I liked this book much better than I did the first book. I found I was struggling much less then I was in the first book. Much more action and adventuring moments, which are very fun to listen to. There was a good amount of settlement development but the paising in this book was much better then the first book. I really liked the new players joining the settlement, which added some human elements to the settlement. The players really helped to show just how much the MC has changed and how his situation of getting stuck in the game is affecting him. Some of my favorite parts were involving the players as well, especially the twins. The ending of this book was much more satisfactory as well. Everything felt properly explained while still allowing some great hooks to get you into the next book. The fight with Oren’s old guild is brutal and I found myself doubting whether they could pull a win off.
Jeff Hays performance is the always great, but Laurie Catherine Winkel and Annie Ellicott also did a great job on their characters. The added digital enhancements to his voice for bosses and the background sounds really added to the immersion of the story. Looking forward to the next book!