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Book Reviews

Title
Author
Image
Rating
Dungeon Crawler Carl 6: The Eye of the Bedlam Bride
Matt Dinniman
10/10
Primal Hunger Book 6
Zogarth
8/10
Red Rising
Pierce Brown
7/10
Derelict
Dean Henegar
8/10
The Villain's Chef
Cailan Wilkinson
7/10
All the Skills, Book 2
Honor Rae
9/10
The Training Grounds
Jason Clark
9/10
Azarinth Healer
Rhaegar
8/10
Destiny’s Champions: Sigma Worlds, Book 1
D. Levesque
6/10
He Who Fights With Monsters
Shirtaloon
6/10
Master of None: All Trades
Shane Walker
8/10
Bio Dungeon: Omnibus
Jonathan Brooks
8/10
Warden (Nova Online #1)
Alex Knight
7/10
All the Skills
Honour Rae
10/10
Overtaken Online (1-4)
Ben Ormstad
8/10
Horus Rising
Dan Abnett
6/10
War Core: Hold the Line
Dean Henegar
10/10
Initialization: Paths of Power
Sean Barber
6/10
Dungeon Crawler Carl
Matt Dinniman
10/10
Iron Prince
Bryco O'Connor
10/10
Primal Hunter
Zogarth
10/10
Fifteen Hours
Mitchel Scanlon
9/10
Noobtown (Series)
Ryan Rimmel
10/10
The Gam3 (Series)
Cosimo Yap
9/10
The Land: Chaos Seeds (Series)
Aleron Kong
8/10
Way of the Shaman (Series)
Vasily Mahanenko
10/10
Life Reset (Series)
Shemer Kuznits
10/10
11.22.63
Stephen King
10/10
The Perfect Run (Series)
Void Herald
10/10
First Life: The River Saga
Nathan Hystad
9/10
Uncontrollable: Class Shift Book One
Sean Oswald
8/10
There aren’t many 10/10 books on this list, but credit where credit is due. You know those books that you just seem to fly through and all of a sudden it’s over? That’s this book. And well the series as a whole.
We all know what DCC is about in general, so some specifics. Book 6 is centred around a floor that focuses on card battles. Donut gets a deck and starts battling first NPCs, then other crawlers. And there’s a whole thing with Carl’s dad and his past… and there’s an uzi Jesus card! 
Honestly it’s so insane that at some points you’re left thinking ‘what the hell just happened’, and then Donut or Samantha pipe up with their usual hilarious responses and you’re right back where you need to be.
Well thought out mechanics, a juicy storyline, an amazing dungeon floor full of twists, turns, curses, illnesses, killings and card battles. I’m annoyed that I have to wait again for book 7.
Oh and if you were wondering about Jeff Hayes’s narration, you don’t have to. It’s perfect as always.

10/10

My Rating:

Dungeon Crawler Carl 6: The Eye of the Bedlam Bride

Dungeon, LitRPG, Magic, Card Magic, Fantasy, Dungeon Core

Matt Dinniman



A pantheon of forgotten gods. An old grudge between a talk show host, an heiress, and the man they shattered along the way. A rapidly deteriorating AI system. An inconvenient tiara upon the head of a friend.

It is bedlam on the eighth floor.

As management reels from the unexpected conclusion of the seventh level, the surviving crawlers stumble onto the eighth and find themselves scattered. It’s a map based on Earth’s final days before the collapse, where ethereal, intangible ghosts of humanity go about their lives, oblivious of the impending doom. Living amongst these ghosts are monsters based in Earth lore. “Legendary” creatures tied to the geographical location they inhabit.

Each team of crawlers is given a task: find and capture six of these beasts. The captured monsters will be turned into cards. Cards that can be summoned into battle again and again. The stronger and deadlier the better.

At the end of the floor, the bad guys will also have decks, and they will have some of the most powerful cards available. So it’s crucial to assemble the toughest squad possible.

But like always, there is a catch. There’s always a catch.

As Carl and Donut know all too well, just because someone is captured, it doesn’t mean they have been tamed.

Her name is Shi Maria. She’s easily the most powerful monster in their area. If they want to survive, they must capture her. But she is no ordinary beast. She’s intelligent. She was once married to a god, a god who is now missing. Her special attack is known to drive one insane. They call her the Bedlam Bride.

“Beware, beware. Beware the eye of the Bedlam Bride.”

My Review:

There aren’t many 10/10 books on this list, but credit where credit is due. You know those books that you just seem to fly through and all of a sudden it’s over? That’s this book. And well the series as a whole.
We all know what DCC is about in general, so some specifics. Book 6 is centred around a floor that focuses on card battles. Donut gets a deck and starts battling first NPCs, then other crawlers. And there’s a whole thing with Carl’s dad and his past… and there’s an uzi Jesus card!
Honestly it’s so insane that at some points you’re left thinking ‘what the hell just happened’, and then Donut or Samantha pipe up with their usual hilarious responses and you’re right back where you need to be.
Well thought out mechanics, a juicy storyline, an amazing dungeon floor full of twists, turns, curses, illnesses, killings and card battles. I’m annoyed that I have to wait again for book 7.
Oh and if you were wondering about Jeff Hayes’s narration, you don’t have to. It’s perfect as always.

Ok so there’s a lot to cover in this book, and it takes a wild trope swing that I hadn’t been expecting. But first, Jake.
Jake decides to take more crazy risks and they continue to pay off through sheer determination. I don’t want to say too much because spoilers, but more than a few things happen simply because system f***ery – which I’m totally fine with.

It’s well documented that this series is top tier and narrated amazingly by Mr Baldree (is there anything he can’t do?), so of you’ve already made it this far, I don’t really know what I can say to convince you either way.

I loved the fight with the queen and then king (you know what I’m talking about), because it really put into perspective how although Jake is some OP maniac, that he’s still a nothing compared to a C grade.

Then the trope twist – academy life! One of my favourites, Jake goes to a special levelling up school owned by Villy, and general school-life ensues. 

All in all, book six in the series was a winner… now onto Dungeon Crawler Carl 6!

8/10

My Rating:

Primal Hunger Book 6

LitRPG, GameLit, Progression Fantasy

Zogarth

Back from the treasure hunt, it’s time to explore Earth a little more....

But first, Jake has a family to visit, and an auction to attend. Then, it’s time to face the challenges the planet has to offer, and by using the many rewards from the treasure hunt, Jake aims to improve his repertoire while getting some more levels under his belt.

And what could be a better idea than invading a massive termite hive to craft a new weapon using the extremely powerful curse of resentment from an ancient vampire land? Yeah, nothing could possibly go wrong with that. Ancient curses are well-known for being harmless, after all.

Assuming all goes well–which it surely will–Jake has one more challenge he must face. Perhaps his most dangerous one yet.

That’s right, it’s back-to-school season.

School in this case being an ancient Order worshipping a Primordial snake god.

Book six of the hit Primal Hunter LitRPG series is here. Download today!

About the series: Experience an apocalypse LitRPG with levels, classes, professions, skills, dungeons, loot, and all of the great traits of progression fantasy and LitRPG that you've come to expect. Follow Jake as he explores this new vast multiverse filled with challenges and opportunities as he grows in power and slowly transforms from a bored office worker to a true apex hunter.

My Review:

Ok so there’s a lot to cover in this book, and it takes a wild trope swing that I hadn’t been expecting. But first, Jake.
Jake decides to take more crazy risks and they continue to pay off through sheer determination. I don’t want to say too much because spoilers, but more than a few things happen simply because system f***ery – which I’m totally fine with.

It’s well documented that this series is top tier and narrated amazingly by Mr Baldree (is there anything he can’t do?), so of you’ve already made it this far, I don’t really know what I can say to convince you either way.

I loved the fight with the queen and then king (you know what I’m talking about), because it really put into perspective how although Jake is some OP maniac, that he’s still a nothing compared to a C grade.

Then the trope twist – academy life! One of my favourites, Jake goes to a special levelling up school owned by Villy, and general school-life ensues.

All in all, book six in the series was a winner… now onto Dungeon Crawler Carl 6!

Ok so who wouldn’t like the concept? Civilisation is divided by the colour of one’s skin. The reds are expected to work and work and work to terraform mars, while the golds sit in their ivory towers. The MC’s wife is brutally taken from him and this one’s all about revenge. 

A quick face-off style revamp, and Darrow is now a gold. Off to a training institute, he has to not only fit in with the rest, but also become something better than any of them.
Becoming a brutal (pretty much monster), he gives them what for, and discovers along the way that he might not be the only one with this idea.
I really enjoyed the book, though at times I felt like it dragged a little but honestly, it took nothing away from the enjoyment of the story, the world and the characters. A friend sent this as a recommendation and I have to say, more please!

7/10

My Rating:

Red Rising

Progression, Military, Sci-Fi

Pierce Brown



Darrow is a Red, a member of the lowest caste in the color-coded society of the future. Like his fellow Reds, he works all day, believing that he and his people are making the surface of Mars livable for future generations. Yet he spends his life willingly, knowing that his blood and sweat will one day result in a better world for his children. But Darrow and his kind have been betrayed. Soon he discovers that humanity reached the surface generations ago. Vast cities and sprawling parks spread across the planet.

Darrow - and Reds like him - are nothing more than slaves to a decadent ruling class. Inspired by a longing for justice, and driven by the memory of lost love, Darrow sacrifices everything to infiltrate the legendary Institute, a proving ground for the dominant Gold caste, where the next generation of humanity's overlords struggle for power. He will be forced to compete for his life and the very future of civilization against the best and most brutal of Society's ruling class. There, he will stop at nothing to bring down his enemies...even if it means he has to become one of them to do so.

My Review:

Ok so who wouldn’t like the concept? Civilisation is divided by the colour of one’s skin. The reds are expected to work and work and work to terraform mars, while the golds sit in their ivory towers. The MC’s wife is brutally taken from him and this one’s all about revenge.

A quick face-off style revamp, and Darrow is now a gold. Off to a training institute, he has to not only fit in with the rest, but also become something better than any of them.
Becoming a brutal (pretty much monster), he gives them what for, and discovers along the way that he might not be the only one with this idea.
I really enjoyed the book, though at times I felt like it dragged a little but honestly, it took nothing away from the enjoyment of the story, the world and the characters. A friend sent this as a recommendation and I have to say, more please!

Ok I’ll admit it, I didn’t realise that this was written by the author of War Core until after finishing the thing. Why am I not surprised? The premise is really innovative and engaging and again I’ve found a sci-fi gamelit that I really enjoyed. 
The military component is very well researched and thought out and I loved the use of fantasy creatures in a futuristic setting. Especially the gnomes. Gnomes suck. The third book, Sarton station was my favourite, so you can be assured the series gets even better as it goes on.
If you’re looking for a futuristic, sci-fi dungeon core that makes you root for the core, even though it isn’t really a person (but kind of is), then this is absolutely the book for you.

Jack Voraces also does a great job with the narration.

8/10

My Rating:

Derelict

Base Defense, Dungeon Core, LitRPG

Dean Henegar



One captain’s death might turn out to be humanity’s best chance at survival.

As humanity expands into the stars, it discovers the universe is a hostile place.

When Captain Slater of the USS Franklin is assigned to a deep-space reconnaissance mission, his ship is destroyed by an unknown alien race.

Much to his surprise, Slater isn’t killed - he’s transformed. He is now a “derelict” - a consciousness bound to his old vessel.

Slater must quickly adapt to his new existence before raiders, alien armies, and mysterious forces seek to destroy him for a second and final time.

My Review:

Ok I’ll admit it, I didn’t realise that this was written by the author of War Core until after finishing the thing. Why am I not surprised? The premise is really innovative and engaging and again I’ve found a sci-fi gamelit that I really enjoyed.
The military component is very well researched and thought out and I loved the use of fantasy creatures in a futuristic setting. Especially the gnomes. Gnomes suck. The third book, Sarton station was my favourite, so you can be assured the series gets even better as it goes on.
If you’re looking for a futuristic, sci-fi dungeon core that makes you root for the core, even though it isn’t really a person (but kind of is), then this is absolutely the book for you.

Jack Voraces also does a great job with the narration.

Ok well I have to start with saying I’m annoyed. Annoyed because now I’m going to have to read the Flesh Golem’s Tale of Resurgence… because I just can’t leave Varney out there all alone!

The story, characters and creatures are so unique, and I hadn’t been expecting to be surprised in a genre that I’ve been immersed in for a very long time. 

Yes there are a few gruesome parts and yes there are one or two narrator pronunciation errors, but for me it does nothing to take away from the story. I’ll be reading more from Mr. Wilkinson for sure.

Storyline: 9/10
Character Depth: 8/10
Narration: 7/10

7/10

My Rating:

The Villain's Chef

LitRPG, Gamelit, Fantasy, Dungeon

Cailan Wilkinson

With great power comes great appetite!

Varney Lorington, head chef and proprietor of The Harvest Spread, was just your average self-aggrandizing chef—until fragments of a lost world impacted Earth, leaving the planet in a state of transformation! Now Varney serves as personal chef to his new master: a thief, child abductor, and murderer by the name of Viral.

In a desperate attempt to gain power and build an empire, Viral steals two items from the Adventurer’s Guild. One that allows him to leave the fragment moments after it impacts Earth, and another that secures him his very own personal chef.

On the run from the guild and hounded by quickly manifesting monsters, Viral, Varney, and 10 orphans are forced to flee into a dungeon. A dungeon that just so happens to be composed entirely of food matter. Trapped in the food dungeon, and with his enemies closing in from all sides, Varney concocts a treacherous plan to betray Viral and seize the villain's power for himself.
©2023 Cailan Wilkinson (P)2023 Cailan Wilkinson

My Review:

Ok well I have to start with saying I’m annoyed. Annoyed because now I’m going to have to read the Flesh Golem’s Tale of Resurgence… because I just can’t leave Varney out there all alone!

The story, characters and creatures are so unique, and I hadn’t been expecting to be surprised in a genre that I’ve been immersed in for a very long time.

Yes there are a few gruesome parts and yes there are one or two narrator pronunciation errors, but for me it does nothing to take away from the story. I’ll be reading more from Mr. Wilkinson for sure.

Storyline: 9/10
Character Depth: 8/10
Narration: 7/10

I was really looking forward to this book after finishing the first, and I have to say that it didn’t disappoint in the slightest. A lot of time has passed, which allowed Arthur to learn more about his cards, how they work and life in general away from his border town. I’m also a sucker for the ‘tournament’ trope, so that was a good addition for me. 

Competing against his friends and enemies, Arthur must try to gain the favour of a new legendary dragon so that he can cement himself as a dragon rider of note. 
I really enjoyed how the types of dragons have different personalities that match their colours, and without giving away any spoilers, the last two hours of the book really had me wondering how Arthur was going to get out of his ‘sticky situation’ alive. 

All in all, a great second book that has made me wish book 3 was out sooner. Plus, as usual it goes without saying that Luke Daniels gave the book life with his brilliant performance.

Storyline: 9/10
Character Depth: 9/10
Narration: 9/10

#books #bookreview #litrpg #gamelit #reading #kingdombuilding #sliceoflife #litrpgbooks #fantasy #audiobook #bookstagram #booklover #reading #bookworm #bookish #booklover #author #sci-fi #litrpg #alltheskills #honorrae #dragons #deckbuilding #cardmagic

9/10

My Rating:

All the Skills, Book 2

Gamelit, LitRPG, Magic, Card Magic

Honor Rae



With his new card, Master of Body Enhancement, slotted in his heart deck, Arthur has his hands full discovering how he can best pair it with his powerful Master of Skills card.

Time is not on his side. A once-in-a-generation legendary dragon egg has been laid. But the competition to bond with it will pit Arthur against the most powerful card-wielders in his generation…including his own cousin.

Don’t miss book 2 of this LitRPG card deck-building series with over 3,500+ ratings on Amazon!

My Review:

I was really looking forward to this book after finishing the first, and I have to say that it didn’t disappoint in the slightest. A lot of time has passed, which allowed Arthur to learn more about his cards, how they work and life in general away from his border town. I’m also a sucker for the ‘tournament’ trope, so that was a good addition for me.

Competing against his friends and enemies, Arthur must try to gain the favour of a new legendary dragon so that he can cement himself as a dragon rider of note.
I really enjoyed how the types of dragons have different personalities that match their colours, and without giving away any spoilers, the last two hours of the book really had me wondering how Arthur was going to get out of his ‘sticky situation’ alive.

All in all, a great second book that has made me wish book 3 was out sooner. Plus, as usual it goes without saying that Luke Daniels gave the book life with his brilliant performance.

Storyline: 9/10
Character Depth: 9/10
Narration: 9/10

#books #bookreview #litrpg #gamelit #reading #kingdombuilding #sliceoflife #litrpgbooks #fantasy #audiobook #bookstagram #booklover #reading #bookworm #bookish #booklover #author #sci-fi #litrpg #alltheskills #honorrae #dragons #deckbuilding #cardmagic

You know how you love a specific sub-genre and have no idea how to find great books in it? This was one of the times for me where the narrator reached out and told me to listen to this book, and I’ve never been so accurately assumed.

The story is of a man named Darius, a simple small-town farm hand who receives an invitation to attend The Training Grounds – the most prestigious academy in all of the Merchant Valley. A group of friends quickly form with their own interesting back stories, skill sets and most importantly, wonderfully portrayed voices by a very talented narrator.  
Secret plots, ominous visions and a plethora of interesting characters with unknown intent kept me listening, and listening, and listening… and then it was over. But at 19 hours for a single credit too? It’s basically robbery, right?

But then… it turned into something different. It had to, right? Because that’s what always keeps us guessing with the books we love. Suddenly my second favourite genre began to creep in: time travel. No I wont spoil it, and no I wont go into too much detail, but this book really did have everything I wanted but had somehow forgotten along the way.
So many decisions to make of who to trust, who to like and who to just outright hate. I loved this book, and I hope you will too.

Special praise for the narrator too. He goes out of his way to bring the characters to life with voices, actions and everything else you’d want from a book of many characters!

9/10

My Rating:

The Training Grounds

magic, swords, sorcery, coming of age, academy, time travel

Jason Clark



Debut author Jason Clark presents an exciting new genre-bending sci-fi/fantasy story set in a brutal future world, where swords settle disputes and those who can control the elements are the most feared warriors. Get ready for a fantastic escape from reality.

When Darius receives an invitation to attend the Training Grounds, he wonders why an insignificant farm boy would be asked to join the most elite training academy in Merchant Valley. The only thing special about him is that he has unsettling visions he can’t understand. Despite the unknown, he accepts this privilege, and with his best friend, they set out on this new adventure. While there, they quickly form alliances with a skilled archer, a talented blacksmith, and a powerful wielder of the elements.

Together, this new band of friends will learn that not all is as it seems at this new school. In fact, secret plots abound. It makes them question everything and everyone, including the head of the school, Dean Anders. Now it’s up to this adventurous group to uncover the truth about their world and find out the meaning of Darius’s vision. Visions that include a weapon known as the reaper that carries with it apocalyptic repercussions. But between classes, finding love, and training, will he and his friends be able to discover the truth before it’s too late?

My Review:

You know how you love a specific sub-genre and have no idea how to find great books in it? This was one of the times for me where the narrator reached out and told me to listen to this book, and I’ve never been so accurately assumed.

The story is of a man named Darius, a simple small-town farm hand who receives an invitation to attend The Training Grounds – the most prestigious academy in all of the Merchant Valley. A group of friends quickly form with their own interesting back stories, skill sets and most importantly, wonderfully portrayed voices by a very talented narrator.
Secret plots, ominous visions and a plethora of interesting characters with unknown intent kept me listening, and listening, and listening… and then it was over. But at 19 hours for a single credit too? It’s basically robbery, right?

But then… it turned into something different. It had to, right? Because that’s what always keeps us guessing with the books we love. Suddenly my second favourite genre began to creep in: time travel. No I wont spoil it, and no I wont go into too much detail, but this book really did have everything I wanted but had somehow forgotten along the way.
So many decisions to make of who to trust, who to like and who to just outright hate. I loved this book, and I hope you will too.

Special praise for the narrator too. He goes out of his way to bring the characters to life with voices, actions and everything else you’d want from a book of many characters!

Firstly, you get A lot of bang for your credit with this one. At 25 hours long, if you really want to get your teeth into something with a lot of meat, then this is the book for you. A LitRPG with a female MC, narrated by Andrea Parsneau this really is tier 1 gamelit. 

The story follows the life of Ilea, a young woman with a troubled past who suddenly finds herself in a magical world brimming with danger. After awakening a unique healing ability (always good), Ilea embarks on a quest to explore her newfound powers and navigate the treacherous landscapes of this new world. There are plenty of people, both good and bad and a handful of separate story arcs – which for me is where it loses some marks.
I know that a lot of people want multiple stories that intertwine in new and complex ways, but to me this meant that as my attention wandered, I was quickly lost in the story and had no idea what was happening or where we were. (It’s not such a bad thing to have a gripe with though, is it?).

The world is rich and diverse, infused with intricate details, unique magic systems, and fascinating lore. From vast and perilous dungeons to lush forests teeming with mythical creatures, each setting really does feel alive and vibrant. The author's attention to detail creates a vivid and tangible backdrop for the story, enhancing the overall reading experience.

The action sequences in Azarinth Healer are intense, fast-paced, and expertly choreographed. Whether it's battling fearsome monsters or engaging with deadly elves, Rhaegar's vivid descriptions and precise writing style make the action scenes come alive, keeping me on the edge of my seat, and having said that I quickly became lost, when a battle scene arrived I knew exactly who I was rooting for. The strategic nature of the LitRPG elements adds an additional layer of excitement, as Ilea gains experience, levels up, and learns new skills to enhance her healing abilities.

I quite liked that the MC was portrayed as an unfeeling monster, cocky almost. It would be exactly how someone would act if they felt no pain, but also managed to best their opponents even when they’re much higher levels.

The character development in Azarinth Healer though is a definite highlight. Ilea faces numerous challenges, both physical and emotional, and her growth as a character is palpable, and I did find myself rooting for her every step of the way. The supporting cast is also well-developed, with each character bringing their unique personality and motivations to the story.

Without a doubt the strengths of Azarinth Healer make it a worthwhile addition to any fantasy enthusiast's bookshelf.

Storyline: 7/10
Character Depth: 8/10
Narration: 9/10

8/10

My Rating:

Azarinth Healer

LitRPG, GameLit, Fantasy, Progression Fantasy, Progression

Rhaegar

Ilea likes punching things. And eating.

Unfortunately, there aren’t too many career options for hungry brawlers. Instead, the plan is to quit her crappy fast-food job, go to college, and become a fully functioning member of society. Essentially—a fate worse than death.

So maybe it's lucky that she wakes up one day in a strange world where a bunch of fantasy monsters are trying to kill her?

On the bright side, "killing those monsters right back" is now a viable career path! For she soon discovers her new home runs on a set of game-like rules that will allow her to punch things harder than in her wildest dreams. Well, maybe not her wildest dreams, but it’s close.

With no quest to follow, no guide to show her the way, and no real desire to be a Hero—Ilea embarks on a journey to discover a world full of magic. Magic she can use to fight even bigger monsters.

She’s struggling to survive, has no idea what will happen next, and is loving every minute of it. Except, and sometimes also, when she’s poisoned and/or has set herself on fire. It’s complicated.

Listen to the story that took Royal Road by storm with more than 60 million views and counting.

My Review:

Firstly, you get A lot of bang for your credit with this one. At 25 hours long, if you really want to get your teeth into something with a lot of meat, then this is the book for you. A LitRPG with a female MC, narrated by Andrea Parsneau this really is tier 1 gamelit.

The story follows the life of Ilea, a young woman with a troubled past who suddenly finds herself in a magical world brimming with danger. After awakening a unique healing ability (always good), Ilea embarks on a quest to explore her newfound powers and navigate the treacherous landscapes of this new world. There are plenty of people, both good and bad and a handful of separate story arcs – which for me is where it loses some marks.
I know that a lot of people want multiple stories that intertwine in new and complex ways, but to me this meant that as my attention wandered, I was quickly lost in the story and had no idea what was happening or where we were. (It’s not such a bad thing to have a gripe with though, is it?).

The world is rich and diverse, infused with intricate details, unique magic systems, and fascinating lore. From vast and perilous dungeons to lush forests teeming with mythical creatures, each setting really does feel alive and vibrant. The author's attention to detail creates a vivid and tangible backdrop for the story, enhancing the overall reading experience.

The action sequences in Azarinth Healer are intense, fast-paced, and expertly choreographed. Whether it's battling fearsome monsters or engaging with deadly elves, Rhaegar's vivid descriptions and precise writing style make the action scenes come alive, keeping me on the edge of my seat, and having said that I quickly became lost, when a battle scene arrived I knew exactly who I was rooting for. The strategic nature of the LitRPG elements adds an additional layer of excitement, as Ilea gains experience, levels up, and learns new skills to enhance her healing abilities.

I quite liked that the MC was portrayed as an unfeeling monster, cocky almost. It would be exactly how someone would act if they felt no pain, but also managed to best their opponents even when they’re much higher levels.

The character development in Azarinth Healer though is a definite highlight. Ilea faces numerous challenges, both physical and emotional, and her growth as a character is palpable, and I did find myself rooting for her every step of the way. The supporting cast is also well-developed, with each character bringing their unique personality and motivations to the story.

Without a doubt the strengths of Azarinth Healer make it a worthwhile addition to any fantasy enthusiast's bookshelf.

Storyline: 7/10
Character Depth: 8/10
Narration: 9/10

I was a little put off with this one because it’s written in the present tense - but you do king of get used to it after a while.
Entry into the game seems quite standard and whilst I’m not generally into the harem thing, but it’s not really that evident in the story.
It’s an easy listen and short gap filler, with a tantalising twist at the end.
#books #bookreview #reading #sliceoflife #fantasy #bookrelease #newbook #litrpg #gamelit #audiobook #bookreview #booktok

6/10

My Rating:

Destiny’s Champions: Sigma Worlds, Book 1

LitRPG, Fantasy, Audiobook, Slice of Life, Gamelit

D. Levesque

Jason Morgan's life has taken a turn for the worse.

Once an able-bodied man, he is now confined to a wheelchair after a devastating car accident. Two experimental surgeries later, he still cannot walk. As a ward of the State, he longs for the freedom he once had and the ability to walk again.

Enter Games For Life, a gaming company that has developed a massive VRMMORPG system. With their groundbreaking pod technology, Jason is invited to test the system and explore the vast world of Destiny: a place where time and reality are not what they seem, and anything is possible.

At first, Jason is skeptical, but when he discovers he can walk again in the game, he is overjoyed. He starts to spend more and more time in the virtual world, making friends and building relationships he never thought possible.

However, as he delves deeper into the game, he begins to realize that there is more to it than he first thought. The fine print on the contract he signed becomes more important, and he discovers that he may be in over his head.

Adventure waits for no one, and Jason finds himself embroiled in a battle to save the game from a dangerous threat. With the help of his newfound friends, he must face down foes and solve puzzles to save not just the game but the world outside of it.

In the end, Jason discovers that Destiny is not just a game but a way of life. He learns to appreciate the people in his real life and the new ones he met in the virtual world.

A tale of loss, friendship, and adventure, Destiny's Champions is a thrilling ride that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

My Review:

I was a little put off with this one because it’s written in the present tense - but you do king of get used to it after a while.
Entry into the game seems quite standard and whilst I’m not generally into the harem thing, but it’s not really that evident in the story.
It’s an easy listen and short gap filler, with a tantalising twist at the end.
#books #bookreview #reading #sliceoflife #fantasy #bookrelease #newbook #litrpg #gamelit #audiobook #bookreview #booktok

Ok so I saw this series recommended so, so often that I couldn’t just ignore it. The first thing to note is that it’s narrated with an Australian accent - because it’s supposed to be - it was just a little bit of a shock being used to the normal American tone. Not that it was bad though, I actually quite enjoyed it! The system seemed interesting and engaging and I found myself wanting to listen more and more, until suddenly I was lost. I’m not sure exactly what happened, but there’s just so much going on that once I’d let my attention wander for a moment, I had no idea what was happening. I know the answer is to concentrate more, but this doesn’t happen with other books I read, so I honestly don’t know what the issue was. At the end, I was rooting for the good guys though as I caught up with the world… the only thing was, was that I didn’t feel overly compelled to read the next right away.

6/10

My Rating:

He Who Fights With Monsters

LitRPG, GameLit, Progression Fantasy

Shirtaloon



Selected as one of Audible's best audiobooks of 2021

Jason wakes up in a mysterious world of magic and monsters.

It’s not easy making the career jump from office-supplies-store middle manager to heroic interdimensional adventurer. At least, Jason tries to be heroic, but it's hard to be good when all your powers are evil.

He’ll face off against cannibals, cultists, wizards, monsters...and that’s just on the first day. He’s going to need courage, he’s going to need wit, and he’s going to need some magic powers of his own. But first, he’s going to need pants.

After cementing itself as one of the best-rated serial novels on Royal Road with an astonishing 13 million views, He Who Fights with Monsters is now brought to you in professionally formatted audio.

My Review:

Ok so I saw this series recommended so, so often that I couldn’t just ignore it. The first thing to note is that it’s narrated with an Australian accent - because it’s supposed to be - it was just a little bit of a shock being used to the normal American tone. Not that it was bad though, I actually quite enjoyed it! The system seemed interesting and engaging and I found myself wanting to listen more and more, until suddenly I was lost. I’m not sure exactly what happened, but there’s just so much going on that once I’d let my attention wander for a moment, I had no idea what was happening. I know the answer is to concentrate more, but this doesn’t happen with other books I read, so I honestly don’t know what the issue was. At the end, I was rooting for the good guys though as I caught up with the world… the only thing was, was that I didn’t feel overly compelled to read the next right away.

Ok I’ll admit it… don’t kill me! I may have judged a book by it’s cover a little bit with this series - and yes, I listened to the whole series in one go. 

It’s a really really innovative story’s and system and I can’t believe I didn’t listen sooner. Nick Podehl (and later Eric Michael Summerer) once again does the perfect narration job and I can’t wait for more to come! The MC is powerful, cocky and untouchable - everything you’d want from a man who’d named himself “Jack Alltrades” and started the company ‘Alltrades Inc.’

Storyline: 8/10
Character Depth: 8/10
Narration: 10/10

8/10

My Rating:

Master of None: All Trades

LitRPG, Progression Fantasy, Settlement Building, Progression

Shane Walker

Alex is broke.

He's pretty much always been broke. A misspent youth led to mistakes that led to convictions and plea deals. No career, no education, no hope.

Now he has a chance to make things right for him and his family when the newest immersive MMO comes with the ability to convert money earned in the game into real currency. Well, it's cryptocurrency, but that's real-ish, right? Seeing an opportunity, Alex joins The Realms as Jack Alltrades, looking to make money any way he can. He may be a Master of None, but he's determined to learn every way possible to make money and turn his life around. Along the way, he'll find answers to important questions like:

Can he win employee of the month?
Do gnomes dream of electric sheep?
How many kobolds does it take to swing a pickaxe?
Can NPCs commit tax fraud?
Okay, maybe he won't answer most of those, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't come follow the high-margin adventures of Jack Alltrades!

My Review:

Ok I’ll admit it… don’t kill me! I may have judged a book by it’s cover a little bit with this series - and yes, I listened to the whole series in one go.

It’s a really really innovative story’s and system and I can’t believe I didn’t listen sooner. Nick Podehl (and later Eric Michael Summerer) once again does the perfect narration job and I can’t wait for more to come! The MC is powerful, cocky and untouchable - everything you’d want from a man who’d named himself “Jack Alltrades” and started the company ‘Alltrades Inc.’

Storyline: 8/10
Character Depth: 8/10
Narration: 10/10

Jonathan Brooks I feel like I’ve committed a crime! 

You sent me an audible code for Bio Dungeon: Omnibus and I was happy before, not knowing what I was missing from this godforsaken listen…
I was shocked when I saw that it was 45hrs long, shocked when I saw that it was actually three books in one, and shocked at how much I want to listen to more dungeon core books!
I’ve listened to a few, though this one just has everything I wanted, plus, what is basically two independent stories rolled into one… so is this like 6 books worth?? 
If anyone here likes both dungeon core books AND getting an absolute bargain, go get this one!

Storyline: 8/10
Character Depth: 8/10
Narration: 8/10

8/10

My Rating:

Bio Dungeon: Omnibus

LitRPG, Gamelit, Dungeon Core

Jonathan Brooks

In the icy north exists a young orphan, and a war on a microscopic scale.

Marstin Hardgrove was orphaned at a young age, forced to live on the streets, and needed to turn to thievery to survive. When a job goes wrong and the young man was caught, he was forced to eat a handful of dirt and rocks before being abandoned to die; unbeknownst to Marstin, he also ended up swallowing a tiny dungeon crystal.

Thrown into a highly unusual world filled with cells, bacteria, and other dangerous pathogens, the tiny dungeon crystal was, at first, confused by his surroundings. After seeing how the different complex systems of the body worked together, the crystal was quickly fascinated; it wasn’t long before he decided that, instead of trying to escape, he wanted the body for himself. He desired to possess the living being for his own use, wholly unlike anything the world had ever seen before.

To get to that point, however, the fledgling dungeon crystal has to learn how to survive against the different enemies trying to destroy him. In short: He has to turn the body into a dungeon.

But will his new Bio Dungeon be enough to keep the crystal–and the body he wants to possess–alive?

Contains LitRPG/GameLit elements, such as character progression, statistics, and resource management. Also contains an in-depth, science-based portrayal of how the immune system responds to foreign pathogens via different white blood cells and other microscopic protectors, complete with a glossary of medical terms (factual and fictional). No harems, sexual content, or foul language.

My Review:

Jonathan Brooks I feel like I’ve committed a crime!

You sent me an audible code for Bio Dungeon: Omnibus and I was happy before, not knowing what I was missing from this godforsaken listen…
I was shocked when I saw that it was 45hrs long, shocked when I saw that it was actually three books in one, and shocked at how much I want to listen to more dungeon core books!
I’ve listened to a few, though this one just has everything I wanted, plus, what is basically two independent stories rolled into one… so is this like 6 books worth??
If anyone here likes both dungeon core books AND getting an absolute bargain, go get this one!

Storyline: 8/10
Character Depth: 8/10
Narration: 8/10

I’d say Ready Player One meets Halo is a good description. I liked the uniqueness of this in the way that the MC is tasked with keeping the peace and looking after the new players. A good amount of unique skills, but maybe the story could be a little predictable. Either way, I’d read more books by Mr Knight.

Sci-Fi LitRPG needs more books like this, and slowly the genre is seeing more and more, but it’s still outweighed by the fantasy/Isekai/apocalypse books. Don’t get me wrong, I really don’t have a preference, but when I see a Sci-Fi LitRPG pop up in my to read list, I can’t help but look forward to it.
Game mechanics were easy to follow and the pacing was well matched to the suspense of the overarching plot and theme of the book.

Storyline: 7/10
Character depth: 8/10
Narration: 8/10

7/10

My Rating:

Warden (Nova Online #1)

LitRPG, .Sci-Fi, VRMMO

Alex Knight

Book 1 in the complete LitRPG trilogy!

Imprisoned for a murder he didn’t commit, Kaiden’s only hope of early release is in serving as a Warden in the game-world of Nova Online.

Playing as a unique class while surrounded by aliens, pirates and warring guilds, he and his squad are tasked with protecting new players and enforcing the rule of law.

But Kaiden has other ideas; he is intent on proving his innocence. The keys to his freedom lie hidden in the game’s seedy underbelly. And as he’ll soon discover, the bloody trail that led to his arrest is more twisted than he could have ever imagined.

My Review:

I’d say Ready Player One meets Halo is a good description. I liked the uniqueness of this in the way that the MC is tasked with keeping the peace and looking after the new players. A good amount of unique skills, but maybe the story could be a little predictable. Either way, I’d read more books by Mr Knight.

Sci-Fi LitRPG needs more books like this, and slowly the genre is seeing more and more, but it’s still outweighed by the fantasy/Isekai/apocalypse books. Don’t get me wrong, I really don’t have a preference, but when I see a Sci-Fi LitRPG pop up in my to read list, I can’t help but look forward to it.
Game mechanics were easy to follow and the pacing was well matched to the suspense of the overarching plot and theme of the book.

Storyline: 7/10
Character depth: 8/10
Narration: 8/10

What could anyone possibly want more from a deck building LitRPG, that what is given in All the Skills? A unique magic and progression system, a big bad evil guy for the main character to fight back against, dragons who can talk… I can’t believe I waited so long to read this, but I find myself looking forward to book two already. This one is top-tier gamelit for me, and if you’re into deck building or a system of magic based around cards (and a deck thereof), this one’s for you. Plus, you know, dragons.

Storyline: 9/10
Character depth: 9/10
Narration: 10/10

10/10

My Rating:

All the Skills

LitRPG, GameLit, Magic, Card Magic, Progression, Dragons

Honour Rae

In a world where all magic has been captured into cards, those who can build a deck have the power.

The most Arthur could hope for was to someday earn a trash-tier spell card. When fate grants him a Master of Skills card, he's thrust into a world of opportunity and danger.

To survive and grow strong, Arthur must learn skills. All the skills.

©2022 Honour Rae (P)2022 Podium Audio

My Review:

What could anyone possibly want more from a deck building LitRPG, that what is given in All the Skills? A unique magic and progression system, a big bad evil guy for the main character to fight back against, dragons who can talk… I can’t believe I waited so long to read this, but I find myself looking forward to book two already. This one is top-tier gamelit for me, and if you’re into deck building or a system of magic based around cards (and a deck thereof), this one’s for you. Plus, you know, dragons.

Storyline: 9/10
Character depth: 9/10
Narration: 10/10

This was the first LitFPS book I’ve read, and I was pleasantly surprised. Not just because of the fact that you get a mammoth amount of audiobook for just one credit, but the voice acting was great, the story engaging and the battles detailed and thrilling.

It really did remind me of Doom.

Storyline: 8/10
Character depth: 8/10
Narration: 9/10

8/10

My Rating:

Overtaken Online (1-4)

Sci-Fi, LitRPG, LitFPS, FPS, VRMMO, Shooter

Ben Ormstad

Demonic alien-killing, blood-splattering LitRPG/LitFPS action in a dark science-fiction world.

[Overtaken Online. The world's first FPS VR-MMORPG with 100 percent immersion. Reminiscent of classics like Doom and Dead Space, but with RPG-elements that enable players to level up and develop skills—and sprinkled with a pinch of magic. ]

Thirty-three-year-old game designer Dex Walsh spends an entire year devoured by sorrow after the death of his wife. As a last-ditch effort to regain his joy, he sells everything and joins Overtaken Online.

Expecting to spawn in a noob-friendly area with guidance from his personal assistant, he instead finds himself naked and alone in a dark prison cell rapidly filling with gas.

Under-leveled and not knowing how to escape, he has no idea how far he will be able to progress as long as he pushes forward and doesn't give up.

Beware! This story contains:

Blood and guts
Foul language
Notifications/pop-ups/inventory management
No harem

My Review:

This was the first LitFPS book I’ve read, and I was pleasantly surprised. Not just because of the fact that you get a mammoth amount of audiobook for just one credit, but the voice acting was great, the story engaging and the battles detailed and thrilling.

It really did remind me of Doom.

Storyline: 8/10
Character depth: 8/10
Narration: 9/10

So this is the second Warhammer 40k book I’ve listened to, mainly because the Astra Militarum book was so good. But this is different. The first book in a long series called the Horus Heresy, I’d heard a bit about it before but no details really. I was upset that the narrator wasn’t the same as the last time (or even the author), but that was just wishful thinking.
The story focusses on an unrivalled army who have had their fear bred out of them – it makes them emotionless and perfect soldiers. Unfortunately it also meant that they were quite unrelatable as characters and although I did enjoy the book and it was narrated well, I found that it didn’t hold my attention for more than fifteen minutes of so at a time.
I probably will listen to more in the series, because the story was good, but hope the characters develop.

Storyline: 7/10
Character depth: 6/10
Narration: 8/10

6/10

My Rating:

Horus Rising

Warhammer 40k, military, war

Dan Abnett

It is the 31st millennium. Under the benevolent leadership of the Immortal Emperor, the Imperium of Man hasstretched out across the galaxy.

It is a golden age of discovery and conquest. But now, on the eve of victory, the Emperor leaves the front lines, entrusting the great crusade to his favourite son, Horus. Promoted to Warmaster, can the idealistic Horus carry out the Emperor's grand plan, or will this promotion sow the seeds of heresy amongst his brothers?

©2006 Games Workshop Limited (P)2014 Games Workshop Limited

My Review:

So this is the second Warhammer 40k book I’ve listened to, mainly because the Astra Militarum book was so good. But this is different. The first book in a long series called the Horus Heresy, I’d heard a bit about it before but no details really. I was upset that the narrator wasn’t the same as the last time (or even the author), but that was just wishful thinking.
The story focusses on an unrivalled army who have had their fear bred out of them – it makes them emotionless and perfect soldiers. Unfortunately it also meant that they were quite unrelatable as characters and although I did enjoy the book and it was narrated well, I found that it didn’t hold my attention for more than fifteen minutes of so at a time.
I probably will listen to more in the series, because the story was good, but hope the characters develop.

Storyline: 7/10
Character depth: 6/10
Narration: 8/10

I absolutely loved War Core (do I say that too much?). A guy is taken away and turned into the invisible man controlling an RTS game. But the soldiers are real, the enemies are aliens and when people die, they die. The universe is at stake here. 
I loved how the MC could speak to his soldiers, but they were censored if they said anything that could help.
Perks, intervals between battles and dinosaurs with guns… love it, love it all.

10/10

My Rating:

War Core: Hold the Line

Gamelit, LitRPG, LitRTS, War, Military

Dean Henegar

Earth is under siege.

For decades, the governments of our world have been fighting a desperate and secret battle to keep hordes of alien invaders away from our planet.

When the guardian of the United States falls, a new champion must be chosen. Sadly, the choice of a champion isn’t ours to make, and the Galactic Conflict Authority selects a human, seemingly at random, to lead the United States of America’s efforts at holding back the tide.

Hugh Logan is in the middle of teaching a class when he is taken against his will and informed that he is now the newest member of Earth’s defense against alien invasion. He must give up everything to become our champion. He must give up everything to prevent our destruction. He must become...a War Core.

My Review:

I absolutely loved War Core (do I say that too much?). A guy is taken away and turned into the invisible man controlling an RTS game. But the soldiers are real, the enemies are aliens and when people die, they die. The universe is at stake here.
I loved how the MC could speak to his soldiers, but they were censored if they said anything that could help.
Perks, intervals between battles and dinosaurs with guns… love it, love it all.

In the beginning, I found it strange that we were talking about other litrpg books so often, and for apparently no reason the number one fan of the genre was suddenly dropped into one. But then I got used to it and actually, it read quite well. I enjoyed the story and the world/characters, but there were a few editing choices that I wouldn’t have made. Not any real issues, but things I found noticeable.
By the end of the book, I wanted more – which is a good thing if you ask me, especially when you take into account the fact that book two is already out.

6/10

My Rating:

Initialization: Paths of Power

Gamelit, LitRPG, World Building, System Apocalypse, Settlement Building

Sean Barber

A mid thirties truck driver must make hard choices on his quest to get home to his family while the world as we know it comes to an end. 700 miles, no truck, and just his loyal dog to accompany him, can he survive in this new world? A world where The System spawns monsters and mutates plants and animals to absorb and refine essence? Let us find out.
©2022 Sean Barber (P)2022 Tantor

My Review:

In the beginning, I found it strange that we were talking about other litrpg books so often, and for apparently no reason the number one fan of the genre was suddenly dropped into one. But then I got used to it and actually, it read quite well. I enjoyed the story and the world/characters, but there were a few editing choices that I wouldn’t have made. Not any real issues, but things I found noticeable.
By the end of the book, I wanted more – which is a good thing if you ask me, especially when you take into account the fact that book two is already out.

I have to say it, if you haven’t read Dungeon Crawler Carl, I don’t know how you’ve made it this far in the LitRPG space. The perfect mix of dungeon crawling, a sarcastic talking cat, a post apocalyptic world and a tv show broadcast to the whole universe. It’s original, innovative and ridiculously funny. 
The world has been disintegrated and turned into a multi level dungeon with stats, loot boxes and a particularly creepy system AI… and the whole time, the infighting is being broadcast to aliens across the universe.
Without going too overboard, this is the number one book you have to read, and I mean right now.

10/10

My Rating:

Dungeon Crawler Carl

LitRPG, System Apocalypse, Comedy, Gamelit

Matt Dinniman

The apocalypse will be televised!

A man. His ex-girlfriend's cat. A sadistic game show unlike anything in the universe: a dungeon crawl where survival depends on killing your prey in the most entertaining way possible.

In a flash, every human-erected construction on Earth - from Buckingham Palace to the tiniest of sheds - collapses in a heap, sinking into the ground.

The buildings and all the people inside have all been atomized and transformed into the dungeon: an 18-level labyrinth filled with traps, monsters, and loot. A dungeon so enormous, it circles the entire globe.

Only a few dare venture inside. But once you're in, you can't get out. And what's worse, each level has a time limit. You have but days to find a staircase to the next level down, or it's game over. In this game, it's not about your strength or your dexterity. It's about your followers, your views. Your clout. It's about building an audience and killing those goblins with style.

You can't just survive here. You gotta survive big.

You gotta fight with vigor, with excitement. You gotta make them stand up and cheer. And if you do have that "it" factor, you may just find yourself with a following. That's the only way to truly survive in this game - with the help of the loot boxes dropped upon you by the generous benefactors watching from across the galaxy.

They call it Dungeon Crawler World. But for Carl, it's anything but a game.

My Review:

I have to say it, if you haven’t read Dungeon Crawler Carl, I don’t know how you’ve made it this far in the LitRPG space. The perfect mix of dungeon crawling, a sarcastic talking cat, a post apocalyptic world and a tv show broadcast to the whole universe. It’s original, innovative and ridiculously funny.
The world has been disintegrated and turned into a multi level dungeon with stats, loot boxes and a particularly creepy system AI… and the whole time, the infighting is being broadcast to aliens across the universe.
Without going too overboard, this is the number one book you have to read, and I mean right now.

This is probably the best book I’ve read for a long time, and trust me I don’t say this lightly. It’s a progression fantasy from weakness to ultimate power and the fact that there’s only one book out right now pains me. Though as I write this review I know that you can keep up to date on the author’s Patreon.
Reidon starts of weak, broken and works tirelessly with the help of his special CAD to begin to challenge his peers in the academy where once he stood no chance.
Honestly, I can’t recommend this book enough. It had beautiful combat scenes, a real sense of rooting for the underdog, tangible advancement and the looming fear of danger.

Storyline: 9/10
Character Depth: 10/10
Narration: 10/10

10/10

My Rating:

Iron Prince

Progression Fantasy, Sci-Fi, LitRPG

Bryco O'Connor

Reidon Ward will become a god.
He doesn't know it yet, of course. Reidon was born weak, sickly, and small. Afflicted with a painful disease and abandoned by his parents because of it, he has had to fight tooth and nail for every minor advantage life has allowed him.
However, his perseverance has not gone unnoticed, and when the most powerful artificial intelligence in human history takes an interest in him, things began to change quickly. Granted a CAD - a Combat Assistance Device - with awful specs but an infinite potential for growth, Reidon finds himself at the bottom of his class at the Galens Institute, one of the top military academies in the Collective. Along with his best friend, Viviana Arada, Reidon will have to start his long climb through the school rankings and on to the combat tournament circuits that have become humanity's greatest source of excitement and entertainment.
So begins the rise of a god. So begins the ascent of the Stormweaver.
©2020 Wraithmarked Creative (P)2021 Podium Audio

My Review:

This is probably the best book I’ve read for a long time, and trust me I don’t say this lightly. It’s a progression fantasy from weakness to ultimate power and the fact that there’s only one book out right now pains me. Though as I write this review I know that you can keep up to date on the author’s Patreon.
Reidon starts of weak, broken and works tirelessly with the help of his special CAD to begin to challenge his peers in the academy where once he stood no chance.
Honestly, I can’t recommend this book enough. It had beautiful combat scenes, a real sense of rooting for the underdog, tangible advancement and the looming fear of danger.

Storyline: 9/10
Character Depth: 10/10
Narration: 10/10

For me this is top-tier LitRPG. Seriously it’s up there with Dungeon Crawler Carl… 
It has a fairly standard introduction to the system, i.e. the MC is suddenly thrown into a system world after some threshold had been reached. This means that everyone is dropped into a kind of ‘tutorial’ where they must fight to survive. The magic/progression system is unique and interesting.
The audio version of this is top notch too, narrated by the ever-magnificent Travis Baldree. I couldn’t stop with this series and ran out of books pretty quickly. It has everything, animal companion, world-building, settlement-building, deep motives and interactions, action… honestly, you can’t go wrong with this one.

Storyline: 9/10
Character Depth: 10/10
Narration: 10/10

10/10

My Rating:

Primal Hunter

LitRPG, Gamelit, Progression

Zogarth

On just another average day, Jake finds himself in a forest filled with monsters, dangers, and opportunity....

It was a day like any other when suddenly the world changed. The universe reached a threshold humanity didn’t even know existed, and it was time to finally be integrated into the vast multiverse. A place where power is the only thing anyone can truly rely on.

Jake, a seemingly average office worker, finds himself thrust into this new world. Into a tutorial filled with dangers and opportunities.

His new reality should breed fear and concern. His fellow coworkers falter at every turn. Jake, however, finds himself thriving.

Perhaps... This is the world Jake was meant to be born in.

Don't miss the start of this hit LitRPG fantasy series with millions of views on Royal Road. Grab your copy of Primal Hunter today on Kindle, Kindle Unlimited, or Audible (narrated by Travis Baldree).

About the Series: Experience an apocalypse LitRPG with levels, classes, professions, skills, dungeons, loot, and all of the great traits of progression fantasy and LitRPG that you've come to expect. Follow Jake as he explores this new vast multiverse filled with challenges and opportunities. As he grows in power and slowly transforms from a bored office worker to a true apex hunter.
©2022 Aethon Books (P)2022 Aethon Audio

My Review:

For me this is top-tier LitRPG. Seriously it’s up there with Dungeon Crawler Carl…
It has a fairly standard introduction to the system, i.e. the MC is suddenly thrown into a system world after some threshold had been reached. This means that everyone is dropped into a kind of ‘tutorial’ where they must fight to survive. The magic/progression system is unique and interesting.
The audio version of this is top notch too, narrated by the ever-magnificent Travis Baldree. I couldn’t stop with this series and ran out of books pretty quickly. It has everything, animal companion, world-building, settlement-building, deep motives and interactions, action… honestly, you can’t go wrong with this one.

Storyline: 9/10
Character Depth: 10/10
Narration: 10/10

Fifteen Hours really did have everything I wanted from a book based around military, war, fighting and killing. Set in the grim darkness of the Warhammer 40,000 universe, the book offers a raw and intense portrayal of the horrors and sacrifices of battle.
The story follows the journey of a young Imperial Guardsman named New Fish by the rest of the soldiers, who is thrust into the brutal war against the Orks. As the title suggests, the narrative unfolds over a span of fifteen hours, during which New Fish faces unimaginable challenges and struggles to survive.
New Fish is dropped into the wrong warzone: a place that has seen years of terrible battles and a defending force that is almost all out of numbers, and options.
While "Fifteen Hours" provides an engaging and action-packed reading experience, it should be noted that prior familiarity with the Warhammer 40,000 universe is beneficial. The novel assumes a certain level of knowledge about the setting, its factions, and the overarching conflict. However, even for readers new to the Warhammer universe, the book offers a thrilling and immersive introduction to its grim and violent world.
I loved it, it made me want to get more, though sadly, I haven’t seen a sequel available.

Storyline: 9/10
Character Depth: 9/10
Narration: 9/10

9/10

My Rating:

Fifteen Hours

Warhammer 40k, action, war, military, space

Mitchel Scanlon

An Astra Militarum Novel

A young soldier of the Astra Militarum is thrust onto a battlefield where the average life expectancy is just fifteen hours – facing brutal orks, artillery bombardment, and the horrors of no man's land.

Listen to it because

It's a sharp, incisive look at the first hours of war for a new Guardsman, and all the terrors that accompany it…

The story

Arvin Larn is terrified. On the battlefields of the far future, only an insane man wouldn't be. Seventeen years old and still new to the Imperial Guard, he is thrust straight into his first war, and must face horrors that his sheltered upbringing could never prepare him for. The trenches of the 41st millennium are filled with worse things than rats and trenchrot. For one, the world they fight for is being contested by the monstrous alien orks. The greenskins live for battle and fight without fear, so it's no wonder that the average life-span of an Imperial Guardsman on this forsaken world is only fifteen hours.

©2023 Games Workshop Limited (P)2023 Games Workshop Limited

My Review:

Fifteen Hours really did have everything I wanted from a book based around military, war, fighting and killing. Set in the grim darkness of the Warhammer 40,000 universe, the book offers a raw and intense portrayal of the horrors and sacrifices of battle.
The story follows the journey of a young Imperial Guardsman named New Fish by the rest of the soldiers, who is thrust into the brutal war against the Orks. As the title suggests, the narrative unfolds over a span of fifteen hours, during which New Fish faces unimaginable challenges and struggles to survive.
New Fish is dropped into the wrong warzone: a place that has seen years of terrible battles and a defending force that is almost all out of numbers, and options.
While "Fifteen Hours" provides an engaging and action-packed reading experience, it should be noted that prior familiarity with the Warhammer 40,000 universe is beneficial. The novel assumes a certain level of knowledge about the setting, its factions, and the overarching conflict. However, even for readers new to the Warhammer universe, the book offers a thrilling and immersive introduction to its grim and violent world.
I loved it, it made me want to get more, though sadly, I haven’t seen a sequel available.

Storyline: 9/10
Character Depth: 9/10
Narration: 9/10

As I write this review, Nautical Noobs is waiting for me in my to listen line, and I’m so excited about it. The MC is called Jim, which is the source of a lot of laughs from the other characters in the book because it’s not a real name – like calling someone Rover. Also there’s this thing called Shart and a talking badger called Badgelor. It’s wild, honestly and I couldn’t stop laughing whilst listening to it. If I’m honest it took me a while to get to simply because of the title, but what a mistake I made.

​Storyline: 9/10
Character Depth: 9/10
Narration: 10/10

10/10

My Rating:

Noobtown (Series)

LitRPG, Fantasy, Progression, Magic, World Building, Comedy

Ryan Rimmel

It could be worse. You could be stuck with a literal shoulder demon.

After dying and being reborn into a world that's built like a video game, Jim has found himself stuck in a very old world style new player zone for low level adventurers. Unfortunately, the zone fell out of use centuries ago, and no one told the monsters they were supposed to take it easy on the Noobs.

Even worse, the only new player around is Jim.

Jim has been given an opportunity, and he'll do his best to take advantage of it.

My Review:

As I write this review, Nautical Noobs is waiting for me in my to listen line, and I’m so excited about it. The MC is called Jim, which is the source of a lot of laughs from the other characters in the book because it’s not a real name – like calling someone Rover. Also there’s this thing called Shart and a talking badger called Badgelor. It’s wild, honestly and I couldn’t stop laughing whilst listening to it. If I’m honest it took me a while to get to simply because of the title, but what a mistake I made.

​Storyline: 9/10
Character Depth: 9/10
Narration: 10/10

The Gam3 for me happened early on in my LitRPG search for more and more books to devour and it was one that stood out for me as a cornerstone of the genre. There are now three books in the series so if you’re after substance then this is good for you. I loved the sci-fi AI alien feel of the story and it always left me wondering what was waiting for me around the next corner.

​Storyline: 9/10
Character Depth: 8/10
Narration: 9/10

9/10

My Rating:

The Gam3 (Series)

Fantasy, Sci-Fi

Cosimo Yap

An Artificial Intelligence, LitRPG, Cyberpunk adventure.

The Earth is changing. The alien invasion brought social upheaval, advanced technology, and an armada of peacekeeping robots. But Alan, a college student pursuing a now-useless degree, cares little about all of this. He has only one thing on his mind: the Game.

A fully immersive virtual reality, the Game appears to be a major part of the invading civilization. Alan can't wait to play, recklessly diving into the digital universe. Soon though, Alan realizes the Game is anything but simple, and the stakes are higher than he ever imagined.

My Review:

The Gam3 for me happened early on in my LitRPG search for more and more books to devour and it was one that stood out for me as a cornerstone of the genre. There are now three books in the series so if you’re after substance then this is good for you. I loved the sci-fi AI alien feel of the story and it always left me wondering what was waiting for me around the next corner.

​Storyline: 9/10
Character Depth: 8/10
Narration: 9/10

I know I know this author’s name is a bit taboo because of some of the strange things he’s tried to do with trademarks (don’t take my word for it, Google it), but write books – and long ones – he can do. To be fair to the series, the first few books are actually pretty amazing. I felt myself rooting for the Mist Village throughout them, but then… the books got so so long that I just couldn’t take the time to face them – I think the last one was something like 40 hours plus and that’s the only reason this series drops a star for me. Just split them into more books! Two books at twenty hours good, one book at forty hours bad. I don’t know why it works like this for me but it does.

​Storyline: 8/10
Character Depth: 8/10
Narration: 10/10

8/10

My Rating:

The Land: Chaos Seeds (Series)

LitRPG, Fantasy, Progression, Magic, Settlement Building

Aleron Kong

Enter a mesmerizing tale reminiscent of the wonder of Ready Player One and the adventure of Game of Thrones.

Tricked into a world of banished gods, demons, goblins, sprites and magic, Richter must learn to meet the perils of The Land and begin to forge his own kingdom. Actions have consequences across The Land, with powerful creatures and factions now hell-bent on Richter's destruction.

Can Richter forge allegiances to survive this harsh and unforgiving world or will he fall to the dark denizens of this ancient and unforgiving realm?

A tale to shake "The Land" itself, measuring 10/10 on the Richter scale, how will Richter's choices shape the future of The Land and all who reside in it? Can he grow his power to meet the deadliest of beings of the land? When choices are often a shade of grey, how will Richter ensure he does not become what he seeks to destroy?

My Review:

I know I know this author’s name is a bit taboo because of some of the strange things he’s tried to do with trademarks (don’t take my word for it, Google it), but write books – and long ones – he can do. To be fair to the series, the first few books are actually pretty amazing. I felt myself rooting for the Mist Village throughout them, but then… the books got so so long that I just couldn’t take the time to face them – I think the last one was something like 40 hours plus and that’s the only reason this series drops a star for me. Just split them into more books! Two books at twenty hours good, one book at forty hours bad. I don’t know why it works like this for me but it does.

​Storyline: 8/10
Character Depth: 8/10
Narration: 10/10

I remember the moment I started listening to this book - that’s just how good it is. It was at Dublin airport, flight delayed and I was in a terminal on my own. The crafting was so mouthwatering that all I remember thinking is that I wished my flight was delayed twelve hours so I’d have the chance to listen to every word this author wrote. I mean the carding is so good in this series, if that’s what you’re after you won’t be able to put this down.

​Storyline: 10/10
Character Depth: 10/10
Narration: 10/10

10/10

My Rating:

Way of the Shaman (Series)

LitRPG, Fantasy, Progression, Magic, Crafting

Vasily Mahanenko

Barliona: a virtual world jam-packed with monsters, battles - and, predictably, players. Millions of them come to Barliona, looking forward to the things they can't get in real life: elves and magic, dragons and princesses, and unforgettable combat. The game has become so popular that players now choose to spend months online without returning home.

In Barliona, anything goes: You can assault fellow players, level up, become a mythical hero, a wizard, or a legendary thief. The only rule that attempted to regulate the game demanded that no player be allowed to feel actual pain. But there's an exception to every rule. For a certain bunch of players, Barliona has become their personal hell. They are criminals sent to Barliona to serve their time.

They aren't in it for the dragons' gold or the abundant loot. All they want is to survive the virtual inferno. They face the ultimate survival quest.

My Review:

I remember the moment I started listening to this book - that’s just how good it is. It was at Dublin airport, flight delayed and I was in a terminal on my own. The crafting was so mouthwatering that all I remember thinking is that I wished my flight was delayed twelve hours so I’d have the chance to listen to every word this author wrote. I mean the carding is so good in this series, if that’s what you’re after you won’t be able to put this down.

​Storyline: 10/10
Character Depth: 10/10
Narration: 10/10

Ok I admit it, this author was the first time I’ve ever signed up to a newsletter because I just needed to know when the next book was coming out. The perfect book for someone wanting to dip their toe into the world of LitRPG books, this one has levelling, crafting, special powers, bad guys to hate and a foreboding worry that the MC’s world is going to crash down around them at any point. I listened to the first book in the series while in the car going to a meeting and it ruined my day that I had to leave it behind to deal with boring work.

This year I finished the series with the last book and it was wrapped up rather well though it was a bit of a bitter pill for me to swallow. I didn’t want it to end.

​Storyline: 9/10
Character Depth: 10/10
Narration: 10/10

10/10

My Rating:

Life Reset (Series)

LitRPG, Fantasy, Progression, Magic

Shemer Kuznits

The best selling six-books series is now complete! In video games, players hunt monsters.

But what happens when a veteran player finds himself on the monster's side?

Oren, a high-level guild master, wakes in the body of a lowly goblin. Cast out, betrayed by his most trusted advisors, Oren is stuck in New Era Online. However, there are advantages to being on the monsters’ side. Starting from scratch, he’ll have to build up a powerful monster clan to take revenge. But first, he'll have to survive long enough not to be someone else's fodder.

Life Reset is the first book in the bestselling fantasy LitRPG series that follows a monster main character who wields darkness-based magic. Includes heavy elements of town-building, raising a monster clan, magic, powerful enemies, and asking the deep existential questions of what it means to be alive inside a digital reality.

The Soundbooth Theater team for this production: Jeff Hays - Narration, Characters, Production Supervision Dalton Lynne - Proofing Alex Tate - Production, Editing, Mastering

My Review:

Ok I admit it, this author was the first time I’ve ever signed up to a newsletter because I just needed to know when the next book was coming out. The perfect book for someone wanting to dip their toe into the world of LitRPG books, this one has levelling, crafting, special powers, bad guys to hate and a foreboding worry that the MC’s world is going to crash down around them at any point. I listened to the first book in the series while in the car going to a meeting and it ruined my day that I had to leave it behind to deal with boring work.

This year I finished the series with the last book and it was wrapped up rather well though it was a bit of a bitter pill for me to swallow. I didn’t want it to end.

​Storyline: 9/10
Character Depth: 10/10
Narration: 10/10

Yes I know it’s a TV show – and it was bloody brilliant by the way. I also got the audiobook AND hardback because it was that good. I listened to it twice and even after the second time through I didn’t want it to end. Actually thinking about it as I write this, it’s kind of like the perfect run (above). Guy finds a time portal to the past (1963, shocker), can stay there as long as he wants and when he returns to the future anything he changed stands. If he goes back again though it is to the start of the time again and all his changes get wiped. Action, adventure, romance and time travelling this one hit the nail on the head for me. Oh and there’s something about JFK too. Whatever, it’s great, read it.

​Storyline: 10/10
Character Depth: 10/10
Narration: 10/10

10/10

My Rating:

11.22.63

Time Travel, Action, Romance

Stephen King

On November 22, 1963, three shots rang out in Dallas, President Kennedy died, and the world changed. What if you could change it back? Stephen King’s heart-stoppingly dramatic new novel is about a man who travels back in time to prevent the JFK assassination—a thousand page tour de force.

Following his massively successful novel Under the Dome, King sweeps readers back in time to another moment—a real life moment—when everything went wrong: the JFK assassination. And he introduces readers to a character who has the power to change the course of history.

Jake Epping is a thirty-five-year-old high school English teacher in Lisbon Falls, Maine, who makes extra money teaching adults in the GED program. He receives an essay from one of the students—a gruesome, harrowing first person story about the night 50 years ago when Harry Dunning’s father came home and killed his mother, his sister, and his brother with a hammer. Harry escaped with a smashed leg, as evidenced by his crooked walk.

Not much later, Jake’s friend Al, who runs the local diner, divulges a secret: his storeroom is a portal to 1958. He enlists Jake on an insane—and insanely possible—mission to try to prevent the Kennedy assassination. So begins Jake’s new life as George Amberson and his new world of Elvis and JFK, of big American cars and sock hops, of a troubled loner named Lee Harvey Oswald and a beautiful high school librarian named Sadie Dunhill, who becomes the love of Jake’s life – a life that transgresses all the normal rules of time.

My Review:

Yes I know it’s a TV show – and it was bloody brilliant by the way. I also got the audiobook AND hardback because it was that good. I listened to it twice and even after the second time through I didn’t want it to end. Actually thinking about it as I write this, it’s kind of like the perfect run (above). Guy finds a time portal to the past (1963, shocker), can stay there as long as he wants and when he returns to the future anything he changed stands. If he goes back again though it is to the start of the time again and all his changes get wiped. Action, adventure, romance and time travelling this one hit the nail on the head for me. Oh and there’s something about JFK too. Whatever, it’s great, read it.

​Storyline: 10/10
Character Depth: 10/10
Narration: 10/10

​OK I admit it, I listened to the three audiobooks back to back and I just couldn’t put them down. Decent length audiobooks too so don’t think I didn’t put the effort into it. I read some other reviews about the series before I started and they were pretty mixed, though the ones that didn’t like it were because of reasons I did. They said that they didn’t like the MC just restarting from a save point over and over was no good – but who doesn’t want that? I loved the MC’s attitude and cockiness that worked perfectly in tune with his backstory; that he was a bit twisted because he had done everything over and over so many times. A bit of Groundhog Day in this one mixed with Greek gods and good old fashioned sarcastic fighting. I loved it start to finish.

​Storyline: 9/10
Character Depth: 10/10
Narration: 10/10

10/10

My Rating:

The Perfect Run (Series)

Military, Action, Time Travel, Time Loop ​

Void Herald

Ryan "Quicksave" Romano is an eccentric adventurer with a strange power: he can create a save-point in time and redo his life whenever he dies. Arriving in New Rome, the glitzy capital of sin of a rebuilding Europe, he finds the city torn between mega-corporations, sponsored heroes, superpowered criminals, and true monsters. It's a time of chaos, where potions can grant the power to rule the world and dangers lurk everywhere.

My Review:

​OK I admit it, I listened to the three audiobooks back to back and I just couldn’t put them down. Decent length audiobooks too so don’t think I didn’t put the effort into it. I read some other reviews about the series before I started and they were pretty mixed, though the ones that didn’t like it were because of reasons I did. They said that they didn’t like the MC just restarting from a save point over and over was no good – but who doesn’t want that? I loved the MC’s attitude and cockiness that worked perfectly in tune with his backstory; that he was a bit twisted because he had done everything over and over so many times. A bit of Groundhog Day in this one mixed with Greek gods and good old fashioned sarcastic fighting. I loved it start to finish.

​Storyline: 9/10
Character Depth: 10/10
Narration: 10/10

I really enjoyed listening to this book, the narrator was well matched to the tone of the characters and the writing style. To be honest, I've been on a bit of a search for a sci-fi book that I liked after reading the REV Warriors series and this certainly scratched that itch. It took me about two days so not a particularly long one and by the end, I must admit I did feel as though the time was right for it to be over. It's not five stars from me but definitely a solid read. In some places, the story was a little predictable, but hey - if it makes me feel smart that I figured it out then that's not necessarily a bad thing.

Storyline: 8/10
Character Depth: 9/10
Narration: 9/10

9/10

My Rating:

First Life: The River Saga

Sci-Fi, Military, Aliens

Nathan Hystad

A dangerous expedition. Extraterrestrial alliances. Unpredictable enemies.
Colton Beck has six months to live. He works for the Angor near Los Angeles, aware that any day could be his last.
The Angor arrived twenty years ago, resolved to help mankind survive, but not everyone believes their motives are honorable.
When the Angor offer humanity a colony world, Colton is determined to see another planet before his final breath. He’s been diagnosed with Xeno, a rare disorder that surfaced with the Angor’s arrival, but he won’t let this stop him.
With the help of his old friend Indie Hart, now the single most powerful human on Earth, he joins the Expedition to Dicore.
They access the River, an alien technology that allows nearly instantaneous travel between worlds, and their universe is quickly expanded.
What they find on Dicore is far from idyllic, and Colton struggles to navigate their new existence while coping with his impending death.
First Life is a gripping science fiction adventure tale from the Best-Selling author of The Event, Lost Contact, and Final Days.

*******Peace by the Stars*******

My Review:

I really enjoyed listening to this book, the narrator was well matched to the tone of the characters and the writing style. To be honest, I've been on a bit of a search for a sci-fi book that I liked after reading the REV Warriors series and this certainly scratched that itch. It took me about two days so not a particularly long one and by the end, I must admit I did feel as though the time was right for it to be over. It's not five stars from me but definitely a solid read. In some places, the story was a little predictable, but hey - if it makes me feel smart that I figured it out then that's not necessarily a bad thing.

Storyline: 8/10
Character Depth: 9/10
Narration: 9/10

This LitRPG/GameLit audiobook was included in my Audible membership for FREE! so what more could I really ask for? The MC was transported to another world where some demonic presence rolled the dice to see what kind of character he was going to be. Sure the premise sounded familiar, though in this one, the MC starts off at level 19, then every time he goes to sleep he wakes up as a new and interesting class. There's no time to get comfortable or bored in this book, well worth a read and I am definitely looking forward to the next one!

​Storyline: 8/10
Character Depth: 8/10
Narration: 9/10

8/10

My Rating:

Uncontrollable: Class Shift Book One

LitRPG, Gamelit, Fantasy, Magic, Audiobook

Sean Oswald

If Tim is to survive his new world; he'll have to combine the skills of his shifting classes.
Whether it be the heroes of legends or the characters in games, few things are more defining than Class. Except maybe Class isn't always static. Tank, DPS, healer, and more. They are all just different sides of fate's die.
Taken from life as an office drone by a trickster god, Tim finds himself in the magical world of Iocusinte, where change is his only constant. It grants him great potential, enough to be sought out by different factions looking to use him for their own ends.
That potential, however, is mercurial. His Class and very appearance change at random even as his Skills and Stats progress. He'll have to solve the riddle of his nature and learn to master the uncontrollable if he hopes to survive.
Experience the next LitRPG saga from the Amazon Bestselling author of Life in Exile, Sean Oswald. It’s perfect for fans of Dakota Krout, Luke Chmilenko, and Troy Osgood.

My Review:

This LitRPG/GameLit audiobook was included in my Audible membership for FREE! so what more could I really ask for? The MC was transported to another world where some demonic presence rolled the dice to see what kind of character he was going to be. Sure the premise sounded familiar, though in this one, the MC starts off at level 19, then every time he goes to sleep he wakes up as a new and interesting class. There's no time to get comfortable or bored in this book, well worth a read and I am definitely looking forward to the next one!

​Storyline: 8/10
Character Depth: 8/10
Narration: 9/10

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