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The Illusionist #3
Inquisitor’s Foil
He's a part-time Imperial hero, full-time thief. Lucky for him, she's not that kind of Inquisitor.
Illusionist and novice spy Alan Campbell just got out of one relationship only to have another woman walk into his life: the Lady Camilla Favonius of the Imperial Inquisition. He's close to broke and left without orders. She wears plate armor in the field and around her heart. Is the lady just what the Plague Doctor ordered, or will his efforts to get a job and woo her only leave him jaded...or dead?
From the city of Harrowick to the perilous depths of the Grass Sea, Alan will have to fight a corrupt syndicate, earn his place in the Thieves' Union, and face down monsters and the risen dead if he wants a happy ending. All the while, in the real world, Robert Osmark is as close to losing his company as he's ever been, and both Sandra and Jeff will have to pick sides once the battle lines are drawn. Brazen thievery, Death caught off-balance, the Dawn Elves' dirty secret, and unexpected love in Inquisitor's Foil, the third book of the Illusionist series.
From James A. Hunter—author of Viridian Gate Online, Rogue Dungeon, War God's Mantle, and the Yancy Lazarus Series—and D.J. Bodden, author of The Black Year Series, comes an epic new entry into the Expanded Universe of Viridian Gate Online that you won't want to put down!
Illusionist and novice spy Alan Campbell just got out of one relationship only to have another woman walk into his life: the Lady Camilla Favonius of the Imperial Inquisition. He's close to broke and left without orders. She wears plate armor in the field and around her heart. Is the lady just what the Plague Doctor ordered, or will his efforts to get a job and woo her only leave him jaded...or dead?
From the city of Harrowick to the perilous depths of the Grass Sea, Alan will have to fight a corrupt syndicate, earn his place in the Thieves' Union, and face down monsters and the risen dead if he wants a happy ending. All the while, in the real world, Robert Osmark is as close to losing his company as he's ever been, and both Sandra and Jeff will have to pick sides once the battle lines are drawn. Brazen thievery, Death caught off-balance, the Dawn Elves' dirty secret, and unexpected love in Inquisitor's Foil, the third book of the Illusionist series.
From James A. Hunter—author of Viridian Gate Online, Rogue Dungeon, War God's Mantle, and the Yancy Lazarus Series—and D.J. Bodden, author of The Black Year Series, comes an epic new entry into the Expanded Universe of Viridian Gate Online that you won't want to put down!
Kindle Edition
First published July 30, 2019
About the author
D.J. Bodden
25 books147 followersD.J. Bodden is a tech-startup COO who writes books because words are magic. He's an avid reader of science-fiction and fantasy, a gamer, a former pilot and coffee trader who's been to every continent but Antarctica. He's been woken up by gunfire, jumped out of helicopters, and climbed medium-sized hills in scorching weather; He likes to make people laugh for the wrong reasons; He tries to sell people grimoires disguised as fiction; He is scared of spiders, and only recently learned to ride a bike.
D.J. lives in Switzerland with his wife and thinks it's important that they should someday be adopted by a fox.
D.J. lives in Switzerland with his wife and thinks it's important that they should someday be adopted by a fox.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
August 1, 2019
This is the 3rd book in the Illusionist series yet Alan has not come to grips with his class choice and I just wish he would start advancing and gaining some levels as he is not getting any richer or stronger either as an illusionist or as a thief, no matter the new name he acquired. I found this book a bit too complicated in that there were three strands of the story going at the same time, there was the Robert Osmark side, Jeff's side and of course Alan's but none of them seemed to be at any point relevant to the others! The romance between Alan and Wendy, the inquisitor might be finally going places but this too took too much effort on Alan's part. Hopefully this character will start making something of himself in book 4 as it is becoming a bit tedious going round in circles, gaining a bit of gold and losing it all the next instant!
February 16, 2020
Great addition
Personally I think this VGO spin off is just as entertaining as the original series. I find Alan very human, and not like some other protagonist that just start getting ridiculously high powered. It's a refreshing change and I look forward to the next book.
Personally I think this VGO spin off is just as entertaining as the original series. I find Alan very human, and not like some other protagonist that just start getting ridiculously high powered. It's a refreshing change and I look forward to the next book.
October 8, 2022
Another fun adventure. Some interesting creatures and a fun look at the world. But it feels kind of aimless. There isn't a goal except get stronger, the war is coming.
Then there is the "real world" and the fight for Osmark to keep his company. It is a very short part of the story, and had little to no impact on in game stuff. There are a few things that aren't really explained well as to why they happened. There is also a mention of Abby breaking into the system, but this is far before they know about the meteor and she should have been suspicious.
Still, there are a few things left to bridge between this series and the original series. It is still a fun adventure and I'm happy to enjoy the ride.
Then there is the "real world" and the fight for Osmark to keep his company. It is a very short part of the story, and had little to no impact on in game stuff. There are a few things that aren't really explained well as to why they happened. There is also a mention of Abby breaking into the system, but this is far before they know about the meteor and she should have been suspicious.
Still, there are a few things left to bridge between this series and the original series. It is still a fun adventure and I'm happy to enjoy the ride.
April 19, 2020
Good Read
The writing in here is solid and the character development is good. I think the story seems to drag a bit and you are excited to see more happening. But the author still keeps you reading. Overall, I liked it and don’t regret the time spent reading it, but I wish for more to happen, more world building, more going on with the character, and give it a lil more Litrpg feel.
Check it out yourself!!!
The writing in here is solid and the character development is good. I think the story seems to drag a bit and you are excited to see more happening. But the author still keeps you reading. Overall, I liked it and don’t regret the time spent reading it, but I wish for more to happen, more world building, more going on with the character, and give it a lil more Litrpg feel.
Check it out yourself!!!
March 3, 2022
A Worthy Addition
This particular book took me quite a while to finish, though I finished the last third ten times faster than the rest. Cuz nothing very interesting happens until then! I love all things VGO related though, so I still like it. I do like the Illusionist series, this one just wasn't as interesting for me. REALLY looking forward to the Nils spinoff book previewed at the end too!!
This particular book took me quite a while to finish, though I finished the last third ten times faster than the rest. Cuz nothing very interesting happens until then! I love all things VGO related though, so I still like it. I do like the Illusionist series, this one just wasn't as interesting for me. REALLY looking forward to the Nils spinoff book previewed at the end too!!
August 19, 2019
For Alan Campbell, getting used to Viridian Online hasn't been easy. In the blink of an eye, he's lived what's felt like a thousand lives. It doesn't help that in real life he's no longer amongst the living. Determined to make the most of his new life, he throws himself into learning everything he can about the world around him, most especially when it comes to the specifics for his class kit. Deep inside, he knows the world as he knows it isn't quite safe. Nevertheless, he'll do everything possible to stay one step ahead of those hounding him at every turn.
I love the fact that Inquisitor's Foil picks up where book 2 left off, dropping us smack-dab in the middle of Alan's current plight. The authors have done a great job in expanding this wonderful game world. So much so, that it makes the reader want to be a part of it. I kid you not.
I was first introduced to VGO via James' initial series. The fact that he's allowed so many different authors to create their own character stories within this unique world says a lot. They've taken what James started with and given it their own personal flares. Mind you, each story is far different from the last.
I so can't wait to see what DJ has in store for us next when it comes to Alan. This is a character who's barely scratched the surface of the world he now lives in. One he intends to make his own by any means necessary.
I love the fact that Inquisitor's Foil picks up where book 2 left off, dropping us smack-dab in the middle of Alan's current plight. The authors have done a great job in expanding this wonderful game world. So much so, that it makes the reader want to be a part of it. I kid you not.
I was first introduced to VGO via James' initial series. The fact that he's allowed so many different authors to create their own character stories within this unique world says a lot. They've taken what James started with and given it their own personal flares. Mind you, each story is far different from the last.
I so can't wait to see what DJ has in store for us next when it comes to Alan. This is a character who's barely scratched the surface of the world he now lives in. One he intends to make his own by any means necessary.
August 12, 2019
Stellar continuation of one of my favorite series
I've been following Alan through all of his crazy and amazing adventures. This story by far has captured the absolute of Alan and shows just how amazing but tough his life is. Not only do we get Alab but we get his PIC Jeff to.
I dont like going into details during my reviews but there will be a bit of spoilers included in the bit below. You can skip to the end to hear why you need to buy this book and read it right now.
Spoilers******
Alan in this story really comes into his own as a thief, I truly enjoyed getting to see his internal development during this story. Alwn truly shows both sides or himself in this portion of his story.
Jeff also continues his journey of self discovery and learn a hell of alot kore then he expects in thos portion.
Spoilers are over
All of the characters in this part of the story truly show themselves to be deeper then we ever expected.
You will need to read the story to learn more of how Alan earns his loves heart and bow Hedf comes into his own power
I cant recomend buying this book enough to everyone. This is by far and above my favorite story of Alan and you need to see how it comes out
I've been following Alan through all of his crazy and amazing adventures. This story by far has captured the absolute of Alan and shows just how amazing but tough his life is. Not only do we get Alab but we get his PIC Jeff to.
I dont like going into details during my reviews but there will be a bit of spoilers included in the bit below. You can skip to the end to hear why you need to buy this book and read it right now.
Spoilers******
Alan in this story really comes into his own as a thief, I truly enjoyed getting to see his internal development during this story. Alwn truly shows both sides or himself in this portion of his story.
Jeff also continues his journey of self discovery and learn a hell of alot kore then he expects in thos portion.
Spoilers are over
All of the characters in this part of the story truly show themselves to be deeper then we ever expected.
You will need to read the story to learn more of how Alan earns his loves heart and bow Hedf comes into his own power
I cant recomend buying this book enough to everyone. This is by far and above my favorite story of Alan and you need to see how it comes out
October 14, 2019
Another solid book in this series, but it just didn't quite grab me like the first two did.
I think I wasn't liking Allan as much in this book, and when I stop really liking the MC it really detracts from my experience. He came across to me as a smug jerk, and it wasn't working for me. That said, it's very well written as I expect from the author. I didn't quite get the Nil action I was hoping for (e.g. I thought it and Allan should be off adventuring) but the bonus background info was interesting.
Others won't have my reaction to Allan's character in this book, so don't let my "didn't-quite-make-5-stars" review put you off if you like the series.
I think I wasn't liking Allan as much in this book, and when I stop really liking the MC it really detracts from my experience. He came across to me as a smug jerk, and it wasn't working for me. That said, it's very well written as I expect from the author. I didn't quite get the Nil action I was hoping for (e.g. I thought it and Allan should be off adventuring) but the bonus background info was interesting.
Others won't have my reaction to Allan's character in this book, so don't let my "didn't-quite-make-5-stars" review put you off if you like the series.
December 30, 2019
Alert
I hate trying to write reviews because there are really only pass/fail results for me. Did I make it all the way through? Yes? 5 stars. No? There would be nothing here to read. In all fairness, if an author holds my attention from page one to the end, they’ve done their job. Anything less than 5 stars is petty criticism from someone incapable of even doing the job let alone doing a better one.
So in respect for the author and their work, I am going to start pasting this along with a generic review I found somewhere. “This was a fun book. I am glad that I read it. You should try it too.”
Cheers
I hate trying to write reviews because there are really only pass/fail results for me. Did I make it all the way through? Yes? 5 stars. No? There would be nothing here to read. In all fairness, if an author holds my attention from page one to the end, they’ve done their job. Anything less than 5 stars is petty criticism from someone incapable of even doing the job let alone doing a better one.
So in respect for the author and their work, I am going to start pasting this along with a generic review I found somewhere. “This was a fun book. I am glad that I read it. You should try it too.”
Cheers
October 22, 2019
Good read, and am enjoying the series.
The books are a little too short, almost like reading a short story instead of a novel. I wish authors in general would get back to longer stories.
Also, with books this short I forget what happened because I read the last short story 6 months ago and forgot everything...so a nice summery of the previous book (or books) as a prologue to the book would be super helpful. Help me remember who is who, what happened, and major plot points in a 1 to 2 page summary so I can dive into the next book without being confused so much.
The books are a little too short, almost like reading a short story instead of a novel. I wish authors in general would get back to longer stories.
Also, with books this short I forget what happened because I read the last short story 6 months ago and forgot everything...so a nice summery of the previous book (or books) as a prologue to the book would be super helpful. Help me remember who is who, what happened, and major plot points in a 1 to 2 page summary so I can dive into the next book without being confused so much.
August 11, 2019
An absolute pleasure
Juggling one main story and several sub plots, we get a delightful and sometimes moving ride along as our hero Alan tries to make a living in this new world. It’s a Prequel to the VGO series but it more than stands on its own, with some of the most vivid and human characters I’ve read in the genre.
Juggling one main story and several sub plots, we get a delightful and sometimes moving ride along as our hero Alan tries to make a living in this new world. It’s a Prequel to the VGO series but it more than stands on its own, with some of the most vivid and human characters I’ve read in the genre.
April 26, 2020
I tore through the first three Illusionist books in just a couple of days. I really enjoyed them and happy to say I lost some sleep due to these. The wit and dialogue are fun. Also, I cant help but envision Alan as a fantasy representation of Donald Glover. I'm not sure if the author used him as a reference but it's a perfect match IMO. Definitely a recommendation for me.
July 31, 2019
Another great story continues
I loved this one as we see more and more of the overminds and Alan as he progresses.
Very well thought out and a welcome addiction to the VGO universe
I loved this one as we see more and more of the overminds and Alan as he progresses.
Very well thought out and a welcome addiction to the VGO universe
August 16, 2019
As good as the main series
Honestly, I knew this one was gonna be five stars after the "nostalgia buff scene". The author really comes into his own with how the characters interact and the dialogue. 100% recommend.
Honestly, I knew this one was gonna be five stars after the "nostalgia buff scene". The author really comes into his own with how the characters interact and the dialogue. 100% recommend.
August 18, 2019
A little bit everywhere, But good
I do really like this series. This book does jump around a bit much. Sometimes you have to stop and ask, "Whose talking now?" It is not real bad; but, the author does need to watch the run-on conversations. That is what cost it a star for me.
I do really like this series. This book does jump around a bit much. Sometimes you have to stop and ask, "Whose talking now?" It is not real bad; but, the author does need to watch the run-on conversations. That is what cost it a star for me.
September 25, 2019
I do love this character. The illusionist career development and the writing is fresh and engaging. It has been a lovely trilogy and a welcome return to the world of Viridian Gate Online.
I'm just hoping there will be more?
I'm just hoping there will be more?
October 5, 2019
Great story but
Another amazing tale from Viridian. This section of the overarching Viridian story seems to come with a lot of different POVs which feels weird but does make sense overall, even if it seems like Alan doesn't do much
Another amazing tale from Viridian. This section of the overarching Viridian story seems to come with a lot of different POVs which feels weird but does make sense overall, even if it seems like Alan doesn't do much
October 27, 2019
This can’t be the end
I feel like I’ve had the same sentiment about many of these serials. There has to be more. In this case, it seems like there are still several loose ends to clean up. And wrap them into the original VGO story line.
I feel like I’ve had the same sentiment about many of these serials. There has to be more. In this case, it seems like there are still several loose ends to clean up. And wrap them into the original VGO story line.
October 23, 2019
This one wasn't very good. The ending felt rushed and no real conclusion.
July 5, 2021
Too many loose ends and hints.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews