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Legend of Neverwhere and the Lost Totems: An Archy Lawrence Portal Fantasy
Archy Lawrence is an awkward teen who, due to his father’s job, moves around quite a bit. This, among his ADHD and hyperfixations on things, creates a real issue when it comes to the making friends department. This all changes when Archy’s dad moves their family from New York down to small-town Arkansas, and he meets the comic-book-loving Georgia Stoddard. They become fast friends.
However, that friendship is put to the test when Archy’s dad goes missing in his search for ancient artifacts in a newly discovered cave system, and the two set out together and try to help locate him.
One thing leads to another, and Archy and Georgia find themselves falling through a strange portal, landing in the mystical world of Neverwhere. Here, they are met by a lovable Hornbill named Brigg who carries them to the Once Sovereign King of Neverwhere, Lord Erle’em, and his cursed court.
Join along as Archy and Georgia fight monsters to find gear, gain experience, and get good to return the Light to Neverwhere.
However, that friendship is put to the test when Archy’s dad goes missing in his search for ancient artifacts in a newly discovered cave system, and the two set out together and try to help locate him.
One thing leads to another, and Archy and Georgia find themselves falling through a strange portal, landing in the mystical world of Neverwhere. Here, they are met by a lovable Hornbill named Brigg who carries them to the Once Sovereign King of Neverwhere, Lord Erle’em, and his cursed court.
Join along as Archy and Georgia fight monsters to find gear, gain experience, and get good to return the Light to Neverwhere.
- GenresFantasy
328 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 15, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
July 6, 2026
Litrpg often doesn’t quite work for me. I think it’s because of the “getting sucked into a game” element, which can seem unearned. However, when litrpg works well, I have a lot of fun with it.
This is one of those that worked well, and it’s all down to Trotter creating two great characters in Archy and Georgia. There’s a fun support cast as well, but this is Archy’s story—the first person POV is well done—and Georgia steals the show. I know that there will be more fun in future volumes and I’m along for the ride!
I listened to audio, which was FANTASTIC!
This is one of those that worked well, and it’s all down to Trotter creating two great characters in Archy and Georgia. There’s a fun support cast as well, but this is Archy’s story—the first person POV is well done—and Georgia steals the show. I know that there will be more fun in future volumes and I’m along for the ride!
I listened to audio, which was FANTASTIC!
August 26, 2026
I want to thank David A. Trotter for this ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) of Legend of Neverwhere and the Lost Totems.
Have you ever wondered what it might be like to fall through a portal into a video game? No? Well I certainly have! In Legend of Neverwhere and the Lost Totems by David A. Trotter, we get to see what happens when Archy, and his newest friend/acquaintance Georgia, fall into a portal when searching for his dad in a mysterious cave. How will they handle the sudden changes in their vision and understanding of the world? Will they be able to help return the light ot Neverwhere and, ultimately, find Archy’s dad?
This is not my first dive into LitRPG which is basically literature that throws a person into a video game world. The nerd in me loves seeing the way authors incorporate these two worlds together, video games and reading. This particular book is very heavily inspired by The Legend of Zelda video game series. I mention all of that to say, if you don’t like video games, this may not be the book for you! However, if you’re curious about the appeal, this is also one that’s not super intense so it would be a good toe dip into this new genre!
The characters in the book are Archy, a 16-year old boy who has moved around from place to place his entire life and typically nerds out by playing video games and calculating random facts. Who doesn’t need to know the exact length of Bohemian Rhapsody? While Georgia is a girl who goes to his new school in Arkansas that just happens to be swinging by to check on him when he receives the news that his dad is missing from his dig site in the caves. As someone who has worked with a lot of teenagers, and has teenage nephews, Trotter hit the nail on the head when it came to the awkward interactions between boys and girls at this age. Seeing them decide what to share with each other during this journey was so funny and well done. Also, watching them grow into themselves throughout the story!
The video game world was definitely on for the classics. There was absolute ridiculousness, but also a very clear goal in mind. It very much had all the makings of the epic quest with the little hiccups along the way. We also get to see multiple villages where our main characters can stock up on supplies and also sell random junk, like gibblin toes, just like in a game.
I do want to mention that if you don’t like cheesy, this may not be the book for you. While I enjoyed the read, there were definitely moments I rolled my eyes. I mention that because I want the right people to find this book! If someone who hates cheesy books picks this up, they’re not going to enjoy it, and that’s not fair to the reader or the author. Reading is very much about finding the right books for the right reader!
Overall, Legend of Neverwhere and the Lost Totems by David A. Trotter is a fun, adventurous read! The genre is definitely Young Adult LitRPG. There is no cursing, very mild romance, and moderate video game violence in thread of The Legend of Zelda (if you know, you know). Because of this, it could also be read by a younger audience as well. I definitely recommend to any teens out there who love video games and to laugh! I already plan on getting a copy in the hands of my nephew!
Have you ever wondered what it might be like to fall through a portal into a video game? No? Well I certainly have! In Legend of Neverwhere and the Lost Totems by David A. Trotter, we get to see what happens when Archy, and his newest friend/acquaintance Georgia, fall into a portal when searching for his dad in a mysterious cave. How will they handle the sudden changes in their vision and understanding of the world? Will they be able to help return the light ot Neverwhere and, ultimately, find Archy’s dad?
This is not my first dive into LitRPG which is basically literature that throws a person into a video game world. The nerd in me loves seeing the way authors incorporate these two worlds together, video games and reading. This particular book is very heavily inspired by The Legend of Zelda video game series. I mention all of that to say, if you don’t like video games, this may not be the book for you! However, if you’re curious about the appeal, this is also one that’s not super intense so it would be a good toe dip into this new genre!
The characters in the book are Archy, a 16-year old boy who has moved around from place to place his entire life and typically nerds out by playing video games and calculating random facts. Who doesn’t need to know the exact length of Bohemian Rhapsody? While Georgia is a girl who goes to his new school in Arkansas that just happens to be swinging by to check on him when he receives the news that his dad is missing from his dig site in the caves. As someone who has worked with a lot of teenagers, and has teenage nephews, Trotter hit the nail on the head when it came to the awkward interactions between boys and girls at this age. Seeing them decide what to share with each other during this journey was so funny and well done. Also, watching them grow into themselves throughout the story!
The video game world was definitely on for the classics. There was absolute ridiculousness, but also a very clear goal in mind. It very much had all the makings of the epic quest with the little hiccups along the way. We also get to see multiple villages where our main characters can stock up on supplies and also sell random junk, like gibblin toes, just like in a game.
I do want to mention that if you don’t like cheesy, this may not be the book for you. While I enjoyed the read, there were definitely moments I rolled my eyes. I mention that because I want the right people to find this book! If someone who hates cheesy books picks this up, they’re not going to enjoy it, and that’s not fair to the reader or the author. Reading is very much about finding the right books for the right reader!
Overall, Legend of Neverwhere and the Lost Totems by David A. Trotter is a fun, adventurous read! The genre is definitely Young Adult LitRPG. There is no cursing, very mild romance, and moderate video game violence in thread of The Legend of Zelda (if you know, you know). Because of this, it could also be read by a younger audience as well. I definitely recommend to any teens out there who love video games and to laugh! I already plan on getting a copy in the hands of my nephew!
December 24, 2025
This was my first ever experience with LitRPG and I only tried it because I was promised a story like one of my all time favorite games, Legend of Zelda. And let me tell you, David did NOT disappoint. I had a LOT of fun reading this book because it felt so much like the game. Really threw me in with the nostalgia. I cannot wait for book 2, to see what Archy and Georgia do next!
The only reason I gave it 4 stars is because there were some minor inconsistencies with the stats, but I am not sure too many people pay attention to that as much as I did. It was my first time reading a book like this, so I probably paid more attention to the stats than I should have.
The only reason I gave it 4 stars is because there were some minor inconsistencies with the stats, but I am not sure too many people pay attention to that as much as I did. It was my first time reading a book like this, so I probably paid more attention to the stats than I should have.
July 15, 2025
I'm going to start by saying, "never ever have I played a video game, or a phone game or any digital type of game", not as a teen, not as an adult, and not even now at my "ripe" old age. But, having said that, this book transported me right back to 16 year old me, my otherwiseness and know it all attitude, captured exceedingly aptly by this author. No, it wasn't a book about ME, but heck could I relate!
It all started out quite normal, a glimpse into the mind of a teen. Archy is a normal teen, skirting the edges of compliance vs rebellion, when his whole life is whipped away. Moving away from all one is familiar with is daunting enough but relocating to another state is even worse, especially for a teen with ADHD. Having constant nightmares doesn't help either... and it doesn't end there. Secret whisperings between his parents, strange figurines, totems, and the weird behaviour of his parents, sets his anxiety sky high. So does his new school. So does his ineptness be socialise. So does his "fear" of girls, even when one is friendly and nice towards him. And then a tragedy strikes. The cave in an excavation site, where his father was, collapsed so distraught is Archy, he rushes to the site with Georgia on his heels (the nice girl from school) and what happened next, well, his brain sputtered at the realisation! She's just darling, is Georgia, she's a great friend, enthusiastic, fluttery, exuberant, like a firefly dancing around a tree, she illuminates all around her.
Video game trauma ensures, yes, that is a thing! Deadly tasks, Elves, weapons, rankings, all converge as a task is set for Archy. They're stuck, in nowhere or Neverwhere, until he can reclaim the missing artifacts and return them to their rightful place, to Lord Erle'em. Gosh did Archy do a number on me! He's so darn likeable, I just wanted to hug him. Although afraid, although concerned, he takes his tasks very seriously, completely out of his depth but soldiers on, irrespective of his feelings, his absolute terror, his utter sense of being overwhelmed, as he himself said "I had hit the maximum amount of new and strange for me to be able to digest" But digest he does....The characters he encounted in this strange new world, once again caught me, raising the point once more that David knows exactly how to bring in fun characters, like Treo and Herald, whose utterances set me off giggling. I mean, besides their hilarious banter, the names they call one another, "rock eater, dust dancer" and others similar, yes, giggle worthy. I loved how Archy grew into himself, the skills he absorbed, even potion making weren't off the agenda and this was all from a boy who bunked PE because he wasn't an athlete. He was letting go of his fears, one by one, much like Treo's statement "don't be afraid to let the boy out here and there".
An incredibly innovative and imaginative tale this is! Though not my first time reading a LitRPG, THIS book really stood out! Was it because of the content? Definitely! Was it because of the storytelling? Without a doubt! Was it because of the characters? Plot? World building? A huge, resounding YES! It was fun, it was comical, it was gritty and it was a testament to how resilient anyone can be if the stakes are high enough. I'm REALLY looking forward to the next book! I REALLY need to know how Georgia and Archy fare and I REALLY need to know where Archy's dad is!
It all started out quite normal, a glimpse into the mind of a teen. Archy is a normal teen, skirting the edges of compliance vs rebellion, when his whole life is whipped away. Moving away from all one is familiar with is daunting enough but relocating to another state is even worse, especially for a teen with ADHD. Having constant nightmares doesn't help either... and it doesn't end there. Secret whisperings between his parents, strange figurines, totems, and the weird behaviour of his parents, sets his anxiety sky high. So does his new school. So does his ineptness be socialise. So does his "fear" of girls, even when one is friendly and nice towards him. And then a tragedy strikes. The cave in an excavation site, where his father was, collapsed so distraught is Archy, he rushes to the site with Georgia on his heels (the nice girl from school) and what happened next, well, his brain sputtered at the realisation! She's just darling, is Georgia, she's a great friend, enthusiastic, fluttery, exuberant, like a firefly dancing around a tree, she illuminates all around her.
Video game trauma ensures, yes, that is a thing! Deadly tasks, Elves, weapons, rankings, all converge as a task is set for Archy. They're stuck, in nowhere or Neverwhere, until he can reclaim the missing artifacts and return them to their rightful place, to Lord Erle'em. Gosh did Archy do a number on me! He's so darn likeable, I just wanted to hug him. Although afraid, although concerned, he takes his tasks very seriously, completely out of his depth but soldiers on, irrespective of his feelings, his absolute terror, his utter sense of being overwhelmed, as he himself said "I had hit the maximum amount of new and strange for me to be able to digest" But digest he does....The characters he encounted in this strange new world, once again caught me, raising the point once more that David knows exactly how to bring in fun characters, like Treo and Herald, whose utterances set me off giggling. I mean, besides their hilarious banter, the names they call one another, "rock eater, dust dancer" and others similar, yes, giggle worthy. I loved how Archy grew into himself, the skills he absorbed, even potion making weren't off the agenda and this was all from a boy who bunked PE because he wasn't an athlete. He was letting go of his fears, one by one, much like Treo's statement "don't be afraid to let the boy out here and there".
An incredibly innovative and imaginative tale this is! Though not my first time reading a LitRPG, THIS book really stood out! Was it because of the content? Definitely! Was it because of the storytelling? Without a doubt! Was it because of the characters? Plot? World building? A huge, resounding YES! It was fun, it was comical, it was gritty and it was a testament to how resilient anyone can be if the stakes are high enough. I'm REALLY looking forward to the next book! I REALLY need to know how Georgia and Archy fare and I REALLY need to know where Archy's dad is!
August 5, 2026
OH MY GOD, what a ride! This is my first ever LitRPG or progression fantasy and I wasn't sure what too expect. I'll be honest I've always shied away from it as I thought it wouldn't be my cup of tea, oh how wrong I was, because this was a blast and I absolutely loved it. Not knowing much about this type of fantasy, I was worried that I'd not understand how it works and it would lessen my enjoyment, not the case, as it's so well written it's easy to understand and get lost in the story being told. Instead after reading this (yes I read it in one sitting as I couldn't put it down) I've now fallen down the rabbit hole so deep I know I'll probably never leave, and thanks to Mr Trotter I've discovered a new branch of fantasy to get lost in. Yeah this was a fun, fast paced, action packed adventure, with lots of humour that had me laughing out loud. New achievement - Obsession unlocked 😁
When Archy's father uproots the family to Arkansas for a new job appraising artifacts he is is less than pleased. But after settling in and making a sort of friend in Georgia Stoddard, he comes home from school to be told his father has been lost in a cave in. Determined to find him, Archy along with Georgia go to the cave where he disappeared falling into a portal to Neverwhere. Let the adventure begin....
Oh boy did I love Archy, already an awkward teen with zero confidence and questionable social skills. Thrust into a world he barely understands, except from his knowledge and understanding of video games, with a friend he's just met to find his dad. He's extremely likeable (and equally adorable) having a quick wit along a great sense of humour especially his internal monologue. And I found it immensely enjoyable watching his character grow throughout the book. Yeah I simply loved him from the start and the ending of this involving him had me smiling from ear to ear. Can't wait to see where he goes from here.
Georgia was one hell of a character too. More outgoing than Archy, I couldn't help but adore her as well. Her personality, spunkiness and ability to pretty much adapt to the situation her and Archy found themselves in made her character stand out just as much as him. To be honest she absolutely rocks.
So yes my first ever foray into this genre has been not only entertaining but a roaring success for me and what else can I say but I loved, loved, loved it. I seriously can't wait to dive into book 2. Highly recommend 😁
When Archy's father uproots the family to Arkansas for a new job appraising artifacts he is is less than pleased. But after settling in and making a sort of friend in Georgia Stoddard, he comes home from school to be told his father has been lost in a cave in. Determined to find him, Archy along with Georgia go to the cave where he disappeared falling into a portal to Neverwhere. Let the adventure begin....
Oh boy did I love Archy, already an awkward teen with zero confidence and questionable social skills. Thrust into a world he barely understands, except from his knowledge and understanding of video games, with a friend he's just met to find his dad. He's extremely likeable (and equally adorable) having a quick wit along a great sense of humour especially his internal monologue. And I found it immensely enjoyable watching his character grow throughout the book. Yeah I simply loved him from the start and the ending of this involving him had me smiling from ear to ear. Can't wait to see where he goes from here.
Georgia was one hell of a character too. More outgoing than Archy, I couldn't help but adore her as well. Her personality, spunkiness and ability to pretty much adapt to the situation her and Archy found themselves in made her character stand out just as much as him. To be honest she absolutely rocks.
So yes my first ever foray into this genre has been not only entertaining but a roaring success for me and what else can I say but I loved, loved, loved it. I seriously can't wait to dive into book 2. Highly recommend 😁
July 5, 2026
Archibald Lawrence Jr, or Archy as he prefers, has never been good at most social things. He finds himself being awkward, saying the wrong things, spacing out from his ADHD, and has a hard time making lasting connections due to his family constantly moving. This latest move to Arkansas really changed things for him. And his parents are acting differently with this move too. As he starts to settle and maybe make a friend, finally, there is an accident at his father's work site. Acting on instinct alone, he races towards the site wanting to help with his friend Georgia trying to provide support the best way she can. What they stumble upon doesn't look good and it gets worse when they fall into the same hole that his father may have fallen into. Once they wake up, what Archy first assumes is a hallucination is actually real. It seems like they are in a video game. All the pinching he does to his arm doesn't change what he is seeing. There is a HUD showing levels, classes, stats, quests, and everything being so vivid compared to home that he questions his sanity. Eventually Archy and Georgia learn they are in the land of Neverwhere where a darkness has been infecting the land and people. To get home they need help the elven king cleanse this darkness. Along the way he starts to embrace that this is now his reality and it is the only way to find his father and get him and Georgia home.
This was my first LitRPG book and it was definitely an interesting introduction. I like how the author recognizes that the HUD, quests, and all things that make it LitRPG is definitely not normal and has the MCs questioning what is reality. Yes, Georgia flips between embracing the insanity and being struck by the impossibility of it but I find that to be a valid way of dealing with what happened. Archy definitely has some growing up/coming of age tropes to deal with and I have a feeling this will be what he needs to do so. The tongue in cheek, almost easter egg like things had me laughing at times. Especially some of the LoZ related things, I was very amused. This may not be a genre I read often but this was done in a way that I found enjoyable. I have some theories about the series and look forward to finding out if they are right or not.
This was my first LitRPG book and it was definitely an interesting introduction. I like how the author recognizes that the HUD, quests, and all things that make it LitRPG is definitely not normal and has the MCs questioning what is reality. Yes, Georgia flips between embracing the insanity and being struck by the impossibility of it but I find that to be a valid way of dealing with what happened. Archy definitely has some growing up/coming of age tropes to deal with and I have a feeling this will be what he needs to do so. The tongue in cheek, almost easter egg like things had me laughing at times. Especially some of the LoZ related things, I was very amused. This may not be a genre I read often but this was done in a way that I found enjoyable. I have some theories about the series and look forward to finding out if they are right or not.
August 31, 2026
Let me just say I have never read an LITrpg book before. And its been probably at least 30 years since I've played any type of video game so this was way out of my comfort zone. I had no idea what to expect when starting this book. But I have to say I really enjoyed it. It brought memories off Zelda back to me after all of these years.
The story begins with Archy Lawrence finding out that once again his family will be moving. This time to Arkansas. Archy has such a hard time fitting in with his peers that he is definitely not looking forward to the move. He meets Georgia Stoddart on his first day at his new school. They strike up a friendship.
Archy's father is lost in a cave in while exploring for some ancient artifacts. Archy decides he is going to find his father. Of course Georgia offers to accompany him on his quest. It doesn't take long before they fall into a portal that lands them in Neverwhere. Once there they discover this isn't a normal place, they are smack dab in the middle of a video game. They are told they must find the lost totems to restore Neverwhere to it's previous glory and to possibly find Archy's father.
As they set out on their quests they gain many powers to help defeat enemies and bosses along the way. Archy gains a confidence he never had in his life. And Georgia offers her support and strengths throughout the adventure. They develop a fast friendship that may turn into something more.
This was such a fun read and such a fun experience for my first LITrpg experience. The author does a great job describing the bosses, the enemies, and the puzzles. I love how after each encounter more strengths and powers are earned. The only thing I did not like was the ending. I guess I expected a different ending, something more final. But I guess its no different then other fantasy novels that leave you with a cliffhanger and wanting more. I will definitely have to continue this journey to see how Archy and Georgia resolve this quest. If you have never read this type of book before I highly recommend starting with this one.
The story begins with Archy Lawrence finding out that once again his family will be moving. This time to Arkansas. Archy has such a hard time fitting in with his peers that he is definitely not looking forward to the move. He meets Georgia Stoddart on his first day at his new school. They strike up a friendship.
Archy's father is lost in a cave in while exploring for some ancient artifacts. Archy decides he is going to find his father. Of course Georgia offers to accompany him on his quest. It doesn't take long before they fall into a portal that lands them in Neverwhere. Once there they discover this isn't a normal place, they are smack dab in the middle of a video game. They are told they must find the lost totems to restore Neverwhere to it's previous glory and to possibly find Archy's father.
As they set out on their quests they gain many powers to help defeat enemies and bosses along the way. Archy gains a confidence he never had in his life. And Georgia offers her support and strengths throughout the adventure. They develop a fast friendship that may turn into something more.
This was such a fun read and such a fun experience for my first LITrpg experience. The author does a great job describing the bosses, the enemies, and the puzzles. I love how after each encounter more strengths and powers are earned. The only thing I did not like was the ending. I guess I expected a different ending, something more final. But I guess its no different then other fantasy novels that leave you with a cliffhanger and wanting more. I will definitely have to continue this journey to see how Archy and Georgia resolve this quest. If you have never read this type of book before I highly recommend starting with this one.
July 26, 2025
This is a YA-friendly-but-also-really-fun-for-kids-at-heart LitRPG tale that follows HS students Archy and his new friend Georgia on a wild adventure as they try to discover where his father went after a tunnel collapses in the cave where he was supposed to be doing research on some ancient artwork. They find his briefcase, but no Big Archy. When they lean to peer into the gaping hole in the floor, they fall (quite literally) into a whole new realm of mystery, danger, unimaginable creatures, and a WHOLE lot of excitement! Not only do they have to try to find Archy's dad, they are tasked by Erle'em Ud'din Nidlahm, Lord of the Wood Elves and Once-Sovereign King of Neverwhere (Glory be to his name!)...aka Lord Erle'em...to help restore the light of Neverwhere and end the corruption that has been brought to the realm by the defiling of the sacred totems.
While hesitant at first, Georgia and Archy understand that they really have no other choice but to help, and they go about their quest, meeting new friends and gaining new skills and knowledge along the way. The friendship that develops between Archy and Georgia is so seamless and easy, and his introverted nerdy ADHD self is so perfectly complemented by her also nerdy but outgoing sunshiny personality. They are clearly heading toward more than friend territory, but it is all very sweet and innocent, no spice here, which I greatly appreciate since they are still children (I know, teens get up to all sorts of shenanery, but I don't want to read about it. Call me an old lady if you must, but I'll be there soon enough in real life with my own son. 🤷🏻♀️)
I could go on and on about the epicness of the tale and the amazing creatures and side characters, but I am just going to trust you to read it yourself. 😉 I think it is a must-read if you were ever that kid who was into RPG games and though "man, this would be soooooo cool in real life", but also for anyone who loves quests, adventures, friendships, family bonds and found family, and tales of good vs evil.
While hesitant at first, Georgia and Archy understand that they really have no other choice but to help, and they go about their quest, meeting new friends and gaining new skills and knowledge along the way. The friendship that develops between Archy and Georgia is so seamless and easy, and his introverted nerdy ADHD self is so perfectly complemented by her also nerdy but outgoing sunshiny personality. They are clearly heading toward more than friend territory, but it is all very sweet and innocent, no spice here, which I greatly appreciate since they are still children (I know, teens get up to all sorts of shenanery, but I don't want to read about it. Call me an old lady if you must, but I'll be there soon enough in real life with my own son. 🤷🏻♀️)
I could go on and on about the epicness of the tale and the amazing creatures and side characters, but I am just going to trust you to read it yourself. 😉 I think it is a must-read if you were ever that kid who was into RPG games and though "man, this would be soooooo cool in real life", but also for anyone who loves quests, adventures, friendships, family bonds and found family, and tales of good vs evil.
July 7, 2026
Archy Lawrence is a 16-year-old kid who has never really fit in who has had to move around a lot due to his dad's job. Usually they stay in New York, but due to something that his dad seems really excited about, they end up in Alabama with his dad searching in a cave. When he gets the news that there was a cave in, he ends up at the dig site with his tablemate from school, Georgia. She takes him into a different entrance and suddenly they fall into another realm. With no other way to get home, they must accept the quest to find the Totems of Neverwhere so they can return home and find Archy's father.
Archy is a loner, his friends are his gamer friends online. He moves around a lot and has a hard time making friends. He is not very athletic though he did try fencing. He's a shy and socially awkward teenager. Georgia is a super friendly southern girl. She has dealt with the loss of her parents and understands what Archy may be going through when she finds out about his father. She also is able to really go with the flow and be adventurous. Nothing seems to faze her and I love how she rolls with the punches.
This was a fun book that really did read like a video game. I liked how each chapter gives you the newest stats for the characters and the author found a unique way to incorporate tutorials that made the plot feel natural, well as natural as being thrown into a video game can be. There were a lot of surprises in this book, but not a lot of plot twists. I have an inkling that there may be some coming in a future book, but for now all the surprises were monster related. This was a perfectly paced adventure that didn't throw too much at you all at once.
Archy is a loner, his friends are his gamer friends online. He moves around a lot and has a hard time making friends. He is not very athletic though he did try fencing. He's a shy and socially awkward teenager. Georgia is a super friendly southern girl. She has dealt with the loss of her parents and understands what Archy may be going through when she finds out about his father. She also is able to really go with the flow and be adventurous. Nothing seems to faze her and I love how she rolls with the punches.
This was a fun book that really did read like a video game. I liked how each chapter gives you the newest stats for the characters and the author found a unique way to incorporate tutorials that made the plot feel natural, well as natural as being thrown into a video game can be. There were a lot of surprises in this book, but not a lot of plot twists. I have an inkling that there may be some coming in a future book, but for now all the surprises were monster related. This was a perfectly paced adventure that didn't throw too much at you all at once.
August 18, 2025
This book was just what I was looking for when I picked it up. If I had to call it anything in one word (man, reviews would be different if that was the criteria), it would be, ‘fun!’
Archy is a reasonably normal boy, for the consideration of normal where he is a shy, lonely, introverted boy on the spectrum who has trouble making friends, relating to his parents and dealing with the world. For most considerations of normal, I consider this pretty spot on. Once again his parents are moving and Archy is dragged along. This time, however, he’s leaving the metropolitan, cultural, privileged existence he has grown up in to go to Arkansas. This could have been a reasonable fish out of water style story right there but instead, he drops through a portal into a new land where he is gifted with a quest to save, well, everything.
Archy seems very real and quite relatable. Georgia is down home charming, almost to a fault while still being quirky, smart and quite capable. If the fourth wall is the wall that characters break to talk to the audience, what do we call the wall where players can read their own (and others’) stats and interact with them through a mental drop down menu? This book makes character stats fully part of the interactive story and rather than being hokey, it’s charming and fun.
Quick paced and fun, this was a delightful read and I'm definitely waiting impatiently for the follow-up books.
Archy is a reasonably normal boy, for the consideration of normal where he is a shy, lonely, introverted boy on the spectrum who has trouble making friends, relating to his parents and dealing with the world. For most considerations of normal, I consider this pretty spot on. Once again his parents are moving and Archy is dragged along. This time, however, he’s leaving the metropolitan, cultural, privileged existence he has grown up in to go to Arkansas. This could have been a reasonable fish out of water style story right there but instead, he drops through a portal into a new land where he is gifted with a quest to save, well, everything.
Archy seems very real and quite relatable. Georgia is down home charming, almost to a fault while still being quirky, smart and quite capable. If the fourth wall is the wall that characters break to talk to the audience, what do we call the wall where players can read their own (and others’) stats and interact with them through a mental drop down menu? This book makes character stats fully part of the interactive story and rather than being hokey, it’s charming and fun.
Quick paced and fun, this was a delightful read and I'm definitely waiting impatiently for the follow-up books.
August 18, 2026
I'll preface by saying I've previously DNF'd every single hardcore litRPG book I've tried to read -- they're just not my cup of tea as a non-gamer who despises isekai tropes -- but this one hit differently. It helps that it's skillfully written by an author who excels as great characterization and wonderfully juggles the nostalgia of Zelda games with fresh new ideas. Overall, it's a lovely, semi-cozy yet oft-exciting read that kept me engaged despite the gamey aspects I really don't love.
As hinted above, what worked best for me are the main characters: Archy and Georgia are super fun, have great interactions, and feel exactly their ages with good solid arcs and plenty of room left to grow in further books. Their dialogue is great! Add to that the solid writing and fun locales and I got through this one faster than anticipated. It's not a complicated plot, but it's got enough twists and turns to keep up the pace and even goes full-throttle at points.
Yes, the game stats are a bit distracting, but that's definitely a me problem. (No docking stars for reading outside my preferred sub-genres. I made that choice! 😉) I also have to say that the audiobook narrator, Kyle Remund, did a superb job of bringing every voice and every scene to vibrant life. It was a perfect match for this series!
I'm quite looking forward to the next book, and that's a wonderful surprise in a sub-genre I typically avoid!
As hinted above, what worked best for me are the main characters: Archy and Georgia are super fun, have great interactions, and feel exactly their ages with good solid arcs and plenty of room left to grow in further books. Their dialogue is great! Add to that the solid writing and fun locales and I got through this one faster than anticipated. It's not a complicated plot, but it's got enough twists and turns to keep up the pace and even goes full-throttle at points.
Yes, the game stats are a bit distracting, but that's definitely a me problem. (No docking stars for reading outside my preferred sub-genres. I made that choice! 😉) I also have to say that the audiobook narrator, Kyle Remund, did a superb job of bringing every voice and every scene to vibrant life. It was a perfect match for this series!
I'm quite looking forward to the next book, and that's a wonderful surprise in a sub-genre I typically avoid!
August 3, 2026
Archy's trip into Neverwhere starts with a mystery back home - his parents are obviously keeping secrets, and OMG I want to know what all they know. (I think that's my main gripe with the book, darn it, I want resolution on the background here, lol) When his father disappears, Archy races to find him, not really sure what he can do...but he knows he has to do something. What he stumbles into is more than he imagined though: a whole new world, and it feels almost exactly like a video game. I'm a sucker for an isekai story done well, and this one is absolutely done well. The world is rich and well built, feeling real enough for the characters to be in it and to make the stakes matter, but enough like a game that it feels familiar at the same time. It's hard to balance having stats and HUDs and whatnot in a book and making them mean something without taking the stakes and pressure away, and the author does a really good job of that here. The characters are young but relatable, and I really just had fun with this book - which is always my big thing. I'll be back for more in the series, but I'll probably bring my son along, listening to this audiobook together and then going forward.
July 11, 2026
LitRPG is not something I would usually read about, but I thought it's David Trotter you enjoy his writing, so I dug in and enjoyed every minute of it. Well, I lost my heart to these two teens on a rescue mission to find Archy's dad, who got caught in a cave-in. They find his dad's empty briefcase by a big hole in the ground as they are looking in; of course, they fall in. They find themselves in Neverwhere, a land of elves, fairies, gnomes, trolls- you get the idea. To get back home, they have to Erle'em Un'din Nidlahm, Lord of the Wood Elves and Once Sovereign King of Neverwhere (Glory be to his name!), restore the light and end the corruption that is darkening the realm. It all seems like a video game with a HUD showing levels, stats, inventory, and more. It was fun seeing how they interacted with all of the different species and leveling up.
4.5 stars for taking me out of my comfort zone and showing me a good time.
4.5 stars for taking me out of my comfort zone and showing me a good time.
August 3, 2026
Archy's not too happy when his Dad's new job appraising artifacts means they have to move to Arkansas, but he’s setting in and making at least one friend when he learns that his Dad is lost in a cave in. His new maybe-friend Georgia happens by just as Archy's setting out to find his dad, so she goes with him. While looking for his dad, they fall through a portal to Neverwhere.
I’m not any kind of gamer, but I think if I had read a book like this when I was younger I would have been. I’m fairly sure I missed a lot of the game mechanics aspects, but I thought they were fun and I liked the explanations of how they worked. I thought the story was great and extremely creative. The world was fascinating with plenty of details, imaginative creatures (riding corgis!, pig faced goblins!, half mech apes!) and varied and descriptive settings. Archy and Georgia are appealing characters and I appreciated Archy's positive relationship with his parents.
Highly recommend!
July 1, 2026
My rating is 4.25
This was a delightful story1
I don't read a lot of progression fantasy or LItRPG but it's really fun to dive in once in a while. David's take is really well done. I found myself caring for the characters because they all had back stories and aren't just dropped into the world and expected to level up. Speaking of leveling up, it's not that annoying stat after stat listing...it does give us the necessary increases and cool items the characters collect to use but it's in a easy to read way.
There is a scene toward the end that is so endearing! I won't spoil it but it made me smile and give a little giggle at Archy's reaction. I will definitely look for book 2 in the series!
I was thrilled to be able to experience this novel on audio...the narrator Kyle Remund was super! Thank you David!
This was a delightful story1
I don't read a lot of progression fantasy or LItRPG but it's really fun to dive in once in a while. David's take is really well done. I found myself caring for the characters because they all had back stories and aren't just dropped into the world and expected to level up. Speaking of leveling up, it's not that annoying stat after stat listing...it does give us the necessary increases and cool items the characters collect to use but it's in a easy to read way.
There is a scene toward the end that is so endearing! I won't spoil it but it made me smile and give a little giggle at Archy's reaction. I will definitely look for book 2 in the series!
I was thrilled to be able to experience this novel on audio...the narrator Kyle Remund was super! Thank you David!
August 13, 2026
Welcome to a live game
Archy is a teenager with ADHD and an archaeologist father that suddenly got a great work opportunity. Moving to Arkansas, Archy meets a lovely classmate, Georgia, just a day before his father disappears in the cave system he went to explore. When Archy and Georgia follow his footsteps, last thing they'd expect would be to suddenly appear in a world that is a live RPG game..
I very much enjoyed the world building. The confusion of both MCs after suddenly reading text in the air, out of nowhere, and realizing the strange things happening to them was priceless. Their interactions were many times hilarious. Just throw two teenagers into a RPG and send them on a quest to retrieve magical objects. Sometimes though I felt a bit lost in all the stats and upgrades and all. Nevertheless, I really enjoyed their journey!
Archy is a teenager with ADHD and an archaeologist father that suddenly got a great work opportunity. Moving to Arkansas, Archy meets a lovely classmate, Georgia, just a day before his father disappears in the cave system he went to explore. When Archy and Georgia follow his footsteps, last thing they'd expect would be to suddenly appear in a world that is a live RPG game..
I very much enjoyed the world building. The confusion of both MCs after suddenly reading text in the air, out of nowhere, and realizing the strange things happening to them was priceless. Their interactions were many times hilarious. Just throw two teenagers into a RPG and send them on a quest to retrieve magical objects. Sometimes though I felt a bit lost in all the stats and upgrades and all. Nevertheless, I really enjoyed their journey!
July 18, 2025
Archy is 16 and his family is moving. Again. To Arkansas. What is in Arkansas? And another new school. Archy was not athletic or popular, he was more of a nerd who liked playing video games.
Archy’s dad appraised archeological finds. When there was a cave in at the site, Archy and his only new friend, Georgia, go to see if they can help. Even though they are turned away, Georgia knows a back way in.
They come to a spot where they find Archy’s dad’s briefcase but then the floor gives way and they are falling. When they hit ground they are not in Arkansas anymore.
Join them in a video game based journey through Neverwhere. Their battles are many and rewards are given after each victory. This new world is very vivid even to non gamers. Very enjoyable.
Archy’s dad appraised archeological finds. When there was a cave in at the site, Archy and his only new friend, Georgia, go to see if they can help. Even though they are turned away, Georgia knows a back way in.
They come to a spot where they find Archy’s dad’s briefcase but then the floor gives way and they are falling. When they hit ground they are not in Arkansas anymore.
Join them in a video game based journey through Neverwhere. Their battles are many and rewards are given after each victory. This new world is very vivid even to non gamers. Very enjoyable.
February 10, 2026
A great addition to the LitRPG genre. I like that this is not solely for adults. The genre has been somewhat "Wild West" when it comes to content, with some of the more popular being pretty graphic. This is a great middle age addition that is really friendly for all ages. I enjoyed it as an adult, but am now happy to pass it on to my children because I can tell they'd love it as well. The characters are great, but where the book truly shines is in the stunning "game design." Each area is so beautifully described that it feels like you've fallen into Neverwhere as well. I selfishly hope Archy and Georgia never get home!
June 27, 2026
Fun and Fast Moving
I really liked this book! It is refreshing to read a LitRPG without being subjected to buffoonish MC males and caricatures of female MCs. Archy and Georgia feel real. One thing that I found really fun in this book was that I felt like I was in a Zelda game hanging out in Archy's head. The quests and foes are so creative and well described and the battles are fun to read.
There are several homonym errors and a few missed words that occasionally drove me batty. These multiplied as the ending got closer. Other than that this was a fantastic journey into Neverwhere.
I really liked this book! It is refreshing to read a LitRPG without being subjected to buffoonish MC males and caricatures of female MCs. Archy and Georgia feel real. One thing that I found really fun in this book was that I felt like I was in a Zelda game hanging out in Archy's head. The quests and foes are so creative and well described and the battles are fun to read.
There are several homonym errors and a few missed words that occasionally drove me batty. These multiplied as the ending got closer. Other than that this was a fantastic journey into Neverwhere.
August 2, 2026
This is a fun portal fantasy and Lit-RPG mashup that plays around with these two Fantasy subgenres in intriguing ways. I liked Archy and Georgia. They were fun characters and turned out to be a great team as well. The plot is mostly fast-paced and action-packed, and the world through the portal is full of fun monsters and puzzling conundrums. I enjoyed this read and think my son, who is eleven, might also enjoy it. This definitely crosses over the young adult - middle grade divide and will likely be enjoyable for readers of both.
September 2, 2026
CANT WAIT FOR BOOK 2!
I recently finished this book, and let me tell ya, it didn’t disappoint.
The world? Creative and immersive, and very entertaining.
The main character? Very relatable! He’s got the blood of a hero, but has flaws, which is refreshing.
Book length? Too short!
Overall, fantastic read, and very well written. It has just enough whimsy to be fun without detracting from the plot. Will definitely be continuing this series. Would highly recommend if you love fantasy, and/or LitRPG.
I recently finished this book, and let me tell ya, it didn’t disappoint.
The world? Creative and immersive, and very entertaining.
The main character? Very relatable! He’s got the blood of a hero, but has flaws, which is refreshing.
Book length? Too short!
Overall, fantastic read, and very well written. It has just enough whimsy to be fun without detracting from the plot. Will definitely be continuing this series. Would highly recommend if you love fantasy, and/or LitRPG.
September 22, 2025
Perfect for fans of Zelda and litRPG! This is such a fun story and I love Georgia so much, she cracks me up. Archy is growing and changing so much but I can't wait to see how he completes the next tasks in book 2 since he's done so well in book 1! Sadly, there was an inconsistency and several errors throughout the story that distracted me, so for now it's a 4* for me. I have been told Trotter will be updating the story to fix these errors and I'm excited to give it another shot at that point!
January 18, 2026
David Andrew Trotter’s “Legend of Neverwhere and the Lost Totems” is an immersive and entertaining tale in the popular LitRPG Fantasy genre. This middle-grade to young-adult read is filled with interesting characters and intriguing situations. I enjoyed Archy and Georgia’s slow burn relationship and equal partnership. Best thing is, it looks like there will be more in this series coming soon.
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March 5, 2026What an incredible beginning to an adventure!!
This book was so satisfying. It's pretty amazing to see Archy and Georgia grow and become more confident as they fight against the difficult creatures they face but what's even more amazing is that they're doing it together and trusting in one another. Would recommend this any time.
This book was so satisfying. It's pretty amazing to see Archy and Georgia grow and become more confident as they fight against the difficult creatures they face but what's even more amazing is that they're doing it together and trusting in one another. Would recommend this any time.
August 10, 2026
I've never been much of a video game player, so I'm probably not the target audience for books like this. With that being said, it was an enjoyable read.
The world-building was done well. The character growth in this story was fun to read.
I think this would be a great book for lovers of Zelda.
The world-building was done well. The character growth in this story was fun to read.
I think this would be a great book for lovers of Zelda.
August 11, 2026
LitRPG is always a little bit hit and miss for me and Legend of Neverwhere was perhaps more on the miss than the hit side, although that may also be due to the young adult focus. I found it a little too simplistic and wand waving of problems for my personal taste, but I'd imagine it would be a major hit with the teenage gamer audience and that's not a bad thing.
Archy is sixteen and would far prefer to be sat playing video games and reading books than dealing with people. But business isn't going great for his dad and he finds himself moved yet again, this time to Arkansas where he'll have to get to know another school and different people. Or he would have, had his father not been involved in a cave in and his misplaced efforts to rescue him instead finds Archie transported to a mythical world. Neverwhere has it's own problems and Archie may be the key to solving them. Just as soon as he levels up a bit.
As mentioned, litRPG is one of those slightly dicey territory's for me and it doesn't help that I am wildly inconsistent in what I like and don't like in different efforts. I'm therefore veering towards a 'this is on me, not on the book'. If you like litRPG and are less weird about it than I am, this will probably be right up your street. The bits that niggled for me will likely not be a problem at all. And if you have a young gamer who isn't so keen on reading, please please introduce them to this novel. It may well be the entry drug into the far too expensive world of books.
So yep, not quite to my taste but don't let that put you off. It is very much aimed at the YA market, but the characterisations are one of the strongest things here and even as a stone hearted troll, I was still rooting for Archie and his new friend Georgia.
Archy is sixteen and would far prefer to be sat playing video games and reading books than dealing with people. But business isn't going great for his dad and he finds himself moved yet again, this time to Arkansas where he'll have to get to know another school and different people. Or he would have, had his father not been involved in a cave in and his misplaced efforts to rescue him instead finds Archie transported to a mythical world. Neverwhere has it's own problems and Archie may be the key to solving them. Just as soon as he levels up a bit.
As mentioned, litRPG is one of those slightly dicey territory's for me and it doesn't help that I am wildly inconsistent in what I like and don't like in different efforts. I'm therefore veering towards a 'this is on me, not on the book'. If you like litRPG and are less weird about it than I am, this will probably be right up your street. The bits that niggled for me will likely not be a problem at all. And if you have a young gamer who isn't so keen on reading, please please introduce them to this novel. It may well be the entry drug into the far too expensive world of books.
So yep, not quite to my taste but don't let that put you off. It is very much aimed at the YA market, but the characterisations are one of the strongest things here and even as a stone hearted troll, I was still rooting for Archie and his new friend Georgia.
September 17, 2026
This was a fun and fantastic read for me! Reading this book felt like playing a classic Legend of Zelda game. The world building is great, and the litrpg system is super fun. I connected with the main charachter on a deeper level than I expected with his hyper fixations and ever spinning brain. It is a fantastic book especially if you love those classic RPG games!
November 17, 2025
Such a fun read! This is an adventure I won’t forget
July 4, 2026
Great book!!!
This was such a fun read! It took me less than a day to finish it. I can not wait to continue on this journey in Neverywhere!
This was such a fun read! It took me less than a day to finish it. I can not wait to continue on this journey in Neverywhere!
July 13, 2026
Read for SRC2026
I find myself both wanting to cheer for Archie and wrap him in a duvet because he is just precious.
Also Georgia is a Queen and should be acknowledged as such.
I find myself both wanting to cheer for Archie and wrap him in a duvet because he is just precious.
Also Georgia is a Queen and should be acknowledged as such.
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