100% agree on the Wil Wheaton narration!! Every single sentence, no matter how mundane, is delivered like he's revealing something game-changing and catastrophic. It's EXHAUSTING
I hate it when narratoors do that - but nothing prepared me for the clip Daniel played! I would have turned that off in 30 seconds. And I actually quite like Wheaton.
Is Wheaton still doing narration? I listened to one of his narrated books once and had to quit as he not even able to give character a distinct voice. They all sound the same. Who pays him to do such a lousy job?
I've given up on even listening to the preview if Will is the narrator. His intonation never changes. Wow, he's always surprised! At nothing! It's the less funny version of making fun of all the pauses in Captain Kirk's speech pattern. Oof
@@juts89it worked for Ready Player One because book Wade was also kind of an annoying little shit, but…that’s about where my patience for Wheaton ends. I certainly didn’t vote for him to be the “celebrity nerd”
I've been trying to figure out for a few years now why I can't get into Scalzi's novels, and I just realized it's because his literary voice is ***literally*** Will Wheaton's voice.
Didn't know this book existed but that was entertaining. You are not alone in struggling with Priory of the Orange Tree. I got a couple hundred pages in and realized I wasn't reading just bc I didn't want to read that book, so I DNFed, which is rare for me. My sister made it 800 pages before giving up. I've yet to hear anyone give me a reason (without spoiling) to pick it back up but I'll be interested to hear your thoughts
I loved Priory of the Orange Tree, but it was a battle to get through. Once I dedicated time to really get into it and real 50-70 pages each session it got easier. The characters are so vivid, lovable and memorable, and the story lines are woven together beautifully. But the author is not the best at writing fight scenes and so it got a little old once those took up more of the story
Priory of the Orange tree is not a bad book, but it certainly feels like a bit of a slog. I personally thought it was fine, but I don't think it's one I'd recommend.
I mostly agree. The book wasn't good, wasn't bad. It was just...there? It had a couple moments I thought were funny, but wow there was zero payoff at the end of the book. I really was hoping for a tongue-in-cheek Despicable Me-esque story. Somehow it felt more dead than Ready Player One (don't get me started on that piece of cringe). If you want fun cat characters, read the Cinder Spires books by Jim Butcher. Several funny cats in those. And actual good plot and writing.
I read this one to my 102 year old grandfather and it was perfect for that, I enjoyed it but I do agree with all your criticisms. If I had read it only to myself I'm not sure I would have liked it
Wil Wheaton inhabits a very particular niche of nerd culture that was more popular probably 10-15 years ago (sourcefed UA-cam era) of B to D list celebrities who built their names off a couple iconic roles and then became more public Nerdy™ figures than actors that kinda flanderize themselves. Which isn't necessarily a bad thing, I think Felicia Day is kinda the best case scenario of this phenomenon, but it can lead to quirky and annoying personalities
Felicia Day is a genuinely awesome person who feels like she’s sharing her passions with the world. I like Will Wheaton enough, but I just don’t get the same feeling of openness from him.
I feel like even if you wanted to do this type of story without moral dilemmas, an obvious one to go for is “normal guy gets put into a villain role he doesn’t want” OR “normal guy is faking the role of villain to take them down” and you could at least get some fish out of water humour with the social pressure he’s facing. Like the Road to El Dorado type stuff.
100% agree with the Will Wheaton delivery. Obnoxious, detracts from the story. It was a slog getting through Kaiju Preservation Society. I do wonder if I would like the book better reading the text. As it stands, I can't read the word Scalzi without hearing echoes of Wheaton's grating performance.
As a Scalzi fan, i can assure you Starter Villain is just as boring to read as to listen to. Definitely one of his more boring books. He's definitely not been at his best for the last 5-10 years.
While Will Wheaton didn't grate on me, his lack of voice acting the different characters was a real issue. There is so much back and forth dialogue that just gets muddled up because it is all read in the same tone of voice.
As someone who liked Old Man's War for what it was I recognise that Scalzi is definitely limited by that snarky writing style. Definitely need to be in a specific mood and/or 14 years old. Lock-in probably is Scalzi at his most restrained and down to earth.
I actually think some of the serious elements that bother Daniel that he mentioned in this review are PART of the joke. Knowing Scalzi. And Daniel just doesn't like that type of humor. Also Old Man's War is a great premise, you have to give Scalzi that, Daniel!
I liked Old Man’s War, too, for the premise and the story if not the writing. I found his writing style to be a bit.. one-dimensional. That kind of worked for Old Man’s War, but I don’t see it working for something outlandish like Starter Villain.
I've never heard of that narrator prior to this review but the little preview you gave made me never want to. I can't imagine listening to that for hours and hours, especially for a book I'm not interested in.
I've only read one Scalzi book and that was Kaiju Preservation Soceity. And I liked it ok, it was fine. Could've used less society and more kaiju. 7/10.
Speaking of underused-i mean overused words, the Sanderson book, Skyward uses the word undulate at least 5 times, Daniel. And in pretty rapid succession. You should recommend it to 1 or 1 other booktuber friends of yours
I haven't watched this video yet but I wanted to share my thoughts. I have enjoyed all of John Scalzi other books I've read, but this one felt like a waste of time. First off I don't feel like the main character went thru any real growth throughout the story. In his attempts to play the role of villain the only bit of I guess expertise he showed was due to his career as a finance reporter from before the book started. One thing I didn't like is that everyone not directly connected to the main characters group what is depicted as easily manipulated buffoons. This is definitely on purpose, serving as a way to subvert the idea that the original powerful are the most intelligence schemers out there and whatnot... but it made for a really unsatisfying story where it felt like none of the stakes were all that serious. Lastly I really dislike the twists that we get near the end of the story. Like yeah I guess it makes sense but it reinforces the feeling that the main character was pretty much useless and I can't help but think that this entire story could have been an email.
This is just the best video I have ever seen from you. The sheer volume of pain in your voice; in your body language. I have not read this book, but this review is my favorite review I have seen from you. A scathing review, but a deep desire to not have to give it. Perfection.
I had the same issue with Scalzi’s Kaiju Preservation Society and Wheaton’s narration, I get it was supposed to be lighthearted fun but the entire thing felt like one giant Marvel quip.
it's funny, i loved and tore through priory, and so did my dad. i couldn't tell you why though, and i definitely don't recommend it often. i think i tend to like really expansive worlds and stories, and i remember telling my dad he'd love it because it is truly "epic" in scale. but i think there are lots of books that fit that description that more people are able to finish. i also have never gotten through lord of the rings so... 🤷
Aww man! I adored it and gave it a full 5 stars. I can’t get enough of the Scalzi and Wheaton combination - an autobuy audiobook for me every time. I’m fully in my Scalzi era.
This book made me realize I haven't enjoyed a Scalzi book in a long while and used to get them day one of release. Nowadays it's just the same quirky shtick over and over with some farfetched twist at the end.
Priory is a struggle because everything just kinda *happens to* the characters in it after a certain point. It's a story that could have been, and probably should have been, a couple books being shoved into one I assume at the behest of the publisher. (Hard deadline for printing, hard max page count and/or being unwilling to commit to a sequel, I don't know, just how it felt to me)
I also cant seem to make it through Priory of the Orange Tree! Idk why, but it refuses to click with me. I can never focus on the book while reading it
I loved this book. It was my first book by him. I personally think the reason I liked it so much was because I listed to the audiobook which was read by Will Wheaton and it just made it hilarious.
Read Hench! The main character goes from a relatable office worker to a legitimately evil monster who ruins lives and kills innocents to get her revenge, and it’s really believable. She stays fun to watch all the way through, and the heroes she fights are a good mix of worse than her and complex but decent people. She doesn’t get a very happy ending, but it leaves it off so the story could continue.
Fair enough. I enjoyed the book decently well, but I was also wanting more actual, you know, villainy, and more of of a struggle for the MC. I enjoyed Kaiju Preservation Society more.
I read this, and i think it was just built on two contradictions : a Villian Story where the author did not want to write a villian narrator (or a villian story). And a story where the main character is always the smartest one in the room, but the 'plot' also requires the character to never question some of the most basic things. (Spoiler: we are told early on that there's a lot of faked deaths, but also never questions hearing about people dying)
I've never really been able to get into John Scalzi books. I read _Old Man's War_ and felt disappointed; I read _Redshirts_ and thought it was fine. I've got _The Interdependency_ on my list but I don't know if I'll like it; John Scalzi has never really hit for me in a way where I wanted to come back to it.
Yeah to be honest I really didn't liked Starter Villain and totally dropped Old Man's War... but I think those are the worst Scalzi's? I don't know if I'm alone on that tho xD for me Kaiju's Preservation Society and Red Shirts were so much better. I liked even The Agent of Stars, (one of the earlier Scalzi's books) more than Starter Villain and Old Man's War.
daniel.... when will you read Dungeon crawler carl books! I know you liked the first one... but the next ones have EVEN superior audiobooks! (NO ONE THOUGHT THIS POSSIBLE) the book itself evolves sooo much, its just a fun read! pleaseeee give DCC a try!
I was on the verge of reading it when Daniel interjected with "bland vanilla paste..." His words effectively quenched any spark of interest I had - I was thoroughly dissuaded.
The lack of moral dilemmas was also crazy to me, especially given the enormous future ramifications of the decisions the main character makes.This book felt like something out of the Venture Brothers, except not self-aware, which really had me confused as to the tone the author was going for. I had pretty similar thoughts but the book is (seemingly) being received so well that I thought I missed something. Thanks for the review!
Have you read Lock In by Scalzy? That would be what I'd recommend if his. The Dispatcher series (narrated by Zachary Quinto) on Audible. It's a fascinating premise
You might enjoy "The Rules of Supervillainy "The Rules of Supervillainy" by C.T. Phipps or "Fid's Crusade" by David Reiss. Both have are way more have more protagonist villainy and "Supervillany" has a lot of wit.
I listened to this book a week ago and I agree with everything you said. It felt meh to me, but I didn't analyze my feelings the way you did. Thanks for doing the work, I appreciate it! I've also tried twice and abandoned Priory. It definitely doesn't engage the reader.
This book was a palate cleanser for me. After a few too many emotionally taxing books it was nice to go on a journey without heavy moral issues, tragic character backstories, and good "bad" jokes. Also, I was so familiar with the Anti-hero's Journey plot beats that I was continuous incorrect in guessing the plot, which was refreshing. On another note, I agree I might get tired of the narrator if I only listened to him. BUT that style penetrates my exhausted brain because that's how my best friend (and favorite UA-camrs) tells stories. Just sayen.
I freaking love Dungeon Crawler Carl books, and now I'm extra happy that I have no intention of reading Starter Villain. I love Wil Wheaton, and I love audiobooks, but that little excerpt was painful to listen to.
What sorcery is this! I scroll past your video and decide to open audible, instead of watching a video during my workout, and what do I see audible promoting… this book 😆
Omg first thing UA-cam put two commercials in your video one right before your Squarespace promotion and one right after😂😂 am I the only one that's happened to? I had premium for a while I feel like when I canceled it they're punishing me with extra commercials. Okay another great video by Daniel I will now have to read this book to see how horrible it is
From the description a better book on this concept is Super Sales on Super Heroes By William D Arand. The main character actually does things that are morally grey and morally bad. It's like a 3/5 book overall.
there is a cat nation short docu, on youtube, thats an odd mini docu as oddjob from chris broad/japan abroad. Who funny enough is allergic to cats. Anyways good watch, also its not on his channel
There's Heinlein's The Cat Who Walks Through Walls (and other books with the same cat) but I'm not sure those would be palate cleansers. More like something you would need to cleanse your palate afterwards again.
I think writing style is a subjective thing. Some people might not be into a certain writing style that others enjoy and vice versa. I personally mostly enjoyed this book. It was a very quick read (I think I finished it in under 8hrs, if I recall correctly). It had a good start although I gotta admit the 3rd act and ending didn’t quite nail the landing for me. Still I can see why Ryan Reynolds bought the rights to the book.
I remember loving the Warrior cats too, when I read them last year and earlier this year. Seriously, with the exception of one of the series that felt like a too close repetition of the first series they are all mostly awesome.
I’ve read a third of the book. I’m planning on reading a bit more of it, but I haven’t picked it up in a month. Something about it is just too on the nose. So far it’s going to be a 3 star, if i’m very generous. I’m guessing the writing style is just aimed for a younger audience or something
Oh man, I am bummed to hear your review! It isn't in my wheelhouse (sci-fi or fantasy) but this one seemed like it could be fun...maybe...but I think I'm having second thoughts now!
As someone who listened to the book on Audible, I can tell you that I DID recommend it to my friend, so here's how I'd make the pitch for the book for you: - The book isn't, I would say, fully sci-fi. It's "Sci-fi" in the that the Bond movies are Science Fiction: The stuff that isn't sound modern science is just "super-spy stuff." -the book's fundamental "bit", which Daniel didn't enjoy, is the deconstruction of the James Bond style super-villain trope, and it explores this by making the whole thing mundane: being a super-villain is just being a billionaire CEO with a worse golden parachute but more nonsense. The existing villains are mostly annoying bullies and nepo-babies because newsflash, the kind of people who would join "the secret evil billionaire's club"? Probably not great at teaching their kids how to get along with others. -This goal is also, I believe, the root of the issue with the narration: Scalzi is trying to take a midlly competent but unremarkable protagonist, and have him witness the crazy world of these wealthy lunatics. He's constantly getting blown away by new developments, before learning they're not actually nearly as cool as he thought. And I think Scalzi struggles with "how do I make this sound more like an everyman being blown away without using "freaking" or "dude" as an emphatic?" Overall, I personally found it a little sad but overall kind of cute story about a guy dealing with grief by briefly becoming a super-villain, before deciding that just a normal, social day-job would be vastly better for his physical and mental health.
Hey off topic but would love to chat with you more about fringe. This rewatch that you incurred, lol 😆, has really got me! I forgot how much I loved it.. I'm on S5 now, and love to hear your thoughts on how differently it went from the main story, still enjoying it but wow total jump 😂 hehehe jump, to something totally different. Anyway sorry I don't generally push in comments or go on like this.. but sorry would love your input! 😊
@@amac0190 Weir wrote a Facebook post about it. Audible bid high for the audiobook rights when they went up for renewal, but weren’t willing to pay enough to the previous producer for the previous recording, or the previous narrator for a new recording, so they went with Wil Wheaton for cheap instead. Freaking Amazon and their monopoly.
I generally like Scalzi's books, but I understand and appreciate your criticisms on this one. His Lock In series is a lot better AND it has two different narrator options so you dont have to listen Wil Wheaton if you don't want to. And I say that as someone who listens to Wheaton's version of Andy Weir's The Martian at least once a year.
I listened to this on while doing chores. And I never realized how much like Will Weaton you sound because I almost didn’t realize you were playing the audiobook.
Oof. I took it as a simplistic read that wasn't meant to give me much and enjoyed it. But it wasn't something ground breaking. I also didn't do the audiobook, so maybe having your own voice read it would have helped instead of a narrator you don't like
Oof i didn't like kaiju preservation society, humour felt very formulaic as if he sat down with the purpose of making a witty book and overdid it. I was gonna give starter villain a chance because of the cover but thank you for saving me😂
Totally agree with the Dungeon Crawler Carl shout-out. I thought Priory was pretty meh too. Haven't read Starter Villain but I did read Kaiju Preservation Society and that was OK. definitely more wiseacre than actually funny (like nowhere close to DCC in humor and 1/10 as much actual drama) but perhaps it was better than SV. I think John Scalzi's strength may be as an Internet personality
I gave the book 3/5 stars for all the same reasons, but I actually liked the humor. It got some laugh out loud laughs from me. Especially the dolphins. I did read the book with a book club and if it wasn't for that I probably would not have finished the novel.
I also did not really like it every much. Part of that was because I hated the ending and part was because I did not like Wil Wheaton's reading either. On the other hand, I liked the old mans war series a lot.
I like a lot of Scalzi's books (mainly Ghost Brigades and Lock In) and absolutely hated this book. Also couldn't get through Priory of the Orange Tree.
Your summary at the end reminded me of my review of Rebel's Creed. "I can't believe I got through this one". Not everyone is cut out the be a fantasy author, but at least you know how to make entertaining vids.
I'm sad because I love John Scalzi as a person. I really want to like his books. And I will still read this, I generally agree with your opinions on most books.
Hench, by Natalie Walschots, is a book that really hits the potential premise of Starter Villan. If anyone is looking to scratch that itch, I highly recommend it!
Thank you Squarespace for sponsoring today's video: www.squarespace.com/danielgreene
I listened to the audiobook too and didn't like it. But how did it get nominated for a HUGO?
Don't like the cat book? Typical cat behavior.
100% agree on the Wil Wheaton narration!! Every single sentence, no matter how mundane, is delivered like he's revealing something game-changing and catastrophic. It's EXHAUSTING
I hate it when narratoors do that - but nothing prepared me for the clip Daniel played!
I would have turned that off in 30 seconds. And I actually quite like Wheaton.
Is Wheaton still doing narration? I listened to one of his narrated books once and had to quit as he not even able to give character a distinct voice. They all sound the same. Who pays him to do such a lousy job?
I've given up on even listening to the preview if Will is the narrator. His intonation never changes. Wow, he's always surprised! At nothing! It's the less funny version of making fun of all the pauses in Captain Kirk's speech pattern. Oof
Absolute atrocity that Wheatons narration replaced RC Brays for The Martian. Brays was a masterpiece. Annoying celebrity narrator
@@juts89it worked for Ready Player One because book Wade was also kind of an annoying little shit, but…that’s about where my patience for Wheaton ends. I certainly didn’t vote for him to be the “celebrity nerd”
I’m more interested in the saga of the goblin moving around in the background of this video.
Audible has been promoting this book so consistently to me that it has made me hate the cover.
Relatable.
This book sounds like the literary equivalent of "If I say it loudly enough, it must be true/funny/good"
That’s all of Saclzi’s work. But some is worth reading once in spite of this. It sounds like this one is not though.
@@JasonJrake Good to know. I've been thinking about reading some of his work, but I think I'll pass for now.
@@JasonJrake The first 50 or so pages are Scalzi cringe tragedy, which is already as cringe as regular cringe tragedy, but hurts more.
@@groofayHe did a great short called A Model Dog, and Redshirts is fun. Though Interdependency is kinda meh
Volume=funny
Aka, the Dane Cook effect.
I've been trying to figure out for a few years now why I can't get into Scalzi's novels, and I just realized it's because his literary voice is ***literally*** Will Wheaton's voice.
Didn't know this book existed but that was entertaining. You are not alone in struggling with Priory of the Orange Tree. I got a couple hundred pages in and realized I wasn't reading just bc I didn't want to read that book, so I DNFed, which is rare for me. My sister made it 800 pages before giving up. I've yet to hear anyone give me a reason (without spoiling) to pick it back up but I'll be interested to hear your thoughts
Yeahhhhh... that book kinda always intimidated me. And I've read IT.
I loved Priory of the Orange Tree, but it was a battle to get through. Once I dedicated time to really get into it and real 50-70 pages each session it got easier. The characters are so vivid, lovable and memorable, and the story lines are woven together beautifully. But the author is not the best at writing fight scenes and so it got a little old once those took up more of the story
Priory of the Orange tree is not a bad book, but it certainly feels like a bit of a slog. I personally thought it was fine, but I don't think it's one I'd recommend.
I mostly agree. The book wasn't good, wasn't bad. It was just...there? It had a couple moments I thought were funny, but wow there was zero payoff at the end of the book. I really was hoping for a tongue-in-cheek Despicable Me-esque story. Somehow it felt more dead than Ready Player One (don't get me started on that piece of cringe).
If you want fun cat characters, read the Cinder Spires books by Jim Butcher. Several funny cats in those. And actual good plot and writing.
Daniel's description makes it sound much like Ready Player One.
@@kirstencorby8465 It has the same problems with RP1 but RP1 is more blatantly lazy despite having more content
The notif popped up and for some reason I just saw "oh no, I hated the cat" and the CONCERN I felt...🤣
Yup, glad to hear you have this opinion and that I’m not crazy. “Villain” is an interesting premise but dude dude dude
I read this one to my 102 year old grandfather and it was perfect for that, I enjoyed it but I do agree with all your criticisms. If I had read it only to myself I'm not sure I would have liked it
Priory of the Orange Tree has a slow start but it's AMAZING.
Wil Wheaton inhabits a very particular niche of nerd culture that was more popular probably 10-15 years ago (sourcefed UA-cam era) of B to D list celebrities who built their names off a couple iconic roles and then became more public Nerdy™ figures than actors that kinda flanderize themselves. Which isn't necessarily a bad thing, I think Felicia Day is kinda the best case scenario of this phenomenon, but it can lead to quirky and annoying personalities
@@AsheLucia TRUE!
Felicia Day is a genuinely awesome person who feels like she’s sharing her passions with the world. I like Will Wheaton enough, but I just don’t get the same feeling of openness from him.
Wil Wheaton's general attitude turns me off so hard. Just an insufferable kind of guy.
I feel like even if you wanted to do this type of story without moral dilemmas, an obvious one to go for is “normal guy gets put into a villain role he doesn’t want” OR “normal guy is faking the role of villain to take them down” and you could at least get some fish out of water humour with the social pressure he’s facing. Like the Road to El Dorado type stuff.
100% agree with the Will Wheaton delivery. Obnoxious, detracts from the story. It was a slog getting through Kaiju Preservation Society.
I do wonder if I would like the book better reading the text. As it stands, I can't read the word Scalzi without hearing echoes of Wheaton's grating performance.
As a Scalzi fan, i can assure you Starter Villain is just as boring to read as to listen to. Definitely one of his more boring books. He's definitely not been at his best for the last 5-10 years.
While Will Wheaton didn't grate on me, his lack of voice acting the different characters was a real issue. There is so much back and forth dialogue that just gets muddled up because it is all read in the same tone of voice.
Wow, never realized Daniel and Wil Wheaton talk the same way.
Am I the only one bothered by the fact he doesn't have the secret projects in order?
I am also bothered by that. But there's probably a reason?
Also why is his Way of Kings Leatherbound separated from his Iither Cosmere Leatherbounds? Make it make sense!
@@JAAAY62 Yeah, maybe you're right.
@@RikusonOne He should make an explanation video. 😂
@@rutgerniemeijer Yes! I want that!
As someone who liked Old Man's War for what it was I recognise that Scalzi is definitely limited by that snarky writing style. Definitely need to be in a specific mood and/or 14 years old. Lock-in probably is Scalzi at his most restrained and down to earth.
I actually think some of the serious elements that bother Daniel that he mentioned in this review are PART of the joke. Knowing Scalzi. And Daniel just doesn't like that type of humor. Also Old Man's War is a great premise, you have to give Scalzi that, Daniel!
I liked Old Man’s War, too, for the premise and the story if not the writing. I found his writing style to be a bit.. one-dimensional. That kind of worked for Old Man’s War, but I don’t see it working for something outlandish like Starter Villain.
A Model Dog is his best, despite it's a short
Not the series narrated by Zachary Quinto where it does murder mysteries in a world where most people respawn when they die?
@@ASaund-qb6wy Scalzi is a shit author with a bad joke. Sorry, that's the truth. Scalzi's joke is bad.
Now I want your review of the kaiju preservation Society
I've never heard of that narrator prior to this review but the little preview you gave made me never want to. I can't imagine listening to that for hours and hours, especially for a book I'm not interested in.
I've only read one Scalzi book and that was Kaiju Preservation Soceity. And I liked it ok, it was fine. Could've used less society and more kaiju. 7/10.
Speaking of underused-i mean overused words, the Sanderson book, Skyward uses the word undulate at least 5 times, Daniel. And in pretty rapid succession. You should recommend it to 1 or 1 other booktuber friends of yours
I haven't watched this video yet but I wanted to share my thoughts. I have enjoyed all of John Scalzi other books I've read, but this one felt like a waste of time.
First off I don't feel like the main character went thru any real growth throughout the story. In his attempts to play the role of villain the only bit of I guess expertise he showed was due to his career as a finance reporter from before the book started.
One thing I didn't like is that everyone not directly connected to the main characters group what is depicted as easily manipulated buffoons. This is definitely on purpose, serving as a way to subvert the idea that the original powerful are the most intelligence schemers out there and whatnot... but it made for a really unsatisfying story where it felt like none of the stakes were all that serious.
Lastly I really dislike the twists that we get near the end of the story. Like yeah I guess it makes sense but it reinforces the feeling that the main character was pretty much useless and I can't help but think that this entire story could have been an email.
This is just the best video I have ever seen from you. The sheer volume of pain in your voice; in your body language. I have not read this book, but this review is my favorite review I have seen from you. A scathing review, but a deep desire to not have to give it. Perfection.
I immediately put it on my tbr list.
omg! i just finished Dungeon Crawler Carl yesterday! Is a great book
Seriously so fun. It’s my book junk food and I love it.
"God dammit, Donut"
I had the same issue with Scalzi’s Kaiju Preservation Society and Wheaton’s narration, I get it was supposed to be lighthearted fun but the entire thing felt like one giant Marvel quip.
it's funny, i loved and tore through priory, and so did my dad. i couldn't tell you why though, and i definitely don't recommend it often. i think i tend to like really expansive worlds and stories, and i remember telling my dad he'd love it because it is truly "epic" in scale. but i think there are lots of books that fit that description that more people are able to finish. i also have never gotten through lord of the rings so... 🤷
Daniel, I know cat books are important to read, but when is the next dungeon crawler carl vid???
Aww man! I adored it and gave it a full 5 stars. I can’t get enough of the Scalzi and Wheaton combination - an autobuy audiobook for me every time. I’m fully in my Scalzi era.
Same!
Same!
Heck yeah I wasn't expecting a Dungeon Crawler Carl shout out. Donut holes rise up!
I remember reading "Redshirts" and it being so jarring since every single dialog tag was "he said" or "she said". Every. Single. Dialog tag.
I noticed he also doesn’t provide clear physical descriptions.
This book made me realize I haven't enjoyed a Scalzi book in a long while and used to get them day one of release. Nowadays it's just the same quirky shtick over and over with some farfetched twist at the end.
Priory is a struggle because everything just kinda *happens to* the characters in it after a certain point. It's a story that could have been, and probably should have been, a couple books being shoved into one I assume at the behest of the publisher. (Hard deadline for printing, hard max page count and/or being unwilling to commit to a sequel, I don't know, just how it felt to me)
I also cant seem to make it through Priory of the Orange Tree! Idk why, but it refuses to click with me. I can never focus on the book while reading it
I loved this book. It was my first book by him. I personally think the reason I liked it so much was because I listed to the audiobook which was read by Will Wheaton and it just made it hilarious.
I have read all of John Scalzi's books, but this one. After reading the back of the book I moved on.
Sounds like this guy has read Douglas Adams and was like "I can do that!"
I've listened to a bunch of books narrated by Wil Wheaton, and the only one I felt like his style fit really well with was Ready Player One.
Read Hench! The main character goes from a relatable office worker to a legitimately evil monster who ruins lives and kills innocents to get her revenge, and it’s really believable. She stays fun to watch all the way through, and the heroes she fights are a good mix of worse than her and complex but decent people. She doesn’t get a very happy ending, but it leaves it off so the story could continue.
Hench is so good.
Can confirm, Hench is great! It could use more cats, though.
Eh. I felt Hench was ok. Predictable. Very glad you enjoyed it!
This is the perfect video to watch at 2x speed because that's how I imagine Daniel's thoughts actually sound
You're absolutely right!
Fair enough. I enjoyed the book decently well, but I was also wanting more actual, you know, villainy, and more of of a struggle for the MC. I enjoyed Kaiju Preservation Society more.
I thought this was gonna be about Warriot Cats for a second.
Those Erin Hunter books? The middle-grade books?
The British cover has the focus right, not this one
Ya.@@kirstencorby8465
I read this, and i think it was just built on two contradictions : a Villian Story where the author did not want to write a villian narrator (or a villian story).
And a story where the main character is always the smartest one in the room, but the 'plot' also requires the character to never question some of the most basic things. (Spoiler: we are told early on that there's a lot of faked deaths, but also never questions hearing about people dying)
Has Daniel ever been any more animated on this channel before? Wow D pops off :)
I kept trying to spot the Green Bone Saga on Daniel's shelf. Am I blind?
I tried a few different John Scalzi books. Never finished one. Thought they were good just weren't my thing.
I've never really been able to get into John Scalzi books. I read _Old Man's War_ and felt disappointed; I read _Redshirts_ and thought it was fine. I've got _The Interdependency_ on my list but I don't know if I'll like it; John Scalzi has never really hit for me in a way where I wanted to come back to it.
Yeah to be honest I really didn't liked Starter Villain and totally dropped Old Man's War... but I think those are the worst Scalzi's? I don't know if I'm alone on that tho xD for me Kaiju's Preservation Society and Red Shirts were so much better. I liked even The Agent of Stars, (one of the earlier Scalzi's books) more than Starter Villain and Old Man's War.
I only read the kaji preservation society, i was a fan. But now i'm scared
That clip from the audiobook made me scream. How could anybody listen to that narration?!
TIL that Old Man's War was supposed to have humor in it...and Starter Villain is Black List fanfic.
daniel.... when will you read Dungeon crawler carl books! I know you liked the first one... but the next ones have EVEN superior audiobooks! (NO ONE THOUGHT THIS POSSIBLE) the book itself evolves sooo much, its just a fun read! pleaseeee give DCC a try!
I felt similarly when listening to Wil Wheaton narrate Ready Player One.
mfw I learn this isn't the Tailchaser's Song review
I was on the verge of reading it when Daniel interjected with "bland vanilla paste..." His words effectively quenched any spark of interest I had - I was thoroughly dissuaded.
The dolphins were seriously funny, I just took this book lightly and it delivered exactly that!
As a pallet cleanser, try Samurai Pizza Cats! 🤣
The lack of moral dilemmas was also crazy to me, especially given the enormous future ramifications of the decisions the main character makes.This book felt like something out of the Venture Brothers, except not self-aware, which really had me confused as to the tone the author was going for.
I had pretty similar thoughts but the book is (seemingly) being received so well that I thought I missed something. Thanks for the review!
Have you read Lock In by Scalzy? That would be what I'd recommend if his. The Dispatcher series (narrated by Zachary Quinto) on Audible. It's a fascinating premise
Scalzi is hit or miss for me. I didnt like Old Mans War or Starter Villain. But I really enjoyed Redshirts and Kaiju Preservation Society.
Hoping for better cat novels in the future 🤞 and I also struggled w Priory. I made it about 150 pages before quitting.
Agreed. Scalzi is the literary anti-viagra.
I got to read the ARC for this. It wasn't my favorite book from him, but I enjoyed reading it. The buildup took way too long, though.
You might enjoy "The Rules of Supervillainy "The Rules of Supervillainy" by C.T. Phipps or "Fid's Crusade" by David Reiss. Both have are way more have more protagonist villainy and "Supervillany" has a lot of wit.
The laugh track point was really spot on. To me all of Scalzi (and Wheaton for that matter) is like that.
I listened to this book a week ago and I agree with everything you said. It felt meh to me, but I didn't analyze my feelings the way you did. Thanks for doing the work, I appreciate it!
I've also tried twice and abandoned Priory. It definitely doesn't engage the reader.
This book was a palate cleanser for me. After a few too many emotionally taxing books it was nice to go on a journey without heavy moral issues, tragic character backstories, and good "bad" jokes. Also, I was so familiar with the Anti-hero's Journey plot beats that I was continuous incorrect in guessing the plot, which was refreshing.
On another note, I agree I might get tired of the narrator if I only listened to him. BUT that style penetrates my exhausted brain because that's how my best friend (and favorite UA-camrs) tells stories. Just sayen.
I freaking love Dungeon Crawler Carl books, and now I'm extra happy that I have no intention of reading Starter Villain. I love Wil Wheaton, and I love audiobooks, but that little excerpt was painful to listen to.
What sorcery is this! I scroll past your video and decide to open audible, instead of watching a video during my workout, and what do I see audible promoting… this book 😆
Omg first thing UA-cam put two commercials in your video one right before your Squarespace promotion and one right after😂😂 am I the only one that's happened to? I had premium for a while I feel like when I canceled it they're punishing me with extra commercials. Okay another great video by Daniel I will now have to read this book to see how horrible it is
From the description a better book on this concept is Super Sales on Super Heroes By William D Arand. The main character actually does things that are morally grey and morally bad. It's like a 3/5 book overall.
If you need a palate cleanser there's a ton of really touching and sweet cat centric books in translation from Japan in particular
there is a cat nation short docu, on youtube, thats an odd mini docu as oddjob from chris broad/japan abroad. Who funny enough is allergic to cats. Anyways good watch, also its not on his channel
the one I read is the travelling cat chronicles and it's unreasonably good.
There's Heinlein's The Cat Who Walks Through Walls (and other books with the same cat) but I'm not sure those would be palate cleansers. More like something you would need to cleanse your palate afterwards again.
@@crediblesalamander8056loved The Traveling Cat Chronicles.
If you like Tad Williams, there’s always Tailchaser’s Song.
So, when are we getting another Dungeon Crawler Carl video?
I think writing style is a subjective thing. Some people might not be into a certain writing style that others enjoy and vice versa. I personally mostly enjoyed this book. It was a very quick read (I think I finished it in under 8hrs, if I recall correctly). It had a good start although I gotta admit the 3rd act and ending didn’t quite nail the landing for me. Still I can see why Ryan Reynolds bought the rights to the book.
You don't like Warrior Cats??? How awful.
My thoughts exactly
My inner 13 year old is so disappointed right now.
pun opportunity missed
😂 i remember loving them so many years ago!
I remember loving the Warrior cats too, when I read them last year and earlier this year. Seriously, with the exception of one of the series that felt like a too close repetition of the first series they are all mostly awesome.
I’ve read a third of the book. I’m planning on reading a bit more of it, but I haven’t picked it up in a month.
Something about it is just too on the nose.
So far it’s going to be a 3 star, if i’m very generous.
I’m guessing the writing style is just aimed for a younger audience or something
Sounds like a bad shounen manhwa with cringu comedy. I really hate those types of shit. They work rarely work but when they do *chefs kiss*
What was bleeped out for monetization at 12:31? It sounds like he says 90s?
The word is Nazis 😬
Think WWII guys who were known for stealing stuff.
@@rachelownbey4586 that makes a lot more sense thanks
I’m so excited for you to read priory of the orange tree! I know it can be a difficult read, but as a lesbian it is one of my all time favorite books!
Oh man, I am bummed to hear your review! It isn't in my wheelhouse (sci-fi or fantasy) but this one seemed like it could be fun...maybe...but I think I'm having second thoughts now!
As someone who listened to the book on Audible, I can tell you that I DID recommend it to my friend, so here's how I'd make the pitch for the book for you:
- The book isn't, I would say, fully sci-fi. It's "Sci-fi" in the that the Bond movies are Science Fiction: The stuff that isn't sound modern science is just "super-spy stuff."
-the book's fundamental "bit", which Daniel didn't enjoy, is the deconstruction of the James Bond style super-villain trope, and it explores this by making the whole thing mundane: being a super-villain is just being a billionaire CEO with a worse golden parachute but more nonsense. The existing villains are mostly annoying bullies and nepo-babies because newsflash, the kind of people who would join "the secret evil billionaire's club"? Probably not great at teaching their kids how to get along with others.
-This goal is also, I believe, the root of the issue with the narration: Scalzi is trying to take a midlly competent but unremarkable protagonist, and have him witness the crazy world of these wealthy lunatics. He's constantly getting blown away by new developments, before learning they're not actually nearly as cool as he thought. And I think Scalzi struggles with "how do I make this sound more like an everyman being blown away without using "freaking" or "dude" as an emphatic?"
Overall, I personally found it a little sad but overall kind of cute story about a guy dealing with grief by briefly becoming a super-villain, before deciding that just a normal, social day-job would be vastly better for his physical and mental health.
shoutout DCC at the end :3 happy days
Hey off topic but would love to chat with you more about fringe. This rewatch that you incurred, lol 😆, has really got me! I forgot how much I loved it.. I'm on S5 now, and love to hear your thoughts on how differently it went from the main story, still enjoying it but wow total jump 😂 hehehe jump, to something totally different. Anyway sorry I don't generally push in comments or go on like this.. but sorry would love your input! 😊
"Shut up, Wesley!"😂
It was so disappointing when they replaced the previous narrator of The Martian will Wil Wheaton
They did WHAT. Blasphemous.
@@amac0190 Weir wrote a Facebook post about it. Audible bid high for the audiobook rights when they went up for renewal, but weren’t willing to pay enough to the previous producer for the previous recording, or the previous narrator for a new recording, so they went with Wil Wheaton for cheap instead. Freaking Amazon and their monopoly.
I generally like Scalzi's books, but I understand and appreciate your criticisms on this one. His Lock In series is a lot better AND it has two different narrator options so you dont have to listen Wil Wheaton if you don't want to. And I say that as someone who listens to Wheaton's version of Andy Weir's The Martian at least once a year.
Oh noooo, bummer! Hilarious that it's Will Wheaton based on what the book is, kind of perfect.
I'm not surprised. I had to DNF Kaiju Preservation Society, something I almost never do.
I listened to this on while doing chores. And I never realized how much like Will Weaton you sound because I almost didn’t realize you were playing the audiobook.
Oof. I took it as a simplistic read that wasn't meant to give me much and enjoyed it. But it wasn't something ground breaking. I also didn't do the audiobook, so maybe having your own voice read it would have helped instead of a narrator you don't like
Oof i didn't like kaiju preservation society, humour felt very formulaic as if he sat down with the purpose of making a witty book and overdid it. I was gonna give starter villain a chance because of the cover but thank you for saving me😂
Starter villain is very much like Kaju but the premise isn’t as good.
@@s.taylor5424 tbh even villain cats aren't as cool as mythical beast conservation. Ya know, one is technically possible and the other isn't 🤷🏻♀️
I really like that Daniel doesn't try to sugarcoat it when he dislikes a book. Really hate it when people tip toe around stuff.
Totally agree with the Dungeon Crawler Carl shout-out. I thought Priory was pretty meh too. Haven't read Starter Villain but I did read Kaiju Preservation Society and that was OK. definitely more wiseacre than actually funny (like nowhere close to DCC in humor and 1/10 as much actual drama) but perhaps it was better than SV. I think John Scalzi's strength may be as an Internet personality
I gave the book 3/5 stars for all the same reasons, but I actually liked the humor. It got some laugh out loud laughs from me. Especially the dolphins. I did read the book with a book club and if it wasn't for that I probably would not have finished the novel.
I also did not really like it every much. Part of that was because I hated the ending and part was because I did not like Wil Wheaton's reading either.
On the other hand, I liked the old mans war series a lot.
i liked it. ... have you tried Redshirts?
but yes Dungeon crawler carl is much better as is the henchmen series and how to succeed in evil
I like a lot of Scalzi's books (mainly Ghost Brigades and Lock In) and absolutely hated this book. Also couldn't get through Priory of the Orange Tree.
Your summary at the end reminded me of my review of Rebel's Creed. "I can't believe I got through this one". Not everyone is cut out the be a fantasy author, but at least you know how to make entertaining vids.
Pretty unrelated comment.
I'm sad because I love John Scalzi as a person. I really want to like his books. And I will still read this, I generally agree with your opinions on most books.
Hench, by Natalie Walschots, is a book that really hits the potential premise of Starter Villan. If anyone is looking to scratch that itch, I highly recommend it!