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The Legacy Chronicles #0.5
The Dark Path
New York's underworld quivers at the mention of his name. Evil courses through his veins like blood and his conscience has lain dormant for over a decade while he has slashed and burned his way to the top of the food chain. Vain. The Dark Man, born of torment into an existence of death. In the underworld of killers he reigns supreme. And yet he is chosen for a task of supreme benevolence. Why would he be selected to save a young boy, the Avun-Riah, and then protect him against a horde of enemies, both mortal and demonic? Because he is the only one with any hope of success. The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse have risen from the pits of Hell and, along with a fanatical army of cultists, are ranged against Vain. If the boy is slain then Sordarrah will be raised to destroy the Earth, a feat even Lucifer never managed. Evil is being used to fight evil in the ultimate battle for the outcome of all existence. Armageddon sits upon the horizon and all that stands in its way is a man whose path has always been dark.
154 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2009
86 people are currently reading
897 people want to read
About the author
Luke Romyn
39 books3,334 followersA terrifying storm lashed Sydney’s North Shore on June 21st, 1975. Boats were swamped and jetties smashed in what some claim was the worst storm to hit the coast for four decades.
In the midst of the chaos, Luke Romyn’s parents battled to get to a hospital to birth their baby boy. Normally their idyllic island cottage was a near-paradise; on this night the journey to the mainland in their tiny boat seemed like a passage through Hell. Their son was born near midnight, but part of the storm never left him.
When Luke reached fifteen years of age his father was killed while working in Fiji, leaving Luke and his mother alone. At times, the only things to get Luke through his grief were the stories playing out in his head, endless fantastical tales of lands both distant and near, with characters who would protect him from any tragedy.
At eighteen, Luke began working in nightclubs as a bouncer. Unbeknownst to him, this was simply the first step on a trek which would dictate much of his life from that point on. For over two decades since, Luke has worked in the security industry; from bouncing in some of Australia's roughest pubs and nightclubs to protecting Mickey Mouse and the Disney crew from the overzealous jaws of tenacious toddlers. He's been bodyguard for celebrities internationally and chased feral pigs and snakes from jungle sets on Steven Spielberg productions. Luke has traveled the globe and spent time in some of the most amazing locations the world has to offer.
This experience fuels the Australian writer’s ever-expansive imagination, and he pours it into his novels, combining fact with fiction, history with fantasy, delivering engrossing action-thrillers which leave fans gasping for more. Luke’s quick wit has seen his social media following explode, and he is currently one of the most prolific social media celebrities in Australia, with several hundred thousand followers across the internet.
Publishing his first book, The Dark Path, in 2009 saw it voted in the top 10 horror novels of that year, even though Luke denies ever intending the novel to be classed as horror. Luke Romyn is now one of the most popular indie authors in the ever-growing eBook market and personally completes everything from cover art to final formatting, working tirelessly with editors so as to refine the best stories possible for his readers. The results are international bestsellers you’re certain to love diving into. Hundreds of thousands of readers can’t be wrong.
In the midst of the chaos, Luke Romyn’s parents battled to get to a hospital to birth their baby boy. Normally their idyllic island cottage was a near-paradise; on this night the journey to the mainland in their tiny boat seemed like a passage through Hell. Their son was born near midnight, but part of the storm never left him.
When Luke reached fifteen years of age his father was killed while working in Fiji, leaving Luke and his mother alone. At times, the only things to get Luke through his grief were the stories playing out in his head, endless fantastical tales of lands both distant and near, with characters who would protect him from any tragedy.
At eighteen, Luke began working in nightclubs as a bouncer. Unbeknownst to him, this was simply the first step on a trek which would dictate much of his life from that point on. For over two decades since, Luke has worked in the security industry; from bouncing in some of Australia's roughest pubs and nightclubs to protecting Mickey Mouse and the Disney crew from the overzealous jaws of tenacious toddlers. He's been bodyguard for celebrities internationally and chased feral pigs and snakes from jungle sets on Steven Spielberg productions. Luke has traveled the globe and spent time in some of the most amazing locations the world has to offer.
This experience fuels the Australian writer’s ever-expansive imagination, and he pours it into his novels, combining fact with fiction, history with fantasy, delivering engrossing action-thrillers which leave fans gasping for more. Luke’s quick wit has seen his social media following explode, and he is currently one of the most prolific social media celebrities in Australia, with several hundred thousand followers across the internet.
Publishing his first book, The Dark Path, in 2009 saw it voted in the top 10 horror novels of that year, even though Luke denies ever intending the novel to be classed as horror. Luke Romyn is now one of the most popular indie authors in the ever-growing eBook market and personally completes everything from cover art to final formatting, working tirelessly with editors so as to refine the best stories possible for his readers. The results are international bestsellers you’re certain to love diving into. Hundreds of thousands of readers can’t be wrong.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
October 5, 2013
Trippy, Fun, Unique, Terrifying Novel
As I read the first couple chapters I thought, Punisher. As I read more, I thought, T2. And as I continued to read I stopped trying to compare this book to anything I've read or seen because it really is unique and holds its own. The humor is dry and well-placed within the context of the primary protagonist, Vain, and the setting, a parallel world in which there isn't only Satan and God, but also Sordorrah.
Vain is a three dimensional character who is adept at killing, especially the bad guys. He actually isn't necessarily very good but that's what keeps our attention; ultimately the struggle between good and evil is within Vain and outside of him. It encompasses every aspect of this novel.
A couple of scenes, including the terrorist on the plane and the cancer patient, I could have done without. But, I can't think of a novel where I've agreed with every plot point and both of these scenes serve a purpose; the latter of which was much more important, in my humble opinion. Namely, that Vain really has changed and is indeed capable of good.
The bottom line is I'd highly recommend this novel to fans of horror/fantasy as Luke Romyn takes us on a trippy, fun, unique, and terrifying adventure every reader should be fortunate to take.
As I read the first couple chapters I thought, Punisher. As I read more, I thought, T2. And as I continued to read I stopped trying to compare this book to anything I've read or seen because it really is unique and holds its own. The humor is dry and well-placed within the context of the primary protagonist, Vain, and the setting, a parallel world in which there isn't only Satan and God, but also Sordorrah.
Vain is a three dimensional character who is adept at killing, especially the bad guys. He actually isn't necessarily very good but that's what keeps our attention; ultimately the struggle between good and evil is within Vain and outside of him. It encompasses every aspect of this novel.
A couple of scenes, including the terrorist on the plane and the cancer patient, I could have done without. But, I can't think of a novel where I've agreed with every plot point and both of these scenes serve a purpose; the latter of which was much more important, in my humble opinion. Namely, that Vain really has changed and is indeed capable of good.
The bottom line is I'd highly recommend this novel to fans of horror/fantasy as Luke Romyn takes us on a trippy, fun, unique, and terrifying adventure every reader should be fortunate to take.
January 19, 2011
For a full review, check the Bitten by Books website: http://www.bittenbybooks.com/
April 8, 2010
In its originality, this novel takes the horror / urban fantasy genre to a whole new level. the quest and redemption theme in this novel is spectacular, emotional, and quite overwhelming. Could not put the book down. This is a MUST read. Vain is one of the most engaging, scary, likable, cold-blooded killers that I've ever run across in a book.
Is Vain conflicted? Yes.
Does this deter him from his quest? No.
I found myself rooting for him, even as he inflicted brutality to the extreme. His need to find his own humanity will have you questioning yours. Extremely strong debut novel, Romyn is a master at balancing action and emotion, and his prose is that of a seasoned professional.
Cannot recommend it enough.
Is there a place to add more stars?
No? Well I will add them here-> **********
THE DARK PATH Is deserving of ten or more. Don't miss this one, you will re-read it many times over.
Is Vain conflicted? Yes.
Does this deter him from his quest? No.
I found myself rooting for him, even as he inflicted brutality to the extreme. His need to find his own humanity will have you questioning yours. Extremely strong debut novel, Romyn is a master at balancing action and emotion, and his prose is that of a seasoned professional.
Cannot recommend it enough.
Is there a place to add more stars?
No? Well I will add them here-> **********
THE DARK PATH Is deserving of ten or more. Don't miss this one, you will re-read it many times over.
May 19, 2013
5 stars.
The Dark Path by Luke Romyn strikes the perfect balance of over the top brutality and an underlying positive message. I have said before how much I love the Biblical Horror sub genre, well this book would fall into the Biblical Thriller genre.
Romyn has created an alternate world very similar to our own, adding to our Christian Beliefs by creating an additional fallen angel named Sordarrah . This book centers on a cult that through out time has been trying to resurrect their fallen God. To do so they must kill the Avun-Riah, a young boy that through his death can unlock the gates imprisoning the fallen angel. Unfortunately for the bad guys in this story, the Avun-Riah(Sebastian) is protected by the Dark Man. Our hero is a former Police Officer, a former Husband, a former Father, and some would say a former Human.
Wow, The Dark Man is the awesome reduction of a once good man that finds everyone that he ever loved killed and removed from his life. He is the result in a Man giving in to all of his darkest emotions and feelings, leaving only rage and death within. Vain is an apt name for his former self, The Dark Man fits him better today. He is an amalgamation of The Punisher, The Dark Knight, and
The back story quickly tells us the how and the why behind Vain the assassin, and after a somewhat slow start this book takes off. I loved the scenes of Vain moving around the city and through the shadows. His encounters with Priest are awesome. The main plot unfolds and we are treated to more than a sick vengeful killer.
The story takes us from cities to sewers, from roof tops all the way down to Hell and back again. There are Demons, Angels, Lucifer, and the Four Horsemen, and of course the scariest monster of all, The Dark Man himself. This is a fast paced thriller that only had one fault for me, and that is that I want more.
Top all this awesome story telling, Romyn is a gifted writer that does a great job at portraying atmosphere, action, and even some humor.
""… I have existed for eternity, but I don't think I've ever had a single day of life as a human would know it. " Seikel paused.
"Today I feel alive, and it is wondrous," he explained finally."
""Alright, I think we've established that you guys have a combined IQ of a slowly-roasted peanuts. so I'll go over the simply, " Vain continued."
A fabulous read for fans of the genre. I will definitely be seeking out other works by Luke Romyn as I loved this book. Highest recommendations.
The Dark Path by Luke Romyn strikes the perfect balance of over the top brutality and an underlying positive message. I have said before how much I love the Biblical Horror sub genre, well this book would fall into the Biblical Thriller genre.
Romyn has created an alternate world very similar to our own, adding to our Christian Beliefs by creating an additional fallen angel named Sordarrah . This book centers on a cult that through out time has been trying to resurrect their fallen God. To do so they must kill the Avun-Riah, a young boy that through his death can unlock the gates imprisoning the fallen angel. Unfortunately for the bad guys in this story, the Avun-Riah(Sebastian) is protected by the Dark Man. Our hero is a former Police Officer, a former Husband, a former Father, and some would say a former Human.
Wow, The Dark Man is the awesome reduction of a once good man that finds everyone that he ever loved killed and removed from his life. He is the result in a Man giving in to all of his darkest emotions and feelings, leaving only rage and death within. Vain is an apt name for his former self, The Dark Man fits him better today. He is an amalgamation of The Punisher, The Dark Knight, and
The back story quickly tells us the how and the why behind Vain the assassin, and after a somewhat slow start this book takes off. I loved the scenes of Vain moving around the city and through the shadows. His encounters with Priest are awesome. The main plot unfolds and we are treated to more than a sick vengeful killer.
The story takes us from cities to sewers, from roof tops all the way down to Hell and back again. There are Demons, Angels, Lucifer, and the Four Horsemen, and of course the scariest monster of all, The Dark Man himself. This is a fast paced thriller that only had one fault for me, and that is that I want more.
Top all this awesome story telling, Romyn is a gifted writer that does a great job at portraying atmosphere, action, and even some humor.
""… I have existed for eternity, but I don't think I've ever had a single day of life as a human would know it. " Seikel paused.
"Today I feel alive, and it is wondrous," he explained finally."
""Alright, I think we've established that you guys have a combined IQ of a slowly-roasted peanuts. so I'll go over the simply, " Vain continued."
A fabulous read for fans of the genre. I will definitely be seeking out other works by Luke Romyn as I loved this book. Highest recommendations.
April 20, 2010
"Vain" is one of the nastiest, cold-blooded killers that I've ever run across in a book. And cold-blooded is an understatement. This guy is so heartless he is nothing short of a monster... and your heart will go out to him because he is such a likable character. You'll find yourself rooting for Vain as he does what he does best - kill.
I was immediately drawn into Vain's world and even though I was pretty sure I knew where the story was going and how it was going to end, I still could not put it down! I had to keep reading.
Once author Luke Romyn leads you down The Dark Path there is no getting off it.
I was immediately drawn into Vain's world and even though I was pretty sure I knew where the story was going and how it was going to end, I still could not put it down! I had to keep reading.
Once author Luke Romyn leads you down The Dark Path there is no getting off it.
April 22, 2012
Hmm. I'm still not sure how I feel about this book. The blurb about it made it sound like a very good horror book, but instead it was more of a semi-predictable, heartwarming tale of redemption. I guess? Then there was the ending that was either meant to be a twist or it's a blatant call to read the future sequel to it. It was well written, but I had to go back and re-read the description at a few points to make sure I wasn't reading an entirely different book, or that it wasn't actually in the Christian or Spirituality section rather than horror.
November 29, 2009
A dark and twisted story about faith, redemption, and the meaning of life. Very well done, if a bit violent (which isn't an issue for me, but may be for others) at times. I'm amazed at the transformation Vain makes throughout the story, despite fighting that transformation every step of the way. Very thought provoking.
July 12, 2011
Rivaling both Stephen King and Thomas Harris, without doubt, the edgy and provocative Luke Romyn is destined to emerge as the 21st century’s newest Master-of-Horror.
In his debut novel, “The Dark Path,” Luke showcases his writing talents through the eyes and actions of Vain, aka The Dark Man. Due to a horrific experience in a “past” life, Vain is transformed into a truly evil character. This raw and gritty anti-hero, charges through one scene into the next; leaving death, destruction and despair in his path. He rushes through life without making excuses for his grisly deeds, or feeling a trace of remorse for his victims. He is a man who is nearly impossible to like, but equally impossible to hate.
Be forewarned, journeying down “The Dark Path” is not an adventure for the faint of heart. The story overflows with gratuitous acts of violence, adult language and mature situations. Within the 184 pages, there are few dark-and-twisty topics that are off-limits or left unexplored. Vain ventures into the inky regions of the human psyche (literally into the depths of hell) and emerges bruised, battered and altered.
Although supernatural events are woven throughout the storyline, “The Dark Path” deals with real and often uncomfortable subjects: religious beliefs (and dis-beliefs), death (rape, mutilation, torture), greed and self-destruction. Like his contemporaries in the horror genre, Luke Romyn ecstatically crashes through the politically-correct-wall that modern society has built and fortified.
Like the writings of Stephen King and Thomas Harris, Luke Romyn pushes the boundaries of a reader’s senses. “The Dark Path” will keep you up late with a reluctance to turn off the lights and venture into the darken recesses of your own imagination.
In his debut novel, “The Dark Path,” Luke showcases his writing talents through the eyes and actions of Vain, aka The Dark Man. Due to a horrific experience in a “past” life, Vain is transformed into a truly evil character. This raw and gritty anti-hero, charges through one scene into the next; leaving death, destruction and despair in his path. He rushes through life without making excuses for his grisly deeds, or feeling a trace of remorse for his victims. He is a man who is nearly impossible to like, but equally impossible to hate.
Be forewarned, journeying down “The Dark Path” is not an adventure for the faint of heart. The story overflows with gratuitous acts of violence, adult language and mature situations. Within the 184 pages, there are few dark-and-twisty topics that are off-limits or left unexplored. Vain ventures into the inky regions of the human psyche (literally into the depths of hell) and emerges bruised, battered and altered.
Although supernatural events are woven throughout the storyline, “The Dark Path” deals with real and often uncomfortable subjects: religious beliefs (and dis-beliefs), death (rape, mutilation, torture), greed and self-destruction. Like his contemporaries in the horror genre, Luke Romyn ecstatically crashes through the politically-correct-wall that modern society has built and fortified.
Like the writings of Stephen King and Thomas Harris, Luke Romyn pushes the boundaries of a reader’s senses. “The Dark Path” will keep you up late with a reluctance to turn off the lights and venture into the darken recesses of your own imagination.
August 4, 2013
I really enjoyed this book, I wasn't expecting what it gave to me at all.
You have Vain, or Dark Man, who is the best assassin around. He lives his life in an unemotional state other then the dark pit of rage that lives inside of him. You follow him around as he makes a few kills and get a feel for who you think this man is. He is given the task, or really chooses it cause no one can tell the Dark Man what to do, to watch over a young boy named Sebastian and to protect him from an evil cult that wants to use him to free their god.
What I wasn't expecting from this book was all the religious background. It was in no way preaching at you, but it was very interesting the way it was incorporated in.
Even though Vain is made out to be a bad person, I really liked his personality and his sense of humor. The way he just told people what ever he wanted to was great and had me chuckling to myself more then once.
I liked that you also got other points of views. I love when books do this, but its hard for people to do it good and Luke Romyn did. Getting into the other characters minds was a good way to get to know exactly what was going on.
The only thing I didn't like was the way the time moved, I never really got a time frame for everything that was going on. I knew everything was suppose to take place within three month, but all that happened between that time is kinda floating around, and some of it just seemed like it would have made everything last longer then the three months they had.
Would I recommend this book? Yes, it was very interesting and I have a weak spot for characters that are jerks and Vain was one.
http://zephyrbookreviews.blogspot.com/
You have Vain, or Dark Man, who is the best assassin around. He lives his life in an unemotional state other then the dark pit of rage that lives inside of him. You follow him around as he makes a few kills and get a feel for who you think this man is. He is given the task, or really chooses it cause no one can tell the Dark Man what to do, to watch over a young boy named Sebastian and to protect him from an evil cult that wants to use him to free their god.
What I wasn't expecting from this book was all the religious background. It was in no way preaching at you, but it was very interesting the way it was incorporated in.
Even though Vain is made out to be a bad person, I really liked his personality and his sense of humor. The way he just told people what ever he wanted to was great and had me chuckling to myself more then once.
I liked that you also got other points of views. I love when books do this, but its hard for people to do it good and Luke Romyn did. Getting into the other characters minds was a good way to get to know exactly what was going on.
The only thing I didn't like was the way the time moved, I never really got a time frame for everything that was going on. I knew everything was suppose to take place within three month, but all that happened between that time is kinda floating around, and some of it just seemed like it would have made everything last longer then the three months they had.
Would I recommend this book? Yes, it was very interesting and I have a weak spot for characters that are jerks and Vain was one.
http://zephyrbookreviews.blogspot.com/
June 9, 2012
Not for the faint of heart
This is an urban fantasy horror with religious overtones and a battle over bringing or stopping armageddon. The Dark Path is a very disturbing book. Good but disturbing. Starts out gory as hell with Vain mutilating a drug dealer, and killing the man's wife. Everyone is afraid of Vain. He is a killer of assassins. After reading the story of how Vain came to be, I had to put the book down for a while. I actually couldn't sleep. I went to wake up my 4 year old daughter and hug her after laying there imagining the worst of things for hours.
I like the whole good vs. evil when we don't really know what makes something good and what makes them evil. There is no good or evil, just balance or imbalance, order or chaos. Vain is evil but because he plays his part, does what is needed, he restores balance, therefore he is good. Lucifer's arguments made perfect sense and God didn't seem so totally benevolent. Vain was a brilliantly written anti-hero. Every character was like that - well planned and drawn, believable and complex in ways other writers have just glossed over with good guy/bad guy delineations.
If this is your genre, this is a great example of it. Try it out.
This is an urban fantasy horror with religious overtones and a battle over bringing or stopping armageddon. The Dark Path is a very disturbing book. Good but disturbing. Starts out gory as hell with Vain mutilating a drug dealer, and killing the man's wife. Everyone is afraid of Vain. He is a killer of assassins. After reading the story of how Vain came to be, I had to put the book down for a while. I actually couldn't sleep. I went to wake up my 4 year old daughter and hug her after laying there imagining the worst of things for hours.
I like the whole good vs. evil when we don't really know what makes something good and what makes them evil. There is no good or evil, just balance or imbalance, order or chaos. Vain is evil but because he plays his part, does what is needed, he restores balance, therefore he is good. Lucifer's arguments made perfect sense and God didn't seem so totally benevolent. Vain was a brilliantly written anti-hero. Every character was like that - well planned and drawn, believable and complex in ways other writers have just glossed over with good guy/bad guy delineations.
If this is your genre, this is a great example of it. Try it out.
Read
February 5, 2016After entering Nick's mind in Ricochet, The Dark Man/Vain was an enormous let down from the get go.
Just in the first few pages:
"The force of his emotions shook him to his very foundations".
Does this look like a contracted killer to you? Someone cold?
And a couple lines later:
"Voices shot like arrows through Vain's memory...The assassin crumpled into oblivion." - meaning he fainted. Fainted! From his memories! Seriously? I present to you the most feared man in New York's underworld ladies and gentlemen.
So...yeah. Me and this book? Not happening.
Maybe if I'd read this before meeting Nick? I don't know. But this definitely does not sound as something I'll enjoy in the long run so I'm backing out now. For me a good assassin has to be cold-blooded. Unfeeling. Callous. Frightening. This Vain Guy? Everyone seems to be afraid of him in the book but I honestly do not get it.
**Not rating this book since I only read about 4/5 chapters.
Just in the first few pages:
"The force of his emotions shook him to his very foundations".
Does this look like a contracted killer to you? Someone cold?
And a couple lines later:
"Voices shot like arrows through Vain's memory...The assassin crumpled into oblivion." - meaning he fainted. Fainted! From his memories! Seriously? I present to you the most feared man in New York's underworld ladies and gentlemen.
So...yeah. Me and this book? Not happening.
Maybe if I'd read this before meeting Nick? I don't know. But this definitely does not sound as something I'll enjoy in the long run so I'm backing out now. For me a good assassin has to be cold-blooded. Unfeeling. Callous. Frightening. This Vain Guy? Everyone seems to be afraid of him in the book but I honestly do not get it.
**Not rating this book since I only read about 4/5 chapters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 14, 2013
WOW! I think this is the best indie book I have read so far, and I don't usually even read this genre. I love the way this author writes. His characters are so real, even the non-human ones. This is like a combination of Stephen King and Dan Brown style writing but with just enough humor to relieve the tension. It was scary, but funny at times. The character Vain was so dark but naive at the same time. The scene where he is talking to the priest was hilarious. All the characters personalities had so many layers. I have read many book that dealt with the issue of good and evil, but I don't think I have read one that was this well done.
June 3, 2011
This book was engrossing from the beginning to the end. The pain and suffering that Martin Roberts goes through is unimaginable. The pain and suffering that Vain delivers is unimaginable. This a great book about the journey of a man and assassin whose faith of the world depends on the path that he will take. Great twists throughout the book and a jaw dropping end. I absolutely loved this book. Money well spent.
May 24, 2011
This book grabbed me by the throat and didn't let go until I finished the story! An amazing story about the most gruesome and lethal assassin you can ever imagine, who will discover more about himself and others throughout his endeavors and eventually has to made some decisions.
Luke does and incredible job telling the story and it really pulls you inside. I can't wait reading his next book!
Luke does and incredible job telling the story and it really pulls you inside. I can't wait reading his next book!
September 8, 2011
This is an excellent book , bringing us into the realm of the supernatural through believable and compelling characters. The end result is that we are drawn down a Dark Path and into a world of spiritual warfare, deception and greed that seem to appeal to the hero's. But there is good here too, a good that draws the character's toward an ending that reminds us there is no redemption without sacrifice.
A page turner, highly recommend.
A page turner, highly recommend.
May 30, 2011
Horror that will keep you up at night. I read Luke's book, The Dark Path, as I was curious after following him on Twitter. Otherwise, I may not have made the choice. If you are a horror buff, this book is for you. It is dark and demonic with horrific detail. An unpredictable wrapping of faith adds a flavor of doubt.
Great job, Luke! Definite page turner and unexpected ending.
Great job, Luke! Definite page turner and unexpected ending.
June 7, 2011
This is an excellent book. It tells the story of an extremely evil man and his reluctant quest do something good. The odds stand long against Vain and it is doubtful that he wins.
The book is well written and a very quick read that maintains interest throughout. I highly recommend this book to anyone searching for a thoroughly enjoyable novel.
The book is well written and a very quick read that maintains interest throughout. I highly recommend this book to anyone searching for a thoroughly enjoyable novel.
June 13, 2013
Caught this book on a free deal through amazon. Classical story of bad guy turned good guy through a biblical task. Well written, nice development of characters. I recommend to anyone for a fun read.
Read
June 27, 2011totally awesome,luke is such a brillant talent. he deserves all the success in the world.everyone will look back and say DAMN how can somuch talent come from one man
September 8, 2011
Loved this story. Never thought I would come to care for these characters, but I was quickly won over. Several times I almost missed my train stop while reading just one more page.
December 29, 2011
Amazing thriller. Very chilling at times, but I couldn't stop reading this book!
September 19, 2012
You win some you lose some when it comes to new authors on Kindle.
This is pretty awful I am afraid, extremely cliched.
This is pretty awful I am afraid, extremely cliched.
March 24, 2018
Tacking ANY story that touches on religion--particularly Christianity, Judaism, AND Islam, among others--is dangerous territory. The potential to step on a "You OFFENDED me! Blasphemy!" landmine is hgih just for ONE of those faiths. For all three at once?? All I can say is that this author must have a criticism-protection skin like galvanized steel. It takes an incredible amount of BRAVERY to tackle a topic like this one, so I feel that the author deserves some major praise just for forging ahead with the story inside of him, and damn the consequences from the small-minded, easily-offended snowflakes in today's religious communities.
Considering that, for me, books like this series are not "literature"--they're my own personal book candy, meant solely for pleasure in the story-- am not going to do some pretentious literary critique and dock him stars for inadequate framing, failure to make a poignant political point (because he actually DID if you're willing to look macro and not micro), or his failures to include "enough" oppressed minority viewpoints. In THIS story, HUMANS are the oppressed minority. The point he is making is quite simple. Quit expecting your God to save you, and save YOURSELVES. Frankly, I felt like the voice of the archangel Michael was actually the author's OWN views being placed within the story. Michael 's scorn for the wasteful, selfish way that humanity has squandered the gifts they were given--like a clean planet, clean food, the ability to LOVE understand, and to forgive each other, despite WHATEVER differences.
Christians, don't think that you're off the hook just because I mentioned Michael. Your Bible is in no way vindicated AT ALL, except perhaps for a few old Testament creation allegories and all of the "Red Words" that Jesus actually SPOKE. In fact, the Islamic viewpoint of Jesus being just another in a LINE of prophets in ALSO vindicated, although the mention of Mohammed is curiously missing. But again--Islam is certainly not held up as the "right" religion, EITHER, because if Jacob Hope is the Christ (apparently an eternal prophetic savior spirit with no ONE name) born again in this age, then obviously the Islamic viewpoint is wrong, too. And while there is PLENTY of vindication in terms of early Judaism, their refusal to accept ANY of the myriad of messiah that God/The Universe has sent *before* is proof of their refusal to grow.
If there is any single literary critique to be had, here, THAT would be it. A fictional examination of the refusal of organized religion to GROW, and the sheer arrogance of ANY human EVER believing that he or she has all the answers--no matter WHAT book(s) they hold up as proof.
Beyond that? I just enjoyed the STORY. Really, fellow academs--it's OKAY to just like a story, and ignore all of the technical flaws. A story doesn't have to have Pulitzer-prize potential in order to just be GOOD. Stories are what created civilization, long ago. And stories can be either what heals it now...or what breaks it forever.
In the end, we humans must decide out OWN fate. There is NO pre-determined end, regardless of what your holy (insert book here) says. They all copied each other, anyway. Religious scholars with objectivity can easily see this. And they were all written by FANATICS who were either forcing details of out sick, elderly people, or were so far removed from the beginning that they were basically just making it up as THEY wanted it to be, and hoping that it stuck! We take LIVES. The most precious thing thet God gave the world....LIFE. And we are so spiritually SICK that we have deluded ourselves into thinking that we are doing it for God's glory! What truly glorifies God, or The Universal spirit, or whatever you desire to call him (because I doubt if he cares) is to help someone in need. Feed the hungry. House those in need of shelter. Succor the sick, and help relieve pain (looking at YOU there, opiophobic doctors of modern America). Kindness. Mercy. Humility. Nobility of spirit. THESE things glorify the Creator.
If you are causing harm to others in God's name? Don't expect to see heaven when you die. That is about the highest form of blasphemy that I can even conceive of, and I really don't WANT to know what waits for someone like that. I pray that it is mercy, and a chance to repent, be reborn, and redeem the sins of the life you lived before. I cannot believe in a God that would punish ANY human sin with eternal torture. The very thought is ludicrous. I wouldn't punish a blundering, cruel child with eternal torture. I would ground him, sternly tell him exactly what he did wrong, let him see the pain he caused as a result--and then offer him a chance to atone.
If a mere human can think of a way to atone for wrongdoings that DOESN'T involve eternal torture? I'm pretty sure God/The Universe was WAY ahead of me on that.
Okay, enough philosophizing. On to the next book!
Considering that, for me, books like this series are not "literature"--they're my own personal book candy, meant solely for pleasure in the story-- am not going to do some pretentious literary critique and dock him stars for inadequate framing, failure to make a poignant political point (because he actually DID if you're willing to look macro and not micro), or his failures to include "enough" oppressed minority viewpoints. In THIS story, HUMANS are the oppressed minority. The point he is making is quite simple. Quit expecting your God to save you, and save YOURSELVES. Frankly, I felt like the voice of the archangel Michael was actually the author's OWN views being placed within the story. Michael 's scorn for the wasteful, selfish way that humanity has squandered the gifts they were given--like a clean planet, clean food, the ability to LOVE understand, and to forgive each other, despite WHATEVER differences.
Christians, don't think that you're off the hook just because I mentioned Michael. Your Bible is in no way vindicated AT ALL, except perhaps for a few old Testament creation allegories and all of the "Red Words" that Jesus actually SPOKE. In fact, the Islamic viewpoint of Jesus being just another in a LINE of prophets in ALSO vindicated, although the mention of Mohammed is curiously missing. But again--Islam is certainly not held up as the "right" religion, EITHER, because if Jacob Hope is the Christ (apparently an eternal prophetic savior spirit with no ONE name) born again in this age, then obviously the Islamic viewpoint is wrong, too. And while there is PLENTY of vindication in terms of early Judaism, their refusal to accept ANY of the myriad of messiah that God/The Universe has sent *before* is proof of their refusal to grow.
If there is any single literary critique to be had, here, THAT would be it. A fictional examination of the refusal of organized religion to GROW, and the sheer arrogance of ANY human EVER believing that he or she has all the answers--no matter WHAT book(s) they hold up as proof.
Beyond that? I just enjoyed the STORY. Really, fellow academs--it's OKAY to just like a story, and ignore all of the technical flaws. A story doesn't have to have Pulitzer-prize potential in order to just be GOOD. Stories are what created civilization, long ago. And stories can be either what heals it now...or what breaks it forever.
In the end, we humans must decide out OWN fate. There is NO pre-determined end, regardless of what your holy (insert book here) says. They all copied each other, anyway. Religious scholars with objectivity can easily see this. And they were all written by FANATICS who were either forcing details of out sick, elderly people, or were so far removed from the beginning that they were basically just making it up as THEY wanted it to be, and hoping that it stuck! We take LIVES. The most precious thing thet God gave the world....LIFE. And we are so spiritually SICK that we have deluded ourselves into thinking that we are doing it for God's glory! What truly glorifies God, or The Universal spirit, or whatever you desire to call him (because I doubt if he cares) is to help someone in need. Feed the hungry. House those in need of shelter. Succor the sick, and help relieve pain (looking at YOU there, opiophobic doctors of modern America). Kindness. Mercy. Humility. Nobility of spirit. THESE things glorify the Creator.
If you are causing harm to others in God's name? Don't expect to see heaven when you die. That is about the highest form of blasphemy that I can even conceive of, and I really don't WANT to know what waits for someone like that. I pray that it is mercy, and a chance to repent, be reborn, and redeem the sins of the life you lived before. I cannot believe in a God that would punish ANY human sin with eternal torture. The very thought is ludicrous. I wouldn't punish a blundering, cruel child with eternal torture. I would ground him, sternly tell him exactly what he did wrong, let him see the pain he caused as a result--and then offer him a chance to atone.
If a mere human can think of a way to atone for wrongdoings that DOESN'T involve eternal torture? I'm pretty sure God/The Universe was WAY ahead of me on that.
Okay, enough philosophizing. On to the next book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 3, 2025
I did not know what to expect when I downloaded this onto my phone. I’d never heard of Luke Romyn before apart from the tweets about his book and other tweets saying how great the book was. So, I had to find out for myself.
The story is about Martin Roberts, a cop whose split second inaction causes the death of his best friend. The Russian mob is involved and for revenge, Martin agrees to go to court and put the mobster away for life. The FBI move them to a safe house. The stress naturally gets to them and after a fight, Martin leaves the house to cool down. When he returns the unthinkable happens. On the verge of death himself, a voice in his head tells him to get up, but Martin just wants to die, so the voice in his head takes his place and blocks out all of Martin’s Memories. This new man’s name is Vain and he becomes an assassin. And a good assassin at that. But he makes a mistake and gets captured, and his path changes from that moment onwards.
This is a rocking thriller that moves fast and hard, where the main character is put through tests of his characters and will. He is pushed beyond his limits but keeps going.
The only thing I didn’t like much was the overuse of adjectives but that is easy to skip over, because the story pulls you along and drags you into the pits of Hell and Madness and Revenge.
The story is about Martin Roberts, a cop whose split second inaction causes the death of his best friend. The Russian mob is involved and for revenge, Martin agrees to go to court and put the mobster away for life. The FBI move them to a safe house. The stress naturally gets to them and after a fight, Martin leaves the house to cool down. When he returns the unthinkable happens. On the verge of death himself, a voice in his head tells him to get up, but Martin just wants to die, so the voice in his head takes his place and blocks out all of Martin’s Memories. This new man’s name is Vain and he becomes an assassin. And a good assassin at that. But he makes a mistake and gets captured, and his path changes from that moment onwards.
This is a rocking thriller that moves fast and hard, where the main character is put through tests of his characters and will. He is pushed beyond his limits but keeps going.
The only thing I didn’t like much was the overuse of adjectives but that is easy to skip over, because the story pulls you along and drags you into the pits of Hell and Madness and Revenge.
May 9, 2017
I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review
This book started off with action,excitement,thrills, and horror and didn't stop until the last page. The author masterfully develops his characters, weaves them into the story (vs weaving them around the story), and draws the reader into the story bit by bit until they (the reader) are totally committed. This is a very good start to what appears to be a very very interesting series
This book started off with action,excitement,thrills, and horror and didn't stop until the last page. The author masterfully develops his characters, weaves them into the story (vs weaving them around the story), and draws the reader into the story bit by bit until they (the reader) are totally committed. This is a very good start to what appears to be a very very interesting series
January 19, 2020
The cover says: "The storyline is so unique that readers will not find anything remotely similar."
And I must agree.. having read thousands of books, nothing compares to this one…
Being a lover of symbolism and metaphors I really loved the message that lies within…
Truly remarkable piece of art of my Twitter'friend' Luke...
And I must agree.. having read thousands of books, nothing compares to this one…
Being a lover of symbolism and metaphors I really loved the message that lies within…
Truly remarkable piece of art of my Twitter'friend' Luke...
July 23, 2018
What a ride!!!
A good, twisting, turning fantasy. Could not put it down. A bell of a ride! I am ordering the next in the series NOW.
A good, twisting, turning fantasy. Could not put it down. A bell of a ride! I am ordering the next in the series NOW.
May 4, 2019
Couldn't put it down!
If it says Luke Romyn on the book, do yourself a favor and read it. You can thank me later.
If it says Luke Romyn on the book, do yourself a favor and read it. You can thank me later.
March 6, 2020
WOW = unexpected
I almost didn't finish this book. The beginning has a fair amount of disturbing events. But I endured and was glad I did. Until I wasn't.......
I almost didn't finish this book. The beginning has a fair amount of disturbing events. But I endured and was glad I did. Until I wasn't.......
July 7, 2020
Good read!!
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