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Eternal Grind #1
Legend of the Phoenix Resurgence
In the mystical steampunk realm of Aelloria, where magic is woven into the fabric of reality, blacksmith Joren dreams of heroic quests and epic battles. But when a mysterious artifact transforms his world into a living game, filled with experience points, skill trees, and looming dangers, his simple life is forever changed.
Thrust into an unfamiliar reality, Joren becomes the reluctant hero of a prophecy foretelling the rise of the Phoenix—the only force that can save Aelloria from the tyrannical Dark Lord Malazar. With his perception altered, and guided by Fenria, an AI entity bound to the artifact, Joren must navigate this game-like world, battling monstrous creatures and mastering his new abilities.
Along the journey, he encounters allies, including the enigmatic rogue, Lyra, who harbors a secret past and slowly unravels Joren's guarded heart. But as their bond deepens, so does the threat of Malazar, who will stop at nothing to end the Phoenix's rise.
Will Joren embrace his destiny, or will the weight of his new reality be his undoing? In this epic fantasy LitRPG where steampunk meets adventure, the grind is eternal, but so is the resilience of the human spirit. Journey through mystical lands, battle terrifying beasts, and explore the powerful connection between trust, love, and survival.
Thrust into an unfamiliar reality, Joren becomes the reluctant hero of a prophecy foretelling the rise of the Phoenix—the only force that can save Aelloria from the tyrannical Dark Lord Malazar. With his perception altered, and guided by Fenria, an AI entity bound to the artifact, Joren must navigate this game-like world, battling monstrous creatures and mastering his new abilities.
Along the journey, he encounters allies, including the enigmatic rogue, Lyra, who harbors a secret past and slowly unravels Joren's guarded heart. But as their bond deepens, so does the threat of Malazar, who will stop at nothing to end the Phoenix's rise.
Will Joren embrace his destiny, or will the weight of his new reality be his undoing? In this epic fantasy LitRPG where steampunk meets adventure, the grind is eternal, but so is the resilience of the human spirit. Journey through mystical lands, battle terrifying beasts, and explore the powerful connection between trust, love, and survival.
Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2023
211 people are currently reading
1817 people want to read
About the author
Joel Poe
12 books28 followers-Readers' Favorite certified 5/5 Author. Indiana University's "Premier Young Artist Award", "Faculty Award" and "Founder Scholars Award".
-Classically trained internationally awarded musician.
-Gamer and Skater.
Find out more at joelpoe.com
-Classically trained internationally awarded musician.
-Gamer and Skater.
Find out more at joelpoe.com
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
June 7, 2023
Great start to the Eternal Grind series. Did not want to put down this fast-paced LitRPG story. It is the first in the series. The main character, Joren, is reluctantly pulled out of his simple life as a blacksmith to be set on a path that might eventually save the kingdom of Aelloria from destruction by the evil necromancer Malazar. Along the way, he picks up four friends to help with his quest while having mental arguments with the AI in his head.
It was fun to watch Joren progress from level to level as he figures out what is going on with the contraption he found. Now that the characters and the world have been introduced, I look forward to seeing how Joren and his crew work to make themselves strong enough to confront Malazar.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It was fun to watch Joren progress from level to level as he figures out what is going on with the contraption he found. Now that the characters and the world have been introduced, I look forward to seeing how Joren and his crew work to make themselves strong enough to confront Malazar.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 27, 2023
Reading the "Legend of the Phoenix Resurgence" was like a breath of fresh air. The story line is fun and easy to follow. The journey Joren's life has taken and will take makes me want to tag along. While this novella is considered young adult, I believe it can be enjoyed by anyone looking for a short story with adventure. I also really loved the illustrations that presented themselves as the story progressed. I am definitely interested in reading the next installment of the series.
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
June 8, 2023
This is a litRPG book. The artwork adds to the description of the characters. This is a story with peril, action and adventure, but presented in a gentle way. The story would probably suit the younger reader with an interest in this area. I liked that the author didn’t try and describe every little detail about levelling up. (I didn’t follow in the description of the world environment how Joren could have been playing a RPG game as a pastime before the action and story get going, but that is a very minor point.) There is a cliff hanger, but that just means you will be able to spend more time with this group of interesting characters. Thank you to Orion Publishing Group and BookSirens for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.
June 14, 2023
A fun, fast paced and immersive fantasy adventure novella proving that anything is possible with a willing mind- even for a blacksmith.
The story follows a group of three very different yet courageous heroes- a blacksmith, a rogue and a paladin who, with the help of an AI being inside one of their heads need to work together to defeat an evil necromancer.
This was an enjoyable novella and I will gladly read more works by this author in the future.
The story follows a group of three very different yet courageous heroes- a blacksmith, a rogue and a paladin who, with the help of an AI being inside one of their heads need to work together to defeat an evil necromancer.
This was an enjoyable novella and I will gladly read more works by this author in the future.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 10, 2023
Fantasy Meets D &D
I really enjoyed this action adventure fantasy book! The world-building was impressive, yet not overwhelming and I loved the characters! Great novel!
I really enjoyed this action adventure fantasy book! The world-building was impressive, yet not overwhelming and I loved the characters! Great novel!
June 23, 2023
Very good read
I enjoyed reading this book and I recommend this book to anyone who like coming of age stories and lots of action.
I enjoyed reading this book and I recommend this book to anyone who like coming of age stories and lots of action.
August 16, 2023
Simplistic
Rather simplistic story telling. Choppy and doesn't flow well with the reader. Characters are shallow, unrealistic and lack any real connection to the reader.
Rather simplistic story telling. Choppy and doesn't flow well with the reader. Characters are shallow, unrealistic and lack any real connection to the reader.
July 7, 2023
3/5 stars
I received an ARC of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
This novella had a very interesting premise, and I thought the setting was cool! The book had both magical and steampunk elements which I enjoyed. I thought the LitRPG elements were woven into the story well, and the class system and monsters were interesting. The story is fast-paced, following the main character on his journey to potentially save the world. Like most LitRPG books, the main character starts on an adventure to level up and is joined by several others from different classes.
My main reason for the 3-star rating is that I had a hard time connecting to the characters. I think a large part of that is simply because this is a novella and there wasn’t enough time to get attached to them. I found Joren unlikeable for most of the book, and I just felt like I didn’t know enough about the other characters. However, a lot of other reviews mention really loving the characters, so maybe it’s just me.
I loved that this novella had illustrations! They were amazing and did help me to better visualize the characters. The cover art is also lovely!
Overall, if you enjoy the LitRPG genre, you should consider giving this book a shot. It’s a fun, quick read with a unique setting, and the gaming elements woven into the story will likely appeal to LitRPG readers. It wasn’t quite my cup of tea, but I can see readers looking for a short, LitRPG adventure enjoying this one!
Content: violence, swearing, death
I received an ARC of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
This novella had a very interesting premise, and I thought the setting was cool! The book had both magical and steampunk elements which I enjoyed. I thought the LitRPG elements were woven into the story well, and the class system and monsters were interesting. The story is fast-paced, following the main character on his journey to potentially save the world. Like most LitRPG books, the main character starts on an adventure to level up and is joined by several others from different classes.
My main reason for the 3-star rating is that I had a hard time connecting to the characters. I think a large part of that is simply because this is a novella and there wasn’t enough time to get attached to them. I found Joren unlikeable for most of the book, and I just felt like I didn’t know enough about the other characters. However, a lot of other reviews mention really loving the characters, so maybe it’s just me.
I loved that this novella had illustrations! They were amazing and did help me to better visualize the characters. The cover art is also lovely!
Overall, if you enjoy the LitRPG genre, you should consider giving this book a shot. It’s a fun, quick read with a unique setting, and the gaming elements woven into the story will likely appeal to LitRPG readers. It wasn’t quite my cup of tea, but I can see readers looking for a short, LitRPG adventure enjoying this one!
Content: violence, swearing, death
June 7, 2023
An Epic Blend of Fantasy, Video Games and Anime of which you'll want to be part of!🥰👌🏻✨️🌌
This book serie is a brilliant mix between Sword Art Online and The World Of Warcraft where the characters are leveling up by encountering Mythical creatures like phoenixes and fighting Monsters such as Trolls, Orcs and others as the Guild's strength and skills increase.
Since the book holds many illustrations, I felt even more drawn to the adventure and really as if I was a part of it.
In this first book, I felt as if I was joining the Guild and leveling up along their side as Joren, Anwar, Lyra, Kolos and Rafaela are coming to know each other, develop their own skills and solidify their bond.
Each of the characters has their own unique class which adds to the strength of the Guild.
As you go through the pages you'll come to know some secrets that once revealed might change a lot of things...
Come to be part of this Fresh and New Adventure discovering the strength and skills of your Guild, unravel some secrets and encounter other Guilds with many different classes such as : Paladins, Mages, Rogues, Druids, Healers and many others...🥰👌🏻✨️❤️🔥🫠
🌹🐼💙
This book serie is a brilliant mix between Sword Art Online and The World Of Warcraft where the characters are leveling up by encountering Mythical creatures like phoenixes and fighting Monsters such as Trolls, Orcs and others as the Guild's strength and skills increase.
Since the book holds many illustrations, I felt even more drawn to the adventure and really as if I was a part of it.
In this first book, I felt as if I was joining the Guild and leveling up along their side as Joren, Anwar, Lyra, Kolos and Rafaela are coming to know each other, develop their own skills and solidify their bond.
Each of the characters has their own unique class which adds to the strength of the Guild.
As you go through the pages you'll come to know some secrets that once revealed might change a lot of things...
Come to be part of this Fresh and New Adventure discovering the strength and skills of your Guild, unravel some secrets and encounter other Guilds with many different classes such as : Paladins, Mages, Rogues, Druids, Healers and many others...🥰👌🏻✨️❤️🔥🫠
🌹🐼💙
August 7, 2023
I might read on, but I’m not impressed with the MC, or the villain
It’s not often that I read about a main character whom I initially like and then grow to dislike as the story progresses. I understand Joran’s angst, but I grew very tired of his whining. Maybe this is just to show his growth and determination as the story progresses, but I didn’t really buy the defeatism from a boy who had the grit and will to teach himself blacksmithing at 12 years old.
In just a few weeks, Joran and team had already gained levels to match approximately a third of the villain’s, and yet Joran isn’t encouraged that they are so far along. Are there tribulations that prevent people from reaching higher levels? Is their progress thus far not indicative of their momentum going forward? And what does the villain think that he can do with the Undying Flame? Does he think that he can force a connection? Or highjack it’s power?
It’s not often that I read about a main character whom I initially like and then grow to dislike as the story progresses. I understand Joran’s angst, but I grew very tired of his whining. Maybe this is just to show his growth and determination as the story progresses, but I didn’t really buy the defeatism from a boy who had the grit and will to teach himself blacksmithing at 12 years old.
In just a few weeks, Joran and team had already gained levels to match approximately a third of the villain’s, and yet Joran isn’t encouraged that they are so far along. Are there tribulations that prevent people from reaching higher levels? Is their progress thus far not indicative of their momentum going forward? And what does the villain think that he can do with the Undying Flame? Does he think that he can force a connection? Or highjack it’s power?
June 23, 2023
Definitely not my favorite
How is it disappointed in this book I think it had good premise but the MC is a thoroughly unlikeable childish idiot. He protest to have the good of the people specially his village in mine yet he fights against everything that would help them. Selfish. It was kind of hard to read actually had to force myself to finish actually. If you get pass the annoying MC there were other problems with the story. Quite frankly they were too many gaps problems and quick fixes . I didn't really enjoy it. I mean a intelligent/spirit/artifact burried in a mine wall. If this thing was supposed to be found every couple of generations how is it supposed to be found buried thousands of ' down in the rock and dirt and how did it get there. Just one of many Ridiculous issues. I mean we suspend disbelief when we read these books but there are limits.
How is it disappointed in this book I think it had good premise but the MC is a thoroughly unlikeable childish idiot. He protest to have the good of the people specially his village in mine yet he fights against everything that would help them. Selfish. It was kind of hard to read actually had to force myself to finish actually. If you get pass the annoying MC there were other problems with the story. Quite frankly they were too many gaps problems and quick fixes . I didn't really enjoy it. I mean a intelligent/spirit/artifact burried in a mine wall. If this thing was supposed to be found every couple of generations how is it supposed to be found buried thousands of ' down in the rock and dirt and how did it get there. Just one of many Ridiculous issues. I mean we suspend disbelief when we read these books but there are limits.
June 7, 2023
I've just finished reading "Legend of the Phoenix Resurgence" and it was such a thrilling ride! I’m pretty new to the whole litRPG genre, but honestly, this book has me hooked. The blend of fantasy, gaming elements, and steampunk aesthetic just totally transported me.
And let's talk about the girl power in this book! Lyra and Rafaela are just amazing - strong, intelligent, and wonderfully crafted characters. I found myself rooting for them throughout the story. Lyra's enigmatic and fierce rogue persona, coupled with Rafaela's empathetic healing spirit, brought such a refreshing dynamic to Joren's team.
Honestly, I can't wait for the next book. If you're new to litRPG like me this is a great place to start. Oh and the illustrations are really cool.
And let's talk about the girl power in this book! Lyra and Rafaela are just amazing - strong, intelligent, and wonderfully crafted characters. I found myself rooting for them throughout the story. Lyra's enigmatic and fierce rogue persona, coupled with Rafaela's empathetic healing spirit, brought such a refreshing dynamic to Joren's team.
Honestly, I can't wait for the next book. If you're new to litRPG like me this is a great place to start. Oh and the illustrations are really cool.
June 7, 2023
Just incredibly fun to read. I got no words. But this masterwork deserves some words so I'll give it a try.
There was nothing I didn't like. It was fast paced, well thought out, well written, and character development was superb. I found myself completely invested on every aspect of Joren's progression, and yet still found myself invested in the new characters that come to his aid.
Videogame, anime and epic fantasy come together here in perfect harmony. There's not one aspect overpowering the other.
Even I, hardly a gamer, found myself wanting to play whatever game this was.
If videogames are like this, please sign me up.
I give this 5/5, but I'd give it 10 out of 5 if possible.
Only one more thing to say: Please release book 2 ASAP!
There was nothing I didn't like. It was fast paced, well thought out, well written, and character development was superb. I found myself completely invested on every aspect of Joren's progression, and yet still found myself invested in the new characters that come to his aid.
Videogame, anime and epic fantasy come together here in perfect harmony. There's not one aspect overpowering the other.
Even I, hardly a gamer, found myself wanting to play whatever game this was.
If videogames are like this, please sign me up.
I give this 5/5, but I'd give it 10 out of 5 if possible.
Only one more thing to say: Please release book 2 ASAP!
August 3, 2023
When the MC has the mental age of 6 years old
The novel would have been somewhat interesting if the MC wasn’t so childish. He spends the first half of the novel in a constant state of tantrum. The plot is forced and has no continuity. The levels, stats, and power makes no freaking sense. You sure this wasn’t written by ChatGPT? The 5 stars reviews may as well been fake.
The novel would have been somewhat interesting if the MC wasn’t so childish. He spends the first half of the novel in a constant state of tantrum. The plot is forced and has no continuity. The levels, stats, and power makes no freaking sense. You sure this wasn’t written by ChatGPT? The 5 stars reviews may as well been fake.
June 22, 2024
Great story beautiful art
This is a nice read The main character can be a bit selfish and emotional at times but I am hopeful That the 1st book as is often the case Is it building block For the rest of the series I really enjoy the artwork artwork. I'm really looking forward to see where this fledgling story will go Thank you for writing it
This is a nice read The main character can be a bit selfish and emotional at times but I am hopeful That the 1st book as is often the case Is it building block For the rest of the series I really enjoy the artwork artwork. I'm really looking forward to see where this fledgling story will go Thank you for writing it
January 18, 2024
Likable
The MC is a teenager and is upset because he cannot make weapons to help his village, so it is understandable that he is upset. He thinks that the people in his village is destroyed, so it anger him more. Good start to the first book, looking forward to the next one.
The MC is a teenager and is upset because he cannot make weapons to help his village, so it is understandable that he is upset. He thinks that the people in his village is destroyed, so it anger him more. Good start to the first book, looking forward to the next one.
September 15, 2023
Enjoyable
This is not the type of book I typically read, but I did find it entertaining, and I will be reading more.
This is not the type of book I typically read, but I did find it entertaining, and I will be reading more.
October 10, 2024
It is really good and refreshing to read such video game centric books.
April 29, 2025
Legend of the Phoenix Resurgence by Joel Poe is a steampunk Lit RPG. Joren is a blacksmith who tries to make the best weapons he can for his village so they can protect themselves from the monsters that are trying to destroy them. One night as he tries to find more of the magical stones he uses in forging the weapons he comes across an ancient artifact that will change his life forever.
This is a great start to the Eternal Grind series. The main character is a reluctant hero who follows the chosen one trope trying to protect those he cares about from the big bad. The story is fun, entertaining, and easy to follow. It's a great popcorn read that makes it easy to binge the series.
This is a great start to the Eternal Grind series. The main character is a reluctant hero who follows the chosen one trope trying to protect those he cares about from the big bad. The story is fun, entertaining, and easy to follow. It's a great popcorn read that makes it easy to binge the series.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews