A review by kathryngrayson
The Dungeon Anarchist's Cookbook by Matt Dinniman

adventurous funny medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

Good, but not as good as the last one, IMO. I think the author got a little caught up in his own (overly complex) ideas about the puzzle train system and we lost a lot of time and detail on something that wasn't, ultimately, very important to the actual plot - ideally, the set dressing should have supported the development of the plot and characters, but instead it detracted, which was a shame. I think the author recognizes it, though, because (at least in my version) it basically starts with a disclaimer that says "you don't actually have to pay too much attention to this stuff" - which feels like a red flag that maybe that stuff just shouldn't be in the book in the first place. I also found the ending a little overdone - I'm sure it's more realistic for them to try and fail several plans in a row, but while reading it was challenging to keep up with all the pivots and what they were actually attempting to accomplish at any given time. 

Anyway. Overly complex train station setting aside, it was another fun installment. I really enjoyed the addition of Katia and look forward to more of her! Seeing Donut "grow up" and gain more situational awareness (especially around her past life with Bea) has also been great. It was a shame to lose Mordechai for such a long time, but I really love the idea of the secret crawler notebook. Can't wait to see how it all factors in, in the next floor!