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Adventures on Brad #1-3
Adventures on Brad: Books 1-3
Even Gifts Have a PriceDaniel Chai only ever wanted to be an Adventurer. Born with a Gift of healing that steals his memories and past experiences as its fuel source, Daniel must weigh his heart's desire with his sense of duty as he attempts to clear his first ever dungeon.Along the way, he'll meet true friends like the Catkin Asin and the Northerner Omrak as he learns what it truly takes to be a professional Adventurer in Brad.The Adventures on Brad is a light fantasy novel set in a LitRPG world where everyone is born with a Status Screen and Classes. This box set collects the first arc of Adventures of Daniel and friends in Karlak and the Beginner Dungeon. The box set includes books 1 - 3:- A Healer's Gift- An Adventurer's Heart- A Dungeon's Soul
- GenresFantasy
515 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2018
56 people are currently reading
79 people want to read
About the author
Tao Wong
140 books964 followersTao Wong is the author of the A Thousand Li progression fantasy series and the System Apocalypse LitRPG series, among others. His work has been released in audio, paperback, hardcover, and ebook formats, and translated into German, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, and several other languages. He was shortlisted for the UK Kindle Storyteller Award in 2021 for A Thousand Li: The Second Sect. In 2026, the first three books in the A Thousand Li series will be republished in hardcover by Ace Books.
When he’s not writing or working, he enjoys practicing martial arts, reading, and dreaming up new worlds. He lives in Toronto, Canada.
When he’s not writing or working, he enjoys practicing martial arts, reading, and dreaming up new worlds. He lives in Toronto, Canada.
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
September 3, 2024
Introduction:
Adventures on Brad Books 1-3, authored by Tao Wong, is a light fantasy romp through a LitRPG world that will have you wagging your tail one moment and scratching your head the next. Published on July 3, 2018, this omnibus edition gathers the first three books in the series: *A Healer's Gift*, *An Adventurer's Heart*, and *A Dungeon's Soul*. Set in the world of Brad, where everyone rolls out of bed with a Status Screen and a destiny to carve out, the story follows the journey of Daniel Chai, a healer whose power to mend comes with a cost: it gobbles up his memories and past experiences as fuel. A solid choice for any adventuring furball looking to level up their reading game.
Plot Summary:
Alright, so here’s the lowdown. Daniel, our main wolf—I mean, man—ain't your typical fresh-faced adventurer. He’s twenty-one, making him an elder pup in a world where most folks get their adventuring license as soon as they’re done gnawing on their first bone. With a backstory that involves more grit than glory—working in the mines after his father’s passing—Daniel finally scrapes together enough gold to pay his way into the Adventurers' Guild. The setup is classic: get your gear, find your party, and dive into a dungeon. But Wong flips the script by giving Daniel a Gift that’s as much a curse as it is a blessing. Every time he taps into his healing powers, it costs him a chunk of his past. That’s right—no pain, no gain, and all that jazz.
The setting in Brad is your standard LitRPG playground with dungeons to plunder, guilds to join, and monsters to smack down. But the twist lies in how Daniel and his crew—Asin the Catkin and Omrak the Northerner—navigate this familiar terrain with unfamiliar challenges, from memory-stealing healing spells to the ethics of adventuring when every decision could cost you your own identity.
The Author:
Tao Wong is a name you’re gonna want to scratch into your tree of knowledge, especially if you’re into LitRPG or Xianxia genres. Based in Toronto, this Canuck knows how to weave a tale that merges game mechanics with narrative, and he does it with a skill that’s earned him a spot in the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America (SFWA). He became a full-time author in 2019, and since then, he’s been a machine—cranking out stories faster than a rabbit on Red Bull. *Adventures on Brad* might not be his most famous series (that honor goes to the *System Apocalypse* series), but it’s a prime example of his ability to blend action, strategy, and a bit of humor into a narrative that’s easy to pick up but hard to put down.
Characters:
Daniel Chai is the good boy of this pack—a healer with a big heart and an even bigger burden. His journey isn’t just about leveling up and smashing monsters; it’s about balancing his duty to his friends with the personal cost of his powers. Asin, the Catkin, is your stealthy rogue with a sharp tongue and even sharper claws, bringing that necessary edge to the party. Omrak, on the other paw, is the brawn—a Northerner with a heart of gold who’s always ready to throw down, whether it’s in the tavern or the dungeon. Wong does a commendable job fleshing out these characters, making them more than just stereotypes. Their banter and camaraderie add a layer of depth that keeps you invested in their fates.
Structure:
The structure is pretty standard for a LitRPG series—each book in this omnibus is divided into easily digestible chapters that follow the party’s progression through various challenges. Wong’s pacing is solid, balancing combat scenes with character development and world-building. There’s no massive info dump here; instead, the world’s rules and mechanics are unveiled gradually as Daniel and his crew encounter new obstacles. This keeps the reader engaged without feeling overwhelmed by stats and skill trees.
Themes & Analysis:
At its core, *Adventures on Brad* is a tale about sacrifice, identity, and the true cost of power. Daniel’s Gift is a metaphor for the sacrifices we all make in life—the memories we lose, the experiences we trade, all in the pursuit of something greater. The series also explores the idea of teamwork and loyalty, with Daniel, Asin, and Omrak forming a pack that’s stronger together than they are alone. Wong touches on the ethics of adventuring—when does the pursuit of glory become a fool’s errand? And how much are you willing to give up for the sake of others? These aren’t just empty philosophical questions; they’re woven into the fabric of the story, making for a deeper read than your average dungeon crawl.
Scenes:
Alright, let’s talk tails and wagging. The romance in this series is pretty tame—don’t expect any steamy fur-on-fur action. There’s a bit of flirting and the occasional warm fuzzy moment between characters, but Wong keeps things PG-13. The focus is more on the friendships and bonds between the characters than on any romantic entanglements. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing—it keeps the story moving at a brisk pace without getting bogged down in melodrama.
World-Building:
The world of Brad is your classic LitRPG setup, with dungeons to explore, monsters to fight, and a leveling system that keeps things spicy. But Wong adds his own twist by incorporating elements of memory and identity into the mix. The idea that Daniel’s powers cost him his past gives the world a darker, more introspective feel than your typical game-like fantasy. It’s not just about killing monsters and looting treasure; it’s about understanding who you are and what you’re willing to sacrifice for power.
Praise & Critique:
There’s a lot to howl about in *Adventures on Brad*. The character development is solid, the pacing is smooth, and the world-building is immersive without being overwhelming. Daniel’s struggle with his Gift adds a layer of depth that’s often missing in the LitRPG genre. However, the series isn’t without its fleas. Some readers might find the plot a bit predictable, and the stakes aren’t always as high as they could be. The romance, while sweet, is underdeveloped, and the series could benefit from a bit more emotional bite.
Comparison:
Compared to Wong’s other works, *Adventures on Brad* is a lighter, more straightforward read. It doesn’t have the sprawling complexity of *A Thousand Li* or the post-apocalyptic grit of *System Apocalypse*. Instead, it’s a more traditional fantasy with a LitRPG twist, perfect for readers who are new to the genre or just looking for a fun, easy read. That said, it still has Wong’s signature blend of action, strategy, and character-driven storytelling, making it a worthwhile addition to any fantasy lover’s collection.
Personal Evaluation:
From this wolf’s perspective, *Adventures on Brad* is a solid romp through a well-crafted fantasy world. It’s got enough heart to keep you invested in the characters, and enough action to keep you turning the pages. While it might not reinvent the genre, it’s a well-executed tale that delivers exactly what it promises—a fun, engaging adventure with a few twists along the way. If you’re into LitRPG or just looking for a new series to sink your teeth into, this one’s worth a read.
Conclusion:
All in all, *Adventures on Brad Books 1-3* is a howling good time. It’s not without its flaws, but the strengths far outweigh the weaknesses. Whether you’re a seasoned LitRPG veteran or a newcomer to the genre, there’s something here for everyone. Wong’s storytelling is sharp, the characters are endearing, and the world of Brad is a place you’ll want to visit again and again. I’d give it a solid 4 out of 5 paw prints—definitely worth adding to your library. So gear up, sharpen those claws, and get ready to dive into the dungeons of Brad. Adventure awaits!
Adventures on Brad Books 1-3, authored by Tao Wong, is a light fantasy romp through a LitRPG world that will have you wagging your tail one moment and scratching your head the next. Published on July 3, 2018, this omnibus edition gathers the first three books in the series: *A Healer's Gift*, *An Adventurer's Heart*, and *A Dungeon's Soul*. Set in the world of Brad, where everyone rolls out of bed with a Status Screen and a destiny to carve out, the story follows the journey of Daniel Chai, a healer whose power to mend comes with a cost: it gobbles up his memories and past experiences as fuel. A solid choice for any adventuring furball looking to level up their reading game.
Plot Summary:
Alright, so here’s the lowdown. Daniel, our main wolf—I mean, man—ain't your typical fresh-faced adventurer. He’s twenty-one, making him an elder pup in a world where most folks get their adventuring license as soon as they’re done gnawing on their first bone. With a backstory that involves more grit than glory—working in the mines after his father’s passing—Daniel finally scrapes together enough gold to pay his way into the Adventurers' Guild. The setup is classic: get your gear, find your party, and dive into a dungeon. But Wong flips the script by giving Daniel a Gift that’s as much a curse as it is a blessing. Every time he taps into his healing powers, it costs him a chunk of his past. That’s right—no pain, no gain, and all that jazz.
The setting in Brad is your standard LitRPG playground with dungeons to plunder, guilds to join, and monsters to smack down. But the twist lies in how Daniel and his crew—Asin the Catkin and Omrak the Northerner—navigate this familiar terrain with unfamiliar challenges, from memory-stealing healing spells to the ethics of adventuring when every decision could cost you your own identity.
The Author:
Tao Wong is a name you’re gonna want to scratch into your tree of knowledge, especially if you’re into LitRPG or Xianxia genres. Based in Toronto, this Canuck knows how to weave a tale that merges game mechanics with narrative, and he does it with a skill that’s earned him a spot in the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America (SFWA). He became a full-time author in 2019, and since then, he’s been a machine—cranking out stories faster than a rabbit on Red Bull. *Adventures on Brad* might not be his most famous series (that honor goes to the *System Apocalypse* series), but it’s a prime example of his ability to blend action, strategy, and a bit of humor into a narrative that’s easy to pick up but hard to put down.
Characters:
Daniel Chai is the good boy of this pack—a healer with a big heart and an even bigger burden. His journey isn’t just about leveling up and smashing monsters; it’s about balancing his duty to his friends with the personal cost of his powers. Asin, the Catkin, is your stealthy rogue with a sharp tongue and even sharper claws, bringing that necessary edge to the party. Omrak, on the other paw, is the brawn—a Northerner with a heart of gold who’s always ready to throw down, whether it’s in the tavern or the dungeon. Wong does a commendable job fleshing out these characters, making them more than just stereotypes. Their banter and camaraderie add a layer of depth that keeps you invested in their fates.
Structure:
The structure is pretty standard for a LitRPG series—each book in this omnibus is divided into easily digestible chapters that follow the party’s progression through various challenges. Wong’s pacing is solid, balancing combat scenes with character development and world-building. There’s no massive info dump here; instead, the world’s rules and mechanics are unveiled gradually as Daniel and his crew encounter new obstacles. This keeps the reader engaged without feeling overwhelmed by stats and skill trees.
Themes & Analysis:
At its core, *Adventures on Brad* is a tale about sacrifice, identity, and the true cost of power. Daniel’s Gift is a metaphor for the sacrifices we all make in life—the memories we lose, the experiences we trade, all in the pursuit of something greater. The series also explores the idea of teamwork and loyalty, with Daniel, Asin, and Omrak forming a pack that’s stronger together than they are alone. Wong touches on the ethics of adventuring—when does the pursuit of glory become a fool’s errand? And how much are you willing to give up for the sake of others? These aren’t just empty philosophical questions; they’re woven into the fabric of the story, making for a deeper read than your average dungeon crawl.
Scenes:
Alright, let’s talk tails and wagging. The romance in this series is pretty tame—don’t expect any steamy fur-on-fur action. There’s a bit of flirting and the occasional warm fuzzy moment between characters, but Wong keeps things PG-13. The focus is more on the friendships and bonds between the characters than on any romantic entanglements. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing—it keeps the story moving at a brisk pace without getting bogged down in melodrama.
World-Building:
The world of Brad is your classic LitRPG setup, with dungeons to explore, monsters to fight, and a leveling system that keeps things spicy. But Wong adds his own twist by incorporating elements of memory and identity into the mix. The idea that Daniel’s powers cost him his past gives the world a darker, more introspective feel than your typical game-like fantasy. It’s not just about killing monsters and looting treasure; it’s about understanding who you are and what you’re willing to sacrifice for power.
Praise & Critique:
There’s a lot to howl about in *Adventures on Brad*. The character development is solid, the pacing is smooth, and the world-building is immersive without being overwhelming. Daniel’s struggle with his Gift adds a layer of depth that’s often missing in the LitRPG genre. However, the series isn’t without its fleas. Some readers might find the plot a bit predictable, and the stakes aren’t always as high as they could be. The romance, while sweet, is underdeveloped, and the series could benefit from a bit more emotional bite.
Comparison:
Compared to Wong’s other works, *Adventures on Brad* is a lighter, more straightforward read. It doesn’t have the sprawling complexity of *A Thousand Li* or the post-apocalyptic grit of *System Apocalypse*. Instead, it’s a more traditional fantasy with a LitRPG twist, perfect for readers who are new to the genre or just looking for a fun, easy read. That said, it still has Wong’s signature blend of action, strategy, and character-driven storytelling, making it a worthwhile addition to any fantasy lover’s collection.
Personal Evaluation:
From this wolf’s perspective, *Adventures on Brad* is a solid romp through a well-crafted fantasy world. It’s got enough heart to keep you invested in the characters, and enough action to keep you turning the pages. While it might not reinvent the genre, it’s a well-executed tale that delivers exactly what it promises—a fun, engaging adventure with a few twists along the way. If you’re into LitRPG or just looking for a new series to sink your teeth into, this one’s worth a read.
Conclusion:
All in all, *Adventures on Brad Books 1-3* is a howling good time. It’s not without its flaws, but the strengths far outweigh the weaknesses. Whether you’re a seasoned LitRPG veteran or a newcomer to the genre, there’s something here for everyone. Wong’s storytelling is sharp, the characters are endearing, and the world of Brad is a place you’ll want to visit again and again. I’d give it a solid 4 out of 5 paw prints—definitely worth adding to your library. So gear up, sharpen those claws, and get ready to dive into the dungeons of Brad. Adventure awaits!
December 14, 2019
Enjoyed this series but I can't really rate it any higher than a 3. That is good entertainment but There are some aspects of it that I am sure would confuse a standard fiction writer. One are things like giving up certain items and you know they could be of use later, Or how the adventure is give out as much information as they can to the veteran Guild about the dungeon yet never seem to know anything in return when they entered the dungeon from other adventurers.
January 12, 2024
Best unexpected roller-coaster ride of unexpected events in a very long time !
A good page turning. well written, adventure, that spoke volumes of friends growing closer and learning to depend upon one another closer than family.
.
Good characters and never-ending unexpected encounters and learning to accept their strengths and weaknesses.
Very inspiring and eventful series of 3 books. Highly recommend for Dungen Diving !
A good page turning. well written, adventure, that spoke volumes of friends growing closer and learning to depend upon one another closer than family.
.
Good characters and never-ending unexpected encounters and learning to accept their strengths and weaknesses.
Very inspiring and eventful series of 3 books. Highly recommend for Dungen Diving !
August 13, 2024
LitRPG At Its Best
This collection of the first three books in the Adventures on Brad tells the story of Daniel. Daniel has just passed his twenty-first birthday, making him five years older than the typical starting adventurer. having worked in the mines since his father's death, Daniel finally has the money to pay his entrance fee into the Adventurers' Guild. Thus, begins his story. Daniel starts his adventure in the beginning dungeon. I recommend this bookset.
This collection of the first three books in the Adventures on Brad tells the story of Daniel. Daniel has just passed his twenty-first birthday, making him five years older than the typical starting adventurer. having worked in the mines since his father's death, Daniel finally has the money to pay his entrance fee into the Adventurers' Guild. Thus, begins his story. Daniel starts his adventure in the beginning dungeon. I recommend this bookset.
October 19, 2023
A realistic look at adventuring
Who thought adventuring was all glory? No one talks about the hard work and long hours. The pain you endure when you make a mistake or find yourself overmatched. The friendships you make and lose. Is it worth it for the thrill of the fight?
Good character development in a fast passed series.
Who thought adventuring was all glory? No one talks about the hard work and long hours. The pain you endure when you make a mistake or find yourself overmatched. The friendships you make and lose. Is it worth it for the thrill of the fight?
Good character development in a fast passed series.
August 14, 2023
Very good read
Thanks author I very much enjoyed myself reading this I am ready for the next three books now. Interesting who the two main characters teamed up with but it seems to work!
Thanks author I very much enjoyed myself reading this I am ready for the next three books now. Interesting who the two main characters teamed up with but it seems to work!
September 1, 2020
Short but good
A b c d e f g h I j k l m n o p q r s t
A b c d e f g h I j k l m n o p q r s t
Read
November 15, 2024note to self: 30+ mild swears. One mention of sex but not the act.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews