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The War Game #2
Cherry Mission
Carter Ash should be a celebrated hero, instead he’s leading a doomed mission on a backwater moon, wondering what went wrong.
His assignment is impossible - take over the whole moon with a handful of soldiers fresh out of Basic Training. It’s the kind of thing that takes an army, and his commanders won’t give him one.
But Humanity’s position in the great galactic Game is worse off than ever, and they need the resources this colony could provide, so Carter isn’t going to sit idly by. He’ll have to fight an army of zombie aliens, plane sized vultures, and worse. Even alone, if he has to.
If he survives it would be an accomplishment, and it's not just the Game threats on the moon standing in his way - the colony Administrator, angry soldiers, and sexy, dangerous aliens all have it out for Carter.
The War Cherry Mission is a litRPG novel for discerning adults, featuring unconventional relationships.
His assignment is impossible - take over the whole moon with a handful of soldiers fresh out of Basic Training. It’s the kind of thing that takes an army, and his commanders won’t give him one.
But Humanity’s position in the great galactic Game is worse off than ever, and they need the resources this colony could provide, so Carter isn’t going to sit idly by. He’ll have to fight an army of zombie aliens, plane sized vultures, and worse. Even alone, if he has to.
If he survives it would be an accomplishment, and it's not just the Game threats on the moon standing in his way - the colony Administrator, angry soldiers, and sexy, dangerous aliens all have it out for Carter.
The War Cherry Mission is a litRPG novel for discerning adults, featuring unconventional relationships.
583 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2024
179 people are currently reading
29 people want to read
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January 12, 2025
The War Game: Cherry Mission by August Aird
"The War Game: Cherry Mission" is the second installment in August Aird's captivating LitRPG space adventure series, "The War Game." Building upon the foundation laid in the first book, "Basic Training," this novel continues to blend elements of science fiction, role-playing games, and military strategy into an engaging narrative that pushes the boundaries of the LitRPG genre.
Plot and PremiseThe story likely follows the protagonist and their squad as they embark on a crucial mission codenamed "Cherry." Given the LitRPG nature of the series, this mission probably involves high-stakes challenges, strategic decision-making, and character progression within a game-like virtual reality setting.
The title "Cherry Mission" suggests that this could be the characters' first major operation following their basic training, potentially serving as a test of their newly acquired skills and teamwork. As with many second books in a series, "Cherry Mission" is expected to expand the world-building established in the first installment, introducing new challenges, alien species, and perhaps delving deeper into the overarching conflict hinted at in "Basic Training."
Writing Style and Narrative ApproachAugust Aird's writing style, as evidenced in his previous works, is characterized by its ability to balance humor with the gravity of the situations presented. Known for crafting engaging and adventurous stories, Aird's approach to "Cherry Mission" likely maintains the fast-paced, action-driven narrative that made the first book successful.
The author's talent for blending elements of humor, action, and romance is expected to shine through in this installment, providing readers with a multi-faceted reading experience. Aird's crisp and evocative prose, noted in reviews of his other works, likely brings the virtual world and its challenges to life vividly, immersing readers in the high-stakes adventure.
Character DevelopmentWhile specific character details for "Cherry Mission" are not provided in the research, we can extrapolate based on typical character structures in LitRPG and series progression:
Major Characters Protagonist: Likely the same main character from "Basic Training," this individual is expected to continue their journey of growth and adaptation. Their arc in "Cherry Mission" probably involves facing new challenges that test the skills acquired in basic training, forcing them to evolve their strategies and possibly question their role in the larger conflict. Squad Members: The protagonist's teammates, introduced in the first book, are likely to play significant roles. Each may have their own arc, developing unique skills or facing personal challenges that contribute to the team's overall growth and the story's depth. Antagonist: "Cherry Mission" may introduce a new antagonist or further develop one from the first book. This character could be a rival squad leader, a particularly challenging AI within the game, or perhaps a figure from the real world influencing the virtual training environment. Minor Characters Mission NPCs: Given the LitRPG setting, there may be non-player characters specific to the "Cherry Mission" who provide crucial information, present obstacles, or offer unexpected aid to the protagonists. Commanding Officers: These characters might not have extensive arcs but could play pivotal roles in setting up the mission parameters and evaluating the squad's performance. Rival Squads: Other teams participating in the same mission could serve as foils to the protagonist's squad, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses. World-Building and LitRPG Elements"The War Game: Cherry Mission" is expected to expand on the virtual world introduced in the first book. The LitRPG elements are likely to be central to the narrative, with character progression, skill development, and strategic decision-making playing crucial roles in the story's advancement.
Key LitRPG features that may be present include:
Skill Trees and Character Classes: Characters might have the opportunity to specialize further or unlock new abilities specific to the "Cherry Mission." Mission Objectives and Rewards: Clear goals and incentives for completing various aspects of the mission, possibly with branching paths or multiple outcomes. Virtual Reality Mechanics: Detailed descriptions of how the characters interact with the game world, including sensory experiences and the blending of physical and virtual realities. Strategic Combat Systems: Elaborate combat scenarios that require players to utilize their skills, teamwork, and tactical thinking to overcome challenges. ThemesBased on the series premise and Aird's known writing style, "Cherry Mission" likely explores several themes:
Adaptation and Growth: Characters facing new challenges that force them to evolve beyond their basic training. Teamwork and Trust: The importance of cooperation in high-pressure situations, possibly testing the bonds formed in the first book. Reality vs. Simulation: Exploring the blurred lines between the virtual training environment and real-world consequences. Ethical Decision-Making: Characters may face moral dilemmas within the context of their mission objectives. Identity and Purpose: As characters progress, they may question their roles both within the game and in the larger conflict. Comparison to the First BookWhile specific comparisons are not available, "Cherry Mission" likely builds upon the foundation laid in "Basic Training" by:
Expanding the scope of the virtual world and introducing new environments or alien species. Deepening character relationships and testing the bonds formed in the first book. Introducing more complex mission structures and higher stakes. Potentially revealing more about the real-world context of the war game and its purpose. Reception and ImpactAs part of a series that has been well-received by readers, with an average rating of 4.50 based on 1,855 ratings across Aird's works, "Cherry Mission" is likely to meet the high expectations set by its predecessor. The book's success would further establish Aird's position as a notable author in the LitRPG and space adventure genres.
Conclusion"The War Game: Cherry Mission" by August Aird promises to be an exciting continuation of a series that blends the best elements of LitRPG, space adventure, and military strategy. While specific details about the plot and characters are limited, Aird's established writing style and the series' premise suggest a novel that will engage readers with its fast-paced action, character development, and immersive virtual world.
For fans of LitRPG and space opera alike, "The War Game: Cherry Mission" offers a thrilling next step in a series that challenges the boundaries between game and reality. August Aird's knack for balancing humor, action, and character growth promises a reading experience that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, solidifying his place as a rising star in the genre.
As the series progresses, readers can look forward to further expansions of the game world, deeper explorations of character relationships, and increasingly complex challenges that test both the virtual and real-world skills of its protagonists. "Cherry Mission" is poised to be a worthy successor to "Basic Training," inviting readers to dive deeper into the intricacies of The War Game universe.
October 14, 2024
This Actually Made Me Angry
If the characters had been in a guild, I would have had no problem with the interactions. But the author made it a military. A private and a PFC mouthing off to an officer, no matter how new, is not acceptable. It wouldn't happen. This whole scenario of junior enlisted back talking and mouthing off to an officer actually made me angry.
My second biggest irritation in this book... It isn't a clip!!!!!! It's a stinking magazine. Learn the difference!
A few other items pushed my buttons. The repeated references to using drugs. The extensive use of the word "sick". I am not a high school student nor in college. Lastly, the author seemed to have picked so many things to write about when he had no clue how it worked. The "couple of acres of rice fields" next to wheat fields actually made me chuckle then wince.
Lack of editing throughout this entire book. Spell check is not editing. A Colonel is not a Corporal.
If the characters had been in a guild, I would have had no problem with the interactions. But the author made it a military. A private and a PFC mouthing off to an officer, no matter how new, is not acceptable. It wouldn't happen. This whole scenario of junior enlisted back talking and mouthing off to an officer actually made me angry.
My second biggest irritation in this book... It isn't a clip!!!!!! It's a stinking magazine. Learn the difference!
A few other items pushed my buttons. The repeated references to using drugs. The extensive use of the word "sick". I am not a high school student nor in college. Lastly, the author seemed to have picked so many things to write about when he had no clue how it worked. The "couple of acres of rice fields" next to wheat fields actually made me chuckle then wince.
Lack of editing throughout this entire book. Spell check is not editing. A Colonel is not a Corporal.
December 30, 2024
Rating 3.5 stars
Not quite as good as the first book, but I still liked it. This is where the harem aspect takes off. We learn more about the system and humanity in the game. Being the only person to survive the tutorial should be a good thing, but the people in charge aren't happy. They want someone they can control and they are worried about his popularity. There are already rumors about the hero of humanity. They decide to send him to a backwater moon to get him out of the way. They are perfectly happy to give him something as well. All his friends from the bootcamp get sent with him. Including his girlfriend Iris. He is made second lieutenant and is put in charge of the moons defense. It isn't that impressive as there are only 2 other guards stationed on the moon. They higher ups have pretty much abandoned the place. There is a standard quest though to make the moon into a colony. It usually takes an army to complete this task so nobody ever thinks it can be done. Carter is known for doing the impossible.
Not quite as good as the first book, but I still liked it. This is where the harem aspect takes off. We learn more about the system and humanity in the game. Being the only person to survive the tutorial should be a good thing, but the people in charge aren't happy. They want someone they can control and they are worried about his popularity. There are already rumors about the hero of humanity. They decide to send him to a backwater moon to get him out of the way. They are perfectly happy to give him something as well. All his friends from the bootcamp get sent with him. Including his girlfriend Iris. He is made second lieutenant and is put in charge of the moons defense. It isn't that impressive as there are only 2 other guards stationed on the moon. They higher ups have pretty much abandoned the place. There is a standard quest though to make the moon into a colony. It usually takes an army to complete this task so nobody ever thinks it can be done. Carter is known for doing the impossible.
October 15, 2024
Where the nukes
Why did you have actually put that has hero upgrade name it’s so cheesy. Also why isn’t there database for soldiers to learn about earth I know they hid information not to influence players but no history lesso, or news prodcasts seems strange
Why did you have actually put that has hero upgrade name it’s so cheesy. Also why isn’t there database for soldiers to learn about earth I know they hid information not to influence players but no history lesso, or news prodcasts seems strange
August 23, 2025
Disappointingly mediocre. I enjoyed book 1, but once the MC leaves basic training and enters the wider game, this series really breaks down.
There is no rhyme or reason to how the game mechanics work - a difficult and tough enemy might become easy the next scene, and levels come seemingly at random with no regard to the number of enemies fought. Gear and stats seem to affect each fight differently as well.
Also, the MC is 'military' in name only. He happens to have a rank, and his group happens to do combat, but there is no structure or attempt at military style discipline. His squad is laughably bad at tactics and mostly fail their way to victory without attempting to get stronger or more coordinated. Every time they fight it's like reading about a bunch of untrained idiots running around trying to put out fires. All of that translates into unrealistic, boring fights that had me zoning out.
I could forgive some or possibly even all of the above if the romance and dialogue were at all interesting, but they aren't. Where it isn't skin-deep and very forgettable, it feels forced and unnatural. The harem aspect feels especially forced. I enjoy harems when they're done well and the harem expands in a way that feels natural, but the MC's repeated interactions with Iris to check if he can date other girls felt like a male feminist trying to justify himself.
All in all this book was very disappointing. I finished the book hoping that it would pick up at some point, and even started reading book 3, but it doesn't improve.
There is no rhyme or reason to how the game mechanics work - a difficult and tough enemy might become easy the next scene, and levels come seemingly at random with no regard to the number of enemies fought. Gear and stats seem to affect each fight differently as well.
Also, the MC is 'military' in name only. He happens to have a rank, and his group happens to do combat, but there is no structure or attempt at military style discipline. His squad is laughably bad at tactics and mostly fail their way to victory without attempting to get stronger or more coordinated. Every time they fight it's like reading about a bunch of untrained idiots running around trying to put out fires. All of that translates into unrealistic, boring fights that had me zoning out.
I could forgive some or possibly even all of the above if the romance and dialogue were at all interesting, but they aren't. Where it isn't skin-deep and very forgettable, it feels forced and unnatural. The harem aspect feels especially forced. I enjoy harems when they're done well and the harem expands in a way that feels natural, but the MC's repeated interactions with Iris to check if he can date other girls felt like a male feminist trying to justify himself.
All in all this book was very disappointing. I finished the book hoping that it would pick up at some point, and even started reading book 3, but it doesn't improve.
October 18, 2024
In this one the harem really gets going; reasonable numbers now, but hints that it won't stay that way for long. Secondary characters are developed a bit more, but the book overall still doesn't clear my 5-star hurdle.
It's a good read for what it is, and it's pulpy harem-lit so expectations are managed accordingly. These books written by women are a different beast from those of their male counterparts, mostly to the benefit of story balance. Mostly this manifests in dealing with the element of "harem" books that I dislike the most: the MC as "magic cock".
Too many books I have read (or tried to read) have had women falling over themselves for some idiot with few if any redeeming qualities. Female authors are far more apt to have a powerful/clever alpha-ish man as the MC, the kind of man that most women are actually most drawn to. This MC is an example of that, although closer to a a Zeta if my reading of the personality traits matrix is correct.
Anyway decent book, and we get into the "base-building" phase of the Game, so it's worth your time if the first book appealed to you.
It's a good read for what it is, and it's pulpy harem-lit so expectations are managed accordingly. These books written by women are a different beast from those of their male counterparts, mostly to the benefit of story balance. Mostly this manifests in dealing with the element of "harem" books that I dislike the most: the MC as "magic cock".
Too many books I have read (or tried to read) have had women falling over themselves for some idiot with few if any redeeming qualities. Female authors are far more apt to have a powerful/clever alpha-ish man as the MC, the kind of man that most women are actually most drawn to. This MC is an example of that, although closer to a a Zeta if my reading of the personality traits matrix is correct.
Anyway decent book, and we get into the "base-building" phase of the Game, so it's worth your time if the first book appealed to you.
July 8, 2025
In my eyes Cherry Mission was not quite as focused as the first novel, but laid a solid foundation for future volumes to come. The author spreads themselves a bit too thin, trying to lay a groundwork for the future as well as tell a compelling story at the same time.
Carter Ash gets sent on his first assignment, in which he is expected to form a full colony. Dungeons get cleared, his harem grows, and a war is fought. All of this happens in a single novel. There are a few subplots here, most of them being resolved in only a few pages. With the scope of the story increased, the execution feels clumsier. The main cast is decently compelling, and I am looking forward to getting to know them even better in the future.
In no way has this book decreased my excitement for this series. This book was weaker than its predecessor when it comes to telling its own, self-contained story, but makes a strong case for future excitement to come.
Carter Ash gets sent on his first assignment, in which he is expected to form a full colony. Dungeons get cleared, his harem grows, and a war is fought. All of this happens in a single novel. There are a few subplots here, most of them being resolved in only a few pages. With the scope of the story increased, the execution feels clumsier. The main cast is decently compelling, and I am looking forward to getting to know them even better in the future.
In no way has this book decreased my excitement for this series. This book was weaker than its predecessor when it comes to telling its own, self-contained story, but makes a strong case for future excitement to come.
October 11, 2024
This book continues the good started in the first book, keeping me engaged to read it despite other distractions.
The MC has been shunted to some frontier moon colony to more or less "marinate" and gain levels, despite his unprecedented class. While the Command Council gives him a quest, they don't expect him to complete it. But the MC wants to complete it, despite interference from others. So, he sets out to do just that.
The harem grows by 2, and they were more or less expected at some point. There are others that are swirling around, and we shall see what book 3 brings. The intimate scenes were fairly bland, but they didn't "fade to black".
I look forward to the third book in this series.
The MC has been shunted to some frontier moon colony to more or less "marinate" and gain levels, despite his unprecedented class. While the Command Council gives him a quest, they don't expect him to complete it. But the MC wants to complete it, despite interference from others. So, he sets out to do just that.
The harem grows by 2, and they were more or less expected at some point. There are others that are swirling around, and we shall see what book 3 brings. The intimate scenes were fairly bland, but they didn't "fade to black".
I look forward to the third book in this series.
November 23, 2024
A high tech dungeon delve
Though the David vs Goliath trope is loved, conquering a moon with just a handful of players is a bit much. Still it was fairly creative and the characters are interesting. As a noncombatant, Iris isnt in the picture so much but hopefully that will change. Also, there is good potential if the MC develops a relationship with Nillian. Perhaps he will gain a class benefit from having an alien lover.
Meanwhile, the game-masters are keeping an eye on him and hopefully assisting from behind the scenes. Of course, the human leadership is nervous as the balance of power is shifting away from their entrenched self interest. What could go wrong there?
Though the David vs Goliath trope is loved, conquering a moon with just a handful of players is a bit much. Still it was fairly creative and the characters are interesting. As a noncombatant, Iris isnt in the picture so much but hopefully that will change. Also, there is good potential if the MC develops a relationship with Nillian. Perhaps he will gain a class benefit from having an alien lover.
Meanwhile, the game-masters are keeping an eye on him and hopefully assisting from behind the scenes. Of course, the human leadership is nervous as the balance of power is shifting away from their entrenched self interest. What could go wrong there?
October 24, 2024
Excellent! (Again)
This book was just as good as the first. Still I found several typos, Aird needs a little more proofing\editing but otherwise did an outstanding job with the first two books of this series. As I did with the first book I picked this one up and read straight through only stopping to sleep. I can not wait for the next!
This book was just as good as the first. Still I found several typos, Aird needs a little more proofing\editing but otherwise did an outstanding job with the first two books of this series. As I did with the first book I picked this one up and read straight through only stopping to sleep. I can not wait for the next!
March 13, 2025
Moving along
Alternate universe LitRPG, SF advanced technology, aliens, harem adult situations, base building
Carter adds two lovers as he sets out to accomplish his mission. Who was the traitor working for? When will he add Rebekah and his alien admirer to his bevy of supporters? Maybe answers await in book 3. Above average editing.
Alternate universe LitRPG, SF advanced technology, aliens, harem adult situations, base building
Carter adds two lovers as he sets out to accomplish his mission. Who was the traitor working for? When will he add Rebekah and his alien admirer to his bevy of supporters? Maybe answers await in book 3. Above average editing.
October 6, 2024
Great Book 2!
Love the progression from the first book. Glad to see most of the gang get back together. Interesting seeing where they get sent after basic and who gets sent along with them. Looking forward to book 3!
Love the progression from the first book. Glad to see most of the gang get back together. Interesting seeing where they get sent after basic and who gets sent along with them. Looking forward to book 3!
November 8, 2024
Excellent effort
Hero who makes smart use of available resources, no random sacrifices for cheap tension building, no (or very minimal) deus ex machina.. All this makes for a solid five star rating. Especially impressive for a Book 2.
Hero who makes smart use of available resources, no random sacrifices for cheap tension building, no (or very minimal) deus ex machina.. All this makes for a solid five star rating. Especially impressive for a Book 2.
June 4, 2025
guilty pleasure?
It’s not great, but it’s reasonably enjoyable. Don’t expect depth or logic.
I’ve got other stuff to read for now. Maybe I’ll pickup book 3 when I need a change of pace.
It’s not great, but it’s reasonably enjoyable. Don’t expect depth or logic.
I’ve got other stuff to read for now. Maybe I’ll pickup book 3 when I need a change of pace.
November 1, 2025
A very entertaining addition
I’m thoroughly enjoying this series. It’s well written and the plot has depth and substance. The harem aspect is a subplot with substance…and actually enhances the entertainment of the plot. Looking forward to book 3.
I’m thoroughly enjoying this series. It’s well written and the plot has depth and substance. The harem aspect is a subplot with substance…and actually enhances the entertainment of the plot. Looking forward to book 3.
October 16, 2024
For Humanity!
Great sequel. Lots of action plus world and character building with just enough spicy to keep it entertaining and follow on from book 1.
Great sequel. Lots of action plus world and character building with just enough spicy to keep it entertaining and follow on from book 1.
October 30, 2024
fun and feel good
The book was intense in moments, sweet in others, and spicy in some and I overall really liked it. On to the next!
The book was intense in moments, sweet in others, and spicy in some and I overall really liked it. On to the next!
November 7, 2024
This went in a bit of a boring direction, like a sort of city-building thing. Couldn’t finish I’m afraid.
March 26, 2025
Fast paced action, great characters, a little bit of intrigue, and some spicy romance. This volume is a step up from the already great first book in the series.
June 23, 2025
A fun adventure
The adventures continue to captivate and excite. The lore and mystery surrounding the game also continues to entice my need to know more.
The adventures continue to captivate and excite. The lore and mystery surrounding the game also continues to entice my need to know more.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews