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Relentless Souls
Relentless Souls
A new threat has risen.
For years, peace has reigned within the boundaries of the empire. Monks, gifted with extraordinary powers, wander the land, keeping order by any means necessary. Their gifts make them invincible, or so most believe.
A lone warrior disagrees. Guided by a shadowy organization, Fang seeks to break the monasteries. Once left for dead by powerful monks, revenge has driven him to unimaginable strength. Only one obstacle stands in his way.
His name is Lei, and he is no hero. Exiled by the monasteries for an unforgivable crime, he’s more comfortable with a drink in his hand than a sword. But he’s about to be thrust into a fight he had no part in starting.
As destiny hurtles the two men into inevitable conflict, the fate of the empire hangs in the balance.
For years, peace has reigned within the boundaries of the empire. Monks, gifted with extraordinary powers, wander the land, keeping order by any means necessary. Their gifts make them invincible, or so most believe.
A lone warrior disagrees. Guided by a shadowy organization, Fang seeks to break the monasteries. Once left for dead by powerful monks, revenge has driven him to unimaginable strength. Only one obstacle stands in his way.
His name is Lei, and he is no hero. Exiled by the monasteries for an unforgivable crime, he’s more comfortable with a drink in his hand than a sword. But he’s about to be thrust into a fight he had no part in starting.
As destiny hurtles the two men into inevitable conflict, the fate of the empire hangs in the balance.
388 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 28, 2018
153 people are currently reading
531 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
April 2, 2021
At least I finished this one.
This was rough. All of the major conflicts could have been resolved by having an honest conversation. The magic system was inconsistent and fluctuated only to serve the plot. The fight scenes were nonsensical, shifting solely based on the whim of the author, rather than from a logical progression or planned approach. The old, "Now that my enemy is mostly defeated, I'll just be distracted long enough for them to escape," trope was used again and again.
The worst part was that the core motivation of the antagonist was supposedly based on the horrific totalitarian regime of the Monks... which was never demonstrated. It wasn't even part of his inner dialogue or included in his master's brain-washing diatribes. So we're left with no foundation for half of the book's driving force.
This was rough. All of the major conflicts could have been resolved by having an honest conversation. The magic system was inconsistent and fluctuated only to serve the plot. The fight scenes were nonsensical, shifting solely based on the whim of the author, rather than from a logical progression or planned approach. The old, "Now that my enemy is mostly defeated, I'll just be distracted long enough for them to escape," trope was used again and again.
The worst part was that the core motivation of the antagonist was supposedly based on the horrific totalitarian regime of the Monks... which was never demonstrated. It wasn't even part of his inner dialogue or included in his master's brain-washing diatribes. So we're left with no foundation for half of the book's driving force.
September 19, 2021
Relentless Souls sadly never completely managed to grab me. It was a quick and easy read, so I finished it in a couple of days, but especially the last half felt a lot longer than it actually was for me.
It's not a bad book, or I wouldn't have finished it! It just didn't blow me away either. The start was promising, and I was looking forward to some mystery and what seemed to be a fascinating world building / fighting style!
However the characters felt a bit bland and I can't say I really cared for either of them much. So while there was plenty of action to keep me going, I wouldn't have minded all the main characters just being killed off. There was a small romance which felt very wooden and artificial to me, though I can't say more about it without spoilers.
The fighting style was engaging at first, but became too drawn out over time, so instead of being glued to the pages or was more a "aren't you done yet?" in the last few chapters. It did feel off, as in being used just for "coolness" and not because it makes sense. The way magic is used seems to be changed to fit the story instead of being consistent.
Some bits that annoy me were used over and over. Namely:
"Fought to the very last bit of energy" and then "of wait, no there's more after all!"
And the
"Enemy is defeated, so I stop playing attention" or "I don't need to check he's actually dead"
All in all it was a quick and entertaining read, but not a favourite of mine, and I won't read on in the series.
It's not a bad book, or I wouldn't have finished it! It just didn't blow me away either. The start was promising, and I was looking forward to some mystery and what seemed to be a fascinating world building / fighting style!
However the characters felt a bit bland and I can't say I really cared for either of them much. So while there was plenty of action to keep me going, I wouldn't have minded all the main characters just being killed off. There was a small romance which felt very wooden and artificial to me, though I can't say more about it without spoilers.
The fighting style was engaging at first, but became too drawn out over time, so instead of being glued to the pages or was more a "aren't you done yet?" in the last few chapters. It did feel off, as in being used just for "coolness" and not because it makes sense. The way magic is used seems to be changed to fit the story instead of being consistent.
Some bits that annoy me were used over and over. Namely:
"Fought to the very last bit of energy" and then "of wait, no there's more after all!"
And the
"Enemy is defeated, so I stop playing attention" or "I don't need to check he's actually dead"
All in all it was a quick and entertaining read, but not a favourite of mine, and I won't read on in the series.
December 12, 2023
I enjoyed the tale. It's rather generic and treads well-trodden paths. It's not a bad thing; it allows for a safely predictable déroulé, which is sometimes comforting, if unadventurous.
I feel like the actual pay-offs didn't live up to their setups. There was a lot hinted at that never coalesced. The MC was a bit one-tracked, the antagonist curiously oblivious. I got too much magic system and not enough world-building to make it all stick.
I'm guessing that the "real" intrigue (the source of the power) will only start being investigated in the next volume, if there ever is. It's a shame because that's where I was expecting the better conflict to come from.
The narration was competent. I wasn't wowed, but I wasn't bothered either. Sometimes, discreet narration works just fine.
This was a middle-of-the-road tale.
It works.
I feel like the actual pay-offs didn't live up to their setups. There was a lot hinted at that never coalesced. The MC was a bit one-tracked, the antagonist curiously oblivious. I got too much magic system and not enough world-building to make it all stick.
I'm guessing that the "real" intrigue (the source of the power) will only start being investigated in the next volume, if there ever is. It's a shame because that's where I was expecting the better conflict to come from.
The narration was competent. I wasn't wowed, but I wasn't bothered either. Sometimes, discreet narration works just fine.
This was a middle-of-the-road tale.
It works.
November 12, 2019
Great read!!!
Just a fun story that kept me wanting more the whole time. The characters all came to life, and the ending made me want to keep reading! Always a sign of a good book
Just a fun story that kept me wanting more the whole time. The characters all came to life, and the ending made me want to keep reading! Always a sign of a good book
March 4, 2019
Excellent read
Read after reading the nightblade series. If you enjoyed that well worth a look. Similar in style but stand alone well paced gripping novel.
Read after reading the nightblade series. If you enjoyed that well worth a look. Similar in style but stand alone well paced gripping novel.
February 26, 2019
I found it held my concentration. Made me want to know what is going to happen next.
I have read many of these books and have never been disappointed. I am just glad I haven't read every one of his books yet.
I have read many of these books and have never been disappointed. I am just glad I haven't read every one of his books yet.
February 14, 2019
Entertaining read
A good read. A different concept on power and implementation. Story line not to shabby. Characters well constructed and interesting
A good read. A different concept on power and implementation. Story line not to shabby. Characters well constructed and interesting
June 27, 2021
I enjoyed reading this book which blends grimdark, Eastern-themed fantasy world building, and more.
The descriptive writing and character development is well-paced and enjoyable. I enjoy the 3rd person PoV and how it switches from following one character to another. The character actions were easy to visualize and I found myself picturing the action instead of just reading it.
I'm looking forward to reading more in this series.
The descriptive writing and character development is well-paced and enjoyable. I enjoy the 3rd person PoV and how it switches from following one character to another. The character actions were easy to visualize and I found myself picturing the action instead of just reading it.
I'm looking forward to reading more in this series.
July 29, 2022
This book, the story was actually pretty good. The two main characters are Lei and Fang, both ex monks that were banished from the monistary as young children/teenagers. All because they can channel their power into weapons. Was definitely enjoyable, sometimes you pick up a book from the cover or synapses on the back cover. Or reading the blurb on a webpage, but when you do end up getting that book, it just doesn't deliver. But Relentless Souls did deliver, with action and revenge.
January 16, 2019
Having read all (I think) of Mr. Kirk’s fantasy I would say that this is probably the most balanced of his books with respect to action and exposition. Perhaps as a direct result this was quite the page turner for me and I was through it in just a night. Give it a try.
December 31, 2018
Creative, engaging, action thriller, author Ryan Kirk succeeds in capturing my imagination once again.
Well done.
Well done.
September 15, 2021
Review
I found this to be a very good book. It has good characters and a well thought out storyline. Enjoyed it very much.
I found this to be a very good book. It has good characters and a well thought out storyline. Enjoyed it very much.
February 20, 2023
Well... I'm not disappointed. Action-focused story for sure. It's like one of those books that has a great premise - really, if it only had a bit more depth and some themes were more elaborated on, but maybe it wasn't the author's intention to make this more complex; so much room for scheming. It also reminds me of Rob J Hayes Never Die book. The idea is basically the same.
One question that is left unanswered, and it deeply annoys me, is, why are the monasteries so evil? Why destroy them? Was the old man just bitter? Probably. Or the remaining two books will give me some answers.
As for some technicalities, great writing style, simple, clean, and easy to follow - the book just flows, really. Shifting POVs, and some of them overlapping, were really nice.
However, I believe that I would have put down the book at some point, if it weren't for the audiobook. Great narration that made the story even more bearable.
So yeah, this book doesn't require you to use your brain too much, the characters have no development and are hard to relate to (flat kind of), the plot is simple and there is no room for confusion - everything is clear from the beginning so to say. Nevertheless, an enjoyable read that you can swallow in 3 days.
One question that is left unanswered, and it deeply annoys me, is, why are the monasteries so evil? Why destroy them? Was the old man just bitter? Probably. Or the remaining two books will give me some answers.
As for some technicalities, great writing style, simple, clean, and easy to follow - the book just flows, really. Shifting POVs, and some of them overlapping, were really nice.
However, I believe that I would have put down the book at some point, if it weren't for the audiobook. Great narration that made the story even more bearable.
So yeah, this book doesn't require you to use your brain too much, the characters have no development and are hard to relate to (flat kind of), the plot is simple and there is no room for confusion - everything is clear from the beginning so to say. Nevertheless, an enjoyable read that you can swallow in 3 days.
April 24, 2019
We start with a prologue that tells there is something coming, but the news doesn't make it back to the monastery. We learn a little about Lei, and how he's not part of the monastery anymore, along with his angry feelings toward his brother. This prologue is important as it sets the stage for Lei and his brother's relationship. But it also connects the trouble that's coming to our characters.
It's been a while since I've listened to Andrew Tell. I've enjoyed his stories in the past and glad I got to one with his narration. Andrew did not let me down. He voices the story clean and clear through out. He tells the story of Lei and Fang in a way I don't know it's being narrated. This is credit to Ryan's writing as well since I can see the fights as the characters are experiencing them.
****FULL REVIEW TO FOLLOW****
It's been a while since I've listened to Andrew Tell. I've enjoyed his stories in the past and glad I got to one with his narration. Andrew did not let me down. He voices the story clean and clear through out. He tells the story of Lei and Fang in a way I don't know it's being narrated. This is credit to Ryan's writing as well since I can see the fights as the characters are experiencing them.
****FULL REVIEW TO FOLLOW****
August 20, 2020
I had started this book some time last year but for whatever reason, I just couldn't get into it. But since I received a free copy of this from the author I felt like I owed him another shot and I'm glad that I tried it again. I enjoyed the book very much even though there's a lot more discussion of battles fought by spell casting than I would normally like. But the entire idea of one faction attempting to defeat the monks and their monastery teachings (fighting without using actual weapons) and one young man who was thrown out of the monastery who takes up a battle of revenge after losing his brother was both compelling and very readable. I'm even intrigued enough to put the next book in the series on my reading list because I would like to see what happens to this bad brother who appears to want to live a better life.
April 6, 2019
This is a gem. As the number of books I have read has increased, it sometimes seems that the quality of the average book has decreased. It has become increasingly rare that I discover one of true quality. This is one such book. Ryan Kirk presents a vivid Asian themed fantasy, which depicts fascinating charters, cultures, and magic systems. The writing is fresh and well paced and expertly pulls the reader into the story. The world building is excellent and is well balanced by the vibrant character development. This is a great fantasy story and I will definitely be reading more from this author.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Morality Rating - This book contains violence and drunkenness.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Morality Rating - This book contains violence and drunkenness.
October 18, 2019
The central conflict is poorly threaded and the overall world is just too grim dark to be interesting.
The antagonists (Everyone but the MC and even he gives it a jolly good try) are just too black and black and maybe sometimes lighter shades of grey.
The pacing and build up is also such a slow burn I found myself checking at least 5 times how much longer did the book have left (Audiobook) just to make sure I was going to stay awake to the end of this.
The best I will say is try the first 3 chapters and if even once you had a thought about going to the dishes rather than continue than go do that and give this book a pass.
The antagonists (Everyone but the MC and even he gives it a jolly good try) are just too black and black and maybe sometimes lighter shades of grey.
The pacing and build up is also such a slow burn I found myself checking at least 5 times how much longer did the book have left (Audiobook) just to make sure I was going to stay awake to the end of this.
The best I will say is try the first 3 chapters and if even once you had a thought about going to the dishes rather than continue than go do that and give this book a pass.
May 4, 2019
I enjoyed most of this book. The narration was really good, and for the most part I liked the story/plot. There was some repetition in the way it was told and I was ready for the end when it came. I think it was the way the characters interacted that kept me from really enjoying the book to it's fullest. There were some really fun action sequences in there, and overall I had a good experience listening to it.
This story was given to me for free at my request for my voluntary and unbiased review.
This story was given to me for free at my request for my voluntary and unbiased review.
November 13, 2019
Relentless Souls
Heart of Defiance
Their Spirit Unbroken
I just finished reading this trilogy and was very impressed! Ryan Kirk gives us believable flawed characters. Sometimes it’s hard to know who to root for. Heroes and villains all seem to think they are doing what is best for the masses. If you like a fast paced story with lots of action I highly recommend this series or any of Ryan’s other works especially the Nightlades trilogy. Great work Ryan can’t wait to read more!
Heart of Defiance
Their Spirit Unbroken
I just finished reading this trilogy and was very impressed! Ryan Kirk gives us believable flawed characters. Sometimes it’s hard to know who to root for. Heroes and villains all seem to think they are doing what is best for the masses. If you like a fast paced story with lots of action I highly recommend this series or any of Ryan’s other works especially the Nightlades trilogy. Great work Ryan can’t wait to read more!
April 6, 2019
a well written story of redemption And revenge
The idea for energy attacks during fights was great
With likeable characters And excellent Narration By Andrew I’m glad I came across this one
I received a free review audiobook and voluntarily left this review
The idea for energy attacks during fights was great
With likeable characters And excellent Narration By Andrew I’m glad I came across this one
I received a free review audiobook and voluntarily left this review
July 27, 2019
Martial Arts, Magic, Love Story, War
Everything you want in fantasy novels. Clearly of an Asian/Oriental environment, there are monks, warriors, assassins, and triads involved in a fight for control of the future of the worldm
Everything you want in fantasy novels. Clearly of an Asian/Oriental environment, there are monks, warriors, assassins, and triads involved in a fight for control of the future of the worldm
December 5, 2019
2 man show
This one flips POV back and forth between 2 main characters. Martial heros with finger seal mystic powers. It's a character story with good suspense and action. It felt more like a western action movie than wuxia. I had fun. Found in the also boughts.
This one flips POV back and forth between 2 main characters. Martial heros with finger seal mystic powers. It's a character story with good suspense and action. It felt more like a western action movie than wuxia. I had fun. Found in the also boughts.
January 22, 2020
He does it again
Kirk has a special talent & you see it in it’s many forms in this book. The story flows, the characters fit, the magic is very cool & the action is fast paced & never stops. Such a great read. You all should enjoy this book from a special author & talent
Kirk has a special talent & you see it in it’s many forms in this book. The story flows, the characters fit, the magic is very cool & the action is fast paced & never stops. Such a great read. You all should enjoy this book from a special author & talent
June 9, 2020
Great and enjoyable book
Loved this book I know I'm repetitive in saying this, but it's true if the book gives me an escape and I have a hard time putting it down. Then it's a great book.
Loved this book I know I'm repetitive in saying this, but it's true if the book gives me an escape and I have a hard time putting it down. Then it's a great book.
April 24, 2021
This story was not for me. This sub genre is not that I’m interested in. The writer was good and if he wrote a different type of story, I would be interested in reading it. I’m giving it 3 stars because it’s the type of story rather than the writing that left me cold.
April 3, 2019
soooo boring.
April 5, 2019
I really enjoy all the Nightblade books, I like the stories and the characters, I look forward to the next one.
April 9, 2019
3.5 stars. I liked it but it wasn’t my favorite from this author. I can’t quite put a finger on what that is though. It is decent at least.
April 9, 2019
My goodness I loved this book! It takes “talk to the hand” to a whole new level. Lots of plot twists and cool characters.
May 7, 2021
A nice read
Ryan is good, yet I have been spoiled by the great David Gemmell. David is the best heroic fantasy writer ever.
Ryan is good, yet I have been spoiled by the great David Gemmell. David is the best heroic fantasy writer ever.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews