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House of Dolls #2
House of Dolls 2: A Superhero Thriller
The follow-up to the best-selling House of Dolls turns up the action, the suspense, and introduces new characters you'll have to read to believe!
Roman Martin is a normal guy with an incredible superpower who has surrounded himself with an assortment of oddities, from killer animated dolls to deadly spies.
He still has the desire to do something good with his newfound power, but a reformed office worker with a dark past might not have what it takes to become a superhero, especially in Centralia, a privileged country where those with powers are separated from those without.
Even worse, Roman has to keep his superpower a secret, which is increasingly difficult after a bounty has been placed on his head, his workplace is attacked, and someone close to him has turned up missing.
With his past catching up to him, and his future murky at best, Roman heads to the Eastern Province alongside the Eastern spy known as Nadine, both of them looking into the disappearance of an entire class of people.
What Roman discovers could send shock waves through all of Centralia, if he makes it out alive.
Warning: House of Dolls contains a harem, toxic cat girls, superpowers used in ways they weren’t intended to be used, cosplay, fantasy violence, necromancy, dark themes, and other trigger-worthy adult situations. It was inspired by Office Space, the anime High School DxD, Drew Hayes’ Super Powereds, and The Americans.
Roman Martin is a normal guy with an incredible superpower who has surrounded himself with an assortment of oddities, from killer animated dolls to deadly spies.
He still has the desire to do something good with his newfound power, but a reformed office worker with a dark past might not have what it takes to become a superhero, especially in Centralia, a privileged country where those with powers are separated from those without.
Even worse, Roman has to keep his superpower a secret, which is increasingly difficult after a bounty has been placed on his head, his workplace is attacked, and someone close to him has turned up missing.
With his past catching up to him, and his future murky at best, Roman heads to the Eastern Province alongside the Eastern spy known as Nadine, both of them looking into the disappearance of an entire class of people.
What Roman discovers could send shock waves through all of Centralia, if he makes it out alive.
Warning: House of Dolls contains a harem, toxic cat girls, superpowers used in ways they weren’t intended to be used, cosplay, fantasy violence, necromancy, dark themes, and other trigger-worthy adult situations. It was inspired by Office Space, the anime High School DxD, Drew Hayes’ Super Powereds, and The Americans.
617 pages, Paperback
First published December 11, 2018
185 people are currently reading
72 people want to read
About the author
Harmon Cooper
143 books367 followersHarmon Cooper is the author of over sixty fantasy works. His bestselling series include Pilgrim, War Priest, Cowboy Necromancer, and Tokens and Towers.
His series, The Feedback Loop, is one of the earlier GameLit works first published in 2015. An earphone award winner for the series Death's Mantle, Harmon won the LitRPG/GameLit Audiobook of the Year award for Sacred Cat Island, narrated by Legends and Lattes author Travis Baldree.
Harmon write progression fantasy, cultivation fantasy, and LitRPG/GameLit.
His series, The Feedback Loop, is one of the earlier GameLit works first published in 2015. An earphone award winner for the series Death's Mantle, Harmon won the LitRPG/GameLit Audiobook of the Year award for Sacred Cat Island, narrated by Legends and Lattes author Travis Baldree.
Harmon write progression fantasy, cultivation fantasy, and LitRPG/GameLit.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
December 15, 2018
I really liked the first book, this, this not so much. In fact I actively disliked this.
!Beware, spoilers ahead!
The first book gave us our MC Roman. A highly flawed but somewhat understandable character with deep seeted trauma. He gained an unique power his own government couldn't really assess at the time. With which he created "his own harem", so to speak and got mixed up in a bunch of cold war spy drama.
The second book, is nothing like that. In fact it goes out of it's way to destroy the premise of the first book, to completely ruin anything the first book has created and undermine the entire thing.
Roman is still the MC, supposedly. However, much of the book, if not more than half is completely focused on other characters. Rather than the MC, Roman is now one character amongst many. The prior book already had secondary character chapters but they were rare and far in between. Here it's every other chapter, sometimes more.
From Kevin, to a newly introduced character who apparently has THE EXACT SAME POWER AS THE MC EXCEPT BETTER which destroys that aspect too, and even Hazrat a one scene wonder from the first book. We're getting characters upon characters who barely interact with the MC and contribute absolutely nothing.
They feel like road bumps on a formula one track. From how they derail the story flow, to the premise of his unique power and its abilities, to completely destroying any character growth and progress on Roman and his posses part. As like leeches they're sucking it all up for themselves. Hell even connections made in book one such as Paris are summarily killed off, the plot never going anywhere as it's removed to make space to cram in some more new characters.
The author has dropped "Harem" from the Title for a reason. It's basically gone and not maintainable. As we now have 5-6 PoVs between which the book is split. So there's no space for that anymore either. Between these changes, pretty much everything the first story was build on was completely destroyed here.
I avoided the author after Monster Hunt NYC. Talked to him on Reddit as he was promoting book one of this series. Gave it a shot and was positively surprised. This complete and utter shift, pretty much draining the essence of what the first book was so he could cram in other junk in its place just made me lose any and all interest in the series. Neeedless to say, I wont be picking up any of his works ever again and will try and dissuade anyone else from doing so too.
!Beware, spoilers ahead!
The first book gave us our MC Roman. A highly flawed but somewhat understandable character with deep seeted trauma. He gained an unique power his own government couldn't really assess at the time. With which he created "his own harem", so to speak and got mixed up in a bunch of cold war spy drama.
The second book, is nothing like that. In fact it goes out of it's way to destroy the premise of the first book, to completely ruin anything the first book has created and undermine the entire thing.
Roman is still the MC, supposedly. However, much of the book, if not more than half is completely focused on other characters. Rather than the MC, Roman is now one character amongst many. The prior book already had secondary character chapters but they were rare and far in between. Here it's every other chapter, sometimes more.
From Kevin, to a newly introduced character who apparently has THE EXACT SAME POWER AS THE MC EXCEPT BETTER which destroys that aspect too, and even Hazrat a one scene wonder from the first book. We're getting characters upon characters who barely interact with the MC and contribute absolutely nothing.
They feel like road bumps on a formula one track. From how they derail the story flow, to the premise of his unique power and its abilities, to completely destroying any character growth and progress on Roman and his posses part. As like leeches they're sucking it all up for themselves. Hell even connections made in book one such as Paris are summarily killed off, the plot never going anywhere as it's removed to make space to cram in some more new characters.
The author has dropped "Harem" from the Title for a reason. It's basically gone and not maintainable. As we now have 5-6 PoVs between which the book is split. So there's no space for that anymore either. Between these changes, pretty much everything the first story was build on was completely destroyed here.
I avoided the author after Monster Hunt NYC. Talked to him on Reddit as he was promoting book one of this series. Gave it a shot and was positively surprised. This complete and utter shift, pretty much draining the essence of what the first book was so he could cram in other junk in its place just made me lose any and all interest in the series. Neeedless to say, I wont be picking up any of his works ever again and will try and dissuade anyone else from doing so too.
January 10, 2020
I have read the first and half of the second book of this series. There are multiple problems with this series. I will try to keep this spoiler free.
1. The main character is unlikable. Sure, some will probably like him, but he comes off as kind of a jerk. Yes, it later on explains why he acts this way, but that doesn't make you like him any more than before.
2. This is very slice of life. Some people like these types of books, but there doesn't seem to be much of a sense of urgency or difficulty to overcome. Maybe there is some big bad further on in the series which has yet to be revealed, but so far nothing has been mentioned.
3. The powers are very nebulous, I believe on purpose. He seems to be able to do almost anything, up to his imagination. The problem with this is that I could imagine him doing quite a few things that would mean instant death among pretty much anyone he wants, as long as he strikes first at least. Either the author has a lack of imagination, or he has some limitation that he did not explain to the reader. This leads the reader to assume that the MC can use it this way, but he is too dumb to realize it.
1. The main character is unlikable. Sure, some will probably like him, but he comes off as kind of a jerk. Yes, it later on explains why he acts this way, but that doesn't make you like him any more than before.
2. This is very slice of life. Some people like these types of books, but there doesn't seem to be much of a sense of urgency or difficulty to overcome. Maybe there is some big bad further on in the series which has yet to be revealed, but so far nothing has been mentioned.
3. The powers are very nebulous, I believe on purpose. He seems to be able to do almost anything, up to his imagination. The problem with this is that I could imagine him doing quite a few things that would mean instant death among pretty much anyone he wants, as long as he strikes first at least. Either the author has a lack of imagination, or he has some limitation that he did not explain to the reader. This leads the reader to assume that the MC can use it this way, but he is too dumb to realize it.
December 14, 2018
What a fabulous follow-up to the first 'House of Dolls' book. I honestly couldn't believe it was this good.
There's the same characters that were in the first book, and there are new ones, with a lot of surprises and twists along the way. This is a strong Harmon Cooper piece of work. Its got action - boy, does this have action, of all kinds - and it's a fabulous story. The deeper you are enticed and engrossed by the words and the tale, the less chance you have of being able to pull yourself away. Cooper is even kind enough to give you a recap of what has happened so far. But read the first book anyway...
I have fallen in love with the dolls, including the new addition, Casper. She's surprising in every way. She may be wee in stature, but she more than makes up for that in gallusness. I so love this series - the intrigue, the double dealing, the humour, the serious (and fatal) fights, and the dialogue. I'm dying to know what happens next. Wonderful!
I had an eARC which I voluntarily read and honestly reviewed. All opinions are my own.
There's the same characters that were in the first book, and there are new ones, with a lot of surprises and twists along the way. This is a strong Harmon Cooper piece of work. Its got action - boy, does this have action, of all kinds - and it's a fabulous story. The deeper you are enticed and engrossed by the words and the tale, the less chance you have of being able to pull yourself away. Cooper is even kind enough to give you a recap of what has happened so far. But read the first book anyway...
I have fallen in love with the dolls, including the new addition, Casper. She's surprising in every way. She may be wee in stature, but she more than makes up for that in gallusness. I so love this series - the intrigue, the double dealing, the humour, the serious (and fatal) fights, and the dialogue. I'm dying to know what happens next. Wonderful!
I had an eARC which I voluntarily read and honestly reviewed. All opinions are my own.
March 20, 2021
This series has been interesting . You learn more about the protagonist and his journey towards becoming an exemplar. I like the multiple perspectives that get built into the story. Of a person with power working towards being officially recognized so , a person without power gaining power because of the people listening to him.
Honestly the title is so much of a misnomer. A look at the title and one would think the book would be filled with sex, harem activities and with a bare structure of plot to hold things together. It does have sex and some harem type activity but the plot is pretty deep.
I guess it fulfills every guys dream of power , sex and domination but the book also has femme fatale in the form of spies who balance out the protagonist.
A light read for when you want to feel the wind blow but deep enough that it warms your heart. Definitely gets you pumping.
Honestly the title is so much of a misnomer. A look at the title and one would think the book would be filled with sex, harem activities and with a bare structure of plot to hold things together. It does have sex and some harem type activity but the plot is pretty deep.
I guess it fulfills every guys dream of power , sex and domination but the book also has femme fatale in the form of spies who balance out the protagonist.
A light read for when you want to feel the wind blow but deep enough that it warms your heart. Definitely gets you pumping.
December 30, 2018
It's ok I guess, but really annoying. Mc is dumb and his motivations are just so weird or lack of. In first it seems like he got into spy business just for a heck of it, and he could just have reported it to Ava for example. Also he takes information from spies at face value and pretty much tells them everything... And every time something happens he goes to foreign spies whose motivations he can't be sure of for help. It just doesn't make any sense. Seeing as help he could get trough Ava could be lot better and he didn't even ask. It's just so offputting.
Mc is also pretty boring and character interaction is pretty flat.
Mc is also pretty boring and character interaction is pretty flat.
March 8, 2019
After finishing book two, I’m just not vested in the characters. So far, Celia - the 'pleasure' doll, seems the most interesting of the lot. Harper seems pretty interesting, but her role in this one is limited. I found myself skimming here and there, but there is some quality action toward the end. And it leaves the next installment ready and waiting (Harper, too). This is a fun ‘travel read’ as the story is easy to come in and out of.
Overall, the premise is definitely fun. Who wouldn’t like a superpower? Margo does add some flair, for sure.
In all, some slow spots and filler. Getting to ‘see’ the Eastern Province was nice – plus the Reindeer folk.
ARC provided. 3 of 5 stars.
Overall, the premise is definitely fun. Who wouldn’t like a superpower? Margo does add some flair, for sure.
In all, some slow spots and filler. Getting to ‘see’ the Eastern Province was nice – plus the Reindeer folk.
ARC provided. 3 of 5 stars.
December 16, 2018
Fascinating Tales
Building a world isn't easy but after book 1 in was happy to see this twist on a future hero laden world and I wasn't convinced where the character could go in such a busy series type..
Step up book 2 and now I see vast potential for this world and harmons imaginations of this conflict between heroes, villains and corrupt countries. I'm sure there is also quite a few Easter eggs hinted at for future books as the characters development and abilities animate things to another level.
A non stop page turner and something i will be putting on my to watch list
Building a world isn't easy but after book 1 in was happy to see this twist on a future hero laden world and I wasn't convinced where the character could go in such a busy series type..
Step up book 2 and now I see vast potential for this world and harmons imaginations of this conflict between heroes, villains and corrupt countries. I'm sure there is also quite a few Easter eggs hinted at for future books as the characters development and abilities animate things to another level.
A non stop page turner and something i will be putting on my to watch list
June 10, 2019
Ongoing adventure
The story is moving along, not as fast paced as CBG's, but moving. I've finally started to warm up to Roman, but his self-destructive interactions with women makes it difficult. But he's finally seems to be moving in the right direction with Nadine. The entrance of the new manipulator, and the unresolved battle at the prison, were frustrating. The political issues between the blocks, hopefully will resolve in book 3
The story is moving along, not as fast paced as CBG's, but moving. I've finally started to warm up to Roman, but his self-destructive interactions with women makes it difficult. But he's finally seems to be moving in the right direction with Nadine. The entrance of the new manipulator, and the unresolved battle at the prison, were frustrating. The political issues between the blocks, hopefully will resolve in book 3
December 14, 2018
A solid book that entertains and leaves you looking for more.
This book was interesting and varied it has a lot of action and the characters are interesting and varied. You have to pay attention to the book or you miss a lot of the little things in the book.Overall a very enjoyable read.
This book was interesting and varied it has a lot of action and the characters are interesting and varied. You have to pay attention to the book or you miss a lot of the little things in the book.Overall a very enjoyable read.
December 16, 2018
Everybody Has Secrets
Roman is gaining control in the use of his powers. This book is darker than the first one, however, it maintains my interest. I like the action of which there is a lot. The plot grows more complicated as new characters come into importance. The stage is set for some things to come to a head in the next book which I look forward to.
Roman is gaining control in the use of his powers. This book is darker than the first one, however, it maintains my interest. I like the action of which there is a lot. The plot grows more complicated as new characters come into importance. The stage is set for some things to come to a head in the next book which I look forward to.
December 31, 2018
A good second book, I hope for a third
The sex is not too explicit, strong women who like sex but don't need a man they just like them, interesting powers and a flawed but trying hero. Interesting politics a bit of spy lore. Villains who are motivated by various emotions and motives.
The sex is not too explicit, strong women who like sex but don't need a man they just like them, interesting powers and a flawed but trying hero. Interesting politics a bit of spy lore. Villains who are motivated by various emotions and motives.
December 15, 2018
Ok
This book started off real slow and I thought it was a little confused as to where it was going, I am glad I stuck with it. I hope that the next installment starts fast and stays interesting.
This book started off real slow and I thought it was a little confused as to where it was going, I am glad I stuck with it. I hope that the next installment starts fast and stays interesting.
January 5, 2019
Good series
So far this is a great series and l’m looking forward to the next book! It’s an interesting read because the reader and author are the only ones who know how wrong the characters are about what’s going on.
So far this is a great series and l’m looking forward to the next book! It’s an interesting read because the reader and author are the only ones who know how wrong the characters are about what’s going on.
February 17, 2019
Unsatisfying
I felt the writing and characters were a bit better than the first one, however I didn't get the questions I had answered. That is normal for a mystery I guess. I'm just not patient enough for a multi book mystery.
I felt the writing and characters were a bit better than the first one, however I didn't get the questions I had answered. That is normal for a mystery I guess. I'm just not patient enough for a multi book mystery.
October 16, 2019
Awesome second installment!
Can’t wait to see where this goes! I love the characters and how they are more real than many characters you meet. A thrill ride that seems to twist and turn.
Can’t wait to see where this goes! I love the characters and how they are more real than many characters you meet. A thrill ride that seems to twist and turn.
December 13, 2018
MR COOPER,in writing this number two of the "DOLLS" books has stepped up his game in story,action,plot-line and "steamy doings" All I can say is HOORAYYY!
December 16, 2018
Interesting
Shows creativity in how superpowers can be use by thinking out of the side the box. Definitely worth a read.
Shows creativity in how superpowers can be use by thinking out of the side the box. Definitely worth a read.
December 16, 2018
Not as much fun as book one
The plot hat too many threads happening at once and none of them were individually very interesting as a whole it was not a compelling read.
The plot hat too many threads happening at once and none of them were individually very interesting as a whole it was not a compelling read.
December 31, 2018
Can't wait for the third!!
Really enjoyed both of these books. Funny, well written. Couldn't put it down! Looking forward to the next in the series.
Really enjoyed both of these books. Funny, well written. Couldn't put it down! Looking forward to the next in the series.
March 25, 2019
Good book
Good book I can't wait to read the next book in the series I would recommend this book to anyone
Good book I can't wait to read the next book in the series I would recommend this book to anyone
March 29, 2019
Amazing as always
I cant wait to read the third installment, as always Mr. Cooper did an amazing job and has created anther amazing series
I cant wait to read the third installment, as always Mr. Cooper did an amazing job and has created anther amazing series
August 4, 2020
Good read, an outstanding follow up to a very interesting series.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews