Bound for Ruin

Fantasy adventure that is very closely tied to Dungeons & Dragons rules and the Forgotten Realms setting.

Solid story that connects more to the friendship and party building than the adventure (puzzles, mysteries and combat). Flashbacks are shown to tell how the party members came together, and asides are used to show what the antagonists are doing. Multiple perspectives are shown in the chapters - even that of a Neo Otyugh - but the primary perspective is of rogue and party leader Tess. Humor between the adventurers is prevalent, much like the recent film.

Other reviewers have said it is like listening to a gaming session, though I think they mean the more professional ones like Critical Role. We never get a hint of there being players of a game, just the characters, their past and their adventure.

It does feel like that party building takes up more time in the book than the plot. There is a sequel, and with this groundwork laid, it might flow better. The author does a great job with quick explanations or descriptions of the Realms and gods, so knowledge of that setting isn't required. The one big exception is Halaster Blackcloak, who is name checked a few times with no explanation.

Recommended by a friend, but he said you also have to read the sequel - so that is next.