Grievar's Blood

By: Alexander Darwin

Narrated by: Donald Chang

The second book in an action-packed science fiction trilogy set on a far future world where the fate of nations is determined by battle-hardened warriors who are trained to compete in brutal single combat.

In a world where single combat determines the fate of nations, the Grievar fight in the Circles so that the rest can remain at peace. But given the stakes, things are never so simple. The Daimyo govern from the shadows and plot to gain an edge by unnaturally enhancing their Grievar Knights.

Cego and his team return to the world’s most prestigious combat school, The Lyceum. Though he'd like to focus on his martial studies, Cego feels the pull of his mysterious past and two missing brothers.

Solara Halberd, daughter of the fighting legend, embarks on her own quest to bury the past. She must utilize every lesson her father taught her to explore unknown lands where evil lurks in the shadows.

Critic reviews

“A brutal and relentless science fantasy martial arts extravaganza, set in a world where the fate of nations rests on the perfect counterpunch or rear naked choke. The Combat Codes is that rare book that fully satisfies me as an action fan.” —Fonda Lee, author of Jade City on The Combat Codes

"The Combat Codes is a great read for any fan of realistic martial arts fiction. The integration of a compelling sci-fi / fantasy plot and true-to-life martial arts action make for a unique story that any student of warfare is sure to enjoy."
—Ryan Hall, UFC Fighter on The Combat Codes

Not as good as the first

Perspectives outside the main character are not as good and we do not spend near as much time with Ceego as I would’ve liked. Still a good book but some of it feels like a slog

Amazing!!!

I read the first two books a few years back, at first I was just going to get the third audible book. But since it's been so long l decided to get the first two, and I'm glad I did. Loved every minute of it from the story, the performance to the characters. Everything came out perfectly, and I can't wait to hear the next one (which I haven't read).

I wish Cego was better

Gotta say I enjoyed the first book a bit more, the exploration of other characters like Sol and Silas made me realize Cego tends to be a very innactive character, pure reaction at what happens to him, honestly made me lose a bit of interest in him.

Besides that, the stakes get higher and the villains are clear now, the fights are amazing as usual and the build of the first book seems to pay off, so I'll read the ending soon

Another engaging work by Alexander Darwin.

An engrossing second installment in the Combat Codes trilogy that leaves me wondering how long until the next piece becomes available.

A Big-Step Sequel with Even Bigger Energy

🎧 This hit the same sweet spot as The Combat Codes for me - easy to read, action-packed, and just straight-up fun. The scope opens up a lot in this one with more POVs, more world to explore, and a deeper dive into the lore, but it still moves fast and keeps the energy high. The audiobook is great too, with a narrator who nails the gruff, hard-edged tone of these characters. Perfect for when you want something quick, gritty, and full of momentum.