The Second Legend of Uh by Aaron Hall

Blurb:

The sequel to the critically acclaimed fantasy comedy, The Legend of Uh!

A cosmic disaster has struck the territory of Uh. A portal to the Darkworld has opened.

With the portal open, the Demon King Oh—the god of destruction and chaos—will extend an empire of supermarkets that will make the territory an industrious wasteland full of slaves.

DJ is the only one who has heard the Demon King’s plans firsthand, and with Sir Dashing kidnapped and employed by the evil god, DJ is the only one equipped to stop the incoming terror.

With the help of Riley, Francis, and Steve, DJ will embark on another grand quest not for respect, but for survival.

Review:

The legendary Aaron Hall is back with a second installment to one of my most favorite indie books. The Second Legend of Uh is another masterfully crafted tale that picks up shortly after the conclusion of book one. DJ and his package deal crew are brought back together for another adventure after a mysterious portal to the Darkworld opens. Its prime resident, the Demon King “Oh”, is ready to exact destruction upon the territory of Uh. How you might ask? The establishment of industrial supermarkets that will turn all persons and creatures into corporate slaves. 

For those who read the first book, you will be delighted to return to a familiar setting in the territory of Uh. All the world building from book one gets expanded on as our rag tag group of adventurers trek across the land to find ancient knowledge to close the portal. Even with visiting places they have been prior, new and exciting locations are revealed. From a grand dwarven city to a sunken underwater temple, Aaron gradually expands his world allowing for both feelings of familiarity and uncertainty. Furthermore, readers are exposed to the Darkworld. This hellish landscape is reminiscent of a corporate building, proving some unique yet hilarious interactions and dialogue. I do want to point out that while some readers might not wish to visit the same places from a previous book, I embraced this as it gave the feeling that’s akin to returning to your childhood home after a long time away. 

“This, my dear boy,” Sir Dashing said, “is an Amulet of Fastra Vel. Extremely rare and valuable—frankly worth more than this house. When you wear it, you can instantly travel to anywhere you've previously been.”

For our colorful cast of characters, DJ, Riley, Francis, and Steve all make their grand return. As a reader, I didn’t think these characters could be developed much further than they were in the first book. However, I found myself genuinely surprised as tensions and conflict arose within the group. As problems arise, DJ must learn how to navigate these new experiences while also attempting to keep the crew together and focused on their goal. The growth and change that the characters undergo feels believable and genuine. 

Another aspect I highly enjoyed that is present in this novel and not in the first is the larger incorporation of DJ's father, the legendary Sir Dashing. This book dug extra deep into the overflowing love and support Sir Dashing feels for his son. Additionally, we finally get to see his prowess and intelligence in a high stakes situation. 

DJ pushed down a gulp in his dry throat. He picked up a cologne called Sexy Ranger Dramatically Pushing Castle Doors Open After Returning From Battle, spritzed it on his wrist and gave it a whiff. His lower lip tightened. 

As with the first installment, The Second Legend of Uh is a masterclass of fantasy adventure. Aaron had shared with me in the previous year that he was going to write a second book and it was always at the front of my mind. The wait was well worth it and this book is easily one of my most favorite indie books of 2026. The feeling of being reunited with familiar characters we have come to love, the diverse locations in the territory of Uh, and the nonstop whip fast humor and adventure gives you a sense of comfort. After reading the acknowledgements at the end of the book, I can proudly say I will be waiting with bated breath for The Third Legend of Uh!