What do you think?
Rate this book
Dead Tired
Dead Tired III
Every self-respecting lich has a few hundred phylacteries at a minimum, and Harold wants to check in on a few thousand of his. Rumors reach him that the vicious Mantis Queen has one of them. Naturally, she's at the other end of the region. It's just a casual stroll across the deserted and inhospitable Flaming Steppes. Inhospitable for the living, that is!
Fenfang Fang - the Limpet - is taking her job as Harold's very first warlock seriously. The ancient lich figures it's time for his protégé to learn the ins-and-outs of politics by ruling an entire city. Baby steps! Ruling the decrepit city of Yu Xiang looks easy enough. A mudhole at the ass-end of the Empire, ashen dirt that's nearly impossible to farm, waters filled with dangerous beasts, could it be any easier?
Of course, rumors reach the Jade Throne that a horrible Lich has taken over the city, and an army of conscripts and lessor cultivators is formed to uproot the great evil.
What fantastical sights will Harold see on his trip? Will Limpet be able to keep the city and her head from the army?
And the biggest question of all - Will Rem finally get to eat Alex?
Fenfang Fang - the Limpet - is taking her job as Harold's very first warlock seriously. The ancient lich figures it's time for his protégé to learn the ins-and-outs of politics by ruling an entire city. Baby steps! Ruling the decrepit city of Yu Xiang looks easy enough. A mudhole at the ass-end of the Empire, ashen dirt that's nearly impossible to farm, waters filled with dangerous beasts, could it be any easier?
Of course, rumors reach the Jade Throne that a horrible Lich has taken over the city, and an army of conscripts and lessor cultivators is formed to uproot the great evil.
What fantastical sights will Harold see on his trip? Will Limpet be able to keep the city and her head from the army?
And the biggest question of all - Will Rem finally get to eat Alex?
279 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 13, 2025
217 people are currently reading
89 people want to read
About the author
RavensDagger
54 books225 followersA bird that likes comfy and happy things, and also knives. Once ate a god’s eye and awakened the ability to see all that is good in the world. Known to steal shiny ideas and baubles. Currently forbidden from writing his own bios.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
February 20, 2025
This is third in a series where the books don't even have their own titles. Read in order.
So you kind of know what you are getting into with this one. Only, they separated the party. And you still have that PoV explosion carried over from the second book. And I found those two things compound in ways that made me a lot less interested in the story.
Watching Limpet run herself ragged solving everybody's issues and never learning to delegate (even though she was outright told to do so) made those sections painful. And having Har0ld off on his own with a new cast of hangers-on wasn't nearly as interesting as the group I had grown to appreciate.
So it was good. Three stars worth. And I don't regret reading this far. But am I really interested in the next (should a next be published)? Meh. We'll see. Right now, probably not...
A note about Chaste: No hint of shenanigans still. So this is pretty chaste.
So you kind of know what you are getting into with this one. Only, they separated the party. And you still have that PoV explosion carried over from the second book. And I found those two things compound in ways that made me a lot less interested in the story.
Watching Limpet run herself ragged solving everybody's issues and never learning to delegate (even though she was outright told to do so) made those sections painful. And having Har0ld off on his own with a new cast of hangers-on wasn't nearly as interesting as the group I had grown to appreciate.
So it was good. Three stars worth. And I don't regret reading this far. But am I really interested in the next (should a next be published)? Meh. We'll see. Right now, probably not...
A note about Chaste: No hint of shenanigans still. So this is pretty chaste.
May 10, 2025
These skeleton/undead puns still have me chuckling
June 23, 2025
What can I say? If you like the first two, you'll like this one. It's the same humor, it's the same bumbling, it's the same Harold.
Read the first two if you can handle Dad Jokes on the regular.
Read the first two if you can handle Dad Jokes on the regular.
May 11, 2025
Dead Tired III by RavensDagger
RavensDagger’s Dead Tired III continues the whimsical journey of Harold, the ancient lich, blending humor, satire, and a touch of adventure. This installment maintains the series' signature lighthearted tone while introducing new challenges and character developments.
"Every self-respecting lich has a few hundred phylacteries at a minimum, and Harold wants to check in on a few thousand of his."
Plot and World-Building
In this volume, Harold embarks on a quest across the Flaming Steppes to retrieve his phylacteries, rumored to be in the possession of the formidable Mantis Queen. Concurrently, his apprentice, Fenfang Fang—affectionately known as the Limpet—is tasked with governing the dilapidated city of Yu Xiang. The narrative oscillates between Harold's journey and Limpet's political endeavors, offering a dual perspective on the unfolding events.
Character Development
Harold remains the overpowered yet endearing protagonist, whose disdain for the current world's complexities adds a layer of humor. Limpet's evolution from a novice warlock to a city ruler showcases her growth and resilience. The supporting characters, including the ever-hungry Rem and the enigmatic Alex, add depth and variety to the story.
"Brilliant. Been waiting almost impatiently for this book and it wasn't a disappointment. Still was the great word play, love Harold but Alex, Limpet, Rem and Mem really add to the story as well." – Andrew Riley
Humor and Writing Style
The book is replete with puns, wordplay, and satirical takes on genre tropes. While some readers appreciate the humor, others find it overwhelming or repetitive. The writing style is consistent with the previous entries, maintaining a balance between narrative progression and comedic interludes.
"PUN-tastic! Haf picked this series on a whim, so glad I did. Really enjoyed it. The wordplay about this necromancer was humerus. Oho!" – Philipp Cruz
Comparison to Previous Installments
While Dead Tired III retains the charm of its predecessors, some readers note a shift in tone and pacing. The humor, though present, is perceived as less prominent, and the plot progression appears more stretched.
"In this series, an undead lich awakens in a world thousands of years later... For some reason he cut back a lot on both in this book and much of the enjoyment is gone." – Gary
Final Thoughts
Dead Tired III offers a continuation of Harold's adventures, filled with quirky characters and humorous scenarios. While it may not surpass the previous volumes in terms of novelty, it provides a satisfying read for fans of the series.
Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
Recommended for readers who enjoy lighthearted fantasy with a satirical edge.
May 27, 2025
Dead Tired 3 picks up exactly where the previous installment left off, following Harold, Alex, the Lympet Fenfen, and their quirky crew as they continue their unconventional quest for world domination. Much like its predecessors, this book is less about intricate plotting or deep emotional arcs and more about delivering a steady stream of absurd scenarios, deadpan humor, and low-stakes adventuring.
If you’ve read the first two books, you already know what you’re in for—Harold and his gang casually steamrolling through challenges with a mix of apathy and comedic charm. The tone is lighthearted, almost tongue-in-cheek, with the story often feeling like a parody of traditional epic fantasy and LitRPG tropes.
This isn’t the kind of book that demands intense focus or emotional investment. It thrives on being a breezy, comedic escape—perfect for when you’re in a reading slump or just want something fun and ridiculous. The slice-of-life pacing means there’s no real urgency, but that’s part of its charm. It’s like hanging out with a group of overpowered friends who never take anything too seriously.
If you’ve read the first two books, you already know what you’re in for—Harold and his gang casually steamrolling through challenges with a mix of apathy and comedic charm. The tone is lighthearted, almost tongue-in-cheek, with the story often feeling like a parody of traditional epic fantasy and LitRPG tropes.
This isn’t the kind of book that demands intense focus or emotional investment. It thrives on being a breezy, comedic escape—perfect for when you’re in a reading slump or just want something fun and ridiculous. The slice-of-life pacing means there’s no real urgency, but that’s part of its charm. It’s like hanging out with a group of overpowered friends who never take anything too seriously.
July 4, 2025
What in the necrotic name of narrative anarchy was THAT?!
Dead Tired III crashes through the crypt of logic with even more glorious chaos, zero regard for rules, and a pun density that should be legally concerning. By book three, I thought I’d be ready. I was wrong. Again.
You think you know where it’s going — and then it swerves, swan-dives, and cartwheels through pure undead absurdity. The characters? Doing whatever they want with zero chill. No consequences. No plan. Just vibes and vague threats of emotional growth.
Alex remains the blessedly exhausted maid-glue holding this skeletal mess together. Rem continues to weaponize decision-making like a raccoon with spell slots and zero impulse control. And the post-credit D&D scene? Worth the entire ride. I’ve never laughed so hard at one person’s magical chaos inducing another’s actual panic attack. Peak content.
Bony highlights:
- Puns that should be exorcised
- Plot twists from beyond the grave
- Surprisingly heartfelt chaos
- Dangerously snackable and easy to listen to
Final thoughts:
Don’t read in public unless you’re okay with cackling like a cryptkeeper.
Dead Tired III crashes through the crypt of logic with even more glorious chaos, zero regard for rules, and a pun density that should be legally concerning. By book three, I thought I’d be ready. I was wrong. Again.
You think you know where it’s going — and then it swerves, swan-dives, and cartwheels through pure undead absurdity. The characters? Doing whatever they want with zero chill. No consequences. No plan. Just vibes and vague threats of emotional growth.
Alex remains the blessedly exhausted maid-glue holding this skeletal mess together. Rem continues to weaponize decision-making like a raccoon with spell slots and zero impulse control. And the post-credit D&D scene? Worth the entire ride. I’ve never laughed so hard at one person’s magical chaos inducing another’s actual panic attack. Peak content.
Bony highlights:
- Puns that should be exorcised
- Plot twists from beyond the grave
- Surprisingly heartfelt chaos
- Dangerously snackable and easy to listen to
Final thoughts:
Don’t read in public unless you’re okay with cackling like a cryptkeeper.
May 3, 2025
I preordered the audio version on Audible and it did not disappoint! The cast really does a phenomenal job. This is the third book in the series and it did deliver. I enjoy the little quips from the characters and always laugh at the discussions of paperwork and beaurocracy. All those little details about the logistics of running a city. The word play is top tier imo. It was nice to see some character growth, especially for Fenfang. The only reason I gave this 4 stars instead of 5 is because the main characters were split up for most of the book and I would've loved to see them interact more directly with each other. It seems that much of Fenfang's arc in this novel is setting her up for something bigger in the next one, so I am eagerly awaiting the next installment and hoping she gets the spotlight! The only drawback to preordering books and listening when they come out is that you have to wait the maximum amount of time for the next one to come out, which is not the worst problem to have. This is a nice refresher to listen to between other reads. Don't forget- each of these books has a fun bonus chapter at the end!
May 28, 2025
This series is a good natured and light hearted series to read. I liked book three, but found myself with questions at the end of book two and I don't think those answers really come until book four (which hasn't been released yet). So from that angle, book three was more "fluff" to me .. I guess? Maybe the necessity of those plots won't be revealed until later in the series.
One answer I was hoping to see, or least see more progress on, is how the leveling system became broken. I was expecting to see Harold gauge the limpet a little more on her progress and start to have a theory on that problem by now.
Good read. Glad I read it. I'm also glad the band is back together by the end of the book. So I am hoping to see more real progress in the story arc in the next book or I may lose interest.
One answer I was hoping to see, or least see more progress on, is how the leveling system became broken. I was expecting to see Harold gauge the limpet a little more on her progress and start to have a theory on that problem by now.
Good read. Glad I read it. I'm also glad the band is back together by the end of the book. So I am hoping to see more real progress in the story arc in the next book or I may lose interest.
August 6, 2025
“Eldritch Blast is like the Prestidigitation of killing things.”
Love this quote as a D&D Warlock player.
I don’t feel like this book is as good as the first two. There are the usual amounts of puns and hijinx, it’s just all very separated. There are two simultaneously occurring plot points that intertwine regularly, but it can kind of feel like the reader is being taken out of one story abruptly and placed in the middle of another.
This one also suffers from a Frank Herbert kind of writing style that I don’t think was too present in the previous books where major events that occur happen off-page and the reader is left filling in the gaps with post-event context clues as opposed to just writing out the event that occurred.
The “skit” at the end of the book is incredible. I won’t spoil it, but it’s exceptional and how much I like this bit alone raises this from a 3-3.5 to a 4.
Love this quote as a D&D Warlock player.
I don’t feel like this book is as good as the first two. There are the usual amounts of puns and hijinx, it’s just all very separated. There are two simultaneously occurring plot points that intertwine regularly, but it can kind of feel like the reader is being taken out of one story abruptly and placed in the middle of another.
This one also suffers from a Frank Herbert kind of writing style that I don’t think was too present in the previous books where major events that occur happen off-page and the reader is left filling in the gaps with post-event context clues as opposed to just writing out the event that occurred.
The “skit” at the end of the book is incredible. I won’t spoil it, but it’s exceptional and how much I like this bit alone raises this from a 3-3.5 to a 4.
January 14, 2025
In this series, an undead lich awakens in a world thousands of years later, with an overall decrease in magical ability and culture but an increase in superpowered societies (obviously copied from various Manga worlds). The lich is superpowered, puts together a small team, and journeys to change back to a powered world.
The author was dealing with the overpowered nature of the main character by having the series be tongue in cheek, with lots of puns. For some reason he cut back a lot on both in this book and much of the enjoyment is gone.
The author was dealing with the overpowered nature of the main character by having the series be tongue in cheek, with lots of puns. For some reason he cut back a lot on both in this book and much of the enjoyment is gone.
December 16, 2025
As Limpet works out running a city, Harold accompanies Cinder to the Ashen Forrest. There her negotiates a alliance, meets with dwarves then takes on the Mantis Queen.
(Cinder is pretty much Shalltear.)
Limpet finds herself besieged, tho the necromancer Harold left to help her likes the idea. Long siege is best for the undead. Plus Harold sends the mantis girls to her...
Harold finds out what's going on with the Death Knights, then returns to the city to save them from the seige.
3.5 stars. Good story, feels very Overlord-ish, sadly lacks a ending.
(Cinder is pretty much Shalltear.)
Limpet finds herself besieged, tho the necromancer Harold left to help her likes the idea. Long siege is best for the undead. Plus Harold sends the mantis girls to her...
Harold finds out what's going on with the Death Knights, then returns to the city to save them from the seige.
3.5 stars. Good story, feels very Overlord-ish, sadly lacks a ending.
May 3, 2025
Punishing Puns and OP Magic
Harold is at it again continuing his trip into the new world of cultivators. More puns, more lessons for his student, a small army of angry mantises, and even more hidden allies. More of what made the first books fun all around.
SBT again with another engaging production as I can never get over how much better these full cast productions are. I'm looking forward to the next one.
Harold is at it again continuing his trip into the new world of cultivators. More puns, more lessons for his student, a small army of angry mantises, and even more hidden allies. More of what made the first books fun all around.
SBT again with another engaging production as I can never get over how much better these full cast productions are. I'm looking forward to the next one.
May 15, 2025
I received a copy in a give away and decided to grab the first 2 books and catch up. Well a week and half later finished all 3 in series so I burned through them.
Overall a puninfull read. The main character is too strong but made to fit in the story as being totally uninterested in anything the world normally is. I'll be waiting the next on the series. As always the SBT cast is great and and I always enjoy their productions.
Overall a puninfull read. The main character is too strong but made to fit in the story as being totally uninterested in anything the world normally is. I'll be waiting the next on the series. As always the SBT cast is great and and I always enjoy their productions.
January 23, 2025
Brilliant
Been waiting almost impatiently for this book and it wasn't a disappointment. Still was the great word play, love Harold but Alex, limpet, rem and mem really add to the story as well. I just hope there isn't going to be as long a wait for book 4. It you liked the other books or even the others other books like love crafted this defiantly won't disappoint.
Been waiting almost impatiently for this book and it wasn't a disappointment. Still was the great word play, love Harold but Alex, limpet, rem and mem really add to the story as well. I just hope there isn't going to be as long a wait for book 4. It you liked the other books or even the others other books like love crafted this defiantly won't disappoint.
March 4, 2025
Entertaining Read
Herald has set up the Limpet as leader of the conquered city. Meanwhile he sets out to recover more of his property. Battle, magic, and reconnection with powerful past supporters ensue. I like the action, humor, and telling of the story. I look forward to the next book.
Herald has set up the Limpet as leader of the conquered city. Meanwhile he sets out to recover more of his property. Battle, magic, and reconnection with powerful past supporters ensue. I like the action, humor, and telling of the story. I look forward to the next book.
March 14, 2025
The Punning Continues and War Begins—The Pun War Will Be Epic!
The "Dead Tired" series is a LitRPG which wields puns in a manner similar to the way Piers Anthony's "Xanth" series does. So if you like high fantasy settings with lots of humor and painfully pouncing puns, get started with _Dead Tired_ and start your journey with Harold, Alex, and Fenfang.
The "Dead Tired" series is a LitRPG which wields puns in a manner similar to the way Piers Anthony's "Xanth" series does. So if you like high fantasy settings with lots of humor and painfully pouncing puns, get started with _Dead Tired_ and start your journey with Harold, Alex, and Fenfang.
April 30, 2025
Harold still brings his A-game when it comes to puns and that is all that really matters… Alright, it isn’t. There is actually a lot more to the story than puns. The story was fun. I enjoyed the journey to check in on the phylactery. The Limpet is not my favorite character but her story does endear me to her more after this book.
May 6, 2025
I was so excited to continue Harold and the gangs adventure. The story as expected was super fun, very humorous, and certainly witty. Oh, the puns! They were brilliant! I sooooo enjoyed them! I had a stupid grin on my face throughout. I loved that the author showed more of the other characters. It made me adore them more.
As always, the SBT guys were awesome with the narration! Chef's kiss!
As always, the SBT guys were awesome with the narration! Chef's kiss!
June 27, 2025
I feel generous and will go with 4 stars, even if it is more of a 3.5.
Lighthearted, not too original but amusing, this is a good past time book but nothing else. I will be reading the fourth book whenever it is out, but if one is looking for deep and meaning in this story, there is none. just enough entertainment and that's fine.
Lighthearted, not too original but amusing, this is a good past time book but nothing else. I will be reading the fourth book whenever it is out, but if one is looking for deep and meaning in this story, there is none. just enough entertainment and that's fine.
December 21, 2025
Does this deserve 5 stars?
Well - the amazing thing is that I started to love those totally weird puns - no less by an undead necromancer!
- And I look forward to see how the story goes on.
A bit sad, that the Limpet could not get out of her (admittedly gigantic) Problem herself and needed Daddy, but then she really kept amazing me ...
Well - the amazing thing is that I started to love those totally weird puns - no less by an undead necromancer!
- And I look forward to see how the story goes on.
A bit sad, that the Limpet could not get out of her (admittedly gigantic) Problem herself and needed Daddy, but then she really kept amazing me ...
January 18, 2025
losing its shine
1 & 2 we’re excellent, 3… well it was ok, but in many ways quite boring as will happen when you take a chapters worth of story and stretch the damn thing!
Please, fix this.
1 & 2 we’re excellent, 3… well it was ok, but in many ways quite boring as will happen when you take a chapters worth of story and stretch the damn thing!
Please, fix this.
January 22, 2025
Each book better than the last!
I was happy when I saw that book 3 was out and happier still after reading it. Well written, full of silly puns, and enough random twists to keep you guessing. Can't wait for the next book!
I was happy when I saw that book 3 was out and happier still after reading it. Well written, full of silly puns, and enough random twists to keep you guessing. Can't wait for the next book!
March 4, 2025
Really like the writing style
Really like this author's writing style; They shift character perspectives but not too much, Build up good characters Including some minor ones, Made an interesting protagonist. My only complaint is that the series isn't done
Really like this author's writing style; They shift character perspectives but not too much, Build up good characters Including some minor ones, Made an interesting protagonist. My only complaint is that the series isn't done
May 4, 2025
So this was ok it was a bit of a shift from what it was before. The limpet log was an interesting way to keep her in the story but focus on other characters. Only thing that's a little bit draining is the almost over done puns other than that soild.
July 16, 2025
pun intended
I love Bone Daddy’s puns lol. I enjoyed the book nut a little bit too much time spent on traveling. One thing I’d like to see are spell descriptions that are used at least the first time it’s cast. So, when’s the next book on Limpet coming out?
I love Bone Daddy’s puns lol. I enjoyed the book nut a little bit too much time spent on traveling. One thing I’d like to see are spell descriptions that are used at least the first time it’s cast. So, when’s the next book on Limpet coming out?
November 23, 2025
Not enough charming character work - instead more action. Still too many stupid puns. Ending on a pun is a bad way to finish your book - especially when it's a pun that not everyone is going to get.
January 19, 2025
Fun read
I love the characters. Matches my sense of humor so well. Each character has a working personality. Well worth the time
I love the characters. Matches my sense of humor so well. Each character has a working personality. Well worth the time
January 29, 2025
Some interesting plot and world developments, but I would have liked more character focus (and fewer puns...).
February 1, 2025
PUN-tastic!
Haf picked this series on a whim, so glad I did. Really enjoyed it. The wordplay about this necromancer was humerus. Oho!
Haf picked this series on a whim, so glad I did. Really enjoyed it. The wordplay about this necromancer was humerus. Oho!
February 6, 2025
who’s that on the cover
Toke a few years but we finally got a scene with the Heavenly Emperor, and more bad jokes from the vile necromancer
Toke a few years but we finally got a scene with the Heavenly Emperor, and more bad jokes from the vile necromancer
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews