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Gain Levels, Defeat Monsters, Protect the Innocent.

Rico hungered for something more, eager for excitement. Fate led him to a goddess of opportunity. The divine teleports him to a planet filled with war, magic, and denizens of the deep.

Life... it has a way of smacking you in the face, eliciting that fight of flight emotion buried deep within. For Rico, he embraces the challenge, being blessed as a mage of the nine magics; a protector of the nine species. By crushing his enemies to gain riches and levels, he'll protect the downtrodden as a destined champion.

As the Shrezen assaults increase, can the Champion of Nuwa stem their advance and save the day?

Warning: Contains untraditional relationships.

652 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 24, 2022

354 people are currently reading
88 people want to read

About the author

David Burke

38 books129 followers
David Burke is a mild manner something who tries to enjoy each day a bit more than the last. It dawned upon him at some point that life was racing him by and he wasn’t nearly as young as he used to be.

So now he spends his nights and lunch hours and any other free time he can putting down on paper all the stories that have collected up over a life time.

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5 stars
213 (50%)
4 stars
100 (23%)
3 stars
67 (15%)
2 stars
26 (6%)
1 star
18 (4%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
Profile Image for Pablo García.
855 reviews22 followers
January 14, 2023
This Book 1 lacks cohesion, a main idea and writing that supports that main idea, half-way through this book 1, the author changes the theme, plots, talks about a magic academy, etc. that has nothing to do with the duty that the Goddess has placed which is to protect the 9 Magics.
Main character Rico is not a mage, he used to be a mercenary (without any martial arts training or real military experience), so his abilities and skills are in the air, Rico spends and spends money on equipment (for melee fighter) but most of the story are endless dialogues that don't go anywhere (except Rico's bed).
Rico is not powerful, nor is he affluent, nor is he popular, nor does he have charm skills, nor does he have anything similar to seduction and yet the author throws female after female at him, like he (Rico) was the last soda in this other planet (for people that enjoy carbonated drinks).
This story needs a lot of edits (to get to the point faster) and probably a better illustrator so as to include maps and character summaries. If its a book about getting a lot of "frustrated women" into a "love-harem" for the main character, then everything else, is unneeded, extra and filler not necessary to achieve this "harem-retinue"... Can a magic academy be called a University? Is it an Academy or a University? What is the point of the academy: to promote the 9 magics??? Why not say it?? and actually do something to promote the 9 magics instead??
The title of the book is Tower Mage and yet, the towers are not for magic but for defending the territory from monster invasions (more like turrets/crow's nest). There are no warnings on the cover, no warnings on the inside of the book about the excessive adult situations, graphic sexual liaisons and a sub-par guy that seems to have sex with anyone that will have him...
136 reviews5 followers
January 19, 2023
I loved David Burke's Four Laws series so I was really looking forward to this. To be honest I'm pretty disappointed. There were a few moments that left me with a bitter taste in my mouth but it was the ending that really ruined it for me. Not sure I can really explain it without spoilers, but it just made me mad. The MC in these sorts of stories need to face significant challenges - that's the point of the story. Parts of this story though, especially at the end, just made me mad. Not 'I really hope the MC guts you' mad, but 'I'm too angry to enjoy reading this' mad. Suffice it to say that . It had it's upsides for sure - the concept is unusual and it works better than I would have expected. The main character is likeable enough and I quite liked some of the other secondary characters. I'm not sure if I'll pick up the next one, though I admit I'm curious how things will turn out.
550 reviews3 followers
November 5, 2022
Just ok

I wanted to like this but it was just confusing. Love monster girls but giving them the ability to shift into human just felt like a lazy copout. Was a fan of the fact that all the woman could lactate, it just felt unnecessary.
48 reviews
July 11, 2023
Low effort novel from a usually good author

While there's a lot I liked about the novel as a whole, there's also a lot that dampened my enjoyment of the book. The one that bothered me the most is the fact that the MC makes a number of stupid decisions that should have gotten him killed, but he ends up getting rewarded instead. Then there's the fact that his women make major decisions without him that he simply accepts, like deciding to raise another man's child and recruiting new women for the harem who he's never met before. The book also isn't edited as well as the last few by this author, causing an overall drop in quality. Then there's the ending which was a major downer and that I felt would have fit mucher better at the beginning of the next book instead. Honestly, if I hadn't read other series by this author that I enjoyed I'd probably quit reading by this point, but as is I'm going to give it one more shot and hope book 2 is better than this one.
Profile Image for Steve.
1,612 reviews61 followers
October 30, 2022
Not bad, and decently entertaining. There was something missing in the flow of the book; it seemed to mostly run in a very stream-of consciousness first-person style but there were some semi-random gaps in the story.

In fact, I thought for a while I was reading something written by Han Yang, the style was so similar. That isn't an accusation of plagiarism, it just seemed different from the author's usual style. Could just be me though.

Ending was not exactly a cliff-hanger, more like setting up for a story lacuna between books 1 and 2. I'll check it out when it shows up, as the "politics" of the world are starting to look interesting.
Profile Image for Chris Evans.
903 reviews43 followers
Read
February 8, 2023
This one really just didn't catch my interest at all and I quickly found myself just not wanting to continue. I didn't get very far at all before apathy set in so I don't feel comfortable rating it.
Profile Image for Kiba Snowpaw.
Author 2 books24 followers
September 21, 2023
Introduction:
Greetings, dear listener, Kiba Snowpaw here, your alpha male ice wolf from the chilling realm of HowlStrom. As the winds of my icy homeland howl and the snowflakes dance, I've ventured into another realm, that of literature, to share my thoughts on a tale I recently encountered.

Basic Plot Summary:
In "The Nine Magics #1: Tower Mage," we follow the journey of Rico, a former mercenary now transformed into a mage bestowed with the power of the nine magics. His purpose? To stand as a protector for the nine species of a war-torn planet. Rico's tale is filled with tests of strength and character as he battles foes, defends the helpless, and navigates a world where gods play games with mortals. As the Shrezen assaults intensify, the burning question remains: Can Rico, the Champion of Nuwa, hold the line?

Analysis/Evaluation:
The story offers an intriguing blend of fantasy elements, from the allure of power to the challenges of destiny. Burke has crafted a narrative that taps into the primal desires for adventure, power, and purpose. While the story is rich in its portrayal of magic and conflict, it also delves into the complexities of relationships, both traditional and untraditional.

Characters:
Rico, our central figure, is a multi-dimensional character. His transition from a mercenary to a mage blessed with formidable abilities is both intriguing and commendable. However, his interactions with the various women he encounters seem to be a focal point of contention among readers. These relationships, while controversial to some, add layers to his character, revealing both strengths and vulnerabilities.

Structure:
The tale is structured to keep the reader engaged, with action sequences, moments of introspection, and the intricate weaving of relationships. The narrative pace is well-balanced, ensuring that readers are neither overwhelmed nor left wanting.

Impact:
This book makes a significant impact in the fantasy genre by blending traditional fantasy elements with modern gaming concepts. Its "level-up" and "tower defense" mechanics introduce a fresh perspective, resonating with fans of both literature and gaming.

Hook and Thesis:
The allure of Rico's transformation and the challenges he faces in a world unknown to him serve as a compelling hook. The underlying thesis seems to revolve around destiny, power, and the choices one makes when bestowed with unparalleled abilities.

Praise and Critique:
Burke's world-building is commendable, creating a universe teeming with magic, war, and divine interventions. However, some readers have expressed concerns about the story's cohesion and character development, particularly regarding Rico's relationships.

Comparison:
While the novel bears some similarities to other isekai or "another world" stories, its unique blend of gaming mechanics and traditional fantasy sets it apart.

Conclusion:
"The Nine Magics #1: Tower Mage" is a riveting tale of magic, destiny, and the challenges of wielding great power. While it may not resonate with everyone, its unique blend of elements offers something for both fantasy and gaming enthusiasts. As the snows of HowlStrom continue to blanket my homeland, this tale serves as a fiery beacon, warming the soul and sparking the imagination. Until our paths cross again in the vast tundras of literature, stay fierce and may your adventures be legendary.
Profile Image for Ryan Pascall.
131 reviews4 followers
January 22, 2023
Disclaimer: I was provided a copy of this Audiobook, free of charge, in exchange for an honest review.

Ok, let's clear up the elephant in the room first, this is marketed as a Harem but, and I don't enjoy Harem in books, I don't. That said, I can enjoy a book that has Harem content, as I know it's going to be there and make a decision to just let it wash over me. As such, I was pleasantly surprised to find that, while there is explicit scenes of sex in the book, it is not one of these heavy Harem 'Ooh the women are so pathetic and needy' type affairs and here all the female characters are strong, intelligent and choosing based on the world they exist.

Now that we've discussed that, I really liked this book. The story revolves around Rico, a man living a rather boring existance following an unfulfilling military career who is whisked away to be a chosen Hero of a turbulant land by one of the Pantheon who watch over the world.

I don't want to spoil anyhing, but Rico becomes involved with a small village of settlers and becomes their captain of the guard, deciding to help them survive against an impending attack by evil merfolk. From here we learn of Magic Towers (think of Tower Defence games), magic encased in marble-like orbs and a statistical system based around training and use.

I really enjoyed the system, the fact that you gain experience coins that are spent to do everything from upgrade skills to create equipment and build/upgrade buildings and towers. Combat is exciting and very well written, as are characters and their interactions with Rico and the world at large.

Additionally, I would like to call out the voice acting which is universally excellent with each character distinctive and portraying emotion and gravitas well.

I am looking forward to the next book in the series as, while there is strong sexual content, there is still a Lot of excellent content here that makes it well worth your time.
927 reviews6 followers
December 1, 2022
Waking up finding yourself in a different world floating on a cloud with your bed on it as well .

A security mercenary group sailed the high seas battling pirates securing safe waterways an etc. Rico was such a man always traveling the high seas looking for adventure then one day retired from the seas got a degree in accounting an working at a local phone shop . One day a another shop opened next door selling odd items an such he stepped inside to complain for a red beam kept shinning from the store blinding his sight as he found said item in store ask instead what the item was on the back tip shelf an it was a bag of marbles giving off the red beam of light as he told her so she gave him the bag of marbles an twenty bucks for guessing right the next morning he woke up he was in a different world . recommend reading excellent book .
659 reviews9 followers
July 18, 2023
well written and with engaging characters who are pawns in the pantheon of god’s battles

The MC is transported to another world as a champion of a god to stand against minions of the gods of the dark pantheon. He must gain allies, develop a harem, defeat waves of mer-creatures whilst building an outpost. Meanwhile, monsters, centaurs, ogres, goblins, bandits roam the woods. Oh and an army is moving on a nearby city.

The MC and his crew are between a rock and a hard place. In addition some of the supporting characters of the MC’s cohort have already met their deaths. But with magic, champions and gods anything is possible.
447 reviews12 followers
December 15, 2022
a very good Isekai

this story is my kind of Isekai. it has lots of action and adventure has stats for the characters that level up has good battle scenes and they even have spicy things as well which is lacking in the other stories of this type. the main character is a character to use a pun he has tongue in cheek humor and as well as a good head on his shoulders.the other characters are interesting different personalities and personally I would like to read the next book of book in the series.
Profile Image for John #Audible.
368 reviews
April 7, 2023
I don't know what's going on with these reviews here all these maxed out five star reviews, but there's no story here. you get these overexplained sexualized descriptions of every female two dimensional character. Lets give you a small example of sheer stupidity . The town is being assaulted and the MC decides to build a tower, during this event him and this female character decide to have this deep conversation out of the blue and not build defenses for the town. Like , who are you random girl , I dont care get ready to fight for your life!
Profile Image for John Ross.
182 reviews
May 8, 2024
not the worst I have read but…

Isekai stories tend to have a problem of being the author dreaming about being an all powerful god in another realm. This iPhone repair guy goes on to be a god playing tower defence games is not the worst of the genre I have read, but it also has nothing Good going on.

The battles are all one sided (if our hero loses he loses right away) the characters shallow and the world building lacking and nonsensical.
Mostly writing this review to make sure I don’t continue the series.
381 reviews2 followers
November 17, 2022
Interesting

I thought not another tower book, but i was pleasantly surprised it has progression, fights, love interests , and an interesting system different from others ive read, yes its a build it and fight type of genre but i got sucked into the story and now i want book 2 to come out quickly.
Profile Image for Jim Phillips.
972 reviews3 followers
December 6, 2022
Needs a better cover.

More of a ride than I was expecting. Took me until page 94 to become fully invested in the story. The rest of the book was worth the effort. Great epilogue, characters have reached a breathing point and new hooks set for the next ending. Extremely professional effort.
Profile Image for Jamie Ross.
851 reviews14 followers
July 25, 2023
Action packed and fun to read!

A different take on the tower defense games made real in a fantasy world of magic and monsters.

It's an exciting and thrilling read with a bit of base building and logistics thrown in, but the rule of this new world keeps the MC on his toes.

And with that ending, I'm looking forward to book 2
1,462 reviews15 followers
October 30, 2022
Excellent beginning!!!!

An absolutely unique,crazy story!!! We've all read a pulled to another universe/world story but not like thus one!!!! Up front data from the controlling entity, unique magic methods and dance revolution lol!!!! More please!!!
Profile Image for Irizumi.
446 reviews3 followers
November 9, 2022
Fun read

A very fun read from an excellent author. Takes a great writer to take a tower defense game and make it into a great book. But if anyone can do it, it would definitely have to be this author. And did it well. Already pre ordered the next one.
227 reviews2 followers
November 26, 2022
A very good start

So far I liked every book I’ve read by David Burke and this one isn’t an exception, the action is captivating and the world intriguing, with interesting characters and very sexy fun times
37 reviews1 follower
January 20, 2023
Simply Great.

I have really enjoyed reading this fantasy. David Burke just seems to get better, I recommend this book to all fantasy lovers and I look forward to the next in the series is released
12 reviews
January 22, 2023
Good idea, poor execution

Started well, quite an interesting ideal premise. But can the main character was just worse and worse. His personality just degenerated. Shame as the idea felt good, but the characters were just not fleshed out
930 reviews2 followers
July 26, 2023
A good start.

I enjoyed reading this book. It was fun and entertaining. The story and characters were interesting and engaging. I'm looking forward to seeing what happens next. This book is definitely worth checking out.
394 reviews3 followers
May 23, 2024
Eh, mediocre story with ready made harem girls. Having them arranged by a god to just fall in his lap is just lazy. The battles were alright though. I feel this is David Burke's worst effort so far (that i read), i'm going to go read some KD Robertson to cleanse my palette.
174 reviews1 follower
October 26, 2022
Not bad

Pretty good but really light on litrpg. Interesting world and different races. Liked the Mc and the magic was interesting. Didn't care for the ending though.
2 reviews
October 28, 2022
Pretty awesome book

The book was great it had good flow. The ending left me wanting book 2 like right now and mostly I’m hoping it gets an audiobook version.
Profile Image for Stoham Baginbott.
Author 22 books21 followers
October 29, 2022
Awesome job!

Really enjoyed the characters and story! I can’t wait for the next book! I couldn’t put the book down! Fantastic!
239 reviews
January 15, 2023
A fun story

Overall, I enjoyed the book. It had an interesting world, with abilities and spells that were different from the norm.
Profile Image for Dp2k.
240 reviews3 followers
April 7, 2023
It's a tower defense game in book form, but not done very well. Too many game aspects, not much actual story. Or maybe I just don't like reading about games.
361 reviews4 followers
October 1, 2024
Good story

It is good storyline. I don't care for harem stories but this is not bad. I do like the characters. The hero I likable.
Profile Image for Rob.
110 reviews3 followers
February 11, 2025
It's not the best of his series. Gets boring fairly quick. Got halfway through the second book and gave up.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews

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