The Ten Realms Series Review: A Must-Read LitRPG Adventure with Military Tactics

Dive into our in-depth review of the Ten Realms series by Michael Chatfield. This action-packed LitRPG adventure blends modern military tactics with RPG elements, creating a unique and thrilling narrative. With strong character development and dynamic plot pacing, the series is a must-read for fans of LitRPG and progression fantasy. We also discuss the audiobook experience, comparing the narration styles of Todd Menesses and Neil Hellegers. Find out why the Ten Realms series stands out in the genre!

8/9/20242 min read

The Ten Realms Series Review: A Must-Read LitRPG Adventure with Military Tactics
The Ten Realms Series Review: A Must-Read LitRPG Adventure with Military Tactics

The Ten Realms Series: A Blend of Military Tactics and RPG Adventure

Introduction

The Ten Realms series by Michael Chatfield is a unique and captivating entry in the LitRPG and progression fantasy genres. As a reader who has enjoyed the series thus far, I find the blend of modern military tactics with RPG elements to be particularly compelling. This combination creates a dynamic and exciting narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.

Plot and Pacing

One of the strongest aspects of the Ten Realms series is its pacing. The story moves at a brisk pace, with the main characters constantly facing new challenges and struggles. This relentless action keeps the excitement high, making it difficult to put the books down. The first three books, in particular, stand out for their continuous character development and plot progression, establishing a solid foundation for the rest of the series.

Character Development

Character development is a key strength of the Ten Realms series. The protagonists, especially Rugrat, are well-developed both personally and physically. Rugrat, with his southern accent and background, brings a unique flavor to the story. His growth, along with that of the other main characters, is handled with care, making their journey through the realms both relatable and engaging. The personal and physical evolution of the characters adds depth to the series, making readers invest in their successes and failures.

Unique Elements

What sets the Ten Realms series apart from other LitRPG books is its integration of modern military tactics within an RPG world. The blend of real-world combat strategies with the fantastical elements of RPG mechanics creates a refreshing and innovative narrative. This combination not only enhances the action sequences but also adds a layer of realism to the story, making it more immersive and believable.

Audiobook Experience

Narration by Todd Menesses (Books 1-3)

The audiobook experience of the Ten Realms series is shaped by two distinct narrators. Todd Menesses, who narrates the first three books, does an excellent job of bringing the characters to life. His narration style complements the military themes and RPG elements of the story, making the listening experience enjoyable and engaging. I would rate his performance an 8/10, as he effectively captures the essence of the characters and the intensity of the plot.

Narration by Neil Hellegers (Books 4 and Onward)

Starting with the fourth book, the narration shifts to Neil Hellegers. While Hellegers is a skilled narrator in his own right, the transition from Menesses' style may be noticeable to listeners who enjoyed the earlier books. Hellegers' performance, while competent, lacks some of the distinctiveness that made Menesses' narration stand out, particularly in conveying the military aspects of the story. As a result, I would rate his narration a 6.5/10.

Overall Rating and Final Thoughts

Overall, I would give the Ten Realms series a 7.8/10. The series excels in its unique blend of modern military tactics with RPG mechanics, strong character development, and well-paced plot. The transition in narration styles might be a bit jarring for some listeners, but the story itself remains compelling and worth following.

Whether you're a fan of LitRPG or simply enjoy action-packed stories with strong characters, the Ten Realms series is a solid choice. Its innovative approach to blending real-world combat with RPG elements makes it a standout in the genre, and I look forward to continuing the journey through the remaining books.