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Deadman #1
Deadman Walking: A LitRPG Apocalypse Series
Even after the bombs fell, even after countries unleashed weapons beyond imagination on one another, even after lawlessness became the norm, people still expect their mail.
As a deadman, I'm uniquely suited to deliver it.
Rads don't bother me, and people who try to hurt me typically wind-up dead. Sure, humans may not like dealing with a face like mine, but hey not like you’ve got many options here in the wastes.
Now in the middle of my route I’ve come upon a new Job, and maybe the opportunity to start thriving instead of surviving.
Deadman is a gunslinging LitRPG Apocalypse Series about a courier braving the irradiated wasteland. Featuring a Weird West vibe, a detailed System, gunfights galore, radiation mutants, saloons, and endless adventure, it's perfect for fans of Fallout , Mad Max , and S.T.A.L.K.E.R. Deadman .
As a deadman, I'm uniquely suited to deliver it.
Rads don't bother me, and people who try to hurt me typically wind-up dead. Sure, humans may not like dealing with a face like mine, but hey not like you’ve got many options here in the wastes.
Now in the middle of my route I’ve come upon a new Job, and maybe the opportunity to start thriving instead of surviving.
Deadman is a gunslinging LitRPG Apocalypse Series about a courier braving the irradiated wasteland. Featuring a Weird West vibe, a detailed System, gunfights galore, radiation mutants, saloons, and endless adventure, it's perfect for fans of Fallout , Mad Max , and S.T.A.L.K.E.R. Deadman .
392 pages, Paperback
First published September 6, 2023
191 people are currently reading
164 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
January 2, 2024
I suspected this book would leave me cold. The Fallout game series is familiar to me, but I doubted any fiction set in that world would rise above basic fan-fic. I was wrong.
The protagonist, a "deadman" called Donovan, almost single-handedly carries this story. His situation is interesting, being an inherent under-dog, and his voice/character is both engaging and relatable. I enjoyed his pragmatic approach to morality... not caring about the appearance of righteousness, but acting from a solid ethical core.
Just as in the games, the politics is central to the plot. In that sense, this book sets up the board, while I expect the rest of the series will play the game. I have high hopes.
The protagonist, a "deadman" called Donovan, almost single-handedly carries this story. His situation is interesting, being an inherent under-dog, and his voice/character is both engaging and relatable. I enjoyed his pragmatic approach to morality... not caring about the appearance of righteousness, but acting from a solid ethical core.
Just as in the games, the politics is central to the plot. In that sense, this book sets up the board, while I expect the rest of the series will play the game. I have high hopes.
September 23, 2023
Great book
This book would is close to what fallout would be as a litrpg. If you like fallout you will like this book. I teresting twist is you don't have classes you have jobs. Has the same political undertones as fallout.
This book would is close to what fallout would be as a litrpg. If you like fallout you will like this book. I teresting twist is you don't have classes you have jobs. Has the same political undertones as fallout.
September 18, 2023
We start out with Donovan, a deadman who is a courier and takes the mail from one settlement to another. In between the settlements are dead zones filled with radiation. The history of what happened is never fully explained but it's clear that a nuclear war took place at some point in the past.
Humans are living in settlements and defend their borders as best they can. In between the settlements are dead zones, which have threats of their own, and there is a giant dead zone that divides the eastern US from the western US where the Rocky Mountains used to be.
That's the setup. I was unsure where the book was going early on, but it got better the longer I read. The atmosphere is well done, and Donovan is an interesting main character. There are plenty of other deadmen around, including women and children. They have their own society as well.
The editing is good, and there are stats with oddly patriotic comments attached. That isn't explained either. I liked how the book felt like a mystery I had to unpack. There's a lot more I didn't go into so as not to spoil anything.
I am definitely going to read book two. This book is something unique, and I enjoyed it. Recommended. 5/5*
Humans are living in settlements and defend their borders as best they can. In between the settlements are dead zones, which have threats of their own, and there is a giant dead zone that divides the eastern US from the western US where the Rocky Mountains used to be.
That's the setup. I was unsure where the book was going early on, but it got better the longer I read. The atmosphere is well done, and Donovan is an interesting main character. There are plenty of other deadmen around, including women and children. They have their own society as well.
The editing is good, and there are stats with oddly patriotic comments attached. That isn't explained either. I liked how the book felt like a mystery I had to unpack. There's a lot more I didn't go into so as not to spoil anything.
I am definitely going to read book two. This book is something unique, and I enjoyed it. Recommended. 5/5*
September 19, 2023
Book one
This was a good story that reminded me of the series Deathlands from when I was a teenager.
There are a few mistakes that I will post on Goodreads.
There is plenty more to read over on Royalroad as well.
This was a good mix of western, post apocalypse America, and sci-fi.
8/10
This was a good story that reminded me of the series Deathlands from when I was a teenager.
There are a few mistakes that I will post on Goodreads.
There is plenty more to read over on Royalroad as well.
This was a good mix of western, post apocalypse America, and sci-fi.
8/10
September 20, 2023
If you like science fiction with an Old West flair, you've got to read this. It's post-apocalyptic America with a "deadman" named Donovan who starts out as a postman, and ends up becoming something else, something that can give him far more opportunities to grow - or die.
Donovan was a fun character to follow. He's sensible, so he ends up making unexpected choices, a big difference from the usual hotheaded protagonists. I liked his sense of humor, and how he didn't take things at face value.
The world building was superb, and felt effortless. No infodumps, no dialog explaining how everything works, no endless descriptions. Yet, the scenes weren't hard to visualize or understand. The book overall had a very nice flow.
The structure also appealed to me. While there was an overarching story, there were sort of episodes that solved smaller mysteries along the way. While the main story is still open, the mini-stories are mostly closed. The repercussions though... can't wait to see what happens!
Donovan was a fun character to follow. He's sensible, so he ends up making unexpected choices, a big difference from the usual hotheaded protagonists. I liked his sense of humor, and how he didn't take things at face value.
The world building was superb, and felt effortless. No infodumps, no dialog explaining how everything works, no endless descriptions. Yet, the scenes weren't hard to visualize or understand. The book overall had a very nice flow.
The structure also appealed to me. While there was an overarching story, there were sort of episodes that solved smaller mysteries along the way. While the main story is still open, the mini-stories are mostly closed. The repercussions though... can't wait to see what happens!
September 17, 2023
What a unique perspective. Although I gotta admit I don't go out of my way to read many post-apocalyptic novels with Zombies. But Donavon breaks the mold and he's nothing like a zombie. He is his own species born as a Deadman into slavery and saved by the Pottsville undertakers and takin' to a sanctuary for Deadmen. In this society Deadmen are second class citizens. But with some lucky breaks Donovan sets out to change that.
Heath Miller's has always had a fabulous buttery voice, but I've mostly ever listened to him narrate He Who Fights With Monsters. It was almost shocking to hear him speak with an western american accent! And it was fabulous too...
So if you David Brin's Postman or reading post-apocalyptic novels, litRPG's, or simply listening to Heath Miller then go grab this audiobook! And hopefully bk2 will happen soon!?!
Here's a quote that amused me:
"There was one I almost enjoyed about a man huntin' a whale but even that boring compared to what I preferred to read."
Heath Miller's has always had a fabulous buttery voice, but I've mostly ever listened to him narrate He Who Fights With Monsters. It was almost shocking to hear him speak with an western american accent! And it was fabulous too...
So if you David Brin's Postman or reading post-apocalyptic novels, litRPG's, or simply listening to Heath Miller then go grab this audiobook! And hopefully bk2 will happen soon!?!
Here's a quote that amused me:
"There was one I almost enjoyed about a man huntin' a whale but even that boring compared to what I preferred to read."
December 26, 2023
A unique concept, well executed. Kudos
As you start the story, you quickly realize that the main character is from the fringe of post-apocalyptic society. You also realize that he is very sympathetic, and you're rooting for him. And that he's a kick-a$$ bada$$.
I've read the first book, and I'm preparing to go get the second one.
It took me about halfway thru the book, at the mention of ”walking the 10”, to realize the story is set in South Louisiana and East Texas. After that I recognized the provenance of the town names. (I'm from that area.)
A highly recommended read.
As you start the story, you quickly realize that the main character is from the fringe of post-apocalyptic society. You also realize that he is very sympathetic, and you're rooting for him. And that he's a kick-a$$ bada$$.
I've read the first book, and I'm preparing to go get the second one.
It took me about halfway thru the book, at the mention of ”walking the 10”, to realize the story is set in South Louisiana and East Texas. After that I recognized the provenance of the town names. (I'm from that area.)
A highly recommended read.
October 19, 2023
My Kind of Book
Obviously, different people have different tastes. This is what I liked about this book.
1. Great story written in an interesting, intelligent, adult way.
2. Minimal cussing.
3. Great MC, and likable.
4. Secondary characters were interesting.
5. Very little fluff, down to business writing, but still everything described so you felt like you were there.
I would highly recommend this book.
Cons:
1. Not long enough...LOL.
Obviously, different people have different tastes. This is what I liked about this book.
1. Great story written in an interesting, intelligent, adult way.
2. Minimal cussing.
3. Great MC, and likable.
4. Secondary characters were interesting.
5. Very little fluff, down to business writing, but still everything described so you felt like you were there.
I would highly recommend this book.
Cons:
1. Not long enough...LOL.
October 20, 2023
If you like Fallout or even just Western type stories you would enjoy this book
This book is definitely inspired by the Fallout Universe, but it is totally it's own distinct universe, and makes no direct reference to Fallout. In many ways the setting and characters qualities surpass the qualities of the Fallout Universe that I enjoy. The book is also really funny when it wants to be.
This book is definitely inspired by the Fallout Universe, but it is totally it's own distinct universe, and makes no direct reference to Fallout. In many ways the setting and characters qualities surpass the qualities of the Fallout Universe that I enjoy. The book is also really funny when it wants to be.
December 28, 2023
New spin on apocalypse
Several post apocalyptic series out there that would i iris lot feel similar to this one. However? The leveling system and upgrade system used in this book are both unique. I like the change and I like that the MC didn’t become massively OP without having to worry about threats. The sorry is engaging with the right amount of levels ups. Looking forward to book 2
Several post apocalyptic series out there that would i iris lot feel similar to this one. However? The leveling system and upgrade system used in this book are both unique. I like the change and I like that the MC didn’t become massively OP without having to worry about threats. The sorry is engaging with the right amount of levels ups. Looking forward to book 2
April 9, 2024
Loved this! Original and western-y with a steam punk vibe, a not-a-pet swamp monster, shoot outs, machetes, mysterious tech, and swords, and a deadman who’s not a shambling zombie and is instead a Marshall serving up justice in the form of bullets and chopped heads. Despite all that I wouldn’t say it’s a super dark tone, although it may head that way in books to come….I’m onto the next!
July 24, 2024
Excellent!
Wow! I'm far from an expert in LitRPG (so far, I read more or less nine or ten stories) but that series convinced me that I dig this style! It has a Fallout vibe (minus the humour, mind you) that I was looking for years but didn't have the chance to find yet. Looking forward fro more stories from those authors.
Wow! I'm far from an expert in LitRPG (so far, I read more or less nine or ten stories) but that series convinced me that I dig this style! It has a Fallout vibe (minus the humour, mind you) that I was looking for years but didn't have the chance to find yet. Looking forward fro more stories from those authors.
September 14, 2023
enjoyable
Nice action very light stats, good fast paced action and a very promising story line . Some good concepts, must admit read this very quickly and I’m looking forward to book 2 .
Nice action very light stats, good fast paced action and a very promising story line . Some good concepts, must admit read this very quickly and I’m looking forward to book 2 .
October 17, 2023
LitRPG? Yes
Post apocalypse? Yes
Western? Yes
If you liked Fallout and always wanted to read a book set in a Fallout world, well now is your chance to dive in. It's actually a pretty good book and I'm planning on book #2.
Post apocalypse? Yes
Western? Yes
If you liked Fallout and always wanted to read a book set in a Fallout world, well now is your chance to dive in. It's actually a pretty good book and I'm planning on book #2.
December 6, 2023
This was different, but enjoyable. The amount of "freedom" put into the core of the story was amusing.
I will pick up the sequel. Wonder if the author was thinking of Jonah Hex while writing this.
3/5 Stars
I will pick up the sequel. Wonder if the author was thinking of Jonah Hex while writing this.
3/5 Stars
June 9, 2025
Started well
Not sure how its going to end but it's been a fun ride getting there. No magic all tech. I'm surprised that 9mm is the prevalent ammunition. I've had those bounce off me if the distance was over 50 ft. Hopefully book 2 keeps the same western perspective.
Not sure how its going to end but it's been a fun ride getting there. No magic all tech. I'm surprised that 9mm is the prevalent ammunition. I've had those bounce off me if the distance was over 50 ft. Hopefully book 2 keeps the same western perspective.
September 19, 2023
Fantastic post apocalyptic lit rpg book. If you like the Fallout or Wasteland games you will enjoy this
September 26, 2023
Good read!
This book has a Fallout game feel to it. Overall a good read. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
This book has a Fallout game feel to it. Overall a good read. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
October 11, 2023
Good shit
Very fallout-y in all the right ways, without sacrificing its identity. Strong writing, excellent narrative, great characters. Can't wait for book two.
Very fallout-y in all the right ways, without sacrificing its identity. Strong writing, excellent narrative, great characters. Can't wait for book two.
October 14, 2023
Great Book
Hard to put down. Fast paced with a man's man MC. I really enjoy the western mix with sci fi. Looking forward to book two.
Hard to put down. Fast paced with a man's man MC. I really enjoy the western mix with sci fi. Looking forward to book two.
October 17, 2023
Fast moving and fun
Not much removed from the fallout universe. Which is not a bad thing. Will definitely be reading book two. Hopefully there will be super mutants.
Not much removed from the fallout universe. Which is not a bad thing. Will definitely be reading book two. Hopefully there will be super mutants.
December 15, 2023
I have read several Fallout knockoffs.
This is the first one that was good. It helps that it reminds me of New Vegas, the best game of the series.
This is the first one that was good. It helps that it reminds me of New Vegas, the best game of the series.
December 27, 2023
Great story
If you love Westerners and post apocalyptic stories, this is the book for you! Great pace, nice stories, great tie together. I look forward to the rest
If you love Westerners and post apocalyptic stories, this is the book for you! Great pace, nice stories, great tie together. I look forward to the rest
July 25, 2024
This was interesting. The western-esque, post-apocalyptic world was well-built. A very different type of litrpg.
December 4, 2024
Legally distinct fallout litrpg from a (deadmans) ghouls POV, if that didn't make you go buy it, we can't be friends.
May 21, 2025
I like fun adventures with no overarching plot, so this book is just up my alley.
July 28, 2025
Could be a Fallout game
This book is fantastic! Felt like reading a Fallout series where the MC is a ghoul.
Definitely not fan fiction, it has it's own flavor of over the top American patriotism built into the System / LitRPG aspects. But if you like Fallout, lone ranger in a wasteland, couriers delivering packages on foot while fighting raiders and slavers, then you will find something to love in this book!
My only, minor, gripe is that some phrases were repeated frequently (i.e. the MC gets upset that leveling automatically consumes Patriot Points leaving him short on that universal currency [which he never even attempts to use while in a town]). The phrases are worded almost identically to the point I felt the author wrote it down somewhere cause they like the verbiage/cadence to make sure they use it then used it in 4 different places. Still, this very minor pet peeve best i could do for a Con, and there's a lot more in the Pro column!
This author is one of my new favorites and I'll definitely be picking up the sequel (right now!).
This book is fantastic! Felt like reading a Fallout series where the MC is a ghoul.
Definitely not fan fiction, it has it's own flavor of over the top American patriotism built into the System / LitRPG aspects. But if you like Fallout, lone ranger in a wasteland, couriers delivering packages on foot while fighting raiders and slavers, then you will find something to love in this book!
My only, minor, gripe is that some phrases were repeated frequently (i.e. the MC gets upset that leveling automatically consumes Patriot Points leaving him short on that universal currency [which he never even attempts to use while in a town]). The phrases are worded almost identically to the point I felt the author wrote it down somewhere cause they like the verbiage/cadence to make sure they use it then used it in 4 different places. Still, this very minor pet peeve best i could do for a Con, and there's a lot more in the Pro column!
This author is one of my new favorites and I'll definitely be picking up the sequel (right now!).
February 8, 2024
Just your run of the mill post-apocalyptic Zombie Western LitRPG.
November 17, 2023
Great take on Apocalypse-System novels. Looking forward to the next book.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews