Review: How I, a Normal High School Student, Went to Royal Academy and Avoided Being Trapped in Hiatus Vol. 5: A LitRPG Adventure: This Academy Extra, Book 5
Have you ever found yourself lost in a world so vivid and compelling that it transcends the boundaries of fiction? That’s exactly what I felt diving into "How I, a Normal High School Student, Went to Royal Academy and Avoided Being Trapped in Hiatus Vol. 5" by author Keith R. A. DeCandido. The title alone beckoned me in with its promise of adventure and the ever-familiar charm of LitRPG, a genre I can’t resist. And what a ride it was!
In this fifth volume, we reconnect with our protagonist, Samson, who is navigating the aftermath of a story that has come to a close. The thrill of completing the original plot leaves a palpable sense of both freedom and uncertainty in the air. I found myself cheering for Samson as he steps into this open world filled with unpredictable outcomes and a plethora of possibilities—both exhilarating and daunting. The book explores the theme of embracing change, as Samson realizes that his past life is slipping away, and he must adapt to his new surroundings with a braver heart than ever before.
One of the most compelling aspects of DeCandido’s writing is how he intricately weaves character development into the narrative. The bonds Samson forms with his companions are portrayed so authentically that you can’t help but feel invested in their journeys. Each character is not merely a sidekick; they are fully fleshed out with their own dreams, fears, and arcs. This made their successes feel like personal victories, and their struggles weigh heavily on my heart.
The pacing in this volume struck a fine balance, allowing moments of introspection to coexist with pulse-pounding action. I savored the quieter scenes where Samson grapples with the weight of his choices, and I found myself reflecting on my own life decisions. It reminds us that every action carries consequences—echoing the famous line from the book, “To live is to leave a mark, even if it’s a scar.” This thought lingered long after I turned the last page.
What truly resonated with me were the themes of friendship and sacrifice. As Samson fights to protect his loved ones, the narrative poses philosophical questions about what it means to have a legacy. It becomes clear that in the pursuit of greatness and adventure, the most valuable treasures are the relationships we foster along the way. This is a sentiment I believe every reader can relate to, regardless of their age or life stage.
In conclusion, I’d recommend "How I, a Normal High School Student, Went to Royal Academy and Avoided Being Trapped in Hiatus Vol. 5" to anyone—whether you’re a seasoned LitRPG enthusiast or stepping into this genre for the first time. If you enjoy stories that delve deep into personal growth wrapped in a fantastical adventure, this book will leave you both enchanted and introspective. My reading experience was deeply enriched by the heartfelt connection to its characters and the thought-provoking concepts, which made me pause and reflect on my own journey. DeCandido has left an indelible mark on my reading list, and I can’t wait to see what new adventures await in the next installment!