First Necromancer: Book One is a solid start to what promises to be an engaging LitRPG series. Coldfang89 delivers a story packed with humor, adventure, and a satisfying dose of character-driven storytelling, all set against the backdrop of a system-driven world that feels fresh yet familiar to fans of the genre.
The book’s greatest strength lies in its humor, which is woven seamlessly into the narrative. The jokes are sharp, the timing impeccable, and the banter between characters never feels forced. Spock, the irreverent and endlessly entertaining sidekick, steals the show. Whether he’s tossing out sarcastic quips or playing an unexpectedly crucial role in the plot, Spock consistently brings energy and wit to every scene he’s in. He’s the kind of character you can’t help but root for, even when he’s pushing boundaries or getting the protagonist into trouble.
The action sequences, particularly those involving massive beasts, are hit-or-miss. On the one hand, they deliver the adrenaline rush you’d expect from LitRPG combat, complete with system notifications and leveling milestones. On the other, these fights often feel too straightforward, resolving a bit too quickly or lacking the layered strategy that could make them truly memorable. This is a minor quibble, but one worth noting for readers who love intricate battles in their gaming-inspired fiction.
Where the book truly excels is in its audiobook format, thanks to Christian J. Gilliland’s stellar narration. His voice work brings the characters to life, capturing their personalities with precision and adding depth to their interactions. Gilliland’s ability to convey humor, tension, and emotion keeps the listener hooked, making the audiobook an excellent way to experience the story.
First Necromancer: Book One might not reinvent the wheel when it comes to LitRPG, but it delivers exactly what fans of the genre are looking for: a fun, fast-paced adventure with a likable cast, an engaging system, and plenty of laughs along the way. The humor, combined with Spock’s undeniable charm and a narrator who knows how to enhance the material, makes this an enjoyable read (or listen) that’s worth picking up—even if the combat could use a bit more depth. Fans of LitRPG with a taste for humor-driven storytelling will find plenty to enjoy here, and it leaves just enough loose threads to make you want to see where the story goes next.
