What do you think?
The Lighthearted LitRPG Farm Adventure #1
The Harvest of Moondew Valley: A Low Stakes Cozy Slice of Life Farming Fantasy LitRPG
A cozy, slice-of-life LitRPG fantasy about farming, crafting, friendships, found family, low-stakes adventure, and a quest to restore a valley's fading magic.
He isn’t the chosen one destined to save the world. He’s just the guy who inherited an abandoned farm no one else wanted.
Alden is drained. A dead-end job in a grey city is sucking the life out of him, and he’s a breath away from snapping. So when a mysterious letter arrives with a one-hundred-year-old deed to a magical farm, the choice is easy. He’s trading the city's grime and grind for a fresh start.
But Starshine Farm is a wreck. The fields are barren, the buildings are collapsing, and the nearby villagers are openly suspicious. They whisper that the farm is cursed, and when Alden unearths the former owner's hidden journal, he discovers the Starshine Farm isn't just land—it's the magical heart of the entire valley and its ancient enchantment is failing.
He has just 30 days to restore the magic, but the quest demands the mend a broken bond with his stepbrother, earn the trust of a reclusive young woman, and soothe the fears of a village terrified of what might awaken.
Can Alden build the bridges he needs to save the dying farm, or will his inability to connect leave him truly and forever alone?
The Harvest of Moondew Valley is the first book in a heartwarming cozy litRPG fantasy series. If you love low-stakes adventures, wholesome town-building, a dash of small town romance, and a journey from loneliness to belonging, then you’ll love this heartwarming slice-of-life farming adventure!
Buy The Harvest of Moondew Valley to start building a new life today!
He isn’t the chosen one destined to save the world. He’s just the guy who inherited an abandoned farm no one else wanted.
Alden is drained. A dead-end job in a grey city is sucking the life out of him, and he’s a breath away from snapping. So when a mysterious letter arrives with a one-hundred-year-old deed to a magical farm, the choice is easy. He’s trading the city's grime and grind for a fresh start.
But Starshine Farm is a wreck. The fields are barren, the buildings are collapsing, and the nearby villagers are openly suspicious. They whisper that the farm is cursed, and when Alden unearths the former owner's hidden journal, he discovers the Starshine Farm isn't just land—it's the magical heart of the entire valley and its ancient enchantment is failing.
He has just 30 days to restore the magic, but the quest demands the mend a broken bond with his stepbrother, earn the trust of a reclusive young woman, and soothe the fears of a village terrified of what might awaken.
Can Alden build the bridges he needs to save the dying farm, or will his inability to connect leave him truly and forever alone?
The Harvest of Moondew Valley is the first book in a heartwarming cozy litRPG fantasy series. If you love low-stakes adventures, wholesome town-building, a dash of small town romance, and a journey from loneliness to belonging, then you’ll love this heartwarming slice-of-life farming adventure!
Buy The Harvest of Moondew Valley to start building a new life today!
446 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 8, 2023
About the author
D.R.R. Hatch
16 books14 followersD. R. R. Hatch here, I'm a LitRPG author with 15 novels and counting. I'm known for my bestseller isekai "The Legend of Kazro" and also my farming cozy fantasy "The Harvest of Moondew Valley."
I write LitRPG isekais, system apocalypses, dungeon crawlers, cultivation, base builders, and cozy fantasy, all of them under the LitRPG umbrella.
Follow me here on Goodreads to be the first to know when I release a novel!
I write LitRPG isekais, system apocalypses, dungeon crawlers, cultivation, base builders, and cozy fantasy, all of them under the LitRPG umbrella.
Follow me here on Goodreads to be the first to know when I release a novel!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
November 16, 2023
See this and other reviews on my book review blog at https://thebookdragondotblog.wordpres...
I try not to judge a book by its cover, but it’s difficult not to get your hopes up too high when you see a cover as adorable as this… But good news–the story lives up to the hype! The writer of this adorable and cozy fantasy litRPG, DRR Hatch does it again (see my review of his Lesser Souls novel) and draws me in almost immediately. Within the very first chapter–practically the very first page!–readers are transported to a whole new world, one that celebrates diverse races among its peoples and plays around with various magic systems.
Alden Bramblethorn is our main character, and he’s got a lot of growing to do. Luckily, as a cozy farming fantasy novel with 450 pages, he’s got plenty of time to work on himself. Much of the book is absolutely dedicated to his growth and it feels so satisfying getting to be there with him through it all. With the LitRPG aspect, it’s almost as if I’m leveling up with him! And if you’re not really into LitRPG, or if this is your first foray into the genre, this book is perfect. It’s light on the character stats and numbers, so it gives you a taste of the genre without totally overwhelming you if video games are not a passionate past-time of yours. The magic systems are also not too overbearing, so it’s also easy to read in that case as well.
The world building, as with his other book I read, is phenomenal. I can see the various races of characters and venture into their magical world alongside them. The cute critters picked up along the way (because yes, pets are a plus in this novel!) and the creepy monsters they have to fight all feel so real. The immersion is perfect.
The characters are all different, each with their own unique flaws and place in the story. I will admit that there is some romance, and it feels a bit immature for how old the characters are supposed to be, but this is good for a YA audience. There is no adult content.
The pacing can be slow in the beginning, but in a good way. Leisurely. The plot slowly ramps up in the end, where it suddenly gains tension and quickens in pace, to where I had to keep reminding myself to sit down. I found myself tensing up and pacing for the last several chapters, excited to see where the end left us.
All in all, this is an adorable read for first-time Fantasy/LitRPG readers and hard-core fans alike, complete with a magical world to explore, monsters to fight, and quests to fulfill.
I try not to judge a book by its cover, but it’s difficult not to get your hopes up too high when you see a cover as adorable as this… But good news–the story lives up to the hype! The writer of this adorable and cozy fantasy litRPG, DRR Hatch does it again (see my review of his Lesser Souls novel) and draws me in almost immediately. Within the very first chapter–practically the very first page!–readers are transported to a whole new world, one that celebrates diverse races among its peoples and plays around with various magic systems.
Alden Bramblethorn is our main character, and he’s got a lot of growing to do. Luckily, as a cozy farming fantasy novel with 450 pages, he’s got plenty of time to work on himself. Much of the book is absolutely dedicated to his growth and it feels so satisfying getting to be there with him through it all. With the LitRPG aspect, it’s almost as if I’m leveling up with him! And if you’re not really into LitRPG, or if this is your first foray into the genre, this book is perfect. It’s light on the character stats and numbers, so it gives you a taste of the genre without totally overwhelming you if video games are not a passionate past-time of yours. The magic systems are also not too overbearing, so it’s also easy to read in that case as well.
The world building, as with his other book I read, is phenomenal. I can see the various races of characters and venture into their magical world alongside them. The cute critters picked up along the way (because yes, pets are a plus in this novel!) and the creepy monsters they have to fight all feel so real. The immersion is perfect.
The characters are all different, each with their own unique flaws and place in the story. I will admit that there is some romance, and it feels a bit immature for how old the characters are supposed to be, but this is good for a YA audience. There is no adult content.
The pacing can be slow in the beginning, but in a good way. Leisurely. The plot slowly ramps up in the end, where it suddenly gains tension and quickens in pace, to where I had to keep reminding myself to sit down. I found myself tensing up and pacing for the last several chapters, excited to see where the end left us.
All in all, this is an adorable read for first-time Fantasy/LitRPG readers and hard-core fans alike, complete with a magical world to explore, monsters to fight, and quests to fulfill.
August 6, 2026
Unfortunately, this one didn’t quite work for me, though I do think the series has a lot of potential.
As someone who’s spent plenty of time playing Stardew Valley, I found the similarities so strong that it often felt like I was reading a novelization of the game rather than a story inspired by it. The farming, community goals, relationship mechanics, and even some of the character interactions closely mirrored the game. While I know many readers will pick this up specifically because they want that Stardew Valley experience, I was hoping the story would carve out a stronger identity of its own.
The friendships and romance also didn’t fully land for me. The dialogue and internal thoughts often felt more like a player making choices in a game than natural conversations. Moments where the protagonist considers who to marry, for example, came across as selecting a romance option rather than forming a genuine connection, which made those relationships feel a bit clunky.
I also struggled with the combat scenes, as they were sometimes difficult to visualize and lacked the same charm I found in the quieter moments.
That said, there were definitely aspects I enjoyed. The farming was easily my favorite part of the book, and the whimlings completely won me over. I also appreciated seeing the MC begin to repair his relationship with his brother. I just wish we’d been given a little more backstory to make those emotional moments feel even more impactful.
Overall, while this wasn’t the right fit for me, I think there’s a solid foundation here. With stronger character development, more distinct world-building, and smoother action and dialogue, I could see this series growing into something really enjoyable.
As someone who’s spent plenty of time playing Stardew Valley, I found the similarities so strong that it often felt like I was reading a novelization of the game rather than a story inspired by it. The farming, community goals, relationship mechanics, and even some of the character interactions closely mirrored the game. While I know many readers will pick this up specifically because they want that Stardew Valley experience, I was hoping the story would carve out a stronger identity of its own.
The friendships and romance also didn’t fully land for me. The dialogue and internal thoughts often felt more like a player making choices in a game than natural conversations. Moments where the protagonist considers who to marry, for example, came across as selecting a romance option rather than forming a genuine connection, which made those relationships feel a bit clunky.
I also struggled with the combat scenes, as they were sometimes difficult to visualize and lacked the same charm I found in the quieter moments.
That said, there were definitely aspects I enjoyed. The farming was easily my favorite part of the book, and the whimlings completely won me over. I also appreciated seeing the MC begin to repair his relationship with his brother. I just wish we’d been given a little more backstory to make those emotional moments feel even more impactful.
Overall, while this wasn’t the right fit for me, I think there’s a solid foundation here. With stronger character development, more distinct world-building, and smoother action and dialogue, I could see this series growing into something really enjoyable.
October 6, 2025
My reviews are my own. If you liked this book, I’m glad you enjoyed it. If not, I respect your opinion. This is merely my opinion, so let's keep it courteous.
I would have liked a bit of a background story a bit better; it felt a little like dumping info at the beginning without explanation. Like, why is he such a whimp towards the female characters? Why are his feelings so extreme regarding relationships? And what is important about knowing about his past relationships? What do all the stats mean? etc. Of course, nobody will stay by him; he is a total whimp with no backbone! Also, he is a moron, I mean, he finds a cute girl and right away he is thinking of not falling for them and a relationship out of the gate? Total immature behavior, for someone who is supposed to be 24, who behaves like that? Not even teens in the middle of a hormone craze are that stupid. There is also a LOT of repetitiveness. All the characters are plain weird, and the dialogue is HORRIBLE!
This story needed better editing; not sure if things were lost in translation or something, because the writing is a bit all over the place. The idea was good, but poorly developed. Finally, I really don't get why adventure/cultivation books constantly include unnecessary "love/romance".
BTW if the author is reading this, you need to merge this book entry; there are 3 separate versions in Goodreads.
On to my next adventure, Happy Readings!!!
I would have liked a bit of a background story a bit better; it felt a little like dumping info at the beginning without explanation. Like, why is he such a whimp towards the female characters? Why are his feelings so extreme regarding relationships? And what is important about knowing about his past relationships? What do all the stats mean? etc. Of course, nobody will stay by him; he is a total whimp with no backbone! Also, he is a moron, I mean, he finds a cute girl and right away he is thinking of not falling for them and a relationship out of the gate? Total immature behavior, for someone who is supposed to be 24, who behaves like that? Not even teens in the middle of a hormone craze are that stupid. There is also a LOT of repetitiveness. All the characters are plain weird, and the dialogue is HORRIBLE!
This story needed better editing; not sure if things were lost in translation or something, because the writing is a bit all over the place. The idea was good, but poorly developed. Finally, I really don't get why adventure/cultivation books constantly include unnecessary "love/romance".
BTW if the author is reading this, you need to merge this book entry; there are 3 separate versions in Goodreads.
On to my next adventure, Happy Readings!!!
July 30, 2026
Things I enjoyed:
- Alden's sweet personal development in discovering the love of a community
- The comedic relief of Ignis's chapters. The brother relationship mend was very sweet, though I wish they interacted more.
-The game stats were simple and easy to follow and integrated well with the story. I particularly thought the Pokémon / pets evolution was a cute and cozy touch.
Things that I would have liked to be more expanded:
- Very slow in getting the plot started
- All romance felt a bit off but suiting for the cozy scene… Felt very much like teenagers falling in love, awkwardness included. The romance between Alden and Harper felt disjointed, especially with Kia taking center stage most times. Would have enjoyed some more scenes with them.
- Fighting scenes were a little hard to follow. Sometimes too much detail overkill.
- There weren't many opportunities for us to care for Balthazar.. A pretty vital character. I felt this could have improved the ending a bit more.
Overall: A fun and enjoyable read! I’m interested in reading a sequel and how these characters will evolve themselves.
- Alden's sweet personal development in discovering the love of a community
- The comedic relief of Ignis's chapters. The brother relationship mend was very sweet, though I wish they interacted more.
-The game stats were simple and easy to follow and integrated well with the story. I particularly thought the Pokémon / pets evolution was a cute and cozy touch.
Things that I would have liked to be more expanded:
- Very slow in getting the plot started
- All romance felt a bit off but suiting for the cozy scene… Felt very much like teenagers falling in love, awkwardness included. The romance between Alden and Harper felt disjointed, especially with Kia taking center stage most times. Would have enjoyed some more scenes with them.
- Fighting scenes were a little hard to follow. Sometimes too much detail overkill.
- There weren't many opportunities for us to care for Balthazar.. A pretty vital character. I felt this could have improved the ending a bit more.
Overall: A fun and enjoyable read! I’m interested in reading a sequel and how these characters will evolve themselves.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 28, 2025
Farm Living is the Life for Me!
Alden inherits land, a house, fertile land for crops, and a lot of responsibility. As he tries to do the overwhelming tasks required by the journal left by his ancestors to guide him in his mission, he gains understanding of how important family and friends can be. Magic and gems and creatures offer the ability to overcome the evils and monsters that have tried to take control of the inheritance for their use. Battling evil leaders, plants, weather, fire, underground plants and people to bring crops back to the community is almost an impossible task, but with help, it can be accomplished.
Alden inherits land, a house, fertile land for crops, and a lot of responsibility. As he tries to do the overwhelming tasks required by the journal left by his ancestors to guide him in his mission, he gains understanding of how important family and friends can be. Magic and gems and creatures offer the ability to overcome the evils and monsters that have tried to take control of the inheritance for their use. Battling evil leaders, plants, weather, fire, underground plants and people to bring crops back to the community is almost an impossible task, but with help, it can be accomplished.
April 24, 2026
Superb story and listening experience. D.R.R. Hatch is a gifted writer and I hope he sorts out the release of the sequel. The main character Alden's backstory and motivations are well laid out, and the introduction of the farm and his mission are blended in seamlessly. I had worries about his stepbrother, and how the switched point of view would succeed but it is handled very well. The handling of potential love interests is skillful and turns out to be critical to the overall plot. The only flaw for me was the intense conflicts near the end, but battles just don't appeal to me. Otherwise, a perfect, long, satisfying story. A happy find for me!
August 19, 2025
This was a lovely little book that definitely made me interested in reading the rest of the series as the author releases it. That being said, I noticed some things that were missed by the author and the beta readers that were a little uncomfy, and I struggled with listening to the main character making his connections with the new people in the town. It felt a little Mary-Sue-ish. But the actual plot and the set up for how Alden will repair the farm were really fun! I'm interested to see what will happen next.
#indigoemployee
#indigoemployee
September 2, 2026
Ok. You say it's low stakes and but it's not about saving the world when it's literally about saving an entire valley of 50,000 people? And then the characters are just so... Bleh.. why is every single character including the adults written like they're between the ages of 10 and 14? No actual protective instincts or life experience? You just let everything happen without figuring anything out at all? Nobody stops to ask like any questions? Let's not get to the parts of where you took a one for one copy of Stardew Valley.
September 27, 2026
This was a cute, cozy read. I liked the whole farming/fantasy setup and watching the farm slowly come back to life. There were some fun characters and interesting ideas, and overall it had a nice, relaxing vibe. It felt a lot like the game Stardew Valley, too much perhaps, which I enjoyed, but at times I found myself wanting a little more originality. I just wanted it to feel more like its own story. Definitely worth checking out if you like cozy LitRPGs, farming, and low-stakes fantasy, but for me, it was more of an okay read than a favorite.
October 2, 2026
A unique and action packed story
I very much enjoyed this! Having seen an ad by the author, and being intrigued I picked this up, and was not disappointed. The world and characters are loveable and interesting! You can definitely feel the star dew vibes, but not in an overpowering way. I'd say more like the spirit of it was used to help create something brand new. There's a few Easter eggs here and there, but this story definitely stands on its own!
I very much enjoyed this! Having seen an ad by the author, and being intrigued I picked this up, and was not disappointed. The world and characters are loveable and interesting! You can definitely feel the star dew vibes, but not in an overpowering way. I'd say more like the spirit of it was used to help create something brand new. There's a few Easter eggs here and there, but this story definitely stands on its own!
July 2, 2025
More than just a farming sim
This story is definitely the cozy slice of life farming story but it also feels like its more than that. I've come to love not just Alden but the rest of the characters that show up. Its not just healing from a broken family but also the process of finding and creating a new found family. I loved this first book and I can't wait to see what comes next in the series.
This story is definitely the cozy slice of life farming story but it also feels like its more than that. I've come to love not just Alden but the rest of the characters that show up. Its not just healing from a broken family but also the process of finding and creating a new found family. I loved this first book and I can't wait to see what comes next in the series.
July 7, 2025
Brilliant
Really enjoyed the authors the series so far and thought I'd give this ago after seeing online he was relaunching this series and couldn't be happier i have it a go. It has a nice relaxing pace other than the end,really going more of this series comes out soon. Keep up the good work.
Really enjoyed the authors the series so far and thought I'd give this ago after seeing online he was relaunching this series and couldn't be happier i have it a go. It has a nice relaxing pace other than the end,really going more of this series comes out soon. Keep up the good work.
January 30, 2026
I like the premise and I'm very interested to see the farm grow and become whole, but the tempo of the book felt too slow. There's too much time spent inside Alden and Ignius' heads and it feels like a slog to get through. The relationship building is important to the story, but everyone's emotional baggage gets too much to sort through for a cozy slice-of-life farm adventure.
August 8, 2026
Great story, especially if you’re a fan of Stardew Valley
Great story - relationships and characters are built up well, and develop over time. Good advancement of plot, with room left to go for more in the series. One small nit - MC spent much of the book being very passive; I’m hoping that changes in the rest of the series
Great story - relationships and characters are built up well, and develop over time. Good advancement of plot, with room left to go for more in the series. One small nit - MC spent much of the book being very passive; I’m hoping that changes in the rest of the series
May 14, 2024
This was a very fun story. I loved how the brotherly love helped the brothers strive for each other. Very heart warming. I can’t wait for the next book!
My son has started the book and I am enjoying it all over again as we discuss.
My son has started the book and I am enjoying it all over again as we discuss.
July 16, 2025
A fun, lighthearted and hope-filled read
this is just a good, fun Reed for when you need to escape for a little while. The world building is interesting and creative without being overwhelming. The story draws you in and makes you want to root for the main characters.
this is just a good, fun Reed for when you need to escape for a little while. The world building is interesting and creative without being overwhelming. The story draws you in and makes you want to root for the main characters.
March 4, 2026
A great start.
I really enjoyed reading this book. It was fun and engaging. The story and characters were incredibly interesting and entertaining. I'm looking forward to seeing what happens next. This book is definitely worth checking out.
I really enjoyed reading this book. It was fun and engaging. The story and characters were incredibly interesting and entertaining. I'm looking forward to seeing what happens next. This book is definitely worth checking out.
September 1, 2026
An Unexpected Cozy LitRPG Adventure!
A cozy lit rpg?? Really? This is not your everyday adventure story! This is a Fantastic book with interesting fun characters. The world building is fantastic. I really enjoyed this story and highly recommend it.
A cozy lit rpg?? Really? This is not your everyday adventure story! This is a Fantastic book with interesting fun characters. The world building is fantastic. I really enjoyed this story and highly recommend it.
September 1, 2026
I really enjoyed reading this book... It kept me intrigued through the whole book, um, waiting and wondering what was going to happen next.
I do recommend this to anybody that likes cozy reads.
The characters were great together. The world building was wonderful...
I do recommend this to anybody that likes cozy reads.
The characters were great together. The world building was wonderful...
July 2, 2025
Excellent slice
Harvest moon/Stardew kinda slice of life. Very well done with a great cast of characters. I enjoyed the pacing and how the world was presented, well worth the read.
Harvest moon/Stardew kinda slice of life. Very well done with a great cast of characters. I enjoyed the pacing and how the world was presented, well worth the read.
July 3, 2025
Another good book
I have been following this author for a while now and he keeps improving can't wait until the next one
I have been following this author for a while now and he keeps improving can't wait until the next one
July 4, 2025
Fun reading
Light reading with a punch. A nice escape from reality. Well developed characters in a richly full setting. Get the book, you will like it.
Light reading with a punch. A nice escape from reality. Well developed characters in a richly full setting. Get the book, you will like it.
August 8, 2025
very Stardew
This has a similar vibe to Stardew Valley and I adore that. I also love the healthy sibling dynamics we see in this book I can’t wait for the next one!!
This has a similar vibe to Stardew Valley and I adore that. I also love the healthy sibling dynamics we see in this book I can’t wait for the next one!!
Read
August 31, 2026Awesome book
November 13, 2023
Heroic Farming?
Alden’s mom went through three divorces. Alden and his most recent girlfriend broke up even though they worked at the same shop. Alden’s life was going no here and he longed for someone he was related to and whom he could build a relationship with. He longed for family. Alden had started visiting the GoldenRoot Ancestral Repository as often as he could to find someone over time or distance related to him. So far all of the searches on Bramblethorn haven’t turned up anything or anyone. So Alden start paying for an expert to dig deeper.
Alden’s job was taking care of the plants. He could feel them and nurture them but as he is doing his job, he notices his boss come in with payment due notices. After she leaves the office Alden keeps tending to the plants. After Alden breaks a shelf and plants come crashing down, he is left go from his job. The expert finally reached his mother and coerced the name of his biological father out of her. The expert searched for hours with his father’s name and found a file from almost a century ago. He found multiple letters most opened and one unopened. The expert sent a letter explaining to Alden along with the unopened letter to his distant relation.
As Alden opens the letter the envelope crumbles. Within is the deed for Starshine Farm. The farm is 2000 acres in Twilight Haven. He receives a quest to see if anyone else claims the land and find the residents of Starshine Farm. Alden found it on the map and started packing. He stopped himself and really thought about it. Was he really leaving everything behind for this farm? He knew that someone had to respond and take ownership of it and that meant family. He was doing this. He could help tend it with his gift.
Without giving too much away (if you have read my other reviews, I don’t like to give the story away), Alden grows, learns and heals. Alden learns that some of the family he has been yearning for, have been there and family doesn’t need to mean blood. And so it begins…
This is story is well written, things pick up once Alden is farming and I would definitely recommend.
Alden’s mom went through three divorces. Alden and his most recent girlfriend broke up even though they worked at the same shop. Alden’s life was going no here and he longed for someone he was related to and whom he could build a relationship with. He longed for family. Alden had started visiting the GoldenRoot Ancestral Repository as often as he could to find someone over time or distance related to him. So far all of the searches on Bramblethorn haven’t turned up anything or anyone. So Alden start paying for an expert to dig deeper.
Alden’s job was taking care of the plants. He could feel them and nurture them but as he is doing his job, he notices his boss come in with payment due notices. After she leaves the office Alden keeps tending to the plants. After Alden breaks a shelf and plants come crashing down, he is left go from his job. The expert finally reached his mother and coerced the name of his biological father out of her. The expert searched for hours with his father’s name and found a file from almost a century ago. He found multiple letters most opened and one unopened. The expert sent a letter explaining to Alden along with the unopened letter to his distant relation.
As Alden opens the letter the envelope crumbles. Within is the deed for Starshine Farm. The farm is 2000 acres in Twilight Haven. He receives a quest to see if anyone else claims the land and find the residents of Starshine Farm. Alden found it on the map and started packing. He stopped himself and really thought about it. Was he really leaving everything behind for this farm? He knew that someone had to respond and take ownership of it and that meant family. He was doing this. He could help tend it with his gift.
Without giving too much away (if you have read my other reviews, I don’t like to give the story away), Alden grows, learns and heals. Alden learns that some of the family he has been yearning for, have been there and family doesn’t need to mean blood. And so it begins…
This is story is well written, things pick up once Alden is farming and I would definitely recommend.
October 6, 2025
My reviews are my own. If you liked this book, I’m glad you enjoyed it. If not, I respect your opinion. This is merely my opinion, so let's keep it courteous.
I would have liked a bit of a background story a bit better; it felt a little like dumping info at the beginning without explanation. Like, why is he such a whimp towards the female characters? Why are his feelings so extreme regarding relationships? And what is important about knowing about his past relationships? What do all the stats mean? etc. Of course, nobody will stay by him; he is a total whimp with no backbone! Also, he is a moron, I mean, he finds a cute girl and right away he is thinking of not falling for them and a relationship out of the gate? Total immature behavior, for someone who is supposed to be 24, who behaves like that? Not even teens in the middle of a hormone craze are that stupid. There is also a LOT of repetitiveness. All the characters are plain weird, and the dialogue is HORRIBLE!
This story needed better editing; not sure if things were lost in translation or something, because the writing is a bit all over the place. The idea was good, but poorly developed. Finally, I really don't get why adventure/cultivation books constantly include unnecessary "love/romance".
BTW if the author is reading this, you need to merge this book entry; there are 3 separate versions in Goodreads.
On to my next adventure, Happy Readings!!!
I would have liked a bit of a background story a bit better; it felt a little like dumping info at the beginning without explanation. Like, why is he such a whimp towards the female characters? Why are his feelings so extreme regarding relationships? And what is important about knowing about his past relationships? What do all the stats mean? etc. Of course, nobody will stay by him; he is a total whimp with no backbone! Also, he is a moron, I mean, he finds a cute girl and right away he is thinking of not falling for them and a relationship out of the gate? Total immature behavior, for someone who is supposed to be 24, who behaves like that? Not even teens in the middle of a hormone craze are that stupid. There is also a LOT of repetitiveness. All the characters are plain weird, and the dialogue is HORRIBLE!
This story needed better editing; not sure if things were lost in translation or something, because the writing is a bit all over the place. The idea was good, but poorly developed. Finally, I really don't get why adventure/cultivation books constantly include unnecessary "love/romance".
BTW if the author is reading this, you need to merge this book entry; there are 3 separate versions in Goodreads.
On to my next adventure, Happy Readings!!!
October 6, 2025
My reviews are my own. If you liked this book, I’m glad you enjoyed it. If not, I respect your opinion. This is merely my opinion, so let's keep it courteous.
I would have liked a bit of a background story a bit better; it felt a little like dumping info at the beginning without explanation. Like, why is he such a whimp towards the female characters? Why are his feelings so extreme regarding relationships? And what is important about knowing about his past relationships? What do all the stats mean? etc. Of course, nobody will stay by him; he is a total whimp with no backbone! Also, he is a moron, I mean, he finds a cute girl and right away he is thinking of not falling for them and a relationship out of the gate? Total immature behavior, for someone who is supposed to be 24, who behaves like that? Not even teens in the middle of a hormone craze are that stupid. There is also a LOT of repetitiveness. All the characters are plain weird, and the dialogue is HORRIBLE!
This story needed better editing; not sure if things were lost in translation or something, because the writing is a bit all over the place. The idea was good, but poorly developed. Finally, I really don't get why adventure/cultivation books constantly include unnecessary "love/romance".
BTW if the author is reading this, you need to merge this book entry; there are 3 separate versions in Goodreads.
On to my next adventure, Happy Readings!!!
I would have liked a bit of a background story a bit better; it felt a little like dumping info at the beginning without explanation. Like, why is he such a whimp towards the female characters? Why are his feelings so extreme regarding relationships? And what is important about knowing about his past relationships? What do all the stats mean? etc. Of course, nobody will stay by him; he is a total whimp with no backbone! Also, he is a moron, I mean, he finds a cute girl and right away he is thinking of not falling for them and a relationship out of the gate? Total immature behavior, for someone who is supposed to be 24, who behaves like that? Not even teens in the middle of a hormone craze are that stupid. There is also a LOT of repetitiveness. All the characters are plain weird, and the dialogue is HORRIBLE!
This story needed better editing; not sure if things were lost in translation or something, because the writing is a bit all over the place. The idea was good, but poorly developed. Finally, I really don't get why adventure/cultivation books constantly include unnecessary "love/romance".
BTW if the author is reading this, you need to merge this book entry; there are 3 separate versions in Goodreads.
On to my next adventure, Happy Readings!!!
November 14, 2023
I gave this book 4.5 stars and for good reason. It’s fun and cozy, like drinking a warm drink while cuddled up with your pet.
I didn’t really know what to expect since this was my first time reading lit-RPG. It took some getting used to, but after the first few chapters I was used to it. It actually provided some welcome logic to the tense battle scenes. Sometimes in (YA)fantasy it doesn’t feel realistic that the main characters are winning a battle, the victory doesn’t feel earned and sometimes come out of now where. The heroes win because they are the heroes not because they earned it. But here you see the stats of the main cast building up over time, the battles feel logical with their strength. The story is slow but in a nice way, it’s well paced and you get to enjoy your time.
In the beginning I was a bit scared that the woman in the story wouldn’t get much to do, outside of their intrest for Alden. But around the midway point both of the main woman got more depth and storyline.
This cover looks like AI art (and I don’t see any artist credited anywhere else so I’m assuming it’s AI art). I get that commissions are expensive but I would love to see an actual cover artist for the future instalments of this series. A good book deserves a good cover artist.
Thank you to the author for providing the book so I could leave a honest review.
I didn’t really know what to expect since this was my first time reading lit-RPG. It took some getting used to, but after the first few chapters I was used to it. It actually provided some welcome logic to the tense battle scenes. Sometimes in (YA)fantasy it doesn’t feel realistic that the main characters are winning a battle, the victory doesn’t feel earned and sometimes come out of now where. The heroes win because they are the heroes not because they earned it. But here you see the stats of the main cast building up over time, the battles feel logical with their strength. The story is slow but in a nice way, it’s well paced and you get to enjoy your time.
In the beginning I was a bit scared that the woman in the story wouldn’t get much to do, outside of their intrest for Alden. But around the midway point both of the main woman got more depth and storyline.
This cover looks like AI art (and I don’t see any artist credited anywhere else so I’m assuming it’s AI art). I get that commissions are expensive but I would love to see an actual cover artist for the future instalments of this series. A good book deserves a good cover artist.
Thank you to the author for providing the book so I could leave a honest review.
July 2, 2025
I have only recently (within the last six months) discovered litRPG. I really enjoy cozy games (Coral Island, Disney Dreamlight Valley, Fantasy Life i, Rune Factory etc) so I figured I couldn’t go wrong with this book. After all, who doesn’t love a game that starts with the deed to a farm arriving on your doorstep just as your life starts falling apart?!
It was exactly what I hoped it would be! There’s levelling up, different passive and active skills, relationship building along with farming skills. There’s an overarching mystery around the farm at Moondew Valley, along with other secrets to discover along with the main character in the form of quests. I love quests - they’re my favourite part of gaming, and I really enjoyed seeing them popping up through the story.
I liked the range of characters, which were akin to some of my favourite games, and while there was some peril and some combat it wasn’t overly graphic and you knew that everything was going to be ok in the end. I especially liked the interactions between Alden and Ignis, and I thought the bond they started developing was quite sweet!
If you like cozy farming games with a bit of a mystery, then this is a great, accessible introduction to the litRPG genre. If you already know you like these kinds of books, then you absolutely can’t go wrong with this entry into the genre.
It was exactly what I hoped it would be! There’s levelling up, different passive and active skills, relationship building along with farming skills. There’s an overarching mystery around the farm at Moondew Valley, along with other secrets to discover along with the main character in the form of quests. I love quests - they’re my favourite part of gaming, and I really enjoyed seeing them popping up through the story.
I liked the range of characters, which were akin to some of my favourite games, and while there was some peril and some combat it wasn’t overly graphic and you knew that everything was going to be ok in the end. I especially liked the interactions between Alden and Ignis, and I thought the bond they started developing was quite sweet!
If you like cozy farming games with a bit of a mystery, then this is a great, accessible introduction to the litRPG genre. If you already know you like these kinds of books, then you absolutely can’t go wrong with this entry into the genre.
July 1, 2025
At the beginning of this book I thought that maybe some things were coming too easily, too quickly to the main character, but as I read though the story I realized that I never cared about the problems that solved easily, and I didn't want to spend twenty pages watching him struggle to get a watering can so it was great that didn't happen! Instead the tension and conflict that pushed me forward though the story was the mystery, the characters.
The main character Alden is kind, quiet, with a broken heart and a love for plants. His stepbrother, Ignis, is the polar opposite, loud, fiery, with an aptitude for battle. I love story dynamics of opposite characters so this was something I loved from the start. Each had their own budding romances and animal companions.
This story took the time to describe the scenery, the frogs jumping in the water, the tadpoles, dragon flies, and floating lights. It was picturesque and peaceful.
I haven't read cozy or litRPG before and hadn't been expecting character stat sheets, and yet I found myself drawn to them. They signposted progress and built anticipation for level ups, and mysteries.
Overall, this story was like being immersed in a farming RPG... except it brought me deeper than any game has.
The main character Alden is kind, quiet, with a broken heart and a love for plants. His stepbrother, Ignis, is the polar opposite, loud, fiery, with an aptitude for battle. I love story dynamics of opposite characters so this was something I loved from the start. Each had their own budding romances and animal companions.
This story took the time to describe the scenery, the frogs jumping in the water, the tadpoles, dragon flies, and floating lights. It was picturesque and peaceful.
I haven't read cozy or litRPG before and hadn't been expecting character stat sheets, and yet I found myself drawn to them. They signposted progress and built anticipation for level ups, and mysteries.
Overall, this story was like being immersed in a farming RPG... except it brought me deeper than any game has.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews