Kevin Walker's Blog
April 8, 2025
A great hole to fall into.
Book Review: Victor of Tucson #1: Pit Fighter
"Victor of Tucson #1: Pit Fighter" is an engaging and action-packed LitRPG adventure that offers a lot for fans of the genre. While it did take me a little while to really get into the story, once it found its rhythm, it delivered a fun and memorable ride.
One of my main critiques is that, given the gladiator setting, I expected a bit more arena-style combat. While the fights we do get are entertaining and well-written, the story often shifts gears just as you’re settling into a particular arc or storyline. These sudden transitions can be a little jarring, and at times I found myself wishing for a bit more time spent developing each section before moving on.
That said, the world-building is really well done. The system itself is interesting, with thoughtful class choices, creative use of spells, and a progression that feels natural and earned. It’s always rewarding to see a LitRPG that balances power growth with good storytelling, and Pit Fighter manages that nicely. The main character’s dialogue is another standout feature—sharp, witty, and very true to his character. It was easy to root for him because he felt like a real person navigating a brutal and unpredictable world.
The narration (if you're listening to the audiobook) also deserves a shout-out for bringing extra life to the story and characters. The voices were distinct and fit the tone of the book perfectly.
Overall, Victor of Tucson #1: Pit Fighter is a good read that sets the stage for what looks to be an exciting series. If you’re a fan of LitRPGs, action, clever world mechanics, and characters with a strong voice, this is definitely a book worth checking out.
I’m looking forward to seeing where the series goes from here.
#LitRPG #ProgressionFantasy #GladiatorFights #BookReview #FantasyBooks #LitRPGCommunity #SystemMagic #ActionPackedReads #PitFighter #VictorOfTucson #GoodReads #FantasyAction #AudiobookReview #FantasySeries #EpicReads
"Victor of Tucson #1: Pit Fighter" is an engaging and action-packed LitRPG adventure that offers a lot for fans of the genre. While it did take me a little while to really get into the story, once it found its rhythm, it delivered a fun and memorable ride.
One of my main critiques is that, given the gladiator setting, I expected a bit more arena-style combat. While the fights we do get are entertaining and well-written, the story often shifts gears just as you’re settling into a particular arc or storyline. These sudden transitions can be a little jarring, and at times I found myself wishing for a bit more time spent developing each section before moving on.
That said, the world-building is really well done. The system itself is interesting, with thoughtful class choices, creative use of spells, and a progression that feels natural and earned. It’s always rewarding to see a LitRPG that balances power growth with good storytelling, and Pit Fighter manages that nicely. The main character’s dialogue is another standout feature—sharp, witty, and very true to his character. It was easy to root for him because he felt like a real person navigating a brutal and unpredictable world.
The narration (if you're listening to the audiobook) also deserves a shout-out for bringing extra life to the story and characters. The voices were distinct and fit the tone of the book perfectly.
Overall, Victor of Tucson #1: Pit Fighter is a good read that sets the stage for what looks to be an exciting series. If you’re a fan of LitRPGs, action, clever world mechanics, and characters with a strong voice, this is definitely a book worth checking out.
I’m looking forward to seeing where the series goes from here.
#LitRPG #ProgressionFantasy #GladiatorFights #BookReview #FantasyBooks #LitRPGCommunity #SystemMagic #ActionPackedReads #PitFighter #VictorOfTucson #GoodReads #FantasyAction #AudiobookReview #FantasySeries #EpicReads
March 26, 2025
Fun, action and a good ending
Thrive by Kenneth OppelMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
Thrive by Kenneth Oppel
Thrive delivers a heart-pounding and satisfying conclusion to The Overthrow trilogy, bringing the fight against the alien invasion to its most intense and high-stakes level yet. Kenneth Oppel masterfully blends sci-fi horror, action, and character-driven storytelling, making this finale impossible to put down.
The world-building continues to impress, with the alien threat evolving in terrifying ways. The stakes feel bigger than ever, and the story keeps a relentless pace, balancing thrilling action sequences with quieter, emotional moments that give the characters real depth. The trio of protagonists—who have grown so much since Bloom—face their toughest challenges yet, pushing their limits both physically and emotionally.
What makes Thrive stand out is how it ties everything together. The mysteries from the first two books unfold into an epic showdown that is both exhilarating and deeply satisfying. The ending feels earned, giving closure while still leaving readers with plenty to think about.
For fans of Animorphs, The 5th Wave, or anyone who loves sci-fi thrillers with strong character arcs, Thrive is a must-read. It’s a bold, action-packed, and emotional finale that cements The Overthrow trilogy as one of the best YA sci-fi series in recent years.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – A thrilling, unforgettable conclusion to an incredible trilogy!
View all my reviews
March 10, 2025
Halfway Through Chain of Ash! – An Oil and Ash Update
Hey everyone!
I wanted to take a moment to update you on my current project—Chain of Ash, book 1.5 in the Oil and Ash series. I’m about halfway through the story, and things are really starting to heat up!
This book takes a step away from Joel’s journey and dives into a different perspective, exploring new characters, fresh conflicts, and even more of the brutal world shaped by the System. Expect high-stakes battles, intense survival moments, and the kind of heart-pounding action that Oil and Ash fans love.
Writing this book has been a blast so far, and I can’t wait to share more details as I push toward the finish line. If you enjoyed Oil and Ash, Chain of Ash will give you even more of the grit, chaos, and dark adventure that makes this world so thrilling.
Stay tuned for more updates, and as always, thanks for your support!
I wanted to take a moment to update you on my current project—Chain of Ash, book 1.5 in the Oil and Ash series. I’m about halfway through the story, and things are really starting to heat up!
This book takes a step away from Joel’s journey and dives into a different perspective, exploring new characters, fresh conflicts, and even more of the brutal world shaped by the System. Expect high-stakes battles, intense survival moments, and the kind of heart-pounding action that Oil and Ash fans love.
Writing this book has been a blast so far, and I can’t wait to share more details as I push toward the finish line. If you enjoyed Oil and Ash, Chain of Ash will give you even more of the grit, chaos, and dark adventure that makes this world so thrilling.
Stay tuned for more updates, and as always, thanks for your support!
