he has o those he cares about, he does a really garbage job of showing it when they're around. People start to care for him and he treats them like garbage, despite how he himself seems to feel about them in turn. It's become something of a running theme and certainly a downer through it all.
I'm not even saying this to warn off readers. I really just hope the author sees this and just maybe finds himself a bit influenced by it? I'm sure he has the MC set this way for a reason, but I haven't found it to be at all endearing. It's a character flaw, that has only grown more irritating with time. Yeah, this has become something of a rant. Oh well.
February 1, 2023
I loved the war arc and the complete reset from that was honestly a pleasant change, especially after that heartbreaking scene Art had to deal with
We needed to know about Alacrya and the best way to do so was through Arthur; I'm sure a lot of people would've complained if the introduction to this new continent was not through him.
Also Caera is a great character. It was honestly a great decision to add her into the mix of potential love interest because I feel like Art and Tess's relationship was a bit forced to begin with.
We needed to know about Alacrya and the best way to do so was through Arthur; I'm sure a lot of people would've complained if the introduction to this new continent was not through him.
Also Caera is a great character. It was honestly a great decision to add her into the mix of potential love interest because I feel like Art and Tess's relationship was a bit forced to begin with.
May 7, 2021
Amazing story
First of all when reading just the first paragraph of the first book got me hooked as I kept on reading I was thinking if this was going to be just another generic story like hundreds others but no, the characters are amazing and flawed, the world building just got better as the story progressed, and the way Turtle did the magic system was awesome as well. That’s why I’m looking forward to the next novel.
First of all when reading just the first paragraph of the first book got me hooked as I kept on reading I was thinking if this was going to be just another generic story like hundreds others but no, the characters are amazing and flawed, the world building just got better as the story progressed, and the way Turtle did the magic system was awesome as well. That’s why I’m looking forward to the next novel.
May 7, 2021
Different but enjoyable
If you've made it to book 8 of TBATE, you're probably in it until the bitter end. This new book introduces a fresh arc in the battle of the Asuras. This worked well, given the conclusive feeling of book 7. Arthur's progression is still satisfying, while staying enjoyably over-powered. Characters new and old are still well fleshed out as well as give new depth. I can only hope that Turtleme is expedient in his release of book 9!
If you've made it to book 8 of TBATE, you're probably in it until the bitter end. This new book introduces a fresh arc in the battle of the Asuras. This worked well, given the conclusive feeling of book 7. Arthur's progression is still satisfying, while staying enjoyably over-powered. Characters new and old are still well fleshed out as well as give new depth. I can only hope that Turtleme is expedient in his release of book 9!
April 4, 2021
Amazing.
From losing everything to picking up the pieces one at a time. Our protagonist here goes through hell to hopeful go back home. Best thing I like here is that it shows that it isn't easy to pick up the pieces. Struggle after struggle Arthur gives his best to grab one piece only to drop two. Really like dark tone here. Can't wait for the next one!
From losing everything to picking up the pieces one at a time. Our protagonist here goes through hell to hopeful go back home. Best thing I like here is that it shows that it isn't easy to pick up the pieces. Struggle after struggle Arthur gives his best to grab one piece only to drop two. Really like dark tone here. Can't wait for the next one!
April 14, 2021
Back on Track
The previous book in the series left some things to be desired, but this entire novel was phenomenal. New characters, mechanics, and environments really help to breathe life into this story and bring it back to where it was at the beginning of the story; a world of magic, adventure, and mystery.
The previous book in the series left some things to be desired, but this entire novel was phenomenal. New characters, mechanics, and environments really help to breathe life into this story and bring it back to where it was at the beginning of the story; a world of magic, adventure, and mystery.
December 2, 2021
Cliffhangers, it’s always the Cliffhangers
So this book was good albeit a bit slow up until the last 10-15% where it started to ramp up, and increase pace. I really enjoyed it otherwise, and it made me excited for the next few books. Good reading ahead for you people reviewing our reviews!
So this book was good albeit a bit slow up until the last 10-15% where it started to ramp up, and increase pace. I really enjoyed it otherwise, and it made me excited for the next few books. Good reading ahead for you people reviewing our reviews!
March 29, 2021
Best book of the series yet.
This series always has me in the edge of my seat. The action sequences are tense and fun to read, and just when I think we're out of the woods, I get slapped with a cliffhanger. I love this series and am looking forward to the next book.
This series always has me in the edge of my seat. The action sequences are tense and fun to read, and just when I think we're out of the woods, I get slapped with a cliffhanger. I love this series and am looking forward to the next book.
September 5, 2025
I think I liked this book the most, although sometimes it felt like I’m reading a completely new story (as we got new places/mechanics of them etc etc)
January 25, 2024
📖 Rating based on Immersive Reading 🎧
Story: 2 ⭐/ 5 ⭐
Narration: 5 ⭐/ 5 ⭐
General: 3 ⭐/ 5 ⭐
-- NO SPOILER SECTION --
Main Points Summary:
-> Extended chapter lengths disrupt the previously quick reading pace.
-> Contradictory character decisions challenge narrative consistency.
-> Protagonist's training dominates the plot, sidelining expected conflicts.
-> Arthur's shift to a more arrogant demeanor contrasts sharply with previous character development.
-> Humor remains a strong point, with characters like Regis and Alaric providing levity.
-> The book functions as a prolonged setup, potentially deferring gratification until future installments.
A Mixed Experience:
Book 8 of "The Beginning After The End" series brings a mixture of excitement and frustration. The once-short chapters that allowed for quick and satisfying bursts of reading have now been extended, which may deter those who prefer the concise pacing of previous installments.
From the onset, the story threads follow paths that might not sit well with everyone. Decisions made by key characters could seem to contradict the established narrative logic, potentially leading to some dissonance for the reader.
Engagement through Humor and New Dynamics:
Despite these gripes, the book does not lack in its humorous moments and engaging new characters that inject vibrancy into the story. Fans will appreciate the consistent humor, especially through characters like Regis and the newly introduced Alaric, whose presence offers a refreshing comedic dynamic.
Final Thoughts:
Looking at the broader picture painted by Book 8, it seems to serve as more of a placeholder in the series, an extensive setup for future events rather than a payoff for the escalating conflict suggested by previous volumes. While some may find the preparatory nature of this installment worthwhile, others might miss the immediate gratification of pivotal moments that characterized the last two books.
As the end of the book approaches, the expectations set by the narrative and the forthcoming 8.5 installment leave a mixed impression. It's clear that the resolution and climax hoped for by many have been deferred, adding to a sense of unfinished business that lingers as the last pages turn.
Narrator Review:
As a final note, despite the narrative issues, Travis Baldree's narration remains a standout aspect of the audiobook experience. His performance is, as always, impeccable—capturing the nuances of each character's emotions with precision and providing a distinct and unique voice to each, which is particularly impressive given he is the sole narrator. Baldree’s ability to breathe life into the characters is a testament to his skill and enhances the story in a way that only a truly talented narrator can.
Story: 2 ⭐/ 5 ⭐
Narration: 5 ⭐/ 5 ⭐
General: 3 ⭐/ 5 ⭐
-- NO SPOILER SECTION --
Main Points Summary:
-> Extended chapter lengths disrupt the previously quick reading pace.
-> Contradictory character decisions challenge narrative consistency.
-> Protagonist's training dominates the plot, sidelining expected conflicts.
-> Arthur's shift to a more arrogant demeanor contrasts sharply with previous character development.
-> Humor remains a strong point, with characters like Regis and Alaric providing levity.
-> The book functions as a prolonged setup, potentially deferring gratification until future installments.
A Mixed Experience:
Book 8 of "The Beginning After The End" series brings a mixture of excitement and frustration. The once-short chapters that allowed for quick and satisfying bursts of reading have now been extended, which may deter those who prefer the concise pacing of previous installments.
From the onset, the story threads follow paths that might not sit well with everyone. Decisions made by key characters could seem to contradict the established narrative logic, potentially leading to some dissonance for the reader.
Engagement through Humor and New Dynamics:
Despite these gripes, the book does not lack in its humorous moments and engaging new characters that inject vibrancy into the story. Fans will appreciate the consistent humor, especially through characters like Regis and the newly introduced Alaric, whose presence offers a refreshing comedic dynamic.
Final Thoughts:
Looking at the broader picture painted by Book 8, it seems to serve as more of a placeholder in the series, an extensive setup for future events rather than a payoff for the escalating conflict suggested by previous volumes. While some may find the preparatory nature of this installment worthwhile, others might miss the immediate gratification of pivotal moments that characterized the last two books.
As the end of the book approaches, the expectations set by the narrative and the forthcoming 8.5 installment leave a mixed impression. It's clear that the resolution and climax hoped for by many have been deferred, adding to a sense of unfinished business that lingers as the last pages turn.
Narrator Review:
As a final note, despite the narrative issues, Travis Baldree's narration remains a standout aspect of the audiobook experience. His performance is, as always, impeccable—capturing the nuances of each character's emotions with precision and providing a distinct and unique voice to each, which is particularly impressive given he is the sole narrator. Baldree’s ability to breathe life into the characters is a testament to his skill and enhances the story in a way that only a truly talented narrator can.
August 30, 2024
I had a realization while reading this book and I can't believe it's taken me 8 books to come to this realization. I think I was blinded by the adventure and growth of Arthur/Gray that I didn't see the signs or maybe I saw the signs but ignored them and made poor decisions. much like Arthur does throughout this book but I don't like Arthur as a character. That's it, there the revelation I had!
Why you ask? Well, Arthur is a complicated character and you'd have to be to live across 2 lifetimes but he just isn't a very good person and now, I wouldn't care as much if he was billed as a morally grey (no pun intended) character from the sort but the author has kinda sold him as a virtuos guy just trying to do right by everyone. Sure, he may have sunk into certain phases of murderous rage after suffering tragic losses but hey he's only human right? Well yeah, that's true but also Arthur kinda sucks!
He spends most of this book and in hindsight a good chunk of this life just using people. The whole debacle in the relic tombs and the mirror room really brought a lot of things into focus for me. He consistently made decisions that destroyed the lives of an entire family and honestly he did not give a fuck, truly, I mean, we are in his head the entire time, and yeah, no, just, his inaction, poor decisions and just lack of care caused such deep suffering to the people around him. The fact that he didn't anticipate that his presence in the group could make the relic tomb journey more difficult was absurd especially for someone with 2 lifetimes of learnings, honestly at this point he keeps making so many poor choices that the author should stop using that line, he clearly hasn't learned shit
For a character that introspects as much as he does to then make no meaningful gains inhis personality and the way he treats people shows how shallow his growth has been. Arthur essentially sees people based on their usefulness to him and any feelings he has about them is tied up in that. Just about everyone he meets in this book was rated based on what he could get from them and once he got what he wanted, well, he was done and could just walk away. I don't know, maybe I'm being too harsh on him, maybe this is part of the author's grand plan, to have a character so flawed and unlikeable, that you can't help but wonder how he continues to fuck up the lives of everyone around him. Because one thing is for certain, to be pulled into Arthur's life is to be condemned to suffering and anguish.
Have I come too far? Can I stop the series? Idk, but hopefully Arthur actually starts learning some lessons soon......maybe the next book will be better?
Why you ask? Well, Arthur is a complicated character and you'd have to be to live across 2 lifetimes but he just isn't a very good person and now, I wouldn't care as much if he was billed as a morally grey (no pun intended) character from the sort but the author has kinda sold him as a virtuos guy just trying to do right by everyone. Sure, he may have sunk into certain phases of murderous rage after suffering tragic losses but hey he's only human right? Well yeah, that's true but also Arthur kinda sucks!
He spends most of this book and in hindsight a good chunk of this life just using people. The whole debacle in the relic tombs and the mirror room really brought a lot of things into focus for me. He consistently made decisions that destroyed the lives of an entire family and honestly he did not give a fuck, truly, I mean, we are in his head the entire time, and yeah, no, just, his inaction, poor decisions and just lack of care caused such deep suffering to the people around him. The fact that he didn't anticipate that his presence in the group could make the relic tomb journey more difficult was absurd especially for someone with 2 lifetimes of learnings, honestly at this point he keeps making so many poor choices that the author should stop using that line, he clearly hasn't learned shit
For a character that introspects as much as he does to then make no meaningful gains inhis personality and the way he treats people shows how shallow his growth has been. Arthur essentially sees people based on their usefulness to him and any feelings he has about them is tied up in that. Just about everyone he meets in this book was rated based on what he could get from them and once he got what he wanted, well, he was done and could just walk away. I don't know, maybe I'm being too harsh on him, maybe this is part of the author's grand plan, to have a character so flawed and unlikeable, that you can't help but wonder how he continues to fuck up the lives of everyone around him. Because one thing is for certain, to be pulled into Arthur's life is to be condemned to suffering and anguish.
Have I come too far? Can I stop the series? Idk, but hopefully Arthur actually starts learning some lessons soon......maybe the next book will be better?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 17, 2024
Jamais deux sans trois. Grey revient une deuxième fois, ressuscité dans un nouveau corps pour une nouvelle aventure où il doit tout reconstruire à partir de zéro. Un sort plutôt cruel puisque, malgré tous ses efforts depuis son plus jeune âge et malgré le fait qu'il soit reconnu comme le prodige du siècle, il a échoué, laissant derrière lui une famille, des amis et un continent entier sans défense. À cela s'ajoute la rage et l'impuissance qui lui ont fait perdre de vue l'être le plus cher à ses yeux... notre petite Sylvie. C'est dans cet état d'esprit que débute ce 8ème volume. Rien que ça !
D'un point de vue de fan, j'en suis clairement déçu, énervé et sous le choc, puisque je suis cette aventure depuis des années et malgré tous les efforts fournis par le personnage, il n'était qu'une petite fourmi face à ses adversaires. Un tel début après une fin si chaotique que fut le volume 7 m'a vraiment mis en colère. Puis d'un autre côté, cela m'a beaucoup plu, étant un grand fan des arcs de farm hehehe. Malgré le côté redondant, voire plagiat des premiers volumes, avec une nouvelle "princesse" et un nouveau compagnon canin, des personnages secondaires qui ne sont la que pour servir de remplissage et être jeté quelques chapitres plus tard…
TurtleMe a vraiment une façon intéressante d'écrire que j'apprécie de plus en plus. Je ressens les sentiments du personnage tout au long de la lecture : mélancolie, tristesse, folie, rage, regrets, etc. Le dernier chapitre fut tout particulièrement intense à ce niveau-là, j’avais peur de lire la suite à chaque nouveau paragraphe…
Ce volume a été long, beaucoup trop long. J'ai mis 2 ans pour le terminer, un ras-le-bol dû à l'histoire pourtant fascinante, aux chapitres interminables du point de vue de personnages secondaires, mais aussi à cause de la décision de l'artiste en charge du webtoon de se retirer du projet.
Néanmoins, je pense que ce livre est une bonne introduction à un nouvel arc dans cette guerre folle entre les trois continents et pose de bonnes bases pour la suite de l'histoire. Enfin, en apprendre davantage sur l'histoire du monde et des autres continents me paraît tout simplement fascinant. Je trouve que TurtleMe a su créer un univers très détaillé qui peut encore nous émerveiller par la suite.
Je vous laisse, je pars lire la suite. Bonne lecture à vous tous !
D'un point de vue de fan, j'en suis clairement déçu, énervé et sous le choc, puisque je suis cette aventure depuis des années et malgré tous les efforts fournis par le personnage, il n'était qu'une petite fourmi face à ses adversaires. Un tel début après une fin si chaotique que fut le volume 7 m'a vraiment mis en colère. Puis d'un autre côté, cela m'a beaucoup plu, étant un grand fan des arcs de farm hehehe. Malgré le côté redondant, voire plagiat des premiers volumes, avec une nouvelle "princesse" et un nouveau compagnon canin, des personnages secondaires qui ne sont la que pour servir de remplissage et être jeté quelques chapitres plus tard…
TurtleMe a vraiment une façon intéressante d'écrire que j'apprécie de plus en plus. Je ressens les sentiments du personnage tout au long de la lecture : mélancolie, tristesse, folie, rage, regrets, etc. Le dernier chapitre fut tout particulièrement intense à ce niveau-là, j’avais peur de lire la suite à chaque nouveau paragraphe…
Ce volume a été long, beaucoup trop long. J'ai mis 2 ans pour le terminer, un ras-le-bol dû à l'histoire pourtant fascinante, aux chapitres interminables du point de vue de personnages secondaires, mais aussi à cause de la décision de l'artiste en charge du webtoon de se retirer du projet.
Néanmoins, je pense que ce livre est une bonne introduction à un nouvel arc dans cette guerre folle entre les trois continents et pose de bonnes bases pour la suite de l'histoire. Enfin, en apprendre davantage sur l'histoire du monde et des autres continents me paraît tout simplement fascinant. Je trouve que TurtleMe a su créer un univers très détaillé qui peut encore nous émerveiller par la suite.
Je vous laisse, je pars lire la suite. Bonne lecture à vous tous !
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