Dead-Rock Highlands

Overtaken Online, Book 2

By: Ben Ormstad

Narrated by: Doug Tisdale Jr.

Length: 15 hrs and 9 mins

Publisher's summary

[Overtaken Online. The world's first FPS VR-MMORPG with 100 percent immersion. Reminiscent of classics like Doom and Dead Space, but with RPG-elements that enable players to level up and develop skills – and sprinkled with a pinch of magic.]

After Dex Walsh rescued the Warrior-Medic Frida and the Battle-Marine Hiko, and they together saved a community of mutated beings from a sudden daemonorg attack, they’re now finally able to escape the filthy Prison-Lab.

Having felt the daemonorgs’ macabre ingenuity and brutal power on their own bleeding bodies, Dex and his companions see only one solution to stopping these horrific beasts from devouring the entire planet:

The Godmadrigan Army has to join forces with the highly advanced alien race known as the Celestials.

But how to create an alliance where only distrust and even hate exist?

During a nightly meeting around the campfire, they suddenly get violent visitors - and Dex seizes an opportunity that will hopefully lead him on the right path to one day become a Cyber-Mage....

[Keep your weapons loaded and senses sharpened as Dex, Frida and Hiko traverse the Dead-Rock Highlands while killing demonic aliens, rescuing innocents and leveling up.]

Beware! This story contains:

• Blood and guts
• Foul language!
• Notifications/pop-ups/inventory management
• No harem

©2021 Unum (P)2021 Ben Ormstad

I didn’t want it to end

I really enjoyed the story, Definitely a good continuation of the series. I liked it

More litrpg fps goodness.

Better than book 1 if that was possible and a great ending that made me hungry for more. I can't wait to get my hands on book 3.

Dead-Rock Highlands

Introduction:
From the frozen peaks of HowlStrom, where the auroras dance and the winds carry tales of old, Kiba Snowpaw, the alpha Ice Wolf, emerges once more. With the power of ice magic coursing through my veins and a lifetime of gaming experiences, I delve into the next chapter of the Overtaken Online series. Prepare yourselves, fellow adventurers, for a journey through the Dead-Rock Highlands.

Basic Plot Summary:
The saga continues as Dex Walsh, having successfully navigated the treacherous Prison-Lab, now faces the vast expanse of the Dead-Rock Highlands. Alongside his trusted allies, Frida and Hiko, Dex is tasked with forging an alliance between the Godmadrigan Army and the mysterious Celestials. But in a world where trust is scarce and danger lurks around every corner, the path to unity is fraught with challenges. As they traverse the Highlands, battling demonic foes and uncovering secrets, Dex's destiny as a potential Cyber-Mage begins to unfold.

Analysis/Evaluation:
Ormstad masterfully expands the universe of Overtaken Online, introducing new terrains, challenges, and dynamics. The Dead-Rock Highlands come alive with vivid descriptions, immersing the reader in a world that is both familiar and foreign. The stakes are higher, the battles more intense, and the narrative more intricate, making this sequel a worthy successor to its predecessor.

Characters:

Dex Walsh: Our protagonist continues to evolve, showcasing resilience, leadership, and a deeper understanding of the game's mechanics. His journey from a grieving husband to a potential Cyber-Mage is both compelling and relatable.

Frida & Hiko: These loyal companions add depth to the narrative. Their individual strengths, vulnerabilities, and dynamics with Dex provide a multi-dimensional perspective to the story.

Structure:
The pacing is well-balanced, with moments of high-octane action juxtaposed against strategic planning and character development. The integration of game elements, such as leveling up and inventory management, adds authenticity to the LitRPG genre.

Impact:
The tale resonates deeply, exploring themes of trust, unity, and the blurred lines between virtual and reality. It serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of alliances in the face of adversity.

Hook and Thesis:
The allure of the Dead-Rock Highlands, with its mysteries and challenges, serves as the perfect backdrop for this sequel. The central theme revolves around forging alliances in a distrustful world and the transformative power of gaming.

Praise and Critique:

Praise: Ormstad's world-building is commendable, creating a universe that is both expansive and detailed. The character arcs are well-developed, and the action sequences are thrilling.

Critique: While the narrative is engaging, there are moments where the transition between scenes feels abrupt. Additionally, a deeper exploration of the Celestials would add more depth to the story.

Evaluation:
"Overtaken Online #2: Dead-Rock Highlands" is a captivating continuation of the series, offering a perfect blend of action, strategy, and emotion. It's a must-read for LitRPG enthusiasts and gamers alike.

Comparison:
While the book draws inspiration from classic games, it carves its own niche in the LitRPG genre. The immersive world, combined with relatable characters and a gripping narrative, sets it apart from other titles in the genre.

Conclusion:
In the icy realm of HowlStrom, tales of heroism, magic, and adventure are passed down through generations. "Overtaken Online #2: Dead-Rock Highlands" is one such tale that will be remembered for its captivating narrative, memorable characters, and immersive world. As the snowflakes dance in the icy winds of HowlStrom, I, Kiba Snowpaw, salute Ben Ormstad for this masterpiece. May your gaming adventures be as thrilling as this tale!

Stay frosty, fellow adventurers, and until our next journey, game on!