*I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
The human world has ended. Humans and animals are now the undead and own the world. Steve is one of nine who have created virtual worlds that join at the place they call Center. They plan to live in their own Domains for eternity, as long as the main power keeps going. But, when they arrive at the Center there are two of the nine missing. Trying to help his friend, then warn others, Henry brings the nightmare of the real world to them when he thought he could filter the infection out while transitioning to where they were to be safe. Now they need to find the infected that’s loose in their worlds…somewhere…
When I go into an audiobook knowing Jeff’s the narrator, I have high expectations. I look for different voices and personalities to come to life. And I get them. I love listening to Jeff voice all the characters differently. It’s entertaining for me in listening along with makes it easy to differentiate everyone. When a voice actor puts this much effort into a piece, it shows and makes the book along with his work shine. Sometimes the small things make the book all the better, like overlaying several voices at one time when all speak. Jeff does that, and it’s totally cool. He really makes me feel as though it’s a show and live.
Let me talk about the world creation. I wasn’t sure how it was all going to relate at the beginning. Jake gives us the ground work as to why and how this is done, though it’s quick to not slow the pacing of the story. I followed it all easily and found it interesting to see it come together when I get into the Center with Steve and others. And what we learn through the book in how the worlds are connected.
Undead, gaming worlds of different structure… action has to happen! Cool combo!
Steve’s relationships with each of the characters grows more as they fight together to save the worlds they’ve created for themselves. And we get to know his friends as we go. I like the humor Steve’s written with. And felt bad for him because when he tried to make a joke or state anything he was wrong in his doing in EverRealm it Always seeming to cause problems.
Speaking of problems… wow, do things really get messed up here in EverRealm. With the undead and with what Steve and friends do. It’s crazy! But it all works together and somehow works out in the end. For me, the story felt smooth in flow with these problems. It all fit the world, characters, and situations.
Another cool creation for the LitRPG world in books. I really like that they are leaving the "real" world behind for virtual ones, and the reason behind it all. This gives the solid reason for coming to the gaming worlds in my mind. We get the explanations of how it’s done, but it’s not over science-y to lose us. It’s just what it is.
I will say this is a game RPG setting, but I don’t feel like I’m in a "game". The RPG setting is actually to be their homes. That makes the world important real and important to them. What they do here has an impact and they try to live knowing that. Also, we aren’t always grasping for our tool bar to see supplies and stats. Steve does do it, but it’s not a constant thing.
I’m really enjoying the LitRPG books I’ve been getting lately. Jeff’s voice acting is fun and fits the worlds and characters so well. And the stories are alive and feel more than just a "gaming" atmosphere. Well done with this one Jake!