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Invasion #1
Activation
In the year 2035, humanity broke the dimensional barrier and attached its world to another. Unfortunately, something was waiting on the other side.
Nearly 150 year later, humanity is in a never-ending war to hold what is left of its world. Vic is a military asset for the United Forces of Humanity (UFH) and his job is to kill the Invader orcs and their kin. While on a mission, he is exposed to an advanced technology which grants him powers beyond anything he has known. How can he grow and use those powers serve humanity and its hope to take back the world?
Travel with Vic as he uncovers strange happenings throughout human cities, strengthens himself and his allies, and breaks rules set in place a century and a half ago. Watch as he allies himself with elves, dwarves, gnomes and beastkin to battle the Invaders using a mix of ancient magic and futuristic technology.
Nearly 150 year later, humanity is in a never-ending war to hold what is left of its world. Vic is a military asset for the United Forces of Humanity (UFH) and his job is to kill the Invader orcs and their kin. While on a mission, he is exposed to an advanced technology which grants him powers beyond anything he has known. How can he grow and use those powers serve humanity and its hope to take back the world?
Travel with Vic as he uncovers strange happenings throughout human cities, strengthens himself and his allies, and breaks rules set in place a century and a half ago. Watch as he allies himself with elves, dwarves, gnomes and beastkin to battle the Invaders using a mix of ancient magic and futuristic technology.
571 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 12, 2021
425 people are currently reading
239 people want to read
About the author
D.I. Freed
5 books164 followersHey readers! I'm author D.I. Freed. Thank you for looking into my books. I'm a computer and gaming geek who loved epic fantasy, sci-fi books from the moment I could read. I've also loved playing video games and that got me into the LitRPG genre. And so I decided to give writing it a shot. I hope you enjoy my books. I wish you the best. Stay safe and healthy!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 132 reviews
January 23, 2021
Training montage
A decent start (many LitRPGs are weak here), with a solid MC. Potential to become OP, but is very squishy and works to become effective.
Then it all goes to poop.
The plot doesn’t move for over half the book. Once they are in the hotel and secure, it becomes training (which I can appreciate) and buying. Anything and everything. MC becomes stupidly OP. Stumbles over new advantages so often it is ludicrous. It’s as if the MC had a DM book and picked all the best stuff.
There are moments where the MC ‘notices’ the level of coincidence. But nothing comes of it.
The worst part: for all the talk of ‘Specials’ we only met the MC. Still don’t have any clue how his specialness compares. No frame of reference.
The dialogue got stupid, the minor plot stuff got stupid, and the major plot stuff barely moved.
Don’t read this.
A decent start (many LitRPGs are weak here), with a solid MC. Potential to become OP, but is very squishy and works to become effective.
Then it all goes to poop.
The plot doesn’t move for over half the book. Once they are in the hotel and secure, it becomes training (which I can appreciate) and buying. Anything and everything. MC becomes stupidly OP. Stumbles over new advantages so often it is ludicrous. It’s as if the MC had a DM book and picked all the best stuff.
There are moments where the MC ‘notices’ the level of coincidence. But nothing comes of it.
The worst part: for all the talk of ‘Specials’ we only met the MC. Still don’t have any clue how his specialness compares. No frame of reference.
The dialogue got stupid, the minor plot stuff got stupid, and the major plot stuff barely moved.
Don’t read this.
February 17, 2021
Massive info dump, very sparse on anything else
I was desperate, so despite not loving the info dump intro I thought I’d trust the ratings and give it a go. It was cheap and surely it would be finished lecturing me at some point and begin an actual story? Well, it didn’t. 35% in we had still done nothing but look at pages and pages of skill descriptions etc and I threw in the towel.
I can’t recommend this for anyone.
I was desperate, so despite not loving the info dump intro I thought I’d trust the ratings and give it a go. It was cheap and surely it would be finished lecturing me at some point and begin an actual story? Well, it didn’t. 35% in we had still done nothing but look at pages and pages of skill descriptions etc and I threw in the towel.
I can’t recommend this for anyone.
March 16, 2021
NOPE, I'm out.
The inner monologue and stuff doesn't feel appropriate to what is happening, first three chapter's the MC is drowning and his minds goes "In summary, crappity crap crap."
The inner monologue and stuff doesn't feel appropriate to what is happening, first three chapter's the MC is drowning and his minds goes "In summary, crappity crap crap."
August 3, 2021
As always, the first books in a series have loads of information dumped on the reader, this had that but the action sequences made it that much more appealing to want to read the next book.
Which I'm going to do right now! The LirRPG genre is pretty cool to me.
Which I'm going to do right now! The LirRPG genre is pretty cool to me.
November 1, 2021
Well it started off good; Until the epic massive info dump for 15+ hours worth and being stuck in a town for most of the time. Then dealing with the potato brain dead MC that decides to take care of another potato brain dead woman that is some how 2-3 times older than the MC but the life experiences of a small child. All the characters are very shallow and very 2D, I don't care about any one of them, even after the massive info dump.
July 20, 2021
Activation is the first book in the Invasion series by D. I. Freed.
This book is so completely weird. I’m sure I’ve read books previously, with similar premises, but the intriguing amalgamation of convoluted mystery and cultivation-esque fantasy land was so entirely riveting.
He kind of has a harem. Expect two of the ‘women’ in his life are technically incorporeal. I could have done without the over used naïveté towards relationships, women, and emotional attachments. This is a primarily exploited cliche of anime and similar world buildings I’ve come across in the more masculine targeted genres in books and other media representations.
I am, however, still overly fascinated with this literary universe, especially in regards to the political intrigue and secret military operations developing in this nearly post-apocalyptic fantasy conversion of modern day norms. Now while I wouldn’t wish for the utter destruction of humanity, I wouldn’t mind meeting a few elves, dwarves, gnomes, or lionkin. The mounting depth that the author has placed into the interactions of the introduced races and their relevant species specific faults or advantages all combine to comprise a fully realized and imaginative world.
I can’t wait to discover the traitors of the humans and subsequent allies, to see how Vic will advance and cock up (in the luckiest of fashions) entirely (subjectively) normal situations, as well further detail into the Knights and what their ‘organization’ and involved parties are all about would not be dismissed either. Vic and his future team will be incredibly interesting, I can just feel it!
This book is so completely weird. I’m sure I’ve read books previously, with similar premises, but the intriguing amalgamation of convoluted mystery and cultivation-esque fantasy land was so entirely riveting.
He kind of has a harem. Expect two of the ‘women’ in his life are technically incorporeal. I could have done without the over used naïveté towards relationships, women, and emotional attachments. This is a primarily exploited cliche of anime and similar world buildings I’ve come across in the more masculine targeted genres in books and other media representations.
I am, however, still overly fascinated with this literary universe, especially in regards to the political intrigue and secret military operations developing in this nearly post-apocalyptic fantasy conversion of modern day norms. Now while I wouldn’t wish for the utter destruction of humanity, I wouldn’t mind meeting a few elves, dwarves, gnomes, or lionkin. The mounting depth that the author has placed into the interactions of the introduced races and their relevant species specific faults or advantages all combine to comprise a fully realized and imaginative world.
I can’t wait to discover the traitors of the humans and subsequent allies, to see how Vic will advance and cock up (in the luckiest of fashions) entirely (subjectively) normal situations, as well further detail into the Knights and what their ‘organization’ and involved parties are all about would not be dismissed either. Vic and his future team will be incredibly interesting, I can just feel it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 4, 2022
DNF another false rating that is very undeserved. The first 10 minutes of this book told me all I needed to know. Stilted dialogue with weird pauses in between words. It's as if the author didn't know how too write a dialogue, at least not one that didn't sound like an alien that doesn't understand human speech was talking.
January 13, 2021
Solid Beginning
The book started strong with a post apocalyptic story where the survivors have settled into a new war like reality well past the initiating event. The story is action filled, the internal dialogue is interesting and the main character is engaging. It gets a little slow as the hero and his companion enter a city but ends satisfyingly. I will be looking for the next in series.
The book started strong with a post apocalyptic story where the survivors have settled into a new war like reality well past the initiating event. The story is action filled, the internal dialogue is interesting and the main character is engaging. It gets a little slow as the hero and his companion enter a city but ends satisfyingly. I will be looking for the next in series.
February 25, 2021
Not really my preference
I gave up after about 15% of the book (Maybe it gets better and Author was just laying groundwork) it was just too much gaming talk about leveling and points and this gave you that points and stuff instead of actually dialogue and moving the story forward starting to feel like I was taking an economics course
I gave up after about 15% of the book (Maybe it gets better and Author was just laying groundwork) it was just too much gaming talk about leveling and points and this gave you that points and stuff instead of actually dialogue and moving the story forward starting to feel like I was taking an economics course
June 27, 2021
Good
When the nano consciousness “speaks” it always ends with a “...” and it is really distracting because it feels like the consciousness is just trailing off and the thought is incomplete.
One thing that I found a little odd is that Vic was really concerned with hiding his identity and stuff. But then when he was asked by his nano consciousness if he wanted to hide his new titles, he never says he wants to hide them or not. Based on his paranoia in the beginning of the book about people knowing about him, I would assume he would want to hide his titles. But he never says if he does or not.
There are a lot of continuity errors throughout the book in regards to the way names are spelled. And there are issues with present and past tense throughout it.
Aria annoyed me. She said that she was young to an elf but old to a human, and therefore is mature. She didn’t feel mature. She felt like a mix between a teenager and a younger child.
I enjoyed Vic’s character. His absolute focus, and the way he dealt with the different problems throughout the story, were enjoyable.
The intrigue of humans selling out humanity is interesting, and I definitely would like to know more.
The book was slow towards the end, which was a little annoying, but it picked up right before the end.
I like the idea of a sci-fi/fantasy LitRPG. It feels unique. I really liked how simple the character profile was, and I appreciated not being overwhelmed with numbers and statistics.
When the nano consciousness “speaks” it always ends with a “...” and it is really distracting because it feels like the consciousness is just trailing off and the thought is incomplete.
One thing that I found a little odd is that Vic was really concerned with hiding his identity and stuff. But then when he was asked by his nano consciousness if he wanted to hide his new titles, he never says he wants to hide them or not. Based on his paranoia in the beginning of the book about people knowing about him, I would assume he would want to hide his titles. But he never says if he does or not.
There are a lot of continuity errors throughout the book in regards to the way names are spelled. And there are issues with present and past tense throughout it.
Aria annoyed me. She said that she was young to an elf but old to a human, and therefore is mature. She didn’t feel mature. She felt like a mix between a teenager and a younger child.
I enjoyed Vic’s character. His absolute focus, and the way he dealt with the different problems throughout the story, were enjoyable.
The intrigue of humans selling out humanity is interesting, and I definitely would like to know more.
The book was slow towards the end, which was a little annoying, but it picked up right before the end.
I like the idea of a sci-fi/fantasy LitRPG. It feels unique. I really liked how simple the character profile was, and I appreciated not being overwhelmed with numbers and statistics.
April 16, 2021
The story has me split. The worldbuilding is intriguing, although there are a few questionable things (why would aluminium degrade? It is about as natural as steel. Why are there robbers amongst hotel employees and why is the reaction so blasé?). The explanation for the litRPG part is interesting. Levelling is arbitrary, especially for skills, but the rest works for me. Unlike most web novel based books there is a plot and some progress, although still at a relative slow pace. It kept me interested at least.
There are a few ugly bits though. My dislike for the MCs power (and power growth) and at times weird anti-social behaviour is personal. The MC points out the odd number of coincidences, but that does not make it less jarring for me. I especially dislike the way the dwarf and elf died - too cliché/predictable. The spelling errors, occasional missing texts and contradictions are all minor, but did distract me occasionally. At times the pacing felt off, I had the strong urge to flip past certain parts.
All in all, I am not sure whether I would buy the next part. I can see why people like it though. I do feel the book needs another editing cycle...
There are a few ugly bits though. My dislike for the MCs power (and power growth) and at times weird anti-social behaviour is personal. The MC points out the odd number of coincidences, but that does not make it less jarring for me. I especially dislike the way the dwarf and elf died - too cliché/predictable. The spelling errors, occasional missing texts and contradictions are all minor, but did distract me occasionally. At times the pacing felt off, I had the strong urge to flip past certain parts.
All in all, I am not sure whether I would buy the next part. I can see why people like it though. I do feel the book needs another editing cycle...
July 28, 2021
This is my first book by the author.
The book is set in Washington state for the most part, far in the future after an apocalypse has occurred where multiple different planets connect together and orcs invade Earth. Other races are present as well, and the most unique aspect of this is that it's possible for humans to visit these other planets.
Most of the story takes place in Sea Saddle (Seattle), and other names have similarly morphed over the centuries. Vic (the MC) is an orphan who becomes a special ops of the highest order.
The story starts out on a mission to kill a troll king, and it goes wrong almost immediately. I won't spoil anything, but we spend a long time reading about how Vic fixes a few problems and begins to grow his nanos.
Before I go further, this is a LitRPG novel. The leveling isn't quick, but it is inclusive as Vic activates multiple different types of essence (magic). If you dislike long stat sheets, you should steer away from this book.
The serial nature of this book is pretty apparent, and while there is some level of editing, it isn't great. I had no problem getting by, but it's there.
Once Vic gets back to a city, everything changes. All of a sudden Vic has money, except he doesn't really. He makes foolish mistakes that a skill operator wouldn't, and the love story takes far too long to get going.
I'm giving this 4 stars instead of a lower score because the action is inventive and fun. The downtime is fine but mostly taken up either in training or Vic talking to his AI.
Now that I've finished book 1 I've already moved on to book 2. So far it's been better balanced than book 1 was.
4/5*
The book is set in Washington state for the most part, far in the future after an apocalypse has occurred where multiple different planets connect together and orcs invade Earth. Other races are present as well, and the most unique aspect of this is that it's possible for humans to visit these other planets.
Most of the story takes place in Sea Saddle (Seattle), and other names have similarly morphed over the centuries. Vic (the MC) is an orphan who becomes a special ops of the highest order.
The story starts out on a mission to kill a troll king, and it goes wrong almost immediately. I won't spoil anything, but we spend a long time reading about how Vic fixes a few problems and begins to grow his nanos.
Before I go further, this is a LitRPG novel. The leveling isn't quick, but it is inclusive as Vic activates multiple different types of essence (magic). If you dislike long stat sheets, you should steer away from this book.
The serial nature of this book is pretty apparent, and while there is some level of editing, it isn't great. I had no problem getting by, but it's there.
Once Vic gets back to a city, everything changes. All of a sudden Vic has money, except he doesn't really. He makes foolish mistakes that a skill operator wouldn't, and the love story takes far too long to get going.
I'm giving this 4 stars instead of a lower score because the action is inventive and fun. The downtime is fine but mostly taken up either in training or Vic talking to his AI.
Now that I've finished book 1 I've already moved on to book 2. So far it's been better balanced than book 1 was.
4/5*
February 8, 2021
a level of game book really well done
on most of the books that I have read that are basically of the same genera as this one there's a lot of level up this level up that going this way going that way but not much of a storyline I found this to be highly entertaining and I wish there was like four or five more books that I can get to do it I'm surely considering purchasing this book from my Amazon unlimited account based on how well I like these book and I normally don't like these types of books because there's no story to them this was well written well thought out and had just the right amount of everything some of the turn books get into sex scenes but this one did not this was just an innuendo which was fine I found this book to be highly entertaining and I hope this writer writes three or four of them in the next month or two and I can get ahead ahead of them again I find this book completely great and it worth the five stars
on most of the books that I have read that are basically of the same genera as this one there's a lot of level up this level up that going this way going that way but not much of a storyline I found this to be highly entertaining and I wish there was like four or five more books that I can get to do it I'm surely considering purchasing this book from my Amazon unlimited account based on how well I like these book and I normally don't like these types of books because there's no story to them this was well written well thought out and had just the right amount of everything some of the turn books get into sex scenes but this one did not this was just an innuendo which was fine I found this book to be highly entertaining and I hope this writer writes three or four of them in the next month or two and I can get ahead ahead of them again I find this book completely great and it worth the five stars
March 11, 2021
3.5 overall. The beginning was way too much crafting and menus for me, but the book eventually started rolling. MC is a burgeoning OP character, but he isn't there yet. Given the scale of challenges he/humanity faces, even being OP might not be enough so that isn't a bad idea for story balance.
His cluelessness got a bit grating at times, as it was inconsistent, but eventually (albeit near the end of the book) he started to resemble a functional adult.
It shows potential overall, so I'll certainly read another one if it shows up.
His cluelessness got a bit grating at times, as it was inconsistent, but eventually (albeit near the end of the book) he started to resemble a functional adult.
It shows potential overall, so I'll certainly read another one if it shows up.
January 23, 2021
An excellent mix of what makes LITRPG good
Humanity’s future is a doubt, after nearly being destroyed by invasions of monsters from fantasy. Our main character, a special forces operative, awakens his nano/magics and may be our greatest hope.
So there’s a lot of great stuff here, the beginning sequences where he learns that he has magic and how to manipulate it, provides a nice bit of vulnerability and roots a character who when he returns to the world, could seem a bit of a OP Mary Sue.
The system is nice, and makes sense. The world building is very interesting, and the characters are appealing.There is a romance in here, but it’s mostly fade to black, no elements of misogyny or harem.
It’s also, like many of the books that come to us from Royal Road, nicely long. I look forward to the next one.
Humanity’s future is a doubt, after nearly being destroyed by invasions of monsters from fantasy. Our main character, a special forces operative, awakens his nano/magics and may be our greatest hope.
So there’s a lot of great stuff here, the beginning sequences where he learns that he has magic and how to manipulate it, provides a nice bit of vulnerability and roots a character who when he returns to the world, could seem a bit of a OP Mary Sue.
The system is nice, and makes sense. The world building is very interesting, and the characters are appealing.There is a romance in here, but it’s mostly fade to black, no elements of misogyny or harem.
It’s also, like many of the books that come to us from Royal Road, nicely long. I look forward to the next one.
February 3, 2021
Awesome book
Do you like completely OP Heroes this is your book. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and was very sad that I reach the end. Even though the MC is seriously o p by the end there is so much discovery and his learning of new powers is like walking in the dark. His abilities came with no manual and they're all unique for the most part. So his progression in many areas is trial and error. Emphasis on error and possibly pain. The author has allowed BMC to touch on so many different abilities. Jack of all trades master of none. Yet.. that said of his original trade, assassin, he is truly a master. His slow growth towards romance was endearing even if it was frustrating at times. His total inexperience with those types of emotions was fun to read and yet frustrating. I totally enjoyed this book and can't wait for the next.
Do you like completely OP Heroes this is your book. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and was very sad that I reach the end. Even though the MC is seriously o p by the end there is so much discovery and his learning of new powers is like walking in the dark. His abilities came with no manual and they're all unique for the most part. So his progression in many areas is trial and error. Emphasis on error and possibly pain. The author has allowed BMC to touch on so many different abilities. Jack of all trades master of none. Yet.. that said of his original trade, assassin, he is truly a master. His slow growth towards romance was endearing even if it was frustrating at times. His total inexperience with those types of emotions was fun to read and yet frustrating. I totally enjoyed this book and can't wait for the next.
March 16, 2021
A decent first book
The book was pretty decent for a first but there were some plot stretches for dramatic effects and the mc seems to be a teenager emotionally, not a hardened operative as he is portrait. He basically just stays behind cover while low level thugs shoot the family he is protecting shooting them with magic as if he has only 2 shots. The whole scene is ridiculous. Then when he gets the living inventory he doesn't test it, he just stores dead bodies in it (where's the logic?) but leaves the slaves to die because he's not confident of what will happen to them inside (even though it's called living inventory and the alternative is death) wtf? But anyway the story is pretty interesting and gripping.
The book was pretty decent for a first but there were some plot stretches for dramatic effects and the mc seems to be a teenager emotionally, not a hardened operative as he is portrait. He basically just stays behind cover while low level thugs shoot the family he is protecting shooting them with magic as if he has only 2 shots. The whole scene is ridiculous. Then when he gets the living inventory he doesn't test it, he just stores dead bodies in it (where's the logic?) but leaves the slaves to die because he's not confident of what will happen to them inside (even though it's called living inventory and the alternative is death) wtf? But anyway the story is pretty interesting and gripping.
December 8, 2021
Interesting ideas, well developed
At this point, it becomes very hard to find LitRPG stories with unique elements. Like many, the MC starts as a focused, successful , but fundamentally broken individual. Through a series of weird events, he meets a girl, is granted off-the-charts powers, and builds a “family” of likewise strong, influential people. The antagonists are slavers, evil creatures, and an unknown group of those who possibly are betraying humans as a whole. So, yes, that sounds like a LOT of other books.
What makes this a good and somewhat unique read is the depth and breadth of the world and magic/level system. It helps that the MC is mostly likable, but recognizes his strengths and weaknesses.
At this point, it becomes very hard to find LitRPG stories with unique elements. Like many, the MC starts as a focused, successful , but fundamentally broken individual. Through a series of weird events, he meets a girl, is granted off-the-charts powers, and builds a “family” of likewise strong, influential people. The antagonists are slavers, evil creatures, and an unknown group of those who possibly are betraying humans as a whole. So, yes, that sounds like a LOT of other books.
What makes this a good and somewhat unique read is the depth and breadth of the world and magic/level system. It helps that the MC is mostly likable, but recognizes his strengths and weaknesses.
September 11, 2022
OMG!
Oh my word! This book was AMAZING!! Started off a little slow but by the 5% mark it was moving and never slowed down! Vic is an orphan who is a trouble shorter for the unified earth forces. Humans played with science and opened a portal to another dimension that released magical creatures that came to conquer. For the last 100 years humanity lost and lost badly. We finally figured out how to use mana, got Allie’s in form of dwarves and elves and now we are at a stalemate with the orcs in this war for survival. Vic is on the frontlines of that battle and he’s just been betrayed. He barely escapes with his life, activates his magic for the first time and now he needs to survive and figure out who he can trust. Amazing book 1 and I can’t wait for book 2
Oh my word! This book was AMAZING!! Started off a little slow but by the 5% mark it was moving and never slowed down! Vic is an orphan who is a trouble shorter for the unified earth forces. Humans played with science and opened a portal to another dimension that released magical creatures that came to conquer. For the last 100 years humanity lost and lost badly. We finally figured out how to use mana, got Allie’s in form of dwarves and elves and now we are at a stalemate with the orcs in this war for survival. Vic is on the frontlines of that battle and he’s just been betrayed. He barely escapes with his life, activates his magic for the first time and now he needs to survive and figure out who he can trust. Amazing book 1 and I can’t wait for book 2
October 15, 2021
Filler ruins this novel
There is so much filler, between info dumps and repeating the same thoughts in a different way, you could cut almost 40% of this book and loose nothing.
The second main issue is the MC seesawing between the mentality of a grown up and a 12 year old. He starts fairly competent and get dumber the more the novel goes on to build tension? I guess.
I got to 90% and quit because I realise the main plot was never going to be addressed again outside of a few pages at the end and it was just going to be meaningless filler for most of the book. I won’t be reading the 2nd.
There is so much filler, between info dumps and repeating the same thoughts in a different way, you could cut almost 40% of this book and loose nothing.
The second main issue is the MC seesawing between the mentality of a grown up and a 12 year old. He starts fairly competent and get dumber the more the novel goes on to build tension? I guess.
I got to 90% and quit because I realise the main plot was never going to be addressed again outside of a few pages at the end and it was just going to be meaningless filler for most of the book. I won’t be reading the 2nd.
January 25, 2023
I can understand creating a system (game-like system) so that the "nanobots" can manage "mana" for humans in the beginning. But 150 years later, there shouldn't be any humans that survive (incapable of managing mana or fighting back the alien-fantasy invaders). This type of dystopian-apocalypse that turns the planet into a hell-like invaded place are a dime a dozen... Main character isn't even an elite martial arts/intelligence, etc. person, just a regular survivor that has to train in everything because needs to level up even in swimming/mining/and-other-menial-chores.
The author changes the DNA and species of main character (into a mythical mana being), (reminded me of the midi-clorians and the Jedis in Star Wars). The thing is, this book series has no main theme. Earth is already gone, the survivors aren't really fighting back or relevant anymore, so, what would be interesting of having a game-like system of a noob, in the real world, occupied world, where everything has been lost?? A single swallow does not make summer (spanish saying) that main character is not going to be able to un-do the apocalypse, bring back humanity (especially if he is no longer human) (doesn't have a family, his friend Jo died on his birthday) (doesn't have any reasons to fight for humanity --that the author explained or described).
I think the author fell in love with a game-like system that is not necessary in the way-post-dystopian-real world. Why would one want to play "real life" like being in a game? Because the main character only has his Artificial Intelligence Jocelyn, then he does everything solo. The remaining billion humans and 500 cities are no longer relevant, nor are they "savable"..."The Fat Lady has sung" (150 years in the past) and this story lacks common sense, basic logical and rational thoughts.
The nano machines with Jocelyn managing the mana and the skills are all that is needed to use "magic and magical skills with mana", so why "pretend that its a game" if its not? Its real life with an Artificial Intelligence doing all the work, with people that have no martial arts training, no real abilities or skills that could be used to defeat or overcome the aliens that invaded and conquered the planet... If the nano-bots and AI's are doing everything why not have robots and cyborgs fight the war instead of noobs that have no mana capacity, no martial arts training or hope to be able to manage mana, train in martial arts or be competitive with the invaders??
The book does not have any maps, no inside illustrations, no character summaries, it lacks character descriptions, world descriptions, world governance, and a main theme, secondary plot themes and a reason to read this story...
The author changes the DNA and species of main character (into a mythical mana being), (reminded me of the midi-clorians and the Jedis in Star Wars). The thing is, this book series has no main theme. Earth is already gone, the survivors aren't really fighting back or relevant anymore, so, what would be interesting of having a game-like system of a noob, in the real world, occupied world, where everything has been lost?? A single swallow does not make summer (spanish saying) that main character is not going to be able to un-do the apocalypse, bring back humanity (especially if he is no longer human) (doesn't have a family, his friend Jo died on his birthday) (doesn't have any reasons to fight for humanity --that the author explained or described).
I think the author fell in love with a game-like system that is not necessary in the way-post-dystopian-real world. Why would one want to play "real life" like being in a game? Because the main character only has his Artificial Intelligence Jocelyn, then he does everything solo. The remaining billion humans and 500 cities are no longer relevant, nor are they "savable"..."The Fat Lady has sung" (150 years in the past) and this story lacks common sense, basic logical and rational thoughts.
The nano machines with Jocelyn managing the mana and the skills are all that is needed to use "magic and magical skills with mana", so why "pretend that its a game" if its not? Its real life with an Artificial Intelligence doing all the work, with people that have no martial arts training, no real abilities or skills that could be used to defeat or overcome the aliens that invaded and conquered the planet... If the nano-bots and AI's are doing everything why not have robots and cyborgs fight the war instead of noobs that have no mana capacity, no martial arts training or hope to be able to manage mana, train in martial arts or be competitive with the invaders??
The book does not have any maps, no inside illustrations, no character summaries, it lacks character descriptions, world descriptions, world governance, and a main theme, secondary plot themes and a reason to read this story...
July 14, 2021
Neds Improvement But Interested In More
Honestly this is not a bad thing. If it was possible I would read this more and 3.5 stars and I have three. My biggest issue that I had with it is that, in my opinion, it took a while to lead up to the action. Don’t give me wrong there are exclusions, fight, traps, and all kinds of other tomfoolery that happens, however I feel like we really don’t get out of the tutorial phase of the character until roughly 25% of the way through the book. Character development is a little questionable; The side characters are interesting, but I feel need just the teeniest bit more work. The main character is fun, and there’s a lot of Snark which is enjoyable, however it is hard for me to grasp the main characters emotional state. Again this is probably just me being a hard grader, but I felt that a character, who has his entire life been trained and has fought as a weapon for the greater bit of humanity, would act differently and respond differently to emotional situations. And again, this is my opinion, and I still thought that the book was interesting. I am curious and may go to read more, but it is not a series that I had to drop everything now so because I absolutely had to read the second book. It’s a fun read but I will be holding off for a little bit until I come back to the second book.
Honestly this is not a bad thing. If it was possible I would read this more and 3.5 stars and I have three. My biggest issue that I had with it is that, in my opinion, it took a while to lead up to the action. Don’t give me wrong there are exclusions, fight, traps, and all kinds of other tomfoolery that happens, however I feel like we really don’t get out of the tutorial phase of the character until roughly 25% of the way through the book. Character development is a little questionable; The side characters are interesting, but I feel need just the teeniest bit more work. The main character is fun, and there’s a lot of Snark which is enjoyable, however it is hard for me to grasp the main characters emotional state. Again this is probably just me being a hard grader, but I felt that a character, who has his entire life been trained and has fought as a weapon for the greater bit of humanity, would act differently and respond differently to emotional situations. And again, this is my opinion, and I still thought that the book was interesting. I am curious and may go to read more, but it is not a series that I had to drop everything now so because I absolutely had to read the second book. It’s a fun read but I will be holding off for a little bit until I come back to the second book.
August 14, 2023
This was disappointing.
While I very much enjoyed a different series by this author, this was a difficult read for several reasons. The main character is painfully ignorant, childish, and foolish. That's just to start, though it gets much worse. I suppose my biggest issue with Vic is that he is incredibly unrealistic and overpowered for no logical reason. There are so many aspects that just don't add up, and yeah, I get that it's a fantasy story with game like interfaces. Normally, I'm completely fine with that, and typically, I enjoy them tremendously.
However, that isn't the case for this book. I found myself skipping entire chapters because they felt like they were just filler. Certain twists were telegraphed and easy to see coming. The deaths of certain characters were poorly handled, made no sense whatsoever, and were done just to isolate a certain character. Suddenly, that character does a one eighty, dislike, and contempt switches to intrigue and love.
Never kind that Vic gas lights that character several times to get his way or to brow beat that character. This book is the equivalent to a child gaining God mode and proceeding to live out teenage fantasies with no concept of anything, even remotely close to actual psychological trauma that numerous events in this story would cause.
I do not recommend this book.
While I very much enjoyed a different series by this author, this was a difficult read for several reasons. The main character is painfully ignorant, childish, and foolish. That's just to start, though it gets much worse. I suppose my biggest issue with Vic is that he is incredibly unrealistic and overpowered for no logical reason. There are so many aspects that just don't add up, and yeah, I get that it's a fantasy story with game like interfaces. Normally, I'm completely fine with that, and typically, I enjoy them tremendously.
However, that isn't the case for this book. I found myself skipping entire chapters because they felt like they were just filler. Certain twists were telegraphed and easy to see coming. The deaths of certain characters were poorly handled, made no sense whatsoever, and were done just to isolate a certain character. Suddenly, that character does a one eighty, dislike, and contempt switches to intrigue and love.
Never kind that Vic gas lights that character several times to get his way or to brow beat that character. This book is the equivalent to a child gaining God mode and proceeding to live out teenage fantasies with no concept of anything, even remotely close to actual psychological trauma that numerous events in this story would cause.
I do not recommend this book.
December 7, 2023
A lot of reviews emphasize the infodumpy nature of this book, but not to what extent. Infodumps in the service of world building can be a necessary evil. Info dumps explaining to the MC what blacksmithing is, and the various tools and skills that the MC obviously does not have, if he needs to have those things explained to him is not a necessary evil.
The MC in this series is a badass G.I.Joe assassin who 1) continuously makes comments about how "weird" humans were pre-system, 2) is an expert sniper with broad scope military training including fancy manatech mguffins, hand to hand combat and experience assassinalating with 'contacts' in government and coded communications 3) self inflicts 10x as much damage doing idiotic things as he receives from actual fights 4) continuously refuses to level up past level 1. 5) he routinely 'forgets' anything that isn't explicitly related to shooting a gun.... Honestly yhe MC is a rant and a half, and he's not worth it.
System wise, the system itself is entirely unnecessary, as the MC does not wish to use it. He's got an AI assistant, a bunch of passive skills like swimming, running, climbing and tailoring, he's got an inventory which he does use, and a bunch of magics, every one of which is more dangerous to him than his enemies because of a complete lack of basic common sense.
The MC in this series is a badass G.I.Joe assassin who 1) continuously makes comments about how "weird" humans were pre-system, 2) is an expert sniper with broad scope military training including fancy manatech mguffins, hand to hand combat and experience assassinalating with 'contacts' in government and coded communications 3) self inflicts 10x as much damage doing idiotic things as he receives from actual fights 4) continuously refuses to level up past level 1. 5) he routinely 'forgets' anything that isn't explicitly related to shooting a gun.... Honestly yhe MC is a rant and a half, and he's not worth it.
System wise, the system itself is entirely unnecessary, as the MC does not wish to use it. He's got an AI assistant, a bunch of passive skills like swimming, running, climbing and tailoring, he's got an inventory which he does use, and a bunch of magics, every one of which is more dangerous to him than his enemies because of a complete lack of basic common sense.
October 22, 2023
Wow, an excellent cultivation story as the MC balances relationship while fighting for our freedom
The MC activates his mana nanites with lots of assistance from fate to access most known elemental affinities. Along the way, he overcomes a number of mana beasts and 3 companions. I was really bummed when 2 of them got wacked. But all is not well because traitorous humans are working with the enemy, orcs, trolls, gobblins etc. A very well written post-apocalyptic invasion story with interesting characters, difficult situations and realistic worldbuilding.
It was refreshing to see a relationally stunted character grow to have an intimate relationship, while balancing on the knife's edge of what he needs to do to accomplish his mission objectives.
There were a few spelling errors, but my pet peeve is the game mechanic screens. While l enjoyed the snark in the descriptions from [inspect], I am personally not a fan of the repetive game mechanic screens.
That said, I loved the story so I will continue the series and will likely re-read the entire series soon again. I am also anxiously awaiting book 3 of the author's Jade Phoenix series.
The MC activates his mana nanites with lots of assistance from fate to access most known elemental affinities. Along the way, he overcomes a number of mana beasts and 3 companions. I was really bummed when 2 of them got wacked. But all is not well because traitorous humans are working with the enemy, orcs, trolls, gobblins etc. A very well written post-apocalyptic invasion story with interesting characters, difficult situations and realistic worldbuilding.
It was refreshing to see a relationally stunted character grow to have an intimate relationship, while balancing on the knife's edge of what he needs to do to accomplish his mission objectives.
There were a few spelling errors, but my pet peeve is the game mechanic screens. While l enjoyed the snark in the descriptions from [inspect], I am personally not a fan of the repetive game mechanic screens.
That said, I loved the story so I will continue the series and will likely re-read the entire series soon again. I am also anxiously awaiting book 3 of the author's Jade Phoenix series.
March 4, 2021
So much potential
I really wanted to like this book. Particularly since this seems to be a first time published author, I tend to give more leeway.
I saw a hell of a lot of potential in this story, the creation of the world, the systemic breakdown of how things work, and the creatures that fill it. Hence, good potential.
What ruined it for me was the editorial errors and perhaps a strong need for proofreaders to ensure the cities, and names were consistent throughout the book. The transitions between some chapters was almost jarring as if the author 'cut and pasted' creating a disconnect, and there were times where world building or system explanations was inserted into the story line at a time when action and movement was happening which also caused me to lose interest. Lastly, the dialogue and interactions felt stilted in some places, blocky and awkward. Part of that was due to sentence structure, again an editorial error.
I say this sincerely, because I always encourage more authors particularly in this genre, keep at it and good luck!
I really wanted to like this book. Particularly since this seems to be a first time published author, I tend to give more leeway.
I saw a hell of a lot of potential in this story, the creation of the world, the systemic breakdown of how things work, and the creatures that fill it. Hence, good potential.
What ruined it for me was the editorial errors and perhaps a strong need for proofreaders to ensure the cities, and names were consistent throughout the book. The transitions between some chapters was almost jarring as if the author 'cut and pasted' creating a disconnect, and there were times where world building or system explanations was inserted into the story line at a time when action and movement was happening which also caused me to lose interest. Lastly, the dialogue and interactions felt stilted in some places, blocky and awkward. Part of that was due to sentence structure, again an editorial error.
I say this sincerely, because I always encourage more authors particularly in this genre, keep at it and good luck!
June 14, 2021
An enjoyable read, but it lacks depth and a cohesive plot
I had a lot of fun reading Activation. It’s great to read about Vic’s progression and Jo’s snarky sense of humour — I feel as if these two characters were definitely the most interesting in the book. I wanted Aria to do something besides train and help Vic unlock his powers, it’s honestly a shame that she’s pretty much relegated to the sidelines the entire time. There is one interlude chapter written from Aria’s perspective, but this is nowhere near enough to give her a proper character arc. At no point was I bored during the reading experience…which is actually kinda surprising, considering the fact that there is basically no plot. So many questions are left unanswered. Too many, in fact. The ending is not very satisfying. It literally just ends, and the “climax” is nowhere near as exciting as Vic’s escape from the underwater cavern near the start. If this review comes off as overly critical, I’m sorry. D.I. Freed, if you’re reading this, know that I had an absolute blast with your book.
I had a lot of fun reading Activation. It’s great to read about Vic’s progression and Jo’s snarky sense of humour — I feel as if these two characters were definitely the most interesting in the book. I wanted Aria to do something besides train and help Vic unlock his powers, it’s honestly a shame that she’s pretty much relegated to the sidelines the entire time. There is one interlude chapter written from Aria’s perspective, but this is nowhere near enough to give her a proper character arc. At no point was I bored during the reading experience…which is actually kinda surprising, considering the fact that there is basically no plot. So many questions are left unanswered. Too many, in fact. The ending is not very satisfying. It literally just ends, and the “climax” is nowhere near as exciting as Vic’s escape from the underwater cavern near the start. If this review comes off as overly critical, I’m sorry. D.I. Freed, if you’re reading this, know that I had an absolute blast with your book.
July 8, 2021
Fairly enjoyable LitRPG in the style of System Apocalypse. Definitely above average in that genre, as I never really found myself thinking "when will this end?" I was happy enough to find out that book 2 was available already. If you're already a fan of this kind of work I suspect you'll be happy enough with it. I'm definitely looking forward to book 3.
At the same time there are a lot of things that stand out as negatives. Primarily I felt like the author doesn't quite understand their craft well enough for the ambitious "and the kitchen sink" approach that they've decided to go with with respect to the system and world they're describing. There are a lot of bits of it that don't make a whole lot of sense, and we are at time overwhelmed with skills that seem to have no utility to the story. There are persistent hints to some meta-story that we don't really know enough about yet to comment on, but I don't have a great feeling that the author can pull off what they're setting up.
A minor but annoying nit is that the formatting of the skill spreadsheets is essentially unreadable on the kindle.
At the same time there are a lot of things that stand out as negatives. Primarily I felt like the author doesn't quite understand their craft well enough for the ambitious "and the kitchen sink" approach that they've decided to go with with respect to the system and world they're describing. There are a lot of bits of it that don't make a whole lot of sense, and we are at time overwhelmed with skills that seem to have no utility to the story. There are persistent hints to some meta-story that we don't really know enough about yet to comment on, but I don't have a great feeling that the author can pull off what they're setting up.
A minor but annoying nit is that the formatting of the skill spreadsheets is essentially unreadable on the kindle.
June 15, 2023
good fast paced story, plenty of RPG elements, hopefully there will be a third book in the series.
I enjoyed this book very much. Fast paced plenty of action and good character growth for the MC. Yes he starts out as one dimensional but then he starts to grow in wisdom and power. He is not overpowered like the blurb describing the book reads. Unfortunately, there are only two books out, I hope the author continues with the story because the MC is very likable and so is his girlfriend sidekick. There’s, plenty of world building and good RPG elements. Will read the second book and hopefully the author is working on the third. Read it you won’t be disappointed, unless there is no follow up book. That is my only caveat.
I enjoyed this book very much. Fast paced plenty of action and good character growth for the MC. Yes he starts out as one dimensional but then he starts to grow in wisdom and power. He is not overpowered like the blurb describing the book reads. Unfortunately, there are only two books out, I hope the author continues with the story because the MC is very likable and so is his girlfriend sidekick. There’s, plenty of world building and good RPG elements. Will read the second book and hopefully the author is working on the third. Read it you won’t be disappointed, unless there is no follow up book. That is my only caveat.
April 17, 2021
A new unique direction for litrpg books!
This book creates an interesting nexus between futuristic nano technology and old world mana worlds. I love how the main character who starts out as an average badass but later becomes OP, even if limited by his lack of knowledge. This book has fighting, growth as a character and a bit of a live twist (which I hope doesn't dominate the next book). Sometimes I felt he was a bit low in IQ, but I understand his military career dominated his life....but still. Make him follow the uptick in his intelligence as a character. Can't wait to see what happens in the next one!
This book creates an interesting nexus between futuristic nano technology and old world mana worlds. I love how the main character who starts out as an average badass but later becomes OP, even if limited by his lack of knowledge. This book has fighting, growth as a character and a bit of a live twist (which I hope doesn't dominate the next book). Sometimes I felt he was a bit low in IQ, but I understand his military career dominated his life....but still. Make him follow the uptick in his intelligence as a character. Can't wait to see what happens in the next one!
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