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Mortal Enemy
Vant Hu’l is cursed. Dragged to the center of a wasteland by a ruthless malevolence, the legendary warrior discovers a cavern filled with devious riddles and fiendish traps. Upon solving the labyrinth, he is confronted by a hideous creature. A beast with unimaginable abilities. A being of unspeakable evil... Death.
Without a shred of clemency, the demigod presents Vant with a choice: do his sinister bidding out in the world, or suffer an eternity of horrifying torment. Thus begins Vant’s quest out of the badlands, through the hostile wilderness, into the clutches of twisted townships, and finally toward conflict with the vile stewards of a corrupted civilization.
But Vant will not go it alone. In the midst of his journey, he develops an unlikely companionship with a clever and venturesome teenage girl, the expert survivalist Skii Tavee. They also form an alliance with two newfound—but questionable—companions: Kram Grammie, the sneaky con man who is as crafty as he is klepto, and an off-kilter eccentric bizarrely known as The World’s Worst Magician. United, they set out to dispatch their foes, rescue the innocents caught in the crossfire, and unite the forces of a world gone astray, all while reconciling with their own haunting pasts.
"Mortal Enemy" is an experience like no other. It is a relentless whirlwind of action and adventure. A tale of conflicted heroes and dastardly villains. A story rich with darkness and struggle, yet filled with devilishly wicked humor. It is jam-packed with nightmarish scenarios, fantastical environments, rich mythology, incredible weapons, unique technologies, and characters dripping with personality… with shocking surprises awaiting you at every turn.
Come experience Death… if you dare.
* * *
This book is fully illustrated and contains all-original black and white artwork. Please note that this is the eBook edition (also available in print as a standard edition with black and white illustrations, and as a collector's edition with color illustrations). "Mortal Enemy" is also available as an immersive audio experience featuring an extraordinary cast of performers, multidimensional sound, cinematic-quality effects, and a spectacular orchestral score.
Without a shred of clemency, the demigod presents Vant with a choice: do his sinister bidding out in the world, or suffer an eternity of horrifying torment. Thus begins Vant’s quest out of the badlands, through the hostile wilderness, into the clutches of twisted townships, and finally toward conflict with the vile stewards of a corrupted civilization.
But Vant will not go it alone. In the midst of his journey, he develops an unlikely companionship with a clever and venturesome teenage girl, the expert survivalist Skii Tavee. They also form an alliance with two newfound—but questionable—companions: Kram Grammie, the sneaky con man who is as crafty as he is klepto, and an off-kilter eccentric bizarrely known as The World’s Worst Magician. United, they set out to dispatch their foes, rescue the innocents caught in the crossfire, and unite the forces of a world gone astray, all while reconciling with their own haunting pasts.
"Mortal Enemy" is an experience like no other. It is a relentless whirlwind of action and adventure. A tale of conflicted heroes and dastardly villains. A story rich with darkness and struggle, yet filled with devilishly wicked humor. It is jam-packed with nightmarish scenarios, fantastical environments, rich mythology, incredible weapons, unique technologies, and characters dripping with personality… with shocking surprises awaiting you at every turn.
Come experience Death… if you dare.
* * *
This book is fully illustrated and contains all-original black and white artwork. Please note that this is the eBook edition (also available in print as a standard edition with black and white illustrations, and as a collector's edition with color illustrations). "Mortal Enemy" is also available as an immersive audio experience featuring an extraordinary cast of performers, multidimensional sound, cinematic-quality effects, and a spectacular orchestral score.
450 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 31, 2018
About the author
Nicholas Ryan Howard
5 books13 followersNicholas Ryan Howard is an author, philosopher, and expert in the field of Creativity. He was educated at The University of Southern California in Communications and trained as a Master Facilitator in Spiritual Psychology at the University of Santa Monica, where he later served as a Director. As a media producer and content creator he has worked on such properties as "The Bourne Identity," "Harry Potter," and "Star Wars," and he is the visionary behind the epic "Legends of the Grim Reaper" saga as well as the podcast "Of Tears and Blood." Currently he spends his time dreaming up new worlds, counseling individuals on their expansion of consciousness, consulting with organizations, and speaking around the globe.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
November 9, 2018
Note that I listened to the full cast audio edition, but there isn't an entry for that on here.
I was looking for a bit of escapism, and Mortal Enemy certainly delivers on that front. While it has the serious world building that one would expect from a dark fantasy novel, there's plenty of room for very contemporary humor to shine through as well. While Vant is of course the main character, I appreciated that Skii was fully fleshed out and (only a minor spoiler here) not forced to be a love interest for Vant. There are a couple of twists toward the end that I anticipated but enjoyed seeing through. They were bold choices, and this novel certainly isn't lacking that.
The cast is exceptional as well. Standouts include Reid Scott in his narration, Troian Bellisario as Skii, and a totally unrecognizable Chris Pine, who seems to be having the time of his life hamming it up in the best way as the Mayor.
As far as the writing goes, I found the story compelling. There were moments when things were slightly overwritten or bits went on too long (there was a bit too many dick smashing threats in one scene for my tastes), but overall I was absolutely entertained.
I was looking for a bit of escapism, and Mortal Enemy certainly delivers on that front. While it has the serious world building that one would expect from a dark fantasy novel, there's plenty of room for very contemporary humor to shine through as well. While Vant is of course the main character, I appreciated that Skii was fully fleshed out and (only a minor spoiler here) not forced to be a love interest for Vant. There are a couple of twists toward the end that I anticipated but enjoyed seeing through. They were bold choices, and this novel certainly isn't lacking that.
The cast is exceptional as well. Standouts include Reid Scott in his narration, Troian Bellisario as Skii, and a totally unrecognizable Chris Pine, who seems to be having the time of his life hamming it up in the best way as the Mayor.
As far as the writing goes, I found the story compelling. There were moments when things were slightly overwritten or bits went on too long (there was a bit too many dick smashing threats in one scene for my tastes), but overall I was absolutely entertained.
November 17, 2018
Mortal Enemy will take you on an epic adventure. It is truly unlike anything I have ever read before and would recommend it to anyone!
November 17, 2018
Best book I have read since Game of Thrones. NRH is a modern day genius.
July 19, 2019
Aaaaand the 2019 Award for the Best Written and Narrated Disappointment... GOES TO....
The book starts with a bang. There's that whole opening scene that makes me wish I could write like that, with vivid descriptions and power verbs. The author is good at creating tense scenes and the characters are cool. The audiobook is read by a full cast and has sound effects and music, taking the experience to the next level.
But the worldbuilding and plot fall awfully flat. I imagine this world as something of a desert. Flat, dusty, and boring. Boooo-ring! It's not clear where the plot is going if anywhere. I don't care about the kidnapped people or about what Death wants Vant to do one little bit. There's that whole big chunk of the book with the city of vices where everyone is some kind of ill and covered in boils and there's a bunch of fat sheriffs remote guiding police mechs. Everything feels rusty, abandoned, decrepit, and frankly tedious. The escape scene at the end with the giant bugs does not help making this book any more cool or interesting or something that you'd want to go on reading. Giant disgusting bugs are *not* worthy enemies. The fact that your expert scam man waxes it on about how the magician can do real magic does not make any of them interesting. Sure, writing-wise, it's an informed ability and then we get to see it, which is a by-the-book solution. Still, it somehow manages to disappoint. The nomads aren't any more cool either. Everything in this world is just so damn unlikeable.
Also Vant is a big douche bag. He's shown as being faithful to stupidity because the author wanted him to come across as a pure pureness paladin. But that falls flat when his friend's wife tells him she's being beaten and he continues being faithful to an obviously malign organization. There's being faithful, and then there's being spineless and willingly blind. Of course, this ends very quickly in short order when Vant's life is being threatened by the same people. It was just that seeing someone else suffer was fine but he draws the line before his own foreskin gets cut. Rat.
The book starts with a bang. There's that whole opening scene that makes me wish I could write like that, with vivid descriptions and power verbs. The author is good at creating tense scenes and the characters are cool. The audiobook is read by a full cast and has sound effects and music, taking the experience to the next level.
But the worldbuilding and plot fall awfully flat. I imagine this world as something of a desert. Flat, dusty, and boring. Boooo-ring! It's not clear where the plot is going if anywhere. I don't care about the kidnapped people or about what Death wants Vant to do one little bit. There's that whole big chunk of the book with the city of vices where everyone is some kind of ill and covered in boils and there's a bunch of fat sheriffs remote guiding police mechs. Everything feels rusty, abandoned, decrepit, and frankly tedious. The escape scene at the end with the giant bugs does not help making this book any more cool or interesting or something that you'd want to go on reading. Giant disgusting bugs are *not* worthy enemies. The fact that your expert scam man waxes it on about how the magician can do real magic does not make any of them interesting. Sure, writing-wise, it's an informed ability and then we get to see it, which is a by-the-book solution. Still, it somehow manages to disappoint. The nomads aren't any more cool either. Everything in this world is just so damn unlikeable.
Also Vant is a big douche bag. He's shown as being faithful to stupidity because the author wanted him to come across as a pure pureness paladin. But that falls flat when his friend's wife tells him she's being beaten and he continues being faithful to an obviously malign organization. There's being faithful, and then there's being spineless and willingly blind. Of course, this ends very quickly in short order when Vant's life is being threatened by the same people. It was just that seeing someone else suffer was fine but he draws the line before his own foreskin gets cut. Rat.
May 13, 2022
Creepy, weird & whimsical
I'm not really sure if I liked this story. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to it, but I was not super enthused about the plot. The eccentric characters were definitely a highlight, my favourite being the smooth-talking con-man, Grammie, (the voice actor was fantastic) and any one who enjoys podcasts or radio plays will have a fun time listening to this novel.
The narrative never gripped me however, and I had a hard time connecting to the plot until the last 1/3 of the novel, especially as I found myself more interested in the backstory interwoven throughout the plot. (I did figure out the twist about halfway through, based on the voice acting!)
Some of the content was rather off-putting for me as well, the humour just not landing with me, and I REALLY didn't enjoy the time spent in crash town.
The scifi aspects of everything were very cool, from the tech to the worldbuilding, and I could easily imagine this as a fantastical anime in the style of Berserk with the whimsy of Fairy Tail.
I'm not really sure if I liked this story. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to it, but I was not super enthused about the plot. The eccentric characters were definitely a highlight, my favourite being the smooth-talking con-man, Grammie, (the voice actor was fantastic) and any one who enjoys podcasts or radio plays will have a fun time listening to this novel.
The narrative never gripped me however, and I had a hard time connecting to the plot until the last 1/3 of the novel, especially as I found myself more interested in the backstory interwoven throughout the plot. (I did figure out the twist about halfway through, based on the voice acting!)
Some of the content was rather off-putting for me as well, the humour just not landing with me, and I REALLY didn't enjoy the time spent in crash town.
The scifi aspects of everything were very cool, from the tech to the worldbuilding, and I could easily imagine this as a fantastical anime in the style of Berserk with the whimsy of Fairy Tail.
November 20, 2018
Very interested read. I don’t read books, but since I have known the author of the book since the 6th grade, I picked up his book and read it over the last weekend. I happily watched the author go through a journey, which encompassed every bit of his soul for several years, and he underwent all of it just to create this epic piece of literature. I really enjoyed the book, as well as the inventive/creative (outside the box) processes that went into its final packaged creation. So much in one package, and all very enjoyable, and entertaining to read. Highly suggest to any avid reader out there. Congratulations on your first truly Epic Novel Nick Howard!!!! I’m super proud of you my friend!!!
August 31, 2020
This book started off with a bang. I mean wow! Then it went flat. Then it picked up again and then it went a little flat. Then at the end it went bam. As you can tell this book was a roller coaster. But a roller coaster of fun. The comedy was funny. I laughed out loud several times. And yes I know I could have said LOL. Ha ha ha. Anyway, Great book. I really wished he came out with book 2. Not sure where he would have gone with it. I mean you can't beat death. But I really enjoyed many of the characters in the book. I was going to give it 4 stars, but the end sold me for a half a star and well can't give half stars so.... I gave it 5. Fun book for me and a quick read as well.
November 17, 2018
Amazing, fascinating read! The worlds created felt new and exciting and the characters fit into them seamlessly. A Lord of the Rings style adventure mixed in with Mad Max grittiness kept me going the whole time. I'm someone who normally likes non-fiction and military/spy novels. Reading this was a stretch for me and I really enjoyed the journey. Highly recommended.
April 27, 2023
This book was a bit strange.
However.. I did enjoy the general plot. And the plot twist at the end was something I didn’t see coming.. but it made a lot of other things in the book make sense.
The ending was kinda weird and felt like they just weren’t sure how to end it.. it felt to easy.
All in all though I enjoyed it.
However.. I did enjoy the general plot. And the plot twist at the end was something I didn’t see coming.. but it made a lot of other things in the book make sense.
The ending was kinda weird and felt like they just weren’t sure how to end it.. it felt to easy.
All in all though I enjoyed it.
November 17, 2018
I can’t put this book down. The thrills, the adventure, the uncertainty make me crave more! I searched the author, and I can’t believe this is his first novel! This man is brilliant! Has anyone listened to the audio version? I hear it’s incredible!
November 17, 2018
An epic adventure in every sense of the word. Full of unique and fascinating characters in a brilliantly conceived world, Mortal Enemy is a feast for the fantasy senses.
November 17, 2018
What an imagination this author has! Amazing read, you won’t be disappointed! Mind blown!
November 17, 2018
"Exciting, exhilarating, and chilling!"
November 17, 2018
Author Nicholas Ryan Howard has created a world that will pull you in and never let you go. Enjoy the adventure, it’s totally worth the ride.
November 17, 2018
Incredible! Best read ever!
November 17, 2018
Love this book!
November 17, 2018
Run out and get a copy today!!!
November 17, 2018
One of my favorite reads, there’s a little of everything you need- action, adventure, humor, and great character development. I would highly recommend this book! :)
December 19, 2018
A very unique experience. Howard creates a fascinating world full of wild characters and fast-paced adventures. A fun audiobook with amazing effects and an extensive cast.
September 21, 2019
Enjoyed every second of this audio book!
November 20, 2018
Pure unapologetic fantasy, sci fi and horror blended together into a vast, epic tale. The book feels vast and cinematic. The opening sequence lures you down Vant's rabbit hole then the story moves at a breakneck pace. It's scary, funny, action-packed and has a raw essence to it. Original and a really, really fun read.
December 6, 2019
I would 100% recommend this to anyone who loves action and adventure books. The world building is phenomenal, the descriptions are wildly vivid, and there are a lot of comedic touches throughout the entire book. It is very R rated and vulgar, so if that’s up your alley I’d say you’d enjoy yourself. I did listen to the full audio experience, but I think that if I physically read this book I would be able to picture everything just as easily. Nicholas Ryan Howard is a fantastic author and this is a fantastic read.
November 17, 2018
Incredible! Loved the characters journey. Kept me up all night reading. Going to get the audible..
Please author give us more!!!
Please author give us more!!!
November 17, 2018
Mortal Enemy is an epic tale that follows an array of hyper-dynamic characters across hundreds of years. It is The Fifth Element meets Lord of the Rings.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews