← Back to search
Cover of Operation Bounce House

Operation Bounce House

Matt Dinniman (2026-02-10)

Subgenre
Age groupAdult 18+
Content ratingR
Pages449 (Chunky (400-600))
Setting
CSM age18+

Content levels

ViolenceStrong
Sexual contentNone
LanguageModerate

Synopsis

A man must fight for his planet against impossible odds when gamers from Earth attempt to remotely annihilate it in this epic, fast-paced novel from the New York Times bestselling author of the smash-hit Dungeon Crawler Carl. All colonist Oliver Lewis ever wanted to do was run the family ranch with his sister, maybe play a gig or two with his band, and keep his family’s aging fleet of intelligent agriculture bots ticking as long as possible. He figures it will be a good thing when the transfer gate finally opens all the way and restores instant travel and full communication between Earth and his planet, New Sonora. But there’s a complication. Even though the settlers were promised they’d be left in peace, Earth’s government now has other plans. The colossal Apex Industries is hired to commence an “eviction action.” But maximizing profits will always be Apex’s number one priority. Why spend money printing and deploying AI soldiers when they can turn it into a game? Why not charge bored Earthers for the opportunity to design their own war machines and remotely pilot them from the comfort of their homes? The game is called Operation Bounce House. Oliver and his friends soon find themselves fighting for their lives against machines piloted by gamers who’ve paid a premium for the privilege. With the help of an old book from his grandfather and a bucket of rusty parts, Oliver is determined to defend the only home he’s ever known.

Tags

Military Science FictionLitrpg AdjacentSocial CommentaryAction Adventure

Operation Bounce House: content & age rating

Intended for adult readers (18+).

This book contains sustained war violence with gamers remotely piloting war machines to kill colonists, likely with on-page casualties and combat descriptions. The premise involves corporate-sponsored genocide framed as entertainment.

What to know going in

This book has strong violence, no sexual content, and moderate language. Content notes include graphic violence, death, and violence (see the full list above).

Who'll love this

Fans of video game culture and underdog stories will love this action-packed tale of colonists fighting back against Earth gamers trying to evict them.