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Dungeon Crawler Carl #6
The Eye of the Bedlam Bride
Win a free print copy of this book!
20 days and 08:39:17
25 copies available
U.S. only
A pantheon of forgotten gods. An old grudge between a talk show host, an heiress, and the man they shattered along the way. A rapidly deteriorating AI system. An inconvenient tiara upon the head of a friend.
It is bedlam on the eighth floor.
As management reels from the unexpected conclusion of the seventh level, the surviving crawlers stumble onto the eighth and find themselves scattered. It’s a map based on Earth’s final days before the collapse, where ethereal, intangible ghosts of humanity go about their lives, oblivious of the impending doom. Living amongst these ghosts are monsters based in Earth lore. “Legendary� creatures tied to the geographical location they inhabit.
Each team of crawlers is given a task: find and capture six of these beasts. The captured monsters will be turned into cards. Cards that can be summoned into battle again and again. The stronger, the deadlier, the better.
At the end of the floor, the bad guys will also have decks, and they will have some of the most powerful cards available. So it’s crucial to assemble the toughest squad possible.
But, like always, there is a catch. There’s always a catch.
As Carl and Donut know all too well, just because someone is captured, it doesn’t mean they have been tamed.
Her name is Shi Maria. She’s easily the most powerful monster in their area. If they want to survive, they must capture her. But she is no ordinary beast. She’s intelligent. She was once married to a god, a god who is now missing. Her special attack is known to drive one insane. They call her the Bedlam Bride.
“Beware, beware. Beware the Eye of the Bedlam Bride�
It is bedlam on the eighth floor.
As management reels from the unexpected conclusion of the seventh level, the surviving crawlers stumble onto the eighth and find themselves scattered. It’s a map based on Earth’s final days before the collapse, where ethereal, intangible ghosts of humanity go about their lives, oblivious of the impending doom. Living amongst these ghosts are monsters based in Earth lore. “Legendary� creatures tied to the geographical location they inhabit.
Each team of crawlers is given a task: find and capture six of these beasts. The captured monsters will be turned into cards. Cards that can be summoned into battle again and again. The stronger, the deadlier, the better.
At the end of the floor, the bad guys will also have decks, and they will have some of the most powerful cards available. So it’s crucial to assemble the toughest squad possible.
But, like always, there is a catch. There’s always a catch.
As Carl and Donut know all too well, just because someone is captured, it doesn’t mean they have been tamed.
Her name is Shi Maria. She’s easily the most powerful monster in their area. If they want to survive, they must capture her. But she is no ordinary beast. She’s intelligent. She was once married to a god, a god who is now missing. Her special attack is known to drive one insane. They call her the Bedlam Bride.
“Beware, beware. Beware the Eye of the Bedlam Bride�
694 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 2, 2023
4,163 people are currently reading
14.2k people want to read
About the author
Matt Dinniman
24books6,477followersMatt Dinniman is the best-selling writer and artist from Gig Harbor, Washington. He is the published author of dozens of short stories and a gaggle of books. In addition, his art publications—from greeting cards to stationery kits to calendars—can be found in boutique and stationery shops around the world. Also, he strongly feels like a pretentious twat when he writes about himself in third person.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,728 reviews
July 14, 2023
NEW ACHIEVEMENT!!!
You found another installment in one of the best book series out there! Reward? The book is the reward. That and Carl's sensual feet
You found another installment in one of the best book series out there! Reward? The book is the reward. That and Carl's sensual feet
June 22, 2023
When I try to describe these books, the best description I can come up with is…imagine a disaster that forces almost everyone on earth underground to endure 18 floors that each act like a different arena in the Hunger Games. Everyone and everything is trying to kill you, and so the population of the planet plummets floor by floor. It’s televised so there’s all the drama that comes with having to “perform� while surviving, including getting sponsors, meeting TV hosts, etc.
But as this is on display to the GALAXY, in addition to the crazy cruelty of this game, there are intergalactic politics between alien species, and over time we learn about them through the pov of the main human character.
Speaking of the main character and if we stay with the Hunger Games comparison, Carl is Katniss on steroids. He not only wants to survive but to fuck. things. up. Speaking of fucks, there are a lot of them because these are adult books with adult humor. Oh, and also a talking cat...with a pet dinosaur.
The stakes are HIGH, the drama in INSANE, the humor is BOMBASTIC, and every book keeps getting crazier and crazier without losing the thread. Each one expands on the lore in a mystery box way that’s highly interesting, hilarious, and engrossing.
And THIS ONE is the best one yet.
But as this is on display to the GALAXY, in addition to the crazy cruelty of this game, there are intergalactic politics between alien species, and over time we learn about them through the pov of the main human character.
Speaking of the main character and if we stay with the Hunger Games comparison, Carl is Katniss on steroids. He not only wants to survive but to fuck. things. up. Speaking of fucks, there are a lot of them because these are adult books with adult humor. Oh, and also a talking cat...with a pet dinosaur.
The stakes are HIGH, the drama in INSANE, the humor is BOMBASTIC, and every book keeps getting crazier and crazier without losing the thread. Each one expands on the lore in a mystery box way that’s highly interesting, hilarious, and engrossing.
And THIS ONE is the best one yet.
November 13, 2024
5 stars
This installment was by far the best yet! The humor was spot-on, and the chaos was next level. The totems were wild, every single one brought its own ridiculous twist, and I was either laughing or shaking my head the whole time. Between demons, slugs, and strippers, the story just kept upping the craziness. And, of course, Carl and his chaotic team, Donut and Samantha, delivered non-stop.
But what set this one apart was the added depth. The series has always been funny, from book 1 to book 5, but this time, there were moments that hit a bit deeper, and I even found myself a little emotional. Then, before I knew it, I was laughing again.
There was nothing I didn’t love about this book. Absolute chef’s kiss. And I couldn’t ask for better timing, because book 7 just dropped! I’m diving straight in. Cannot wait!
This installment was by far the best yet! The humor was spot-on, and the chaos was next level. The totems were wild, every single one brought its own ridiculous twist, and I was either laughing or shaking my head the whole time. Between demons, slugs, and strippers, the story just kept upping the craziness. And, of course, Carl and his chaotic team, Donut and Samantha, delivered non-stop.
But what set this one apart was the added depth. The series has always been funny, from book 1 to book 5, but this time, there were moments that hit a bit deeper, and I even found myself a little emotional. Then, before I knew it, I was laughing again.
There was nothing I didn’t love about this book. Absolute chef’s kiss. And I couldn’t ask for better timing, because book 7 just dropped! I’m diving straight in. Cannot wait!
April 13, 2025
This series is absolute perfection. It has everything, and it is done so well.
I'll start book 7 tomorrow.
I'll start book 7 tomorrow.
August 4, 2024
I just retroactively upgraded all my previous DCC ratings to 5 stars. My book ratings are not serious, more based on how much I enjoyed the reading experience. Why the upgrade? captured and distilled the essence of Fun so effectively, I must give him the kudos he deserves.
I now count DCC as one of the few works which so generously offered that elusive quality - The Magic of Books. Every reader has an internal list of those books. The books which pull you in effortlessly and carry you into the flow state. They forever etch an imaginary pantheon, the golden narratives which the human brain instinctually craves. Thanks, Matt. Your books make me feel like I'm in the school library again reading as much as I can until that bell rings.
I now count DCC as one of the few works which so generously offered that elusive quality - The Magic of Books. Every reader has an internal list of those books. The books which pull you in effortlessly and carry you into the flow state. They forever etch an imaginary pantheon, the golden narratives which the human brain instinctually craves. Thanks, Matt. Your books make me feel like I'm in the school library again reading as much as I can until that bell rings.
March 23, 2025
★★★★� 5/5
� (❁ᴗ͈ˬᴗ�) � Note : This review is short and to the point, no spoilers aside from some fun quotes from the book!
The Eye of the Bedlam Bride is book six in the Dungeon Crawler Carl series, and yet another incredible addition to one of the best, most addictive series I have read. It is a bit mind-blowing I've pumped through these books so quickly; I just can't get enough. It's like I'm a child who won the golden ticket to Willy Wonka's chocolate factory and I'm high on the sugar-rush.
All that to say - please read this series!
: ̗̀� My Review Rants
All I'm going to say here is: Jesus with guns, crabs jerking themselves off, demons spawning and taking the bodies of zombie seals, and Princess Donut finally encounters her first ever catgirl (spoiler alert: she is not happy about it!). Suffice to say, this book is, from front to back, absolute chaos. Have you ever wondered what it would be like if the very folklore beasts, the very ones you've grown up being warned about that are native in your country, were suddenly summonable via a card game (think Pokémon or MTG) where they would fight for you - well, sometimes - and wreak absolute chaos everywhere you went?! Wonder no longer! This book will show you just how ridiculous of an idea that is! And you will cry, laugh, and rage!! But a book is best enjoyed when it's got you feeling all of that, right?
: ̗̀� Series Reviews
Check out my reviews for the other books in this series:
Dungeon Crawler Carl : Book 1
Carl's Doomsday Scenario : Book 2
The Dungeon Anarchist's Cookbook : Book 3
The Gate of the Feral Gods : Book 4
The Butcher's Masquerade : Book 5
The Eye of the Bedlam Bride : Book 6
This Inevitable Ruin : Book 7
“Never stare into the blinding eye of the Bedlam Bride. What it means is don’t become obsessed with something, lest you’re blinded to everything else.�
� (❁ᴗ͈ˬᴗ�) � Note : This review is short and to the point, no spoilers aside from some fun quotes from the book!
The Eye of the Bedlam Bride is book six in the Dungeon Crawler Carl series, and yet another incredible addition to one of the best, most addictive series I have read. It is a bit mind-blowing I've pumped through these books so quickly; I just can't get enough. It's like I'm a child who won the golden ticket to Willy Wonka's chocolate factory and I'm high on the sugar-rush.
All that to say - please read this series!
: ̗̀� My Review Rants
“I mean, really. I can’t be held accountable for everything I’ve ever said to a stripper.�
All I'm going to say here is: Jesus with guns, crabs jerking themselves off, demons spawning and taking the bodies of zombie seals, and Princess Donut finally encounters her first ever catgirl (spoiler alert: she is not happy about it!). Suffice to say, this book is, from front to back, absolute chaos. Have you ever wondered what it would be like if the very folklore beasts, the very ones you've grown up being warned about that are native in your country, were suddenly summonable via a card game (think Pokémon or MTG) where they would fight for you - well, sometimes - and wreak absolute chaos everywhere you went?! Wonder no longer! This book will show you just how ridiculous of an idea that is! And you will cry, laugh, and rage!! But a book is best enjoyed when it's got you feeling all of that, right?
“I didn’t realize you’d actually get that thing to work. Are you planning on growing a mullet as well? Are there any Waffle Houses between here and there? Maybe we can stop and get into a brawl, but only after you bounce a few child support payment checks first.�
“I remembered Mordecai’s advice when it came to mages. They can’t cast their spells when you’re punching them in the face.�
“You are more than just a person, if we lose you we lose everything. You are a symbol. You're the embodiment of our hope. You and that annoying f**king cat!.�
“I love that guy! Strippers are supposed to have names like that. There’s Anaconda. Damascus Steel. Dong Quixote.�
“Don’t gaslight me, Jesus.�
“Did... did you just rip your dick off and throw it at me?� “I’m going to do it again if you don’t let me in.�
“There’s this scent one associates with their parents. You don’t even think about it until you’ve been away for so long, and it returns, towing unwelcome memories with it, shoving them at you all at once.�
“Donut: PREPOTENTE DON’T BE MEAN TO KATIA. Rezan: Why does that cat always type in all caps? Donut: WHY DIDN’T YOUR MOTHER DRIBBLE YOU BACK OUT ONTO THE TRUCK STOP BATHROOM FLOOR, REZAN?�
: ̗̀� Series Reviews
Check out my reviews for the other books in this series:
Dungeon Crawler Carl : Book 1
Carl's Doomsday Scenario : Book 2
The Dungeon Anarchist's Cookbook : Book 3
The Gate of the Feral Gods : Book 4
The Butcher's Masquerade : Book 5
The Eye of the Bedlam Bride : Book 6
This Inevitable Ruin : Book 7
February 11, 2025
This is sixth in a long-running LitRPG series that you definitely want to read in order.
You know what you're going to get by now. The system/AI/worldbuilding is still complete and utter madness with a twist of satire*. I was pleasantly impressed with the character developments of this story. Yes, bad things happen, including to Carl and Donut. But they also persevere and continue to wreck all the complacency of the show runners while they're at it.
And I particularly like how they handled the fallout for the reveal that Katia and Donut are going to be at odds for surviving the ninth floor. They already have one plan in play to circumvent the dire development, but the author has never yet let the default transpire and I'd love to see Carl pull some contrivance out of his boxers to blow this one up, too.
I think I'll leave this here, except to note that this continues the impressive five-star streak (only one so far didn't reach that level of entertainment). I perceive a bit of a publishing slow-down by the author, but I hope that picks up again and this was an outlier. The hardest part of reading this book was the big gap now that I'd caught up to publication. Relearning all the intertwined relationships once again took a bit and wasn't comfortable.
A note about Chaste: There's technically time/space for moments of intimacy, but this isn't that kind of story. Carl has some great relationships, including some that could turn romantic if the author chose to go there. So far, that doesn't seem to be on the menu. Oh! And at least some of this story happens in, um, a male dance review (strippers. They're strippers) and there's plenty of sex-based "humor". I don't consider that unchaste, so gauge/adjust accordingly.
* There's a lot of satire here, and I mean in the classical sense of the author tearing apart modern ideas, memes, and popular culture. It's practically a modern-day Gulliver's Travels, only without the political axe(s) to grind.
You know what you're going to get by now. The system/AI/worldbuilding is still complete and utter madness with a twist of satire*. I was pleasantly impressed with the character developments of this story. Yes, bad things happen, including to Carl and Donut. But they also persevere and continue to wreck all the complacency of the show runners while they're at it.
And I particularly like how they handled the fallout for the reveal that Katia and Donut are going to be at odds for surviving the ninth floor. They already have one plan in play to circumvent the dire development, but the author has never yet let the default transpire and I'd love to see Carl pull some contrivance out of his boxers to blow this one up, too.
I think I'll leave this here, except to note that this continues the impressive five-star streak (only one so far didn't reach that level of entertainment). I perceive a bit of a publishing slow-down by the author, but I hope that picks up again and this was an outlier. The hardest part of reading this book was the big gap now that I'd caught up to publication. Relearning all the intertwined relationships once again took a bit and wasn't comfortable.
A note about Chaste: There's technically time/space for moments of intimacy, but this isn't that kind of story. Carl has some great relationships, including some that could turn romantic if the author chose to go there. So far, that doesn't seem to be on the menu. Oh! And at least some of this story happens in, um, a male dance review (strippers. They're strippers) and there's plenty of sex-based "humor". I don't consider that unchaste, so gauge/adjust accordingly.
* There's a lot of satire here, and I mean in the classical sense of the author tearing apart modern ideas, memes, and popular culture. It's practically a modern-day Gulliver's Travels, only without the political axe(s) to grind.
April 4, 2025
WELCOME CRAWLERS TO TODAYS EPISODE OF:
“if I had to hear it and suffer, so did youuuuu�
I’m your host, and if Matt Dinniman kills off my fave characters in book 7-8, I will kill his mother. (For all purposes, this is a joke and would make sense to you if you read this series, calm down, I’m not that violent 🤭)
Anyway!
2 fabulous combination of words that I wish I could forget instantly and bleach from my brain that this book gave to me, and I’ll give them to you 100% CONTEXT FREE 🎉
- “crab bukkake�
- “sentient sperm�
Two terms I never wanna hear again. Ty.
The fact the computer system told the whole universe that Carl jerked off a crab was a real highlight.
Every book has 700 things going on, the author is a literal genius, these characters feel like family, I will fucking cry if anyone dies.
Goodnight xoxo
“if I had to hear it and suffer, so did youuuuu�
I’m your host, and if Matt Dinniman kills off my fave characters in book 7-8, I will kill his mother. (For all purposes, this is a joke and would make sense to you if you read this series, calm down, I’m not that violent 🤭)
Anyway!
2 fabulous combination of words that I wish I could forget instantly and bleach from my brain that this book gave to me, and I’ll give them to you 100% CONTEXT FREE 🎉
- “crab bukkake�
- “sentient sperm�
Two terms I never wanna hear again. Ty.
The fact the computer system told the whole universe that Carl jerked off a crab was a real highlight.
Every book has 700 things going on, the author is a literal genius, these characters feel like family, I will fucking cry if anyone dies.
Goodnight xoxo
January 2, 2025
Reread update: easy 5 stars! I found this even more engaging the second time around, and it is just about as perfect a DCC book as I could imagine. There are three humongous set pieces toward the beginning, middle, and end, and each one is an emotional rollercoaster that kept me in utter suspense. Dinniman is one of the best fantasy writers at writing epic action scenes that are creative and exciting but which also provide impactful emotional moments for the characters involved. And while it was gritty and tense throughout, it was also hilarious and continuously hitting my funny bone in just the right place. Damn am I going to miss this particular mix as I await the next book. This has to have one of the most exciting mid-series endings I've ever read, setting up a huge epic next book that everything has been building toward for a long time -- I can't wait!!!!
Original Review:
4.5 stars -- why can't ŷ give us a half star option my goodness that's annoying. On the book though, it was yet another impactful and wild ride with Carl and Donut. I love how the greater plot and worldbuilding is coming more and more into play, and this level design with its card game mechanics felt extremely fresh for the series. This one went to some very dark and emotional places, and that is truly where Dinniman is shining for me the most. The combo of clever and dumb humor sprinkled throughout adds so much to my enjoyment, but this is far far from a humor-focused book and series, and is one of the most drama-filled and gritty things I feel like I've ever read. The stakes are sky high from beginning to end, and Dinniman just doesn't let off the gas pedal.
While it had some incredible moments that are the reason I rounded up to 5, I did find myself wishing once again that things were just a bit less complicated so I could feel more invested in the strategies and tactics. The middle of the book lost my full engagement for just a bit as events felt a tad repetitive, so it wasn't one of those perfect reads but pretty dang close.
The climactic sequence in this one is one of the most batshit crazy things I've ever read, and it mixed in some masterful oh shit moments to set things up for the next book. And that next one looks like it's gonna be a doozy, and I can't wait!
Original Review:
4.5 stars -- why can't ŷ give us a half star option my goodness that's annoying. On the book though, it was yet another impactful and wild ride with Carl and Donut. I love how the greater plot and worldbuilding is coming more and more into play, and this level design with its card game mechanics felt extremely fresh for the series. This one went to some very dark and emotional places, and that is truly where Dinniman is shining for me the most. The combo of clever and dumb humor sprinkled throughout adds so much to my enjoyment, but this is far far from a humor-focused book and series, and is one of the most drama-filled and gritty things I feel like I've ever read. The stakes are sky high from beginning to end, and Dinniman just doesn't let off the gas pedal.
While it had some incredible moments that are the reason I rounded up to 5, I did find myself wishing once again that things were just a bit less complicated so I could feel more invested in the strategies and tactics. The middle of the book lost my full engagement for just a bit as events felt a tad repetitive, so it wasn't one of those perfect reads but pretty dang close.
The climactic sequence in this one is one of the most batshit crazy things I've ever read, and it mixed in some masterful oh shit moments to set things up for the next book. And that next one looks like it's gonna be a doozy, and I can't wait!
January 30, 2024
4.75 stars.
Though I’ve never been a fan of card based games and dreaded how this level would be as soon as I read the premise, I gotta say, this wasn’t boring in the least.
Love how our characters are persevering and everything the dungeon is trying, to break them, is only bringing them closer.
Loving the intergalactic politics and the layered plot. That goddamned hook in the epilogue. So frigging excited for the next one and the impending revelations. Never had to wait for a book as I binge read the series, so I guess this is going to be a torture.
Though I’ve never been a fan of card based games and dreaded how this level would be as soon as I read the premise, I gotta say, this wasn’t boring in the least.
Love how our characters are persevering and everything the dungeon is trying, to break them, is only bringing them closer.
Loving the intergalactic politics and the layered plot. That goddamned hook in the epilogue. So frigging excited for the next one and the impending revelations. Never had to wait for a book as I binge read the series, so I guess this is going to be a torture.
September 5, 2023
Another solid entry to the series. First half felt a bit slow, but the end was the usual satisfying chaotic insanity.
Don't expect any deep insights or unique prose from this book (or this series) -- it's pure silly entertainment.
Kudos to narrator Jeff Hays, who somehow makes all these unique voices on his own. It's almost disturbing. Check out for some examples (very minor spoilers, and explicit humor).
Don't expect any deep insights or unique prose from this book (or this series) -- it's pure silly entertainment.
Kudos to narrator Jeff Hays, who somehow makes all these unique voices on his own. It's almost disturbing. Check out for some examples (very minor spoilers, and explicit humor).
March 21, 2024
Pure chaotic fun with an underlying darkness that threatens to sweep everything away.
January 17, 2025
"People have bones for a reason, Carl."
July 5, 2023
3,5/5 stars - Spoiler free review
This is a great book, but with a few asterisk. Let's start with the good things.
Matt is still one of my favorite character writers. I didn't re-read any of the previous books for this one, but even if I did forget some things I still remembered clearly every character that appears or was mentioned in this books. Carl and Donnut still are an amazing duo, and I feel like the addition to Samantha makes everything just a little better; I miss Katia as part of the main dinamic, but I gotta admit that she kinda always felt a bit of an outsider from the main two, which is something Samantha doesn't suffer from.
Apart from that, the main story is still great, and the build up is superb. I'm still impressed with how random itens or storylines from two books ago continues to make a difference in the story, and that saying a lot, considering the sheer number of content these books have.
Matt also has a great talent for using humor as a tool to not only slow down the story when it's needed and lighten up the tone, but also to criticize real life stuff in a fun and absurd way. I'm always impressed with how he can write some of the most offensive shit I have read without sounding like he's a douche himself (part of that, I think, is by allowing his characters to recognize how offensive that stuff is). One particular scene, at the end of the book involving a crab and a evil version of Carl made me laugh in a way that made me worried for my soul.
Two things made me go down a few points, though. The first one is that the gimmick of this floor is, honestly, kinda boring. The action scenes weren't really dinamic and, as much as they say that the card game they played isn't turn based like the ones we have in the real world, it did kinda feel sometimes like characters were waiting to take turns.
The other thing is that the books kinda feels too much like a build up for the next book. Many plot points from previous books are mentioned only to be discarded right away in favor of waiting for the faction wars (like it wanted us to remember they were still a thing but didn't want to develop it more), while quite a few new ones were introduced in preparation for the next book. One particulary "side story" felt like it was only there to prepare the story for the next part, and didn't really had any meaningful impact for this book.
All of this is kinda understandable, as the next floor has been built up as the biggest next story event, but I felt like this book suffered a littler bit for it.
Overall, tho, great book, and I delayed quite a bit of work to read it as much as I could. Now to try and do everything before the boss realize I'm behind on my tasks.
This is a great book, but with a few asterisk. Let's start with the good things.
Matt is still one of my favorite character writers. I didn't re-read any of the previous books for this one, but even if I did forget some things I still remembered clearly every character that appears or was mentioned in this books. Carl and Donnut still are an amazing duo, and I feel like the addition to Samantha makes everything just a little better; I miss Katia as part of the main dinamic, but I gotta admit that she kinda always felt a bit of an outsider from the main two, which is something Samantha doesn't suffer from.
Apart from that, the main story is still great, and the build up is superb. I'm still impressed with how random itens or storylines from two books ago continues to make a difference in the story, and that saying a lot, considering the sheer number of content these books have.
Matt also has a great talent for using humor as a tool to not only slow down the story when it's needed and lighten up the tone, but also to criticize real life stuff in a fun and absurd way. I'm always impressed with how he can write some of the most offensive shit I have read without sounding like he's a douche himself (part of that, I think, is by allowing his characters to recognize how offensive that stuff is). One particular scene, at the end of the book involving a crab and a evil version of Carl made me laugh in a way that made me worried for my soul.
Two things made me go down a few points, though. The first one is that the gimmick of this floor is, honestly, kinda boring. The action scenes weren't really dinamic and, as much as they say that the card game they played isn't turn based like the ones we have in the real world, it did kinda feel sometimes like characters were waiting to take turns.
The other thing is that the books kinda feels too much like a build up for the next book. Many plot points from previous books are mentioned only to be discarded right away in favor of waiting for the faction wars (like it wanted us to remember they were still a thing but didn't want to develop it more), while quite a few new ones were introduced in preparation for the next book. One particulary "side story" felt like it was only there to prepare the story for the next part, and didn't really had any meaningful impact for this book.
All of this is kinda understandable, as the next floor has been built up as the biggest next story event, but I felt like this book suffered a littler bit for it.
Overall, tho, great book, and I delayed quite a bit of work to read it as much as I could. Now to try and do everything before the boss realize I'm behind on my tasks.
July 25, 2024
July 2024 Re-Read
3 ⭐️
it was definitely better on a re-listen though my complaints are mostly the same as my initial review. i forgot how hype the last chunk of this book was
October 2023 First Read
2.5 ⭐️
i'm so sad this book didn't work for meeeeeeeeeee :((((( this is the first book in this series where there's more i dislike than i did like...
the level design was a bit dull compared to the previous entries. i like the pokemon/card game aspect of the level. i just don't like the world ghosts and everyone being separated into sections. i don't like him, but quan ch was easily the best card player, wish we had seen him fuck up other people more. this level's climax also didn't feel as smart as what i was expecting (maybe the previous books set the bar too high iunno).
i didn't like or see any purpose to adding the sections on carl's past: his step brother and dad. it didn't do anything for me? felt like filler.
i've hated the "river" ever since it was introduced. cuz honestly lmao what. is it some analogy for dark emo carl? but like, you can just show it through action, why is it always mentioned? this is a nitpick but it really annoys me...
another nitpick! the book felt the need to remind me like 20 times every time a minor character was brought up. every single time tran was mentioned, the book exposited that he was "the crawler who lost two legs last level". i understand wanting to remind the reader who is who since there are so many characters, but the writing could have been "they were slower than usually cuz tran had a hard time getting used to being on a wheelchair" instead of "remember he is the one who lost his legs last level??"
i could forgive all that but the characters actually really disappointed me this book:
and then him being a pussy saying he wasn't going to use garret cuz donut wouldn't like it? brah stop being the cat's lil bitch. you're wasting a resource? also garret is fucking cute.
speaking of donut... i have always been a cat person but she was a huge bitch this book. is it on purpose? her playing up her snotty annoying persona? her hostility towards sister ines and tserendolgor/garret was insanely irritating.
i'm so sad that the characters i used to love have become like this :|
samantha is hilarious but annoying and this book she lays it on too thick. i did enjoy the mordecai and odette reveal. and the epilogue is pretty hype.
despite my distaste for this book, i am excited and looking forward to the next entry. hopefully the faction war will live up to the build up~
3 ⭐️
it was definitely better on a re-listen though my complaints are mostly the same as my initial review. i forgot how hype the last chunk of this book was
October 2023 First Read
2.5 ⭐️
i'm so sad this book didn't work for meeeeeeeeeee :((((( this is the first book in this series where there's more i dislike than i did like...
the level design was a bit dull compared to the previous entries. i like the pokemon/card game aspect of the level. i just don't like the world ghosts and everyone being separated into sections. i don't like him, but quan ch was easily the best card player, wish we had seen him fuck up other people more. this level's climax also didn't feel as smart as what i was expecting (maybe the previous books set the bar too high iunno).
i didn't like or see any purpose to adding the sections on carl's past: his step brother and dad. it didn't do anything for me? felt like filler.
i've hated the "river" ever since it was introduced. cuz honestly lmao what. is it some analogy for dark emo carl? but like, you can just show it through action, why is it always mentioned? this is a nitpick but it really annoys me...
another nitpick! the book felt the need to remind me like 20 times every time a minor character was brought up. every single time tran was mentioned, the book exposited that he was "the crawler who lost two legs last level". i understand wanting to remind the reader who is who since there are so many characters, but the writing could have been "they were slower than usually cuz tran had a hard time getting used to being on a wheelchair" instead of "remember he is the one who lost his legs last level??"
i could forgive all that but the characters actually really disappointed me this book:
and then him being a pussy saying he wasn't going to use garret cuz donut wouldn't like it? brah stop being the cat's lil bitch. you're wasting a resource? also garret is fucking cute.
speaking of donut... i have always been a cat person but she was a huge bitch this book. is it on purpose? her playing up her snotty annoying persona? her hostility towards sister ines and tserendolgor/garret was insanely irritating.
i'm so sad that the characters i used to love have become like this :|
samantha is hilarious but annoying and this book she lays it on too thick. i did enjoy the mordecai and odette reveal. and the epilogue is pretty hype.
despite my distaste for this book, i am excited and looking forward to the next entry. hopefully the faction war will live up to the build up~
June 9, 2024
*** 4 ***
This was... something! I love this series, but I am always left a bit bewildered when I finish each book... There is too much action at times and I wish we had more of the contemplative moments between our main characters... Actually, we got more than usual in this book, and that pleased my desire for the more personal touch, so I am satisfied. Still, as much as I adore Samantha and Donut and love every moment they are spotlighted, I wish we had more about some of the other members of our gang... I am guessing the author isn't really going into them, because all will probably die sooner rather than later, and I get that, but I think the payoff would be a stronger connection for the reader and thus a bigger emotional response once the inevitable happens... Still, I am having a blast listening to these and can't wait for the author to catch up with our demands for more!!! 😃👍😎
This was... something! I love this series, but I am always left a bit bewildered when I finish each book... There is too much action at times and I wish we had more of the contemplative moments between our main characters... Actually, we got more than usual in this book, and that pleased my desire for the more personal touch, so I am satisfied. Still, as much as I adore Samantha and Donut and love every moment they are spotlighted, I wish we had more about some of the other members of our gang... I am guessing the author isn't really going into them, because all will probably die sooner rather than later, and I get that, but I think the payoff would be a stronger connection for the reader and thus a bigger emotional response once the inevitable happens... Still, I am having a blast listening to these and can't wait for the author to catch up with our demands for more!!! 😃👍😎
February 5, 2025
The emotional attachment I have to these characters is probably unhealthy.
June 11, 2024
HOLY SHIT! THAT ENDING?!
Also, Matt Dinniman, when is the next book coming out? I'm very upset 😡 I'd like the next book as soon as possible, thanks. No dillies, no dallies.
Also, Matt Dinniman, when is the next book coming out? I'm very upset 😡 I'd like the next book as soon as possible, thanks. No dillies, no dallies.
July 15, 2023
Game mechanics get in the way of the story
It wasn't bad. I fact, it was decent. But at this point, the story should not be taking a back seat to introducing new game mechanics. Far too much time was spent introducing, explaining and interacting with the new Collectable Card Game rules added in for the floor.
Also, I am tired of Donut's antics. This series dark, disturbing and depressing and the comic relief just doesn't work anymore.
It wasn't bad. I fact, it was decent. But at this point, the story should not be taking a back seat to introducing new game mechanics. Far too much time was spent introducing, explaining and interacting with the new Collectable Card Game rules added in for the floor.
Also, I am tired of Donut's antics. This series dark, disturbing and depressing and the comic relief just doesn't work anymore.
September 7, 2023
Madcap! Crazy! Bombastic! CHAOS!!!!!!!! Exactly what I have come to expect from this series.
While having a slower first half the second half of the story will blow your socks off. You may think you are ready...you are not. I can't wait for more. The only downside is I feel like Travis Baldree and Patrick Warburton are almost wasted in the audio production.
While having a slower first half the second half of the story will blow your socks off. You may think you are ready...you are not. I can't wait for more. The only downside is I feel like Travis Baldree and Patrick Warburton are almost wasted in the audio production.
February 26, 2025
This series is so damn good. The absolute choke-hold the epilogues put you through. MORE MORE MORE!!!!
March 9, 2025
4.75�
This series just keeps getting better. More emotional. More deep. Stakes getting higher. I just can't wait for the next one.
RTC
This series just keeps getting better. More emotional. More deep. Stakes getting higher. I just can't wait for the next one.
RTC
March 8, 2025
This one was awesome! Loved the cards� so fun! Sad I’m on to the last one now�
January 5, 2024
"They were exterminating us one by one, and no matter how hard I worked, someone was always going to be there, looking over my shoulder, wondering how they could make it more dramatic for the audience. How soon before they decided it was my time? Or Donut’s?... Ever since the horror of the Butcher’s Masquerade (the previous book) there’d been this feeling coming over me. It was like an extra layer of darkness on top of everything. It was an overpowering sense of futility that I hadn’t even realized was there. This was in addition to the hopelessness that permeated everything. Our humanity was slowly, slowly being siphoned away. With each passing challenge, each new death, each new twist we were becoming less of who we were."
Our planet has been taken over by aliens for a reality show broadcast throughout the universe. Ratings are important so surviving Earthlings are being put through a dangerous dungeon crawl where the majority are eliminated on each succeeding level.
Our “hero,� Carl, is a rare survivor of the first half dozen levels of this challenge (see books 1-5). He is partnered with a cat, Princess Donut and has gained a reputation for blowing things up and, maybe, for being crazy. He is also resourceful and increasingly resentful of the corporations and empires behind this “sick show.� "I had a better design in my head, but it would take too long to build. As always, safety came last.�
"“Carl,� she said, turning to look at me. She shook her head. “I say this with love. You are an idiot. You can’t fight us. You can’t give your key to Imani. You have to save it for yourself. Do you remember when you flew that airplane to save our bubble on the fifth floor? And then when you killed all the hunters? That’s when I realized who you are. Don’t you understand? You’re more than just a person. If we lose you, we lose everything. You’re a symbol. You’re the embodiment of our hope. You and that fucking, annoying cat that everyone seems to like for some reason. You two bought a goddamned slot on Faction Wars. Everyone who remains can’t wait for the chance to fight someone real, someone actually responsible for all this. If you two don’t get down to the next floor, we all lose that. You can’t sacrifice yourself. And you know what? I know Imani thinks that, too. If you give her your key, she’s just going to try to give it back to you.�"
There is ABSOLUTELY no reason to read this book out of order. It won’t work for you that way. Having put that in writing, let me note that this part of the saga takes a much darker turn that encompasses both Carl’s personal history and the machinations behind this “dungeon crawl.
Dinniman has an amazing grasp of this complex “world.� His inventiveness is an order of magnitude beyond anyone else who writes RPGLit.
Our planet has been taken over by aliens for a reality show broadcast throughout the universe. Ratings are important so surviving Earthlings are being put through a dangerous dungeon crawl where the majority are eliminated on each succeeding level.
Our “hero,� Carl, is a rare survivor of the first half dozen levels of this challenge (see books 1-5). He is partnered with a cat, Princess Donut and has gained a reputation for blowing things up and, maybe, for being crazy. He is also resourceful and increasingly resentful of the corporations and empires behind this “sick show.� "I had a better design in my head, but it would take too long to build. As always, safety came last.�
"“Carl,� she said, turning to look at me. She shook her head. “I say this with love. You are an idiot. You can’t fight us. You can’t give your key to Imani. You have to save it for yourself. Do you remember when you flew that airplane to save our bubble on the fifth floor? And then when you killed all the hunters? That’s when I realized who you are. Don’t you understand? You’re more than just a person. If we lose you, we lose everything. You’re a symbol. You’re the embodiment of our hope. You and that fucking, annoying cat that everyone seems to like for some reason. You two bought a goddamned slot on Faction Wars. Everyone who remains can’t wait for the chance to fight someone real, someone actually responsible for all this. If you two don’t get down to the next floor, we all lose that. You can’t sacrifice yourself. And you know what? I know Imani thinks that, too. If you give her your key, she’s just going to try to give it back to you.�"
There is ABSOLUTELY no reason to read this book out of order. It won’t work for you that way. Having put that in writing, let me note that this part of the saga takes a much darker turn that encompasses both Carl’s personal history and the machinations behind this “dungeon crawl.
Dinniman has an amazing grasp of this complex “world.� His inventiveness is an order of magnitude beyond anyone else who writes RPGLit.
June 30, 2023
It’s official this is My favorite series of all time
Its official this is my Favorite Series of All time
Just finished Eye of the Bedlam bride and It was perfect. I laughed, Cried, got angry, jumped up and down, had goosebumps, theorized, contemplated, stayed up all night thinking, cried again from excitement/happiness and lost my shit throughout this book. I can’t even begin to tell you all the emotions I went through.
The card mechanics was fun and exciting
Getting to see all the crawlers come together is always fun and makes me emotional. I love all the side characters in this series.
I literally dropped a tear during >!Ren’s death scene!< and Carls badass line afterwards.
The final battle against the demons was amazing. Getting to see the different Gods is always fun so it was even more fun to meet some of the big demons and get some more info on floor 15
The factions outside of the dungeon was exciting from Odette to all the epilogue stuff
I love Carl and Donut but I think I can safely say the A.I is my favorite character now (and Samantha)
I’m scared for Carl with the Bedlam bride and the tattoo stuff and the whole daughters eye thing. I really don’t know what to make of that.
Seeing Carl make history by bringing sooo many crawlers to the next floor brought such joy to my heart. I love to see them strike back and make the everyone regret coming to earth. I like to think that’s how we really are.
I’m even more excited about the next floor. The faction war is gearing up to be the most epic thing I’ve ever read/seen in any piece of media. Carl now has an army and resources packed to the brim. I can’t wait to see him use them. Gawd I’m so glad I found this series.
Its official this is my Favorite Series of All time
Just finished Eye of the Bedlam bride and It was perfect. I laughed, Cried, got angry, jumped up and down, had goosebumps, theorized, contemplated, stayed up all night thinking, cried again from excitement/happiness and lost my shit throughout this book. I can’t even begin to tell you all the emotions I went through.
The card mechanics was fun and exciting
Getting to see all the crawlers come together is always fun and makes me emotional. I love all the side characters in this series.
I literally dropped a tear during >!Ren’s death scene!< and Carls badass line afterwards.
The final battle against the demons was amazing. Getting to see the different Gods is always fun so it was even more fun to meet some of the big demons and get some more info on floor 15
The factions outside of the dungeon was exciting from Odette to all the epilogue stuff
I love Carl and Donut but I think I can safely say the A.I is my favorite character now (and Samantha)
I’m scared for Carl with the Bedlam bride and the tattoo stuff and the whole daughters eye thing. I really don’t know what to make of that.
Seeing Carl make history by bringing sooo many crawlers to the next floor brought such joy to my heart. I love to see them strike back and make the everyone regret coming to earth. I like to think that’s how we really are.
I’m even more excited about the next floor. The faction war is gearing up to be the most epic thing I’ve ever read/seen in any piece of media. Carl now has an army and resources packed to the brim. I can’t wait to see him use them. Gawd I’m so glad I found this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 29, 2025
Ding...Matt Dinniman. you have achieved a new level. Reward, you are screwed, you don't get a reward, other than agonizing over how you are going to top this one. Seriously I see some late nights, moments of panic and stress eating mongo's weight in pizza for the next book. To be fair the set up going into the 9th floor is mouth watering and I cannot wait to see what you come up with, but first let's talk about this book.
The Eye of the Bedlam Bride, brought a few new aspects to the game. Want to make things just a little stranger, lets combine the dungeon and fighting mobs with a new card game mash up of Pokémon and Yu-Gi-Oh. Not to mention they are separated again from all of their friends in a three part floor.
Part one, gotta catch them all get your cards and create a great fighting deck. Donut really gets to show of her cat cunning as she is the deck master here. But in a game made by aliens who didn't really understand your planet you end up with some crazy and slightly offensive cards. Just think of all the mythos, cultures and religion to pull from and you come up with some bangers.
Part two, Use your deck to beat the mobs and get a key. The AI might be falling apart a little early and playing by his own rules which leads to some pretty messed up storylines and monsters in the game.
Part three, where the pooh really starts to hit the fan. There are only so many keys and this is where they try to get humanity to turn on one another. Hard decisions will be made and Carl might get pushed to the brink.
There was so much happening in this. Katia and her 'situation' with a certain crown, the gods starting to show up more causing chaos, the head of a sex doll possessed by a spirit gaining power, The AI going off the rails, Lawyers getting involved, MaeMae (she terrifies me a little) and some more new players to the game. There was never a dull moment. Every time I think Matt Dinniman can't outdo himself he goes and proves me wrong. Not only Juicebox putting her mark on the game, there are some factions on the outside that are starting to move their pieces into position. SO MANY THINGS!!!
Carl and Donut banter is still hilarious and well worth tuning in for.
I love them as a team and can't wait to see how the next floor is going to work out. There are some big moves to be made and Carl has set the stage up nicely. Gah...how can 27 hours of audio just not be enough.
The Eye of the Bedlam Bride, brought a few new aspects to the game. Want to make things just a little stranger, lets combine the dungeon and fighting mobs with a new card game mash up of Pokémon and Yu-Gi-Oh. Not to mention they are separated again from all of their friends in a three part floor.
Part one, gotta catch them all get your cards and create a great fighting deck. Donut really gets to show of her cat cunning as she is the deck master here. But in a game made by aliens who didn't really understand your planet you end up with some crazy and slightly offensive cards. Just think of all the mythos, cultures and religion to pull from and you come up with some bangers.
“It’s the Son Who Fell. The Sinner, Resurrected. The Bringer of Disease, Bringer of Salvation. The Ender of All Blasphemy. It’s the calamitous, rapturous, and ultimately hazardous master of the life-death boomerang. It’s Lazarus-A-Bang-Bang!�
Part two, Use your deck to beat the mobs and get a key. The AI might be falling apart a little early and playing by his own rules which leads to some pretty messed up storylines and monsters in the game.
Part three, where the pooh really starts to hit the fan. There are only so many keys and this is where they try to get humanity to turn on one another. Hard decisions will be made and Carl might get pushed to the brink.
There was so much happening in this. Katia and her 'situation' with a certain crown, the gods starting to show up more causing chaos, the head of a sex doll possessed by a spirit gaining power, The AI going off the rails, Lawyers getting involved, MaeMae (she terrifies me a little) and some more new players to the game. There was never a dull moment. Every time I think Matt Dinniman can't outdo himself he goes and proves me wrong. Not only Juicebox putting her mark on the game, there are some factions on the outside that are starting to move their pieces into position. SO MANY THINGS!!!
Carl and Donut banter is still hilarious and well worth tuning in for.
“I didn’t realize you’d actually get that thing to work. Are you planning on growing a mullet as well? Are there any Waffle Houses between here and there? Maybe we can stop and get into a brawl, but only after you bounce a few child support payment checks first.�
I love them as a team and can't wait to see how the next floor is going to work out. There are some big moves to be made and Carl has set the stage up nicely. Gah...how can 27 hours of audio just not be enough.
April 22, 2025
I'm honestly scared to read book 7 and then be without books on this series to read :c
This is way to fun, just do it, read this series, you won't regret it!
This is way to fun, just do it, read this series, you won't regret it!
March 25, 2024
I think this might be the best book in the series so far. I had some doubts as the beginning felt a bit slow but damn, it sped up fast. I love to see how more and more involved the "outside" becomes and some of the emotional moments didn't pull any punches this time.
I also never thought I will hear Travis Baldree read such a...line.
Excellent all around. Can't wait for the next book!
I also never thought I will hear Travis Baldree read such a...line.
Excellent all around. Can't wait for the next book!
July 5, 2023
I didn't enjoy it as much as the previous book, but it was still fun. It just felt quite dry; missing some of the charm that made earlier books so likeable.
But I am still looking forward to the next one though (as well as Jeff Hays's reading of this book on audible)
But I am still looking forward to the next one though (as well as Jeff Hays's reading of this book on audible)
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