The Kartoss Gambit (The Way of the Shaman Book #2)

I definitely enjoyed the story, though not as much as the first. Perhaps that's because there was more going on. I had to go back and re-read paragraphs multiple times to try and figure out what had happened and how we had gotten where we were. More distracting however, is Mahan's subtle needling of women in the first book turning into full-blown misogynist sentiments in this one. This happened several times, and completely threw me out of the story every time. Further, what inspired me to write this review, is when Mahan uses a woman's attempt at seduction as an excuse to grope and kiss her (clearly something she did not want or enjoy) as "punishment" for trying to manipulate him using a technique associated with her character. Well, let's just say Mahan lost an awful lot of Attractiveness with me. That scene was slimey.

This is an outstanding sequel. I was not dissappointed at any of the plot moves - on the contrary, some of the new directions for the work were unexpected and considerably expanded the scope, which a sequel in an extended series should always try to do. Really impressive, engaging work - some of the best of the litRPG genre in general that I have read.

As a gamer myself, I really like the evolving LitRPG genre and the Way of the Shaman series is a great mix of RPG and fantasy. The second book in the series really moves the story forward and explores the much larger virtual world of Barliona. This book has even more humor, adventure, and adds some great new characters. I read a ton of fantasy & scifi and this story has a lot of fresh ideas and some really unexpected twists that still feel grounded in the rules of this world. Good fun & I can't wait to see what happens next!

A great continuation of this amazing story. A must read for LitRPG fans. The first book in this series is free via Kindle Unlimited. I was so hooked that I purchased this novel, mere seconds after finishing the first. Well worth the money!

OMG!!! I dont write reviews for books often but i had to for this one. It was AMAZING! Easily the best series ive read this year and the best sequel ive read in a long time. Was very invested in characters and at end was at the edge of my seat. Highly recommend reading series for lit-rpg

An epic continuation to the first book, Mahan continues to play with the rules of the game to gain all he can. I have only one major complaint, and it will be fixed eventually: the next book isn't translated yet! Honestly, I love this book and series; for people who are a fan of Alterworld by D Rus, I would highly recommend this series (indeed, I think this series was recommended by the store after I got started on Alterworld), or for other fans who are not wanting to wait for more good LitRPG, I would recommend Alterworld by D Rus. Honestly, both Russian authors have a similar writing style and I personally love it. I can't wait to read the rest of the series as they're translated!

Ending was masterful. Great tension/jokes/writing throughout. Author's best book to-date. Weaknesses - oriented towards younger readers, could use more character development and higher level thought, but this novel was designed to be a enthralling fun for all ages - and it succeeds easily there.

Mahanenko has shown a devious but creative imagination. Every time you think you have figured something out you discover you have been professionally manipulated by the author. With each book he also continues to excel in his writing. Wish I could have read it in Russian but couldn't find it anywhere. Translator disperses some credit as well!

The Russians are killing it in this genre. Very well written and translated so far.

Read the 1st 2 books in under 24 hours and about to start #3.

Everything is so well balanced. I'm enjoying the hell out of this story.
Definitely in the top 3 series of litrpg that I've read so far and I've read most of what's available on the store.

Beginning to really enjoy the series. I'm glad the prison scene is over, it wasn't bad but this is more exciting. Some of the choices made by the MC seem like obvious choices but the he goes and does a hell marry and I'm mind blown. I don't know how I feel about his crafting ability but we will see. All in all great!

Great story! Still not a perfect translation, but much better than mostI have read lately. Can't recommend the book enough for anyone interested in LitRPG, it is the best series currently out there. Certainly better than the steady downhill course of Play to Live books. Keep it up Mahanenko, and please please speed up translation of your Shaman books!

Excellent sequel to Survival Quest (The Way of the Shaman) As you learn more about the virtual world the main character now inhabits; with few twist and turns it will leave you waiting for the next book.

Vasily can weave a really good tale. I have read all three of his English translated novels and am a certified fan and will buy everything he writes and publishes.
This is the second in the Way of the Shaman series and I was taken by how well he translates the real world with LitRPG and character development. You will. Are about the characters both real and virtual and eventually the lines blur so much it does not really matter.

Few authors better their first work with a much better second. The first book was worthy of five strs but this is better. This author is a must read. Buy this book 100% satisfsction guaranteed . I cant wait for installment three!!

first off great story. just wish it wouldn't end. though the ending was genius. in the first book the MC has little control, kinda has to go with the flow. this one he lets his instincts drive him. hope there is more