So I've been looking for some books to read. I'd like to read either a litrpg or system apocalypse story. But sadly most of those often lean into the whole kingdom building/guild building or leading a colony of survivors in case of system apocalypse. I'd like to see if you could recommend some that DON'T have these. Preferably with some romance (it doesn't need to be the focus of the story). I'm just tired of these tropes. (Example I enjoyed: Primal Hunter – no annoying colony leading at least for a while (still reading it periodically))
Another request would be some books with romance between human male MC and non-human female. Or a romance between weaker male MC and stronger female lead.
For example I enjoyed Ritualist for a while since the MC has an interesting class, but sadly it's a bit al over the place with pacing and feels very strained sometimes. Also the satire became old during the third book for me. The MC also doesn't want to lead the guild and have anything to do with the management which is a plus in my book.
Another example of the story I somewhat enjoyed would be Alpha World with the relationship between Alburet and Stacia . It also doesn't really focus heavily on guild building (even though I still didn't enjoy it)
by Drevart