A very good first novel. A strong example of the good that can be accomplished in the LitRPG genre.
The story follows NPC and PC characters in a game world as its foundation is shifted by the accidental arrival of the players into a previously inaccessible area. Complications arise both in and out of game but the story is 80% in the virtual world vs outside. I would say that the resolution of the real world plot line is the weaker of the two and would have been better for a bit more "camera" time.
For the reader, a familiarity with MMO gaming terminology makes the NPCs (Empty Seas?) reactions amusing where it might be confusing to a newb(not a n00b).
The story is well plotted and paced, spectacular editing throughout and flows well through the climax.
Heroes LLT, has created pods for interaction in the gaming programs as their Avatar. Things go awry when the creators lose control and the Artificial Intelligence coding begins interfering with the preprogrammed quest and skill challenges. A well written story with lots of intrigue, twists and humor when the program characters become aware. A book truly worth reading!