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Escape Reality with 11 Virtual Reality Action & Adventure Novels

Sun Dec 31 2023

by Book Raider

There's your reality, and then there's virtual reality. In the former, you're juggling work emails, your pet's incessant demands for walks, and that leaky kitchen faucet that's developing a rhythm. In the latter, you're a blade-wielding hero, explorer of unknown galaxies, or a detective unmasking heinous crimes. This is the thrilling promise of Virtual reality (VR) action & adventure novels - regular existence in your rearview mirror, replaced by heart-stopping excitement and the chance to live other lives, no cape or secret identity needed.

The brilliant thing about VR novels is they’re basically inception but in book form. Just like the dream within a dream concept, you’ve got reality within a virtual reality, within your current reality of reading. It's basically three for the price of one! So, dump that never-ending to-do list from real life for a minute, make a nice cup of tea, and let's take a leisurely jaunt through the pulse-pounding, adrenaline-fueling world of Virtual Reality Action & Adventure novels. Your alter ego awaits.

CyberStorm by Matthew Mather

CyberStorm

by Matthew Mather

Why CyberStorm is on this list: Ever wondered what a 'snowpocalypse' would look like if you swapped the snow for a bunch of zeros and ones? That's basically CyberStorm - an adrenaline-pumping adventure in a virtual world when reality takes a nosedive.

The story revolves around Mike Mitchell, an average New Yorker struggling through life when a quirky, catastrophic chain of events - an epic cyberattack - turns the world into a digital dystopia overnight. No internet, no communication, no rules. As food and water start running out, the challenge is not just how to survive, but to do it while keeping sanity intact. Often described as a gripping journey through the worst-case scenario of a high-tech society's downfall, the book explores the strength and frailties of the human condition.

What readers like: Besides its riveting plotline, readers genuinely appreciate CyberStorm for its believable characters and spot-on portrayal of how quickly 'normal' can escalate into 'apocalyptic'. The novel has received a lot of praise for its solid tech details too. Because who doesn't like their dystopia served with a side of realism, right? Plus, for all the bravehearts out there, it's a chance to live out your survivalist fantasies without actually risking life and limb.

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Otherland by Tad Williams

Otherland

by Tad Williams

Why Otherland is on this list: Take a single step into 'Otherland' and you might forget how your own backyard looks. Tad Williams knows how to build a virtual reality that is so engrossing, full of action and adventure that unpicking yourself from the book could seem like a Herculean task.

Welcome to Otherland, a series of interconnected virtual worlds that's beyond anything you've imagined. The book follows a diverse group of characters who, witnessing strange phenomena linked to their online games, decide to dig deeper. This sends them on a wild journey through surreal digital landscapes brimming with extraordinary adventures. Nothing is predictable in this labyrinth of illusion.

What readers like: Readers just can't get enough of the Otherland series. The captivating storyline keeps them on their toes, while the detailed world-building gives them a chance to exercise their imagination. They appreciate the character development, multidimensional plot, and the technology concept. It is quite simply a full-course meal for action and adventure-devouring booklovers who have a thing for the digital world.

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Ready Player One by Ernest Cline

Ready Player One

by Ernest Cline

Why Ready Player One is on this list: Ready Player One is the ultimate virtual reality thrill ride. The action jumps out of the pages as you find yourself immersed in an entirely different universe, making it a perfect fit for our list.

In this adrenaline-packed ride through a dystopian future, the only way to escape the bleak reality is the OASIS, a sprawling virtual reality universe. Our hero is Wade Watts, a teenager who spends his days scavenging the OASIS for the clues left by its creator, which promises massive power and fortune to whoever can unlock them. But with competitors who would resort to murder to get the prize, the race is on and the stakes are very 'real'.

What readers like: Readers rave about the gripping storyline of Ready Player One, as they are thrown into a world full of pop culture references, intense gaming scenarios, and heart-pounding action. Add to it the underlying roller coaster of emotions as you root for the underdog. The result? A book that is hard to put down.

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Snow Crash by Neal Stephenson

Snow Crash

by Neal Stephenson

Why Snow Crash is on this list: You know how some VR games let you roller-blade without a helmet? 'Snow Crash' pretty much does that with your mind. The book is superbly action-packed and adventurous at every corner that it can teleport you in a heartbeat to a whole new virtual reality - and hey, no download necessary.

Meet Hiro Protagonist. Yep, that's really his name. 'Snow Crash' is in step with him, a pizza delivery guy and sword-swinging data ninja who explores a virtual reality called the Metaverse, stopping bad dudes from unleashing a deadly cyber-drug. It is a smart, satirical adventure which combines ancient Sumerian language, religion, computer science, politics, and reality TV – you know, standard stuff.

What readers like: Readers absolutely love the humor, tech-savvy lingo, lively characters, and involving plot. Stephenson's wacky creativity keeps everyone grinning through the pages and he delivers deep ideas with a side of cheeky punchlines. You'll be caught in the adventure just like you'd be in your favorite VR game, with both rad, mind-blowing action and thoughtful ponderings about our tech-obsessed world.

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Daemon by Daniel Suarez

Daemon

by Daniel Suarez

Why Daemon is on this list: Daemon is a fascinating blend of action, adventure, and virtual reality, making it a standout choice in our list of VR escapism novels.

In Daemon, the death of a game developer triggers a rogue program he had created. This program, called Daemon, takes over networks, controls cars, and even manipulates the economy. The tension and escapism get serious as the line between reality and the virtual world blurs, turning everyday life into a high-stakes game of survival.

What readers like: Readers often find themselves pulled into the thrilling narrative, with many praising Suarez's imaginative grasp of technology and digital systems. The book offers a compelling glimpse into the possible future of artificial intelligence, which keeps fans hooked till the last page.

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Recursion by Blake Crouch

Recursion

by Blake Crouch

Why Recursion is on this list: Ever wanted to dive headfirst into action, adventure, and eerie science fiction? Well, that's exactly what 'Recursion' offers. It's like having a virtual reality headset on your nose, but better because it exists in the space of your mind.

'Recursion' is a mind-bending journey that combines suspense, science, and a good old dash of speculation. The story follows Barry Sutton, a New York City cop, and Helena Smith, a neuroscientist, in a universe where a menacing technology, called False Memory Syndrome, allows people to experience memories of alternative realities. It's essentially a recipe for chaos with massive doses of action and imagination.

What readers like: Readers love 'Recursion' because it's more than just a novel, it's an existential rollercoaster! With its cleverly twisted plot, it keeps your neurons firing on all fronts. The blend of Crouch's narrative style and thought-provoking themes is a delicious cake that's too good to resist. Plus, it gives anyone a hearty dose of 'what if' scenarios - like, what if I was a secret agent, or what if I was living in a parallel universe? Great for those late-night reading sprees.

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Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir

Project Hail Mary

by Andy Weir

Why Project Hail Mary is on this list: This book is a wonderful amalgamation of nail-biting action and thought-provoking adventure, all set a virtual reality scenario. The plot takes you on a stunning ride into the far reaches of the cosmos, promising a thrilling escape from the regular mundane life.

Our main character, Ryland Grace, wakes up from a long sleep only to find himself alone on a spaceship. His only companions - two corpses and an insidious, possibly life-destroying microscopic organism that threatens to devour the sun. And it's up to Grace, with no memory of his past and millions of miles away from help, to save Earth from extinction. Sounds dramatic, doesn’t it? Well, that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

What readers like: Readers adore the unique blend of meticulous scientific detail, gripping plot twists, and a good dose of humor that Andy Weir brings to the table. Project Hail Mary is superbly immersive, allowing readers to live the story rather than just reading it. You'll get to explore distant stars, dodge deadly space microbes, and wrestle with fascinating scientific conundrums, all from the comfort of your reading nook. Perfect for anyone seeking the electrifying thrill of space adventure without leaving their chair.

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Inspection by Josh Malerman

Inspection

by Josh Malerman

Why Inspection is on this list: If you're keen to unplug from reality for a bit and dive headfirst into a dystopian world, 'Inspection' by Josh Malerman will serve as your perfect portal. It's an ingenious blend of action, adventure, and a dash of spooky - making it the perfect VR-esque read.

Dystopia meets Sci-Fi in 'Inspection'. The book maneuvers through a world where boys and girls are kept separated, with no knowledge of each other's existence. They're raised in isolated towers and through all this, the omnipresent 'father' figure keeps a watchful eye over. However, all begins to crumble when one boy, J, starts questioning the system and decides to venture out of the confines of his tower. What follows is a thrilling cascade of events that palpably capture action and adventure.

What readers like: Readers love the book's compelling storyline, imaginative world-building, and Malerman's dexterous ability to sustain suspense throughout. Its unpredictable plot twists and the immense character development captivate readers, making it hard for them to put down. The book also subtly touches upon important societal issues, which has earned it bonus points among readers who enjoy a thought-provoking undertone to their reads.

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Serafina and the Black Cloak by Robert Beatty

Serafina and the Black Cloak

by Robert Beatty

Why Serafina and the Black Cloak is on this list: If you're looking for a thrilling virtual journey that mixes the whimsical charm of fantasy with the adrenaline pumping essence of action and adventure, look no further. This book is your virtual ticket to an unforgettable ride.

Serafina, who secretly lives in the basement of the grand Biltmore Estate, essentially grows up with magic and mystery flavored as her daily bread. Things take a turn when the children at the estate start disappearing. Drawing from her unique set of skills, Serafina takes up the responsibility of finding and unmasking the sinister man in the Black Cloak. This leads her and readers into a realm of enchanted forests, hidden passageways, and things that go 'bump' in the eerie night.

What readers like: Fans of the book are hooked on its excellent mix of mystery and magic, weaving together a plot that's as thrilling as it is enchanting. Many enjoy how the story takes place in a unique setting and are captivated by the courage and determination shown by Serafina. Plus, who doesn't love a good puzzle to solve alongside a spunky, heroic character?

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Timebound by Rysa Walker

Timebound

by Rysa Walker

Why Timebound is on this list: Well, who wouldn't want to escape into a world where time travel is a reality, right? This novel combines adventure, action, and a dash of virtual reality, making it a perfect entry in our list.

In 'Timebound', our lead character, Kate, discovers that she has inherited a time-bending gene from her grandmother. As if that's not astounding enough, she also learns of a plan to erase her entire timeline. On her quest to save herself and the ones she loves, she travels back and forth from the contemporary world to the 19th century world, meeting Jack the Ripper and members of her own family. There's a lot of rinse and repeat, but in the best of ways.

What readers like: Readers adore the unique mix of historical and futuristic elements that keep you guessing till the end. They also love the well-constructed characters, especially Kate, who is marked by her strength and determination. The fascinating concept of time travel is perceived as a challenging puzzle, adding a spice of intellectual stimulation to the gripping plot.

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Warcross by Marie Lu

Warcross

by Marie Lu

Why Warcross is on this list: If you've ever wished action and adventure games could be your reality, Warcross is the perfect book. It's a high-stakes adventure in the world of virtual reality gaming, promising you an escape from your mundane life into a tension-filled roller coaster.

Warcross isn't just a game - it's a way of life. For the millions who log in every day, it's virtually an addiction. And for teenage hacker Emika, it's a welcome escape from her grim reality. When she glitches into the opening ceremony of the International Warcross Championships and becomes an overnight sensation, her life takes a dramatic turn. Suddenly, she's caught up in a whirlwind of intrigue, danger, and high-stakes gaming with potentially catastrophic consequences.

What readers like: Readers love Warcross for its immersive world-building, unique blend of action and adventure, and relatable protagonist. The exciting twists and turns keep you on your toes, and the technology aspect of the story is amusing without being overwhelming. It’s a fresh twist on the genre that'll keep you hooked till the very end.

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