SpyNavy
TLDR: I wasn’t sure what to expect from Dungeon Crawler Carl, but it turned out to be surprisingly fun and well executed. With strong characters and a silly premise that works remarkably well, it’s an engaging take on the LitRPG genre—even for those who don’t typically enjoy it (like me).
Food Rating: Dungeon Crawler Carl is like trying a weird snack you weren’t sure about—say, chocolate-covered bacon (who doesnt like bacon) and discovering it’s both bizarre and delicious. Unexpected, but absolutely satisfying.
Dungeon Crawler Carl was a refreshing surprise, blending humor, action, and clever world-building into a story that shouldn’t work as well as it does—but somehow does. The premise is undeniably silly (a deadly, game-like dungeon crawl broadcast as intergalactic entertainment), yet the book’s sharp writing and engaging characters make it both entertaining and surprisingly heartfelt.
Carl, and his feline companion are the heart of the story, grounding the chaos with a mix of humor, determination, and unexpected depth. Even for someone who doesn’t usually enjoy LitRPG-style books, the storytelling is compelling enough that it’s easy to overlook the genre’s conventions and just have fun with the ride.
TLDR: I didn’t enjoy The Brotherhood of Dwarves and stopped reading halfway through. The writing felt boring, the characters lacked depth, and the story was a mishmash of ideas that failed to capture my interest. I wouldn’t recommend this book, but take my experience for what it’s worth—I only made it to the 50% mark.
Food Rating: The Brotherhood of Dwarves is like a meal so bland and flavorless that you lose interest halfway through—think plain oatmeal without any toppings. There’s potential to salvage it with some effort, but honestly, you’d rather spend your time eating something more satisfying.
Adams’ The Brotherhood of Dwarves didn’t work for me as a reader. From the outset, I struggled to find anything engaging about the story. The writing felt flat and uninspired, failing to draw me into the world or immerse me in the narrative. The characters, while central to the story, lacked the personality and depth needed to make me care about their journey. Instead of feeling invested, I found myself indifferent to their struggles and motivations.
The plot itself came across as disjointed—a mix of ideas that didn’t seem to coalesce into a cohesive or compelling narrative. While I hoped the book would eventually pick up, it never did, and I ultimately put it down at the halfway mark. Perhaps it improves later, but my time is precious, and there are far better books out there vying for my attention. At some point, I may come back to finish it, but for now, it’s a pass.
TLDR: Killing Floor is an action-packed and gripping introduction to Jack Reacher, setting the stage for a thrilling series. Fans of the Amazon TV show will appreciate this version of Reacher—intelligent, imposing, and relentless—much more than the Tom Cruise portrayal.
Food Rating: Killing Floor is like a good pizza: satisfying, reliable, and loaded with just enough spice to keep things interesting. You’ll want more slices (or books) after you finish.
Killing Floor is a great start to the Jack Reacher series, delivering fast-paced mystery, action, and grit. The story introduces us to Reacher as a drifter turned investigator, unraveling a conspiracy in the small town of Margrave. Reacher’s sharp mind and lethal efficiency are front and center, making this portrayal much closer to the Amazon TV series than the Tom Cruise movies.
The writing hooks you early, and the relentless pace keeps you turning pages. The novel’s tone is dark and visceral, but balances brutality with clever detective work and Reacher’s dry wit. As a series opener, it sets a solid foundation for the character and the adventures to come.
Food Rating: If Pawn of Prophecy were food, it would be the ultimate comfort meal of tomato soup and a grilled cheese sandwich on a cold day. Simple yet deeply satisfying, it’s a warm and familiar experience that wraps you in nostalgia. It might not be the most complex or innovative dish, but it delivers exactly what you need - a sense of security, adventure, and timeless charm. Perfect for when you want to escape into a classic, feel-good fantasy.
Revisiting Pawn of Prophecy feels like sinking into a warm, familiar chair—a journey back to a magical time that evokes the wonder and simplicity of youthful reading. Eddings masterfully crafts a quintessential fantasy world filled with charming archetypes, a rich sense of destiny, and the ever-reliable hero's journey. The book is undeniably comforting, akin to literary comfort food, as it wraps you in a narrative that balances humor, intrigue, and heart.
The tropes of prophecy, ancient magic, and a battle between good and evil are handled with warmth and a lighthearted touch, making this story an easy and enjoyable escape.
For readers who grew up with fantasy (like I did), Pawn of Prophecy is a nostalgic treasure and worthy reread, a reminder of why I fell in love with the genre in the first place. It’s not just a story; it’s a return to a time when adventures felt boundless and heroes were still finding their way. Whether you're discovering it for the first time or revisiting it after years, this book promises the kind of joy that only classic fantasy can provide.
The perfect way to dip your toes into the series and get hooked on Hadrian and Royce’s escapades.
Sullivan’s The Viscount and the Witch is a delightful bite-sized tale that perfectly captures the charm and wit of his Riyria universe. A short story, it offers a fun introduction to Hadrian and Royce, showing their dynamic blending of humor, banter, and developing camaraderie. Even in its brevity, the story feels complete, with a clever plot and an amusing twist that keeps the tone light and engaging and left me wanting more.
Sullivan’s mastery of character-driven storytelling really shows here , as Hadrian and Royce's personalities leap off the page, drawing readers into the world. Longtime fan or a newcomer, this story offers a fun glimpse into the adventures of Riyria without requiring having read other books in the series.
Quick paced and endearing , The Viscount and the Witch is a fantastic appetizer for the Riyria Chronicles and Revelations.
Sullivan’s The Crown Tower is a delightful plunge into classic fantasy adventure, packed with all the elements that make the genre so irresistible to me. Hadrian and Royce are two wildly different personalities who, against all odds, form a partnership that’s as entertaining as it is compelling. Their dynamic feels like a fantasy twist on the classic buddy cop trope: banter, mistrust, grudging respect, and, ultimately, camaraderie, all wrapped in a high-stakes tale of thievery and intrigue.
The world-building is detailed but never overwhelming, and Sullivan's ability to balance humor with tense, action-packed moments is one of the book’s greatest strengths. The chemistry between Hadrian, the idealistic swordsman, and Royce, the cynical thief, drives the story forward and leaves readers eagerly anticipating their next escapade. Their reluctant partnership feels authentic, and watching them navigate their differences while tackling dangerous schemes is endlessly satisfying.
For those who love fantasy laced with wit, charm, and fast-paced adventure, The Crown Tower is a must-read. It’s the kind of book that makes me wish I had discovered it sooner and lucky for me, it’s just the beginning of the Riyria Chronicles. A thoroughly enjoyable read that left me eager for the next book.
TL;DR: With the Lightnings is a classic military sci-fi novel that starts off slow and a bit rough around the edges but builds into an engaging and rewarding read in the second half. David Drake’s time in the genre shows, making it a worthwhile experience for fans of military "sci-fi".
Food Rating: If With the Lightnings were a meal, it would be a plate of spaghetti that’s just a little underdone. The initial bites are a bit chewy and not as satisfying as they could be, but as you keep eating, the sauce - rich with flavor - makes the dish come together in a way that leaves you ultimately satisfied.
David Drake’s, With the Lightnings, introduces readers to a vivid universe of political intrigue, military strategy, and compelling characters.
The novel’s opening chapters feel slow, with a heavy focus on exposition and worldbuilding. As the action picks up and the stakes rise, the interplay between the characters becomes a highlight of the story. Contrasting personalities and growing camaraderie add substance to the action.
For fans of classic military sci-fi, With the Lightnings is must-read. Though it takes time to find its stride, the novel rewards patience with an entertaining (and a bit formulaic) story that sets the stage for an expansive series.
A classic of military sci-fi. Much like the author has previously stated the book and it's sequels are love letters to the nautical classics of CS Forester and Patrick O'Brian. Thoroughly enjoyable read.
TLDR: An enjoyable, quick urban fantasy read. If you enjoy Dresden you'll find a similar feel in this book. Engaging enough that I look forward to continuing the series.
Green’s Something from the Nightside is one of many entries into the urban fantasy genre, offering readers a glimpse into a richly imaginative world brimming with supernatural danger and noir-style mystery. As the first book in a long-running series, it does a solid job of setting the stage, with detailed world-building that introduces the Nightside - a shadowy, otherworldly version of London where anything is possible, and nothing is safe.
While the novel occasionally slows in pacing, these moments are designed to flesh out the Nightside’s twisted atmosphere and set the foundation for the overarching plot that will unfold across the series. The protagonist, John Taylor, is a private investigator with a knack for finding things, and his reluctant return to the Nightside pulls readers into a paranormal whodunit with enough intrigue to keep you turning the pages.
Though it take time to fully hit its stride, Something from the Nightside delivers a interesting mix of eerie world-building, sharp dialogue, and a sinister mystery. For those willing to push through the slower parts, the book rewards with a tantalizing setup for the rest of the series. If you’re a fan of dark, supernatural adventures with a touch of noir, this book lays the groundwork for the "dwellers of the Nightside".
Mickey7 delivers a clever and refreshing take on immortality, blending dark humor, philosophical musings, and gripping sci-fi adventure into an unforgettable story. Mickey, is a "disposable" human - a clone meant to die repeatedly on behalf of the colony he serves. What makes the novel shine is Mickey’s internal monologue: sarcastic, self-aware, and deeply human, it pulled me into his world and letting me grapple with the weight of being both invaluable and expendable.
The treatment of immortality is fresh and thought-provoking. Rather than romanticizing it, Ashton explores its psychological toll and ethical dilemmas, adding layers of complexity to what might otherwise be a straightforward sci-fi premise. Mickey’s struggles with identity, purpose, and his uneasy relationship with the people who rely on his expendability make for an engaging and emotionally resonant read.
What sets Mickey7 apart is its tone, fun and irreverent without shying away from darker themes. It’s a story that feels just bleak enough to keep you on edge, but its sharp wit and fast-paced narrative make it suitably entertaining. Whether you’re drawn to sci-fi for its ideas, its characters, or its action, this book delivers on all fronts. Mickey7 was a standout read that balances humor, depth, and adventure in equal parts.
Light science fiction with an enjoyable plot. What does immortal mean and is a copy really you? Humorous and quick paced. Read it if you want a good story that lightly touches on complicated moral issues.
TLDR: Enjoyable read. Similar to Wells' Murderbot, if Murderbot were an AI.
Ashton’s Mal Goes to War is a sharp exploration of AI in a near-future setting that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking. The novel cleverly integrates artificial intelligence as a central element, making it feel fresh and inventive without overwhelming the story’s human core. Ashton’s near-future world-building is detailed yet grounded, creating a setting that feels both relatable and plausibly futuristic.
The dialogue and narration are infused with snark and wit, striking a good balance between humor and tension. Mal, the AI protagonist, is an absolute standout - hilarious, self-aware, and surprisingly relatable. The interplay between Mal and the human characters builds much of the story’s charm, with razor-sharp exchanges that keep the narrative engaging throughout.
For fans of AI-centric sci-fi, Mal Goes to War is a gem. Ashton masterfully blends action, humor, and heart, leaving readers entertained while pondering the implications of near-future technologies. If this is just the beginning of Mal’s story, I’m eagerly hoping for sequels. This world and its snarky AI hero definitely deserve more pages.
TL;DR: The Tainted Cup is a clever and entertaining blend of Sherlock Holmes-inspired mystery, fantasy, steampunk, and kaiju. Robert Jackson Bennett’s worldbuilding and engaging plot deliver a fresh take on the murder mystery genre with plenty of twists and room for more adventures to come. A must-read for fans of genre mashups.
Food Rating: If The Tainted Cup were a dish, it would be an intricate, multi-layered cake with a mix of flavors. While the cake is a treat overall, a few layers might feel slightly overcomplicated or heavy-handed, leaving some bites more satisfying than others. Still, it’s a treat worth savoring, especially for those who enjoy complex and ambitious creations.
Bennett has proven himself to be a master of genre-bending storytelling with The Tainted Cup. This novel fuses classic murder mystery, fantasy, and a touch of steampunk, all while weaving in the grandeur of kaiju-like creatures. The story takes familiar tropes from Sherlock Holmes and reimagines them within a world brimming with magic and intrigue.
At its heart, The Tainted Cup is a spin on the detective novel. I enjoyed the intellectual thrill of unraveling a mystery appreciating Bennett's clever plotting and his incorporation of magical elements into the investigative process. The protagonist a brilliant, enigmatic sleuth reminiscent of a female Holmes is accompanied by a loyal companion who serves as the Watson-like chronicler of their adventures. This dynamic, while classic, is invigorated by the imaginative setting Bennett has created.
One of the standout features of The Tainted Cup is the worldbuilding. Bennett’s knack for blending disparate genres shines here, as the novel’s world feels both grounded and fantastical.The steampunk-inspired details - clockwork mechanisms, weapons, and alchemical contraptions mesh seamlessly with a society where magic is an accepted part of life. And then there are the kaiju. These massive, awe-inspiring creatures add a sense of scale and wonder to the story, hinting at forces far beyond the human characters' comprehension. The interplay between the mundane and the extraordinary is one of the book's great pleasures.
The pacing of the novel is another strength. Bennett balances tense, action-packed sequences with quieter moments of deduction and character development, ensuring the reader remains fully engaged throughout. The core of the story is compelling, with enough twists and turns to keep you guessing until the end. The book lays groundwork for future installments, teasing larger conspiracies and conflicts that promise to unfold in subsequent volumes.
Thematically, The Tainted Cup explores questions of power, corruption, and the cost of progress. The magical system, intricately tied to the novel's societal structure, serves as a vehicle for examining these themes. Bennett's nuanced approach ensures that the story remains thought-provoking without ever feeling heavy-handed.
TL;DR: The Blacktongue Thief is an ambitious fantasy adventure that blends dark humor, gritty action, and vivid worldbuilding. While the story meanders at times and the author doesn’t quite hit his stride, it’s still a book worth reading for its unique voice and engaging protagonist.
Food Rating: If The Blacktongue Thief were a dish, it would be a hearty, rustic stew with a sharp kick of spice. The stew’s rich ingredients—tender meat, bold seasoning, and fresh vegetables—promise a satisfying meal, but there are a few moments where the flavors don’t entirely meld. Some bites are deeply flavorful and exciting, while others feel a little overcooked or under-seasoned. Overall, it’s an imperfect yet enjoyable dish that adventurous eaters would appreciate.
Buehlman’s The Blacktongue Thief takes readers into a dangerous, war-torn fantasy world filled with magic, monsters, and plenty of sharp wit. The story follows Kinch Na Shannack, a debt-ridden thief (the take on the debtors "mark" was well done) and reluctantly drawn into a dangerous quest alongside the formidable warrior Galva. Together, they traverse a richly imagined landscape rife with peril and intrigue.
Kinch’s roguish charm and biting humor make him an entertaining narrator, and his first-person perspective is one of the book’s highlights. However, the story itself occasionally loses focus, with stretches of meandering plot that slow the pace and dilute the impact of its more gripping moments. At times, it feels as though the novel tries to tackle too much, introducing a wealth of worldbuilding and side elements that don’t always fully coalesce.
Despite these quibbles, there is a lot to enjoy in The Blacktongue Thief. The prose is sharp and engaging, and the world is vividly detailed, from the shadowy workings of the Takers Guild to the eerie magic and terrifying creatures that populate the land. The contrast between Kinch’s irreverence and Galva’s (would very much like an expanded novel with her and her companion) stoicism adds an interesting dynamic to their partnership, and the moments of camaraderie and tension between the characters are genuinely compelling.
The novel’s humor and irreverent tone help to balance its darker elements, creating a unique blend of grim and lighthearted storytelling. While the narrative doesn’t always feel cohesive, the book’s sharp dialogue, creative worldbuilding, and occasional moments of brilliance make it worth the journey.
This one is for fans of fantasy with a darker, more irreverent edge, The Blacktongue Thief offers plenty to enjoy, even if it falls short of its full potential. It may not be a perfect read, but it’s still an intriguing and entertaining one that leaves room for the possibility of greater things to come.
TL;DR: Starter Villain is classic John Scalzi, an enjoyable, light-hearted romp filled with humor, quirky characters, and engaging storytelling. It’s a feel-good read that’s perfect for when you need just that "right" something.
Food Rating: If Starter Villain were a food, it would be a warm, freshly baked chocolate chip cookie with a cold glass of milk. Sweet, comforting, and exactly what you need to make the day.
Starter Villain delivered everything I have come to love about Scalzi's work: sharp wit, absurd yet clever premises, and a brisk pace that keeps the story moving. We follow an everyman protagonist who unexpectedly inherits a shadowy villainous empire, complete with cat operatives and eccentric henchpeople (dont get me started on the dolphins). Scalzi’s trademark humor shines as the protagonist navigates both the hilarious and the dangerous aspects of his new role.
The plot doesn’t aim to reinvent the wheel, but that’s part of its charm. It’s a self-aware story that embraces its over-the-top premise with gusto, delivering laugh-out-loud moments and genuine heart. Scalzi’s writing is crisp and accessible, making this an easy, breezy read that doesn’t skimp on fun.
The characters, from the protagonist to the supporting cast of quirky allies and foes, are delightful, and genuinely add to the story’s charm. The cats alone are worth the price of admission and Im not a cat person. While the narrative wraps up neatly, the world Scalzi has built feels ripe for expansion, and I'm hoping for a follow-up.
If you’re a fan of humorous, feel-good sci-fi or just need a palate cleanser between heavier reads, Starter Villain is an excellent choice. It’s a book that leaves you smiling and craving more of Scalzi’s uniquely entertaining style.
I decided to reread the whole series as a prelude to the excellent TV show on HBO and in anticipation of the next book to be released this summer. I was not disappointed. Each book leaves you captivated and desirous of the next “story”. Martin's writing is excellent and his ability to portray multiple characters, stories, and shape the reader's perceptions is remarkable. It is a difficult challenge for both author and reader to balance the multiple story lines and character development, but Martin does a great job. There are points where he overextends himself with the sheer volume of characters and important story arcs, but that is easily dismissed as you understand the epic scope he is trying to convey. An incredibly detailed story and characters that the reader truly becomes involved with mark all of the books. I anxiously await the next in the series. Winter is Coming!
Another great Morgan book. I really enjoyed this novel and if you are like me you will probably envision the main character as Jason Statham. There is a lot of Death Race/Transporter type action within the book and is a novel look at the future corporate world. An interesting setting in a near future “megacorporation” society coupled with Morgan's unique vision makes for a pretty good read. The characters are dark, gritty antihero types that you may either love or hate, but perhaps a bit of both. I highly recommend this book and Morgan's Takeshi Kovacs series.
Fantastic light read with likeable characters. A sci fi take on the Master & Commander series of books as well as other inspirational source material such as Star Trek, Hornblower, and Star Wars.
this book is very similar to Griffin's other writings. That being said I am a huge Griffin fan especially the Brother hood of War and the Semper Fi series'. This book brings Griffin's style to the modern Global War on Terror. The fictional story is beefed up with factual history and locales along with some great characters that make the book very enjoyable. There are a number of follow on books and each is a pretty good story in its own regard, but they are best read in order. The main character is a rich, playboy soldier with the “heart of gold” and brains to go along with his money. He is given an “Oliver North” type mission and is cut loose to do the President's Bidding. The book is well paced and enjoyable and is more people oriented rather than technology oriented (Tom Clancy).
