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Abner Fortis, ISMC #1
Cherry Drop
The ISMC Wants You!
Abner Fortis joined the International Space Marine Corps for two reasons: to escape a life of drudgery building biodomes for his father’s company and to pay off several billion credits in student loans, which the ISMC promised to do.
Every Space Marine starts out as a cherry, though, and Abner is no different. When he makes his first combat drop, or cherry drop, he’s a know-nothing second lieutenant added to the mission roster as an afterthought.
The Space Marines are tasked to support the Galactic Resource Conglomerate (GRC) while they test a revolution in military technology: Precision Crafted Soldiers (PCS). All the Space Marines have to do is kill bugs. Even when a tragic accident leaves Fortis in command, the mission is still an easy breather.
When the Space Marines discover proof of a long-buried betrayal, though, friends become enemies, and their mission goes awry. Does Fortis have what it takes to lead the Space Marines to survival in the face of overwhelming odds?
Abner Fortis joined the International Space Marine Corps for two reasons: to escape a life of drudgery building biodomes for his father’s company and to pay off several billion credits in student loans, which the ISMC promised to do.
Every Space Marine starts out as a cherry, though, and Abner is no different. When he makes his first combat drop, or cherry drop, he’s a know-nothing second lieutenant added to the mission roster as an afterthought.
The Space Marines are tasked to support the Galactic Resource Conglomerate (GRC) while they test a revolution in military technology: Precision Crafted Soldiers (PCS). All the Space Marines have to do is kill bugs. Even when a tragic accident leaves Fortis in command, the mission is still an easy breather.
When the Space Marines discover proof of a long-buried betrayal, though, friends become enemies, and their mission goes awry. Does Fortis have what it takes to lead the Space Marines to survival in the face of overwhelming odds?
362 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 23, 2021
336 people are currently reading
164 people want to read
About the author
P.A. Piatt
30 books17 followersP.A. Piatt was born and raised in western Pennsylvania. After his first attempt at college, he joined the Navy to see the world. He started writing as a hobby when he retired in 2005 and published his first novel in 2018.
His published works include the Abner Fortis, International Space Marine Corps mil-sf series, the Walter Bailey Misadventures urban fantasy trilogy, and other full-length novels in both science fiction and horror.
All of his novels and various published short stories can be found on Amazon.
His published works include the Abner Fortis, International Space Marine Corps mil-sf series, the Walter Bailey Misadventures urban fantasy trilogy, and other full-length novels in both science fiction and horror.
All of his novels and various published short stories can be found on Amazon.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
December 6, 2021
Is Abner an idiot?
The things that happen in this book are totally implausible. The author writes the marine characters as if they are idiots including the main protagonist. I understand the FNG has to learn but leaving surveillance equipment pointed directly into your camp, not making sure your communications are secure, and the main protagonist wool gathering during a battle shaking my head. There’s plenty of action but not very much character growth or development for the main character. He didn’t seem to learn anything during this book. I can’t recommend that it was a waste of time somebody else me enjoy it.
The things that happen in this book are totally implausible. The author writes the marine characters as if they are idiots including the main protagonist. I understand the FNG has to learn but leaving surveillance equipment pointed directly into your camp, not making sure your communications are secure, and the main protagonist wool gathering during a battle shaking my head. There’s plenty of action but not very much character growth or development for the main character. He didn’t seem to learn anything during this book. I can’t recommend that it was a waste of time somebody else me enjoy it.
July 23, 2021
You would think there is nothing new in the story of a young officer dropped at the deep end on his first assignment out of the Academy...
You would be wrong.
Cherry Drop delivers a very enjoyable tale of combat, betrayal, loyalty, giving us the viewpoint of the grunts as well as an inkling of the motivations of the higher-ups when the fecal matters hit the rotary air propellers...
Recommended. Looking very much forward to book 2.
You would be wrong.
Cherry Drop delivers a very enjoyable tale of combat, betrayal, loyalty, giving us the viewpoint of the grunts as well as an inkling of the motivations of the higher-ups when the fecal matters hit the rotary air propellers...
Recommended. Looking very much forward to book 2.
October 2, 2020
Not perfect, but really good
I rated it only Average at first, but upon rereading/reconsideration, I decided it's better than average. Not top-of-the-line, but an excellent story of tiny military cogs in a vast war machine. Very good as a prequel.
I rated it only Average at first, but upon rereading/reconsideration, I decided it's better than average. Not top-of-the-line, but an excellent story of tiny military cogs in a vast war machine. Very good as a prequel.
October 4, 2021
Every once in a while I take a chance on a new military sci-fi novel, and Cherry Drop was the one I picked this time. There are so many good books out there that I'll never manage to read them all.
(Abner) Fortis is a new LT who's going on his first mission. It's one of many planets claimed by a somewhat dubious intergalactic company who are attempting to make the perfect soldiers by growing them in a lab.
Fortis sets down in the jungle, which is filled with bugs. Things begin to unravel very quickly, and secrets come into view as well.
The planet is full of large (think German Shepherd sized) bugs with a poisonous stinger on the back. The marines are getting hit regularly, but they manage to fight them off. They make the trek to ask for help with dead and wounded marines, but are rebuffed with prejudice.
As the situation continues to escalate, Fortis shows just how green he is. He doesn't make any poor decisions, but he's not taking charge of the situation the way he's been trained.
On top of all that, GRU (the company) have decided to eliminate the marines for a variety of reasons.
I won't spoil what happens after that.
This book has some excellent writing, and the editing is superb. Having said that, I loved the first half of the story, but the second half didn't do it for me. The ending didn't work for me (which I won't spoil), and it makes me wonder what will happen in book 2.
The action is solid, but there were a number of missed opportunities that I kept thinking about. Like what if Beck tried to respond as the captain, and Fortis realized it wasn't him. Of if they discovered much earlier that the satellite had been changed. I don't write military scifi, but I thought there were a lot of possibilities here that just weren't explored.
If book 2 is entirely like the first half of this book, I'll love it. If not, I might not waste my time because there are so many other books on the market. Just saying.
4/5*
(Abner) Fortis is a new LT who's going on his first mission. It's one of many planets claimed by a somewhat dubious intergalactic company who are attempting to make the perfect soldiers by growing them in a lab.
Fortis sets down in the jungle, which is filled with bugs. Things begin to unravel very quickly, and secrets come into view as well.
The planet is full of large (think German Shepherd sized) bugs with a poisonous stinger on the back. The marines are getting hit regularly, but they manage to fight them off. They make the trek to ask for help with dead and wounded marines, but are rebuffed with prejudice.
As the situation continues to escalate, Fortis shows just how green he is. He doesn't make any poor decisions, but he's not taking charge of the situation the way he's been trained.
On top of all that, GRU (the company) have decided to eliminate the marines for a variety of reasons.
I won't spoil what happens after that.
This book has some excellent writing, and the editing is superb. Having said that, I loved the first half of the story, but the second half didn't do it for me. The ending didn't work for me (which I won't spoil), and it makes me wonder what will happen in book 2.
The action is solid, but there were a number of missed opportunities that I kept thinking about. Like what if Beck tried to respond as the captain, and Fortis realized it wasn't him. Of if they discovered much earlier that the satellite had been changed. I don't write military scifi, but I thought there were a lot of possibilities here that just weren't explored.
If book 2 is entirely like the first half of this book, I'll love it. If not, I might not waste my time because there are so many other books on the market. Just saying.
4/5*
March 14, 2024
This book is fine. Nothing special. You could say the same thing about the protagonist. Mind you, the titular "Cherry," Lt. Abner Fortis does have a superpower... he is willing to listen to advice.
I found the plot frustrating since the heroes were so reactive. In addition, the science fiction elements were tacked on. They have invisibility tech but didn't use it during active combat. They have mechs, that only acted as stationary weapons platforms. They have drones but only occasionally use them for recon/security. The list goes on. The author has failed to imagine how new technology would have developed and changed battle doctrine... future-tech is just dropped into the story with little thought, like props in a B-grade movie.
Don't get me wrong, this is an easy read. It's fast-moving and has plenty of action and tension. It's a pity that it blends into the genre background so well.
I found the plot frustrating since the heroes were so reactive. In addition, the science fiction elements were tacked on. They have invisibility tech but didn't use it during active combat. They have mechs, that only acted as stationary weapons platforms. They have drones but only occasionally use them for recon/security. The list goes on. The author has failed to imagine how new technology would have developed and changed battle doctrine... future-tech is just dropped into the story with little thought, like props in a B-grade movie.
Don't get me wrong, this is an easy read. It's fast-moving and has plenty of action and tension. It's a pity that it blends into the genre background so well.
August 12, 2021
Excellent mil sifi
This is one of the most accurate field description of military combat that I have read. You will enjoy this book.
This is one of the most accurate field description of military combat that I have read. You will enjoy this book.
July 24, 2021
DINLI, except I really, really did like it:->
Do It, Not Like It – DINLI is not only an appropriate response by Space Marines to all questions, but sometimes a very tasty homemade “adult” beverage:->
There is a first time for everything and everyone. Fresh out of the University with his only military experience being the International Space Marine Corps Officer Basic School and Advanced Infantry Officer courses a new ISMC 2nd Lieutenant has his first deployment, or “Cherry Drop,” the first week after arriving at his first assignment. Not to worry, it is SUPPOSED to be a cake walk deployment with his XO in charge of the two platoons. Plus, he can always fall back on his ISMC Platoon Leaders Manual. If all else fails – DINLI, right?
This is a very, very fun read with some unexpected twists and turns up until the very end. It is also a completely new, unexplored “universe” but based on tried-and-true military traditions. If you are a Science Fiction/Military Space Opera fan like me, you get to Read It And Like It – RIALI!
Do It, Not Like It – DINLI is not only an appropriate response by Space Marines to all questions, but sometimes a very tasty homemade “adult” beverage:->
There is a first time for everything and everyone. Fresh out of the University with his only military experience being the International Space Marine Corps Officer Basic School and Advanced Infantry Officer courses a new ISMC 2nd Lieutenant has his first deployment, or “Cherry Drop,” the first week after arriving at his first assignment. Not to worry, it is SUPPOSED to be a cake walk deployment with his XO in charge of the two platoons. Plus, he can always fall back on his ISMC Platoon Leaders Manual. If all else fails – DINLI, right?
This is a very, very fun read with some unexpected twists and turns up until the very end. It is also a completely new, unexplored “universe” but based on tried-and-true military traditions. If you are a Science Fiction/Military Space Opera fan like me, you get to Read It And Like It – RIALI!
December 9, 2021
Not a bad military fiction book. Good action and the main character is not some Superman. He is a little more masochistic than seems normal, as he pushes himself hard. But that may be why he is the main character.
The ending though completely destroyed my feelings about the book as the author seemed bound to show unbelievable corruption throughout senior military and corporation I fail to believe the review of activities could possibly have followed the path proposed in the public eyes. Appears as if author had an agenda against authorities.
Because the ending left such a bad feeling I was ambivalent about progressing further in series after reading plot synopsis I decided I couldn’t stomach any more politicized writingnwithnanhiden agenda that all corporations and governments are corrupt. However if this fits your world view the action is fairly good and there are some plot complexities that make it interesting.
The ending though completely destroyed my feelings about the book as the author seemed bound to show unbelievable corruption throughout senior military and corporation I fail to believe the review of activities could possibly have followed the path proposed in the public eyes. Appears as if author had an agenda against authorities.
Because the ending left such a bad feeling I was ambivalent about progressing further in series after reading plot synopsis I decided I couldn’t stomach any more politicized writingnwithnanhiden agenda that all corporations and governments are corrupt. However if this fits your world view the action is fairly good and there are some plot complexities that make it interesting.
November 6, 2021
This is a straight up adventure where the sci-fi setting doesn't even matter beyond serving the plot. You could set this in modern times or ancient history and it would still be a great story.
This is primarily because of the organic and realistic journey of the protagonist, who begins the story with no experience or preparation for what he's about to face, and comes out at the end of it all tempered and molded into a young leader worthy of following.
The supporting cast of troops is also fantastic. It was a gut-punch every time one of them was killed. Finally, the ending was a bit of a surprise, I was not expecting much after the final battle but it was an intriguing conclusion.
Can't wait to see what's next!
This is primarily because of the organic and realistic journey of the protagonist, who begins the story with no experience or preparation for what he's about to face, and comes out at the end of it all tempered and molded into a young leader worthy of following.
The supporting cast of troops is also fantastic. It was a gut-punch every time one of them was killed. Finally, the ending was a bit of a surprise, I was not expecting much after the final battle but it was an intriguing conclusion.
Can't wait to see what's next!
April 6, 2023
I thought I was going to be reading your average run of the mill, bog standard military sci-fi, and in many ways, it was. Dropped from space, kills some bugs. Been there, done that, got the T-shirt, but there was something different about this one, it felt sharper, crisper, more precise in its delivery, like a well ironed pair of trousers, with a knife edge seam, it practically felt as if I was there, feeling their pain and anguish. Yes, very enjoyable, a good story, and some intrigue thrown in for good measure. A worthwhile read.
October 31, 2021
Very fun read
The main character, is one of those trouble magnates that are so fun to read. You know, a decent guy with a sense of honor that just somehow finds himself thrown into the deep end. Like often happens, once your in deep, you either swim or drown. There seldom are any in between choices once you’re in the deep waters. Highly recommended for those who enjoy military syfy.
The main character, is one of those trouble magnates that are so fun to read. You know, a decent guy with a sense of honor that just somehow finds himself thrown into the deep end. Like often happens, once your in deep, you either swim or drown. There seldom are any in between choices once you’re in the deep waters. Highly recommended for those who enjoy military syfy.
February 2, 2022
Lots of action
Lots of action good character development but very predictable the author keeps the pace moving along but the protagonists and the antagonists are routine nothing new whether you read westerns or space opras there is nothing you haven't seen or read about dozens of times but the characters are interesting and the author keeps the story moving along so I wi l probably continue with the series
Lots of action good character development but very predictable the author keeps the pace moving along but the protagonists and the antagonists are routine nothing new whether you read westerns or space opras there is nothing you haven't seen or read about dozens of times but the characters are interesting and the author keeps the story moving along so I wi l probably continue with the series
August 16, 2023
Read book one, if you like the military SF style of story you'll love this book
When you have read book one of this series and this is one of your types of story, you do as I have and down load the whole series. The story line picks you up at the start and carries you with the marines of a "do or die" type of unit. Action is usually non stop, save when the tension must build to a climatic conclusion. The is a very interesting and fun book. I recommend it to anyone who reads.
When you have read book one of this series and this is one of your types of story, you do as I have and down load the whole series. The story line picks you up at the start and carries you with the marines of a "do or die" type of unit. Action is usually non stop, save when the tension must build to a climatic conclusion. The is a very interesting and fun book. I recommend it to anyone who reads.
August 22, 2021
Great Initiation!
This book has it all; great characters, from complex heroes to detestable villains, bug hunts, mystery and lots of action. Rich imagery, good world building without bogging the story down all come together nicely in this space marine military sci-fi.
Looking forward to more Lt & Gunny in the next book in this series by Mr. Piatt.
Keep ‘em comin’!
E
This book has it all; great characters, from complex heroes to detestable villains, bug hunts, mystery and lots of action. Rich imagery, good world building without bogging the story down all come together nicely in this space marine military sci-fi.
Looking forward to more Lt & Gunny in the next book in this series by Mr. Piatt.
Keep ‘em comin’!
E
September 18, 2021
Awesome story
This book is very well written and the characters rock. I finished this book in two days because it was so hard to put down. If you love action you will love this book. The fight scenes are really good and realistic. The universe of the story line is believable and very good. I really recommend this book for your reading pleasure.
This book is very well written and the characters rock. I finished this book in two days because it was so hard to put down. If you love action you will love this book. The fight scenes are really good and realistic. The universe of the story line is believable and very good. I really recommend this book for your reading pleasure.
September 29, 2021
Good start, see where it goes
I thought this book was good, probably more of a 4 star in reality but I enjoyed it and the characters even if it could have been more descriptive of many things. But I liked the experience of a LT who cared about his troops doing the best job he could in a crappy situation. I’ll give r next one a shot and see what happens.
I thought this book was good, probably more of a 4 star in reality but I enjoyed it and the characters even if it could have been more descriptive of many things. But I liked the experience of a LT who cared about his troops doing the best job he could in a crappy situation. I’ll give r next one a shot and see what happens.
November 15, 2021
Pretty decent
This is quite the decent Mil-scifi book, has plenty of action, suberterfuge, drama, you do feel for the characters. There's a few unpolished elements example spelling errors and moving between using the surname and first name in the same paragraph. Overall it is a good ride, a great story of conglomerate power vs humanity.
This is quite the decent Mil-scifi book, has plenty of action, suberterfuge, drama, you do feel for the characters. There's a few unpolished elements example spelling errors and moving between using the surname and first name in the same paragraph. Overall it is a good ride, a great story of conglomerate power vs humanity.
April 14, 2022
So this one is just a bit complicated.
I don't know if I want to continue the series. It was well written. The decisions are in time with the tone throughout the entire book. The mistakes made feel natural, the ending fits with the theme. This is well crafted and deserves five stars. That said, the content is just a bit boring for me. It is purely a personal opinion.
I don't know if I want to continue the series. It was well written. The decisions are in time with the tone throughout the entire book. The mistakes made feel natural, the ending fits with the theme. This is well crafted and deserves five stars. That said, the content is just a bit boring for me. It is purely a personal opinion.
March 19, 2024
Typical Politcal Servitude
The story starts of well. Military, alien planet, vile creatures. And when I mean vile, I am talking about vindictive, self serving corporate dickheads. Money talks and affects peoples lives. In rhis case, negatively. Corporate greed feeds Military and Elitest alike. There is no Honor in the darkness behind closed doors.
The story starts of well. Military, alien planet, vile creatures. And when I mean vile, I am talking about vindictive, self serving corporate dickheads. Money talks and affects peoples lives. In rhis case, negatively. Corporate greed feeds Military and Elitest alike. There is no Honor in the darkness behind closed doors.
October 12, 2025
Good characters and an entertaining story. It doesn’t entirely hang together but it was enjoyable. Messages are generally acknowledged and to many of the more interesting and developed characters are lost which seems odd for the first book in a continuing series. The entire ending is bizarre as the colonist slaves were completely ignored. I still those flaws are not glaring and I recommend it.
August 1, 2021
Read it in a couple of days
I simply couldn't put in down.
Great action, fantastic characters, careful and well thought out world building, it was a great book to read.
The kind of space marine military story I enjoy. If you let me military sci-fi, this book will not disappoint.
I simply couldn't put in down.
Great action, fantastic characters, careful and well thought out world building, it was a great book to read.
The kind of space marine military story I enjoy. If you let me military sci-fi, this book will not disappoint.
October 30, 2021
Fast paced action with great characters and insights into traditional roles Warrants and NCO's have played in military. Overall a great insight into a "Cherry" officers challenge in becoming a leader.
May 22, 2022
Paul captured the fresh soldier showing up to the unit and expecting to know what direction is up. This is a well crafted story and was very hard to put down when it came time for lights out. I am looking forward to getting the next one, my productivity is going out the window. DINLI
July 6, 2022
Awesome book.
I was both happy and surprised with this book. What I've read from Piatt before was fantasy comedy. This is straight up Military SF and it's awesome. I'll be reading the next one immediately
I was both happy and surprised with this book. What I've read from Piatt before was fantasy comedy. This is straight up Military SF and it's awesome. I'll be reading the next one immediately
July 24, 2022
Good read
A nice story, about command, the issues of detached duty, of a delinquent CO, of a comradship established as part of your survival.
I'm getting book 2, and we will see how the further adventures of LT Abner continue.
A nice story, about command, the issues of detached duty, of a delinquent CO, of a comradship established as part of your survival.
I'm getting book 2, and we will see how the further adventures of LT Abner continue.
September 19, 2022
It is competently written. I can't really say anything bad about this, it's just too much military fiction for me, and I've apparently outgrown it/changed my sensibilities.
One thing (1) that annoyed me was the number of times DINLI was used - it's just too much.
One thing (1) that annoyed me was the number of times DINLI was used - it's just too much.
March 18, 2023
Space Marines Battle
A brand new Lieutenant joins the Space Marines and is immediately thrust in charge of a battalion in support of a research project on test tube soldiers. The planet is inhabited by large man eating insects.
A brand new Lieutenant joins the Space Marines and is immediately thrust in charge of a battalion in support of a research project on test tube soldiers. The planet is inhabited by large man eating insects.
April 3, 2023
Great sci-fi marine combat series starter
Just finished officer training and drop on a planet. Officer commanding dies, he is now in charge. Combination of combat, nasty corporations, cloned soldiers and alien bugs that swarm.
Just finished officer training and drop on a planet. Officer commanding dies, he is now in charge. Combination of combat, nasty corporations, cloned soldiers and alien bugs that swarm.
June 11, 2023
Unfriendly planet, secrets from earlier inhabitants, a timely rescue
I like military science fiction. This book is full of clever solutions and people who rise to the challenge. The world building is imaginative and well suited to the story.
I like military science fiction. This book is full of clever solutions and people who rise to the challenge. The world building is imaginative and well suited to the story.
March 28, 2024
Asimov on steroids!
The book reads like Asimov on steroids. Non stop action believable characters and a plot that draws you into the story. I'm going to find more of Piatt's work and enjoy it.
The book reads like Asimov on steroids. Non stop action believable characters and a plot that draws you into the story. I'm going to find more of Piatt's work and enjoy it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews