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The Memoirs of Elikai: The Ritual of the Fallen
Death’s three visions and a single choice will change the course of Creation forever.
Danny Elikai has healed from the immense losses in his quest to find the King of Free Will and his failure to stop the rising of the Crusaders of Destiny at the Winter Solstice. His peace and happiness will only last a moment before the Second Crusader makes his move.
The King has received a haunting message from the Reigning Death, Aknou. Metentis plans to unite the bedeviled souls from the Forest of the Fallen in order to take back Death’s corrupted power. With this power, Metentis will unleash unspeakable atrocities upon Creation. Danny and the Generals of Free Will must confront his army of the dead, wanting revenge for what the King’s philosophy has allowed them to endure, thus stripping Danny of his ability to save those he loves.
As the showdown between Metentis and The King draws near, Death has granted three visions revealing that it will come down to Danny’s Free Will. Will Danny forfeit the crown to save humanity from the dead’s wrath, watch it all rot before his eyes, or break the heart of the one who matters most to him?
Danny Elikai has healed from the immense losses in his quest to find the King of Free Will and his failure to stop the rising of the Crusaders of Destiny at the Winter Solstice. His peace and happiness will only last a moment before the Second Crusader makes his move.
The King has received a haunting message from the Reigning Death, Aknou. Metentis plans to unite the bedeviled souls from the Forest of the Fallen in order to take back Death’s corrupted power. With this power, Metentis will unleash unspeakable atrocities upon Creation. Danny and the Generals of Free Will must confront his army of the dead, wanting revenge for what the King’s philosophy has allowed them to endure, thus stripping Danny of his ability to save those he loves.
As the showdown between Metentis and The King draws near, Death has granted three visions revealing that it will come down to Danny’s Free Will. Will Danny forfeit the crown to save humanity from the dead’s wrath, watch it all rot before his eyes, or break the heart of the one who matters most to him?
431 pages, Paperback
Published June 8, 2022
3 people are currently reading
33 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
September 17, 2024
"The Ritual of the Fallen" is book two in The Memoirs of Elikai series by D. Alexander. It's an M/M YA Urban Fantasy. Without spoiling the plot of the first book, it picks up right after the events of book one, as Danny and company continue the fight the battle of Free Will vs Destiny for all of Creation.
What I liked so much about this sequel is how much we focus on world building and developing more of the side characters. This is a slower paced story, and while we get big climactic action sequences, they are more spread out. This feels like there is a focus more on developing the plot and some seeds that will pay off in future books in the series. I also like how descriptive Alexander gets—really taking the time to flesh out this world with his often beautiful imagery. It's also very dark, and pretty violent, so check your trigger warnings.
This book found moments of levity and calm amidst how heavy, and often bleak, this second book is. While I would have enjoyed a little more humor for some comic relief, I do like how Alexander wasn't afraid to keep this novel as dark as he did, despite the market toward the younger audience. It never feels like he is talking down to the reader, or diluting the repercussions of the violence, which is refreshing in the genre. If there was any critique, it's that some of the language used, or word/phrase choices, got repetitive during some moments. Not a detractor for me and my enjoyment of the book, but something to know going in.
Overall recommended for fans of urban fantasy or M/M YA books. It's a slower pace, but I enjoyed all the added elements to it to make the story and world and characters stronger. I might like it more than the first one.
4.5 rounded up.
What I liked so much about this sequel is how much we focus on world building and developing more of the side characters. This is a slower paced story, and while we get big climactic action sequences, they are more spread out. This feels like there is a focus more on developing the plot and some seeds that will pay off in future books in the series. I also like how descriptive Alexander gets—really taking the time to flesh out this world with his often beautiful imagery. It's also very dark, and pretty violent, so check your trigger warnings.
This book found moments of levity and calm amidst how heavy, and often bleak, this second book is. While I would have enjoyed a little more humor for some comic relief, I do like how Alexander wasn't afraid to keep this novel as dark as he did, despite the market toward the younger audience. It never feels like he is talking down to the reader, or diluting the repercussions of the violence, which is refreshing in the genre. If there was any critique, it's that some of the language used, or word/phrase choices, got repetitive during some moments. Not a detractor for me and my enjoyment of the book, but something to know going in.
Overall recommended for fans of urban fantasy or M/M YA books. It's a slower pace, but I enjoyed all the added elements to it to make the story and world and characters stronger. I might like it more than the first one.
4.5 rounded up.
July 8, 2022
Awesome second novel from a self-published author. This book picks up right where the first one left off, and it will hold your attention until you finish it. Vivid imagery, a dark plot with plenty of twists, and the return of my favorite characters make this an absolute read.
March 23, 2023
awesome read
Book 2 is just as good as the first. I enjoyed the adventure and the characters. Thanks for another great read
Book 2 is just as good as the first. I enjoyed the adventure and the characters. Thanks for another great read
October 6, 2022
If you’ve read my recent reviews you may recognize the title The Memoirs of Elikie by D. Alexander. If you missed that one, here is the link you’ll need to read first:
https://fanfiaddict.com/book-review-t...
However, if you did see that review, then Elikie is back with the second book of this Urban Fantasy Thriller series! The title, Rituals of the Fallen, takes the direction you might expect with more intensity and more thriller/horror than its predecessor. Yet, it still maintains the air of philosophical fiction that was so enjoyable in book one. Alexander’s writing is a brilliant example of how fiction can help explain and explore truth.
There were many aspects that I enjoyed from The Ritual of the Fallen. These being elements such as improvements of Alexander’s writing style and prose as he grew as an author between the two novels as well as the continuation of the unique story between free will and destiny. You get to watch the same lovable characters as they continue to grow as the heroes they are choosing to become. I’ll begin by talking specifically about this band of warriors of light.
Danny Elikia remains the focus of book two, however, we also get more (at least I don’t remember there being multiple POVs in book 1) varied perspectives as this story hops between Danny and brief glimpses of his friends. Which I really enjoyed! There are certainly fun character arcs and surprises sprinkled all throughout. Another new part is the arrival of a new sub villain in this story. The second Crusader. Alexander does a great job exploring the theme of death and who’s fault it is when someone dies. Whether it is just an unexpected outcome of free will or a deliberate moment caused by destiny. My only complaint about the characters is that most of the book makes Danny and his friends seem significantly weaker against their enemies even though they are exploring new powers and appear more powerful than ever. There are not many wins throughout the story which leaves it feeling a little heavy overall. It would have been nice to see at least some small wins even if the ultimate outcomes were negative.
The world in which these characters roam is expanded from what we see in book 1. This novel takes the reader to several new and interesting locations across the globe, which really helped open the story and intensify the risks involved if Danny and his friends fail.
Without giving away any spoilers, the plot of this novel definitely has middle book vibes. The plot has a forward direction but caters to the overall story more than its own particular one. The new villain is more dangerous than the previous one and a new challenge for Danny to overcome. While I guessed at the possible solution at the beginning, Alexander did a great job keeping it entertaining despite that.
Finally, I’ll share some of the themes discussed throughout this novel (the exciting part if you read book 1!). First, the continuing theme of darkness against light as Danny fights against Phantonix’s crusaders is on full throttle. However, as mentioned above, the subject of death is of highest priority. Why would the King of Light let people make their own decisions that have a high risk of causing death? Wouldn’t it be better if life was certain and planned out so that there are not any surprises or nonsensical deaths? This is what Danny must think on and find the answer for to defeat this new enemy. Other than that there are smaller themes of the consequences of secrets, sacrifice, hopelessness, friendship and inner strength.
My only warning going into Ritual of the Fallen is to be ready for a slow start. While there is a lot going on, I felt that the lack of movement and a focus on dreams and visions made for a somewhat confusing beginning. However, there is a lot to love as explorations of powers and hidden truths begin to come to light.
If you were a fan of book 1 or read this review and found it interesting then I highly recommend this series! You’ll find yourself contemplating the big questions in life through the eyes of a loving group of youth who just want to bring the goodness of light back into the world. Give The Memoirs of Elikai series a read!
If you want to see more my reviews make sure to follow my on here or check out my review page on FanFiAddict.com/author/neil/
https://fanfiaddict.com/book-review-t...
However, if you did see that review, then Elikie is back with the second book of this Urban Fantasy Thriller series! The title, Rituals of the Fallen, takes the direction you might expect with more intensity and more thriller/horror than its predecessor. Yet, it still maintains the air of philosophical fiction that was so enjoyable in book one. Alexander’s writing is a brilliant example of how fiction can help explain and explore truth.
There were many aspects that I enjoyed from The Ritual of the Fallen. These being elements such as improvements of Alexander’s writing style and prose as he grew as an author between the two novels as well as the continuation of the unique story between free will and destiny. You get to watch the same lovable characters as they continue to grow as the heroes they are choosing to become. I’ll begin by talking specifically about this band of warriors of light.
Danny Elikia remains the focus of book two, however, we also get more (at least I don’t remember there being multiple POVs in book 1) varied perspectives as this story hops between Danny and brief glimpses of his friends. Which I really enjoyed! There are certainly fun character arcs and surprises sprinkled all throughout. Another new part is the arrival of a new sub villain in this story. The second Crusader. Alexander does a great job exploring the theme of death and who’s fault it is when someone dies. Whether it is just an unexpected outcome of free will or a deliberate moment caused by destiny. My only complaint about the characters is that most of the book makes Danny and his friends seem significantly weaker against their enemies even though they are exploring new powers and appear more powerful than ever. There are not many wins throughout the story which leaves it feeling a little heavy overall. It would have been nice to see at least some small wins even if the ultimate outcomes were negative.
The world in which these characters roam is expanded from what we see in book 1. This novel takes the reader to several new and interesting locations across the globe, which really helped open the story and intensify the risks involved if Danny and his friends fail.
Without giving away any spoilers, the plot of this novel definitely has middle book vibes. The plot has a forward direction but caters to the overall story more than its own particular one. The new villain is more dangerous than the previous one and a new challenge for Danny to overcome. While I guessed at the possible solution at the beginning, Alexander did a great job keeping it entertaining despite that.
Finally, I’ll share some of the themes discussed throughout this novel (the exciting part if you read book 1!). First, the continuing theme of darkness against light as Danny fights against Phantonix’s crusaders is on full throttle. However, as mentioned above, the subject of death is of highest priority. Why would the King of Light let people make their own decisions that have a high risk of causing death? Wouldn’t it be better if life was certain and planned out so that there are not any surprises or nonsensical deaths? This is what Danny must think on and find the answer for to defeat this new enemy. Other than that there are smaller themes of the consequences of secrets, sacrifice, hopelessness, friendship and inner strength.
My only warning going into Ritual of the Fallen is to be ready for a slow start. While there is a lot going on, I felt that the lack of movement and a focus on dreams and visions made for a somewhat confusing beginning. However, there is a lot to love as explorations of powers and hidden truths begin to come to light.
If you were a fan of book 1 or read this review and found it interesting then I highly recommend this series! You’ll find yourself contemplating the big questions in life through the eyes of a loving group of youth who just want to bring the goodness of light back into the world. Give The Memoirs of Elikai series a read!
If you want to see more my reviews make sure to follow my on here or check out my review page on FanFiAddict.com/author/neil/
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July 9, 2023I was really on the fence about writing this review because I consider the author of this book to be one of my good friends on tiktok, he is an extremely supportive person and a very strong advocate for the lgbtqi+ and bipoc community on tiktok. He is an amazing reviewer and has some fantastic book recs.
I hate that I have to write this review, but I feel like if the author sees this review, it’s fairer to be honest than to say something that I don’t feel is true. As usual, this review is for the readers however, and it is not my intention for this to be for the author.
Unfortunately, I did not finish this book and I want to clarify that it is solely that I am not relating with the book, it is nothing to do with the author. I am separating the author from the book in this instance because I frequently speak to this author, and it’s not a reflection of him.
I went back and read my review of the first book in this story, and I am having the same issues I had in book 1 all over again in book 2. There are characters appearing with not much introduction, which similar to the first book there’s a reason why as far as the MC is concerned, but as a reader it’s jarring, and I’m feeling quite confused at times with what is going on or who people are. Normally, I could overlook this if I’m vibing with the story, but it’s just not resonating with me.
Another issue I’m having is the themes are extremely dark for the age group this book is marketed for. It’s YA, but I personally feel like the themes in this Book are better suited for a minimum NA, but ideally adult dark fantasy. The issue with this is that it is WRITTEN as YA, the writing FEELS YA which is good for YA, but again the themes create quite a bit gap in it being YA or not YA. I appreciate that the author has now added trigger warnings, that’s great news but that doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s fitting to the age range of the book.
I think there will be a massive following for this book series, and a lot of people who this story speaks to. I just don’t believe I am one of them. I pushed through book 1 because I felt I had to give it a fair shot and I will admit, I did enjoy book 1 after the 60% mark, but I’m currently at 35% of book 2 and I feel like the story isn’t progressing enough for me, the world building is still very excessive and heavy and I’m now on book 2, so I feel like I should be getting more of the story than the world. Maybe each book is going to be like this, I’m not sure, but I struggle immensely with heavy world building which is the reason I don’t read much high fantasy.
There are times where phrases are repeated, almost word for word, which is a problem that occurred in book 1 too. One character will think something very distinct, and then another totally separate character says the same thing, word for word. It really pulls me out of the world of the book when that happens, it can be extremely distracting and to be honest, probably shouldn’t happen at all.
Honestly, it’s probably me. There’s a good chance it is. I really hope somebody reads my review and feels like my negatives are somebody else’s positive, because the book is not by any means BAD, it’s just not what I would look for in a book. I wish the author all the best in the future for his work in this series, and I intend to give his other books of different genres a go, because I 100% believe it’s just this particular story and writing style I’m not vibing with.
I hate that I have to write this review, but I feel like if the author sees this review, it’s fairer to be honest than to say something that I don’t feel is true. As usual, this review is for the readers however, and it is not my intention for this to be for the author.
Unfortunately, I did not finish this book and I want to clarify that it is solely that I am not relating with the book, it is nothing to do with the author. I am separating the author from the book in this instance because I frequently speak to this author, and it’s not a reflection of him.
I went back and read my review of the first book in this story, and I am having the same issues I had in book 1 all over again in book 2. There are characters appearing with not much introduction, which similar to the first book there’s a reason why as far as the MC is concerned, but as a reader it’s jarring, and I’m feeling quite confused at times with what is going on or who people are. Normally, I could overlook this if I’m vibing with the story, but it’s just not resonating with me.
Another issue I’m having is the themes are extremely dark for the age group this book is marketed for. It’s YA, but I personally feel like the themes in this Book are better suited for a minimum NA, but ideally adult dark fantasy. The issue with this is that it is WRITTEN as YA, the writing FEELS YA which is good for YA, but again the themes create quite a bit gap in it being YA or not YA. I appreciate that the author has now added trigger warnings, that’s great news but that doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s fitting to the age range of the book.
I think there will be a massive following for this book series, and a lot of people who this story speaks to. I just don’t believe I am one of them. I pushed through book 1 because I felt I had to give it a fair shot and I will admit, I did enjoy book 1 after the 60% mark, but I’m currently at 35% of book 2 and I feel like the story isn’t progressing enough for me, the world building is still very excessive and heavy and I’m now on book 2, so I feel like I should be getting more of the story than the world. Maybe each book is going to be like this, I’m not sure, but I struggle immensely with heavy world building which is the reason I don’t read much high fantasy.
There are times where phrases are repeated, almost word for word, which is a problem that occurred in book 1 too. One character will think something very distinct, and then another totally separate character says the same thing, word for word. It really pulls me out of the world of the book when that happens, it can be extremely distracting and to be honest, probably shouldn’t happen at all.
Honestly, it’s probably me. There’s a good chance it is. I really hope somebody reads my review and feels like my negatives are somebody else’s positive, because the book is not by any means BAD, it’s just not what I would look for in a book. I wish the author all the best in the future for his work in this series, and I intend to give his other books of different genres a go, because I 100% believe it’s just this particular story and writing style I’m not vibing with.
August 28, 2023
I just finished this book, and I must say that it was so amazing. I loved the introduction of the new characters and the tension that had to be faced going through this book. I'm going to warn that it was an emotional ride, but it was most definitely worth it.
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews