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Remedial Magic #2
Snakes in the Grass
Aldric's position as a professor of magic at Nevis academy has finally given the man a home. But between his eager young students wanting to know anything and everything about him and this upcoming mage tournament, Aldric can't help but be filled with unease. They've already been attacked, after all. Are they really safe?
Foolish question.
Even after all these years, Aldric somehow forgot the world's oldest truths; that nothing is at it seems, and everyone is looking for their own angle. Aldric has no idea who to trust, or even who his real enemies are. And to top it all off, all three warring countries are now coming together for the first time in decades.
Aldric better have meant it when he said he'd prepare his new family for the worst. Because they're about to be tested.
Foolish question.
Even after all these years, Aldric somehow forgot the world's oldest truths; that nothing is at it seems, and everyone is looking for their own angle. Aldric has no idea who to trust, or even who his real enemies are. And to top it all off, all three warring countries are now coming together for the first time in decades.
Aldric better have meant it when he said he'd prepare his new family for the worst. Because they're about to be tested.
324 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2022
197 people are currently reading
39 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
July 10, 2023
I liked the general plot idea, even if it was quite ruined by the execution. In short, it was a predictable read. The whole thing felt like a rough draft, not a finished material.
It could’ve been a solid fantasy series—full of action, adventure, and magic… I even found that the YA component wasn’t nearly as annoying as it could’ve been… And the romance angle wouldn’t be terrible either.. I liked the potential, if not the books themselves, and that’s why I kept reading (i’m in a middle of book 2 now).
This storyline can be expanded in so many ways, going to the past and branching out… It alludes to so much epic stuff in the main hero’s past... I think this story would make sense closer to the end of Aldric’s overall timeline, serving as a closure to a series and/or becoming a bridge to a new branch, where Aldric is middle-aged, but still able, and he comes out of a decade of drinking to become a teacher for a new generation of mages, and his past becomes a foundation to their adventures and stories.. that would be logical to me.
As it was, with such a rich past of the main hero, this story should’ve delivered a truly Earth-shattering twist so that his past became a merely backstory… Well, the trilogy failed to deliver such a twist (so far).
Things that annoyed me the most:
1. Considering everything Aldric accomplished before the first book, middle age would be logical, but he’s only in his early thirties… even if he started young and were s true prodigy plus a decade of heavy drinking makes the whole thing totally unbelievable (I know it’s fantasy, but still…)
2. His friends came up with a pretty lame way of hiding his identity — in plain sight, he’s plainly to see. Generally, underestimating your enemies is a shortcut to being dead.
3. Aldric’s closest friends really lacked any depth—they have so much history together, they’ve been a part of his life for so many years, I thought they deserved much more development than a rough sketch they received
4. Considering that his students were the main reason Aldric found his way out of a bottle, the 6 students also could’ve been more than flat semi-people. Different POVs didn’t enrich the story, nor did they provide depth to these supporting characters and/or events unfolding
5. The Empire and neighboring nations— the author just barely drafted the way his world works. Really unclear why they are in a state of war with each other? What about politics, laws, and social infrastructure of this realm? 4 ruling families, ok, and then what???
6. Generally, they talked about epic events of their empire, half-forgotten history… that happened 10-15 years ago.. seriously?
7. Proper descriptions of what characters wore or even how they looked were also missing from these books.. I couldn’t picture characters beyond a mop of hair, plain features or gorgeousness, or height & muscles…
8. I really don’t get why there always must be competitions, tournaments etc —why the author couldn’t come up with a better way to showcase the magic and its rules?
9. Lilianna Asimov—argh! The author truly struggled to come up with original names!
10. I promise, this one is the last. Facepalm. I really have an issue with the phraseology. Modern slang has no place in a fantasy world unless the world in question is very similar to ours.
It could’ve been a solid fantasy series—full of action, adventure, and magic… I even found that the YA component wasn’t nearly as annoying as it could’ve been… And the romance angle wouldn’t be terrible either.. I liked the potential, if not the books themselves, and that’s why I kept reading (i’m in a middle of book 2 now).
This storyline can be expanded in so many ways, going to the past and branching out… It alludes to so much epic stuff in the main hero’s past... I think this story would make sense closer to the end of Aldric’s overall timeline, serving as a closure to a series and/or becoming a bridge to a new branch, where Aldric is middle-aged, but still able, and he comes out of a decade of drinking to become a teacher for a new generation of mages, and his past becomes a foundation to their adventures and stories.. that would be logical to me.
As it was, with such a rich past of the main hero, this story should’ve delivered a truly Earth-shattering twist so that his past became a merely backstory… Well, the trilogy failed to deliver such a twist (so far).
Things that annoyed me the most:
1. Considering everything Aldric accomplished before the first book, middle age would be logical, but he’s only in his early thirties… even if he started young and were s true prodigy plus a decade of heavy drinking makes the whole thing totally unbelievable (I know it’s fantasy, but still…)
2. His friends came up with a pretty lame way of hiding his identity — in plain sight, he’s plainly to see. Generally, underestimating your enemies is a shortcut to being dead.
3. Aldric’s closest friends really lacked any depth—they have so much history together, they’ve been a part of his life for so many years, I thought they deserved much more development than a rough sketch they received
4. Considering that his students were the main reason Aldric found his way out of a bottle, the 6 students also could’ve been more than flat semi-people. Different POVs didn’t enrich the story, nor did they provide depth to these supporting characters and/or events unfolding
5. The Empire and neighboring nations— the author just barely drafted the way his world works. Really unclear why they are in a state of war with each other? What about politics, laws, and social infrastructure of this realm? 4 ruling families, ok, and then what???
6. Generally, they talked about epic events of their empire, half-forgotten history… that happened 10-15 years ago.. seriously?
7. Proper descriptions of what characters wore or even how they looked were also missing from these books.. I couldn’t picture characters beyond a mop of hair, plain features or gorgeousness, or height & muscles…
8. I really don’t get why there always must be competitions, tournaments etc —why the author couldn’t come up with a better way to showcase the magic and its rules?
9. Lilianna Asimov—argh! The author truly struggled to come up with original names!
10. I promise, this one is the last. Facepalm. I really have an issue with the phraseology. Modern slang has no place in a fantasy world unless the world in question is very similar to ours.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 3, 2022
Whoa!!!!
Once again Gregg has outdone himself!
He has surpassed one’s expectations and blown us out of the water with Remedial Magic (Snakes in the Grass)
Gregg has proven that he deserves to be at the head of the class, and amongst the best of the best.
Once again, we are taken to the Magic Academy of Nevis, where Aldric is Professor to six of the most amazingly, bright magical students ever. 2 Enforcers named Alek and Volmar, 3 Conjurers Codrin, Cira and Lilianna and the brightest, and shyest of the group, the Sorcerer Nadrina. However! This time they are preparing for the royal tournament. This tournament pits the 3 royal houses of Rhagia, Osakar and Verona against one another, to see who has the most talented magical student of all. When the children find out they are allowed to attend because of their superior performance in the past, they are elated. Aldric is determined to give them the proper training so they will be fit and able to protect themselves. He doesn’t like this tournament idea and doesn’t like the children involved at all. Off they head to Alek’s home of Temwick, high in the mountains to train for a month. Where Nadrina decides to challenge Volmar to gain a spot in the tournament. Fool that Volmar is, accepts not realizing that the shy sorcerer could actually win. Everyone doubts a sorcerer can do any type of real fighting magic, other than parlor tricks. But Nadrina has news for him. But when the village of Temwick gets attacked by some mages with a coin with that of a snake biting its tale, Professor Aldric barely makes it to Kedrin to get healed. With Aldric’s hackles and Paranoia up, he feels it is his duty to protect the city form whatever dangers could possibly be. With students in tow, Aldric sets up whatever defenses he can produce in a short amount of time.
Back at the tournament, Lilianna is the first bout of the day and is up against Delrin of Verona. He tries everything in his power to practically take her head off, until she gets totally ticked off and gives him all she’s got. The sore loser that he is tells her he will kill her next time. The next time the two battle he does practically kill her, however they are both royals. Instead of kicking him out, they call the battle a draw and sweep it under the rug. Nadrina vows to avenge Lilianna, getting her victory out of the way with house Osakar in less than 10 seconds. She asks the 3 Royals to battle Delrin Immediately to which, Empress Rhagia and King Umell agree. King Thagrius and Delrin are furious. Delrin gets in the ring and automatically throws predictable spells which Nadrina is more than ready for, matter of fact she is ready for everything he has. WHEN ALL OF SUDDEN: All hell breaks loose around them, and that is when “YOU” the “READER” realize and will start to understand the true meaning of Gregg’s title,
“SNAKES IN THE GRASS” Because you will never believe who or what is behind all Hell breaking loose.
Gregg is a marvel at his word building and knows how to definitely draw his readers into his luminous fantastical imagery. When he speaks of a fireball Codrin is about to throw, you can see it in your minds eye. When he speaks of Alek ghost stepping, you can picture Alek appearing behind the person he said he was behind. There is no limit to the creativity that Gregg produces in his books. His characters you will absolutely adore and want them to stay together, especially Aldric and the children. Because as much as they need him, he needs them just as much.
Gregg is absolutely one to be watched.
One of the best books of 2022
AMAZING!!!
IN THE LIGHT OF THE DAY, BEFORE THE GODS AND YOUR ANCESTORS BE HONORABLE AND BRAVE. BEGIN! Book 4 Please!!!
Once again Gregg has outdone himself!
He has surpassed one’s expectations and blown us out of the water with Remedial Magic (Snakes in the Grass)
Gregg has proven that he deserves to be at the head of the class, and amongst the best of the best.
Once again, we are taken to the Magic Academy of Nevis, where Aldric is Professor to six of the most amazingly, bright magical students ever. 2 Enforcers named Alek and Volmar, 3 Conjurers Codrin, Cira and Lilianna and the brightest, and shyest of the group, the Sorcerer Nadrina. However! This time they are preparing for the royal tournament. This tournament pits the 3 royal houses of Rhagia, Osakar and Verona against one another, to see who has the most talented magical student of all. When the children find out they are allowed to attend because of their superior performance in the past, they are elated. Aldric is determined to give them the proper training so they will be fit and able to protect themselves. He doesn’t like this tournament idea and doesn’t like the children involved at all. Off they head to Alek’s home of Temwick, high in the mountains to train for a month. Where Nadrina decides to challenge Volmar to gain a spot in the tournament. Fool that Volmar is, accepts not realizing that the shy sorcerer could actually win. Everyone doubts a sorcerer can do any type of real fighting magic, other than parlor tricks. But Nadrina has news for him. But when the village of Temwick gets attacked by some mages with a coin with that of a snake biting its tale, Professor Aldric barely makes it to Kedrin to get healed. With Aldric’s hackles and Paranoia up, he feels it is his duty to protect the city form whatever dangers could possibly be. With students in tow, Aldric sets up whatever defenses he can produce in a short amount of time.
Back at the tournament, Lilianna is the first bout of the day and is up against Delrin of Verona. He tries everything in his power to practically take her head off, until she gets totally ticked off and gives him all she’s got. The sore loser that he is tells her he will kill her next time. The next time the two battle he does practically kill her, however they are both royals. Instead of kicking him out, they call the battle a draw and sweep it under the rug. Nadrina vows to avenge Lilianna, getting her victory out of the way with house Osakar in less than 10 seconds. She asks the 3 Royals to battle Delrin Immediately to which, Empress Rhagia and King Umell agree. King Thagrius and Delrin are furious. Delrin gets in the ring and automatically throws predictable spells which Nadrina is more than ready for, matter of fact she is ready for everything he has. WHEN ALL OF SUDDEN: All hell breaks loose around them, and that is when “YOU” the “READER” realize and will start to understand the true meaning of Gregg’s title,
“SNAKES IN THE GRASS” Because you will never believe who or what is behind all Hell breaking loose.
Gregg is a marvel at his word building and knows how to definitely draw his readers into his luminous fantastical imagery. When he speaks of a fireball Codrin is about to throw, you can see it in your minds eye. When he speaks of Alek ghost stepping, you can picture Alek appearing behind the person he said he was behind. There is no limit to the creativity that Gregg produces in his books. His characters you will absolutely adore and want them to stay together, especially Aldric and the children. Because as much as they need him, he needs them just as much.
Gregg is absolutely one to be watched.
One of the best books of 2022
AMAZING!!!
IN THE LIGHT OF THE DAY, BEFORE THE GODS AND YOUR ANCESTORS BE HONORABLE AND BRAVE. BEGIN! Book 4 Please!!!
January 4, 2023
This was a worthy sequel, and I enjoyed how both the MC and his students continued to grow and improve. My main complaint (and it's not necessarily a big one) is with the ending. You know in games where you really struggle to finally put down a boss after endless runs only to find out he has another form? The ending felt a bit like that. It was a bit over the top. That said, it also involved the MCs past which we don't know much about. The ending seemed to be gearing up to explain it a bit more, so depending on how that goes the ending to this book my not be as over the top as it appears, seeing as we still don't really know the full extent of the MCs capabilities. I'm definitely looking forward to hearing his backstory though.
February 12, 2023
Outstanding!
I picked up the first book of this series on a whim. It was listed as recommended based on reading interests, which Amazon has an amazing ability to poorly choose, but occasionally I try them just to see if they might actually be learning. I am so happy I did.
Book 2 picks up more or less where book 1 left off, and pages just seemed to fly by for me from there. Trying to avoid spoilers, the ending had me thinking I had totally called what would happen, to doing an honest spit-take worthy twist that I'm still trying to wrap my head around as I write this.
I love the characters, the magic systems involved, and the shifts in POV are done at just the moments I would have loved to know what another character was thinking.
5/5 stars and a true chef's kiss from me
I picked up the first book of this series on a whim. It was listed as recommended based on reading interests, which Amazon has an amazing ability to poorly choose, but occasionally I try them just to see if they might actually be learning. I am so happy I did.
Book 2 picks up more or less where book 1 left off, and pages just seemed to fly by for me from there. Trying to avoid spoilers, the ending had me thinking I had totally called what would happen, to doing an honest spit-take worthy twist that I'm still trying to wrap my head around as I write this.
I love the characters, the magic systems involved, and the shifts in POV are done at just the moments I would have loved to know what another character was thinking.
5/5 stars and a true chef's kiss from me
May 28, 2025
Brilliantly engineered story, captivating twists, great characters, & cool magic...
...were the positive features of this author's repertoire that drew me in, snagged and kept me quickly turning the pages. I also appreciated the flow of meticulous, detailed spatial graphics of the world building transitions from scene to scene. Characters were well developed, especially our male lead hero, a disgraced sorcerer who believes himself unredeemable, but is, in fact, simply a victim of bitter, vicious, excessively petty jealousy, greed, and unproven social, strength, or magical superiority. This author writes well with good rhythmic flow, excellent dialogue technique that sounds natural and coherent, good sentence structure and context. Four and a half stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐✴
...were the positive features of this author's repertoire that drew me in, snagged and kept me quickly turning the pages. I also appreciated the flow of meticulous, detailed spatial graphics of the world building transitions from scene to scene. Characters were well developed, especially our male lead hero, a disgraced sorcerer who believes himself unredeemable, but is, in fact, simply a victim of bitter, vicious, excessively petty jealousy, greed, and unproven social, strength, or magical superiority. This author writes well with good rhythmic flow, excellent dialogue technique that sounds natural and coherent, good sentence structure and context. Four and a half stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐✴
March 1, 2023
forced
There were a few too many moments where it felt like the narrative was being forced in a certain direction. Characters making absolutely idiotic decisions, seemingly standing on principle that clearly does not apply.
The first book was great. It stayed focused and tight, with a small cast and a limited scope. This one tried to go large, and epic. It failed.
I may return to the series. It is readable. But other books are calling my name, and I don’t feel compelled to continue this series.
There were a few too many moments where it felt like the narrative was being forced in a certain direction. Characters making absolutely idiotic decisions, seemingly standing on principle that clearly does not apply.
The first book was great. It stayed focused and tight, with a small cast and a limited scope. This one tried to go large, and epic. It failed.
I may return to the series. It is readable. But other books are calling my name, and I don’t feel compelled to continue this series.
November 5, 2024
Competition
The second book in this series definitely did not disappoint! So much more action, twists, turns, and surprises. Once again the book hooked me from the first page and made it hard to put down. Nathan Gregg did a fabulous job with the continuous growths of his characters and his exceptional world building. I have a favorite quote from this book. "Failure is the opportunity to do something better the next time. It's not the end of the world." I definitely recommend this book. Now on to book three!
The second book in this series definitely did not disappoint! So much more action, twists, turns, and surprises. Once again the book hooked me from the first page and made it hard to put down. Nathan Gregg did a fabulous job with the continuous growths of his characters and his exceptional world building. I have a favorite quote from this book. "Failure is the opportunity to do something better the next time. It's not the end of the world." I definitely recommend this book. Now on to book three!
August 1, 2022
Aaaaah! Even better than the first one! How does someone start writing this well right out the door? There were twisty bits and funny bits and heart wrenching bits and adorable bits and just wow. The villains weren’t straight up villains, and the heroes had issues too and the found family aspect was just too good! I really need the 3rd book soon, the cliff hanger, while not absolutely terrible, was still a cliff hanger.
October 5, 2022
Great story with an unexpected shift
The story is interesting and moving along well and then suddenly there is unexpected conflict, the scale of it at least, some emotional upheaval, and some of the mystery surrounding Professor Aldric is revealed.
Also, magically supported Sci Fi!
I'm really looking forward to the next book.
The story is interesting and moving along well and then suddenly there is unexpected conflict, the scale of it at least, some emotional upheaval, and some of the mystery surrounding Professor Aldric is revealed.
Also, magically supported Sci Fi!
I'm really looking forward to the next book.
October 30, 2022
Great story but...
I'm really enjoying the story, so much so that I will be reading the next book in the series. However, the book and its predecessor could really use a great editor. It takes me out of the story every time I come across an error in grammar or simply the wrong word used in a sentence. So please hire a competent editor!
I'm really enjoying the story, so much so that I will be reading the next book in the series. However, the book and its predecessor could really use a great editor. It takes me out of the story every time I come across an error in grammar or simply the wrong word used in a sentence. So please hire a competent editor!
April 4, 2023
Really great second book. Fun, fast paced and good plot.
Found this to be a good solid story for the most part. The book explains the MC and supporting cast in greater detail and really sets up for a large storyline. Really enjoyed. The dialogue and plot is sound. Bit simple at times but still a great read. I'm hooked and look forward to the next chapter.
Found this to be a good solid story for the most part. The book explains the MC and supporting cast in greater detail and really sets up for a large storyline. Really enjoyed. The dialogue and plot is sound. Bit simple at times but still a great read. I'm hooked and look forward to the next chapter.
February 29, 2024
Because I liked it.
I also liked the first one and I'm sure I'll like the next one also. The thing is that these books are a fun read. That is more important to me than any other reason. So give it a try and see if you feel the same. Oh and since this number 2 in the series go and read the first one.
I also liked the first one and I'm sure I'll like the next one also. The thing is that these books are a fun read. That is more important to me than any other reason. So give it a try and see if you feel the same. Oh and since this number 2 in the series go and read the first one.
September 1, 2024
Wow, just Wow
In a field where nearly everyone else is writing some variation of the same theme, Nathan Gregg not only creates a new and exciting story, he lays out such a multilayered and nuanced book of strategic magical applications that I am left speechless. It reminds me of the first time I read a Patrick Rothfus book. I’m completely hooked.
In a field where nearly everyone else is writing some variation of the same theme, Nathan Gregg not only creates a new and exciting story, he lays out such a multilayered and nuanced book of strategic magical applications that I am left speechless. It reminds me of the first time I read a Patrick Rothfus book. I’m completely hooked.
July 9, 2022
Wowwwwwww
Not sure how I missed this gem but its probably one of the best series I've read since the King killer Chronicles. I crushed these 2 books in a matter of a few days. Can't wait for the next book..
Not sure how I missed this gem but its probably one of the best series I've read since the King killer Chronicles. I crushed these 2 books in a matter of a few days. Can't wait for the next book..
July 18, 2022
As good as the first!
Excited to learn more about these amazing characters and their stories! I definitely will be waiting for more from the world of Remedial Magic, but I have to wonder, with as talented and amazing as these characters are, why is it called "Remedial" magic?
Excited to learn more about these amazing characters and their stories! I definitely will be waiting for more from the world of Remedial Magic, but I have to wonder, with as talented and amazing as these characters are, why is it called "Remedial" magic?
July 20, 2022
Why must I wait for book 3?
I laughed and I cried. This book has so much to love. The professor and his students growth is amazing. I love them all. There is love, laughter, betrayal, and an amazing journey. Do yourself a favor and read this series immediately.
I laughed and I cried. This book has so much to love. The professor and his students growth is amazing. I love them all. There is love, laughter, betrayal, and an amazing journey. Do yourself a favor and read this series immediately.
August 6, 2022
WOW!!!!
The only thing I didn't like is the fact that I am done with the book. I want to know more and experience more of the world Nathan Gregg is creating. I can't wait for the next book.
The only thing I didn't like is the fact that I am done with the book. I want to know more and experience more of the world Nathan Gregg is creating. I can't wait for the next book.
August 8, 2022
whaaat?
Picked up these two on a whim and I am better for it. They are fantastic books and you will be good for reading them. Fantastic fair from the adult version and not the highschool and it was awesome
Picked up these two on a whim and I am better for it. They are fantastic books and you will be good for reading them. Fantastic fair from the adult version and not the highschool and it was awesome
March 21, 2023
I soldiered through about 55% of the book despite a variety of annoyances but had to conclude this just wasn't for me. I'm not in the mood to rant, so I'll just say I didn't enjoy the book and leave it at that.
January 22, 2025
Very good
I'd seen these novels suggested previously but for some reason kept passing on them. I'm very glad I finally started the series. A story of heart break,loss and redemption. The mc has found a family and reason to live again. I definitely recommend.
I'd seen these novels suggested previously but for some reason kept passing on them. I'm very glad I finally started the series. A story of heart break,loss and redemption. The mc has found a family and reason to live again. I definitely recommend.
January 27, 2025
Still good
Story continues well and the character development is just awesome. The framework for magic remains the same and holds the story together. Epilogue is pretty good as well.
Story continues well and the character development is just awesome. The framework for magic remains the same and holds the story together. Epilogue is pretty good as well.
August 19, 2025
The author didnt disappoint, very satisfied with this series. To be honest I have fallen in love with aldric and I love to see the effect that the kids are having on him. It goes to say something about the writing that just how much emotion you feel for these characters
July 22, 2022
Awesome
Wonderful story-I truly enjoyed - fantastic book-wonderful characters -looking forward to book 3-book kept me on my toes- one of the best
Wonderful story-I truly enjoyed - fantastic book-wonderful characters -looking forward to book 3-book kept me on my toes- one of the best
September 16, 2022
Love this book!
Loved the story, book two still going strong!! Plot and character strengths are both super smooth with gradual progression that leaves you hooked!
Loved the story, book two still going strong!! Plot and character strengths are both super smooth with gradual progression that leaves you hooked!
October 12, 2022
Fantastic
This is my second time reading this series. Very good. But more should have been said about missing character. We still need more!
This is my second time reading this series. Very good. But more should have been said about missing character. We still need more!
October 23, 2022
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
October 31, 2022
A genuinely great book! I can't wait for the next! But that cliff hanger was really, really brutal. Here's hoping Book 3 releases soon
December 8, 2022
Great read
I enjoyed reading this book very much and I recommend this book to anyone who like magic, intrigue and lots of action.
I enjoyed reading this book very much and I recommend this book to anyone who like magic, intrigue and lots of action.
March 14, 2023
Wonderfull continuation, great development to the characters and plot. The final act was quite something.
June 1, 2023
Really good
Simply put, if you liked the first one, then you're probably going to love this. I especially like the character development.
Highly recommended.
Simply put, if you liked the first one, then you're probably going to love this. I especially like the character development.
Highly recommended.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews