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Mark of the Fool #2
Mark of the Fool 2
He tried to escape. But something followed.
After a gruelling trial, Alex Roth had reached the University of Generasi and learned much about the Mark of the Fool and how to exploit it for new paths of power.
Making friends and training in alchemy, all seemed to be going well.
But shadows stir.
The dark secrets of his homeland haunt him. His sister—Selina—learns that she is what she hates most. And unfriendly, monstrous eyes track him.
As he tries to live a normal life, he must risk danger to uncover dark secrets, survive the wrath of those that call upon demons, and avoid the gaze of a hunter from an ancient enemy.
…and that is when the murders begin.
Oh, and he still has to make sure he can pay tuition.
After a gruelling trial, Alex Roth had reached the University of Generasi and learned much about the Mark of the Fool and how to exploit it for new paths of power.
Making friends and training in alchemy, all seemed to be going well.
But shadows stir.
The dark secrets of his homeland haunt him. His sister—Selina—learns that she is what she hates most. And unfriendly, monstrous eyes track him.
As he tries to live a normal life, he must risk danger to uncover dark secrets, survive the wrath of those that call upon demons, and avoid the gaze of a hunter from an ancient enemy.
…and that is when the murders begin.
Oh, and he still has to make sure he can pay tuition.
795 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 10, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 179 reviews
July 9, 2023
Wow just wow!!!! I loved this book
September 10, 2024
Very good fantasy read. Entertaining and funny. Very recommended
June 24, 2023
Eh... About 30% too slow.
While some of the expectations that have been built up until now were rewarded, the payoff was quite small and came really late.
At the same time, I am not even sure where this story is going since the main arc hasn't been progressing at all. So... the protagonist is the chosen one but escapes to live the life he wants to live free of his duty. But clearly, he inevitably has to face his destiny, right?
But little to nothing of this is hinted at!
I am sure the coming books will progress the main storyline much more, so I will continue.
But the next book gotta be a banger.
While some of the expectations that have been built up until now were rewarded, the payoff was quite small and came really late.
At the same time, I am not even sure where this story is going since the main arc hasn't been progressing at all. So... the protagonist is the chosen one but escapes to live the life he wants to live free of his duty. But clearly, he inevitably has to face his destiny, right?
But little to nothing of this is hinted at!
I am sure the coming books will progress the main storyline much more, so I will continue.
But the next book gotta be a banger.
January 22, 2023
Just like all of these types of books I liked the first one much more. The problem with a direct port of these stories is that the traditional book format doesn't happen. This one had a strange flow since it was as expected just a continuation of the previous novel. The book sufferers from this and you don't get the expected clutch, mid book climax, and workup to a finale. Overall it was great the narration was world class as always and the premise was fun and creative. I am glad that I bought it and listened to it, and I will absolutely continue to read as these are released, but I do wish that some of these ports from web to hard copy would take a longer route to publishing and do some rewriting and get a better product. Basically I find that as the story goes on it gets worse. The further from the original idea and intent the book gets the lower the story quality is in my opinion. It is difficult to just write a story day to day and get everything in the right place. I personally tried to write on Royal Road and can say that it isn't easy, but also that it isn't nearly as much work as someone like Sullivan that has upwards of 5 rewrites prior to release.
January 11, 2023
Overall this is very fun but still with a few issues.
It has all the high marks of book one but lacks the newness as well. The first part drags as a result. There is nothing wrong with any of it, it just has no new material to entice you.
It has all the high marks of book one but lacks the newness as well. The first part drags as a result. There is nothing wrong with any of it, it just has no new material to entice you.
January 11, 2023
fun
I like this series. It’s not amazing and it can be a bit tedious, but it is decently written and has fun ideas.
I look forward to the next book.
I like this series. It’s not amazing and it can be a bit tedious, but it is decently written and has fun ideas.
I look forward to the next book.
March 12, 2023
This is really a fun series. Alex continues his studies and as he and his friends grow they keep finding more and more action for us to enjoy. Alex has had to tell more people about his mark including the Headmaster. But he has found support and now he is planning on making a Golem. This is where the story really shines. The description of magic and golem making are amazing. Lots of details that adds to the world building.
November 6, 2023
Still pretty good...
Fantasy / refusal of the call/ magical academy / is this curse a blessing? / YA coming of age
I've got a little problem, I started book 3 before writing this review and events in That book colored my view of This book. Unless I'm reviewing this as a complete series I should let each book stand or fall on it's own strength. I'll try to do that but... I'm not sure if this book actually deserves 4 stars. I absolutely did think so when I finished this so 4 stars it will remain.
-This book is the second semester of year one in Ye Olde Magical Academy. You can settle in for a nice comfortable ride. The characters think foolish young thoughts, and get bad ideas but when the moment to act arrives they do the smart / right thing.
At this point that is one of my favorite things about this series, The author does not contrive to have his characters make stupid choices just to advance the plot or to introduce cheep drama. Seriously, applause to J.M. Clarke for not stooping to that tired gimmick. IF you are as sick of that bad sit-com ploy as I am you can read this book with confidence. (but don't expect the same in book 3 )
So, If you liked book 1 you will like this just fine. It has a little less fizz in the punch, but it's still the same flavor.
Fantasy / refusal of the call/ magical academy / is this curse a blessing? / YA coming of age
I've got a little problem, I started book 3 before writing this review and events in That book colored my view of This book. Unless I'm reviewing this as a complete series I should let each book stand or fall on it's own strength. I'll try to do that but... I'm not sure if this book actually deserves 4 stars. I absolutely did think so when I finished this so 4 stars it will remain.
-This book is the second semester of year one in Ye Olde Magical Academy. You can settle in for a nice comfortable ride. The characters think foolish young thoughts, and get bad ideas but when the moment to act arrives they do the smart / right thing.
At this point that is one of my favorite things about this series, The author does not contrive to have his characters make stupid choices just to advance the plot or to introduce cheep drama. Seriously, applause to J.M. Clarke for not stooping to that tired gimmick. IF you are as sick of that bad sit-com ploy as I am you can read this book with confidence. (but don't expect the same in book 3 )
So, If you liked book 1 you will like this just fine. It has a little less fizz in the punch, but it's still the same flavor.
February 2, 2023
I enjoyed this book, and it was an easy listen. Progression Fantasy is my favorite sub-genre right now, and I think there is a lot to like about the book. That being said, I think there were a lot of things the author could have done to build and hold tension. For much too long of the book, I didn’t feel like the stakes didn’t feel actively that high. Various characters have some interesting backstories (albeit not very original backstories), and I think the author could have done a lot to flesh them out. I will continue on with the series, and I am interested to see how this book evolves.
If I end up finishing the series, I’ll try and write a more in-depth review with Spoilers.
If I end up finishing the series, I’ll try and write a more in-depth review with Spoilers.
March 10, 2024
Slower pacing than first book but still very entertaining. The protagonist is developing quite well. The rest of the characters are falling behind a bit though it aligns with the lore. Onward to the next one!
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January 4, 2025Book One of 2025: this is like a cozy, low stakes academia read where nothing really bad or difficult happens (yet) to Alex or his friends. They study and get knocked around a bit, argue a bit, but mostly they just grow and have a good time. Hope my year will be like that!
January 21, 2023
I'm still enjoying the series although it's settling down into a familiar groove, so the impact of the power-up gimmick is waning.
June 27, 2023
Great audiobook
December 8, 2024
Part of me really wants to know if this author has taken chemistry classes cause god it sure sounds like several of the lectures from my previous chemistry classes .
January 27, 2023
Wow if the first book had something going for it well this one makes sure to get rid of everything interesting. The whole book is just endless studying with constant updates of the mc progress. There is no substance. Once again the world is made to make the mc feel so special in ways that don't make sense.
Since mc is still incapable of fighting in all the fights he mostly just distracts enemies and shouts commands that are usually just "behind you" and then just stands around and does nothing. This book managed to make magical schools sound boring. The combat got worse. The interactions between characters got worse. This whole book is just one big filler episode. 90% of the book could have been skipped and nothing of value would be lost
The only redeeming thing this book has is the explanations of alchemy and golem craft. The author does do a great job of making their magic science sound realistic and even interesting.
Since mc is still incapable of fighting in all the fights he mostly just distracts enemies and shouts commands that are usually just "behind you" and then just stands around and does nothing. This book managed to make magical schools sound boring. The combat got worse. The interactions between characters got worse. This whole book is just one big filler episode. 90% of the book could have been skipped and nothing of value would be lost
The only redeeming thing this book has is the explanations of alchemy and golem craft. The author does do a great job of making their magic science sound realistic and even interesting.
May 26, 2024
It’s a fun slice of life and magic academy story, definitely wanna continue the series.
loved the beware of chicken reference hahahah !
loved the beware of chicken reference hahahah !
October 4, 2024
Love the characters, their camaraderie and their quips they throw back and forth at each other.
February 15, 2024
5 In Time, Even Demons And Dragons Will Tremble At Your Coming Stars
Mark of the Fool 2 is the second book a Progression Fanstay Epic series by J. M. Clarke.
This book is annoyingly good. It contains companionship, battles against many foes, the pursuit of knowledge, and advancements in many arts. This story is still expanding, with the potential for more than just the previous tastes of political intrigue. Soon, we will be drawn back into the heat of Thameland's battle against the Ravener and its forces. All while the Fool continues to push the boundaries of what all thought him capable of.
It has enriching, mainly, to watch as this class of first year COMB-1000 students tackle the many obstacles and challenges placed before them. Even beyond the bonds tied with Alex's cabal; including Isolde, Khalik, and Thundar. This entire class has made lasting ties through facing such danger beside one another and triumphing.
The discoveries that have been made regarding the dungeon core, its capabilities, and ties to golem craft are exciting. Which will lend more aid to Thameland than I think Alex ever hoped for.
Yet, still more mysteries and dangers lurk unresolved in the background.
Mark of the Fool 2 is the second book a Progression Fanstay Epic series by J. M. Clarke.
This book is annoyingly good. It contains companionship, battles against many foes, the pursuit of knowledge, and advancements in many arts. This story is still expanding, with the potential for more than just the previous tastes of political intrigue. Soon, we will be drawn back into the heat of Thameland's battle against the Ravener and its forces. All while the Fool continues to push the boundaries of what all thought him capable of.
It has enriching, mainly, to watch as this class of first year COMB-1000 students tackle the many obstacles and challenges placed before them. Even beyond the bonds tied with Alex's cabal; including Isolde, Khalik, and Thundar. This entire class has made lasting ties through facing such danger beside one another and triumphing.
The discoveries that have been made regarding the dungeon core, its capabilities, and ties to golem craft are exciting. Which will lend more aid to Thameland than I think Alex ever hoped for.
Yet, still more mysteries and dangers lurk unresolved in the background.
March 27, 2024
Why did you read this book?
I thoroughly enjoyed the first book in the series, so I plan to read all of the books.
What format did you read this book in?
Read it as an eBook on Kindle.
Is this an educational book or a book for entertainment?
I read this book for pure entertainment purposes.
What genres do you think this book belongs to?
Fantasy, Humor and Comedy, Mystery, Romance, Suspense, Young Adult
What was your favorite part of the book?
When Alex and Theresa confess their love for each other, these two are so cute.
Who would you suggest this book to?
This book is for anyone who likes slow slice-of-life fantasy stories. If you liked the first book in the series, you'll like this one.
What is your general opinion/ rating of this book?
I thoroughly enjoyed the second book. It's slowly building upon itself, and when I think that there is nothing left to explore, the story adds more. I like the little details that the author adds that make the book feel realistic, even though it's in a fantasy setting. I thoroughly appreciate that the characters are intelligent, and they plan their way out of problems and conflicts. I think Alex and Theresa make a cute couple. I do feel terrible for Alex's sister and her problems with her fire affinity. I'm really hoping that the author will expand on their tragic backstory instead of just giving us hints about it. But I'm patient and looking forward to finding out. Alex's golem is insane. I'm not going to lie; if I were in a fantasy world, I'd want a creature just like him to have my back. Overall, I really enjoyed this book in the series. And I can't wait to read the next one.
Any trigger warnings?
Mental Health: Panic Attacks, Trauma,
Violence and Death: Death, Animal Death, Graphic Deaths, Mass Death, Murder, Execution, Suffocation, Extreme Violence, Gore, Mutilation, Self-Mutilation, Mutilation of Corpses, Cutting of Limbs, Forced Blood Draining, Animal Cruelty, Escalating Violence, Described Blood, Graphic Violence
Other: Bullying
I thoroughly enjoyed the first book in the series, so I plan to read all of the books.
What format did you read this book in?
Read it as an eBook on Kindle.
Is this an educational book or a book for entertainment?
I read this book for pure entertainment purposes.
What genres do you think this book belongs to?
Fantasy, Humor and Comedy, Mystery, Romance, Suspense, Young Adult
What was your favorite part of the book?
When Alex and Theresa confess their love for each other, these two are so cute.
Who would you suggest this book to?
This book is for anyone who likes slow slice-of-life fantasy stories. If you liked the first book in the series, you'll like this one.
What is your general opinion/ rating of this book?
I thoroughly enjoyed the second book. It's slowly building upon itself, and when I think that there is nothing left to explore, the story adds more. I like the little details that the author adds that make the book feel realistic, even though it's in a fantasy setting. I thoroughly appreciate that the characters are intelligent, and they plan their way out of problems and conflicts. I think Alex and Theresa make a cute couple. I do feel terrible for Alex's sister and her problems with her fire affinity. I'm really hoping that the author will expand on their tragic backstory instead of just giving us hints about it. But I'm patient and looking forward to finding out. Alex's golem is insane. I'm not going to lie; if I were in a fantasy world, I'd want a creature just like him to have my back. Overall, I really enjoyed this book in the series. And I can't wait to read the next one.
Any trigger warnings?
Mental Health: Panic Attacks, Trauma,
Violence and Death: Death, Animal Death, Graphic Deaths, Mass Death, Murder, Execution, Suffocation, Extreme Violence, Gore, Mutilation, Self-Mutilation, Mutilation of Corpses, Cutting of Limbs, Forced Blood Draining, Animal Cruelty, Escalating Violence, Described Blood, Graphic Violence
Other: Bullying
January 16, 2023
Brilliant sequel
This book is just excellent. If you liked the first you’ll more than like this one - If anything it’s better than the first. Same as the first one it has something of a laid back pace for the most part but is so finely tuned in that regard. It’s almost slice of life in a way but never feels like it’s dragging it’s heels. It takes its time and things are explored in depth and detail but I never felt like I was powering though a part of the book to get to something I was more interested in as these sort of books can sometimes feel. The monsters introduced at the end of the first book are held back a long time in this one which was a smart move I think as I worried we’d have a switching perspective right till the end to build tension but really just build my annoyance - this was thankfully avoided. It’s really just very well written and I enjoyed it enormously. Same as the first everything is realised in vivid detail and feels thought out, the characters jump off the page and are charming, the wider plot is developed nicely while still keeping to the progression fantasy core I loved in the first. There may have been a few typos but none jump out in my memory what I do remember though is no logical inconsistencies or issues with how the plot flowed which can sometimes be an issue in books of this ilk. Really just 10/10 I loved this book. You might not like it if you want mile a minute action (not to say there’s no action) but if your looking at reviews you probably read the first in which case you will likely devour this and love it as much as me.
This book is just excellent. If you liked the first you’ll more than like this one - If anything it’s better than the first. Same as the first one it has something of a laid back pace for the most part but is so finely tuned in that regard. It’s almost slice of life in a way but never feels like it’s dragging it’s heels. It takes its time and things are explored in depth and detail but I never felt like I was powering though a part of the book to get to something I was more interested in as these sort of books can sometimes feel. The monsters introduced at the end of the first book are held back a long time in this one which was a smart move I think as I worried we’d have a switching perspective right till the end to build tension but really just build my annoyance - this was thankfully avoided. It’s really just very well written and I enjoyed it enormously. Same as the first everything is realised in vivid detail and feels thought out, the characters jump off the page and are charming, the wider plot is developed nicely while still keeping to the progression fantasy core I loved in the first. There may have been a few typos but none jump out in my memory what I do remember though is no logical inconsistencies or issues with how the plot flowed which can sometimes be an issue in books of this ilk. Really just 10/10 I loved this book. You might not like it if you want mile a minute action (not to say there’s no action) but if your looking at reviews you probably read the first in which case you will likely devour this and love it as much as me.
May 3, 2023
Alex is finishing out his first year of college, growing quickly in his physical and magical capabilities. Unfortunately, his problems are getting bigger too. Between the mana vampire terrorizing the town, a demon summoner, challenging coursework, a job, and his family, he's got a lot on his plate. Is it too much for one Fool to juggle?
This volume closes off the first arc, although there's plenty more to come. I love the way this series feels like an authentic college experience, only for magic. Alex's professors and classmates have a bit less focus this time around, in favor of expanding his extra-curricular activities (and, of course, the giant battles that tend to happen during his Art of the Wizard in Combat class).
I also really like the way this feels so true to life. There are the big events going on in the background: the mana vampire, the demon summoner, Thameland, etc. Sometimes they matter. Most of the time Alex is more focused on what's in front of him. I particularly like what happens with Minervus, and the repercussions of that. Alex's decision to involve Baelin directly impacts what happens at the end, too. I like how Baelin handles that conversation and how he admits that Alex has been both more and less than he expected.
Overall this is a very good read. It's been one of my favorite web serials ever since I found it and I'm so happy I can finally own it in book form. I rate this book Highly Recommended.
This volume closes off the first arc, although there's plenty more to come. I love the way this series feels like an authentic college experience, only for magic. Alex's professors and classmates have a bit less focus this time around, in favor of expanding his extra-curricular activities (and, of course, the giant battles that tend to happen during his Art of the Wizard in Combat class).
I also really like the way this feels so true to life. There are the big events going on in the background: the mana vampire, the demon summoner, Thameland, etc. Sometimes they matter. Most of the time Alex is more focused on what's in front of him. I particularly like what happens with Minervus, and the repercussions of that. Alex's decision to involve Baelin directly impacts what happens at the end, too. I like how Baelin handles that conversation and how he admits that Alex has been both more and less than he expected.
Overall this is a very good read. It's been one of my favorite web serials ever since I found it and I'm so happy I can finally own it in book form. I rate this book Highly Recommended.
January 17, 2023
I really care for Alex Roth. The MC in this book. The Mark of the Fool given to him by his God, really hinders his ability to do magic. Particularly his ability to fight, or do any offensive moves. But Alex finds loopholes in the Mark's ability to control him. So as it may take him longer he's discovering what he can or can't do, in order to stop monsters with his spell casting... And with supervision from his teacher, your gonna find him with a party of wizard's fighting. So yeah, the book may have some pacing issues, but I don't care.
The book's narrated by Travis Baldree, a great voice performer. He consistently gives each book a nuanced, full cast audio feel.
Here's a couple of quotes that I enjoyed:
"A specter terror loomed over them all. One which threatened to steal the courage from mightiest heart. Midterms "You know." Thundar grumbled. "I think maybe choking the life out of one of my professors would be easier than studying from one of his lectures."
"Alex sighed. Of course. Of course his supervisor would be late, and leave him to stand out in the hall all by himself, while he was as nervous as a flea on a scratching dog."
The book's narrated by Travis Baldree, a great voice performer. He consistently gives each book a nuanced, full cast audio feel.
Here's a couple of quotes that I enjoyed:
"A specter terror loomed over them all. One which threatened to steal the courage from mightiest heart. Midterms "You know." Thundar grumbled. "I think maybe choking the life out of one of my professors would be easier than studying from one of his lectures."
"Alex sighed. Of course. Of course his supervisor would be late, and leave him to stand out in the hall all by himself, while he was as nervous as a flea on a scratching dog."
September 23, 2023
So I will remind everyone that this is billed as a progression fantasy - which basically means it takes forever for anything to happen. Be patient.
J.M.Clarke goes into meticulous detail for almost every activity. That is both its strength and its weakness.
During the fight scenes there are only so many ways you can swing a blow from the left. Swing a blow from the right. I've gotten to the point where I skim/scan the fight scenes, and then if anything novel jumps out at me, I go back and read that section in depth.
On the other hand the development of magic theory and items is spectacular. Clarke gives very explicit explanations. And I know I could easily recreate those effects here by following the directions. Um... all I need to do is round up the ingredients. ;-)
Alex has been chased by a 'monster' for the entirety of this book. I was a little worried that the cliff hanger at the end of the book would be a continuation of this monster fight. I was happily surprised/pleased to see that this loose end was tied off in this book, and and alternative cliff hanger was presented to us to lure us into Book 3.
J.M.Clarke goes into meticulous detail for almost every activity. That is both its strength and its weakness.
During the fight scenes there are only so many ways you can swing a blow from the left. Swing a blow from the right. I've gotten to the point where I skim/scan the fight scenes, and then if anything novel jumps out at me, I go back and read that section in depth.
On the other hand the development of magic theory and items is spectacular. Clarke gives very explicit explanations. And I know I could easily recreate those effects here by following the directions. Um... all I need to do is round up the ingredients. ;-)
Alex has been chased by a 'monster' for the entirety of this book. I was a little worried that the cliff hanger at the end of the book would be a continuation of this monster fight. I was happily surprised/pleased to see that this loose end was tied off in this book, and and alternative cliff hanger was presented to us to lure us into Book 3.
October 16, 2023
J.M. Clarke's "Mark of the Fool 2" is a sequel to her debut novel, "Mark of the Fool." The story follows the adventures of Jester, a young woman who is branded with the mark of a fool after she is caught using magic. In the second book, Jester is on the run from the king's soldiers, and she must find a way to clear her name and save her friends.
Clarke's writing is engaging and descriptive, and she creates a vivid world that is full of magic and adventure. The characters in the story are well-developed and believable, and the reader quickly cares about what happens to them. The plot is fast-paced and exciting, and there is never a dull moment.
One of the things I enjoyed most about "Mark of the Fool 2" is the way that Clarke explores the theme of prejudice. Jester is often judged and discriminated against because she is a woman who uses magic. Clarke shows how this prejudice can be harmful and unfair.
Overall, "Mark of the Fool 2" is an excellent fantasy novel. It is well-written, exciting, and thought-provoking. I highly recommend it to fans of fantasy, as well as anyone who enjoys a good adventure story.
Clarke's writing is engaging and descriptive, and she creates a vivid world that is full of magic and adventure. The characters in the story are well-developed and believable, and the reader quickly cares about what happens to them. The plot is fast-paced and exciting, and there is never a dull moment.
One of the things I enjoyed most about "Mark of the Fool 2" is the way that Clarke explores the theme of prejudice. Jester is often judged and discriminated against because she is a woman who uses magic. Clarke shows how this prejudice can be harmful and unfair.
Overall, "Mark of the Fool 2" is an excellent fantasy novel. It is well-written, exciting, and thought-provoking. I highly recommend it to fans of fantasy, as well as anyone who enjoys a good adventure story.
February 22, 2023
Even better than book 1!
Audio book was especially good, and this was a really good read! The MC was less wimpy in book 2 though still a bit of a bumbling "fool", pardon the pun.
Still no political or social garbage, no wanton sex scenes, and minimal swearing for those that care. I really hope the series continues like this!
To the Author: I liked that both characters seemed to grow some, and I can appreciate a strong female lead to give women someone to wish to emulate and be like--but if a character has no faults or weaknesses to overcome, it's really hard to care about them, or relate to them. Same with exceptionally weak characters. No one, male or female, wants to be weak, blundering, helpless, or powerless. The extent in the first book to which you portrayed the male MC makes it hard to relate--unless he grows out of those things and into traits I want to be better at myself.
TLDR; too strong, or too weak makes characters unbelievable, and unrelatable. A character can be anything but stagnant or perfect, or readers won't invest in the story.
Audio book was especially good, and this was a really good read! The MC was less wimpy in book 2 though still a bit of a bumbling "fool", pardon the pun.
Still no political or social garbage, no wanton sex scenes, and minimal swearing for those that care. I really hope the series continues like this!
To the Author: I liked that both characters seemed to grow some, and I can appreciate a strong female lead to give women someone to wish to emulate and be like--but if a character has no faults or weaknesses to overcome, it's really hard to care about them, or relate to them. Same with exceptionally weak characters. No one, male or female, wants to be weak, blundering, helpless, or powerless. The extent in the first book to which you portrayed the male MC makes it hard to relate--unless he grows out of those things and into traits I want to be better at myself.
TLDR; too strong, or too weak makes characters unbelievable, and unrelatable. A character can be anything but stagnant or perfect, or readers won't invest in the story.
December 19, 2023
Arguably more enjoyable than the first despite in many ways less happens in regards to the overall story. We get more time with Alex actively working of his magic, his golem, and his relationships with other characters. With 5-6 books currently released in the series, book 2 benefits with a deeper exploration of its characters, and as a reader I can still look forward to the story itself progessing in later volumes.
The writing as a whole continues its high standard, in my opinion.
The dialogue while juvenile at times also has some fantastic banter between friends.
The conclusion with a few enemies we see in this volume is suprisingly dark given the tone of the story so far, and so very very satisfying. I'm not going to lie it twisted an evil little part of me, and I'm glad the author didnt shy away from it.
Without breaking down anymore of the book, if you enjoyed book 1 you cant go wrong with 2, and for anyone looking to start the series I am overall quite enjoying it and recommend giving book 1 a shot.
The writing as a whole continues its high standard, in my opinion.
The dialogue while juvenile at times also has some fantastic banter between friends.
The conclusion with a few enemies we see in this volume is suprisingly dark given the tone of the story so far, and so very very satisfying. I'm not going to lie it twisted an evil little part of me, and I'm glad the author didnt shy away from it.
Without breaking down anymore of the book, if you enjoyed book 1 you cant go wrong with 2, and for anyone looking to start the series I am overall quite enjoying it and recommend giving book 1 a shot.
January 18, 2023
Rating 4.0 stars
This is a good addition to the series. There are things that could have been a little better. There were points of the story that were slow at times. The best part is the interactions with the characters. The banter back and forth brought a smile to my face multiple times. The mark was mentioned multiple times and it was used but I was hoping for a little bit more on the skill development. Overall though I am happy with the results and am looking forward to the next book.
This is a good addition to the series. There are things that could have been a little better. There were points of the story that were slow at times. The best part is the interactions with the characters. The banter back and forth brought a smile to my face multiple times. The mark was mentioned multiple times and it was used but I was hoping for a little bit more on the skill development. Overall though I am happy with the results and am looking forward to the next book.
February 8, 2023
Combined review for Book 1 and 2.
Initially though this was a Lit RPG, it is not. No it's a fantasy book, and a pretty good one at that. The world is very interesting, and it's got a really functional magic system with a set of likeable characters. The titular 'mark of the fool' is an interesting wrinkle that mostly plays in early in the first book, but is a constant background issue/boon through the rest.
You can tell the author was very aware of tropes. Especially the one where a character keeps a secret and it comes back to bite him. I like the subversion of that, but he's a bit to on the nose with lamp shading it. It would be better if he just subverted the tropes without the near meta commentary that goes with it. Still all very good and I want to see where these characters go from here.
Initially though this was a Lit RPG, it is not. No it's a fantasy book, and a pretty good one at that. The world is very interesting, and it's got a really functional magic system with a set of likeable characters. The titular 'mark of the fool' is an interesting wrinkle that mostly plays in early in the first book, but is a constant background issue/boon through the rest.
You can tell the author was very aware of tropes. Especially the one where a character keeps a secret and it comes back to bite him. I like the subversion of that, but he's a bit to on the nose with lamp shading it. It would be better if he just subverted the tropes without the near meta commentary that goes with it. Still all very good and I want to see where these characters go from here.
February 27, 2023
Really enjoyed this book, and the series is definitely growing on me. Had mixed feelings on the first book, but now that the setting is set within the magical academy, I love it. Find it an interesting trope of the MC unable to use combat magic and has to be creative on his other skills. Also absolutely love the lack of drama surrounding his decision-making: once he decides to share his secret (about being the Fool, about his love for Teresa), he commits and does it. Seems like this never happens so it's very refreshing.
March 29, 2023
I don't know how to feel about this book.
One of the main reasons I picked it up was the golem and that hasn't panned out so far. My reasoning was, that since book one had the scene on the cover like less than a quarter of the way into the book, the same would happen in book two. I'm more than 60% into book two, and he hasn't constructed the thing as yet.
Really don't care for the academia trope. Just build stuff and use it to do magic.
I may pick up the sequel, but I won't be doing it anytime soon. I really dislike the protagonist having to struggle for every damn thing in his life.
3/5 Stars
One of the main reasons I picked it up was the golem and that hasn't panned out so far. My reasoning was, that since book one had the scene on the cover like less than a quarter of the way into the book, the same would happen in book two. I'm more than 60% into book two, and he hasn't constructed the thing as yet.
Really don't care for the academia trope. Just build stuff and use it to do magic.
I may pick up the sequel, but I won't be doing it anytime soon. I really dislike the protagonist having to struggle for every damn thing in his life.
3/5 Stars
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