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The Archemi Online Chronicles #1
Dragon Seed
What would you give to be a dragon rider? Before being conscripted to fight in the Total War, Private Hector Park had a shattered family, a collection of old videogames, and a promising career as a motorcycle stuntman. Now, he is dying from a virus threatening humankind with extinction. He has three days to live. When Hector
462 pages, Paperback
Published February 23, 2018
1090 people are currently reading
772 people want to read
About the author
James Osiris Baldwin
26 books266 followersDragon Award-nominated author James Osiris Baldwin is a transgender man from Australia who writes gritty LGBT-inclusive, dark fantasy and science fiction. He was the former Contributing Editor for the Australian Journal of Dementia Care and has also worked for Alzheimer's Australia.
He currently lives in Seattle with his lovely wife, a precocious flame-point Siamese cat, and far too many rats. His obsession with the Occult is matched only by his preoccupation with motorcycles.
He currently lives in Seattle with his lovely wife, a precocious flame-point Siamese cat, and far too many rats. His obsession with the Occult is matched only by his preoccupation with motorcycles.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
January 12, 2019
Mini-Review ~ LitRPG:
5 Stars for Audio Production by Soundbooth Theater
5 Stars for Narration by Justin Thomas James, Jeff Hays & Laurie Catherine Winkel
4.5 Story Elements & Plot
4 Stars for Main Character
I've been dipping into the LitRPG genre for a while now but I haven't made a concentrated effort to read a bunch in a row because attempts to do that have lead me into murky territory. Well, for whatever reason, apparently I've decided to dive into LitRPG this year and it's been pretty darn good! There were a couple of duds but the cool ones totally outnumber the boos.
Frankly, I picked up this book because I like Jeff Hays & his audio production. I'm glad I did! The story is great, I love the main character and I have a new narrator added to my Audio List. I don't believe I've heard Justin Thomas James before this book but I know his name now and he did a great job!
The strongest thing about this book was the main character. The backstory, his hangups, strengths and progress in the story are great. This turned out to be a great adventure story about a man who has to build a new life in a virtual world. It's a whole new world and way of life that is nothing like the world he left behind. Plus dragons!
Here's what didn't work for me and why I rated the book 4 stars instead of 5.
- Hector is Jeong Ho Park. I have a hard time picturing Hector as a Korean guy or background. It doesn't fit.
- IRL & BRB: I don't care if this is in the book but in audio format, the actual phrases in real life or be right back should be said unless the audio is reading a text, etc. I can't stand it when people say the letters out loud like they're too lazy to say the actual words.
- Korean style bow. What is that? Because I'm pretty sure the image I have in my head would be done by Chinese, Korean & Japanese, etc. European bow. There are several and this leads back to: What is that?
5 Stars for Audio Production by Soundbooth Theater
5 Stars for Narration by Justin Thomas James, Jeff Hays & Laurie Catherine Winkel
4.5 Story Elements & Plot
4 Stars for Main Character
I've been dipping into the LitRPG genre for a while now but I haven't made a concentrated effort to read a bunch in a row because attempts to do that have lead me into murky territory. Well, for whatever reason, apparently I've decided to dive into LitRPG this year and it's been pretty darn good! There were a couple of duds but the cool ones totally outnumber the boos.
Frankly, I picked up this book because I like Jeff Hays & his audio production. I'm glad I did! The story is great, I love the main character and I have a new narrator added to my Audio List. I don't believe I've heard Justin Thomas James before this book but I know his name now and he did a great job!
The strongest thing about this book was the main character. The backstory, his hangups, strengths and progress in the story are great. This turned out to be a great adventure story about a man who has to build a new life in a virtual world. It's a whole new world and way of life that is nothing like the world he left behind. Plus dragons!
Here's what didn't work for me and why I rated the book 4 stars instead of 5.
- Hector is Jeong Ho Park. I have a hard time picturing Hector as a Korean guy or background. It doesn't fit.
- IRL & BRB: I don't care if this is in the book but in audio format, the actual phrases in real life or be right back should be said unless the audio is reading a text, etc. I can't stand it when people say the letters out loud like they're too lazy to say the actual words.
- Korean style bow. What is that? Because I'm pretty sure the image I have in my head would be done by Chinese, Korean & Japanese, etc. European bow. There are several and this leads back to: What is that?
April 13, 2022
Impressive story by Baldwin. I wasn't going to start the second book until I finished another I just purchased, but I can't wait to find out what happens next for Hector, his baby dragon Karalti and dinosaur Cutthroat. This is so exciting!
October 8, 2018
This book started out really slow, with a lot of data being dumped out, but I'm happy that I continued on reading. It was entertaining and there be dragons
April 30, 2020
Well, color me impressed!
There are a BUNCH of LitRPG stories available now, and I have been trying this one or that and mostly being frustrated by either (a) Chapters and chapters of explanation and tech data and maybe a little actual play here and there; or (b) A fight. Then another fight. And everyone knows exactly what to do. Then a group high-five and then after another fight or two someone decides that the players are real-timing instead of just gaming.
This one was different. Uploading our hero's consciousness into the game to save his life - his essence, his soul, what would you - and have him in an unfinished beta with others, where it's life and death and other players and NPCs galore, and...I loved it. The HUD and other input are great because they explain to the reader as well as our hero. And he does seem to be a hero - at least a wanna-be hero. Because, dragons. No further explanation necessary.
Read the book. Me? I am off to dive into Book 2!
There are a BUNCH of LitRPG stories available now, and I have been trying this one or that and mostly being frustrated by either (a) Chapters and chapters of explanation and tech data and maybe a little actual play here and there; or (b) A fight. Then another fight. And everyone knows exactly what to do. Then a group high-five and then after another fight or two someone decides that the players are real-timing instead of just gaming.
This one was different. Uploading our hero's consciousness into the game to save his life - his essence, his soul, what would you - and have him in an unfinished beta with others, where it's life and death and other players and NPCs galore, and...I loved it. The HUD and other input are great because they explain to the reader as well as our hero. And he does seem to be a hero - at least a wanna-be hero. Because, dragons. No further explanation necessary.
Read the book. Me? I am off to dive into Book 2!
March 27, 2018
Not your dragonrider academy
I'm not fond of upload stories. This one worked for me. Actually the characters and world were alive for me. For a virtual world this one seemed pretty organic. I found the run pretty exciting. The player fully invested in the reality of his world
I'm not fond of upload stories. This one worked for me. Actually the characters and world were alive for me. For a virtual world this one seemed pretty organic. I found the run pretty exciting. The player fully invested in the reality of his world
March 13, 2018
With few errors, a great plotline and great world building, I have to say that this is one of the best LitRPG books I've read, and I will make it a point to read the rest of the series as they are released. Pretty good stuff here, and not only because I'm partial to well done dragon stories. LitRPG, dragons, nearly error free and a great story to boot. What's not to like?
June 22, 2019
This was a gripping tale! Great 4-star plotting. Awesome 5-star fight sequences. Epic 5-star world-building.
***
I feel like it's important to say that that Baldwin manages to resolve or avoid most Litrpg-specific nonsense tropes. The VR world isn't running on some sort of a Time Lord/Star Trek physics-breaking time dilation, where you are left to wonder why people are playing time-accelerated games instead of having scientists conducting time-accelerated research on a warp drive, cure for cancer, or technological singularity. There are no people wondering what a fox may say, no reference to Mr. Jenkins, or any other force-injection of a tired meme, so on and so forth.
***
+ The audiobook narrators were 5-star level awesome! I didn't enjoy the Southern drawl that one minor character was assigned, but that's a subjective opinion that I have, because I've lived in Texas for quite a bit.
+ There's a lot of tastefully-done LitRPG wish-fulfillment. There's legendary loot, powerful previously-hidden subclasses, ornery but loveable pets (which are also mounts), dragons, and even a dragon that "used to drop in Vanilla, but is no longer in any loot tables, so it's super special."
+ I loved the handling of game features. The combat log and skill/level handling was informative but subtle. Some folks may feel like it's a little too subtle. If you feel that way, you're an idiot. There's no way to glean game insights by keeping up with any shifting stat sheet. If you want random numbers, just pull up Excel and read off a spreadsheet when you're jonesing.
- This is subjective, but there is a bit of a harem problem, but it never gets to any kind of erotic-novel-genre levels. Like I said, some people like that.
- This is a TEENSY spoiler, but the handling of the protagonist's race is kind of weird. Being reminded that the protag is Korean was jarring in 100% of the instances it was mentioned (which is only a few times, to be fair). It feels like the author is trying to have the guy simultaneously beat and conform to stereotypes. The guy is Korean, with classically-Asian overbearing parents, but he's also dumb (in his own words) and dyslexic. He's a jar head, adrenaline junkie, jock who has never been in trouble with the law.
THE DUDE BOWS IN KOREAN! A Korean bow (which probably doesn't actually exist as a separate style) is a bow in which one keeps one's hands resting at one's side, during the action. I feel like that definition is actually the definition of all bows, unless the person bowing has a hat/cloak (some sort of flourish) or sword (hand on hilt). *ANYWAY, that was a pretty big rant and I am probably biased because I'm Asian.* ALSO, BALDWIN NEVER CROSSES ANY KIND OF LINE WHICH WOULD MAKE HIM APPEAR RACIST IN ANY WAY.
***
I feel like it's important to say that that Baldwin manages to resolve or avoid most Litrpg-specific nonsense tropes. The VR world isn't running on some sort of a Time Lord/Star Trek physics-breaking time dilation, where you are left to wonder why people are playing time-accelerated games instead of having scientists conducting time-accelerated research on a warp drive, cure for cancer, or technological singularity. There are no people wondering what a fox may say, no reference to Mr. Jenkins, or any other force-injection of a tired meme, so on and so forth.
***
+ The audiobook narrators were 5-star level awesome! I didn't enjoy the Southern drawl that one minor character was assigned, but that's a subjective opinion that I have, because I've lived in Texas for quite a bit.
+ There's a lot of tastefully-done LitRPG wish-fulfillment. There's legendary loot, powerful previously-hidden subclasses, ornery but loveable pets (which are also mounts), dragons, and even a dragon that "used to drop in Vanilla, but is no longer in any loot tables, so it's super special."
+ I loved the handling of game features. The combat log and skill/level handling was informative but subtle. Some folks may feel like it's a little too subtle. If you feel that way, you're an idiot. There's no way to glean game insights by keeping up with any shifting stat sheet. If you want random numbers, just pull up Excel and read off a spreadsheet when you're jonesing.
- This is subjective, but there is a bit of a harem problem, but it never gets to any kind of erotic-novel-genre levels. Like I said, some people like that.
- This is a TEENSY spoiler, but the handling of the protagonist's race is kind of weird. Being reminded that the protag is Korean was jarring in 100% of the instances it was mentioned (which is only a few times, to be fair). It feels like the author is trying to have the guy simultaneously beat and conform to stereotypes. The guy is Korean, with classically-Asian overbearing parents, but he's also dumb (in his own words) and dyslexic. He's a jar head, adrenaline junkie, jock who has never been in trouble with the law.
THE DUDE BOWS IN KOREAN! A Korean bow (which probably doesn't actually exist as a separate style) is a bow in which one keeps one's hands resting at one's side, during the action. I feel like that definition is actually the definition of all bows, unless the person bowing has a hat/cloak (some sort of flourish) or sword (hand on hilt). *ANYWAY, that was a pretty big rant and I am probably biased because I'm Asian.* ALSO, BALDWIN NEVER CROSSES ANY KIND OF LINE WHICH WOULD MAKE HIM APPEAR RACIST IN ANY WAY.
December 14, 2018
For starters, this book has surprisingly good (if inconsistent) production values for the audio book. It uses 3 voice actors for the various characters and has occasional sound effects and music. It's no pre-2014 Star Wars books level of production values, but still more than most and it was great.
The story it's self is very similar to Cataclysm: Viridian Gate Online. Some sort of end of the world event has people uploading themselves to a full immersion game with rushed production. Some sort of malevolence in the system missed due to the rush is threatening it's stability, ext ext. As such I have some of the same issues. Namely that there should be some sort of an external game space. It doesn't have to be anything fancy, just a place outside the game people can be. Here they could have access to events in the real world, do actual science/tech work, and generally have a safe haven. An out of character area like the character creator at the beginning.
That said, I think Dragon Seed does the concept much better.
The only thing keeping the story from being a full 5 stars is the middle portion of the book is rather weak. Not a lot of consequence happens in the middle 1/3 of the story, the world building during this is rather minimal, and the mechanics either very simple or aren't really explored. It is, however, well written and interesting enough to keep me going throughout.
The story it's self is very similar to Cataclysm: Viridian Gate Online. Some sort of end of the world event has people uploading themselves to a full immersion game with rushed production. Some sort of malevolence in the system missed due to the rush is threatening it's stability, ext ext. As such I have some of the same issues. Namely that there should be some sort of an external game space. It doesn't have to be anything fancy, just a place outside the game people can be. Here they could have access to events in the real world, do actual science/tech work, and generally have a safe haven. An out of character area like the character creator at the beginning.
That said, I think Dragon Seed does the concept much better.
The only thing keeping the story from being a full 5 stars is the middle portion of the book is rather weak. Not a lot of consequence happens in the middle 1/3 of the story, the world building during this is rather minimal, and the mechanics either very simple or aren't really explored. It is, however, well written and interesting enough to keep me going throughout.
February 27, 2018
This was my first LitRPG book, and James' as well.
If you are familiar with playing games like Skyrim etc, then this system will be familiar to you. The main character's have the same "sheets" as characters in the games. With things like attributes and weaknesses.
The book is based on a massive epidemic wiping out most of humanity. A business has a cloud based VR game (in beta) that it is using to host the characters. The participants are "uploaded" to the cloud and "live" there.
Out hero gets uploaded and enters the game, and starts to play, but it glitches on him and instead of an easy start he is dropped in the deeper end.
A good LitRPG book with plenty of action and story. A very enjoyable book and looking forward the the next ones.
I received a free copy of the ebook.
If you are familiar with playing games like Skyrim etc, then this system will be familiar to you. The main character's have the same "sheets" as characters in the games. With things like attributes and weaknesses.
The book is based on a massive epidemic wiping out most of humanity. A business has a cloud based VR game (in beta) that it is using to host the characters. The participants are "uploaded" to the cloud and "live" there.
Out hero gets uploaded and enters the game, and starts to play, but it glitches on him and instead of an easy start he is dropped in the deeper end.
A good LitRPG book with plenty of action and story. A very enjoyable book and looking forward the the next ones.
I received a free copy of the ebook.
March 12, 2018
Book one
We have yet another overpowered MC, that complains about being nerfed.
Really, what is the deal with every single MC in these types of books having shadow walk as a skill no matter their class?
To me this skill should only go to two classes, rogue and assassins.
I guess when you aren't smart enough to come up with something else invincible shadow walking is the go to option.
That complaint aside, I found the overall story interesting. Cutthroat was without a doubt my favorite in this book.
I can recommend this book.
We have yet another overpowered MC, that complains about being nerfed.
Really, what is the deal with every single MC in these types of books having shadow walk as a skill no matter their class?
To me this skill should only go to two classes, rogue and assassins.
I guess when you aren't smart enough to come up with something else invincible shadow walking is the go to option.
That complaint aside, I found the overall story interesting. Cutthroat was without a doubt my favorite in this book.
I can recommend this book.
March 31, 2018
V G!!
Yes this turn out to be very good reading the author kept the main character interesting and the action/fighting flowing.
Yes this turn out to be very good reading the author kept the main character interesting and the action/fighting flowing.
December 29, 2022
Научно-фантастично исекаи фентъзи (втф лол) което има потенциал, но авторът просто не е особено добър писател. Действието е линейно, героите плоски и като цяло ще хареса на по-млади читатели.
May 16, 2024
I am on a roll for finding five star books lately. This one combines lit rpg with epic fantasy and a bit of postapocalyptic to form something unique. Throw in some dragons, and you have a real winner! I litrally cannot put this series down!
March 21, 2018
Awesome new litRPG series
This was a wonderful start to a new series. The book took twists and turns that took me by surprise and the world building was complex and we'll thought out. Hector was relatable and flawed just enough to make a great main character. However, It did need someone to proof read it, there a typos here and there. Lastly, the word retard was used twice and I'm seriously not a fan of it. Please use a diffrent word/words. Overall though, a great read. Can't wait for the next book!
This was a wonderful start to a new series. The book took twists and turns that took me by surprise and the world building was complex and we'll thought out. Hector was relatable and flawed just enough to make a great main character. However, It did need someone to proof read it, there a typos here and there. Lastly, the word retard was used twice and I'm seriously not a fan of it. Please use a diffrent word/words. Overall though, a great read. Can't wait for the next book!
March 23, 2018
Amazing book
Funny in the right places, serious and epic. Borrows from dragon riders of pern in a way I really liked.
I like the main, the litrpg part was good and the world building made sense. 5 stars.
Funny in the right places, serious and epic. Borrows from dragon riders of pern in a way I really liked.
I like the main, the litrpg part was good and the world building made sense. 5 stars.
March 18, 2018
Good Read.
A LitRPG story. It starts in the real world with a war with the MC entering into the fantasy world due to some lucky circumstances. The story is broken down into two books. First is surviving his entry into the game and Second is trying to become a dragon rider. Some good twist and turns in the story. Looking forward to the next book.
A LitRPG story. It starts in the real world with a war with the MC entering into the fantasy world due to some lucky circumstances. The story is broken down into two books. First is surviving his entry into the game and Second is trying to become a dragon rider. Some good twist and turns in the story. Looking forward to the next book.
March 13, 2018
4 well deserved stars.
This litRPG series has great potential and I expect it to be at the very top of the litRPG genre in a few years. The story is told well, the world seems vivid enough without too much explaining, the stories twists are sometimes pretty obvious and expected, but sometimes not so much. I cursed quite loudly after finishing the first book and discovering it would be nearly 3 month for book 2 to release.
If you are new to the litRPG genre and are looking for a well told fantasy story without the classic litRPG tropes, this is the series for you.
Well done James!
This litRPG series has great potential and I expect it to be at the very top of the litRPG genre in a few years. The story is told well, the world seems vivid enough without too much explaining, the stories twists are sometimes pretty obvious and expected, but sometimes not so much. I cursed quite loudly after finishing the first book and discovering it would be nearly 3 month for book 2 to release.
If you are new to the litRPG genre and are looking for a well told fantasy story without the classic litRPG tropes, this is the series for you.
Well done James!
March 11, 2018
A page turner
It reminded me alot of the dragon riders of pern. Though in that series usually only females bonded with queens. A damn good book and I look forward to book 2 I remember months ago seeing this on royal roads but at first it didn't register until I heard about hex. The rpg elements were strong though the numbers were somewhat fudged. So and so ability uses x adrenalin points but other than a few times it doesn't tell his pure points. It says y amount was used but not really how much of the total is taken off. It's a good piece of work and I'm going to preorder book 2.
It reminded me alot of the dragon riders of pern. Though in that series usually only females bonded with queens. A damn good book and I look forward to book 2 I remember months ago seeing this on royal roads but at first it didn't register until I heard about hex. The rpg elements were strong though the numbers were somewhat fudged. So and so ability uses x adrenalin points but other than a few times it doesn't tell his pure points. It says y amount was used but not really how much of the total is taken off. It's a good piece of work and I'm going to preorder book 2.
March 12, 2018
Awesome
Better than I thought it would be. Filled with action, treachery and abounding with deceit and betrayal as one fights for truth.
Better than I thought it would be. Filled with action, treachery and abounding with deceit and betrayal as one fights for truth.
July 4, 2019
I was only able to read about 25% of this book, up until Chapter 12. This book wasn't terrible, but it wasn't really that great either. I liked New Era Online, the World Tree series, and the Divine Dungeon series. I gave those five stars. This book, however, wasn't good or bad. Just kind of average.
It's hard to know what to say when I review books like this. The plot was not amazing. It was not bad either. The main character is about to die from a mysterious illness ravaging the land, so his brother saves him. Then he gets transported to a video game world, encounters a bug, starts a rebellion on a ship at sea, etc. This might sound interesting, and it wasn't terrible, but the main character doesn't really have much personality. Maybe that would have made the plot more interesting.
There weren't many typos, but perhaps this book needed a line editor. I'm not an editor, so it's hard to tell, but page 21 said "While I boggled". That doesn't make sense, but thankfully there aren't too many of these errors. For those who don't know, line editors remove unnecessary words, and polish language up so the words are presentable and flow smoothly.
Also, the name "Bob" seems to show up in lots of LitRPG, for some reason...
The writing style wasn't terrible, but the game mechanics felt a little lacking. I don't think the author quite got it like the New Era Online author got it. I guess it can be pretty difficult writing stats and other such game mechanics in a story format, but it really felt bland and uninspired.
It's hard to know what to say when I review books like this. The plot was not amazing. It was not bad either. The main character is about to die from a mysterious illness ravaging the land, so his brother saves him. Then he gets transported to a video game world, encounters a bug, starts a rebellion on a ship at sea, etc. This might sound interesting, and it wasn't terrible, but the main character doesn't really have much personality. Maybe that would have made the plot more interesting.
There weren't many typos, but perhaps this book needed a line editor. I'm not an editor, so it's hard to tell, but page 21 said "While I boggled". That doesn't make sense, but thankfully there aren't too many of these errors. For those who don't know, line editors remove unnecessary words, and polish language up so the words are presentable and flow smoothly.
Also, the name "Bob" seems to show up in lots of LitRPG, for some reason...
The writing style wasn't terrible, but the game mechanics felt a little lacking. I don't think the author quite got it like the New Era Online author got it. I guess it can be pretty difficult writing stats and other such game mechanics in a story format, but it really felt bland and uninspired.
September 4, 2024
Introduction:
Alright, pack your bags and prepare for a ride that’ll have you questioning what’s real, what's virtual, and what’s dragon! *Dragon Seed*, the first book in *The Archemi Online Chronicles* by James Osiris Baldwin, dropped in 2018, and it’s a fusion of LitRPG, high fantasy, and sci-fi that'll make your tail twitch. The premise? Hector Park, a war-torn veteran who’s been dealt the worst hand imaginable, has only three days left to live. But when his brother offers him a one-way ticket into a digital world where he can escape his dying body, Hector makes a last-ditch gamble for survival. Cue dragons, knights, and a virtual reality that’s as dangerous as the war-torn world he left behind. So, let’s dive fang-first into this digital fantasy playground and see what makes *Dragon Seed* breathe fire or fizzle out.
Plot Summary:
So, Hector Park is staring death in the face, courtesy of a virus that’s wiped out most of humankind. Things aren’t looking too hot for ol’ Hector, but in swoops his estranged brother with a “you won’t believe this” kind of offer: ditch your mortal body and upload your consciousness into a virtual world called Archemi. Not your typical MMORPG, this place is legit; it’s got dragons, gods, and vicious fellow players all vying for dominance. Now Hector, who adopts the mantle of a Dragon Knight (hell yes), bonds with a dragon hatchling named Karalti. But don’t let the adorable baby dragon fool you—this world is savage. Corrupt knights, power-hungry players, and even ancient gods are gunning for their share of Archemi’s power. The stakes? Well, Hector might be in a game, but his new life on Archemi is real, and failure isn’t just a respawn—it’s game over.
The book is a rollercoaster of battles, leveling up, and forming bonds—both human and draconic. And yeah, the leveling system is here, but Baldwin doesn’t overdo it with number-crunching. You’re more focused on survival, alliances, and that oh-so-coveted bond with Karalti, which goes way beyond your standard “pet dragon” trope. In short? It’s a wild, exhilarating grind where every choice Hector makes could be his last.
The Author:
Let’s talk Baldwin. Dude’s no stranger to genre-bending, bringing a mix of dark fantasy, LGBT-inclusive characters, and sci-fi goodness into his books. With a background that includes editing for Alzheimer’s care publications and living it up in Seattle with too many pets (including a flame-point Siamese, because why not), Baldwin’s got a writing style that balances grit with introspective depth. His stories, particularly *The Archemi Online Chronicles*, dive headfirst into themes of survival, loss, and redemption, all while keeping things fun with solid RPG mechanics. And did I mention he’s Dragon Award-nominated? Yeah, Baldwin knows how to keep you hooked while offering up something that feels familiar yet fresh in the crowded LitRPG space.
Characters:
Now, Hector Park—let’s break this guy down. You’ve got a character who’s already been through the wringer in real life, and now he’s thrown into a digital world where his military background can only help so much. The guy’s tough, sure, but he’s also dealing with some serious emotional baggage. Losing his body to a virus and nearly his humanity to despair, Hector’s journey in Archemi isn’t just about leveling up—it’s about rebuilding himself from the ground up. His bond with Karalti, the dragon hatchling, is the heart of the story. Baldwin doesn’t cheap out on this relationship; the psychic link they share is more than just “cool pet, bro.” It’s deep, emotional, and adds layers to Hector’s character that go beyond “badass soldier.”
Karalti herself is a standout. Not just a sidekick, she’s her own personality—sassy, fierce, and evolving right alongside Hector. You want to protect her as much as Hector does. Their relationship is one of mutual growth, and it’s refreshing to see a dragon character that isn’t just a vehicle for spectacle. She’s got agency and development.
The supporting cast brings flavor to the world of Archemi, but they don’t quite steal the spotlight from Hector and Karalti. Players and NPCs alike, they’ve all got their own motivations and add complexity to the story’s progression. The in-game characters feel real enough that they keep you guessing: who’s really on your side, and who’s gunning for your loot?
Structure:
Baldwin’s pacing in *Dragon Seed* is one of its strongest points. The book kicks off with a sense of urgency, thanks to Hector’s real-world predicament, and that tension follows him into Archemi. The chapters are tightly structured, with enough action, dialogue, and world-building sprinkled throughout to keep you engaged without feeling bogged down by info dumps. There’s a balance between the “level-up grind” moments and the plot-driving events, which keeps the pacing smooth.
Baldwin doesn’t rely too heavily on RPG mechanics, which is a huge plus. Yes, there’s a HUD, skill trees, and leveling systems, but they never overshadow the story. The game elements feel integrated naturally into the world, like they belong there, rather than being tacked on to hit genre tropes. This makes for a more immersive read, where you’re not just waiting for the next level-up to happen but are invested in the stakes of the world itself.
Themes & Analysis:
At its core, *Dragon Seed* explores themes of survival, rebirth, and the lengths one will go to for a second chance. Hector’s journey isn’t just about gaining power or becoming a hero—it’s about coming to terms with who he is and what he’s lost. The bond between Hector and Karalti is symbolic of this rebirth; as she grows, so does Hector’s understanding of his new life and purpose.
Another major theme is choice. Hector didn’t choose to be uploaded into Archemi, but once there, every decision he makes shapes his future. From choosing his class to deciding whom to trust, the game mechanics serve as a metaphor for life’s challenges and the weight of personal responsibility. There’s a philosophical undertone to the story—what does it mean to truly live, even if that life is virtual?
Baldwin also plays with the idea of what makes a person “real.” As Hector navigates the game world, it’s clear that the lines between the digital and physical are blurring, not just for him but for everyone in Archemi. It’s a thought-provoking angle on the typical LitRPG structure, adding depth to what could’ve been a straightforward adventure story.
Scenes:
As far as romance and harem elements go, *Dragon Seed* keeps it classy. There’s no harem nonsense here (thank the wolf spirits), but there are hints of romantic tension between Hector and a couple of other characters. Nothing feels forced or out of place, and Baldwin doesn’t let any potential romance overshadow the plot or character development.
The combat scenes? Absolute fire. Baldwin writes action like a pro, keeping the stakes high and the tension palpable. Whether it’s a fight against corrupt knights or a showdown with a dragon, the battles are intense, fast-paced, and strategically written. Hector’s military background adds a layer of realism to the fight choreography, making you feel every blow, parry, and spell cast.
World-Building:
Now let’s talk about the world of Archemi. Baldwin’s world-building is top-notch, mixing traditional high fantasy elements (dragons, knights, gods) with the digital framework of an MMO. Archemi feels like a place you could actually log into and explore. The game mechanics—things like skill trees, HUDs, and quests—are seamlessly integrated into the world, but they don’t overpower it. Archemi has its own culture, politics, and history, making it feel alive and dynamic.
The different races and factions add depth to the game world, and Baldwin does a great job of fleshing out the social hierarchies without info-dumping. There’s a real sense of danger here; it’s clear that Archemi isn’t just a playground for Hector—it’s a living, breathing world where every decision has consequences.
Praise & Critique:
*Dragon Seed* excels at keeping you engaged from start to finish. The pacing is tight, the characters are well-developed, and the world of Archemi is immersive as hell. Baldwin’s writing is sharp, with just the right balance of action, humor, and introspection. The bond between Hector and Karalti is the heart of the story, and it’s handled with care and nuance.
That said, the book isn’t without its minor flaws. Some readers might find the introduction a bit slow, as Baldwin takes his time setting up Hector’s backstory and the stakes in the real world before diving into Archemi. Also, while the RPG elements are subtle and well-integrated, hardcore LitRPG fans might want more stat-heavy content. But honestly? These are nitpicks in an otherwise stellar debut.
Comparison:
Compared to other LitRPG books, *Dragon Seed* stands out for its balance between the game mechanics and the emotional depth of the characters. It’s less about min-maxing and more about the journey, which gives it a broader appeal. Fans of *Viridian Gate Online* will find similar themes here, but Baldwin’s take on the “dying in real life, reborn in a game” trope feels more intimate and personal. It’s also less stat-heavy than something like *The Land*, which might appeal to readers who want more story and less spreadsheet.
Personal Evaluation:
As an ice wolf with a taste for epic quests and high-stakes action, *Dragon Seed* hit all the right notes for me. Baldwin’s world is immersive, the characters are relatable, and the stakes feel real. I found myself invested in Hector’s journey, both in Archemi and in his personal growth. The dragon bond between Hector and Karalti was a highlight, and I can’t wait to see where their story goes in the next book. This is one of those LitRPGs that transcends the genre, offering something more than just a power fantasy.
Conclusion:
*Dragon Seed* is a must-read for fans of LitRPG, high fantasy, and anyone looking for a story with heart. It’s a fresh take on the genre that balances intense action with emotional depth, and Baldwin’s world of Archemi is a place you’ll want to revisit again and again. Whether you’re a fan of dragons, RPG mechanics, or just good storytelling, this book has something for you. Final rating? A solid 4.8 out of 5. If you haven’t picked this one up yet, what are you waiting for? Time to level up!
Alright, pack your bags and prepare for a ride that’ll have you questioning what’s real, what's virtual, and what’s dragon! *Dragon Seed*, the first book in *The Archemi Online Chronicles* by James Osiris Baldwin, dropped in 2018, and it’s a fusion of LitRPG, high fantasy, and sci-fi that'll make your tail twitch. The premise? Hector Park, a war-torn veteran who’s been dealt the worst hand imaginable, has only three days left to live. But when his brother offers him a one-way ticket into a digital world where he can escape his dying body, Hector makes a last-ditch gamble for survival. Cue dragons, knights, and a virtual reality that’s as dangerous as the war-torn world he left behind. So, let’s dive fang-first into this digital fantasy playground and see what makes *Dragon Seed* breathe fire or fizzle out.
Plot Summary:
So, Hector Park is staring death in the face, courtesy of a virus that’s wiped out most of humankind. Things aren’t looking too hot for ol’ Hector, but in swoops his estranged brother with a “you won’t believe this” kind of offer: ditch your mortal body and upload your consciousness into a virtual world called Archemi. Not your typical MMORPG, this place is legit; it’s got dragons, gods, and vicious fellow players all vying for dominance. Now Hector, who adopts the mantle of a Dragon Knight (hell yes), bonds with a dragon hatchling named Karalti. But don’t let the adorable baby dragon fool you—this world is savage. Corrupt knights, power-hungry players, and even ancient gods are gunning for their share of Archemi’s power. The stakes? Well, Hector might be in a game, but his new life on Archemi is real, and failure isn’t just a respawn—it’s game over.
The book is a rollercoaster of battles, leveling up, and forming bonds—both human and draconic. And yeah, the leveling system is here, but Baldwin doesn’t overdo it with number-crunching. You’re more focused on survival, alliances, and that oh-so-coveted bond with Karalti, which goes way beyond your standard “pet dragon” trope. In short? It’s a wild, exhilarating grind where every choice Hector makes could be his last.
The Author:
Let’s talk Baldwin. Dude’s no stranger to genre-bending, bringing a mix of dark fantasy, LGBT-inclusive characters, and sci-fi goodness into his books. With a background that includes editing for Alzheimer’s care publications and living it up in Seattle with too many pets (including a flame-point Siamese, because why not), Baldwin’s got a writing style that balances grit with introspective depth. His stories, particularly *The Archemi Online Chronicles*, dive headfirst into themes of survival, loss, and redemption, all while keeping things fun with solid RPG mechanics. And did I mention he’s Dragon Award-nominated? Yeah, Baldwin knows how to keep you hooked while offering up something that feels familiar yet fresh in the crowded LitRPG space.
Characters:
Now, Hector Park—let’s break this guy down. You’ve got a character who’s already been through the wringer in real life, and now he’s thrown into a digital world where his military background can only help so much. The guy’s tough, sure, but he’s also dealing with some serious emotional baggage. Losing his body to a virus and nearly his humanity to despair, Hector’s journey in Archemi isn’t just about leveling up—it’s about rebuilding himself from the ground up. His bond with Karalti, the dragon hatchling, is the heart of the story. Baldwin doesn’t cheap out on this relationship; the psychic link they share is more than just “cool pet, bro.” It’s deep, emotional, and adds layers to Hector’s character that go beyond “badass soldier.”
Karalti herself is a standout. Not just a sidekick, she’s her own personality—sassy, fierce, and evolving right alongside Hector. You want to protect her as much as Hector does. Their relationship is one of mutual growth, and it’s refreshing to see a dragon character that isn’t just a vehicle for spectacle. She’s got agency and development.
The supporting cast brings flavor to the world of Archemi, but they don’t quite steal the spotlight from Hector and Karalti. Players and NPCs alike, they’ve all got their own motivations and add complexity to the story’s progression. The in-game characters feel real enough that they keep you guessing: who’s really on your side, and who’s gunning for your loot?
Structure:
Baldwin’s pacing in *Dragon Seed* is one of its strongest points. The book kicks off with a sense of urgency, thanks to Hector’s real-world predicament, and that tension follows him into Archemi. The chapters are tightly structured, with enough action, dialogue, and world-building sprinkled throughout to keep you engaged without feeling bogged down by info dumps. There’s a balance between the “level-up grind” moments and the plot-driving events, which keeps the pacing smooth.
Baldwin doesn’t rely too heavily on RPG mechanics, which is a huge plus. Yes, there’s a HUD, skill trees, and leveling systems, but they never overshadow the story. The game elements feel integrated naturally into the world, like they belong there, rather than being tacked on to hit genre tropes. This makes for a more immersive read, where you’re not just waiting for the next level-up to happen but are invested in the stakes of the world itself.
Themes & Analysis:
At its core, *Dragon Seed* explores themes of survival, rebirth, and the lengths one will go to for a second chance. Hector’s journey isn’t just about gaining power or becoming a hero—it’s about coming to terms with who he is and what he’s lost. The bond between Hector and Karalti is symbolic of this rebirth; as she grows, so does Hector’s understanding of his new life and purpose.
Another major theme is choice. Hector didn’t choose to be uploaded into Archemi, but once there, every decision he makes shapes his future. From choosing his class to deciding whom to trust, the game mechanics serve as a metaphor for life’s challenges and the weight of personal responsibility. There’s a philosophical undertone to the story—what does it mean to truly live, even if that life is virtual?
Baldwin also plays with the idea of what makes a person “real.” As Hector navigates the game world, it’s clear that the lines between the digital and physical are blurring, not just for him but for everyone in Archemi. It’s a thought-provoking angle on the typical LitRPG structure, adding depth to what could’ve been a straightforward adventure story.
Scenes:
As far as romance and harem elements go, *Dragon Seed* keeps it classy. There’s no harem nonsense here (thank the wolf spirits), but there are hints of romantic tension between Hector and a couple of other characters. Nothing feels forced or out of place, and Baldwin doesn’t let any potential romance overshadow the plot or character development.
The combat scenes? Absolute fire. Baldwin writes action like a pro, keeping the stakes high and the tension palpable. Whether it’s a fight against corrupt knights or a showdown with a dragon, the battles are intense, fast-paced, and strategically written. Hector’s military background adds a layer of realism to the fight choreography, making you feel every blow, parry, and spell cast.
World-Building:
Now let’s talk about the world of Archemi. Baldwin’s world-building is top-notch, mixing traditional high fantasy elements (dragons, knights, gods) with the digital framework of an MMO. Archemi feels like a place you could actually log into and explore. The game mechanics—things like skill trees, HUDs, and quests—are seamlessly integrated into the world, but they don’t overpower it. Archemi has its own culture, politics, and history, making it feel alive and dynamic.
The different races and factions add depth to the game world, and Baldwin does a great job of fleshing out the social hierarchies without info-dumping. There’s a real sense of danger here; it’s clear that Archemi isn’t just a playground for Hector—it’s a living, breathing world where every decision has consequences.
Praise & Critique:
*Dragon Seed* excels at keeping you engaged from start to finish. The pacing is tight, the characters are well-developed, and the world of Archemi is immersive as hell. Baldwin’s writing is sharp, with just the right balance of action, humor, and introspection. The bond between Hector and Karalti is the heart of the story, and it’s handled with care and nuance.
That said, the book isn’t without its minor flaws. Some readers might find the introduction a bit slow, as Baldwin takes his time setting up Hector’s backstory and the stakes in the real world before diving into Archemi. Also, while the RPG elements are subtle and well-integrated, hardcore LitRPG fans might want more stat-heavy content. But honestly? These are nitpicks in an otherwise stellar debut.
Comparison:
Compared to other LitRPG books, *Dragon Seed* stands out for its balance between the game mechanics and the emotional depth of the characters. It’s less about min-maxing and more about the journey, which gives it a broader appeal. Fans of *Viridian Gate Online* will find similar themes here, but Baldwin’s take on the “dying in real life, reborn in a game” trope feels more intimate and personal. It’s also less stat-heavy than something like *The Land*, which might appeal to readers who want more story and less spreadsheet.
Personal Evaluation:
As an ice wolf with a taste for epic quests and high-stakes action, *Dragon Seed* hit all the right notes for me. Baldwin’s world is immersive, the characters are relatable, and the stakes feel real. I found myself invested in Hector’s journey, both in Archemi and in his personal growth. The dragon bond between Hector and Karalti was a highlight, and I can’t wait to see where their story goes in the next book. This is one of those LitRPGs that transcends the genre, offering something more than just a power fantasy.
Conclusion:
*Dragon Seed* is a must-read for fans of LitRPG, high fantasy, and anyone looking for a story with heart. It’s a fresh take on the genre that balances intense action with emotional depth, and Baldwin’s world of Archemi is a place you’ll want to revisit again and again. Whether you’re a fan of dragons, RPG mechanics, or just good storytelling, this book has something for you. Final rating? A solid 4.8 out of 5. If you haven’t picked this one up yet, what are you waiting for? Time to level up!
February 3, 2024
A sweeping virus was cleaning the whole world of health making it a cemetery of large buildings and whatnot. The savior of mankind for the remaining human kind is nothing but AI based. A game where people consciousness was uploaded to the cloud for the intent to help save human kind from the virus while working on a cure, but also keeping the bodies alive while in this super real game, death-betrayal-secrets were about to come to light by the right person: Hector.
Hector upon waking in the game for the first time, chose his fate - his avatar, his skills and aimed high in the breathing fire sky: dragons. This first volume is his adventure, his pooped cherry, secrets and backstabbing and the final moment: dragon. But he offers a twist: he has no alliance to any kingdom, and his mission is secret even for himself. Be ready to put the puzzle together and encounter the equivalent of, “to be continued” last words of a paragraph that leaves our main character, his Dino-like horse, and his newest member of the family, a dragon queen.
Reading a dragon baby hatching was far better than playing tamagotchi, I tell you that. I cried.
And yes, I was surprised to have enjoyed this book so much to shed a tear when it was over. The next book? Trial by Fire is on my to-read-list. When? No idea when, I just hope it don’t take long enough for me to forget the pickle Hector is truly in, and how he’s gonna bring a baby dragon to safety while wanted by the whole place/game. Be ready to hate on some characters pretty badly, be weary of others and certainly cheer yourself trusting in one or another. I secretly want to see Kira back — she seemed human to me.
Oh yeah, there are other players around who knows it is a game, who’d kill a fellow human in said game; it will turn you philosophical for a while — what is truly acceptable in this scenario? And many other questions, but more importantly, are there any developers alive or the real world is long gone, and Hector is bound to live this AI reality (his body is gone, nuked, no way to return). Nah, can’t think straight to keep going. Forget the game stats, enjoy the outloud rant when appropriate and enjoy the plot. That’s what I did, cause the “game” itself was not it for me.
Adieu.
(and yeah, this was pre-pandemic, there was a tiny trauma by reading it a bit. Fiction can be worse than reality, but it sure can exist).
>sorry for any typos, I did this on my phone<
Hector upon waking in the game for the first time, chose his fate - his avatar, his skills and aimed high in the breathing fire sky: dragons. This first volume is his adventure, his pooped cherry, secrets and backstabbing and the final moment: dragon. But he offers a twist: he has no alliance to any kingdom, and his mission is secret even for himself. Be ready to put the puzzle together and encounter the equivalent of, “to be continued” last words of a paragraph that leaves our main character, his Dino-like horse, and his newest member of the family, a dragon queen.
Reading a dragon baby hatching was far better than playing tamagotchi, I tell you that. I cried.
And yes, I was surprised to have enjoyed this book so much to shed a tear when it was over. The next book? Trial by Fire is on my to-read-list. When? No idea when, I just hope it don’t take long enough for me to forget the pickle Hector is truly in, and how he’s gonna bring a baby dragon to safety while wanted by the whole place/game. Be ready to hate on some characters pretty badly, be weary of others and certainly cheer yourself trusting in one or another. I secretly want to see Kira back — she seemed human to me.
Oh yeah, there are other players around who knows it is a game, who’d kill a fellow human in said game; it will turn you philosophical for a while — what is truly acceptable in this scenario? And many other questions, but more importantly, are there any developers alive or the real world is long gone, and Hector is bound to live this AI reality (his body is gone, nuked, no way to return). Nah, can’t think straight to keep going. Forget the game stats, enjoy the outloud rant when appropriate and enjoy the plot. That’s what I did, cause the “game” itself was not it for me.
Adieu.
(and yeah, this was pre-pandemic, there was a tiny trauma by reading it a bit. Fiction can be worse than reality, but it sure can exist).
>sorry for any typos, I did this on my phone<
May 9, 2019
Hector is dying of an artificial virus, but he's determined not to go out quietly. When he receives a message from his estranged brother, he returns home to find an unexpected opportunity to extend his life via the first full virtual reality game. The only problem is that the game's still in progress. Still, Hector decides it's worth the chance, and plunges into a fantastic world with the goal of becoming a dragon rider . . .
This has amazing characterization. From the very beginning, Hector's reckless personality shines bright, and the various humans and NPCs he runs into are equally compelling. (I'm not totally ditching the "this is actually another world" plot twist, but for now they do appear to be actual NPCs).
Hector's start in the game is plagued by some disturbing glitches. He's dumped straight into a nightmare-grade quest, the safety measures that the devs assured him were in place don't seem to be working for him, and he somehow caught the interest of one of the local gods (which really wasn't supposed to happen given the game's background lore).
Of course, my absolute favorite character is Cutthroat, the dinosaur-like mount used to haze the newbies, which of course ends up as his gifted steed. Cutthroat has all the tricks of a bad horse and then some, and her antics frequently had me laughing out loud.
Given where this ends, the next book is going to be really entertaining.
The litRPG element is fairly light, with most of the game elements confined to the character creation scene. Most of the rest of the book plays out like a more typical fantasy adventure, just with a few skills to use during battles.
Overall this was a very fun book, and I'm eager to see where the series goes from here. I rate this book Highly Recommended.
See my reviews and more at https://offtheshelfreviews.wordpress....
This has amazing characterization. From the very beginning, Hector's reckless personality shines bright, and the various humans and NPCs he runs into are equally compelling. (I'm not totally ditching the "this is actually another world" plot twist, but for now they do appear to be actual NPCs).
Hector's start in the game is plagued by some disturbing glitches. He's dumped straight into a nightmare-grade quest, the safety measures that the devs assured him were in place don't seem to be working for him, and he somehow caught the interest of one of the local gods (which really wasn't supposed to happen given the game's background lore).
Of course, my absolute favorite character is Cutthroat, the dinosaur-like mount used to haze the newbies, which of course ends up as his gifted steed. Cutthroat has all the tricks of a bad horse and then some, and her antics frequently had me laughing out loud.
Given where this ends, the next book is going to be really entertaining.
The litRPG element is fairly light, with most of the game elements confined to the character creation scene. Most of the rest of the book plays out like a more typical fantasy adventure, just with a few skills to use during battles.
Overall this was a very fun book, and I'm eager to see where the series goes from here. I rate this book Highly Recommended.
See my reviews and more at https://offtheshelfreviews.wordpress....
September 3, 2020
The timing of me reading this book is pretty coincidental. In the real world, we happen to be facing a global pandemic. In the opening chapter, the Hex virus is introduced. Unlike some other LitRPG's I've read, the reality outside of Archemi is not the best place to live, virus or not.
The main character's entry into Archemi Online, the game that is also now his life, was a bit on the tropy side as Lit RPG introductions go. Due to his dyslexia in real life, this was also mirrored in-game with his transfer. A text to speech system was included, and the audio book edition of this book, produced by Soundbooth Theater, performed this to my satisfaction with the voice of Laurie Catherine Winkel. It's when he spawns in a place where he's not supposed to be where it starts to get interesting.
The hidden rules in the worldbuilding and the main character's overarching longform goal are what make me interested to continue. Unlike the first LitRPG I read, this one doesn't contain a massive harem of women to help him ascend to godhood and become immortal. The villains, at least in book 1, are predictable in their tactics, but I like this kind of conflict if done right. I just hope it doesn't become stale after three+ books.
This world, thankfully, is much more grounded in reality as much as a VR fantasy RPG can be, anyway.
Recommend for the Lit RPG fan and readers that enjoy Fantasy. If the tropes of Lit RPG deter you, there may be some silver lining if you stick to the series.
The main character's entry into Archemi Online, the game that is also now his life, was a bit on the tropy side as Lit RPG introductions go. Due to his dyslexia in real life, this was also mirrored in-game with his transfer. A text to speech system was included, and the audio book edition of this book, produced by Soundbooth Theater, performed this to my satisfaction with the voice of Laurie Catherine Winkel. It's when he spawns in a place where he's not supposed to be where it starts to get interesting.
The hidden rules in the worldbuilding and the main character's overarching longform goal are what make me interested to continue. Unlike the first LitRPG I read, this one doesn't contain a massive harem of women to help him ascend to godhood and become immortal. The villains, at least in book 1, are predictable in their tactics, but I like this kind of conflict if done right. I just hope it doesn't become stale after three+ books.
This world, thankfully, is much more grounded in reality as much as a VR fantasy RPG can be, anyway.
Recommend for the Lit RPG fan and readers that enjoy Fantasy. If the tropes of Lit RPG deter you, there may be some silver lining if you stick to the series.
May 22, 2024
So I made the mistake of getting this on sale for the 1-3 deal. Now I own two books I will likely never read. This story is painfully slow at the start however I do love the premise of the Hex virus and how this world comes to be. However once they get to archemi the problems start.
I can easily sum this books problems up with just talking about the main character who is so inconsistently written it is astonishing. He can be clever, yet is a dullard when it serves plot. He is violent and feels the need to curse at all times (even when fighting, got to love lung capacity). Every line of his dialogue is a swear word which gets old quite fast. He is betrayed six times in this novel and never comes out on top really but still is naive as can be and I'm sure in book 2 he will join some other group and get betrayed all over again.
Hector wants so hard to be a dragon riding special snow flake.
Some things are very odd in the book like with Balder betrays hector and wants the spear, but then when Hector is arrested he casually leaves it near Hector's cell. You know so he can have it back when he escapes. I also leave legendary weapons lying around.
The plot feels no urgency and is borderline campfire story telling almost like he was making it up as he was penning it down. There are so many plot holes that needed filled it was ridiculous, not to mention the MC cant die so half the time he could of just escaped by offing himself.
Without being verbose, its bad, Main character is trash. I would not bother.
I can easily sum this books problems up with just talking about the main character who is so inconsistently written it is astonishing. He can be clever, yet is a dullard when it serves plot. He is violent and feels the need to curse at all times (even when fighting, got to love lung capacity). Every line of his dialogue is a swear word which gets old quite fast. He is betrayed six times in this novel and never comes out on top really but still is naive as can be and I'm sure in book 2 he will join some other group and get betrayed all over again.
Hector wants so hard to be a dragon riding special snow flake.
Some things are very odd in the book like with Balder betrays hector and wants the spear, but then when Hector is arrested he casually leaves it near Hector's cell. You know so he can have it back when he escapes. I also leave legendary weapons lying around.
The plot feels no urgency and is borderline campfire story telling almost like he was making it up as he was penning it down. There are so many plot holes that needed filled it was ridiculous, not to mention the MC cant die so half the time he could of just escaped by offing himself.
Without being verbose, its bad, Main character is trash. I would not bother.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 1, 2018
OMG. THEY HAVE DRAGONS. AHHHH!!!
For those who love Pern + dragon bonding books + Lit!RPGs then this is your JAM. IT IS DEFINITELY MINE FOR SURE. I read both books in one go and omg I love it so much.
I also like that I'm pretty much low key interested in what happened in the RL world section aside from the In-Game section of the book which is rare in Lit!RPGs. Since the point of most Lit!RPGs is the gaming aspects and basically ignoring what's happening outside the game. I love that the author is sprinkling bits and pieces of RL lore throughout the books and maybe I might be a bit biased with the fact that the MC is Asian and it's told from an Asian perspective? --but anyways something definitely different from most Lit!RPG books out there currently.
Anyways without spoiling much I love the pacing of the book with just enough gaming elements to keep it interesting. Still a little rough on figuring out exactly how the AI system works for Archemi Online since it tends to see-saw between the NPCs being actual living characters to weirdly robotic coding. Also wish the author would expound more on how the AI NPCs might relate to the actual androids out in the RL world.
Anyways can't wait for the 3rd installment!!! UGH SO GOOD! D: NEED MOAR NOW!
For those who love Pern + dragon bonding books + Lit!RPGs then this is your JAM. IT IS DEFINITELY MINE FOR SURE. I read both books in one go and omg I love it so much.
I also like that I'm pretty much low key interested in what happened in the RL world section aside from the In-Game section of the book which is rare in Lit!RPGs. Since the point of most Lit!RPGs is the gaming aspects and basically ignoring what's happening outside the game. I love that the author is sprinkling bits and pieces of RL lore throughout the books and maybe I might be a bit biased with the fact that the MC is Asian and it's told from an Asian perspective? --but anyways something definitely different from most Lit!RPG books out there currently.
Anyways without spoiling much I love the pacing of the book with just enough gaming elements to keep it interesting. Still a little rough on figuring out exactly how the AI system works for Archemi Online since it tends to see-saw between the NPCs being actual living characters to weirdly robotic coding. Also wish the author would expound more on how the AI NPCs might relate to the actual androids out in the RL world.
Anyways can't wait for the 3rd installment!!! UGH SO GOOD! D: NEED MOAR NOW!
January 20, 2021
Enjoyable Non-OP Main Character
The driving mechanism to play and stay in the game is yet another apocalypse come to the world. It's been used before and been successful, why change anything? Whatever, it gets the main character into the game and keeps him there, it works.
Anyways, the world and story the MC is dropped into is different than many tried and true settings. It pretty much immediately caught my interest. Magepunk with a nonstandard magic system? Go on. And of course we know we came for the cool aspect of the Dragon Rider class, which is also pretty different than most normal classes LitRPG game characters get.
Sure, the MC gets a bit of powerful weapon and path towards a nonstandard class, but nothing overpowered. Pretty much everything he does and can get is obtainable by anyone else. There are a few bits here and there, but he doesn't usually get any massive boosts that would make him so much better than anyone else. But the story is good, and keeps you going.
The male narrator is good and does well. The female narrator has a very cute voice... but she doesn't appear to have any voices. Almost all of the female characters sounds the same and can be difficult to tell apart sometimes.
All in all, I quite enjoyed it and will definitely be continuing the series.
The driving mechanism to play and stay in the game is yet another apocalypse come to the world. It's been used before and been successful, why change anything? Whatever, it gets the main character into the game and keeps him there, it works.
Anyways, the world and story the MC is dropped into is different than many tried and true settings. It pretty much immediately caught my interest. Magepunk with a nonstandard magic system? Go on. And of course we know we came for the cool aspect of the Dragon Rider class, which is also pretty different than most normal classes LitRPG game characters get.
Sure, the MC gets a bit of powerful weapon and path towards a nonstandard class, but nothing overpowered. Pretty much everything he does and can get is obtainable by anyone else. There are a few bits here and there, but he doesn't usually get any massive boosts that would make him so much better than anyone else. But the story is good, and keeps you going.
The male narrator is good and does well. The female narrator has a very cute voice... but she doesn't appear to have any voices. Almost all of the female characters sounds the same and can be difficult to tell apart sometimes.
All in all, I quite enjoyed it and will definitely be continuing the series.
August 17, 2020
This book was a delight to read, not just as a litRPG, but as a book in general. I've read numerous fantasy books and litRPGs and have had to stop reading more than once in a number of litRPGs that I found to be word vomit filled with unnecessary swearing and current pop references. That being said, I really liked the direction this book took. The characters had depth, the scenarios that arose weren't typical litRPG troupes, and if you're listening to the audible, the narrators are fantastic. The only issue I really had was that, though the swearing was toned down from that of other litRPGs I've read, the author seems to think that everyone in the military talks in a stereotypical jarhead fashion. I've served 5 years myself and, though those types of individuals may be there, they are not the majority. Sticking the F word in every other sentence does not make the character more "military". Especially when his rank was only that of a private and he can't seem to control his bluntness to the upper civilian class of the game world. This was a small gripe though.
Edit: Won't continue after second book. The MCs dialog essentially became like that of a 12 year old boy playing video games with his mic on. There are moments where this series still shines, but it took a hard turn in the wrong direction for me. I wrote a review there as well.
Edit: Won't continue after second book. The MCs dialog essentially became like that of a 12 year old boy playing video games with his mic on. There are moments where this series still shines, but it took a hard turn in the wrong direction for me. I wrote a review there as well.
August 17, 2020
I was lucky and found the Archemi Trilogy for free somewhere. This is an honest review. I really like reading LitRPG and any Syfy. I have not read many fantasy/dragon books before. When I started book 1 on The Archemi Online Chronicles I found it just a bit slow. The setup was necessary so I didn't mind too much. Once into the game world part of the story, I found it was hard for me to keep up with all the weird names for people, places, and things. I have always avoided stories like these, you can say that I hate too many made-up names and this series is full of them. However, by the end of book 1, I was enthralled. By the end of book 2, I was mesmerized, when I had to put the book down, I couldn't wait to get back to the story. At the end of book 3, I was craving more. I have to admit that for this story to be what it is, the story needs these weird names, but it is also the reason my rating is not a 5. James Osiris Baldwin created an awesome enjoyable story with great world and character building. I highly recommend you put this series on your TBR list.
January 4, 2024
The Books starts out with a bit of worldbuilding, through I found it quite nice, as some others seemed to not enjoy this part.
The parts that fell flat for me were the charater itself and his behaviour in the "game". For somebody who has played a multitude of RPGs before, according to the characters backstory, he made sometimes not the best descissions, through mostly on small things.
It also seemded like the woman were described in far more detail and had almost always "form fitting, thight" clothing to wear. More often than not, I found that these describtions were done at times were they were not needed or not appropriate.
Some of the game mechanics and descriptions were rather unrefiend as well. Sometimes the MC keept items in his hands, sometime he stored then in his inventory, sometimes he held then in his hands and they just vanished from the story without a word for a few chapters, just to be there again when they were needed. Things like "50-ish damage" also seemded to be really out of place
The parts that fell flat for me were the charater itself and his behaviour in the "game". For somebody who has played a multitude of RPGs before, according to the characters backstory, he made sometimes not the best descissions, through mostly on small things.
It also seemded like the woman were described in far more detail and had almost always "form fitting, thight" clothing to wear. More often than not, I found that these describtions were done at times were they were not needed or not appropriate.
Some of the game mechanics and descriptions were rather unrefiend as well. Sometimes the MC keept items in his hands, sometime he stored then in his inventory, sometimes he held then in his hands and they just vanished from the story without a word for a few chapters, just to be there again when they were needed. Things like "50-ish damage" also seemded to be really out of place
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