Description

Operation Bounce House by Matt Dinniman

Hardcover – Ace Books – February 2026 – 437 pages

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 agricultural 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 communication between Earth asnd 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?

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 grandmother and a bucket of rusty parts, Oliver is determined to defend the only home he’s ever known.