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The Neuro #1
The Crystal Sphere
Alex is one of us. An office rat during daytime, he spends sleepless nights playing his favorite MMO game: a familiar, predictable world which is about to collapse. A new virtual universe arrives to replace it, aggressively devouring all others: the Crystal Sphere.
Alex gets involved in testing new technologies which promise to revolutionize gaming. Fitted out with a neuroimplant which provides a 100% authenticity of experience, he has to survive in the Crystal Sphere against all odds. What is he turning into? Will he become yet another expendable test subject - or the first player to transcend reality?
Alex gets involved in testing new technologies which promise to revolutionize gaming. Fitted out with a neuroimplant which provides a 100% authenticity of experience, he has to survive in the Crystal Sphere against all odds. What is he turning into? Will he become yet another expendable test subject - or the first player to transcend reality?
350 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2017
230 people are currently reading
329 people want to read
About the author
Andrei Livadny
89 books134 followersAndrei Livadny is a popular Russian science fiction author. Born on May 27 1969 in the city of Pskov, he was an avid reader from an early age. But it was the Russian translation of Robert A. Heinlein's The Orphans of the Sky that decided his choice of future occupation. The story has become a pivotal moment in the boy's life, leaving a lasting impression on him.
Andrei wrote his first book at the age of eight. Since then, he's never stopped working on new books. His passion for science fiction has gradually become his career.
In 1998, Andrei debuted in Russia's leading publishing house EKSMO with his novella The Island of Hope. Since then, he has penned over 90 books that have enjoyed a total of 153 editions.
Andrei has created several unique worlds, each unlike the previous. He wrote A History of Our Galaxy with humanity itself as a protagonist. This sixty-book series creates a history of our future civilization and its contacts with alien races, forming a convincing and logical picture of humanity's development for two millennia from now.
Andrei's recent involvement with the bestselling genre of LitRPG - books set in online roleplaying games - inspired him to create his most intriguing series to date, Phantom Server. Merging virtual reality with hard science fiction and space exploration, the two first books of the series, Edge of Reality (Phantom Server Book #1) and The Outlaw (Phantom Server Book #2) are now available on Amazon, prompting a reviewer to call Andrei "one of the best new authors in American Sci Fi translated from Russian".
Besides hard science fiction, Andrei Livadny also works in cyberpunk genres which allow him to focus on human relationships and raise questions about artificial intelligence and identity uploading, describing cyberspace as humanity's future environment.
The English translation of A History of Our Galaxy will be available shortly. Check the author's Russian-language site for updates.
Andrei wrote his first book at the age of eight. Since then, he's never stopped working on new books. His passion for science fiction has gradually become his career.
In 1998, Andrei debuted in Russia's leading publishing house EKSMO with his novella The Island of Hope. Since then, he has penned over 90 books that have enjoyed a total of 153 editions.
Andrei has created several unique worlds, each unlike the previous. He wrote A History of Our Galaxy with humanity itself as a protagonist. This sixty-book series creates a history of our future civilization and its contacts with alien races, forming a convincing and logical picture of humanity's development for two millennia from now.
Andrei's recent involvement with the bestselling genre of LitRPG - books set in online roleplaying games - inspired him to create his most intriguing series to date, Phantom Server. Merging virtual reality with hard science fiction and space exploration, the two first books of the series, Edge of Reality (Phantom Server Book #1) and The Outlaw (Phantom Server Book #2) are now available on Amazon, prompting a reviewer to call Andrei "one of the best new authors in American Sci Fi translated from Russian".
Besides hard science fiction, Andrei Livadny also works in cyberpunk genres which allow him to focus on human relationships and raise questions about artificial intelligence and identity uploading, describing cyberspace as humanity's future environment.
The English translation of A History of Our Galaxy will be available shortly. Check the author's Russian-language site for updates.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
September 4, 2017
Okay first off (as they say) this is a good read. I only went 3 stars as I think I'm getting a bit jaded about the LitRPG books. Then I went back and upgraded it to 4 as a 3 might be misleading...
We have the now familiar scenario here of moving from the "real" world to an "RPG" world. There is a bit of a twist in both the plot and the character formation. I find the story absorbing and I enjoyed the book. However I found it didn't stick with me. When I sat down here to add it to my "reviewed" books (I'm WAY behind on reviewing books thus my "currently reading shelf" is very, very overloaded...sorry) I had to go back and review the book in another way. I had to go back into it for an "oh yeah" moment.
The world is set up in a future where virtual lives and "regular" lives overlap much more than they can now. The World our hero has been adventuring in is just about to fade away as the new Chrystal Sphere World is the newest and most advanced... Only a few people including he and his current "partner" seem to still be there and they are about to be forced out. They just need to finish one quest.
But (of course) things ARE NOT going to go as planned....no things are really going to go off the rails.
Another enjoyable LitRPG read so you know...enjoy.
Recommended.
We have the now familiar scenario here of moving from the "real" world to an "RPG" world. There is a bit of a twist in both the plot and the character formation. I find the story absorbing and I enjoyed the book. However I found it didn't stick with me. When I sat down here to add it to my "reviewed" books (I'm WAY behind on reviewing books thus my "currently reading shelf" is very, very overloaded...sorry) I had to go back and review the book in another way. I had to go back into it for an "oh yeah" moment.
The world is set up in a future where virtual lives and "regular" lives overlap much more than they can now. The World our hero has been adventuring in is just about to fade away as the new Chrystal Sphere World is the newest and most advanced... Only a few people including he and his current "partner" seem to still be there and they are about to be forced out. They just need to finish one quest.
But (of course) things ARE NOT going to go as planned....no things are really going to go off the rails.
Another enjoyable LitRPG read so you know...enjoy.
Recommended.
May 30, 2021
Notes:
Yay for libraries!
I was bored from the start to finish of the story. There were some cool parts, but that did not make me more interested in the book.
Yay for libraries!
I was bored from the start to finish of the story. There were some cool parts, but that did not make me more interested in the book.
January 6, 2018
Oh Brave New World with such loot in it!
*minor spoilers ahead*
Our protagonist, Alex, is a less than wealthy gamer is suffering quite the series of losses. Poor communication resulted in his favorite female party member essentially dumping him, the game they played together in is getting ready to close the curtain, and his vehicle nearly ended up as his coffin. With his physical self a wreck, a businessman from a gaming powerhouse approaches him with an enticing offer, freedom from the foibles of his current state, via a cutting-edge implant that will allow him to play his company’s latest offering: Crystal Sphere. While playable through “standard” machines (which go up to and include holograms), the implant will allow prospective to user’s to experience everything within the game as if it were real, such as what it is like to wield magic.
Seeking to reconnect with his former compatriot, Alex agrees so long as she is also offered the implant. Unfortunately, the fantasy nature of Crystal Sphere cannot save him from his reality, as the consequences this invitation are vicious. Not all is lost, as there are still friendly “standard” users to play with (and the usual unfriendly types), as well as dynamic NPCs to interact with (they can properly act and react within the world). What a world it is too! Much like the NPCs, Crystal Sphere is a living world, with backstory to provide hidden secrets. There are some allowances for game mechanics and artificial impositions by the admins, they would not the balance of the world to be destroyed by the sudden introduction of “Rods of Lead Dispensing.”
"The Crystal Sphere" was fun to read, very reminiscent of the feeling you have when you are getting established in a brand new RPG. You rarely know all of the mechanics at your disposal, whether they are any tips or tricks to utilize, or who you favorite people to play with will be. This gives a touch of the familiar to Alex’s introduction to his new reality, as he does his best to scaffold his experience with previous games to guide his choices moving forward. Fortunately, he does not have to only rely on “his best,” as he is afforded the opportunity to play with and learn from those around him.
*minor spoilers ahead*
Our protagonist, Alex, is a less than wealthy gamer is suffering quite the series of losses. Poor communication resulted in his favorite female party member essentially dumping him, the game they played together in is getting ready to close the curtain, and his vehicle nearly ended up as his coffin. With his physical self a wreck, a businessman from a gaming powerhouse approaches him with an enticing offer, freedom from the foibles of his current state, via a cutting-edge implant that will allow him to play his company’s latest offering: Crystal Sphere. While playable through “standard” machines (which go up to and include holograms), the implant will allow prospective to user’s to experience everything within the game as if it were real, such as what it is like to wield magic.
Seeking to reconnect with his former compatriot, Alex agrees so long as she is also offered the implant. Unfortunately, the fantasy nature of Crystal Sphere cannot save him from his reality, as the consequences this invitation are vicious. Not all is lost, as there are still friendly “standard” users to play with (and the usual unfriendly types), as well as dynamic NPCs to interact with (they can properly act and react within the world). What a world it is too! Much like the NPCs, Crystal Sphere is a living world, with backstory to provide hidden secrets. There are some allowances for game mechanics and artificial impositions by the admins, they would not the balance of the world to be destroyed by the sudden introduction of “Rods of Lead Dispensing.”
"The Crystal Sphere" was fun to read, very reminiscent of the feeling you have when you are getting established in a brand new RPG. You rarely know all of the mechanics at your disposal, whether they are any tips or tricks to utilize, or who you favorite people to play with will be. This gives a touch of the familiar to Alex’s introduction to his new reality, as he does his best to scaffold his experience with previous games to guide his choices moving forward. Fortunately, he does not have to only rely on “his best,” as he is afforded the opportunity to play with and learn from those around him.
March 18, 2017
Awesome
As usual, Mr Livadny has delivered a great read, devoured in a day, leaving me hungering for more. Well done sir, and kudos to the translator for a job extremely well done.
As usual, Mr Livadny has delivered a great read, devoured in a day, leaving me hungering for more. Well done sir, and kudos to the translator for a job extremely well done.
March 15, 2017
I can't say if it was fully this books fault and it was more than just a little boring or if daylight savings time bitch smacked me harder than prior years. I found myself drifting off, reading the same sentences again and again, reading samples of other books, until I realized I was at like 90% and probably should just bite the bullet and get it done.
Now that I am finished I know that I will probably check out book two, the base plot line was kind of interesting, and I am slightly curious on where the author is going to go with it. What I am sure of I will still not care about Crystal, her stupid bullshit, and any romance aspect of the story. Mostly I want to see how Alex fleshes out and what he gets for new stats as he levels.
Now that I am finished I know that I will probably check out book two, the base plot line was kind of interesting, and I am slightly curious on where the author is going to go with it. What I am sure of I will still not care about Crystal, her stupid bullshit, and any romance aspect of the story. Mostly I want to see how Alex fleshes out and what he gets for new stats as he levels.
January 15, 2018
I got this book as an advance review copy.
The concept is a bit cliche in litrpg novels. The protagonist is forced to live in a new virtual reality game. Most of us don't mind the concept if it is entertaining. And it is, the book brings the good characteristics of an MMORPG into play.
If you can get over the initial dryness, you are in for a ride.
The concept is a bit cliche in litrpg novels. The protagonist is forced to live in a new virtual reality game. Most of us don't mind the concept if it is entertaining. And it is, the book brings the good characteristics of an MMORPG into play.
If you can get over the initial dryness, you are in for a ride.
March 26, 2017
Not bad.
Another good story by this author.
Not really any errors, but there were a few spots I would have worded a little differently just to make the flow of the story a little smoother.
I do hate cliffhanger endings though.
If anything happens to the author, (let's hope not!) then we don't get a resolution. Terrible place to stop the story.
Other than that I would recommend this book for a day of reading and relaxation.
Another good story by this author.
Not really any errors, but there were a few spots I would have worded a little differently just to make the flow of the story a little smoother.
I do hate cliffhanger endings though.
If anything happens to the author, (let's hope not!) then we don't get a resolution. Terrible place to stop the story.
Other than that I would recommend this book for a day of reading and relaxation.
January 3, 2025
The Crystal Sphere – A Shimmering Masterpiece of LitRPG Adventure
Reviewer Profile:
Greetings, fellow adventurers and game devotees! I am Kiba Snowpaw, the alpha Ice Wolf of HowlStrom, a land perpetually kissed by winter’s icy breath. With over 5,000 games played and 400+ audiobooks devoured, I’m here to share my thoughts on The Crystal Sphere by Andrei Livadny. This novel combines the immersive allure of MMORPGs, the thrill of LitRPG, and the philosophical depth of a reality blurred by technology. Let’s dive paw-first into this frosty realm of virtual wonders!
Introduction:
The Crystal Sphere is the first book in the Neuro series, blending hard science fiction, virtual reality, and LitRPG mechanics into a tale as engaging as it is thought-provoking. Andrei Livadny introduces us to Alex, a gamer who finds himself navigating the unprecedented challenges of a new virtual universe, the titular Crystal Sphere.
Basic Plot Summary:
Alex, a down-on-his-luck gamer, is thrust into the Crystal Sphere, a cutting-edge virtual world that promises full sensory immersion. Equipped with a neuroimplant, Alex embarks on a journey fraught with challenges, mystery, and danger. The story captures the thrill of starting fresh in a new MMO, from leveling up and earning loot to grappling with the intricacies of the game’s mechanics and NPC interactions.
But beneath the surface lies a darker reality: the world Alex inhabits might be more than a game, and the consequences of his actions could ripple far beyond the virtual realm.
Originality:
While LitRPG often follows familiar tropes, The Crystal Sphere innovates by grounding its narrative in hard science fiction. Livadny’s seamless integration of plausible technological advancements with classic game mechanics sets this book apart. Imagine if Sword Art Online met The Matrix with a dash of Ready Player One.
About the Writer:
Andrei Livadny is a veteran of Russian science fiction, known for his expansive world-building and philosophical storytelling. His works often explore humanity’s relationship with technology, and The Crystal Sphere is no exception. Livadny’s ability to balance intricate mechanics with emotional depth elevates this book above its peers.
Analysis/Evaluation:
Character Development:
Main Characters:
- Alex: A relatable protagonist who evolves from a casual gamer into a determined explorer. His growth is a highlight, as he navigates both in-game challenges and personal insecurities.
- Christa: Alex’s former companion, whose mysterious motivations add tension and complexity to the narrative.
Supporting Characters:
Dynamic NPCs, quirky party members, and rival players flesh out the world, each bringing their own flavor to the story. The game’s AI admins also hint at deeper layers of control and intent.
Character Arcs and Relatability:
Alex’s journey mirrors the player’s progression in an MMORPG, making his struggles and triumphs universally relatable for gamers.
Structure and Mechanics:
The story’s pacing mirrors an MMO’s early grind—methodical yet rewarding. The in-depth exploration of game mechanics, from skill trees to resource management, is a treat for genre enthusiasts. However, non-gamers might find the detailed descriptions slightly overwhelming.
Impact:
The themes of identity, agency, and the intersection of reality and virtuality resonate deeply. As a proud furry, I appreciated how the book explores the idea of adapting to a new environment and the challenges of forging a fresh identity.
Hook and Thesis:
Can a game be more than escapism? The Crystal Sphere delves into this question with nuance, challenging readers to reconsider the boundaries between reality and fiction.
Praise and Critique:
Praise:
- World-Building: Livadny’s Crystal Sphere is a marvel of design, blending familiar RPG elements with innovative twists.
- Emotional Depth: The interplay between Alex’s real-world struggles and in-game triumphs adds layers of meaning.
- Mechanics: Detailed and logical, the game mechanics enhance immersion without sacrificing readability.
Critique:
- Pacing: The early chapters feel slow, mirroring an MMO grind. Patience is rewarded, but some readers might struggle to push through.
- Character Relationships: Christa’s motivations remain underexplored, leaving a key relationship somewhat one-dimensional.
Personal Opinion:
As an alpha Ice Wolf who revels in tales of challenge and triumph, I found The Crystal Sphere to be an exhilarating read. The blend of sci-fi, RPG mechanics, and character-driven storytelling kept me hooked, even through the slower moments.
Highlights and Drawbacks:
Highlight: The Castle of Undead questline is a standout, combining tension, strategy, and narrative stakes.
Drawback: The abrupt ending leaves readers hungry for resolution, but it effectively sets the stage for the sequel.
Comparison:
Fans of The Way of the Shaman by Vasily Mahanenko and Ready Player One by Ernest Cline will find much to love here. Livadny’s focus on philosophical themes gives The Crystal Sphere a unique edge.
Overall Conclusion:
The Crystal Sphere is a captivating entry into the LitRPG genre, offering a thoughtful exploration of technology’s impact on identity and reality. Livadny’s world is as immersive as any MMO, and his characters are compelling guides through its dangers and delights. For gamers and sci-fi fans alike, this book is a must-read.
Rating:
Story: 4.5/5
Characters: 4/5
World-Building: 5/5
Overall: 4.7/5
Final Howl: Equip your best loot and prepare for an adventure—The Crystal Sphere will leave you howling for more.
Reviewer Profile:
Greetings, fellow adventurers and game devotees! I am Kiba Snowpaw, the alpha Ice Wolf of HowlStrom, a land perpetually kissed by winter’s icy breath. With over 5,000 games played and 400+ audiobooks devoured, I’m here to share my thoughts on The Crystal Sphere by Andrei Livadny. This novel combines the immersive allure of MMORPGs, the thrill of LitRPG, and the philosophical depth of a reality blurred by technology. Let’s dive paw-first into this frosty realm of virtual wonders!
Introduction:
The Crystal Sphere is the first book in the Neuro series, blending hard science fiction, virtual reality, and LitRPG mechanics into a tale as engaging as it is thought-provoking. Andrei Livadny introduces us to Alex, a gamer who finds himself navigating the unprecedented challenges of a new virtual universe, the titular Crystal Sphere.
Basic Plot Summary:
Alex, a down-on-his-luck gamer, is thrust into the Crystal Sphere, a cutting-edge virtual world that promises full sensory immersion. Equipped with a neuroimplant, Alex embarks on a journey fraught with challenges, mystery, and danger. The story captures the thrill of starting fresh in a new MMO, from leveling up and earning loot to grappling with the intricacies of the game’s mechanics and NPC interactions.
But beneath the surface lies a darker reality: the world Alex inhabits might be more than a game, and the consequences of his actions could ripple far beyond the virtual realm.
Originality:
While LitRPG often follows familiar tropes, The Crystal Sphere innovates by grounding its narrative in hard science fiction. Livadny’s seamless integration of plausible technological advancements with classic game mechanics sets this book apart. Imagine if Sword Art Online met The Matrix with a dash of Ready Player One.
About the Writer:
Andrei Livadny is a veteran of Russian science fiction, known for his expansive world-building and philosophical storytelling. His works often explore humanity’s relationship with technology, and The Crystal Sphere is no exception. Livadny’s ability to balance intricate mechanics with emotional depth elevates this book above its peers.
Analysis/Evaluation:
Character Development:
Main Characters:
- Alex: A relatable protagonist who evolves from a casual gamer into a determined explorer. His growth is a highlight, as he navigates both in-game challenges and personal insecurities.
- Christa: Alex’s former companion, whose mysterious motivations add tension and complexity to the narrative.
Supporting Characters:
Dynamic NPCs, quirky party members, and rival players flesh out the world, each bringing their own flavor to the story. The game’s AI admins also hint at deeper layers of control and intent.
Character Arcs and Relatability:
Alex’s journey mirrors the player’s progression in an MMORPG, making his struggles and triumphs universally relatable for gamers.
Structure and Mechanics:
The story’s pacing mirrors an MMO’s early grind—methodical yet rewarding. The in-depth exploration of game mechanics, from skill trees to resource management, is a treat for genre enthusiasts. However, non-gamers might find the detailed descriptions slightly overwhelming.
Impact:
The themes of identity, agency, and the intersection of reality and virtuality resonate deeply. As a proud furry, I appreciated how the book explores the idea of adapting to a new environment and the challenges of forging a fresh identity.
Hook and Thesis:
Can a game be more than escapism? The Crystal Sphere delves into this question with nuance, challenging readers to reconsider the boundaries between reality and fiction.
Praise and Critique:
Praise:
- World-Building: Livadny’s Crystal Sphere is a marvel of design, blending familiar RPG elements with innovative twists.
- Emotional Depth: The interplay between Alex’s real-world struggles and in-game triumphs adds layers of meaning.
- Mechanics: Detailed and logical, the game mechanics enhance immersion without sacrificing readability.
Critique:
- Pacing: The early chapters feel slow, mirroring an MMO grind. Patience is rewarded, but some readers might struggle to push through.
- Character Relationships: Christa’s motivations remain underexplored, leaving a key relationship somewhat one-dimensional.
Personal Opinion:
As an alpha Ice Wolf who revels in tales of challenge and triumph, I found The Crystal Sphere to be an exhilarating read. The blend of sci-fi, RPG mechanics, and character-driven storytelling kept me hooked, even through the slower moments.
Highlights and Drawbacks:
Highlight: The Castle of Undead questline is a standout, combining tension, strategy, and narrative stakes.
Drawback: The abrupt ending leaves readers hungry for resolution, but it effectively sets the stage for the sequel.
Comparison:
Fans of The Way of the Shaman by Vasily Mahanenko and Ready Player One by Ernest Cline will find much to love here. Livadny’s focus on philosophical themes gives The Crystal Sphere a unique edge.
Overall Conclusion:
The Crystal Sphere is a captivating entry into the LitRPG genre, offering a thoughtful exploration of technology’s impact on identity and reality. Livadny’s world is as immersive as any MMO, and his characters are compelling guides through its dangers and delights. For gamers and sci-fi fans alike, this book is a must-read.
Rating:
Story: 4.5/5
Characters: 4/5
World-Building: 5/5
Overall: 4.7/5
Final Howl: Equip your best loot and prepare for an adventure—The Crystal Sphere will leave you howling for more.
March 12, 2017
Good story
Good story with a good translation. Magic Dome does it again with another great selection for us! Can't wait for the next one!
Good story with a good translation. Magic Dome does it again with another great selection for us! Can't wait for the next one!
January 19, 2018
This is a slightly tough review because I would originally lean more toward a 3 star based on how Goodreads describes the rankings, but since 3 stars is considered by most to actually be a negative review I bumped it up to 4. I wouldn't say there is anything overtly wrong with this story. It hits all of the notes that one would expect of a Litrpg. There are a lot of standard tropes here which may chafe on a person looking for something refreshing and new, but may comfort those wanting something they know.
The book is paced ponderously slow. From what I gather, the author has written some very long series before so that might be part of the reason that book 1 seems to cover very little actual plot. I would still say that a reader gets their money's worth though since the book weighs in at a bit over 450 pages. So rather than saying the pacing is a negative, I think it's just something to be aware of and read this book at a time you aren't in the mood for something more action-oriented.
The only true problem I have is possibly a lack of staying power. Not to say that the characters and story are exactly what you might have seen in other books, but everything does seem to be born from very well-established templates and has yet to distinguish itself from the pack with unique qualities.
The characters for example...I still don't truly have any feel for personality or motivation in more than the most shallow sense. The one character that seems quite unique compared to other litrpgs, Christa the demon, is more of a minor character that pops up routinely and with little consequence somewhat akin to Team Rocket in the Pokemon world. You do get the sense that she is part of an important plotline that will be unveiled in time, unfortunately just not within the confines of this particular book.
Personally, I like a faster pace for my stories and also to quickly establish depth of personality and motivation with characters, but I wouldn't say that is a necessity in book 1 as much as it is maybe just a personal preference of mine.
In summary, this is a very solid if slightly forgettable individual book that I would imagine any litrpg fan will enjoy reading. The story will most likely get rolling in following books and begin to separate itself from the standard genre fare at that point. I look forward to reading the 2nd book and even the 3rd which comes out in a week's time to see how this story progresses.
The book is paced ponderously slow. From what I gather, the author has written some very long series before so that might be part of the reason that book 1 seems to cover very little actual plot. I would still say that a reader gets their money's worth though since the book weighs in at a bit over 450 pages. So rather than saying the pacing is a negative, I think it's just something to be aware of and read this book at a time you aren't in the mood for something more action-oriented.
The only true problem I have is possibly a lack of staying power. Not to say that the characters and story are exactly what you might have seen in other books, but everything does seem to be born from very well-established templates and has yet to distinguish itself from the pack with unique qualities.
The characters for example...I still don't truly have any feel for personality or motivation in more than the most shallow sense. The one character that seems quite unique compared to other litrpgs, Christa the demon, is more of a minor character that pops up routinely and with little consequence somewhat akin to Team Rocket in the Pokemon world. You do get the sense that she is part of an important plotline that will be unveiled in time, unfortunately just not within the confines of this particular book.
Personally, I like a faster pace for my stories and also to quickly establish depth of personality and motivation with characters, but I wouldn't say that is a necessity in book 1 as much as it is maybe just a personal preference of mine.
In summary, this is a very solid if slightly forgettable individual book that I would imagine any litrpg fan will enjoy reading. The story will most likely get rolling in following books and begin to separate itself from the standard genre fare at that point. I look forward to reading the 2nd book and even the 3rd which comes out in a week's time to see how this story progresses.
March 26, 2018
So I was sent this book for freeee, turns out I’m going to have to spend money on it anyway cause it needs to be in my library. It’s always nice when someone wants your opinion on a book and when they send you the entire book and say go ahead... I’m very motivated to get going.
Let’s start by saying for a new writer in the LitRPG world, Andrew Livandy stands tall with his Neuro series and can be proud of his work which I honestly believe stands among among my favourite books of the same genre like The way of the shaman series, Critical failure series and Ready player one (different I know, but similar in many ways)
The book was the right length to get through very quickly, yet long enough to hold my interest, I would not have been happy with a shorter novel. I can’t wait to start the next book, there are questions that need answers.
The characters are quirky, intelligent and lovable. What I probably like about these books the most is that first up there is no epic quest first thing, the characters begin in this new world by trying to make some coin and that’s a lot of fun to read how the go about doing that. That does change in this particular novel with a quest to the dark castle but after a fair bit of game time, so it’s all good.
There is also more interaction with characters outside of the game, how they got there, what they do when not in game and the rest, this is not evident in books of the same persuasion.
Excellent work Mr Livandy, you have got a lifelong reader in this guy. I can’t wait to read more from you and I hope you get all the acclaim you are deserving of.
Let’s start by saying for a new writer in the LitRPG world, Andrew Livandy stands tall with his Neuro series and can be proud of his work which I honestly believe stands among among my favourite books of the same genre like The way of the shaman series, Critical failure series and Ready player one (different I know, but similar in many ways)
The book was the right length to get through very quickly, yet long enough to hold my interest, I would not have been happy with a shorter novel. I can’t wait to start the next book, there are questions that need answers.
The characters are quirky, intelligent and lovable. What I probably like about these books the most is that first up there is no epic quest first thing, the characters begin in this new world by trying to make some coin and that’s a lot of fun to read how the go about doing that. That does change in this particular novel with a quest to the dark castle but after a fair bit of game time, so it’s all good.
There is also more interaction with characters outside of the game, how they got there, what they do when not in game and the rest, this is not evident in books of the same persuasion.
Excellent work Mr Livandy, you have got a lifelong reader in this guy. I can’t wait to read more from you and I hope you get all the acclaim you are deserving of.
January 12, 2018
Clicking on Andrei Livadny's profile shows he's Russian, but this is probably the least obvious translation I've read yet. Not just because the translation is excellent (which it is), but it's written in a way that doesn't really imply a location it's taking place in other than the future. It's also has a more upbeat feel than other Russian translated books.
The setup for the story is rather interesting. It's got the 'testing new tech' trope, but it's done in conjunction with intensive medical procedures to recover from a near fatal car accident. The idea is pretty cleaver. Rather than convalesce in a bed under heavy pain meds or be stuck in a medically induced coma, the mind's senses are hijacked and the patient spends time in a game instead. These are one of those cleaver scifi ideas I could see a version becoming real some day. Well done.
The world, characters, and game mechanics are all well done and throughout. It's a well done setup story, but on the shorter side so it didn't get much time to get past that. The story line is mostly simple and enjoyable, but hints of a deeper mystery has been sprinkled in, so I'll be interested in seeing where this is going.
In general, a very enjoyable LitRPG with likable characters and a couple of promising plot lines.
The setup for the story is rather interesting. It's got the 'testing new tech' trope, but it's done in conjunction with intensive medical procedures to recover from a near fatal car accident. The idea is pretty cleaver. Rather than convalesce in a bed under heavy pain meds or be stuck in a medically induced coma, the mind's senses are hijacked and the patient spends time in a game instead. These are one of those cleaver scifi ideas I could see a version becoming real some day. Well done.
The world, characters, and game mechanics are all well done and throughout. It's a well done setup story, but on the shorter side so it didn't get much time to get past that. The story line is mostly simple and enjoyable, but hints of a deeper mystery has been sprinkled in, so I'll be interested in seeing where this is going.
In general, a very enjoyable LitRPG with likable characters and a couple of promising plot lines.
December 25, 2019
This is the first LitRPG book that I've read, and while I can see how the genre may not be for everyone, I find completing quests/leveling up/checking out stats very satisfying generally, and it's kind of fun for me as part of a story.
The writing and characterization in this book didn't really do it for me, however. I'm not sure how much of this may be due to the translation from Russian, or from the original writing. A lot of repetitive phrasing was used, both in the narration and in dialogue, and it made the dialogue sound a lot more wooden and less realistic. There characters in general were a bit flat, although for the first book in a series there's always some room to flesh them out further. My main issue was that I never quite understood the motivations behind his old party member Christa's rage - she really just seems to fly off the handle in kind of a "bitches be crazy" way, and as far as I could tell never really managed to explain why she suddenly hates him so much.
While there is largely zero resolution to any of the main plot issues introduced in this book, I'm not very likely to continue the series.
The writing and characterization in this book didn't really do it for me, however. I'm not sure how much of this may be due to the translation from Russian, or from the original writing. A lot of repetitive phrasing was used, both in the narration and in dialogue, and it made the dialogue sound a lot more wooden and less realistic. There characters in general were a bit flat, although for the first book in a series there's always some room to flesh them out further. My main issue was that I never quite understood the motivations behind his old party member Christa's rage - she really just seems to fly off the handle in kind of a "bitches be crazy" way, and as far as I could tell never really managed to explain why she suddenly hates him so much.
While there is largely zero resolution to any of the main plot issues introduced in this book, I'm not very likely to continue the series.
March 31, 2018
I can't decide between 4 or 5 stars... I "really liked it", but then again, it was also better in many ways than some books I've given "It was amazing" - 5 stars. A solid litrpg with great game world, npc's and skills. I like the MC and felt for him. I just didn't feel that stab of pain, the loss, when I got to the end of the story and that tells me I didn't "love it"... or maybe I just knew the next two books in the series are already availible on audible? So I'll give it 4,5 and rounding up makes 5.
Another plus: It was free of any in-your-face misogyny that is so common in the genre. For example, the MC encounters a noob player, a pretty young woman in need of help. Instead of doing things for her, i e saving her, he teaches her how to save herself and steps back. He also reminds himself that he also was a beginner once. I didn't really care about how women were presented in litrpg when I started reading this genre, but I've found that misogyny in the MC is really alienating to me and spoils the book however good the rest of it might be.
Another plus: It was free of any in-your-face misogyny that is so common in the genre. For example, the MC encounters a noob player, a pretty young woman in need of help. Instead of doing things for her, i e saving her, he teaches her how to save herself and steps back. He also reminds himself that he also was a beginner once. I didn't really care about how women were presented in litrpg when I started reading this genre, but I've found that misogyny in the MC is really alienating to me and spoils the book however good the rest of it might be.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 5, 2018
Hoping the story elements make sense to Russians, because they left me baffled. After committing the unforgivable sin of asking a girl out, she became his mortal enemy because his request left her in a personal hell because of an illness that's never explained. Gah?
Character is completely OP for no reason. He can learn any spell or skill, teleport anywhere in the world, access to infinite magic, full understanding with a glance, a magic plot sword... the list goes on. Wouldn't be so bad if there was a reason, but there are just so many unresolved plot threads.
The game world allows for the import of any fantasy character with skills and items intact with only a level reduction. What? Why? That would be a nightmare for game devs to balance. But don't worry, none of the main characters use this feature... so why is it there?! People are being made into NPCs... so we're just going to shrug and walk away? Yeah. You're right, fame quests are more important.
Character is completely OP for no reason. He can learn any spell or skill, teleport anywhere in the world, access to infinite magic, full understanding with a glance, a magic plot sword... the list goes on. Wouldn't be so bad if there was a reason, but there are just so many unresolved plot threads.
The game world allows for the import of any fantasy character with skills and items intact with only a level reduction. What? Why? That would be a nightmare for game devs to balance. But don't worry, none of the main characters use this feature... so why is it there?! People are being made into NPCs... so we're just going to shrug and walk away? Yeah. You're right, fame quests are more important.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 8, 2019
I enjoy litRPG in general, the problem is that the people who write these books fail to understand the difference between books and gaming. In gaming having a wide open world with unresolved story lines simply means there is more fun to be had in the future. In a book, however, these same things mean the author doesn't know how to write. More specifically, this book lacks any kind of resolution. The author doesn't even pretend to provide resolution. The book ends with the characters in the middle of a task (details below).
I honestly don't think I could spoil this book if I wanted. Nothing unique happens. The MC joins a virtual D&D world and begins leveling up, making friends and gold along the way. Still, if you wish to read this book you may want to stop here because next I will be discussing the ending of the book.
So the MC buys a castle full of undead. MC has to make it to the main hall of the castle within 48 hours to "claim" it, which just means the MC gets control of some of the castle's magic like the ability to control the castle's teleport settings. However, upon reaching the appropriate place the MC is told that he now has 24 hours to purge all of the undead from the castle. THAT'S WHERE THE BOOK ENDS. WITH THE MISSION TO CLAIM THE CASTLE ONLY HALF OVER!!! HOW IS THAT ANY KIND OF RESOLUTION????
For the sake of full disclosure I will add that I am planning on listening to book 2 in this series- only because it is available through my local library and I enjoy the standard litRPG settings. However, I would not be going forward if I had to spend my own money this book and I sincerely regret my library wasting its money on this complete failure of a book.
I honestly don't think I could spoil this book if I wanted. Nothing unique happens. The MC joins a virtual D&D world and begins leveling up, making friends and gold along the way. Still, if you wish to read this book you may want to stop here because next I will be discussing the ending of the book.
So the MC buys a castle full of undead. MC has to make it to the main hall of the castle within 48 hours to "claim" it, which just means the MC gets control of some of the castle's magic like the ability to control the castle's teleport settings. However, upon reaching the appropriate place the MC is told that he now has 24 hours to purge all of the undead from the castle. THAT'S WHERE THE BOOK ENDS. WITH THE MISSION TO CLAIM THE CASTLE ONLY HALF OVER!!! HOW IS THAT ANY KIND OF RESOLUTION????
For the sake of full disclosure I will add that I am planning on listening to book 2 in this series- only because it is available through my local library and I enjoy the standard litRPG settings. However, I would not be going forward if I had to spend my own money this book and I sincerely regret my library wasting its money on this complete failure of a book.
October 12, 2017
i would give this book 3.5 stars.
This was not a bad book, but it had some weaknesses. My biggest complaint is how OP the main character becomes so quickly. So much of the appeal of Lit RPG comes from the struggle of level progression and overcoming obstacles.. The main character just does not really have much struggle to overcome so it lessened the tension for me. The few struggles that held me in suspense were solved through deus ex machina.
I am still curious to see how this series develops. The author left some mysteries and I am interested to see how this series progresses.
This was not a bad book, but it had some weaknesses. My biggest complaint is how OP the main character becomes so quickly. So much of the appeal of Lit RPG comes from the struggle of level progression and overcoming obstacles.. The main character just does not really have much struggle to overcome so it lessened the tension for me. The few struggles that held me in suspense were solved through deus ex machina.
I am still curious to see how this series develops. The author left some mysteries and I am interested to see how this series progresses.
October 22, 2017
Readers log:
I have finished this book sometime ago today, and I'm really not sure what to think. I liked how in the beginning the main character guy was helped out as a beginner by the two dwarves. It made me think of how MMOs could be fun while people were working together like that. The women in the book could have been more complicated and realistic, though I don't understand the demon woman's feelings really.
I have finished this book sometime ago today, and I'm really not sure what to think. I liked how in the beginning the main character guy was helped out as a beginner by the two dwarves. It made me think of how MMOs could be fun while people were working together like that. The women in the book could have been more complicated and realistic, though I don't understand the demon woman's feelings really.
March 25, 2019
Decent read
Clear progress even though the MC never seems truly challenged. Even though this is a completely new game the MC never researched he continually spits out rules, game mechanics, and class details. Same problem many translated works have were one statement is made and immediately contradicted. Ex. The toxin causes no pain but somehow disrupts her attack due to the intense pain. Still worth reading and I'll continue reading.
Clear progress even though the MC never seems truly challenged. Even though this is a completely new game the MC never researched he continually spits out rules, game mechanics, and class details. Same problem many translated works have were one statement is made and immediately contradicted. Ex. The toxin causes no pain but somehow disrupts her attack due to the intense pain. Still worth reading and I'll continue reading.
April 3, 2025
Stop now. And save yourself the grief. Book one was just ok. Book 2 was trash. I couldn’t get to book 3- which features a 3-year leap and turns the whole story on its head apparently. When you think you’re about to read an interesting lit rpg world and instead it just turns into a blah sci fi novel where the author can’t seem to figure out what to do.
As one reviewer said at the bottom of his book 2 review: there has to be something better than this for you to read.
As one reviewer said at the bottom of his book 2 review: there has to be something better than this for you to read.
August 18, 2017
This is poised to be the second best LitRPG series I've read so now I have two series to wait on for a year. Sigh. Still highly recommend this especially if it will be your first LitRPG book gives you a good understanding of the genre in my view.
February 19, 2018
Good stuff, a bit dry at first but gets better and better the more you get into it.
Story reminds me so much of The way of the shaman, but thats just LitRPG for ya i guess.
Great read and on to the second one!
Story reminds me so much of The way of the shaman, but thats just LitRPG for ya i guess.
Great read and on to the second one!
June 10, 2025
Really good
I really enjoyed this book. While it is rather standard LitRPG, it's still quite entertaining. Do yourself a favor and give this book a look.
Highly recommended.
I really enjoyed this book. While it is rather standard LitRPG, it's still quite entertaining. Do yourself a favor and give this book a look.
Highly recommended.
June 4, 2017
Definitely a translated Russian Litrpg, with the associated quirks, but I had a good time reading. Story moved along. Worth reading if you're into the genre.
July 22, 2017
took a while to start getting interesting but once it did it ended so abruptly that it felt incomplete.
July 24, 2017
It's not bad! It's worth reading the next book.
August 15, 2017
Not bad, but the main villain just didn't make sense - at all. That kind of killed it for me, though the writing was OK and the plot itself (aside from the attempted bad guy) was decent.
August 8, 2018
DNF, 2.5 Stars I guess. I could not get into this book and did not find it enjoyable. I do like these type of books but this one just did not do much for me.
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