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Alpha World #5
Fractured Spirit
Fresh from the success of capturing Gwain’s Keep, Alpha Company is in high spirits. Flush with coin, everyone is eager to get better gear and see what new zones they can go fight in.Not everything is roses though, as the first testing phase is about to come to an end. A number of those who ventured forth with the guild are about to return to their regular lives, and the next wave of testers brings even more players to embrace Alpha World as their new reality, if only for a limited time.Alburet has new complications to deal with, but he doesn’t have to face them alone. Two other loving women whom he has accepted the love of, Fluffball and Karen, will be at his side as the revelation of his past comes out.Will Alburet be able to handle what he has hidden from himself, with the love of the trio of women beside him? Or will he break and fail, leaving his Spirit Fractured?
380 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 30, 2018
696 people are currently reading
160 people want to read
About the author
Daniel Schinhofen
69 books1,304 followersDaniel James Schinhofen is a self-published author in the burgeoning genre of LitRPG/Gamelit. He published his first book, Last Horizon: Beta, in October of 2016, and has recently published his fifteenth book. A best-selling author on Amazon multiple times, his four series have achieved name recognition in the genre. When not slavishly typing away at the next book, Daniel tries to unwind with video games, playing with his dog Sugar, or going for walks around his neighborhood. His books can be found easily via his website http://schinhofenbooks.com/. Daniel can be found via Twitter using the handle @DJSchinhofen.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
May 4, 2018
I tried to enjoy it but I give up on this series
I was a big fan of this series when it first came out. The first two books were intriguing and the gameplay mechanics made me wanting more. As this series progresses though it feels like I’m reading more of a boring drama harem story than I am a gamelit/litrpg book. I like harem stories but this one is a little to mushy with everyone whining about their feelings. I don’t mind introspection of a character but to have it constantly repeated that oh I don’t feel good enough I need reassurance is frankly boring. It could have been done differently. I got 16% through this book and could return to finish it at a later date. Mayhap I will finish and change my review, mostly though I’ll just wait for apocalypse gates 2. That was a way better book.
I was a big fan of this series when it first came out. The first two books were intriguing and the gameplay mechanics made me wanting more. As this series progresses though it feels like I’m reading more of a boring drama harem story than I am a gamelit/litrpg book. I like harem stories but this one is a little to mushy with everyone whining about their feelings. I don’t mind introspection of a character but to have it constantly repeated that oh I don’t feel good enough I need reassurance is frankly boring. It could have been done differently. I got 16% through this book and could return to finish it at a later date. Mayhap I will finish and change my review, mostly though I’ll just wait for apocalypse gates 2. That was a way better book.
September 21, 2018
More story please, less soap opera
Much like book four, this fifth book continues the “memory” / “mind probing” of the main character but perhaps that is all at an end now. We finally have all the back story of the terrible things that happened to Julia, Karen, and Seamus. Plus we know who Victoria is now (but we don’t know why she seems to love Seamus or needs him in her game) so please no more drama. No more redundant / repeating conversations among st the four lovers where they go on and on about love and insecurity and acceptance. And if you’re not going to show them making love then stop giving the reader so many lead ups to a romantic scene and then claiming that hours later they were finally satisfied. I know this is fantasy, but the repeating scenes of washing and worrying and reassuring and washing and worrying and reassuring followed by more washing and worrying and reassuring is boring. At a certain point you’re just trying to advertise polyamory by repetition. Plus, it comes out of nowhere that Alburet wants to step down as guild leader - but is later justified by the quest he gets from the Overlord. I am hoping the next book returns to the people playing the game and being a great comedic commentary on MMO gaming. Let’s play the game! Because the drama and the PG-13 porn followed by worrying and reassuring and more washing ... oh and did I mention more worrying and reassuring and washing? ... that stuff, it’s just boring. Let the characters quest. Let the characters quest.
Much like book four, this fifth book continues the “memory” / “mind probing” of the main character but perhaps that is all at an end now. We finally have all the back story of the terrible things that happened to Julia, Karen, and Seamus. Plus we know who Victoria is now (but we don’t know why she seems to love Seamus or needs him in her game) so please no more drama. No more redundant / repeating conversations among st the four lovers where they go on and on about love and insecurity and acceptance. And if you’re not going to show them making love then stop giving the reader so many lead ups to a romantic scene and then claiming that hours later they were finally satisfied. I know this is fantasy, but the repeating scenes of washing and worrying and reassuring and washing and worrying and reassuring followed by more washing and worrying and reassuring is boring. At a certain point you’re just trying to advertise polyamory by repetition. Plus, it comes out of nowhere that Alburet wants to step down as guild leader - but is later justified by the quest he gets from the Overlord. I am hoping the next book returns to the people playing the game and being a great comedic commentary on MMO gaming. Let’s play the game! Because the drama and the PG-13 porn followed by worrying and reassuring and more washing ... oh and did I mention more worrying and reassuring and washing? ... that stuff, it’s just boring. Let the characters quest. Let the characters quest.
August 20, 2018
This is a good example of a series gone bad. I absolutely loved book 1 and 2 as the premise was very interesting and the MC was engaging. The writing was a little stilted and bland but LitRPG is not known for its Shakesperean prose so whatever. The fact is that as an escapism story 1 and 2 nailed it. Starting with 3 and culminating in this horrible installment, I finally give up.
The sad part is that the overall story is still very innovative and I would love to care where it goes but the strange relationships, unrealistic reactions and HORRIBLE dialogue is too much to get through. I found myself skipping whole sections and rolling my eyes more than enjoying the story.
I get the whole erotic harem thing and I enjoy stories like this if they are either very graphic or skip the graphic scenes mostly in favor of alluding to what has gone on. This rides that middle ground of CONSTANTLY mentioning sex with no payoff like watching a porno up until the clothes start coming off and then switching over to Dr. Phil and his new episode about how we are feeling in our relationships. Then watching that on a loop for 3 hours. The shear amount of double entendres is absolutely maddening. The Karen character can't get through more than 2 sentences without making some strange sexual connection to an otherwise normal comment. We get it. You are horny. Take it to the bathroom dummy.
Anyway, this is much longer than I intended. Do not read this garbage.
The sad part is that the overall story is still very innovative and I would love to care where it goes but the strange relationships, unrealistic reactions and HORRIBLE dialogue is too much to get through. I found myself skipping whole sections and rolling my eyes more than enjoying the story.
I get the whole erotic harem thing and I enjoy stories like this if they are either very graphic or skip the graphic scenes mostly in favor of alluding to what has gone on. This rides that middle ground of CONSTANTLY mentioning sex with no payoff like watching a porno up until the clothes start coming off and then switching over to Dr. Phil and his new episode about how we are feeling in our relationships. Then watching that on a loop for 3 hours. The shear amount of double entendres is absolutely maddening. The Karen character can't get through more than 2 sentences without making some strange sexual connection to an otherwise normal comment. We get it. You are horny. Take it to the bathroom dummy.
Anyway, this is much longer than I intended. Do not read this garbage.
April 15, 2020
Rating 3.5 stars
A good addition to the series. The author still has his problems, most of which revolve around being repetitive. In previous books the sex talk was pretty repetitive. Kitten was used so much in the 2nd book I thought I was going to lose my mind. Alburet breaking down and crying was what was most repetitive in this book. Every single memory he had that he got back made him break down and cry. This caused all the women in his life to surround him and show him how much they loved him. At least it wasn't as bad as the "kitten" thing. I did enjoy the emotion the author brought to his writing in the last 2 books. And of course if I had to read something repetitive, I would rather it be a something I liked about the book instead of what I didn't like.
A good addition to the series. The author still has his problems, most of which revolve around being repetitive. In previous books the sex talk was pretty repetitive. Kitten was used so much in the 2nd book I thought I was going to lose my mind. Alburet breaking down and crying was what was most repetitive in this book. Every single memory he had that he got back made him break down and cry. This caused all the women in his life to surround him and show him how much they loved him. At least it wasn't as bad as the "kitten" thing. I did enjoy the emotion the author brought to his writing in the last 2 books. And of course if I had to read something repetitive, I would rather it be a something I liked about the book instead of what I didn't like.
December 19, 2018
I skipped on writing reviews for the other books in the series and decided to do it here since I usually go for the last book in the series to see what people think of the whole thing. In short, don't bother with Alpha World. Read on if you're interested in why.
The first book started with an interesting enough premise, and the game elements looked decent, but that was just in the beginning. Later it became mired in Alburet's (MC from now on) inept attempts with social encounters. I'd go for 3/5 for the book on its own.
The second book throws all of the interesting things that the first one set up out of the window. You wondered what the people outside think about the MCs adventures? Ha! Use your imagination. Have an interest in what the game company that's developing Alpha World's scheming? Go fuck yourself, nobody wants to see that. Want to see how the others would react to the MC disappearing for days on end and no one knowing why while he's pulled out of the digital world for some shenanigans? Better keep dreaming, that would be interesting storytelling and we can't do interesting here.
The wedding and subsequent family matters that came with it took so much time and were so stupid that my brain almost bled through my ears. The parents of the year that whore their daughters in their inn for cheap coin are suddenly on the MCs ass over every little thing and he's starting to bitch out of his previously established rough character.
I would give it a score of 2/5 just because I had some hopes for the guild angle and wars between guilds.
By the time book 3 came along I lost all hope. Remember that unimportant thing where the MC would be testing out long-term immersion to see if it's safe? Yeah, fuck that. Get a bunch of willing participants and keep the MC around just for kicks without once informing him about what's going on in the real world or what they're using him for.
The guild interactions were so forced and bland that I kept rolling my eyes throughout the book. And don't get me started (I'll get to it later) on the relationships between the MC and his harem. The gaming elements are all but gone and all that's left is occasional zone clearings and the SAME spells just getting a bit stronger and the MC not using them.
If anyone decided to read up to here then they should stop, because this book and all of the rest get a 1/5 from me. If I could give lower scores on this site I would.
Book 4 gets sooooooooooooooooooo repetitive and boring with the trip through the desert and the constant emotional instability from the MC and his harem that I almost gave up on it a hundred times, but I gritted my teeth and decided to push through just because I like to finish all the books that I start.
3/4 of the book go exactly like this: get up, some foreplay with four emotional wrecks and breakfast, boring lvl grind that the author uses just so he doesn't have to bother with writing interesting quests, dinner and some kind of show (btw, what kind of gamers do classical plays? at best they would go with some TV show or movie and do stuff from that, the author really showed his age there), and then some kind of sexy time with a good bit of emotional bullshit.
The last part with the raid is decent, but it can't save the 3/4 where nothing happens.
Then we get to book 5, where out of nowhere the MC drops the guild lead and goes fucking around with his harem for most of the book. We continue with the constant, ever-present, inescapable, insecurities and unrealistic emotional crap from book 4. The main AI of the game starts doing things for no reason except for that she for some reason likes the MC by the end and it's all so boring and unimaginative.
I don't know why book 6 isn't listed here on Goodreads, but I read it and can say that it sucks just as much as the previous few, if not more.
Nothing actually happens, there's a part with the assassin guild, but they solve it mainly offscreen and just forget about it. In the beginning, you might think that the questing party from the previous books might fall apart, but nope. They mention it for a while and then the author apparently forgets about it.
The book even ends with nothing happening. They start off on an important quest for the suddenly active main AI and then it just ends in the middle of the desert. I think that the author decided to milk the story for just a bit more instead of writing a slightly longer book than usual.
For the vast majority of the book, the author finally remembers that they're in a game world and that they should go out and have some adventures, but they're all repetitive and nonimportant. All the while the relationship between the MC and his harem becomes more and more insufferable.
OK, those are my opinions on the books, now I'll talk about the main characters and some things that annoyed me.
Alburet - in the first book I thought that he's a decent but a bit dark guy and liked him, but the more I saw of him the more I realized that he's just an unintelligent simp with occasional anger issues. I can even understand the mental shattering thing since it would be hard to accept that the decision to take revenge on the murderer of someone dear to you would lead to the unintentional death of everyone else you loved. But the way he's portrayed throughout the story lost all the sympathy I had for him. By now he's a pussywhipped bitch that can't say no to anything his masters (wives) want from him.
Stacia - I think she's the person I hate almost as much as the most hated person from this series (Karen). At the start of the series, I thought that the way she and the MC get together was decent, but ever since they got married I started to dislike her more and more. She has a leash around the MC's balls and won't let up for even a second while manipulating everything around him and he lets her because he's a bitch that can't stand up for himself. Also, the constant sexual innuendos got boring real quick.
Karen - oh Karen, she is the one character I really want to die a final death. I like nothing about her. I don't want to write more because I think I would use too many curses.
Fluffball - she was a decent character but got annoying after a time. The constant dickteasing and then reassurance she got from the MC ground any pity I had for her into apathy. The author built up her and the MC banging for 6 God damned books, and then they just rushed it in a few sentences at the end of the 6th book. From the three wives, I like her the most, but that's not saying much.
Gerald - I started off the series disliking him, but came to sympathize with him. He's the only normal person in a world that's filled with morons and broken people. The few quirks that he does have aren't realistic at all, but I can look them over.
Marysue - annoying and stuck up. Even the few attempts that the author had in which he tries to make her more appealing didn't work. I just didn't care about anything she did.
The other characters are one-dimensional and boring. I don't think I liked any of them. The MC's minions were funny in the first book but got boring after Bob got married. Also, why did everyone in the series get married after just a couple of weeks knowing each other? I think that's the most unrealistic thing in this litRPG book about monsters and other worlds.
In the first couple of books, I found the constant callouts to things from the real world in names of places and NPCs jarring, and they got worse with every book on. I think that the "Can you smell what The Rock is cooking?" thing was the worst.
Also, the food porn almost made me barf. The author wasted pages and pages on describing meals and how some wine complimented a meal. Who the fuck cares about that shit in a litRPG novel?
The thing that disappointed me the most was the potential that was flushed down the drain. All the exciting story threads seemed to get dumped while the constant focus on emotions and the MCs relationship just drowned out all the rest.
And that's another thing. The poor fucker didn't have a moment to his own since the day he bound his succubus (end of book 1). He's constantly surrounded by at least one of them. For months! At what point do you just snap and demand some alone time before you twist someone's head off? Or is it just me?
Anyway, that's it. I could go on about a bunch of other things I disliked but I think that this is enough for anyone interested in Alpha World.
I hope I helped, or at least amused someone with reading this.
Cya.
The first book started with an interesting enough premise, and the game elements looked decent, but that was just in the beginning. Later it became mired in Alburet's (MC from now on) inept attempts with social encounters. I'd go for 3/5 for the book on its own.
The second book throws all of the interesting things that the first one set up out of the window. You wondered what the people outside think about the MCs adventures? Ha! Use your imagination. Have an interest in what the game company that's developing Alpha World's scheming? Go fuck yourself, nobody wants to see that. Want to see how the others would react to the MC disappearing for days on end and no one knowing why while he's pulled out of the digital world for some shenanigans? Better keep dreaming, that would be interesting storytelling and we can't do interesting here.
The wedding and subsequent family matters that came with it took so much time and were so stupid that my brain almost bled through my ears. The parents of the year that whore their daughters in their inn for cheap coin are suddenly on the MCs ass over every little thing and he's starting to bitch out of his previously established rough character.
I would give it a score of 2/5 just because I had some hopes for the guild angle and wars between guilds.
By the time book 3 came along I lost all hope. Remember that unimportant thing where the MC would be testing out long-term immersion to see if it's safe? Yeah, fuck that. Get a bunch of willing participants and keep the MC around just for kicks without once informing him about what's going on in the real world or what they're using him for.
The guild interactions were so forced and bland that I kept rolling my eyes throughout the book. And don't get me started (I'll get to it later) on the relationships between the MC and his harem. The gaming elements are all but gone and all that's left is occasional zone clearings and the SAME spells just getting a bit stronger and the MC not using them.
If anyone decided to read up to here then they should stop, because this book and all of the rest get a 1/5 from me. If I could give lower scores on this site I would.
Book 4 gets sooooooooooooooooooo repetitive and boring with the trip through the desert and the constant emotional instability from the MC and his harem that I almost gave up on it a hundred times, but I gritted my teeth and decided to push through just because I like to finish all the books that I start.
3/4 of the book go exactly like this: get up, some foreplay with four emotional wrecks and breakfast, boring lvl grind that the author uses just so he doesn't have to bother with writing interesting quests, dinner and some kind of show (btw, what kind of gamers do classical plays? at best they would go with some TV show or movie and do stuff from that, the author really showed his age there), and then some kind of sexy time with a good bit of emotional bullshit.
The last part with the raid is decent, but it can't save the 3/4 where nothing happens.
Then we get to book 5, where out of nowhere the MC drops the guild lead and goes fucking around with his harem for most of the book. We continue with the constant, ever-present, inescapable, insecurities and unrealistic emotional crap from book 4. The main AI of the game starts doing things for no reason except for that she for some reason likes the MC by the end and it's all so boring and unimaginative.
I don't know why book 6 isn't listed here on Goodreads, but I read it and can say that it sucks just as much as the previous few, if not more.
Nothing actually happens, there's a part with the assassin guild, but they solve it mainly offscreen and just forget about it. In the beginning, you might think that the questing party from the previous books might fall apart, but nope. They mention it for a while and then the author apparently forgets about it.
The book even ends with nothing happening. They start off on an important quest for the suddenly active main AI and then it just ends in the middle of the desert. I think that the author decided to milk the story for just a bit more instead of writing a slightly longer book than usual.
For the vast majority of the book, the author finally remembers that they're in a game world and that they should go out and have some adventures, but they're all repetitive and nonimportant. All the while the relationship between the MC and his harem becomes more and more insufferable.
OK, those are my opinions on the books, now I'll talk about the main characters and some things that annoyed me.
Alburet - in the first book I thought that he's a decent but a bit dark guy and liked him, but the more I saw of him the more I realized that he's just an unintelligent simp with occasional anger issues. I can even understand the mental shattering thing since it would be hard to accept that the decision to take revenge on the murderer of someone dear to you would lead to the unintentional death of everyone else you loved. But the way he's portrayed throughout the story lost all the sympathy I had for him. By now he's a pussywhipped bitch that can't say no to anything his masters (wives) want from him.
Stacia - I think she's the person I hate almost as much as the most hated person from this series (Karen). At the start of the series, I thought that the way she and the MC get together was decent, but ever since they got married I started to dislike her more and more. She has a leash around the MC's balls and won't let up for even a second while manipulating everything around him and he lets her because he's a bitch that can't stand up for himself. Also, the constant sexual innuendos got boring real quick.
Karen - oh Karen, she is the one character I really want to die a final death. I like nothing about her. I don't want to write more because I think I would use too many curses.
Fluffball - she was a decent character but got annoying after a time. The constant dickteasing and then reassurance she got from the MC ground any pity I had for her into apathy. The author built up her and the MC banging for 6 God damned books, and then they just rushed it in a few sentences at the end of the 6th book. From the three wives, I like her the most, but that's not saying much.
Gerald - I started off the series disliking him, but came to sympathize with him. He's the only normal person in a world that's filled with morons and broken people. The few quirks that he does have aren't realistic at all, but I can look them over.
Marysue - annoying and stuck up. Even the few attempts that the author had in which he tries to make her more appealing didn't work. I just didn't care about anything she did.
The other characters are one-dimensional and boring. I don't think I liked any of them. The MC's minions were funny in the first book but got boring after Bob got married. Also, why did everyone in the series get married after just a couple of weeks knowing each other? I think that's the most unrealistic thing in this litRPG book about monsters and other worlds.
In the first couple of books, I found the constant callouts to things from the real world in names of places and NPCs jarring, and they got worse with every book on. I think that the "Can you smell what The Rock is cooking?" thing was the worst.
Also, the food porn almost made me barf. The author wasted pages and pages on describing meals and how some wine complimented a meal. Who the fuck cares about that shit in a litRPG novel?
The thing that disappointed me the most was the potential that was flushed down the drain. All the exciting story threads seemed to get dumped while the constant focus on emotions and the MCs relationship just drowned out all the rest.
And that's another thing. The poor fucker didn't have a moment to his own since the day he bound his succubus (end of book 1). He's constantly surrounded by at least one of them. For months! At what point do you just snap and demand some alone time before you twist someone's head off? Or is it just me?
Anyway, that's it. I could go on about a bunch of other things I disliked but I think that this is enough for anyone interested in Alpha World.
I hope I helped, or at least amused someone with reading this.
Cya.
May 30, 2018
Good god. Enough with the crying, and the ridiculous overly emotional protagonist. Every other sentence has the characters asking each other if everything is ok and how they love each other and are so happy that they "accept" one another.
If you remove every sentence regarding the interpersonal relationships between the protagonist and his female companions, you would have a 1000% better book.
There are some good things in there - mainly, the LITRPG elements. Other than that, be prepared to skip ahead. Also the whole nonsense of his 'fractured memory' from killing a rapist is a bit annoying. Just get on with the dungeon diving already.
If you remove every sentence regarding the interpersonal relationships between the protagonist and his female companions, you would have a 1000% better book.
There are some good things in there - mainly, the LITRPG elements. Other than that, be prepared to skip ahead. Also the whole nonsense of his 'fractured memory' from killing a rapist is a bit annoying. Just get on with the dungeon diving already.
May 16, 2018
We get it already
Alburet and Fluffs interactions are so repetitive.
Sure there is an underlying message. But so boring and repetitive.
This series has gone from a fun LitRPG romp with some interesting sideline ideas about using an immersive game environment for therapy to one big therapy session with a few jaunts into gaming that feel like an afterthought.
Yes nice to revisit Karen, Stacia, Alburet, Fluff and the minions but overall fun way down.
Alburet and Fluffs interactions are so repetitive.
Sure there is an underlying message. But so boring and repetitive.
This series has gone from a fun LitRPG romp with some interesting sideline ideas about using an immersive game environment for therapy to one big therapy session with a few jaunts into gaming that feel like an afterthought.
Yes nice to revisit Karen, Stacia, Alburet, Fluff and the minions but overall fun way down.
July 22, 2018
Another great instalment
Another great instalment in this thoroughly enjoyable story. The main story is not moved on significantly, but the background of the main character is finally detailed and done in such a way that I found myself unexpectedly moved - totally surprising me in a great way.
Another great instalment in this thoroughly enjoyable story. The main story is not moved on significantly, but the background of the main character is finally detailed and done in such a way that I found myself unexpectedly moved - totally surprising me in a great way.
May 19, 2018
I really wish the series would get away from the characters apologizing to each other. Way over done. Wish there was more game to the story.
May 2, 2018
I'm biased, but that shouldn't be a surprise.
May 5, 2018
👏💖👏💖👏💖👏💖👏💖 BRAVO!!!! 👏💖👏💖👏💖👏💖👏💖
Kindle Unlimited - Thank you!
First half has the memory reveals. Incredible! Kept stopping along the way to appreciate the quality of what I was reading. Can't imagine how it could have been done, or written, any better. Victoria? You go girl! And ... we're left with the impression that there are even more layers to be discovered. Loved the Mother, Dark Lord, family, and guild stuff. Infernal worm is a spice?!? Oh my!
The second half gets back to fun adventuring. Yay! Something's up with Mary? Hmmmm....
I was kind of bummed by the "open season" turn of events at the end. Kind of spoiled my happy buzz from the rest of the book. 😿 Unfettered, nasty, mean spirited PKP as acceptable "game play" is high on my list of least favorite tropes. When a series goes there, I tend to go elsewhere. But... I'm going to wait and see where the author takes it. Something, anything, that shuts it down in no uncertain terms. The king could step in, Victoria could step up, the community could react, there's an outstanding Dark Lord boon, or Alpha Company Guild could go super OP. Hopeful enough not to knock off that 5th star.
Kindle Unlimited - Thank you!
First half has the memory reveals. Incredible! Kept stopping along the way to appreciate the quality of what I was reading. Can't imagine how it could have been done, or written, any better. Victoria? You go girl! And ... we're left with the impression that there are even more layers to be discovered. Loved the Mother, Dark Lord, family, and guild stuff. Infernal worm is a spice?!? Oh my!
The second half gets back to fun adventuring. Yay! Something's up with Mary? Hmmmm....
I was kind of bummed by the "open season" turn of events at the end. Kind of spoiled my happy buzz from the rest of the book. 😿 Unfettered, nasty, mean spirited PKP as acceptable "game play" is high on my list of least favorite tropes. When a series goes there, I tend to go elsewhere. But... I'm going to wait and see where the author takes it. Something, anything, that shuts it down in no uncertain terms. The king could step in, Victoria could step up, the community could react, there's an outstanding Dark Lord boon, or Alpha Company Guild could go super OP. Hopeful enough not to knock off that 5th star.
September 18, 2018
Pacing. Pacing. Pacing. I am enjoying the whole AW series but this book was a bit of a low point. It spends most of the time with the MC falling apart because of his real world losses that messed with his mind. Then the poly amours love fest is a bit over the top and too much time is focused on the happy quartet. Finally at the end the pace picks up as the story goes back to its LitRPG roots and the in-game drama. Overall it took me a while to read but I will continue when the next book hits Audible.
May 23, 2018
Very Harem
This book as a drink:
Three cups of beautiful women ( 3 parts vodka or rum).
A cup of awkward dialogue (1 part frozen lemonade).
Mix liberally with affirmations (3 parts citrus soda, stir).
Garnish with a twist of lime and a salty rim.
Enjoyable as long as you know what you're getting yourself into.
This book as a drink:
Three cups of beautiful women ( 3 parts vodka or rum).
A cup of awkward dialogue (1 part frozen lemonade).
Mix liberally with affirmations (3 parts citrus soda, stir).
Garnish with a twist of lime and a salty rim.
Enjoyable as long as you know what you're getting yourself into.
May 24, 2019
The author did a good job in telling his story in a new way.
I enjoyed this book and really enjoyed how the author worked in how the succubus are able too help a person get better emotionally and mentally.The story is upbeat and fun to read and the characters are continuing to grow and develop into unique people who are interesting to read about.
I enjoyed this book and really enjoyed how the author worked in how the succubus are able too help a person get better emotionally and mentally.The story is upbeat and fun to read and the characters are continuing to grow and develop into unique people who are interesting to read about.
July 15, 2019
Totally biased. The fifth book of my most well known series, some people love it, some hate it, a lot seem to enjoy it to some degree. While the book is LITRPG/GAMELIT the over all story of the series focuses on psychological trauma more then the game.
February 4, 2019
a lot less sex, and more psychology
I'm so invested in this story, and in love with the characters that I don't mind at all that it's morphed into a different style. In fact I approve.
I'm so invested in this story, and in love with the characters that I don't mind at all that it's morphed into a different style. In fact I approve.
May 3, 2018
Book 5
I honestly didn't like this book that much.
To me this one had to much of the emotional stuff and not enough action.
It was well written though, which gets it 4 stars.
I honestly didn't like this book that much.
To me this one had to much of the emotional stuff and not enough action.
It was well written though, which gets it 4 stars.
January 9, 2025
📖 Title: Fractured Spirit (Alpha World #5)
Author: Daniel Schinhofen
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.7/5 Paws from your favorite Ice Wolf 🐺❄️)
Genres: Fantasy, LitRPG, Harem, Audiobook, Virtual Reality, Magic, Romance, Psychological Drama
🌨️ Introduction:
Howl-lo there, adventurers and tail-wagging packmates! It’s Kiba Snowpaw, your alpha Ice Wolf from the enchanted frostbitten world of HowlStrom, here to dig my claws into Daniel Schinhofen’s fifth book in the Alpha World series, “Fractured Spirit.” With over 38 winters under my belt and countless MMORPG raids conquered, I’m ready to share this furry-friendly review from the perspective of a seasoned gamer and audiobook aficionado who’s howled through over 400 audiobooks. Pack your mana potions and grab a seat by the campfire, because this is going to be an epic quest!
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🎮 Basic Plot Summary:
Fresh from their triumphant raid on Gwain’s Keep, Alpha Company is flying high on victory vibes and shiny loot. But, as any MMO player knows, peace never lasts long in a dynamic game world. With the first phase of immersion testing nearing its end, several guildmates prepare to log out of Alpha World for good. Meanwhile, Alburet—our beloved broody protagonist—is forced to confront his darkest memories, with his harem by his side for emotional support.
In true LitRPG fashion, the plot oscillates between dungeon crawls and deep dives into the psyche of its characters. Alburet’s past traumas, especially his tragic real-world memories, take center stage. What unfolds is less about grinding XP and more about leveling up emotionally.
Warning: This book has fewer boss fights and more therapy sessions, so adjust your expectations accordingly!
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🐺 Originality & Themes:
This installment shifts focus from classic dungeon raids and epic loot to introspection, healing, and navigating complex relationships. Schinhofen doesn’t just create a game world; he crafts an emotional sandbox where characters evolve beyond stats and skill trees.
But here’s where the originality really shines: instead of treating NPCs as background filler, they’re integral to the narrative, with their own arcs and emotional weight. This blurs the lines between player and character, making Alpha World feel genuinely alive.
The overarching theme? Even in a virtual world, your inner demons can be your toughest boss fight.
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🧙♂️ Writer Analysis:
Daniel Schinhofen has carved a niche for himself in the LitRPG genre. His works go beyond the typical “grind, loot, repeat” formula and delve into the human condition—what happens when real-life trauma intersects with virtual escapism?
Compared to authors like Aleron Kong (The Land series) or Matt Dinniman (Dungeon Crawler Carl), Schinhofen’s books focus more on emotional depth and character relationships. If you want non-stop action, this might not be your cup of tea, but if you enjoy character-driven narratives with a sprinkle of romance and psychological exploration, Schinhofen delivers.
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🐾 Characters & Development:
This book is all about character development, with a focus on Alburet’s emotional growth.
🧊 Alburet Two-Souled: Our main hero continues to grapple with his fractured memories. His arc in this book is intense, as he finally confronts the truths he’s been hiding from himself. It’s a raw and emotional journey, and while some might find his frequent breakdowns repetitive, it adds a layer of realism.
✨ Fluffball (Julia): The heart of the harem. Her trauma is explored in detail, and her relationship with Alburet grows stronger as they heal together. Her arc is both heartwarming and heartbreaking.
🖤 Karen: The cheeky succubus with a penchant for pushing boundaries. Her playful banter often masks deeper insecurities, and her dynamic with Alburet brings both levity and tension to the story.
Supporting Cast: Gerald, Marysue, Tiny, Bob the Imp—they all add color and humor to the narrative. Bob, in particular, remains a fan-favorite with his quirky antics.
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⚙️ Game Mechanics & World Building:
Schinhofen nails the LitRPG mechanics. The level-ups, loot drops, and skill trees feel authentic and well-integrated into the story. However, this installment leans heavily on narrative over mechanics, which might disappoint readers looking for more “gamey” elements.
The Dead Lands, with its eerie atmosphere and high-level mobs, adds a fresh zone to explore. But the real magic lies in the emotional world-building—how characters process grief, trauma, and love in a virtual space.
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🔥 Praise & Critique:
Praise:
Outstanding character development with emotional depth.
Immersive world-building that feels like a real MMORPG.
Strong female characters who aren’t just love interests but integral to the plot.
Critique:
The pacing drags in the middle, with repetitive therapy scenes.
The focus on romance and emotions might alienate hardcore LitRPG fans.
Less action compared to earlier books in the series.
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🐺 Hook & Thesis:
The emotional hook of Fractured Spirit lies in Alburet’s journey to reconcile his past. The thesis? Healing isn’t a solo quest—you need your party to back you up.
This resonates deeply in the furry community, where themes of belonging and self-discovery are often explored. Alburet’s struggle to accept himself and his found family is a universal tale, wrapped in a digital fantasy world.
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🤝 Comparison to Similar Books:
The Land: Founding by Aleron Kong — More action-packed but less emotional depth.
Dungeon Crawler Carl by Matt Dinniman — Darker humor and chaotic fun.
Awaken Online by Travis Bagwell — Focuses on player agency and moral dilemmas.
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🐾 Personal Evaluation:
As an Ice Wolf who has weathered countless quests, I found Fractured Spirit to be a deeply moving tale. The emotional depth is unmatched, though I did miss the thrill of boss fights and epic loot.
Would I recommend this to my pack? Absolutely. But with a caveat—this is more about the feels than the fights.
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❄️ Conclusion:
“Fractured Spirit” is a heartfelt addition to the Alpha World series, exploring themes of love, trauma, and self-discovery. It’s less about grinding XP and more about leveling up emotionally. For those who enjoy character-driven stories with a touch of romance, this is a must-read.
Final Verdict: ★★★★☆ (4.7/5 Paws 🐾)
Until next time, may your quests be epic, your loot legendary, and your heart full of stories. Stay frosty, adventurers! ❄️🐺
November 1, 2019
Review for complete series Books 1 - 8
Mr. Schinhofen's Alpha world series is an epic tale of pain, suffering, discrimination, and the healing through love and support. . A word of warning though the earlier books contain a moderate to extreme, depending on your view points, amount of erotica in them. This tapers off near the end of the story and I recommend readers not to judge harshly. I found the scenes to fit within the flow of the story and within scope of the personality of the characters involved.
It is my recommendation that these scenes be simply skimmed over by readers who might be put off by them. The series contains so much more than erotica that readers would miss out on. Mr. Schinhofen's series delves into the darker side of human nature and the traumatic wounds of the mind that we not only inflict upon others, but ourselves as well. I applaud Mr. Schinhofen for showing such trauma and how with help such conditions can be mitigated.
Mr. Schinhofen borrows heavily from World of Warcraft for his class system and for some points of his story. I believe he is a great author regardless and look forward to additional works he might create.
Very Respectfully,
Shea
Mr. Schinhofen's Alpha world series is an epic tale of pain, suffering, discrimination, and the healing through love and support. . A word of warning though the earlier books contain a moderate to extreme, depending on your view points, amount of erotica in them. This tapers off near the end of the story and I recommend readers not to judge harshly. I found the scenes to fit within the flow of the story and within scope of the personality of the characters involved.
It is my recommendation that these scenes be simply skimmed over by readers who might be put off by them. The series contains so much more than erotica that readers would miss out on. Mr. Schinhofen's series delves into the darker side of human nature and the traumatic wounds of the mind that we not only inflict upon others, but ourselves as well. I applaud Mr. Schinhofen for showing such trauma and how with help such conditions can be mitigated.
Mr. Schinhofen borrows heavily from World of Warcraft for his class system and for some points of his story. I believe he is a great author regardless and look forward to additional works he might create.
Very Respectfully,
Shea
April 26, 2024
The book 4 of this series felt like the author lost a bet and had to fit the phrases "We love you" and "We will be there for you" at least 1k times into a book as punishment. As much as everyone including me appreciates good character development, this was way too much. Too much of all the same again and again, chapter after chapter, it eventually got so annoying that I almost gave up on finishing that book - the last 25% of the book was great Litrpg though, that saved it for me and gave me hope for further installments.
Now, with this book, the hope is lost. It is back to the annoying stuff that has nothing to do with Litrpg. Basically, the book goes with "I am not good enough" - "Yes, you are, we love you" - "Really?" - "Sure, and no matter what happens, we will be there for you" with some seemingly random story filler that has little to do with Litrpg in between. Sorry, made it to about 40% of the book, but I can´t take it no more, im done with the series.
Now, with this book, the hope is lost. It is back to the annoying stuff that has nothing to do with Litrpg. Basically, the book goes with "I am not good enough" - "Yes, you are, we love you" - "Really?" - "Sure, and no matter what happens, we will be there for you" with some seemingly random story filler that has little to do with Litrpg in between. Sorry, made it to about 40% of the book, but I can´t take it no more, im done with the series.
May 7, 2018
Dramatic Action
Aside from normal LitRPG action the Alpha Company books try to present a (literally) more dramatic story line and deeper characters because of it. This book easily surpasses the others in its level of “feelz”, but it does so in a good way, as we finally see into the darker corners of our protagonist, and (mostly) why he was chosen for Alpha World. This helps round out all of the main characters nicely, as we see their love for each other expand and deepen. Their other character changes only heighten this interaction. This leaves us with more investment in the given foreshadowing, as both we and the team wonder what will happen next. I’m guessing the next book will have a lot more action in it that answers that question. Recommended.
Aside from normal LitRPG action the Alpha Company books try to present a (literally) more dramatic story line and deeper characters because of it. This book easily surpasses the others in its level of “feelz”, but it does so in a good way, as we finally see into the darker corners of our protagonist, and (mostly) why he was chosen for Alpha World. This helps round out all of the main characters nicely, as we see their love for each other expand and deepen. Their other character changes only heighten this interaction. This leaves us with more investment in the given foreshadowing, as both we and the team wonder what will happen next. I’m guessing the next book will have a lot more action in it that answers that question. Recommended.
May 12, 2018
Back to the fun
This book is very much a step back up from the last one. Instead of using pointlessly mindnumbing trekking across the wastes to fill the days while advancing the characters at night, we're back to good old-fashioned questing during the day and character growth in the downtime.
One quibble I have is that it seems as though the MCs constantly forget about previous conversations...almost instantly. They plan out things to do then go off and do something else instead for no discernable reason at times. Also, there is a major wierdness and disjointed feeling between the two scenes with Victoria...not sure if that is intentional or not, so I won't speculate further than to say that if it isn't, then those could use some smoothing.
This book is very much a step back up from the last one. Instead of using pointlessly mindnumbing trekking across the wastes to fill the days while advancing the characters at night, we're back to good old-fashioned questing during the day and character growth in the downtime.
One quibble I have is that it seems as though the MCs constantly forget about previous conversations...almost instantly. They plan out things to do then go off and do something else instead for no discernable reason at times. Also, there is a major wierdness and disjointed feeling between the two scenes with Victoria...not sure if that is intentional or not, so I won't speculate further than to say that if it isn't, then those could use some smoothing.
July 4, 2018
Lots of 'action', but not much action.
This book is readable, and interesting, and further develops the characters of the previous books. But apart from a lot of sex, not much else happens. Even the fighting that does occur isn't very exciting: It's mostly a lot of description about who does the tank role, who does the damage, who does the heals.
What this book (and series) does have going for it is a very interesting backstory, and a unique setup. I'm curious to learn more about Victoria. I'm curious what will happen IRL, especially once Mary Sue gets involved. I'm also curious about the long term outcome of the main character. And to be perfectly honest, I find it interesting when a book challenges cultural norms. Polygamy is an interesting subject.
This book is readable, and interesting, and further develops the characters of the previous books. But apart from a lot of sex, not much else happens. Even the fighting that does occur isn't very exciting: It's mostly a lot of description about who does the tank role, who does the damage, who does the heals.
What this book (and series) does have going for it is a very interesting backstory, and a unique setup. I'm curious to learn more about Victoria. I'm curious what will happen IRL, especially once Mary Sue gets involved. I'm also curious about the long term outcome of the main character. And to be perfectly honest, I find it interesting when a book challenges cultural norms. Polygamy is an interesting subject.
February 10, 2019
Note: I listened to the audio book but am placing this review under the Kindle edition since the audio book isn't currently listed.
Apparently essentially telling a story in book 4 of this series grated on the author because he makes up for it in spades in this book. This book ends with the MCs at the very start of both a quest and an investigation. This book is nothing but and introduction to what comes next and is so far from telling an actual story that it makes me want to go back and downgrade all my reviews for this series adding a note saying "book 5 in this series is so bad that none of the books in it should be read".
Bottom line: It is complete BS for authors to treat introductions as stand alone books and your only chance to enjoy this book is if you don't agree with that.
Apparently essentially telling a story in book 4 of this series grated on the author because he makes up for it in spades in this book. This book ends with the MCs at the very start of both a quest and an investigation. This book is nothing but and introduction to what comes next and is so far from telling an actual story that it makes me want to go back and downgrade all my reviews for this series adding a note saying "book 5 in this series is so bad that none of the books in it should be read".
Bottom line: It is complete BS for authors to treat introductions as stand alone books and your only chance to enjoy this book is if you don't agree with that.
June 4, 2023
Moving Along, still drags a bit with "issues"
I like this saga & this group but I'm still not so into the minutiae re skills & power upgrades - gets in the way of the action - but then I'm not a gamer so maybe good for those that are I guess lol. Also, for a bunch of savage, committed, voracious killers they sure are a bunch of "sensitive", woke fragile wimps when it ucomes to dealing with their "issues" lol. Guess that comes from that American thing I.e slaughterin' & killin' - that ain't so bad - good actually. But having wild & exotic sex with beautiful, strong, insatiable women who are eager & willing ...Well my Dad & others might not be ok with that lol - Sooo Conflicted!!😄😉
I like this saga & this group but I'm still not so into the minutiae re skills & power upgrades - gets in the way of the action - but then I'm not a gamer so maybe good for those that are I guess lol. Also, for a bunch of savage, committed, voracious killers they sure are a bunch of "sensitive", woke fragile wimps when it ucomes to dealing with their "issues" lol. Guess that comes from that American thing I.e slaughterin' & killin' - that ain't so bad - good actually. But having wild & exotic sex with beautiful, strong, insatiable women who are eager & willing ...Well my Dad & others might not be ok with that lol - Sooo Conflicted!!😄😉
June 16, 2018
A Dip in the Series
The first two books of this series was very enjoyable, the next two books got a little too touchy-feely, now book five read like a romance novel. There’s still good stuff in this installment, but the first eight chapters were just a rehashing of everyone’s undying love for each other. Come on, three wives all living under one roof and everyone gets along perfectly! And I got a little tired of Fluff being broken, there’s nothing new there.
I think there is still good potential and possibilities in this series, I just may wait some before I jump into book six.
The first two books of this series was very enjoyable, the next two books got a little too touchy-feely, now book five read like a romance novel. There’s still good stuff in this installment, but the first eight chapters were just a rehashing of everyone’s undying love for each other. Come on, three wives all living under one roof and everyone gets along perfectly! And I got a little tired of Fluff being broken, there’s nothing new there.
I think there is still good potential and possibilities in this series, I just may wait some before I jump into book six.
June 18, 2018
This book should've been called "Cuddles, Hugs & Kisses"
I have loved the Alpha World series since the start, but this one really made it hard to like. I wondered many times as I was skimming through pages if this was an attempt to make a foray into romance novels. The first half of this book is about an overly emotional harem, who feel the need to hug, kiss and cuddle each other in excruciating detail, while dealing with Seamus' backstory.
Obviously LitRPG is in its infancy still and we'll see many interpretations thereof but this LitRPG romance novel was hard to stomach.
I have loved the Alpha World series since the start, but this one really made it hard to like. I wondered many times as I was skimming through pages if this was an attempt to make a foray into romance novels. The first half of this book is about an overly emotional harem, who feel the need to hug, kiss and cuddle each other in excruciating detail, while dealing with Seamus' backstory.
Obviously LitRPG is in its infancy still and we'll see many interpretations thereof but this LitRPG romance novel was hard to stomach.
May 5, 2020
Epic story continues!
Definitely a good read. Daniel Schinhofen is rapidly becoming one of the top writers for this genre. The action is well written and each major event is well written. This being said, the books do have a lot of relationship development, almost half the book. While I don’t really like reading about everyone’s feelings constantly (constant reassuring isn’t needed so much IMO), the rest of the story makes up for it. This is just my preference, and the feelings talks do contribute to character development, just feels like the plot stagnates while the MC and his women constantly tell each other they still like them. A good read though!
Definitely a good read. Daniel Schinhofen is rapidly becoming one of the top writers for this genre. The action is well written and each major event is well written. This being said, the books do have a lot of relationship development, almost half the book. While I don’t really like reading about everyone’s feelings constantly (constant reassuring isn’t needed so much IMO), the rest of the story makes up for it. This is just my preference, and the feelings talks do contribute to character development, just feels like the plot stagnates while the MC and his women constantly tell each other they still like them. A good read though!
May 3, 2018
Good read
I enjoyed that it had a little bit more action than was previously used in some other of the books. I like the character development of the main character and his harem. One thing I did not really take to was that I believe the set he wore for his Summoner class is complete now and he has yet to gain his other Boon from it. Also it's about time for someone to murder the living s*** out of Skippy. I mean can we please just make this assholes death particularly bloody scream filled pain and all the good stuff?
I enjoyed that it had a little bit more action than was previously used in some other of the books. I like the character development of the main character and his harem. One thing I did not really take to was that I believe the set he wore for his Summoner class is complete now and he has yet to gain his other Boon from it. Also it's about time for someone to murder the living s*** out of Skippy. I mean can we please just make this assholes death particularly bloody scream filled pain and all the good stuff?
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