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NPC's Lives #1
Tales from the Dead Man Inn
Tales from the Dead Man Inn is an anthology set in Alpha World. These collected stories cover well known and loved characters, as well as some lesser seen NPCs.
Into the Deadlands: Alistern, Grimgar, Almira, Stewart, and Flora take their first trip into the sands. The longest story in the anthology, and a harrowing tale of heroics.
Lilith’s History: How did Lilith come to be with Alistern and raise five wonderful daughters?
Bob’s Tale: Everyone’s favorite Imp is featured in this story.
Stewart’s Upbringing: How does a Half-blood Infernal grow up in a city that despises his kind?
Erin’s Story: How does the barmaid come to love a noble’s son? A story of love and acceptance.
Deirdre’s Story: What is one to do when her sister’s are finding love? Find her own, of course.
Marian’s Story: With the other three sisters having found love, Marian yearns to find her own soulmate.
Demon Lord’s Armor: The tale of how the infamous Demon Lord Armor set was created.
Skippy’s Tale: Simmer down, we know most people hate him. Understand him so you can hate him even more.
Bob’s Tale Part two: Bob is back with more story to dig into.
Magiblood: The story of Rolland and Kim, never before seen anywhere.
I hope you will enjoy reading these stories as much as I did writing them.
Into the Deadlands: Alistern, Grimgar, Almira, Stewart, and Flora take their first trip into the sands. The longest story in the anthology, and a harrowing tale of heroics.
Lilith’s History: How did Lilith come to be with Alistern and raise five wonderful daughters?
Bob’s Tale: Everyone’s favorite Imp is featured in this story.
Stewart’s Upbringing: How does a Half-blood Infernal grow up in a city that despises his kind?
Erin’s Story: How does the barmaid come to love a noble’s son? A story of love and acceptance.
Deirdre’s Story: What is one to do when her sister’s are finding love? Find her own, of course.
Marian’s Story: With the other three sisters having found love, Marian yearns to find her own soulmate.
Demon Lord’s Armor: The tale of how the infamous Demon Lord Armor set was created.
Skippy’s Tale: Simmer down, we know most people hate him. Understand him so you can hate him even more.
Bob’s Tale Part two: Bob is back with more story to dig into.
Magiblood: The story of Rolland and Kim, never before seen anywhere.
I hope you will enjoy reading these stories as much as I did writing them.
- GenresAmazon
347 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 7, 2019
101 people are currently reading
55 people want to read
About the author
Daniel Schinhofen
69 books1,304 followersDaniel James Schinhofen is a self-published author in the burgeoning genre of LitRPG/Gamelit. He published his first book, Last Horizon: Beta, in October of 2016, and has recently published his fifteenth book. A best-selling author on Amazon multiple times, his four series have achieved name recognition in the genre. When not slavishly typing away at the next book, Daniel tries to unwind with video games, playing with his dog Sugar, or going for walks around his neighborhood. His books can be found easily via his website http://schinhofenbooks.com/. Daniel can be found via Twitter using the handle @DJSchinhofen.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
December 6, 2020
Can't believe I forgot to review this... Fail me.
Now take this with a gain of salt as I'm a tiny bit biased, but I love this collection of short stories.
Now take this with a gain of salt as I'm a tiny bit biased, but I love this collection of short stories.
March 21, 2023
If you haven't read the rest of the series this book probably won't make as much sense. It's a group of short stories, and many of them are about side characters in the main series. It also doesn't explain some of the world building and history in the shorts, but if you've read a few of the main series you'll understand a bit more.
Still, it was fun to see what happened behind the scenes on some of the stories that we only had a little glance from in the main series.
Still, it was fun to see what happened behind the scenes on some of the stories that we only had a little glance from in the main series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 7, 2020
A love letter to fans who love Alpha World
This is a book that explores the back stories of the various supporting characters. I say love letter because this book focuses more on the romantic connections of these characters than on any other aspect. Wile there is some combat and raiding most all of these stories end with marriage and declarations of undying love.
One of the many things I like about this book is that these stories have the room they need to be themselves. Had Daniel Schihofen tried to fit these backstories into the Alpha World books they wouldn't have fit. They either would have been shortened, or they would have disrupted the narrative flow of the book they were shoehorned into. This solution was best, and it give us one more trip back to a place we love and miss already.
This examination of the lives and loves and pivotal events of the NPCs is just another example of how deep into the world building Daniel Schinhofen goes. I imagine that there are back stories and driving motivations for many more characters than we see here. It's one of the reasons the Alpha World feel so rich and complete.
This is a book that explores the back stories of the various supporting characters. I say love letter because this book focuses more on the romantic connections of these characters than on any other aspect. Wile there is some combat and raiding most all of these stories end with marriage and declarations of undying love.
One of the many things I like about this book is that these stories have the room they need to be themselves. Had Daniel Schihofen tried to fit these backstories into the Alpha World books they wouldn't have fit. They either would have been shortened, or they would have disrupted the narrative flow of the book they were shoehorned into. This solution was best, and it give us one more trip back to a place we love and miss already.
This examination of the lives and loves and pivotal events of the NPCs is just another example of how deep into the world building Daniel Schinhofen goes. I imagine that there are back stories and driving motivations for many more characters than we see here. It's one of the reasons the Alpha World feel so rich and complete.
September 27, 2023
Introduction:
In the icy embrace of HowlStrom, I, Kiba Snowpaw, find warmth in the woven tales of distant worlds. With ice magic coursing through my veins and a lifetime of gaming experiences, I delve into the anthology of "Tales from the Dead Man Inn" by Daniel Schinhofen, narrated by Peter Berkrot. Join me as we explore this collection set in the enigmatic Alpha World.
Basic Plot Summary:
"Tales from the Dead Man Inn" is a collection of stories that breathe life into the well-loved and lesser-known characters of Alpha World. Each tale, from the harrowing journey into the Deadlands to the creation of the infamous Demon Lord’s Armor, unveils the intricate backstories and hidden lives of the NPCs, enriching the tapestry of Alpha World.
Analysis/Evaluation:
Schinhofen crafts each story with meticulous care, offering readers a deeper insight into the characters that populate Alpha World. The anthology format allows for a focused exploration of individual narratives, each echoing the complex, multifaceted nature of the world they inhabit.
Characters:
Characters like Alistern, Lilith, and the notorious imp Bob are fleshed out, their histories, motivations, and tribulations laid bare. Each story is a journey into the soul of its protagonist, unveiling the intricate tapestry of lives that intersect and weave the grand narrative of Alpha World.
Structure:
The anthology’s structure is a dance of narratives, each story a standalone masterpiece yet intricately connected to the others. It’s a symphony of lives, each note resonating with the echoes of Alpha World, painting a masterpiece of complexity and depth.
Impact:
The tales strike a chord, not just for their narrative prowess but for the emotional depth they unveil. Each character’s journey is a reflection of the universal themes of love, struggle, and triumph that resonate across worlds, from the icy terrains of HowlStrom to the enigmatic landscapes of Alpha World.
Hook and Thesis:
In the intricate dance of lives and stories, "Tales from the Dead Man Inn" unveils the hidden depths of Alpha World. Each tale is a key, unlocking the mysteries and echoing the unuttered whispers of a world teeming with life, magic, and the unyielding pulse of adventure.
Praise and Critique:
Schinhofen’s storytelling is a blend of mastery and artistry, yet the anthology’s true beauty lies in its ability to cater to the seasoned Alpha World veteran and the novice alike. However, the mature content warning is to be heeded, for the tales do not shy away from the raw, unfiltered essence of life and existence.
Evaluation:
The anthology is a gem, each story a facet reflecting the intricate complexity of Alpha World. Peter Berkrot’s narration is a melody, each word a note composing the symphony of lives unveiled in the tales.
Comparison:
While reminiscent of the intricate world-building and character depth of epic fantasies and litRPGs alike, "Tales from the Dead Man Inn" carves its niche, an anthology that stands as a monument to the living, breathing entity that is Alpha World.
Conclusion:
As the icy winds of HowlStrom whisper the ancient songs of our world, "Tales from the Dead Man Inn" echoes with the universal tunes of adventure, struggle, and triumph. It’s a journey not just into Alpha World, but into the soul of every character, every NPC, unveiling the unuttered whispers of lives lived in the shadow of epic quests and heroic journeys.
In the icy embrace of HowlStrom, may tales of distant worlds warm your soul.
Kiba Snowpaw, Alpha Ice Wolf of HowlStrom
In the icy embrace of HowlStrom, I, Kiba Snowpaw, find warmth in the woven tales of distant worlds. With ice magic coursing through my veins and a lifetime of gaming experiences, I delve into the anthology of "Tales from the Dead Man Inn" by Daniel Schinhofen, narrated by Peter Berkrot. Join me as we explore this collection set in the enigmatic Alpha World.
Basic Plot Summary:
"Tales from the Dead Man Inn" is a collection of stories that breathe life into the well-loved and lesser-known characters of Alpha World. Each tale, from the harrowing journey into the Deadlands to the creation of the infamous Demon Lord’s Armor, unveils the intricate backstories and hidden lives of the NPCs, enriching the tapestry of Alpha World.
Analysis/Evaluation:
Schinhofen crafts each story with meticulous care, offering readers a deeper insight into the characters that populate Alpha World. The anthology format allows for a focused exploration of individual narratives, each echoing the complex, multifaceted nature of the world they inhabit.
Characters:
Characters like Alistern, Lilith, and the notorious imp Bob are fleshed out, their histories, motivations, and tribulations laid bare. Each story is a journey into the soul of its protagonist, unveiling the intricate tapestry of lives that intersect and weave the grand narrative of Alpha World.
Structure:
The anthology’s structure is a dance of narratives, each story a standalone masterpiece yet intricately connected to the others. It’s a symphony of lives, each note resonating with the echoes of Alpha World, painting a masterpiece of complexity and depth.
Impact:
The tales strike a chord, not just for their narrative prowess but for the emotional depth they unveil. Each character’s journey is a reflection of the universal themes of love, struggle, and triumph that resonate across worlds, from the icy terrains of HowlStrom to the enigmatic landscapes of Alpha World.
Hook and Thesis:
In the intricate dance of lives and stories, "Tales from the Dead Man Inn" unveils the hidden depths of Alpha World. Each tale is a key, unlocking the mysteries and echoing the unuttered whispers of a world teeming with life, magic, and the unyielding pulse of adventure.
Praise and Critique:
Schinhofen’s storytelling is a blend of mastery and artistry, yet the anthology’s true beauty lies in its ability to cater to the seasoned Alpha World veteran and the novice alike. However, the mature content warning is to be heeded, for the tales do not shy away from the raw, unfiltered essence of life and existence.
Evaluation:
The anthology is a gem, each story a facet reflecting the intricate complexity of Alpha World. Peter Berkrot’s narration is a melody, each word a note composing the symphony of lives unveiled in the tales.
Comparison:
While reminiscent of the intricate world-building and character depth of epic fantasies and litRPGs alike, "Tales from the Dead Man Inn" carves its niche, an anthology that stands as a monument to the living, breathing entity that is Alpha World.
Conclusion:
As the icy winds of HowlStrom whisper the ancient songs of our world, "Tales from the Dead Man Inn" echoes with the universal tunes of adventure, struggle, and triumph. It’s a journey not just into Alpha World, but into the soul of every character, every NPC, unveiling the unuttered whispers of lives lived in the shadow of epic quests and heroic journeys.
In the icy embrace of HowlStrom, may tales of distant worlds warm your soul.
Kiba Snowpaw, Alpha Ice Wolf of HowlStrom
February 11, 2022
Part of the rating is me, not the book. I am not a fan of short stories at the best of times. And these are actually rough to classify as short stories, they are more like snippets of the previous novels either as fleshing out background or seeing a scene from a different POV.
This isn't a book that is needed, but more of a bone to toss to the fans that wanted to stay in Alpha world just a bit longer.
This isn't a book that is needed, but more of a bone to toss to the fans that wanted to stay in Alpha world just a bit longer.
September 24, 2020
This was exactly what I needed to come to grips with Alpha World ending. The characters all still had depth and emotional intensity without the direct AW linear story. I love this world and all the characters in it (even Skippy) and I never want it to end. 👍🏽👍🏽
July 28, 2023
loved this book
A great book in a great series absolutely loved the short stories on the NPC’s getting more background or getting more knowledge of what they were doing by the main characters we’re out great writing. Great characters, get it.
A great book in a great series absolutely loved the short stories on the NPC’s getting more background or getting more knowledge of what they were doing by the main characters we’re out great writing. Great characters, get it.
October 2, 2025
Great read
I thoroughly enjoyed reading about the NPCs from the alpha company storyline. It filled in a few gaps of past history that makes total sense. I loved it and it made me want to go back and reread alpha company all over again
I thoroughly enjoyed reading about the NPCs from the alpha company storyline. It filled in a few gaps of past history that makes total sense. I loved it and it made me want to go back and reread alpha company all over again
January 8, 2020
Another Must Read!
I loved the different stories and getting to know the NPC's better that we have all come to love(or hate in Skippy's case).
I loved the different stories and getting to know the NPC's better that we have all come to love(or hate in Skippy's case).
August 11, 2019
So tired of all the submissive domination sex crap.
Enough already. Grow up. Can't these authors write real stories with captivating plots? Maybe attempt a little tolkien-esque high fantasy without the grotesque childlike and unceasing sexual connotations? Is there no maturity among this generation of authors? Do they all live within their own perverse minds with one hand on the keyboard and the other somewhere else? Please just try and write an enthralling story and let your readers fill in the blanks.
Enough already. Grow up. Can't these authors write real stories with captivating plots? Maybe attempt a little tolkien-esque high fantasy without the grotesque childlike and unceasing sexual connotations? Is there no maturity among this generation of authors? Do they all live within their own perverse minds with one hand on the keyboard and the other somewhere else? Please just try and write an enthralling story and let your readers fill in the blanks.
August 12, 2019
An interesting read for lovers of the Alpha World Series
This book contains a bunch of short stories about side characters in the Alpha World books which gives you a deeper understanding behind some of the key moments and other characters (some never mentioned) which impacted these characters and helped form their personalities and motivations. It was a really good read but it really makes me hunger for more of the main story.
This book contains a bunch of short stories about side characters in the Alpha World books which gives you a deeper understanding behind some of the key moments and other characters (some never mentioned) which impacted these characters and helped form their personalities and motivations. It was a really good read but it really makes me hunger for more of the main story.
August 28, 2019
I always have liked origin stories, and after reading several books in this world, it's nice to see a collection of stories about where the main characters came from. I liked this one, and anyone who has read any of the books in the series should enjoy this one as well. It's readable by those who haven't read any books in the series, but it won't mean quite as much to readers unfamiliar with the world it takes place in.
August 18, 2019
Great!
Well this is a bit of a wierd one, a collection of short stories about NPCsin a game. The author actually treats the NPCs as real and not iust simulations in a game that exist to promote the game!
These stories add more background to the ongoing events in Alpha world which leaves you wanting more of Alburets adventures, bting it on!
Well this is a bit of a wierd one, a collection of short stories about NPCsin a game. The author actually treats the NPCs as real and not iust simulations in a game that exist to promote the game!
These stories add more background to the ongoing events in Alpha world which leaves you wanting more of Alburets adventures, bting it on!
August 12, 2019
Wow
Such an interesting collection of stories. Answers so many questions and fills in so many gaps. We finally find out about the og adventuring group of Stewart. It was amazing plain and simple
Such an interesting collection of stories. Answers so many questions and fills in so many gaps. We finally find out about the og adventuring group of Stewart. It was amazing plain and simple
September 5, 2019
Did not finish
I didn't finish this. I got to about 5%. This is more like a Dr Phil book for Alpha World. Everyone has to go all BDSM too have a "healthy" relationship. I really wish the author would tone down his BDSM fantasies.
I didn't finish this. I got to about 5%. This is more like a Dr Phil book for Alpha World. Everyone has to go all BDSM too have a "healthy" relationship. I really wish the author would tone down his BDSM fantasies.
September 17, 2019
Story Time!
Daniel Schinhofen takes us back to his Alpha World with his compilation of back stories Takes from the Dead Man Inn. Love this series and I'm really enjoying the back stories.
Daniel Schinhofen takes us back to his Alpha World with his compilation of back stories Takes from the Dead Man Inn. Love this series and I'm really enjoying the back stories.
October 13, 2019
Really good book
I really enjoyed reading this book. I am looking forward to reading more about the characters. Can't wait for the next book.
I really enjoyed reading this book. I am looking forward to reading more about the characters. Can't wait for the next book.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews