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Alpha #2
Alpha: Der Aufstieg
Some say these lands are the most dangerous in the entire North.The Grove is a perilous wound on the face of the planet, home to the most fearsome creatures in all of Rock. Death himself has trod these paths, leaving in his wake freakish mutants who still bear within themselves a piece of his morbid nature.The only thing more difficult than reaching the Grove is leaving it alive. If you came unwillingly in the first place, escape is impossible – unless, of course, you are a great hero.I’m no great hero. Just a level zero, whose last life ended in frailty, failure, and flame.But I’ve never let the fact that something is “impossible” stop me before. Bring it on.
- GenresFantasy
456 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 13, 2022
236 people are currently reading
49 people want to read
About the author
Arthur Stone
57 books263 followersArthur Stone is the pen name of one Arthur Smirnov, a prolific author in the sci-fi and fantasy genres.
Born in 1973 in Donetsk, Ukraine, Arthur worked as a geologist, and also in the environmental sector and industrial archeology all over the world. He lives and works in Ukraine.
Arthur began writing fiction in 2005 on a bet, and thus his addiction was born. His first book was published in 2006, and by mid - 2025 he had published a total of 84 books in Russian, English and German-speaking markets.
Arthur Stone - email arthurstone2017@gmail.com
Born in 1973 in Donetsk, Ukraine, Arthur worked as a geologist, and also in the environmental sector and industrial archeology all over the world. He lives and works in Ukraine.
Arthur began writing fiction in 2005 on a bet, and thus his addiction was born. His first book was published in 2006, and by mid - 2025 he had published a total of 84 books in Russian, English and German-speaking markets.
Arthur Stone - email arthurstone2017@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
June 3, 2021
Great continuation to an amazing series.
The magic system is still super confusing, but unique and interesting. I only wish I understood how it worked.
The broad strokes make sense, but the details are like IKEA instructions
The magic system is still super confusing, but unique and interesting. I only wish I understood how it worked.
The broad strokes make sense, but the details are like IKEA instructions
May 24, 2021
A interesting series.
The book was pretty good and I enjoyed the outside of the box thinking that the MC used in the book.
The book was pretty good and I enjoyed the outside of the box thinking that the MC used in the book.
November 5, 2021
If CS Lewis wrote a LitRPG
It reminds me of that hideous strength by cs lewis not sure why put his style of writing is definitely different from the norm and I enjoyed it immensely. The secondary characters all act logically and are really starting to pop with life. I enjoy beko continually complaining he’s going to die:) welp im off to the next one!
It reminds me of that hideous strength by cs lewis not sure why put his style of writing is definitely different from the norm and I enjoyed it immensely. The secondary characters all act logically and are really starting to pop with life. I enjoy beko continually complaining he’s going to die:) welp im off to the next one!
May 31, 2021
Great 2nd book to the series
Just as good as first book if not filled up with more auctioned packed fighting and character who uses their brain.
Just as good as first book if not filled up with more auctioned packed fighting and character who uses their brain.
May 21, 2021
Another great story
The leveling is confusing and I hope the author takes the time to break it down in future installations. I would also like to see what progress is made instead of an entire stat sheet every time as I don’t memorize the sheet from previous showings. That is my only gripe. Extremely well written and very engaging. Unique story with a fantastic world. Engaging characters. Mr. Stone does a wonderful job fleshing out personal interactions, great story pacing, and the arch itself is fantastic. Great read.
The leveling is confusing and I hope the author takes the time to break it down in future installations. I would also like to see what progress is made instead of an entire stat sheet every time as I don’t memorize the sheet from previous showings. That is my only gripe. Extremely well written and very engaging. Unique story with a fantastic world. Engaging characters. Mr. Stone does a wonderful job fleshing out personal interactions, great story pacing, and the arch itself is fantastic. Great read.
May 21, 2021
Good story
The story is good, probably a quarter of the book is notifications though, mc stabs bad guy, than a page and a half of notifications, plus the whole "system" is way too convoluted and complicated and hard to follow, if you took those two things out or just skipped them while reading its a much better and easier to follow read. 4 stars for the storyline 2 stars for rpg elements that seriously detract from what is otherwise a pretty good book.
The story is good, probably a quarter of the book is notifications though, mc stabs bad guy, than a page and a half of notifications, plus the whole "system" is way too convoluted and complicated and hard to follow, if you took those two things out or just skipped them while reading its a much better and easier to follow read. 4 stars for the storyline 2 stars for rpg elements that seriously detract from what is otherwise a pretty good book.
June 7, 2021
The loooooong road ahead
I titled this review the long road ahead because once you’re done with this book you will get the sense of just how far the main character has come and how far he has to go. It’s an excellent book we see more character development there is a nice plot twist you will likely enjoy and more action. All the things that make for a great five star book.
There is a problem or at least I think it will be a problem time. In the story not much time passes. It is implied from the main character that lots of time let’s say 1-2 years needs to pass before he makes his BIG move. Well in this book you get the idea that maybe a month went by if you’re lucky. It just so happens his ambulate tracks days before it drains and when you look at how many days has passed from various events of the story you might come up with 30 days in this one book. Sewing begs the question how are we going to progress fast enough through the story before we get to what we’re all waiting for enlightenment. Don’t get me wrong we see some great character development but ultimately he’s weak and I worry about having to read several more books before he really gets going strength wise. It’s not a problem now but I’m worried about it becoming a problem with the teacher.
I titled this review the long road ahead because once you’re done with this book you will get the sense of just how far the main character has come and how far he has to go. It’s an excellent book we see more character development there is a nice plot twist you will likely enjoy and more action. All the things that make for a great five star book.
There is a problem or at least I think it will be a problem time. In the story not much time passes. It is implied from the main character that lots of time let’s say 1-2 years needs to pass before he makes his BIG move. Well in this book you get the idea that maybe a month went by if you’re lucky. It just so happens his ambulate tracks days before it drains and when you look at how many days has passed from various events of the story you might come up with 30 days in this one book. Sewing begs the question how are we going to progress fast enough through the story before we get to what we’re all waiting for enlightenment. Don’t get me wrong we see some great character development but ultimately he’s weak and I worry about having to read several more books before he really gets going strength wise. It’s not a problem now but I’m worried about it becoming a problem with the teacher.
May 26, 2021
Good second book
Enjoyable book to an enjoyable series. The system in this series is one of the types I dislike using reward tokens of various quality and abilities. That said the story makes for enjoyable reading and the combat rewards are gratifying. The MC is still a zero and like other series is vigorously exploiting the level differential rewards from combat. This will of course only accelerate as the series progresses. The crafting from book one seems to be one off unfortunately as the MC doesn't want to work with his artifact skill to any major degree except to enhance/recharge his own amulet. Not much humor here and the little there is is a bit dry or morbid. Not a problem to me. Could be the translation which is very good over all. I look forward to the next book.
Enjoyable book to an enjoyable series. The system in this series is one of the types I dislike using reward tokens of various quality and abilities. That said the story makes for enjoyable reading and the combat rewards are gratifying. The MC is still a zero and like other series is vigorously exploiting the level differential rewards from combat. This will of course only accelerate as the series progresses. The crafting from book one seems to be one off unfortunately as the MC doesn't want to work with his artifact skill to any major degree except to enhance/recharge his own amulet. Not much humor here and the little there is is a bit dry or morbid. Not a problem to me. Could be the translation which is very good over all. I look forward to the next book.
April 6, 2025
Good story. Very over explained, to the point where it's just filler.
The second book in the series found the main character traveling most of the book on a journey home. The story and plot move along slow because of the constant in our monologue that goes into long exposition on everything the main character runs into. It's a pace killer and honestly becomes filler because most of the information discussed becomes moot within several scenes of the explanations. The world building in the story itself is interesting, and I find myself wanting to know what will happen, however I'm constantly stopping the story or just bored with it because of the pacing. I may try book three, but there's so much filler of progression dynamics and inner dialogue contemplations that it may be a deal breaker for me.
The second book in the series found the main character traveling most of the book on a journey home. The story and plot move along slow because of the constant in our monologue that goes into long exposition on everything the main character runs into. It's a pace killer and honestly becomes filler because most of the information discussed becomes moot within several scenes of the explanations. The world building in the story itself is interesting, and I find myself wanting to know what will happen, however I'm constantly stopping the story or just bored with it because of the pacing. I may try book three, but there's so much filler of progression dynamics and inner dialogue contemplations that it may be a deal breaker for me.
July 2, 2021
Alert
“This was a fun book. I am glad that I read it. You should try it too.”
I am not going to share my reasoning, thoughts on the book, or any opinions that would influence your decision to read it. I am simply saying that I liked it. I would like you to read it and make your own decision. After all, you are a much better judge of what you will like than anyone here.
I will happily discuss the book with you on Goodreads if you are so inclined. As always, I am open to debates and arguments, but also vain enough to seek acknowledgement, so feel free to roast me or applaud my efforts. Either is acceptable, because if you are paying attention to me then you are at least considering the book. And THAT my friends is exactly why you see my comments here.
Cheers
“This was a fun book. I am glad that I read it. You should try it too.”
I am not going to share my reasoning, thoughts on the book, or any opinions that would influence your decision to read it. I am simply saying that I liked it. I would like you to read it and make your own decision. After all, you are a much better judge of what you will like than anyone here.
I will happily discuss the book with you on Goodreads if you are so inclined. As always, I am open to debates and arguments, but also vain enough to seek acknowledgement, so feel free to roast me or applaud my efforts. Either is acceptable, because if you are paying attention to me then you are at least considering the book. And THAT my friends is exactly why you see my comments here.
Cheers
December 30, 2021
I really enjoyed this continuation of the story. The only complaint I have is that it took me a while to remember the mechanics of leveling in this world, having been a while since I'd read the first book. With the complicated mechanics and the lack of reminder regarding those mechanics, it made it difficult to get back into the story.
It would have been nice to include a bit of a refresher on those mechanics early on, perhaps as Ged was doing some of his leveling, to help the reader. Still, this isn't a huge deal if you're reading the books back to back, which most people likely will be at this point.
The storyline, continued on from book 1, is still just as good. Now I definitely want to read book 3.
It would have been nice to include a bit of a refresher on those mechanics early on, perhaps as Ged was doing some of his leveling, to help the reader. Still, this isn't a huge deal if you're reading the books back to back, which most people likely will be at this point.
The storyline, continued on from book 1, is still just as good. Now I definitely want to read book 3.
July 8, 2022
Sweet Lord. My friend was right. This book goes HEAVY into the stats wall of text. I didn't notice it in book one because he was a nobody, but book two he's more powerful. That means all these unwanted stats. ugh.
Dear Lord the stats have increased. I'm willing to read the sequel, but I have to find a way to enjoy the book in spite of the stats. The story is interesting, but the stats dump is tiresome.
3/5 Stars
Dear Lord the stats have increased. I'm willing to read the sequel, but I have to find a way to enjoy the book in spite of the stats. The story is interesting, but the stats dump is tiresome.
3/5 Stars
July 9, 2022
The MC becomes stronger and the story progresses a bit. Unfortunately, there is still way too much stat progress and information dump about almost everything going on in the book. The great victories of the MC feel rather forced by the plot. The annoying sidekick is unfortunately still around.
The author keeps repeating and contradicting himself... The MC is behaves less intelligent than he thinks he is. As i feel really generous i rate this book with 2,5 out of 5.
The author keeps repeating and contradicting himself... The MC is behaves less intelligent than he thinks he is. As i feel really generous i rate this book with 2,5 out of 5.
June 2, 2021
Different, but a good story
The story is developed well and the magic/cultivation system is very detailed and expandable so should provide for more interesting development in later books. The landscapes and various denizens are very well thought out and fit together. It was a very good read in my opinion
The story is developed well and the magic/cultivation system is very detailed and expandable so should provide for more interesting development in later books. The landscapes and various denizens are very well thought out and fit together. It was a very good read in my opinion
June 13, 2021
Book two
Mistakes: I found more than a handful of mistakes in this book. While it was a fun read with lost of loot, I can't rate this any higher till it is edited better.
Plot: There is a lot going on in this book and I look forward to reading book three.
Characters: The MC has grown and continues to be impressive.
5/10
Mistakes: I found more than a handful of mistakes in this book. While it was a fun read with lost of loot, I can't rate this any higher till it is edited better.
Plot: There is a lot going on in this book and I look forward to reading book three.
Characters: The MC has grown and continues to be impressive.
5/10
May 30, 2025
The second book was much more fun. The adventures and power leveling is quite fun. What exactly does a level zero get vs normal levels? Apparently a lot. I would like the notification statuses to be curtailed a little, as I was skipping them very quickly in the book. It would be better if a summary status occurs, should old vs new attributes. I can't wait to read the next book!
May 23, 2021
Very different system
The entire story follows a very different system of litrpg style than many other stories within the genre. It is a great addition, and I look forward to seeing the next book.
The entire story follows a very different system of litrpg style than many other stories within the genre. It is a great addition, and I look forward to seeing the next book.
May 27, 2021
Not good
Way to many words saying nothing ,the main character had all of these powers but was useless,the writer was useing a lot of filler !! The main character as written by the writer lost all my desire to keep reading this book!! Do not read this series ,you have been warned!!
Way to many words saying nothing ,the main character had all of these powers but was useless,the writer was useing a lot of filler !! The main character as written by the writer lost all my desire to keep reading this book!! Do not read this series ,you have been warned!!
May 29, 2021
Action packed LitRPG
Different approach to the genre that is well written and keeps you reading till the end. Approach to the genre is different in a good way. Must read the first book before reading second.
Different approach to the genre that is well written and keeps you reading till the end. Approach to the genre is different in a good way. Must read the first book before reading second.
May 30, 2021
Excellent exploit litrpg
I really like this series so far, well written LitRpg with A bit of an exploit angle, similar to the wasteland characters bug, but in a different context. Eager for book three.
I really like this series so far, well written LitRpg with A bit of an exploit angle, similar to the wasteland characters bug, but in a different context. Eager for book three.
June 3, 2021
Long awaited sequel doesn’t disappoint
Very good sequel to Alpha Zero and refreshingly original take on character system and growth. Looking forward to the next in the series and discovering just how much the character can grow and learning more of the main plot line.
Very good sequel to Alpha Zero and refreshingly original take on character system and growth. Looking forward to the next in the series and discovering just how much the character can grow and learning more of the main plot line.
June 29, 2021
I liked this second book in the series. It's an odd system, but in the context of this story, it works well, and I'm looking forward to future books, I'm curious what our main character will come up with next.
July 4, 2021
Action-filled Page-Turner
Still a bit too math heavy in places, but the action, plot, magic, characters, growth design, and overall mayhem make the book a compelling page-turner. You can’t help but want to see what happens next. Recommended (16+)
Still a bit too math heavy in places, but the action, plot, magic, characters, growth design, and overall mayhem make the book a compelling page-turner. You can’t help but want to see what happens next. Recommended (16+)
July 13, 2021
Good continuation
MC “levels up” , discovers other facets apart from order and chaos. We encounter powerful enemies and strange ones as well. Ending was satisfactory. Can’t wait for the next book. More please
MC “levels up” , discovers other facets apart from order and chaos. We encounter powerful enemies and strange ones as well. Ending was satisfactory. Can’t wait for the next book. More please
August 29, 2021
Much better
The first novel spent more time than I prefer setting things in motion. This one is in motion from the first page.
While I still don’t understand how ‘spice’ plays a role, and some of the higher levels are unknown, I like the ‘system’.
Buying the next book now.
The first novel spent more time than I prefer setting things in motion. This one is in motion from the first page.
While I still don’t understand how ‘spice’ plays a role, and some of the higher levels are unknown, I like the ‘system’.
Buying the next book now.
May 19, 2022
There's an interesting story here but it's buried under a mountain of exposition. I'm glad I'm reading this and not listening to an audiobook because it's easier to skip huge sections of the protagonist's ruminations and planning.
May 21, 2021
A good book and series
An excellent next part. Can’t wait until part 3 comes out. It’s an intriguing world being shown and the main character is very interesting.
An excellent next part. Can’t wait until part 3 comes out. It’s an intriguing world being shown and the main character is very interesting.
May 22, 2021
Very crunchy tale of growth and revenge.
Very crunchy tale of growth and revenge. I was looking forward to this second book I was not disappointed. I wait impatiently for a third.
Very crunchy tale of growth and revenge. I was looking forward to this second book I was not disappointed. I wait impatiently for a third.
May 23, 2021
5 stars
A great sequel. There is plenty of plot turns to go with the action. I hope book 3 comes out soon.
A great sequel. There is plenty of plot turns to go with the action. I hope book 3 comes out soon.
May 25, 2021
An adventure
The book went full circle, ending up, near to where the last started. A fun ride in intriguing concepts.
Looking forward to the next.
The book went full circle, ending up, near to where the last started. A fun ride in intriguing concepts.
Looking forward to the next.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews