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Arise #2
Arise: Dark Crusader
Hunted, confused, pissed off… this is one quarry you don’t want to back into a corner.
Steve and Ingrid have escaped the clutches of Athena, but Steve is still learning, both about his place in the world, and his capabilities, not to mention those of the creatures that surround him.
Ingrid, too, must find her way in the new reality she finds her world has become, and the pair need a plan.
Fortunately, Ingrid’s a lot brighter than Steve, and she’s had plenty of time to plan, to observe, and to build up a festering hatred of her ‘betters’.
Steve’s going recruiting—and harvesting—Greece is in for a hell of a surprise, and for the criminal element out there? It’ll be a fatal one…
Steve and Ingrid have escaped the clutches of Athena, but Steve is still learning, both about his place in the world, and his capabilities, not to mention those of the creatures that surround him.
Ingrid, too, must find her way in the new reality she finds her world has become, and the pair need a plan.
Fortunately, Ingrid’s a lot brighter than Steve, and she’s had plenty of time to plan, to observe, and to build up a festering hatred of her ‘betters’.
Steve’s going recruiting—and harvesting—Greece is in for a hell of a surprise, and for the criminal element out there? It’ll be a fatal one…
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First published June 28, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
July 13, 2022
The book feels like it has ADHD and can't stay focused on one plotline at a time.
I think maybe this is because the author is at war with himself. Part of him wants to tell the story of a man slowly coming to grips with his new existence and growing himself into a powerhouse. The other half of him wants to race to get to the larger events of the series (the war between factions, the creators of the nanites, the impacts of humans on the larger universe, etc) almost as though he thinks that readers won’t be willing to wait through the first stuff because their too impatient to get to the big stuff.
The result is that we constantly get a set-up, then a smash cut to something different before that set-up can be paid off, and then it’s back to something else. It’s jarring and would have worked better if the author just trusted that he could tell an interesting story through natural progression. There’s no real reason why the creators couldn’t have been left until a few books into the series, let alone the factions waring etc.
I repeat what I said in the first book, that I think this author is one who makes up his story as he goes along and doesn't have much of a plan in place. With the first book in the series, this created a chaotic story with more than enough good elements to make up for it. In this book though, the chaos is doubled while the good parts start to slip to the sidelines a bit.
The big issue with seemingly not having a plan is that the plot is constantly changing, and often in ways that contradict earlier established information. For example, Steve alternates from stressing how important it is to hide from the factions or they will all die, then doing insanely public things that would make him stand out like a flashing red light for all the world to see with little to no consequence.
The characters also started to suffer in this book as they become caricatures of themselves. Steve is now just a one-dimensional killing machine moving from plot point to plot point, killing along the way and using his batman's utility belt of nanite powers when he just isn't quite awesome enough to overcome a battle. That's not saying he doesn't face defeat in this story, because he does, but the plot armour is seriously thick around this one-dimensional character, and the sci-fi-powered magic system isn't nearly as well explored, evolved or integrated into the story as it was in the first book.
Ingrid suffers a similar devolution, becoming little more than a nagging girlfriend who again becomes anything the plot needs her to be at any moment. Remember how in the first book she was obsessed with archaeology almost to the point of willing to get killed over it. Well in this book that passion has gone to be replaced with being what Steve needs her to be, and using her batman utility belt of a family to help with his plans wherever the plot needs them to.
Ultimately, I started this book really excited about where it was going, and by the end, I was struggling to finish it. It was still enjoyable for the most part, but it's a major step down in quality from the first one. I finished this book feeling exhausted, preached at, and considerably less excited for where this series might be going in the future.
It gets the benefit of the doubt just because I enjoyed most of it on the surface level at least, so I'll round up to 3-stars. However, I'm on the fence about whether to keep this series going or not.
I think maybe this is because the author is at war with himself. Part of him wants to tell the story of a man slowly coming to grips with his new existence and growing himself into a powerhouse. The other half of him wants to race to get to the larger events of the series (the war between factions, the creators of the nanites, the impacts of humans on the larger universe, etc) almost as though he thinks that readers won’t be willing to wait through the first stuff because their too impatient to get to the big stuff.
The result is that we constantly get a set-up, then a smash cut to something different before that set-up can be paid off, and then it’s back to something else. It’s jarring and would have worked better if the author just trusted that he could tell an interesting story through natural progression. There’s no real reason why the creators couldn’t have been left until a few books into the series, let alone the factions waring etc.
I repeat what I said in the first book, that I think this author is one who makes up his story as he goes along and doesn't have much of a plan in place. With the first book in the series, this created a chaotic story with more than enough good elements to make up for it. In this book though, the chaos is doubled while the good parts start to slip to the sidelines a bit.
The big issue with seemingly not having a plan is that the plot is constantly changing, and often in ways that contradict earlier established information. For example, Steve alternates from stressing how important it is to hide from the factions or they will all die, then doing insanely public things that would make him stand out like a flashing red light for all the world to see with little to no consequence.
The characters also started to suffer in this book as they become caricatures of themselves. Steve is now just a one-dimensional killing machine moving from plot point to plot point, killing along the way and using his batman's utility belt of nanite powers when he just isn't quite awesome enough to overcome a battle. That's not saying he doesn't face defeat in this story, because he does, but the plot armour is seriously thick around this one-dimensional character, and the sci-fi-powered magic system isn't nearly as well explored, evolved or integrated into the story as it was in the first book.
Ingrid suffers a similar devolution, becoming little more than a nagging girlfriend who again becomes anything the plot needs her to be at any moment. Remember how in the first book she was obsessed with archaeology almost to the point of willing to get killed over it. Well in this book that passion has gone to be replaced with being what Steve needs her to be, and using her batman utility belt of a family to help with his plans wherever the plot needs them to.
Ultimately, I started this book really excited about where it was going, and by the end, I was struggling to finish it. It was still enjoyable for the most part, but it's a major step down in quality from the first one. I finished this book feeling exhausted, preached at, and considerably less excited for where this series might be going in the future.
It gets the benefit of the doubt just because I enjoyed most of it on the surface level at least, so I'll round up to 3-stars. However, I'm on the fence about whether to keep this series going or not.
July 16, 2022
couldn’t finish
Let me start by saying that the author’s other series is so much better. I really wanted to like this series, but the plot and the characters are terrible. The MC is being hunted by two groups of incredibly powerful and connected immortal beings who are capable of manipulating government across the world at the highest level. The MC says over and over again that he has to keep a low profile and then proceeds to do the exact opposite. He constantly makes terrible decisions. He also tells his secrets to anybody who will listen. If you need to stay hidden, telling 20 strangers about your powers is probably not the way to go. His girlfriend is also incredibly annoying and contributes to these terrible decisions. I got 75% of the way through and had to put it down. Very disappointing.
Let me start by saying that the author’s other series is so much better. I really wanted to like this series, but the plot and the characters are terrible. The MC is being hunted by two groups of incredibly powerful and connected immortal beings who are capable of manipulating government across the world at the highest level. The MC says over and over again that he has to keep a low profile and then proceeds to do the exact opposite. He constantly makes terrible decisions. He also tells his secrets to anybody who will listen. If you need to stay hidden, telling 20 strangers about your powers is probably not the way to go. His girlfriend is also incredibly annoying and contributes to these terrible decisions. I got 75% of the way through and had to put it down. Very disappointing.
March 28, 2025
A good second book,
Good story with plenty of good fights. MC is a bit dumb at times but gets through it.
Supporting characters are good and add to the story.
I wish Ingrid would hurry and die, the book would be even better then.
On to book 3 to see what happens.
Good story with plenty of good fights. MC is a bit dumb at times but gets through it.
Supporting characters are good and add to the story.
I wish Ingrid would hurry and die, the book would be even better then.
On to book 3 to see what happens.
July 23, 2022
excellent story, horrible MC.
Once again I give this book 4 stars because the story is excellent. The skill progression is OK, The tech tree is pretty good but the MC is horrible. The character is misogynistic, ignorant, rude and puerile and then with those kinds of traits would not be loyal to any woman. So his loyalty to his girlfriend doesn’t fit his personality. Authors should ask themselves why other books like defiance of the fall and he who fights with monsters have thousands of reviews? I believe one of the main reasons is the likability of the MC. Yes they also make stupid mistakes but they are not ignorant. The author should also mention that the book is loaded with unnecessary profanity which I would believe in some cases turns a lot of females off who might have enjoyed the story. You think the author who penned this book was 17 years old or younger with all the sexual innuendo bang this, bang that, totally unnecessary. After saying all this the closing line is, if you don’t have a problem with profanity, misogyny and a stupid character who sometimes forgets what abilities he has you will enjoy this book and that is because of the story it is good. I don’t know if this is the last one of the series but is the last one for me.
Once again I give this book 4 stars because the story is excellent. The skill progression is OK, The tech tree is pretty good but the MC is horrible. The character is misogynistic, ignorant, rude and puerile and then with those kinds of traits would not be loyal to any woman. So his loyalty to his girlfriend doesn’t fit his personality. Authors should ask themselves why other books like defiance of the fall and he who fights with monsters have thousands of reviews? I believe one of the main reasons is the likability of the MC. Yes they also make stupid mistakes but they are not ignorant. The author should also mention that the book is loaded with unnecessary profanity which I would believe in some cases turns a lot of females off who might have enjoyed the story. You think the author who penned this book was 17 years old or younger with all the sexual innuendo bang this, bang that, totally unnecessary. After saying all this the closing line is, if you don’t have a problem with profanity, misogyny and a stupid character who sometimes forgets what abilities he has you will enjoy this book and that is because of the story it is good. I don’t know if this is the last one of the series but is the last one for me.
December 2, 2023
I struggled with this one
First up I want so say that I do love the premise of this series. Interesting plot and decent characters, some nice comedy and great action scenes and pacing so far aside from a few small things to pick at.
In saying all that the biggest issue I have…. Is the MC honestly is one of the dumbest I’ve ever read. I can see that the reasons are “for the plot” but far out man. He needs to be hit on the head with a 2x4 of captain obvious.
It broke the immersion a few to many times to the point where I’m going to drop it.
Now to clarify on some of the dumb decisions, the MC is supposed to be ex-army and ex-mob/enforcer. His army experience was explained to be pretty thorough with some spec ops etc.
those guys are trained so extensively…. And he’s supposed to have all this experience… then makes some tremendously stupid decisions. Further to that he is enhanced with these Nanites that do so much including boosting his IQ etc. yet it seems he goes backwards in IQ tbh.
In all there are MUCH much better ways to advance the plot, other than having the mc make horrible decisions.
First up I want so say that I do love the premise of this series. Interesting plot and decent characters, some nice comedy and great action scenes and pacing so far aside from a few small things to pick at.
In saying all that the biggest issue I have…. Is the MC honestly is one of the dumbest I’ve ever read. I can see that the reasons are “for the plot” but far out man. He needs to be hit on the head with a 2x4 of captain obvious.
It broke the immersion a few to many times to the point where I’m going to drop it.
Now to clarify on some of the dumb decisions, the MC is supposed to be ex-army and ex-mob/enforcer. His army experience was explained to be pretty thorough with some spec ops etc.
those guys are trained so extensively…. And he’s supposed to have all this experience… then makes some tremendously stupid decisions. Further to that he is enhanced with these Nanites that do so much including boosting his IQ etc. yet it seems he goes backwards in IQ tbh.
In all there are MUCH much better ways to advance the plot, other than having the mc make horrible decisions.
July 18, 2022
it doesn’t work for me
The Hero heroes heroically, while his model quality girlfriend is sexually satisfied. He is too OP for me, even though I know he is outnumbered. He has earned everything, but…it feels easy. And he keeps making the same exact mistake over and over — ‘I should spend points…oh the upgrade made a mess and I didn’t warn my girlfriend. Next time…I’ll do it exactly the same way.’
DNF
The Hero heroes heroically, while his model quality girlfriend is sexually satisfied. He is too OP for me, even though I know he is outnumbered. He has earned everything, but…it feels easy. And he keeps making the same exact mistake over and over — ‘I should spend points…oh the upgrade made a mess and I didn’t warn my girlfriend. Next time…I’ll do it exactly the same way.’
DNF
December 27, 2022
Hurry someone just kill Ingrid so this story can move on and lose the baggage.
Also, didn’t like the MC’s choices. So many times he says he literally has the opportunity to level his body to achieve godlike powers, but what does he do? Let’s spiff up my armor with some new doodads!?! Gah!
He has all these chances to get stronger, protect those around him better, and assure his situation in the world. What does he do? Let’s go chill with my lady…..
Also, didn’t like the MC’s choices. So many times he says he literally has the opportunity to level his body to achieve godlike powers, but what does he do? Let’s spiff up my armor with some new doodads!?! Gah!
He has all these chances to get stronger, protect those around him better, and assure his situation in the world. What does he do? Let’s go chill with my lady…..
July 25, 2024
I tried liking this book. I really did, but it just kept getting worse and worse.
First, we started with the goal of creating a team to fight evil and fix the world. I imagined a yacht with top technology that could stay hidden and be a base of operations since everyone wants the protagonist now. Then came the idea of fixing the global warming problem, which, honestly, is not that attractive for a main character. Switching from a badass goal of killing and destruction for a noble cause to just fixing global warming doesn’t have the same weight. And I didn’t understand where this goal came from. It is a noble goal but seems like something that could be achieved later. Why not buy the facility and invest in it from hiding, especially when the protagonist is a wanted man? This screams of poor decision-making.
Then came the idea of a secret facility in the Sahara Desert. Cool concept with the converter, really amazing. But why not wait a bit? Grow stronger, stay hidden! It’s like the protagonist had to act immediately, always pushing forward. The killing of Athena was thrilling, painting the picture of someone emerging from torture wanting to make a change, but it didn’t work. I forgot he was tortured until he started acting like a five-year-old, cursing constantly. And he’s a pushover, always persuaded by women or his ‘companions’, who don’t feel like real people at all.
Let’s leave the can of worms, Ingrid, to last. First, the butler of some hotel. A good hotel, mind you, but how did he move from that to someone capable of recruiting teams and managing everything? At first, his skills were believable: good coffee, attention to detail. Then he’s organizing much larger operations, like getting a message to Ingrid’s family under the watch of the BLESSED and ACCURSED, the most powerful organizations with the highest advanced technology.
Then came the Russia arc. I loved the tribe and the ‘GOD’, but the protagonist’s vulnerability and behavior like a horny teenager were irritating. He needed to get to a specific place, worrying about the Blessed killing his friends, yet left them unprotected. And then the hippies? The moment he updates his brain, he comes out and gives a speech to no one. He accepted them without really accepting them. It was confusing.
Moving on to Ingrid, the biggest turnoff in this book. We all appreciate independent strong women, but not insane women who, for the sake of “you don’t own me,” go to one of the most dangerous places without any means to defend themselves. It’s supposed to be a partnership, but her actions scream suicide, not independence.
And this ragtag group of companions, how did they afford such a massive place in the Sahara, costing hundreds of millions, and no one questioned where the money came from? The facility supposedly built by a former navy member, archaeologist, engineer, butler, and chef, without professional help, is far-fetched. Bringing people to this secret base and being shocked when spies infiltrate is just poor planning.
What’s wrong with the BLESSED organization? They have immense power and control yet couldn’t track Ingrid’s parents or anyone Steve interacted with? A butler with some connections managed to pass HANS a phone and infiltrate an ARISEN yacht?
The characters’ dialogues were weak: Steve curses and acts foolishly, easily convinced by others. The rest of the group felt like flat, two-dimensional characters, sometimes appearing as superheroes, other times just there to persuade Steve. I lost track of who was who, and Steve’s decisions were nonsensical. He was dying every time he downloaded multiple data packets, so why not do it one at a time? The world is against him, yet he wastes resources on public projects instead of fortifying himself.
Additionally, the LITRPG system seemed to vanish. Steve absorbed stats but didn’t display significant differences. The system felt neglected and underdeveloped in this book. The protagonist’s strength increased, but we didn’t see it in action, only relying on his armor enhancements.
In summary, this book needs a major rewrite. I really liked book one; despite the chaos, it had a flair of unpredictability. This sequel, however, felt disjointed, with characters and plot points lacking cohesion. It’s like the chapters were written at different times, with no effort to connect them smoothly.
This is just my opinion, but the book failed to live up to its potential and left me disappointed.
First, we started with the goal of creating a team to fight evil and fix the world. I imagined a yacht with top technology that could stay hidden and be a base of operations since everyone wants the protagonist now. Then came the idea of fixing the global warming problem, which, honestly, is not that attractive for a main character. Switching from a badass goal of killing and destruction for a noble cause to just fixing global warming doesn’t have the same weight. And I didn’t understand where this goal came from. It is a noble goal but seems like something that could be achieved later. Why not buy the facility and invest in it from hiding, especially when the protagonist is a wanted man? This screams of poor decision-making.
Then came the idea of a secret facility in the Sahara Desert. Cool concept with the converter, really amazing. But why not wait a bit? Grow stronger, stay hidden! It’s like the protagonist had to act immediately, always pushing forward. The killing of Athena was thrilling, painting the picture of someone emerging from torture wanting to make a change, but it didn’t work. I forgot he was tortured until he started acting like a five-year-old, cursing constantly. And he’s a pushover, always persuaded by women or his ‘companions’, who don’t feel like real people at all.
Let’s leave the can of worms, Ingrid, to last. First, the butler of some hotel. A good hotel, mind you, but how did he move from that to someone capable of recruiting teams and managing everything? At first, his skills were believable: good coffee, attention to detail. Then he’s organizing much larger operations, like getting a message to Ingrid’s family under the watch of the BLESSED and ACCURSED, the most powerful organizations with the highest advanced technology.
Then came the Russia arc. I loved the tribe and the ‘GOD’, but the protagonist’s vulnerability and behavior like a horny teenager were irritating. He needed to get to a specific place, worrying about the Blessed killing his friends, yet left them unprotected. And then the hippies? The moment he updates his brain, he comes out and gives a speech to no one. He accepted them without really accepting them. It was confusing.
Moving on to Ingrid, the biggest turnoff in this book. We all appreciate independent strong women, but not insane women who, for the sake of “you don’t own me,” go to one of the most dangerous places without any means to defend themselves. It’s supposed to be a partnership, but her actions scream suicide, not independence.
And this ragtag group of companions, how did they afford such a massive place in the Sahara, costing hundreds of millions, and no one questioned where the money came from? The facility supposedly built by a former navy member, archaeologist, engineer, butler, and chef, without professional help, is far-fetched. Bringing people to this secret base and being shocked when spies infiltrate is just poor planning.
What’s wrong with the BLESSED organization? They have immense power and control yet couldn’t track Ingrid’s parents or anyone Steve interacted with? A butler with some connections managed to pass HANS a phone and infiltrate an ARISEN yacht?
The characters’ dialogues were weak: Steve curses and acts foolishly, easily convinced by others. The rest of the group felt like flat, two-dimensional characters, sometimes appearing as superheroes, other times just there to persuade Steve. I lost track of who was who, and Steve’s decisions were nonsensical. He was dying every time he downloaded multiple data packets, so why not do it one at a time? The world is against him, yet he wastes resources on public projects instead of fortifying himself.
Additionally, the LITRPG system seemed to vanish. Steve absorbed stats but didn’t display significant differences. The system felt neglected and underdeveloped in this book. The protagonist’s strength increased, but we didn’t see it in action, only relying on his armor enhancements.
In summary, this book needs a major rewrite. I really liked book one; despite the chaos, it had a flair of unpredictability. This sequel, however, felt disjointed, with characters and plot points lacking cohesion. It’s like the chapters were written at different times, with no effort to connect them smoothly.
This is just my opinion, but the book failed to live up to its potential and left me disappointed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 28, 2025
love this series so far, the audiobook is excellent.
that said, one frequent thing I do have a problem with, is in my opinion, there is a serious issue with the "equality" in the main relationship. relationship equality is not having one person who must be allowed to go and do whatever, whenever they want, or otherwise you're "being controlling" and "sudbjucating" them. it has gone too far off the other side, where actually, the one demanding equality is actually being controlling themselves and not respecting their partner as someone whose needs, feelings and opinions matter as much as their own.
just as you shouldn't have control over where your partner can and cannot go, you shouldn't have control over if your partner is allowed to go somewhere without you or not. they are very much the same thing, just masked into a social dynamic where the man's actions and demands are seen as controlling, but the woman's similar actions are seen as valid. there seems to be guilt tripping, threatening with withdrawing love and other ways to pressure the man who is physically very strong but emotionally and mentally in an extremely vulnerable and isolated position. this is portrayed as acceptable and morally right, which can be triggering if you have experience of high control and abusive relationships.
that said, I do appreciate that the women aren't just passive damsels in distress and them asserting themselves is portrayed as positive and attractive. I will definitely continue the series in spite of this, but just categorize this thing into "the author tried for something great and missed the mark by the tiniest bit, but I will try to see it in the way it seems to be intended".
that said, one frequent thing I do have a problem with, is in my opinion, there is a serious issue with the "equality" in the main relationship. relationship equality is not having one person who must be allowed to go and do whatever, whenever they want, or otherwise you're "being controlling" and "sudbjucating" them. it has gone too far off the other side, where actually, the one demanding equality is actually being controlling themselves and not respecting their partner as someone whose needs, feelings and opinions matter as much as their own.
just as you shouldn't have control over where your partner can and cannot go, you shouldn't have control over if your partner is allowed to go somewhere without you or not. they are very much the same thing, just masked into a social dynamic where the man's actions and demands are seen as controlling, but the woman's similar actions are seen as valid. there seems to be guilt tripping, threatening with withdrawing love and other ways to pressure the man who is physically very strong but emotionally and mentally in an extremely vulnerable and isolated position. this is portrayed as acceptable and morally right, which can be triggering if you have experience of high control and abusive relationships.
that said, I do appreciate that the women aren't just passive damsels in distress and them asserting themselves is portrayed as positive and attractive. I will definitely continue the series in spite of this, but just categorize this thing into "the author tried for something great and missed the mark by the tiniest bit, but I will try to see it in the way it seems to be intended".
October 24, 2022
A regular bloke with god like strength and a bad attitude
A regular bloke with god like strength and a bad attitude who is trying to be a better man, has to let go to really move forward. And hunting werewolves is his favorite past time lately for collecting nanites as they are chock full! So maybe a trip to Russia is in order, what could go wrong, right?
Steve is in a constant struggle to protect his friends and his girlfriend while trying to gain enough strength to kill those threatening him and his. However Steve is all about punching through his issues, and stabbing, slashing and draining their nanites afterward. Until he can’t.
And he’s caught out away from the desert after a tough fight with another species of BWVs. While he’s away they make plans of their own and report back to Shamal. Shamal had Steve tortured for refusing to be his pet. So after months of torture Steve escapes and it’s time for payback, if he can live long enough and through his berserker style rages during battles. He’s a dark hero with a good heart and a loving woman who acts as his conscience, planner, and the boot in his ass when he needs it.
A regular bloke with god like strength and a bad attitude who is trying to be a better man, has to let go to really move forward. And hunting werewolves is his favorite past time lately for collecting nanites as they are chock full! So maybe a trip to Russia is in order, what could go wrong, right?
Steve is in a constant struggle to protect his friends and his girlfriend while trying to gain enough strength to kill those threatening him and his. However Steve is all about punching through his issues, and stabbing, slashing and draining their nanites afterward. Until he can’t.
And he’s caught out away from the desert after a tough fight with another species of BWVs. While he’s away they make plans of their own and report back to Shamal. Shamal had Steve tortured for refusing to be his pet. So after months of torture Steve escapes and it’s time for payback, if he can live long enough and through his berserker style rages during battles. He’s a dark hero with a good heart and a loving woman who acts as his conscience, planner, and the boot in his ass when he needs it.
July 12, 2022
Just fantastic
After escaping the clutches of the Arisen, Steve upgrades himself and his armor, recruits some Orcs and puts a hurtin on some lycans as well as some criminal gangs. Then he goes full murderhobo on more Arisen before facing Shamal. To bad he never had time to locate the 2 human villains that could have "benefited" from a counciling session with him.... LOL. LitRPG at its best! I really enjoyed these two books in this series and though they ended at a good spot, there's room for more story arcs. One of the things l love about Jez Cajiao's writing is that his books are big and burly, with unforseen creative twists that inspire the imagination and make the storyline so much more interesting. Keep up the good work and l look forward to book 7 of the Underverse due in December.
After escaping the clutches of the Arisen, Steve upgrades himself and his armor, recruits some Orcs and puts a hurtin on some lycans as well as some criminal gangs. Then he goes full murderhobo on more Arisen before facing Shamal. To bad he never had time to locate the 2 human villains that could have "benefited" from a counciling session with him.... LOL. LitRPG at its best! I really enjoyed these two books in this series and though they ended at a good spot, there's room for more story arcs. One of the things l love about Jez Cajiao's writing is that his books are big and burly, with unforseen creative twists that inspire the imagination and make the storyline so much more interesting. Keep up the good work and l look forward to book 7 of the Underverse due in December.
April 21, 2024
The first book was mostly good, but was marred (in my view) by having most of its conflict driven by the protagonist losing his temper and making dumb decisions. It also set up a pretty interesting world, but by the time the first book closed it hadn't done much with it.
So I was quite looking forward to book 2 where, hopefully, the protagonist would wise up a bit and learn from his mistakes in book 1, and maybe we'd get some plot advancement to show off this interesting setting.
40% of the way through the book I gave up, because basically all we got was the protagonist losing his temper, making dumb decisions, then having to fight to recover, leaving the plot right where it was to start with.
If that's the part of book 1 you enjoyed, then you'll like this book too, so enjoy!
So I was quite looking forward to book 2 where, hopefully, the protagonist would wise up a bit and learn from his mistakes in book 1, and maybe we'd get some plot advancement to show off this interesting setting.
40% of the way through the book I gave up, because basically all we got was the protagonist losing his temper, making dumb decisions, then having to fight to recover, leaving the plot right where it was to start with.
If that's the part of book 1 you enjoyed, then you'll like this book too, so enjoy!
July 10, 2022
Has some solid good points as well as some that I’m not as fond of.
I really like the nanite angle and the sci-fi spin of this series vs other fantasy based ones. It’s a nice change of pace. I also like the various things that Steve comes up, it’s usually cool and always fun. This one still suffers a bit from feeling very similar to Jez other two series character wise. Action is amazing as always, though fair warning it gets really graphic in parts(though you know that if you read book 1). The setup for the future books leads to to think that things will get interesting pretty quickly. Definitely with the read, with only some things that bugged me.
I really like the nanite angle and the sci-fi spin of this series vs other fantasy based ones. It’s a nice change of pace. I also like the various things that Steve comes up, it’s usually cool and always fun. This one still suffers a bit from feeling very similar to Jez other two series character wise. Action is amazing as always, though fair warning it gets really graphic in parts(though you know that if you read book 1). The setup for the future books leads to to think that things will get interesting pretty quickly. Definitely with the read, with only some things that bugged me.
April 30, 2024
3.5 stars honestly as many others said the book can't seem to stay focused on one thing and it jumps around way too much. Nothing ever really seems to be finished before the new shiny idea pops up and the MC should start doing this or that instead and the last thing is left half finished. I am also starting to sense a lack of depth in the characters, and the story as a whole is getting more and more shallow. I don't truly feel any real suspense in the story. While on the surface the MC ends up in a lot of dangerous situations. Looking closer the MC doesn't feel like he truly overcomes these big hurdles in a natural way but instead it's forced with Plot armor the size of a country.
July 19, 2022
Outstanding Unique Book!
Jez is my favorite author! I re-read UnderVerse while waiting for Arise Book 2, and now what the hell do I read?!?!? Arise is just as good as UnderVerse, in a completely unique concept mixing SciFi and Fantasy and LitRPG. I couldn’t put it down! Jez’ writing style puts you right into every scene, making you believe all the crazy shit he writes could actually be real! Thanks Jez for another stellar novel! Please keep writing!
Jez is my favorite author! I re-read UnderVerse while waiting for Arise Book 2, and now what the hell do I read?!?!? Arise is just as good as UnderVerse, in a completely unique concept mixing SciFi and Fantasy and LitRPG. I couldn’t put it down! Jez’ writing style puts you right into every scene, making you believe all the crazy shit he writes could actually be real! Thanks Jez for another stellar novel! Please keep writing!
June 23, 2023
The main character reminds me a lot of Dax, another verbally abuse and sexually fixated character with supposedly "good heart" from another of his books. As time progresses, I am having some trouble with the MCs attitude, he behaves very much like a teenager insecure and is just all over the place emotionally.
That said the story is great and has a lot of potential, just wished that the author would set the asshole dial a bit lower on the MC.
That said the story is great and has a lot of potential, just wished that the author would set the asshole dial a bit lower on the MC.
March 24, 2024
DNF. I've been trying to make my way through book 2 for a few weeks but keep finding excuses to read other things. I love the premise of this series and really wanted it to work, but it's not even that the author lost the plot; it feels like he never found one to begin with. He had a very cool idea, but then it's just been a firehouse of often unconnected ideas that typically make no sense in isolation, never mind attached to a greater whole.
February 11, 2025
FAN-FREAKING-TASTIC Again 😁
This is the most EXCELLENT series I've ever read 😃. I truly didn't believe that this type of story would grab my imagination and NOT let it go, but it DID 😊. I thoroughly recommend this series to anybody who loves constant action, intense situations, laughter and Fabulous characters 😉. Thanks again Jez, I can't wait to read the next book in the series 🤓.
This is the most EXCELLENT series I've ever read 😃. I truly didn't believe that this type of story would grab my imagination and NOT let it go, but it DID 😊. I thoroughly recommend this series to anybody who loves constant action, intense situations, laughter and Fabulous characters 😉. Thanks again Jez, I can't wait to read the next book in the series 🤓.
July 9, 2022
Arise: Dark Crusader
If you pick this book up to read. Don’t do it towards the end of the day. You won’t be able to put the boat down until you finish it even if it’s at 4 o’clock in the morning. I’m just glad that I’m retired so I have to go to work at six. I like the first book and this was as good as the first part recommend reading it
If you pick this book up to read. Don’t do it towards the end of the day. You won’t be able to put the boat down until you finish it even if it’s at 4 o’clock in the morning. I’m just glad that I’m retired so I have to go to work at six. I like the first book and this was as good as the first part recommend reading it
July 13, 2022
Another hit
I really do love these stories! They feel real, or as real as fantasy, supernatural stories can be. It makes all the difference it really does! Everything's not ott! Or too op! It's balanced and makes the read so much more enjoyable 😁 will steve die, yes (but not for long) as well anyone else, permanently!
I really do love these stories! They feel real, or as real as fantasy, supernatural stories can be. It makes all the difference it really does! Everything's not ott! Or too op! It's balanced and makes the read so much more enjoyable 😁 will steve die, yes (but not for long) as well anyone else, permanently!
July 16, 2022
Couldn't put it down!!!!!!
Yes, another fantastic addition to the series and to the authors growing list of books. The troubled hero who doesn't want to be a hero. Truly enjoying all of it, the story line and character development are outstanding. Can't wait until the next book comes out!!!!!
Yes, another fantastic addition to the series and to the authors growing list of books. The troubled hero who doesn't want to be a hero. Truly enjoying all of it, the story line and character development are outstanding. Can't wait until the next book comes out!!!!!
July 19, 2022
KU Review
Great story. Full of action. The blend of sci-fi, fantasy, alternative history and game elements is an amazing combination that kept me riveted.
As the title says this is a review for Kindle Unlimited and as such is a reflection of my enjoyment of the book and in no way reflects cost to value analysis.
Great story. Full of action. The blend of sci-fi, fantasy, alternative history and game elements is an amazing combination that kept me riveted.
As the title says this is a review for Kindle Unlimited and as such is a reflection of my enjoyment of the book and in no way reflects cost to value analysis.
August 9, 2022
I enjoyed most of the book and would read a sequel if/when one comes out, but like others I found the MC annoying. The MC is supposed to have increased intelligence but acts so stupid in the choices he makes I found it a little off putting at times. I found most of the other character to be better, that offset the annoyance/enjoyment for me with the MC so overall I enjoyed the book
August 10, 2022
Fun. Just fun.
Another fun installment of the series. I growl while reading the fight scenes and curl my toes in anticipation of the next great battle. It's almost like Cajiao has read my mind and is telling the greedy world-trashing moguls that they have one more chance to fix what they're doing to our planet or we're coming for them.
Just a fun ride.
Another fun installment of the series. I growl while reading the fight scenes and curl my toes in anticipation of the next great battle. It's almost like Cajiao has read my mind and is telling the greedy world-trashing moguls that they have one more chance to fix what they're doing to our planet or we're coming for them.
Just a fun ride.
February 21, 2023
Decent I like the continuation of His Journey, it was enough to take me away from reality for awhile.
Thankyou Jez Cajiao for writing stories that I can enjoy, relax and drop into the fantasy of the Tale.
Some of these tales are not to everyones liking, but that is what makes us all different or all the stories and characters would be the same and so would we.
Thankyou Jez Cajiao for writing stories that I can enjoy, relax and drop into the fantasy of the Tale.
Some of these tales are not to everyones liking, but that is what makes us all different or all the stories and characters would be the same and so would we.
June 6, 2023
Jez
Jez, as always you have me up far longer than planned. For those expecting dissertations on this book please know you need to go out and read asap. Not time is ever lost when yiu are taking an adventure with Jez! Big facts!! If you like it, please support our author and buy the book. Enjoy!!!
Jez, as always you have me up far longer than planned. For those expecting dissertations on this book please know you need to go out and read asap. Not time is ever lost when yiu are taking an adventure with Jez! Big facts!! If you like it, please support our author and buy the book. Enjoy!!!
October 19, 2023
A good addition to the story
Interesting book well writhe hero seems The same as all of his other heroes not that that's Necessarily a bad thing.
Apparently all heroes are Seven feet plus tall and stacked with muscle Upon muscle.
Still, it's a fun ride, and I'll keep reading them If he keeps writing them.
Interesting book well writhe hero seems The same as all of his other heroes not that that's Necessarily a bad thing.
Apparently all heroes are Seven feet plus tall and stacked with muscle Upon muscle.
Still, it's a fun ride, and I'll keep reading them If he keeps writing them.
March 18, 2024
This one was intense
This was another great addition to the series. There were a couple continuity issues where portions of quests were completed for lycan removal without actually covering those things but it didn't take away from the awesome story. The plot was smooth and highly energetic. Great stuff. I would've given it five stars if it weren't for the continuity issues.
This was another great addition to the series. There were a couple continuity issues where portions of quests were completed for lycan removal without actually covering those things but it didn't take away from the awesome story. The plot was smooth and highly energetic. Great stuff. I would've given it five stars if it weren't for the continuity issues.
July 6, 2022
….cringy face
It was good up till the Russia arc then just felt weird and overly rushed in plot elements that felt was werid in how the MC kept running to impossible thinks thought lost.
It was good up till the Russia arc then just felt weird and overly rushed in plot elements that felt was werid in how the MC kept running to impossible thinks thought lost.
July 12, 2022
I enjoyed the expanded edition of book 1, but book 2 goes off the rails from time to time. Steve lashes out at almost everyone in book two, and I had to set the kindle aside at times before I picked it up again.
The plots proceeds at a breakneck pace. I won't recap it as they travel a good portion of the world, from Greece to Russia to North Africa and more. Steve hasn't met a fight that he doesn't enjoy, and that makes up most of the story.
And yes, Athena does show her face momentarily.
I think I'll stop reading this series at book 2. Maybe if I'd read the original series the first time around I would have enjoyed it more, but this book is bloodthirsty to such a degree that it overwhelms the story and characters.
4/5*
The plots proceeds at a breakneck pace. I won't recap it as they travel a good portion of the world, from Greece to Russia to North Africa and more. Steve hasn't met a fight that he doesn't enjoy, and that makes up most of the story.
And yes, Athena does show her face momentarily.
I think I'll stop reading this series at book 2. Maybe if I'd read the original series the first time around I would have enjoyed it more, but this book is bloodthirsty to such a degree that it overwhelms the story and characters.
4/5*
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