Matt Dinniman’s Dungeon Crawler Carl series continues to captivate readers, achieving remarkable success since its inception in 2020. Initially self-published, the series has since gained traction, with Ace Books launching its official publication in August 2024. To date, over one million hardback copies have been sold, showcasing the series’ popularity in the LitRPG genre, which blends elements of fantasy, science fiction, and gaming.
Dinniman will appear alongside actress and author Felicia Day at the Wilshire Ebell Theater on September 22, 2024, at 18:30. The event, hosted by DIESEL, A Bookstore, promises to engage fans eager to learn more about the author’s latest projects.
New Installments and Standalone Works
In his latest installment, This Inevitable Ruin, the seventh book in the Dungeon Crawler Carl series, Dinniman takes readers to the much-anticipated ninth floor of the intergalactic game show. Here, protagonist Carl and his companion, the ex-girlfriend’s cat named Princess Donut, must navigate a series of challenges while facing multiple armies. Notably, returning characters include a talking love doll head and a shark named Jamal, adding a unique twist to the narrative.
In addition to the ongoing series, Dinniman has a standalone novel titled Operation Bounce House set to release in February 2025. This sci-fi story follows settlers on a distant planet who have spent decades establishing a transfer gate back to Earth. However, their efforts face opposition when Earth hires a mercenary company to “gamify” the eviction process, allowing bored citizens to design and pilot war machines in a bid for land.
Insights into Dinniman’s Literary Journey
During a recent Q&A session, Dinniman shared his thoughts on various literary topics. When asked about his current reading material, he mentioned The Third Rule of Time Travel by Philip Fracassi. He also expressed a fondness for Tigana by Guy Gavriel Kay, which he considers a favorite among his ever-evolving list of recommendations.
Reflecting on his reading preferences, Dinniman noted that he tends to gravitate toward horror and science fiction, with a desire to explore more classic mysteries. He emphasized the importance of character development in storytelling, stating, “Cool plots are a dime a dozen, but without interesting characters, what’s the point?”
Dinniman’s childhood experiences, including frequent relocations due to his father’s military career, shaped his love for literature. Libraries often served as his sanctuary, and he credits many librarians for nurturing his passion for reading.
While he once felt compelled to finish every book he started, he now prioritizes enjoyment over completion. “Life is much too short, and there are way too many books out there,” he remarked.
With his engaging writing style and a unique blend of genres, Matt Dinniman continues to make a significant impact in the literary world. For those interested in attending the upcoming event with Felicia Day, tickets and more information can be found on the DIESEL website.
