What do you think?
Rate this book
Valens Heritage #1
Mihalis
Twenty years ago, his father saved the world. Or so the history books will probably say once someone gets around to writing them. All Mihalis knows is the world he has been raised into. It's not a bad world, as things ago, he has a big and loving family, but there is the ongoing 'war' that promises to be on-going for a good many years to come.
Raised to the blade by his mother, and taught not only her ways as well as a good many of the ways of her people, but also the ways of his father's other wives, as well as the ways of his magic, Mihalis has had a very thorough education. Even if a fair deal of that education is in the arts of war.
But all he really wants to do is to prove himself. To go out into the world and show that yes, he is his father's son, and that yes, he is his own man, to find his own way in the world.
WARNING: "Mihalis" does contain many of those things that the previous series was known for: Bad jokes, poor modern culture references, obscure song references, violence, and yes, what you've all been waiting for: Sex. Now SOME PEOPLE don't seem to UNDERSTAND that these warnings are done as much as a joke as a 'Spoiler' alert, to alert the PRUDES that yes, like all MODERN science fiction and urban fantasy stories, there is Sex in the story! Heaven forefend that these quivering fragile flowers should read any modern romance! I dare say they'd die straight-away from the non-stop kinkfest that is modern romance!
So SCREW THEM! YES! There is all sorts of sordid and kinky stuff that's been done while I wrote this book and most of it was done by YOU! You Dear readers! So let us NOT go into this cold dark night alone or afraid! Because we know what that dreaded noise in the shadows is! That Moaning and Groaning and the rattling of chains! That noise is US!
(Have Fun).
Raised to the blade by his mother, and taught not only her ways as well as a good many of the ways of her people, but also the ways of his father's other wives, as well as the ways of his magic, Mihalis has had a very thorough education. Even if a fair deal of that education is in the arts of war.
But all he really wants to do is to prove himself. To go out into the world and show that yes, he is his father's son, and that yes, he is his own man, to find his own way in the world.
WARNING: "Mihalis" does contain many of those things that the previous series was known for: Bad jokes, poor modern culture references, obscure song references, violence, and yes, what you've all been waiting for: Sex. Now SOME PEOPLE don't seem to UNDERSTAND that these warnings are done as much as a joke as a 'Spoiler' alert, to alert the PRUDES that yes, like all MODERN science fiction and urban fantasy stories, there is Sex in the story! Heaven forefend that these quivering fragile flowers should read any modern romance! I dare say they'd die straight-away from the non-stop kinkfest that is modern romance!
So SCREW THEM! YES! There is all sorts of sordid and kinky stuff that's been done while I wrote this book and most of it was done by YOU! You Dear readers! So let us NOT go into this cold dark night alone or afraid! Because we know what that dreaded noise in the shadows is! That Moaning and Groaning and the rattling of chains! That noise is US!
(Have Fun).
320 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 19, 2021
About the author
Jan Stryvant
57 books559 followersI'm new to the Harem / LitRPG thing (If I'd known more about LitRPG when I wrote Shadow, I might have incorporated more elements of that into it).
I have a FT job, so I work on this when I can. Hopefully the next one will be even better.
https://stryvant.blogspot.com/
I have a FT job, so I work on this when I can. Hopefully the next one will be even better.
https://stryvant.blogspot.com/
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 168 reviews
October 15, 2023
Coolest introduction! While one learns of the easy going Mihalis. This world is presented in easily digestible bites.
There are humans, elves, lion shifters, demons and devils from another realm. Here is where Mihalis makes his stamp. What a path he made!
There are humans, elves, lion shifters, demons and devils from another realm. Here is where Mihalis makes his stamp. What a path he made!
December 10, 2021
That was pretty damn good (editing errors aside)
If you loved Valens Legacy and wanted more you will not be disappointed. If you haven't read Valens Legacy, don't start here. The family connections are convoluted. There is a family tree/ genealogy chart at the back of the book with a list of all of Sean's kids and it's three pages long.
This book covers a few months in the life of one of Sean's younger sons, Mihalis who's mother is Cali a Dark Elf. other books in this series will focus more on other kids as it adds more characters.
There is action, sex, violence, intrigue, magic, a little more sex, and fantasy elements.
since I read the Valens Legacy as audio books that were released as 'publisher pacs' two at a time I'd forgotten how short they are individually. I could not put this book down but I was panicking as the % finished was flying by. I kinda hate getting in on a new series at book 1 due to the maximum wait time between books. But I just couldn't resist and now I'm hooked.
I could wish that Mr. Stryvant gave more attention to edditing, or farmed that out, but I was so engrossed in the story that I mentally fix that stuff in my head to keep chugging along.
Yes I do recommend to all Stryvant fans.
If you loved Valens Legacy and wanted more you will not be disappointed. If you haven't read Valens Legacy, don't start here. The family connections are convoluted. There is a family tree/ genealogy chart at the back of the book with a list of all of Sean's kids and it's three pages long.
This book covers a few months in the life of one of Sean's younger sons, Mihalis who's mother is Cali a Dark Elf. other books in this series will focus more on other kids as it adds more characters.
There is action, sex, violence, intrigue, magic, a little more sex, and fantasy elements.
since I read the Valens Legacy as audio books that were released as 'publisher pacs' two at a time I'd forgotten how short they are individually. I could not put this book down but I was panicking as the % finished was flying by. I kinda hate getting in on a new series at book 1 due to the maximum wait time between books. But I just couldn't resist and now I'm hooked.
I could wish that Mr. Stryvant gave more attention to edditing, or farmed that out, but I was so engrossed in the story that I mentally fix that stuff in my head to keep chugging along.
Yes I do recommend to all Stryvant fans.
August 7, 2024
Mihalis is the first book of the Valens Heritage, a continuation of the Valens legacy, that includes all the old characters we know and love, but this time it is told through the eyes of Sean’s children. In this book, Mihalis, the first-ever black lion, is taking centre stage and, for the most part, he was a great protagonist.
There are two elements that made this book stand out for me, and three that were not so great, but more on that later.
The first thing I liked was that it successfully passed the torch to a new generation of characters without forgetting about the characters that built the series. I am always wary of stories that pass the torch because the characters who started the series are why I care about that series in the first place, and it’s a risky move putting them on the sidelines. That isn’t the case here. Sean is a side character in this story, but he is in this enough that you felt his presence and also his legend is not diminished in any way. We’re not setting up new characters to be better than him, we’re just telling new stories that it wouldn’t make sense for Sean to be the protagonist of.
The second thing I liked about this book was that it skipped the family squabbles that could have derailed this book fast. I liked how all of Sean’s children were supportive of one another and not trying to undercut or attack each other. There might have been tensions as there are in all families, but they are a solid family unit who look out for each other, and that was great to see.
Okay, on to the not so great stuff. As you can see from the number of stars in the review, there’s nothing major here or it would have been a much lower score, but there are some problems.
The first is that there has been an 18-year time jump between the last story and this one, but the world hasn’t changed much. There’s not any advanced technology, people refer to the djevils as ‘new demons’, and sometimes there were references like people weren’t used to werewolves and lions despite knowing about them for nearly two decades. It felt like it was written right after the last book ended, with the only change being that the kids have grown up.
The second issue was the harem element. One of the key things that worked with the first series was that the author took the time to introduce each of Sean’s wives, to let us get to know them better and to make them all characters in their own right. It took nearly the entire series to fill out his pride, and that is a good thing. In this book, they introduce 7 characters for Mihalis (not including his first girlfriend or the lionesses) all in one job lot. There wasn’t enough effort made to flesh them out as characters and as a result, they were all kind of the same, faceless, walking, talking sex-doll that I don’t enjoy reading about in these stories. With everything Mihalis has been through in this book and with all the new characters that were introduced for this series, I think a single girlfriend would have been the better play here.
Finally, we get to my biggest gripe with this book, and that is the subplot with the lionesses. This just didn’t work for me. The overall idea was decent, but the execution was clunky. It felt like the author had a direction he wanted to take this plot but he was worried his audience might not understand why this issue was a problem. After all, this is a harem novel, so lots of sex with multiple partners is one reason the readers keep showing up. I think the author thought we would see Mihalis as a whiney character unless they kept addressing this over and over. As a result, far too much time is given to this sub-plot that shouldn’t have had that much time addressed to it in the first place, and I think it had the opposite effect. By revisiting it so often and explaining over and over why it was a big deal made me feel like it wasn’t a big deal, but we have to pretend like it is to protect the fragile ego of this one character. I know that isn’t the case, and I think it is a big deal, I just wished the author would have trusted me as a reader enough to recognise that and then move on.
However, those issues aside, I really enjoyed this book and the directions it was taking. I think Mihalis has the chance to grow into a fantastic protagonist, I like all of Sean’s children and their potential for future stories, and Jan Stryvant has pulled me back into this series in a really strong way. This is a good thing because I’ve lost a little faith in this genre recently, and this book reminded me why I liked it in the first place.
It’s 4-stars for now, but this is a story on par with the quality of the Valens Legacy, so I think that should say everything that needs to be said about what I hope for the future.
Oh... and one more thing. Mini head wings are possibly the most stupid things I've ever heard of. They don't look cool, they don't sound cool and when I saw them on the cover I burst out laughing. It doesn't affect my enjoyment of the book, but I felt I had to add this in there.
There are two elements that made this book stand out for me, and three that were not so great, but more on that later.
The first thing I liked was that it successfully passed the torch to a new generation of characters without forgetting about the characters that built the series. I am always wary of stories that pass the torch because the characters who started the series are why I care about that series in the first place, and it’s a risky move putting them on the sidelines. That isn’t the case here. Sean is a side character in this story, but he is in this enough that you felt his presence and also his legend is not diminished in any way. We’re not setting up new characters to be better than him, we’re just telling new stories that it wouldn’t make sense for Sean to be the protagonist of.
The second thing I liked about this book was that it skipped the family squabbles that could have derailed this book fast. I liked how all of Sean’s children were supportive of one another and not trying to undercut or attack each other. There might have been tensions as there are in all families, but they are a solid family unit who look out for each other, and that was great to see.
Okay, on to the not so great stuff. As you can see from the number of stars in the review, there’s nothing major here or it would have been a much lower score, but there are some problems.
The first is that there has been an 18-year time jump between the last story and this one, but the world hasn’t changed much. There’s not any advanced technology, people refer to the djevils as ‘new demons’, and sometimes there were references like people weren’t used to werewolves and lions despite knowing about them for nearly two decades. It felt like it was written right after the last book ended, with the only change being that the kids have grown up.
The second issue was the harem element. One of the key things that worked with the first series was that the author took the time to introduce each of Sean’s wives, to let us get to know them better and to make them all characters in their own right. It took nearly the entire series to fill out his pride, and that is a good thing. In this book, they introduce 7 characters for Mihalis (not including his first girlfriend or the lionesses) all in one job lot. There wasn’t enough effort made to flesh them out as characters and as a result, they were all kind of the same, faceless, walking, talking sex-doll that I don’t enjoy reading about in these stories. With everything Mihalis has been through in this book and with all the new characters that were introduced for this series, I think a single girlfriend would have been the better play here.
Finally, we get to my biggest gripe with this book, and that is the subplot with the lionesses. This just didn’t work for me. The overall idea was decent, but the execution was clunky. It felt like the author had a direction he wanted to take this plot but he was worried his audience might not understand why this issue was a problem. After all, this is a harem novel, so lots of sex with multiple partners is one reason the readers keep showing up. I think the author thought we would see Mihalis as a whiney character unless they kept addressing this over and over. As a result, far too much time is given to this sub-plot that shouldn’t have had that much time addressed to it in the first place, and I think it had the opposite effect. By revisiting it so often and explaining over and over why it was a big deal made me feel like it wasn’t a big deal, but we have to pretend like it is to protect the fragile ego of this one character. I know that isn’t the case, and I think it is a big deal, I just wished the author would have trusted me as a reader enough to recognise that and then move on.
However, those issues aside, I really enjoyed this book and the directions it was taking. I think Mihalis has the chance to grow into a fantastic protagonist, I like all of Sean’s children and their potential for future stories, and Jan Stryvant has pulled me back into this series in a really strong way. This is a good thing because I’ve lost a little faith in this genre recently, and this book reminded me why I liked it in the first place.
It’s 4-stars for now, but this is a story on par with the quality of the Valens Legacy, so I think that should say everything that needs to be said about what I hope for the future.
Oh... and one more thing. Mini head wings are possibly the most stupid things I've ever heard of. They don't look cool, they don't sound cool and when I saw them on the cover I burst out laughing. It doesn't affect my enjoyment of the book, but I felt I had to add this in there.
February 5, 2022
4 I Shall Set An Alarm Stars
Mihalis is the first book in the Valens Heritage series by Jan Stryvant.
I feel so dejected that the next book won't cover Mihalis as well. (Big sad.) I've really enjoyed meeting this character and discovering this world, after the author so unceremoniously dropped us into it from page one. Learning the ins-and-outs of the djevils, mainly their many branches of evolution was intriguing, by itself. Top that up with coming to understand the hierarchy and loose info into the origins of his Lion race definitely compounded my interest into this world.
I honestly think it's hilarious that there is a chart at the end of the book for all of his siblings, and their mother. The hilarity only intensifies, in that it was necessary. I don't remember any of who is whose, basically. Which is what I assume will making learning more about Sean and Troy better. It may add insight into the siblings we have yet to truly hear about, following along a different characters insight.
I hope the trend continues, of learning more about his sister's as well. I do enjoy a badass woman, or many, in my reads. Similarly, I hope to know what becomes of Mihalis' burgeoning relationship(s) with the fae sisters.
And, as always, I enjoy the different creatures. As well, how different authors interpret them.
Mihalis is the first book in the Valens Heritage series by Jan Stryvant.
I feel so dejected that the next book won't cover Mihalis as well. (Big sad.) I've really enjoyed meeting this character and discovering this world, after the author so unceremoniously dropped us into it from page one. Learning the ins-and-outs of the djevils, mainly their many branches of evolution was intriguing, by itself. Top that up with coming to understand the hierarchy and loose info into the origins of his Lion race definitely compounded my interest into this world.
I honestly think it's hilarious that there is a chart at the end of the book for all of his siblings, and their mother. The hilarity only intensifies, in that it was necessary. I don't remember any of who is whose, basically. Which is what I assume will making learning more about Sean and Troy better. It may add insight into the siblings we have yet to truly hear about, following along a different characters insight.
I hope the trend continues, of learning more about his sister's as well. I do enjoy a badass woman, or many, in my reads. Similarly, I hope to know what becomes of Mihalis' burgeoning relationship(s) with the fae sisters.
And, as always, I enjoy the different creatures. As well, how different authors interpret them.
January 31, 2022
Rating 5.0 stars
Wasn't sure about this one. After following the Vallen's legacy through it's entire run I didn't know if I wanted to start over with new characters. Turns out that is exactly what this world needed. The Valens legacy was starting to get a little old/tired. I still liked it but I didn't understand that what was missing towards the end was something new/fresh. In this book we get all that came before AND the pleasure of learning about something new. New characters, new abilities, the same world but slightly different. This book reminds me why I got hooked on the original series. It is 20 years after the Valens legacy and this story follows Sean and his dark elf wife child Mihalis. He is part dark elf, part lion and he turns into more in this book. This is sort of a "coming of age story" or more specifically a coming into his own story. I enjoyed it and I am looking forward to see how the rest of the series develops. Is it going to follow the same character again or one of the other children?
Wasn't sure about this one. After following the Vallen's legacy through it's entire run I didn't know if I wanted to start over with new characters. Turns out that is exactly what this world needed. The Valens legacy was starting to get a little old/tired. I still liked it but I didn't understand that what was missing towards the end was something new/fresh. In this book we get all that came before AND the pleasure of learning about something new. New characters, new abilities, the same world but slightly different. This book reminds me why I got hooked on the original series. It is 20 years after the Valens legacy and this story follows Sean and his dark elf wife child Mihalis. He is part dark elf, part lion and he turns into more in this book. This is sort of a "coming of age story" or more specifically a coming into his own story. I enjoyed it and I am looking forward to see how the rest of the series develops. Is it going to follow the same character again or one of the other children?
February 6, 2023
This has been the first book by the author that I have not liked. Usually the sex-harem-parts are the dessert in his other stories, but here, it seems that it's all there is, all there's ever going to be... The main character wanted to be liked for himself, not for his "differences"/"uniquenesses"... But once you get down to it, these arguments fall the moment the main character has "sexual feelings" for a six-pack of Fae Sisters...While having sensual liaisons with one of the many sisters, I was reminded of the size-matters-saying "Once you go (LION-in this case) you can never go back"...
The author made the main character a "unique transformer", that is a Black Lion, a Dark Elf, and weird kind of hybrid demon with wings that was supposed to be an incubus...Is it possible to have so many transformations out of a single fantasy-beast-spirit-kin character?? I think that it is too much...What is this guy 5-6 different species at the same time???
The book 1 of this new series (or book that brings all of the series' together) felt short, maybe because all that the main character does, is have sex with women that don't care for him, women that enjoy having sex with him and women that just go through the motions of sex, without every really feeling it or it being a special moment...
So this first book is filled with plot holes, has no real theme (unless you consider sex addiction while looking for "love" or a "pride" while the MC finds himself, might be considered the main plot). The story is not a comedy, and there barely is any action...other than the excessive sex, the main character is having with every girl/woman and relic that he meets (the Fae Mom was a Grand (1000 years old), and still the main character wanted to have her and had real attraction towards her...
So, Yes, not very credible, irrational, illogical and nonsensical... Beasts/Monsters are supposed to still be connected to their "instincts" and be more inclined to satisfy their "basic needs" (food, bathroom, sex), but as far as I could read, all of the characters in this fantasy-novel series were sapient beings, not super intelligent, but sapient...
The author doesn't really explain the changes in locations...one moment the main character is in the tribe, the other he left, because he brutally murdered a stalker woman... and so forth and so on...
Of course this story could be better if it actually had a story...a theme, not just based on sex, sex addiction and basic instincts...
The author made the main character a "unique transformer", that is a Black Lion, a Dark Elf, and weird kind of hybrid demon with wings that was supposed to be an incubus...Is it possible to have so many transformations out of a single fantasy-beast-spirit-kin character?? I think that it is too much...What is this guy 5-6 different species at the same time???
The book 1 of this new series (or book that brings all of the series' together) felt short, maybe because all that the main character does, is have sex with women that don't care for him, women that enjoy having sex with him and women that just go through the motions of sex, without every really feeling it or it being a special moment...
So this first book is filled with plot holes, has no real theme (unless you consider sex addiction while looking for "love" or a "pride" while the MC finds himself, might be considered the main plot). The story is not a comedy, and there barely is any action...other than the excessive sex, the main character is having with every girl/woman and relic that he meets (the Fae Mom was a Grand (1000 years old), and still the main character wanted to have her and had real attraction towards her...
So, Yes, not very credible, irrational, illogical and nonsensical... Beasts/Monsters are supposed to still be connected to their "instincts" and be more inclined to satisfy their "basic needs" (food, bathroom, sex), but as far as I could read, all of the characters in this fantasy-novel series were sapient beings, not super intelligent, but sapient...
The author doesn't really explain the changes in locations...one moment the main character is in the tribe, the other he left, because he brutally murdered a stalker woman... and so forth and so on...
Of course this story could be better if it actually had a story...a theme, not just based on sex, sex addiction and basic instincts...
October 4, 2021
Welcome to the next generation!
This book is a great start to a new generation of Valens. As usual Jan Stryvant paints a masterpiece with his character development and aesthetics of storytelling. With the arrival of Mihalis a new story begins to continue a great legacy. If you haven't started the Valens legacy, you need to and you need to now. But if you're new to Jan Stryvant and end up reading the book first, that's ok, but when you're finished with this one, you should pick up Black Friday and see how it all started.
This book is a great start to a new generation of Valens. As usual Jan Stryvant paints a masterpiece with his character development and aesthetics of storytelling. With the arrival of Mihalis a new story begins to continue a great legacy. If you haven't started the Valens legacy, you need to and you need to now. But if you're new to Jan Stryvant and end up reading the book first, that's ok, but when you're finished with this one, you should pick up Black Friday and see how it all started.
June 14, 2022
Mihalis is a fun return to the world of Valens Legacy. Mike is the Dark Elf/Lion son of Cali and Sean. After some traumatic events he ends up in the DEZ zone containing the djevels. Some interesting developments happen for Mike as he meets new friends, makes plans for his future and develops some interesting abilities.
September 15, 2021
Interesting
I’m glad the Valens legacy books are being continued. It was a treat catching up with all the characters and their kids. I actually like the twist with the incubus heritage. Hopefully the next book will be released soon as we’ve come to expect from this author.
I’m glad the Valens legacy books are being continued. It was a treat catching up with all the characters and their kids. I actually like the twist with the incubus heritage. Hopefully the next book will be released soon as we’ve come to expect from this author.
August 19, 2021
Great book
Great book I can't wait to read the next book in the series I would recommend this author to anyone
Great book I can't wait to read the next book in the series I would recommend this author to anyone
April 3, 2024
Great continuation
Great continuation to the Valens Legacy. Really looking forward to more books about Mihalis and his adventures in the DEZ.
Great continuation to the Valens Legacy. Really looking forward to more books about Mihalis and his adventures in the DEZ.
November 25, 2021
I’m going to like this new series, at least as long as Mihalis is featured. This was a good read.
April 9, 2024
The Valens universe always finds new ways to disappoint me. Despite its many flaws, I’ve stuck with this series for over four years now, since it’s one of the first ones I read on Kindle Unlimited. Unfortunately, the books seem to get progressively worse, with none of the more recent ones coming close to how exciting Black Friday is.
As for the positives, Mihalis is engaging and starts off very strong, introducing high emotional stakes for the titular protagonist as he deals with those who seek to take advantage of him for his rare dark elf/lion shifter heritage, as well as the aftermath of a mission that leaves him feeling empty and heartbroken. Most of the book is written from his perspective, and honestly, he’s a really cool character with relatable struggles and motivations.
However, the romantic subplot here is so bad that it made me want to throw my Kindle at the wall. I know a lot of suspension of disbelief is required for power fantasy books, but the fact that Mihalis gets six girlfriends with so little buildup is ridiculous. It would have been much better if he’d just gotten with one or two of the sisters, because then we’d actually have some room for proper chemistry. His love interests barely do anything aside from providing him with fuel for his incubus side and a place for him to stay in Bartertown. They’re also practically indistinguishable from each other. I get that he’s an incubus, but that’s not really an excuse for introducing a plotline that detracts from the story just so he can bang some fae women.
Side note, what is it with books involving fae and weird age gaps? Mihalis is seventeen and the youngest of his girlfriends is fifty! The author claims that this book is not like “modern romance novels” in the blurb, but the romance here is pretty much the exact same thing as most modern fae novels except gender-swapped.
Sean’s love interests have so much more agency and are actually memorable. The harem stuff is pretty fun in the original Valens Legacy series because of how well-developed all the characters involved are. It’s actually kinda saddening to see how it’s now been watered down so much. This sequel series seems to have more of a focus on the erotic side of things, which isn’t inherently bad, but here it feels so forced and unnecessary.
As for the positives, Mihalis is engaging and starts off very strong, introducing high emotional stakes for the titular protagonist as he deals with those who seek to take advantage of him for his rare dark elf/lion shifter heritage, as well as the aftermath of a mission that leaves him feeling empty and heartbroken. Most of the book is written from his perspective, and honestly, he’s a really cool character with relatable struggles and motivations.
However, the romantic subplot here is so bad that it made me want to throw my Kindle at the wall. I know a lot of suspension of disbelief is required for power fantasy books, but the fact that Mihalis gets six girlfriends with so little buildup is ridiculous. It would have been much better if he’d just gotten with one or two of the sisters, because then we’d actually have some room for proper chemistry. His love interests barely do anything aside from providing him with fuel for his incubus side and a place for him to stay in Bartertown. They’re also practically indistinguishable from each other. I get that he’s an incubus, but that’s not really an excuse for introducing a plotline that detracts from the story just so he can bang some fae women.
Side note, what is it with books involving fae and weird age gaps? Mihalis is seventeen and the youngest of his girlfriends is fifty! The author claims that this book is not like “modern romance novels” in the blurb, but the romance here is pretty much the exact same thing as most modern fae novels except gender-swapped.
Sean’s love interests have so much more agency and are actually memorable. The harem stuff is pretty fun in the original Valens Legacy series because of how well-developed all the characters involved are. It’s actually kinda saddening to see how it’s now been watered down so much. This sequel series seems to have more of a focus on the erotic side of things, which isn’t inherently bad, but here it feels so forced and unnecessary.
June 4, 2022
4.25 Stars 🌟
This is a really hard book to describe, unless you have been on this ride from the beginning. I never (EVER) thought that I would be invested in an 18 book series about a lion shifter and his 7 wives (and 2 mistresses) - not to mention all of the children.....but I am. As I said before, I'm not sure what it is about it, but I am invested and to be honest - curious - about this new series that starts by following the next generation of the Valens family. This series (as well as the Valens Legacy series) has to be taken with a grain of salt. It IS over the top. It IS crazy, zany, and downright silly. But, somehow, it just works. I think as long as you don't take it too seriously and just go into it understanding that it is somewhat written with a tongue and cheek attitude, then you can just enjoy the ride.
So...this book follows Mihalis. He is Cali's son and he is the only Black Lion (as well as being a Dark Elf). Mihalis is the easy going son, the one who never causes trouble.....until he isn't. Life changes drastically for Mihalis and we are thrown along for the ride as he tries to figure out what direction his life is going to go in.
This book was enjoyable and I have to admit, I really ended up liking Mihalis. He is a compelling character and he is just...good. It's nice to be able to root for a character like that and truly like him. Not that you didn't like Sean (his father) but Sean was a dynamo who was hard headed and stubborn and was somehow always in the middle of a mess. Come to think about it...that just might describe Mihalis as well........
This is a really hard book to describe, unless you have been on this ride from the beginning. I never (EVER) thought that I would be invested in an 18 book series about a lion shifter and his 7 wives (and 2 mistresses) - not to mention all of the children.....but I am. As I said before, I'm not sure what it is about it, but I am invested and to be honest - curious - about this new series that starts by following the next generation of the Valens family. This series (as well as the Valens Legacy series) has to be taken with a grain of salt. It IS over the top. It IS crazy, zany, and downright silly. But, somehow, it just works. I think as long as you don't take it too seriously and just go into it understanding that it is somewhat written with a tongue and cheek attitude, then you can just enjoy the ride.
So...this book follows Mihalis. He is Cali's son and he is the only Black Lion (as well as being a Dark Elf). Mihalis is the easy going son, the one who never causes trouble.....until he isn't. Life changes drastically for Mihalis and we are thrown along for the ride as he tries to figure out what direction his life is going to go in.
This book was enjoyable and I have to admit, I really ended up liking Mihalis. He is a compelling character and he is just...good. It's nice to be able to root for a character like that and truly like him. Not that you didn't like Sean (his father) but Sean was a dynamo who was hard headed and stubborn and was somehow always in the middle of a mess. Come to think about it...that just might describe Mihalis as well........
Read
February 15, 2024DNF- but I might circle back
I picked this book up on a sale, but I didn’t realize it is a spin-off. I don’t recommend staring with this one, I’ll have to go back and see where the series starts. I’m half way through the book but l i have so many questions…
why are they killing all these creatures?
What are these creatures that they are on a mission to slaughter?
What was “the war” about?
Is “the war” over?
The guy on the cover has wings so why can’t he fly? Are these just for looking at wings?
Why do all the men have so many wives?
How did this guys dad afford to raise a gazillion kids?
Who is “the one”
What is the significance of being a lion/ lioness?
Why is everyone treating the protagonist with kid gloves when it seems like he comes from a fairly ruthless family?
The book is action packed, but there is for sure a ton of world building prior to this book that you need to know.
I picked this book up on a sale, but I didn’t realize it is a spin-off. I don’t recommend staring with this one, I’ll have to go back and see where the series starts. I’m half way through the book but l i have so many questions…
why are they killing all these creatures?
What are these creatures that they are on a mission to slaughter?
What was “the war” about?
Is “the war” over?
The guy on the cover has wings so why can’t he fly? Are these just for looking at wings?
Why do all the men have so many wives?
How did this guys dad afford to raise a gazillion kids?
Who is “the one”
What is the significance of being a lion/ lioness?
Why is everyone treating the protagonist with kid gloves when it seems like he comes from a fairly ruthless family?
The book is action packed, but there is for sure a ton of world building prior to this book that you need to know.
September 4, 2021
A thoroughly enjoyable urban fantasy read
I really enjoyed reading this Valen's heritage story. For me once again the author writes very good relationships and feelings of individuals and I like the way they interact with each other. For me it is very realistic so much so I actually see a movie going on inside my mind's eye as I'm reading and the words seem to disappear. I hope to read more about the main character but as I understand it we're going to do more about what happens to his brothers also at the same time. The story is intertwined with each other and I'll be interested to see how it comes about. Once again I really enjoyed reading the story it had a lot of action had a little bit of mystery and of course it has some nice erotic relationships that I would be interested to see what happens.
I really enjoyed reading this Valen's heritage story. For me once again the author writes very good relationships and feelings of individuals and I like the way they interact with each other. For me it is very realistic so much so I actually see a movie going on inside my mind's eye as I'm reading and the words seem to disappear. I hope to read more about the main character but as I understand it we're going to do more about what happens to his brothers also at the same time. The story is intertwined with each other and I'll be interested to see how it comes about. Once again I really enjoyed reading the story it had a lot of action had a little bit of mystery and of course it has some nice erotic relationships that I would be interested to see what happens.
September 3, 2021
Another book in the Valens universe
I really enjoyed this book, but was a little confused at the start as many of Sean’s kids are mentioned and trying to figure out names and who the mother of each was, and where they fit in age and experience, is a little difficult. I didn’t find the ‘family tree’ at the back of the book till I finished the book. This is a thoroughly enjoyable read, combining action, intrigue and sex and relationships, Lions, Incubus magic and more. To get the most out of this book you should really read the Valens Legacy books first, it explains how the universe ‘works’ and without it you might get lost in some of the details, but as the Valens books are so good, you won’t be disappointed you started there.
I really enjoyed this book, but was a little confused at the start as many of Sean’s kids are mentioned and trying to figure out names and who the mother of each was, and where they fit in age and experience, is a little difficult. I didn’t find the ‘family tree’ at the back of the book till I finished the book. This is a thoroughly enjoyable read, combining action, intrigue and sex and relationships, Lions, Incubus magic and more. To get the most out of this book you should really read the Valens Legacy books first, it explains how the universe ‘works’ and without it you might get lost in some of the details, but as the Valens books are so good, you won’t be disappointed you started there.
September 7, 2021
Struggle to read
This book suffers from what the main character seems to struggle with, large boots (paws) to fill. Never really fully connected with the main character and the story seems to drag at some points and is rushed at other times. Sean worked through so much to achieve everything and did the right women but this guy luckily finds 7 women in the first book who all seem prime candidates for a pride. Gains powers rapidly and plows through enemies with plot armor. Honestly, should've stopped after Sean's story was through or just completed it. Feels forced and like a cash grab for more books filled with fluff. Hoping its not but not looking forward to the next and won't rush to read it after it comes out.
This book suffers from what the main character seems to struggle with, large boots (paws) to fill. Never really fully connected with the main character and the story seems to drag at some points and is rushed at other times. Sean worked through so much to achieve everything and did the right women but this guy luckily finds 7 women in the first book who all seem prime candidates for a pride. Gains powers rapidly and plows through enemies with plot armor. Honestly, should've stopped after Sean's story was through or just completed it. Feels forced and like a cash grab for more books filled with fluff. Hoping its not but not looking forward to the next and won't rush to read it after it comes out.
December 27, 2025
DNF
When the MC kills the woman pregnant with his child I'd had enough of this. Yes there were circumstances, no they don't matter. Sure the mother was a psyco bitch and attacked the MC, but she was no real threat to him and he killed with deliberation and malice. He even dropkicked her head over a fence afterwards. As upset as the MC was to find out about the child, there wasn't any corresponding upset about having killed it.
I don't know why the author decided this was a good idea. Possibly it was just an easy way to get rid of an inconvenient child after introducing it to heighten the emotional stakes earlier.
Partner killings is a big social problem. We don't need authors writing books where it's presented as ok.
When the MC kills the woman pregnant with his child I'd had enough of this. Yes there were circumstances, no they don't matter. Sure the mother was a psyco bitch and attacked the MC, but she was no real threat to him and he killed with deliberation and malice. He even dropkicked her head over a fence afterwards. As upset as the MC was to find out about the child, there wasn't any corresponding upset about having killed it.
I don't know why the author decided this was a good idea. Possibly it was just an easy way to get rid of an inconvenient child after introducing it to heighten the emotional stakes earlier.
Partner killings is a big social problem. We don't need authors writing books where it's presented as ok.
September 3, 2021
It's time for the second generation of Valens to step up.
The war against the Djevils continues, it will take decades to clear them from the planet. The children of Sean Valens have grown up and joined the war effort, among them, Mihalis, Sean's Dark Elvan son who is also the youngest Lion.
Being a Lion is tough, being the youngest of an immortal breed is even tougher. This is Mihalis' coming of age story as he joins the fight against the Djevils, trying to prove himself as an adult, and trying to find his place in life. This is the beginning of the Valens Heritage, the story of the sons of Valens. And his twenty daughters...
The war against the Djevils continues, it will take decades to clear them from the planet. The children of Sean Valens have grown up and joined the war effort, among them, Mihalis, Sean's Dark Elvan son who is also the youngest Lion.
Being a Lion is tough, being the youngest of an immortal breed is even tougher. This is Mihalis' coming of age story as he joins the fight against the Djevils, trying to prove himself as an adult, and trying to find his place in life. This is the beginning of the Valens Heritage, the story of the sons of Valens. And his twenty daughters...
May 13, 2024
MC
First book.was a wash ,teams running out of ammo.. Bad communication and team members dieing from poor orders . not even sure the second book is worth reading . I had starting in viet nam with the ,5th group then had a total of 13 years in special.operations they had bad intell ,not .enough ammo and poor use of fire. control and lost control ...totally of the situation. And Miami's did not have the experience. The author wanted
Thenpeople.to die so I skipped the rest of book one .I could.care less about the rest because that fiasco killed the book for me as a reader . I saw way too.much poor leadership in Viet nam and as well several other places over 24 years
First book.was a wash ,teams running out of ammo.. Bad communication and team members dieing from poor orders . not even sure the second book is worth reading . I had starting in viet nam with the ,5th group then had a total of 13 years in special.operations they had bad intell ,not .enough ammo and poor use of fire. control and lost control ...totally of the situation. And Miami's did not have the experience. The author wanted
Thenpeople.to die so I skipped the rest of book one .I could.care less about the rest because that fiasco killed the book for me as a reader . I saw way too.much poor leadership in Viet nam and as well several other places over 24 years
August 20, 2021
On a must read
If you follow valens legacy this is a priceless gem. I enjoy the way it explains what some of the child would become. This is a page burner I could not stop till he end. I can't wait till you get more books finished,I enjoyed it so much. I like your plan to cover the other 2 sons but calls character was most interesting to me. Everything was great and I feel like the Sun will shine as I read this book. Keep up you great work and I hope you feel better soon,as always or work was refreshing and amazing.
If you follow valens legacy this is a priceless gem. I enjoy the way it explains what some of the child would become. This is a page burner I could not stop till he end. I can't wait till you get more books finished,I enjoyed it so much. I like your plan to cover the other 2 sons but calls character was most interesting to me. Everything was great and I feel like the Sun will shine as I read this book. Keep up you great work and I hope you feel better soon,as always or work was refreshing and amazing.
August 21, 2021
Another Fantastic Valens Book!
I was not ready for this book to be finished. I am to invested in the story, there is just to much left to know! The characters are amazing and draw you into the story so completely. Empathy runs wild! Also characters that we all know and love are back like an old friend to remind us of things we may have become complacent on, such as don't piss off Cali! She is only nice until she isn't. Mihalis is an excellent book, it introduces a new generation of Valens that are just as amazing as the last!
I was not ready for this book to be finished. I am to invested in the story, there is just to much left to know! The characters are amazing and draw you into the story so completely. Empathy runs wild! Also characters that we all know and love are back like an old friend to remind us of things we may have become complacent on, such as don't piss off Cali! She is only nice until she isn't. Mihalis is an excellent book, it introduces a new generation of Valens that are just as amazing as the last!
Read
August 21, 2021Wonderful continuation
I wasn't sure about a series picking up 20 years or so after the first one. But, I was pleasently surprised. The main character is interesting and on the cusp of adulthood, the setting is fitting, the storyline is wonderful. If I were to have a complaint it would be a specious it wasn't long enough. I say that because while it is a perfectly adequate length, I want more. So now I will wait impatiently for further adventures of the Valens clan. And maybe once again re-read the entire epic.
I wasn't sure about a series picking up 20 years or so after the first one. But, I was pleasently surprised. The main character is interesting and on the cusp of adulthood, the setting is fitting, the storyline is wonderful. If I were to have a complaint it would be a specious it wasn't long enough. I say that because while it is a perfectly adequate length, I want more. So now I will wait impatiently for further adventures of the Valens clan. And maybe once again re-read the entire epic.
August 22, 2021
Yes!
I've reread The Valens legacy countless times and this is looking to be another great beging/continuation of that "heritage". I love how we still get glimpses into the main family, but you still have Mihalis given the right amount of attention. Hopefully, as the series develops, we get deeper into a new birth of power and how he grows. There are a lot of directions you could take with this series and I can't wait to see what they are. Possible Faederland trip in the future?
I've reread The Valens legacy countless times and this is looking to be another great beging/continuation of that "heritage". I love how we still get glimpses into the main family, but you still have Mihalis given the right amount of attention. Hopefully, as the series develops, we get deeper into a new birth of power and how he grows. There are a lot of directions you could take with this series and I can't wait to see what they are. Possible Faederland trip in the future?
August 25, 2021
I liked the characters and most of the story here + is told very well, but I think you really needed to have read into the more current Valens Legacy books to understand a lot of what is going on in the overarching story (I only got 2 or 3 books in), some background is given at times, enough to get an ok idea with some guessing, but a lot is glossed over. The warning in the description is also apt given the treatment of the more steamy content, but I skipped most of these scenes without too much effect on the overall plot to my reckoning.
December 10, 2021
The next generation becomes adults
This first novel about one of Sean's many, many children is a great addition to the Valens universe. While Mihalis has all the training from his extensive family, he has to learn for himself who and what he is and what he is capable of achieving. Yes, this is a harem story but the magic, shape shifters and the new world order make this an enjoyable read. Mihalis' journey shows to be as interesting as Sean's and the real question is whether the world is ready for a dark elf, Lion, mage, and Incubus coming into his self awareness.
This first novel about one of Sean's many, many children is a great addition to the Valens universe. While Mihalis has all the training from his extensive family, he has to learn for himself who and what he is and what he is capable of achieving. Yes, this is a harem story but the magic, shape shifters and the new world order make this an enjoyable read. Mihalis' journey shows to be as interesting as Sean's and the real question is whether the world is ready for a dark elf, Lion, mage, and Incubus coming into his self awareness.
December 13, 2021
Mihalis TOTALLY rocks!
Mihalis is a great character! Brave, big hearted and fun. He knows what’s right, he knows what he wants and he won’t stop until he gets it. Lots of fun action and adventure in the Valens’ universe. I’m really excited about reading the rest of the books in this series. I’m especially curious about his brother SJ’s book. I’m really looking forward to seeing how he turned out once he grew up! Read this book now and the rest of the Valens’ series. You WILL be very glad that you did! :)
Mihalis is a great character! Brave, big hearted and fun. He knows what’s right, he knows what he wants and he won’t stop until he gets it. Lots of fun action and adventure in the Valens’ universe. I’m really excited about reading the rest of the books in this series. I’m especially curious about his brother SJ’s book. I’m really looking forward to seeing how he turned out once he grew up! Read this book now and the rest of the Valens’ series. You WILL be very glad that you did! :)
December 19, 2021
AMAZING!
I truly mourned the final episode of The Valens Legacy - one of the best series I’ve run across, and pretty much the standard by which I judge all other HaremLit series. I was CERTAIN that this author just couldn’t follow up with a series set in the Valens Universe that could compare with Sean’s adventures.
So….would I be wrong if I said The Valens Heritage doesn’t compare - it surpasses the original? Dunno - may be waffling a bit. Whatever - I THOROUGHLY ENJOYED THIS BOOK!!!
I truly mourned the final episode of The Valens Legacy - one of the best series I’ve run across, and pretty much the standard by which I judge all other HaremLit series. I was CERTAIN that this author just couldn’t follow up with a series set in the Valens Universe that could compare with Sean’s adventures.
So….would I be wrong if I said The Valens Heritage doesn’t compare - it surpasses the original? Dunno - may be waffling a bit. Whatever - I THOROUGHLY ENJOYED THIS BOOK!!!
December 20, 2021
First book of this genre I've read. I was pleasantly surprised that I read in one sitting. I would like to start at the beginning, but even read as a standalone, I only had to double think one or two things, but otherwise I slipped through this like a hot spoon through icecream.
yup this kindle unlimited access is deadly. I have so many series sometimes I feel overwhelmed. disillusioned. But a page or two in and I am golden! What other books?
Sigh,. if only unlimited also meant infinite. Well, for this anyway.
a
yup this kindle unlimited access is deadly. I have so many series sometimes I feel overwhelmed. disillusioned. But a page or two in and I am golden! What other books?
Sigh,. if only unlimited also meant infinite. Well, for this anyway.
a
Displaying 1 - 30 of 168 reviews