Me! Me! Me!: The King Who Shouldn’t Be by D.L. Randle is a hilarious and heartwarming tale blending absurd satire with poignant storytelling. This book doesn’t take itself too seriously while exploring serious themes such as corruption, community, and personal growth. Its perfectly timed commentary will have many readers chuckling dryly.
The story follows Justice, a reluctant young farmer who adores his peaceful life in Gorge Valley. Unfortunately, his idyllic haven is threatened by the absurdly self-centered King Gorge, who plans to destroy the valley for a narcissistic pet project. Justice, initially content to stay out of the chaos, is roped into an undercover mission in the royal court. With the guidance of the enigmatic Old Lady and the companionship of his loyal dog Florpy, Justice must navigate the King’s extravagant world of incompetence, cruelty, and hilarity to uncover the truth and save his home.
Randle’s writing shines in her sharp humor and vivid descriptions. The world-building is rich and whimsical, from the cozy charm of Gorge Valley to the grotesque opulence of the royal palace. Characters leap off the page, particularly King Gorge, whose vanity and absurdity rival any satirical villain in fiction. Justice’s transformation from a timid, self-doubting young man to someone willing to risk everything for what he loves is heartening and relatable.
This was nearly a 5-star book for me, except for a few little things. The action occasionally drags, particularly in the opening chapters, where lengthy descriptions slow the story’s progression. While the humor is often laugh-out-loud funny, it sometimes overshadows the emotional weight of Justice’s personal journey, which could have been explored more deeply. Additionally, a few grammatical errors and typos slightly detract from the polished feel of the prose.
Despite these minor issues, Me! Me! Me! excels at delivering a blend of biting satire and earnest charm. Fans of Terry Pratchett and Douglas Adams will feel right at home with its witty dialogue and ridiculous situations. Readers who enjoy stories about reluctant heroes, quirky side characters, and underdog triumphs will find much to love here.
This is a delightful satire for anyone who enjoys laughing at the ridiculousness of power while rooting for the little guy to save the day. Me! Me! Me!: The King Who Shouldn’t Be is an engaging and enjoyable read, perfect for those who like their fantasy with a side of sharp, silly humor. Four stars!