Emperor of Shadows

Shadow Rogue, Book 4

By: Mike Truk

Narrated by: Ryan West

Length: 17 hrs and 7 mins

Publisher's summary

Beware what you wish for. You just might achieve it.

Kellik and his band have accomplished their goals, and now must reap their bitter rewards. Ruling Port Gloom is a vastly different enterprise from seeking to decapitate its government, and as the world begins to fall apart, he must decide what matters most: being the fair and just ruler, or surviving to see the dawn.

For the consequences of his sins are coming home to roost. A world destroying power is making its way to his city, and it will stop at nothing in its quest for vengeance. 

Warning and minor spoilers: This is an 18+ audiobook intended for mature listeners. It contains graphic sex, medieval violence, and nudity.

©2021 Mike Truk (P)2021 Audible, Inc.

By Blind Fortuna’s infinitely mesmerizing cleavage

For a series that started as a raunchy tale of revenge and wenching, this ended on a surprisingly deep and, dare I say, heartfelt note. Not that the p😜rny bits stopped. No, the handful of naughty interludes were still naughty and creative.

Like the last book, this ran long in the middle, with too much emphasis on gaining control of Port Gloom. There’s also a lot of introspection and soul searching about purpose. This was the first book where I skipped ahead, thirty seconds at a time, only to find Kellik still inner monologuing about the morality of using his powers, violence, or what he wanted out of life.

The final third, however, when Team Kellik finally came together to battle for all the marbles, gave a satisfying end to a series that consistently defied my low expectations. I liked books 1 and 2 best for their more prominent use of action and humor. But, this ended well enough that I’d purchase any novellas or spin-offs that might find their way into Blind Fortuna’s generous bazoongas.

Ending on a high

Back one last time with your favourite bunch of rogues.
I love how this author consistently balances action, courtly intrigue, dark fantasy, meaningful relationships and character arcs, and story-driven explicit content.
And this book is no exception, your back once more with your favourite group of rogues in a story that explores the consequences of past misdeeds.
While there's a bittersweet element to how much of this is resolved, there is a solid conclusion to a rare series set in a world in which I hope one day we could return.

Thank you

Thanks Mike for writing this story. The series has been an incredible ride. I have little else to say but thanks.
Thank you Ryan for providing your voice and bringing all of these incredible characters to life. Every one has a depth I do a disservice into trying to sum.

For anyone else, I strongly recommend this series. It was the first I got on audible, and I my only regret is not having started this sooner.

What a Journey

From beginning to end this was an amazing journey, from the characters to the world I have nothing else to say but Bravo, with unforgettable characters, a story a mile long, and a well deserved conclusion this series will be one to remember for the ages.

An amazing conclusion

Without going into spoilers, this final book in the series does an amazing job of wrapping up everything. Once again, Mike Truk demonstrates why he is the most prosaic author in the genre. The fate of Port Gloom is concluded and Kellik and his women have the life they deserve.

Loved the story

Captivating and fun. Just the right amount of adventure and suspense. Definitely a great read for a male.

Slow…

If you like listening to made up political speeches, this book is for you. I on the other hand feel the like series has gone downhill from the first book. Not sure if there is another book, if there is, I won’t be getting it.

Wtf

These last two books are riddled with plot holes, the most notorious of which is the mc’s childhood friend (who was previously mute) being able to talk all of a sudden. The author just sloppily steps on other mechanics to explain away his faux pas (he says the aunts/ uncles are possessed by demons when in the first book Everyman Jack says that the grandfather is gifting him king troll blood and converting him into a troll). The mc starts off wanting to rule from the shadows, masquerading as a lackadaisical senator who appears useless (like how the grandfather ruled), but by mid to late book he’s somehow recognized by the people of Port Gloom as a tyrant needed to be overthrown? Not to mention that the emotions that the mc is going through aren’t engaging and they don’t feel real. It’s like he’s trying to convey that the mc is depressed and lost and he’s only half remembering someone’s description of what that was like. I honestly think he should have concluded the series after the mc killed his father.

The author needs to take notes to reference as his series get longer.

Enjoyed the series!

I like Mike Truk's style. Easy to follow, well developed characters. I look forward to more books.

Wonderful

My one and only complaint is the conclusion to the main character's King Troll powers. A little disappointing.

Misogynistic

Sorry but I don’t want to hear about men owning women, even if the MC is a king troll. Neither do I want to hear violent sex. Was sort of enjoying this series until this book, but I can’t listen anymore.

brilliant

excellent end to the shadow series thoroughly enjoyed this book
and looking forward to listening to some more by this author

satisfying!

I really enjoyed this series its grim, bloody, sexy and at times funny. this last book was the perfect end to the series.