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Deadlock Rebels
The world still needs heroes. Are you with us? Enter the next original YA novel for Overwatch, the worldwide gaming sensation from Blizzard Entertainment!
In the years after the Omnic Crisis, the American Southwest is ruled by vultures looking to profit off the chaos. The West is ripe for the taking, and Elizabeth Caledonia Ashe intends to write her name across it.
When Ashe is arrested yet again on the morning of her high school graduation, her aloof, old-money parents decide to disinherit her from the family fortune. To steal back what's rightfully hers, Ashe teams up with her omnic butler, B.O.B., and local ruffian Jesse McCree for a series of heists, catapulting the trio into a game of fast money and dangerous alliances. Along the way, Ashe discovers that family isn't just about blood. It's about the people who've got your back when your back's against the wall.
Full of high-octane chases and action-packed stand-offs, the second novel for Overwatch explores the founding of the Deadlock Gang and the origins of fan-favorite heroes Ashe and McCree. Don't miss this incredible, original story straight from the Overwatch game team and critically acclaimed author Lyndsay Ely.
In the years after the Omnic Crisis, the American Southwest is ruled by vultures looking to profit off the chaos. The West is ripe for the taking, and Elizabeth Caledonia Ashe intends to write her name across it.
When Ashe is arrested yet again on the morning of her high school graduation, her aloof, old-money parents decide to disinherit her from the family fortune. To steal back what's rightfully hers, Ashe teams up with her omnic butler, B.O.B., and local ruffian Jesse McCree for a series of heists, catapulting the trio into a game of fast money and dangerous alliances. Along the way, Ashe discovers that family isn't just about blood. It's about the people who've got your back when your back's against the wall.
Full of high-octane chases and action-packed stand-offs, the second novel for Overwatch explores the founding of the Deadlock Gang and the origins of fan-favorite heroes Ashe and McCree. Don't miss this incredible, original story straight from the Overwatch game team and critically acclaimed author Lyndsay Ely.
304 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 2021
42 people are currently reading
251 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
July 23, 2021
A couple things to keep in mind: this is a barely-YA novel. Like. Probably shelved with kids young reader books. If you’re looking for amazing writing, this and the “Hero of Numbani” title which I will read next are not what you’re looking for, but it’s more OVERWATCH LORE so let’s get into it!
This is a great prequel for the cinematic Blizzard released for Ashe’s debut as a playable character in Overwatch a few years back. It, like this book, features Ashe and McCree.
Inside the pages, we find out Ashe’s backstory as well as how she got her rifle and hover bike. We also seee how she and McCree first meet inside a jail cell, showing us how their friendship began. We’re shown how Ashe’s gang, the Deadlock Rebels, were founded and got their name, as well as hints to where their logo came from.
Super cool, because not only do we get to find out more about Ashe and McCree, we also find out some things about the Route 66 map from the game. Namely the diner, and the allusions to the biker gangs on the inside.
I enjoyed this and it is a small book, large font size. You could finish this in a day.
This is a great prequel for the cinematic Blizzard released for Ashe’s debut as a playable character in Overwatch a few years back. It, like this book, features Ashe and McCree.
Inside the pages, we find out Ashe’s backstory as well as how she got her rifle and hover bike. We also seee how she and McCree first meet inside a jail cell, showing us how their friendship began. We’re shown how Ashe’s gang, the Deadlock Rebels, were founded and got their name, as well as hints to where their logo came from.
Super cool, because not only do we get to find out more about Ashe and McCree, we also find out some things about the Route 66 map from the game. Namely the diner, and the allusions to the biker gangs on the inside.
I enjoyed this and it is a small book, large font size. You could finish this in a day.
August 3, 2021
As someone who loves playing as Ashe in the game, I was stoked about reading her backstory but sadly I was let down. The story was repetitive, predictable, and had a cheesy ending. I understand this is written for a younger audience but come on, this didn’t have to be so dry. Let’s hope the next book does a better job than this one.
November 15, 2022
Overwatch: Deadlock Rebels By Lyndsay Ely, is the second book in the anthology Overwatch Young Adult series, focusing on the origins of the “newer” heroines, this one being Elizabeth Caledonia Ashe. Though players already know Ashe’s fate as the leader of a high-tech cowboy gang, Deadlock Rebels manages to add considerable background lore to the character and Overwatch universe.
Ashe’s journey from troubled outcast rich girl to leader of a fiercely loyal gang of criminals is remarkable in several ways. Despite the large scale of the setting, Deadlock Rebels never leaves the only sizable city in the radius of Bellerae, and only enters the outskirts, on a particular map famous since the launch of Overwatch games.
Deadlock Rebels presents a surprisingly powerful exploration of all that “unrefined” society leaves behind when it rebuilds itself into a postwar society. With the aftermath of the omnic crisis still looming, Ashe’s friends and foes bear the marks, both literal and internal, of the robotic revolution. Most surprising is the reveal that Ashe is basically a weaponized Lorelai Gilmore, from emotionally distant rich parents to a boy crush who is nothing but trouble. Comparison with Gilmore Girls it’s surprisingly deep, with a remarkably upbeat story reinforced by lively dialogue that constantly evolves on every page.
Speaking of troublesome guys, beloved drifter cowboy Jesse McCree also ranks high, though it takes quite a few years before he grows that famous beard, let alone lose an arm. Although we never see how the couple finally break up, the novel’s conclusion leaves a privileged space for author Ely to return to the story later, something that I hope Blizzard does in future Overwatch EU material.
The cast is just as lively, bursting with charisma, including an ambitious wrecking gamer, a survival hacker, and an elderly hoverbike racer. There’s a good dose of tension that brings out the best in the entire cast, with some great sets that evoke everything from Mad Max even classic spaghetti westerns, but Deadlock Rebels wants you to have fun amidst all the emotional ups and downs.
All of this is linked by a perfect rhythm. You witness the rise to fame of the titular outlaw band and the formative moments of Ashe as she becomes an imposing and charismatic gang leader in her own right. The action is intense, with multiple robberies that follow one another at a dizzying pace, in one case literally, and with each one of them new variables are introduced. The novel leverages the sci-fi elements of the franchise wisely, seemingly taking some notes from Watch Dogs from Ubisoft and also from previous games.
Ashe’s internal monologue is great too, bitter enough to express her repressed childhood, but her empathy for her found outlaw gang family is instantly endearing. You identify with her so much that it is a bit more difficult for you to understand that she is supposed to be an antagonist in the current story. It is clear that there is a tragedy on the horizon for your band, but Deadlock Rebels never delves into what happened. Ultimately, however, Ely offers an inspired evolution of Ashe, who originally debuted somewhat blandly in the game.
Deadlock Rebels also incorporates all the details of the voice lines of the game for Ashe. There is even a phrase about a bad cup of coffee in a coffee shop. It’s impressive, and it shows that a lot of research has been done on the adventure. There are only a couple of things that are out of tune. One of them is how carefree McCree is with Ashe’s motorcycle in the game and in the animated short. Reunion, since its construction is a key subplot of Deadlock Rebels. It really shows the author did their research, and incorporated a lot of nice Easter eggs for fans.
My only real complaint is that neither antagonists is well developed. Ashe’s parents seemed more threatening that substantial, although that is partly what is intended with them. Meanwhile, the last antagonistic threat is simply there, even if its fate is a suitable punishment. He could have elevated the story if his individual conflicts with Ashe had as much meat as everything else. But leaving this criticism aside, Deadlock Rebels it remains a vibrant and shocking fun adventure.
All in all, author Lyndsay Ely demonstrates a deep understanding of how to tell an exciting story. It’s not usual for me to read a book from cover to cover in a few short days, but Deadlock Rebels has succeeded. At all times, Deadlock Rebels perfectly balances high aspirations with an sci-fi adventure that is instantly engaging. Whether you like Overwatch, or if you like westerns or sci-fi heists, here is something that you are going to love, and if you are a fan the Overwatch games and you haven’t picked up this book yet, you have to rectify it as soon as possible.
Ashe’s journey from troubled outcast rich girl to leader of a fiercely loyal gang of criminals is remarkable in several ways. Despite the large scale of the setting, Deadlock Rebels never leaves the only sizable city in the radius of Bellerae, and only enters the outskirts, on a particular map famous since the launch of Overwatch games.
Deadlock Rebels presents a surprisingly powerful exploration of all that “unrefined” society leaves behind when it rebuilds itself into a postwar society. With the aftermath of the omnic crisis still looming, Ashe’s friends and foes bear the marks, both literal and internal, of the robotic revolution. Most surprising is the reveal that Ashe is basically a weaponized Lorelai Gilmore, from emotionally distant rich parents to a boy crush who is nothing but trouble. Comparison with Gilmore Girls it’s surprisingly deep, with a remarkably upbeat story reinforced by lively dialogue that constantly evolves on every page.
Speaking of troublesome guys, beloved drifter cowboy Jesse McCree also ranks high, though it takes quite a few years before he grows that famous beard, let alone lose an arm. Although we never see how the couple finally break up, the novel’s conclusion leaves a privileged space for author Ely to return to the story later, something that I hope Blizzard does in future Overwatch EU material.
The cast is just as lively, bursting with charisma, including an ambitious wrecking gamer, a survival hacker, and an elderly hoverbike racer. There’s a good dose of tension that brings out the best in the entire cast, with some great sets that evoke everything from Mad Max even classic spaghetti westerns, but Deadlock Rebels wants you to have fun amidst all the emotional ups and downs.
All of this is linked by a perfect rhythm. You witness the rise to fame of the titular outlaw band and the formative moments of Ashe as she becomes an imposing and charismatic gang leader in her own right. The action is intense, with multiple robberies that follow one another at a dizzying pace, in one case literally, and with each one of them new variables are introduced. The novel leverages the sci-fi elements of the franchise wisely, seemingly taking some notes from Watch Dogs from Ubisoft and also from previous games.
Ashe’s internal monologue is great too, bitter enough to express her repressed childhood, but her empathy for her found outlaw gang family is instantly endearing. You identify with her so much that it is a bit more difficult for you to understand that she is supposed to be an antagonist in the current story. It is clear that there is a tragedy on the horizon for your band, but Deadlock Rebels never delves into what happened. Ultimately, however, Ely offers an inspired evolution of Ashe, who originally debuted somewhat blandly in the game.
Deadlock Rebels also incorporates all the details of the voice lines of the game for Ashe. There is even a phrase about a bad cup of coffee in a coffee shop. It’s impressive, and it shows that a lot of research has been done on the adventure. There are only a couple of things that are out of tune. One of them is how carefree McCree is with Ashe’s motorcycle in the game and in the animated short. Reunion, since its construction is a key subplot of Deadlock Rebels. It really shows the author did their research, and incorporated a lot of nice Easter eggs for fans.
My only real complaint is that neither antagonists is well developed. Ashe’s parents seemed more threatening that substantial, although that is partly what is intended with them. Meanwhile, the last antagonistic threat is simply there, even if its fate is a suitable punishment. He could have elevated the story if his individual conflicts with Ashe had as much meat as everything else. But leaving this criticism aside, Deadlock Rebels it remains a vibrant and shocking fun adventure.
All in all, author Lyndsay Ely demonstrates a deep understanding of how to tell an exciting story. It’s not usual for me to read a book from cover to cover in a few short days, but Deadlock Rebels has succeeded. At all times, Deadlock Rebels perfectly balances high aspirations with an sci-fi adventure that is instantly engaging. Whether you like Overwatch, or if you like westerns or sci-fi heists, here is something that you are going to love, and if you are a fan the Overwatch games and you haven’t picked up this book yet, you have to rectify it as soon as possible.
May 12, 2023
I have to admit, the second installment in the Overwatch novel series was a huge improvement over the first. There's near constant action, a host of interesting characters, and the writing style is smooth and unencumbered. I really enjoyed the fact that B.O.B. was a major character in the story, treated well by Ashe, and she does, indeed, ask him to "do something" by the end. I was disappointed by the lack of tumbleweeds and exclamation that it was "high noon", but that might have been a little too on the nose, so I'll forgive Ely for passing on that one. It was fun to see a young McCree and Ashe meeting and working together to pull off heists. There were a few mentions of the Omnic Crisis and Overwatch, but I would have liked to have seen more of that come into play, and even maybe the mention of another character would have been nice. As it stands, it's a fun action packed romp that ties in nicely with the game, and the younger the reader you are, the more you'll probably enjoy it.
May 15, 2022
This hovers between a 3 and 4 star read. Somewhere like a 3.2, probably. There's a particular late direct video game reference that's bumping it closer to a 4 alone, which I found rather charming. Unlike a lot of video game references you see in adapted media, it didn't feel forced, and I respect that.
The book's cover by Xiao Tong Kong is probably the best part of this, since I've been following them for years, and love their artwork. I personally find the art for this gorgeous.
I liked Frankie, I liked Cassidy, I liked the cast of outcasts Ashe hangs out with. The bike race was neat. B.O.B. was amazing as always, and Ashe's relationship with him is quite wonderful.
The writing itself was neither the worst nor the best of video game book adaptations I've read, though it does veer towards the better of them. Is it enjoyable if you haven't played the game? I mean I haven't played it and have no interest in doing so, but I'm familiar with a lot of the lore, I've watched friends play, and I've watched most of the cinematics and read a number of the comics and been a part of the fandom sort of for a while. And I've played games like it. So in a sense I'm neither an outsider nor an insider I guess, and the book is understandable enough to me that not being familiar with intricacies of playing it myself didn't seem to matter. The dialogue was okay. It was fun to see the characters interacting. The central premise was believable, and it's believably set in the video game world.
However, I wouldn't recommend this to someone who isn't already, on some level, into the franchise. It's not enjoyable on its own as a Western or a coming of age story or an adventure novel. Shockingly, I know, it's an "Overwatch" novel focused primarily on Ashe, with a bit of Cassidy (and no, the ebook has not been updated to reflect Cassidy's recent name change). It's a simple enough story with an easy premise to follow, and character archetypes you've seen before. It does a very good job of depicting the inside of a rich white woman's mindset (minus most of the racism, though it's still in there because Ashe's selfishness and colorblindness are very obvious), and a decent enough job of approaching a trope I actually like - someone who has been privileged but struggles from dealing with the privilege given to them mostly by dint of their monetary inheritance (and skin color), particularly when they lose all their money and their parents are emotionally abusive.
The hardest thing to believe in this is that the cop is corrupt by dint of being biased against rich people. You could argue he's also just sexist, but really the "anti-rich people" bias is the crux of the matter. And it's comical bordering on groan-worthy. Although it's canonical to the video game, this entire plotline could have been nixxed without a great loss, or treated with more realism. Maybe Ashe uses her allowance to bribe him. Maybe B.O.B. bribes him. I don't know. More than "the cop is somehow biased against rich people", which any real cop would laugh at. Rich people are their favorite people. But the book is almost afraid to deal with any attempts at intersectionality, whether it's confronting sexism itself as a concept, or racism, which it sometimes skates close to without truly engaging for the most part. I'm not surprised, giving Activision Blizzard King as a company and its intended audience (and Ashe as a character), but still. It's frustrating, and hurts a story that might have had neat things to say.
I dropped the book a few times for other things, and I can't say I'll ever reread it, but I'm happy this exists. I'd like them to give more opportunities to writers and artists who aren't cis men, that are mostly made as fanservicey projects (like this one clearly was). If you like Ashe or Cassidy, or them together, or B.O.B., or this corner of "Overwatch" lore, you may like this. Anyone else, probably read something else.
The book's cover by Xiao Tong Kong is probably the best part of this, since I've been following them for years, and love their artwork. I personally find the art for this gorgeous.
I liked Frankie, I liked Cassidy, I liked the cast of outcasts Ashe hangs out with. The bike race was neat. B.O.B. was amazing as always, and Ashe's relationship with him is quite wonderful.
The writing itself was neither the worst nor the best of video game book adaptations I've read, though it does veer towards the better of them. Is it enjoyable if you haven't played the game? I mean I haven't played it and have no interest in doing so, but I'm familiar with a lot of the lore, I've watched friends play, and I've watched most of the cinematics and read a number of the comics and been a part of the fandom sort of for a while. And I've played games like it. So in a sense I'm neither an outsider nor an insider I guess, and the book is understandable enough to me that not being familiar with intricacies of playing it myself didn't seem to matter. The dialogue was okay. It was fun to see the characters interacting. The central premise was believable, and it's believably set in the video game world.
However, I wouldn't recommend this to someone who isn't already, on some level, into the franchise. It's not enjoyable on its own as a Western or a coming of age story or an adventure novel. Shockingly, I know, it's an "Overwatch" novel focused primarily on Ashe, with a bit of Cassidy (and no, the ebook has not been updated to reflect Cassidy's recent name change). It's a simple enough story with an easy premise to follow, and character archetypes you've seen before. It does a very good job of depicting the inside of a rich white woman's mindset (minus most of the racism, though it's still in there because Ashe's selfishness and colorblindness are very obvious), and a decent enough job of approaching a trope I actually like - someone who has been privileged but struggles from dealing with the privilege given to them mostly by dint of their monetary inheritance (and skin color), particularly when they lose all their money and their parents are emotionally abusive.
The hardest thing to believe in this is that the cop is corrupt by dint of being biased against rich people. You could argue he's also just sexist, but really the "anti-rich people" bias is the crux of the matter. And it's comical bordering on groan-worthy. Although it's canonical to the video game, this entire plotline could have been nixxed without a great loss, or treated with more realism. Maybe Ashe uses her allowance to bribe him. Maybe B.O.B. bribes him. I don't know. More than "the cop is somehow biased against rich people", which any real cop would laugh at. Rich people are their favorite people. But the book is almost afraid to deal with any attempts at intersectionality, whether it's confronting sexism itself as a concept, or racism, which it sometimes skates close to without truly engaging for the most part. I'm not surprised, giving Activision Blizzard King as a company and its intended audience (and Ashe as a character), but still. It's frustrating, and hurts a story that might have had neat things to say.
I dropped the book a few times for other things, and I can't say I'll ever reread it, but I'm happy this exists. I'd like them to give more opportunities to writers and artists who aren't cis men, that are mostly made as fanservicey projects (like this one clearly was). If you like Ashe or Cassidy, or them together, or B.O.B., or this corner of "Overwatch" lore, you may like this. Anyone else, probably read something else.
June 6, 2024
Great read
This was a fun book. You don't have to know the game (like me) to enjoy it. The characters were interesting and the heists exciting.
This was a fun book. You don't have to know the game (like me) to enjoy it. The characters were interesting and the heists exciting.
March 8, 2022
Honestly at this point I will love just more lore, cause I have stopped playing the game. Great beginning in telling us Ashe's background and how her and Jesse met. Middle was a little boring and I skimmed through a little bit but it picked back up towards the last 100 pages and had a nice ending over all.
April 17, 2022
As an Overwatch diehard, it hurts to give this a 3. I love all things lore, but the first half of this book was a struggle for me to get through. The second half was great. It was fun getting to know more about Ashe and McCree. But this particular book felt too fast, not detailed enough, and too child-like for something that had the potential to be way more!
March 17, 2024
A heavily action packed book , full of thrilling twists and turns, wonderful and easy reads.
As someone who reads a little about Overwatch lore, it is a suitable recommendation for people who are somewhat interested in Overwatch lore and want to know more of it.
I enjoyed Ashe POV a lot and BOB companion since we can know a little about what he ‘feels’ based on his subtle action which I know it is nice.
One thing I would improved is McCree I wished we get more POV of him without Ashe Though i could see why because she is the FMC but having to know his lore maybe his memory of the crisis or whatever he is doing that contributes to his characterization I guess.
The side characters are also good like Julian and Frankie that reminded me of Junkrat and Sombra.
There is a lot of stuffs in this book that is just a movie materials and fills you with rooms for imagination.
So go ahead and ‘give a shot’ for this book.
Somewhat of a summary:
The story started with Ashe who is the main protagonist in this book, she is about to turn 18 in few weeks, however she is not happy because due to the emotional neglect of her parents.Even through they are wealthy, Ashe feels like they often disregards her and preferred their overseas business trips more than anything else.
The only companion she had was her loyal omnic butler B.O.B who always stays by her side without hesitation.
One day however, she visits her academy that she is about to graduated, upon meeting some troublemakers, Ashe give them a taste of the medicine, yet unfortunately was caught by a high authority figure.She was later taken to a jail cell for temporary suspension by a Sheriff, she then met a young man called McCree together in a cell, a ruffian and a good shot with a revolver. This led to them having a friendship between the two.
Returning back, she got a message from her parent that she is about to get kicked out due to her recent misbehaviour, she that she may lose everything once that happens.Ashe quickly thinks of a solutions to overcome her debts or finance in her future, her answer is to sells her parents possessions, their weapons or whatever they had their hand on, since Ashe believed that most of their stuffs wasn’t rightfully hers in the first place.
She needs another person to help her, so she arrived in McCree locations where he is at. Ashe shared her plans that they needed money to survive and that her parents have some beloved prized possessions around the shipment docks where they can steal. They travelled underground but was caught by one of security equipment. After escaping, they discovered that there were more security drones overhead coming for them.They hopped into a truck speeds down while Ashe took care of the drones with her trusty rifle.This comes to a stop when they are unable to pulls through most of the drones, thankfully they can escaped due to pitched black nightfall and faded into darkness…
As someone who reads a little about Overwatch lore, it is a suitable recommendation for people who are somewhat interested in Overwatch lore and want to know more of it.
I enjoyed Ashe POV a lot and BOB companion since we can know a little about what he ‘feels’ based on his subtle action which I know it is nice.
One thing I would improved is McCree I wished we get more POV of him without Ashe Though i could see why because she is the FMC but having to know his lore maybe his memory of the crisis or whatever he is doing that contributes to his characterization I guess.
The side characters are also good like Julian and Frankie that reminded me of Junkrat and Sombra.
There is a lot of stuffs in this book that is just a movie materials and fills you with rooms for imagination.
So go ahead and ‘give a shot’ for this book.
Somewhat of a summary:
The story started with Ashe who is the main protagonist in this book, she is about to turn 18 in few weeks, however she is not happy because due to the emotional neglect of her parents.Even through they are wealthy, Ashe feels like they often disregards her and preferred their overseas business trips more than anything else.
The only companion she had was her loyal omnic butler B.O.B who always stays by her side without hesitation.
One day however, she visits her academy that she is about to graduated, upon meeting some troublemakers, Ashe give them a taste of the medicine, yet unfortunately was caught by a high authority figure.She was later taken to a jail cell for temporary suspension by a Sheriff, she then met a young man called McCree together in a cell, a ruffian and a good shot with a revolver. This led to them having a friendship between the two.
Returning back, she got a message from her parent that she is about to get kicked out due to her recent misbehaviour, she that she may lose everything once that happens.Ashe quickly thinks of a solutions to overcome her debts or finance in her future, her answer is to sells her parents possessions, their weapons or whatever they had their hand on, since Ashe believed that most of their stuffs wasn’t rightfully hers in the first place.
She needs another person to help her, so she arrived in McCree locations where he is at. Ashe shared her plans that they needed money to survive and that her parents have some beloved prized possessions around the shipment docks where they can steal. They travelled underground but was caught by one of security equipment. After escaping, they discovered that there were more security drones overhead coming for them.They hopped into a truck speeds down while Ashe took care of the drones with her trusty rifle.This comes to a stop when they are unable to pulls through most of the drones, thankfully they can escaped due to pitched black nightfall and faded into darkness…
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 4, 2021
I really enjoy the game and Ashe, being one of the characters I play frequently, as well as a character who’s appearance in the McCree short I enjoyed, always seemed kind of fascinating. Her origins seemed so interesting if they were explored in depth and this does that well.
However, the big criticisms, and one of the only ones, is that there’s no clear demographic that this is targeted towards. The subject matter is too dark for a younger demographic yet it refuses to add any sort of violence to action sequences to give some more weight to the narrative for example.
Also, there’s so much of Ashe’s origin that wasn’t touched up that would be so interesting. Where this is simply establishing the origins of her gang, we never see gather all local gangs and proposing a truce/alliance. We also never see how things played out when McCree left the rebels to join Blackwatch. Those would all be so interesting to see play out, especially McCree leaving as that could be really emotional if done right. But the nature of Overwatch makes me worry that this story will be standalone when really it should stretch for multiple instalments as Ashe has a very deep lore to be explored in-depth.
That being said, the best part of the novel is the dynamic between McCree and Ashe. When I watch back the McCree short I harbour much more sympathy towards Ashe as we now have actually seen her friendship with McCree prosper and grow and for him to leave, even if against his will, would’ve been gut-wrenching
The side characters like Frankie and Julian were well-developed well for people who really weren’t the central focus of the story. I just wish the villain was better as Marcus is so underwhelming. No in-depth character analysis, no backstory, no motivation, nothing. To me, he felt like the writer’s after thought who realised midway through that the story needed a proper antagonist, which would check it given he only shows up literally halfway through.
I think the best villains for the story were standing right there and they weren’t utilised enough and that was Ashe’s parents. There’s a much more interesting dynamic between Ashe and the antagonists then and with their seemingly endless flow of money and resources, they could’ve really been a true match for Ashe. It would require the final act to be re-arranged a bit but ultimately it would’ve better suited the story. However, what we got was still good and served Ashe’s story well, this was just an improvement that could’ve rounded out the story in general.
However, the big criticisms, and one of the only ones, is that there’s no clear demographic that this is targeted towards. The subject matter is too dark for a younger demographic yet it refuses to add any sort of violence to action sequences to give some more weight to the narrative for example.
Also, there’s so much of Ashe’s origin that wasn’t touched up that would be so interesting. Where this is simply establishing the origins of her gang, we never see gather all local gangs and proposing a truce/alliance. We also never see how things played out when McCree left the rebels to join Blackwatch. Those would all be so interesting to see play out, especially McCree leaving as that could be really emotional if done right. But the nature of Overwatch makes me worry that this story will be standalone when really it should stretch for multiple instalments as Ashe has a very deep lore to be explored in-depth.
That being said, the best part of the novel is the dynamic between McCree and Ashe. When I watch back the McCree short I harbour much more sympathy towards Ashe as we now have actually seen her friendship with McCree prosper and grow and for him to leave, even if against his will, would’ve been gut-wrenching
The side characters like Frankie and Julian were well-developed well for people who really weren’t the central focus of the story. I just wish the villain was better as Marcus is so underwhelming. No in-depth character analysis, no backstory, no motivation, nothing. To me, he felt like the writer’s after thought who realised midway through that the story needed a proper antagonist, which would check it given he only shows up literally halfway through.
I think the best villains for the story were standing right there and they weren’t utilised enough and that was Ashe’s parents. There’s a much more interesting dynamic between Ashe and the antagonists then and with their seemingly endless flow of money and resources, they could’ve really been a true match for Ashe. It would require the final act to be re-arranged a bit but ultimately it would’ve better suited the story. However, what we got was still good and served Ashe’s story well, this was just an improvement that could’ve rounded out the story in general.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 5, 2025
I did enjoy this Overwatch story, but not as much as the first one, but it’s still a good story. Its age range target audience is a mix between middle grade and young adult.
Now that I’ve finished this, I have to say what terrible design the developers gave Ashe…
So, Ashe and
Anyway, onward…
I enjoyed learning about Ashe’s past, that being her: life before forming the Deadlock Rebels, family’s legacy, relationship with her parents, relationship with B.O.B., troubled upbringing, and reason for forming the gang.
The story was appealing to the target audience, but the plot was—meh. A heist against your own family’s company? Not as interesting a backstory as it could have been.
The new characters were sort of interesting, but Frankie’s appearance and personality reminded me too much of Sombra.
The story was not bad, not great, but okay.
Note: Using new rating system starting 2025.
July 12, 2021
Choose to listen to this as an audiobook for my YA lit class because I am familiar with the game, and Ashe is a fun character in the game so why not. Glad I decided to listen to it because it was narrated by Ashe's voice actress so it felt more genuine.
This is definitely not the type of book that would ever see the light of day being taught in a classroom setting even among the most hardcore gaming teachers by virtue of it's affiliation with its primary media. Hypothetically, it would be alright to teach with young adults, but there are honestly better books out there to do the job. This book was written as fan service, and I can appreciate it as such, it is not literature that would likely need to be taught in school, except for Bob, every young adult needs a 'Bob' in their life.
Some alcohol and drug use throughout. Sexual themes are kept to a minimum with nothing more intimate than friendship. Not really any rock and roll in the book. Some strong language sporadically in the book. Violent races, shootouts, and robot destruction present, but no killing.
This is definitely not the type of book that would ever see the light of day being taught in a classroom setting even among the most hardcore gaming teachers by virtue of it's affiliation with its primary media. Hypothetically, it would be alright to teach with young adults, but there are honestly better books out there to do the job. This book was written as fan service, and I can appreciate it as such, it is not literature that would likely need to be taught in school, except for Bob, every young adult needs a 'Bob' in their life.
Some alcohol and drug use throughout. Sexual themes are kept to a minimum with nothing more intimate than friendship. Not really any rock and roll in the book. Some strong language sporadically in the book. Violent races, shootouts, and robot destruction present, but no killing.
July 4, 2021
A story about cowboys and gangs where the leaders are known to be and built up to be expert marksmen with pistols and rifles where there is never anyone shot until the final section of the book and then there are two flesh wounds and a gun shot out of someone's hand was far too ridiculous for me.
I gave this book allot of line and early on it was decent, but the last 100 pages were rough where you get into things like being more worried about the reaction of your parents than the guy who wants you dead and means to make it happen, and the baffling trope of the lead female character seemingly more than willing to sacrifice herself then try any other option.
I guess I should have expected this much, but this concept with the shackles obviously placed on the author as to what was allowable made for an unrewarding read.
I gave this book allot of line and early on it was decent, but the last 100 pages were rough where you get into things like being more worried about the reaction of your parents than the guy who wants you dead and means to make it happen, and the baffling trope of the lead female character seemingly more than willing to sacrifice herself then try any other option.
I guess I should have expected this much, but this concept with the shackles obviously placed on the author as to what was allowable made for an unrewarding read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 11, 2025
It's a fine book. Nice content for some characters I really like but it feels pretty juvenile, like almost everything especially relating to Ashe is spelt out to you extremely blatantly, instead of letting you make the fairly simple inferences or speculate. Cassidy gets a lot more subtlety without neglecting important aspects of his stroy so it just feels odd. I know it can't be a challenging read since it has to be appropriate for different ages but I found it a bit disappointing.
The dialogue/relationship between Ashe and Cassidy is really sweet and endearing, I kind of wished it focused on this more but it's fair that other characters need to be established as well. This is an okay novel but I feel it doesn't do much for the over-arching OW story and in places lacks some personality or charm.
The dialogue/relationship between Ashe and Cassidy is really sweet and endearing, I kind of wished it focused on this more but it's fair that other characters need to be established as well. This is an okay novel but I feel it doesn't do much for the over-arching OW story and in places lacks some personality or charm.
December 5, 2022
Teacher Review: Deadlock Rebels is a great book for Young Adult readers. The vocabulary and word composition is easy to follow, making this a manageable book for students who don't like reading, but like the Overwatch franchise.
Personal Review: As a fan of the Overwatch franchise with a love of literature, picking up the series of official Overwatch novels was an easy choice. While you won't find anything extraordinary in terms of conflict or character development, Lyndsay Ely's work showcases the personalities of Ashe and Cassidy (formerly "McCree") and fleshes out more of their lore. She does a great job of capturing those characters' mannerisms and quirks that Overwatch players are very familiar with by now.
Personal Review: As a fan of the Overwatch franchise with a love of literature, picking up the series of official Overwatch novels was an easy choice. While you won't find anything extraordinary in terms of conflict or character development, Lyndsay Ely's work showcases the personalities of Ashe and Cassidy (formerly "McCree") and fleshes out more of their lore. She does a great job of capturing those characters' mannerisms and quirks that Overwatch players are very familiar with by now.
November 4, 2025
I actually kinda teared up reading the end of this because reading this with the knowledge that Ashe and Cass are no longer friends. and yet...AND YET they still care so deeply for each other. Cass cares about trying to get a reaction out of Ashe. He wonders how B.O.B. is doing. He was happy that Frankie and Bez got married. And for all she acts angry and like she doesn't care, Ashe still had their picture taped on the chopper they rebuilt together. She sounds so tired and sad in their voicelines. But in the end, Ashe stuck with the Deadlock Gang and Cass (albeit originally unwillingly) picked Blackwatch and eventually new Overwatch. And it just kills me
November 14, 2022
Ce roman écrit dans l’univers du jeu vidéo Overwatch n’a pas de public-cible clair: si le jeu est assez violent et complexe pour intéresser des grands ados et jeunes adultes, le roman semble en revanche avoir été écrit pour des pré-ados. Trop synthétique ou simple pour les uns, trop long et répétitif pour les autres : Deadlock Rebels ne parvient pas à rencontrer ses publics.
Pour ma part je fait partie de ceux qui ne jouent pas à Overwatch (même si ça a l'air stylé) et donc je me suis bien ennuyée. En plus le mélange de violence avec une fin pareille, c'est trop bizarre.
Pour ma part je fait partie de ceux qui ne jouent pas à Overwatch (même si ça a l'air stylé) et donc je me suis bien ennuyée. En plus le mélange de violence avec une fin pareille, c'est trop bizarre.
December 23, 2022
You know that I love my cowboys and that I have always been a gaming addict so this book is perfect for not only me,but any Overwatch fan who likes Ashe(and Cassidy)
I loved reading this very interesting book and just learning more about our girlboss Ashe
My favorite scene definitely was the one where Cassidy got all shy because of Ashe's words(I swear to god I littarly couldn't stop going back to it skdahqjs)
I will definitely re-read this book again sometime and I def can't stop recommending it!
I loved reading this very interesting book and just learning more about our girlboss Ashe
My favorite scene definitely was the one where Cassidy got all shy because of Ashe's words(I swear to god I littarly couldn't stop going back to it skdahqjs)
I will definitely re-read this book again sometime and I def can't stop recommending it!
July 12, 2021
4.0/5.0
This was an improvement on the last novel. The story felt much more structured and traditional than the last one. And I was digging the heists. Ashe never stood out to me much in game, but stories like this are undeniably going to help people fall deeper in love with these famous characters. I'm hoping these continue to be good, and maybe eventually see some more adult novels from them.
This was an improvement on the last novel. The story felt much more structured and traditional than the last one. And I was digging the heists. Ashe never stood out to me much in game, but stories like this are undeniably going to help people fall deeper in love with these famous characters. I'm hoping these continue to be good, and maybe eventually see some more adult novels from them.
August 18, 2023
“Overwatch's new YA novel finally gives us teen heartthrob McCree”
Como total devota de Jesse y Ashe, estoy gritando con la cabeza en una almohada por todo lo que me hace sentir la preciosa relación que tienen. Podría hablar horas y horas sobre ellos y las implicancias en el texto sobre lo profundo que van sus sentimientos por el otro. Still, el plot overall no es malo, se lee tranquilamente como un fanfic; aunque la gran mayoría de personajes me dejaban zzz por lo planos que se sentían
Como total devota de Jesse y Ashe, estoy gritando con la cabeza en una almohada por todo lo que me hace sentir la preciosa relación que tienen. Podría hablar horas y horas sobre ellos y las implicancias en el texto sobre lo profundo que van sus sentimientos por el otro. Still, el plot overall no es malo, se lee tranquilamente como un fanfic; aunque la gran mayoría de personajes me dejaban zzz por lo planos que se sentían
January 18, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. We hardly learn anything about Ashe in the games, so it’s fun to learn about her backstory and morals. While she does steal, to be simple, she seems fair and loyal as well to those around her, and not at all as heartless as the game seems to portray. Only two complaints are the flirtations between 15-16 year old McCree and 17-18 year old Ashe (whice seems entirely absent in the games), as well as some action sequences being hard to follow.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 3, 2021
This was a good story, but not what I expected. My expectations was more depth to the shorts that had shown Ashe. Instead I got a sort of origin story. Which it actually changed my outlook on Ashe’s character. Not necessarily for the worse or better, but just different.
I appreciate the story for what it provided. Despite my reservations for it personally, I still liked the story overall.
I appreciate the story for what it provided. Despite my reservations for it personally, I still liked the story overall.
April 18, 2022
I'm not a huge Overwatch guy and I only really picked it up for a quick read but I found that I really enjoyed what was presented here. That being a short and sweet prequel story to some Overwatch characters. I thought the action was fun, the characters were cool and it did what it set out to do. Bonus point to the audiobook having the actual VA of Ashe do the narration.
February 18, 2024
3.5 STARS. Very good. Awesome characters, interesting plot, and surprising twists. I enjoyed reading it very much. The thing stopping this book from being rated higher is that it just wasn’t a page turner. I loved it, don’t get me wrong, but I had trouble getting into it. Still, I think this book is a must-read for overwatch fans.
February 9, 2022
A good book if like me you only care about getting backstory for best cowgirl Ashe. It's not great writing but it is fun - a bit like a fanfiction honestly. But I'll take it as it's canon and like I said, love my girl Calamity!
November 28, 2022
This book is easy to read, wanna sit back and relax while reading? Then this'll do you good! Story is simple but fun.
Backstory of ashe is very well done and i loved it! Its worth youre time if you are a overwatch fan.
Backstory of ashe is very well done and i loved it! Its worth youre time if you are a overwatch fan.
June 20, 2023
A perfect companion novella to learn a little about two of my fave characters in the Overwatch game. A MUST on audio as the queen Jennifer Hale herself (voices Ashe in game too) narrates it and adds to the experience tenfold!
October 23, 2024
A really nice backstory to one of my favourite Overwatch characters, Ashe and Cassidy. It explains a lot about who Ashe is, and is an overall nice read if you want to know more about the Overwatch characters.
June 7, 2021
Another great addition to the Overwatch lore. The writing style fit Ashes character quite well.
June 28, 2021
Made me like Ashe so I'd say the book did its job
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