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Hidden Wishes #1
A Gamer's Wish
Given the opportunity to make his dreams comes true, Henry Tsien decides to make a wish that will change his life forever. Now a newly created, low-leveled Mage in a world that has hidden secrets and histories, he'll need to find a way to survive, level up and pay his rent.
A Gamer's Wish is a GameLit novel with some game-like elements.
A Gamer's Wish is a GameLit novel with some game-like elements.
314 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 31, 2018
377 people are currently reading
286 people want to read
About the author
Tao Wong
137 books957 followersTao Wong is the author of the A Thousand Li progression fantasy series and the System Apocalypse LitRPG series, among others. His work has been released in audio, paperback, hardcover, and ebook formats, and translated into German, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, and several other languages. He was shortlisted for the UK Kindle Storyteller Award in 2021 for A Thousand Li: The Second Sect. In 2026, the first three books in the A Thousand Li series will be republished in hardcover by Ace Books.
When he’s not writing or working, he enjoys practicing martial arts, reading, and dreaming up new worlds. He lives in Toronto, Canada.
When he’s not writing or working, he enjoys practicing martial arts, reading, and dreaming up new worlds. He lives in Toronto, Canada.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
May 19, 2018
PLEASE NOTE: MY “VERIFIED PURCHASE” REVIEW CAN BE FOUND ON AMAZON AUSTRALIA.
Three and a Half Stars
A Gamer’s Wish is the first book in the Hidden Wishes series by Tao Wong. It is a GameLit urban fantasy that has a bit of an RPG feel to it- with action, adventure, magic, genies, humour, secrets and danger.
The story is about what happens when Henry discovers a genie who grants him 3 wishes. What would you do with three wishes. Well, if you were Henry, who has a love of RPG games, then you might be tempted to make your fantasies a reality. We follow along as Henry sets off on his adventure. But, sometimes our fantasies aren’t always the fun and games we thought they’d be.
The character/s are interesting but could use just a little more depth. The story, while being intriguing needed a bit more drama, tension or surprises to make it more compelling.
This is a fun, light-hearted, quick and easy read, but was a little slow to get going as the author established the story.
I would definitely read the next book to see what happens in the story.
An original, and interesting concept!
Thank you, Tao Wong!
Three and a Half Stars
A Gamer’s Wish is the first book in the Hidden Wishes series by Tao Wong. It is a GameLit urban fantasy that has a bit of an RPG feel to it- with action, adventure, magic, genies, humour, secrets and danger.
The story is about what happens when Henry discovers a genie who grants him 3 wishes. What would you do with three wishes. Well, if you were Henry, who has a love of RPG games, then you might be tempted to make your fantasies a reality. We follow along as Henry sets off on his adventure. But, sometimes our fantasies aren’t always the fun and games we thought they’d be.
The character/s are interesting but could use just a little more depth. The story, while being intriguing needed a bit more drama, tension or surprises to make it more compelling.
This is a fun, light-hearted, quick and easy read, but was a little slow to get going as the author established the story.
I would definitely read the next book to see what happens in the story.
An original, and interesting concept!
Thank you, Tao Wong!
October 3, 2020
Note: I listened to the audio book but it isn't currently listed on Goodreads.com.
So I focus on what is wrong with this book below. That can give the impression that the book has no redeeming qualities which, while true for me, may not be true for everyone. The book is clearly not written for critical readers but it seems many litRPG readers aren’t all that critical. My point being: if you are a happy-go-lucky litRPG reader my review may not be for you since I dwell on negatives and that may ruin what could otherwise be a pleasant read.
I don’t understand why authors make their MCs stupid. Here the MC gets a wish and, with about 10 minutes consideration, wishes to be a magic user with a game like interface. What is really bad about this is that the author presents it as well thought out when the MC goes with his first thought after asking all of three question and with no consideration for anyone else. Worse yet the author creates a genie that would have been happy to sit around for years answering question since that means freedom from the ring she is otherwise stored in. So the MC could have asked “What if I wish for world peace” and the genie could have said “Can’t do that”. The genie does reference the limits of her powers but MC doesn’t clarify just what those limits are and immediately jumps to making a selfish wish.
To be fair, there are entire pages where the MC isn’t a moron but the other side of that coin is neither did I bother to keep track of all the stupid things in this book. I’m just relating the ones that really stuck out.
So the MC becomes a magic user with leveling up and quests. First quest, does the MC do any prep work at all? Nope. Just goes off to fight monsters. Doesn’t get help from a friend, improvise armor or even bring a weapon. Just going to rely on his first level spells to kill a bunch of demon rats. Doesn’t even consider that there are dozens of rats and he can only cast about five spells an hour. What’s he going to do after casting his five spells? Well, he should have died but author has his MC get lucky and survive and then get lucky again shortly thereafter and survive the disease the MC contracted.
So the MC’s survival of quest one gets him a bit of a tutorial on the magic world from a friend. Turns out the MC was living in the center of a thriving magic community without knowing it. Also turns out that many of the most powerful people in that community want to take the “genie ring” from the MC and are willing to kill him to get it. Does the MC move to a mundane part of the world where it would at least be harder for big baddies to find him and his pathetic magic would give him an advantage against his neighbors? No. LUCKILY FOR THE MC AN UNINTENDED CONSEQUENCE OF HIS WISH IS PROTECTION FROM BIG BADDIES THAT COULD KILL HIM WITH LITTLE EFFORT. And that is luck as it is completely clear the MC knew nothing of the magic community before making his wish.
Next the MC takes a job clearing an imp from a restaurant, after which he isn’t paid because of damage from the fight. The author clearly didn’t think about this at all. Essentially the story is “I will hire you to fight a demon in my restaurant but only pay you if you do no damage”. Think of a bouncer, sober against likely intoxicated persons: Bouncer is prepared and has home field advantage so if a fight breaks out a bouncer MAY have a chance at limiting property damage. NONE OF THOSE ADVANTAGES APPLY HERE. The person who hired the MC is a moron and worse, the MC accepts this moron’s judgement and apologizes. THE MC DOESN’T EVEN LEARN THE LESSON OF GETTING NONREFUNDABLE PAYMENT UP FRONT AND DISCLAIMING ANY RESPONSIBILITY FOR DAMAGES. This entire scene made me wonder what real world experience the author actually has since his MC is acting like a 16 year old boy-scout apologizing for stuff that isn’t his fault or responsibility. (It also made me wish the author had seen the original Ghostbusters and had his MC capture the imp and offer to put it back when not paid.)
Next the MC encounters some magic users that are, amazingly enough, even weaker than he is. They threaten the MC but when their show of force fails they threaten the MC again. Later they vandalize the MC’s car and threaten the MC again. Does the MC take any precautions at all? Nope. This is particularly stupid since anyone of the low level bad guys can get a gun and just shoot the MC. Basically the author just ignores the practicality of guns in his world. The MC certainly should have gotten himself one before going on his first quest. Guns are dealt with in pretty much one conversation and the rational is: guns have limited uses especially against more powerful magic users. This completely ignores the fact that the MC is exclusively being challenged by low level monsters and magic users. Plus the limited usage point is in and of itself moronic. I don’t throw away my hammer because I can’t cut a board with it. BUT I DIGRESS:
So the MC just stupidly ignores the fact that there are people out to get him. Surprise, surprise, the people get him in what is pretty much the dumbest kidnapping ever. To be honest it was so stupid of the MC to be caught in this way I was kind of hoping the kidnappers would be successful in their plot to power up, kill the MC and change the focus of the story to people who have at least a minimum level of competency. But wait, it gets worse:
The MC only escapes his bonds after the kidnappers summon a demon. So the MC risks his life to save his kidnappers from their own summoned demon. That is somewhat misleading since the MC has a companion from a holy order that feels compelled to attack the demon but even that doesn’t really make sense. The companion should know she has no chance of success and should be able to call in people able to deal with the demon. Had the companion died the demon could have run around murdering people for a much greater time period. The point being that the companion's actions were stupid in the extreme and both should have fled to get help and leave the kidnappers to their fate.
Bottom line: There is just too much stupidity in this book, wish I would have read something else.
So I focus on what is wrong with this book below. That can give the impression that the book has no redeeming qualities which, while true for me, may not be true for everyone. The book is clearly not written for critical readers but it seems many litRPG readers aren’t all that critical. My point being: if you are a happy-go-lucky litRPG reader my review may not be for you since I dwell on negatives and that may ruin what could otherwise be a pleasant read.
I don’t understand why authors make their MCs stupid. Here the MC gets a wish and, with about 10 minutes consideration, wishes to be a magic user with a game like interface. What is really bad about this is that the author presents it as well thought out when the MC goes with his first thought after asking all of three question and with no consideration for anyone else. Worse yet the author creates a genie that would have been happy to sit around for years answering question since that means freedom from the ring she is otherwise stored in. So the MC could have asked “What if I wish for world peace” and the genie could have said “Can’t do that”. The genie does reference the limits of her powers but MC doesn’t clarify just what those limits are and immediately jumps to making a selfish wish.
To be fair, there are entire pages where the MC isn’t a moron but the other side of that coin is neither did I bother to keep track of all the stupid things in this book. I’m just relating the ones that really stuck out.
So the MC becomes a magic user with leveling up and quests. First quest, does the MC do any prep work at all? Nope. Just goes off to fight monsters. Doesn’t get help from a friend, improvise armor or even bring a weapon. Just going to rely on his first level spells to kill a bunch of demon rats. Doesn’t even consider that there are dozens of rats and he can only cast about five spells an hour. What’s he going to do after casting his five spells? Well, he should have died but author has his MC get lucky and survive and then get lucky again shortly thereafter and survive the disease the MC contracted.
So the MC’s survival of quest one gets him a bit of a tutorial on the magic world from a friend. Turns out the MC was living in the center of a thriving magic community without knowing it. Also turns out that many of the most powerful people in that community want to take the “genie ring” from the MC and are willing to kill him to get it. Does the MC move to a mundane part of the world where it would at least be harder for big baddies to find him and his pathetic magic would give him an advantage against his neighbors? No. LUCKILY FOR THE MC AN UNINTENDED CONSEQUENCE OF HIS WISH IS PROTECTION FROM BIG BADDIES THAT COULD KILL HIM WITH LITTLE EFFORT. And that is luck as it is completely clear the MC knew nothing of the magic community before making his wish.
Next the MC takes a job clearing an imp from a restaurant, after which he isn’t paid because of damage from the fight. The author clearly didn’t think about this at all. Essentially the story is “I will hire you to fight a demon in my restaurant but only pay you if you do no damage”. Think of a bouncer, sober against likely intoxicated persons: Bouncer is prepared and has home field advantage so if a fight breaks out a bouncer MAY have a chance at limiting property damage. NONE OF THOSE ADVANTAGES APPLY HERE. The person who hired the MC is a moron and worse, the MC accepts this moron’s judgement and apologizes. THE MC DOESN’T EVEN LEARN THE LESSON OF GETTING NONREFUNDABLE PAYMENT UP FRONT AND DISCLAIMING ANY RESPONSIBILITY FOR DAMAGES. This entire scene made me wonder what real world experience the author actually has since his MC is acting like a 16 year old boy-scout apologizing for stuff that isn’t his fault or responsibility. (It also made me wish the author had seen the original Ghostbusters and had his MC capture the imp and offer to put it back when not paid.)
Next the MC encounters some magic users that are, amazingly enough, even weaker than he is. They threaten the MC but when their show of force fails they threaten the MC again. Later they vandalize the MC’s car and threaten the MC again. Does the MC take any precautions at all? Nope. This is particularly stupid since anyone of the low level bad guys can get a gun and just shoot the MC. Basically the author just ignores the practicality of guns in his world. The MC certainly should have gotten himself one before going on his first quest. Guns are dealt with in pretty much one conversation and the rational is: guns have limited uses especially against more powerful magic users. This completely ignores the fact that the MC is exclusively being challenged by low level monsters and magic users. Plus the limited usage point is in and of itself moronic. I don’t throw away my hammer because I can’t cut a board with it. BUT I DIGRESS:
So the MC just stupidly ignores the fact that there are people out to get him. Surprise, surprise, the people get him in what is pretty much the dumbest kidnapping ever. To be honest it was so stupid of the MC to be caught in this way I was kind of hoping the kidnappers would be successful in their plot to power up, kill the MC and change the focus of the story to people who have at least a minimum level of competency. But wait, it gets worse:
The MC only escapes his bonds after the kidnappers summon a demon. So the MC risks his life to save his kidnappers from their own summoned demon. That is somewhat misleading since the MC has a companion from a holy order that feels compelled to attack the demon but even that doesn’t really make sense. The companion should know she has no chance of success and should be able to call in people able to deal with the demon. Had the companion died the demon could have run around murdering people for a much greater time period. The point being that the companion's actions were stupid in the extreme and both should have fled to get help and leave the kidnappers to their fate.
Bottom line: There is just too much stupidity in this book, wish I would have read something else.
February 7, 2019
Think young Dresden meets GameLit.
A really entertaining take on both GameLit and UF. Started on the second one already
A really entertaining take on both GameLit and UF. Started on the second one already
May 19, 2018
A Gamers Wish by Tao Wong a surprising and enjoyable four-star read. This is the first book in the GameLit series and is the Hidden Wishes book one. It’s also the first book I’ve read by this author and I am sure I will be picking up more, it isn’t one I would normally pick up but I read the blurb and some intro and thought it may give me some more insight into my gamer other half. It really does, I felt like I was part of the whole game scene and that along with Henry would either go onto the l next level making the right choice, or face difficulty if we didn’t. I would have liked a little more something to Henry but overall very well done. If you like an urban fantasy and are a fan of gaming then this is definitely a must read for you.
January 16, 2019
I like this author's writing. I'd most likely call it "an intelligent nerd's wet dream" and I like it for the reason of being relatively well thought. This book is definitely the if-only-this-could-happen-to-me variety, and for that reason, it kept me going. Apart from that, it was quite entertaining at some points, and I am curious to see what happens next, though I'd say this can potentially be a really long series.
April 5, 2022
Rating 3.0 stars
I was a little disappointed with this one. I like this author's writing for the most part and the synopsis was good but the execution was lacking. It felt like a YA novel. The story was short. It was mediocre with it's world building, magic system and character development. I listened to the audiobook and I skipped ahead a little bit. I just got bored and didn't care. It wasn't bad, it just wasn't was I was hoping for. Too simplistic.
I was a little disappointed with this one. I like this author's writing for the most part and the synopsis was good but the execution was lacking. It felt like a YA novel. The story was short. It was mediocre with it's world building, magic system and character development. I listened to the audiobook and I skipped ahead a little bit. I just got bored and didn't care. It wasn't bad, it just wasn't was I was hoping for. Too simplistic.
April 5, 2022
A Gamer's Wish was a cool book for teens and gamers who dont like to read. Its very interesting and short enough for those who have a short attention span. Imagine finding a jinn and having your life turned into an RPG.
That's what happens to our main character. He is transformed into a wizard and now must level up like a game protagonist to protect his precious ring. While enhancing his powers, he gains friends and enemies who play the different roles necessary to your typical RPG.
There's a Healer on the team.
There's a Fighter on the team.
There's a navigator and challenge finder on the team.
There's a trainer on the team who pops up randomly with a snarky attitude.
There's lower level demons to fight in the sewers and rival thugs to defeat.
Its everything you would expect and enjoy from RPG in one easy to read package.
That's what happens to our main character. He is transformed into a wizard and now must level up like a game protagonist to protect his precious ring. While enhancing his powers, he gains friends and enemies who play the different roles necessary to your typical RPG.
There's a Healer on the team.
There's a Fighter on the team.
There's a navigator and challenge finder on the team.
There's a trainer on the team who pops up randomly with a snarky attitude.
There's lower level demons to fight in the sewers and rival thugs to defeat.
Its everything you would expect and enjoy from RPG in one easy to read package.
May 17, 2018
A Gamer's Wish was a book unlike anything I have read before. It is the first book I have read by Tao Wong, but I found it interesting, and I would certainly read more by the author. The book falls in the category of fantasy or paranormal, but i felt it was mild compared to other books I have read in the same genre. The setting is mostly modern day cities, not much different than we live in. However, once the main character, Henry, becomes a mage, he discovers a paranormal world along side his previous mundane world. This world is filled with wizards, elves, orcs, and the likes. While it was entertaining to read about, the setting was not a made up world, which I liked, because it made it easier to follow the story. The supporting characters are likable, but very much in the now of the story. There was not much supporting background to build any of the characters up. If you are a gamer, I recommend this book, as it is the closest you will get to living a game character.
Henry buys a suitcase at an auction, within which he finds a magical ring. The ring releases a jinn, much like a genie from a lamp, who will grant him 3 wishes. He uses his first wish to become a mage, and his life becomes much like a RPG video game. He must go on quests and and gain experience, to learn new spells and level up. Henry must learn to navigate his new world, and live along side these new mythical creatures, while learning to use his magic. The jinn becomes a friend and somewhat of a guardian or mentor to him, during his transition.
Henry buys a suitcase at an auction, within which he finds a magical ring. The ring releases a jinn, much like a genie from a lamp, who will grant him 3 wishes. He uses his first wish to become a mage, and his life becomes much like a RPG video game. He must go on quests and and gain experience, to learn new spells and level up. Henry must learn to navigate his new world, and live along side these new mythical creatures, while learning to use his magic. The jinn becomes a friend and somewhat of a guardian or mentor to him, during his transition.
May 20, 2018
A Gamer’s Wish by Tao Wong
4 Stars
This is another RPG (role playing game) novel. Unless you have played RPG type games, you may find this novel a tad repetitive and monotonous. I gave it 4 stars because from a gamer’s point of view, it was well written and informative. I’m pretty sure many gamers would love for this to happen to them. Henry’s wish is a dream come true for many.
That being said, I found the book a little long. The author spent half the book trying to introduce Henry and set up the rules and regulations for his wish. Seeing as this is the first book in the Gamelit Series, I’m giving the author the benefit of the doubt that we need to fully understand this to comprehend the rest of the series.
With the introduction of more characters, the story became more interesting. Towards the end, something happens that thickens the plot. It plays a pivotal point in Henry’s life. I see a lot of potential for this series. There are many ways for the characters to grow and expand their relationships. I see a potential love interest, I also see an adversary becoming a friend. There is more to Lily than meets the eye. I’m curious to see what she’s really up to. I’d say this is a good start for the author’s series. There is enough here to keep a reader interested in reading more.
4 Stars
This is another RPG (role playing game) novel. Unless you have played RPG type games, you may find this novel a tad repetitive and monotonous. I gave it 4 stars because from a gamer’s point of view, it was well written and informative. I’m pretty sure many gamers would love for this to happen to them. Henry’s wish is a dream come true for many.
That being said, I found the book a little long. The author spent half the book trying to introduce Henry and set up the rules and regulations for his wish. Seeing as this is the first book in the Gamelit Series, I’m giving the author the benefit of the doubt that we need to fully understand this to comprehend the rest of the series.
With the introduction of more characters, the story became more interesting. Towards the end, something happens that thickens the plot. It plays a pivotal point in Henry’s life. I see a lot of potential for this series. There are many ways for the characters to grow and expand their relationships. I see a potential love interest, I also see an adversary becoming a friend. There is more to Lily than meets the eye. I’m curious to see what she’s really up to. I’d say this is a good start for the author’s series. There is enough here to keep a reader interested in reading more.
May 20, 2018
A Gamer’s Wish by Tao Wong, the first book in the Hidden Wishes series, is an urban fantasy book with elements of RPG incorporated in the narrative. It’s the second book I’ve read by Tao Wong, and in this case I particularly enjoyed the connections with the “real” world and the in story justification for the RPG elements like mana bars and levelling up that otherwise seem a little bit odd and out of place.
Henry is struggling to make a living when he stumbles upon a magic ring that unleashes a Jinn – Lily. Faced with the traditional three wishes, along with warnings from Lily about the consequences of his choices, Henry decided he wants to delve deeper into the magic that he had just discovered was much realer than he’d previously been led to believe. His love of RPG games, both online and off, leads him to suggest a system whereby his powers can gradually increase as he builds knowledge and experience.
As he develops his own powers, Henry discovers the magical world that exists in the hidden places around him. The world is well-developed, although there is room for further exploration in the next book!
This was a fun read – I give it four out of five stars! I feel like it would be enjoyable to gamers and fantasy-lovers alike. The game elements are not overwhelming or particularly obtrusive, but enough to excite RPG fans who might themselves have a similar wish.
Henry is struggling to make a living when he stumbles upon a magic ring that unleashes a Jinn – Lily. Faced with the traditional three wishes, along with warnings from Lily about the consequences of his choices, Henry decided he wants to delve deeper into the magic that he had just discovered was much realer than he’d previously been led to believe. His love of RPG games, both online and off, leads him to suggest a system whereby his powers can gradually increase as he builds knowledge and experience.
As he develops his own powers, Henry discovers the magical world that exists in the hidden places around him. The world is well-developed, although there is room for further exploration in the next book!
This was a fun read – I give it four out of five stars! I feel like it would be enjoyable to gamers and fantasy-lovers alike. The game elements are not overwhelming or particularly obtrusive, but enough to excite RPG fans who might themselves have a similar wish.
May 17, 2018
A Gamer's Wish: A GameLit Series (Hidden Wishes Book 1)
By: Tao Wong
5 out of 5 stars
The story A Gamer's Wish: A GameLit Series (Hidden Wishes Book 1) by Tao Wong is an urban/fantasy book. I found this to be a very interesting book. When reading I felt as if I was in a role-playing game. It is the story of Henry Tsien. With one wish his life has changed drastically. He is learning to live in a world that he never knew existed and soon discovers that danger is around every corner. Survival and gaining knowledge so that he can advance or level-up becomes very important. There are those who will help him, however, I found myself questioning the true motives of some characters. There are quests to be completed and enemies that need to be defeated. Come read about the amazing journey that Henry is taking. This is a story that has action, danger, magic, and mythological creatures. I love the attention to detail given about the hidden world that Henry has found himself in and also the history behind it. This is the first book in a series and also the first book I have read by the author. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
By: Tao Wong
5 out of 5 stars
The story A Gamer's Wish: A GameLit Series (Hidden Wishes Book 1) by Tao Wong is an urban/fantasy book. I found this to be a very interesting book. When reading I felt as if I was in a role-playing game. It is the story of Henry Tsien. With one wish his life has changed drastically. He is learning to live in a world that he never knew existed and soon discovers that danger is around every corner. Survival and gaining knowledge so that he can advance or level-up becomes very important. There are those who will help him, however, I found myself questioning the true motives of some characters. There are quests to be completed and enemies that need to be defeated. Come read about the amazing journey that Henry is taking. This is a story that has action, danger, magic, and mythological creatures. I love the attention to detail given about the hidden world that Henry has found himself in and also the history behind it. This is the first book in a series and also the first book I have read by the author. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
May 19, 2018
A Gamer's Wish: A GameLit Series (Hidden Wishes Book 1) by Tao Wong was an exciting unique surprise that had me flipping the pages.
The synopsis was vague and a little misleading in a good way. I wasn't expecting this to by a full on epic magically fantasy adventure with pretty much everything supernatural tossed in for good measure. It was a modern day Aladdin situation, but the Jinn is ...... I don't want to say useless because she is very powerful, just limited. That made the story all the more enjoyable and interesting. And that opening, thank you for the I Dream of Genie shout out... made me laugh.
There are also some more elements that keeps you on your toes and keeps you on the, not so trusting side. I don't know, but somethings are to good to be true.
I really loved the game references, if you're a gamer I think you're going to love the way this story is set up and written.
Overall this original take on three wishes was an wicket read that had me hooked. Take my high recommendation that you will not find any book like this out there. It's worth your time and I truly believe this series is going to be a force to be reckon with.
Happy Reading
-E.A. Walsh
The synopsis was vague and a little misleading in a good way. I wasn't expecting this to by a full on epic magically fantasy adventure with pretty much everything supernatural tossed in for good measure. It was a modern day Aladdin situation, but the Jinn is ...... I don't want to say useless because she is very powerful, just limited. That made the story all the more enjoyable and interesting. And that opening, thank you for the I Dream of Genie shout out... made me laugh.
There are also some more elements that keeps you on your toes and keeps you on the, not so trusting side. I don't know, but somethings are to good to be true.
I really loved the game references, if you're a gamer I think you're going to love the way this story is set up and written.
Overall this original take on three wishes was an wicket read that had me hooked. Take my high recommendation that you will not find any book like this out there. It's worth your time and I truly believe this series is going to be a force to be reckon with.
Happy Reading
-E.A. Walsh
April 30, 2018
A Gamer's Wish: A GameLit Series (Hidden Wishes Book 1) by Tao Wong in an action adventure style book in a genre that is a little outside my normal reading choice. With that said the story follows Henry, an ordinary enough guy that stumbles across a genie that grants him 3 wishes. With his first wish Henry is thrust into the hidden world of the supernatural that is alive and well all around him. Gifted with powers and abilities straight out of a roleplaying game he now has to master his new abilities while still maintaining a normal life.
This was an interesting start to a new series. The character development was a little slow but that can be overlooked as this being basically an origin story. It will be interesting to see how each of the characters develop as the story progresses and evolves. The game style mechanics were limited to only affecting Henry which helped to keep them from feeling overwhelming. A solid four star start to an interesting blend of urban fantasy and LitRPG genres I actually might have to pick up the next one in the series to see what happens next.
This was an interesting start to a new series. The character development was a little slow but that can be overlooked as this being basically an origin story. It will be interesting to see how each of the characters develop as the story progresses and evolves. The game style mechanics were limited to only affecting Henry which helped to keep them from feeling overwhelming. A solid four star start to an interesting blend of urban fantasy and LitRPG genres I actually might have to pick up the next one in the series to see what happens next.
May 18, 2018
According to Wikipedia ™ LitRPG is a literary genre where games or game-like challenges form an essential part of the story. A LitRPG work simultaneously narrates the story of characters inside and outside of the game-world. At least some of the characters in a LitRPG novel therefore understand that they are playing a game: they are 'meta-aware'. (btw, RPG is role playing game like dungeons and dragons).
A Gamer’s Wish is exactly that. Henry is a real human who is immersed in an RPG when he discovers a jinn (like a genie from a lamp) and is granted 3 wishes (and we all know to be careful what we wish for). This story is about his adventures and how he is above to navigate and move up in his new “life”.
This is a really interesting genre to read which I have only recently discovered. A GAMER’S WISH held my attention and interest enough that I will continue reading stories from this author. I wish there was a little more… A little more background, a little bit more drama. Having said that, I look forward to the next adventure.
****
A Gamer’s Wish is exactly that. Henry is a real human who is immersed in an RPG when he discovers a jinn (like a genie from a lamp) and is granted 3 wishes (and we all know to be careful what we wish for). This story is about his adventures and how he is above to navigate and move up in his new “life”.
This is a really interesting genre to read which I have only recently discovered. A GAMER’S WISH held my attention and interest enough that I will continue reading stories from this author. I wish there was a little more… A little more background, a little bit more drama. Having said that, I look forward to the next adventure.
****
April 30, 2018
A Gamer's Wish: A Gamelit Series (Hidden Wishes Book 1) by Tao Wong is the first book in the Hidden Wishes series. This is not my first book by this author. One of the things I enjoy most about this author is how the books are like being in a game that you are playing. They are creative and engaging. The characters are connectable for the most part and take you on a journey. In this book, Henry is faced with an opportunity to change his life forever. He will need to find a way to survive in a world of hidden secrets and history. Will he be able to level up? I enjoyed this character and the other fantasy characters. Henry discovers he has powers and the more he levels up the more power he seems to have. Each level he levels up he gets new spells. This story really does read as if you were right in the game playing right along with the characters. I highly recommend this book. Take a journey right along with Henry and meet the fantasy characters that complete this story.
May 20, 2018
A Gamers Wish: A GameLit Series by Tao Wong is the first book in his Hidden Wishes Series. A unique story this book will keep you hooked from start to finish without a doubt!
What would you do if you had the chance to change your life to how you wanted it? Would you take it? Or let the opportunity pass you by? For Henry Tsien it was a simple choice - to make a wish and change his life forever.
Thrown into a new world as a low level mage it is all about playing the game. Let’s just hope he can learn to rules quick enough to play it well.
As someone who enjoys playing the occasional game I loved the premise of this book from the moment I read the blurb. And the book itself did not disappoint in any way at all. It was such a cleverly written book that had me hanging off every word. I couldn’t wait to find out what happened next. I loved Henry’s character and really found myself wishing him to do well. I cannot wait to see what else this series has to offer!
What would you do if you had the chance to change your life to how you wanted it? Would you take it? Or let the opportunity pass you by? For Henry Tsien it was a simple choice - to make a wish and change his life forever.
Thrown into a new world as a low level mage it is all about playing the game. Let’s just hope he can learn to rules quick enough to play it well.
As someone who enjoys playing the occasional game I loved the premise of this book from the moment I read the blurb. And the book itself did not disappoint in any way at all. It was such a cleverly written book that had me hanging off every word. I couldn’t wait to find out what happened next. I loved Henry’s character and really found myself wishing him to do well. I cannot wait to see what else this series has to offer!
May 1, 2018
I give A Gamer's Wish: A GameLit Series (Hidden Wishes Book 1) by Tao Wong, 5 stars.
Such a wonderful adventure! This book takes a the form of a role playing game and turns it into such a great story. This is the second book I have read similar to this and it is new and refreshing to me. Henry is a disappointment to his family. He cannot seem to make it in the "real-world". All he wants to do is play his RPG games and longs to be lost in the magical world. One day, he seems to get his wish, but soon discovers it is not all the fun and games he hoped it would be.
This is a fun, one-of-kind story. It takes elements of RPG games and wraps them around a delightful story of magic in the modern world. It is not all fun and games, which makes it all the more believable. I enjoyed the places it took me and loved the people I met. I cannot wait to see more of this world.
Such a wonderful adventure! This book takes a the form of a role playing game and turns it into such a great story. This is the second book I have read similar to this and it is new and refreshing to me. Henry is a disappointment to his family. He cannot seem to make it in the "real-world". All he wants to do is play his RPG games and longs to be lost in the magical world. One day, he seems to get his wish, but soon discovers it is not all the fun and games he hoped it would be.
This is a fun, one-of-kind story. It takes elements of RPG games and wraps them around a delightful story of magic in the modern world. It is not all fun and games, which makes it all the more believable. I enjoyed the places it took me and loved the people I met. I cannot wait to see more of this world.
May 17, 2018
A Gamer’s Wish: A Gamelit Series (Hidden Wishes Book 1) by Tao Wong
4 Stars
This was totally unlike any book I normally read but wanted to try something different for a change. It took me a bit to get into this story and even then it ran a bit slow for me, however in saying that it did keep my interest throughout. This is my first read by this author and I would be interested in looking in to whatever else is available.
I was at one time kind of addicted to role play video games and its kind of cool that one of my characters was a mage so following that part was very easy for me. I love stories that have that unrealistic type of event, like making a wish and it coming true.
I found this story very interesting and would highly recommend it for anyone that likes GameLit and urban fantasy types of stories.
4 Stars
This was totally unlike any book I normally read but wanted to try something different for a change. It took me a bit to get into this story and even then it ran a bit slow for me, however in saying that it did keep my interest throughout. This is my first read by this author and I would be interested in looking in to whatever else is available.
I was at one time kind of addicted to role play video games and its kind of cool that one of my characters was a mage so following that part was very easy for me. I love stories that have that unrealistic type of event, like making a wish and it coming true.
I found this story very interesting and would highly recommend it for anyone that likes GameLit and urban fantasy types of stories.
May 17, 2018
A Gamer’s Wish
By Tao Wong
4 stars
So, this book was a little outside of my usual reading genre and I thought it was a good read. It is written well and the plot was well developed. The pace was good and whilst I couldn’t really connect with the characters I did enjoy reading about them. The one thing I particularly enjoyed about this book was that I really didn’t have a clue what was going to happen so in that respect it was actually really refreshing to read. I really liked the magical twists to the story too.
I have read a couple of books by this author and I am always struck by the relaxed writing style they have and how easy to read their books are. I think if you are looking for something a little different to read then I would definitely recommend you pick this one up!
By Tao Wong
4 stars
So, this book was a little outside of my usual reading genre and I thought it was a good read. It is written well and the plot was well developed. The pace was good and whilst I couldn’t really connect with the characters I did enjoy reading about them. The one thing I particularly enjoyed about this book was that I really didn’t have a clue what was going to happen so in that respect it was actually really refreshing to read. I really liked the magical twists to the story too.
I have read a couple of books by this author and I am always struck by the relaxed writing style they have and how easy to read their books are. I think if you are looking for something a little different to read then I would definitely recommend you pick this one up!
May 18, 2018
A Gamers Wish: A GameLit Series (Hidden Wishes Book 1)
By Tao Wong
Ok so this book wasn’t really for me. I have to admit I really did struggle with the whole book. I will say though if you are a gamer you will love the book. So we have one main character who in my personal opinion could have been developed more. I feel if there in one main character it would be really good to get to know the character before they start the journey the book takes them on the journey they are about to begin. Then there are two side characters, one we get to know and the other not so well. Maybe this was just me, not sure on that. However on a positive note I do feel the concept of this story was good and I am hoping further in the series there is more character building which may hold my interest.
By Tao Wong
Ok so this book wasn’t really for me. I have to admit I really did struggle with the whole book. I will say though if you are a gamer you will love the book. So we have one main character who in my personal opinion could have been developed more. I feel if there in one main character it would be really good to get to know the character before they start the journey the book takes them on the journey they are about to begin. Then there are two side characters, one we get to know and the other not so well. Maybe this was just me, not sure on that. However on a positive note I do feel the concept of this story was good and I am hoping further in the series there is more character building which may hold my interest.
May 18, 2018
The Gamer’s Wish by Tao Wong is a fun 4-Star read.
In this book we meet Henry, who finds a magic ring that thrusts him into a world he didn’t know existed and is tasked with fighting battles and protecting the ring.
I liked all of the characters for the most part except Lily, she kind of got on my nerves sitting around all day playing video games instead of helping Henry. This book reads like a game in which Henry levels up, and gains new spells and powers.
Overall a great, well written and engaging book. The ending is very insightful and I really liked the words and meaning conveyed. This is my second book by Tao Wong and I am liking this genre so far. I can’t wait to see what is next.
In this book we meet Henry, who finds a magic ring that thrusts him into a world he didn’t know existed and is tasked with fighting battles and protecting the ring.
I liked all of the characters for the most part except Lily, she kind of got on my nerves sitting around all day playing video games instead of helping Henry. This book reads like a game in which Henry levels up, and gains new spells and powers.
Overall a great, well written and engaging book. The ending is very insightful and I really liked the words and meaning conveyed. This is my second book by Tao Wong and I am liking this genre so far. I can’t wait to see what is next.
May 19, 2018
A Gamer’s Wish by Tao Wong
Four Stars
A Gamer’s Wish is the first book in the Hidden Wishes series by Tao Wong. This is the second book I have read by this author, and I really like her style. I myself have never played one of these games so I wasn’t sure I would understand what was going on, but the way the author walked the reader through the way the game works was wonderful. This is the story of Henry Tsien, and what one wish can do to change his life, for both good and bad. This book was filled with action, adventure, dangerous quests, mythical creatures, magic and wonderful world building. This was a fast paced read and once I started I just couldn’t put it down. I’m looking forward to reading the rest of this series.
Four Stars
A Gamer’s Wish is the first book in the Hidden Wishes series by Tao Wong. This is the second book I have read by this author, and I really like her style. I myself have never played one of these games so I wasn’t sure I would understand what was going on, but the way the author walked the reader through the way the game works was wonderful. This is the story of Henry Tsien, and what one wish can do to change his life, for both good and bad. This book was filled with action, adventure, dangerous quests, mythical creatures, magic and wonderful world building. This was a fast paced read and once I started I just couldn’t put it down. I’m looking forward to reading the rest of this series.
May 18, 2018
A Gamer's Wish by Tao Wong is the first book in the A GameLit Series: Hidden Wishes books. This is a great book who is into or wants to be a part of online RPG gaming. Henry discovers a ring that contains a Jinn. The story takes off from there. The story is full of fantasy and suspense. The characters are not deeply written but the story is full of adventure and fun. I enjoyed the concept and enjoyed the story. It is a fun, quick read. I would have enjoyed more I think if I was into gaming but otherwise enjoyed the adventure. I would recommend this for a teen or young person who is up for an adventure.
November 14, 2018
This book was really enjoyable and pretty original for a LitRPG book. Tao Wong does a really good job with making LitRPG books that do not take go the usual LitRPG route of taking place in a computer game or another world. The characters in this book were likable, and the scenarios entered into were interesting. When the book ended, I wanted more and was curious what would happen with some characters who popped up partway through the book. As of writing this review, there is unfortunately no sequel yet, but I have faith that Tao Wong will whip up something of quality soon enough. I would give this book 4.5 stars if I could. I highly recommend the book.
October 19, 2019
A very atypical litrpg.
What happens when you introduce a djinn stuck in its magical container for six decades to online ARPGs because it's picked by a gamer? This book.
The idea of an all-powerful (but bound) djinn using a game interface to teach a mundane to navigate "real" magic is perfectly executed, and highly original. It lets you make a blend of complete classic urban fantasy and modern litrpg in a way that's different from what the genre's convention would let you expect. There's probably a few progress to be made in term of characterization (the Templar squire is a bit too much), but it could be almost 5 stars.
What happens when you introduce a djinn stuck in its magical container for six decades to online ARPGs because it's picked by a gamer? This book.
The idea of an all-powerful (but bound) djinn using a game interface to teach a mundane to navigate "real" magic is perfectly executed, and highly original. It lets you make a blend of complete classic urban fantasy and modern litrpg in a way that's different from what the genre's convention would let you expect. There's probably a few progress to be made in term of characterization (the Templar squire is a bit too much), but it could be almost 5 stars.
May 21, 2018
Tao Wong's A Gamer's Wish: A GameLit Series is the first in the Hidden Wishes series. This novel is paranormal/fantasy story with a gaming theme. The author is extremely imaginative in the story/plot creation and the character paths within this book. There is a suspenseful quality that is provided within the story to give the reader the desire to continue through the story to learn what choices are made and what impact(s) those make. I found the story entertaining, intriguing and overall a nicely, solid read.
January 15, 2019
Book one
Mistakes: I found a few. Mostly they are two words with no spacing between them.
Plot: Normal guy finds ring with a Jinn in it. Wishes to do magic like in video games. The plot was interesting, but this is a novella, not a book. It also ends at 95% so you don't get the page count listed. There is a sample of book two though.
Characters: not the best fleshed out characters. I can't really recall them other than by type, dude that found ring, Jinn, knight. That's it. Not memorable at all.
5.5/10
Mistakes: I found a few. Mostly they are two words with no spacing between them.
Plot: Normal guy finds ring with a Jinn in it. Wishes to do magic like in video games. The plot was interesting, but this is a novella, not a book. It also ends at 95% so you don't get the page count listed. There is a sample of book two though.
Characters: not the best fleshed out characters. I can't really recall them other than by type, dude that found ring, Jinn, knight. That's it. Not memorable at all.
5.5/10
June 15, 2019
3 stars, ah it was okay, it had some interesting sections but all in all it was just okay. It did show some potential to get better but I am on the fence if and want to give it a chance to impress me in the next book.
August 27, 2021
Great read, interesting new setting, if a reader has enjoyed the author System apocalypse, then definetly this is the story for you.
June 24, 2024
Henry Tsien is barely scraping by. When he discovers a jinn in a magic ring, his first wish is to be a mage. Not any old magic user, but like one in role-playing games. Lily, his jinn, helps work out the details, and she becomes sort of a game master, in control of his leveling, so she doesn't have to be stuck in the ring. Yet many people in the world don't want Henry to have such a powerful magical artifact, and they're determined to take it away from him.
This is a fun and smart light Gamelit urban fantasy. Henry is the everyday young man with a good heart. Even when he gets three wishes from a jinn, he wishes for something a lot of regular folks might want, but he's smart about it. He doesn't want his head to explode from too much knowledge! Leveling up allows him to learn to be a mage without overloading his brain, and it helps Lily not be a prisoner of the ring. It's not all that easy though. I love the young Templar Knight wannabe who joins Henry's party and the low level quests they must do. Can't wait for more in this series.
This is a fun and smart light Gamelit urban fantasy. Henry is the everyday young man with a good heart. Even when he gets three wishes from a jinn, he wishes for something a lot of regular folks might want, but he's smart about it. He doesn't want his head to explode from too much knowledge! Leveling up allows him to learn to be a mage without overloading his brain, and it helps Lily not be a prisoner of the ring. It's not all that easy though. I love the young Templar Knight wannabe who joins Henry's party and the low level quests they must do. Can't wait for more in this series.
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