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Dungeon Crawler Carl #3
The Dungeon Anarchist's Cookbook
Welcome to the Gun Show!
The top ten list is populated. The sponsorship program is open. The difficulty is ramping up. The first three floors were nothing compared to what Carl and Donut now face.
The Iron Tangle. An impossibly-complicated subway system built out of the world's subterranean railway systems, all combined and then tied together into a knot. Up is down. Down is up. Close is far. The cars are filled with monsters, the railway stations are less than safe, and the exit is always just a few stops away.
But there is hope. For the first time, the crawlers are all working together. The loot is better than ever. And the secret to unraveling it all may be hidden in the pages of a seemingly-useless book. Welcome, crawlers. Welcome to the fourth floor of the dungeon.
The top ten list is populated. The sponsorship program is open. The difficulty is ramping up. The first three floors were nothing compared to what Carl and Donut now face.
The Iron Tangle. An impossibly-complicated subway system built out of the world's subterranean railway systems, all combined and then tied together into a knot. Up is down. Down is up. Close is far. The cars are filled with monsters, the railway stations are less than safe, and the exit is always just a few stops away.
But there is hope. For the first time, the crawlers are all working together. The loot is better than ever. And the secret to unraveling it all may be hidden in the pages of a seemingly-useless book. Welcome, crawlers. Welcome to the fourth floor of the dungeon.
532 pages, Hardcover
First published March 19, 2021
8422 people are currently reading
15391 people want to read
About the author
Matt Dinniman
30 books9,831 followersMatt Dinniman is the best-selling writer and artist from Gig Harbor, Washington. He is the published author of dozens of short stories and a gaggle of books. In addition, his art publications—from greeting cards to stationery kits to calendars—can be found in boutique and stationery shops around the world. Also, he strongly feels like a pretentious twat when he writes about himself in third person.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 5,879 reviews
April 4, 2021
Still very well written and I like the characters, but this one didn't really work for me. The book gave me the feeling of running on a treadmill and never really getting anywhere. I understand the intent, but I found it tedious to read about all of the trains, lines, stations which detracted from my enjoyment.
The author goes so far as to say that you don't need to understand the floor, trains, etc. but if so, why bother to put so much effort into them? Hopefully the next one will work better as a reading experience.
The author goes so far as to say that you don't need to understand the floor, trains, etc. but if so, why bother to put so much effort into them? Hopefully the next one will work better as a reading experience.
July 27, 2025
This series is way too much like playing a video game: you think you'll just do one or two quests, maybe a half hour, and then all of a sudden, I've missed lunch and my watch it telling me it is time to move. Dinniman is so very good at leveling his reader up. In the first two books, we have a fairly straight-forward, LitRPG format. In book 3, he changes it up with an unusual tunnel dungeon revolving around trains and stations (I didn't have a great game reference, so my mental imaging filled in with the NYC subway system). Like other books in the series, it has intense emotional moments diluted with a little too much detail about the mechanics. To be fair, I feel the same way when some real-life guilds insist members prepare for playing by going into deep fight mechanics as well. That said, this is fun, video-game popcorn.
Worth noting is that I think there's a lot of hand-wavy stuff, but that's also appropriate for video game. In fact, characters both knowledgeable and not will tell him, 'it doesn't have to make sense,' which probably re-grounds the reader as well. This installment has a deep game that's clever, in a one-trick pony kind of way.
Though a dungeon crawler, Dinniman does his best to bring reflection and shared humanity (for lack of a better word) into the experience for the crew. It's actually a very applicable message for our times.
"But it struck me how someone so different, so alien, could still be so similar to me. Some things were just universal, I guessed."
Some aspects of the emotional plotting don't stick quite as well; It helps when Dinneman reminds us that Donut the cat is at a child-emotion level, which helps rectify some of the inconsistencies between being very smart and very naive.
"I GOT THE MASCOT SKILL! BUT I DIDN’T GET GROUP CHANT OR MOVING RIOT."
The sub-classes of characters continue to be hilarious, obviously. The lewdness of the AI is turned down in this one, but Dinneman's own--cough, um--stereotypical male view shows up in other ways.
"It takes a lot to break the cherry, so to say, and obtain level 1."
The dialogue language is pretty basic, but it's real strength is that Carl talks like people. Like real people. Like me when I'm really tired, or like people you are sharing a beer with, or parents at their wits' end. Depending on your tolerance, this may be a bug or a feature (haha):
“Mongo, stay with Donut,” I yelled as I rushed past. “And stop eating gross shit. You’re going to make yourself sick again.”
But I like that Dinneman keeps grounding Carl in his emotions.
"That was it, wasn’t it? Sleep was my sanctuary. No matter how fucked-up the world now was, I could still get away for part of the day. Now, that luxury was being eroded. Sure, our bodies would no longer be tired. But what about our brains? We were already well past burnout. What was going to happen now?"
Too true, Carl. Too true. We still wake up every day.
Three and a half achievements, rounding down for the parts I scanned.
Listened May 2025. Audio is about as addictive as reading, perhaps even more so.
Worth noting is that I think there's a lot of hand-wavy stuff, but that's also appropriate for video game. In fact, characters both knowledgeable and not will tell him, 'it doesn't have to make sense,' which probably re-grounds the reader as well. This installment has a deep game that's clever, in a one-trick pony kind of way.
Though a dungeon crawler, Dinniman does his best to bring reflection and shared humanity (for lack of a better word) into the experience for the crew. It's actually a very applicable message for our times.
"But it struck me how someone so different, so alien, could still be so similar to me. Some things were just universal, I guessed."
Some aspects of the emotional plotting don't stick quite as well; It helps when Dinneman reminds us that Donut the cat is at a child-emotion level, which helps rectify some of the inconsistencies between being very smart and very naive.
"I GOT THE MASCOT SKILL! BUT I DIDN’T GET GROUP CHANT OR MOVING RIOT."
The sub-classes of characters continue to be hilarious, obviously. The lewdness of the AI is turned down in this one, but Dinneman's own--cough, um--stereotypical male view shows up in other ways.
"It takes a lot to break the cherry, so to say, and obtain level 1."
The dialogue language is pretty basic, but it's real strength is that Carl talks like people. Like real people. Like me when I'm really tired, or like people you are sharing a beer with, or parents at their wits' end. Depending on your tolerance, this may be a bug or a feature (haha):
“Mongo, stay with Donut,” I yelled as I rushed past. “And stop eating gross shit. You’re going to make yourself sick again.”
But I like that Dinneman keeps grounding Carl in his emotions.
"That was it, wasn’t it? Sleep was my sanctuary. No matter how fucked-up the world now was, I could still get away for part of the day. Now, that luxury was being eroded. Sure, our bodies would no longer be tired. But what about our brains? We were already well past burnout. What was going to happen now?"
Too true, Carl. Too true. We still wake up every day.
Three and a half achievements, rounding down for the parts I scanned.
Listened May 2025. Audio is about as addictive as reading, perhaps even more so.
October 20, 2023
Watch my video review by clicking here.
By far my favorite book from this series. Fixed all my little problems from the first book, and took the story in a wonderful direction.
By far my favorite book from this series. Fixed all my little problems from the first book, and took the story in a wonderful direction.
October 2, 2024
The third book in a series that keeps getting better and better.
I found all the great elements of the two previous books, the humour, the action, the fantastic narration and adds higher stakes and more heart.
I'm more attached than ever to the main characters, and was pleasantly surprised by the development of the side characters and even their depth. Even the NPC have a unique voice.
Il be starting the next book soon!
I found all the great elements of the two previous books, the humour, the action, the fantastic narration and adds higher stakes and more heart.
I'm more attached than ever to the main characters, and was pleasantly surprised by the development of the side characters and even their depth. Even the NPC have a unique voice.
Il be starting the next book soon!
January 24, 2025
NEW ACHIEVEMENT! YOU'RE ON A TRAIN! CHU CHU MOTHERFUCKER!
4.5 stars!
As usual, this was unhinged, funny and so entertaining! I'm loving how the story is progressing and how their relationships are growing.
As always, some unhinged quotes:
“I don’t understand a word of what the fuck you just said.” The robot sighed. “I apologize, Carl. Let me translate it to earth monkey speak.”
“Miss Beatrice once used scissors to get poop off my butt,” Donut said. “Uh huh,” I said. “Once?” “We’re having a moment here, Carl. Don’t ruin it.”
“I think my fans should have a name, wouldn’t that be great? Like the Princess Patrol or something.” I grunted. “How about the Donut Holes?” “Don’t be crude, Carl.”
“There are some pretty weird ones, though. There’s a guy here who is a mushroom. Why would you turn yourself into a mushroom? He looks like a penis.”
"NEW ACHIEVEMENT: They love me, they really love me! You have gained a trillion new followers! People sure do love a good train-wreck! wink."
"NEW ACHIEVEMENT: Cock-Aquaman! You got fucked by a fish!"
“The moment I pulled his head through the hole, Donut snapped off the spell. I let go, and the severed head dropped to the ground, mouth still open wide. “What was that, bitch? I didn’t quite get that last part,” I said.”
_______________________________________________
pre-read
Peep my man Carl's fabulous toe ring 👀
4.5 stars!
As usual, this was unhinged, funny and so entertaining! I'm loving how the story is progressing and how their relationships are growing.
As always, some unhinged quotes:
“I don’t understand a word of what the fuck you just said.” The robot sighed. “I apologize, Carl. Let me translate it to earth monkey speak.”
“Miss Beatrice once used scissors to get poop off my butt,” Donut said. “Uh huh,” I said. “Once?” “We’re having a moment here, Carl. Don’t ruin it.”
“I think my fans should have a name, wouldn’t that be great? Like the Princess Patrol or something.” I grunted. “How about the Donut Holes?” “Don’t be crude, Carl.”
“There are some pretty weird ones, though. There’s a guy here who is a mushroom. Why would you turn yourself into a mushroom? He looks like a penis.”
"NEW ACHIEVEMENT: They love me, they really love me! You have gained a trillion new followers! People sure do love a good train-wreck! wink."
"NEW ACHIEVEMENT: Cock-Aquaman! You got fucked by a fish!"
“The moment I pulled his head through the hole, Donut snapped off the spell. I let go, and the severed head dropped to the ground, mouth still open wide. “What was that, bitch? I didn’t quite get that last part,” I said.”
_______________________________________________
pre-read
Peep my man Carl's fabulous toe ring 👀
August 29, 2025
only three hundred eighty-nine thousand are entering the massive subway station that is level four of the dungeon! we soon get to see carl and crew make a customizable base, filled with work stations and crafting tables. we also get to see enchantments, attaching gems (and other things) to items, the new ability to link things in chat, oh, and deities that certain classes are able to worship! and on this floor, we also get to learn about bounties - which are amounts that you are worth if other crawlers choose to kill you!
and, as the title of this third book would suggest, carl finds himself in possession of the anarchist’s cookbook, which is a book that many crawlers before carl have written their stories in. it is filled with crafting recipes, but also just advice ranging from class and spec stuff to what to expect going deeper into the dungeon. i really loved this aspect of the story, and as i am writing this review, i am a few more books ahead, and i am still very in love with this mysterious tome.
sadly, i am just not a train loving girl. i truly just kept picturing myself, every time i am in chicago, trying to memorize all the different color lines. one of my favorite aspects of this series is getting to see a brand new world unfold at each and every level, but i just didn’t feel that same magic, because i don’t love trains! But the end of this really did have me gooped and gagged, i won’t lie. and i really am loving katia more and more. and donut will forever be my favorite, and her little misty step puddle jump is just so cute, too! carl, i still like, but i was about to teleport inside the dungeon myself and remove that ring lol.
trigger + content warnings: slavery, mass killing and death, colonization, gore, violence, blood, battle, murder, explosions, fires, talk of cheating in past (on the mc), abandonment in past, child abuse in past / shitty parent in past, drug use, talk of addiction, talk of withdrawal, drinking, inebriation, loss of friend, grief, anxiety, vomit, torture, a fatphobic comment, talk of suicide, self sacrifice, bullying, talk of childbirth, talk of loss of children, talk of a deepfake / ai fake sex video
blog | instagram | youtube | wishlist | spotify | amazon
1.) Dungeon Crawler Carl ★★★★★
2.) Carl's Doomsday Scenario ★★★★
and, as the title of this third book would suggest, carl finds himself in possession of the anarchist’s cookbook, which is a book that many crawlers before carl have written their stories in. it is filled with crafting recipes, but also just advice ranging from class and spec stuff to what to expect going deeper into the dungeon. i really loved this aspect of the story, and as i am writing this review, i am a few more books ahead, and i am still very in love with this mysterious tome.
sadly, i am just not a train loving girl. i truly just kept picturing myself, every time i am in chicago, trying to memorize all the different color lines. one of my favorite aspects of this series is getting to see a brand new world unfold at each and every level, but i just didn’t feel that same magic, because i don’t love trains! But the end of this really did have me gooped and gagged, i won’t lie. and i really am loving katia more and more. and donut will forever be my favorite, and her little misty step puddle jump is just so cute, too! carl, i still like, but i was about to teleport inside the dungeon myself and remove that ring lol.
trigger + content warnings: slavery, mass killing and death, colonization, gore, violence, blood, battle, murder, explosions, fires, talk of cheating in past (on the mc), abandonment in past, child abuse in past / shitty parent in past, drug use, talk of addiction, talk of withdrawal, drinking, inebriation, loss of friend, grief, anxiety, vomit, torture, a fatphobic comment, talk of suicide, self sacrifice, bullying, talk of childbirth, talk of loss of children, talk of a deepfake / ai fake sex video
blog | instagram | youtube | wishlist | spotify | amazon
1.) Dungeon Crawler Carl ★★★★★
2.) Carl's Doomsday Scenario ★★★★
August 4, 2024
The railways were a bit tedious, but otherwise this candy is delicious and I'm on cruise control. Sometimes surprisingly emotional, especially the situations involving the NPCs like the demon mother living in the steam engine's firebox. I had a little extra water in my eyes.
March 12, 2025
Never have I ever swooned over a fictional straight man more than the way I do for Carl.
Admittedly, I spent a whole lot of this book confused as fuck with the in-depth workings of the train line system that this dungeon was created around.
But as per usual, the monsters were gross and the author has done a fab job at creating a story that creates VIVID AF head cinema for this made up, OTT world.
The NPC's were fucking awesome, Princess Donut absolutely crushed it and all the craziness sometimes gets pushed to the side for a few sincere cute moments that made me feel teary-eyed.
Carl realising he's found his lil family in a dungeon that's designed to kill him 😭😭😭
Admitting to himself how lonely he'd been all his life. omg. 😭😭😭
The achievement/reward system for killing monsters, and the AI that gives dungeon information is literally the best.
My fave monster warning of book 3:
"Literal fire ants: Level 1 - This is a trap monster.
Just like regular fire ants but with more enthusiasm. Plus, they hate you and want you to die.
They're pretty good at making that happen."
THE GOODREADS SHADE THIS BOOK THROWS IN THE BOOK'S OUTRO/ADVERTISEMENT OF THE AUDIOBOOK IS TOP TIER ALSO. 🤭🤭🤭
It's hard to give context to the outro's of these books, but the below is satire as it's technically part of a script that Carl had to read to make money during the book?
It's like the author is toying with the fourth wall or something, but it's so satisfying hahahaha.
"It really is ridiculous considering most authors spend hours toiling over their stories, painstakingly crafting each and every word, and what do they get? ALCOHOLISM. That's what they get. That and the joy of logging into Goodreads, only to find a new 1 star review where an anonymous dipshit with a winnie the pooh avatar calls your work "lazy writing" after you literally spent 3 years writing it."
🤭🤭🤭
Admittedly, I spent a whole lot of this book confused as fuck with the in-depth workings of the train line system that this dungeon was created around.
But as per usual, the monsters were gross and the author has done a fab job at creating a story that creates VIVID AF head cinema for this made up, OTT world.
The NPC's were fucking awesome, Princess Donut absolutely crushed it and all the craziness sometimes gets pushed to the side for a few sincere cute moments that made me feel teary-eyed.
Carl realising he's found his lil family in a dungeon that's designed to kill him 😭😭😭
Admitting to himself how lonely he'd been all his life. omg. 😭😭😭
The achievement/reward system for killing monsters, and the AI that gives dungeon information is literally the best.
My fave monster warning of book 3:
"Literal fire ants: Level 1 - This is a trap monster.
Just like regular fire ants but with more enthusiasm. Plus, they hate you and want you to die.
They're pretty good at making that happen."
THE GOODREADS SHADE THIS BOOK THROWS IN THE BOOK'S OUTRO/ADVERTISEMENT OF THE AUDIOBOOK IS TOP TIER ALSO. 🤭🤭🤭
It's hard to give context to the outro's of these books, but the below is satire as it's technically part of a script that Carl had to read to make money during the book?
It's like the author is toying with the fourth wall or something, but it's so satisfying hahahaha.
"It really is ridiculous considering most authors spend hours toiling over their stories, painstakingly crafting each and every word, and what do they get? ALCOHOLISM. That's what they get. That and the joy of logging into Goodreads, only to find a new 1 star review where an anonymous dipshit with a winnie the pooh avatar calls your work "lazy writing" after you literally spent 3 years writing it."
🤭🤭🤭
October 26, 2023
3.5 stars.
The world building is the highlight of this series. This book was less humorous than the previous books and the plot was tedious to get through because of the whole railway system.
Making the series one floor per book was not a great move either. I just wanted the book to be over. Mordecai wasn’t there for a huge portion of the plot and the AI didn’t show up often enough which sucks because I loved the AI sections.
There’s a slow build up to the backstory. Interested to see how that plays out in the sequels.
The world building is the highlight of this series. This book was less humorous than the previous books and the plot was tedious to get through because of the whole railway system.
Making the series one floor per book was not a great move either. I just wanted the book to be over. Mordecai wasn’t there for a huge portion of the plot and the AI didn’t show up often enough which sucks because I loved the AI sections.
There’s a slow build up to the backstory. Interested to see how that plays out in the sequels.
July 28, 2025
ALL HAIL PRINCESS DONUT
January 5, 2025
BookTube channel with my awesome brother, Ed - The Brothers Gwynne
My personal BookTube channel - William Gwynne
Wow the pace ramped up with this one!
Dungeon Crawler Carl continues its chaos and carnage, but it expands in this third instalment. The twists and turns had far more weight than the previous instalment in my opinion, and I cared far more about a wider range of characters. Regarding the main cast, I felt a great deal more attachment to Carl, who finds himself entangled in even more webs, many that he cannot share with his wonderful furry friend, Princess Doughnut. There is a tension building that I feel is going to culminate wonderfully.
Whilst the end did slow down a bit, my investment continues to soar with each instalment in this series and I cannot wait to see where it goes next.
4.25/5 STARS
My personal BookTube channel - William Gwynne
Wow the pace ramped up with this one!
Dungeon Crawler Carl continues its chaos and carnage, but it expands in this third instalment. The twists and turns had far more weight than the previous instalment in my opinion, and I cared far more about a wider range of characters. Regarding the main cast, I felt a great deal more attachment to Carl, who finds himself entangled in even more webs, many that he cannot share with his wonderful furry friend, Princess Doughnut. There is a tension building that I feel is going to culminate wonderfully.
Whilst the end did slow down a bit, my investment continues to soar with each instalment in this series and I cannot wait to see where it goes next.
4.25/5 STARS
October 25, 2024
As with the first two books, the story, pacing and overall plot is great. Really enjoyed the overall idea as well as the continued progress of Carl and Donut.
The three stars is because I felt the subway setting was just too complex to keep track of. The author did his best to explain it via words, but I never really understood the layout or how the various components fit together. I still enjoyed the book overall, but just couldn't wrap my head around that part of the story. (which is, unfortunately, the largest part of the overall plot)
Still plan to continue with the series and look forward to book 4.
The three stars is because I felt the subway setting was just too complex to keep track of. The author did his best to explain it via words, but I never really understood the layout or how the various components fit together. I still enjoyed the book overall, but just couldn't wrap my head around that part of the story. (which is, unfortunately, the largest part of the overall plot)
Still plan to continue with the series and look forward to book 4.
April 26, 2025
This was a wild ride. Pun intended.
I cannot say that I was always able to follow the complex game dynamics, but to quote Katia:
“Just pretend like you half understand.” as it didn't make it any less fun!
There is lots of character growth here, especially for Katia, and the book keeps going deeper on heavier and darker themes while maintaining the levity needed to digest it without it becoming preachy.
5 Things
1) My crush on Carl is worsening
2) The darkness hidden in the jokes OMG
3) This was Katia's time to shine! SLAY girl! (she did)
4) I keep laughing every time I think of Prepotente's screech/scream
5) This is now officially a favorite series
Link to IG quotes reel (with pics)
This AI's foot fetish is still horribly endearing
You'll never think about your grandma the same again
Of all the weird things in here...
I stand with Carl here
Having body parts cut off doesn't exactly help, Carl
This part hit hard.
More Zippy, you said?
I need a clip of Prepotente's scream to use against people irl
So satisfying.
Review also available on my new Bookstagram account ❤️
Pre-read
I thought this must be getting boring after a couple of books, but here I am, thinking we are still munching on the starters with no idea of what the main course will be.
I cannot say that I was always able to follow the complex game dynamics, but to quote Katia:
“Just pretend like you half understand.” as it didn't make it any less fun!
There is lots of character growth here, especially for Katia, and the book keeps going deeper on heavier and darker themes while maintaining the levity needed to digest it without it becoming preachy.
5 Things
1) My crush on Carl is worsening
2) The darkness hidden in the jokes OMG
3) This was Katia's time to shine! SLAY girl! (she did)
4) I keep laughing every time I think of Prepotente's screech/scream
5) This is now officially a favorite series
Link to IG quotes reel (with pics)
This AI's foot fetish is still horribly endearing
Birds have ugly feet. Disgusting feet, really. Still, there’s something sensual about
the sight of a hawk swooping down upon its prey, talons out, and slashing.
It’s so sudden, so unexpected, so explosively violent.
Such violence. Sweet, sweet violence.
You'll never think about your grandma the same again
“Look at how beautiful she is,” Donut whispered. “She’s like a vision of pure elegance.”
“Yo,” Elle cried at the bartender. “Whose d*ck do I gotta suck to get another drink? Christ.”
Of all the weird things in here...
Of all the ‘taurs out there, from Centaurs to Bisontaurs to Rhinotaurs, the ManTauR is one of the weirdest. Half human, and, uh, half human, the ManTauR has been genetically engineered for both strength and dexterity, making them perfect for the often-grueling and thankless job of Tangle Train Engineer.
I stand with Carl here
“I think my fans should have a name, wouldn’t that be great? Like the Princess Patrol or something.”
I grunted. “How about the Donut Holes?”
“Don’t be crude, Carl.”
Having body parts cut off doesn't exactly help, Carl
"You're still you. No matter how much they change, even if they carve everything else away, you're still you. You can't let them break you."
This part hit hard.
"She was beautiful you know, on the inside I mean. She didn't have that anger in her not like her mother... Or dad. When she ran away it wasn't because she was a bad kid, it was self defense.
Kids aren't always a product of their parents, but sometimes that doesn't matter.
Sometimes parents can cast a shadow so thick you can drown in it."
More Zippy, you said?
“What the hell color is chartreuse?”
“It’s between yellow and green. It’s named after a French liqueur. Actually, there’s some controversy on what the exact shade should be. It’s very interesting.”
“I’m sure it’s riveting,” I said.
Katia stuck her tongue out at me.
And then her tongue formed into a little hand with a tiny middle finger pointing up.
I need a clip of Prepotente's scream to use against people irl
"I will kill you tonight as you sleep!" Prepotente said to Miriam as he rubbed his head.
"No you won't, sweetie" she said. She reached over and kissed the goat on the top of the head where she whacked him.
"Do it again! It still hurts."
So satisfying.
Glurp, glurp motherfucker!!
Review also available on my new Bookstagram account ❤️
Pre-read
I thought this must be getting boring after a couple of books, but here I am, thinking we are still munching on the starters with no idea of what the main course will be.
March 23, 2025
★★★★★ 4.75/5
✎ (❁ᴗ͈ˬᴗ͈) ༉ Note : This review will be short and quick as I don't want to ruin the beauty of this experience for anyone else!
The Dungeon Anarchist's Cookbook is the third installment of the Dungeon Crawler Carl series and follows the first two books in being such incredible journeys to follow some of the most fun characters. Our duo has turned into a party of four, and while it remains told through Carl's POV, we are joined in a party of Carl, Princess Donut, Mongo, and Katia. Their journey in this book was.... a trip indeed!!
: ̗̀➛ My Review Rants
I cannot put into words my love for Carl, Princess Donut, and Mongo. Yes, Katia has joined the party as well and I do love her, she reminds me so much of myself (the artsy, socially awkward introvert girl in the group of extroverts with enough charisma to charm even rocks), but I just haven't been able to fully mold her into the group yet because my love for the family of the first 3 is just so heightened. I have so much love for the cast of characters in this book.
The only thing that kept this book from being a solid 5/5 stars for me like the first two in this series is, like many others have said in their reviews as well, the railway mechanics were so confusing and extremely difficult to follow in this one. That was the point - our main cast didn't even understand it until the very end either, so I wasn't expected to understand it, and I know that, but I have aphantasia, which means that if I'm not given at least somewhat understandable or legible explanations of the scenery, I'm lost entirely. I cannot visualize anything properly if the characters themselves also do not fully understand what is happening. So for a majority of this book, I just kind of zoned out while they were explaining the mechanics of the railway system, and focusing more on the action, the plot, and the summaries of skills and the usual drama. But losing the visual sense of their surroundings in this book was disappointing for me.
That one gripe isn't enough to ruin this book lower than a 5 star though. Which is surprising because I usually rate books much lower for far less than my gripe here, but that goes to show just how impressive and addictive that this series is. I eat it up like it's my first meal in a decade even when it's leaving me confused and out of the loop.
The tension in this book, the growth, the plot, all of it was chef's kiss. I was hooked every bit of the way. The Hekla situation? The ending? The tension was definitely one hell of a listen, and the audiobook built all of it up so well.
: ̗̀➛ Final Thoughts
4.75/5 stars, a perfect rating for me. I'm so devastated that I am all out of audible credits and will have to wait nearly a month until I can continue this journey. I may end up just reading the actual books themselves instead of waiting for my audible membership to renew, but we shall see first. See how desperate I get before I miss my babies too much.
: ̗̀➛ Series Reviews
Check out my reviews for the other books in this series:
Dungeon Crawler Carl : Book 1
Carl's Doomsday Scenario : Book 2
The Dungeon Anarchist's Cookbook : Book 3
The Gate of the Feral Gods : Book 4
The Butcher's Masquerade : Book 5
The Eye of the Bedlam Bride : Book 6
This Inevitable Ruin : Book 7
“There is no shame in wanting to be alone yet also wanting the comfort and the strength of your brethren.”
✎ (❁ᴗ͈ˬᴗ͈) ༉ Note : This review will be short and quick as I don't want to ruin the beauty of this experience for anyone else!
The Dungeon Anarchist's Cookbook is the third installment of the Dungeon Crawler Carl series and follows the first two books in being such incredible journeys to follow some of the most fun characters. Our duo has turned into a party of four, and while it remains told through Carl's POV, we are joined in a party of Carl, Princess Donut, Mongo, and Katia. Their journey in this book was.... a trip indeed!!
: ̗̀➛ My Review Rants
“Anybody else want to try something?” Elle shouted. “You come for Donut or Carl, you come for all of us. I will freeze the blood in your veins and make your genitals shatter like glass!”
I cannot put into words my love for Carl, Princess Donut, and Mongo. Yes, Katia has joined the party as well and I do love her, she reminds me so much of myself (the artsy, socially awkward introvert girl in the group of extroverts with enough charisma to charm even rocks), but I just haven't been able to fully mold her into the group yet because my love for the family of the first 3 is just so heightened. I have so much love for the cast of characters in this book.
The only thing that kept this book from being a solid 5/5 stars for me like the first two in this series is, like many others have said in their reviews as well, the railway mechanics were so confusing and extremely difficult to follow in this one. That was the point - our main cast didn't even understand it until the very end either, so I wasn't expected to understand it, and I know that, but I have aphantasia, which means that if I'm not given at least somewhat understandable or legible explanations of the scenery, I'm lost entirely. I cannot visualize anything properly if the characters themselves also do not fully understand what is happening. So for a majority of this book, I just kind of zoned out while they were explaining the mechanics of the railway system, and focusing more on the action, the plot, and the summaries of skills and the usual drama. But losing the visual sense of their surroundings in this book was disappointing for me.
That one gripe isn't enough to ruin this book lower than a 5 star though. Which is surprising because I usually rate books much lower for far less than my gripe here, but that goes to show just how impressive and addictive that this series is. I eat it up like it's my first meal in a decade even when it's leaving me confused and out of the loop.
The tension in this book, the growth, the plot, all of it was chef's kiss. I was hooked every bit of the way. The Hekla situation? The ending? The tension was definitely one hell of a listen, and the audiobook built all of it up so well.
: ̗̀➛ Final Thoughts
4.75/5 stars, a perfect rating for me. I'm so devastated that I am all out of audible credits and will have to wait nearly a month until I can continue this journey. I may end up just reading the actual books themselves instead of waiting for my audible membership to renew, but we shall see first. See how desperate I get before I miss my babies too much.
“Kids aren’t always a product of their parents. But sometimes that doesn’t matter. Sometimes parents can cast a shadow so thick, you can drown in it.”
“The moment I pulled his head through the hole, Donut snapped off the spell. I let go, and the severed head dropped to the ground, mouth still open wide. “What was that, bitch? I didn’t quite get that last part,” I said.”
“Warning: You have a dick. “Thank you for the information,” I said to the ceiling as I examined the weapon’s properties.”
“But more importantly, there is no shame in wanting to protect those who are your hive, even if you never knew them. For they are yours, and they are being taken. It is us or it is them. There is consolation in dying in the pursuit of justice, no matter how small or big that death is.”
“I think my fans should have a name, wouldn’t that be great? Like the Princess Patrol or something.”
I grunted. “How about the Donut Holes?”
“Don’t be crude, Carl.”
: ̗̀➛ Series Reviews
Check out my reviews for the other books in this series:
Dungeon Crawler Carl : Book 1
Carl's Doomsday Scenario : Book 2
The Dungeon Anarchist's Cookbook : Book 3
The Gate of the Feral Gods : Book 4
The Butcher's Masquerade : Book 5
The Eye of the Bedlam Bride : Book 6
This Inevitable Ruin : Book 7
April 28, 2025
This time around I thought it might start to get boring. I was wrong, because it did not.
The ideas are fun and fresh, the narrator is a revelation, and the politics of what is happening behind the scenes became a little more clear. And more dark. And Carl does not like it.
I will be taking a short break just to listen to a different narrator for a little while, then I shall continue on to the 4th book.
The ideas are fun and fresh, the narrator is a revelation, and the politics of what is happening behind the scenes became a little more clear. And more dark. And Carl does not like it.
I will be taking a short break just to listen to a different narrator for a little while, then I shall continue on to the 4th book.
July 31, 2025
3.5 ✨
Goodreads PLEASE let me give half stars PLEASE!
Anyway, this one is my lowest-rated DDC book solely because the subway, train, or noodle, whatever system was too complicated to understand, and I had to rewind my audiobook twice, thrice, and even four times to understand what was happening.
It literally made me question if it was my skill issue or if everyone thought it was not very easy 😭
Now, shit went down in this book too, and it's safe to say I DID NOT expect certain things to happen (Katia, I see you <3)
The series is taking a turn, the second book started it, and we continue it here. The players are fighting together, everything seems more than just a game, and our lovely Carl is here to burn everything down! Also, the shit he pulled in this book is literally gonna come bite him in his ass very soon...and I'm excited to read that lol
Goodreads PLEASE let me give half stars PLEASE!
Anyway, this one is my lowest-rated DDC book solely because the subway, train, or noodle, whatever system was too complicated to understand, and I had to rewind my audiobook twice, thrice, and even four times to understand what was happening.
It literally made me question if it was my skill issue or if everyone thought it was not very easy 😭
Now, shit went down in this book too, and it's safe to say I DID NOT expect certain things to happen (Katia, I see you <3)
The series is taking a turn, the second book started it, and we continue it here. The players are fighting together, everything seems more than just a game, and our lovely Carl is here to burn everything down! Also, the shit he pulled in this book is literally gonna come bite him in his ass very soon...and I'm excited to read that lol
October 19, 2024
More of the same from the Dungeon Crawler Carl series, with everything ramped up to 11. Still fun, still hilarious and downright crazy, still some powerful moments.
January 10, 2023
Monsters – many kinds, many threats, many outcomes:
"In fact, I realized as I watched the constant stream of creatures, it was probably a good thing for everybody if they did survive the fall into the pit. These were living, non-undead creatures, which meant every time one of them died, a ghoul was generated at a nearby ghoul generator."
Tension:
There is now a bounty on Carl….and on Donut!
Intergalactic Humor:
"New achievement! Martha Stewart! You used a workbench to craft for the first time. The next thing you know you’ll be fashioning bottlecap earrings, drinking oat milk, and selling your ugly crap on Etsy while you wax poetic on Instagram about your “journey.”"
Dangerous Decisions:
"“You’re going to get us killed one way or the other, Carl. It might as well be for a good cause,” Donut said.
I grunted. “Well they do say I’m crazy.”"
The Galaxy is Watching:
"The last thing I wanted was to be a pawn in some intergalactic pissing match. I had enough to worry about already."
Same characters; same humor (which tickles me frequently) but the plot thickens.
"In fact, I realized as I watched the constant stream of creatures, it was probably a good thing for everybody if they did survive the fall into the pit. These were living, non-undead creatures, which meant every time one of them died, a ghoul was generated at a nearby ghoul generator."
Tension:
There is now a bounty on Carl….and on Donut!
Intergalactic Humor:
"New achievement! Martha Stewart! You used a workbench to craft for the first time. The next thing you know you’ll be fashioning bottlecap earrings, drinking oat milk, and selling your ugly crap on Etsy while you wax poetic on Instagram about your “journey.”"
Dangerous Decisions:
"“You’re going to get us killed one way or the other, Carl. It might as well be for a good cause,” Donut said.
I grunted. “Well they do say I’m crazy.”"
The Galaxy is Watching:
"The last thing I wanted was to be a pawn in some intergalactic pissing match. I had enough to worry about already."
Same characters; same humor (which tickles me frequently) but the plot thickens.
March 12, 2025
This review was originally published on Before We Go Blog
Well, I think it is safe to say that The Dungeon Anarchist's Cookbook was an absolute trainwreck in the best way possible. Did I have any clue what the fuck was going on on this fourth floor? Maybe not, but I am strapped into my seat on the hype train at this point, so I just sat back and enjoyed the wild ride. CHOO CHOO, motherfuckers!!
For me, the DCC series has always been all about the characters, and I continue to be impressed by the continued character growth and level of emotional depth that Dinniman is able to deliver amidst all the chaos and mayhem. Carl is just the best broody bastard, and seeing him getting increasingly bolder and more rebellious as he learns more about the grand scheme of this sick ‘game’ is just inexplicably entertaining.
And do not get me started on the found family vibes that are only getting stronger and stronger. Of course Princess Donut is still just the absolute highlight of this entire shitshow (Princess Posse represent!), and I was also pleasantly surprised by Katia’s growing role in their party. I mean, joke’s on me for thinking she was just going to be a boring red shirt character… girlie kicks fucking ass!! I mean, I somehow didn’t even end up missing our trusty manager Mordecai in this instalment, because all the other side characters just stole the show.
Now, all that said, I do have to admit that The Dungeon Anarchist’s Cookbook is probably my least favourite instalment so far, simply because of the fact that my last remaining brain cell was truly dying trying to wrap my head around this level. Okay that’s a lie, I didn’t even bother trying to comprehend how this clusterfuck of a noodle-knotted-subway system functioned. But hey, Carl eventually seemed to figure out how the logic was logicking, and in Carl we trust, so that’s all that matters.
At this point I honestly don’t know if I am more concerned or impressed by Dinniman’s unhinged imagination and twisted storytelling, but there's no denying that the man is cookingggg! What’s more, I love how this series is becoming more nuanced and deep with each instalment, all without ever losing its insanely high fun factor. The snark and cutting social commentary just bleed off the page in The Dungeon Anarchist's Cookbook, and I couldn’t stop myself from cackling at all the deranged dark humour; chef’s kiss.
So, even though this instalment was relatively speaking just a tiny step down for me personally, I still loved it way more than I ever thought possible. Safe to say that I am still suffering from a heavy case of DCC fever, and I am not even trying to look for a cure. Give me all the explosive chaos and wonderful weirdness. Level five, bring it on!
Well, I think it is safe to say that The Dungeon Anarchist's Cookbook was an absolute trainwreck in the best way possible. Did I have any clue what the fuck was going on on this fourth floor? Maybe not, but I am strapped into my seat on the hype train at this point, so I just sat back and enjoyed the wild ride. CHOO CHOO, motherfuckers!!
For me, the DCC series has always been all about the characters, and I continue to be impressed by the continued character growth and level of emotional depth that Dinniman is able to deliver amidst all the chaos and mayhem. Carl is just the best broody bastard, and seeing him getting increasingly bolder and more rebellious as he learns more about the grand scheme of this sick ‘game’ is just inexplicably entertaining.
And do not get me started on the found family vibes that are only getting stronger and stronger. Of course Princess Donut is still just the absolute highlight of this entire shitshow (Princess Posse represent!), and I was also pleasantly surprised by Katia’s growing role in their party. I mean, joke’s on me for thinking she was just going to be a boring red shirt character… girlie kicks fucking ass!! I mean, I somehow didn’t even end up missing our trusty manager Mordecai in this instalment, because all the other side characters just stole the show.
Now, all that said, I do have to admit that The Dungeon Anarchist’s Cookbook is probably my least favourite instalment so far, simply because of the fact that my last remaining brain cell was truly dying trying to wrap my head around this level. Okay that’s a lie, I didn’t even bother trying to comprehend how this clusterfuck of a noodle-knotted-subway system functioned. But hey, Carl eventually seemed to figure out how the logic was logicking, and in Carl we trust, so that’s all that matters.
At this point I honestly don’t know if I am more concerned or impressed by Dinniman’s unhinged imagination and twisted storytelling, but there's no denying that the man is cookingggg! What’s more, I love how this series is becoming more nuanced and deep with each instalment, all without ever losing its insanely high fun factor. The snark and cutting social commentary just bleed off the page in The Dungeon Anarchist's Cookbook, and I couldn’t stop myself from cackling at all the deranged dark humour; chef’s kiss.
So, even though this instalment was relatively speaking just a tiny step down for me personally, I still loved it way more than I ever thought possible. Safe to say that I am still suffering from a heavy case of DCC fever, and I am not even trying to look for a cure. Give me all the explosive chaos and wonderful weirdness. Level five, bring it on!
March 27, 2025
I think the best review I can give this book is that after finishing, I immediately purchased books 4,5, and 6.
July 19, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ This series continues to be soooo good! G-d Donut! All the monsters, all the characters and all the trains kept me on my toes! On to the next one. Now get out there and kill kill kill💀
February 23, 2024
3.5/5
I really enjoyed the first two books of the Dungeon Crawler Carl series, and that now includes this one, though admittedly it’s my least favourite of the three. Just as it was with the previous two books, this book remains a crazy amount of video game styled fun, with plenty of hilarious moments and a lot of surprising depth.
The reason why I didn’t enjoy this one as much as the others was because of the setting of the fourth floor, which Carl and Donut have descended to, as well as what the story primarily revolved around. Level four takes place in a large subterranean railway system. The main premise here revolves around puzzles, in contrast to the previous book in which the setting was a typical fantasy style world with a whacky twist, as well as a focus on quests. I just didn’t feel too engrossed in either the setting or the focus on puzzles. I’ve never been into puzzles myself, and I missed the quest concept from last book which made for some strong storylines. There’s also a foreword at the start of the book from the author, where it’s stated that the railway system puzzle is going to be very confusing for some readers, and to not take too much notice of it as it crops up throughout the story, that it only really matters at the end of the book. At this point, I couldn’t not true notice of it, and I just found it confusing with most of it going over my head, to the point I just began to lose interest.
That being said, that’s my only criticism. There’s still plenty of great moments in the story. The plot is really starting to develop into something pretty epic in scope at this point. Katia, a new character who joins Carl and Donut’s party initially starts off as a weak, boring character, but by books end is one of its highlights. Carl continues to grow into a particularly strong protagonist in a book surrounded by colourful, charismatic characters. Donut is also slowly undergoing a pretty momentous character arc that I’m sure is going to have a terrific pay off. The series is still incredibly fun. The emotional moments still hit hard, the funny moments are still hilarious, and the action scenes are still invigorating. I just wasn’t keen on the premise of puzzles, but others may love that aspect of this book, preferring it to the quest system from last book. I will say I’m very excited for the setting in the next book, with the party descending to level five. It feels like a return to the settings I’m interested in.
Though my interest waned slightly here, the series continues to remain a wildly fun ride that breaks up the heavier reads perfectly.
I really enjoyed the first two books of the Dungeon Crawler Carl series, and that now includes this one, though admittedly it’s my least favourite of the three. Just as it was with the previous two books, this book remains a crazy amount of video game styled fun, with plenty of hilarious moments and a lot of surprising depth.
The reason why I didn’t enjoy this one as much as the others was because of the setting of the fourth floor, which Carl and Donut have descended to, as well as what the story primarily revolved around. Level four takes place in a large subterranean railway system. The main premise here revolves around puzzles, in contrast to the previous book in which the setting was a typical fantasy style world with a whacky twist, as well as a focus on quests. I just didn’t feel too engrossed in either the setting or the focus on puzzles. I’ve never been into puzzles myself, and I missed the quest concept from last book which made for some strong storylines. There’s also a foreword at the start of the book from the author, where it’s stated that the railway system puzzle is going to be very confusing for some readers, and to not take too much notice of it as it crops up throughout the story, that it only really matters at the end of the book. At this point, I couldn’t not true notice of it, and I just found it confusing with most of it going over my head, to the point I just began to lose interest.
That being said, that’s my only criticism. There’s still plenty of great moments in the story. The plot is really starting to develop into something pretty epic in scope at this point. Katia, a new character who joins Carl and Donut’s party initially starts off as a weak, boring character, but by books end is one of its highlights. Carl continues to grow into a particularly strong protagonist in a book surrounded by colourful, charismatic characters. Donut is also slowly undergoing a pretty momentous character arc that I’m sure is going to have a terrific pay off. The series is still incredibly fun. The emotional moments still hit hard, the funny moments are still hilarious, and the action scenes are still invigorating. I just wasn’t keen on the premise of puzzles, but others may love that aspect of this book, preferring it to the quest system from last book. I will say I’m very excited for the setting in the next book, with the party descending to level five. It feels like a return to the settings I’m interested in.
Though my interest waned slightly here, the series continues to remain a wildly fun ride that breaks up the heavier reads perfectly.
August 17, 2022
4.5/5
Funny, Heartwhelming and EXPLOSIVE
Another solid entry in the DGC series with some intersting new characters, plenty of LOL moments and good ol' powerups.
The only thing that bothered me in this book was some plot threads felt like way too convenient for story progression. Otherwise I had a blast reading this one.
Book 4, Here I come...
Funny, Heartwhelming and EXPLOSIVE
Another solid entry in the DGC series with some intersting new characters, plenty of LOL moments and good ol' powerups.
The only thing that bothered me in this book was some plot threads felt like way too convenient for story progression. Otherwise I had a blast reading this one.
Book 4, Here I come...
August 11, 2025
3.75/5
Another enjoyable read with moments that had me super interested and moments when the "humour" made me roll my eyes. I feel like the author does have an unresolved problem with his ex, cause this feels personal at times.
A certain moment with other players trying to play our main characters had me clutching my pearls, not gonna lie. I do wish that level of excitement was consistent throughout the whole book, and not just info dumping after info dumping and then a big "Oh shit" moment.
But we're heading into dangerous levels in this game, so I can't wait to see if a proper problem hits the screen.
Another enjoyable read with moments that had me super interested and moments when the "humour" made me roll my eyes. I feel like the author does have an unresolved problem with his ex, cause this feels personal at times.
A certain moment with other players trying to play our main characters had me clutching my pearls, not gonna lie. I do wish that level of excitement was consistent throughout the whole book, and not just info dumping after info dumping and then a big "Oh shit" moment.
But we're heading into dangerous levels in this game, so I can't wait to see if a proper problem hits the screen.
June 2, 2025
✨Book Review in 10 words or less✨
I would die for Carl
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I would die for Carl
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 20, 2025
Czytajcie Carla, proszę. Ta książka zabrała mnie w miejsca, o których nie miałam pojęcia że istnieją( no dobra, nie istnieją! Niech wam będzie!). Jest przygoda, jest akcja, ale jest też miejsce na wzruszenie i momenty kiedy świat staje w miejscu a serce gubi rytm.
Goddamnit Donut!
Goddamnit Donut!
February 20, 2025
I still really dug this one but the mechanism of the fourth floor is about 300% too complicated. I believe the author understands it but when you have to start your book with a disclaimer that reads “don’t bother trying to figure any of this out” that’s probably a sign the draft needed some more work
May 5, 2024
Another brilliant and hilarious installment in this series. The stakes are getting higher, the puzzles are getting harder, and the levels are rising! I'm so excited to start the next book.
Also, these audiobooks are INSANELY good!
Also, these audiobooks are INSANELY good!
August 15, 2025
jak zwykle cudowne. mimo że wiem, że są dalsze części i bohaterowie muszą przeżyć, to i tak człowiek obgryza paznokcie z niepokoju (metaforycznie)
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