The Old Universe: Book Two - A Deep Dive Review

by Forbidden Origins (Author)

Updated at: 22/01/2025

In The Old Universe: Book Two (The Spear Saga) by Forbidden Origins, the aftermath of a universe-ending war unfolds. What we know as the Big Bang was merely the destruction wrought by the All Father's monstrous creations. His son, Corrin, seeks answers to defeat these beings, but faces opposition from his own elite task force, SPEARHEAD, and the ruthless Raid Riders. Meanwhile, Evrii struggles to maintain peace on Arcadia and rebuild the fractured Allegiance. As Corrin uncovers the creatures' origins and his own powers, old enemies and unexpected allies emerge, forcing him to confront a past rife with resentment and betrayal. With a looming Black Palace assault and the All Father's unwavering power, the fate of the universe hangs in the balance.

4.5 / 12 ratings

Review The Old Universe

Wow, what a ride! "The Old Universe: Book Two" completely blew me away. If you loved the first book, prepare to have your expectations not just met, but utterly surpassed. This sequel takes everything that was great about the initial installment and amplifies it to an almost unbelievable degree.

The sheer scope of the story is breathtaking. Forbidden Origins have crafted an intricate and expansive universe, brimming with fascinating detail. We’re not just revisiting familiar planets and characters; we’re diving deeper into their histories, motivations, and relationships, exploring the consequences of the first book's events in truly unexpected ways. Existing characters develop a satisfying depth, revealing hidden layers and surprising complexities that keep you constantly guessing. And the new characters? They're equally compelling, each adding their unique flavor to the already vibrant tapestry of the story. I found myself genuinely invested in their fates, rooting for them, fearing for them, and even laughing with them – a testament to the authors' skill in creating truly relatable and memorable figures.

The action is relentless. From the explosive opening scenes to the jaw-dropping climax, the pacing is perfectly balanced, leaving you breathlessly anticipating what will happen next. There's a constant sense of urgency, a relentless forward momentum that keeps you hooked until the very last page. This isn't just a story; it's an experience, a whirlwind of galactic battles, political intrigue, and personal struggles that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

While the world-building is incredibly rich, it never overshadows the compelling character arcs. The authors skillfully weave together the grand scale of intergalactic warfare with intimate moments of personal growth and connection. This balance is what truly elevates "The Old Universe: Book Two" above the average space opera. The character moments, though sometimes lacking in detailed inner monologue as some reviewers noted, provide enough insight into their feelings and motivations to make them truly resonate. The emotional stakes are high, and the consequences of their actions feel weighty and real.

I did notice a few minor quibbles, mirroring some of the reviews I've read. A glossary would be helpful for keeping track of all the different factions and terminology. And while the descriptions are generally vivid and engaging, a few more visual descriptions of some of the new characters wouldn’t hurt. However, these are minor complaints in the grand scheme of things. They are easily outweighed by the sheer enjoyment I derived from reading this book.

Overall, "The Old Universe: Book Two" is a masterpiece of science fiction. It's a thrilling adventure, a poignant drama, and a testament to the power of storytelling. It exceeded all my expectations, leaving me eagerly anticipating the next installment. If you're a fan of space operas, or even if you're just looking for a captivating story with memorable characters and a fast-paced plot, then you absolutely must read this book. You won’t regret it.

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