What do you think?
Rate this book
Mark of the Fool #2
Mark of the Fool 2
He tried to escape. But something followed.
After a gruelling trial, Alex Roth had reached the University of Generasi and learned much about the Mark of the Fool and how to exploit it for new paths of power.
Making friends and training in alchemy, all seemed to be going well.
But shadows stir.
The dark secrets of his homeland haunt him. His sister—Selina—learns that she is what she hates most. And unfriendly, monstrous eyes track him.
As he tries to live a normal life, he must risk danger to uncover dark secrets, survive the wrath of those that call upon demons, and avoid the gaze of a hunter from an ancient enemy.
…and that is when the murders begin.
Oh, and he still has to make sure he can pay tuition.
After a gruelling trial, Alex Roth had reached the University of Generasi and learned much about the Mark of the Fool and how to exploit it for new paths of power.
Making friends and training in alchemy, all seemed to be going well.
But shadows stir.
The dark secrets of his homeland haunt him. His sister—Selina—learns that she is what she hates most. And unfriendly, monstrous eyes track him.
As he tries to live a normal life, he must risk danger to uncover dark secrets, survive the wrath of those that call upon demons, and avoid the gaze of a hunter from an ancient enemy.
…and that is when the murders begin.
Oh, and he still has to make sure he can pay tuition.
795 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 10, 2023
1492 people are currently reading
1271 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 235 reviews
July 9, 2023
Wow just wow!!!! I loved this book
September 10, 2024
Very good fantasy read. Entertaining and funny. Very recommended
June 24, 2023
Eh... About 30% too slow.
While some of the expectations that have been built up until now were rewarded, the payoff was quite small and came really late.
At the same time, I am not even sure where this story is going since the main arc hasn't been progressing at all. So... the protagonist is the chosen one but escapes to live the life he wants to live free of his duty. But clearly, he inevitably has to face his destiny, right?
But little to nothing of this is hinted at!
I am sure the coming books will progress the main storyline much more, so I will continue.
But the next book gotta be a banger.
While some of the expectations that have been built up until now were rewarded, the payoff was quite small and came really late.
At the same time, I am not even sure where this story is going since the main arc hasn't been progressing at all. So... the protagonist is the chosen one but escapes to live the life he wants to live free of his duty. But clearly, he inevitably has to face his destiny, right?
But little to nothing of this is hinted at!
I am sure the coming books will progress the main storyline much more, so I will continue.
But the next book gotta be a banger.
January 22, 2023
Just like all of these types of books I liked the first one much more. The problem with a direct port of these stories is that the traditional book format doesn't happen. This one had a strange flow since it was as expected just a continuation of the previous novel. The book sufferers from this and you don't get the expected clutch, mid book climax, and workup to a finale. Overall it was great the narration was world class as always and the premise was fun and creative. I am glad that I bought it and listened to it, and I will absolutely continue to read as these are released, but I do wish that some of these ports from web to hard copy would take a longer route to publishing and do some rewriting and get a better product. Basically I find that as the story goes on it gets worse. The further from the original idea and intent the book gets the lower the story quality is in my opinion. It is difficult to just write a story day to day and get everything in the right place. I personally tried to write on Royal Road and can say that it isn't easy, but also that it isn't nearly as much work as someone like Sullivan that has upwards of 5 rewrites prior to release.
January 11, 2023
Overall this is very fun but still with a few issues.
It has all the high marks of book one but lacks the newness as well. The first part drags as a result. There is nothing wrong with any of it, it just has no new material to entice you.
It has all the high marks of book one but lacks the newness as well. The first part drags as a result. There is nothing wrong with any of it, it just has no new material to entice you.
January 11, 2023
fun
I like this series. It’s not amazing and it can be a bit tedious, but it is decently written and has fun ideas.
I look forward to the next book.
I like this series. It’s not amazing and it can be a bit tedious, but it is decently written and has fun ideas.
I look forward to the next book.
March 12, 2023
This is really a fun series. Alex continues his studies and as he and his friends grow they keep finding more and more action for us to enjoy. Alex has had to tell more people about his mark including the Headmaster. But he has found support and now he is planning on making a Golem. This is where the story really shines. The description of magic and golem making are amazing. Lots of details that adds to the world building.
January 21, 2023
I'm still enjoying the series although it's settling down into a familiar groove, so the impact of the power-up gimmick is waning.
December 8, 2024
Part of me really wants to know if this author has taken chemistry classes cause god it sure sounds like several of the lectures from my previous chemistry classes .
November 6, 2023
Still pretty good...
Fantasy / refusal of the call/ magical academy / is this curse a blessing? / YA coming of age
I've got a little problem, I started book 3 before writing this review and events in That book colored my view of This book. Unless I'm reviewing this as a complete series I should let each book stand or fall on it's own strength. I'll try to do that but... I'm not sure if this book actually deserves 4 stars. I absolutely did think so when I finished this so 4 stars it will remain.
-This book is the second semester of year one in Ye Olde Magical Academy. You can settle in for a nice comfortable ride. The characters think foolish young thoughts, and get bad ideas but when the moment to act arrives they do the smart / right thing.
At this point that is one of my favorite things about this series, The author does not contrive to have his characters make stupid choices just to advance the plot or to introduce cheep drama. Seriously, applause to J.M. Clarke for not stooping to that tired gimmick. IF you are as sick of that bad sit-com ploy as I am you can read this book with confidence. (but don't expect the same in book 3 )
So, If you liked book 1 you will like this just fine. It has a little less fizz in the punch, but it's still the same flavor.
Fantasy / refusal of the call/ magical academy / is this curse a blessing? / YA coming of age
I've got a little problem, I started book 3 before writing this review and events in That book colored my view of This book. Unless I'm reviewing this as a complete series I should let each book stand or fall on it's own strength. I'll try to do that but... I'm not sure if this book actually deserves 4 stars. I absolutely did think so when I finished this so 4 stars it will remain.
-This book is the second semester of year one in Ye Olde Magical Academy. You can settle in for a nice comfortable ride. The characters think foolish young thoughts, and get bad ideas but when the moment to act arrives they do the smart / right thing.
At this point that is one of my favorite things about this series, The author does not contrive to have his characters make stupid choices just to advance the plot or to introduce cheep drama. Seriously, applause to J.M. Clarke for not stooping to that tired gimmick. IF you are as sick of that bad sit-com ploy as I am you can read this book with confidence. (but don't expect the same in book 3 )
So, If you liked book 1 you will like this just fine. It has a little less fizz in the punch, but it's still the same flavor.
February 2, 2023
I enjoyed this book, and it was an easy listen. Progression Fantasy is my favorite sub-genre right now, and I think there is a lot to like about the book. That being said, I think there were a lot of things the author could have done to build and hold tension. For much too long of the book, I didn’t feel like the stakes didn’t feel actively that high. Various characters have some interesting backstories (albeit not very original backstories), and I think the author could have done a lot to flesh them out. I will continue on with the series, and I am interested to see how this book evolves.
If I end up finishing the series, I’ll try and write a more in-depth review with Spoilers.
If I end up finishing the series, I’ll try and write a more in-depth review with Spoilers.
September 6, 2025
Pārdabiskais mošķis Raveners un tā dēmonu un citu monstru armijas atkal griež savas neglītās galvas Rainianas impērijas un tās galvaspilsētas Thameland virzienā. Mošķis, kurš reizi simts gados prasa no pieciem nejauši izvēlētiem Varoņiem ar lielo burtu visu iespējamo un varbūt pat to dzīvības, lai glābtu savu dzimteni. Diemžēl no pieciem Varoņiem vienam tiek, nodēvēts par Muļķi, tiek vairāk kā pārējo atbalstoša loma, un kaut arī vēstures annālēs ir piezīmes, ka bez Muļķa markas īpašnieka neiztikt, tad ar tikpat vieglu roku tā pienesums tiek, ja ne gluži noniecināts, tad noteikti ne tik augstu godā celts un slavināts, kā pārējo varoņu pienesums.
https://poseidons99.com/2025/09/06/j-...
https://poseidons99.com/2025/09/06/j-...
March 10, 2024
Slower pacing than first book but still very entertaining. The protagonist is developing quite well. The rest of the characters are falling behind a bit though it aligns with the lore. Onward to the next one!
Read
January 4, 2025Book One of 2025: this is like a cozy, low stakes academia read where nothing really bad or difficult happens (yet) to Alex or his friends. They study and get knocked around a bit, argue a bit, but mostly they just grow and have a good time. Hope my year will be like that!
October 30, 2025
This is the second semester at the school. There’s a lot of great crafting, especially the golem. This book moves at a nice pace and I enjoy that it takes his time. Some of the best parts are just when they’re taking it easy.
June 27, 2023
Great audiobook
May 17, 2025
An improvement on the first installment and a fun read.
August 11, 2025
the pacing of this was not it. also the author uses onomatopoeias like a child writing a comic book.
I'll still probably read the next book tho lmao
I'll still probably read the next book tho lmao
January 27, 2023
Wow if the first book had something going for it well this one makes sure to get rid of everything interesting. The whole book is just endless studying with constant updates of the mc progress. There is no substance. Once again the world is made to make the mc feel so special in ways that don't make sense.
Since mc is still incapable of fighting in all the fights he mostly just distracts enemies and shouts commands that are usually just "behind you" and then just stands around and does nothing. This book managed to make magical schools sound boring. The combat got worse. The interactions between characters got worse. This whole book is just one big filler episode. 90% of the book could have been skipped and nothing of value would be lost
The only redeeming thing this book has is the explanations of alchemy and golem craft. The author does do a great job of making their magic science sound realistic and even interesting.
Since mc is still incapable of fighting in all the fights he mostly just distracts enemies and shouts commands that are usually just "behind you" and then just stands around and does nothing. This book managed to make magical schools sound boring. The combat got worse. The interactions between characters got worse. This whole book is just one big filler episode. 90% of the book could have been skipped and nothing of value would be lost
The only redeeming thing this book has is the explanations of alchemy and golem craft. The author does do a great job of making their magic science sound realistic and even interesting.
May 26, 2024
It’s a fun slice of life and magic academy story, definitely wanna continue the series.
loved the beware of chicken reference hahahah !
loved the beware of chicken reference hahahah !
October 4, 2024
Love the characters, their camaraderie and their quips they throw back and forth at each other.
February 15, 2024
5 In Time, Even Demons And Dragons Will Tremble At Your Coming Stars
Mark of the Fool 2 is the second book a Progression Fanstay Epic series by J. M. Clarke.
This book is annoyingly good. It contains companionship, battles against many foes, the pursuit of knowledge, and advancements in many arts. This story is still expanding, with the potential for more than just the previous tastes of political intrigue. Soon, we will be drawn back into the heat of Thameland's battle against the Ravener and its forces. All while the Fool continues to push the boundaries of what all thought him capable of.
It has enriching, mainly, to watch as this class of first year COMB-1000 students tackle the many obstacles and challenges placed before them. Even beyond the bonds tied with Alex's cabal; including Isolde, Khalik, and Thundar. This entire class has made lasting ties through facing such danger beside one another and triumphing.
The discoveries that have been made regarding the dungeon core, its capabilities, and ties to golem craft are exciting. Which will lend more aid to Thameland than I think Alex ever hoped for.
Yet, still more mysteries and dangers lurk unresolved in the background.
Mark of the Fool 2 is the second book a Progression Fanstay Epic series by J. M. Clarke.
This book is annoyingly good. It contains companionship, battles against many foes, the pursuit of knowledge, and advancements in many arts. This story is still expanding, with the potential for more than just the previous tastes of political intrigue. Soon, we will be drawn back into the heat of Thameland's battle against the Ravener and its forces. All while the Fool continues to push the boundaries of what all thought him capable of.
It has enriching, mainly, to watch as this class of first year COMB-1000 students tackle the many obstacles and challenges placed before them. Even beyond the bonds tied with Alex's cabal; including Isolde, Khalik, and Thundar. This entire class has made lasting ties through facing such danger beside one another and triumphing.
The discoveries that have been made regarding the dungeon core, its capabilities, and ties to golem craft are exciting. Which will lend more aid to Thameland than I think Alex ever hoped for.
Yet, still more mysteries and dangers lurk unresolved in the background.
April 29, 2025
This was the second instalment of the Mark of the Fool series. This is a progression fantasy series that mixes adventure and and adventure with magic school tropes. It also tries to offer a fresh twist on the "Chosen One" trope.
I actually really like most of the building blocks of this book/series. The world is fun, I love magic school stories, the characters are likeable enough, and the magic is pretty cool. It is a real pity that with all those fun ingredients we still get something that is just a bit bland!
Quality wise this was in line with the first instalment. I’m just not really feeling the series. There is nothing overtly wrong with it I’m just not drawn to it. I own the third book (thanks to getting books 2&3 in a 2 for 1 deal) but I’m probably not going to read it.
Rating: 2.5 stars.
Audio Note: This was narrated by Travis Baldree. He did OK.
I actually really like most of the building blocks of this book/series. The world is fun, I love magic school stories, the characters are likeable enough, and the magic is pretty cool. It is a real pity that with all those fun ingredients we still get something that is just a bit bland!
Quality wise this was in line with the first instalment. I’m just not really feeling the series. There is nothing overtly wrong with it I’m just not drawn to it. I own the third book (thanks to getting books 2&3 in a 2 for 1 deal) but I’m probably not going to read it.
Rating: 2.5 stars.
Audio Note: This was narrated by Travis Baldree. He did OK.
July 22, 2023
I'm laughing, my goodness, I had a great time! Was it repetitive at times? Yes, we know Alex can't directly attack or learn attacks due to the mark. We also know his worry about being found by the priests. Although, I'm okay with him being nervous about that detail. Was it long and dragged out? Yup, here and there, but not everywhere. Did his little sister get better? Uh, no, not really, but I'll forgive her for being 10yo.
All in all, Alex is on his way to being a mad, evil wizard in the best way! And yes, he is very self-aware of this.
All in all, Alex is on his way to being a mad, evil wizard in the best way! And yes, he is very self-aware of this.
January 12, 2023
boring
This was a long boring book. Tye MC is basically in school. He studies, takes exams, and tells everybody his secrets. Very little action and no plot progression. He still can’t do magic. The premise is good, but the execution leaves much to be desired. Also the idea that the Mark won’t let the MC take any offensive action is over done to the point of absurdity.
This was a long boring book. Tye MC is basically in school. He studies, takes exams, and tells everybody his secrets. Very little action and no plot progression. He still can’t do magic. The premise is good, but the execution leaves much to be desired. Also the idea that the Mark won’t let the MC take any offensive action is over done to the point of absurdity.
January 24, 2023
A story that goes nowhere, with characters acting like middle-school kids (even the professors) and a very interesting world that is wasted by frequent "feedback, reviews and introspection"
March 17, 2025
This is a frustrating book series because it's not badly written or anything. But nothing THAT interesting is happening at any given time.
At least this one was a little better than the first book.
At least this one was a little better than the first book.
November 5, 2025
I'm really impressed by this series so far. If I knew the first 3 (at least) books would be focused on a student at a magical university, I might have just skipped it entirely. I've seen enough of that commonly-used arc that I long for the books that throw you right into the action. This author, however, does a great job of balancing the learning with the danger.
The classes themselves are described in a way that really attracts me. You get the fresh aspects of worldbuilding from the actual topic of class discussion, Alex's inner thoughts (that usually lead to a breakthrough or revelation of some kind), and great character dialogue. Changing up the classes and giving Alex new schools of wizardry to discover relieves that pressure of bombarding the reader with all the necessary info for a good plot. The good plot doesn't feel crafted in any way. Alex naturally falls into situations that help in other situations that help in other... you get it.
Outside of the classes, I'm glad we're sticking to the "adapt and overcome" theme. Alex and his cabal are constantly looking for ways outside of combat to improve their own ability. They all seem to make the right choices for themselves in terms of improvement: In this case, I'm referring to Theresa's life enforcement training, Alex joining Thundar for the cleansing movement classes, Khalik deepening his connection to Najyah and studying more difficult earth spells, and Isolde doing court wizard descendant things with her lightning spells. I love a book that has a clear theme and stays with it.
My only complaint, if it can even be considered a complaint, are some of the rambling passages/thoughts from Alex. It's fully in-character, I don't deny it, but it can get a little exhausting. Some of those passages can provide helpful context for Alex's actions, but most of the time, I find myself skimming to avoid Alex's worries about his sister, or Theresa's feelings of him, or the consequences of the mark, or any of the other myriad anxieties that scour his mind.
The side characters are really well-developed, Baelin and Jules especially. I'm just really liking the display of varying forms of wizardry. Despite the difficulty with combat spells, we still get to see Alex shine with alchemy, physical training, defensive force spells, the meditation and cleansing movements to help with the mark's interference. I guess what I'm trying to say is the author does a great job of making each of the character's choices seem intentional.
Looking forward to book 3.
The classes themselves are described in a way that really attracts me. You get the fresh aspects of worldbuilding from the actual topic of class discussion, Alex's inner thoughts (that usually lead to a breakthrough or revelation of some kind), and great character dialogue. Changing up the classes and giving Alex new schools of wizardry to discover relieves that pressure of bombarding the reader with all the necessary info for a good plot. The good plot doesn't feel crafted in any way. Alex naturally falls into situations that help in other situations that help in other... you get it.
Outside of the classes, I'm glad we're sticking to the "adapt and overcome" theme. Alex and his cabal are constantly looking for ways outside of combat to improve their own ability. They all seem to make the right choices for themselves in terms of improvement: In this case, I'm referring to Theresa's life enforcement training, Alex joining Thundar for the cleansing movement classes, Khalik deepening his connection to Najyah and studying more difficult earth spells, and Isolde doing court wizard descendant things with her lightning spells. I love a book that has a clear theme and stays with it.
My only complaint, if it can even be considered a complaint, are some of the rambling passages/thoughts from Alex. It's fully in-character, I don't deny it, but it can get a little exhausting. Some of those passages can provide helpful context for Alex's actions, but most of the time, I find myself skimming to avoid Alex's worries about his sister, or Theresa's feelings of him, or the consequences of the mark, or any of the other myriad anxieties that scour his mind.
The side characters are really well-developed, Baelin and Jules especially. I'm just really liking the display of varying forms of wizardry. Despite the difficulty with combat spells, we still get to see Alex shine with alchemy, physical training, defensive force spells, the meditation and cleansing movements to help with the mark's interference. I guess what I'm trying to say is the author does a great job of making each of the character's choices seem intentional.
Looking forward to book 3.
March 27, 2024
Why did you read this book?
I thoroughly enjoyed the first book in the series, so I plan to read all of the books.
What format did you read this book in?
Read it as an eBook on Kindle.
Is this an educational book or a book for entertainment?
I read this book for pure entertainment purposes.
What genres do you think this book belongs to?
Fantasy, Humor and Comedy, Mystery, Romance, Suspense, Young Adult
What was your favorite part of the book?
When Alex and Theresa confess their love for each other, these two are so cute.
Who would you suggest this book to?
This book is for anyone who likes slow slice-of-life fantasy stories. If you liked the first book in the series, you'll like this one.
What is your general opinion/ rating of this book?
I thoroughly enjoyed the second book. It's slowly building upon itself, and when I think that there is nothing left to explore, the story adds more. I like the little details that the author adds that make the book feel realistic, even though it's in a fantasy setting. I thoroughly appreciate that the characters are intelligent, and they plan their way out of problems and conflicts. I think Alex and Theresa make a cute couple. I do feel terrible for Alex's sister and her problems with her fire affinity. I'm really hoping that the author will expand on their tragic backstory instead of just giving us hints about it. But I'm patient and looking forward to finding out. Alex's golem is insane. I'm not going to lie; if I were in a fantasy world, I'd want a creature just like him to have my back. Overall, I really enjoyed this book in the series. And I can't wait to read the next one.
Any trigger warnings?
Mental Health: Panic Attacks, Trauma,
Violence and Death: Death, Animal Death, Graphic Deaths, Mass Death, Murder, Execution, Suffocation, Extreme Violence, Gore, Mutilation, Self-Mutilation, Mutilation of Corpses, Cutting of Limbs, Forced Blood Draining, Animal Cruelty, Escalating Violence, Described Blood, Graphic Violence
Other: Bullying
I thoroughly enjoyed the first book in the series, so I plan to read all of the books.
What format did you read this book in?
Read it as an eBook on Kindle.
Is this an educational book or a book for entertainment?
I read this book for pure entertainment purposes.
What genres do you think this book belongs to?
Fantasy, Humor and Comedy, Mystery, Romance, Suspense, Young Adult
What was your favorite part of the book?
When Alex and Theresa confess their love for each other, these two are so cute.
Who would you suggest this book to?
This book is for anyone who likes slow slice-of-life fantasy stories. If you liked the first book in the series, you'll like this one.
What is your general opinion/ rating of this book?
I thoroughly enjoyed the second book. It's slowly building upon itself, and when I think that there is nothing left to explore, the story adds more. I like the little details that the author adds that make the book feel realistic, even though it's in a fantasy setting. I thoroughly appreciate that the characters are intelligent, and they plan their way out of problems and conflicts. I think Alex and Theresa make a cute couple. I do feel terrible for Alex's sister and her problems with her fire affinity. I'm really hoping that the author will expand on their tragic backstory instead of just giving us hints about it. But I'm patient and looking forward to finding out. Alex's golem is insane. I'm not going to lie; if I were in a fantasy world, I'd want a creature just like him to have my back. Overall, I really enjoyed this book in the series. And I can't wait to read the next one.
Any trigger warnings?
Mental Health: Panic Attacks, Trauma,
Violence and Death: Death, Animal Death, Graphic Deaths, Mass Death, Murder, Execution, Suffocation, Extreme Violence, Gore, Mutilation, Self-Mutilation, Mutilation of Corpses, Cutting of Limbs, Forced Blood Draining, Animal Cruelty, Escalating Violence, Described Blood, Graphic Violence
Other: Bullying
Displaying 1 - 30 of 235 reviews