An Unexpected Hero

A LitRPG Adventure

By: Rhett C. Bruno, Jaime Castle

Narrated by: Jeff Hays, Annie Ellicott, Justin Thomas James, Ian M. Walker

Some men are born heroes. Others have heroism thrust upon them…

Sorry... Really? Thrust? Anyway, Danny Kendrick was a down-on-his luck performer who always struggled to find his place. He certainly never wanted to be a hero. He just hoped to earn a living doing what he loved.

That all changes when he pisses off the wrong guy and gets sucked into a fantasy realm straight out of a Renaissance Fair.

Getting used to a new world is tough. It’s even tougher when you’re surrounded by axe-wielding barbarians, super hot elf assassins, strange magic, and a System AI that seems as interested in causing trouble as helping... or maybe just wasn't interested in being assigned yet another companion in the first place.

Danny must adapt fast, turn on the charm, and learn to embrace his given Class if he hopes to master it and survive this dangerous new place.

But he has a knack for finding trouble. Gifted what seems like an innocent ancient lute after making a questionable deal with a Hag, Danny becomes the target of mysterious factions who seek to claim its power.

It's up to him, Screenie, and his new barbaric friend, Curr, to uncover the truth and become the heroes nobody knew they needed. And maybe, just maybe, Danny will finally find a place where he belongs. Perhaps, even where he'll thrive.

Jump into this fantasy isekai LitRPG Adventure filled with unforgettable characters, loveable companions, unlikely heroes, slow-build power progression, slice-of-life elements, and plenty of laughs. It's perfect for fans of Dungeon Crawler Carl, Off to be the Wizard, and Kings of the Wyld!

Come for the adventure. Stay for the laughs.

©2024 Aethon Books (P)2025 Aethon Audio

Critic reviews

"Is it funny? No. It's effing hilarious!"—Matt Dinniman, author of Dungeon Crawler Carl

"A fun and musical take on isekai LitRPG. I'm loving it!"—J.M. Clarke, author of Mark of the Fool

"A rollicking good time, and now I know where my ulna is."—Eric Ugland, author of The Good Guys

Support indie authors

Only a few hours in and it’s great. Soundbooth theater is always top notch. Tons of my favorite authors and narrators have recommended it.

Incredible performance!

I followed this on Jeff Hays' cold reads, and couldn't wait to get the final audio. The performance is absolutely incredible. The writing is witty. It's a tiny bit less zany than Dungeon Crawler Carl, but if you like DCC, I think you'll love this.

A unique and fun twist in the LITRPG genre.

It doesn’t use the genre of LITRPG as a crutch, but instead unlocks the potential lock in the genre. It’s is well written with witty and intriguing characters. I don’t normally recommend audio books, but I highly recommend this book if you want an enjoyable story.

What a ride

amazing book. amazing production, amazing amazing! Great characters, good world building and fantastic humor throughout.

Interesting story, MC is eh

Honestly the story was a good concept, especially the grumpy Screenie. However, the main character didn't need to be so objectifying. Like, come on man don't be gross.