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Tower #3

Arcanist

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Safe for the moment, Thorn and Velin are faced with a choice…

Hide among the cruel Deva, or forge a path that will require all their skill and wit, unlocking the ancient paths of power hidden in the Titan bloodline.

Ahead of them lies Intra Mundum, an endless test that requires courage, strength, and most importantly, strong bonds. As they begin to explore the floors of the tower with a hastily thrown together team, Thorn and Velin will find they have a much stronger connection than they first realized.

With old friends and new enemies showing up on his doorstep, Thorn quickly realizes that life in the upper worlds is much more complicated than it seemed and even world shaking strength isn’t enough to protect against the machinations of the ancient factions surrounding him. Together, he and Velin must prepare to welcome their friends from Angoril, figuring out a way to divert the attention of power hungry challenger clans and the bloodthirsty god beasts.

Arcanist is the third book in the Tower Series, a GameLit/LitRPG series from Seth Ring, bestselling author of Battle Mage Farmer and The Titan Series, set in the world of Nova Terra and starring the unforgettable Thorn. If you like immersive storytelling, rich fantasy, and epic adventures with a slice of friendship thrown in, you’ll love this page-turning series.

440 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 28, 2023

544 people are currently reading
247 people want to read

About the author

Seth Ring

60 books889 followers

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5 stars
1,816 (67%)
4 stars
676 (25%)
3 stars
162 (6%)
2 stars
23 (<1%)
1 star
6 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
2,567 reviews72 followers
September 22, 2023
The start of the OP arc.

If you read Terra Nova, you know how this goes. Ignore issues and react with mercy until situations blow up. Any real conflict is resolved by sudden power up. This is formulaic from Ring at this point.
Profile Image for M.
598 reviews22 followers
September 8, 2023
Recap: Thorn leaves the Deva world for the tower. Meets his master there, who is the caretaker. Master tells him that his parents appointed him as the caretaker. Sparky, his team mate is outed by Velin as a godbeast. He has an epic battle where he kills a bunch of Godbeast assassins, and has the boss battle with the old Empress. He builds a QEC (quantum entanglement computer) which sends a beacon to Nina and she brings the Angoril capital and thousands of players through. He makes his aunt the Empress instead as he wants to climb the tower. Can't wait for the next chapter
Profile Image for Tony Hinde.
2,183 reviews78 followers
September 8, 2023
3.5 Stars

There's far too much plot armor protecting Thorn. Does it look like his party is in trouble, he just needs to get angry to discover some hidden level of power to save the day. 'Nuf said.

All the protagonists, a growing ensemble cast, are likable and relatable. Their goals are sensible as are the motivations of those in opposition. Note, I didn't say antagonists because we are given the impression that much of the conflict is due to some long-held misunderstandings.

There's no hiding the fact that the best part of these books is the hidden-strength trope. Thorn and his merry gang, punch above their weight class. It's fun to watch the self-assured arrogance get wiped off the faces of bullies and authority figures. It's not deep, but it is fun.
Profile Image for GiGi.
949 reviews6 followers
July 26, 2025
Extra star for the impressive worldbuilding reveals. So much information was given but it's wrapped up so nicely in the text that this book often had me going "wait—but, this would mean...". I almost feel like I read the book twice. First during my listen-through and then when I went back in the ebook to highlight all the nuggets of wisdom.

I finished Battle Mage Farmer, so some terminology introduced in the Tower series isn't new to me but the worldbuilding is so vast and expansive that I struggle to merge the 2 different experiences of it. BMF explored the universe through a spiritual, religious lens; near the end BMF was feeling rather culty lol. In contrast, the Titan and Tower series have a more practical, scientific approach, which is more my thing. But since I got the culty view first, I'm now having to reroute my brain somewhat. What is an Aspect truly? What is Divinity truly?
What is Seth Ring really? And what happened to the human he pretends to be? I jest, but for real, how da fck do you create a multi-dimentional universe, with it's own science- and magic-laws, that is so expansive you can slowly reveal it to your readers through vastly different lenses spread over seemingly unrelated series? Like HELLOOOO?
5 reviews
November 2, 2023
I've noticed a remarkable improvement in the series with each new book introduced by the author. However, the latest installment, 'Tower,' truly stands out. Thorne faces genuine challenges in this book, and it's clear that the author has taken a new and exciting direction. Thorne's character development shines as he confronts these real problems, requiring him to devise creative solutions that go beyond the usual 'smash it' approach.

What's most refreshing is that 'Arcanist' marks a departure from the earlier Titan series, where Thorne often appeared as an overwhelmingly overpowered character. The transformation in storytelling and the evolution of Thorne's character arc has breathed new life into the series.

I wholeheartedly recommend 'Arcanist' and the entire series as it continues to evolve and improve with each new release. The author's willingness to shake things up and present Thorne with genuine challenges has rekindled my enthusiasm for the series. 'Arcanist' is a testament to the author's storytelling skills, and I eagerly anticipate further developments in the series, which I will undoubtedly continue to enjoy.
Profile Image for Andy Zach.
Author 10 books97 followers
September 8, 2023
Seth Ring continues his RPG fantasy about Thorn, a Titan and his main squeeze Vellin, who's a plant mage, among other things.

Both characters are ridiculously overpowered, but that makes it fun, as other characters continuously underestimate them. Also, I like seeing how Seth Ring dreams up new adversaries for them to fight.

They also get sidekicks, such as Alph, a the Mad Master Alchemist. He also gets a romantic interest in this book, but she loves him for his mind. You see, he kept casting intelligence potions upon himself. As he got smarter, he brewed a better potion. Rinse and repeat.

So much for the characters. The plot? They're climbing this tower. They have more powerful characters arrayed against them. They have to beat them, and improve their abilities at the same time.

Rinse and repeat. Enjoyable, if you like this sort of thing.
1,204 reviews17 followers
October 16, 2023
Worth the five stars, now have to wait for the next one unfortunately

If you like the other books in the series, you will enjoy this one. I must be getting more lenient in my reviews, but this book was excellent. The character is very likable, a gentle giant, but can be fierce when he hast to be. There’s plenty of action, good world building and good crafting. The balance is about equal and makes this book a hit. If you haven’t read the series, go back and read it from the very beginning. Some issues were fixed in things that I was annoyed at such as the lack of spatial rings, every RPG has some sort of spatial caring bags because the characters in these books carries so much inventory that is silly for them to just log around bags and bags of equipment Now unfortunately I have to wait for the next book.
337 reviews5 followers
September 8, 2023
The gang is back together!

We finally get the gang back together from the original series! And it promises to be loads of fun going forward! Thorn also gets back to a more melee focused style of combat, which makes me VERY happy! But he isn’t just dropping all his magic that he worked on the last couple of books. Some awesome power ups for Thorn and Velin, and a new companion coke along. Also some neat info on the whole humanity/humanish vs god beast fight! This book packed a lot in! No tie ins that I saw to Battle Mage sadly, but maybe I missed them! The title for book 4 perhaps? Hmmm
Profile Image for Nick.
21 reviews4 followers
October 20, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley for an advanced copy in return for an honest review. I think reviews for a series might be the most difficult. Expectations taint the review and I try to avoid spoilers at all costs.
Anyhow, another solid book in the series. You might ask why I gave this a four star instead of a five. In my opinion this book felt like a transition from what the series was to what it is going to be. I enjoyed getting to know some new characters and getting to revisit some familiar ones. However overall when the series is complete I’ll just think of this as the book the set up the rest of the series.
96 reviews1 follower
January 24, 2024
New series still fairly Fresh

The only small flaw is that of making most fights in the new series into pages of cliffhanger - no matter what opponent pops up. Fortunately there are a handful handful of quick or easy fights...and couple where Thorn actually quickly runs away for variety. Also there are fewer clever or well planned power gains and more Monte Hall power rewards. So while this third book in the second series is still 5 star material -- it's not quite at the same peak quality as the first books in either series...a hazard of author fatigue in any commitment to a long series.
Profile Image for Dale Smith.
234 reviews1 follower
September 8, 2023
A great experience.

Thorn and Velin are roped into challenging the first tower level for the Deva. On a team formed of members of the five Deva families, they head into the tower.

The rise of Thorn and Velin through the first few levels of the tower, while also waiting for their friends from Nova Terra was quite exciting. If you have been following their adventures from the beginning, this is a very good addition, pushing the story further along. There are a lot of answers in this book, and even more questions. Too bad we have to wait until December for the next one!
Profile Image for Paul.
120 reviews2 followers
September 10, 2023
While the Titan Series (Terra Nova) series had one of the best and most complete endings and Mad Master Alchemist (Best Story to start with for this universe) had many good books, THIS book is why I read books across the litrpg genre. I rarely give out 5 starts to books in the middle of a series but this one was just that good. It has character progression (and not just for Thorn), trash talking, and epic battles.
39 reviews
October 10, 2023


Really enjoying the difference between the tower series and the previous. Everything a bit different and milestones focusing inward instead of outward achievement. Really enjoying this arc can’t wait to see where it goes. My only complaint is I started reading this series too soon and in about a week and a half I’ll be done with everything and have to start waiting for new books to drop lol
Profile Image for Jim.
388 reviews9 followers
October 28, 2023
Finally reunited with Velin, Thorn continues to grow stronger

As they start climbing the tower the disparity between their strength levels is apparent as Thorn ends up carrying the team through the first two floors. As Eve grows with Thorn increasing her knowledge of everything, she also has secrets that are exposed. Back in Angoril, his friends are working on a big project also, they are planning to mass ascend but I don’t want to ruin the surprise so read on to learn more!
Profile Image for Charles Daniel.
587 reviews6 followers
November 18, 2023
Breaking Roadblocks.

There's a roadblock to Thon's advancement. Fortunately, he's a bulldozer of great size, so it shan't be a problem for long.

This series continues to be a great read.

There are occasional "errors" in the text that may simply be differences in dialect between the English I use and that the Author uses. I'm certain if they are actual errors Mr. Ring will see to fixing them soon.
Profile Image for mxmlaz.
36 reviews1 follower
September 15, 2024
Great Book

The last book of the series I struggled through the middle of but this book was a delight the whole way through. This book is everything I loved about the Nova Terra series all over again with all new things. This is definitely the best book of this new series by far and I'm excited to read the next book. I'm once again firmly attached to this series and reminded why I love this author. Great job!
52 reviews1 follower
September 9, 2023
Another great book by Seth!

How Seth keeps pumping out so many stories and keeping them straight is amazing! The story original 10 book series was one of my favorites and his Battle Mage series is right behind it, but I really like where this series is going. I highly recommend all of Seth Ring’s books!!
Profile Image for Zachary.
719 reviews15 followers
September 14, 2023
Stepping into his own

In this entry in Seth Ring's Tower series, Thorn really steps into his new role in the expanded universe. No longer a weakling, he is finally strong enough to hold his own against some of the elite (at least at this level), and that makes for a fun read. Really enjoyed this book - can't wait to read the next!
191 reviews2 followers
September 24, 2023
A very well written series

Seth Ring has a strong writing style, neither predictable nor plodding. My only complaint is that there are so many books in this grandeur series. If there were fewer books I would be complaining that I didn't have anything good to read. Great work once more!
Profile Image for Kevin.
1,765 reviews32 followers
December 3, 2023
This was more crazy than the previous books. Since I didn't read the previous series (nor will), some throw away comments were lost. I also didn't read the mad alchemist book (my friend dropped it).

I just hope now that the protagonist's friends are here, the story won't change much from book one. I only care about Thorn.

3/5 Stars
Profile Image for Joseph D..
Author 3 books3 followers
July 5, 2024
Book 3 of the Tower series. This epic fantasy series is fun and ride through with a few new faces and ending with a lot of old ones. Lots of action and danger. If you’ve read the others, this is a continuation. There is a lot that happens in this one, but I enjoyed every minute of it. ​

Joseph McKnight
http://www.josephmcknight.com
364 reviews4 followers
September 8, 2023
Loved the book!

Amazing book. It progressed perfectly. It was hilarious in spots especially with the Deva and Thorn. I love the ending and can't wait to read the next book. Meanwhile I will finish up the Battle mage Farmer series.



208 reviews2 followers
September 8, 2023
Out Bloody Standing!!!!

Having read the whole series more than once and try to read the next on the day it is released I must with all greed look forward to our travelers return and their sorting out our hero and extended family small problems. Thank you for a great read!!!
186 reviews1 follower
September 10, 2023
Another winner!

I enjoyed the constant action and innovation in this book. New characters are introduced and old ones are brought back in to enhance the story. Can't wait for the next books!
89 reviews
September 16, 2023
I have binged read all tho books and there all great

I have read the whole series before and started reading this one and I will tell you that I have been hooked ever since picking up the first book and this series has not let me down either what a roller coaster
Profile Image for Janet Jennings.
44 reviews
September 24, 2023
This writer continuescic deliver

Another great episode in a great book series. The characters are growing wonderfully as well as the perils and rewards.

I'm looking forward to reading the next story in this series which may be become one of the classics in this genre.
Profile Image for Thomas Goldsworthy.
132 reviews1 follower
September 29, 2023
Removing a Thorn

Well, the Deva didn’t waste time. I guess when you are a powerhouse magnet for trouble it’s best to put some distance between you and it. Loved the adventure and added characters.
Profile Image for Butt123rajai.
19 reviews2 followers
December 14, 2023
Great book

Wtf can I say fucking awsome book I think I'm inlove with this author I'm just mad I didn't start with the first series Terra nova so it might be wierd going back to read it after this
Profile Image for Chris Hamm.
2 reviews
January 5, 2024
I feel like this is leaning more and more into the action side of things. What I loved about the early books was Thorn outwitting his enemies rather than brute forcing everything. Not a bad book but is getting away from the smart parts that made me like the early books.
669 reviews10 followers
January 22, 2024
Really an excellent story

Thorn continues to level, as the advesaries get higher and higher level. Yet he finds a way, continuing to gain new allies before reuniting with old companions. Excellent writing, interesting characters, monsters and political situations.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews

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