Seven Robots Later [Urban Sci-Fi]

Self-Published

Community Rating

Description

When seventeen-year-old Ko Scanlan finds a body behind a suburban pizzeria, she doesn't expect it to be her own.

One minute, Ko is dreaming of colleges and paychecks, earning enough to control her own damned life and take care of her underemployed mother. The next, she's got a surprise doppelganger and a fistful of questions. Like, how did this girl with Ko's face end up with her throat slit in sleepy Las Yerbas, California? Why are her lifeless hands clutching this weird game system? And, uh, since Ko helped herself to it, who's this dude with a glowing gun hunting her now?

But the body vanishes before the police arrive, and Ko's strangely well-armed mother doesn't recall birthing two of anyone. So as the guy with the gun closes in, Ko fires up the game system, hoping to find anything to persuade her mom to leave town. Except Ko discovers the game is much more than it seems—and uncovers secrets about her double's identity—secrets that make her begin to question her own.

What you can expect inSeven Robots Later:

🎮 a mysterious GTA-style video game

🔫 mothers with railguns

🏢 shadowy corporations

🚔 dumpster chases

🤖 AIs that just want bedtime stories

🗑️ everyday objects as isekai portals

🩸 body horror

🫂 found family

🤦 a flawed, snarky, cynical, non-OP MC screwing up

👌 a focus on quality

The GameLit and isekai elements in this story are light, so no stats, blue boxes, or MCs waking up in fantasy worlds. But there is a mysterious video game system found in a dumpster that's central to the plot.

This story is completed. And it's pretty short by Royal Road standards, so strap in and enjoy the ride while it lasts! 🤖

Information

Status: Completed
Year: 2024
Author: Dan Helfman

Royal Road Stats

Rating: 4.5/ 5.0
Followers: 482
Views: 65,265

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!

Community Reviews(6)

Elijah KingRoyal Road
★★★★★ 5.0
Seven Robots Later is an absolute standout novel, offering an awesome blend of plot twists and deep, character-driven storytelling that kept me hooked from the first chapter. The premise centers around a world where hidden portals, advanced robots, and interdimensional threats are the norm, yet grounded in a way that feels surprisingly plausible.
The protagonist, Ko, is a breath of fresh air. Her struggles, both internal and external, are portrayed with such nuance that it's impossible not to root for her. The relationships she navigates, particularly with her mother, add layers of depth that resonate deeply, making the stakes of the story feel intensely personal. Despite the high-concept sci-fi elements, it's these human connections that really anchor the narrative, giving it a heart that beats as strongly as its plot.
Speaking of the plot, it’s well paced. The chapters are long enough to immerse you fully in each scene but end with just the right amount of tension, compelling you to keep reading. The action, while not the primary focus, is sharp and impactful when it occurs, leaving a lasting impression without overshadowing the intricate character dynamics.
Moreover, the writing is polished, and the world-building is rich without being overwhelming. The author balances complex ideas with clear, engaging prose, making this novel accessible to anyone who might pick it up.
In short, this novel is a hidden gem that deserves much more recognition than it is currently getting. Whether you're here for the mind-bending plot or the unforgettable characters, this book delivers on every front. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a sci-fi read with substance and style.
FantalystRoyal Road
★★★★★ 5.0
This has been a fun story with quick pacing! The author does a great job slowly introducing the characters and story so you never feel overwhelmed. I appreciate that as too often people try and world build too quickly. Sometimes it feels like the scenes could use a bit more description, but it's a very minor gripe. Outside of that it's a fun read that's definitely worth your time!
KittyJinglesRoyal Road
★★★★★ 5.0
I'm enjoying the characters, the studious girl isn't just a stereotypical nerd but is street smart. Her big friend isn't just some jock. I like the contrast, and I'm so curious what her parents were running from and how it will come together with whatever's after her currently
The story has an entertaining voice, with writing clear of grammar errors or a dull pace. Not that it's non stop action, but there is action, and there's interesting character development that makes me want to learn more about them
Onthebacksofthedead1Royal Road
★★★★★ 5.0
I was a beta reader for this book, and I think it’s outrageously good. I can attest to this having been thoroughly edited, being a fun romp, and totally totally worth the read! The character work is much deeper than many trad pub novels I’ve read, and the plot is grounded but so fun!
Also I guarantee it is complete!
Hope yall enjoy this books as much as I did!
Spleen23Royal Road
★★★★★ 5.0
Solid writing, and a solid story.
Every time I start to get a bit dubious about the story, thinking that the writer is getting cliche, or taking the easy way out, the very next chapter gets things back in line and veers back to interesting.
All the characters have some character and their own things going on that may or may not contribute to the main plot but make the setting and story feel more real.
animeball zRoyal Road
★★★★★ 5.0
Absolutely amazing novel. I would say that this is a hidden gem.
Firstly, the concept is definitely unique and even if this novel isn’t exactly action heavy, the plot keeps the novel exciting.
The writing is quality, and it does a really good job of showcasing the qualities of the main character alongside her relationship and perceptions of those close to her.
The chapters are long enough so they dont feel like they’re given a rough, sharp ending, but there are still cliffhangers that keep you reading on.
Maybe it’s just because I read fast and don’t pick up on errors very well but I didn’t see a single error in the chapters I’ve read.
The characters are definitely deep and it’s easy to get a good grasp of their type of personality from just the first handful of chapters. Their human qualities, positive and negative, make them all the more relatable.
The only reason that I gave this novel a 4.5 stars for style is that I’m much more a fan of action and fighting scenes. Nonetheless, the novel makes up for this in other ways.
Overall, definitely a solid novel and I hope it gets the attention it rightfully deserves.
I would definitely recommend this.