Nullform

Nullform #7

by Dem Mikhailov, Colin Parker (contributor), Andrew B Wehrlen (reader)

Zombieland is fiendish and dangerous.

The place that has gobbled up many, leaving only ground bones, draws Elb and his team ever deeper into its decaying bowels. Doing battle with eternally hungry beasts who were once people, Elb is fast gaining status, as well as the respect of other zombie hunters.

Zombieland, however, is capable of stopping and killing even the most deadly of hunters.

This time around, the system provides the impossible Blue Light task, whose coordinates are given as: Room №191-28 Pain. Nobody has ever reached the room, and everybody to have received the task has disappeared without trace in spine-chilling Zombieland. The system’s Blue Light task may not be refused, and is a black spot of death for anyone, but the tenacious Elb accepts it unwaveringly, knowing it is another step forwards and upwards, and therefore another step towards the answers to many secrets.

Read the next instalment of the dark and diabolical Nullform saga in English, from the author of the celebrated LitRPG series Clan Dominance: The Sleepless Ones.

Audio CD

Published September 26, 2023

Reviews

[Akshay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nullform #7 by Dem Mikhailov is the seventh installment in the gripping LitRPG series that continues to push the boundaries of the genre. In this volume, readers are plunged deeper into the perilous world of Zombieland, where protagonist Elb faces his most daunting challenge yet: the infamous Blue Light task.

Plot Overview

Elb and his team venture into the treacherous depths of Zombieland, a place notorious for consuming countless adventurers. Their mission: to confront the Blue Light task, an assignment deemed impossible and lethal. The coordinates lead them to Room Number 191-28 Pain, a location shrouded in mystery and dread. Despite the overwhelming odds, Elb's determination to uncover the system's secrets propels him forward.

Character Development

Elb's evolution from a determined survivor to a respected leader is evident. His unwavering commitment to his goals, even in the face of insurmountable challenges, showcases his growth. The dynamics within his team also highlight the complexities of trust and camaraderie in a world where danger lurks at every corner.

World-Building and Atmosphere

Mikhailov's depiction of Zombieland is both vivid and haunting. The decaying environment, filled with eternally hungry beasts that were once human, creates a palpable sense of dread. The author's attention to detail immerses readers in a world where every decision can mean the difference between life and death.

Writing Style and Pacing

The narrative maintains a brisk pace, balancing intense action sequences with moments of introspection. Mikhailov's prose is concise yet evocative, ensuring that readers remain engaged throughout the journey. The tension builds steadily, culminating in a climax that leaves readers eager for the next installment.

Overall Assessment

Nullform #7 is a compelling addition to the series, offering a blend of action, suspense, and character development. Mikhailov continues to expand the universe he has created, delving deeper into its mysteries and challenges. Fans of the LitRPG genre will find this volume both satisfying and thought-provoking.

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4 out of 5 stars)

While Nullform #7 delivers on many fronts, some readers might find certain plot elements predictable. However, the strengths of the narrative, particularly its rich world-building and character arcs, overshadow these minor shortcomings.

For those interested in exploring this installment further, the audiobook version, narrated by Andrew B. Wehrlen, offers an immersive experience that brings the story to life.

[GiGi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Making the second half a story-within-a-story format was not a great idea. Either the info given is irrelevant for the plot, in which case why needlessly bore me to tears? Or there was vital info that didn't even make it to my short-term memory; what a waste.
I still dunno how the prologue ties into everything else, but I'm assuming it ties in with the drug-induced flashbacks.

I've noticed that many Lit-RPG series tend do slowly drop the RPG qualities. Oftentimes I find this to be a good choice that favors a thicker plot and character growth. Nullform is also moving away from RPG, but all we've been getting are glimpses and hints about the bigger world. Because the basis of the story is no longer RPG and we don't get any worldbuilding to take its place, the story feels less solid; there's no clear foundation.
In any case I want answers, so I'm definitely continuing with the series.

[Fred · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Attention Zombieland shoppers: there's a chance to win much with the discount target on Elb's buttocks"
(Not an actual quote)
Audiobook as usual though we have a new narrator. The new narrator did great work but it was a jarring change for a bit. A+ as the new characteristics bring a bit of different but also good life to the characters.

Elb and crew are learning more and more about Zombieland, the "survers" and the history / prehistory of this world.

Of course, more folks try to make a quick buck by targeting this up and coming hero.

Ended a bit cliffhanger-y for me but was quite entertaining and another excellent entry

[Danny Evans · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best author ever!

Love his writing style and all of his books! I am so happy to have found another series of his to read.

[Jan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm looking foreword to the next book coming out