The Crow Cycle #1

The Crow Cycle #1

by Dem Mikhailov

Important note: The Crow Cycle is set in the world of Waldyra, its events echoing the story of Clan Dominance: The Sleepless Ones, a cult LitRPG series by the same author. Nonetheless, The Crow Cycle has a completely standalone plot. Each series is connected to the main storyline and shows certain characters from different points of view, revealing information about their past or explaining the background of events already known to the reader from earlier series.

The world of Waldyra treats its inhabitants differently. Some of them, appearing out of nowhere, suddenly receive unique achievements and quests; they become living legends and idols while basking in the limelight.

And there are those who call Waldyra home. They do not play, but rather live in this colorful magic world. They do not get anything unique or legendary in return.
Perhaps they are just unlucky?

Or maybe they don't need the hype, and they are content with their simple existence?
Or could there be something special about a peaceful and well-planned life? Who knows... As the old saying goes, "Only time will tell."

At the foot of the foreboding Gray Peak lies a desolate valley. These are the backwoods of the world of Waldyra—they offer nothing valuable to players, who rarely visit as a result. Yet this is the very place where the calm and good-natured dwarf named Crow is headed. Straight after leaving the Crèche, he hopes to make a living there. This hero does not crave epic battles with monsters. Quite the contrary. He wants to be a merchant and develop his blacksmithing skills, while staying far away from fighting, long voyages, and clan squabbles. But, as it often happens, if you want peace, be ready for war...

625 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 11, 2021

Reviews

[Travis · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a review copy of this book.
Really enjoyed this book. I really like the building and crafting type LitRPG books, and this story is a character starting from nothing, and practically building a whole military outpost/town on his own. The second book promises more in depth character development, answers to questions raised in the first one (some of which where answers were hinted at), and of course, more building. Who wouldn't enjoy that?
If you like building and crafting storylines, then you definitely want to add this one to your to read shelf. If those things don't interest you, then don't count this one out entirely, it's still a decent tale, even without those parts of the story.

[Nathanael Keeler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh. Some sneaky plans abound.

A great read about a simple character, or is he so simple. I don’t want to give the game away, and in fact I really can’t as the broader story is still unfolding.
I am left with many questions about the main character. It is set in an online game where players log in and out but not the MC, who is a player but seems to be set apart. There is no real life component in this story but the MC has too much knowledge to be a noob. So many unanswered questions. It is not a massive mystery but it just adds to my enjoying the unfolding.
Give this one a go.

[Johnny · Rating 4 out of 5]

I finished Crow. It took longer than normal. I only found two small mistakes. I didn't find it to be as good as The Sleepless. The large jumps in levels took out some of the enjoyment. I'm one of those that really likes reading the details of how exactly the MC levels. I'd give it four stars because the editing was excellent, but it couldn't hold my interest so no five star. Looking forward to more books though. I received an ARC and wanted to give my thoughts on it.
Hope everyone else enjoys it.

[Clint Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

“This was a fun book. I am glad that I read it. You should try it too.”

I am not going to share my reasoning, thoughts on the book, or any opinions that would influence your decision to read it. I am simply saying that I liked it. I would like you to read it and make your own decision. After all, you are a much better judge of what you will like than anyone here.

I will happily discuss the book with you on Goodreads if you are so inclined. As always, I am open to debates and arguments, but also vain enough to seek acknowledgement, so feel free to roast me or applaud my efforts. Either is acceptable, because if you are paying attention to me then you are at least considering the book. And THAT my friends is exactly why you see my comments here.

Cheers

[Ray Ritchey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent!

Great LitRPG.

Great story telling and a refreshing change from the sleepless ones story.

Great read and hints if a mystery…

[Akshay · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Crow Cycle #1: A LitRPG Delight

The Crow Cycle #1 by Dem Mikhailov is a refreshing and enjoyable LitRPG novel that follows the story of Crow, a dwarf who is content to live a simple life as a blacksmith in a remote village. However, Crow's peaceful existence is shattered when he is forced to flee his home due to a bandit attack.

On his journey, Crow meets a variety of interesting characters, including a mysterious elf named Anya and a powerful warrior named Goran. Together, they must overcome many challenges, including dangerous monsters, treacherous terrain, and political intrigue.

Mikhailov's writing is engaging and humorous, and he does a great job of developing his characters. Crow is a likable and relatable protagonist, and his relationship with Anya is particularly well-written.

The plot of the novel is well-paced and full of exciting twists and turns. Mikhailov also does a great job of incorporating LitRPG elements into the story without making it feel too overwhelming for newcomers to the genre.

Critical analysis:

One of the things that makes _The Crow Cycle #1_ so unique is its setting. The novel takes place in a world where magic and technology coexist, and Mikhailov does a great job of creating a believable and immersive world for his characters to inhabit.

Another thing that sets the novel apart from other LitRPG novels is its focus on character development. Crow is a complex and well-developed character, and his relationship with Anya is one of the highlights of the novel.

However, the novel is not without its flaws. One minor issue is that the pacing can be slow at times, especially in the early chapters. Additionally, the novel's ending is somewhat abrupt, and it leaves some unanswered questions.

Overall, _The Crow Cycle #1_ is a well-written and enjoyable LitRPG novel. It is sure to please fans of the genre, as well as readers who are looking for a refreshing and unique story.

[Murphies_law · Rating 3 out of 5]

A spin off of the original series focusing on alternative playstyle, ergo people skills, smithing, economics and base building while rather neglecting the traditional and more interesting approach quests and exploring. But of course the MC has huge background knowledge, known only to a handful of people and a masterplan. Two rather useless and bland sidekick acquaintances complete the picture.

[gordon musgrave · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good book

I dont care at all about missing commas or periods what I care about is the story and this one was a good one!! But this willl be the last one I read due to fact that the next one be out till May of 2022 by that time the world will end,maybe!

[James Riley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really good

I really enjoyed this book. Likeable characters, fun action, and a well flowing plot.

I'm really looking forward to the next one

Highly recommended.