Heather L. Lynch

1% Lifesteal, 0% Progress

Revisado: 03-27-25

As a fan of the LitRPG genre, particularly post-apocalyptic stories with strong character progression, 1% Lifesteal was a letdown.

The novel promises a "weak to strong" journey, but never truly delivers. Freddy, the main character, starts off as a timid and uninspiring beta male. While he does gain some power and experience, his personality remains frustratingly passive. Even after enduring extreme situations—including torture scenes that rival Saw—he shows little growth in mindset or inner strength. It’s difficult to root for a protagonist who refuses to evolve.

The LitRPG elements are vague at best. The interface—crucial in any LitRPG—is so poorly described that it’s hard to follow what’s happening. For example, Freddy has an ability that’s supposedly "27% toward evolving," but we’re never told how he knows this, or even what the interface looks like. In a 16+ hour audiobook, the fact that no time is spent clarifying these mechanics is a major flaw.

Story pacing and structure are also problematic. The author includes entire scenes that add nothing to the plot or character development—highly detailed but ultimately meaningless. There’s a lengthy training arc where the MC has access to unlimited workout options, yet never steps into a boxing gym, BJJ mat, or MMA ring despite claiming he wants to be a fighter. Instead, he punches trees and lifts weights, which feels like a missed opportunity.

Freddy also acquires what’s hinted to be an overpowered artifact early in the story—but instead of exploring its significance, the author has him shove it into a garbage bag and forget about it. We’re told it’s valuable, that others want it, but we’re never shown why. The lack of explanation becomes increasingly frustrating.

Overall, the book struggles with character development, world-building, and core genre expectations. Freddy's arc is stagnant, the LitRPG elements undercooked, and the plot decisions often baffling. I’m undecided about continuing the series, as I have little confidence the author understands how to develop a main character or build meaningful progression.

Has calificado esta reseña.

Reportaste esta reseña

esto le resultó útil a 4 personas

From Power Fantasy to Paperwork – A LitRPG Letdown

Revisado: 02-08-25

By Book 3: Savannah, System Universe has completely abandoned what made its first installment engaging. Instead of thrilling progression, meaningful challenges, or deep character development, we get 90% mundane day-to-day affairs. The protagonist, Derek, spends an absurd amount of time opening checking accounts, negotiating property deals, eating food, and lounging in bars—scenes that could have been summarized in a paragraph but are instead stretched out with unnecessary dialogue and detail.

Worse, the author tells rather than shows. If a character is fast, we’re simply told "he is lightning fast," without any effort to make the action feel real. The characters themselves are one-dimensional, reduced to a single defining trait that gets hammered into the ground. If someone likes alcohol, that’s all they talk about. If another character is an alchemist, guess what? Alchemy is their entire personality. The rabbit companion is similarly uninspired, offering little more than repeated food jokes.

Then there’s the economy of this world, which is laughably inconsistent. A mansion costs the same as a jug of alcohol, and a life-extending potion—supposedly rare and highly sought-after—barely costs more. It breaks immersion and makes the world feel hollow.

Derek, once an intriguing and powerful MC, has also become grating. He’s either an arrogant fool or a shock jock trolling people just to get a reaction. It’s unclear why anyone in the story would want to be around him, and as a reader, I’m starting to feel the same way.

At this point, System Universe feels like a series that lost its way, stretching out filler content instead of delivering the engaging, fast-paced adventure that the first book promised. If you enjoyed the initial setup, be warned: the story screeches to a halt, and getting through Savannah feels like grinding without any real reward.

Has calificado esta reseña.

Reportaste esta reseña

Strong start, frustrating slowdown

Revisado: 02-03-25

As a longtime fan of the LitRPG genre, I was excited to dive into System Universe, and at first, it did not disappoint. Book 1 laid a strong foundation—classic tropes executed well, an overpowered yet compelling protagonist, and an intriguing anomaly that set the stage for rapid progression and high-stakes encounters. The game mechanics were well-thought-out, and the protagonist, while a bit of a lone wolf, had just enough heart to keep him relatable.

However, by Books 2 and 3, the momentum all but disappeared. The thrilling power climb and engaging conflicts gave way to long-winded side character arcs, a near standstill in progression, and a protagonist who felt increasingly sidelined. The pacing suffers, and what was once a high-energy, action-driven adventure turns into a meandering story with little payoff.

Narrator Adam Verner does a serviceable job, though his range of voices is somewhat limited. It didn’t detract too much for me, but I can see how others might find it repetitive over a long series.

The biggest issue, though, isn’t the narration—it’s the shift in storytelling. Whether the author lost sight of what made the first book compelling or is stretching the series out unnecessarily, the result is a frustrating slowdown that leaves a lot to be desired. From what I’ve read of other reviews, this pattern continues in later books, making me hesitant to push further.

If you love deep world-building and don’t mind a series that takes its time (a lot of time), this might still be worth checking out. But if you’re here for fast-paced progression, action, and a protagonist who stays in the spotlight, System Universe may leave you disappointed.

Has calificado esta reseña.

Reportaste esta reseña

Good series but some chapters are ... bad

Revisado: 02-03-25

The entire series so far is written pretty well. Normal LitRPG tropes and progression. It has a twist and some interesting mechanics and the characters are somewhat developed.

However - some of the chapters are insanely cringe. I mean... like a different author wrote them and they stand out in a big way. It jarring and lessens the overall story. Chapter 35 of this book is extremely cringe. At first I checked to make sure this book wasn't written in another language and then translated to English. Sadly - its just badwriting. I actually stopped listening to try to think about what was going on...

Either way. Those chapters are the exception and not the rule thankfully. I'd say overall the series (at least through book 2) is worth checking out if you like the genre.

Has calificado esta reseña.

Reportaste esta reseña

A LitRPG Disappointment: Missed Potential

Revisado: 01-06-25

If you're going to dive into this audiobook, prepare for a long, arduous journey before anything remotely rewarding happens. The main character (MC) and story barely find their footing after a staggering 11 to 13 hours of lackluster storytelling. Even then, the LitRPG elements—which should be a highlight—are sparse, underwhelming, and poorly developed.

I was eager to enjoy this due to its darker tone and the promise of a card-based LitRPG system, but it fails to deliver on nearly every level. The MC is a frustrating archetype: the kind of reckless, inept leader who constantly drags others into trouble. Worse still, the supporting cast lacks depth, with each character reduced to a single, overly emphasized trait for easy recognition.

As for the card system? It feels tacked on, like an afterthought rather than an integral part of the narrative. What could have been a compelling mechanism ends up being woefully underexplored, leaving the story hollow and unengaging.

Ultimately, unless you're a die-hard fan of slow-burn stories with minimal payoff, this one is a hard pass.

Has calificado esta reseña.

Reportaste esta reseña

esto le resultó útil a 2 personas

A Dark, Gritty Spin on LitRPG: Demon Card Enforcer

Revisado: 12-08-24

John Stovall crafts a dark and engaging narrative in Demon Card Enforcer: Book 1, offering a gritty, noir-inspired take on the LitRPG genre. The story revolves around a unique card-based system, with a modernized flair and a backdrop of organized crime. Every ten years, deities distribute thematic decks of cards to a select few mortals, introducing an intriguing balance of chaos and control.

The protagonist is an enforcer for the city’s most formidable crime family, a morally complex character whose lethal nature is tempered by an underlying sense of ethics. These subtle, unspoken morals add depth, making him more than just a killer.

The mechanics of the card system are meticulously designed. Much like Pokémon or Magic: The Gathering, the cards enable summoning minions and using powers, with specific types countering one another in a strategic dance of chaos. While not derivative, these analogies help convey the system’s brilliance without overwhelming exposition.

The protagonist’s duality as an "alpha" killer juxtaposed with his submission to the crime family is one of the story’s few stumbling points. While his ruthless autonomy is well-established, his consistent subservience to the family’s every demand feels incongruent and, at times, jarring. Similarly, the primary antagonist remains concealed until the climax—a reveal that, while satisfying, is overly telegraphed.

Despite these minor narrative hiccups, the pacing is relentless, and the supporting cast is vividly portrayed, keeping listeners enthralled. The audiobook’s production is exceptional, with voice actors Justin Thomas Hayes, Tiana Camacho, and Ryan Reid delivering performances that enhance the story’s intensity and nuance.

For fans of LitRPG and gritty, morally complex stories, Demon Card Enforcer: Book 1 stands out as a fresh and enthralling addition to the genre. With its inventive card-based system and noir-inspired setting, it promises a thrilling experience from start to finish.

Highly recommended.

Has calificado esta reseña.

Reportaste esta reseña

Missed Potential in a Simplistic LitRPG

Revisado: 12-07-24

I genuinely wanted to enjoy Second Chance Swordsman by Jakob Tanner, but unfortunately, I couldn’t get through it. Despite finding the author likable in my interactions with him on social media, I feel compelled to be honest in my review.

I made it through about three-quarters of the audiobook, but it left me struggling to find redeeming qualities. The writing is exceedingly simplistic, with a lexile level that feels more appropriate for children’s literature than a LitRPG meant for a broader audience. The side characters are woefully underdeveloped—most of them barely feel like characters at all. Many don’t even have names, including the orphaned children who follow the protagonist into perilous situations. They’re consistently referred to in vague terms like “the orphans,” “little orphan girl,” or “little orphan boy,” with no meaningful details to make them stand out.

One of the few named side characters, Toby, actively detracts from the story. He’s portrayed as an unlikable, sniveling coward whose sole personality trait is broadcasting his fears to everyone. The narrator’s performance, giving Toby a voice-cracking, whiny tone, only amplified this issue, making it hard to take the character seriously as a young adult.

The premise had potential: the protagonist dies, is sent back in time to his 16-year-old body, and has the opportunity to prevent a catastrophic event while leveling up his abilities from scratch. This could have been engaging, but the execution fell flat. The LitRPG system is overly simplistic and fails to add depth to the story. The protagonist rarely reflects on his lost gear, abilities, or the people he once lost who are now alive. He uses his prior knowledge sparingly, and some of his internal monologue feels inconsistent—for example, referring to slightly older peers as “adults,” which doesn’t align with how a seasoned individual with mature memories would think.

Additionally, the plot conveniences are hard to overlook. Item drops are consistently perfect for the protagonist, removing tension or excitement. The lack of complexity in the writing—both in sentence structure and narrative depth—made it difficult for me to stay engaged. I would have enjoyed this book more if it were written at a higher level, with richer character development and more immersive storytelling.

Unfortunately, this wasn’t for me. However, I recognize that some readers may appreciate the straightforward style and premise. For my part, though, it fell short of its potential.

Has calificado esta reseña.

Reportaste esta reseña

esto le resultó útil a 1 persona

The Vigil Bound Series (Books 1–3)

Revisado: 11-24-24

This review covers the first three books of the Vigil Bound Series by [Author Name]. While avoiding spoilers, I'll share an overview of what you can expect from this LitRPG series.

Overall Impression
The series starts strong as a solid entry in the LitRPG genre but gradually diminishes in quality as it progresses. The earlier books offer a more engaging and well-rounded experience, while the later entries feel rushed and incomplete.

Book Breakdown
Vigil’s Justice (13 hours 27 minutes)
The first book sets a high bar, presenting a remarkable entry into the series. It introduces intriguing investigations, solid character development, and a vibrant world. This book feels like a complete and satisfying story, making it a strong start to the series.

Vigil’s Valor (15 hours 3 minutes)
The second book continues to build on the foundation of the first, maintaining a good balance of character growth and story progression. It’s slightly longer, allowing for more depth in the narrative and exploration of the world. Like the first book, this installment feels cohesive and well-paced.

Vigil’s Balance (9 hours 39 minutes)
Unfortunately, the third book marks a noticeable drop in quality. With a significantly shorter runtime, the story feels rushed and less developed. It lacks the completeness of the earlier entries and comes across as barely half of a story, leaving much to be desired.

Vigil’s Wrath (not read yet)
While I haven’t read the fourth book, its runtime (9 hours 37 minutes) suggests it may follow the trend of the third book, potentially delivering a less satisfying experience compared to the first two.

Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
The author’s voice and world-building stand out. The characters and their interactions are compelling, and the setting is immersive. Even with a power system based on borrowed or temporary abilities (which I typically dislike), the writing was strong enough to hold my attention through three books.

Weaknesses:
The decreasing length of later books correlates with a drop in story quality. The rushed pacing undermines the potential for deeper plotlines and character arcs, leaving readers with an unsatisfying experience in the third book.

Final Thoughts
The Vigil Bound Series starts as a promising LitRPG adventure, with the first two books offering strong, complete narratives. However, as the series progresses, the quality declines, and the third book feels underwhelming and incomplete. While I plan to give the fourth book a chance, my expectations are tempered.

If you enjoy the LitRPG genre and value engaging writing, the first two books are worth your time. Beyond that, proceed with caution, as the series may not maintain its initial standard.

Has calificado esta reseña.

Reportaste esta reseña

I like the setup - not the execution.

Revisado: 11-02-24 El oyente recibió este título gratis

Let me start by saying, Brooks has done a fantastic job kicking off this series. There’s a lot to admire here, but a few issues hold it back from reaching its full potential. Let’s dive into the highlights and areas for improvement.

What I Loved
Unique Protagonist: I really appreciate that the main character isn’t the typical hero archetype. His class was chosen for him, limiting his abilities and forcing him to get creative. It’s refreshing to see a protagonist who isn’t overpowered from the start and has to work with what he’s given.
Engaging Power and Progression System: The mechanics behind the character’s abilities and growth are well thought out and add depth. While there are some issues (which I’ll touch on below), the general structure of the power system is intriguing and keeps you invested in the MC’s journey.
Side Characters and World-Building: The supporting cast and the world itself are rich and layered. The story does a good job of making you care about the setting and the people in it—though this, too, could benefit from some adjustments.
Areas for Improvement
Voice Acting: The narrator’s delivery for the main character often sounds disengaged, almost bored. His portrayal of the system’s voice is, frankly, jarring—like a chain-smoking, inebriated Winnie the Pooh. It can be distracting, and I wouldn’t be surprised if, once you notice it, it’s hard to unhear.
Overload of System Information: The book often dives deep into the mechanics of spells and items, like an audiobook rendition of the D&D Player’s Handbook. It’s a lot to sit through, especially in an audio format where skimming isn’t an option. In a print version, I could skip ahead, but here it feels excessive.
Inconsistent Side Characters: Just as you start to get attached to certain characters, they’re abruptly removed. For example, when the MC resurrected three significant allies (minor spoilers ahead), I was excited to see where those storylines would lead, only for them to be permanently killed off soon after. This cycle with side characters makes it hard to form lasting connections.
Predictable Battles: While the MC’s creativity was exciting in the first book, it now feels predictable, almost like “God Mode” has been activated. Every fight feels like a guaranteed victory, which lessens the tension and makes the combat sequences less compelling.
In summary, Undisguised Healer has a solid foundation with some genuinely interesting elements. With a few tweaks—particularly in the narration, pacing, and character development—this series could go from good to great.

Has calificado esta reseña.

Reportaste esta reseña

esto le resultó útil a 1 persona

Promising Premise, Disastrous Execution – Skip it

Revisado: 10-22-24

Where do I even begin?

Battledeck Academy by Harmon Cooper is, to put it bluntly, not good. At all. I’m not exaggerating here—it’s bad.

The premise sounded promising, which is what made me buy the audiobook in the first place. A kid joins a magic academy, much like Harry Potter, but with the twist of having the soul of a master assassin trapped within him? Sounds cool, right? Wrong.

If this book had been marketed as a pre-teen novel, I might have let some things slide. But it’s not. It’s juvenile, cartoony, and overly simplistic. Yet, for some reason, the characters curse like sailors, which only makes the dialogue feel forced and awkward. Combine that with plot holes and flat, underdeveloped characters, and it’s just a mess. The book is supposed to be a LitRPG, but the entire story unfolds over the span of about a week and a half, leaving little room for actual RPG elements. The magic and combat system feels more like a watered-down Pokémon battle with a few spells tossed in.

And let’s talk about the "master assassin." You’d expect a character with decades of experience to have depth, wisdom, and a strategic mind, right? Nope. Instead, he’s written with all the nuance of an 11-year-old who thinks he’s a master assassin. It’s painfully clear that the author has no idea how to write a seasoned warrior. The assassin’s personality is shallow, childish, and lacks any of the maturity or finesse you’d expect from someone who's supposedly honed their craft for years.

Now, for the audiobook itself: the characters use an instant messaging system where they can send messages through their thoughts. Cool idea, right? Except for one glaring issue—every time a message is sent, a single distorted harmonica note plays. And this happens before every message. Imagine sitting through a 20-line conversation with harmonica notes blaring in your ear before each line. It’s maddening.

The characters themselves have the depth and maturity of South Park characters—particularly Cartman. And the creatures they summon (essentially Pokémon knock-offs) are crass and just plain cringe-worthy.

In short, this is a terrible book, made worse by poor execution on every front. Avoid at all costs.

Has calificado esta reseña.

Reportaste esta reseña

esto le resultó útil a 1 persona