Tag: graphic novel

Blog Tour Review: Dungeons & Dimwits – James Mascia

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Today’s blog tour review is for a graphic novel – not a media format I read or feature much! However, as a bit of a nerdy girl, I enjoy the idea of a book based around the game of Dungeons & Dragons. If I’d had friends who liked the game, I think it is something I could have got onto. 

Before I share my review on Dungeons & Dimwits, thanks to Rachel and the author James for the opportunity to read and review the book.  I have been provided a digital copy for the purpose of giving my review, but the thoughts expressed within this review are entirely my own.

Here are the usual details of the book, synopsis, and purchase links. Then, it’s review time!

Dungeons & Dimwits – James Mascia  

Genre: Graphic Novel

Pages: 110

Audience: Adult

Publisher: Dren Productions

Original Publication Date: 31 Jan 2025

Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Goodreads – Dungeons & Dimwits

Dungeons & Dimwits

Dungeons & Dragons meets Jumanji in a hilarious fantasy adventure where the players are trapped inside the chaotic world they created. Now every bad roll, terrible plan, and overpowered enemy is dangerously real.

When a group of tabletop role-playing gamers suddenly find themselves pulled into their own fantasy campaign, the adventure stops being imaginary and starts being a matter of survival. Thrown into a world filled with monsters, magic, absurd dangers, and enemies far beyond their level, these unlikely adventurers must figure out how to stay alive long enough to find a way home.

But this is not the polished fantasy epic they imagined. This is their game world―complete with ridiculous choices, bizarre characters, unpredictable rules, and all the chaos that comes from years of questionable decisions around the gaming table. As the party stumbles from one disaster to the next, they must rely on teamwork, quick thinking, and a little bit of luck to survive the fantasy world they helped create.
Funny, fast-paced, and packed with tabletop gaming humor, Dungeons & Dimwits is a wild fantasy comedy for longtime RPG players, fantasy fans, comic readers, and anyone who has ever wondered what would happen if the game suddenly became real.

About the Series
Dungeons & Dimwits is a fantasy comedy series about a group of gamers trapped inside their own tabletop role-playing campaign. This first volume begins their journey as they discover that their imaginary world is now very real―and very dangerous. The series follows the party as they face monsters, magic, rival adventurers, impossible quests, and the consequences of their own chaotic storytelling. Readers should begin with Volume 1, which introduces the characters, the world, and the hilarious disaster that launches the adventure.

Purchase Links

Amazon USAmazon UK

My Thoughts… 

Plot

Based on the game format of dungeons and dragons, this fantasy graphic novel spins off from a group of boys setting off on a quest and things going awry. If you are unfamiliar with the game format, players create a character and can lean into skills that they level up over the course of a game in order to interact with the world around them. Involving elements of luck by rolling dice, outcomes from battles and interactions can very quickly go one way or another. 

All-Star game of dungeons and dragons can be changeable given the story is written by players, this book levels that up further by having something unexpected happen to the characters within. In the scope of the game and fantasy genre, it both surprise me and yet didn’t feel inauthentic. Taking into account the size of the graphic novel, there is plenty of action to peoples engage. The storyline was not being too overwhelming in terms of required understanding of game mechanics. Even the most rudimentary understanding of how the game works is more than sufficient. I don’t have lots of experience but could easily follow the idea!

Characters

Although the demographic of the book is predominantly younger/teenage boys, I still find characters somewhat relatable. They also added humour to this relatively short story, elevating it from a fun fantasy novella to a storyline we were invested in exploring.

There are a broad range of characters introduced in this short story both led by the boys playing the game, but also characters we are introduced to throughout world they are within. There are enough to make the storyline feel complete and comprehensive, but also without being overwhelmed. Bearing in mind The format of this book and the intended audience, I thought this was the ideal balance.

Setting

As a huge fantasy lover, I loved the scope of this book in terms of setting and the imagination that could be used to change the storyline at a drop of a hat. How are some classic fantasy settings to this book, but just because it has seen before, doesn’t mean it’s unoriginal. Especially given this is told from a young character leading this storyline, it’s perhaps less predictable, but it keeps us on our toes. 

Changes in location are easy to follow. It doesn’t happen too much throughout the narrative, but the way in which the transitions are conveyed feels natural and the reader can make sense of the changes. 

Narrative Style

As a relatively short graphic novel, this book flew by! It’s very easy to read, yet doesn’t feel too short or underdeveloped. I read this book in the space of one evening, with ease. I would imagine most readers to be capable of this as well. However, if you wanted to break this up and read this in smaller chunks, the book is written into five chapters, so there are easy to find interludes if that suits you better.

The nature of the book, being very image based, makes this ideal for days when you need a light read. The artistry isn’t an aspect of storytelling I’m used to reviewing, but allow me to try my best. The style is clean, energetic and dynamic. For a book full of action, this works hand in hand to make the storytelling engaging. The variation in frame layout also keeps the narrative fresh. 

Summary 

It can be hard to write a review for such a short book. However, with a graphic novel like Dungeons and Dimwits, I think it fitting not to take it too seriously! It’s a lighthearted, yet well-thought out read. Suitable for all readers, it’s a fun fantasy not to take too seriously, yet it’s a series I’m serious about following. I loved it that much! 

Author Bio

James Mascia is the founder and publisher of Dren Productions, where he creates sci-fi, horror, and fantasy comics and novels packed with imagination, humor, and thrills. He is the author of titles including Flesh-Eating Cheerleaders, Dungeons & Dimwits, The Poe Murders, and High School Heroes. When he’s not writing strange and exciting stories, James works as a high school English teacher in Maryland. A lifelong fan of Comic Cons, cheesy sci-fi and horror movies, and Dungeons & Dragons, he brings his love of genre storytelling into everything he writes.

Social Media Links – Facebook/Instagram – @DrenProductions

Sunday Summary – 23rd August 2026

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Sunday has rolled around again folks! Where has the weekend gone? It’s time for another Sunday Summary post, and I have some good bookish updates to share this week! 

Before that though, let’s recap the blog posts I’ve shared so far this week! First, I posted a blog tour review post. That book is The Knife Maker of Venice by David Gilman. Then, I posted a Shelf Control post looking ahead to a Booker prize-winning book on my TBR. It handles tricky topics like race and discrimination. Naturally, they’re topics I like to read about, so I’m excited for this one! 

Books Read 

The Knife Maker of Venice

Last week I’d only just started The Knife Maker of Venice. Naturally, it was my priority read of the week and the one finish I absolutely had to have on today’s Sunday Summary. 

I really enjoyed this historical adventure novel. Set initially in the UK, but covering many international locations including Tunisia and Venice, there was plenty to explore. The book predominantly focuses on the lives of Richard and Beth, siblings, who are captured and enslaved in England before being taken to Venice. Separated, Richard is sold to a blacksmith whilst Beth is held by their capturer, one time flame Challenor. 

The slavery aspect was interesting to read, but what I enjoyed most was learning about the cultural history and tensions in places at this time. It’s not something I’ve read before, so it was a learning journey as well as a fun read! 

Tower of Dawn 

When I left off in last week’s Sunday Summary, I had just 3 and a half hours of audio left. 

I had plenty of time to listen to that amount of audio this week. However, I confess I only finished it today. I listened for around 20 minutes midweek, but finished Tower of Dawn this afternoon. 

I wasn’t expecting Tower of Dawn to take the route it did, but it made for a great change. It’s also set up for a reunion in the final book, and I’m intrigued as to how this series will wrap up. I foresaw the romances, and even the twist in this one. So, nothing too surprising or revelatory in this book. However, it was a decent penultimate book of the series. 

Supremacy: AI, ChatGPT and the Race That Will Change the World

Today, I’ve made more progress with Supremacy. As of drafting this Sunday Summary though, it’s still a current read. I’m hopeful I’ll finish it tonight so I can start a new physical read next week. New week, new start and all that 🤗 

Although I’ve progressed slowly with this one, it’s an informative read. Personally, I’m trying to learn more about AI, its development and limitations as I start to use the tool myself. At work, that is. I don’t use it for my blog. The most techy thing I do here is use speech-to-text to dictate my content sometimes. I’m not sure there’s any other way I would use the tech for my blog, except maybe to brush up social media content wording. 

I’ve got another 80 pages to read tonight, so I won’t be bored! 😅

Dungeons and Dimwits 

Finally, I picked up a graphic novel I’m reviewing next week last night. It was a quick read, given the nature of the book. But you know what? It was a refreshing change and I enjoyed the storyline. 

Based on the gameplay of dungeons and dragons, it leans into my nerdy enjoyment of games and fantasy. It also has a few funny moments, which I wasn’t expecting but loved nonetheless. I can tell you already I would like to read more of these. I can’t wait to review this for you next week. 

The Midnight Train 

Finally, after finishing Tower of Dawn today I started The Midnight Train. In all, I likely listened to about an hour and a half of the audio, or a little less. 

So far, I’m enjoying the story. I’ve had reservations previously that this book won’t live up to The Midnight Library. However, I’ll just have to give it a chance. So far, so good! More to follow on this one in my next Sunday Summary update. 

Books Discovered

As things stand, there are no new books on my TBR this week. I’ve kept my head down, and thankfully my recent finishes mean the TBR is headed in the right direction 🎊🎉

Coming Up… 

What I’m Reading… 

Here’s my reading plan over the next seven days:- 

  • Finish The Midnight Train – only 4hrs 15mins audio left
  • Finish Supremacy if I haven’t done by tonight
  • Start and finish e-book of The Other Life of Mary English – blog tour obligation 01/09/2026
  • Start Julia by Sandra Newman, but prioritise The Other Life of Mary English
  • Start The Language of Liars audiobook after The Midnight Train

Blog

I want to start next week pretty casual, featuring some of my top reads of 2026 so far. A year is a long time to wait for ‘best of 2026’ content. So, I’m going to share my top three books so far, and why I love them. 

My blog tour review for Dungeons and Dimwits is due on Thursday 27th. Thankfully I’ve finished it already, so I can start documenting my thoughts. 

Finally, I’ll be back with my final Sunday Summary of August this time next week. How much of a dent can I make in my August TBR between now and then? Let’s find out! 

Summary 

As always, thanks for checking out today’s Sunday Summary. 

What are your favourite reads of 2026 so far? I want to check out yours, and maybe give them a read for myself, so drop the titles in the comments ♥️

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Sunday Summary – 14th September 2025

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Another week has come and gone! I cant believe how fast this week has flown. So yes, Im back here again with another Sunday Summary update, and its a good one! I hope youve had a good one too?

Its mostly been a return to normal this week. After our trip to Iceland last week, we had Monday off to relax and catch up with the usual house admin. Washing its always there for you, no?

Otherwise though, its been a case of getting and into routine. Work and home, books and blogging. So, whats been on the agenda this week?

My first post went live on Monday. No rest for the wicked here! With us being nearly a third of the way through the month, I figured it was time to share my September 2025 monthly TBR. And, Im in a really good place with that reading list! Although it looked ambitious, Im ahead of where I need to be to complete it by the end of the month. More on that below ? Who knows, I may even get some extra in. Lets not get ahead though!

On Friday, I shared the final book Im reading towards my ChatGPT book recommendations challenge/post. Im planning to pick these books up in October, so ahead of that timeline Ive teased the final book in my First Lines Friday. If youve yet to take a look and fancy a dark, gritty fantasy where delusions shape reality, go take a look at that feature.

On Patreon, I shared my review of The Anxious Generation. This is a non-fiction I recommend everyone read. Its really informative and backed up by science, but in an interesting and engaging way.

 

Books Read

 

Sensitive

In last weeks Sunday Summary I confided my confidence that Id finish the remaining 2 hours I had of Sensitive soon.

And thats true. I chipped away at this audiobook whilst commuting to and from work; I finished it about halfway through this week.

Its been a good listen and I recommend it to anyone and everyone. No doubt we all have someone sensitive in our lives, or are sensitive ourselves and maybe dont yet recognise it. It was a really validating read.

 

A Witchs Guide to Love and Poison

This week I also finished A Witchs Guide to Love and Poison. You may recall this is the book club read over at the Cottagecore Fantasy Book Club.

Its the first time Ive finished a club book early, and Im not the only one. It puts me in a great place to prompt readers and discussion about the book. Its a habit I want to continue; its much less stressful than making apologies for being behind ?

I enjoyed this book. Although there is a romance element to two of the main characters development arcs (and this isnt something I love in my books), it was okay. Obviously if you love this sort of thing, great!

The mystery was interesting, although somewhat predictable. However, there was a comfort in seeing broadly where the storyline was going. The details and finer points of the storyline were the interesting and less predictable points.

 

Gran Familia

In the last 24hrs, Ive read a manga Im planning to feature on my blog later this month! I dont read manga very often, but I enjoyed picking something up thats very different.

As Ive read more in the way of traditional prose lately, I blitzed Gran Familia. The book is only around 200 anyway, but being image-based, it was really quick to read. In fact, I read most of the book today. Im looking forward to sharing more about this book on my blog soon.

 

Betrayal of Mercia

The next audiobook Ive made progress with this week is Betrayal of Mercia.

Its the first time Ive picked up a book in this series as an audiobook. Admittedly, thats because Ive always kept up with these books and read advanced reader copies for the tours. I somehow missed this instalment, and for ease, I figured to try the audio.

So far, its going well. Personally, I find the archaic names easier to read than listen to, but at the same time, Im familiar with most by now to catch on. Its a small thing though, and Im enjoying the story so far.

So far Ive listened to two and a half hours of the audio and Im looking forward to listening to the rest (hopefully) next week!

 

The Pagan Lord

Finally, the last historical fiction book Ive picked up this week is The Pagan Lord. Ive only just started this book, so I dont have a lot to discuss with you other than my eagerness to return to the series. Its also the only physical book on my TBR left other than the sequel to my current audiobook. Naturally, I need to finish that before I read Shield of Mercia.

Im not going to let that slow me down, though. If I need to pick up another read in the meantime, I have plenty to choose from! The other consideration is that Ive borrowed this digitally from my library, so I dont have forever anyway.

 

Books Discovered

Overall, this week is amazing for progress! Ive ticked several off the list and not added anything new either.

I need more weeks like this

 

Coming Up

My first post next week will be a book review. Theres a real historical fiction theme here, because the next book due review is Wolf of Wessex by Matthew Harffy. I hope youre looking forward to my review as much as I am sharing it!

On Friday Im breaking back into my old schedule of sharing a Shelf Control post. Itll be nice to take another look at my TBR, or reading list, with you so I can share why Im excited for my next book.

Finally, you know whats coming. Next week Ill wrap-up with another Sunday Summary. Lets hope I have as much reading progress to share in next weeks instalment.

Thanks for reading todays Sunday Summary instalment. If youre still here, thank you so much!

What have you read recently?

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Shelf Control #87 – 21/03/2025

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Happy Friday and welcome to todays Shelf Control post. Todays feature is an unusual choice – but its for that reason I want to pick it up. Its a folkloric retelling in graphic novel format. Compared to my usual reading, its quite out there. However, it has a feminist slant that Im looking forward to exploring!

As ever, before I get into the details, heres a recap of what Shelf Control is all about.

Shelf Control is a meme run by Lisa at Bookshelf Fantasies. Its a celebration of the unread books on our shelves! The idea is to pick a book you own but havent read and write a post about it (suggestions: include what its about, why you want to read it, and when you got it), and link up.

If you want to read more about the Shelf Control feature, check out Lisas introductory post.


The 100 Nights of Hero – Isabelle Greenberg

Genre: Graphic Novel / Folklore Retellings

Pages: 244

Audience: Adult

Publisher: Little, Brown and Company

Publication Date: 20 Dec 2016

 

Goodreads – The 100 Nights of Hero

 

‘A feminist fairy-tale… A wondrously intricate book, and a witty attack on the patriarchy, this is an instant classic.’ Observer

From the author who brought you The Encyclopedia of Early Earth comes another Epic Tale of Derring-Do.

Prepare to be dazzled once more by the overwhelming power of stories and see Love prevail in the face of Terrible Adversity!

You will read of betrayal, loyalty, madness, bad husbands, lovers both faithful and unfaithful, wise old crones, moons who come out of the sky, musical instruments that won’t stay quiet, friends and brothers and fathers and mothers and above all, many, many sisters.


My Thoughts

If there is one thing I tried my cell phone, its my willingness to try reading new things. In fact, one of my goals for this year is to read more out of my comfort zone. Whilst I wouldnt describe this as necessarily a stretch, it is different.

I dont typically read graphic novels, and I tend to stay away from shorter stories as well. The 100 nights of hero is both of these things. However, I think it will be a satisfying change of pace to the typical books I read. Sometimes, its nice to do something a little bit different or read something refreshing and new to act as a palette cleanser.

I dont really know what to expect with the 100 nights of hero, but thats okay. In a way, I think going into this book blind will make this an entertaining story for me. Im not too familiar with the story it is retelling, but I can brush myself up on that detail

Thanks for checking out todays Shelf Control post! Have you read The 100 Nights of Hero?

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