Dungeon Runners - Level 1: De grot

Dungeon Runners #1

by Kieran Larwood, Niels van Eekelen (Translator)

Het Dungeon Runners-toernooi begint in drie, twee, een...

Kit droomt al jaren van een kans om mee te doen aan de Dungeon Running Leagues: een gevaarlijke wedstrijd tussen teams van de sterkste en beste strijders. Maar er is één probleem: Kit is als Gnorf (half-kabouter, half-dwerg) een stuk kleiner dan de gemiddelde deelnemer.

Als er na een dodelijk incident een plek vrijkomt, ruikt Kit zijn kans. Hij gaat op zoek naar goede teamgenoten, maar komt uiteindelijk uit bij Sandy en Thorn, net als hij niet de meest voor de hand liggende deelnemers aan deze strijd. Toch hopen ze een plek in de League te veroveren. In een race langs boobytraps, hindernissen, puzzels en veel, véél grotere tegenstanders zal het trio moeten bewijzen dat vastberadenheid en moed zwaarder wegen dan brute kracht.

Genres: Fantasy, Middle Grade, Adventure, Childrens, Fiction, Magic, Chapter Books

224 pages, Hardcover

Published September 10, 2024

About the author

Kieran Larwood is the author of Freaks, and was the winner of the Times/Chicken House Children’s Fiction Competition 2011.
Kieran is one of only two male Reception class teachers on the Isle of Wight.
His days mainly consist of singing nursery rhymes, tying shoelaces, trying to locate who has had an ‘accident’ by sense of smell alone, and vast, endless mountains of paperwork.
Kieran graduated from Southampton University with a degree in English, and also did a foundation year at Falmouth College of Art. Ever since he first read The Hobbit at age six, he has been passionate about stories and storytelling.
Kieran lives with his family on the Isle of Wight. It is his dream to write full time and leave the ‘accidents’ to someone else.

Reviews

[Spasticnontastic · Rating 3 out of 5]

Reads with the little

[Freya · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thank you Nosy Crow and NetGalley for providing me with this arc in exchange for my honest review.

This is an easy to read fantasy adventure for 7-9 year old kids.

The underdog becomes the hero and defeats the bully, which we see a lot in stories and I love it every time.

I also loved how many different fantasy creatures were used throughout the story and how even the smallest creatures made a difference.

But unfortunately there was a lot to dislike too. Especially the use of so many wrong values. Dishonesty (the supposed vegan vampire), cowardice, cheating,.. It just didn’t feel like the supposed heroic ending when they reached it by sneaking, hiding, not helping others and getting a lot of help from outsiders. And not listening to experienced elders and going into something without any preparation whatsoever and succeeding anyway is not what you want a kid to take away from a story.

An underwhelming story that didn’t feel quite right, about a young “boy” entering a competition with two new friends, trying to defeat a bully and his friends, who are entering the competition too. The competition being going into a monster filled dungeon with a maze, puzzles and a possible boss battle.

The way the wizard who created the dungeons, made it possible for fans to watch the competitions, was something I did love!

[Danie Ware · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kids’ books are an art form all of their own, and this one gets the tone exactly right. Besting bullies (without being a bully yourself), making friends (and taking care of them), facing fears, defeating expectations and winning against the odds. Beautifully done. Plus: monsters and a pet crab called Mister Pinchy. What’s not to love?

[Desislava · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun, fun, fun! Great read for middle grade readers and adults, ofc!

[Mehsi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book from Netgalley/the publisher in exchange of an honest review.


How could I resist this delightfully fun looking book? I do love a good fantasy book especially when it features monsters, dungeons.

In this delightful book we read about the Dungeon Running League! In which teams go to battle monsters (and often other teams) to get the most points, find treasure and win grand prizes and be the Dungeon Runner Champion. I mean, that already sounds like I want to be part of. I would absolutely LOVE to go through a dungeon. Well, at first let’s go for an easy one, but I definitely wouldn’t mind them getting harder and harder. Oh, and I love that teams were made of a Healer, Mage, Fighter. I wouldn’t mind being either of those three. Though Healer would be fun, but if I can be the kind of Healer that also kicks ass? Not just heals and stands there, but is also able to be a tank? YES!

Back to the book! When Kit learns that there is going to be a competition because a team in the Dungeon Runner League met their unfortunate end he immediately goes for it. And I love that. I mean the boy has zero people for his team. He is not the best fighter. But he is dedicated. He is motivated. He even runs to his grandpa (who is a champion) to tell him (which made me giggle because it was so cute). And I love how he doesn’t give up even when finding out that he needs to find team members. He just tried his best! And later on in the competition he showed that you don’t always need to have strength to be a great fighter. OK, it definitely helps (thankfully he does find an item later on), but also having friends on your side and being smart helps out a lot as well. You are just rooting for this little guy. Hope that his dreams will be coming true!

And I love his teammembers, Sandy (a mage who can mostly just do sandcastles with cute little flags) and her pet Mister Pinchy and then there is Thorn a vegan (or is he) vampire. I just love these two characters and I love how despite everything they tried their best in the competition. They were such great characters and I am just rooting for both of them. I cannot wait to see them grow to get even stronger. Even better.

The competition, the dungeon? It was just oodles of fun and I love the puzzles. OK, the start was a bit rough given things, but I loved how things continued and I was just cheering so hard. I love that we got to see some of the other teams as well. There are some interesting ones in this competition. Oh and the ending to it all? Fab!

Bonus points for the fun map at the beginning of the book! Always a big win for me in any book!

The illustrations were also a delight and I love how they really felt like a part of the story, telling the story at times. I love how the two presentators of the Dungeon Runner League (Dirk and Jenny) had their conversations and told us all about what was happening in the a Dungeon Run. Oh, and I love love the little character cards we got when we met a new character. With names, stats, and more.

I was NOT a fan of the bullying in this book. Seriously. I wouldn’t have minded winning over a rival, but this bullying just made me unhappy.

But all in all. I would highly recommend this book to all looking for a fun, magical, fantasy-filled ride. Full of dungeons, competitions, danger, and fun illustrations! Be sure to read it.

Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/

[Steff Fox · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kieran Larwood’s Hero Trial is an adorable, fun-filled adventure that’s perfect for middlegrade readers, especially those who love video games or Dungeons & Dragons. The story is fast-paced and lighthearted, making it an easy and entertaining read.

One of the highlights for me was the dynamic between Kit and his grandfather. Even though their interactions were brief, they added a heartwarming touch that I really appreciated. The team itself was another standout—none of them were particularly skilled at their roles, but watching them figure out creative (and sometimes lucky) ways to succeed was incredibly fun. Sandy’s struggles with magic despite being a mage, Thorn’s hilarious twist as a vegan vampire, and Kleeko’s sheer adorableness all made for a memorable group. Plus, Kleeko’s fellow gobrots stepping in to help with their win was incredibly fun.

The book definitely leans more on action and humor than deep character development, but that works well for its intended audience. The competition’s outcome did feel a bit deus ex machina; there were some real accomplishments in their trial, but luck played a big role in their victory. Still, the journey itself was entertaining enough that it didn’t take away from the overall enjoyment.

I also really loved the video game inspired elements, especially the character cards introducing new members of the cast as they arrived in the story. It gave the book an interactive, RPG-style charm that made it even more engaging. The artwork was beautiful and fun all throughout. Overall, Hero Trial is a simple but delightful read, perfect for young adventurers looking for humor, teamwork, and a little bit of chaos.

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Marybeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kit, a part gnome part dwarf would-be fighter, has dreamed of being a Dungeon Runner like his grandfather all his life. However, because of his size, the odds are stacked against him. When the opportunity for a new team to join the Dungeon Runners new televised season arises, Kit sees it as his chance to make his dreams come true. He just needs to find a mage and healer to form a team - enter Sandy (a want-to-be sea hag), her crab Pincher, and Thorn the vegetarian vampire. Though this unlikely team is small, through their wit, unique abilities, and teamwork, they prove that even the smallest of heroes can succeed.

HERO TRIAL is the perfect first instalment and fit for young fans of Dungeons and Dragons, RPGs, and adventure! It will surely have all readers rooting for Kit’s team of underdogs as they solve puzzles and best dungeon bosses. Looking forward to Kit, Sandy, and Thorn’s next adventure!

Thank you to NetGalley for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Sleepy Book Lover · Rating 5 out of 5]

A young gnorf (gnome/dwarf combo) enters the deadly Dungeon Trials to prove a point to his bully, and along with his friends, defies the odds to win.

I loved the main character, Kit, as he was so easy to root for. Along with his companions, Thorn the vegan vampire and Sandy the trainee sea-hag, they were the perfect team of underdogs. And, of course, I have to mention Kleeko, my favourite character!

I really enjoyed how the illustration added to the narrative (especially the mini character cards). I’d recommend this book for any pre-teen who loves adventure and hates bullies!

[Eliott · Rating 3 out of 5]

Hero Trial
Overall Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ (3/5) or 5.57/10 overall

Characters - 5

Atmosphere - 7

Writing - 6

Plot - 5

Intrigue - 6

Logic - 5

Enjoyment - 5

[Abigail · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute. Dungeon crawler Carl for people who aren’t allowed to say dammit

[Kirsty Carson · Rating 4 out of 5]

RTC

[R2 Ireland · Rating 4 out of 5]

LOVE IT!!!
I REEEEEEAAALLLYYY like Kleekoo.
Mr. Pinchy is like the Mooka of this series.

[Autumn · Rating 2 out of 5]

To be completely fair to this book, I am not its intended audience. I am reading this alongside my 7YO to encourage discussion about books.

That being said, this book was very shallow, and I’m not sure what messages it’s trying to send (or if the messages have been thought out). The bullied becomes the bully. Everyone seems to be classist while also being angry about being looked down on. No one learns any lessons, meaningful or otherwise. I like the idea - young hopefuls taking on a dangerous world - but I hope the next book takes a stance on morals and then tests the characters will to follow through.

I don’t have a review from my 7YO yet, but perhaps I’ll update with his.

[Timothy Burbage · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great story about coming together and overcoming challenges, all set in an interesting fantasy world.

I really liked this story. I liked how each character had to overcome something. I liked how they were underdogs. I really liked the fantasy world and the sport of Dungeon Running, including the announcers.

I also thought the art in this was great. I can't wait to get my hands on the 2nd one.

Also, Mr Pinchy is the best.

[Hannah Rials Jensen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A perfect fantasy for young readers with incredible illustrations by Joe Todd Stanton! Larwood uses his incredible skill for storytelling and narrative style for independent readers, and pairs it up with fun new magical creatures - story that’ll have you rooting for the underdogs in the dungeon running competition. Can’t wait for book 2!

[Mark Buxton · Rating 4 out of 5]

What worked:
Kit is an undersized monster with feelings of inferiority and proving himself. His best friend is a tiny gobrot called Kleekoo living in the walls of his home. Kit is overjoyed with the opportunity to become a Dungeon Runner until he realizes he doesn’t have many friends. He’s finally joined by an aspiring swamp witch who only knows one spell (making a tiny sand castle) and a vampire who’s become vegan (or is he?). That leaves Kit to be the Triple Trouble warrior even though he isn’t strong, has no fighting abilities, and must make his wooden sword and shield. Readers will root for this motley crew especially when they become the laughingstock of their competitors and the contest’s “television” hosts. The plot includes Kit’s neighborhood bully who makes enough appearances to be annoying. Kit and his new friends are able to persevere with teamwork highlighting their high cleverness scores.
The Dungeon Runner trial provides a taste of what readers will encounter as the series moves on. It’s set in a dark, damp, dingy dungeon with a maze of confusing hallways and doors. The characters don’t know if the next turn will lead to a deadly creature, dangerous challenge, treasure, or janitor’s closet. The Hero Trial arises after a team in the Master League is eaten by a dragon, highlighting the very real dangers. Kit doesn’t know if the other competitors might try sabotaging his team or if they could become allies. Triple Trouble tries navigating the tunnels logically but that doesn’t always work out as expected. Other characters can view the action on a show hosted by Jenna the Giant and Dirk the Orc. These characters provide contest information and reflect changing attitudes toward Kit and his teammates.
What didn’t work as well:
The plot is simple to follow and readers shouldn’t expect much character and plot development. Cursory backstories are shared but only enough to establish the current problem. However, the simplicity makes it excellent for emerging readers and those looking for an easy, fun adventure.
The final verdict:
This book is best for mid-elementary readers as it’s fast-paced and includes black-and-white illustrations to enhance the story. The unlikely heroes are an odd mix of likeable creatures who join together searching for glory and respect. Overall, many young readers will enjoy this entertaining story and I recommend you give it a shot.

[Дарина Димитрова · Rating 5 out of 5]

🧌“Dungeons runners: Ниво 1. Изпитанието на героя” - Кийрън Ларуд, Джа Тод-Стантън🧌
“Не познавам никого, осъзна момчето. Нямам нито един истински приятел. Със сигурност не и такъв, който би рискувал живота си, като търчи с мен из пълно с чудовища подземие.”
🧌 Кит е малко момче - гнудже - , което следи от години турнирите по Дънджън Рън, а една не толкова щастлива случайност ще му предостави невероятната и безумно опасна възможност, да се превърне и в участник в тях. Само че Кит няма отбор, а очевидно - и приятели, които да превърне в такъв. Дядото на момчето е бил признат състезател и победител в игрите, но днес е обикновен старец, който може и да не е напълно с всичкия си.
🧌 Книгата е очарователна и приключенска история, която превежда читателя през изпитанията, на които са подложени героите. Битките са опасни, а понякога и на живот и смърт. Героите се изправят пред лабиринти, загадки и чудовища в търсене на съкровища. Историята изобилства от магически създания - гнуджета, вампири, вещици. Подходяща е за деца над 7 годишна възраст до плюс безкрайност, очевидно. Текстът е изписан с едър шрифт и е в количество, което прави четенето лесно и приятно. Сюжетът е вълшебен, приключенски, интересен и поднесен с щипка сладък хумор. Изданието е оформено много красиво и впечатляващо от графична гледна точка, с множество илюстрации и картини.
🧌 Освен всичко казано дотук сред, страниците ще откриете история за приятелството, работата в екип, вярата и силата на духа, които правят възможна всяка победа. Дори когато си мъничък и нямаш специални умения или правилните оръжия, ако избереш вярната врата и човешкия подход, може би ще бъдеш победител. “Това да ти е за урок, Дърк. Никога не отписвай някого само защото е дребен.”
📚💜 Благодаря от сърце на любимите “Асеневци” за възможността да се срещна с магични създания и мъдри поуки, докато се наслаждавам на чудесно оформеното издание!
#dungeonrunners #adventure #bookreview

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[Mystic DreamClouds · Rating 5 out of 5]

Special thanks to the author(s), publisher, Goodreads and/or NetGalley for the review copy. All views and opinions expressed are honest and my own.

A delightful read filled with action, adventure, friendship and dungeons!

Our story revolves around Kit who dreams of becoming a Dungeon Runner. One day a spot opens up for a team to join the Dungeon Running League. Taking on the opportunity, Kit finds himself a team of three; a fighter, a healer and a mage. Alongside his new friends, Sandy and Thorn, Kit adventures forth to brave the dungeons!

The format of this book is very visual, both in the writing and presentation. The book is filled with illustrations supporting the story; whether it’s from a scene or an information card, they are smartly placed throughout. I loved how the book presented the conversations between the hosts for the Dungeon Running League and the darkened pages to imitate the dark dungeons. The writing was also descriptive but not overwhelming. It used simple yet precise words to describe the setting, emotions and the action.

The plot was fun! I didn’t imagine a book about dungeons to be so engaging. The writing style is captivating and I enjoyed how it relayed the characters’ personality through words. There are a lot of unexpected occurrences in the dungeon and I appreciated the representation of emotions throughout. The story is quite fast paced so there is always something happening, but it is also measured because key moments are highlighted to capture growth, progress and turning points.

Kit, Sandy and Thorn are realistic characters for their age. They were well built characters that balanced each other’s shortcomings to a certain degree. I enjoyed how they didn’t lose their childishness and remained somewhat innocent. I also enjoyed watching their friendship grow, including their trust with each other. It was heartwarming to say the least. Special mention to Kleekoo and Mister Pinchy who are absolutely adorable!

There is bullying in this book and although I’m not a fan of it, I think the book handles it well. It wasn’t the focal point of the story but it was the driving force to what occurs.

Overall, this was an enjoyable and fun read. I’m eagerly looking forward to reading the next addition in this series to see what adventure our friends will go on next.

Read more reviews @ Mystic's Review Shelf

[YSBR · Rating 4 out of 5]

This illustrated beginner chapter book is the first in a new fantasy adventure series, a mashup of Dungeons and Dragons meets The Hunger Games for younger audiences. The main characters are an aspiring fighter gnorf (gnome/dwarf) named Kit, Sandy a gnorf mage and future sea hag, and Thorn a vegan vampire healer. This team of misfits are the youngest in the Hero Trial, an open call for heroes hoping to join the popular, lucrative, and dangerous televised competition called Dungeon Runners. The competitors are trying to escape the dungeon first, but can also score points by finding treasure or defeating the dungeon boss. The story is a mix of magic, riddles, and emotional growth as the protagonists learn teamwork. There is some foreshadowing of the creative problem solving the kids use, like Sandy’s limited sandcastle magic being the perfect weapon against a jelly monster.

Todd-Stanton’s black and white illustrations vary from small inserts to full-page pictures. When the characters enter the dungeon, the book pages change to a black background with white text to convey the pitch black setting. In these chapters, the illustrations are contained in circles with fuzzy edges as if the reader has trained a flashlight on the characters! There are humorous depictions of the two sportscasters as talking heads with speech bubbles, quipping about the life-threatening challenges. The characters are introduced to readers with cards that have their picture, name, species, and skill. Dungeon Runners is a beginner chapter book with an epic adventure, weird fantasy creatures, and silly characters galore. Link to complete review: https://ysbookreviews.wordpress.com/2...

[Lady Of The Forest · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgalley and Nosy Crow for an early copy of this book in an exchange for an honest review.

First, I need to talk about the beautiful illustrations in this book. I really like the style of the illustrator and how many illustrations we get. They are super cute - Mister Pinchy and the hegdepigs namely. But also the jelly monster was really fun to see on page.

I also loved how interactive it felt. We have Jenna and Dirk who are represented by conversation bubbles and illustrations when they speak. And when our heroes enter the dark dungeon, the pages are suddenly black and the text white. Which is a very fun detail that immerses you into the story even more.

I really enjoyed our group of underdogs. Especially Thorn, who is a vegan vampire healer and Sandy a mage who knows only one spell. (And that spell summons sandcastles with cute flags!) Of course Sandy has a familiar - a tiny crab named Mister Pinchy. I love animal companions in fantasy and I've never read about a crab before. He does not speak which is a shame in my opinion, because talking animals make everything better.

Also, there are a lot of different fantasy races - traditional like elves and dwarves but also new like gnorfs and troggles. And there is a map of the world in the front and I really hope in future books we will explore more of the world. The map looks amazing, by the way.

This book gives of strong DnD and video game vibes, so if you want to introduce your children to fantasy, I would definitely reccomend picking this title up.

[Ville-Markus Nevalainen · Rating 2 out of 5]

A cutesy fantasy story to younger readers that like video games but which fails to really use its inspiration in any meaningful, or exciting, ways. Instead of Survivors or the Amazing Race, this fantasy world has Dungeon Runners, a show where parties of three race through a dungeon to collect points and win, all shown to us through magical bats that display what they see in magical rocks. Each party needs to have a fighter, a mage and a healer, and you gain points by finding the loot, killing the dungeon boss and escaping the dungeon.

This is a fantastic concept which many younger, and even some older!, readers and gamers could get excited over.

The thing is, though, it's not that funny or imaginative. Sure, there is a vegan vampire (or is he vegan???) and a mage who can only conjure sand castles, but if you are not hooting and hollering now, you won't be doing that later either as the presentation is not getting any funnier. I had hoped for either a more fully fleshed out "What if I could be the hero?" -type of story where you could live your favorite fantasy worlds through the characters and their adventures, or something parody-like, really go in for that silliness, but it does not accomplish either. The illustrations are a bit bland, too.

All in all, I enjoyed the concept and while it is inoffensive, it does not change the fact that it could have been something truly wonderous.

[Thistle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quick synopsis : A young boy sort of falls into a reality show-ish competition to enter the professional league of adventurers. He teams up with a mage (a sea hag to be, though all she can cast is a spell to make sand castles) and a vegan vampire healer who sometimes fails at being a vegan.

Brief opinion : A very cute story with a twist. There are many D&D-ish stories out there, but how many of them turn D&D into reality TV?

Plot : Kit is a gnorf (half gnome/half dwarf), and so he's very small. He's the target of the half orc/half troll bullies in town, and a confrontation twists Kit's arm into trying out for a position in the professional league of adventuring parties.

Problem is, he doesn't have a party.

A sea hag in training finds him, then she brings the (supposed) vegan vampire into the group, and the three can then take part in the trial.

Through the power of friendship and intelligence, their new party does quite well.

Writing/editing : Both were good. There were many sketch pictures in the story as well, which were quite nice.

What I Liked/What I Didn’t Like : The story was nice and a very quick read. I could have handled fewer pictures and more pages of text, but this was a book aimed at young readers.

Rating: 1-Hated / 2-Disliked / 3-Okay / 4-Liked / 5-Loved : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ½ - Liked a lot. I'll probably pick up book 2.

[Tiffani · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dungeon Runners isn't just a book; it's like a rollercoaster ride for readers of all ages! When I cracked it open with my son, it was like opening a treasure chest full of excitement and adventure. From the get-go, he was hooked, and honestly, so was I!

Together, we dove headfirst into dungeons, faced off against all sorts of crazy creatures, and cheered on Kit and his buddies like they were our own crew. With each turn of the page, my son's eyes lit up with pure joy, and I couldn't help but get swept away in the fun.

Kieran Larwood's storytelling is like magic, and Joe Todd-Stanton's illustrations? Let's just say they're like icing on the cake - totally awesome! Dungeon Runners quickly became an obsession in our house. My son couldn't wait for bedtime to read, and I'll admit, I was just as eager to see what happened next.

Dungeon Runners isn't just a book; it's a ticket to the coolest adventure ever. It's like a secret handshake between kids and their imaginations, sparking endless giggles and late-night whispers about what might happen next. Thanks, Kieran Larwood & Netgalley, for giving us a story that's as fun as it is unforgettable!

[Adriana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kit dreams of being a Dungeon Runner, but his small size makes people count him out and his classmates bully him. Until the day that an open competition gives him the chance to try out to become one. He just needs two other people to join with him. Enter a witch who doesn't know any spells and a vegan vampire, Sandy and Thorn, and they're ready to take on anything the maze and other competitors can throw at them.

This is very much a children's book for younger readers diving into chapter books or longer reads. Hence, the language is a little too simple at times compared to the usual fantasy books I read, but I like that it makes it super accessible for the readers it's obviously aimed at.

Overall, it's a fun little adventure with an adorable band of misfits doing their best and standing up for themselves. The messages are super positive and delivered in a way that doesn't feel preachy, which is a big plus when it comes to children's books.

Happy thanks to NetGalley and Nosy Crow Inc. for the fun rad!

[Nic · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shared this with my 6 year-old. We gobbled it up like two hungry troggles & read it over 3 or 4 nights after quite a lot of ‘just a few more pages’ & ‘just one more chapter’ requests!

Its a fab, fast-paced foray into fantasy for young ones and I am happy to see book 2 is to be released in Feb- we’ve aced the timing here!

When young gnorf, Kit, is challenged by a bully to try out for a place as a Dungeon Runner by taking part in a dangerous trial, he probably should have said no. Firmly. However, Kit is gritty and hates a bully, & so accepts the challenge against his better judgment.
How on earth will Kit save face & enter the trial? His stats are underwhelming and he hasn’t even got any team mates! Surely, pulling out of the trial is the least humiliating option?

I loved the large font and accessible vocabulary, which conveyed the genre but kept my kid’s interest. We also liked the interactive elements like the character trading cards and code-breaking. The illustrations are wonderful and work so well with the text.

[Takealookinsideabook · Rating 5 out of 5]

Firstly, a massive thank you to the publisher for sending me a proof copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!

Omg what a treat! The cover drew me in straight away but as soon as I started this story, I was HOOKED!
The main characters are so charming and likeable and I loved the world and the creatures! The whole thing reminded me of like a pokemon/digimon battle arena style game/story so it was quite nostalgic for me in that respect.

Absolutely loved this. If you enjoy magic, monsters and mystery then you need this book in your life! Perfect for readers of all ages who want to get lost in a new and vibrant world and maybe solve some puzzles along the way.

I need book 2 now please 👌🏻🥰

[Kaitlyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun, sweet little book that shows that believing in yourself can get you a long way. I liked how Team Triple Trouble worked well as a group and tried to push back against the stereotypes of there respective species by attempting the dungeon trial. I love that Kleekoo got to stand up to his bully after being physically assaulted at the beginning of the book. The illustrations were fun, and my favorite had to be the nearly full-page spread of the jelly monster. All-in-all this is a quick read for children who are interested in Dungeons & Dragons, but may not be old enough to actually be able to play.

Thank you to Nosy Crow and NetGalley for allowing me to read an ARC of this book.

[Phoe · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an absolute joy this is!

Always wanted to introduce your kids to Dungeons and Dragons at a child-friendly level?

Loved those RPG books?

Want something that packages this up with found family, humour, and a strong message about overcoming obstacles, building friendship, trusting yourself, and never discounting something or someone from how they appear?

Kieran Larwood is ON IT, and superb illustrator Joe Todd-Stanton is here to bring it to life with character art that is immensely appealing.

A short, snappy story, feel-good and filled with exciting puzzles that leaves you wanting more. And there WILL BE.

Perfect for children of all ages. I can see how this would appeal to the 6-12 range but also, to me, a fully grown adult

[Claire · Rating 5 out of 5]

New Kieran Larwood? Yes please! Already a huge fan of The Five Realms series I had high expectations for this and it did not disappoint!
Amazing characters forming a mini found family, D&D style quest styled like reality TV game show.
So much fun and heart, simple yet fully realised world building, underdogs showing everyone up, humour, high stakes and a journey of self belief.
The illustrations were gorgeous and really added to the narrative, a winning combo! Really looking forward to more from this new series.
Thanks to Nosy Crow and Netgalley for an arc all thoughts are my own and left voluntarily.

[Hayley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read and loved The Treekeepers and all of the Podkin series (to date), so I was very pleased to be able to read this one early (I already had it on pre-order). I loved the three, very different, main characters. So much adventure was packed into the story and I was really rooting for Kit and his friends throughout. This is definitely one that I’ll be reading with my Year 4s at work. Fantastic illustrations! I am looking forward to the next one in this series. Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers.