Apex: A Fantasy LitRPG Adventure: The Exlian Syndrome Series, Book 3

The Exlian Syndrome #3

by Seth Ring, Pavi Proczko (Narrator)

From bestselling LitRPG author Seth Ring—creator of the Titan series and Battle Mage Farmer —comes Apex , the third book in the epic new series of alien contact, fast-paced military action, and thrilling adventure.

Life comes at you fast, and no one knows that better than Mark Fields. In a few short months he’s gone from a lowly dishwasher to an empowered soldier, gained new powers and friends, and survived the deadly Exlian aliens in the wilderness.

And now, he’s a prisoner.

Framed for murder and thrown into the deadly Tomb, forgotten and alone—no master, no team, no friends save the enigmatic cat Mime—Mark can only rely on himself … and the strange voice that whispers inside him.

For it’s kill or be killed in the Tomb, and Mark must face both who he truly is, and who—or what—he’s willing to become in order to survive.

Genres: Fantasy, Science Fiction, Audiobook

Audible Audio

First published September 2, 2025

Reviews

[Melany · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was thoroughly impressed by this book! This isn't my go-to genre, but I dabble in it a bit. This book truly was fascinating and had me on the edge of my seat. The "hero" was intriguing and made for good twisty moments. I loved his character development even if he's going cold a bit more than I'd expect. This was quite action-packed and truly keeps you gripped. The narration was on point as well. All around a great SciFi read!

I received this book from NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing to read/review. All of the statements above are my true opinions after fully reading this book.

[E.A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. I had no idea how the author was going to work this book out but I loved what he did!

Yet another fun adventure with Mark through a totally new landscape. I felt like the characters were interesting and the setting/world was unique but also familiar enough to understand.

I’m already ready for the next book!

My rating: 5*

Thanks to NetGalley & the publisher for a gifted copy. All opinions are my own.

[JamesGB · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m generally a fan of Seth Ring’s work, but Apex genuinely impressed me. I was fortunate enough to receive an advanced reader copy (ARC), and as someone who usually consumes books via audio, the fact that I made time to sit and read this one says a lot about how much I’ve enjoyed the series so far.

What really stood out in Apex was the seamless narrative shift. The story takes the series in an unexpected yet entirely satisfying direction, while still advancing the overarching world-building and mystery elements in meaningful ways. That kind of pivot could easily derail a less confident writer, but here it feels natural, deliberate, and deeply engaging.

I honestly didn’t expect to enjoy this book as much as I did, but by the final page I was both impressed and fully hooked. I’m absolutely looking forward to the next instalment.

Highly recommended. I’ll be picking up the Audible version as soon as it’s available.

[Tony Hinde · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm worried about how cold-blooded our hero is becoming but there's no shortage of action and plenty of strength bumps to keep me happy.

[GaiusPrimus · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a huge improvement over book 2. It saved the series for me.

[Akshay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Apex (The Exlian Syndrome Series, #3) by Seth Ring

A brutal prison crucible that strips Mark down to his essence—Apex delivers visceral gladiatorial combat, relentless progression, and uncomfortable questions about monstrosity and humanity, though its self-contained prison arc sometimes feels disconnected from the broader narrative momentum established in earlier volumes.

Plot Summary and Structure:

Apex opens immediately after the devastating cliffhanger of Dark Dawn, with Mark Fields framed for murder, denied due process, and thrown into "the Tomb"—a nightmarish underground prison system for empowered individuals beneath New Emery. Stripped of his support network (master Abram, friends Noah and Skye, brother Joe), Mark faces a kill-or-be-killed environment where survival demands embracing the monstrous capabilities growing within him.

The Tomb operates as a multi-tiered hellscape: gladiatorial arenas where prisoners fight for entertainment and status; dangerous streets controlled by criminal factions; and shadowy human experimentation labs. Mark must navigate this brutal ecosystem while continuing his alchemical studies, developing new combat techniques, and confronting the increasingly alien nature of his transformation. Throughout, his enigmatic companion Mime remains his sole ally, revealing more of her mysterious powers when Mark's reserves run dry.

The narrative introduces colorful new characters—Joker, Mr. Robot, Winter Wolf, and the puppet-master figure Maestro—each representing different survival philosophies within the Tomb's hierarchy. The prison setting evokes Gladiator, The Rock, and Suicide Squad aesthetics, with Mark gradually earning respect and fear as the "Apex predator" the title suggests.

A controversial late-book development introduces prophecy elements positioning Mark as potential savior, which divides readers between those appreciating mythic resonance and those finding it clichéd. The book concludes with Mark's circumstances shifting again, providing relief from the prison setting while establishing new complications for future installments.

Character Development - Mark's Descent:

Apex's greatest achievement and most troubling aspect lies in Mark's psychological transformation. The shy, considerate dishwasher from Advent has evolved into someone uncomfortably comfortable with violence. Multiple reviewers note concern about Mark "becoming cold-blooded" and walking "down the path of a monster." The narrative doesn't shy from this darkness—Mark repeatedly acknowledges he "likes killing people" with minimal introspection beyond that recognition.

This character arc proves divisive. Some readers appreciate the unflinching portrayal of trauma's effects and the moral complexity of survival in impossible circumstances. Mark is not presented as a perfect hero with no flaws or struggles, and his evolution from wide-eyed naivete to grounded and complex feels believable and earned. The prison setting functions as a psychological crucible forcing Mark to confront both who he truly is, and who—or what—he's willing to become.

However, critics identify troubling passivity in Mark's self-examination. He barely gives a thought to what he might be; not being human anymore seems like a big deal, yet receives minimal attention. His lack of curiosity about his transformation, Mime's nature, or escape possibilities frustrates readers seeking proactive protagonist behavior. Mark appears content to accept circumstances and "roll with the punches" rather than actively investigating his situation.

The "I am a monster and thus I must fight alone" trope alienates readers preferring teamwork-based progression. One reviewer explicitly states difficulty sympathizing with "a killer protag" where "strength is more than punching through people." This represents fundamental tension between power-fantasy satisfaction and character likability.

Supporting Cast and Relationships:

The prison setting necessitates introducing an entirely new supporting cast while beloved characters from previous books remain absent for most of the narrative. Noah and Skye eventually appear, providing continuity, but Phoenix and Mark's brother Joe vanish from the story entirely. This shift proves jarring for readers invested in established relationships.

New characters receive mixed reception:

Joker and Winter Wolf generate interest, with readers hoping for expanded roles in future books
Maestro functions as a manipulative puppet-master with "plans within plans" positioning Mark as an unwilling chess piece
Mr. Robot and various prison denizens provide texture but limited depth

Mime continues scene-stealing whenever present, always has a trick up her sleeve, and saves Mark when his abilities fail. However, Mark's inexplicable lack of curiosity about her nature frustrates readers: Why isn't he more curious about Mime? She can clearly communicate well enough for questions, and his mana sight could reveal more.

Pacing and Structure:

Apex generates polarized responses regarding narrative flow. Enthusiasts describe nonstop action, tight pacing, and irresistible page-turning momentum. The book successfully balances combat sequences with Mark's continued alchemical studies and gradual power progression, creating satisfying rhythm between violence and development.

Critics counter that the prison arc feels like filler material or a side story rather than meaningful main-plot advancement. The repetitive structure—Mark adjusts to a prison section, establishes routine, then a sudden twist relocates him to a new section—creates an episodic quality lacking cumulative narrative momentum.

The book's self-contained nature proves both strength and limitation. Readers appreciating focused character study find satisfaction; those expecting series-wide plot advancement feel shortchanged. There is little progress toward longstanding mysteries: Joe's resistance movement, Defense Force corruption, and Mark's true nature remain largely untouched.

Progression Mechanics and Power Systems:

Mark undergoes substantial power growth throughout Apex, acquiring new abilities and refining existing techniques through constant combat. The progression satisfies genre expectations for incremental advancement and creative power application. However, the power system itself evolves in ways that concern some readers.

Mark transitions from fixed abilities to a versatile, mage-like mana usage system with spell patterns, prompting criticism that his toolkit may now feel excessively flexible or overpowered. While it expands narrative possibilities, it risks reducing tension created by earlier limitations.

The economic system within the Tomb similarly lacks coherence: prison credits exist until they suddenly don't, and the wealth Mark accumulates serves only for food and rent until those things are provided to him anyway. Such inconsistencies may reflect chaos within the Tomb—or loose planning.

Thematic Depth - Humanity vs. Monstrosity:

Apex's central question—what Mark is willing to become to survive—provides thematic weight distinguishing it from simple power fantasy. The narrative explores Mark's struggle to balance humanity with monstrous power. Despite being forced into horrific circumstances, he remains loyal to his friends and clings to a fading moral compass.

This moral complexity generates compelling tension. Mark functions as the inverse of Rorschach from Watchmen: instead of being trapped with dangerous criminals, they are trapped with him. Yet his lingering decency prevents total moral collapse—at least for now.

The late introduction of prophecy positioning Mark as potential savior adds mythic tone while risking cliché. Some see this as narrative expansion; others view it as unnecessary complication layered onto an already chaotic series structure.

Series Direction and Cohesion:

Apex crystallizes uncertainty about the series’ ultimate direction. Each book dramatically shifts setting, tone, and supporting cast while maintaining only Mark as constant. Advent was a military training narrative, Dark Dawn became wilderness survival, and Apex shifts to a prison-gladiator arc.

This structural fluidity proves either bold or frustrating depending on reader expectations. The series continues adding narrative threads—political conspiracies, Exlian mysteries, Mark's transformation—without resolving them. Whether these converge into a cohesive arc or remain scattered remains unclear.

Comparative Assessment:

Within the author's broader work, Apex represents a darker, more violent variation of the "good-hearted protagonist forced to adapt" formula. It shares structural DNA with progression fantasy works focused on training environments and incremental growth but leans further into moral ambiguity and psychological erosion.

Production Quality:

Audiobook narrator Pavi Proczko delivers strong and memorable performance, providing distinct voices and enhancing immersion. Minor stylistic choices may grate for some, but overall narration elevates the experience.

The prose remains accessible and engaging, though some editing inconsistencies and repeated phrasing give the impression of a slightly rushed production. These remain noticeable but not detrimental.

Apex functions as a successful self-contained prison arc delivering visceral action, satisfying progression, and uncomfortable character evolution. Mark's descent toward monstrosity provides compelling psychological drama even as his passivity and lack of curiosity frustrate readers seeking more proactive heroism. The book succeeds as gladiatorial power fantasy while raising questions about series cohesion and long-term narrative direction. For readers who value moment-to-moment adrenaline and character-focused brutality, it delivers strongly. For those seeking answers to overarching mysteries or a clearer sense of series trajectory, it may feel evasive despite its strengths. Three books in, the series remains entertaining but unfocused—both its greatest asset and limitation.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✩ (4/5) — Brutal, compelling, and uncomfortable, delivering exceptional gladiatorial action and power progression while raising concerns about protagonist passivity and series direction that prevent an unqualified recommendation.

[Laurie Magee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always expect a good story from Seth Ring but I have been really enjoying this series. I feel that this installment gave us more insight into Mark’s character when he is faced with what seems like an impossible situation. The background of the Tomb gives the reader the chance to delve a bit deeper into the nuances of Mark’s character and I really like that Mark is not presented as this perfect hero with no flaws or struggles. We definitely see some progression in the story line and I am dying to read the next book! As always, Mime is delightfully entertaining and I always want more of Mime. I received an ARC of this book for the very first time but I loved it enough to also purchase the audiobook for myself afterward!

[Gareth Otton · Rating 4 out of 5]

For the second time in 3 books, the story pushes aside the bulk of the story that has been told to this point to send the main character down yet another new path, continually opening up more new storylines without developing or closing off any of the others first.

In this book, Mark has been framed for murder and thrown into a mysterious underground prison. It's a place with a completely new societal structure to learn about, yet more new characters to develop, and yet more mysteries to uncover. In what is starting to drive me up the wall, Mark doesn't seem to care that he has been framed for murder, showing his usual idiotic lack of curiosity about why he is in such a situation, and instead just goes with the flow. Unfortunately, in this case, going with the flow means becoming a ruthless killer and almost completely changing his character in the process.

So if it's such a departure from what we have before, why 4 stars? Simply because, despite the above major issues, I would be lying if I said I didn't enjoy this story.

Once again, this new scenario forces Mark to develop his powers further and find new ways to thrive, setting him truly on the path to becoming an OP protagonist. I am a sucker for that kind of storyline, and while I was majorly frustrated that this story couldn't settle enough to tell a single story, the new story told in this book was a lot of fun to read about.

That said, I'm still debating dropping this star rating back to 3 because this book is really uneven. I found the opening half fascinating and was intrigued with where the story was taking us, but then mid-story, it changes up again, abandoning everything set up to that point to take us down another new path, which again might have been an enjoyable path, but I wanted to see how the first story unfolded first before starting on a different journey.

My final gripe is the Mark-Noah friendship. This relationship hasn't had nearly the development it needed to be such a significant driving factor of the conflict in these stories. Noah has barely even been in books two and three, and certainly not in any friendly situation. It feels like a relationship that needs to exist so the rest of the story can happen, but one that hasn't actually been earned.

Overall, I did enjoy this one, as I have enjoyed all three books in this series so far. It is doing just enough right that I can't bring myself to give this one just three stars, especially as I am really interested in seeing what happens next, but I do have major reservations with this series.

Ideally, in future books we can:
1. Start developing existing storylines rather than continually creating new ones.
2. Develop existing relationships rather than continually introduce new characters.
3. Have Mark actually start showing some natural curiosity about his powers and the mystery in his life, rather than simply just going with the flow in a state of purposeful moronic ignorance.

[Phil · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well...

I think I got some answers to my questions about the tone and direction of this book. My primary critique about the second book was that it was an entirely different kind of book from its predecessor, to the point I was unclear on the direction of the book. I think we have our answer...

Picking up right where book 2 left off, Mark finds himself in a bad spot. Framed for murder, no due process, and whisked off without a shred of an opportunity to defend himself, Mark is transferred to what can only be described as maximum security prison for empowered. And this is where things really become interesting...

Mark already survived in the wilderness infested with exlian so he is no stranger to life or death moments. But his experience reminds me of the movie adaptation of Watchmen when Rorschach is taken to prison and exhaults that he is not locked in prison with them, they are locked in prison with him. This is critical because our shy and meek Mark has begun the walk down the path of a monster. He is recognizing his changes but keeps finding himself is positions where he has no alternative but kill or be killed. I cannot see any relief on the horizon so it will continue to be a struggle for Mark.

There is one plot line that comes out of nowhere and that will continue to future books. We are introduced to a new prophecy and of course it involves Mark. It will be interesting to see just how much that plays a role in subsequent books. I'm generally not a fan of prophecy storylines because either it comes true or does not. If it does, we already knew the outcome before. If it does not, why even put it in there? I admit that I am over-generalizing but hopefully I've conveyed the salient points.

Did I enjoy this book? Absolutely. I can do nothing but applaud Seth Ring's ability to pen these fun adventures. Character development leaves much to be desired but I got everything I wanted to see out of this book. We know that this is going to be a blood-fest of a book. Mark is going to continue to hone his skills to become the perfect killer. We know that Mark is going to need to battle his inner demons. We still don't know entirely about Mark's powers, but given the other excitement, I didn't feel like we missed out by not exploring that angle.

If you come across this review, and have read the prior two novels, this book is a mix of the better parts of both books 1 and 2. Mark isn't off alone like he was in book 2, but he is constantly fighting. Mark finds a routine and carves a life out for himself just like in book 1. If you enjoyed either of the preceding two novels, you will probably enjoy this one too. As I said in the closing of my review for book 2, this novel is more bloody than Seth Ring's typical lit-rpg romps. Caveat emptor.

[MizzyRed · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am impressed by Mark! No matter where he gets thrown to, whether it is into the wilds, or down into the Tomb after being unfairly judged with no chance to defend himself, her is able to use his brain and powers to adapt to any new situation with deadly ease.

There is still not a dull moment for him either in this book, even if he still does get to continue his alchemical studies in between fighting in the arena or on the streets of the Tomb. And thankfully Mime still makes an appearance to help Mark when his reserves runs out. I absolutely love Mime, who always has a trick up her sleeve! There are also some interesting characters down in the Tomb, from Joker to Mr. Robot, Winter Wolf (who I hope we see more of!) and then the mysterious power behind the Tomb, Maestro (who has plans within plans and Mark unfortunately is a big part of them)! To me that part really reminded me of Suicide Squad, where everyone is a killer but some are cold and calculating and others are completely insane and will attack anyone during a fight once blood is drawn.

The title is really apt for Mark by this third book as he grows and takes all his situations and turns them into opportunities to hone his powers, showing he is or will be the Apex predator one day soon. And yes, we also have a cliffhanger for the end though luckily Mark gets a little reprieve from the raging inferno he has been in. I really hope he can bring better times because the city sure seems so corrupt with what is going on. It would be interesting if Mark is the savior after all!

Many many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to continue Mark's journey! I await the next volume eagerly!

[Thorsten · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm not sure what story this series is telling. I like slice-of-life, so the lack of a central premise for each book doesn't bother me, except that I do generally like some sense of what the entire point is, where this is going, and why? This is why I liked the first book; there was a general, long-term goal, and some side adventures that developed. It was good fun. But then, in the second book, it's like, ok, I'm in the jungle now, let's have a crafting montage. This book is like, ok, I'm in prison now, let's have a crafting montage. This gets even more muddled by the end of this book, with what feels like so many different threads floating around now.

Mark appears to lack goals or curiosity about most things. He barely gives a thought to what he might be; not being human anymore seems like a big deal? He just revisits the thought that he sure likes killing people a lot, and that's the limit of introspection or investigation. Why isn't he more curious about Mime? She can certainly communicate well enough for a few probing questions. Maybe use his mana sight on her? He speculates about who is trying to ruin his life, and ... moves on. He doesn't even expend a moment of thought on how to maybe get out of prison until a face from the past shows up and suggests it. Even older side-plots are just abandoned along the way, like what's been going on with Joe and his maybe terrorist group? What's going on with the Defence Force, and why did they abandon Joe's battalion? What's this corruption that has infiltrated New Emery?

There are fun aspects to the series, but a lot of it just feels unplanned and random.

[Jack · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Powerful Third Act in an Evolving Saga

I was pleasantly surprised by how naturally Apex ushers the series into its third act. Each book in the series blends seamlessly into the next, yet the tone, setting, and even the supporting cast shift dramatically throughout, giving each entry its own distinct feel while still building on what came before. Seth Ring continues to demonstrate a remarkable ability to develop new characters quickly and meaningfully, even within short spans of page time.

The evolution of Mark, the main character, has been especially satisfying to follow. From the wide-eyed naivete of Advent to the more grounded and complex version of himself in Apex, his arc feels both believable and earned. The maturity and depth that emerge in this installment add weight to the story and reinforce the emotional impact of the challenges he faces.

If I have one complaint, it’s simply that the book ended—I didn’t want to put it down, and I’m already eager for the fourth. Apex delivers both character and plot progression in ways that deepen the series while raising anticipation for what’s still to come.

[Yari · Rating 5 out of 5]

Apex by Seth Ring (book cover is in image) is the third installment to the Exlian Syndrome Series. In this book, Mark finds himself in the Tomb, where he learns more about his transformation and continue to see the development of his abilities and are introduced to him potentially to being an eventual savior?

I had the opportunity to read the book along with listening to the audiobook. The Narration by Pavi Proczko continues to be engaging, and with this new cast of characters, demonstrates Proczko's talent for providing unique voices to these character's. Can't wait to see how this story continues to develop in book 4: Evolution.

Thank you, @blackstonepublishing, Blackstone Publishing - Audiobooks, and @netgalley for the opportunity to read this book and listen to the ALC. All opinions are my own.

Pub Date: Sep 02 2025
Rating: 5 Stars

#BlackstonePublishing
#Apex
#TheExlianSyndrome
#SethRing
#PaviProczko
#Dystopian
#LitRPG
#ScienceFiction
#yarisbooknook
#netgalley

[myfictionaladventure · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars
No Spice

Mark (AKA Apex) winds up in prison, in the underbelly of the city. And life there is well - interesting - if you can survive. But will Mark survive? Is escape possible? And what secrets is “the tomb” holding.

I continue to love this series! I am glad some of the other characters like Noah & Sky are a bit more present in this book. Though I want more Noah, as he is my favorite character. Also, I missed Pheonix. Joker & White Wolf are very interesting new characters. I hope we see more of White Wolf. I also want to see more of Mark’s brother and his “terrorist group.” Hoping for all that in book 4. I love how we see more of the dystopian world/the underworld of the city in this book, highlighting the corruption Mark’s brother is fighting against. And the “science” with the powers and Exlian is quite cool. This book had a lot of action, which I really enjoyed. I can’t wait to get to the bottom of what is really happening in this city, and where the Exlian actually came from.

[Christine · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐.5

Thank you so much to Netgalley and Blackstone Publishing - Audiobooks for the ALC for my honest opinions.

Continuing the Exlian Syndrome Series and Pavi Proczko doesn't disappoint. I really enjoyed the audiobook and while Pavi does a wonderful job narrating the story - there a few things that I felt amiss in the storyline itself. (erhm... Did we really need to call a character - Joker?.. *side-eye*. )

The actions continues as Mark finds himself in a new environment and questioning his humanity. We're meeting new characters, new challenges and well the constant threat of being m*rdered. I found myself asking so many questions but fear not, some questions get answered.. sort of?
Others.. not so much..

-- P.S MIME talks!.. oh so briefly - but yay! hahaha

While I feel we're getting a little bit of a book 3 'syndrome' here I can't wait to continue the series!

[Carl Blakemore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Note: I am a fan of Seth Ring's other books, and I was really liked the previous two books, so I was excited to see this Apex show up for me to review as a DRC on NetGalley.

Apex, the third book in Seth Ring’s Exlian Syndrome series, picks up right where Dark Dawn left off — and continues to deliver! This series continues to impress me. I thoroughly enjoyed Mark’s continued evolution throughout the book, not just his growth in power, or the new abilities he gains, but also his struggles with accepting and adapting to the changes that continue to transform him. A few new characters introduced, but most of the focus is centered on Mark’s growth. The world continues to be slowly built throughout the story, continuing to grow deeper as Mark grows in power. If you’ve enjoyed the first two books in the series, Apex will not disappoint. Can’t wait for the next book!

[Ash · Rating 5 out of 5]

Apex takes a wild detour from the drama of books 1-2 into the hidden world of the city's prison system! There's human experimentation (not nearly as brutal as that sounds, there's almost nothing described on the page; I would still recommend it for older teens), fighting monsters in arenas, more potion making, and lots and lots and lots of new abilities, dueling, and technology! MORE awesome characters! Pretty much all the characters are "bad guys" in this one, and it was super fun to see different types of villains, their abilities, and their backstories.

The stakes get higher and higher and higher!!! The action is NONSTOP! I'm continually surprised by where the story goes!

The audio continues to be great! Bring on book 4!!!! Gotta know what happens next!!

Thanks to Blackstone Audio and NetGalley for an audio-arc to read and review voluntarily and honestly.

[Aleksandra Janusz]

I am a sucker for progression stories that incorporate teamwork and character development combined with growth. This series so far runs in the opposite direction, following the trope of the protagonist becoming more monstrous, mentally as well as physically, as he grows in strength.
I'm approx. 30% into the book and I will see how it turns out but the trope "I am a monster and thus I must fight alone" is not my favorite, it is hard to symphatize with a killer protag, and a vicious kitten might not suffice to draw me back. For me, strength is more than punching through people.
This is not you, this is me - otherwise this is a solid progression action romp, which will draw people for the same reason it doesn't appeal a lot to me.

[Lena · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s Seth you guys know I loved it! A little slower this book as there wasn’t a lot interaction with people we know and love because obviously hard to do that from prison. But the mystery is good and the plot just thickens even more and I cannot wait for what’s next!

Also just a desperate request, if you are a Seth Ring fan can you please, please, PLEASE, go read Dreamers Throne? It’s such a good series but it’s not as popular as his others, which I don’t get because it’s SO GOOD and we won’t get more unless the interest in the series goes up, and trust me it is GOOD and I’m so sad we won’t get more, and I just want to finish the story but also give you guys a heads up to another really good series that may seem off putting at first, but that is truly quite awesome!

[John Galt]

Had some weird unwelcome moments like the introduction to a group of holy fanatics treating MC as a savior. I would have preferred if the author had just left that stuff out. Decent, but it felt like most this book was filler material. Author reveals a part of prison. MC adjusts. Sudden twist negates all of MCs efforts as he is moved to a new section of prison life. Prison credits are a thing until suddenly they arent even mentioned and all the use he gets out of his attained credit wealth is food and rent until even those things are provided to him without credits. MC now reinventing the magic system from the previous fixed abilities to a versatile mage-like mana usage with spell patterns, as if the MC is not OP enough with with cutting technique and absorption abilities to boot.

[Michelle & David · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good book!

Love the book. I really enjoy the characters. How the main character is learning and expanding his knowledge is very well done. The mysteries that he is learning and researching are very intriguing. Also, the struggles that the main character has in trying to balance his humanity with his monstrous powers are well done. Even though he is forced into some very bad situations, he is still a really good person and very loyal to his friends.

There is no nudity or sex in the blook. Additionally, there is no profanity that I can remember. I'm really looking forward to the next book in the series.

[Joshua Del Toro · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great installment of the Exlian Syndrome series! One of the things I thoroughly appreciate from each novel in this series is that there is a substantial amount of events that unfold without it feeling like it drags or that it's too shallow and rushed. Each event is just long enough before we move onto the next, causing you to be satisfied the entire story. I do think the character "rolls with the punches" a little too easily as his circumstances change constantly, but also who am I to judge? After all, he is going through a LOT. If you've read the first 2 in this series you will not be disappointed with this one. If you haven't read the first two then don't read this one yet! Instead go read the first two ASAP because you will LOVE it!

Actual Rating: 4.5/5

[Amanda Ehnis · Rating 5 out of 5]

How is it possible that every book in the series is better than the book before it?! Seth Ring has done it again. The book drew me in with the constant action and leveling up that happens with Mark. While the book doesn't start with many of the same characters, they show up eventually - bringing this book in with the 1st and 2nd book's storyline. This was a great addition to the series and was a super fast read. Can't wait for the next book.

I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley in return for an honest review.

[Nick A · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Great Ring Read

I cannot stress how good this series is building up to be. If you’re reading the reviews on book 3 it’s only because you’re waiting for the download or the book to arrive. Ring continues to knock this out of the park. I so dearly wish the book was longer but I will take what I can get.

I still don’t understand Ring’s choice of chapter breaks, always seems to end mid thought when there is a natural ending a couple paragraphs away… But whatever, maybe the author is just messing with us.

[Kayla · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was such a crazy turn of events in this series. I loved the twists and turns of the tomb and information we learned about the story. Mark keeps getting more and more interesting and powerful and every little drop of information is building to what I expect will be a crazy twist. I can’t wait to see what happens next.
The narrator did a great job with the characters and voice acting the only a voice acting I didn’t care for was the valley boy accent which is just a me thing but it makes me cringe every time.

[J · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this audio DRC from NetGalley.

I'm still enjoying this series. The narrator did a good job with the voices, and especially with making characters like Joker sound a bit creepy. The change of setting kept the story intriguing, although the constant changes of Mark's situation felt like they happened a bit quickly. With that, though, there were no lulls in the story, and all of the worldbuilding explainers didn't drag it down. I am curious to see what power combinations Mark will figure out on his way to seemingly becoming completely overpowered.

[Jeffing · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's still pretty good, though I was tempted to go down to 4 stars, I'll still continue to read the series (someday, when more books are out. but he already has preorders open for the next couple... so that's cool.). however, I'm starting to doubt the long term plot direction after that cliche plot device was randomly thrown at us out of nowhere. I mean it's plausible in this world and yada yada, but still, come on.

[Tony Hisgett · Rating 2 out of 5]

Through most of this book I got the feeling that the author had accumulated a whole batch of random incomplete storylines that he has tried to ‘squash’ together into a new series.
I’m not really sure how of hundreds of pages of ‘prisoners’ in totally meaningless fights in an arena, contributed to the main story, except for filling up another book in the series.
At least the last quarter of the book moved the story on and began to re-spark my interest again.

[Perigrine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Again, it's well written and enjoyable. The MC has some interesting moments and issues, looking forward to the next book. I certainly enjoyed reading this one. I've always enjoyed good world building and character design, and Seth does both of these well no matter which of his books I've picked up so far.

[Adam Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

Redemption after the way the last book ended.

So yah, I hated how the last book ended. But this worked well. The prison thing isn't as bad as i had expected, and there's some satisfying growth throughout as well. We also get a deeper look at things going on behind the scenes so far and hints to the future. Things are really shaping up for some great arcs coming soon!