How to Defeat a Demon King in Ten Easy Steps doesn’t try to be perfect—and that’s part of its charm. It’s quick, clever, and highly enjoyable, especially for readers who grew up on RPGs, video game mechanics, and classic save-the-world setups.

From the start, we follow Yui, an underdog who’s not “the chosen one” by any stretch. But through stubborn determination, clever workarounds, and an unshakable belief in doing what’s right, she sets off to stop the Demon King anyway. Yui’s journey feels like a love letter to gamers who’ve ever tried to challenge the final boss way before they were supposed to.

The pacing is tight, the tone stays light, and the characters bring the adventure to life. Ken—absolutely a standout—adds so much with his loyal, chaotic energy and unexpected humor. He’s the kind of sidekick that steals scenes in the best possible way.

The book is full of smart nods to genre tropes: item collecting, dungeon crawling, skill upgrades, and plenty of wink-at-the-camera moments. But rather than making fun of those elements, it embraces them. There’s an affection here—for stories where determination matters more than destiny, and creative thinking beats brute force.

If I had one critique, it’s that I wanted more. The world has a ton of potential, and I would’ve happily spent more time exploring its rules and quirks. Some plot points resolve a little too easily, but the book’s tone makes it feel intentional. This isn’t grimdark. It’s not trying to subvert everything. It’s here to entertain—and it succeeds.

It knows what it is and leans into it—with confidence, clarity, and a whole lot of nostalgic fun.

Rating: ★★★★☆
A fast-paced, feel-good fantasy full of charm, clever twists, and a hero worth rooting for.

Thank you to NetGalley and Saga Press for the opportunity to read and review an advanced copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.

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Are you into books that play with video game tropes or give underdog heroes the spotlight? Let me know in the comments—I’m always on the lookout for the next clever quest.