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Binding Words #3
Hearthglen
Having accepted the love of both Myna Mooncaller and Fiona Mithrilsoul, Sean discovered happiness he hadn’t ever thought he would know, and began to acknowledge how different this society was from his old world.
Everywhere they went, they ran into trouble. First had been bandits, which actually proved to be fortuitous, with Ryann Cullin entering Sean’s service after that attack. The sudden harsh blizzard had been the worst trial they had to endure. Cold that even Sean couldn’t withstand had nearly stopped them in their tracks, but they managed to reach Flento.
Once the storm had passed, they were finally on their way to Hearthglen. Sean was hoping to use the city to settle down and learn more about what he could do. However, that would require finding a way to make a living, which meant Sean would have to make a name for himself. That was always something he hadn’t wanted to do; it might earn him some friends, but the enemies he would certainly make might very well be his undoing.
(This work contains adult situations that some might find offensive, the least of which is graphic sex. This book is about an Overpowered MC, and contains a harem. You’ve been warned.)
Everywhere they went, they ran into trouble. First had been bandits, which actually proved to be fortuitous, with Ryann Cullin entering Sean’s service after that attack. The sudden harsh blizzard had been the worst trial they had to endure. Cold that even Sean couldn’t withstand had nearly stopped them in their tracks, but they managed to reach Flento.
Once the storm had passed, they were finally on their way to Hearthglen. Sean was hoping to use the city to settle down and learn more about what he could do. However, that would require finding a way to make a living, which meant Sean would have to make a name for himself. That was always something he hadn’t wanted to do; it might earn him some friends, but the enemies he would certainly make might very well be his undoing.
(This work contains adult situations that some might find offensive, the least of which is graphic sex. This book is about an Overpowered MC, and contains a harem. You’ve been warned.)
13 pages, Audible Audio
Published October 23, 2019
604 people are currently reading
102 people want to read
About the author
Daniel Schinhofen
66 books1,311 followersDaniel James Schinhofen is a self-published author in the burgeoning genre of LitRPG/Gamelit. He published his first book, Last Horizon: Beta, in October of 2016, and has recently published his fifteenth book. A best-selling author on Amazon multiple times, his four series have achieved name recognition in the genre. When not slavishly typing away at the next book, Daniel tries to unwind with video games, playing with his dog Sugar, or going for walks around his neighborhood. His books can be found easily via his website http://schinhofenbooks.com/. Daniel can be found via Twitter using the handle @DJSchinhofen.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
July 25, 2019
Rating 4.0 stars
Much like the last book, not a lot happened in this book. There was no epic battle to talk about or huge new talent to describe. Sean, Fiona, and Myna are life bonded together and they have a good life. Along with Ryann who has bonded with Sean for a year to protect him, they move to a new town and try to lay down roots. The main source of income is the hair clip that Sean invented in the last book. While Sean is in town he breaks down social conventions, shocking people by treating everyone as equals. He also sets himself up with an apprentice and bonds a bunch of other people in his service while he is at it (though only Myna and Fiona are life bonded). While this is technically a harem book because he has 2 women he is sleeping with, there wasn't any sex in this book. It seems that all the women that he has surrounded himself with want him as well but Fiona and Myna will only allow that if they are willing to life bond as well. Again, there wasn't any huge story lines that happened in this book. It was basically following an insanely OP main character going about his daily life trying to make money and friends and build a life. No huge breakthroughs in his powers or inventions ( though there were a couple). Despite not a lot happening, I still enjoyed the book. I have said it before that I am a " journey is more important than the destination" kind of guy, so I enjoy stories like that.
Much like the last book, not a lot happened in this book. There was no epic battle to talk about or huge new talent to describe. Sean, Fiona, and Myna are life bonded together and they have a good life. Along with Ryann who has bonded with Sean for a year to protect him, they move to a new town and try to lay down roots. The main source of income is the hair clip that Sean invented in the last book. While Sean is in town he breaks down social conventions, shocking people by treating everyone as equals. He also sets himself up with an apprentice and bonds a bunch of other people in his service while he is at it (though only Myna and Fiona are life bonded). While this is technically a harem book because he has 2 women he is sleeping with, there wasn't any sex in this book. It seems that all the women that he has surrounded himself with want him as well but Fiona and Myna will only allow that if they are willing to life bond as well. Again, there wasn't any huge story lines that happened in this book. It was basically following an insanely OP main character going about his daily life trying to make money and friends and build a life. No huge breakthroughs in his powers or inventions ( though there were a couple). Despite not a lot happening, I still enjoyed the book. I have said it before that I am a " journey is more important than the destination" kind of guy, so I enjoy stories like that.
March 6, 2020
I seem to be neglecting life.
I can't stop reading this series please someone help me. I just love these books! Seriously I have plowed through the first three in five days so far.
I can't stop reading this series please someone help me. I just love these books! Seriously I have plowed through the first three in five days so far.
November 24, 2019
Over-Powered MC does Slice-of-live Fantasy story.
Sean and his bondsmates reach the city of Hearthglen and see about to building a home and a place in the local community. Deciding to start a small store and sell small utility items the will need a shop, living space and the contacts to make this a reality.....
With the relative repetitiveness of the previous novel gone, this novel is a improvement on all fronts! Like before Sean is a likable character, good natured, quick to defend friends and keen to avoid a fight if possible, and the story shows this. With the absence of large conflicts of an obvious villain to fight, the story takes a more easy going pace and gives more time to explore its world and the people inside it.
Overall this was an interesting and easy-going slice-of-life story and I very much hope the next novel will keep some of these elements.
Sean and his bondsmates reach the city of Hearthglen and see about to building a home and a place in the local community. Deciding to start a small store and sell small utility items the will need a shop, living space and the contacts to make this a reality.....
With the relative repetitiveness of the previous novel gone, this novel is a improvement on all fronts! Like before Sean is a likable character, good natured, quick to defend friends and keen to avoid a fight if possible, and the story shows this. With the absence of large conflicts of an obvious villain to fight, the story takes a more easy going pace and gives more time to explore its world and the people inside it.
Overall this was an interesting and easy-going slice-of-life story and I very much hope the next novel will keep some of these elements.
January 6, 2020
Great bounce back, equally as good as book 1
I hope my negative review of book 2 does not hamper the release of book 4 because I really liked book three and I can't wait for the next one now.
I was bugged by the first 3/4th of Life Bonds, Yet I have a lot of faith in Daniel Schinhofen and was still engaged enough to Immediately pick up Hearthglen. Very glad I did because this series gets right back to being awesome and shows potential of getting even better.
If you are a fan of Apocalypse Gates, or even more Alpha World you will recognize many of the tropes and patterns. As I am a fan of these books I view this as a plus.
Series overview: I praised book 1, panned book 2, and am back to praising book 3.
Would I recommend the series as a whole? YES I would.
Would I recommend skipping book 2 Life Bonds? NO. be aware that there is a rough patch to get trough that informs later events, but you'd be lost and miss major developments if you don't make the slog.
Is this series more like Alpha World, or Apocalypse Gates? I'm gonna say Alpha World due to the main character and the harem size. This MC is a good guy hesitant polygamist as apposed to a hard scrabble tough guy hesitant polygamist. Also the focus on domestic life over shadows the violent action. but it's somewhere between the two.
Will I be counting the days until the next book? Yes. damn it Yes. I'm honestly anticipating the next book in this series more than I am the next Apocky Gate book.
Do I still hate the cover art? YES! What the hell is up with that trash? This series deserves a reprint just to fix/ replace those covers with something professional that looks sharp and eye catching.
I hope my negative review of book 2 does not hamper the release of book 4 because I really liked book three and I can't wait for the next one now.
I was bugged by the first 3/4th of Life Bonds, Yet I have a lot of faith in Daniel Schinhofen and was still engaged enough to Immediately pick up Hearthglen. Very glad I did because this series gets right back to being awesome and shows potential of getting even better.
If you are a fan of Apocalypse Gates, or even more Alpha World you will recognize many of the tropes and patterns. As I am a fan of these books I view this as a plus.
Series overview: I praised book 1, panned book 2, and am back to praising book 3.
Would I recommend the series as a whole? YES I would.
Would I recommend skipping book 2 Life Bonds? NO. be aware that there is a rough patch to get trough that informs later events, but you'd be lost and miss major developments if you don't make the slog.
Is this series more like Alpha World, or Apocalypse Gates? I'm gonna say Alpha World due to the main character and the harem size. This MC is a good guy hesitant polygamist as apposed to a hard scrabble tough guy hesitant polygamist. Also the focus on domestic life over shadows the violent action. but it's somewhere between the two.
Will I be counting the days until the next book? Yes. damn it Yes. I'm honestly anticipating the next book in this series more than I am the next Apocky Gate book.
Do I still hate the cover art? YES! What the hell is up with that trash? This series deserves a reprint just to fix/ replace those covers with something professional that looks sharp and eye catching.
May 21, 2022
Great continuation to the series
Great addition to the story, new characters, new things for Sean to learn. Loved it. Only one minor problem... now we have to wait for book 4.
Great addition to the story, new characters, new things for Sean to learn. Loved it. Only one minor problem... now we have to wait for book 4.
September 3, 2019
Good Read.
Book 3 of the series. The story moves to a city where most of the action takes place. Enjoyed the story and looking forward to the next book.
Book 3 of the series. The story moves to a city where most of the action takes place. Enjoyed the story and looking forward to the next book.
August 21, 2025
Book 3 in the series sees our team finally reach the city of Hearthglen as they work to make a life in the city. It was a nice cozy fantasy for the third book, let's see how the 4th book pans out. As usual I have already started with the book 4 so let's go and keep on reading.
People who don't read generally ask me my reasons for reading. Simply put, I love reading, so I have made it my motto to Forever Keep on Reading. I love reading everything except for self-help books, even occasionally. I read almost all the genres, but YA, Fantasy, and Biographies are the most read. My favorite series is Harry Potter, but then there are many more books I adore. I have bookcases filled with books that are waiting to be read, so I can't stay and spend more time on this review. Remember, I loved reading this and love reading more. You should also read what you love, and then just Keep on Reading.
People who don't read generally ask me my reasons for reading. Simply put, I love reading, so I have made it my motto to Forever Keep on Reading. I love reading everything except for self-help books, even occasionally. I read almost all the genres, but YA, Fantasy, and Biographies are the most read. My favorite series is Harry Potter, but then there are many more books I adore. I have bookcases filled with books that are waiting to be read, so I can't stay and spend more time on this review. Remember, I loved reading this and love reading more. You should also read what you love, and then just Keep on Reading.
March 19, 2020
I don't know why, but against my better judgement I'm reading this book. Maybe my instincts will be wrong, but after reading the last book, and reading a good bit into the author's other series, I'm sure I know how this would go. I wouldn't be surprised if the author had his protagonist organise a Shakespeare play, and have the occupants of this world cry from how good it was (or how well the author stuffed his work with useless filler).
So far the book is an improvement from book two. He still "fangirls" about James . He still cries and protests too much, it's getting more than annoying. He still goes on about his father and his one wife morality, while slowly building a harem.
The book does a lot of crafting though, which I thoroughly enjoyed.
I noticed that a lot of the books I read recently are moving away from all the harem foolishness, and focusing on an actual story. I don't know if Schinhofen made this work PG because there was a change in Amazon's algorithms, or if he saw that harem books don't really tell a story. They Just acquire females (which is still happening here...)
Man. The protagonist is such a Nice Guy . I can just see him in a giant fedora, tipping to all the ladies, and being such a gentleman. Unlike those other brutish men.
This book could have been so much better. If the author stopped using his protagonist from only giving lip service to his constant cry of not wanting multiple women, and actually put things in place so he doesn't pick up a harem, I think this book would have been less by at least two or three chapters.
The crafting of items and development of the protagonist's skill was great to read, but I care very little about how many girls want our protagonist. Of course with our protagonist being a Nice Guy™ *tips fedora*, he wouldn't take advantage of these girls that are attracted to him. So I have to read about how something he doesn't want, is forced onto him, and he eventually takes it in the end after protesting too much.
I will read the sequel if there is more building and crafting, but I will start skimming over the romance parts. Even though the books aren't smutty anymore, they are still a badly written romance.
The author could do so much better than bad romances.
2.5/5 Stars
So far the book is an improvement from book two. He still "fangirls" about James . He still cries and protests too much, it's getting more than annoying. He still goes on about his father and his one wife morality, while slowly building a harem.
The book does a lot of crafting though, which I thoroughly enjoyed.
I noticed that a lot of the books I read recently are moving away from all the harem foolishness, and focusing on an actual story. I don't know if Schinhofen made this work PG because there was a change in Amazon's algorithms, or if he saw that harem books don't really tell a story. They Just acquire females (which is still happening here...)
Man. The protagonist is such a Nice Guy . I can just see him in a giant fedora, tipping to all the ladies, and being such a gentleman. Unlike those other brutish men.
This book could have been so much better. If the author stopped using his protagonist from only giving lip service to his constant cry of not wanting multiple women, and actually put things in place so he doesn't pick up a harem, I think this book would have been less by at least two or three chapters.
The crafting of items and development of the protagonist's skill was great to read, but I care very little about how many girls want our protagonist. Of course with our protagonist being a Nice Guy™ *tips fedora*, he wouldn't take advantage of these girls that are attracted to him. So I have to read about how something he doesn't want, is forced onto him, and he eventually takes it in the end after protesting too much.
I will read the sequel if there is more building and crafting, but I will start skimming over the romance parts. Even though the books aren't smutty anymore, they are still a badly written romance.
The author could do so much better than bad romances.
2.5/5 Stars
January 12, 2026
A Slice-of-Life Sequel That Settles In and Expands the Family [4/5 Stars]
If you powered through the nomadic, introspective journey of Life Bonds (Book 2) and wondered where the story was heading, Hearthglen provides a welcome and satisfying answer. Daniel Schinhofen's third Binding Words installment finally brings Sean and his bonded family to a place they can call home. This book swaps the road's uncertainty for the challenges of putting down roots, making it a more focused and engaging "slice-of-life" fantasy that fans of cozy progression will likely devour.
The core group—now including the fiercely loyal bodyguard Ryann—arrives in the city of Hearthglen after surviving bandits and a brutal blizzard. Sean's goal is simple: settle down, open a shop, and learn to live in this new world. But for an Overpowered MC (OP MC) from Earth with modern morals, fitting into a rigid, class-based society is its own kind of battle. The result is a 4 out of 5 star read that rights the ship after a meandering second book, delivering the character-driven comfort and incremental progress that defines this series at its best.
Key Themes: Building a Life, Not Just Surviving
Found Family & Community: This theme deepens beautifully. The book moves beyond the core trio of Sean, Fiona, and Myna as they begin forming a true household and forge alliances in Hearthglen. Sean's habit of treating everyone as equals, regardless of social standing, shocks the locals but becomes the foundation for a new kind of extended family and business partnership.
Societal Disruption Through Decency: Sean's greatest conflict isn't a monster, but a social system. His modern Earth ethics—respect, consent, and fairness—act as a disruptive force in Hearthglen. The story explores how simple decency can be revolutionary, earning him devoted friends and making powerful, convention-bound enemies in equal measure.
Crafting and Purpose: A significant portion of the narrative focuses on Sean establishing his trade. Readers who enjoy detailed crafting, invention, and the satisfaction of building a business from the ground up will find this immensely rewarding. It’s a tangible expression of his desire to create rather than just destroy.
Character Analysis: Settling Into Roles
Sean: He's accepted his life with Fiona and Myna, finding a happiness that grounds him. His development here is about transitioning from a reactive survivor to a proactive community member and provider. While he remains overpowered, his challenges are now social and economic, which feels like a natural progression.
Fiona & Myna: Securely life-bonded to Sean, their roles evolve into pillars of the nascent household. The dynamic between them is settled and supportive, providing the stable emotional core that allows the story to explore external growth.
The Expanding Circle: New characters like Sean's apprentice and the various citizens of Hearthglen are introduced with clear personalities. This expansion of the cast is a highlight, making the world feel lived-in and setting the stage for complex social dynamics in future books.
Writing Style & Pacing: Comfortable, if Deliberate
Schinhofen's prose is straightforward and easy to read, prioritizing dialogue and character interaction over lyrical description. The pacing is deliberately slow, embracing its "slice-of-life" label. Don't expect an epic villain or a climactic siege; the tension comes from social friction, business dealings, and the quiet development of Sean's skills and relationships.
This is the book's strength and its potential weakness. If you love immersive world-building where the journey is the point, you'll be hooked. As one reviewer put it, they couldn't stop reading, having "plowed through the first three in five days". However, if you need a fast-paced, plot-driven adventure, the focus on daily life and crafting might feel too gradual.
What I Liked/Disliked
Liked:
The Settled Setting: Hearthglen provides a much-needed anchor for the story. Watching Sean build a home and a shop is incredibly satisfying and opens up new narrative possibilities.
Focus on Craft and Commerce: The detailed attention to Sean's inventions and business strategy is a unique and enjoyable focus within the fantasy genre.
Improved Narrative Drive: Most readers agree this is a strong bounce-back from Book 2, with a clearer purpose and more engaging daily conflicts.
Disliked (Considerations):
The Harem Pacing: While labeled a harem series, the romantic expansion in this book is very slow and chaste, with Fiona and Myna setting firm boundaries. Readers solely here for spicy romance might be disappointed.
"Nice Guy" Protagonist: Sean's unwavering, polite morality can sometimes feel one-note or like "lip service," as some critics note, making his conflicts feel somewhat predictable.
Still a Slow Burn: The commitment to the slice-of-life pace won't be for everyone. The plot advances through character moments and small victories, not big battles.
Conclusion/Recommendation: A Cozy Foundation for the Long Haul
Final Verdict: Hearthglen is a cozy, character-focused installment that successfully re-grounds the Binding Words series. It proves the story is more about building a life and a family in a magical world than about a singular epic quest.
You'll love this book if: You enjoyed the first book's vibe and wanted more stability; you love detailed world-building, crafting systems, and "found family" tropes; you prefer character-driven stories with a comfortable, steady pace.
Consider this your off-ramp if: You need constant action and high stakes, or you're deeply frustrated by OP MCs and harem-lite tropes. This book doubles down on the series' core identity.
For series fans, this is a must-read that sets a strong foundation for the long journey ahead (the series runs to 11 books). It's the literary equivalent of building a warm, welcoming fireplace—and I'm already pulling up a chair to see what happens next.
If you powered through the nomadic, introspective journey of Life Bonds (Book 2) and wondered where the story was heading, Hearthglen provides a welcome and satisfying answer. Daniel Schinhofen's third Binding Words installment finally brings Sean and his bonded family to a place they can call home. This book swaps the road's uncertainty for the challenges of putting down roots, making it a more focused and engaging "slice-of-life" fantasy that fans of cozy progression will likely devour.
The core group—now including the fiercely loyal bodyguard Ryann—arrives in the city of Hearthglen after surviving bandits and a brutal blizzard. Sean's goal is simple: settle down, open a shop, and learn to live in this new world. But for an Overpowered MC (OP MC) from Earth with modern morals, fitting into a rigid, class-based society is its own kind of battle. The result is a 4 out of 5 star read that rights the ship after a meandering second book, delivering the character-driven comfort and incremental progress that defines this series at its best.
Key Themes: Building a Life, Not Just Surviving
Found Family & Community: This theme deepens beautifully. The book moves beyond the core trio of Sean, Fiona, and Myna as they begin forming a true household and forge alliances in Hearthglen. Sean's habit of treating everyone as equals, regardless of social standing, shocks the locals but becomes the foundation for a new kind of extended family and business partnership.
Societal Disruption Through Decency: Sean's greatest conflict isn't a monster, but a social system. His modern Earth ethics—respect, consent, and fairness—act as a disruptive force in Hearthglen. The story explores how simple decency can be revolutionary, earning him devoted friends and making powerful, convention-bound enemies in equal measure.
Crafting and Purpose: A significant portion of the narrative focuses on Sean establishing his trade. Readers who enjoy detailed crafting, invention, and the satisfaction of building a business from the ground up will find this immensely rewarding. It’s a tangible expression of his desire to create rather than just destroy.
Character Analysis: Settling Into Roles
Sean: He's accepted his life with Fiona and Myna, finding a happiness that grounds him. His development here is about transitioning from a reactive survivor to a proactive community member and provider. While he remains overpowered, his challenges are now social and economic, which feels like a natural progression.
Fiona & Myna: Securely life-bonded to Sean, their roles evolve into pillars of the nascent household. The dynamic between them is settled and supportive, providing the stable emotional core that allows the story to explore external growth.
The Expanding Circle: New characters like Sean's apprentice and the various citizens of Hearthglen are introduced with clear personalities. This expansion of the cast is a highlight, making the world feel lived-in and setting the stage for complex social dynamics in future books.
Writing Style & Pacing: Comfortable, if Deliberate
Schinhofen's prose is straightforward and easy to read, prioritizing dialogue and character interaction over lyrical description. The pacing is deliberately slow, embracing its "slice-of-life" label. Don't expect an epic villain or a climactic siege; the tension comes from social friction, business dealings, and the quiet development of Sean's skills and relationships.
This is the book's strength and its potential weakness. If you love immersive world-building where the journey is the point, you'll be hooked. As one reviewer put it, they couldn't stop reading, having "plowed through the first three in five days". However, if you need a fast-paced, plot-driven adventure, the focus on daily life and crafting might feel too gradual.
What I Liked/Disliked
Liked:
The Settled Setting: Hearthglen provides a much-needed anchor for the story. Watching Sean build a home and a shop is incredibly satisfying and opens up new narrative possibilities.
Focus on Craft and Commerce: The detailed attention to Sean's inventions and business strategy is a unique and enjoyable focus within the fantasy genre.
Improved Narrative Drive: Most readers agree this is a strong bounce-back from Book 2, with a clearer purpose and more engaging daily conflicts.
Disliked (Considerations):
The Harem Pacing: While labeled a harem series, the romantic expansion in this book is very slow and chaste, with Fiona and Myna setting firm boundaries. Readers solely here for spicy romance might be disappointed.
"Nice Guy" Protagonist: Sean's unwavering, polite morality can sometimes feel one-note or like "lip service," as some critics note, making his conflicts feel somewhat predictable.
Still a Slow Burn: The commitment to the slice-of-life pace won't be for everyone. The plot advances through character moments and small victories, not big battles.
Conclusion/Recommendation: A Cozy Foundation for the Long Haul
Final Verdict: Hearthglen is a cozy, character-focused installment that successfully re-grounds the Binding Words series. It proves the story is more about building a life and a family in a magical world than about a singular epic quest.
You'll love this book if: You enjoyed the first book's vibe and wanted more stability; you love detailed world-building, crafting systems, and "found family" tropes; you prefer character-driven stories with a comfortable, steady pace.
Consider this your off-ramp if: You need constant action and high stakes, or you're deeply frustrated by OP MCs and harem-lite tropes. This book doubles down on the series' core identity.
For series fans, this is a must-read that sets a strong foundation for the long journey ahead (the series runs to 11 books). It's the literary equivalent of building a warm, welcoming fireplace—and I'm already pulling up a chair to see what happens next.
April 13, 2023
The story continues and the MC and his wifes enter a town.
The setting changes a lot with this and I enjoy that there is a lot more interaction with different characters in this after the last book concentrated too much on the MC and his first two wifes.
I also enjoy that the MC starts with a very simple invention. The description of the society is interesting.
Is the MC overpowered? Oh yes! ;)
One question stays.. why would an author introduce a character named Ryan, when there is already a character named Ryann?? I can accept that with a historian novel and given names but for some fictional stuff i am really wondering if the author just want to make fun of his readers?!
The setting changes a lot with this and I enjoy that there is a lot more interaction with different characters in this after the last book concentrated too much on the MC and his first two wifes.
I also enjoy that the MC starts with a very simple invention. The description of the society is interesting.
Is the MC overpowered? Oh yes! ;)
One question stays.. why would an author introduce a character named Ryan, when there is already a character named Ryann?? I can accept that with a historian novel and given names but for some fictional stuff i am really wondering if the author just want to make fun of his readers?!
February 24, 2020
If you've reached this point then you basically know what's going on. This installation eschews most of the physical conflict in favor of more political scheming and it is better for it. Definitely not a disappointment relative to the rest.
That being said, the "reluctant polygamist" and his "oblivious nature" thing is just way overdone, as are the callouts to "james." I'm not sure what the goal is here... we get that he's conflicted about the life bonding thing and purely chivalrous . He just needs to stop whining and get over it.
Smaller things that are annoying are normal OP MC stuff. His skill growth is a little too easy, his OPness makes combat a little boring, etc. The author does attempt to describe how much effort they are spending in combat training to balance this out, but those are actually some of the scenes that I find the least interesting–they just don't have any sense of realism.
I'm a little worried about the foreshadowed harem expansion. That can go wrong really quickly. I'll definitely keep reading though.
That being said, the "reluctant polygamist" and his "oblivious nature" thing is just way overdone, as are the callouts to "james." I'm not sure what the goal is here... we get that he's conflicted about the life bonding thing and purely chivalrous . He just needs to stop whining and get over it.
Smaller things that are annoying are normal OP MC stuff. His skill growth is a little too easy, his OPness makes combat a little boring, etc. The author does attempt to describe how much effort they are spending in combat training to balance this out, but those are actually some of the scenes that I find the least interesting–they just don't have any sense of realism.
I'm a little worried about the foreshadowed harem expansion. That can go wrong really quickly. I'll definitely keep reading though.
August 3, 2020
Mixed quality
The politics, economics, business, construction, and research are all interesting and well done. Numerous new characters are introduced and most are interesting.
Unfortunately, the protagonist is emotionally illiterate, personally passive, and untrusting of the maturity or self awareness of the people around him. Which makes all of the unnecessary harem anime pseudo-drama really obnoxious and rather painful to slog through. After one and a half books of naming and dismissing harem tropes, this book goes all in to include as many harem tropes as possible without derailing the rest of the plot.
I cannot recommend this in good conscience.
The politics, economics, business, construction, and research are all interesting and well done. Numerous new characters are introduced and most are interesting.
Unfortunately, the protagonist is emotionally illiterate, personally passive, and untrusting of the maturity or self awareness of the people around him. Which makes all of the unnecessary harem anime pseudo-drama really obnoxious and rather painful to slog through. After one and a half books of naming and dismissing harem tropes, this book goes all in to include as many harem tropes as possible without derailing the rest of the plot.
I cannot recommend this in good conscience.
June 30, 2020
Good continuation of the series there is some advancement in the story, a nice pacing and a little advancing in the plot, sadly this novel has one of those bad harem development. I really exasperating that the author figth so much to show how little the MC wants a harem and every oportunity it has it gives him more harem candidate, its making it look sheap. It could be more centered about the action but it seems the author wants to drive this into a more a crafter path. The ending was nice enough to give me the itch to jump into book 4.
October 10, 2022
Growing a Harem Family, Bound for Life
Sean is from a world that is so different than the home he grew up from and adjusting from high meals is incredibly difficult.
He has so many talents that he can share and kindness to those who deserve it, but don't get on his sore side.
A Life Bond is exactly as it sounds; your everything is given to another person who has full control over you. Their Love, trust, help, serious sex, and knowledge is one of the things that draw others to him.
He also comes up with new ideas, They Work to.
Fun open to close.
Read in 1 day
Sean is from a world that is so different than the home he grew up from and adjusting from high meals is incredibly difficult.
He has so many talents that he can share and kindness to those who deserve it, but don't get on his sore side.
A Life Bond is exactly as it sounds; your everything is given to another person who has full control over you. Their Love, trust, help, serious sex, and knowledge is one of the things that draw others to him.
He also comes up with new ideas, They Work to.
Fun open to close.
Read in 1 day
October 28, 2022
Sean an his two life bonded companions try to continue staying alive together .
Sean an his two life bonded companions continue to head north to Hearthglen to find a way to stay in a settlement an settle down during the winter that is upon them . Use his talents to make a living for themselves an survive the winter . He ends up making enemies and friends alike . while still trying to lead a quiet life an try not to draw any attention to themselves . recommend reading excellent series .
Sean an his two life bonded companions continue to head north to Hearthglen to find a way to stay in a settlement an settle down during the winter that is upon them . Use his talents to make a living for themselves an survive the winter . He ends up making enemies and friends alike . while still trying to lead a quiet life an try not to draw any attention to themselves . recommend reading excellent series .
December 18, 2022
Aggravating
Sorry, but these books are more frustrating than entertaining. In fact they're hardly entertaining at all. Easy to read and breeze through, which is how to got to the 3rd, but it was an aggravating read that I kept expecting or hoping would get better.
There is a lot fluff and annoying dialogue.
The author combines old chivalry in an extreme, with modern feminism. This is simply not enjoyable to read. Especially with how pathetic the main character is. Men need to wake up and stop being so weak.
Sorry, but these books are more frustrating than entertaining. In fact they're hardly entertaining at all. Easy to read and breeze through, which is how to got to the 3rd, but it was an aggravating read that I kept expecting or hoping would get better.
There is a lot fluff and annoying dialogue.
The author combines old chivalry in an extreme, with modern feminism. This is simply not enjoyable to read. Especially with how pathetic the main character is. Men need to wake up and stop being so weak.
March 24, 2021
The grand saga continues
Fantasy harem adult situations LitRPG monster
Book 1 established the series and the characters. Book 2 changed from adventure to a long-running escape, with a fourth member joining the group. Book 3 is mercantile world-building with a lot more women joining the household and periphery. Engaging and recommended.
Fantasy harem adult situations LitRPG monster
Book 1 established the series and the characters. Book 2 changed from adventure to a long-running escape, with a fourth member joining the group. Book 3 is mercantile world-building with a lot more women joining the household and periphery. Engaging and recommended.
June 4, 2021
An excellent series. The author is amazing. The enduring world and characters for this series are brought to life by the wonderful craftsmanship of Daniel Schinhofen. I could read more and more of this series. At my age it's a bit disheartening to know that I may not get to the end of this series. But it is so good I pray and hope that new chapters are going to be available soon.
January 22, 2022
Book 3 continues on the same path as books 1 & 2 ... well-written Fantasy with a smidge of sex.
I've liked the 1st 3 books so much that I've already purchased the rest of the series. Read them in order as the story continues to evolve. Definitely a harem series but the sex is definitely not the main part.
I've liked the 1st 3 books so much that I've already purchased the rest of the series. Read them in order as the story continues to evolve. Definitely a harem series but the sex is definitely not the main part.
October 24, 2022
so much fun!
I read the first 2 books years ago and just recently had this come back as a suggestion. They are so much fun and I really like the story line and the interactions of all the characters. I find it much more than just a harem novel. Great read and looking forward to reading all 9 books! Thanks
I read the first 2 books years ago and just recently had this come back as a suggestion. They are so much fun and I really like the story line and the interactions of all the characters. I find it much more than just a harem novel. Great read and looking forward to reading all 9 books! Thanks
June 20, 2023
This volume was all about the economic power of hair clips, but seriously, I did appreciate the business building and merchant slice of life aspects of story. Unfortunately, Sean continues to push the clueless protagonist trope. He also really sucks at both keeping secrets and laying low in general, so I assume things will shake up next volume (crossing fingers).
March 2, 2024
Ok read. Not great, just ok. Cringe dialogue and endless pandering ruins it
The cringe dialogue in this book series is painful. The needless pandering and affirmation of everyone's feelings is ridiculous. Just an average story. The plotline is slow and so much filler... Needless over descriptions and over explaining.
The cringe dialogue in this book series is painful. The needless pandering and affirmation of everyone's feelings is ridiculous. Just an average story. The plotline is slow and so much filler... Needless over descriptions and over explaining.
March 1, 2020
Excellent series
This is a great litrpg series. Great world building, good character development and decent sized books (rather than the 2hr reads you often get from other authors). Can’t wait for the rest of the series!
This is a great litrpg series. Great world building, good character development and decent sized books (rather than the 2hr reads you often get from other authors). Can’t wait for the rest of the series!
August 7, 2020
Very good story with developed characters!
This story line helps with understanding the characters and the new world that Sean finds himself in. I like the pacing of the the plot and story.
This story line helps with understanding the characters and the new world that Sean finds himself in. I like the pacing of the the plot and story.
September 3, 2020
Excellent!
You do realize that I have stuff that I should be doing? Instead, I'm enjoying this series. One of the best parts is how he is just flat out irritating some of the stuffed shirts. Keep them coming!!
You do realize that I have stuff that I should be doing? Instead, I'm enjoying this series. One of the best parts is how he is just flat out irritating some of the stuffed shirts. Keep them coming!!
November 4, 2020
Lots of business talk but good book i
It’s a good book. The characters need more personality by a bit. Lots of dialogue. Not too much plot development. Wish more displays of how OP Sean is by like quite a notch more as well.. please!!!
It’s a good book. The characters need more personality by a bit. Lots of dialogue. Not too much plot development. Wish more displays of how OP Sean is by like quite a notch more as well.. please!!!
February 3, 2021
Surprised
I got this book because of the sex and I got disappointed about because there is not enough. The plot is great and the fact that all about love, loyalty and friendship, makes wanting for the people to be like sean.
I got this book because of the sex and I got disappointed about because there is not enough. The plot is great and the fact that all about love, loyalty and friendship, makes wanting for the people to be like sean.
October 8, 2021
Another solid entry
I once again enjoyed the steady pace. The MC's obliviousness does veer into ridiculous in the back half of the novel. I did like watching the steady growth of the group of friends.
I once again enjoyed the steady pace. The MC's obliviousness does veer into ridiculous in the back half of the novel. I did like watching the steady growth of the group of friends.
March 15, 2022
Keeps Getting Better
Glad to see the MC get over his hang ups and embrace his new abilities. Hopefully he will keep unlocking new ones, he definitely needs fire manipulation or fore Magic in some way along with teleportation, one can hope. Can’t wait to get the the next book.
Glad to see the MC get over his hang ups and embrace his new abilities. Hopefully he will keep unlocking new ones, he definitely needs fire manipulation or fore Magic in some way along with teleportation, one can hope. Can’t wait to get the the next book.
April 8, 2022
Hearthgle book 3
This book was so much fun to read. I cannot put it down till I finished it at 4 o’clock in the morning. I will pay for that because it screws up my days but it was enjoyable book to read. I do recommend the series
This book was so much fun to read. I cannot put it down till I finished it at 4 o’clock in the morning. I will pay for that because it screws up my days but it was enjoyable book to read. I do recommend the series
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