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Evoker
In a future built on beautiful illusions, there's nothing more dangerous than the truth.
The world has embraced the EVO, a neural chip that grants constant access to networks at a thought, and the ability to interact with reality through any filters imaginable. And for Michael Balder, it’s everything wrong with society. But when his older daughter goes missing, he has no choice but to wade into those frenetic shadows to find the clues hidden within the prototype game she left behind. Together with his younger daughter, they delve into a new world layered over their own, fighting for answers as the city quickly transforms into a monster-infested nightmare. And when a violent cabal emerges to steal the program, Michael discovers that he has strange new powers to fight back...magic. And the only way to win is to play...
The Dyrnwyn Strain is a new sci-fi/fantasy trilogy with litRPG elements, deep plot and character arcs, and a light dash of social commentary served over a break-neck adventure.
The world has embraced the EVO, a neural chip that grants constant access to networks at a thought, and the ability to interact with reality through any filters imaginable. And for Michael Balder, it’s everything wrong with society. But when his older daughter goes missing, he has no choice but to wade into those frenetic shadows to find the clues hidden within the prototype game she left behind. Together with his younger daughter, they delve into a new world layered over their own, fighting for answers as the city quickly transforms into a monster-infested nightmare. And when a violent cabal emerges to steal the program, Michael discovers that he has strange new powers to fight back...magic. And the only way to win is to play...
The Dyrnwyn Strain is a new sci-fi/fantasy trilogy with litRPG elements, deep plot and character arcs, and a light dash of social commentary served over a break-neck adventure.
323 pages, Unknown Binding
3 people are currently reading
75 people want to read
About the author
Josh Erikson
9 books179 followersJosh Erikson doesn't have any fancy credentials to tell you about here. He lives in rural Nebraska (US) with his wife and two children, where he mostly reads, writes, and reads about writing. His many awards and accolades include some beautiful photoshopped certificates he printed at home and a yo-yo trick contest he once won at a fun fair in a grocery store parking lot.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
May 10, 2025
4.0 Stars
This was an enjoyable sci fi thriller. The virtual reality obsessed future is hardly original but it's one I like because it feels so plausible. I am a sucker for a father trying to save his family so this one was very enjoyable and engrossing.
I would recommend this one to readers looking for an easy, compelling new sci fi novel with intrigue and an emotional tug.
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
This was an enjoyable sci fi thriller. The virtual reality obsessed future is hardly original but it's one I like because it feels so plausible. I am a sucker for a father trying to save his family so this one was very enjoyable and engrossing.
I would recommend this one to readers looking for an easy, compelling new sci fi novel with intrigue and an emotional tug.
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
April 4, 2025
3.5/5
Michael Balder isn’t a fan of the EVO system, a neural chip that lets people customize reality like a social media feed. But when his older daughter, Laine, goes missing, he and his younger daughter, Rhea, have no choice but to chase after her in virtual reality. Of course, it’s more complicated than that, but why would I spoil it for you?
The world turns into a digital nightmare, a shadowy cabal wants to break the system, and there’s magic.
I liked how Evoker balanced intense action, VR-fueled chaos, and the emotional weight of a family trying to stay together in impossible circumstances. The story takes its time setting things up, but once it gets going, it really gets going. Michael and Rhea tear through a city filled with digital horrors and bad guys, looking for clues and trying to survive. There’s lots of action, but Erikson never loses sight of the family drama.
While I generally enjoyed the ride, I found parts of the story predictable. It was always clear who’d be safe and that close calls would stay just that. I’m also not the biggest fan of LitRPG mechanics or the whole leveling-up concept. Erikson does it more subtly than most, so fans of the genre will probably like it, but it didn’t do much for me. So why did I read it? Simple - I liked Erikson’s previous work.
Anyway, if you’re into high-stakes adventures with heart, a bit of tech-driven paranoia, and some genuinely cool magic, Evoker is worth a read. Plus, Josh Erikson narrates the audiobook himself, and he’s really good at it!
Michael Balder isn’t a fan of the EVO system, a neural chip that lets people customize reality like a social media feed. But when his older daughter, Laine, goes missing, he and his younger daughter, Rhea, have no choice but to chase after her in virtual reality. Of course, it’s more complicated than that, but why would I spoil it for you?
The world turns into a digital nightmare, a shadowy cabal wants to break the system, and there’s magic.
I liked how Evoker balanced intense action, VR-fueled chaos, and the emotional weight of a family trying to stay together in impossible circumstances. The story takes its time setting things up, but once it gets going, it really gets going. Michael and Rhea tear through a city filled with digital horrors and bad guys, looking for clues and trying to survive. There’s lots of action, but Erikson never loses sight of the family drama.
While I generally enjoyed the ride, I found parts of the story predictable. It was always clear who’d be safe and that close calls would stay just that. I’m also not the biggest fan of LitRPG mechanics or the whole leveling-up concept. Erikson does it more subtly than most, so fans of the genre will probably like it, but it didn’t do much for me. So why did I read it? Simple - I liked Erikson’s previous work.
Anyway, if you’re into high-stakes adventures with heart, a bit of tech-driven paranoia, and some genuinely cool magic, Evoker is worth a read. Plus, Josh Erikson narrates the audiobook himself, and he’s really good at it!
April 20, 2025
I received a free e-copy through NetGalley and that did not affect my opinion or rating in any way.
First book of a series; Told 3rd person mostly from one person's POV; Good writing; Fast paced; Computer games meet real life; Father searching for his daughter (not kidnapped).
I enjoyed this book though at times I was breathless from too much excitement and also the tension of always being in game. There's no pause button, no save game for later and then go watch TV, no these poor characters are stuck in this game. But I'm getting ahead of myself.
The description of the book mentions the genre "LitRPG" which I first became aware of from GoodReads as some of my friends read books like that. I have not read a LitRPG book but I assume it's stories about people in RPG games. Not specific games like Final Fantasy but a generic dungeon crawler where you have a party of people who gain experience by beating monsters and level up, gain new abilities or magic spells, etc. Well there are aspects of that in this book but it's in the real world.
In this book everyone has an EVO, an implant in the brain that puts an overlay over your normal vision so that you don't see the bare walls of a cafe but see virtual pictures that can sometimes move, like a parrot outside on store. In real life you walk right through the parrot as if it were a hologram but it's something that you are seeing if you have your EVO turned on, which most people do.
The main POV character is the father of two adult girls, the older is a genius coder who abruptly goes missing. His younger daughter contacts him because she's worried and when they meet suddenly this program starts in the father's overlay saying "Welcome" and stuff like that. Unfortunately a group of violent bad guys are looking for the guy's older daughter stating that she stole some code from them and demanding that it be given back. The father puts up a hand to defend himself and his younger daughter when suddenly lightning comes out of his hands and strikes the bad guy. And the bad guy suddenly stops and seizes up as if he really had gotten struck by lightning. Thus begins the mad rush adventure of the father and younger daughter in a quest to find the older daughter.
They are given a map with a marker to head towards. But there's also skull markers out there and if they get in range of a skull, watch out. And of course there are also treasure chests with loot in them to help them defend themselves from the monsters. But as they are running through town and people are shouting "What game are you playing?!" as if they are just having fun and not running for their lives they notice that once in a while someone else can see what they see. Usually no one can see what's in your overlay vision unless you give them access so it's weird that suddenly this person sitting on a bench can suddenly see the monster.
The author does do a good job of pacing. It's not all run and gun (though they don't have guns, just magic). There's deep background about the guy's wife and mother of the two girls who died of cancer and how that negatively affected the whole family. The book is set several years after the death of the mother but the father is still mourning and we get occasional memories, flashbacks of scenes from the past. Although these are sad moments it's a nice break from running and fighting. You see when they get to a quest point there is a circle safe zone, so they can rest there for awhile.
And they are not only running from monsters but also the group of bad guys who want the code, and the police want them for questioning because a battle took place in the daughter's apartment.
I should stop before I give too much away. No spoilers. It was a fun read, though at times exhausting for my old brain. I'm sure young people will love it, especially gamers. I give it a solid 4 out of 5 stars.
First book of a series; Told 3rd person mostly from one person's POV; Good writing; Fast paced; Computer games meet real life; Father searching for his daughter (not kidnapped).
I enjoyed this book though at times I was breathless from too much excitement and also the tension of always being in game. There's no pause button, no save game for later and then go watch TV, no these poor characters are stuck in this game. But I'm getting ahead of myself.
The description of the book mentions the genre "LitRPG" which I first became aware of from GoodReads as some of my friends read books like that. I have not read a LitRPG book but I assume it's stories about people in RPG games. Not specific games like Final Fantasy but a generic dungeon crawler where you have a party of people who gain experience by beating monsters and level up, gain new abilities or magic spells, etc. Well there are aspects of that in this book but it's in the real world.
In this book everyone has an EVO, an implant in the brain that puts an overlay over your normal vision so that you don't see the bare walls of a cafe but see virtual pictures that can sometimes move, like a parrot outside on store. In real life you walk right through the parrot as if it were a hologram but it's something that you are seeing if you have your EVO turned on, which most people do.
The main POV character is the father of two adult girls, the older is a genius coder who abruptly goes missing. His younger daughter contacts him because she's worried and when they meet suddenly this program starts in the father's overlay saying "Welcome" and stuff like that. Unfortunately a group of violent bad guys are looking for the guy's older daughter stating that she stole some code from them and demanding that it be given back. The father puts up a hand to defend himself and his younger daughter when suddenly lightning comes out of his hands and strikes the bad guy. And the bad guy suddenly stops and seizes up as if he really had gotten struck by lightning. Thus begins the mad rush adventure of the father and younger daughter in a quest to find the older daughter.
They are given a map with a marker to head towards. But there's also skull markers out there and if they get in range of a skull, watch out. And of course there are also treasure chests with loot in them to help them defend themselves from the monsters. But as they are running through town and people are shouting "What game are you playing?!" as if they are just having fun and not running for their lives they notice that once in a while someone else can see what they see. Usually no one can see what's in your overlay vision unless you give them access so it's weird that suddenly this person sitting on a bench can suddenly see the monster.
The author does do a good job of pacing. It's not all run and gun (though they don't have guns, just magic). There's deep background about the guy's wife and mother of the two girls who died of cancer and how that negatively affected the whole family. The book is set several years after the death of the mother but the father is still mourning and we get occasional memories, flashbacks of scenes from the past. Although these are sad moments it's a nice break from running and fighting. You see when they get to a quest point there is a circle safe zone, so they can rest there for awhile.
And they are not only running from monsters but also the group of bad guys who want the code, and the police want them for questioning because a battle took place in the daughter's apartment.
I should stop before I give too much away. No spoilers. It was a fun read, though at times exhausting for my old brain. I'm sure young people will love it, especially gamers. I give it a solid 4 out of 5 stars.
February 9, 2025
I’m no stranger to Josh’s work, having read and deeply cherished his Ethereal Earth series. He is a writer of talent and integrity, and that much must be said upfront.
But this—this is something different. A slower burn, a meditation rather than a march. Part love letter, part warning, part social critique, this story does not simply unfold on the page—it unfurls in the heart, lingers in the mind. It wears the trappings of LitRPG and progression, yet transcends them, its true essence found not in mechanics but in emotion.
Spanning a single day, it forsakes grandiose advancement for something rawer, something real. A journey of grief, of loss, of quiet, aching transformation. It is a story that does not rush to entertain but rather demands to be felt. And because of that, I nearly set it aside more than once. Yet, something within these pages called me back—an insistence, a whisper of necessity.
Now, having turned the final page, I do not feel the familiar itch for a sequel, that hunger to know what happens next. Instead, there is a weight, a presence—something deeper, something unsettled, something almost spiritual.
I await the next book not eagerly, but anxiously, as though something will remain missing until it arrives.
5/5 stars—for a story that is not merely timely, but urgent, a tale the world needs before it becomes our truth.
But this—this is something different. A slower burn, a meditation rather than a march. Part love letter, part warning, part social critique, this story does not simply unfold on the page—it unfurls in the heart, lingers in the mind. It wears the trappings of LitRPG and progression, yet transcends them, its true essence found not in mechanics but in emotion.
Spanning a single day, it forsakes grandiose advancement for something rawer, something real. A journey of grief, of loss, of quiet, aching transformation. It is a story that does not rush to entertain but rather demands to be felt. And because of that, I nearly set it aside more than once. Yet, something within these pages called me back—an insistence, a whisper of necessity.
Now, having turned the final page, I do not feel the familiar itch for a sequel, that hunger to know what happens next. Instead, there is a weight, a presence—something deeper, something unsettled, something almost spiritual.
I await the next book not eagerly, but anxiously, as though something will remain missing until it arrives.
5/5 stars—for a story that is not merely timely, but urgent, a tale the world needs before it becomes our truth.
February 16, 2025
There are books you read slowly, a few pages or a chapter at a time, and there are books you don't put down until you look up from the last page. "Evoker" is from that second group. It rushes headlong into trouble and never slows down, careening from peril to heartbreak to peril at a relentless pace. Inventive and innovative- you won't be disappointed.
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.
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February 24, 2025DNF at page 50
May 6, 2025
Evoked is a really fun litRPG that reads like a super fast paced video. Erikson does a great laying the groundwork here for what should be a really fun sci-fi and litRPG series.
I liked a lot of the characters and found this to be a genuine page turner from a newer author who I’m excited to see more from.
If you like gameLit and/or litRPG I recommend picking up a copy of Evoker. I’m giving this a 4 but it’d probably rate higher if I liked the genre a bit more.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with ARC e-book
ARC provided by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op
4/5 ⭐️
I liked a lot of the characters and found this to be a genuine page turner from a newer author who I’m excited to see more from.
If you like gameLit and/or litRPG I recommend picking up a copy of Evoker. I’m giving this a 4 but it’d probably rate higher if I liked the genre a bit more.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with ARC e-book
ARC provided by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op
4/5 ⭐️
March 12, 2025
(4.0 Stars)
This is a promising start of a series. I thank @NetGalley (and the author) for making this audiobook available for me to read and review.
The book's description included a statement that it would be good for fans of Neuromancer and Ready Player One. While that might be accurate, since I am a "fan" of both those other works, I think this is a lot more like a LitRPG than a true CyberPunk like Neuromancer, and there are none of the pop-cultural references that make Ready Player One a true gem.
It is timely, given the current outrage aimed at the healthcare industry, but I think that is just coincidence. The major characters are done well and seem to be developing. They have motivation and seem to "learn" but there isn't much foresight given to the characters and much of the discovery happens after actions take place. The "world" is also like our own, but also more LitRPG than Cyber where Physics are more a suggestion than a rule.
The audiobook is expertly narrated by the author, so that is a really nice touch. The positives about this book are the story is interesting, it is written beautifully, and it makes you want to read more. The only real negatives are that outside of the characters being written about, the rest of the world isn't really part of the story, almost an afterthought. And that there aren't enough crumbs being dropped to let you anticipate future events before they are happening, which also seems to be how much of the LitRPG is written (with few exceptions).
This is a promising start of a series. I thank @NetGalley (and the author) for making this audiobook available for me to read and review.
The book's description included a statement that it would be good for fans of Neuromancer and Ready Player One. While that might be accurate, since I am a "fan" of both those other works, I think this is a lot more like a LitRPG than a true CyberPunk like Neuromancer, and there are none of the pop-cultural references that make Ready Player One a true gem.
It is timely, given the current outrage aimed at the healthcare industry, but I think that is just coincidence. The major characters are done well and seem to be developing. They have motivation and seem to "learn" but there isn't much foresight given to the characters and much of the discovery happens after actions take place. The "world" is also like our own, but also more LitRPG than Cyber where Physics are more a suggestion than a rule.
The audiobook is expertly narrated by the author, so that is a really nice touch. The positives about this book are the story is interesting, it is written beautifully, and it makes you want to read more. The only real negatives are that outside of the characters being written about, the rest of the world isn't really part of the story, almost an afterthought. And that there aren't enough crumbs being dropped to let you anticipate future events before they are happening, which also seems to be how much of the LitRPG is written (with few exceptions).
March 10, 2025
Josh continues to demonstrate his talent, building upon the strengths seen in his previous works. "Evoker" presents a unique experience, diverging from the more familiar progression fantasy tropes. While it initially felt like a slow burn, favoring introspection and emotional depth over rapid advancement, it ultimately proved to be a compelling meditation on grief and transformation.
The story unfolds with a deliberate pace, inviting the reader to truly feel the weight of its themes. This approach, while initially challenging, revealed a raw and honest narrative that lingers long after the final page. It's a story that demands to be felt, and while it may not satisfy the craving for immediate gratification, it offers a deeper, more resonant experience.
In contrast to the introspective moments, the book also delivers moments of intense action and inventive world-building. There are sections that truly grab your attention, propelling the narrative forward with a sense of urgency. The balance between these elements creates a dynamic reading experience, keeping you engaged throughout.
While the emotional depth and unique pacing might not appeal to every reader, "Evoker" offers a thoughtful and ultimately rewarding journey. It's a testament to the author's ability to craft stories that resonate on a deeper level, even if the initial approach requires patience. I find myself looking forward to seeing how these themes are further explored in future installments.
The story unfolds with a deliberate pace, inviting the reader to truly feel the weight of its themes. This approach, while initially challenging, revealed a raw and honest narrative that lingers long after the final page. It's a story that demands to be felt, and while it may not satisfy the craving for immediate gratification, it offers a deeper, more resonant experience.
In contrast to the introspective moments, the book also delivers moments of intense action and inventive world-building. There are sections that truly grab your attention, propelling the narrative forward with a sense of urgency. The balance between these elements creates a dynamic reading experience, keeping you engaged throughout.
While the emotional depth and unique pacing might not appeal to every reader, "Evoker" offers a thoughtful and ultimately rewarding journey. It's a testament to the author's ability to craft stories that resonate on a deeper level, even if the initial approach requires patience. I find myself looking forward to seeing how these themes are further explored in future installments.
March 13, 2025
*I edited this novel and received a free ARC of the final book, with no obligation to review at all. This review is unbiased and represents my own personal opinions.*
I already love Josh Erikson’s urban fantasy writing, but this novel is the first in a completely new series blending LitRPG and VR scifi with action-packed thriller, centred on a family dealing with bereavement and the challenges of moving from being a father and daughters to being a father and adult daughters.
Through the lens of a dystopian near-future, where adverts play out around you constantly and have become almost indistinguishable from what is real, we follow main character Michael Balder and his verge-of-adulthood younger daughter as they set off on a very personal quest to find their older daughter/older sister and find themselves drawn into a war for who controls our perceptions in which ‘virtual’ reality has become all too painfully real.
The plot is action-packed and bursting with adrenaline, as the pair run and fight their way through a city populated with monsters, fictional and corporate, using their new-found magic and the clues left to them, and trying to learn to work as a team of equals instead of a wounded family trying to protect what they have left of each other.
Absolutely genius from beginning to end, this book will have you reading on the edge of your seat and leave you desperate for the next instalment in the trilogy… coming 25th April 2025!
I already love Josh Erikson’s urban fantasy writing, but this novel is the first in a completely new series blending LitRPG and VR scifi with action-packed thriller, centred on a family dealing with bereavement and the challenges of moving from being a father and daughters to being a father and adult daughters.
Through the lens of a dystopian near-future, where adverts play out around you constantly and have become almost indistinguishable from what is real, we follow main character Michael Balder and his verge-of-adulthood younger daughter as they set off on a very personal quest to find their older daughter/older sister and find themselves drawn into a war for who controls our perceptions in which ‘virtual’ reality has become all too painfully real.
The plot is action-packed and bursting with adrenaline, as the pair run and fight their way through a city populated with monsters, fictional and corporate, using their new-found magic and the clues left to them, and trying to learn to work as a team of equals instead of a wounded family trying to protect what they have left of each other.
Absolutely genius from beginning to end, this book will have you reading on the edge of your seat and leave you desperate for the next instalment in the trilogy… coming 25th April 2025!
April 8, 2025
You know, I will be brutally honest, I don’t usually like to listen to books read by the author, most while they know the story be heart, they don’t really put their heart on reading, if you know what I mean… and I must say, I am really happy that I didn’t noticed this book would be read by the author, because I really enjoyed both the story and the audiobook, let me explain, the story is a bit like the inception movie meets the matrix with a twist of death note, without the need of writing a name in a journal and takes place in the real world, its really hard to explain, but its like our main character and his daughter are main players in a game and reality and fiction mixes in a very scary way… and I wont give spoilers, but I really enjoyed the story and even more the way Josh Erikson brought this story to life.
I don’t give this praise often, but I enjoyed this narration as much as I did with Connor Brannigan, this author just proved to me in this book that he really is a one man band, he alone brought to life all characters, even females, yeah and I enjoyed every minute of this narration.
Please grab a copy for yourself and listen to this audiobook, while the reading version must be as good as the audiobook, I advise you to get the full experience and listen to this read by the author! I find it very worthwhile.
Thank you Netgalley and Audio ARC provided by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, for the free AAC and this is my honest opinion.
I don’t give this praise often, but I enjoyed this narration as much as I did with Connor Brannigan, this author just proved to me in this book that he really is a one man band, he alone brought to life all characters, even females, yeah and I enjoyed every minute of this narration.
Please grab a copy for yourself and listen to this audiobook, while the reading version must be as good as the audiobook, I advise you to get the full experience and listen to this read by the author! I find it very worthwhile.
Thank you Netgalley and Audio ARC provided by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, for the free AAC and this is my honest opinion.
April 17, 2025
"Evoker" is Book 1 of The Dyrnwyn Strain, a fantasy trilogy by Josh Erikson. I really enjoyed this and couldn't put it down! It's very exciting and fast-paced.
Lainey and Rhea are sisters. Lainey is a computer programmer. She has disappeared, and Rhea gets worried and calls her father, Michael, for help. A prototype game program gets uploaded to the father's EVO (Embedded Virtual Optimesh), a neural chip that lets one see and play in virtual reality right in the brain.
People are hunting for this program and are willing to kill for it. Michael and Rhea are hunting for Lainey. As they search, Michael acquires magic skills and treasures provide physical weapons and defense. Monsters attack that must be dispelled. The monsters and magic seem to bring real pain, plus sounds, smells, and heat or cold. It's like you're in the game - litRPG, very well done.
The audiobook is read by the author, and he did an excellent job of it!
Characters - 5/5
Writing - 5/5
Plot - 5/5
Pacing - 4/5
Unputdownability - 5/5
Enjoyment - 5/5
Narration - 5/5
Cover - 4/5
Overall - 38/8 = 4 6/8 rounded up to 5 stars
If you like RPG games, you might enjoy this book. I can't wait to read the next two books in this series!!
Thank you to Netgalley, Victory Editing Netgalley Co-op., and Josh Erikson for providing this audiobook in exchange for my honest review!!
Lainey and Rhea are sisters. Lainey is a computer programmer. She has disappeared, and Rhea gets worried and calls her father, Michael, for help. A prototype game program gets uploaded to the father's EVO (Embedded Virtual Optimesh), a neural chip that lets one see and play in virtual reality right in the brain.
People are hunting for this program and are willing to kill for it. Michael and Rhea are hunting for Lainey. As they search, Michael acquires magic skills and treasures provide physical weapons and defense. Monsters attack that must be dispelled. The monsters and magic seem to bring real pain, plus sounds, smells, and heat or cold. It's like you're in the game - litRPG, very well done.
The audiobook is read by the author, and he did an excellent job of it!
Characters - 5/5
Writing - 5/5
Plot - 5/5
Pacing - 4/5
Unputdownability - 5/5
Enjoyment - 5/5
Narration - 5/5
Cover - 4/5
Overall - 38/8 = 4 6/8 rounded up to 5 stars
If you like RPG games, you might enjoy this book. I can't wait to read the next two books in this series!!
Thank you to Netgalley, Victory Editing Netgalley Co-op., and Josh Erikson for providing this audiobook in exchange for my honest review!!
April 21, 2025
Actual Rating 2.5
This work is set in a not-so-distant future where everyone has implanted chips to augment reality. I liked the concept, and it was incorporated well throughout the story. The story begins somewhat slowly, setting up a mystery, but then takes off into a lot of action scenes. Despite all the fighting, there was never any real tension because it was easy to tell that everyone would make it through just fine. While I don't mind LitRPG books, this one leaned so heavily into it that I felt like it detracted from time that could have been spent strengthening other aspects.
The characters were on the weaker side. I felt like the character with the most development was the one who barely got page time. However, I did like the family dynamics that were included, and thought that it added a strong aspect to the plot. The worldbuilding was also pretty weak.
This book does set up well for the sequel and I enjoyed the ending, but I don't think I'll continue the series. If you enjoy LitRPG books with light dystopian/sci-fi elements, then you may enjoy this one. My thanks to NetGalley and Victory Editing. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
This work is set in a not-so-distant future where everyone has implanted chips to augment reality. I liked the concept, and it was incorporated well throughout the story. The story begins somewhat slowly, setting up a mystery, but then takes off into a lot of action scenes. Despite all the fighting, there was never any real tension because it was easy to tell that everyone would make it through just fine. While I don't mind LitRPG books, this one leaned so heavily into it that I felt like it detracted from time that could have been spent strengthening other aspects.
The characters were on the weaker side. I felt like the character with the most development was the one who barely got page time. However, I did like the family dynamics that were included, and thought that it added a strong aspect to the plot. The worldbuilding was also pretty weak.
This book does set up well for the sequel and I enjoyed the ending, but I don't think I'll continue the series. If you enjoy LitRPG books with light dystopian/sci-fi elements, then you may enjoy this one. My thanks to NetGalley and Victory Editing. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
March 15, 2025
Evoker by Josh Erikson is a LitRPG that immediately pulls you in. Michael Balder and his daughter Rhea are yanked into a fast passed adventure to help Laine, Michael’s daughter thwart a scorched earth plot,
Laine discovers the eco political group Prometheus have downloaded a program so they can hijack and control the virtual reality program EVO that controls all aspects of life. She creates a virus called Dyrnwyn 1.0 in order to save the world from the Prometheus group, and it is up to Michael and Rhea to help Laine save the population.
I was able to read and listen to the book side by side. The writing was great, and suitable for all ages. Erikson also does a great job with the narration keeping the listener engaged and with the capability to provide unique voice for all characters. It was a great pleasure reading/listing to this book and I strongly recommend it.
Thank you, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ALC and eARC. All opinions are my own.
Rating: 4 Stars
Print Pub Date:
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#YarisBookNook
#netgalley
Laine discovers the eco political group Prometheus have downloaded a program so they can hijack and control the virtual reality program EVO that controls all aspects of life. She creates a virus called Dyrnwyn 1.0 in order to save the world from the Prometheus group, and it is up to Michael and Rhea to help Laine save the population.
I was able to read and listen to the book side by side. The writing was great, and suitable for all ages. Erikson also does a great job with the narration keeping the listener engaged and with the capability to provide unique voice for all characters. It was a great pleasure reading/listing to this book and I strongly recommend it.
Thank you, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ALC and eARC. All opinions are my own.
Rating: 4 Stars
Print Pub Date:
Tags:
#Evoker
#TheDyrnwynStrain
#JoshErikson
#YarisBookNook
#netgalley
July 1, 2025
First in a sci-fi series featuring father and daughter(s) against AI ads agencies.
The set up is a father struggling to support his daughters with differing personalities and approaches to life having to adapt to taking part in a very detailed and deadly game. He values art and individualityand his nuclear family is still mourning the loss of his talented, artistic wife. He is resisting taking part in the augmented, AI driven "enhancements" much of society has accepted as their "reality". There is a theme of reality and perception threaded throughout the book.
The adversaries seem to have many resources and even infiltrated law and enforcement agencies. Several action scenes and moral as well as practical dilemmas face the father and younger daughter seeking to understand and navigate the world the older daughter has created.
I would have awarded the full five stars if there had been a clearer and more satisfying resolution, but I felt left hanging somewhat as the story obviously will continue. I will look forward to hearing more of this tale.
I received a free advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The set up is a father struggling to support his daughters with differing personalities and approaches to life having to adapt to taking part in a very detailed and deadly game. He values art and individualityand his nuclear family is still mourning the loss of his talented, artistic wife. He is resisting taking part in the augmented, AI driven "enhancements" much of society has accepted as their "reality". There is a theme of reality and perception threaded throughout the book.
The adversaries seem to have many resources and even infiltrated law and enforcement agencies. Several action scenes and moral as well as practical dilemmas face the father and younger daughter seeking to understand and navigate the world the older daughter has created.
I would have awarded the full five stars if there had been a clearer and more satisfying resolution, but I felt left hanging somewhat as the story obviously will continue. I will look forward to hearing more of this tale.
I received a free advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 11, 2025
Evoker takes us on a day’s journey: sadness, stress, puzzles, and triumphs. A man who lost his wife and is saddled with crippling debt is trying to keep his head above water while shielding his two college-age daughters from the precariousness of their financial situation. But of course kids know what’s happening, and the eldest takes matters into her own hands. From this point, we are off on a roller-coaster of a virtual reality “game” of high stakes. It’s engaging and inventive. While the dad-as-hero is slow to give his daughters credit for their skills, he clearly believes he is putting their best interests first. It’s easy to root for this family. It’s a more grown-up version of Ready, Player One in terms of the gaming experience, with much higher stakes. I look forward to listening to the next two audiobooks in this trilogy. The author does an excellent job with the narration!
My thanks to the author, publisher, and #NetGalley for access to the audiobook of #Evoker for review purposes. It is now available, with the second (Revoker) due out in April 2025.
My thanks to the author, publisher, and #NetGalley for access to the audiobook of #Evoker for review purposes. It is now available, with the second (Revoker) due out in April 2025.
March 16, 2025
Evoker weaves a gripping, neon-lit labyrinth where tech and magic collide. Erikson crafts a sharp critique of corporate dystopia through Michael’s desperate quest, blending heart-pounding action with poignant family bonds. The EVO’s augmented reality is vividly immersive, though occasional info-dumps slow momentum. RPG elements add playful depth without overshadowing the emotional core, and Michael’s reluctant magic evolution feels earned. While some tropes lean familiar, the relentless pace and layered worldbuilding promise explosive potential for the trilogy. A smart, thrilling launchpad for fans of Ready Player One meets Shadowrun—where saving humanity starts with a father’s love. Can’t wait to read the rest of this series!
Thank you to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the audiobook ARC.
Thank you to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the audiobook ARC.
March 18, 2025
An exciting romp through a lit/rpg type sci-fi that centers around family bonds. I loved that Erikson chose a father/daughter protagonist team and made our hero a 47 yo dad who really loves and cares for his children, and who values his wife and her memory. For a sci-fi, it gave me really cozy feelings and I loved the concept of what could happen if we all wore chips in our bodies and how dangerous that has the power to be. I think the author handled the day to day interference of notices and "game prompts" in a realistic way and was just as annoyed as the protagonist when the pop-ups appeared. The audio version was read by the author and was very well done. I had a great time and enjoyed this read.
Thank you to NETGALLEY audio for providing me with a free copy for review.
Thank you to NETGALLEY audio for providing me with a free copy for review.
March 18, 2025
This is a solid start to a series and I was hooked right from the beginning. This one is reminiscent of books like Ready Player One so if you like that kind of book, this one will be a good one to pick up. When I first started this one I didn't realize it was a lit-rpg but I was fine with it as I have read these kinds of books before. I think this one would have been interesting if it were solely AI/robot based as well but this was still a good read.
The author also does the narration for this book and I think he does a great job with the voices and making them unique enough to follow along with.
Thank you NetGalley and Audio ARC provided by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for access to the ALC in exchange for an honest review.
The author also does the narration for this book and I think he does a great job with the voices and making them unique enough to follow along with.
Thank you NetGalley and Audio ARC provided by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for access to the ALC in exchange for an honest review.
March 15, 2025
3/5 ⭐️
Evoker is like Sci-Fi Pokemon Go with a chance your body thinks it’s being burned alive when Charmander shows up. Like a Ready Player One played out overlayed on top of the real world. Specifically as an idea it’s pretty interesting and makes for a fast paced adventure through metro streets. Unfortunately, the world and characters fell mostly flat for me, the most fleshed out character is one that is never actually on page; the world building is nearly nonexistent anywhere within. It reads more like the first act of a single novel than as the first book in a series. I will likely pick up the sequels in hopes there is a solid omnibus one day.
Evoker is like Sci-Fi Pokemon Go with a chance your body thinks it’s being burned alive when Charmander shows up. Like a Ready Player One played out overlayed on top of the real world. Specifically as an idea it’s pretty interesting and makes for a fast paced adventure through metro streets. Unfortunately, the world and characters fell mostly flat for me, the most fleshed out character is one that is never actually on page; the world building is nearly nonexistent anywhere within. It reads more like the first act of a single novel than as the first book in a series. I will likely pick up the sequels in hopes there is a solid omnibus one day.
March 16, 2025
The story follows a father burdened by grief and financial woes, striving to protect his daughters from their precarious situation. This familial struggle propels them into a virtual reality game with life-altering consequences, drawing comparisons to "Ready Player One" but with a more mature tone and elevated stakes. Josh Erikson has the perfect Audio voice for this genre, he adds a depth to the story that’s missed from the page. I’m really looking forward to the next 2 instalments of this trilogy!
April 1, 2025
Fast paced futuristic urban tech fantasy audiobook story. A story of possible retribution of big corporations chasing a buck with no regard. Eventually someone will fight back. A father is dropped into the middle of this major conspiracy along with his younger daughter, as they search for her sister in a world connected, bright and vibrant but now darkly deadly and real. Games are meant to be fun - not this one! But this audio story certainly is a rollercoaster thrill to enjoy. Thank you to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op and NetGalley for the audio ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.
April 12, 2025
Reminiscent of “The Last Thing He Told Me” and “Ready Player One,” this book was a fast-paced read about a father and his daughters navigating a tech-heavy and unexpectedly dangerous future. For a decidedly fun story, there were some extremely compelling observations on grief and loss. At times the author’s perspective on the societal risks of AI and augmented reality felt a bit heavy-handed when more immersive world-building might have led readers to the same conclusion on their own.
Note: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Note: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 16, 2025
This isn’t the type of book I typically read, but I heard about Josh’s work from an old high school friend who told me Josh had written some stuff. I was intrigued. So, I purchased the book and was caught. Great plot, great language, great imagination. The book became my “nighttime, get to sleep book.” Not boring, just a book I don’t need a highlighter for. I’ll be purchasing Josh’s other books. This was a great read!
February 21, 2025
An excellent first book in a series, looking forward to reading the next one.
June 11, 2025
Review to come
June 13, 2025
Review loading ………………….
Evoker follows the journey of Michael and his youngest daughter, Rhea, as they search for their missing loved one—Lainey, the oldest daughter and a highly skilled programmer. In a world heavily influenced by AI in the form of EVOs—implanted, immersive devices that make the virtual world a reality—Michael and Rhea enter a complex program created by Lainey herself.
Inside this all-too-real simulation, they must face off against virtual moppets, dangerous skulls, and a ferocious AI-generated dragon in order to level up and unlock new abilities. But Michael and Rhea soon realize the AI-generated enemies aren’t the only obstacles in their way—human threats begin to emerge as well.
Evoker was a fun read. I really connected with Michael, especially in moments where he craved real human connection, like when he just wanted to get a cup of coffee from an actual person. It made me think about how AI could impact even the simplest parts of daily life.
I didn’t get strong fatherly vibes from Michael, though. His dynamic with Rhea often felt more like a sibling or a close friend, which made their relationship feel a little off.
The concept of the EVO was intriguing and felt like something we could see in the far future, but I had a hard time visualizing how it actually functioned. It’s described as an implant, but the physical details—like whether it has a screen, uses holograms, or links directly to the brain—were pretty vague. A bit more clarity would’ve helped ground the tech in the story.
Lastly, for a published book, there were a lot of grammatical errors and misspellings that I couldn’t overlook—they pulled me out of the story at times.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Evoker follows the journey of Michael and his youngest daughter, Rhea, as they search for their missing loved one—Lainey, the oldest daughter and a highly skilled programmer. In a world heavily influenced by AI in the form of EVOs—implanted, immersive devices that make the virtual world a reality—Michael and Rhea enter a complex program created by Lainey herself.
Inside this all-too-real simulation, they must face off against virtual moppets, dangerous skulls, and a ferocious AI-generated dragon in order to level up and unlock new abilities. But Michael and Rhea soon realize the AI-generated enemies aren’t the only obstacles in their way—human threats begin to emerge as well.
Evoker was a fun read. I really connected with Michael, especially in moments where he craved real human connection, like when he just wanted to get a cup of coffee from an actual person. It made me think about how AI could impact even the simplest parts of daily life.
I didn’t get strong fatherly vibes from Michael, though. His dynamic with Rhea often felt more like a sibling or a close friend, which made their relationship feel a little off.
The concept of the EVO was intriguing and felt like something we could see in the far future, but I had a hard time visualizing how it actually functioned. It’s described as an implant, but the physical details—like whether it has a screen, uses holograms, or links directly to the brain—were pretty vague. A bit more clarity would’ve helped ground the tech in the story.
Lastly, for a published book, there were a lot of grammatical errors and misspellings that I couldn’t overlook—they pulled me out of the story at times.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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