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Overlord #3
オーバーロード 3 鮮血の戦乙女
Lord Ainz has made great progress moonlighting as the indomitable hero Momon, but what should be a moment of triumph is shattered--by news of rebellion. He vows to find out what has happened and to defend the honor of his guild and home--Ainz Ooal Gown.
376 pages, Paperback
First published March 30, 2013
295 people are currently reading
862 people want to read
About the author
Kugane Maruyama
120 books359 followersMARUYAMA Kugane
Name (in native language): 丸山くがね
Name (in native language): 丸山くがね
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
March 17, 2017
Review originally found on Looking Glass Reads.
Tuesday saw the release of the next Overlord novel. So here I am, book in hand, to tell you all about it while waiting (not quite so) patiently for the next novel in the series. Overlord, Vol. 3: The Bloody Valkyrie by Kugane Maruyama is a fantastic installment in the series and possibly my favorite released (in English) thus far. The artwork by so-bin, including a double sided foldout at the beginning of the book, is absolutely stunning. And I can't wait for Vol. 4.
That's it guys. I'm hooked.
A wonderful installment to a great series, The Bloody Valkyrie is, perhaps, the best release seen in English thus far. (I believe they are up to Vol. 11 in Japan). There are a number of issues I've had with previous volumes in the series, including pacing and a few characters so annoying and over the top that I get tired of them quite soon after they appear in a scene. Never fear, though, for these have been addressed! Honestly, I'm very happy and a little surprised about this. Of late I've been finding series that get weaker as they go along, their weaknesses growing more pronounced with each new book. It is a very refreshing change to find a series that only appears to be growing stronger.
We pick up the story with Shalltear who is traveling with Sebas and Solution Epsilon, one of the maids from Nazarick, as they traverse the countryside on Ainz's orders looking for helpful information. Now, as the last few lines in volume two stated, Shalltear betrays Ainz and Nazarick, going rogue. It’s up to Ainz to stop her one way or another. Unfortunately, this won’t be easy. Shalltear is one of the most powerful floor guardians in Nazarick and, perhaps, second in power only to Ainz himself. Complicating things even further, Ainz’s magical abilities and Shalltear’s are of opposing types, leaving Ainz vulnerable to her attacks.
The book moves along pretty quickly. Action abounds with plenty of fight scenes. The plot is set at a good pace, both more consistent and faster overall than the previous two titles in the series. At no point did the book feel as if it were dragging. The slower sections focused largely on Ainz contemplating how things have or might be changed in this world as opposed to Yggdrasil are much fewer in number. When present at all, they tend to be shorter. This is partially due to the fact that most of the basic, vital information needed for world building and characterization were imparted with the last two novels, leaving more room for magic, mayhem, and the undead hordes in this one. I found myself caring much more about the introspective scenes there were this time around too. The stakes are higher and more personal here. For the first time I felt like Ainz was truly threatened. He isn't simply looking for information, followers, or playing adventurer in this book, some common themes from the previous two.
Overall, the tone is more serious in this book. That isn’t to say the comedy is gone. There are plenty of scenes, especially between the floor guardians, that are very humorous. I did feel that some, not all, were slightly less over the top. Some of these humorous scenes also played more on the macabre, such as Shalltear asking Solution how exactly she manages to absorb humans and digest them while still alive and we get the answers in fairly gruesome detail.
The Interlude, the section near the middle of the book which usually features some lighthearted scenes between the floor guardians in Nazarick is used much differently here. This time we follow Gazef Stronoff as he reports to the king on the events way back in book one. The scene is short, but tense, with plot and important details potentially set for future books instead of the humor and character development we’ve seen previously.
Speaking of things different from what we’ve previously seen, if you’ve watched the anime things are ever so slightly different in the original novel version. While nothing major is changed plot wise, we do get to meet Nigredo, one Albedo's two sisters. She is a rather terrifying character, which is really saying a lot considering most of the main and supporting characters are the undead, monsters, and similar fare. And I really hope we see more of her in future novels.
Important themes are delved into more deeply than the previous novels within the series. Ainz, along with some of the NPCs themselves, question the extent to which their programming, stats, pre-written backgrounds, and subtle influence of their creators drives their actions and motivations versus how much is their own will. The floor guardians have very different opinions on Ainz’s decision to face Shalltear alone. Albedo gives quiet support and understanding while Demiurge is of half a mind to disobey all orders and go after Ainz just in case something happens to him.
Ainz also questions himself in this novel. Not the hypothetical questions we’ve seen before – how to be the best ruler, how to keep his minions happy and in line. He is almost hyper aware of his flaws since the end of volume two, where he feels he could have saved everyone and avoided the entire fight if he’d only done things differently. This is a very human reaction, and, in fact, Ainz does refer to himself by his original name Japanese name, which we haven’t seen since book one. He acts very human in this book, emotions so high that they begin to override the normal emotion dampening settings all undead have.
More importantly we see him begin to change. There are very few times he refers to the rest of the cast as NPCs, something he did a great deal in previous books. They are called floor guardians most of the time, and his “children” a few times as well. Ainz cares. More than maybe he realizes for the majority of the book. Also of note is just how differently Shalltear and Ainz treat their subordinates, whether they are direct subordinates or the simple undead minion hordes their magical abilities can produce.
On a fun note, we get to see Ainz battle not as Momon the Adventurer, holding back as he fights with or against humans from whom he is hiding his true identity. We see him fight as Ainz Ooal Gown, leader of the tomb of Nazarick. And boy is it worth the wait!
Overlord, Vol. 3: The Bloody Valkyrie is an amazing addition to the Overlord series. I really loved this novel, ultimately scoring it higher than volumes one and two. If you enjoyed the previous books or watched the anime, you will love this one as well. If you like gorgeous, full color art in your novels, pick this up. Stay tuned for the next release in the series which, according to the publisher's website, seems to be gearing up for a release this May.
*This book was received from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
Tuesday saw the release of the next Overlord novel. So here I am, book in hand, to tell you all about it while waiting (not quite so) patiently for the next novel in the series. Overlord, Vol. 3: The Bloody Valkyrie by Kugane Maruyama is a fantastic installment in the series and possibly my favorite released (in English) thus far. The artwork by so-bin, including a double sided foldout at the beginning of the book, is absolutely stunning. And I can't wait for Vol. 4.
That's it guys. I'm hooked.
A wonderful installment to a great series, The Bloody Valkyrie is, perhaps, the best release seen in English thus far. (I believe they are up to Vol. 11 in Japan). There are a number of issues I've had with previous volumes in the series, including pacing and a few characters so annoying and over the top that I get tired of them quite soon after they appear in a scene. Never fear, though, for these have been addressed! Honestly, I'm very happy and a little surprised about this. Of late I've been finding series that get weaker as they go along, their weaknesses growing more pronounced with each new book. It is a very refreshing change to find a series that only appears to be growing stronger.
We pick up the story with Shalltear who is traveling with Sebas and Solution Epsilon, one of the maids from Nazarick, as they traverse the countryside on Ainz's orders looking for helpful information. Now, as the last few lines in volume two stated, Shalltear betrays Ainz and Nazarick, going rogue. It’s up to Ainz to stop her one way or another. Unfortunately, this won’t be easy. Shalltear is one of the most powerful floor guardians in Nazarick and, perhaps, second in power only to Ainz himself. Complicating things even further, Ainz’s magical abilities and Shalltear’s are of opposing types, leaving Ainz vulnerable to her attacks.
The book moves along pretty quickly. Action abounds with plenty of fight scenes. The plot is set at a good pace, both more consistent and faster overall than the previous two titles in the series. At no point did the book feel as if it were dragging. The slower sections focused largely on Ainz contemplating how things have or might be changed in this world as opposed to Yggdrasil are much fewer in number. When present at all, they tend to be shorter. This is partially due to the fact that most of the basic, vital information needed for world building and characterization were imparted with the last two novels, leaving more room for magic, mayhem, and the undead hordes in this one. I found myself caring much more about the introspective scenes there were this time around too. The stakes are higher and more personal here. For the first time I felt like Ainz was truly threatened. He isn't simply looking for information, followers, or playing adventurer in this book, some common themes from the previous two.
Overall, the tone is more serious in this book. That isn’t to say the comedy is gone. There are plenty of scenes, especially between the floor guardians, that are very humorous. I did feel that some, not all, were slightly less over the top. Some of these humorous scenes also played more on the macabre, such as Shalltear asking Solution how exactly she manages to absorb humans and digest them while still alive and we get the answers in fairly gruesome detail.
The Interlude, the section near the middle of the book which usually features some lighthearted scenes between the floor guardians in Nazarick is used much differently here. This time we follow Gazef Stronoff as he reports to the king on the events way back in book one. The scene is short, but tense, with plot and important details potentially set for future books instead of the humor and character development we’ve seen previously.
Speaking of things different from what we’ve previously seen, if you’ve watched the anime things are ever so slightly different in the original novel version. While nothing major is changed plot wise, we do get to meet Nigredo, one Albedo's two sisters. She is a rather terrifying character, which is really saying a lot considering most of the main and supporting characters are the undead, monsters, and similar fare. And I really hope we see more of her in future novels.
Important themes are delved into more deeply than the previous novels within the series. Ainz, along with some of the NPCs themselves, question the extent to which their programming, stats, pre-written backgrounds, and subtle influence of their creators drives their actions and motivations versus how much is their own will. The floor guardians have very different opinions on Ainz’s decision to face Shalltear alone. Albedo gives quiet support and understanding while Demiurge is of half a mind to disobey all orders and go after Ainz just in case something happens to him.
Ainz also questions himself in this novel. Not the hypothetical questions we’ve seen before – how to be the best ruler, how to keep his minions happy and in line. He is almost hyper aware of his flaws since the end of volume two, where he feels he could have saved everyone and avoided the entire fight if he’d only done things differently. This is a very human reaction, and, in fact, Ainz does refer to himself by his original name Japanese name, which we haven’t seen since book one. He acts very human in this book, emotions so high that they begin to override the normal emotion dampening settings all undead have.
More importantly we see him begin to change. There are very few times he refers to the rest of the cast as NPCs, something he did a great deal in previous books. They are called floor guardians most of the time, and his “children” a few times as well. Ainz cares. More than maybe he realizes for the majority of the book. Also of note is just how differently Shalltear and Ainz treat their subordinates, whether they are direct subordinates or the simple undead minion hordes their magical abilities can produce.
On a fun note, we get to see Ainz battle not as Momon the Adventurer, holding back as he fights with or against humans from whom he is hiding his true identity. We see him fight as Ainz Ooal Gown, leader of the tomb of Nazarick. And boy is it worth the wait!
Overlord, Vol. 3: The Bloody Valkyrie is an amazing addition to the Overlord series. I really loved this novel, ultimately scoring it higher than volumes one and two. If you enjoyed the previous books or watched the anime, you will love this one as well. If you like gorgeous, full color art in your novels, pick this up. Stay tuned for the next release in the series which, according to the publisher's website, seems to be gearing up for a release this May.
*This book was received from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
October 19, 2020
The fight with Shalltear was awesome.
November 25, 2025
I loved it! I really enjoy reading all the new information that is not shown in the anime. I want all the details lol With each book, we get a better look at the different aspects of each character. Can't wait to continue the series (^o^)
June 10, 2020
Eu simplesmente amo essa historia. É extremamente bem escrita e os personagens são tão únicos e interessantes que é difícil parar de ler.
June 2, 2025
Volume 3 of Overlord takes a different approach from the earlier volumes, and I really appreciated how it dove into multiple perspectives. We get glimpses into the daily lives of the guardians, the world through the eyes of an ordinary person (even if that part dragged a bit for me), Brain's struggles and growth, and finally the absolute highlight of Shalltear’s point of view during the final battle.
While the everyday-person perspective was slower and a bit boring at times, I can see why the author included it. It helps flesh out the world and shows how overwhelming Nazarick really is from the outside.
One of the things I really enjoyed was exploring more of the Great Tomb of Nazarick itself, especially getting to see some of the other floors and meeting Albedo’s older sister. It made Nazarick feel even more massive and mysterious.
But without a doubt, my favorite part was the fight between Ainz and Shalltear. Experiencing it from Shalltear’s perspective added so much weight. Her thoughts, emotions, and unwavering loyalty made the whole thing way more intense and tragic than I expected. Her resolve and the way she processed the battle hit hard.
The ending also did a great job setting up what’s coming next. You can feel the story shifting toward something bigger, and I’m really excited to see where things go.
While the everyday-person perspective was slower and a bit boring at times, I can see why the author included it. It helps flesh out the world and shows how overwhelming Nazarick really is from the outside.
One of the things I really enjoyed was exploring more of the Great Tomb of Nazarick itself, especially getting to see some of the other floors and meeting Albedo’s older sister. It made Nazarick feel even more massive and mysterious.
But without a doubt, my favorite part was the fight between Ainz and Shalltear. Experiencing it from Shalltear’s perspective added so much weight. Her thoughts, emotions, and unwavering loyalty made the whole thing way more intense and tragic than I expected. Her resolve and the way she processed the battle hit hard.
The ending also did a great job setting up what’s coming next. You can feel the story shifting toward something bigger, and I’m really excited to see where things go.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 11, 2018
This one follows the previous book with only hours of difference, and considering that the first book is only a few day ago, there’s a lot happening in Nazarick and the new world. I loved this one, its filled with the level difference between the two worlds and the error that that overconfidence produces in one side, we get to meet Pandora’s Actor and trough him we get to know more about our main character, whom we start to see a little less so we can explore many other characters in the series.
May 28, 2019
I continue to enjoy this light novel series. The evolution of the plot, alongside continued development of the rogue's gallery of characters, keeps this series at the forefront of my favorites. Though I have seen the anime, the light novels contain a lot more information, as well as interesting elements that keep things interesting and keep me engaged.
It was nice to have a novel centered on Shalltear, who is one of my favorite characters. It was cool to see how she fought, as well as how she handled the bandits. It was also nice to learn a bit more about what had her under control, and I really hope that at some point that gets fleshed out, or at least teased along at some point not shown in the anime.
I could bring up the issue with everything being so overpowered in this anime, and it was a struggle at points to not get annoyed at just how each and every character is 'the best'. And yet, it still works in the world that the author has built up. Sure, the final confrontation of the novel was almost ridiculous. Over the top displays of power, over the top weapons and abilities, and massive amounts of collateral damage. Still, there is something a lot of readers will find satisfying while reading about such large displays of destruction. And since this is for young adults, many teens will be able to relate to the desire for power.
In the end, I enjoyed this novel which is why it didn't take me too long to read it. (while reading a number of other light novels) I enjoy this take on the isekai genre and find it refreshing that for a change I am reading about someone who is technically the villain. I look forward to reading more of this series.
It was nice to have a novel centered on Shalltear, who is one of my favorite characters. It was cool to see how she fought, as well as how she handled the bandits. It was also nice to learn a bit more about what had her under control, and I really hope that at some point that gets fleshed out, or at least teased along at some point not shown in the anime.
I could bring up the issue with everything being so overpowered in this anime, and it was a struggle at points to not get annoyed at just how each and every character is 'the best'. And yet, it still works in the world that the author has built up. Sure, the final confrontation of the novel was almost ridiculous. Over the top displays of power, over the top weapons and abilities, and massive amounts of collateral damage. Still, there is something a lot of readers will find satisfying while reading about such large displays of destruction. And since this is for young adults, many teens will be able to relate to the desire for power.
In the end, I enjoyed this novel which is why it didn't take me too long to read it. (while reading a number of other light novels) I enjoy this take on the isekai genre and find it refreshing that for a change I am reading about someone who is technically the villain. I look forward to reading more of this series.
May 17, 2022
This one dragged on far too much. A lot of the action is frontloaded, and then the final two chapters go back to heavy action. It's just too much.
The slower parts are more interesting and do a lot of legwork on the worldbuilding department, but even as somebody who appreciates Shalltear Bloodfallen, she overstayed her welcome due to how drawn out a lot of scenes are. A lot of them could have been handled more efficiently, with less screeching, and more of a point.
...and at this junction, I'm getting really tired of all the "Lord Ainz"-fawning by the characters. I get it, he's the Supreme Being, they're all obedient to him in a way... but it doesn't make for interesting character dynamics when three books in, the individual character traits get consistently dominated by the worship angle.
Worst of all, this book could have broken with that by way of its plot - the setup was all there. Instead, the final battle just returned to fawning, instead of presenting Shalltear on her own merits, without being mentally chained to adore her former master. If you have a character rebel, at least let them live a little while they do so.
I sincerely hope the meta-plot will pick up its pace in the next arc, at least. It's time to dig into the greater mysteries, because the characters are starting to lose my interest.
The slower parts are more interesting and do a lot of legwork on the worldbuilding department, but even as somebody who appreciates Shalltear Bloodfallen, she overstayed her welcome due to how drawn out a lot of scenes are. A lot of them could have been handled more efficiently, with less screeching, and more of a point.
...and at this junction, I'm getting really tired of all the "Lord Ainz"-fawning by the characters. I get it, he's the Supreme Being, they're all obedient to him in a way... but it doesn't make for interesting character dynamics when three books in, the individual character traits get consistently dominated by the worship angle.
Worst of all, this book could have broken with that by way of its plot - the setup was all there. Instead, the final battle just returned to fawning, instead of presenting Shalltear on her own merits, without being mentally chained to adore her former master. If you have a character rebel, at least let them live a little while they do so.
I sincerely hope the meta-plot will pick up its pace in the next arc, at least. It's time to dig into the greater mysteries, because the characters are starting to lose my interest.
January 8, 2025
Best book in the series so far!
May 30, 2017
Shalltear has rebelled? Backing up a bit, this book begins a little bit before The Dark Warrior ended, after Shalltear left Nazarick along with Sebas and Solution. Their plan is to learn more about the martial and magical artes of this world by finding strong warriors---preferably criminals whose deaths or disappearances won't be noticed. But a chance encounter causes everything to go wrong, and Shalltear is now under a mind-control her undead status should have protected against. Ainz is furious, but also cautious, and heads out himself to stop her . . .
It says a lot about this series that the first serious threat Ainz faces is his own NPC-turned-rogue. That said, Shalltear is an NPC more or less built to attack players similar to Ainz, so he's got a fair number of disadvantages going into the fight. Furthermore, Ainz's paranoia about considering this a deliberate attack, and therefore possibly a trap, causes him to forgo some of the easier ways he could tackle the fight, because he's too concerned about ambushes and the possibility of his god-tier gear ending up in the hands of enemies to properly equip.
The heart of the novel is this fight. The book does contain one significant scene with Albedo's sister that the anime cut, but otherwise everything is by and large the same. I do like the smaller additional details, though. Sebas's alternate form gets mentioned, and now I REALLY want to see him use it. I also like the explanations of game mechanics behind things like Ainz's skill The Goal of All Life is Death. It feels better that he has so many huge abilities when there's more context about how hard he had to work to get there (and, amusingly enough, that skill in particular was more of an accidental Easter egg, but still the result of fully developing a particular branch of magic). And the player-versus-player explanations are fuller in the book, drawing out more of Ainz's experiences and strategies.
I like this a little less than the previous two books, though. Partially because I'm not as fond of Shalltear, and partially because the fanservice scene near the end has Ainz sneaking a peak at what's physically about a 14-year-old kid. Nothing described in too much detail, thankfully, but still, did we have to go there?
All in all, though, there's far more to enjoy than not. I like this different take on fantasy, where Ainz is almost a villain by default and not because he has any particularly bad intentions, and if Shalltear does anything really well it's bringing out his mixed feelings at having to take down someone he sees more like his child. He's absolutely not going to leave her in the hands of an enemy, but when he can't cure her there's only one option left.
I do really, really hope Ainz finds the culprit, though. He'll make Clementine look like she died peacefully.
This is the final episodes, 10-13, of the anime (at least the first season). I think both the anime and the books do a great job, but regardless which one you like better, at this point in time the only way to get more story is to keep going with the books. And it'd be a shame to stop here, when Ainz is clearly only getting started. I rate this book Recommended.
See my reviews and more at https://offtheshelfreviews.wordpress....
It says a lot about this series that the first serious threat Ainz faces is his own NPC-turned-rogue. That said, Shalltear is an NPC more or less built to attack players similar to Ainz, so he's got a fair number of disadvantages going into the fight. Furthermore, Ainz's paranoia about considering this a deliberate attack, and therefore possibly a trap, causes him to forgo some of the easier ways he could tackle the fight, because he's too concerned about ambushes and the possibility of his god-tier gear ending up in the hands of enemies to properly equip.
The heart of the novel is this fight. The book does contain one significant scene with Albedo's sister that the anime cut, but otherwise everything is by and large the same. I do like the smaller additional details, though. Sebas's alternate form gets mentioned, and now I REALLY want to see him use it. I also like the explanations of game mechanics behind things like Ainz's skill The Goal of All Life is Death. It feels better that he has so many huge abilities when there's more context about how hard he had to work to get there (and, amusingly enough, that skill in particular was more of an accidental Easter egg, but still the result of fully developing a particular branch of magic). And the player-versus-player explanations are fuller in the book, drawing out more of Ainz's experiences and strategies.
I like this a little less than the previous two books, though. Partially because I'm not as fond of Shalltear, and partially because the fanservice scene near the end has Ainz sneaking a peak at what's physically about a 14-year-old kid. Nothing described in too much detail, thankfully, but still, did we have to go there?
All in all, though, there's far more to enjoy than not. I like this different take on fantasy, where Ainz is almost a villain by default and not because he has any particularly bad intentions, and if Shalltear does anything really well it's bringing out his mixed feelings at having to take down someone he sees more like his child. He's absolutely not going to leave her in the hands of an enemy, but when he can't cure her there's only one option left.
I do really, really hope Ainz finds the culprit, though. He'll make Clementine look like she died peacefully.
This is the final episodes, 10-13, of the anime (at least the first season). I think both the anime and the books do a great job, but regardless which one you like better, at this point in time the only way to get more story is to keep going with the books. And it'd be a shame to stop here, when Ainz is clearly only getting started. I rate this book Recommended.
See my reviews and more at https://offtheshelfreviews.wordpress....
July 16, 2017
Read this review (and others) at: https://literatureislife.com/2017/07/...
The Bloody Valkyrie backtracks a bit from where the previous book stopped, showing what some other characters were up to. It opens with Shalltear, Sebas, and Solution (one of the Pleiades combat maids) off on a mission. (Apologies for the upcoming spoiler, but without it reviewing this book just is not going to happen.) While they start off dominating anyone trying to fight them, things go awry and Shalltear ends up mind controlled. These opening scenes are entertaining, highlighting how monstrous the main characters are compared to normal people. From this point on, the book switches back mostly to Ainz’s point-of-view.
In the first two books, we have seen Ainz and co. completely dominate every opponent they have faced. This time around the opponent is one of their own, someone who is as powerful as the other main characters. Ainz’s character development continues in this book as he begins to view his minions more as people. Most of them are modeled after their creators, Ainz’s old friends, and observing them reminds him of the good old days and makes him long for those long-lost companionships. These feelings are ultimately what make Ainz decide to face Shalltear in a one-on-one battle.
The big battle between Ainz and Shalltear is obviously the main part of The Bloody Valkyrie. As the story explains, Shalltear’s fighting style is pretty much designed specifically to kill magic users like Ainz. This part of the story does make more sense for readers who have played MMO games and are familiar with their combat mechanics. The novel is also much more detailed in that regard than the television show was, allowing for better explanations of the combat scenes. Kugane Maruyama does very well when writing fight scenes and that really gets a chance to shine in this book.
Like in the last book, there were scenes in The Bloody Valkyrie that were downplayed in the television show. Some of these scenes were probably cut short for time constraints and still worked within the show. However, two key scenes were omitted from the anime entirely. These scenes are probably not going to be too important until later in the story and the TV show producers likely did not know if they were getting renewed for another season when that decision was made, so it is understandable if disappointing. Still, if you want to keep up with this series this is a book that cannot be skipped in lieu of watching this show.
The Bloody Valkyrie backtracks a bit from where the previous book stopped, showing what some other characters were up to. It opens with Shalltear, Sebas, and Solution (one of the Pleiades combat maids) off on a mission. (Apologies for the upcoming spoiler, but without it reviewing this book just is not going to happen.) While they start off dominating anyone trying to fight them, things go awry and Shalltear ends up mind controlled. These opening scenes are entertaining, highlighting how monstrous the main characters are compared to normal people. From this point on, the book switches back mostly to Ainz’s point-of-view.
In the first two books, we have seen Ainz and co. completely dominate every opponent they have faced. This time around the opponent is one of their own, someone who is as powerful as the other main characters. Ainz’s character development continues in this book as he begins to view his minions more as people. Most of them are modeled after their creators, Ainz’s old friends, and observing them reminds him of the good old days and makes him long for those long-lost companionships. These feelings are ultimately what make Ainz decide to face Shalltear in a one-on-one battle.
The big battle between Ainz and Shalltear is obviously the main part of The Bloody Valkyrie. As the story explains, Shalltear’s fighting style is pretty much designed specifically to kill magic users like Ainz. This part of the story does make more sense for readers who have played MMO games and are familiar with their combat mechanics. The novel is also much more detailed in that regard than the television show was, allowing for better explanations of the combat scenes. Kugane Maruyama does very well when writing fight scenes and that really gets a chance to shine in this book.
Like in the last book, there were scenes in The Bloody Valkyrie that were downplayed in the television show. Some of these scenes were probably cut short for time constraints and still worked within the show. However, two key scenes were omitted from the anime entirely. These scenes are probably not going to be too important until later in the story and the TV show producers likely did not know if they were getting renewed for another season when that decision was made, so it is understandable if disappointing. Still, if you want to keep up with this series this is a book that cannot be skipped in lieu of watching this show.
January 12, 2023
Ainz quickly realizes there is a lot he needs to learn about this world he finds himself in. Not everything is exactly the same as in Yggdrasil. It’s important that he learn about the differences, to know what or who else is out there, what their strength is and what their intentions are. Also, are any of his fellow guild members possibly out there? He sends out Sebas and Solution and Shalltear on a mission – “capture humans who can use magic or martial arts, but aim for people whose disappearance won’t be an issue, like criminals.”
Capturing a very gullible fish, Shalltear learns the whereabouts of a bandits’ hideout and sends the others back to Nazarick, and moves forward, accompanied by two of her vampire brides. When she arrives at the hideout, everything seems to be straight forward…until it isn’t. And something that should not be possible happens…
Back in Nazarick, Ainz sees to his dismay that on the list of NPCs, Shalltear’s name has gone from white to black. This could mean rebellion, or it could mean mind control. But how can that even be? Why would Shalltear, always so devoted to him, rebel? But conversely, who could possibly control her mind? He has to find out.
Accompanied by Albedo, Ainz returns to E-Rantel at the request of an adventurer’s guild. Seems they have a bit of a vampire problem. Ainz promises to handle the problem himself, since he already knows what is afood, but one of the members, who is clearly jealous of AInz, wants to accompany him. Ainz warns him to come at his own peril. Meanwhile Albedo has found Shalltear, who has indeed been mind-controlled and is now dangerous to Ainz and Nazarick.
This volume is primarily centered on Shalltear’s involuntary rebellion, and the inevitable battle between Ainz and Shalltear – Player vs NPC. Ainz will have to use every skill he knows to win against such a strong being as Shalltear. He has no choice. The battle itself is amazing, watching all the various skills displayed on both sides. Who will win? That would be a spoiler.
Great volume, looking forward to more.
Capturing a very gullible fish, Shalltear learns the whereabouts of a bandits’ hideout and sends the others back to Nazarick, and moves forward, accompanied by two of her vampire brides. When she arrives at the hideout, everything seems to be straight forward…until it isn’t. And something that should not be possible happens…
Back in Nazarick, Ainz sees to his dismay that on the list of NPCs, Shalltear’s name has gone from white to black. This could mean rebellion, or it could mean mind control. But how can that even be? Why would Shalltear, always so devoted to him, rebel? But conversely, who could possibly control her mind? He has to find out.
Accompanied by Albedo, Ainz returns to E-Rantel at the request of an adventurer’s guild. Seems they have a bit of a vampire problem. Ainz promises to handle the problem himself, since he already knows what is afood, but one of the members, who is clearly jealous of AInz, wants to accompany him. Ainz warns him to come at his own peril. Meanwhile Albedo has found Shalltear, who has indeed been mind-controlled and is now dangerous to Ainz and Nazarick.
This volume is primarily centered on Shalltear’s involuntary rebellion, and the inevitable battle between Ainz and Shalltear – Player vs NPC. Ainz will have to use every skill he knows to win against such a strong being as Shalltear. He has no choice. The battle itself is amazing, watching all the various skills displayed on both sides. Who will win? That would be a spoiler.
Great volume, looking forward to more.
February 16, 2025
"Yeah, it wasn't like I wanted to see if she had pubes or not!"
This is probably the weirdest volume yet, but also the coolest. The teaser at the end of the previous volume was that Shalltear rebelled against Nazarick, but it's revealed here that she was mind-controlled by a mysterious group of people seemingly using a World Item from Ygggrasil. The conflict is, in a way, more "natural" than the previous two volumes, which honestly kind of felt like action happened in the climax simply because it's necessary for a fantasy isekai light novel. Here, the entire volume centers around the specific conflict of Shalltear being mind-controlled; kind of, at least - the first two chapters follow various NPCs on a mission for Ainz, rather than following from Ainz's perspective himself, and Shalltear is controlled later on, but we know from the previous volume that something like this would happen.
Much of this volume is spent gearing up for the big battle between Ainz and Shalltear. This fight is cool as fuck. If you thought the Clementine fight was good, you'll like this one. Same sort of "problem" of the combatants constantly naming Spells and Skills, but that's to be expected at this point. And, really, it isn't too different from attacks being named in shōnen battle manga, so I'm used to it myself, and anyway I love this sort of thing in battle manga, so I shouldn't dislike it here. I guess?
I also like how Shalltear seems to get "wet" during the battle. Reminds you just how Japanese this series is.
This is probably the weirdest volume yet, but also the coolest. The teaser at the end of the previous volume was that Shalltear rebelled against Nazarick, but it's revealed here that she was mind-controlled by a mysterious group of people seemingly using a World Item from Ygggrasil. The conflict is, in a way, more "natural" than the previous two volumes, which honestly kind of felt like action happened in the climax simply because it's necessary for a fantasy isekai light novel. Here, the entire volume centers around the specific conflict of Shalltear being mind-controlled; kind of, at least - the first two chapters follow various NPCs on a mission for Ainz, rather than following from Ainz's perspective himself, and Shalltear is controlled later on, but we know from the previous volume that something like this would happen.
Much of this volume is spent gearing up for the big battle between Ainz and Shalltear. This fight is cool as fuck. If you thought the Clementine fight was good, you'll like this one. Same sort of "problem" of the combatants constantly naming Spells and Skills, but that's to be expected at this point. And, really, it isn't too different from attacks being named in shōnen battle manga, so I'm used to it myself, and anyway I love this sort of thing in battle manga, so I shouldn't dislike it here. I guess?
I also like how Shalltear seems to get "wet" during the battle. Reminds you just how Japanese this series is.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 17, 2021
Establishes great tension and mystery. Though act 1's joyride goes on a little longer than it needs to.
The third installment of Overlord covers the end of the first arc with an exciting final boss battle. A lot of the imagery and description establishes the height of the stakes at play. Using a lot of descriptive paragraphs, though it could be considered information dumping, the novel tactfully rewards the reader with the information they pay attention to as the chapters progress. Though, not a lot of movement occur for the main story, I feel this slow pace gives us enough time to invest in the colorful cast.
The only grip I have about the book is the second half of Act 1. To raise the stakes and focus our MC on the task at hand, the was a lot of violently vicious action that seemed to be a bit repetitive as it began winding down. I don't mind the violence, in fact I thought it put a vivid picture in mind and showed the scales of power masterfully, but I was fatigued at the good time I was having. The rollercoaster was hitting a really long loop and sort of became numb at the second half of the good times.
Other than that small little speed bump, the rest I have to say about the novel is all great! Love this episodic journey.
For those wondering, this book covers the last few episodes of season 1 and hint at the next season. Not as big as a cliffhanger that the last book left everyone on.
The third installment of Overlord covers the end of the first arc with an exciting final boss battle. A lot of the imagery and description establishes the height of the stakes at play. Using a lot of descriptive paragraphs, though it could be considered information dumping, the novel tactfully rewards the reader with the information they pay attention to as the chapters progress. Though, not a lot of movement occur for the main story, I feel this slow pace gives us enough time to invest in the colorful cast.
The only grip I have about the book is the second half of Act 1. To raise the stakes and focus our MC on the task at hand, the was a lot of violently vicious action that seemed to be a bit repetitive as it began winding down. I don't mind the violence, in fact I thought it put a vivid picture in mind and showed the scales of power masterfully, but I was fatigued at the good time I was having. The rollercoaster was hitting a really long loop and sort of became numb at the second half of the good times.
Other than that small little speed bump, the rest I have to say about the novel is all great! Love this episodic journey.
For those wondering, this book covers the last few episodes of season 1 and hint at the next season. Not as big as a cliffhanger that the last book left everyone on.
August 25, 2025
Este volumen es una obra maestra de la tragedia, un lienzo donde la perspectiva se divide como un cielo partido por un rayo, mostrándonos tanto al cazador como a la presa, al maestro y a su creación corrompida. La narrativa nos arrastra hacia el inevitable choque entre Ainz y Shalltear, tejiendo una tensión que se siente como la cuerda de un arpa a punto de romperse.
La batalla final no es un simple combate; es la antítesis de la lealtad, un duelo legendario donde el amor y el deber se enfrentan en una danza mortal. Es una ironía cruel de leer: el creador forzado a aniquilar a la "hija" más perfecta de su mejor amigo; un rey que, para salvar su reino, debe primero destruir una parte de su propio corazón. Vemos al estratega supremo enfrentado a la furia ciega, la magia del más alto nivel contra el poder divino enloquecido. Fue como ver a dos estrellas colisionando en la oscuridad, un espectáculo tan magnífico como desolador.
Y tras el eco del último golpe, en el silencio de la victoria amarga, vemos la verdadera esencia de Nazarick. Los guardianes no solo renuevan su lealtad, sino que la forjan en el fuego de la tragedia. Su vínculo con Ainz se profundiza, cimentado no en la omnipotencia, sino en el sacrificio. Es en esa pérdida donde su grandeza se vuelve absoluta, y su lealtad, eterna al ver que Ainz lo dará todo para cuidar de Nazaricj.
La batalla final no es un simple combate; es la antítesis de la lealtad, un duelo legendario donde el amor y el deber se enfrentan en una danza mortal. Es una ironía cruel de leer: el creador forzado a aniquilar a la "hija" más perfecta de su mejor amigo; un rey que, para salvar su reino, debe primero destruir una parte de su propio corazón. Vemos al estratega supremo enfrentado a la furia ciega, la magia del más alto nivel contra el poder divino enloquecido. Fue como ver a dos estrellas colisionando en la oscuridad, un espectáculo tan magnífico como desolador.
Y tras el eco del último golpe, en el silencio de la victoria amarga, vemos la verdadera esencia de Nazarick. Los guardianes no solo renuevan su lealtad, sino que la forjan en el fuego de la tragedia. Su vínculo con Ainz se profundiza, cimentado no en la omnipotencia, sino en el sacrificio. Es en esa pérdida donde su grandeza se vuelve absoluta, y su lealtad, eterna al ver que Ainz lo dará todo para cuidar de Nazaricj.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 12, 2019
This entry does build well off the previous and seems to almost mold in with the last book as if they were never separate in the first place. In the beginning, the story takes a little cutback from where the previous story ended to provide some of the context behind Shalltear's rebellion and the various subplots to the story. Speaking of which, the story does a fantastic job at focusing on just the one storyline for so many pages while also developing so much of the world in the background. Whenever "Momon" has to talk with other people, it does well to show what they think of him and develop further plots down the line, but it also does a great job at developing complex emotions that it tries to get at. I can relate to the guilt Ainz feels at Shalltear's rebellion and the desire to make up for a mistake that no one blames him for. The desire to seek self-contentment is inherent in even the most inhuman of us. Definitely a good read for fans of the series
August 25, 2019
Summary
Basically this book is about a guy who gets transfered into a frictional world or a game where he is overpowered and has ~42 overpowered followers who thinks he (Momanga or something like that later he becomes Ainz) is the greatest and the best. One of my best Frictional novels I have ever read.
It joins togather comedy with the seriousness and also answers about the reality of socitey. It's fun when his followers overpraise him about something he dosen't Know.
For example one of his Smartest follower Demurgus thinks Momanga is smarter than him their conversetion goes like.
Momanga: So everything is fine right?
Demurgus: Oh how smart of you My lordyou found something was wrong So fast? You are talking about that right?
Momanga: Yes that?
Demurgus: That is amazing?
Momanga: Oh, Can you solve That?
Demurgus: Of course that is not a probelm.
Momanga (on his heart): "But i dont know what that is?"
Basically this book is about a guy who gets transfered into a frictional world or a game where he is overpowered and has ~42 overpowered followers who thinks he (Momanga or something like that later he becomes Ainz) is the greatest and the best. One of my best Frictional novels I have ever read.
It joins togather comedy with the seriousness and also answers about the reality of socitey. It's fun when his followers overpraise him about something he dosen't Know.
For example one of his Smartest follower Demurgus thinks Momanga is smarter than him their conversetion goes like.
Momanga: So everything is fine right?
Demurgus: Oh how smart of you My lordyou found something was wrong So fast? You are talking about that right?
Momanga: Yes that?
Demurgus: That is amazing?
Momanga: Oh, Can you solve That?
Demurgus: Of course that is not a probelm.
Momanga (on his heart): "But i dont know what that is?"
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 19, 2022
I don't understand how and why Shaltear was mind controlled. She was the head of a mission to end and find information from all of the criminal organizations in that new world. She was in a team with Sebas and the Pleyades Solution. When Shaltear was captured and mind controlled she was left all alone. I don't understand why she was left alone if she was part of a stronger team. I don't understand why Ainz (Momon) fought Shaltear to the death (to protect Nazarith from their unkown enemies). If Ainz would have allowed all of the best adventurers kill Shaltear he wouldn't have lost any weapons or artifacts.
The thing I least understand is WHY? after all of this ordeal, that to me was not credible or necessary, Ainz resurrects Shaltear...using 500 million gold coins. Why would one resurect Shaldear if she has already proven that she can be mind-controlled so easily by unknown enemies? To have it all happen again and again and again?
The thing I least understand is WHY? after all of this ordeal, that to me was not credible or necessary, Ainz resurrects Shaltear...using 500 million gold coins. Why would one resurect Shaldear if she has already proven that she can be mind-controlled so easily by unknown enemies? To have it all happen again and again and again?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 14, 2022
The fantasy fighting stuff is interesting, but the writing is just ugh. The translation is just bad, using PG language, when people in these life and death situations would be using far more colorful words... Then skip ahead to another scene and it gets all pervy.
Why is a middle aged office worker protagonist taking the time to scope out a 14 year old's pubic hair and take note of her ooohh soooo beautiffffulllll young body and breasts all the time? Just wtf? There's no reason to include that in a fantasy adventure novel. It doesn't add to the story. It doesn't make the character of Shalltear any deeper.
The effect of being the epitome of attractiveness outside and monstrous inside could be done just as well by making her 18 or 20 something, but the author chose to turn her into a nympho in a middle schooler's body that constantly asks the protagonist for sex. The only purpose seems to be to satisfy some nasty underage fantasy.
Why is a middle aged office worker protagonist taking the time to scope out a 14 year old's pubic hair and take note of her ooohh soooo beautiffffulllll young body and breasts all the time? Just wtf? There's no reason to include that in a fantasy adventure novel. It doesn't add to the story. It doesn't make the character of Shalltear any deeper.
The effect of being the epitome of attractiveness outside and monstrous inside could be done just as well by making her 18 or 20 something, but the author chose to turn her into a nympho in a middle schooler's body that constantly asks the protagonist for sex. The only purpose seems to be to satisfy some nasty underage fantasy.
October 22, 2017
This book felt a lot slower than some of the previous books, but had a decent climax and predictable ending.
The start of the book sees us reading from a side characters perspective to help make sense of the cliff hanger ending in book 2. It was interesting reading from another point of view, especially in terms of how the world is viewed as well as the MC.
Overall it was pretty average book, with a decent climax. We finally get to see a good fight for the MC however predictable it might have been.
A few side plots get furthered a little, however with the hints given they could be just as predictable as the ending.
Would like to see some more character development across the board as there's been little to none present yet.
The start of the book sees us reading from a side characters perspective to help make sense of the cliff hanger ending in book 2. It was interesting reading from another point of view, especially in terms of how the world is viewed as well as the MC.
Overall it was pretty average book, with a decent climax. We finally get to see a good fight for the MC however predictable it might have been.
A few side plots get furthered a little, however with the hints given they could be just as predictable as the ending.
Would like to see some more character development across the board as there's been little to none present yet.
May 23, 2023
A big improvement over the last volume in pretty much everyway.
I found the story far more engaging here, and I loved just how much happened over the course of this relatively short novel. My only real issue is that the pacing could be a little bit better, the fight at the end of the book just takes so long, to the point that I found myself just scanning the words instead of actually reading them. But still, the payoff was great, so I think it was worth it.
So far though, I'd have to say I prefer the anime more, just because I think seeing these events happen on screen is way more engaging than just reading them. But this series is still pretty enjoyable for what it is, even if it does have plenty of issues.
I found the story far more engaging here, and I loved just how much happened over the course of this relatively short novel. My only real issue is that the pacing could be a little bit better, the fight at the end of the book just takes so long, to the point that I found myself just scanning the words instead of actually reading them. But still, the payoff was great, so I think it was worth it.
So far though, I'd have to say I prefer the anime more, just because I think seeing these events happen on screen is way more engaging than just reading them. But this series is still pretty enjoyable for what it is, even if it does have plenty of issues.
November 24, 2024
J’ai apprécié ce tome 3, parce que tout le roman est focalisé sur le personnage Sebas Tian ainsi que d’autres personnages humains. Et ça fait du bien, car Sebas Tians contrairement aux autres personnages du Tombeau est un homme bon.
Il a été créer pour aider son prochain, ce qui est une bouffée d’air frais quand on le compare au reste des personnages du Tombeau de Nazarick. Ce côté humain, son altruisme que ce soit avec la jeune Tuare ou avec Climb.
J’ai aimé aussi sa relation avec Solution Epsilon et voir les Pléiades sous un jour nouveau.
Car je l'avoue, ce côté invincible et insensible, des personnages m’agaçait un peu. D’où la joie de voir que l’histoire est focalisée aussi sur des personnages humains qui peuvent rivaliser partiellement avec les monstres de Nazarick.
Il a été créer pour aider son prochain, ce qui est une bouffée d’air frais quand on le compare au reste des personnages du Tombeau de Nazarick. Ce côté humain, son altruisme que ce soit avec la jeune Tuare ou avec Climb.
J’ai aimé aussi sa relation avec Solution Epsilon et voir les Pléiades sous un jour nouveau.
Car je l'avoue, ce côté invincible et insensible, des personnages m’agaçait un peu. D’où la joie de voir que l’histoire est focalisée aussi sur des personnages humains qui peuvent rivaliser partiellement avec les monstres de Nazarick.
May 9, 2018
Widzę, że LN ma naprawdę wysokie noty w rankingach, ale ja nie potrafię wejść w świat Overlorda i się nim zachwycać. Już anime było dla mnie nudne, a określenia charakterystyczne dla gier mnie troszkę odrzucały. Powtórzę wielokrotnie, ja nie uznaję tego za gniota, ja nie zmieszam tej LN z błotem, ale nie jestem w stanie się nią zachwycić. A szczególnie tym tomem. Początek był świetny, potem jednak zaczęły się walki, które trwały, trwąły i trwały, ogrom wyjaśniania, tłumaczenia, zamiast pokazywania. Ok, wyjaśnić też można, ale nie przez 60/70% książki, TO ZA DUŻO!!!
Polecam? Raczej polecam, ale nie dla fanów typowej fantastyki, bo to nie jest tego typu książka.
Polecam? Raczej polecam, ale nie dla fanów typowej fantastyki, bo to nie jest tego typu książka.
October 9, 2020
As some other reviewers have commented, this novel just doesn't have much happening in it. The main plot is not advanced much, and by the end you'll feel like you are in the same place you started. I felt the fight scene towards the end of the book dragged on a bit, and that the logic behind why it was happening was a little murky.
However, this novel does expand our knowledge and time with many of the main and support characters, which is nice.
Due to the lack of movement in the main story and in context of the series, I rate this novel 3/5. As a standalone novel, I would give this 4/5, as it is still a decent story by itself.
However, this novel does expand our knowledge and time with many of the main and support characters, which is nice.
Due to the lack of movement in the main story and in context of the series, I rate this novel 3/5. As a standalone novel, I would give this 4/5, as it is still a decent story by itself.
June 6, 2017
O livro entra em mais detalhes sobre os personagens e como eles reagem, assim como colocando mais profundidade nos pensamentos e motivacoes de cada.
Como complemento do anime existe uma historia pequena sobre as irmas de Albedo, e sobre a classe especial que Momon tem.
Outra cena bem interessante é a conversa na guilda com os outros aventureiros e o líder dos magos que fica impressionado com o cristal de magia level 8.
Como complemento do mundo de Momon sao discutido em detalhes cada uma das relíquias poderosas que podemos alterar o mundo.
Como complemento do anime existe uma historia pequena sobre as irmas de Albedo, e sobre a classe especial que Momon tem.
Outra cena bem interessante é a conversa na guilda com os outros aventureiros e o líder dos magos que fica impressionado com o cristal de magia level 8.
Como complemento do mundo de Momon sao discutido em detalhes cada uma das relíquias poderosas que podemos alterar o mundo.
February 12, 2019
The world building in this volume was brilliantly done, using an epic fight as an excuse to further open the readers to even deeper detail on how and why things happen in the world, as well as learning new things about the world along with the protagonist.
Ainz may be the main character and a very badass one at that, but the main objective of these novels, in my opinion, is the journey that Ainz goes to in order to conquer the world and the new things that he discovers as he does so. Which is why I'm so excited to read more.
Ainz may be the main character and a very badass one at that, but the main objective of these novels, in my opinion, is the journey that Ainz goes to in order to conquer the world and the new things that he discovers as he does so. Which is why I'm so excited to read more.
January 11, 2022
「Body of Effulgent Beryl」「Flight」, 「Magic Caster’s Blessing」, 「Infinity Wall」, 「Magic Ward: Holy」, 「Life Essence」, 「Greater Full Potential」, 「Freedom」, 「False Data: Life」, 「See Through」, 「Paranormal Intuition」, 「Greater Resistance」, 「Mantle of Chaos」, 「Indomitability」, 「Sensory Boost」, 「Greater Luck」, 「Magic Boost」, 「Draconic Power」, 「Greater Hardening」, 「Heavenly Aura」, 「Absorption」, 「Penetration Boost」, 「Greater Magic Shield」, 「Mana Essence」, 「Triple Maximize Magic: Explosive Mine」, 「Triple Maximise Magic: Greater Magic Seal」, 「Triple Maximize Magic: Magic Arrow]
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 3, 2020
The plot advances, but slowly.
This focus on one of the secondary former NPC characters, which is simultaneously shown, used as a lever to move Momonga, and as a plot device to justify the obviously unnecessary caution the lich exhibits. But the plot itself does not advance majorly in the book - we have a few pieces placed, but there's little happening outside of the main plot that resolves itself by the end of the book.
This focus on one of the secondary former NPC characters, which is simultaneously shown, used as a lever to move Momonga, and as a plot device to justify the obviously unnecessary caution the lich exhibits. But the plot itself does not advance majorly in the book - we have a few pieces placed, but there's little happening outside of the main plot that resolves itself by the end of the book.
October 24, 2022
The best one so far.
I've already watched the anime adaptation so I did have an idea about the plot beforehand BUT reading was in a whole different level .On one side we got the chance to "listen" the npc and watch their interactions with eachothers, and the other side I especially liked was Ainz internal monologue and his change from an ordinary office man to the ruler of nazarick , such a great character development!
I've already watched the anime adaptation so I did have an idea about the plot beforehand BUT reading was in a whole different level .On one side we got the chance to "listen" the npc and watch their interactions with eachothers, and the other side I especially liked was Ainz internal monologue and his change from an ordinary office man to the ruler of nazarick , such a great character development!
December 27, 2017
Novela de 3,5 muy amena pero que en esta tercera parte se recrea demasiado en una sola trama. Me consta que vuelve a coger ritmo después de esta. La aventura de Ainz va cogiendo mucho interés y me está dando mucha diversión. Su poder casi ilimitado y la manera tan cauta (y real) con la que se maneja en este nuevo mundo me hace empatizar más con el protagonista.
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