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From bestselling LitRPG author Seth Ring—creator of the Titan series and
Battle Mage Farmer
—comes
Apex
, the third book in the epic new series of alien contact, fast-paced military action, and thrilling adventure.
Life comes at you fast, and no one knows that better than Mark Fields. In a few short months he’s gone from a lowly dishwasher to an empowered soldier, gained new powers and friends, and survived the deadly Exlian aliens in the wilderness.
And now, he’s a prisoner.
Framed for murder and thrown into the deadly Tomb, forgotten and alone—no master, no team, no friends save the enigmatic cat Mime—Mark can only rely on himself … and the strange voice that whispers inside him.
For it’s kill or be killed in the Tomb, and Mark must face both who he truly is, and who—or what—he’s willing to become in order to survive.
Life comes at you fast, and no one knows that better than Mark Fields. In a few short months he’s gone from a lowly dishwasher to an empowered soldier, gained new powers and friends, and survived the deadly Exlian aliens in the wilderness.
And now, he’s a prisoner.
Framed for murder and thrown into the deadly Tomb, forgotten and alone—no master, no team, no friends save the enigmatic cat Mime—Mark can only rely on himself … and the strange voice that whispers inside him.
For it’s kill or be killed in the Tomb, and Mark must face both who he truly is, and who—or what—he’s willing to become in order to survive.
- GenresFantasyScience Fiction
336 pages, Hardcover
First published September 2, 2025
177 people are currently reading
4039 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
June 27, 2025
I’m generally a fan of Seth Ring’s work, but Apex genuinely impressed me. I was fortunate enough to receive an advanced reader copy (ARC), and as someone who usually consumes books via audio, the fact that I made time to sit and read this one says a lot about how much I’ve enjoyed the series so far.
What really stood out in Apex was the seamless narrative shift. The story takes the series in an unexpected yet entirely satisfying direction, while still advancing the overarching world-building and mystery elements in meaningful ways. That kind of pivot could easily derail a less confident writer, but here it feels natural, deliberate, and deeply engaging.
I honestly didn’t expect to enjoy this book as much as I did, but by the final page I was both impressed and fully hooked. I’m absolutely looking forward to the next instalment.
Highly recommended. I’ll be picking up the Audible version as soon as it’s available.
What really stood out in Apex was the seamless narrative shift. The story takes the series in an unexpected yet entirely satisfying direction, while still advancing the overarching world-building and mystery elements in meaningful ways. That kind of pivot could easily derail a less confident writer, but here it feels natural, deliberate, and deeply engaging.
I honestly didn’t expect to enjoy this book as much as I did, but by the final page I was both impressed and fully hooked. I’m absolutely looking forward to the next instalment.
Highly recommended. I’ll be picking up the Audible version as soon as it’s available.
September 5, 2025
Well...
I think I got some answers to my questions about the tone and direction of this book. My primary critique about the second book was that it was an entirely different kind of book from its predecessor, to the point I was unclear on the direction of the book. I think we have our answer...
Picking up right where book 2 left off, Mark finds himself in a bad spot. Framed for murder, no due process, and whisked off without a shred of an opportunity to defend himself, Mark is transferred to what can only be described as maximum security prison for empowered. And this is where things really become interesting...
Mark already survived in the wilderness infested with exlian so he is no stranger to life or death moments. But his experience reminds me of the movie adaptation of Watchmen when Rorschach is taken to prison and exhaults that he is not locked in prison with them, they are locked in prison with him. This is critical because our shy and meek Mark has begun the walk down the path of a monster. He is recognizing his changes but keeps finding himself is positions where he has no alternative but kill or be killed. I cannot see any relief on the horizon so it will continue to be a struggle for Mark.
There is one plot line that comes out of nowhere and that will continue to future books. We are introduced to a new prophecy and of course it involves Mark. It will be interesting to see just how much that plays a role in subsequent books. I'm generally not a fan of prophecy storylines because either it comes true or does not. If it does, we already knew the outcome before. If it does not, why even put it in there? I admit that I am over-generalizing but hopefully I've conveyed the salient points.
Did I enjoy this book? Absolutely. I can do nothing but applaud Seth Ring's ability to pen these fun adventures. Character development leaves much to be desired but I got everything I wanted to see out of this book. We know that this is going to be a blood-fest of a book. Mark is going to continue to hone his skills to become the perfect killer. We know that Mark is going to need to battle his inner demons. We still don't know entirely about Mark's powers, but given the other excitement, I didn't feel like we missed out by not exploring that angle.
If you come across this review, and have read the prior two novels, this book is a mix of the better parts of both books 1 and 2. Mark isn't off alone like he was in book 2, but he is constantly fighting. Mark finds a routine and carves a life out for himself just like in book 1. If you enjoyed either of the preceding two novels, you will probably enjoy this one too. As I said in the closing of my review for book 2, this novel is more bloody than Seth Ring's typical lit-rpg romps. Caveat emptor.
I think I got some answers to my questions about the tone and direction of this book. My primary critique about the second book was that it was an entirely different kind of book from its predecessor, to the point I was unclear on the direction of the book. I think we have our answer...
Picking up right where book 2 left off, Mark finds himself in a bad spot. Framed for murder, no due process, and whisked off without a shred of an opportunity to defend himself, Mark is transferred to what can only be described as maximum security prison for empowered. And this is where things really become interesting...
Mark already survived in the wilderness infested with exlian so he is no stranger to life or death moments. But his experience reminds me of the movie adaptation of Watchmen when Rorschach is taken to prison and exhaults that he is not locked in prison with them, they are locked in prison with him. This is critical because our shy and meek Mark has begun the walk down the path of a monster. He is recognizing his changes but keeps finding himself is positions where he has no alternative but kill or be killed. I cannot see any relief on the horizon so it will continue to be a struggle for Mark.
There is one plot line that comes out of nowhere and that will continue to future books. We are introduced to a new prophecy and of course it involves Mark. It will be interesting to see just how much that plays a role in subsequent books. I'm generally not a fan of prophecy storylines because either it comes true or does not. If it does, we already knew the outcome before. If it does not, why even put it in there? I admit that I am over-generalizing but hopefully I've conveyed the salient points.
Did I enjoy this book? Absolutely. I can do nothing but applaud Seth Ring's ability to pen these fun adventures. Character development leaves much to be desired but I got everything I wanted to see out of this book. We know that this is going to be a blood-fest of a book. Mark is going to continue to hone his skills to become the perfect killer. We know that Mark is going to need to battle his inner demons. We still don't know entirely about Mark's powers, but given the other excitement, I didn't feel like we missed out by not exploring that angle.
If you come across this review, and have read the prior two novels, this book is a mix of the better parts of both books 1 and 2. Mark isn't off alone like he was in book 2, but he is constantly fighting. Mark finds a routine and carves a life out for himself just like in book 1. If you enjoyed either of the preceding two novels, you will probably enjoy this one too. As I said in the closing of my review for book 2, this novel is more bloody than Seth Ring's typical lit-rpg romps. Caveat emptor.
August 26, 2025
I am impressed by Mark! No matter where he gets thrown to, whether it is into the wilds, or down into the Tomb after being unfairly judged with no chance to defend himself, her is able to use his brain and powers to adapt to any new situation with deadly ease.
There is still not a dull moment for him either in this book, even if he still does get to continue his alchemical studies in between fighting in the arena or on the streets of the Tomb. And thankfully Mime still makes an appearance to help Mark when his reserves runs out. I absolutely love Mime, who always has a trick up her sleeve! There are also some interesting characters down in the Tomb, from Joker to Mr. Robot, Winter Wolf (who I hope we see more of!) and then the mysterious power behind the Tomb, Maestro (who has plans within plans and Mark unfortunately is a big part of them)! To me that part really reminded me of Suicide Squad, where everyone is a killer but some are cold and calculating and others are completely insane and will attack anyone during a fight once blood is drawn.
The title is really apt for Mark by this third book as he grows and takes all his situations and turns them into opportunities to hone his powers, showing he is or will be the Apex predator one day soon. And yes, we also have a cliffhanger for the end though luckily Mark gets a little reprieve from the raging inferno he has been in. I really hope he can bring better times because the city sure seems so corrupt with what is going on. It would be interesting if Mark is the savior after all!
Many many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to continue Mark's journey! I await the next volume eagerly!
There is still not a dull moment for him either in this book, even if he still does get to continue his alchemical studies in between fighting in the arena or on the streets of the Tomb. And thankfully Mime still makes an appearance to help Mark when his reserves runs out. I absolutely love Mime, who always has a trick up her sleeve! There are also some interesting characters down in the Tomb, from Joker to Mr. Robot, Winter Wolf (who I hope we see more of!) and then the mysterious power behind the Tomb, Maestro (who has plans within plans and Mark unfortunately is a big part of them)! To me that part really reminded me of Suicide Squad, where everyone is a killer but some are cold and calculating and others are completely insane and will attack anyone during a fight once blood is drawn.
The title is really apt for Mark by this third book as he grows and takes all his situations and turns them into opportunities to hone his powers, showing he is or will be the Apex predator one day soon. And yes, we also have a cliffhanger for the end though luckily Mark gets a little reprieve from the raging inferno he has been in. I really hope he can bring better times because the city sure seems so corrupt with what is going on. It would be interesting if Mark is the savior after all!
Many many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to continue Mark's journey! I await the next volume eagerly!
September 3, 2025
A Powerful Third Act in an Evolving Saga
I was pleasantly surprised by how naturally Apex ushers the series into its third act. Each book in the series blends seamlessly into the next, yet the tone, setting, and even the supporting cast shift dramatically throughout, giving each entry its own distinct feel while still building on what came before. Seth Ring continues to demonstrate a remarkable ability to develop new characters quickly and meaningfully, even within short spans of page time.
The evolution of Mark, the main character, has been especially satisfying to follow. From the wide-eyed naivete of Advent to the more grounded and complex version of himself in Apex, his arc feels both believable and earned. The maturity and depth that emerge in this installment add weight to the story and reinforce the emotional impact of the challenges he faces.
If I have one complaint, it’s simply that the book ended—I didn’t want to put it down, and I’m already eager for the fourth. Apex delivers both character and plot progression in ways that deepen the series while raising anticipation for what’s still to come.
I was pleasantly surprised by how naturally Apex ushers the series into its third act. Each book in the series blends seamlessly into the next, yet the tone, setting, and even the supporting cast shift dramatically throughout, giving each entry its own distinct feel while still building on what came before. Seth Ring continues to demonstrate a remarkable ability to develop new characters quickly and meaningfully, even within short spans of page time.
The evolution of Mark, the main character, has been especially satisfying to follow. From the wide-eyed naivete of Advent to the more grounded and complex version of himself in Apex, his arc feels both believable and earned. The maturity and depth that emerge in this installment add weight to the story and reinforce the emotional impact of the challenges he faces.
If I have one complaint, it’s simply that the book ended—I didn’t want to put it down, and I’m already eager for the fourth. Apex delivers both character and plot progression in ways that deepen the series while raising anticipation for what’s still to come.
June 11, 2025
Note: I am a fan of Seth Ring's other books, and I was really liked the previous two books, so I was excited to see this Apex show up for me to review as a DRC on NetGalley.
Apex, the third book in Seth Ring’s Exlian Syndrome series, picks up right where Dark Dawn left off — and continues to deliver! This series continues to impress me. I thoroughly enjoyed Mark’s continued evolution throughout the book, not just his growth in power, or the new abilities he gains, but also his struggles with accepting and adapting to the changes that continue to transform him. A few new characters introduced, but most of the focus is centered on Mark’s growth. The world continues to be slowly built throughout the story, continuing to grow deeper as Mark grows in power. If you’ve enjoyed the first two books in the series, Apex will not disappoint. Can’t wait for the next book!
Apex, the third book in Seth Ring’s Exlian Syndrome series, picks up right where Dark Dawn left off — and continues to deliver! This series continues to impress me. I thoroughly enjoyed Mark’s continued evolution throughout the book, not just his growth in power, or the new abilities he gains, but also his struggles with accepting and adapting to the changes that continue to transform him. A few new characters introduced, but most of the focus is centered on Mark’s growth. The world continues to be slowly built throughout the story, continuing to grow deeper as Mark grows in power. If you’ve enjoyed the first two books in the series, Apex will not disappoint. Can’t wait for the next book!
September 2, 2025
I always expect a good story from Seth Ring but I have been really enjoying this series. I feel that this installment gave us more insight into Mark’s character when he is faced with what seems like an impossible situation. The background of the Tomb gives the reader the chance to delve a bit deeper into the nuances of Mark’s character and I really like that Mark is not presented as this perfect hero with no flaws or struggles. We definitely see some progression in the story line and I am dying to read the next book! As always, Mime is delightfully entertaining and I always want more of Mime. I received an ARC of this book for the very first time but I loved it enough to also purchase the audiobook for myself afterward!
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September 3, 2025I am a sucker for progression stories that incorporate teamwork and character development combined with growth. This series so far runs in the opposite direction, following the trope of the protagonist becoming more monstrous, mentally as well as physically, as he grows in strength.
I'm approx. 30% into the book and I will see how it turns out but the trope "I am a monster and thus I must fight alone" is not my favorite, it is hard to symphatize with a killer protag, and a vicious kitten might not suffice to draw me back. For me, strength is more than punching through people.
This is not you, this is me - otherwise this is a solid progression action romp, which will draw people for the same reason it doesn't appeal a lot to me.
I'm approx. 30% into the book and I will see how it turns out but the trope "I am a monster and thus I must fight alone" is not my favorite, it is hard to symphatize with a killer protag, and a vicious kitten might not suffice to draw me back. For me, strength is more than punching through people.
This is not you, this is me - otherwise this is a solid progression action romp, which will draw people for the same reason it doesn't appeal a lot to me.
September 8, 2025
Very good book!
Love the book. I really enjoy the characters. How the main character is learning and expanding his knowledge is very well done. The mysteries that he is learning and researching are very intriguing. Also, the struggles that the main character has in trying to balance his humanity with his monstrous powers are well done. Even though he is forced into some very bad situations, he is still a really good person and very loyal to his friends.
There is no nudity or sex in the blook. Additionally, there is no profanity that I can remember. I'm really looking forward to the next book in the series.
Love the book. I really enjoy the characters. How the main character is learning and expanding his knowledge is very well done. The mysteries that he is learning and researching are very intriguing. Also, the struggles that the main character has in trying to balance his humanity with his monstrous powers are well done. Even though he is forced into some very bad situations, he is still a really good person and very loyal to his friends.
There is no nudity or sex in the blook. Additionally, there is no profanity that I can remember. I'm really looking forward to the next book in the series.
August 6, 2025
How is it possible that every book in the series is better than the book before it?! Seth Ring has done it again. The book drew me in with the constant action and leveling up that happens with Mark. While the book doesn't start with many of the same characters, they show up eventually - bringing this book in with the 1st and 2nd book's storyline. This was a great addition to the series and was a super fast read. Can't wait for the next book.
I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
September 4, 2025
Another Great Ring Read
I cannot stress how good this series is building up to be. If you’re reading the reviews on book 3 it’s only because you’re waiting for the download or the book to arrive. Ring continues to knock this out of the park. I so dearly wish the book was longer but I will take what I can get.
I still don’t understand Ring’s choice of chapter breaks, always seems to end mid thought when there is a natural ending a couple paragraphs away… But whatever, maybe the author is just messing with us.
I cannot stress how good this series is building up to be. If you’re reading the reviews on book 3 it’s only because you’re waiting for the download or the book to arrive. Ring continues to knock this out of the park. I so dearly wish the book was longer but I will take what I can get.
I still don’t understand Ring’s choice of chapter breaks, always seems to end mid thought when there is a natural ending a couple paragraphs away… But whatever, maybe the author is just messing with us.
September 3, 2025
It's still pretty good, though I was tempted to go down to 4 stars, I'll still continue to read the series (someday, when more books are out. but he already has preorders open for the next couple... so that's cool.). however, I'm starting to doubt the long term plot direction after that cliche plot device was randomly thrown at us out of nowhere. I mean it's plausible in this world and yada yada, but still, come on.
March 11, 2025
Again, it's well written and enjoyable. The MC has some interesting moments and issues, looking forward to the next book. I certainly enjoyed reading this one. I've always enjoyed good world building and character design, and Seth does both of these well no matter which of his books I've picked up so far.
September 5, 2025
Redemption after the way the last book ended.
So yah, I hated how the last book ended. But this worked well. The prison thing isn't as bad as i had expected, and there's some satisfying growth throughout as well. We also get a deeper look at things going on behind the scenes so far and hints to the future. Things are really shaping up for some great arcs coming soon!
So yah, I hated how the last book ended. But this worked well. The prison thing isn't as bad as i had expected, and there's some satisfying growth throughout as well. We also get a deeper look at things going on behind the scenes so far and hints to the future. Things are really shaping up for some great arcs coming soon!
September 10, 2025
Much better than the first two in my opinion. I think these stores are fun, entertaining and progresses at a solid pace.
I think the character depth is a little lacking, but I was more attached to characters in this book that previous editions of this series.
Overall, very much enjoyed it, great action, good characters, unique concept and I enjoy the magic system.
I think the character depth is a little lacking, but I was more attached to characters in this book that previous editions of this series.
Overall, very much enjoyed it, great action, good characters, unique concept and I enjoy the magic system.
September 2, 2025
Outstanding read continues
Once again the Author delivers a fantastic read! Develops the story well, highly engaging and a fun read. Couldn’t put the book down! Can’t wait for the next book
Once again the Author delivers a fantastic read! Develops the story well, highly engaging and a fun read. Couldn’t put the book down! Can’t wait for the next book
September 8, 2025
This was another fun book in the series. After the events of the last book, this was a little tamer. And lot of narrative vs action. Similar to the first book. So excited for book 4 and see what comes about!
August 20, 2025
APEX is one of those books that is exciting, intense, breathtaking, from beginning to end!!! It was amazing!
September 2, 2025
I wasn't sure where this book would go after the ending from the last one, but it is a perfect continuation of the series. I enjoyed every moment of it.
September 3, 2025
Fanfreakingtastic!
What an amazing book! I absolutely loved this book and such wonderful characters! I can not wait for the next book to come out!
What an amazing book! I absolutely loved this book and such wonderful characters! I can not wait for the next book to come out!
September 3, 2025
These continue to be reliably enjoyable. I think we could have spent a lot more time in the Tomb, it could have had some very weird and fun systems, but books aren’t infinitely long I suppose.
September 4, 2025
I love this series
I really enjoyed this latest installment in the Exilian Syndrome. Our MC continues to gain power while taking care of the bad guys!
I really enjoyed this latest installment in the Exilian Syndrome. Our MC continues to gain power while taking care of the bad guys!
September 4, 2025
Had very high hopes for this book after the previous one,
although those were not entirely fulfilled, it was still quite good.
although those were not entirely fulfilled, it was still quite good.
September 6, 2025
Awesome Stuff
This story of a guy getting mutated in a world of super powers was a very interesting entertaining fast paced action adventure read that I enjoyed reading.
This story of a guy getting mutated in a world of super powers was a very interesting entertaining fast paced action adventure read that I enjoyed reading.
September 6, 2025
Very interested in where this is going.
September 9, 2025
I’m a big fan of this series by Seth Ring! Mark might be my fav of the main characters in his books 👌🏻
September 9, 2025
Very good book
This is a fine fantasy adventure novel. It is well written and edited. I especially like Mime the not really a cat. I anxiously await the sequel.
This is a fine fantasy adventure novel. It is well written and edited. I especially like Mime the not really a cat. I anxiously await the sequel.
September 11, 2025
I'm worried about how cold-blooded our hero is becoming but there's no shortage of action and plenty of strength bumps to keep me happy.
September 2, 2025
This is my book story by Seth Ring. I will definitely need to go back and read book 1 & 2 to fully grasp the world you are immersed in. The story takes you on an adventure with Mark, the main character, as he struggles to adapting to the changes he's going through. He's not your every day hero which is nice. You don't get that stereotypical hero but instead get one who struggles and bring in a sense of vulnerability and humanity. Even though I started in the middle of this series with book three and some things are still unclear, I enjoyed this book.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews