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The Firebrand #1
Firebrand
New worlds get new kings, and that’s exactly what Abby thinks she’s found in her boss’ hacked code.
With a cataclysmic asteroid careening toward Earth, the VRMMORPG project Viridian Gate Online has become more than just a game, and Abby thinks her boss, Robert Osmark, wants to be more than just its founding father.
Now, Abby holds a hacked key to the kingdom that could earn her a punishment worse than death. To uncover the secret that drug lords and corrupt politicians paid millions for, Abby must dive into the game she helped create and team up with one of its AI creations. It’s a race against the clock as she tries to discover what’s hidden in the secret code before Osmark can crown himself ruler over all that remains of humanity.
With a cataclysmic asteroid careening toward Earth, the VRMMORPG project Viridian Gate Online has become more than just a game, and Abby thinks her boss, Robert Osmark, wants to be more than just its founding father.
Now, Abby holds a hacked key to the kingdom that could earn her a punishment worse than death. To uncover the secret that drug lords and corrupt politicians paid millions for, Abby must dive into the game she helped create and team up with one of its AI creations. It’s a race against the clock as she tries to discover what’s hidden in the secret code before Osmark can crown himself ruler over all that remains of humanity.
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Published May 10, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
November 11, 2021
Okay, if you've read the VRMMORPG Viridian Gate Online: Cataclysm... you're gonna want Firebrand! You'll already be in step with some of the details, having a prior knowledge of the world building, and then anticipating what's going to happen next... But, really, take it from me, that won't spoil the book for you... or the Edge-Of-Your-Seat action!!! If you haven't read Cataclysm, don't worry, because this spinoff series, starting with Firebrand, is a perfect place to discover the story of Viridian Gate Online!
This is Abby's point-of-view, and the authors took what was needed from GrimJack's storyline, and ran with it... dovetailing the story seamlessly into Cataclysm and the overall series ARC!
Abby, as one of the games coders has a much better view of who Robert Osmark is and the very shady deals he's made! She's possibly the only person who understands that Robert Osmark isn't the kind philanthropist he portrays himself to be, and that quite possibly, she's the only one who can stop him! Abby logs into the game and powers-up in order to throw a monkey wrench into Osmark's sh*t sandwich. Discovering that her friend Grimjack is on-line, and that he's willing to help, is just the Icing on the cake! That knowledge gives her just the right impetus she needs that could make or break the game or at least one of the cogs anyway...
Pair this fun story with Emily Woo Zeller's nuanced voice talents and you'll find that you're not gonna wanna' put the audiobook/earbuds down!
This is Abby's point-of-view, and the authors took what was needed from GrimJack's storyline, and ran with it... dovetailing the story seamlessly into Cataclysm and the overall series ARC!
Abby, as one of the games coders has a much better view of who Robert Osmark is and the very shady deals he's made! She's possibly the only person who understands that Robert Osmark isn't the kind philanthropist he portrays himself to be, and that quite possibly, she's the only one who can stop him! Abby logs into the game and powers-up in order to throw a monkey wrench into Osmark's sh*t sandwich. Discovering that her friend Grimjack is on-line, and that he's willing to help, is just the Icing on the cake! That knowledge gives her just the right impetus she needs that could make or break the game or at least one of the cogs anyway...
Pair this fun story with Emily Woo Zeller's nuanced voice talents and you'll find that you're not gonna wanna' put the audiobook/earbuds down!
January 3, 2025
Firebrand: A LitRPG Adventure of Frost and Flames
Reviewer:
Kiba Snowpaw – Alpha Ice Wolf from HowlStrom, veteran MMORPG grinder, audiobook aficionado, and frost-powered mage extraordinaire. Join me as I sink my claws into Firebrand by J.D. Astra and James A. Hunter, exploring its roaring inferno of action, harem-lite dynamics, and VRMMORPG intrigue!
Introduction:
The *Viridian Gate Online* universe expands with *Firebrand*, a thrilling VRMMORPG journey following Abby Hollander, a programmer turned reluctant hero. As asteroids loom and humanity escapes into a digital sanctuary, Abby’s fight against her megalomaniac boss, Osmark, takes us on an unforgettable ride through betrayal, alliances, and moral quandaries. With harem elements, clever LitRPG mechanics, and a dash of post-apocalyptic grit, this book left me howling for more.
Basic Plot Summary:
The story unfolds as Abby discovers a secret within the code of Viridian Gate Online (VGO), a VRMMORPG doubling as humanity's last refuge. Osmark, her shady boss, aims to crown himself ruler of this virtual kingdom. Abby dives into VGO, gathering allies—including the loyal NPC Otto and the enigmatic Grim Jack—to stop him. This battle of wits, power-ups, and moral dilemmas creates a compelling mix of high-stakes gameplay and emotional depth.
Originality:
Paws Up: The narrative seamlessly blends post-apocalyptic survival with LitRPG elements. While the “reluctant hero” trope is familiar, Abby’s coder background and the digital world’s moral complexity breathe new life into the genre. The harem-lite touches add character diversity without veering into overindulgence.
About the Writers:
J.D. Astra and James A. Hunter are no strangers to the LitRPG genre. Astra’s knack for character-driven storytelling and Hunter’s experience crafting the *VGO* universe result in a seamless collaboration. Their combined vision brings depth to this expanded universe, evoking comparisons to The Land by Aleron Kong and Awaken Online by Travis Bagwell.
Analysis/Evaluation:
Character Development:
Main Characters:
- Abby: A refreshing lead whose vulnerabilities and grit make her relatable. Her transformation from disillusioned coder to determined warrior anchors the story.
- Otto: The loyal NPC companion brings a mix of humor and gravitas, offering a window into the game world’s AI nuances.
- Osmark: A compelling antagonist with just enough depth to make his machinations chillingly believable.
Supporting Cast:
Grim Jack, Cutter, and others enrich the world with unique dynamics. While not every character gets equal focus, their interactions with Abby are consistently engaging.
Character Arcs:
Abby’s growth is the highlight, though Otto’s evolution as a self-aware NPC deserves applause. However, some secondary characters feel underexplored, leaving room for improvement.
Structure and Mechanics:
The story flows like a finely tuned dungeon crawl—fast-paced yet detailed. Skill allocation, power-ups, and boss battles are integrated smoothly, though the occasional info-dump may overwhelm non-gamers. The leveling mechanics strike a perfect balance between complexity and accessibility.
Impact:
*Firebrand* excels at immersing readers in its world, sparking debates on AI ethics, virtual autonomy, and the human capacity for redemption. Its impact extends beyond entertainment, making readers question the intersection of technology and morality.
Hook and Thesis:
What happens when the coder becomes the hero? *Firebrand* answers this with a gripping tale of resilience, teamwork, and justice against impossible odds. It’s a rallying cry for underdogs everywhere.
Praise and Critique:
Praise:
- Compelling Protagonist: Abby’s relatable flaws and fiery determination keep readers invested.
- World-Building: The seamless integration of real-world stakes and in-game mechanics sets a new standard.
- Narration: Emily Woo Zeller’s performance elevates the audiobook experience with her nuanced delivery.
Critique:
- Repetitive Themes: Some moments feel overly familiar, especially for seasoned LitRPG readers.
- Rushed Subplots: Certain arcs, such as Abby’s relationship with Otto, could benefit from deeper exploration.
Personal Opinion:
As a furry ice wolf with a penchant for harem antics and LitRPG complexity, I found *Firebrand* to be an exhilarating read. Its blend of action, emotional stakes, and ethical dilemmas kept me enthralled from start to finish.
Highlights and Drawbacks:
Highlight: Abby’s relationship with Otto adds depth and humor to the narrative.
Drawback: The book’s reliance on familiar tropes may deter readers seeking groundbreaking originality.
Comparison:
*Firebrand* stands out in the *Viridian Gate Online* universe, offering a fresh perspective reminiscent of Awaken Online and The Land. While its tone is lighter than *The Land*, it offers a richer emotional core than most harem-centric LitRPGs.
Overall Conclusion:
Firebrand delivers a frosty whirlwind of action, strategy, and heart. It’s a must-read for fans of LitRPGs, harem tales, and post-apocalyptic drama. While not without flaws, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, making it a standout in its genre.
Rating:
Story: 4.5/5
Characters: 4.4/5
World-Building: 4.7/5
Overall: 4.6/5
Final Howl: Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a furry adventurer like me, this book promises an epic quest worth embarking on. Grab your frost gear and dive in—adventure awaits!
Reviewer:
Kiba Snowpaw – Alpha Ice Wolf from HowlStrom, veteran MMORPG grinder, audiobook aficionado, and frost-powered mage extraordinaire. Join me as I sink my claws into Firebrand by J.D. Astra and James A. Hunter, exploring its roaring inferno of action, harem-lite dynamics, and VRMMORPG intrigue!
Introduction:
The *Viridian Gate Online* universe expands with *Firebrand*, a thrilling VRMMORPG journey following Abby Hollander, a programmer turned reluctant hero. As asteroids loom and humanity escapes into a digital sanctuary, Abby’s fight against her megalomaniac boss, Osmark, takes us on an unforgettable ride through betrayal, alliances, and moral quandaries. With harem elements, clever LitRPG mechanics, and a dash of post-apocalyptic grit, this book left me howling for more.
Basic Plot Summary:
The story unfolds as Abby discovers a secret within the code of Viridian Gate Online (VGO), a VRMMORPG doubling as humanity's last refuge. Osmark, her shady boss, aims to crown himself ruler of this virtual kingdom. Abby dives into VGO, gathering allies—including the loyal NPC Otto and the enigmatic Grim Jack—to stop him. This battle of wits, power-ups, and moral dilemmas creates a compelling mix of high-stakes gameplay and emotional depth.
Originality:
Paws Up: The narrative seamlessly blends post-apocalyptic survival with LitRPG elements. While the “reluctant hero” trope is familiar, Abby’s coder background and the digital world’s moral complexity breathe new life into the genre. The harem-lite touches add character diversity without veering into overindulgence.
About the Writers:
J.D. Astra and James A. Hunter are no strangers to the LitRPG genre. Astra’s knack for character-driven storytelling and Hunter’s experience crafting the *VGO* universe result in a seamless collaboration. Their combined vision brings depth to this expanded universe, evoking comparisons to The Land by Aleron Kong and Awaken Online by Travis Bagwell.
Analysis/Evaluation:
Character Development:
Main Characters:
- Abby: A refreshing lead whose vulnerabilities and grit make her relatable. Her transformation from disillusioned coder to determined warrior anchors the story.
- Otto: The loyal NPC companion brings a mix of humor and gravitas, offering a window into the game world’s AI nuances.
- Osmark: A compelling antagonist with just enough depth to make his machinations chillingly believable.
Supporting Cast:
Grim Jack, Cutter, and others enrich the world with unique dynamics. While not every character gets equal focus, their interactions with Abby are consistently engaging.
Character Arcs:
Abby’s growth is the highlight, though Otto’s evolution as a self-aware NPC deserves applause. However, some secondary characters feel underexplored, leaving room for improvement.
Structure and Mechanics:
The story flows like a finely tuned dungeon crawl—fast-paced yet detailed. Skill allocation, power-ups, and boss battles are integrated smoothly, though the occasional info-dump may overwhelm non-gamers. The leveling mechanics strike a perfect balance between complexity and accessibility.
Impact:
*Firebrand* excels at immersing readers in its world, sparking debates on AI ethics, virtual autonomy, and the human capacity for redemption. Its impact extends beyond entertainment, making readers question the intersection of technology and morality.
Hook and Thesis:
What happens when the coder becomes the hero? *Firebrand* answers this with a gripping tale of resilience, teamwork, and justice against impossible odds. It’s a rallying cry for underdogs everywhere.
Praise and Critique:
Praise:
- Compelling Protagonist: Abby’s relatable flaws and fiery determination keep readers invested.
- World-Building: The seamless integration of real-world stakes and in-game mechanics sets a new standard.
- Narration: Emily Woo Zeller’s performance elevates the audiobook experience with her nuanced delivery.
Critique:
- Repetitive Themes: Some moments feel overly familiar, especially for seasoned LitRPG readers.
- Rushed Subplots: Certain arcs, such as Abby’s relationship with Otto, could benefit from deeper exploration.
Personal Opinion:
As a furry ice wolf with a penchant for harem antics and LitRPG complexity, I found *Firebrand* to be an exhilarating read. Its blend of action, emotional stakes, and ethical dilemmas kept me enthralled from start to finish.
Highlights and Drawbacks:
Highlight: Abby’s relationship with Otto adds depth and humor to the narrative.
Drawback: The book’s reliance on familiar tropes may deter readers seeking groundbreaking originality.
Comparison:
*Firebrand* stands out in the *Viridian Gate Online* universe, offering a fresh perspective reminiscent of Awaken Online and The Land. While its tone is lighter than *The Land*, it offers a richer emotional core than most harem-centric LitRPGs.
Overall Conclusion:
Firebrand delivers a frosty whirlwind of action, strategy, and heart. It’s a must-read for fans of LitRPGs, harem tales, and post-apocalyptic drama. While not without flaws, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, making it a standout in its genre.
Rating:
Story: 4.5/5
Characters: 4.4/5
World-Building: 4.7/5
Overall: 4.6/5
Final Howl: Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a furry adventurer like me, this book promises an epic quest worth embarking on. Grab your frost gear and dive in—adventure awaits!
June 13, 2019
It wasn't until after I had finished this book that I found out that it was part of a larger universe that originated from another author who has allowed people to write books within it, but that did not hamper my enjoyment of it in any way as it was a strong standalone book with well-realised characters that fed into a bigger story without harming the one you were reading.
The main characters were likeable and interesting with the supporting cast feeling well-defined and helping to enhance the overall feeling of the book and the world. The pacing and overall feel of the book were helped by the strength of the characters too as they were interesting enough from the outset that your connection as a listener to them helped your progression through the book very well.
Part of the reason that the characters worked so well was the performance of the narrator, helping to enhance the overall story with an enjoyable and distinctive tone that helped the reader's immersion in the story.
Overall, an enjoyable listen that does more than enough for me to look for others in the VGO series.
[Note - I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.]
The main characters were likeable and interesting with the supporting cast feeling well-defined and helping to enhance the overall feeling of the book and the world. The pacing and overall feel of the book were helped by the strength of the characters too as they were interesting enough from the outset that your connection as a listener to them helped your progression through the book very well.
Part of the reason that the characters worked so well was the performance of the narrator, helping to enhance the overall story with an enjoyable and distinctive tone that helped the reader's immersion in the story.
Overall, an enjoyable listen that does more than enough for me to look for others in the VGO series.
[Note - I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.]
March 14, 2019
Almost makes me wish an asteroid was heading this way and I had a golden ticket to play.
July 3, 2019
This was about 20% new material that really didnt add up to much and 80% Cataclysm
(Viridian Gate Online #1) retold from Abby's point of view. I was pretty disappointed to have bought the same book with a few more details added. Its still a good series but i wouldnt recommend reading both "sides" of it.
(Viridian Gate Online #1) retold from Abby's point of view. I was pretty disappointed to have bought the same book with a few more details added. Its still a good series but i wouldnt recommend reading both "sides" of it.
April 18, 2021
This was not for me. Maybe it's the genre, and maybe it's the main character. Maybe it's the story. I cannot pinpoint exactly why I was not too fond of this book, but I really did. 1.5 stars.
June 16, 2021
Too emo
I understand some emotion, but pages of the chest beating and wailing were too much.
Not to mention turning down the NPC who wanted to help you save the world.
I understand some emotion, but pages of the chest beating and wailing were too much.
Not to mention turning down the NPC who wanted to help you save the world.
July 20, 2021
Abby forsake it all for a career and a job she believed in. As her father faded and died of cancer, as her mother mourned alone, and as friends and colleagues watched the sky as pending doom approached, Abby worked. Her obbessession? Viridian Gate Online.
After everything she gave up Abby happens upon a hidden truth, one that will redefine the world perhaps even more than the asteroids that plummets toward the earth.
With her loyal NPC Otto, and her real life gaming friend Jack, she is determined to stop her former boss, Osmark, from enslaving the remaining human race with in a game. With power and influence literally sold to drug lords and political scum, she has no choice but to find out their secrets steal their loot, and form a band of her own, but will it be enough? Will she instead get her mother, and all of her friends killed?
I am a fan of the VGO franchise, but this particular series didn't do much for me. Maybe it was the narrator, maybe it was just how it was written but Abby came off as weak, whiney and frail. Even when she was being a warrior, she came off as wearing a mask of strength, and that in it self was a turn off for me.
Not really liking the main character wasn't enough to ruin the story for me, but it was enough to make me turn away from this piece of the franchise, unless somewhere down the road it becomes important to the other plot lines. Right now though, the Cataclysm (Viridian Gate Online #1) series will be where I spend my credits.
After everything she gave up Abby happens upon a hidden truth, one that will redefine the world perhaps even more than the asteroids that plummets toward the earth.
With her loyal NPC Otto, and her real life gaming friend Jack, she is determined to stop her former boss, Osmark, from enslaving the remaining human race with in a game. With power and influence literally sold to drug lords and political scum, she has no choice but to find out their secrets steal their loot, and form a band of her own, but will it be enough? Will she instead get her mother, and all of her friends killed?
I am a fan of the VGO franchise, but this particular series didn't do much for me. Maybe it was the narrator, maybe it was just how it was written but Abby came off as weak, whiney and frail. Even when she was being a warrior, she came off as wearing a mask of strength, and that in it self was a turn off for me.
Not really liking the main character wasn't enough to ruin the story for me, but it was enough to make me turn away from this piece of the franchise, unless somewhere down the road it becomes important to the other plot lines. Right now though, the Cataclysm (Viridian Gate Online #1) series will be where I spend my credits.
February 28, 2019
A Roaring Start to the Abby series
This is the first book in the Abby series of the expanded VGO Universe
Wow. What else can I say but hot shit that was an amazing book to read. J.D. Astra absolutely knocked it out of the park on this one with bringing Abby to life and showing the side of her that we haven't got to see in the main VGO Universe so far.
This is the opening book in the Abby series in the VGO expanded Universe, without a doubt I am eagerly awaiting the second book to be launched as soon as it is finished because I wasnt able to put this one down.
Without getting into many spoilers, in this story you will see the story from the view point of Abby as she enters VGO and meets her "NPC" companion. Little does she know just how wrong her viewpoint of the world that she helped create is.
Each interaction is so well written that you feel as if you are right in the scene with Abby or even that sometimes you are. There were moments that I shouted out loud in triumph and then moments where it cut to the bone because of the pain that was transferred through the beautiful writing.
Without a doubt this is a story you will need to read. If you loved Abby, hell even if she wasnt your favorite to begin with by the end of this story you will have fallen in love with her and be wanting the second story just as much as everyone else.
So BUY THE BOOM NOW AND ENJOY...
This is the first book in the Abby series of the expanded VGO Universe
Wow. What else can I say but hot shit that was an amazing book to read. J.D. Astra absolutely knocked it out of the park on this one with bringing Abby to life and showing the side of her that we haven't got to see in the main VGO Universe so far.
This is the opening book in the Abby series in the VGO expanded Universe, without a doubt I am eagerly awaiting the second book to be launched as soon as it is finished because I wasnt able to put this one down.
Without getting into many spoilers, in this story you will see the story from the view point of Abby as she enters VGO and meets her "NPC" companion. Little does she know just how wrong her viewpoint of the world that she helped create is.
Each interaction is so well written that you feel as if you are right in the scene with Abby or even that sometimes you are. There were moments that I shouted out loud in triumph and then moments where it cut to the bone because of the pain that was transferred through the beautiful writing.
Without a doubt this is a story you will need to read. If you loved Abby, hell even if she wasnt your favorite to begin with by the end of this story you will have fallen in love with her and be wanting the second story just as much as everyone else.
So BUY THE BOOM NOW AND ENJOY...
February 26, 2019
Viridian Gate Online Expanded Universe Hits a Grand Slam!
This book was in no uncertain terms “Freaking Awesome!” J.D. Astra totally rocks the VGO Universe. This is her first full length book in the series and if this is what we get coming out of the gate, the future’s looking really bright.
Abby Hollander is a central character to VGO and the co-founder of the Crimson Alliance but until now she’s been striding in Grim Jack’s shadow. In Firebrand we get to know and understand Abby. The story starts out at Osmark Industries in a doomed world. Abby is a programmer that makes an outrageous discovery in the code for VGO. This discovery sets her on a nearly impossible quest, and time and the odds are against her. Abby makes her entrance to Viridian Gate Online and starts choosing her skill set and stats in a desperate rush to level up and fight the powers of greed and corruption. This story is so well written, that even though I knew the outcome of a very suspenseful portion of the book, I was genuinely concerned for that character’s life.
J.D. Astra has done James Hunter’s VGO proud. I burned through this book in two sittings and when I was done, I was sorry that it ended. Yes, the book was that damn good. Do yourself a favor and read Firebrand!
This book was in no uncertain terms “Freaking Awesome!” J.D. Astra totally rocks the VGO Universe. This is her first full length book in the series and if this is what we get coming out of the gate, the future’s looking really bright.
Abby Hollander is a central character to VGO and the co-founder of the Crimson Alliance but until now she’s been striding in Grim Jack’s shadow. In Firebrand we get to know and understand Abby. The story starts out at Osmark Industries in a doomed world. Abby is a programmer that makes an outrageous discovery in the code for VGO. This discovery sets her on a nearly impossible quest, and time and the odds are against her. Abby makes her entrance to Viridian Gate Online and starts choosing her skill set and stats in a desperate rush to level up and fight the powers of greed and corruption. This story is so well written, that even though I knew the outcome of a very suspenseful portion of the book, I was genuinely concerned for that character’s life.
J.D. Astra has done James Hunter’s VGO proud. I burned through this book in two sittings and when I was done, I was sorry that it ended. Yes, the book was that damn good. Do yourself a favor and read Firebrand!
February 21, 2019
I just loved catching up on the history behind Abby's and Grim Jack's quests, this was a much needed filler and getting the story from Abby's angle this time round filled in the gaps real good. I love that she is such a kick ass heroine even though at times she lets her emotions get the better of her. Even though she has many fears about her transition, whether she will make it alive or die in the capsule back on earth and about the safety of her mother at Sandra's hands she still chooses to do the honourable thing. I also love the link she is finally forming with Otto, as he has looked out for her from the start and they do make a great team together. The only bit I really hated in the book is when they killed the drake after invading her home and stealing her unhatched babies, i love dragons too much to read about this. However, teaming up with Jack and Cutter might be the best decision she has ever taken. So one quest down but so many more to go, the battle against Osmark is just starting out! I love the way the Viridian multiverse is opening up and diversifying, it is taking us the readers on whole new adventures from other characters points of view.
January 13, 2024
So when I bought this book I didn't realize this was part of a much larger universe of Viridian Gate Online until a good way through. The good thing though is that the world is still explained enough without having to read the others so I wasn't really lost on what's happening.
This book is about Abby who logs into VGO when the end of the world is coming. There's only a few weeks until an asteroid hits earth and everyone dies. Howver, the company she works at as made a game that people can log in and then just live in this world forever. And like most company's, they seem to only have the worlds richest people interest in mind.
It's definitely a really interesting world and I enjoyed Abby and Otto's comradery as she starts to feel closer to the people in the world. Near the end of the book, she's starting to stop seeing the NPC's as code, but as actually people. She's also a badass who does feel remorse at the choices she made and is determined to stop her company from basically becoming rulers of this new world.
This book is about Abby who logs into VGO when the end of the world is coming. There's only a few weeks until an asteroid hits earth and everyone dies. Howver, the company she works at as made a game that people can log in and then just live in this world forever. And like most company's, they seem to only have the worlds richest people interest in mind.
It's definitely a really interesting world and I enjoyed Abby and Otto's comradery as she starts to feel closer to the people in the world. Near the end of the book, she's starting to stop seeing the NPC's as code, but as actually people. She's also a badass who does feel remorse at the choices she made and is determined to stop her company from basically becoming rulers of this new world.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 27, 2019
Excellent Fiery VGO story
Abby lives up to her name as a Fiery character and the interesting sub text between the NPC characters and what else we know from other characters stories makes this a very welcome addition to the VGO universe. What was a great idea is where Jack strives for the right thing , Abby is all guns blazing and on a mission , it's easy to forget that Abby was the founding Traveller Rebel alliance similar to Star Wars Jack( Luke) got the credit but the hard work was started by Abby (Leia) and so it's only fitting Abbys' side gets her own story arc.
This was a great collarboration amd something im very much looking forward to reading more of.
Abby lives up to her name as a Fiery character and the interesting sub text between the NPC characters and what else we know from other characters stories makes this a very welcome addition to the VGO universe. What was a great idea is where Jack strives for the right thing , Abby is all guns blazing and on a mission , it's easy to forget that Abby was the founding Traveller Rebel alliance similar to Star Wars Jack( Luke) got the credit but the hard work was started by Abby (Leia) and so it's only fitting Abbys' side gets her own story arc.
This was a great collarboration amd something im very much looking forward to reading more of.
March 5, 2019
The Other Side of the Story
It's always interesting, seeing another side of a story. Especially a story as vibrant and energetic as the VGO series. This story offers a great look at what could easily be mistaken as the most generic class in the Viridian Gate Online universe. Who am i kidding...there IS no "generic" class in this world. J.D. Astra has woven a complex backstory to what i initially thought of as a support character, and fleshed her out to be just as real and as driven as any character in this universe. Another wonderful and entertaining addition to this incredible creation!
It's always interesting, seeing another side of a story. Especially a story as vibrant and energetic as the VGO series. This story offers a great look at what could easily be mistaken as the most generic class in the Viridian Gate Online universe. Who am i kidding...there IS no "generic" class in this world. J.D. Astra has woven a complex backstory to what i initially thought of as a support character, and fleshed her out to be just as real and as driven as any character in this universe. Another wonderful and entertaining addition to this incredible creation!
September 15, 2022
An awesome companion to the Viridian Gate Online series! The storytelling is on par, so this doesn't feel like a secondary series - it's just through a different basin character's lens. And it's great!
The best part is that she's very different to Jack groom the main series. She's a dev, so she looks at the world very much like a programmer does, and the implications of that manifest well in her world view. She's a whole character, and Otto is really well fleshed out too.
I kinda wish I'd read it as novel 2 or 3 during the main series as it paints such a rich view of the other characters. I think it would have enhanced the main series if read as part of it.
The best part is that she's very different to Jack groom the main series. She's a dev, so she looks at the world very much like a programmer does, and the implications of that manifest well in her world view. She's a whole character, and Otto is really well fleshed out too.
I kinda wish I'd read it as novel 2 or 3 during the main series as it paints such a rich view of the other characters. I think it would have enhanced the main series if read as part of it.
July 22, 2023
I started and stopped this one a lot, but I hate leaving a book unfinished. I really wanted to like it but she whines so much… at least several times a chapter… ugh. Also, we get it. The big bad evil guy is big bad and evil. You don’t need to have the protagonist repeat the same lines about how big bad and evil he is several times a chapter, every chapter… just no. Also, maybe show the reader why he’s big bad and evil instead of just repeatedly saying the same lines about he’s big bad and evil.
Yes, I’m making a point by repeating the same line over and over, annoying isn’t.
Yes, I’m making a point by repeating the same line over and over, annoying isn’t.
July 7, 2019
My review is based on the audiobook. Wow! This is a story that keeps you engaged from the start. It is scarey to thik that something like this could actually happen IRL but it is possible with all of the underhanded politics happening daily. At times I forgot that Abby was in a game. The narrator was great bringing the story and characters to life. Even if you arent a fan of litRPG I think you would like this story
February 2, 2023
This book is simply not good. The MC is too emo. Her internal drama is so superficial and does not make any difference in the outcome of the story. Readers already know the general direction of the book, but are forced to go through her irrational thinking. For example, the MC is a glass cannon but tries to turn down the help of her NPC Tank. She also continuously contemplates the same issue of thinking NPCs are just lines of code since the start of the book. This got really annoying the second time it happened but continues to repeat throughout the entire book. As an adventure book, this book is too focused on drama and does not have enough action. As a LitRPG, it feels like the author hasn't played MMO.
The story doesn't have enough depth. Not much has happened in this book.
The story doesn't have enough depth. Not much has happened in this book.
February 26, 2019
Wow!
The Viridian Gate Online books just keep getting better and better!
I was reading the first book “VGO: Cataclysm,” and I just happen to get right to the part of the book where this story intersects! It was like seeing another viewpoint of the situation at hand, and it was very well done! Fans of the series will definitely want to pick this up as it is a great addition to the line!
The Viridian Gate Online books just keep getting better and better!
I was reading the first book “VGO: Cataclysm,” and I just happen to get right to the part of the book where this story intersects! It was like seeing another viewpoint of the situation at hand, and it was very well done! Fans of the series will definitely want to pick this up as it is a great addition to the line!
February 27, 2019
I liked seeing how things started for Abby. She was an interesting character but I didn't expect her to be so indecisive in this story as she appeared to have everything figured out, at least from Jack's perspective in the first book. It was a nice tale to read and fleshed out the Viridian Gate Online world some more.
February 22, 2021
This was pretty good. One of the things I've noticed about LitRPG is that they're heavy on exposition which makes sense because of its very nature, but sometimes it really can drag down the enjoyment of the story. Astra does a rather good job of keeping the infodumps to a minimum. The story was fun and I will probably continue with the series.
March 1, 2019
Nice but same
Just like reading about Robert Osmark and his adventures it was nice to hear things from Abbys side. However, a lot of this story overlaps or was already mentioned in the main storyline. If honestly be more interested in the library story
Just like reading about Robert Osmark and his adventures it was nice to hear things from Abbys side. However, a lot of this story overlaps or was already mentioned in the main storyline. If honestly be more interested in the library story
March 7, 2019
I am really enjoying the entire VGO Universe. This book adds an incredible amount of backstory to Abby, additional insight into a few other characters, and provides us with a thoroughly enjoyable look at the entire Osmark and AI approach from a different angle.
April 30, 2019
Alternate Viewpoints
It's funny, how you can learn to care about fictional characters. On occassion you read a series that you really want to know more about the characters. This is one of those. Abby is such an interesting character.
It's funny, how you can learn to care about fictional characters. On occassion you read a series that you really want to know more about the characters. This is one of those. Abby is such an interesting character.
September 25, 2019
Now I'm not ignoring the great story or the fascinating main character or the oddball and fun supporting cast.
But wowza, that cover is enough on its own for 3 stars!!!
Bloody marvellous new series.
VGO here I come again.
But wowza, that cover is enough on its own for 3 stars!!!
Bloody marvellous new series.
VGO here I come again.
October 6, 2019
Another angle on the main story
Fun side quest with Abby - what does her start in the game / story look like from her perspective, instead of as a third person in the main story line.
Fun side quest with Abby - what does her start in the game / story look like from her perspective, instead of as a third person in the main story line.
December 31, 2019
Such a fantastic book Abby is definitely one of my favourites characters in the book series. this book did not really have any twists or anything but its cool getting her side of thing and what she went threw to become a fire brand.
February 17, 2022
This story was slow to begin with however as it pushed on it really caught my attention with the twists and turns, the game quests and adventure that has me laughing, shocked and wanting to know more.
I look forward to the next part of the adventure.
I look forward to the next part of the adventure.
March 24, 2023
Writing consistently in a first-person perspective can be difficult, but JD Astra executes her prose perfectly. Definitely a must-read for any fan of the LitRPG genre as well as anyone who may enjoy a story about the beginnings of the greatest sorceress in all the land. Check it out!
December 1, 2023
This was my first litRPG story and it took a little getting used to hearing game stats during the flow of the story. once I got past that, the story itself was good. Conspiracy, end of the world, adventure and a virtual fantasy world. Very creative and entertaining story.
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