Dungeon Crawler Carl wasn’t a book I would’ve chosen on my own, as I’ve never read litRPG and I’m not one for deep action fantasy. After seeing it consistently recommended across various platforms, I decided to give the audio version a try and I was instantly hooked. The narrator is a magician in his own right, effortlessly switching between characters with distinct and flawless voices. The performance alone makes the audiobook worth experiencing.
The book itself is so strange. It feels like listening to a non-visual, explicit video game. The story leans heavily into game mechanics, which are explained in detail, sometimes to the point of repetition. There’s clearly a massive, layered lore behind this world, but book one only begins to scratch the surface, occasionally leading to confusion.
Still, the plot and world-building held my attention. It’s bizarre, dark, wildly creative, and completely unpredictable. There were moments that made me laugh and moments I felt very disturbed and second-guessed my choice of book. But the characters are what ultimately anchored this story for me.
Carl and Donut, the main duo, are incredibly likable and full of personality. Their quirks and constant banter create a dynamic that is genuinely entertaining. Donut has quickly become one of my all-time favorite characters. I almost wish the entire story were told from her perspective just so I could get more of her lines! Despite the madness of the dungeon, Carl and Donut’s growing bond and mutual reliance added a surprising emotional depth.
This book isn’t for everyone, but if you’re open to something offbeat, chaotic, and packed with snark, humor and a little heart, it just might surprise you the way it surprised me.