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Underdog #2

Die große Öde

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Eric hat überlebt, wo weit Stärkere vor ihm den Tod gefunden haben. Dabei hat er es auch noch geschafft, seinen Magie-Vorrat freizuschalten, eine der gefährlichsten Kreaturen der Höhlenwelt zu zähmen, eine uralte Stadt der Monsterjäger zu entdecken und eine junge Frau namens Jay zu retten, die eine Gruppe Späher mitten im Lager eines Gierschlunds dem sicheren Tod überlassen hatte.

Die Dungeons der Krummberge liegen nun hinter ihm. Jetzt begibt der junge, unerfahrene Magier sich auf den Weg nach Orchus. Die Zeit ist gekommen, sich von seinem Schuldnereid zu befreien.

In den weiten Ebenen entdecken Rick und Jay, dass das örtliche Baronat von einem benachbarten Herrscher angegriffen wurde. Das Gefolge des jungen Corwin zieht raubend und plündernd durchs Land und zeichnet sich durch besondere Grausamkeit aus: Friedliche Dorfbewohner werden getötet und ihre Siedlungen dem Erdboden gleichgemacht.

Das erschwert Ricks Mission gewaltig. Nun muss er seine Heimatstadt erreichen, ohne unterwegs in die schmutzigen Pfoten des Feindes zu fallen. Eigentlich sollte man denken, solange Eric und Jay mit Vorsicht zu Werke gehen, sich an Wildpfade halten und auf Schlingers scharfe Sinne verlassen, sollte ihnen nichts als ein entspannender Spaziergang durch den Wald bevorstehen. Doch die eigenwillige Göttin Schicksal hat ihre eigenen Pläne.

Erneut sieht Eric sich hinabgezogen in einen blutigen Strudel der Gefahr.

635 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 15, 2019

291 people are currently reading
135 people want to read

About the author

Alexey Osadchuk

31 books521 followers
Alexey Osadchuk was born in 1979 in the Ukraine. In the late 1990s his family moved to the south of Spain where they still live today.

Alexey was an avid reader from an early age, devouring adventure novels by Edgar Rice Burroughs, Jack London and Arthur Conan Doyle. In 2010 he wrote his first fantasy novel which was immediately accepted for publication.

He also used to be a passionate online gamer which prompted him to write the story of a man who joins an MMORPG game hoping to raise money for his daughter’s heart surgery. The first book of Mirror World was published In 2013. The English translation of the series is now available on Amazon in its entirety, prompting a reviewer to call Alexey “one of the best LitRPG authors to date”.

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5 stars
630 (47%)
4 stars
454 (34%)
3 stars
195 (14%)
2 stars
31 (2%)
1 star
14 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
217 reviews25 followers
November 30, 2020
Done with series.

Liked the first book a lot, but this book...just didn't make sense. The main character doesn't act how you would expect, knows things he couldnt know, and events don't work out logically. There are so many great books on Kindle Unlimited that this is just way overpriced for what it is. I bought the second book without reading reviews because I liked the first one so much...I regret it and won't be suckered again. If it goes to KU I'd try book 3, but otherwise, it was bad enough I won't spend anymore on the series.

As a side note my original review was taken down...I have noticed that all my positive reviews remain, but my negative ones either never get posted or get taken down when I'm not looking. Not sure what kind of game they are playing at, but keep an eye out if write reviews and I think you will see what I'm talking about.
Profile Image for Koffe.
736 reviews18 followers
October 31, 2022
I'm just done with this series already I sort of enjoyed the concept of book 1 but after getting out from being a slave 1 time he then becomes imprisoned again and manages to get free, only to randomly get enslaved again. Seriously never heard of a story where the mc is basically a weak ass runt that can't do shit by himself. Then manages to escape enslavement or serfdom only to get enslaved by someone else all within 1 book. Then after he gets free again at the start of this book baam is once again enslaved by someone else. It's all very weak plot and the logic just isn't there. I've never been a fan of anything Russian translated and this just reaffirms my belief that Russian books are crap.
Profile Image for Wilhelm Eyrich.
366 reviews28 followers
March 29, 2020
Just as good as the first book but with the same grammar flaws. I don’t think I noticed as many but it’s still very jarring when the translated mismatches present and past tense.

I was worried and anxious for the MC a number of times, which is a good indicator that you’re invested in the story. Love the introduction of the new party member.

8/10
Profile Image for GaiusPrimus.
870 reviews97 followers
May 29, 2020
An ok Russian translation.

A lot of the tropes and issues with Russian LitRPG literature are present in this book. Many errors causing the reader to go back and recheck what's being read multiple times.

Good bones though, and the last 3 chapters were thoroughly entertaining.
Profile Image for Akshay.
807 reviews5 followers
February 16, 2025
The Wastes is the second installment in Alexey Osadchuk’s Underdog series, following the adventures of Eric Berg in a game-like fantasy world. Building on the foundations set in the first book, The Wastes takes readers deeper into Eric’s journey, intensifying the challenges and expanding the stakes. This book continues to explore the concept of an "underdog" protagonist in a LitRPG setting, where progress is slow but hard-earned.


Plot Overview:


The Wastes picks up right after the events of the first book, with Eric embarking on a perilous journey through the harsh and unforgiving territory known as the Wastes. This desolate land is home to terrifying monsters, treacherous landscapes, and mysterious factions. Eric’s ultimate goal remains the same: survive, grow stronger, and gain experience in a world where his low leveling ability severely limits his progress.




What makes The Wastes stand out is how the environment itself becomes an antagonist. The land is dangerous, filled with deadly creatures and harsh conditions that test Eric’s survival skills at every turn. The challenges he faces here are not just about combat; they involve endurance, strategy, and adapting to the unforgiving terrain. The tension is palpable, with every decision Eric makes potentially leading to life or death consequences.




Character Development:


One of the most rewarding aspects of this book is Eric’s continued growth. He remains an underdog, but his journey through the Wastes forces him to evolve both physically and mentally. Eric is not a conventional LitRPG protagonist—he doesn't have overwhelming power at his disposal, which makes his progress feel realistic and earned. The hardships he faces shape him, and his ingenuity and perseverance are highlighted more than his physical strength or skills.




Secondary characters, while present, are not as deeply explored as Eric himself. However, there is a slight improvement from the first book in terms of giving more personality to some of Eric’s companions. The relationships he builds are still secondary to his personal struggle, but they add layers to his interactions and help round out the story.




Game Mechanics:


As with the first book, The Wastes leans heavily on LitRPG mechanics, and fans of the genre will appreciate the detail that Osadchuk provides. The leveling system, skill acquisitions, and item management are all seamlessly integrated into the plot. However, much like in the previous book, Eric’s progress is intentionally slow, which is a core part of the story’s appeal. His underdog status is not an artificial hurdle—it is central to the narrative.




This slow progression can be both a strength and a weakness, depending on the reader. On one hand, it creates a sense of realism and builds tension; Eric’s victories feel more hard-fought and rewarding. On the other hand, for readers who prefer faster-paced LitRPG stories with rapid leveling, the deliberate pacing may feel frustrating at times. There are moments where the detailed breakdowns of skills and stats can interrupt the flow of the story, especially during crucial action scenes.




World-Building:


The Wastes themselves are a grim and fascinating setting. Osadchuk’s descriptions of this desolate landscape create an immersive atmosphere. The danger feels real, and the environment adds a new dimension to the story that wasn’t as prevalent in the first book. The addition of new factions and creatures gives a sense of a larger, more complex world at play.




However, much of the world-building is still centered around Eric’s immediate survival. The larger geopolitical aspects of the world, while hinted at, remain in the background. This book focuses more on Eric’s personal journey rather than expanding the world in a broad sense, but this works in favor of the narrative, keeping the reader's attention on the protagonist’s plight.




Action and Pacing:


The pacing in The Wastes is consistent with the series’ overall tone. While it’s slower than many other LitRPG books, the pacing matches the grind-like nature of Eric’s progress. The action scenes are well-done, particularly in how they force Eric to think strategically rather than simply overpower his enemies. This is where the book shines—it’s not about raw strength; it’s about using limited resources and making smart choices in a dangerous world.




There are moments when the pacing drags, particularly when the game mechanics are explained in detail. While this depth will appeal to hardcore LitRPG fans, it may slow the narrative for those more focused on story progression.




Overall Experience:


The Wastes is a worthy continuation of the Underdog series. It stays true to its title, with Eric constantly being pushed to his limits in a world that seems determined to keep him down. His journey is one of grit, determination, and survival. This book emphasizes the slow, grinding progression that makes Eric’s victories feel more significant.




The novel may not be for every LitRPG fan. Readers who prefer faster-paced action and rapid progression might find it a bit slow. But for those who enjoy seeing a character work hard for every achievement and appreciate the tension of survival in an unforgiving world, The Wastes delivers a compelling and immersive experience.




Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Profile Image for Steve.
1,614 reviews61 followers
December 24, 2019
A solid follow-up. Although not quite as good in the beginning, it soon finds its range and gets moving, justifying imo the 5-star rating I gave it.

If you liked the first one you'll like this, and if you like the genre but haven't read either, I recommend them.
Profile Image for Julian.
56 reviews4 followers
April 3, 2020
Could've been 5 stars, but this really needs to see an editor.
Profile Image for Travis.
2,892 reviews49 followers
March 16, 2020
This was a very nice story. It took me a while to remember how the first book went, so for a chapter or so, I was struggling to understand the story, but after that, it settled down, and became an excellent read. I guess this means that if you haven't read the first book, you're going to have trouble with this one, as a lot of the concepts and mechanics won't make much sense.
However, if you did read the first book, you should find this one a nice addition to the story, and a rather pleasant read. I enjoyed this one.
Profile Image for Mahesh.
473 reviews41 followers
May 15, 2020
Boring at first but last few chapters were good
Profile Image for Tony Hinde.
2,146 reviews78 followers
February 13, 2021
This is a four-star story with two-star writing. The translation is just pitiful.

The beginning of this book is confusing. Despite being indentured to one person, another man of sufficiently high level seemingly just decided to enslave Eric and take all his things. So in a world where the strong can do this, with no repercussions, what is the point of trying at all? Sure the author doesn't let the protagonist languish, but it's a gaping hole in the logic of the system.

Nothing seems to harm Erik's spirit, so the story always has a hopeful tone. It's nice to see a LitRPG MC that is not solely focused on his own development. I even like the way Erik, as young as he is, manages to see the perspective of other people. He doesn't automatically assume betrayal is the result of "EVIL," just that they may have more pressing duties than to look after his safety.

To the author: I realize that getting a good translator can cost thousands of dollars, but perhaps you could stick with your existing guy and then pay a few hundred to a good proof-reader. The improvement would be significant.
Profile Image for Meggie.
5,330 reviews
February 7, 2021
I decided to re-read this book in an audible edition. I really enjoyed Eric adventure in this book. Furthermore, I'm glad it was released in audible edition. Now I'm continuing with the third book in this amazing series.
2020/January/6 - 5-star rating
I'm glad Eric cut ties with the girl at the beginning on this book, I really wouldn't enjoy it otherwise. Everything else in the plotted story on Eric's path was pulling and amazingly interesting for me. I wish we already had the third book to read, too. So far it was an amazing work by Alexey Osadchuk.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED litrpg series!
Profile Image for Sydney.
1,339 reviews67 followers
April 21, 2022
4 The Soul Of Gremlin Kind Stars

The Wastes is the second book in the Underdog series by Alexey Osadchuk.

Very near the beginning of the book I became so terribly angry with the authors treatment of the Mc I started to prematurely regret having bought this book. Thankfully, Osadchuk didn't let me down and the nefarious players negatively affecting our dear null ceased to matter. Honestly, I shouldn't be surprised at this point. He seems to unerringly scrape by escaping such the same situations without fail.

Although, with his level of luck escaping the clutches of these types, I still feel sad for this Mc. Honestly, he deserves a break in the eyes of his fellow humans. The only one I can't speak poorly of died far too soon, in the first book. Outside of one other, every human he has helped has turned around and betrayed him. It simply saddens me that he must continue to face this ostracization. Alas, I think that will continue to be a theme in this book. Simply makes me wonder how deep the otherworlders have infiltrated this world, and if they are in anyway at fault? Human nature alone makes that hard to determine.

Thankfully, this protagonist isn't alone in the world. He has found his new family, in Mee and Gorgie. These two characters inspire a lot of enthusiasm in me for enjoying this work, as it progresses. Making me wonder where they will eventually be allowed to settle safely? Especially given their unique composition.

Finally, I wonder as to the nature of his brothers 'death'? Is he truly dead? What are they trying to cover up? And incidentally does it correspond in any way to the message Randy was secretly trying to deliver back to his commander?
Profile Image for Jeff Wells.
22 reviews
September 5, 2021
Solid Work

The translation had some issues, but overall the story is a solid example of LitRPG progression fantasy.

In my opinion this is an excellent example of how to do the "exploiting a broken character" trope that is so common in this genre. I wish all novels that use this trope did so as well as this one.

Unlike most stories of this type, in this story Eric stays broken. After two books he hasn't somehow fixed his his condition, or discovered that he's a member of a super clan that's way better than normal, or anything like that. He's still just Bug's joke on the System. He's still unable to use the resources everyone else uses to grow, and to add insult to injury, his unique situation causes him to be absolutely swimming in those very resources.

And yet he still gains power. A lot of that is personal power, but a lot of that is exploiting his curse to strengthening his companions to significant degrees.

If you like unique takes on the LitRPG genre, this one is a good one.
Profile Image for Jennifer.
857 reviews26 followers
December 31, 2021
This isn't what I would call a typical litrpg, but that is a good thing. The main character isn't some over-powered mage who kills everything easily. Instead, he is like a glitch in the system, the Great System, which allows him to gain certain advantages, but his life is still a struggle and he scrapes for everything he gets.
If you haven't read the first book in this series, I highly recommend it. If you have, this is an excellent continuation of the story. I thoroughly enjoyed both the battles and the "down" time in between them. This author is excellent at character development, and his descriptive language makes it easy to visualize what is happening. I have to admit, I was a little worried when our hero escaped the slavery of the mountains and survived that dungeon, only to be made a slave again so early in this book - and in such a manner! But, his journey was a joy to read. I am eagerly looking forward to the release of book #3 in the series in a few months.
Profile Image for Scycer.
297 reviews8 followers
October 20, 2020
This series is really fun. Plus the translation and the audio production of the book has been spot on.

In this book our protagonist grows in power while still being level zero. I guess it his destiny to never move to level 1 and actually use the tonnes of loot he gets.

There is an addition to the group of two and we go to wait and see but there is a high probability it will increase again in the third installment of the series.

If you are looking for a light read with litRPG/gaming aspects (status/system messages etc) this is a very good series to start with. I would recommend Eric Uglands series (The good guys/The bad guys) in addition to newbie readers to the fantasy genre.

Looking forward to the next book. Do check this one out when you get the time.
Profile Image for Kevin.
1,710 reviews30 followers
June 13, 2020
I enjoyed this as much as I enjoyed the first book.

As usual I could have done without the stats, but this broken system is thoroughly entertaining. At least the author didn't end this novel on a cliffhanger like the last one.

I really want to see how he survives in human lands. With his personality he will not stand by and let you stick a knife in his back because "you are also human". Those that wronged him better be on guard.

I will definitely be picking up the next book. I hope the author's quality doesn't drop, as usually happens with these multi book series.

3/5 Stars
1,097 reviews15 followers
June 2, 2022
This series is truly a mixed bag.

On the one hand i loved the story how the weakest of the weak struggles against impossible seeming odds, some twists and would give the series 4,5 stars. On the other a truly horrible translator with only rudimentary knowledge of English (permanently mixed times, half sentences, made up phrases that ruined my reading experience throughout the ENTIRE series) and a too trusting and often stupidly generous MC. Given the shortness of the books the price of the single books is WAY TOO EXPENSIVE!!

Therefore only 2 stars.
Profile Image for Murtah Blake.
101 reviews
June 28, 2022
I've just finished book 8 in the Underdog series, which means I've read the entire series now and I absolutely loved it. Some nights I could barely put the book down to go to sleep for work in the morning. I'd always say to myself just one more chapter. I enjoyed seeing our main man Eric go from a literal zero to something amazing and very interesting in constantly unexpected ways. Thank you Alexey Osadchuk! Thank you.
Profile Image for Brad.
219 reviews
May 2, 2020
Good story needs editing

I don’t mind most of the minor editing issues it happens often in these genres and the MC is just enough to keep me interested. But the whole name changing constantly is extremely annoying. Is it rick or eric I get they are almost the same but come on. Pick one and stick with it.
Profile Image for Lubos Elexa.
365 reviews3 followers
January 8, 2023
Kniha sa už v druhom diely dopracovala do štádia, že je z nej nie RPG, ale cestopis. Chýba len mapa a opis počasia (ups, prišla zima, takže aj to tu je) a flóry a fauny (ups, aj to tu je a mení sa podľa zemepisnej šírky, alebo je to dĺžka?). To dobré, známosť prostredia a stálosť postáv išlo do preč a už potečie len krv a abilities porastú do nebies.
Profile Image for Leather.
564 reviews12 followers
November 10, 2025
A good second installment, in the form of a road trip, with a linear and well-executed plot. The hero's powers and weaknesses are well thought out.

The series is let down by its childish covers and the author's pricing policy. (Why the hell is the first volume on Kindle Unlimited and not the others?)
42 reviews
March 18, 2020
2.5* rounded up.

Looking for a good LitRPG book ... the search continues. So far I've tried 5 authors of this genre. The 'Underdog' series are my top find. As a fantasy book it might be one of 'the great finds', but still enjoyable. I would recommend for somebody who likes LitRPG.
123 reviews
December 2, 2020
Amazing book series

Absolutely loved this book just like the first. Great world building, characters & magic system. Only issue is MC can be quite selfish, comes across very 'everyone always betrays me so I'm not going to help people' attitude.
13 reviews
August 24, 2021
Good read

So I got the first 1 on unlimited but had to buy the second and now probably the rest. I felt it was a little expensive but the series is good enough that I'm spending money when I usually try keep to the unlimited.
Good read and the author reeled me in good.
1 review
February 25, 2020
Great book

It continues from the second book very well and leaves you with a bit of anticipation. Overall it was a great book.
6 reviews1 follower
March 20, 2020
It was a very good book. I am highly looking forward to the next one.
53 reviews
August 10, 2020
More of the same, and that’s a good thing !

Simply loving the characters and the story. Glad I got to this author late, as now I get to binge read! Book 3 here I come...
Profile Image for Tabbycatz.
56 reviews
February 20, 2021
What a great series

I love this series, LitRpg but done right. If you like the under dog who works hard to get by this is the book for you.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews

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