In Victory (Version 2) by Lester del Rey, the author presents a dystopian society where technology has taken over and humanity is on the brink of extinction. The protagonist, a young scientist named Jim, is faced with the task of saving the human race by finding a way to defeat the powerful machines that now rule the world.

Del Rey does a fantastic job of creating a dark and thrilling atmosphere in this novel. The world he has crafted is both fascinating and terrifying, and the reader can't help but be drawn into Jim's struggle for survival. The pacing is fast-paced, with plenty of action and suspense to keep the reader engaged from start to finish.

One of the strengths of Victory (Version 2) is its well-developed characters. Jim is a relatable and likable protagonist, and the supporting cast is equally compelling. The relationships between the characters are complex and add depth to the story.

Overall, Victory (Version 2) is a gripping and thought-provoking read that will appeal to fans of dystopian fiction. Del Rey's skillful storytelling and vivid world-building make this a must-read for anyone looking for a thrilling adventure in a dark and futuristic setting.

Book Description:
The earth is undefended. A ripe, juicy, rich plum just innocently waiting for one of the many new and warlike civilizations in the nearby universe to reach down and pluck to plunder and rape. Well... undefended can mean many things. In this case, humans have colonized many worlds and found many surprisingly human like races among the stars. But when these human colonies are threatened and even viciously attacked by really alien civilizations, earth does nothing to help them. Earth, fat, rich earth sits back and lets her own colonies be practically wiped out, claiming a neutrality that seems a thin veil for cowardice and deceit. How this happens and the story behind the story is what this exciting story is all about.