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Small-Town Crafter #1
The Artificer's Apprentice
Greetings, friend! Rest here for a while and listen - I have a quest for you.
How would you like to begin an apprenticeship in the mystical craft of artificery? You’ll learn things that most people can only dream of. You’ll make swords with self-sharpening blades, bows that fire by themselves, and clocks that can read the future.
Even better, you’ll get to live in the sunlit village of Sunhampton, a sleepy little crafter’s village of cobbled streets, cozy taverns, and pleasant bakeries.
If this sounds like just the life for you, then grab a beer and a sweet roll, and follow Lewis as he begins his new life as an apprentice.
Lewis comes from a family who don’t regard him much, so he sets out on his own into the world, intent on securing an apprenticeship in an interesting profession. What he doesn’t expect is to find himself studying one of the most mystical arts in the land.
It’ll be hard work. Perhaps even dangerous work. But with an old artificery master to teach him, and the friends that he makes to help him, he’s sure he’ll get there.
Why not get yourself over to the cozy town of Sunhampton and join him on his quest?
How would you like to begin an apprenticeship in the mystical craft of artificery? You’ll learn things that most people can only dream of. You’ll make swords with self-sharpening blades, bows that fire by themselves, and clocks that can read the future.
Even better, you’ll get to live in the sunlit village of Sunhampton, a sleepy little crafter’s village of cobbled streets, cozy taverns, and pleasant bakeries.
If this sounds like just the life for you, then grab a beer and a sweet roll, and follow Lewis as he begins his new life as an apprentice.
Lewis comes from a family who don’t regard him much, so he sets out on his own into the world, intent on securing an apprenticeship in an interesting profession. What he doesn’t expect is to find himself studying one of the most mystical arts in the land.
It’ll be hard work. Perhaps even dangerous work. But with an old artificery master to teach him, and the friends that he makes to help him, he’s sure he’ll get there.
Why not get yourself over to the cozy town of Sunhampton and join him on his quest?
330 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 11, 2022
1387 people are currently reading
867 people want to read
About the author
Tom Watts
14 books38 followersHey! Tom Watts here. If you're reading this then you've either read one of my books or you’re thinking about doing it, and I want to say thanks either way.
I write low-stakes fantasy books that offer people a little of that important thing we call escapism, and I might have what you’re looking for.
Do you want to become a master craftsperson and live in a small, sunny village full of taverns and cafes? Then I have the story for you! Try my book, ‘Small-Town Crafter: the Artificer’s Apprentice.’
Or maybe you want to build a whole town from scratch right on top of untouched land, together with a couple of good friends. If that sounds good, then I’ve got something you’ll enjoy! Check out, ‘Welcome to Blade’s Rest.’
So, those are a couple of my books. As for me, well, I live in a little village with my wife and three dogs. When I’m not writing then I’m reading, and when I’m not doing that I’ve usually got a small schnauzer trying to get my attention.
Thanks for stopping by my author page. Make sure you press ‘follow’ so that you can be the first to find out when I release a new book.
Finally, If you try one of my books, then I'd like to wish you happy reading. Hope you enjoy visiting one of my fictional towns for a while.
Nice to meet you,
Tom.
I write low-stakes fantasy books that offer people a little of that important thing we call escapism, and I might have what you’re looking for.
Do you want to become a master craftsperson and live in a small, sunny village full of taverns and cafes? Then I have the story for you! Try my book, ‘Small-Town Crafter: the Artificer’s Apprentice.’
Or maybe you want to build a whole town from scratch right on top of untouched land, together with a couple of good friends. If that sounds good, then I’ve got something you’ll enjoy! Check out, ‘Welcome to Blade’s Rest.’
So, those are a couple of my books. As for me, well, I live in a little village with my wife and three dogs. When I’m not writing then I’m reading, and when I’m not doing that I’ve usually got a small schnauzer trying to get my attention.
Thanks for stopping by my author page. Make sure you press ‘follow’ so that you can be the first to find out when I release a new book.
Finally, If you try one of my books, then I'd like to wish you happy reading. Hope you enjoy visiting one of my fictional towns for a while.
Nice to meet you,
Tom.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 167 reviews
November 18, 2023
This is almost exactly what you'd expect given the cover, title, and blurb. So good marketing there. And the author manages to give enough of a plot and interesting characters to make it worth the ride. Lewis is a bit of a drama-llama, but that isn't unearned given what we see of his origin. At least he's looking forwards and doing what he can to make his way in life.
The LitRPG side of this is fairly lite. Also not a bad thing and interesting enough as well.
I think the stand out for this story is Lewis's mentor and the found-family of people who support and encourage each other. It formed a heart at the core of the story that was always engaging.
I think I'll leave it there. It's 3½ stars that I'll round up on the real heart in the friends who become family. I was a little disappointed at the . But not enough that I'm won't still round up.
A note about Chaste: One of Lewis's friends is a girl who helps him with merchant things. They become good friends and it looked like it might form into a romance for a second, but the author doesn't take that path. I think it was fine, even though I'm a romantic at heart. So this is very chaste with no hint of anything more anywhere.
The LitRPG side of this is fairly lite. Also not a bad thing and interesting enough as well.
I think the stand out for this story is Lewis's mentor and the found-family of people who support and encourage each other. It formed a heart at the core of the story that was always engaging.
I think I'll leave it there. It's 3½ stars that I'll round up on the real heart in the friends who become family. I was a little disappointed at the . But not enough that I'm won't still round up.
A note about Chaste: One of Lewis's friends is a girl who helps him with merchant things. They become good friends and it looked like it might form into a romance for a second, but the author doesn't take that path. I think it was fine, even though I'm a romantic at heart. So this is very chaste with no hint of anything more anywhere.
September 16, 2022
This is my first book by this author, and I really enjoyed it.
Lewis (the MC) and his mother move into a mansion when she falls in love with a wealthy merchant. Lewis stays in the main part of the house until she dies, and then he's shunted off to the area where the servants eat and sleep.
When he's a week away from his sixteenth birthday, he takes off towards Easterly in hopes of finding an apprenticeship. Based on the title alone, it shouldn't be a surprise that he does in fact find one.
For me, the story kept getting better and better the further it went along, like the author had found his voice and was leaning into the story, characters, and plot after that. This is LitRPG but it's very light and focused solely on crafting. Everyone who wants to learn a job needs to acquire five key skills.
Which we see in action as Lewis meets other people his age who are focusing on other apprenticeships.
The editing is much better than average for an independent author, and the book moves along at an easy pace. If I smoked (I gave it up years ago), I could imagine myself puffing away on a pipe while reading this book. It's that kind of read.
Recommended. 5/5*
Lewis (the MC) and his mother move into a mansion when she falls in love with a wealthy merchant. Lewis stays in the main part of the house until she dies, and then he's shunted off to the area where the servants eat and sleep.
When he's a week away from his sixteenth birthday, he takes off towards Easterly in hopes of finding an apprenticeship. Based on the title alone, it shouldn't be a surprise that he does in fact find one.
For me, the story kept getting better and better the further it went along, like the author had found his voice and was leaning into the story, characters, and plot after that. This is LitRPG but it's very light and focused solely on crafting. Everyone who wants to learn a job needs to acquire five key skills.
Which we see in action as Lewis meets other people his age who are focusing on other apprenticeships.
The editing is much better than average for an independent author, and the book moves along at an easy pace. If I smoked (I gave it up years ago), I could imagine myself puffing away on a pipe while reading this book. It's that kind of read.
Recommended. 5/5*
October 3, 2023
Not much to it (did not finish)
There's slice of life that is intriguing, interesting and thought provoking, with well-fleshed out characters and colorful world building. This is not that.
I read a LOT and I enjoy LitRPG with crafters. This is the first one I've read that struck me as boring. It is told in the first person by a boy who took a crafting apprenticeship with an inconsistent, grouchy old man due to a lack of better options. The boy is doing un-fun new apprenticeship stuff. I'm several chapters in and still waiting for the audience hook-- and decided I'm done waiting. I decided a long time ago not to waste time reading books that were less interesting/exciting than my own everyday life. This one doesn't pass the test.
There's slice of life that is intriguing, interesting and thought provoking, with well-fleshed out characters and colorful world building. This is not that.
I read a LOT and I enjoy LitRPG with crafters. This is the first one I've read that struck me as boring. It is told in the first person by a boy who took a crafting apprenticeship with an inconsistent, grouchy old man due to a lack of better options. The boy is doing un-fun new apprenticeship stuff. I'm several chapters in and still waiting for the audience hook-- and decided I'm done waiting. I decided a long time ago not to waste time reading books that were less interesting/exciting than my own everyday life. This one doesn't pass the test.
October 6, 2022
KU Review
Utterly wholesome slice of life about boy learning his trade and finding his place in the world. Despite the lack of action and adventure I was still glued to the pages, start to finish.
As the title says this is a review for Kindle Unlimited and as such is a reflection of my enjoyment of the book and in no way reflects cost to value analysis.
Utterly wholesome slice of life about boy learning his trade and finding his place in the world. Despite the lack of action and adventure I was still glued to the pages, start to finish.
As the title says this is a review for Kindle Unlimited and as such is a reflection of my enjoyment of the book and in no way reflects cost to value analysis.
March 21, 2023
Nice little slice of life story. Seems rushed but not bad.
February 3, 2025
Writing this after reading the 7th book in the series.
This is far and beyond the best cozy fantasy/litrpg series I have read.
The story has weight but no more than average life. The problems they face aren’t insurmountable and seem like they are honest.
If you’re looking for a cozy read I implore you to pick up this series.
This is far and beyond the best cozy fantasy/litrpg series I have read.
The story has weight but no more than average life. The problems they face aren’t insurmountable and seem like they are honest.
If you’re looking for a cozy read I implore you to pick up this series.
April 7, 2024
Read for r/Fantasy Book Bingo 2024: Small Town Setting. This is a slice of life LitRPG, not a genre I usually read. I wasn’t sure about the RPG elements in a book but thankfully they didn’t get in the way of the story. It was also very YA which I didn’t realize before I started.
This book was exactly as advertised, cozy. While I feel like it could have used a bit of polish I’ll definitely consider reading the next book. The residents of Sunhampton were charming and I enjoyed reading about magical crafting.
This book was exactly as advertised, cozy. While I feel like it could have used a bit of polish I’ll definitely consider reading the next book. The residents of Sunhampton were charming and I enjoyed reading about magical crafting.
March 26, 2025
An adorably lovable story or a boy at 15 makes a decision to leave his stepfathers home for a chance at a new life. I loved the master/apprentice relationship between Cooper and Lewis. And between all the other amazong characters fantastic book! I was wrapped in every detail learning the artificer class alongside Lewis. His successes, blood sweat and tears felt like my own. Can't wait to continue the rest of this series!
March 24, 2024
Love the book. Just a chill read about the daily life in a town.
April 27, 2025
the world make no sense what so ever
but I enjoy the book a lot
but I enjoy the book a lot
November 18, 2024
Very enjoyable!
February 5, 2025
wholesome
I loved this book I couldn’t put it down. I felt like I was reading in an accent the whole time which was a nice change of pace. Would recommend to anyone
I loved this book I couldn’t put it down. I felt like I was reading in an accent the whole time which was a nice change of pace. Would recommend to anyone
July 5, 2024
Source: Kindle Unlimited
Earlier this year, I was introduced to the growing genre of "cozy fantasy" -- stories not about saving the world, but about everyday life and relationships, often while running a bakery, tavern, farm, etc., in a fantasy world. They are relaxing, comforting stories while dealing with stress in real life, so I have been gravitating towards them lately, at least to be reading alongside a more action-packed book when I need a break from the high stakes and drama.
The Artificer's Apprentice is, as advertised, such a book. I started reading after receiving bad news a few weeks ago that my elderly cat has aggressive and untreatable cancer, without much time left--a sad and stressful time. I didn't really feel gripped by the storyline until maybe about 2/3 in, but it was fun to read a chapter here and there. The crafting parts started a bit slow, but got more interesting to me once we got to the magic part and how miodes work.
I loved all the different magical inventions and what they do. In this world, magic/mages exist, but artificers are not mages. They are more like engineers that can take miodes (a crystallized form of mana) and use them to craft magical items even without having their own magic. These ranged from convenient, Rube Goldberg-style contraptions to gather eggs or other household chores, to fun and whimsical like a mirror that lets you try out different appearances. There was also a plot teaser of "black miodes" that could be used for unsavory purposes, but it wasn't explored much in this installment.
I also enjoyed reading about Lewis's friend Paisley, an apprentice merchant. A lot of her lessons and book titles seemed to be digs at modern business school, clickbait articles, etc., which I found entertaining and funny (witty even if if didn't make me crack up laughing).
Another new thing for me is the LitRPG genre where characters are aware of things like levels, experience, skill points, and the like. From what I have gathered, many of these take place within online games where the characters know they are in a game (even if they got trapped in it or whatever). Unless it ends up being a plot twist later, that isn't the case here. Instead, this is a normal world where careers are all called "classes" and you need to level up certain related skills to get them. These are represented by a token bracelet which also can cause menus and notifications to appear in the air. It also allows some game-like elements such as using "crafting stamina" to automatically create an item once the skill is learned. They do have to do it manually first to earn the skill. These elements felt a bit weird to me but I did think it generally worked that this is just how the world is. I was a bit confused about the difference between Crafting and Tinkering. (I guess Tinkering is more like the engineering profession in the World of Warcraft game.)
I did notice some editing issues. There were some typos like "tongues" instead of "tongs" and some timing seemed off (like when Master Cooper was sick, Lewis said it had been "a day and a half" when I thought it was all just one day). A re-edited version of the book could be even better. Although it was a bit predictable, I was also not totally satisfied with the whole plot about creating the door.
Overall, I enjoyed this. There were lots of great quotes (check out my highlights). I may continue with the series and am definitely seeking out more cozy fantasy.
Earlier this year, I was introduced to the growing genre of "cozy fantasy" -- stories not about saving the world, but about everyday life and relationships, often while running a bakery, tavern, farm, etc., in a fantasy world. They are relaxing, comforting stories while dealing with stress in real life, so I have been gravitating towards them lately, at least to be reading alongside a more action-packed book when I need a break from the high stakes and drama.
The Artificer's Apprentice is, as advertised, such a book. I started reading after receiving bad news a few weeks ago that my elderly cat has aggressive and untreatable cancer, without much time left--a sad and stressful time. I didn't really feel gripped by the storyline until maybe about 2/3 in, but it was fun to read a chapter here and there. The crafting parts started a bit slow, but got more interesting to me once we got to the magic part and how miodes work.
I loved all the different magical inventions and what they do. In this world, magic/mages exist, but artificers are not mages. They are more like engineers that can take miodes (a crystallized form of mana) and use them to craft magical items even without having their own magic. These ranged from convenient, Rube Goldberg-style contraptions to gather eggs or other household chores, to fun and whimsical like a mirror that lets you try out different appearances. There was also a plot teaser of "black miodes" that could be used for unsavory purposes, but it wasn't explored much in this installment.
I also enjoyed reading about Lewis's friend Paisley, an apprentice merchant. A lot of her lessons and book titles seemed to be digs at modern business school, clickbait articles, etc., which I found entertaining and funny (witty even if if didn't make me crack up laughing).
Another new thing for me is the LitRPG genre where characters are aware of things like levels, experience, skill points, and the like. From what I have gathered, many of these take place within online games where the characters know they are in a game (even if they got trapped in it or whatever). Unless it ends up being a plot twist later, that isn't the case here. Instead, this is a normal world where careers are all called "classes" and you need to level up certain related skills to get them. These are represented by a token bracelet which also can cause menus and notifications to appear in the air. It also allows some game-like elements such as using "crafting stamina" to automatically create an item once the skill is learned. They do have to do it manually first to earn the skill. These elements felt a bit weird to me but I did think it generally worked that this is just how the world is. I was a bit confused about the difference between Crafting and Tinkering. (I guess Tinkering is more like the engineering profession in the World of Warcraft game.)
I did notice some editing issues. There were some typos like "tongues" instead of "tongs" and some timing seemed off (like when Master Cooper was sick, Lewis said it had been "a day and a half" when I thought it was all just one day). A re-edited version of the book could be even better. Although it was a bit predictable, I was also not totally satisfied with the whole plot about creating the door.
Overall, I enjoyed this. There were lots of great quotes (check out my highlights). I may continue with the series and am definitely seeking out more cozy fantasy.
April 25, 2025
I feel like the author doesn't value the same things as I do in a story. I enjoy reading about character development, touching emotional stuff and yes, a low-stakes crafting setting is tempting when real life is so chaotic. In this story there are many opportunities for character growth and touching found family moments, but they seem to be evaded. The MC has anger issues, but he never tries to figure out how to improve. Furthermore, it seems like even the author themselves avoids emotional moments. Whenever the MC has to have difficult conversations, it doesn't happen or happens off-screen (it's ambiguous). At some point he has to turn down an important offer and he just runs off, I have no idea whether the other person just assumed he was turned down because the MC ghosted them or they actually had a conversation. This kind of stuff happens between the MC and his mentor as well. At some point, he gets angry at his mentor and lashes out at him (while trying to control himself, but I don't get the impression he succeeded very well), while his mentor is sickly. I was so worried whether the mentor had a heart attack and was lying in a ditch somewhere, but the MC just goes on a trip with his friends with no care (and no one left behind to make sure his mentor is actually ok). Later when he gets back apparently his mentor somehow knew he went on a trip? If he went back and they talked after the fight, that would have been an important moment, but it wasn't described. So now I don't know if it happened off-screen or the author is just so much in denial about some emotional stuff that they didn't even notice.
There certainly are things to like about this book, like the sense of progress from skill gains in crafting, but the plot holes in character development are too distracting for me to be able to continue.
There certainly are things to like about this book, like the sense of progress from skill gains in crafting, but the plot holes in character development are too distracting for me to be able to continue.
December 6, 2023
I like the idea for this book, focusing more on worldbuilding and the exploration of magic than on more traditional fantasy action tropes. However, as much as I wanted to love this book, it falls short in its execution.
The key issue is that the reader is always at least one step removed from what's happening because of how the book has been written. There is a lot of telling here and not much showing. I felt less like I was experiencing the events through the eyes of the characters alongside them and more like I was being told about what happened after the fact. It kept me from getting immersed in the story like I wanted to be, and that meant I was never attached to the characters or engaged enough to keep my attention focused on the audiobook.
A good example of this is the rushed opening chapters. We are told about the main character's difficult life rather than living it with him. Therefore, when he goes off alone, I'm not attached to his plight like I would be if I had experienced it with him. I have no experience with the antagonists in that part of his life, therefore when they appear again I have no emotional impact.
This same type of storytelling happens throughout the whole novel, so no relationships ever get any depth, secondary characters are never more than surface level, and the whole novel just felt like it was missing vital elements.
I'd love to see a second edit of this book, one where the author has used this book as an outline, gone back and expanded upon what's happening. Focusing on showing us what's happening rather than telling us what's happening would immediately improve the engagement in this story, and then the idea the author was trying to work with could really shine through.
The key issue is that the reader is always at least one step removed from what's happening because of how the book has been written. There is a lot of telling here and not much showing. I felt less like I was experiencing the events through the eyes of the characters alongside them and more like I was being told about what happened after the fact. It kept me from getting immersed in the story like I wanted to be, and that meant I was never attached to the characters or engaged enough to keep my attention focused on the audiobook.
A good example of this is the rushed opening chapters. We are told about the main character's difficult life rather than living it with him. Therefore, when he goes off alone, I'm not attached to his plight like I would be if I had experienced it with him. I have no experience with the antagonists in that part of his life, therefore when they appear again I have no emotional impact.
This same type of storytelling happens throughout the whole novel, so no relationships ever get any depth, secondary characters are never more than surface level, and the whole novel just felt like it was missing vital elements.
I'd love to see a second edit of this book, one where the author has used this book as an outline, gone back and expanded upon what's happening. Focusing on showing us what's happening rather than telling us what's happening would immediately improve the engagement in this story, and then the idea the author was trying to work with could really shine through.
December 13, 2022
Has some flaws, but pretty good
TLDR: while the author is rather new and there are some flaws in the book, I believe that the story, unique setting, and overall emotional investment in characters more than makes up for it. I do recommend this book.
First up, there's some pretty serious flaws in the book that could have been easily avoided with a proper editor and proof reader. Not many, but so jarring that they definitely break immersion and leave no doubts about a lack of an editor or a second pair of eyes, as they can be caught very easily by anyone paying attention to the story. The other flaw is, until 3/4 of the book, I never felt truly invested in any of the characters, but that last 1/4 really did a great job fixing that issue.
Onto the good: the story is a enjoyable read, low stress, no political intrigue, scheming, or politics. Not too many curse words and swearing, and pervyness is completely absent. While the characters start off pretty bland and remain that way for 3/4 of the book, the remaining portion really blows it out of the water in character development and creating emotional attachment to them. There's no annoying POV shifts, and only 2 major stat/info dumps. World building could use some work, but I believe that's due to the author's experience level.
Overall, this is definitely worth 4 stars despite it's flaws, but the author definitely needs additional experience and an editor for sequels. For a low stress, enjoyable and casual read, I'd definitely recommend it.
TLDR: while the author is rather new and there are some flaws in the book, I believe that the story, unique setting, and overall emotional investment in characters more than makes up for it. I do recommend this book.
First up, there's some pretty serious flaws in the book that could have been easily avoided with a proper editor and proof reader. Not many, but so jarring that they definitely break immersion and leave no doubts about a lack of an editor or a second pair of eyes, as they can be caught very easily by anyone paying attention to the story. The other flaw is, until 3/4 of the book, I never felt truly invested in any of the characters, but that last 1/4 really did a great job fixing that issue.
Onto the good: the story is a enjoyable read, low stress, no political intrigue, scheming, or politics. Not too many curse words and swearing, and pervyness is completely absent. While the characters start off pretty bland and remain that way for 3/4 of the book, the remaining portion really blows it out of the water in character development and creating emotional attachment to them. There's no annoying POV shifts, and only 2 major stat/info dumps. World building could use some work, but I believe that's due to the author's experience level.
Overall, this is definitely worth 4 stars despite it's flaws, but the author definitely needs additional experience and an editor for sequels. For a low stress, enjoyable and casual read, I'd definitely recommend it.
October 3, 2023
Slice-of-life? Yes, but it feels like there's so much missing. I've read until chapter 20 of 37 before quitting - I found the hook interesting enough and feel like I gave this book and author a proper chance, but the deeper I got the more my interest waned.
The concept/basic framework of this tale is interesting enough to me; the protagonist is called Lewis, who lives in a medieval low-fantasy world of some sort, where both magic and a skills system exist. There's no need to use spoilers for anything else, because half-way through the book I know barely more than I did after I finished the blurb.
We learn about his early life and how he becomes an apprentice, but the story really lacks a follow-up. The crafting portions aren't very exciting, the side-characters lack depth and the protagonist may be hard-working, but he's not all that smart, attentive or curious. That is a problem, because this book is told in first person, which made it a dull read until I gave up.
Since this is advertised as a slice-of-life magical crafting story, I don't expect some great plot, but I wish for at least some attempt at worldbuilding and well fleshed out characters. Sadly I didn't find any of that here.
The concept/basic framework of this tale is interesting enough to me; the protagonist is called Lewis, who lives in a medieval low-fantasy world of some sort, where both magic and a skills system exist. There's no need to use spoilers for anything else, because half-way through the book I know barely more than I did after I finished the blurb.
We learn about his early life and how he becomes an apprentice, but the story really lacks a follow-up. The crafting portions aren't very exciting, the side-characters lack depth and the protagonist may be hard-working, but he's not all that smart, attentive or curious. That is a problem, because this book is told in first person, which made it a dull read until I gave up.
Since this is advertised as a slice-of-life magical crafting story, I don't expect some great plot, but I wish for at least some attempt at worldbuilding and well fleshed out characters. Sadly I didn't find any of that here.
August 1, 2024
DNF at 9%
Unlikeable MC, little personal growth, bland characters - how do you make crafting boring? Read this book and find out.
I like low stakes since the power creep is getting tired, I love crafting because I enjoy creative characters and skill trees, but Watts managed to really pick the worst protagonist and mentor possible.
The MC is a glorified maid for quite some time. When he finally gets a single lesson on how to craft a hammer,he spends a few days crafting some bits and bobs (hammer, screwdriver, nails) to sell on the Sunday market.
He gets his first potential customer in a lady who asks him how old he is. He's a 16yo apprentice - for some inexplicable reason, he says he's 36 but gets an amazing skin cream from an alchemist - his wares have nothing to do with herbalism or alchemy. Needless to say, she walked off - I would have, too.
No one buys from him after he tries for a few times and he throws a temper tantrum so loud, the entire market crowd takes notice. The breaking point for me was that the same lady who passed by his shop earlier then gives him a scrap of food and one single coin telling him not to give up, so he was rewarded for acting like an impatient child.
YMMV, based on the reviews that laud this book/series.
Unlikeable MC, little personal growth, bland characters - how do you make crafting boring? Read this book and find out.
I like low stakes since the power creep is getting tired, I love crafting because I enjoy creative characters and skill trees, but Watts managed to really pick the worst protagonist and mentor possible.
The MC is a glorified maid for quite some time. When he finally gets a single lesson on how to craft a hammer,he spends a few days crafting some bits and bobs (hammer, screwdriver, nails) to sell on the Sunday market.
He gets his first potential customer in a lady who asks him how old he is. He's a 16yo apprentice - for some inexplicable reason, he says he's 36 but gets an amazing skin cream from an alchemist - his wares have nothing to do with herbalism or alchemy. Needless to say, she walked off - I would have, too.
No one buys from him after he tries for a few times and he throws a temper tantrum so loud, the entire market crowd takes notice. The breaking point for me was that the same lady who passed by his shop earlier then gives him a scrap of food and one single coin telling him not to give up, so he was rewarded for acting like an impatient child.
YMMV, based on the reviews that laud this book/series.
February 25, 2023
A fun book well worth the read
Before this book, I jammed through a 5 book series and then another 2 book series, both of them were action packed.
I needed a break from action, and I found this.
I love crafting in books, and this had it. It said it was low stakes, which I hadn't read before. But I'm so glad I did. I needed this. It was like those chicken soup books from when I was a kid, only in a fantasy world following a crafting apprentice.
I know the author has a town building book too that I'm going to read, and I really hoping for a sequel of this one.
This is a fun read. Good relationships, fun crafting, litrpg-ish, and i would really like to visit sunhampton...that was the town name I believe.
Don't pass this up. Break away from the battle for a while and enjoy a mellow read. Enjoy progression without the mc's life at stake. Its addictive and well worth your time.
Before this book, I jammed through a 5 book series and then another 2 book series, both of them were action packed.
I needed a break from action, and I found this.
I love crafting in books, and this had it. It said it was low stakes, which I hadn't read before. But I'm so glad I did. I needed this. It was like those chicken soup books from when I was a kid, only in a fantasy world following a crafting apprentice.
I know the author has a town building book too that I'm going to read, and I really hoping for a sequel of this one.
This is a fun read. Good relationships, fun crafting, litrpg-ish, and i would really like to visit sunhampton...that was the town name I believe.
Don't pass this up. Break away from the battle for a while and enjoy a mellow read. Enjoy progression without the mc's life at stake. Its addictive and well worth your time.
December 23, 2022
Crafters unite! A simple but enjoyable little story!
Tom Watts has written a story any true AD&D old time player can enjoy. Not the glam & glitter of going into a dungeon and killing monsters and earning treasure. Not the rush of danger or excitement of facing the fears found in dark, dangerous locales.
This is a story that fills in the lives of the background characters, the NPCs of gaming. The characters that give depth to the stories that we love. Well crafted and a nice respite from all the dangers that gamers live for. Those moments of rest we need (well, that the DM needs in order to craft the next adventure that draws us in) whether we want to admit it or not!
Well done Mr. Watts!
Tom Watts has written a story any true AD&D old time player can enjoy. Not the glam & glitter of going into a dungeon and killing monsters and earning treasure. Not the rush of danger or excitement of facing the fears found in dark, dangerous locales.
This is a story that fills in the lives of the background characters, the NPCs of gaming. The characters that give depth to the stories that we love. Well crafted and a nice respite from all the dangers that gamers live for. Those moments of rest we need (well, that the DM needs in order to craft the next adventure that draws us in) whether we want to admit it or not!
Well done Mr. Watts!
March 15, 2024
I loved this!
I rarely post actual reviews. I adore fantasy and read far too many books and usually I’m onto the next one as fast as one finishes.
But I was intrigued by the “low-stakes” promise. I’ve recently finished a multi-book series in a deep world and needed a bit of a break before jumping into another world.
This absolutely provided the low-stakes diversion I needed. And also…
Because the pacing of the book is so slow, the author must do far more world development than merely “they hopped on their dragons and flew to…” I’m reminded how, in strength training, your muscles are forced to work harder when you lift weights very slowly. It was the same principle here in this book.
I felt like I understood the world much better than I normally might, in a more traditional epic fantasy.
Really solid storytelling.
I rarely post actual reviews. I adore fantasy and read far too many books and usually I’m onto the next one as fast as one finishes.
But I was intrigued by the “low-stakes” promise. I’ve recently finished a multi-book series in a deep world and needed a bit of a break before jumping into another world.
This absolutely provided the low-stakes diversion I needed. And also…
Because the pacing of the book is so slow, the author must do far more world development than merely “they hopped on their dragons and flew to…” I’m reminded how, in strength training, your muscles are forced to work harder when you lift weights very slowly. It was the same principle here in this book.
I felt like I understood the world much better than I normally might, in a more traditional epic fantasy.
Really solid storytelling.
April 7, 2024
DNF (did not finish). What made the book unfinishable, in your opinion?
From the title, I knew this would be a drama-free story. I do tend to like these types of books, but something has to keep me interested without the drama. Usually, an author can accomplish this by adding detailed characterizations, unique and detailed world-building, or by allowing the reader to explore relics and magical systems. Unfortunately, the author doesn't put enough of those qualities into the story to keep my interest. I gave this book a chance, but once I was about 10% through, I knew that I wasn't going to like it. Overall, the title is exactly what it claims to be, and if you're looking for that type of story, then this might be something you would like to read.
From the title, I knew this would be a drama-free story. I do tend to like these types of books, but something has to keep me interested without the drama. Usually, an author can accomplish this by adding detailed characterizations, unique and detailed world-building, or by allowing the reader to explore relics and magical systems. Unfortunately, the author doesn't put enough of those qualities into the story to keep my interest. I gave this book a chance, but once I was about 10% through, I knew that I wasn't going to like it. Overall, the title is exactly what it claims to be, and if you're looking for that type of story, then this might be something you would like to read.
September 25, 2022
Slow and good new major conflicts
As stated slice of life. Low stakes. Check. no impending doom for the country, county, state, or anything else in this series. Just the future of young crafter. All about personal growth and dedication to the profession. The magic system is a bit unique with tokens But overall a nice little Read. The system doesn't get into personal stats too much mostly profession stats. I enjoy this book and it's flow. Sometimes it's good to just relax and read about somebody doing their job well They're not worried about the universe collapsing. I look forward to the next book
As stated slice of life. Low stakes. Check. no impending doom for the country, county, state, or anything else in this series. Just the future of young crafter. All about personal growth and dedication to the profession. The magic system is a bit unique with tokens But overall a nice little Read. The system doesn't get into personal stats too much mostly profession stats. I enjoy this book and it's flow. Sometimes it's good to just relax and read about somebody doing their job well They're not worried about the universe collapsing. I look forward to the next book
November 30, 2023
The Artificer's Apprentice is a fun read. The main character makes his way by crafting things. (did I mention I really like crafting stories?). This story follows him through all the ups and downs of becoming an actual crafter, and the story is a good one. It progresses at a pretty good rate, keeping the story interesting, and the characters are well done. If you like crafting LitRPG tales, then you need to add this one to your to read shelf.
August 24, 2024
This litrpg book about a teenage boy finding an apprenticeship, learning, and becoming an artificer was relaxing, it is true. However, it didn't captivate me the way that Demon World Boba Shop did. I wanted more stats and litrpg content I think.
Additionally, the movement of time in this book is odd. Things would move instantly and it would seem off during the reading. I had to reread the scene where the main character returns to his old like three times to assure myself that a whole 8 day period moves by without much warning or exclamation.
I will try other books in this series but not yet.
Additionally, the movement of time in this book is odd. Things would move instantly and it would seem off during the reading. I had to reread the scene where the main character returns to his old like three times to assure myself that a whole 8 day period moves by without much warning or exclamation.
I will try other books in this series but not yet.
Read
September 9, 2024the artificers apprentice
DNF a couple chapters in
overview: I need to stop attempting to read books by men, I never enjoy them and there’s always more “vulgar” writing.
writing: there was a bit of humor, but I was mostly just bored and not appreciative of the cussing and more crass writing.
atmosphere: think of cozy farm life, a little village, being a trade smith — those type of video games.
season: summer.
———
content: language (so far: sh*t, d*mn, Gods damn, H*ll, used a couple times). sexual (n/a). other (mentions of magic, crystals…).
———
💌PS (I LOVE YOU)
— Kirsten <3
DNF a couple chapters in
overview: I need to stop attempting to read books by men, I never enjoy them and there’s always more “vulgar” writing.
writing: there was a bit of humor, but I was mostly just bored and not appreciative of the cussing and more crass writing.
atmosphere: think of cozy farm life, a little village, being a trade smith — those type of video games.
season: summer.
———
content: language (so far: sh*t, d*mn, Gods damn, H*ll, used a couple times). sexual (n/a). other (mentions of magic, crystals…).
———
💌PS (I LOVE YOU)
— Kirsten <3
April 8, 2025
Not great. The tone is wildly inconsistent with the writing veering from wholesome and PG-rated, to weirdly coarse, where characters will cheerfully curse with modern profanities, or awkward-sounding epithets from the fictional world. The LitRPG elements seem bolted-on at best, and there’s no coherent explanation for how it works. The main character is a bore, and while his feisty friend Paisley is more interesting, we don’t see enough of her actually doing things. This one is hard to recommend, even for fans of low-stakes fantasy Lit-RPG. Casual fantasy readers, or those looking to see if they might like Lit-RPG should look elsewhere.
April 28, 2025
I needed a book to keep me company while I’m cross-stitching and it found me!
The writing style might not be something I would have enjoyed if I were to read it, but I had a wonderful time listening! The only thing I wished there was more of is descriptions — of the world, the characters and such. There were some and my imagination painted everything pretty vividly, but I do like a little bit more guidance when it comes to books.
This one honestly reminded me of playing Ragnarok Online when I was a wee lass and that made me feel nostalgic and warm. Will definitely dive into more LitRPG in the future!
The writing style might not be something I would have enjoyed if I were to read it, but I had a wonderful time listening! The only thing I wished there was more of is descriptions — of the world, the characters and such. There were some and my imagination painted everything pretty vividly, but I do like a little bit more guidance when it comes to books.
This one honestly reminded me of playing Ragnarok Online when I was a wee lass and that made me feel nostalgic and warm. Will definitely dive into more LitRPG in the future!
January 11, 2024
Awww this is exactly what I was looking for. Just a super good cozy litRPG. As a young man meets up with a master Artificer more of a happenstance than anything else and decides to be an apprentice for this crotchety old man and live in this cozy little crafter town. All the while building up his abilities. And of course finding fun, friends and good food along the way.
Here's one of the quotes I found to share:
"A person should know when it's time to stop kicking a dead dog." I didn’t really know when it was time to even begin kicking a dead dog, truth be told, but I took his advice.
Here's one of the quotes I found to share:
"A person should know when it's time to stop kicking a dead dog." I didn’t really know when it was time to even begin kicking a dead dog, truth be told, but I took his advice.
September 15, 2022
Enjoyable slice of life LitRPG
If you're tired of manic cultivators popping chi pills and running around power leveling, stop a while in Sunhampton and experience the journey of three young friends making their way in the world and perfecting their craft. Yes there's some emotional drama, hard work and sacrifice - but the view is grand, the beer is cold, and the people worth meeting.
If you're tired of manic cultivators popping chi pills and running around power leveling, stop a while in Sunhampton and experience the journey of three young friends making their way in the world and perfecting their craft. Yes there's some emotional drama, hard work and sacrifice - but the view is grand, the beer is cold, and the people worth meeting.
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