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Rise of the Mystic Mage #1
Lotus Lake
Reborn five years in the past. A second chance to do everything over. What would you do?
For Ashlyn, being reborn five years in the past is both a boon and a bane. She’s reborn in the wreckage of tragedy, forced to deal with a life that she messed up before. Now, all she has to show for her life is five years of accumulated knowledge in the greatest virtual reality game ever released - Elysium - and the pain of friendships lost.
This time, Ashlyn is going to make a difference. This time, she’s going to fix the mistakes she made and save the relationships she lost. And to do that, she’s going to use all the knowledge she gained from the future to blaze her way to the top with a new class: the Mystic Mage.
For Ashlyn, being reborn five years in the past is both a boon and a bane. She’s reborn in the wreckage of tragedy, forced to deal with a life that she messed up before. Now, all she has to show for her life is five years of accumulated knowledge in the greatest virtual reality game ever released - Elysium - and the pain of friendships lost.
This time, Ashlyn is going to make a difference. This time, she’s going to fix the mistakes she made and save the relationships she lost. And to do that, she’s going to use all the knowledge she gained from the future to blaze her way to the top with a new class: the Mystic Mage.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 17, 2021
234 people are currently reading
319 people want to read
About the author
Jay Boyce
14 books300 followersJay Boyce is an avid reader and traveler, explorer of new things. Daughter of a librarian and wielder of words, she is primarily an editor who's trying her hand at writing. A crazy dreamer, she creates stories in her head all the time, and finally decided to start writing them down and sharing the love. A perpetual learner, she also works at her local university attending classes with deaf students and gleaning knowledge on any random subject she can get her hands on. The best description of her has always been eclectic, because she wanted to try everything at least once.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 148 reviews
June 11, 2021
I couldn't finish this book. It's too cringy. I wanted to like it because it seemed like a low-stakes video game character journey where, by reincarnating, the main character has all the knowledge of the hidden ways to get more power and be a unique class in a vr mmo. However, it's ruined by a couple things.
- Literally every guy except her "older brother" hits on the main character, asks her to be his girlfriend, 'hey babies' her, flirts with her, implies other guys are flirting with her, looks at her chest cuz her shirt is ripped, etc. It gets extremely old and even the interactions with the (2 so far) guys that aren't hitting on her are cringeworthy.
- Characters that are very close to the main character are introduced randomly and not incorporated well. For example she meets up with Ryan, her late brother's best friend, who's like an older brother to her (after previously introducing 2 other bff's who will presumably have a role), he off-handedly mentions his little brother Trent, who then shows up professing his undying love for the MC, and will presumably feature more.
- The main character/dialogue is straight up annoying. She is trying not to be seen as suspicious by knowing too much but "lets things slip" by being a know-it-all approximately every 3 pages, and nobody ever lets it slide, always getting suspicious that she has insider information. Every. Time.
Those were the things that turned me off finishing the book but I have two other problems.
- If she reincarnated for the ability to do cool stuff as a mystic mage, then show some cool mystic mage stuff or at least hint about future powers. I got 45% in and she still just knows 1 spell and is grinding level 2 rabbits. So far it seems that mystic mages just don't meet as high resistances. It's not exactly compelling.
- She reincarnated kinda by going back five years in time and she instantly assumes that the reason is so she can get a head start on everyone in this video game. Seriously you did nothing else in five years that you would wanna fix, change, re-live, anything? I feel like you should at least take one, or two pages to consider doing something else other than trying to be the first to complete a video game quest line, but no that's her goal from like page 3.
- Literally every guy except her "older brother" hits on the main character, asks her to be his girlfriend, 'hey babies' her, flirts with her, implies other guys are flirting with her, looks at her chest cuz her shirt is ripped, etc. It gets extremely old and even the interactions with the (2 so far) guys that aren't hitting on her are cringeworthy.
- Characters that are very close to the main character are introduced randomly and not incorporated well. For example she meets up with Ryan, her late brother's best friend, who's like an older brother to her (after previously introducing 2 other bff's who will presumably have a role), he off-handedly mentions his little brother Trent, who then shows up professing his undying love for the MC, and will presumably feature more.
- The main character/dialogue is straight up annoying. She is trying not to be seen as suspicious by knowing too much but "lets things slip" by being a know-it-all approximately every 3 pages, and nobody ever lets it slide, always getting suspicious that she has insider information. Every. Time.
Those were the things that turned me off finishing the book but I have two other problems.
- If she reincarnated for the ability to do cool stuff as a mystic mage, then show some cool mystic mage stuff or at least hint about future powers. I got 45% in and she still just knows 1 spell and is grinding level 2 rabbits. So far it seems that mystic mages just don't meet as high resistances. It's not exactly compelling.
- She reincarnated kinda by going back five years in time and she instantly assumes that the reason is so she can get a head start on everyone in this video game. Seriously you did nothing else in five years that you would wanna fix, change, re-live, anything? I feel like you should at least take one, or two pages to consider doing something else other than trying to be the first to complete a video game quest line, but no that's her goal from like page 3.
April 22, 2021
For me, the Siphon books were a slow-moving trainwreck. Great hook, interesting world building, and a psychopath of an MC who was quick to anger and destroy anyone who did not respect her. All the characters in the book worshiped her, and the entire ruling class of her country was at her beck and call, as they fought each other to admire her and gift her with time and possessions. I loved the book, even as I read it, wondering if it was an art piece/social commentary. I no longer wonder nor believe it was.
Lotus Lake is Boyce's second series and it's head and shoulders more coherent than the first. The world building is less interesting, as it takes place within a FIVR MMO and basically relates the gameplay of a young autistic woman who has returned five years to the past so she can start playing the game again on its debut.
The book repeats some of the victim-makes-hero tropes of Siphon by casting her as a tragic orphan but it also does something way better: it fully owns the autism of the MC. It showcases her quirks and sensory issues, her brusqueness and lack of empathy. The giggles and tongue-sticking-out are still there but trimmed back, as are the countless encounters with ready-to-be-smacked-down-arrogant-fools. At the same time, the author spends more time explaining how the MC is uncomfortable with dirt and blood -- even in a game, how she needs fidget toys to stim, how she works best alone, and how she pushes away even those who matter most to her because that is part of who she is.
The book never once mentions the "A" word but it spells out all the things, both blessings and curses, that autism entails for the MC. She presents excellent skills and regressed emotional growth, and her closest bonds exist either because others are automatically loyal to her (family and family friends) or they see a way to use her talents (mostly potential guild leaders).
I sort of wish she hadn't been reincarnated, because she's already OP without that, but I can see the author was going for the motif of "playing that perfect game" and the knowledge from the future helps.
I'm not sure everyone will love this book or will connect with the MC as she is written but it worked for me and I look forward to the next volume.
Lotus Lake is Boyce's second series and it's head and shoulders more coherent than the first. The world building is less interesting, as it takes place within a FIVR MMO and basically relates the gameplay of a young autistic woman who has returned five years to the past so she can start playing the game again on its debut.
The book repeats some of the victim-makes-hero tropes of Siphon by casting her as a tragic orphan but it also does something way better: it fully owns the autism of the MC. It showcases her quirks and sensory issues, her brusqueness and lack of empathy. The giggles and tongue-sticking-out are still there but trimmed back, as are the countless encounters with ready-to-be-smacked-down-arrogant-fools. At the same time, the author spends more time explaining how the MC is uncomfortable with dirt and blood -- even in a game, how she needs fidget toys to stim, how she works best alone, and how she pushes away even those who matter most to her because that is part of who she is.
The book never once mentions the "A" word but it spells out all the things, both blessings and curses, that autism entails for the MC. She presents excellent skills and regressed emotional growth, and her closest bonds exist either because others are automatically loyal to her (family and family friends) or they see a way to use her talents (mostly potential guild leaders).
I sort of wish she hadn't been reincarnated, because she's already OP without that, but I can see the author was going for the motif of "playing that perfect game" and the knowledge from the future helps.
I'm not sure everyone will love this book or will connect with the MC as she is written but it worked for me and I look forward to the next volume.
July 18, 2023
There's no story here.
Person with social anxiety goes back in time because.... Explaination missing... And decides to play a (poorly designed; dystopian nightmare) mmo that she would have been playing either way. The end.
Topics covered:
Grinding hundreds of mobs for basic loot and lvl 1 fetch quests.
Fear the banhammer!
Hey, I know that guy!
Bunnies are cute!
And more!
Person with social anxiety goes back in time because.... Explaination missing... And decides to play a (poorly designed; dystopian nightmare) mmo that she would have been playing either way. The end.
Topics covered:
Grinding hundreds of mobs for basic loot and lvl 1 fetch quests.
Fear the banhammer!
Hey, I know that guy!
Bunnies are cute!
And more!
April 20, 2021
Completely brilliant and exciting
A difficult to put down, wonderful journey into a strong female protagonists adventure. A joy to read and a series I will be following closely. Another fantastic MountainDale adventure and a new world to love and explore.
Highly recommended
A difficult to put down, wonderful journey into a strong female protagonists adventure. A joy to read and a series I will be following closely. Another fantastic MountainDale adventure and a new world to love and explore.
Highly recommended
October 30, 2023
This is a hard book for me to rate because I genuinely don't like the MC. I feel like the author was attempting to write about a character that has undergone trauma and came out of it damaged. But, nothing is ever specifically mentioned. The only thing that is mentioned is that the character gets low social batteries. But when this happens, she is mean and rude to people. Which, honestly, isn't a very good representation of introverts. But nothing else was really mentioned. No cptsd or bpd which would explain her behavior. Worse, she even states she's gone to therapy and gotten to the point where she is forming new stable friendships but she acts like a teenager whose never been diagnosed or talked about her trauma.
Worse, the author seem to never have played an mmorpg and have some weird ideas about how men behave when they see a female player. (A lot of "hey sexy come level with me")
Worse, this all seem to take place in a single day. I could understand mood swings on different days. I could understand waking up and feeling bad. I can't understand being nice to one stranger, and five minutes later being a mean bitch to another stranger without said stranger even doing anything different than the first.
It would all make sense if it wasn't a time travel story. If this was just after her loss, but it isn't. That being said, I'll still read book 2 in the hopes she decides to grow or realize she isn't being fair.
Worse, the author seem to never have played an mmorpg and have some weird ideas about how men behave when they see a female player. (A lot of "hey sexy come level with me")
Worse, this all seem to take place in a single day. I could understand mood swings on different days. I could understand waking up and feeling bad. I can't understand being nice to one stranger, and five minutes later being a mean bitch to another stranger without said stranger even doing anything different than the first.
It would all make sense if it wasn't a time travel story. If this was just after her loss, but it isn't. That being said, I'll still read book 2 in the hopes she decides to grow or realize she isn't being fair.
August 2, 2021
Audio book review
I went in knowing very little and I tried, really tried to give this book a chance. After the 2 hour mark, I demanded my money back. You go back five years into the past...to play a video game. Warn people of possible disaster? buy a few stock of future apple product? use your skills to get a job of your dreams? NOPE, got to play a video game that doesn't sound hard but sounds like a total dick. Hard, just to be hard because you know to watch people squirm difficult. The character suffered trauma and wants to go back 7 years instread of 5...how? kill her self. HOW does someone jump into that conclusion. By the way, she has perfect memory and the author just throws that at you.
Lastly, the narrator. I would have preferred they used a TEXT to SPEECH cell phone app which would have more emotion than Ellen Quay; who i suspect to be the real robot.
Story: cringe worthy / characters:cringe worthy / Narrator: robo cringe worthy.
I guess after A TOUCH OF POWER series, she lost her touch.
I went in knowing very little and I tried, really tried to give this book a chance. After the 2 hour mark, I demanded my money back. You go back five years into the past...to play a video game. Warn people of possible disaster? buy a few stock of future apple product? use your skills to get a job of your dreams? NOPE, got to play a video game that doesn't sound hard but sounds like a total dick. Hard, just to be hard because you know to watch people squirm difficult. The character suffered trauma and wants to go back 7 years instread of 5...how? kill her self. HOW does someone jump into that conclusion. By the way, she has perfect memory and the author just throws that at you.
Lastly, the narrator. I would have preferred they used a TEXT to SPEECH cell phone app which would have more emotion than Ellen Quay; who i suspect to be the real robot.
Story: cringe worthy / characters:cringe worthy / Narrator: robo cringe worthy.
I guess after A TOUCH OF POWER series, she lost her touch.
September 9, 2023
Another awesome regressor story!
I really enjoyed this. It is similar to other regressor stories but still unique. What I enjoyed most was how flawed and thorny the MC was. It left a ton of room for the character to develop and grow in the future. Also with many of these regressor stories the MC is traumatized due to the loss of anything and everything in their life. That’s not the case here. The MC has issues but in a more normal sort of way. Loved it and can’t wait until book two!
I really enjoyed this. It is similar to other regressor stories but still unique. What I enjoyed most was how flawed and thorny the MC was. It left a ton of room for the character to develop and grow in the future. Also with many of these regressor stories the MC is traumatized due to the loss of anything and everything in their life. That’s not the case here. The MC has issues but in a more normal sort of way. Loved it and can’t wait until book two!
October 23, 2023
Very entertaining, though the massive over-powerdness of the main protagonist felt like it's a little bit too much. I know it's part of the fun, but....I enjoyed the book while it was mostly about exploring the world, levelling and having fun. When the epic quest was introduced....well....it lost part of it appeal. Still, I definitely plan to continue the series :)
January 23, 2022
I liked this book, the story flows really well and I read it all in one shot. The game elements are well inserted but not too specific or over explained (in fact, I'd have appreciated a little bit more focus on the game mechanics but it's well balanced all in all) and the game world, for this introduction, is interesting and colorful enough.
There are a few problems, of course, mainly the MC's personality as it was a bit too exagerated in my opinion.
Probably in the attempt to make her appear strong-willed, at some points she behaved a little like a bipolar bitch. Being independent and strong doesn't mean being a bitch or so aggressively over the top. Still, at this point it can still be explained by her traumas and she's not always like that so it is bearable.
Aside from that, she behaves a bit too annoyingly at times and literally half the time she tries to hide her future knowledge which, without exception, she always somehow lets slip and everybody just always gets on it and becomes suspicious of her having insider information. Which could be understandable if it just dudn't keep happening. It makes you question her supposed intelligence at some points. I just hope it won't become too much later on, even better if it will be toned down. That's my opinion, however, so...
Another thing is that the relationships and interactions between the MC and the other characters are...just a bit cringe-worthy. They have potential however so let's hope on that.
Lastly, this book is too short!! I mean, the story feels like it's just started. The MC hasn't even left the Starting Village at this point! And she spent most of her time killing rabbits. With a few more interesting developements here and there, especially at the end. To the author's favor, however, it didn't feel too slow or long-winded but like it barely started.
In short this is a good story, well written, well balanced and with a smooth flow. Reccomend.
There are a few problems, of course, mainly the MC's personality as it was a bit too exagerated in my opinion.
Probably in the attempt to make her appear strong-willed, at some points she behaved a little like a bipolar bitch. Being independent and strong doesn't mean being a bitch or so aggressively over the top. Still, at this point it can still be explained by her traumas and she's not always like that so it is bearable.
Aside from that, she behaves a bit too annoyingly at times and literally half the time she tries to hide her future knowledge which, without exception, she always somehow lets slip and everybody just always gets on it and becomes suspicious of her having insider information. Which could be understandable if it just dudn't keep happening. It makes you question her supposed intelligence at some points. I just hope it won't become too much later on, even better if it will be toned down. That's my opinion, however, so...
Another thing is that the relationships and interactions between the MC and the other characters are...just a bit cringe-worthy. They have potential however so let's hope on that.
Lastly, this book is too short!! I mean, the story feels like it's just started. The MC hasn't even left the Starting Village at this point! And she spent most of her time killing rabbits. With a few more interesting developements here and there, especially at the end. To the author's favor, however, it didn't feel too slow or long-winded but like it barely started.
In short this is a good story, well written, well balanced and with a smooth flow. Reccomend.
May 27, 2021
Alert
“This was a fun book. I am glad that I read it. You should try it too.”
By all accounts, this is a perfectly worded review. Unfortunately, some of our fellow readers are offended that I am not pouring my heart out and offering a detailed and intimate breakdown of my thoughts on the books. As such they have reported me to the authorities and I have been warned against continuing my bad behavior. I will not. So I may be banned. If so, it was a fun journey with you.
If I enjoy a book, my goal is to promote it and help the author by encouraging others to read it. 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.
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
“This was a fun book. I am glad that I read it. You should try it too.”
By all accounts, this is a perfectly worded review. Unfortunately, some of our fellow readers are offended that I am not pouring my heart out and offering a detailed and intimate breakdown of my thoughts on the books. As such they have reported me to the authorities and I have been warned against continuing my bad behavior. I will not. So I may be banned. If so, it was a fun journey with you.
If I enjoy a book, my goal is to promote it and help the author by encouraging others to read it. 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.
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
May 11, 2021
Spiolers
So this story is about an Autistic woman who is sent back in time five years with mainly only knowledge of her favorite video game. Along the way she uses her knowledge to become o.p. at level one, and mend the relationships and interpersonal mistakes she had made the first time. It's an interesting premise, its internally mostly consistent, and there are no major spelling/grammer errors.
However, despite loving the idea of the M.C. and a fairly decent premise of starting out with an affinity discovered much later in the game's life (somehow, it doesn't seem like out of millions of players, it would be something no one else would figure out day one), I have to lower the score because everyone in the world is stupid. How so? Well, the amazing insider knowledge she brings back with her, no joke, is a)how to use a bank in game, b)how to loot your kills, c)how to take blatant verbal hints from npc's, d)how to complete 'bring me five wolf ear' quest chains really fast, etc. The blatant unimaginative stupidity of literally everyone is completely immersion breaking and, if not for the factors listed above, would itself be deserving of a one star review.
So this story is about an Autistic woman who is sent back in time five years with mainly only knowledge of her favorite video game. Along the way she uses her knowledge to become o.p. at level one, and mend the relationships and interpersonal mistakes she had made the first time. It's an interesting premise, its internally mostly consistent, and there are no major spelling/grammer errors.
However, despite loving the idea of the M.C. and a fairly decent premise of starting out with an affinity discovered much later in the game's life (somehow, it doesn't seem like out of millions of players, it would be something no one else would figure out day one), I have to lower the score because everyone in the world is stupid. How so? Well, the amazing insider knowledge she brings back with her, no joke, is a)how to use a bank in game, b)how to loot your kills, c)how to take blatant verbal hints from npc's, d)how to complete 'bring me five wolf ear' quest chains really fast, etc. The blatant unimaginative stupidity of literally everyone is completely immersion breaking and, if not for the factors listed above, would itself be deserving of a one star review.
April 17, 2021
Great new first book in a series with a ton of potential
It has been too long since I’ve read a book this good. If you like well thought out game mechanics with well thought out characters and an intriguing plot, you should pick this one up.
I can’t remember the last time I read a LitRPG book that has a stat/attribute selection portion that was so well thought out. It made me want to play the game that the story revolves around.
You can tell that the author had a lot of fun writing this one, and it really shows through in the character development and interactions.
The stats are displayed in a way that are easy to read and understand, without distracting from the story.
There were a ton of new and unique fantasy creatures, and once the main character began to use her skills, the story really took off.
I was a fan of this author’s first series, a touch of power, but where that series had more of a slow build, this one hit the ground running.
I’m excited to read the next book, and although it is rare for me, I could see myself reading this one again.
It has been too long since I’ve read a book this good. If you like well thought out game mechanics with well thought out characters and an intriguing plot, you should pick this one up.
I can’t remember the last time I read a LitRPG book that has a stat/attribute selection portion that was so well thought out. It made me want to play the game that the story revolves around.
You can tell that the author had a lot of fun writing this one, and it really shows through in the character development and interactions.
The stats are displayed in a way that are easy to read and understand, without distracting from the story.
There were a ton of new and unique fantasy creatures, and once the main character began to use her skills, the story really took off.
I was a fan of this author’s first series, a touch of power, but where that series had more of a slow build, this one hit the ground running.
I’m excited to read the next book, and although it is rare for me, I could see myself reading this one again.
April 20, 2021
Good new series from s n awesome author
So this new series is not to different from the and other series. The story features a strong and quirky protagonist who is socially damaged but incredibly intelligent. This world setting is in VR in a new game. The MC However has some decided advantages as she died yearss in the future and was thrown back Into her body with 20 years of life experience and game experience retained. let the power leveling begin. Ashes is a bit hard to deal with socially but she has and finds friends to help her. Well she mostly helps them in the game and they help her grow socially while in game. Most of the story takes place in game with very little IRL interactions. The game system is basic and the book is not very numbers crunchy. That said it is definitely Litrpg . The author definitely put a touch of her other series in here hidden but rings true. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and hope Ashes improves her special skill as the series progresses as she is a little annoying in the beginning. I look forward to the next installment.
So this new series is not to different from the and other series. The story features a strong and quirky protagonist who is socially damaged but incredibly intelligent. This world setting is in VR in a new game. The MC However has some decided advantages as she died yearss in the future and was thrown back Into her body with 20 years of life experience and game experience retained. let the power leveling begin. Ashes is a bit hard to deal with socially but she has and finds friends to help her. Well she mostly helps them in the game and they help her grow socially while in game. Most of the story takes place in game with very little IRL interactions. The game system is basic and the book is not very numbers crunchy. That said it is definitely Litrpg . The author definitely put a touch of her other series in here hidden but rings true. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and hope Ashes improves her special skill as the series progresses as she is a little annoying in the beginning. I look forward to the next installment.
January 1, 2024
Fantastic book!
I picked this book on a whim because I love time travel vrmmprpg stories. The book was an absolute delight. The MC is believable and relatable. The game system is well developed and internally consistent. The pace is great, character interaction is well down and covers both friendly and adversarial scenarios. Ash is a loner. Added in to that is a tragic past not that far back in time. But she is still mostly a good person. Her adventure is a fun read. There are places that are heart wrenching. There is lots of good humor. And even with her advantage of coming back to the past with knowledge of the game, it turns out there are still many unknown mysteries and hidden quests to unlock. Oh! And the head developer and the AI that run the game have noticed her and are keeping a close watch on her activity.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book. Is is a truly delightful read without so much of the grimness or conversely the outright silliness many litrpg tales seem to contain. Yes the MC is OP, but based on the premise not ridiculously so.
I picked this book on a whim because I love time travel vrmmprpg stories. The book was an absolute delight. The MC is believable and relatable. The game system is well developed and internally consistent. The pace is great, character interaction is well down and covers both friendly and adversarial scenarios. Ash is a loner. Added in to that is a tragic past not that far back in time. But she is still mostly a good person. Her adventure is a fun read. There are places that are heart wrenching. There is lots of good humor. And even with her advantage of coming back to the past with knowledge of the game, it turns out there are still many unknown mysteries and hidden quests to unlock. Oh! And the head developer and the AI that run the game have noticed her and are keeping a close watch on her activity.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book. Is is a truly delightful read without so much of the grimness or conversely the outright silliness many litrpg tales seem to contain. Yes the MC is OP, but based on the premise not ridiculously so.
May 21, 2021
I liked the book despite finding a lot of it to be cliche and rehashed from other standard litrpg tropes. This is a first book in a series, so I was lenient and gave it 4 stars. The first 75% of the book setup the standard litrpg trope of a VR MMO with a MC who has insider knowledge to become OP.
The writing is well done insofar as it is easily accessible without some of the poor grammar and writing common in litrpg. The majority of the book involves a string of simple quests that would be tedious and boring in an actual MMO let alone 100+ pages of fetch quests.
I liked the author's other books, so I gave this one a shot. This is the first book of hers that made me reluctant to finish. However, I have higher hopes for the sequel now that the basics of the world are out of the way.
The writing is well done insofar as it is easily accessible without some of the poor grammar and writing common in litrpg. The majority of the book involves a string of simple quests that would be tedious and boring in an actual MMO let alone 100+ pages of fetch quests.
I liked the author's other books, so I gave this one a shot. This is the first book of hers that made me reluctant to finish. However, I have higher hopes for the sequel now that the basics of the world are out of the way.
August 29, 2023
phenomenal vrmmo litrpg
The author clearly has passion and knowledge for mmo games so it’s very easy as a reader to respect what’s unfolding in this story. Ashes also is pretty well written so far, which is great because so many stories in this genre have the most dull psycho protagonists, but Ashes is to me a believable gamer person, albeit an absurdly talented one, but my point is her personality and mannerisms shine through. I also love that this novel avoids the silly flavor text and ultra verbose skill names of other litrpg works. That stuff is a bit overdone in this genre so this more straightforward presentation is very welcome. This story has me craving to embark on a new mmo journey of my own. I’m a bit jaded and have recently run out of goals in my favorite game, so I’ll have to find a new one to get lost in…. Anyway, what a book. Very fun read.
The author clearly has passion and knowledge for mmo games so it’s very easy as a reader to respect what’s unfolding in this story. Ashes also is pretty well written so far, which is great because so many stories in this genre have the most dull psycho protagonists, but Ashes is to me a believable gamer person, albeit an absurdly talented one, but my point is her personality and mannerisms shine through. I also love that this novel avoids the silly flavor text and ultra verbose skill names of other litrpg works. That stuff is a bit overdone in this genre so this more straightforward presentation is very welcome. This story has me craving to embark on a new mmo journey of my own. I’m a bit jaded and have recently run out of goals in my favorite game, so I’ll have to find a new one to get lost in…. Anyway, what a book. Very fun read.
April 20, 2021
Interesting story and mc
I liked all the tree books of the other series written by jay boyce so I may be a little bias ,but that being said, I enjoyed the book and would like definitely read more. The magic system is distinctive and fresh, not overly complicated or explained (information dumping), the female lead is likeable and pleasing, at least to me, with her flaws being because of her past and even the it isn’t that big of a flaw, and I would keep reading even if she doesn’t change at all. There is no big villain to defeat or a quest to save the world but that is also one of the reason I like this book so much, it is relaxing and enjoyable drawing you into the world since minute one. I really recommend it
I liked all the tree books of the other series written by jay boyce so I may be a little bias ,but that being said, I enjoyed the book and would like definitely read more. The magic system is distinctive and fresh, not overly complicated or explained (information dumping), the female lead is likeable and pleasing, at least to me, with her flaws being because of her past and even the it isn’t that big of a flaw, and I would keep reading even if she doesn’t change at all. There is no big villain to defeat or a quest to save the world but that is also one of the reason I like this book so much, it is relaxing and enjoyable drawing you into the world since minute one. I really recommend it
December 17, 2021
A good fit if you're looking for a litRPG that's light on the tension and mortal danger. It's focus is on MMO culture and systems.
As for the plot it seems like a safe base. The book could go in a lot of directions but this installment is overall easy on the drama and fairly light. I found it a relaxing read.
My only complaint is there are a lot of characters that focus on the hey it's a gurl playing a vidia game and it a little cringe. I could definitely do with that being dialed back. I feel like that's a common struggle with authors writing the opposite gender. Fastest way to fix it I think is researching books written by women that both genders enjoy. Pirateaba comes to mind as an example.
As for the plot it seems like a safe base. The book could go in a lot of directions but this installment is overall easy on the drama and fairly light. I found it a relaxing read.
My only complaint is there are a lot of characters that focus on the hey it's a gurl playing a vidia game and it a little cringe. I could definitely do with that being dialed back. I feel like that's a common struggle with authors writing the opposite gender. Fastest way to fix it I think is researching books written by women that both genders enjoy. Pirateaba comes to mind as an example.
May 29, 2023
Rising from the "ashes"
Recently I've read a few similar tales where the MC has been taking back in time to a game launch with their previous experience of the game. This is the best I've read , Ashes the MC is a bit damaged from losing her parents and her interactions with other players reflects this but she knows this and is endeavouring to address it , she meets an assorted group of players whilst following various quests and makes friend with a few whilst they are grinding , she has to be carefully to hide her understanding of the game and unlike many similar stories doesn't become totally overpowered , I've read all the authors works recently and this is easily my favourite , I'm looking forward to book two.
Recently I've read a few similar tales where the MC has been taking back in time to a game launch with their previous experience of the game. This is the best I've read , Ashes the MC is a bit damaged from losing her parents and her interactions with other players reflects this but she knows this and is endeavouring to address it , she meets an assorted group of players whilst following various quests and makes friend with a few whilst they are grinding , she has to be carefully to hide her understanding of the game and unlike many similar stories doesn't become totally overpowered , I've read all the authors works recently and this is easily my favourite , I'm looking forward to book two.
April 18, 2021
Very well written
Like her other series, this book keeps the reader engaged throughout. Ash is quite relatable as an introvert who can function around others, but NEEDS time to herself to be at her best. It feels odd though that others accept her as a leader and follow her commands with little to no pushback.
The world and its magic systems are reasonably unique and flushed out. Other than it is the “new” game, we don’t really get much more on why players would choose this over the other games briefly mentioned.
Finally, it would be nice to see more about where the story is going, instead of simple leveling.
Like her other series, this book keeps the reader engaged throughout. Ash is quite relatable as an introvert who can function around others, but NEEDS time to herself to be at her best. It feels odd though that others accept her as a leader and follow her commands with little to no pushback.
The world and its magic systems are reasonably unique and flushed out. Other than it is the “new” game, we don’t really get much more on why players would choose this over the other games briefly mentioned.
Finally, it would be nice to see more about where the story is going, instead of simple leveling.
September 16, 2021
Story is generally good. The premise is a bit weak: MC reincarnates 5 years into her past and decides that the best use of her time is to use her experience to play a VRMMORPG better.
MC is a bit iffy, she describes her self as an introvert but it's as though the author doesn't know what an introvert is like. She acts like a person on the autism spectrum, but it's not very convincing.
Once again the interactions between characters is a bit weird. And she seems to form a reverse-harem similar to authors the previous series.
Overall, it's an ok book. Worth reading if you are in to litrpg and aren't sensitive to cringy dialogue and character interactions.
MC is a bit iffy, she describes her self as an introvert but it's as though the author doesn't know what an introvert is like. She acts like a person on the autism spectrum, but it's not very convincing.
Once again the interactions between characters is a bit weird. And she seems to form a reverse-harem similar to authors the previous series.
Overall, it's an ok book. Worth reading if you are in to litrpg and aren't sensitive to cringy dialogue and character interactions.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 13, 2023
Came back to this book
I picked this book up a while ago, but time travel makes me uncomfortable lol so I put it down. I have been craving a strong female/woman/girl character in books, and I'm a huge fun of the Touch of Power series. I decided to pick it back up and it was worth it. I love that Ash is an introvert, I relate to trauma causing a hermit mentality, and seeing her progress as a character is exciting. This is my first series where the characters are playing a game that doesn't seem like another world (the ability to leave the game and go back basically). I absolutely loved this book and I'm excited for what could happen next.
I picked this book up a while ago, but time travel makes me uncomfortable lol so I put it down. I have been craving a strong female/woman/girl character in books, and I'm a huge fun of the Touch of Power series. I decided to pick it back up and it was worth it. I love that Ash is an introvert, I relate to trauma causing a hermit mentality, and seeing her progress as a character is exciting. This is my first series where the characters are playing a game that doesn't seem like another world (the ability to leave the game and go back basically). I absolutely loved this book and I'm excited for what could happen next.
September 28, 2023
MC is kind of just a jerk who justifies her actions?
I get that she's been through a lot and is an introvert who doesn't like social interaction and I like some of the times she shuts people down, but overall she's just really a jerk. I didn't mind it too much but she just steadily got more introverted and more selfish as time went on, hoping she grows at a character but she's less fun as an MC and more vicious but painted as just in her actions. The problem is mostly that characters interacting are my favorite part in this type of book compared to solo leveling but she makes the character interactions less fun.
I get that she's been through a lot and is an introvert who doesn't like social interaction and I like some of the times she shuts people down, but overall she's just really a jerk. I didn't mind it too much but she just steadily got more introverted and more selfish as time went on, hoping she grows at a character but she's less fun as an MC and more vicious but painted as just in her actions. The problem is mostly that characters interacting are my favorite part in this type of book compared to solo leveling but she makes the character interactions less fun.
April 29, 2021
Impatient for book 2
I really enjoyed this book. While the main character never figures out how she went back in time, her reactions to it are honestly one of the most reasonable and realistic that I've encountered in this genre. While I could be mistaken, I felt like the main character was a very well written autistic woman who had to deal with personal trauma without it overshadowing either her actions or growth. I'm impatient for the next book, and I'm planning on actually buying the book instead of using Kindle unlimited.
I really enjoyed this book. While the main character never figures out how she went back in time, her reactions to it are honestly one of the most reasonable and realistic that I've encountered in this genre. While I could be mistaken, I felt like the main character was a very well written autistic woman who had to deal with personal trauma without it overshadowing either her actions or growth. I'm impatient for the next book, and I'm planning on actually buying the book instead of using Kindle unlimited.
June 12, 2023
This is a slightly different style compared to Boyce's other series. It's kinda light for the genre and I'll say it's okay, not great not bad, but not really bringing much new to the genre. It slightly deals with the sexism in the gaming industry but only in punitive measure and no actual correcting of behavior.
There is some flaw in the only action she takes in getting a 5 year redo is to be less introverted and play a game that you can now take advantage of with insider knowledge. This seems to imply the time warp is caused by the game but who knows. I'll keep reading.
There is some flaw in the only action she takes in getting a 5 year redo is to be less introverted and play a game that you can now take advantage of with insider knowledge. This seems to imply the time warp is caused by the game but who knows. I'll keep reading.
September 23, 2024
Thoroughly enjoyable story! I've already purchased book two.
An interesting use of reincarnation due to the MC dying at the beginning of the book and then uses the five years she's regained to improve her in-game life. MC makes calculated choices for her character's attributes to build a unique class. Things don't go quite according to her plans (seriously, how often do lives that are reset ever go exactly as planned?), but she adapts.
I can't wait to start reading book two! I'll start in the afternoon as I'm writing this at 2:30 a.m.
An interesting use of reincarnation due to the MC dying at the beginning of the book and then uses the five years she's regained to improve her in-game life. MC makes calculated choices for her character's attributes to build a unique class. Things don't go quite according to her plans (seriously, how often do lives that are reset ever go exactly as planned?), but she adapts.
I can't wait to start reading book two! I'll start in the afternoon as I'm writing this at 2:30 a.m.
April 19, 2021
Great start
Great start, with an op main character. Great story about a young woman who gets a chance to redo the last few years of her life. I found my self enjoying this quite a lot and I don’t really care for vrmmo stories, normally preferring transported to another world. Normally I’d pass on this buy I love Jay Boyce’s other books so I gave it a try. I’m glad I bought it and can’t wait for the next book.
Great start, with an op main character. Great story about a young woman who gets a chance to redo the last few years of her life. I found my self enjoying this quite a lot and I don’t really care for vrmmo stories, normally preferring transported to another world. Normally I’d pass on this buy I love Jay Boyce’s other books so I gave it a try. I’m glad I bought it and can’t wait for the next book.
April 20, 2021
Great Book!!👍
This is an awesome book. I am a fan of the author's other series A Touch of Power which is what led me to this. She is an amazing author who gives her characters good personalities and lets them make mistakes while still being awesome. I'll admit the first chapter or two of this book could use some refinement and clarification but after that it is 100% an A+ book that I would recommend to all lovers of fantasy and RPG.
This is an awesome book. I am a fan of the author's other series A Touch of Power which is what led me to this. She is an amazing author who gives her characters good personalities and lets them make mistakes while still being awesome. I'll admit the first chapter or two of this book could use some refinement and clarification but after that it is 100% an A+ book that I would recommend to all lovers of fantasy and RPG.
April 25, 2021
Oh, shiny
The main character uses “Shiny” as an expletive, which is a little jarring. She’s got an interesting take on the game system that she’s enveloped in - rather than being stuck there, she has intimate knowledge from somehow reliving her life where she played the same game obsessively for years. Now she has all the insider knowledge and is powering through some interesting quests on her way to more fun.
The main character uses “Shiny” as an expletive, which is a little jarring. She’s got an interesting take on the game system that she’s enveloped in - rather than being stuck there, she has intimate knowledge from somehow reliving her life where she played the same game obsessively for years. Now she has all the insider knowledge and is powering through some interesting quests on her way to more fun.
April 26, 2021
Good
Good story and writing but TOO much like every other isekai story out there. A special introvert girl get sent back in time to her younger self to play video games. Uses her inside knowledge to gain the system right some wrongs, have fun and make enemies along the way. It's a nice story and entertaining but personal it's been done before. Nothing wrong with that just too cookie cutter.
Good story and writing but TOO much like every other isekai story out there. A special introvert girl get sent back in time to her younger self to play video games. Uses her inside knowledge to gain the system right some wrongs, have fun and make enemies along the way. It's a nice story and entertaining but personal it's been done before. Nothing wrong with that just too cookie cutter.
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