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Renegade Ravager #1
Renegade Ravager: Escape: A Men's LitRPG Sci-Fi Adventure
Aliens, madmen, or horrors from beyond the stars – nothing will get in the way of my revenge.
My name is James Browning. Not long ago, I was a proud member of the 92nd Legion, the Star Ravagers. We were super-soldiers that defended humanity from aliens, heretics, and otherworldly threats. But a callous betrayal left my legion decimated, erased, and dishonored.
I thought I was doomed to spend the rest of my life on a distant penal colony. But when I suddenly find myself stranded in an alien space station, surrounded by the wrecks of lost spaceships, I know I have a chance at escape. But to do so I’ll need to defy the madness inflicted by the station, defeat hordes of man-eating aliens, and crush a cult of lunatics who worship a horrifying god.
But I’m not alone. I’ll form a crew of beautiful, dangerous women: a brilliant engineer, an ancient, fragmented AI, and a human-alien hybrid. But the danger we face is beyond mortal comprehension, a threat not just to us… but to the entire Milky Way .
My name is James Browning. Not long ago, I was a proud member of the 92nd Legion, the Star Ravagers. We were super-soldiers that defended humanity from aliens, heretics, and otherworldly threats. But a callous betrayal left my legion decimated, erased, and dishonored.
I thought I was doomed to spend the rest of my life on a distant penal colony. But when I suddenly find myself stranded in an alien space station, surrounded by the wrecks of lost spaceships, I know I have a chance at escape. But to do so I’ll need to defy the madness inflicted by the station, defeat hordes of man-eating aliens, and crush a cult of lunatics who worship a horrifying god.
But I’m not alone. I’ll form a crew of beautiful, dangerous women: a brilliant engineer, an ancient, fragmented AI, and a human-alien hybrid. But the danger we face is beyond mortal comprehension, a threat not just to us… but to the entire Milky Way .
482 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 6, 2023
150 people are currently reading
84 people want to read
About the author
M.E. Thorne
58 books85 followersAn up-and-coming author writing sci-fi, fantasy, and exciting adventures.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
August 1, 2024
Renegade Ravager: Escape: A Men's LitRPG Sci-Fi Adventure by M.E. Thorne:
Renegade Ravager: Escape by M.E. Thorne is a high-octane LitRPG sci-fi adventure that thrusts readers into a universe filled with danger, intrigue, and relentless action. The novel follows the journey of its protagonist, a hardened warrior navigating through a dystopian world where survival is contingent on strength, wit, and strategic gameplay. While the book delivers on the promise of intense action and immersive gaming elements, it also highlights some of the genre's common pitfalls.
One of the strengths of Renegade Ravager: Escape is its vivid world-building. Thorne creates a gritty, cyberpunk-inspired setting that is both captivating and immersive. The blend of sci-fi elements with LitRPG mechanics provides a unique twist, making the world feel alive and constantly evolving. The protagonist's journey through various levels and encounters with different factions and adversaries keeps the story engaging and dynamic.
In contrast to Vall's Dragon Emperor series, which emphasizes a blend of power fantasy and harem elements, Renegade Ravager: Escape takes a more straightforward approach. While Vall’s books explore themes of dominance and relationship dynamics within a fantastical setting, Thorne’s novel maintains a tighter focus on the protagonist’s solitary struggle and tactical maneuvering. This results in a story that is more streamlined but potentially less rich in terms of character interactions and emotional depth.
Furthermore, the pacing in Renegade Ravager: Escape can sometimes feel uneven. While the action sequences and level-up moments are thrilling, the narrative occasionally slows down during expository passages or detailed explanations of game mechanics. This can disrupt the momentum of the story, making it feel more like a series of disjointed events rather than a cohesive journey.
Rating: ⭐⭐ (2/5)
Renegade Ravager: Escape by M.E. Thorne is a high-octane LitRPG sci-fi adventure that thrusts readers into a universe filled with danger, intrigue, and relentless action. The novel follows the journey of its protagonist, a hardened warrior navigating through a dystopian world where survival is contingent on strength, wit, and strategic gameplay. While the book delivers on the promise of intense action and immersive gaming elements, it also highlights some of the genre's common pitfalls.
Thorne’s writing style is brisk and direct, focusing on delivering fast-paced sequences and detailed descriptions of the game mechanics that govern the world. The narrative is driven by the protagonist’s quest for freedom and vengeance, with each challenge he faces serving to enhance his skills and power. This clear focus on progression is a staple of the LitRPG genre, and Thorne handles it with competence and flair.
One of the strengths of Renegade Ravager: Escape is its vivid world-building. Thorne creates a gritty, cyberpunk-inspired setting that is both captivating and immersive. The blend of sci-fi elements with LitRPG mechanics provides a unique twist, making the world feel alive and constantly evolving. The protagonist's journey through various levels and encounters with different factions and adversaries keeps the story engaging and dynamic.
When comparing Renegade Ravager: Escape to its contemporaries, such as Alex Kozlowski’s Warrior Mage or Eric Vall's Dragon Emperor series, several distinctions and similarities emerge. Thorne’s novel shares the intense focus on character progression and skill acquisition found in Kozlowski’s work, but it lacks the deeper narrative complexity and character development that make Warrior Mage stand out. Kozlowski’s characters often face moral dilemmas and intricate personal relationships that add layers to the story, something that Renegade Ravager: Escape could benefit from.
In contrast to Vall's Dragon Emperor series, which emphasizes a blend of power fantasy and harem elements, Renegade Ravager: Escape takes a more straightforward approach. While Vall’s books explore themes of dominance and relationship dynamics within a fantastical setting, Thorne’s novel maintains a tighter focus on the protagonist’s solitary struggle and tactical maneuvering. This results in a story that is more streamlined but potentially less rich in terms of character interactions and emotional depth.
Furthermore, the pacing in Renegade Ravager: Escape can sometimes feel uneven. While the action sequences and level-up moments are thrilling, the narrative occasionally slows down during expository passages or detailed explanations of game mechanics. This can disrupt the momentum of the story, making it feel more like a series of disjointed events rather than a cohesive journey.
In conclusion, Renegade Ravager: Escape: A Men's LitRPG Sci-Fi Adventure by M.E. Thorne is a compelling addition to the LitRPG genre, offering a unique blend of sci-fi and gaming elements within a gritty, immersive world. However, when compared to its contemporaries, it falls short in terms of narrative depth and character development. While the novel excels in delivering intense action and detailed world-building, it could benefit from more nuanced character interactions and a more cohesive narrative structure.
Rating: ⭐⭐ (2/5)
May 6, 2023
At my request I received a copy of this audiobook in order to give a fair and unbiased review
Genre: Scifi space marine revenge story with exotic girl harem with gamelitesque ("quest system")
Power dynamics in harem: Girls have own preferences, strengths and weaknesses, but look to MC for leadership when the chips are on the table.
Explicit/adult material: Explicit.
Summary:
James Browning was a prisoner. His Legion was destroyed and he was deemed a traitor of the empire. He finds himself escaping his old masters, but in a sticky situation. He meets and joins up with two unlikely people, an AI with memory problems from a different time, and a smart engineer from a very different background. Together they work to find out what is going on, get out of the maddening ship-graveyard they find themselves in, and last but not least survive.
Narrators
Voice diversity: Very well done. Characters are easily recognisable with accents and speech patterns. I absolutely love the way the French accented AI was done.
Pacing and intonation: Well done. The telling matched the intensity and meshed well with the writing.
Sex scenes: Very well done.
Overall: 5 / 5 stars.
The book’s strengths.
- The world building. The world and the situation is crazy and engaging.
- Humanoid brood mother, albino and AI girls all interesting and more than just eye candy.
- The back and forth between conflict and restoration time works really well
- The narration. It is really great.
The book’s weaknesses.
- The "ok this will be a harem" talk was a bit forced, but quick and done with and then the effort goes into the world, girls and action.
Overall: 4.5/5 stars
I will be following this one for sure!
Genre: Scifi space marine revenge story with exotic girl harem with gamelitesque ("quest system")
Power dynamics in harem: Girls have own preferences, strengths and weaknesses, but look to MC for leadership when the chips are on the table.
Explicit/adult material: Explicit.
Summary:
James Browning was a prisoner. His Legion was destroyed and he was deemed a traitor of the empire. He finds himself escaping his old masters, but in a sticky situation. He meets and joins up with two unlikely people, an AI with memory problems from a different time, and a smart engineer from a very different background. Together they work to find out what is going on, get out of the maddening ship-graveyard they find themselves in, and last but not least survive.
Narrators
Voice diversity: Very well done. Characters are easily recognisable with accents and speech patterns. I absolutely love the way the French accented AI was done.
Pacing and intonation: Well done. The telling matched the intensity and meshed well with the writing.
Sex scenes: Very well done.
Overall: 5 / 5 stars.
The book’s strengths.
- The world building. The world and the situation is crazy and engaging.
- Humanoid brood mother, albino and AI girls all interesting and more than just eye candy.
- The back and forth between conflict and restoration time works really well
- The narration. It is really great.
The book’s weaknesses.
- The "ok this will be a harem" talk was a bit forced, but quick and done with and then the effort goes into the world, girls and action.
Overall: 4.5/5 stars
I will be following this one for sure!
November 10, 2024
"Renegade Ravager: Escape: A Men's LitRPG Sci-Fi Adventure" is a thrilling, action-packed entry into the LitRPG genre that combines elements of science fiction, fantasy, and adventure in a high-stakes virtual world. The story centers on a protagonist who finds himself trapped in a game-like environment, where survival and success hinge on mastering the rules of the game. The world-building is one of the book's strengths, offering readers a vivid, immersive experience of futuristic technology, alien landscapes, and unique gameplay mechanics. The narrative is fast-paced, with non-stop action and an engaging plot that keeps readers hooked from the beginning to the end. The author does an excellent job of blending the traditional aspects of RPGs—leveling up, combat, strategy—with a compelling storyline that includes personal stakes and emotional growth for the protagonist.
What sets this book apart from others in the genre is its well-developed characters and the underlying themes of self-discovery, resilience, and determination. The protagonist’s journey isn't just about escaping the virtual world, but about learning to overcome personal limitations and finding new strength in the face of adversity. However, while the book excels in its action and world-building, there are moments where the pacing slows down, and certain character relationships could benefit from more depth. Some of the side characters feel one-dimensional, which detracts from the overall richness of the story. Nevertheless, "Renegade Ravager: Escape" is an exciting and enjoyable read for fans of LitRPG and science fiction, providing a solid foundation for future books in the series.
What sets this book apart from others in the genre is its well-developed characters and the underlying themes of self-discovery, resilience, and determination. The protagonist’s journey isn't just about escaping the virtual world, but about learning to overcome personal limitations and finding new strength in the face of adversity. However, while the book excels in its action and world-building, there are moments where the pacing slows down, and certain character relationships could benefit from more depth. Some of the side characters feel one-dimensional, which detracts from the overall richness of the story. Nevertheless, "Renegade Ravager: Escape" is an exciting and enjoyable read for fans of LitRPG and science fiction, providing a solid foundation for future books in the series.
May 10, 2023
As required by U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) regulations and Audible requirements, I am disclosing that I was given a free review copy of this audiobook at my request. I have listened to the audiobook, and I have voluntarily left an honest review. Receiving a review copy did not influence my rating nor my review.
In an author’s note, M.E. Thorne says that “Renegade Ravager” is “my stab at writing my own pulpy space adventure”. What a terrific stab this book is! The story and many of the characters reminded me of the television series “Andromeda”, with the moralistic Captain Dylan Hunt played here by MC Légionnaire First Class James Browing, a powerful starship thrown out of time, a sexy A.I., and a couple other ragtag comrades reminiscent of Hunt’s crew on the Andromeda Ascendant. “Rat” reminds me of engineer extraordinaire Kaylee from Firefly, and at least one of the death defying scenes reminded me of a terrific scene in the hilarious Star Trek spoof “Galaxy Quest”.
For all the fond similarities to other stories and characters, “Renegade Ravager” stands strongly as its own space adventure story. Both of the narrators are new to me, and I was very happy to enjoy both of their performances very much!
The publisher’s summary does an excellent job providing the gist of the book, so I won’t repeat it here. The adventure ends with a terrific setup for a book 2; I certainly hope the author is writing one now! 5* for “Renegade Ravager”!
In an author’s note, M.E. Thorne says that “Renegade Ravager” is “my stab at writing my own pulpy space adventure”. What a terrific stab this book is! The story and many of the characters reminded me of the television series “Andromeda”, with the moralistic Captain Dylan Hunt played here by MC Légionnaire First Class James Browing, a powerful starship thrown out of time, a sexy A.I., and a couple other ragtag comrades reminiscent of Hunt’s crew on the Andromeda Ascendant. “Rat” reminds me of engineer extraordinaire Kaylee from Firefly, and at least one of the death defying scenes reminded me of a terrific scene in the hilarious Star Trek spoof “Galaxy Quest”.
For all the fond similarities to other stories and characters, “Renegade Ravager” stands strongly as its own space adventure story. Both of the narrators are new to me, and I was very happy to enjoy both of their performances very much!
The publisher’s summary does an excellent job providing the gist of the book, so I won’t repeat it here. The adventure ends with a terrific setup for a book 2; I certainly hope the author is writing one now! 5* for “Renegade Ravager”!
December 27, 2023
The cover blurb was pretty misleading here. I'm not sure what I was expecting, but it sure wasn't this.
What I would describe this book as...is a pretty good adventure novel set in, well, I want to call it a "knock-off Warhammer 40K universe", but that's being a bit unfair. There are clear similarities and points of inspiration, but this is far, far from being a knock-off. Plenty of novel twists and turns.
I tend to like grimdark setting but, amusingly, almost always hate books that call themselves grimdark (I detested The Lost Reavers), as an example), so I guess it's no surprise that this book has a grimdark setting, which I love, but I got no hint of it from the plot synopsis or cover. And while the setting is pretty grimdark, the plot is heartwarming.
Anyhow, this is just...great. It's a good setting, good characters, gripping plot. It leans into some cliches, but some tropes became cliches for a reason.
Very recommended.
What I would describe this book as...is a pretty good adventure novel set in, well, I want to call it a "knock-off Warhammer 40K universe", but that's being a bit unfair. There are clear similarities and points of inspiration, but this is far, far from being a knock-off. Plenty of novel twists and turns.
I tend to like grimdark setting but, amusingly, almost always hate books that call themselves grimdark (I detested The Lost Reavers), as an example), so I guess it's no surprise that this book has a grimdark setting, which I love, but I got no hint of it from the plot synopsis or cover. And while the setting is pretty grimdark, the plot is heartwarming.
Anyhow, this is just...great. It's a good setting, good characters, gripping plot. It leans into some cliches, but some tropes became cliches for a reason.
Very recommended.
March 31, 2023
WOW!!!!
Okay, I've always expected an awesome read from this authors works but this surpassed all my expectations by a huge margin!!!! If your a fan of science fiction at any firm or level from hard to soft this is a MUST READ!!!! This ranks right up there with the masters in this genre!!! I feel even Weber would be impressed!! This is really that good!!! To the author if you were looking for what you truly excel at I'd humbly say you've found it!!! The character interaction, the world you've created and the fantastic science fiction you've begun to create cry out for continuation!!!! Please please more!!!!
Okay, I've always expected an awesome read from this authors works but this surpassed all my expectations by a huge margin!!!! If your a fan of science fiction at any firm or level from hard to soft this is a MUST READ!!!! This ranks right up there with the masters in this genre!!! I feel even Weber would be impressed!! This is really that good!!! To the author if you were looking for what you truly excel at I'd humbly say you've found it!!! The character interaction, the world you've created and the fantastic science fiction you've begun to create cry out for continuation!!!! Please please more!!!!
April 24, 2023
There is a definite theme in a lot of this author's books. Abandoned spaces and salvage operations play a major role in this story, as it does in several others.
It's well executed, the disgraced Legionnaire (think Legion Etranger Para as Space Marines) looking for a way to hit back at the corrupt entities who railroaded his unit. Good enemies, with some exploration of what it takes to take on a big job like killing interdimensional monsters.
Overall I enjoyed it, and we'll see where it goes from here. There is no "book 1" in the title, but it's obviously set up to continue, at least for another book or two.
It's well executed, the disgraced Legionnaire (think Legion Etranger Para as Space Marines) looking for a way to hit back at the corrupt entities who railroaded his unit. Good enemies, with some exploration of what it takes to take on a big job like killing interdimensional monsters.
Overall I enjoyed it, and we'll see where it goes from here. There is no "book 1" in the title, but it's obviously set up to continue, at least for another book or two.
February 7, 2026
Our MC is a Warhammer-esque Space Marine and formerly a member of a legion in service to a theocratic “Republic” with policies of militant expansionism, xenophobia, and genetic discrimination (Logic, Reason, and Justice). Initially, James seems like an unlikely candidate to start a harem, but after being betrayed and then marooned on an ancient alien space station, he becomes much more open-minded about his bedfellows. Mostly this volume consists of salvaging scrap for DIY projects, murdering cultists, and planning future revenge. Overall, I thought it was entertaining with an interesting setting (forgotten history/technology, robinsonade, some cosmic horror). Will continue.
March 10, 2023
Wow this book was awesome. Always nice to have a sci-fi book in this genre, especially when it’s from a great author. This is the beginning of a fantastic series. The MC is smart, strong and a decent caring person that also k owns how to kick ass. His 3 companions are strong and unique characters in their own right that in now way get outshined by the MC. The story is interesting and very well written. It definitely leaves you wanting more. I can’t wait for the next in the series.
April 27, 2023
Not bad, just reality predictable
I wanted to like the story. Power armored space marine disgraced by the government he's sworn to uphold.
But the story was terribly predictable. The major plot points you can see coming from a mile away and I was terribly disappointed by the ending. There was literally not a single surprise in the entire tale.
Couple that with a few grammatical mistakes and some honestly underwhelming erotic scenes and you've got a perfectly mediocre book.
I wanted to like the story. Power armored space marine disgraced by the government he's sworn to uphold.
But the story was terribly predictable. The major plot points you can see coming from a mile away and I was terribly disappointed by the ending. There was literally not a single surprise in the entire tale.
Couple that with a few grammatical mistakes and some honestly underwhelming erotic scenes and you've got a perfectly mediocre book.
June 28, 2023
Surprisingly good!
To me 5 stars mean that something exceeded my expectations. So I don't give this rating very often.
So short list of why I liked this so much.
Strong storyline, good characters and interaction. Good action, with believable consequences and logical decision making by the characters. I liked this book a lot more than I thought I would, and I expected to enjoy it from the free sample. Not only. I'm glad I bought it, but I want to buy the next now.
To me 5 stars mean that something exceeded my expectations. So I don't give this rating very often.
So short list of why I liked this so much.
Strong storyline, good characters and interaction. Good action, with believable consequences and logical decision making by the characters. I liked this book a lot more than I thought I would, and I expected to enjoy it from the free sample. Not only. I'm glad I bought it, but I want to buy the next now.
November 9, 2024
A brilliant exploration of the human condition. The author has crafted a story that is both deeply personal and universally relatable. The characters are complex and flawed, making their journeys all the more compelling. The writing is beautiful, with passages that took my breath away and moments that left me in tears. It’s a book that challenges you to think, to feel, and to reflect on what it means to be human.
March 15, 2023
An okay book with no surprises.
The setting is fine, it gives you a sandbox to build out a roster. The elitist, xenophobic zealots that compromise the Republic are a bit boring. And this means the surprise at the end is very, very predictable. Nothing horrible here, but also nothing remarkable.
The setting is fine, it gives you a sandbox to build out a roster. The elitist, xenophobic zealots that compromise the Republic are a bit boring. And this means the surprise at the end is very, very predictable. Nothing horrible here, but also nothing remarkable.
October 1, 2023
Great intro to a sci-fi/harem story
Interesting first book.
The elements similar to 40k and Starcraft drew me into this.
The plot, while at times felt slow; it was enjoyable and fun.
The MC and his girls are also fun to read about.
While the ending was somewhat obvious, it was good to read.
Going to read the second book.
Interesting first book.
The elements similar to 40k and Starcraft drew me into this.
The plot, while at times felt slow; it was enjoyable and fun.
The MC and his girls are also fun to read about.
While the ending was somewhat obvious, it was good to read.
Going to read the second book.
October 19, 2025
A Warhammer 40k Space Marine gets stuck on a space hulk, makes a harem out of Halo's Cortana, Farscape's Chiana and Starcraft's Sarah Kerrigan after she was infected by the swarm. They fight some chaos cultists and a deamon while trying to find a way off the hulk.
Any novel of any of those franchises would be a better choice, they just don't have the lackluster sex scenes this book does.
Any novel of any of those franchises would be a better choice, they just don't have the lackluster sex scenes this book does.
March 7, 2023
Revenge and justice is there a difference
One man, an AI, a mutant, and a hybrid. The galaxy will not be able to stop their crusade. Fun story, many plot twists, and action both in and out of the bedroom. This feels like a great beginning to a galactic adventure.
One man, an AI, a mutant, and a hybrid. The galaxy will not be able to stop their crusade. Fun story, many plot twists, and action both in and out of the bedroom. This feels like a great beginning to a galactic adventure.
March 7, 2023
awesome I want More!!!
That was an amazing story, definitely can see ideas pulled from across multiple sci-fi universes but damn having them brought to a harem book, this was amazing I can’t wait to see where the story goes
That was an amazing story, definitely can see ideas pulled from across multiple sci-fi universes but damn having them brought to a harem book, this was amazing I can’t wait to see where the story goes
March 8, 2023
Very good
This book was very good. I pretty much liked everything about it. The characters, the action, and even the humor. Give it a shot, you'll like it.
I'm looking forward to the next one.
This book was very good. I pretty much liked everything about it. The characters, the action, and even the humor. Give it a shot, you'll like it.
I'm looking forward to the next one.
July 17, 2023
Thrilling and full of twists and turns
An interesting and warped reality with mysteries, secrets and lost history.
The intrigue, suspense and thrills keep you hooked as you go from page to page with each discovery and twist
Can't wait to see more!
An interesting and warped reality with mysteries, secrets and lost history.
The intrigue, suspense and thrills keep you hooked as you go from page to page with each discovery and twist
Can't wait to see more!
August 25, 2023
An enjoyable read
A fun universe with interesting technology and background lore. The characters and their relationships were also believable and grounded. Overall it was a great read.
A fun universe with interesting technology and background lore. The characters and their relationships were also believable and grounded. Overall it was a great read.
March 9, 2023
Great new series
Loved the book! There is a shortage of good harem outer space fiction. Plenty of action! Hope the next book is out soon!
Loved the book! There is a shortage of good harem outer space fiction. Plenty of action! Hope the next book is out soon!
March 10, 2023
Excellent storytelling!! I love science fiction and this book hits the spot. Can’t wait to see where the author takes it in book 2 now that the survivors have made it back to the Milky Way
March 21, 2023
Wow, outstanding
A book I couldn't put down for any reason. Fast pace but Giving the best information when needed. Almost wish there was a sequel.
A book I couldn't put down for any reason. Fast pace but Giving the best information when needed. Almost wish there was a sequel.
April 25, 2023
Great read
Really enjoyed reading this. Nice take on SF and elements of classical stories. Some steamy scenes but the plot is the main item - ad it should be.
Really enjoyed reading this. Nice take on SF and elements of classical stories. Some steamy scenes but the plot is the main item - ad it should be.
May 15, 2023
This book was awesome! I really enjoyed the grimdark scifi vibes and the overall mystery of the setting. Thorne puts out quality material. Would recommend.
June 27, 2023
This book was awesome. I hope this is just the first book.
June 28, 2023
First person made the book feel dragged on, sex scenes were pointless. The entire book could have been easily compressed down to 250 pages or so.
February 23, 2024
Good Sci fi
It's a very cool story and lots of fun to read. I hope for many new books to follow. Sorry, one more word required.
It's a very cool story and lots of fun to read. I hope for many new books to follow. Sorry, one more word required.
April 1, 2024
Opinions
This book was a rapidly progressing wild ride that I thoroughly enjoyed. I look forward to reading the next one.
This book was a rapidly progressing wild ride that I thoroughly enjoyed. I look forward to reading the next one.
September 10, 2024
Gpod.Story!
This book was very interesting! It kept my attention and interest and was very hard to put down. The main character was very likeable.
This book was very interesting! It kept my attention and interest and was very hard to put down. The main character was very likeable.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews