Interesting..

The semi-modern English Goonies is what keeps coming to mind. And of course that Stranger Things and these guys play D&D, and around the same time period helps with echos of archetype links. Not in substance though, sorry, just an observation.

Softer tones, more tuned to life--some good twists, math, physics and a bit more English references than I know what to do with (as an American.) Satisfying and drove me to read the first and second back to back.

YA but not too YA trope-y. Interpersonal relationships felt really flushed out. Everyone fits hand in glove. There is a story, a D&D story, and a meta-story, and they all weirdly link to each other in a seamless way as well.

If you're looking for a break from the insane, or the grim-dark, or the end-of-the-world (or after-end-of-the-world) moments then this might be a good read for you.