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Shadowcroft Academy For Dungeons #1
Shadowcroft Academy For Dungeons: Year One
Build a Dungeon. Slay Heroes. Survive Finals.
Wounded Army vet Logan Murray thought mimics were the stuff of board games and dungeon manuals… right up until one ate him.
In a flash of snapping teeth, Logan suddenly finds himself on the doorstep to another world. He’s been unwittingly recruited into the Shadowcroft Academy for Dungeons—the most prestigious interdimensional school dedicated to training the monstrous guardians who protect the Tree of Souls from so-called heroes. Heroes who would destroy the universe if it meant a shot at advancement.
Unfortunately, as a bottom-tier cultivator with a laughably weak core, Logan’s dungeon options aren’t exactly stellar, and he finds himself reincarnated as a lowly fungaloid, a three-foot-tall mass of spongy mushroom with fewer skills than a typical sewer rat. If he’s going to survive the grueling challenges the academy has in store, he’ll need to ace the odd assortment of classes—Fiendish Fabrication, Dungeon Feng Shui, the Ethics of Murder 101—and learn how to turn his unusual guardian form into an asset instead of a liability.
And that’s only if the gargoyle professor doesn’t demote him to a doomed wandering monster first…
Wounded Army vet Logan Murray thought mimics were the stuff of board games and dungeon manuals… right up until one ate him.
In a flash of snapping teeth, Logan suddenly finds himself on the doorstep to another world. He’s been unwittingly recruited into the Shadowcroft Academy for Dungeons—the most prestigious interdimensional school dedicated to training the monstrous guardians who protect the Tree of Souls from so-called heroes. Heroes who would destroy the universe if it meant a shot at advancement.
Unfortunately, as a bottom-tier cultivator with a laughably weak core, Logan’s dungeon options aren’t exactly stellar, and he finds himself reincarnated as a lowly fungaloid, a three-foot-tall mass of spongy mushroom with fewer skills than a typical sewer rat. If he’s going to survive the grueling challenges the academy has in store, he’ll need to ace the odd assortment of classes—Fiendish Fabrication, Dungeon Feng Shui, the Ethics of Murder 101—and learn how to turn his unusual guardian form into an asset instead of a liability.
And that’s only if the gargoyle professor doesn’t demote him to a doomed wandering monster first…
402 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 19, 2021
523 people are currently reading
367 people want to read
About the author
James A. Hunter
81 books1,101 followersJames Hunter is a full-time ink slinger, a member of SFWA, and the bestselling author of Vigil Bound, Rogue Dungeon, Shadowcroft Academy, Bibliomancer (The Completionist Chronicles Expanded Universe), and the litRPG epic Viridian Gate Online! In addition to writing, James also runs Shadow Alley Press, an industry leader that specializes in publishing LitRPG, Fantasy, and selection Science Fiction.
James is a former Marine Corps Sergeant, combat veteran, and pirate hunter (seriously). He’s also a member of The Royal Order of the Shellback—’cause that’s totally a real thing. And a spaceship captain, can’t forget that. Okay … the last one probably isn’t true. When not writing or spending time with family, James occasionally finds time to eat and sleep.
Find out more about James Hunter at www.ShadowAlleyPress.com
James is a former Marine Corps Sergeant, combat veteran, and pirate hunter (seriously). He’s also a member of The Royal Order of the Shellback—’cause that’s totally a real thing. And a spaceship captain, can’t forget that. Okay … the last one probably isn’t true. When not writing or spending time with family, James occasionally finds time to eat and sleep.
Find out more about James Hunter at www.ShadowAlleyPress.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
February 3, 2021
BAD mix of litrpg and harry potter
Ok, first the MC is an idiot. Next, as an IT tech in the army, he *didn't* have "the toughest training", hell, its highly unlikely he left the main bases. He sure as hell wasn't out with the grunts. Which means he's not an " elite warrior" of any sort.
From there the whole story devolves into a garbage ripoff of harry potter. With half hearted dungeon core and cultivating elements
Ok, first the MC is an idiot. Next, as an IT tech in the army, he *didn't* have "the toughest training", hell, its highly unlikely he left the main bases. He sure as hell wasn't out with the grunts. Which means he's not an " elite warrior" of any sort.
From there the whole story devolves into a garbage ripoff of harry potter. With half hearted dungeon core and cultivating elements
May 26, 2021
Cultivation meets magical school meets dungeon core meets litrpg.
Unfortunately it's the melding of many of these genres' worst traits.
It has the brain-dead side characters of litrpgs, the dull activities of most dungeon cores, the OP MC of cultivation novels, and the standard magical school where learning can never be interesting enough on its own.
It's greatest strength is the setting, but that's not enough to carry it on its own.
Beyond all of that though, the main character is exceedingly dull. There is no struggle for him whatsoever. Every problem he meets he overcomes without any change or development in character, or any sense of true difficulty. A definite problem given that combat is apparently going to be a focus for the series. I wish Hunter would commit to the fight scenes, really chew on them a bit, don't just gloss them over in a page or two.
It's further soured by a failure to commit to the premise. It's a supposedly infinite multiverse, but we work with an exceedingly small setting and cast, and there are quite a few anachronisms in the writing. Like humans being directly referenced in system descriptions even though the multiverse is multiracial. Or months like February existing on another world.
Unfortunately it's the melding of many of these genres' worst traits.
It has the brain-dead side characters of litrpgs, the dull activities of most dungeon cores, the OP MC of cultivation novels, and the standard magical school where learning can never be interesting enough on its own.
It's greatest strength is the setting, but that's not enough to carry it on its own.
Beyond all of that though, the main character is exceedingly dull. There is no struggle for him whatsoever. Every problem he meets he overcomes without any change or development in character, or any sense of true difficulty. A definite problem given that combat is apparently going to be a focus for the series. I wish Hunter would commit to the fight scenes, really chew on them a bit, don't just gloss them over in a page or two.
It's further soured by a failure to commit to the premise. It's a supposedly infinite multiverse, but we work with an exceedingly small setting and cast, and there are quite a few anachronisms in the writing. Like humans being directly referenced in system descriptions even though the multiverse is multiracial. Or months like February existing on another world.
March 8, 2021
Fun mix of dungeon core and rpg
This is really well done book with a good collaboration between two pro authors. Long but doesn't feel like it, the pacing is great. Loved the little mushroom guy and the world. Definitely reading book 2
This is really well done book with a good collaboration between two pro authors. Long but doesn't feel like it, the pacing is great. Loved the little mushroom guy and the world. Definitely reading book 2
January 31, 2022
A novel that leans so heavily on the worst parts of Harry Potter and jams it into a fairly bland and flat litRPG frame work.
Full of "technical" jargon (i.e. Iron trunk 5 means Rank C level 5) which has to have pages and pages to translation attached to it the first time and then continues to be distracting throughout.
There is the absent school leader who shows up at random times to give advice and yet is totally distant and absent. Very much lifted straight for HP.
There is the sorting dungeon and the 4 houses. There is house rankings...it just all screams bad rip off with very little to turn it into his own work.
Out 48 students in their class, the 4 main chars only know the names of 1 other group of 4. They don't even know the names of the group directly above them in their own house and pecking order.
The angry unhappy professor who wants to see students fail is grating and did little to improve the story but did "push" the stragglers (but only the 4 he really did not like).
Well I think this is enough. The book is just not good but falls just above terrible.
Full of "technical" jargon (i.e. Iron trunk 5 means Rank C level 5) which has to have pages and pages to translation attached to it the first time and then continues to be distracting throughout.
There is the absent school leader who shows up at random times to give advice and yet is totally distant and absent. Very much lifted straight for HP.
There is the sorting dungeon and the 4 houses. There is house rankings...it just all screams bad rip off with very little to turn it into his own work.
Out 48 students in their class, the 4 main chars only know the names of 1 other group of 4. They don't even know the names of the group directly above them in their own house and pecking order.
The angry unhappy professor who wants to see students fail is grating and did little to improve the story but did "push" the stragglers (but only the 4 he really did not like).
Well I think this is enough. The book is just not good but falls just above terrible.
January 14, 2021
Wow this must be one of the LitRPG, dungeoneering books I have ever enjoyed reading the most, it is such a fun read but not only. Logan Murray is an ex veteran with a prosthetic leg and a video game he was about to win, however as soon as he wins the game he is killed and taken to a completely different interdimensional world. He is now part of the game and he has to be admitted into the first year of the Shadowcroft Academy to learn how to become a Guardian, build a dungeon with a strong core and fight off dungeoneers to take their life force and add this to the Tree of Souls, the energy which provides for all the multiverse including the dying planet Earth where Logan came from. The only problem being that Logan was to start off as a being which was the lowest of the low, a fungaloid and he became a part of a team of other very low class students. His team consisted of a satyr, a minotaur and a moth woman and they all came with their own baggage, however if there was anything Logan was good at it was boosting up morale and encouraging his team mates to never give up no matter the odds. He also went by the motto instilled in him when he was part of the army that no soldier was ever left behind and this served the team very well indeed when facing all the troubles and tribulations that were forced on them during their first year at the most prestigious school for guardians. Their worst enemy was one of their own mentors but Logan was adamant they would all attend classes, work harder than any other student and become an asset to the school rather than the liability everyone thought they were. If there is anything I enjoy it is a story of someone with enough grit to not only survive but thrive and in this book our little mushroom hero not only does this but manages to take his team with him. This book is written in a real fun way, thoroughly enjoyable and with many life lessons to be learnt and I cannot wait to read year two's adventures of our fantastically heroic group.
May 6, 2021
This is a heavy shoe horned in Plot and everything seems very forced. The MC acceptance of what the leader of the academy has done to him is ridiculous. Any rational ADULT would tell the guy to FUCK the hell off for MUDERING him! Then just to reincarnate him into a weaker body than he already had? Holy jumpin jebus. Then we have the teachers of the Academy are also real pieces of shit beings that have no real intention of trying to save the universe. They would rather sit back and poke fun at the new students; rather than oooh I don't know fking TEACHING them how to live and survive and help save the universe. I would fire ALL of the teachers and the Academy head needs to be put into a Wood Chipper.
October 2, 2021
I SO wanted to like this book, but. . .
I just couldn't. I love the idea behind it, but the writing is weak. There are several times throughout that statements are made that have no basis in the narrative, or are just flat out wrong. The characters are all created with a nod to the mood rather than the story. This was to be three stars till the end, when it convinced me that the main characters should not have survived. When the ending of your book has me convinced the main characters should lose, you have a problem. This whole thing is style over substance, setting over narrative.
I just couldn't. I love the idea behind it, but the writing is weak. There are several times throughout that statements are made that have no basis in the narrative, or are just flat out wrong. The characters are all created with a nod to the mood rather than the story. This was to be three stars till the end, when it convinced me that the main characters should not have survived. When the ending of your book has me convinced the main characters should lose, you have a problem. This whole thing is style over substance, setting over narrative.
March 25, 2021
It's a fun little dungeon monster story going to school to learn how to be a dungeon core and run a successful dungeon and not get killed. But found it beyond frustration and disappointing that he could not seem do anything by himself and constantly needed team up and the help of offers.
(I like mc can do it alone best.)
But one think that really bugged me was that in class level for some reason the author forgot the alphabet what happened to D-Class,???.
(I like mc can do it alone best.)
But one think that really bugged me was that in class level for some reason the author forgot the alphabet what happened to D-Class,???.
January 25, 2021
Harry potter is a fungus
Its good, but its harry potter as a cultivator dungeon. Thats the book. 4 clans, a teacher that hates the mc, its a school, just everything in here screamed harry potter to me. They even have ron and hermoine in marko and inga respectively. Yes, some of the little details change, but the base is very noticeable.
Its good, but its harry potter as a cultivator dungeon. Thats the book. 4 clans, a teacher that hates the mc, its a school, just everything in here screamed harry potter to me. They even have ron and hermoine in marko and inga respectively. Yes, some of the little details change, but the base is very noticeable.
May 2, 2022
Too similar to the Harry Potter Series, especially some of the teachers, and the different clans rivalries between school groups. Did not like the fact that to "attend this first class Dungeon Core Academy" the people and beings had to commit suicide or like in the case of the main character, Logan, was killed by his "entrance exam acceptance" (mimic console that was testing him).
I have a feeling that author suffers from some types of dyslexia (learning disability that reverses letters and or numbers). Usually in video games and table games and in math and accounting in general, a bigger number means that it is a higher level. Author reverses this in a weird and unique way. So Level 1 is the highest and level 10 is the lowest. What is common is the school/academic rating of F being the worst and A, S, and SS being the very best.
More than physical Education, I think Dungeon Cores would have benefited more from formal martial arts training and improvement. Most of the skills that are given when user (Dungeon Core) improves in levels is weird and not very useful.
Pop culture and social references are dumb to have in a fictional fantasy series like this one because the only Earthling is Logan and the author, then everybody does not understand his geeky anecdotes or pop culture references at all. This is a total miss. Author is not funny either. Main character is not that intelligent, or able, or gifted, much less over-powered. Logan is the weakest Dungeon Core in the history of this Shadowcroft Academy, from the weakest planet connected to the Soul Tree and yet, because author designs it "too well", pulls the rabbit out of the hat, without the main character being a magician, or having a hat, or having rabbits in this alternate reality world. Some of the idioms of the author are not well said (written) (for example Enough ants may bite an elephant to death) Author writes: "All the ants weigh more than all the elephants." and with that example, they do seem to have animals that are like ants, but why would aliens from other worlds know what elephants are? Aren't the animals from Earth exclusive to Earth? Just like the languages, just like the pop culture and history?
No one says that writing fiction is easy, but everything an author writes has to make sense, has to follow the natural laws, has to have common sense, logical and rational. If the other world did not have gravity, did not have velocity, energy, language, etc. then the author has to explain it in a way it all makes sense, otherwise it leads to a lot of plot holes and criticisms from the readers.
I do find it good that author chooses to have main characters that are positive and have ethical values, (versus teachers and deans, owners, that do not have values). It is a contradiction though, because if the teachers are (cheaters, student killers, liars, etc.) then how can a "bad and criminal" teacher teach anything good? How can they teach well, being the corrupt and depraved way that they are? If there were Justice in this Academy, the teachers would be condemned and probably sentenced to death. So why would the author foster bad teachers in his fictional novel series?
Lastly, and probably will never get tired from asking for this (demanding) is that if an author or a novel series talks about a lot of different places, in a world that the readers are not familiarized with, it becomes necessary to include a MAP! We know Earth from general geography classes, but only the author (if at all) knows about their made up world. This author even spent the time to describe (like if he were making a brochure) of the different places in this alternate reality world, but never included a map. I think it is bad writing etiquette to talk about new places and not to show those places in an easy to understand map.
I have a feeling that author suffers from some types of dyslexia (learning disability that reverses letters and or numbers). Usually in video games and table games and in math and accounting in general, a bigger number means that it is a higher level. Author reverses this in a weird and unique way. So Level 1 is the highest and level 10 is the lowest. What is common is the school/academic rating of F being the worst and A, S, and SS being the very best.
More than physical Education, I think Dungeon Cores would have benefited more from formal martial arts training and improvement. Most of the skills that are given when user (Dungeon Core) improves in levels is weird and not very useful.
Pop culture and social references are dumb to have in a fictional fantasy series like this one because the only Earthling is Logan and the author, then everybody does not understand his geeky anecdotes or pop culture references at all. This is a total miss. Author is not funny either. Main character is not that intelligent, or able, or gifted, much less over-powered. Logan is the weakest Dungeon Core in the history of this Shadowcroft Academy, from the weakest planet connected to the Soul Tree and yet, because author designs it "too well", pulls the rabbit out of the hat, without the main character being a magician, or having a hat, or having rabbits in this alternate reality world. Some of the idioms of the author are not well said (written) (for example Enough ants may bite an elephant to death) Author writes: "All the ants weigh more than all the elephants." and with that example, they do seem to have animals that are like ants, but why would aliens from other worlds know what elephants are? Aren't the animals from Earth exclusive to Earth? Just like the languages, just like the pop culture and history?
No one says that writing fiction is easy, but everything an author writes has to make sense, has to follow the natural laws, has to have common sense, logical and rational. If the other world did not have gravity, did not have velocity, energy, language, etc. then the author has to explain it in a way it all makes sense, otherwise it leads to a lot of plot holes and criticisms from the readers.
I do find it good that author chooses to have main characters that are positive and have ethical values, (versus teachers and deans, owners, that do not have values). It is a contradiction though, because if the teachers are (cheaters, student killers, liars, etc.) then how can a "bad and criminal" teacher teach anything good? How can they teach well, being the corrupt and depraved way that they are? If there were Justice in this Academy, the teachers would be condemned and probably sentenced to death. So why would the author foster bad teachers in his fictional novel series?
Lastly, and probably will never get tired from asking for this (demanding) is that if an author or a novel series talks about a lot of different places, in a world that the readers are not familiarized with, it becomes necessary to include a MAP! We know Earth from general geography classes, but only the author (if at all) knows about their made up world. This author even spent the time to describe (like if he were making a brochure) of the different places in this alternate reality world, but never included a map. I think it is bad writing etiquette to talk about new places and not to show those places in an easy to understand map.
March 10, 2021
Was intrigued with this when I saw it so picked it up and read it; very nice!!! Worth the purchase and have to say I hope the author follows up on this one.
The winner for me was character development. Yes, undoubtable Mr. Hunter poured some of himself into his characters (and probably a friend or three) but that's what a good author does. The sell you the characters and make you start liking them and how they interact. Logan Murray is undoubtable Mr. Hunter's personification. What I loved though is how the losers form a team and get better as they work together. If there's a draw back with how it's presented it's that the team didn't pull together faster than they did.
Another winner is the roleplaying reference and how Mr. Hunter wove that with how the universe is. Won't say it's 100% believable but it's fun, new, and made for good story telling. What's especially interesting is how the "dungeon master" is really fighting for the greater good in this case (something normal RPGs don't have). As I said I don't 100% buy it but it's cool for a book like this.
Ok, great love here but I rated it 4 stars.... ok a few misses, no show stoppers though. The most basic is that things are a little simple and put together to neatly. Main character who isn't right with things enters situation and has to pull themselves up and makes their own team to do it. Yes, a little Rah-rah and yes I know the author was leveraging his training experience for it (yes, I like to read author bios, explains a lot on their writing). Between the slightly over the top rah-rah and how the characters don't fully gel (long with a school that's pretty dysfunctional. I mean a head master who doesn't guide his instructors tighter.... not cool). As I said though those are fairly minor and I'll tip my hat and say that if there's a sequel I'll be there looking to read what happens next to our "young" heroes.
The winner for me was character development. Yes, undoubtable Mr. Hunter poured some of himself into his characters (and probably a friend or three) but that's what a good author does. The sell you the characters and make you start liking them and how they interact. Logan Murray is undoubtable Mr. Hunter's personification. What I loved though is how the losers form a team and get better as they work together. If there's a draw back with how it's presented it's that the team didn't pull together faster than they did.
Another winner is the roleplaying reference and how Mr. Hunter wove that with how the universe is. Won't say it's 100% believable but it's fun, new, and made for good story telling. What's especially interesting is how the "dungeon master" is really fighting for the greater good in this case (something normal RPGs don't have). As I said I don't 100% buy it but it's cool for a book like this.
Ok, great love here but I rated it 4 stars.... ok a few misses, no show stoppers though. The most basic is that things are a little simple and put together to neatly. Main character who isn't right with things enters situation and has to pull themselves up and makes their own team to do it. Yes, a little Rah-rah and yes I know the author was leveraging his training experience for it (yes, I like to read author bios, explains a lot on their writing). Between the slightly over the top rah-rah and how the characters don't fully gel (long with a school that's pretty dysfunctional. I mean a head master who doesn't guide his instructors tighter.... not cool). As I said though those are fairly minor and I'll tip my hat and say that if there's a sequel I'll be there looking to read what happens next to our "young" heroes.
February 2, 2021
Alert
First, my review: “This was a fun book. I am glad that I read it. You should try it too.”
Second, I am not a bot...at least I don’t think I am. Yes this is copy pasta (just learned that term, so fun!) simply because I feel like any book I read deserves acknowledgement but at the same time my feelings on reviews conflict with the normal review process.
I enjoyed this book, so my goal is to promote it and help the author. If you are a potential reader, just stop reading now and take the above as all you need to know. I am not going to share my reasoning, thoughts on the book, or any opinions that would influence your decision to read it. It is my opinion that Art needs to be experienced at an individual level. You are the only one that can determine what you like and don’t like. Don’t let others make that decision for you. You should definitely read the book and completely ignore all of the reviews. Or not if you don’t think this book is for you. That choice is all yours and the beauty of art appreciation. You are a much better judge of what you will like than anyone here.
If you are a member of the IAK Guild (thanks, Jason) or part of the review police, feel free to criticize me and challenge my philosophy on reviewing art. I think we all love a good debate. The forums are open and I welcome your comments. I was wrong in my previous request to get you to stop. Your blatant disregard for that request has led to some fun discussions. Growth is important for us all.
Cheers
First, my review: “This was a fun book. I am glad that I read it. You should try it too.”
Second, I am not a bot...at least I don’t think I am. Yes this is copy pasta (just learned that term, so fun!) simply because I feel like any book I read deserves acknowledgement but at the same time my feelings on reviews conflict with the normal review process.
I enjoyed this book, so my goal is to promote it and help the author. If you are a potential reader, just stop reading now and take the above as all you need to know. I am not going to share my reasoning, thoughts on the book, or any opinions that would influence your decision to read it. It is my opinion that Art needs to be experienced at an individual level. You are the only one that can determine what you like and don’t like. Don’t let others make that decision for you. You should definitely read the book and completely ignore all of the reviews. Or not if you don’t think this book is for you. That choice is all yours and the beauty of art appreciation. You are a much better judge of what you will like than anyone here.
If you are a member of the IAK Guild (thanks, Jason) or part of the review police, feel free to criticize me and challenge my philosophy on reviewing art. I think we all love a good debate. The forums are open and I welcome your comments. I was wrong in my previous request to get you to stop. Your blatant disregard for that request has led to some fun discussions. Growth is important for us all.
Cheers
January 19, 2021
Dungeon School for Abducted Gamers
This story is an unusual cross between a dungeon core and a achool/academy novel. The dungeon core flavour is covered when, in true "The Last Starfighter" fashion he is recruited to defend The Tree by winning a video game. His prize? Being killed and resurrected as a dungeon core but such a weak one that there is no hope of surviving. The academy part of it is that it is year one of dungeon school so expect a good number of classes, projects and training to happen. In the addition to the poor hand our main character is dealt when it comes to selecting his dungeon core form, half the school are out to "put him out of his misery " as he is puny and pathetic.
One thing I appreciated about this book is the main characters positive attitude. No matter what happens he keeps his chin up and never whines, complains or grouses. No matter how bad things get. Much to the reader's relief too!
There is loads of potential for character development available to the author and I would enjoy reading the next one in the series, simply to see what the author plans to do with his character and how he will develop them.
Enjoyable.
This story is an unusual cross between a dungeon core and a achool/academy novel. The dungeon core flavour is covered when, in true "The Last Starfighter" fashion he is recruited to defend The Tree by winning a video game. His prize? Being killed and resurrected as a dungeon core but such a weak one that there is no hope of surviving. The academy part of it is that it is year one of dungeon school so expect a good number of classes, projects and training to happen. In the addition to the poor hand our main character is dealt when it comes to selecting his dungeon core form, half the school are out to "put him out of his misery " as he is puny and pathetic.
One thing I appreciated about this book is the main characters positive attitude. No matter what happens he keeps his chin up and never whines, complains or grouses. No matter how bad things get. Much to the reader's relief too!
There is loads of potential for character development available to the author and I would enjoy reading the next one in the series, simply to see what the author plans to do with his character and how he will develop them.
Enjoyable.
February 2, 2021
KU read
Oh, this was really entertaining and definitely what I needed - it's a fun romp in a detailed universe with a nice twist on the "typical" hero school trope :)
Logan was definitely a bit too chipper for me - I definitely would have not have coped with half the stuff he does - but whilst I can't get my head around it, that's much better than angst for days (I'm looking at you, order of the phoenix). Whilst the rest of the Terrible Twelfth bring their own issues and back stories, none of them are really depressed or angsty about it.
I had a few issues with world building - like, I couldn't work out how the school worked really. And this is basic questions like how many were in a year group or house (like, there's 4 in a cohort and 50 is mentioned in a few places - but 50 isn't divisible by 4). And what happens if you get an odd number of students in the threshing?
Still, I let that just wash over me and didn't think too carefully about it. After all, this is about the power of friendship and hard work (TM), not a monograph about how life is cruel and unfair
Definitely looking out for book 2 :)
Oh, this was really entertaining and definitely what I needed - it's a fun romp in a detailed universe with a nice twist on the "typical" hero school trope :)
Logan was definitely a bit too chipper for me - I definitely would have not have coped with half the stuff he does - but whilst I can't get my head around it, that's much better than angst for days (I'm looking at you, order of the phoenix). Whilst the rest of the Terrible Twelfth bring their own issues and back stories, none of them are really depressed or angsty about it.
I had a few issues with world building - like, I couldn't work out how the school worked really. And this is basic questions like how many were in a year group or house (like, there's 4 in a cohort and 50 is mentioned in a few places - but 50 isn't divisible by 4). And what happens if you get an odd number of students in the threshing?
Still, I let that just wash over me and didn't think too carefully about it. After all, this is about the power of friendship and hard work (TM), not a monograph about how life is cruel and unfair
Definitely looking out for book 2 :)
March 13, 2021
4 And If You Don’t Like Me, As A Fungus, I’ll Grow On You Stars
Shadowcroft Academy For Dungeons: Year One, is the first book of the series by James Hunter and Aaron Micheal Richtley.
This book is entirely too entertaining. Such a weird and controversial take on the normal LitRPGs and adventuring type tropes. Shifting the fault or antagonists to be in the ‘Heroes’ corner definitely turns the worldview on its head. This in no way makes the ‘monsters’ good, imo. They still treat each other horribly and have an amoral type of outlook, even it’s for ‘the good of the universe’. It’s entirely too reminiscent of holy wars and the like to make it any way heroism.
However, I think our mushroom of an MC is going to turn their worldview on its head. Simply in implementing teamwork into the defense of the dungeons.
I really enjoyed his friends as well. The types of monsters portrayed are varied and all individually intriguing. Most being that of which one wouldn’t typically first think of when considering the baddies to create such a world around.
It’s definitely going to be interesting to see where this author duo will take us, on this journey.
Shadowcroft Academy For Dungeons: Year One, is the first book of the series by James Hunter and Aaron Micheal Richtley.
This book is entirely too entertaining. Such a weird and controversial take on the normal LitRPGs and adventuring type tropes. Shifting the fault or antagonists to be in the ‘Heroes’ corner definitely turns the worldview on its head. This in no way makes the ‘monsters’ good, imo. They still treat each other horribly and have an amoral type of outlook, even it’s for ‘the good of the universe’. It’s entirely too reminiscent of holy wars and the like to make it any way heroism.
However, I think our mushroom of an MC is going to turn their worldview on its head. Simply in implementing teamwork into the defense of the dungeons.
I really enjoyed his friends as well. The types of monsters portrayed are varied and all individually intriguing. Most being that of which one wouldn’t typically first think of when considering the baddies to create such a world around.
It’s definitely going to be interesting to see where this author duo will take us, on this journey.
April 28, 2021
I absolutely loved this book... it's a complete Hoot! It starts with an ex-military guy, honorably discharged because of his injuries and PTSD.
This is the story of how Logan Murray dies, but somehow winds up in Shadowcroft Academy, a school from another reality, that teaches people to become the Guardian of his own dungeon in a bizarre role playing game! With a mushroom 🍄 as his avatar, Logan starts his training program! It might be the weirdest litRPG story I've ever encountered... and it's possibly one of my most-favorite litRPG's at that!!! 😊👍
Logan joins up with a team of misfits, and they all have to work hard "cultivating" (gaining powers and leveling up) in order to get passing grades in their first year at the Academy. It really doesn't help that one of their Professors is determined to make sure they fail... where failing means permanent death!
I didn't initially "click" with the narrator, Henry Kramer. I felt like his pacing was off, but the storyline kept me enthralled, and he grew on me as things progressed.
So, my recommendation is that you get the book, and go back to school to find out what it takes to be a great Guardian!
This is the story of how Logan Murray dies, but somehow winds up in Shadowcroft Academy, a school from another reality, that teaches people to become the Guardian of his own dungeon in a bizarre role playing game! With a mushroom 🍄 as his avatar, Logan starts his training program! It might be the weirdest litRPG story I've ever encountered... and it's possibly one of my most-favorite litRPG's at that!!! 😊👍
Logan joins up with a team of misfits, and they all have to work hard "cultivating" (gaining powers and leveling up) in order to get passing grades in their first year at the Academy. It really doesn't help that one of their Professors is determined to make sure they fail... where failing means permanent death!
I didn't initially "click" with the narrator, Henry Kramer. I felt like his pacing was off, but the storyline kept me enthralled, and he grew on me as things progressed.
So, my recommendation is that you get the book, and go back to school to find out what it takes to be a great Guardian!
September 17, 2021
Great read and great start to a series
Content ratings: Language - PG13; Violence - PG; Other - PG
When I first started reading this, even from the title, I was thinking Harry Potter and the Divine Dungeon series. Not far in, I started thinking the Last Starfighter as well. Then the main character noted the Last Starfighter connection, and it suddenly didn’t seem so derivative. Of course it’s easy to see parallels in any dungeon core book or fantasy “academy” series, but this book fairly quickly went in its own directions, and I thoroughly enjoyed it, rarely thinking of parallels with the other works.
A couple of editing issues some people may have trouble with: overuse of simile early on; a running theme/joke through the book about cultural references that other characters couldn’t possibly get, but then those characters would include cultural references in their dialog. I only bring these up, because I know people who complain about these things, and if that’s you, you’re forewarned. It’s also an encouragement to the author - tightening those things up can make the difference between a good book and a great book.
Content ratings: Language - PG13; Violence - PG; Other - PG
When I first started reading this, even from the title, I was thinking Harry Potter and the Divine Dungeon series. Not far in, I started thinking the Last Starfighter as well. Then the main character noted the Last Starfighter connection, and it suddenly didn’t seem so derivative. Of course it’s easy to see parallels in any dungeon core book or fantasy “academy” series, but this book fairly quickly went in its own directions, and I thoroughly enjoyed it, rarely thinking of parallels with the other works.
A couple of editing issues some people may have trouble with: overuse of simile early on; a running theme/joke through the book about cultural references that other characters couldn’t possibly get, but then those characters would include cultural references in their dialog. I only bring these up, because I know people who complain about these things, and if that’s you, you’re forewarned. It’s also an encouragement to the author - tightening those things up can make the difference between a good book and a great book.
March 2, 2022
Who knew school can be so fun? And dangerous…
I think it's the first real cultivation book I actually read, and I really don't see much difference from the Litrpg genre and the reason for readers to split into camps over it. Cultivation is just another way of getting experience points…
As for the book itself, it was fun, funny and fast paced. The year the MC went through was interesting to read and the MC is a really loveable mushroom guy. There is no real high stakes yet and the whole book felt like magic collage from monsters.
The world building was kinda minimal but still good. The characters are the best part of the book. A cheery Mushroom guy that likes his food with a bit of fungus on it, a depressed Minotaur, a crazy frat boy satyr and geek mouth lady. Each and every one of them is epic and funny in its own rights.
This book gets 4.5/5 and highly recommended as a fun light read. If you're from the Litrpg camp, don't worry, they just need to eat their EXP points, that’s all the difference.
I think it's the first real cultivation book I actually read, and I really don't see much difference from the Litrpg genre and the reason for readers to split into camps over it. Cultivation is just another way of getting experience points…
As for the book itself, it was fun, funny and fast paced. The year the MC went through was interesting to read and the MC is a really loveable mushroom guy. There is no real high stakes yet and the whole book felt like magic collage from monsters.
The world building was kinda minimal but still good. The characters are the best part of the book. A cheery Mushroom guy that likes his food with a bit of fungus on it, a depressed Minotaur, a crazy frat boy satyr and geek mouth lady. Each and every one of them is epic and funny in its own rights.
This book gets 4.5/5 and highly recommended as a fun light read. If you're from the Litrpg camp, don't worry, they just need to eat their EXP points, that’s all the difference.
January 24, 2021
Interesting World and Premise
This was a nice little story dungeoncore story with the twist that the cores are going to school to learn first (instead of the typical figure it out with your I'll informed fairy). I thought the world building was good, although I hope that the distant villains (heros) have a bit more depth in the future. Small nitpick, it was a bit jarring to have so many Earth/English things, the puns were one thing and I can get past those, but the acronyms that work in English, the normal days or the week, the normal 4 seasons, the school year being fall to spring, with a winter festival break and a 2 month summer break, that just seemed a bit lazy and didn't add anything.
Will definitely read book two, as I imagine things will only continue to get more interesting!
This was a nice little story dungeoncore story with the twist that the cores are going to school to learn first (instead of the typical figure it out with your I'll informed fairy). I thought the world building was good, although I hope that the distant villains (heros) have a bit more depth in the future. Small nitpick, it was a bit jarring to have so many Earth/English things, the puns were one thing and I can get past those, but the acronyms that work in English, the normal days or the week, the normal 4 seasons, the school year being fall to spring, with a winter festival break and a 2 month summer break, that just seemed a bit lazy and didn't add anything.
Will definitely read book two, as I imagine things will only continue to get more interesting!
January 27, 2021
Well developed characters and ingenious twists
Despite its frequent allusions and nods to the world of Harry Potter and Hogwarts, the characters are a wonderful breath of fresh air. Unlock many Gamelit or RPGlit novels, the characters develop rather than grind. The main character is sensible and likable. No one is over powered and the pace, dialogue, and combat are well done throughout. You don’t get the sense that this is a giant narcissistic escape into the Holodeck of Star Trek. The novel’s appeal is in the well balanced attention the authors have paid to each character; they are essential to the story and not cardboard cutouts necessary to create the illusion of a more complete world. Well done. I recommend the read if you are interested in these sub-genres of fantasy.
Despite its frequent allusions and nods to the world of Harry Potter and Hogwarts, the characters are a wonderful breath of fresh air. Unlock many Gamelit or RPGlit novels, the characters develop rather than grind. The main character is sensible and likable. No one is over powered and the pace, dialogue, and combat are well done throughout. You don’t get the sense that this is a giant narcissistic escape into the Holodeck of Star Trek. The novel’s appeal is in the well balanced attention the authors have paid to each character; they are essential to the story and not cardboard cutouts necessary to create the illusion of a more complete world. Well done. I recommend the read if you are interested in these sub-genres of fantasy.
April 19, 2021
A great story of a couple fun guys, a smart girl, and a sad guy banding together
Lots of laughs, pop references, dangerous adventures and a new world to survive and learn to thrive in. The world of monsters and dungeons is not what we thought, but such is the way of propaganda; each side has their perspective and it’s the right one. For dungeons actually defend the tree holding reality together while the dungeoneers see them as evil, truly it is those sole dungeon delivers who are endangering reality itself.
Logan starts as the weakest of the weak and while he does grow, he does not become the strongest as he’s more of a team player who increases the power of them all. With the ca eat that they trust him to give up his control as only he can.
Lots of laughs, pop references, dangerous adventures and a new world to survive and learn to thrive in. The world of monsters and dungeons is not what we thought, but such is the way of propaganda; each side has their perspective and it’s the right one. For dungeons actually defend the tree holding reality together while the dungeoneers see them as evil, truly it is those sole dungeon delivers who are endangering reality itself.
Logan starts as the weakest of the weak and while he does grow, he does not become the strongest as he’s more of a team player who increases the power of them all. With the ca eat that they trust him to give up his control as only he can.
January 28, 2021
Ready for Year Two at Shadowcroft
I’m a fan of James Hunter so I figured I would give this newest work a shot. I was not disappointed. I felt it to be a different take on the genre with the twist of being from the side of the dungeon rather than the dungeoneer. I wouldn’t say the book was overly deep - I really enjoyed the humor fully and liked its overall lighthearted feel. It felt like a very quick read but I think that is also due to the fact that it was hard to put down. Characters are developed well and felt relatable. Really enjoyed the final dungeon - SandScream. All and all hoping for a quick release for the next in the series.
I’m a fan of James Hunter so I figured I would give this newest work a shot. I was not disappointed. I felt it to be a different take on the genre with the twist of being from the side of the dungeon rather than the dungeoneer. I wouldn’t say the book was overly deep - I really enjoyed the humor fully and liked its overall lighthearted feel. It felt like a very quick read but I think that is also due to the fact that it was hard to put down. Characters are developed well and felt relatable. Really enjoyed the final dungeon - SandScream. All and all hoping for a quick release for the next in the series.
January 29, 2021
Loved it
I had a blast with this book. Love that the MC is a fungaloid and not too OP. Don’t get me wrong, I love an OP MC, but those seem to be much easier to write than an MC that is weak but becomes OP due to Witt and ingenuity.
Loved the cast of characters. I was laughing and having a blast reading about their antics and shenanigans! Marko is epic and Treacle is the eyore of minotaurs. So good!
The story itself rocked as well. I love rooting for the underdogs so this was right up my alley. Also, all the twists and turns weren’t too obvious.
***spoiler***
Kinda wish they hadn’t passed the winnowing. Would have given the story a cool twist.
I had a blast with this book. Love that the MC is a fungaloid and not too OP. Don’t get me wrong, I love an OP MC, but those seem to be much easier to write than an MC that is weak but becomes OP due to Witt and ingenuity.
Loved the cast of characters. I was laughing and having a blast reading about their antics and shenanigans! Marko is epic and Treacle is the eyore of minotaurs. So good!
The story itself rocked as well. I love rooting for the underdogs so this was right up my alley. Also, all the twists and turns weren’t too obvious.
***spoiler***
Kinda wish they hadn’t passed the winnowing. Would have given the story a cool twist.
May 8, 2021
An excellent twist on classic fantasy.
When I first read the summary I was sceptical, but James Hunter made an amazing universe with in depth thought and story writing. I also enjoy the video game style explanations throughout the book. They allow a reader to not only understand the characters abilities and potential but really make their own assessments and predictions. It really impressed me how helpful the "character sheets" we're to the story telling but also fleshing out characters and the world. I do recommend any fantasy/sci-fi readers to give this book a try. This book's universe has unlimited potential. I am looking forward to the next three years and beyond.
When I first read the summary I was sceptical, but James Hunter made an amazing universe with in depth thought and story writing. I also enjoy the video game style explanations throughout the book. They allow a reader to not only understand the characters abilities and potential but really make their own assessments and predictions. It really impressed me how helpful the "character sheets" we're to the story telling but also fleshing out characters and the world. I do recommend any fantasy/sci-fi readers to give this book a try. This book's universe has unlimited potential. I am looking forward to the next three years and beyond.
January 3, 2022
A school for dungeon cores, instead of dungeon delvers.
It seems the magical school setup can be used to tell many stories. This is year one for a character who finds themselves transported into a dungeon core and must learn how to run a dungeon to save the magic energy that powers the universe. The dungeon delvers are bad guys who want to steal that energy for themselves.
There are plenty of school-based bad guys (and good guys) who seek to impede the progress of our hero and friends. And a kindly headmaster.
A fun take on both the dungeon core story and the magic academy story.
It seems the magical school setup can be used to tell many stories. This is year one for a character who finds themselves transported into a dungeon core and must learn how to run a dungeon to save the magic energy that powers the universe. The dungeon delvers are bad guys who want to steal that energy for themselves.
There are plenty of school-based bad guys (and good guys) who seek to impede the progress of our hero and friends. And a kindly headmaster.
A fun take on both the dungeon core story and the magic academy story.
January 1, 2025
Weak world building. Especially for the existance and function of the dungeons. There are few reasons for the dungeons to be fair especially in the examples encountered in the school which doesnt deal with how to drum up business, and no rules for actually enforcing access to the core (they only cover a weak excuse for not walling it in, but doesn't say you can't put it out of reach other ways).
The overall story is fair, even if rather by the numbers.
Though, it does sound like all the dungeons and the school could turn out to all be 100% evil, if so, it would be cool, but I seriously doubt it with everything else being so cookie-cutter.
The overall story is fair, even if rather by the numbers.
Though, it does sound like all the dungeons and the school could turn out to all be 100% evil, if so, it would be cool, but I seriously doubt it with everything else being so cookie-cutter.
February 20, 2021
Dark Harry Potter
Hard to put in words. I liked the book. Different take on the dungeon core litrpg books.
It’s a dark Harry Potter like book. The author lays on thick the over top ambiance of a Hogwarts like world. Not sure I’m a huge fan of the live or die aspect. Not for any reason other than it boxes in the narrative. Even the dungeonners are over the top stupidly evil.
So what’s good? It’s entertaining. It has a rat pack friendship vibe.
Decent read maybe you’ll like it.
Hard to put in words. I liked the book. Different take on the dungeon core litrpg books.
It’s a dark Harry Potter like book. The author lays on thick the over top ambiance of a Hogwarts like world. Not sure I’m a huge fan of the live or die aspect. Not for any reason other than it boxes in the narrative. Even the dungeonners are over the top stupidly evil.
So what’s good? It’s entertaining. It has a rat pack friendship vibe.
Decent read maybe you’ll like it.
April 28, 2021
(I listen to the audible version)
I enjoyed this a great deal admittedly it started off a little bit slow but once it got going and it gets into its paces it was non-stop fun. There's a lot of wacky silly and amusing laugh-out-loud parts to this book, and I enjoyed every minute of it. I love the concept of this book while it has some similarities to the rest of the genre the way it goes about and the end results are unique and it makes a point to not take itself too seriously but still managing to keep an amazing story going in the right direction. I can't wait to read the next book!
I enjoyed this a great deal admittedly it started off a little bit slow but once it got going and it gets into its paces it was non-stop fun. There's a lot of wacky silly and amusing laugh-out-loud parts to this book, and I enjoyed every minute of it. I love the concept of this book while it has some similarities to the rest of the genre the way it goes about and the end results are unique and it makes a point to not take itself too seriously but still managing to keep an amazing story going in the right direction. I can't wait to read the next book!
April 28, 2021
The story was good and well written, but it was a struggle for me to finish. The prose was a bit too poetic at times, which is kind of ironic when the MC says he lacks it by comparing tears to April rain even though earlier on he thinks a rumbling stomach to a church bell in an empty church. Crinchy. Overly descriptive as well, dragged some parts too much at time. The not for me part is in the whole school setup including some of the tropes that come with it. If you like it with a bit of dungeon crafting the book is great, if not, it drags on a bit. So not a bad story, just not for me.
May 26, 2021
Very good read.
I thought it a light read, not a real complex book, easy to follow with a good typical hero story. Obviously we knew Logan was gonna make it from the start so that's not really a spoiler, but how he did it was great. He actually had to work at it and wasn't just handed things left and right. Then his final exam was awesome, I look forward to reading more about our little fungaloid buddy for the next 3 school years and hopefully one or two more books with Logan as an S class or higher dungeon and saving his home.
I thought it a light read, not a real complex book, easy to follow with a good typical hero story. Obviously we knew Logan was gonna make it from the start so that's not really a spoiler, but how he did it was great. He actually had to work at it and wasn't just handed things left and right. Then his final exam was awesome, I look forward to reading more about our little fungaloid buddy for the next 3 school years and hopefully one or two more books with Logan as an S class or higher dungeon and saving his home.
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