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Department of Dungeon Studies #1
Department of Dungeon Studies
Magic school isn't cheap. To be a Mage, he must work smart and learn fast.
Fate dealt Nox the Alchemist unfavorable cards, but he has learnt to compensate for his shortcomings with scholarly pursuits, tenacity, and sheer grit. Fortunately, for him Woodson University and their scouts are always seeking individuals with his work ethic.
The Department of Dungeon Studies sees the value of the mind and its ability to overcome all limitations. After all, they stripped the divine of their titles. The department turned gods into Dungeon Lords and their domains into Dungeons.
Now, the department can teach Nox how to use magic to stand strong in a broken world. It will give him the tools to achieve his ambitions and his limitations will force him to the forefront of arcane discovery.
Unfortunately, more immediate challenges await Nox, too. He lacks the means to pay the university’s ridiculous tuition. Only alchemy and smart business deals will earn him the hundreds of gold coins he needs.
Join Nox on his journey from Novice to Archmage in this Arcane Academy LitRPG series from J Pal, bestselling author of The Houndsman and They Called Me Mad. It features a unique magic system which involves cultivating a solar system in one's core, Detailed spell crafting and alchemy, Dungeon diving, arcane archery,a magic university setting and so much more.
Fate dealt Nox the Alchemist unfavorable cards, but he has learnt to compensate for his shortcomings with scholarly pursuits, tenacity, and sheer grit. Fortunately, for him Woodson University and their scouts are always seeking individuals with his work ethic.
The Department of Dungeon Studies sees the value of the mind and its ability to overcome all limitations. After all, they stripped the divine of their titles. The department turned gods into Dungeon Lords and their domains into Dungeons.
Now, the department can teach Nox how to use magic to stand strong in a broken world. It will give him the tools to achieve his ambitions and his limitations will force him to the forefront of arcane discovery.
Unfortunately, more immediate challenges await Nox, too. He lacks the means to pay the university’s ridiculous tuition. Only alchemy and smart business deals will earn him the hundreds of gold coins he needs.
Join Nox on his journey from Novice to Archmage in this Arcane Academy LitRPG series from J Pal, bestselling author of The Houndsman and They Called Me Mad. It features a unique magic system which involves cultivating a solar system in one's core, Detailed spell crafting and alchemy, Dungeon diving, arcane archery,a magic university setting and so much more.
634 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 30, 2024
454 people are currently reading
172 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
September 4, 2024
Unveiling the Mysteries of "Department of Dungeon Studies: A Magic Academy LitRPG" by J. Pal
In the realm of magical academia and LitRPG adventures, Department of Dungeon Studies by J. Pal emerges as a compelling addition, weaving a tapestry of enchantment, challenge, and self-discovery. Set within the hallowed halls of a magic academy, this novel transports readers into a world where the intricacies of dungeon exploration intersect with the rigors of academic pursuit.
Pal's narrative prowess shines through as they deftly navigate the complexities of character development and world-building. Protagonists are not merely vessels for the plot but individuals with depth, flaws, and aspirations, making their journey through the Department of Dungeon Studies all the more engaging. From novice spellcasters to seasoned adventurers, each character brings a unique perspective to the unfolding tale.
The heart of the novel lies in its exploration of the symbiotic relationship between magic and the mystical dungeons that dot the landscape. Pal expertly crafts these dungeons as dynamic entities, brimming with secrets, traps, and formidable adversaries. As protagonists delve deeper into these labyrinthine constructs, they are forced to confront not only external threats but also their own fears and limitations, resulting in moments of triumph and introspection.
Moreover, Department of Dungeon Studies stands out for its seamless integration of LitRPG elements. Through a clever blend of game mechanics and narrative immersion, Pal invites readers to partake in the protagonists' journey, experiencing victories and setbacks alongside them. From character progression to skill acquisition, every aspect of the LitRPG framework serves to enrich the storytelling experience, adding layers of depth and interactivity.
However, while Department of Dungeon Studies excels in many aspects, it is not without its shortcomings. Some may find the pacing occasionally uneven, with moments of intense action juxtaposed against slower, more introspective scenes. Additionally, certain plot threads may feel familiar to seasoned readers of the genre, echoing tropes and conventions present in other magical academy and LitRPG narratives.
In comparing Department of Dungeon Studies to its contemporaries, it becomes evident that Pal's work holds its own among the pantheon of magical academia and LitRPG literature. While it may share thematic similarities with other titles in the genre, its nuanced characters, immersive world-building, and seamless integration of LitRPG mechanics set it apart as a standout contribution to the genre.
In conclusion, Department of Dungeon Studies: A Magic Academy LitRPG is a captivating journey into a world where magic and mystery collide. With its richly drawn characters, evocative settings, and seamless blend of narrative and gameplay elements, J. Pal invites readers on an unforgettable adventure that will leave them eagerly anticipating the next installment. Whether you're a seasoned fan of the genre or a newcomer seeking an enthralling tale of magic and discovery, this novel promises an enchanting escape into realms unknown.
May 3, 2024
For the author
Really needs a proofreader. Errors are more or less consistent. I did flag one with Amazon as content error. Character names are frequently mismatched to events. Less frequently, so are locations, etcetera. There are several minor grammar faux pas. And a few repetitions within sentences. Most, if not all, should be easy to catch and fix.
I don't leave less than a five star review due to Amazon's draconian policies ~ unless a book is really, really, ridiculously bad. If I really can't do 5 stars, I don't rate or review, but at least the author gets paid for pages read? I didn't post this at Amazon, hoping Goodreads reviews aren't a factor. Also, no need for this to appear there if the problems are corrected.
No improvement in the second book? No future ratings or reviews. I'll assume the author doesn't care..
Really needs a proofreader. Errors are more or less consistent. I did flag one with Amazon as content error. Character names are frequently mismatched to events. Less frequently, so are locations, etcetera. There are several minor grammar faux pas. And a few repetitions within sentences. Most, if not all, should be easy to catch and fix.
I don't leave less than a five star review due to Amazon's draconian policies ~ unless a book is really, really, ridiculously bad. If I really can't do 5 stars, I don't rate or review, but at least the author gets paid for pages read? I didn't post this at Amazon, hoping Goodreads reviews aren't a factor. Also, no need for this to appear there if the problems are corrected.
No improvement in the second book? No future ratings or reviews. I'll assume the author doesn't care..
May 15, 2024
Good academy story, with a nice twist and great world building.
Recommend this of you like school stories, dungeon diving stories or gamelit.
Recommend this of you like school stories, dungeon diving stories or gamelit.
December 26, 2024
Strong world building
Considering we were sitting up a whole new type of magic, I can't complain how much went into explaining magic, but it was definitely a lot. However, it was fun, and the adventures in between were pretty interesting.
I think the next book, where we don't have to establish the world as much, will be twice as fun.
Considering we were sitting up a whole new type of magic, I can't complain how much went into explaining magic, but it was definitely a lot. However, it was fun, and the adventures in between were pretty interesting.
I think the next book, where we don't have to establish the world as much, will be twice as fun.
May 19, 2024
Book one
Are you interested in reading a book that seems to have not been edited?
Are you the type of person that likes looking for the mistakes in a book?
If you have answered yes to either of those questions then look no further! This is a book for you!
J Pal has good ideas for storytelling, it's the complete lack of a competent editor that tanks his books for me.
There was one glaringly bright plot hole to go along with all the other mistakes. You have a six year old child dragging the bodies of his very dead father and almost dead six year old female friend. He would have had trouble moving the other child much less the body of his father.
You can check Goodreads for my list of mistakes that I found.
The story was actually pretty interesting and so was the magic system. However I was unable to really focus because mistakes kept pulling me out of my immersion.
3/10 For the love of books please get a real editor!
Are you interested in reading a book that seems to have not been edited?
Are you the type of person that likes looking for the mistakes in a book?
If you have answered yes to either of those questions then look no further! This is a book for you!
J Pal has good ideas for storytelling, it's the complete lack of a competent editor that tanks his books for me.
There was one glaringly bright plot hole to go along with all the other mistakes. You have a six year old child dragging the bodies of his very dead father and almost dead six year old female friend. He would have had trouble moving the other child much less the body of his father.
You can check Goodreads for my list of mistakes that I found.
The story was actually pretty interesting and so was the magic system. However I was unable to really focus because mistakes kept pulling me out of my immersion.
3/10 For the love of books please get a real editor!
June 25, 2024
good story
Good story but need editing. It seems like some words were used in error, they were spelled correctly, but don’t fit it. And there was some spelling errors.
Good story but need editing. It seems like some words were used in error, they were spelled correctly, but don’t fit it. And there was some spelling errors.
July 23, 2024
I have a feeling this is going to be a knockoff Harry Potter with litrpg mechanics. I'm also getting Mark of the Fool vibes from the blurb and title, along with a few other books I can't recall at the moment.
I just hope it's entertaining.
Okay, I'm a quarter way through this book, and something was nagging the back of my head. Then it just hit me.
This was okay. I can see myself reading a sequel. Still don't like school being a plot point in books, still see that was lazy, but this was well written.
The planet and moon magics in your body was confusing. Author didn't really get into explanations on how the hell you get a planet or whatever, but that is okay. We don't need to know how everything works.
3/5 Stars
I just hope it's entertaining.
Okay, I'm a quarter way through this book, and something was nagging the back of my head. Then it just hit me.
This was okay. I can see myself reading a sequel. Still don't like school being a plot point in books, still see that was lazy, but this was well written.
The planet and moon magics in your body was confusing. Author didn't really get into explanations on how the hell you get a planet or whatever, but that is okay. We don't need to know how everything works.
3/5 Stars
Read
May 5, 2024Good story, perhaps with a little too much going on
Ok. This is my PS but I am putting it first as I enjoyed this book enough to preorder the sequel. Take what I write with that in mind.
I finished this book but thought about stopping a number of times. There are a lot of different elements going on and it became a little distracting for me. Between, being at a school, assassination attempts, monsters, rifts, dungeons, relationships, mentors being disinherited, parental abandonment and starting a business. I have read books about any one of these themes let alone all of them.
The last 1/3 of the book also had fairly frequent typos. More than I would expect, even from a self published book.
Having said that, most of the story elements are balanced, particularly the school scenes, so that a little action is just around the corner and the story continues.
The characters have flaws and not every interaction or behaviour is fully explained at first so there is a little bit of puzzle to work out. I liked that aspect.
Ok. This is my PS but I am putting it first as I enjoyed this book enough to preorder the sequel. Take what I write with that in mind.
I finished this book but thought about stopping a number of times. There are a lot of different elements going on and it became a little distracting for me. Between, being at a school, assassination attempts, monsters, rifts, dungeons, relationships, mentors being disinherited, parental abandonment and starting a business. I have read books about any one of these themes let alone all of them.
The last 1/3 of the book also had fairly frequent typos. More than I would expect, even from a self published book.
Having said that, most of the story elements are balanced, particularly the school scenes, so that a little action is just around the corner and the story continues.
The characters have flaws and not every interaction or behaviour is fully explained at first so there is a little bit of puzzle to work out. I liked that aspect.
January 13, 2025
5 Stars
Originally spotted this lil fella on Royalroad, but was so saddened when I realized I was limited to just the first few chapters… HOWEVER! With the recent development of Kindle Unlimited falling into my lap I’ve been profiting IMMENSELY and being able to scratch my LitRPG itch.
I love the magic system, I was terribly confused at the start and felt like I was rubbing two rocks together and I did eventually get a spark and figure it all out (which was much needed) I’m interested to hear more about their system of magic and see how Nox develops his own path.
I also loved seeing all the developments towards the end of the first book!! It tied up some loose ends while also opening the doors to plenty of other interesting plot points to explore, I’m looking forward to reading the rest of the series (a shame it’s not completed, but I pray one day it will be!)
Originally spotted this lil fella on Royalroad, but was so saddened when I realized I was limited to just the first few chapters… HOWEVER! With the recent development of Kindle Unlimited falling into my lap I’ve been profiting IMMENSELY and being able to scratch my LitRPG itch.
I love the magic system, I was terribly confused at the start and felt like I was rubbing two rocks together and I did eventually get a spark and figure it all out (which was much needed) I’m interested to hear more about their system of magic and see how Nox develops his own path.
I also loved seeing all the developments towards the end of the first book!! It tied up some loose ends while also opening the doors to plenty of other interesting plot points to explore, I’m looking forward to reading the rest of the series (a shame it’s not completed, but I pray one day it will be!)
May 6, 2024
I almost always enjoy reading a book by J Pal and listening to Eric Jason Martin's narration is always pleasurable. I loved this story it's like a Mage school and a slice-of-life adventure got married and made this fine story. But don't get me wrong there's plenty of action too. Where Nox and his very strange best friend Willin finally get the break they needed to get stronger, and both of 'em were accepted by a famous magic school, Woodson University... but they're not gonna be walkin' down easy street either as they need to find a way to make enough money to pay the exorbitant tuition fees. And don't even get me started on the family, his brothers as they're out to get 'em.
Grab the book to find out what happens...Ohhhh where, oh where is book 2...
Grab the book to find out what happens...Ohhhh where, oh where is book 2...
May 26, 2024
Nox has been dealt a pretty cruddy hand most of his life but his invite to Woodson University make things look better but with a fuller than most course load he is busy however only his first semester is paid for, so in what little time he has left he needs to earn money.
This book has magic, action, and suspense galore. The characters are fun, well most of them, and right for their role. This book is really good and the audio is awesome, I felt as though I was there cheering them on and taking some of the hits too. It is such a fun book if you like some fantasy with a smidge the reality of a kid trying to make his way thru school tossed in.
This book has magic, action, and suspense galore. The characters are fun, well most of them, and right for their role. This book is really good and the audio is awesome, I felt as though I was there cheering them on and taking some of the hits too. It is such a fun book if you like some fantasy with a smidge the reality of a kid trying to make his way thru school tossed in.
June 26, 2024
Fresh and original!
This book is a captivating blend of fantasy and academia, that is both ingenious and immersive. Set in a world where dungeons are not just mysterious constructs but integral parts of societal structure, this book delves into uncharted territory with finesse.
At the heart of the book is a meticulously crafted plot, which balances intricate world-building with compelling narrative arcs. The concept of a Department dedicated to studying dungeons is original and thought-provoking, offering a fresh perspective on the genre.
Whether you love fantasy literature or simply appreciate a well-crafted narrative, this book is sure to be a hit.
This book is a captivating blend of fantasy and academia, that is both ingenious and immersive. Set in a world where dungeons are not just mysterious constructs but integral parts of societal structure, this book delves into uncharted territory with finesse.
At the heart of the book is a meticulously crafted plot, which balances intricate world-building with compelling narrative arcs. The concept of a Department dedicated to studying dungeons is original and thought-provoking, offering a fresh perspective on the genre.
Whether you love fantasy literature or simply appreciate a well-crafted narrative, this book is sure to be a hit.
July 25, 2024
At first, I was not enjoying this story, it was very confusing to me and I almost gave up on it. However, as I got deeper into the story, around the time when Nox and Lillin started their classes with the Department of Dungeon Studies at Woodson University, I was really starting to enjoy it. I love Nox’s ambition after all the setbacks in his life since he was six years old. I also enjoyed his monster companion that had been with him since a dungeon experience with his father when Nox was six resulted in his father’s death and introduced Nox to Lillin. I especially love how well they worked together, even if it began with a contract.
June 9, 2024
Five Stars, If The Author Re-Edits To Fix The Grammar Errors.
An interest variant on the typical magic/cultivation cores for magic users plays an important role in this novel. The main characters are well developed, complex, and often flawed individuals moving through p!it lines which are just as intricate as the characters themselves.
Were it not for numerous grammatical and punctuation errors I would give this book a five star review. Hopefully the author corrects the errors in a new edition.
An interest variant on the typical magic/cultivation cores for magic users plays an important role in this novel. The main characters are well developed, complex, and often flawed individuals moving through p!it lines which are just as intricate as the characters themselves.
Were it not for numerous grammatical and punctuation errors I would give this book a five star review. Hopefully the author corrects the errors in a new edition.
July 10, 2024
A Magic Academy (Department of Dungeon Studies #1) by J. Pal
A Magic Academy is a fun academy story, with an interesting dungeon diving prep school where Dungeon Divers learn their skills and get licensed to dive. It's a very interesting world and felt pretty unique.
Nox, our hero who wants to be an alchemist and is great at creating potions, has been accepted, along with his childhood best friend, to the famous magic school, Woodson University. Anxious to get away from his vile step family and indifferent Queen Mother (who has basically disowned him), he's off to the academy.
There's a lot going on at Woodson, students are disappearing. His step brother is out to kill him and more. I liked that Nox is not an overpowered MC. He's even a little overconfident. Overall, I enjoyed it and will read the next.
I listened to the audiobook, so I didn't notice any typos.
A Magic Academy is a fun academy story, with an interesting dungeon diving prep school where Dungeon Divers learn their skills and get licensed to dive. It's a very interesting world and felt pretty unique.
Nox, our hero who wants to be an alchemist and is great at creating potions, has been accepted, along with his childhood best friend, to the famous magic school, Woodson University. Anxious to get away from his vile step family and indifferent Queen Mother (who has basically disowned him), he's off to the academy.
There's a lot going on at Woodson, students are disappearing. His step brother is out to kill him and more. I liked that Nox is not an overpowered MC. He's even a little overconfident. Overall, I enjoyed it and will read the next.
I listened to the audiobook, so I didn't notice any typos.
June 22, 2024
Not for me
I didn't like joining the world halfway into the plot line. I didn't know jargon, the world, the mechanics of society, etc. The Queen has abandoned her blood son because at 6 years old, he basically asked his dad to leave the safe island and because of his mistake he's basically disinherited. This knowledge starts the novel as the mc basically says he wants to leave as well. The concept just didn't gel for me and I couldn't anchor to the story enough to finish
I didn't like joining the world halfway into the plot line. I didn't know jargon, the world, the mechanics of society, etc. The Queen has abandoned her blood son because at 6 years old, he basically asked his dad to leave the safe island and because of his mistake he's basically disinherited. This knowledge starts the novel as the mc basically says he wants to leave as well. The concept just didn't gel for me and I couldn't anchor to the story enough to finish
June 24, 2024
very Intresting system and set up
Will say that the start of the book was a bit of a jarring in medias rest but was very artfully and succinctly caught the reader up to what has been happening and who the characters are.
The main back line troupes are a bit big standard (the politics and the magic university) but the core story remains very compelling and it in no way distracts from the sotory.
Will say that the start of the book was a bit of a jarring in medias rest but was very artfully and succinctly caught the reader up to what has been happening and who the characters are.
The main back line troupes are a bit big standard (the politics and the magic university) but the core story remains very compelling and it in no way distracts from the sotory.
May 6, 2024
interesting concept but could use some proofreading
The book had a very interesting take on the system layout and the story kept my attention. My only problem is that about halfway through the book there are frequent cases of the wrong name being used in reference to who is speaking.
The book had a very interesting take on the system layout and the story kept my attention. My only problem is that about halfway through the book there are frequent cases of the wrong name being used in reference to who is speaking.
May 9, 2024
Was ok
Ok book till 3/4 of way through when the writer or program called the mimic Anabelle instead of it's name, once is understandable but after more and paragraphs showed up like that then something is wrong with book or the program that is writing it, Kindle needs to investigate this!!
Ok book till 3/4 of way through when the writer or program called the mimic Anabelle instead of it's name, once is understandable but after more and paragraphs showed up like that then something is wrong with book or the program that is writing it, Kindle needs to investigate this!!
May 19, 2024
editing needed
Good concept, good characters, good plot, etc. The editing was lacking from the beginning, but things got much worse in the last quarter of the book. Words used look and sound close to what they should be, but they aren’t. Character names get mixed up. An editor is desperately needed, but promising author.
Good concept, good characters, good plot, etc. The editing was lacking from the beginning, but things got much worse in the last quarter of the book. Words used look and sound close to what they should be, but they aren’t. Character names get mixed up. An editor is desperately needed, but promising author.
May 23, 2024
kept me interested
I’ll agree with the criticisms of some confusion about the names with Lillin and Annabelle being swapped—sometimes to the point I didn’t know who was supposed to be in the scene.
But characters, works, and plot were on point for me. Will be reading the next one.
I’ll agree with the criticisms of some confusion about the names with Lillin and Annabelle being swapped—sometimes to the point I didn’t know who was supposed to be in the scene.
But characters, works, and plot were on point for me. Will be reading the next one.
June 14, 2024
Generally pretty good.
I'm not sure how to feel about the MC and his childhood friend. I'm not sure they count as shades of grey or just straight up black. My main issue with the book is that upon learning of their questionable backgrounds their friends accept them much too readily, which stretches limits of my suspension of disbelief.
I'm not sure how to feel about the MC and his childhood friend. I'm not sure they count as shades of grey or just straight up black. My main issue with the book is that upon learning of their questionable backgrounds their friends accept them much too readily, which stretches limits of my suspension of disbelief.
June 19, 2024
A fantastic mix
This has just about everything with the exception of base building but there's potential for that down the road.
Unique magic system and enjoyable characters. World building is okay if not great.
It's a decent length story has character driven storyline and both long and short storylines with some good curves.
This has just about everything with the exception of base building but there's potential for that down the road.
Unique magic system and enjoyable characters. World building is okay if not great.
It's a decent length story has character driven storyline and both long and short storylines with some good curves.
February 20, 2025
A lot of fun
I really enjoyed this book’s characters, setting, plot, and pacing. The magic system is original and deep, and I’m interested in seeing how it evolves as the series progresses. I would have given this book 5 stars if it had been edited better. As it is, there were just too many typos and other obvious problems that an editor would’ve fixed.
I really enjoyed this book’s characters, setting, plot, and pacing. The magic system is original and deep, and I’m interested in seeing how it evolves as the series progresses. I would have given this book 5 stars if it had been edited better. As it is, there were just too many typos and other obvious problems that an editor would’ve fixed.
May 7, 2024
I really liked this one. Some of the events and pacing felt a bit off towards the beginning but the character development and world building were slow and steady. I love seeing character progression and hope it continues in the next books.
May 21, 2024
Rather fun
Good epilogue I always love those. Having a mimic as a major character was fun and interesting. I've read other mimic books but none with the mimic evolved to this level.
Good epilogue I always love those. Having a mimic as a major character was fun and interesting. I've read other mimic books but none with the mimic evolved to this level.
June 9, 2024
On of the Best LitRPG books I’ve ever read
Totally awesome! Fantastic characters that you become attached to. Lots of action that isn’t fighting all the time. You will often find your heart beating fast as Nox finds his way through life.
Totally awesome! Fantastic characters that you become attached to. Lots of action that isn’t fighting all the time. You will often find your heart beating fast as Nox finds his way through life.
June 24, 2024
Nox flips between obnoxious, selfish arsehole and damaged but decent a bit too often for my liking. It’s an enjoyable, inventive story, but I couldn’t relax and enjoy it because I kept expecting him to backstab his buddies. Hopefully he won’t.
July 13, 2024
a different perspective
Rather happy with this find. Different world. Different culture but lots of loops. Some spelling mistakes but overall a different perspective. Dungeon bashing without the fixation on statistics.
Rather happy with this find. Different world. Different culture but lots of loops. Some spelling mistakes but overall a different perspective. Dungeon bashing without the fixation on statistics.
August 6, 2024
4 and 3/4 stars really
Mostly due to punctuation errors and a few edit issues that pulled me briefly from the story. With book 2 available I had to reread and enjoyed it just as much the second time.
Mostly due to punctuation errors and a few edit issues that pulled me briefly from the story. With book 2 available I had to reread and enjoyed it just as much the second time.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews