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Reality Benders #7
Cause for War
The Army of Earth is being sent on its first tour of duty. Its fifty thousand proud and valiant troopers are the best of the best, full of hope for brilliant victories and spoils of war that can help Earth's humanity along in its development.
There's just one little problem though. The operation's Geckho commanders view their human vassals as mere cannon fodder, good only for plugging up holes in their defensive line and shipping out to the space war’s most punishing hotspots where the chance of surviving is practically nil.
How should the Kung of Earth behave in this situation? Disobey the suzerains' orders, draw their ire and put his home planet under threat of complete annihilation? Or make a play for the freedom of humanity in a game of his own?
There's just one little problem though. The operation's Geckho commanders view their human vassals as mere cannon fodder, good only for plugging up holes in their defensive line and shipping out to the space war’s most punishing hotspots where the chance of surviving is practically nil.
How should the Kung of Earth behave in this situation? Disobey the suzerains' orders, draw their ire and put his home planet under threat of complete annihilation? Or make a play for the freedom of humanity in a game of his own?
629 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 11, 2021
148 people are currently reading
87 people want to read
About the author
Michael Atamanov
58 books555 followersMichael Atamanov was born in 1975 in Grozny, Chechnia. He excelled at school, winning numerous national science and writing competitions. Having graduated with honors, he entered Moscow University to study material engineering. Soon, however, he had no home to return to: their house was destroyed during the first Chechen campaign. Michael's family fled the war, taking shelter with some relatives in Stavropol Territory in the South of Russia.
Having graduated from the University, Michael was forced to accept whatever work was available. He moonlighted in chemical labs, loaded trucks, translated technical articles, worked as a software installer as well as scene shifter for local artists and events. At the same time he never stopped writing, even when squatting in some seedy Moscow hostels. Writing became an urgent need for Michael, driving him to submit articles to science publications, news fillers for a variety of web sites and a plethora of technical and copywriting gigs.
Then one day unexpectedly for himself he started writing fairy tales and science fiction novels. For several years, his audience consisted of only one person: Michael's elder son. Then, at the end of 2014 he decided to upload one of his manuscripts to a free online writers resource. Readers liked it and demanded a sequel. Michael uploaded another book, and yet another, his audience growing as did his list. It was his readers who helped Michael hone his writing style. He finally had the breakthrough he deserved when the Moscow-based EKSMO - the biggest publishing house in Europe - offered him a contract for his first and consequent books.
Having graduated from the University, Michael was forced to accept whatever work was available. He moonlighted in chemical labs, loaded trucks, translated technical articles, worked as a software installer as well as scene shifter for local artists and events. At the same time he never stopped writing, even when squatting in some seedy Moscow hostels. Writing became an urgent need for Michael, driving him to submit articles to science publications, news fillers for a variety of web sites and a plethora of technical and copywriting gigs.
Then one day unexpectedly for himself he started writing fairy tales and science fiction novels. For several years, his audience consisted of only one person: Michael's elder son. Then, at the end of 2014 he decided to upload one of his manuscripts to a free online writers resource. Readers liked it and demanded a sequel. Michael uploaded another book, and yet another, his audience growing as did his list. It was his readers who helped Michael hone his writing style. He finally had the breakthrough he deserved when the Moscow-based EKSMO - the biggest publishing house in Europe - offered him a contract for his first and consequent books.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
April 26, 2021
With this book, I am done with this series.
I honestly don't think the author knows where he's going with it and secondly, I think the translation is definitely lacking.
Furthermore (if you've read this book, you'll know that this transition has been used 74 times in the story), I think this is a real problem with most of the books that come out from MDB that are part of longer series. Perhaps multiple translators working on the same series is not the way to go?
I felt more annoyed with Gnat this time around and the story really doesn't get anywhere. Yeah, some things happen, but the story arc is no further along then how the last book finished and that one was already a disappointment. You can literally read the first 3 chapters and the last chapter and be fully immersed and up to date in the story.
I honestly don't think the author knows where he's going with it and secondly, I think the translation is definitely lacking.
Furthermore (if you've read this book, you'll know that this transition has been used 74 times in the story), I think this is a real problem with most of the books that come out from MDB that are part of longer series. Perhaps multiple translators working on the same series is not the way to go?
I felt more annoyed with Gnat this time around and the story really doesn't get anywhere. Yeah, some things happen, but the story arc is no further along then how the last book finished and that one was already a disappointment. You can literally read the first 3 chapters and the last chapter and be fully immersed and up to date in the story.
March 25, 2021
Ok .... but
The MC is getting a bit OP and it’s degrading the story line. Biggest issue? It seems perilously close to turning into another harem novel. Will check the reviews before buying the next one.
The MC is getting a bit OP and it’s degrading the story line. Biggest issue? It seems perilously close to turning into another harem novel. Will check the reviews before buying the next one.
April 5, 2021
Excellent
This is a really strong instalment in the series. Previous books have had significant political arcs that seemed to drag the story a little bit this novel was all go. The ending, while not a cliffhanger per se, sets the next book up for another action packed instalment as well. This series for me is a real high point in LITRPG.
This is a really strong instalment in the series. Previous books have had significant political arcs that seemed to drag the story a little bit this novel was all go. The ending, while not a cliffhanger per se, sets the next book up for another action packed instalment as well. This series for me is a real high point in LITRPG.
March 21, 2021
Book 7 picks up with Gnat pulling together the Relict faction on Earth while trying to get funds for expansion on more nodes and the shield generators to protect Earth. And a bigger fleet would help, too.
The book takes us on a galactic tour of the who's who of leaders of different races in the galaxy, and sets up book 8 quite nicely. The invading force from book 6 is causing the Meleyaphatians a lot of trouble, and a new empire appears on the edge of the known galaxy.
Meanwhile, the Kung of the Geckho demands an army of 50,000 troops from Earth to take the fight to the Meleyaphatians (this was setup in book 6). Gnat barely pulls the required number of soldiers together and sends them to their deaths.
A few characters from past books make an appearance, both good and bad. There is still more effort put into opening more functionality from the relict devices, and when their lone Relict person on ship doesn't come back into the game, they start to worry.
The last third of the book is made up of calls from various factions on Earth as they try to get Kung Gnat to save them. I won't spoil anything, and it only adds to the list of things Gnat needs to get done.
There is time spent near the end where Gnat addresses the Magocratic world to resolve some issues which I thought was long overdue. I think the most appealing aspect of Gnat is that no matter how dire the situation, he finds a way to keep out of trouble (mostly).
The notifications are fine and similar to previous books. I will mention a footnote which refers to the Quarantine Planet, a book that I couldn't find in English from the author (maybe it hasn't been translated yet?). It wasn't a big deal, but it would be good to read the background for the character it refers to.
Highly recommended. 5/5*
The book takes us on a galactic tour of the who's who of leaders of different races in the galaxy, and sets up book 8 quite nicely. The invading force from book 6 is causing the Meleyaphatians a lot of trouble, and a new empire appears on the edge of the known galaxy.
Meanwhile, the Kung of the Geckho demands an army of 50,000 troops from Earth to take the fight to the Meleyaphatians (this was setup in book 6). Gnat barely pulls the required number of soldiers together and sends them to their deaths.
A few characters from past books make an appearance, both good and bad. There is still more effort put into opening more functionality from the relict devices, and when their lone Relict person on ship doesn't come back into the game, they start to worry.
The last third of the book is made up of calls from various factions on Earth as they try to get Kung Gnat to save them. I won't spoil anything, and it only adds to the list of things Gnat needs to get done.
There is time spent near the end where Gnat addresses the Magocratic world to resolve some issues which I thought was long overdue. I think the most appealing aspect of Gnat is that no matter how dire the situation, he finds a way to keep out of trouble (mostly).
The notifications are fine and similar to previous books. I will mention a footnote which refers to the Quarantine Planet, a book that I couldn't find in English from the author (maybe it hasn't been translated yet?). It wasn't a big deal, but it would be good to read the background for the character it refers to.
Highly recommended. 5/5*
March 29, 2021
I received a review copy of this book.
Very nice continuation of the story. The descriptive text of the book claims humans are being used as cannon fodder, which is true, but sometimes, the fodder learns to bite back, and in this case, humans look like they're finally taking a hand in their own development, and what a hand that looks like it's going to turn out to be.
Lots of issues for our main character to figure out, betrayal, (what's a good space opera without betrayal), level ups (one of the best parts of the story is trying to figure out what will be chosen next as skills hit higher tiers), and getting the pyramid under control (assuming that's possible of course) makes for a grand tale, and the story just keeps getting larger as it goes. It appears great things are in store for our main character, the humans, and the relic faction too.
I for one, don't want to miss a second of it, and if you've been following this series, you'll want to add this one to your read list as soon as you can.
Very nice continuation of the story. The descriptive text of the book claims humans are being used as cannon fodder, which is true, but sometimes, the fodder learns to bite back, and in this case, humans look like they're finally taking a hand in their own development, and what a hand that looks like it's going to turn out to be.
Lots of issues for our main character to figure out, betrayal, (what's a good space opera without betrayal), level ups (one of the best parts of the story is trying to figure out what will be chosen next as skills hit higher tiers), and getting the pyramid under control (assuming that's possible of course) makes for a grand tale, and the story just keeps getting larger as it goes. It appears great things are in store for our main character, the humans, and the relic faction too.
I for one, don't want to miss a second of it, and if you've been following this series, you'll want to add this one to your read list as soon as you can.
April 17, 2021
Entertaining Read
Gnat is now Kung of Earth. How will he be able to protect humanity from exploitation by the great space faring races? Will he be able to raise the army of humans demanded by the Kong of the Geckho, Earth's masters and protectors? Advances in rank and power are made by Gnat and his crew. The characters are compelling. I like the action, humor, romance, strategy, and intrigue. I look forward to the next book.
Gnat is now Kung of Earth. How will he be able to protect humanity from exploitation by the great space faring races? Will he be able to raise the army of humans demanded by the Kong of the Geckho, Earth's masters and protectors? Advances in rank and power are made by Gnat and his crew. The characters are compelling. I like the action, humor, romance, strategy, and intrigue. I look forward to the next book.
March 11, 2021
First, my review, then it’s time for a new copypasta:
“This was a fun book. I am glad that I read it. You should try it too.”
I am not a bot even though my reviews are identical. Of course, that is what a bot would say trying to pass itself off as human. But I would argue that trying to pass as human is enough to at least qualify as a reviewer.
I enjoyed this book, so my goal is to promote it and help the author. I am not going to share my reasoning, thoughts on the book, or any opinions that would influence your decision to read it. It is my opinion that Art needs to be experienced at an individual level. You are the only one that can determine what you like and don’t like. Don’t let others make that decision for you. You should definitely read the book and completely ignore all of the reviews. Or not if you don’t think this book is for you. That choice is all yours and the beauty of art appreciation. You are a much better judge of what you will like than anyone here.
As always, I am open to debates and arguments, but also vain enough to seek acknowledgement, so feel free to roast me or applaud my efforts. Either is acceptable, because if you are paying attention to me then you are at least considering the book. And THAT my friends is exactly why you see my comments here.
Cheers
“This was a fun book. I am glad that I read it. You should try it too.”
I am not a bot even though my reviews are identical. Of course, that is what a bot would say trying to pass itself off as human. But I would argue that trying to pass as human is enough to at least qualify as a reviewer.
I enjoyed this book, so my goal is to promote it and help the author. I am not going to share my reasoning, thoughts on the book, or any opinions that would influence your decision to read it. It is my opinion that Art needs to be experienced at an individual level. You are the only one that can determine what you like and don’t like. Don’t let others make that decision for you. You should definitely read the book and completely ignore all of the reviews. Or not if you don’t think this book is for you. That choice is all yours and the beauty of art appreciation. You are a much better judge of what you will like than anyone here.
As always, I am open to debates and arguments, but also vain enough to seek acknowledgement, so feel free to roast me or applaud my efforts. Either is acceptable, because if you are paying attention to me then you are at least considering the book. And THAT my friends is exactly why you see my comments here.
Cheers
March 28, 2021
Trash
At first I really like this series. However slowly gone downhill. This book is trash ome fantasy boys online fantasy. The same tropes over and over again. Like everyone like in Japanese anime of somebody Strokes are done very sarcastically in comically but at least the translation sure doesn't come off that way. Yes good light RPG series turning into trash is nothing new this yet another Series where the author needs to have more originality and not just keep putting out crap.
At first I really like this series. However slowly gone downhill. This book is trash ome fantasy boys online fantasy. The same tropes over and over again. Like everyone like in Japanese anime of somebody Strokes are done very sarcastically in comically but at least the translation sure doesn't come off that way. Yes good light RPG series turning into trash is nothing new this yet another Series where the author needs to have more originality and not just keep putting out crap.
November 20, 2021
I couldn’t even find the strength to disagree when Valeri-Urla laid claim to the most luxurious apartments on Poko-Poko as her personal residence an hour earlier, which I had previously declared my property for all to hear.
Authority reduced to 128!
Authority reduced to 127!
Authority reduced to 126!
Authority reduced to 125!
Authority reduced to 124!
Authority reduced to 123!
Authority reduced to 122!
Authority reduced to 121!
Authority reduced to 120!
Authority reduced to 119!
Authority reduced to 128!
Authority reduced to 127!
Authority reduced to 126!
Authority reduced to 125!
Authority reduced to 124!
Authority reduced to 123!
Authority reduced to 122!
Authority reduced to 121!
Authority reduced to 120!
Authority reduced to 119!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 2, 2021
Still good
This latest book in the series still has Gnat still tearing up the galaxy. Although there's a lot more of the same it's still very entertaining. Nothing groundbreaking in this book compared to the others but still moving forward.The MC is now having to manage a couple of girlfriends.Nothing bad there But between real world and game could be Interesting. The usual machismo From the Russian litrpg's is not As severe in this series and makes it quite a bit more enjoyable. I look forward to the next book
This latest book in the series still has Gnat still tearing up the galaxy. Although there's a lot more of the same it's still very entertaining. Nothing groundbreaking in this book compared to the others but still moving forward.The MC is now having to manage a couple of girlfriends.Nothing bad there But between real world and game could be Interesting. The usual machismo From the Russian litrpg's is not As severe in this series and makes it quite a bit more enjoyable. I look forward to the next book
March 24, 2021
Ever Onwards
Earth is finally coming into it's own in this book. The Relict Faction proving its strength on Earth, the Army of Earth projecting competence across the galaxy, and the increasing presence of the Perimeter Defense Universe. Overall another great addition to the series.
Earth is finally coming into it's own in this book. The Relict Faction proving its strength on Earth, the Army of Earth projecting competence across the galaxy, and the increasing presence of the Perimeter Defense Universe. Overall another great addition to the series.
March 22, 2024
This is one of those that I received an ARC for. Now I don't translate, can't speak Russian to save your life. What I do is check the translation for readability and errors.
Personally this series is probably one of my favorites.
8/10 If you spot any errors please let the publisher know. They are really good at pulling the books and fixing the mistakes and getting the book back out there.
Personally this series is probably one of my favorites.
8/10 If you spot any errors please let the publisher know. They are really good at pulling the books and fixing the mistakes and getting the book back out there.
March 19, 2021
Amazing
Another amazing book in the series! I cannot wait to read the next one and hope it comes out quickly! This author is amazing and if you haven’t read this series you need to stat!
Another amazing book in the series! I cannot wait to read the next one and hope it comes out quickly! This author is amazing and if you haven’t read this series you need to stat!
March 21, 2021
This is an interesting continuation of the series, I particularly like how this series is starting to show that it is part of the Perimeter Defense Universe. I can't wait until Georg comes in on the scene and teams up with Gnat. This series is starting to get quite interesting.
July 29, 2021
В этой книге читатель уже вплотную подошёл к этапу "Смешались в кучу кони, люди..." ©, т.к. повествование дошло до той стадии, в которой уже можно без труда запутаться кто, где и с кем... Чем же оно всё закончится? 7-я книга всё-таки.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 2, 2022
Narration was great. Story? Not so much. The author is progressing the story along so slowly that I'd bet he's trying to get it converted into a tv show...where stuff happens, but the story line never ends.
March 22, 2021
Excellent
Keeps the action up as a new war arises that inflames the galaxy and involves Earth. Great read and fast paced!
Keeps the action up as a new war arises that inflames the galaxy and involves Earth. Great read and fast paced!
Read
April 9, 2021Another good addition to the series
Another good addition to the series. I look forward to the next one in the series. Keep up the good work.
Another good addition to the series. I look forward to the next one in the series. Keep up the good work.
November 1, 2021
A bit disappointed with this entry in the series. The plot isn't really moved forward over the book. Only the first and last chapters really have anything important.
February 2, 2022
Still Great
I love the series. It’s a lot of fun and you never know what the next mission Gnat is going to take on.
I love the series. It’s a lot of fun and you never know what the next mission Gnat is going to take on.
September 22, 2022
Love this series! Can't put my hands down from it. :D
It combines everything I love - space, magic, adventures, mystery, and gaming!
It combines everything I love - space, magic, adventures, mystery, and gaming!
March 21, 2024
cool
it was a good book also dont read the rest just filler g g g g g g g g g g g g g g g g gg g g
it was a good book also dont read the rest just filler g g g g g g g g g g g g g g g g gg g g
April 7, 2024
What is up with the MC simping for the beast master? Chasing her down and begging her to come back with him after she made the decision the leave? It's revolting behavior.
May 30, 2022
Well, I wasn't quite as thrilled with this particular episode/book in the Reality Benders series. That is not to send negativity its way. And probably just me. Maybe. But it just didn't keep my focus. Hopefully Devourer will devour my attention fully.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews