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Manbot
Every home in the US now owns a housebot. The robots have revolutionised modern society, but were they made to fulfil all human desires?
When his friend, Mitchell, expresses sexual interest in his manbot, it sets Gray Benedict to thinking about his own hotbot, Kavan, a six foot three powerhouse made to obey Gray's every command. Gray doesn't want to take advantage of a machine, but when Kavan makes it clear he's happy to serve his owner in every possible way, what's a man supposed to do?
CONTENT ADVISORY: This titles has a HFN ending.
When his friend, Mitchell, expresses sexual interest in his manbot, it sets Gray Benedict to thinking about his own hotbot, Kavan, a six foot three powerhouse made to obey Gray's every command. Gray doesn't want to take advantage of a machine, but when Kavan makes it clear he's happy to serve his owner in every possible way, what's a man supposed to do?
CONTENT ADVISORY: This titles has a HFN ending.
135 pages, ebook
First published August 3, 2012
7 people are currently reading
282 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
November 24, 2014
FOUR HEARTS--Imagine living in a society where every household had an humanoid robot. Think of all the cooking, cleaning and chores that could be done. Need a babysitter? A companion? A sex partner?
Don't worry, the robots don't look like this.
Gray, the owner of Kavan--the 6'3", well hung and plump arsed robot, has been treating his robot like a human in the last year since he got him. Kavan has been learning and assimilating, it is what he was programmed to do as all robots in this world the author created are.
But what happens to robots that develop feelings?
The author packs a unique punch in this novella. It's not my first human/robot MM romance but this was certainly one of the better stories about this subject. Gray is a lonely teacher who has a crappy, prick of a friend who has began sexing his own robot whether his robot wants it or not.
This only pushes Gray to humanize Kavan more than normal. But the thing about it that Kavan starts to develop feelings, quirks a human side. It was sweet and odd at the same time. I loved the bits of Kavan's robotic side - he spoke so plainly that it read funny (in a good way). Gray, the befuddled ginger that he is, can't help falling for his robot and before you start thinking this is a story about a man and his overgrown sex toy, it isn't.
Yes, there is some smoking hot sex scenes. (I mean, this is Scarlet Blackwell) But there's a quirky plot with some feels and minor crime. The story ends in a HFN way but when I think about it, what the possibility of a robot/human relationship could really be? What happens if Kavan malfunctions or his battery short circuits? Or he rusts out? There are plenty of questions to be asked about their staying power but at the core of it all, this story is a romance.
And with the odds stacked against them, I actually bought into Gray and Kavan's feelings for one another. Gray was a good guy who didn't start his relationship with Kavan with lecherous ideas in mind. That is what made this story work for me. I do recommend for readers who want to try something different but still has a romantic feel and aren't caught up in a definite HEA.
Don't worry, the robots don't look like this.
Gray, the owner of Kavan--the 6'3", well hung and plump arsed robot, has been treating his robot like a human in the last year since he got him. Kavan has been learning and assimilating, it is what he was programmed to do as all robots in this world the author created are.
But what happens to robots that develop feelings?
The author packs a unique punch in this novella. It's not my first human/robot MM romance but this was certainly one of the better stories about this subject. Gray is a lonely teacher who has a crappy, prick of a friend who has began sexing his own robot whether his robot wants it or not.
This only pushes Gray to humanize Kavan more than normal. But the thing about it that Kavan starts to develop feelings, quirks a human side. It was sweet and odd at the same time. I loved the bits of Kavan's robotic side - he spoke so plainly that it read funny (in a good way). Gray, the befuddled ginger that he is, can't help falling for his robot and before you start thinking this is a story about a man and his overgrown sex toy, it isn't.
Yes, there is some smoking hot sex scenes. (I mean, this is Scarlet Blackwell) But there's a quirky plot with some feels and minor crime. The story ends in a HFN way but when I think about it, what the possibility of a robot/human relationship could really be? What happens if Kavan malfunctions or his battery short circuits? Or he rusts out? There are plenty of questions to be asked about their staying power but at the core of it all, this story is a romance.
And with the odds stacked against them, I actually bought into Gray and Kavan's feelings for one another. Gray was a good guy who didn't start his relationship with Kavan with lecherous ideas in mind. That is what made this story work for me. I do recommend for readers who want to try something different but still has a romantic feel and aren't caught up in a definite HEA.
February 7, 2017
Actually, this story really had potential to be something great!
Still, reading it somehow felt like smashing my head against a wall.
The pros: Gorgeous manbot Kavan
The cons: The sex
In the (somewhat near) future, every American household is equipped with a life-like manbot (or fembot) to help with general household chores. People have apparently become so lazy that the government gives these bots for free to each household. Yeah, as if, right?
Gray's friend Mitchell one day confesses that he uses his manbot for sexual activities too, justifying it by saying that a manbot is just a machine that can be used any way you want.
Gray gets curious about his own robot, gorgeous robo-stud Kavan, and asks him what he thinks about sexual relations in general.
After a few awkward conversations, Gray and Kavan engage in hot pornographic sex that doesn't seem to end until the novel runs out of pages...
All the while, Kavan switches from awkward robo-lingo à la 'Mr Data' to full out porn mode, while going through his 'manuals' that cover sexual specialties, such as 'rim jobs' and 'fellatio'.
The story took a very interesting turn towards the end and even had a satisfying ending, but I felt that humanoid robots were not portrayed properly here. They were portrayed like real humans with no explanation given about why they were able to 'feel' emotions and were 'interested' in sex.
This made the whole story pretty awkward.
But yeah, who doesn't want a hot household bot doing the laundry and preparing breakfast each day?
3 stars!
Still, reading it somehow felt like smashing my head against a wall.
The pros: Gorgeous manbot Kavan
The cons: The sex
In the (somewhat near) future, every American household is equipped with a life-like manbot (or fembot) to help with general household chores. People have apparently become so lazy that the government gives these bots for free to each household. Yeah, as if, right?
Gray's friend Mitchell one day confesses that he uses his manbot for sexual activities too, justifying it by saying that a manbot is just a machine that can be used any way you want.
Gray gets curious about his own robot, gorgeous robo-stud Kavan, and asks him what he thinks about sexual relations in general.
After a few awkward conversations, Gray and Kavan engage in hot pornographic sex that doesn't seem to end until the novel runs out of pages...
All the while, Kavan switches from awkward robo-lingo à la 'Mr Data' to full out porn mode, while going through his 'manuals' that cover sexual specialties, such as 'rim jobs' and 'fellatio'.
The story took a very interesting turn towards the end and even had a satisfying ending, but I felt that humanoid robots were not portrayed properly here. They were portrayed like real humans with no explanation given about why they were able to 'feel' emotions and were 'interested' in sex.
This made the whole story pretty awkward.
But yeah, who doesn't want a hot household bot doing the laundry and preparing breakfast each day?
3 stars!
August 5, 2012
When it comes to Scarlet Blackwell's stories, I have no power to resist. Even if I'm a bit leery with the idea of robot-sex. Turns out that this is another one of Ms. Blackwell's that goes to her great list.
Since Kavan is a manbot, his clinical way of talking is so endearing. I cannot help to giggle when he analyzes what Gray wants from the sexual interest ...
"Your penis is, by my calculation, seven inches long when erect, which is approximately one point five inches larger than average"
OR
"Do you wish me to associate that particular function with you so every time I see you, I get an erection?"
OR
"I mean, if you're going to offer me something like that, you should be more salacious about it. How about, 'then I'll come upstairs and eat your ass until you come everywhere'?"
Kavan frowned. "Eat it, Gray? I can't actually eat it. That would be tantamount to cannibalism, and I'm not sure it would be entirely conducive to your pleasure. Plus, if you had no buttocks, I would have nowhere to insert my penis, although providing you still had a working orifice..."
They're pretty hilarious for me *lol*. And like usual, Ms. Blackwell (in the only way she can) squeezes my heart when she explores how Kavan learns about human feelings ... that he is not like any other manbot. That he experiences pleasure, separation anxiety, and even in the end, love.
Gray is also adorable ... a lonely thirty-three year old English literature teacher, who only has a cat (Humphrey, which cutely prefer Kavan than Gray *grin*) and Kavan waiting at his house. There is one scene where Gray makes me VERY ANGRY though . When Gray says yes, I'm very, very pissed off with him, and prepare to give this story a lower star rating. Luckily it doesn't happen, though it is not because Gray stops it. (See the next spoiler below)
Most of the story is written from Gray's perspective except for the part where ... SPOILER WARNING: , which leads to some angst.
The ending is HFN, a bit similar to the ending of Blackwell's other title, Sin Row. I like to think that they're doing just fine, though ...
Since Kavan is a manbot, his clinical way of talking is so endearing. I cannot help to giggle when he analyzes what Gray wants from the sexual interest ...
"Your penis is, by my calculation, seven inches long when erect, which is approximately one point five inches larger than average"
OR
"Do you wish me to associate that particular function with you so every time I see you, I get an erection?"
OR
"I mean, if you're going to offer me something like that, you should be more salacious about it. How about, 'then I'll come upstairs and eat your ass until you come everywhere'?"
Kavan frowned. "Eat it, Gray? I can't actually eat it. That would be tantamount to cannibalism, and I'm not sure it would be entirely conducive to your pleasure. Plus, if you had no buttocks, I would have nowhere to insert my penis, although providing you still had a working orifice..."
They're pretty hilarious for me *lol*. And like usual, Ms. Blackwell (in the only way she can) squeezes my heart when she explores how Kavan learns about human feelings ... that he is not like any other manbot. That he experiences pleasure, separation anxiety, and even in the end, love.
Gray is also adorable ... a lonely thirty-three year old English literature teacher, who only has a cat (Humphrey, which cutely prefer Kavan than Gray *grin*) and Kavan waiting at his house. There is one scene where Gray makes me VERY ANGRY though . When Gray says yes, I'm very, very pissed off with him, and prepare to give this story a lower star rating. Luckily it doesn't happen, though it is not because Gray stops it. (See the next spoiler below)
Most of the story is written from Gray's perspective except for the part where ... SPOILER WARNING: , which leads to some angst.
The ending is HFN, a bit similar to the ending of Blackwell's other title, Sin Row. I like to think that they're doing just fine, though ...
February 16, 2023
This story was not fleshed out well enough.
This was emotionless and premature.
I don't think the author even realize how more of a robot Gray's are rather than kavan.
He's just so dry, he didn't cry and idk something about him just doesn't sit well with me.
But kavan was the MVP of this book
He's My man.
This was emotionless and premature.
I don't think the author even realize how more of a robot Gray's are rather than kavan.
He's just so dry, he didn't cry and idk something about him just doesn't sit well with me.
But kavan was the MVP of this book
He's My man.
February 12, 2017
2.5 stars rounded up.
This book has quite a few good reviews and high rating, and - being in a "sci-fi phase" - I've decided to give it a try...
And... That's it. I read it. And nothing happened... I'm sorry but I didn't feel any chemistry between Gray and Kavan (and not only because Kavan is an AI robot).
I gave it as many as 3 stars only because I liked the first half - it's an interesting premise - a manbot "learning" to feel emotions...
But the second half is only: sex, a little talking, sex, a little talking, sex, a little talking... etc.
Oh, and I liked the cover! That manbot looks hot!
And Kavan was kind of cute ;)
The ending wasn't satisfactory for me either... It seemed too "simple" and, on the hand, it was barely a HFN...
So, again, sorry! Not my cup of book, I guess :(
This book has quite a few good reviews and high rating, and - being in a "sci-fi phase" - I've decided to give it a try...
And... That's it. I read it. And nothing happened... I'm sorry but I didn't feel any chemistry between Gray and Kavan (and not only because Kavan is an AI robot).
I gave it as many as 3 stars only because I liked the first half - it's an interesting premise - a manbot "learning" to feel emotions...
But the second half is only: sex, a little talking, sex, a little talking, sex, a little talking... etc.
Oh, and I liked the cover! That manbot looks hot!
And Kavan was kind of cute ;)
The ending wasn't satisfactory for me either... It seemed too "simple" and, on the hand, it was barely a HFN...
So, again, sorry! Not my cup of book, I guess :(
May 24, 2016
3.5 Stars
“You have never been fucked until you’ve been fucked by a robot.”
Hot, lubed up robo-sex! Come on! What’s not to love about that?! :D Plus….
I found a tender heart pumping away underneath it all as an added bonus.
Gray is torn and confused when he starts checking out his manbot’s ass as he takes dinner out of the oven. Can and should his manbot (Kavan) fulfill ALL his needs?
Manbot is definitely a fun ride. How could you not have fun with lines like—“Have you got a hole?” But I really liked these guys too. I rooted and ached for them all the way through. Kavan and Gray will show readers the way to their heart in all sorts of sexy, sweet ways.
A quick tale of loneliness, lust, and love with your manbot. A story that reminds us that love is felt, taught and shared. NOT programmed.
March 12, 2018
Enjoyable and well-written novella. The story explores a little of what makes someone human and worthy of love and respect. The sex scenes are hot and so fun, the way Kavan's operating system fritzes out when he’s overcome with pleasure/orgasm is just adorable. A sweet HFN ending that left me hopeful but nervous for them and definitely wanting more. I would LOVE it if this book had a sequel.
January 27, 2013
Has all the hallmarks of a Scarlet Blackwell book. In a near future, most families own a housebot for general duties, ranging from government issue to top of the range models both male or female. Programmed for general duties initially, some owners start to use or abuse them sexually in some cases. I liked how in the story the ' bots ' had human advisors who they could go to for advice and council. Gray Benedict is gay and although he has always thought his manbot Kavan attractive has never really thought about having sexual relations with him until his friend Mitchell drops a bomb on him about his own bot George. Gray doesn't like the sound of how Mitchell treats George even though he is only an android but at the same time can't stop thinking about Kavan differently afterwards. I loved that she gave all the traits of an android as we think of them but at the same time there was this spark of personality that made Kavan and George likeable and loveable. Kavan is very much an android in so much as he sees everything in a detached and logical way, but he also shows signs of emotion - especially after he and Gray start their sexual relationship, that almost appear human. Eventually he caves in and starts a sexual relationship with Kavan that sets off a chain of events that are quite shocking. I suppose it ends in a HFN but in my mind it was a HEA. This could have been a lot more far fetched but I though she handled it in a classy and tasteful way. Kavan and Gray are lovely together.
Of course there are deeper meanings regarding ethics in this story but fundamentally it is an unusual love story that in theory shouldn't work as well as it does, but it does work beautifully and of course in her signature style contains love scenes that sizzle on the page. Very enjoyable, liked it a lot!
Of course there are deeper meanings regarding ethics in this story but fundamentally it is an unusual love story that in theory shouldn't work as well as it does, but it does work beautifully and of course in her signature style contains love scenes that sizzle on the page. Very enjoyable, liked it a lot!
August 6, 2012
3.5 stars.
This was a fun little read. I like it better when Scarlet Blackwell writes alpha bastards, but two nice guys makes a change.
The first nice guy is Gray. Gray has been having rude thoughts about Kavan his manbot. Which is unethical, probably. And definitely creepy, right? Although the whole issue of consent doesn't come into it if they're not human. Even though they're designed to look human and act human. And even though they have all the bits they need in order to have sex. And they made them all good looking and programmed to please...
So it turns out a heap of people all over the world have been using their manbots for sex. Quelle surprise.
Seriously, why was Gray astonished? I'll bet the first manbot was introduced to sex before he was even out of his packaging. Because some people are into that.
Kavan was a cute character. He's got this sex thing all figured out thanks to the research he does, and it turns out he likes the way it makes him feel. I thought it was funny how Kavan's system overloads during orgasm. Makes sense, right?
The story is mostly about Kavan's growth: how he finds he way through to genuine emotion. Who would have thought that a scene where a robot masturbates (he's not meant to have any emotions or desires of his own) could pack an emotional punch?
I loved this exchange:
Gray entwined their fingers, the words clipping out before he could stop them.
"I wish you could love me."
After a moment, Kavan said, "I wish I could love you too."
Awww.
This was a fun little read. I like it better when Scarlet Blackwell writes alpha bastards, but two nice guys makes a change.
The first nice guy is Gray. Gray has been having rude thoughts about Kavan his manbot. Which is unethical, probably. And definitely creepy, right? Although the whole issue of consent doesn't come into it if they're not human. Even though they're designed to look human and act human. And even though they have all the bits they need in order to have sex. And they made them all good looking and programmed to please...
So it turns out a heap of people all over the world have been using their manbots for sex. Quelle surprise.
Seriously, why was Gray astonished? I'll bet the first manbot was introduced to sex before he was even out of his packaging. Because some people are into that.
Kavan was a cute character. He's got this sex thing all figured out thanks to the research he does, and it turns out he likes the way it makes him feel. I thought it was funny how Kavan's system overloads during orgasm. Makes sense, right?
The story is mostly about Kavan's growth: how he finds he way through to genuine emotion. Who would have thought that a scene where a robot masturbates (he's not meant to have any emotions or desires of his own) could pack an emotional punch?
I loved this exchange:
Gray entwined their fingers, the words clipping out before he could stop them.
"I wish you could love me."
After a moment, Kavan said, "I wish I could love you too."
Awww.
January 22, 2013
A fun and very unusual little novella. As the blurb explains, Grey starts to have sex with his manbot (robot) because other friends are doing it with theirs. But he genuinely likes Kavan and feels more for him than a man should for an electronic device. As it happens, Kavan feels more for Grey too.
This read was pretty light on the universe-building/sci fi end of things. It was extremely simplistic in many ways that could have been further developed. But that didn't detract from the sexiness and sweetness of it. It was nice to have such a big change in pace from the usual m/m romance topics. Recommended.
This read was pretty light on the universe-building/sci fi end of things. It was extremely simplistic in many ways that could have been further developed. But that didn't detract from the sexiness and sweetness of it. It was nice to have such a big change in pace from the usual m/m romance topics. Recommended.
September 5, 2021
Have read this book 4 times. Still absolutely love it. 5-stars!
March 14, 2023
3rd time reading according to GR
Rating: 4 stars, up from my previous rating of 3 stars
Much like Evolved by N.R. Walker, this tasty little tidbit actually has more going on under the surface than meets the eye. Though based on the authors description of Gray’s smoke show of a Manbot, what meets the eye is pretty fucking fantastic. Kadan sounds like a jacked and packed version of Henry Cavill but he cooks and cleans and says things like:
I would characterize this more as smut with a side of plot than Evolved but it does raise some of the same questions about sentience, self awareness, emotions, self agency… and ultimately, love.
Sweet, hot, enjoyable, and has a message that leaves you thinking…
Ends on a HFN
Rating: 4 stars, up from my previous rating of 3 stars
He sucked on Kavan’s thumb and watched the manbot’s pupils enlarge, overwhelming the ice-blue iris. “Does this please you?” Gray asked in a whisper. “Yes,” Kavan said, the tone of his voice betraying no excitement. “I wish to put myself inside you.”
Much like Evolved by N.R. Walker, this tasty little tidbit actually has more going on under the surface than meets the eye. Though based on the authors description of Gray’s smoke show of a Manbot, what meets the eye is pretty fucking fantastic. Kadan sounds like a jacked and packed version of Henry Cavill but he cooks and cleans and says things like:
“…My entire system is sizzling.”
“Sizzling?”
“Yes, like a major malfunction, but more exciting.”
Gray shook his head in disbelief. “Your orgasms feel like a major malfunction?”
“Yes,” Kavan said, looking puzzled. “Don’t yours?”
“I guess they do, yes.” Gray laughed.
I would characterize this more as smut with a side of plot than Evolved but it does raise some of the same questions about sentience, self awareness, emotions, self agency… and ultimately, love.
“What I said to you, you know, I didn’t get it from anywhere.”
“You didn’t?”
“No. Only the bottom of my heart.”
“You don’t have a heart.”
“Technicalities.” Their eyes met in a long gaze loaded with meaning. Gray rolled against Kavan’s chest, burying his face.
Sweet, hot, enjoyable, and has a message that leaves you thinking…
Ends on a HFN
April 3, 2018
3.6 Stars
Well, I was really enjoying this up until that entirely too unrealistic ending. Don't get me wrong, given the events leading up to them running away it was probably the only solution...BUT I wanted answers. Was Grey's love what made Kavan a "real boy" or was he programmed differently? Was Kavan feeling emotion a spontaneous mutation, a learned response or something else entirely? Did the government respond to using the android sexually occur as a way to stop the practice...or were they covering up that some of the robots were actually exhibiting human-like reactions, were enjoying it and possibly evolving in some unexpected - and uncontrollable - way?
I've always loved stories where androids develop emotions; that's one trope I can firmly lay at the feet of Philip K. Dick & Isaac Asimov. And in the future, I think the more our robots look like humans the harder it will be for many to see them as anything but...which raises interesting questions when they are programmed to learn on their own. (Skynet-disaster notwithstanding.) Will they learn to feel? If so, which emotions? Fear of death and the ability to love are IMHO what makes us human - so if an android can experience those things, are they any less "human" for being created from silicone and wire?
And there are even now companies trying to create the perfect sex-bot. This creeps me out...because a flesh-jack or a vibrator are one thing. To give the sex toy human characteristics but not empower them with the ability to say no? *shivers* Again, IMHO, that is just one bridge too far. Actual HUMANS are seen as disposable, abusable sex toys already...I can only imagine what an android would suffer. (Actually, I don't have to imagine it; there was a show where the sex-bot ALSO had a violent response to sexual abuse and killed their "customer" - aka rapist...it was programmed for sentience to evolve but I still think the potential for it to occur naturally is possible.)
Again, a great story that had more potential than was explored...
Well, I was really enjoying this up until that entirely too unrealistic ending. Don't get me wrong, given the events leading up to them running away it was probably the only solution...BUT I wanted answers. Was Grey's love what made Kavan a "real boy" or was he programmed differently? Was Kavan feeling emotion a spontaneous mutation, a learned response or something else entirely? Did the government respond to using the android sexually occur as a way to stop the practice...or were they covering up that some of the robots were actually exhibiting human-like reactions, were enjoying it and possibly evolving in some unexpected - and uncontrollable - way?
I've always loved stories where androids develop emotions; that's one trope I can firmly lay at the feet of Philip K. Dick & Isaac Asimov. And in the future, I think the more our robots look like humans the harder it will be for many to see them as anything but...which raises interesting questions when they are programmed to learn on their own. (Skynet-disaster notwithstanding.) Will they learn to feel? If so, which emotions? Fear of death and the ability to love are IMHO what makes us human - so if an android can experience those things, are they any less "human" for being created from silicone and wire?
And there are even now companies trying to create the perfect sex-bot. This creeps me out...because a flesh-jack or a vibrator are one thing. To give the sex toy human characteristics but not empower them with the ability to say no? *shivers* Again, IMHO, that is just one bridge too far. Actual HUMANS are seen as disposable, abusable sex toys already...I can only imagine what an android would suffer. (Actually, I don't have to imagine it; there was a show where the sex-bot ALSO had a violent response to sexual abuse and killed their "customer" - aka rapist...it was programmed for sentience to evolve but I still think the potential for it to occur naturally is possible.)
Again, a great story that had more potential than was explored...
April 22, 2018
I’m not the fastest reader, but it’s a testament to my enjoyment that this book took me about an hour to finish.
The story is simplistic and so we get a bit of an introduction into the world building, but not an extensive one. Regardless, I enjoyed the concept, the topic of consent, regardless of whether robots are non-humans or possessions, the war between Gray’s curiosity and his conscience, and Kavan’s character development, developing feelings for Gray, and sexual discovery.
Who taught you to say ‘I love you?’”
“You did, Gray,” Kavan replied. “You did.”
The story made me laugh; Kavan is so blunt and uncensored, and my quotes are filled with all the crazy things he said. Also at 33, Gray could get upset and throw comebacks like a 13 year old, and made some stupid decisions, but I can’t lie and say his reactions weren’t humorous and I didn’t enjoy him as a character. The story made me sad (George 😢😫), I was frightened, I was happy. All these emotions were evoked in such a short amount of pages, which makes this book a winner to me.
Only two things bothered me: the abundance of sex towards the end of the book and how rushed the ending was. The sex takes up a huge portion of the book, which is a given since the whole premise is about a man becoming sexually interested in his robot, and the smut scenes were good/hilarious. The sex didn’t bother me much until it began to occur during a few inappropriate times and I wished at that point, the author would have eased up and focused on fleshing out the plot and the MC’s emotional connection to give us a better ending, which is a HFN.
Overall, it’s a good book. Manbot is something different for the genre and it’s a quick read, so highly recommended.
The story is simplistic and so we get a bit of an introduction into the world building, but not an extensive one. Regardless, I enjoyed the concept, the topic of consent, regardless of whether robots are non-humans or possessions, the war between Gray’s curiosity and his conscience, and Kavan’s character development, developing feelings for Gray, and sexual discovery.
Who taught you to say ‘I love you?’”
“You did, Gray,” Kavan replied. “You did.”
The story made me laugh; Kavan is so blunt and uncensored, and my quotes are filled with all the crazy things he said. Also at 33, Gray could get upset and throw comebacks like a 13 year old, and made some stupid decisions, but I can’t lie and say his reactions weren’t humorous and I didn’t enjoy him as a character. The story made me sad (George 😢😫), I was frightened, I was happy. All these emotions were evoked in such a short amount of pages, which makes this book a winner to me.
Only two things bothered me: the abundance of sex towards the end of the book and how rushed the ending was. The sex takes up a huge portion of the book, which is a given since the whole premise is about a man becoming sexually interested in his robot, and the smut scenes were good/hilarious. The sex didn’t bother me much until it began to occur during a few inappropriate times and I wished at that point, the author would have eased up and focused on fleshing out the plot and the MC’s emotional connection to give us a better ending, which is a HFN.
Overall, it’s a good book. Manbot is something different for the genre and it’s a quick read, so highly recommended.
February 10, 2013
Another hard one from Mrs Blackwell.
For me this is two novels in one. It seems written by two different people. And being such a short story it confuses you a bit.Or a lot.
The first half of the story is really light and doesn’t really expect much from you while the second half gets into much difficult problems without actually backing them up.
In my opinion, she should have gone with just one of these options. I would have been ok with the light, fluffy, porny approach. But she doesn’t do this. Instead she gets into a whole new world without developing it at all and presents some really big ethical claims that are brushed off. I like the idea of this novel but you cannot write something good in 100 pages. I wasn’t bothered by the HFN, but the sudden decision Gray takes and open ending is annoying and not believable.
I did like Kavan, our manbot and I would have loved to be in his mind a bit more and see from the beginning how this whole relationship affected him. I understood where Gray was coming from but he came out as a whiny little man at times.
So, my advice, if you like what this author writes, this is an ok read for you.If you liked the idea behind the blurb and want to know how it’s being portrayed, you should probably skip this one.
For me this is two novels in one. It seems written by two different people. And being such a short story it confuses you a bit.Or a lot.
The first half of the story is really light and doesn’t really expect much from you while the second half gets into much difficult problems without actually backing them up.
In my opinion, she should have gone with just one of these options. I would have been ok with the light, fluffy, porny approach. But she doesn’t do this. Instead she gets into a whole new world without developing it at all and presents some really big ethical claims that are brushed off. I like the idea of this novel but you cannot write something good in 100 pages. I wasn’t bothered by the HFN, but the sudden decision Gray takes and open ending is annoying and not believable.
I did like Kavan, our manbot and I would have loved to be in his mind a bit more and see from the beginning how this whole relationship affected him. I understood where Gray was coming from but he came out as a whiny little man at times.
So, my advice, if you like what this author writes, this is an ok read for you.If you liked the idea behind the blurb and want to know how it’s being portrayed, you should probably skip this one.
January 9, 2013
The only complaint I have is the non-resolution society-wise, but gd if it's not realistic =_=. As sad as it is, I think I'd have to concede that society wouldn't change - or at least, wouldn't have changed fast enough - to be able to accommodate new developments like Kavan. Makes me depressed for the projected fictitious future, though, cuz if it happened before, it's bound to happen again. Humanity as a whole kind of sucks, but there would be others like Gray. *sigh.
Fascinating read and I think very applicable because we as society are heading closer and closer towards AI (yeah, ppl have been saying this forever since the beginning of technology but that doesn't make it any less valid).
Fascinating read and I think very applicable because we as society are heading closer and closer towards AI (yeah, ppl have been saying this forever since the beginning of technology but that doesn't make it any less valid).
August 25, 2012
I would have loved this even more if it had been longer. As a writer I know how novellas work and some are great with the short format, some feel incomplete. This one was fine as it is, but the HFN... I would have loved a HEA, maybe a deeper look into the world as it was turning to be in the end of the story.
An enjoyable read, nevertheless. Posed some very interesting questions while being one hot, angsty story.
An enjoyable read, nevertheless. Posed some very interesting questions while being one hot, angsty story.
February 11, 2022
𝟐.𝟓 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘀
This was so bad that it was good.
The story was so bizarre that I needed to read it.
Kavan is a robot who starts getting feelings after sex? During sex? Unclear. But robots can't have feelings. He was so robotic that even his feelings were... Robotic? It just made me laugh.
And the only thing about Gray that I can tell you is that he is always horny. Especially for his robot.
That pretty much covers up the story essence. If I give you the plot line (which really isn't much) then there won't be anything left to read.
Enjoy!
This was so bad that it was good.
The story was so bizarre that I needed to read it.
Kavan is a robot who starts getting feelings after sex? During sex? Unclear. But robots can't have feelings. He was so robotic that even his feelings were... Robotic? It just made me laugh.
And the only thing about Gray that I can tell you is that he is always horny. Especially for his robot.
That pretty much covers up the story essence. If I give you the plot line (which really isn't much) then there won't be anything left to read.
Enjoy!
May 12, 2016
'Manbot' is a story in the vein of Isaac Asimov's Robot series, in that it examines what happens when robots are given (or develop) emotions. Where Asimov focuses on the entirety of what makes humans human, Scarlet Blackwell takes one aspect and examines it in detail. This is, for such a comparatively short novella, quite an achievement. She does it by creating two wonderful main characters, one human,and one manbot, and letting them interact in a world full of prejudice and assumptions that robots cannot now, nor ever, develop feelings. Thus, they have become the slaves of the future, to be done to as humans see fit.
Gray is a very thoughtful human. He is polite, considerate, and cannot help but treat his manbot Kavan with the same courtesy as he would a human servant. Hence, he is deeply ashamed and worried about the fact that he is becoming increasingly sexually attracted to Kavan. Add to that his disgust about his friend's treatment of his manbot (read: as a sex slave), and Gray's conscience is in for a beating. One thing is sure: he will not treat Kavan as a slave, and when they do get sexually involved, Gray treats him no differently than he would a human lover.
Kavan may not be the most advanced manbot, but he has been given software that enables him to learn. Interestingly, what he picks up from Gray makes him more and more human – at least where his emotions are concerned. He still wants to protect Gray, and will do anything to keep him safe. That almost costs him his existence, but also strengthens the bond these two beings have to the point where they really do become lovers.
This is a thought-provoking story. There is the whole "what makes us human" and "how do we know a robot is a robot if he behaves like a man" question. There is also the discussion of some humans mistreating anyone they do not believe to be human; see racial, religious, and other minorities in the past (and some still in the present), and possible artificially created life in the future. The answer Scarlet Blackwell gives here is clear, and satisfied my need for justice and doing the right thing – to a degree.
If you like speculative science fiction that includes an examination of what makes us human, if manbots hold a certain fascination for you (as they do for me), and if you want a story that has the ability to make you think, not just entertain you, this is one you should not miss. I think it is stunning!
NOTE: This book was provided by Pride Publishing for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Gray is a very thoughtful human. He is polite, considerate, and cannot help but treat his manbot Kavan with the same courtesy as he would a human servant. Hence, he is deeply ashamed and worried about the fact that he is becoming increasingly sexually attracted to Kavan. Add to that his disgust about his friend's treatment of his manbot (read: as a sex slave), and Gray's conscience is in for a beating. One thing is sure: he will not treat Kavan as a slave, and when they do get sexually involved, Gray treats him no differently than he would a human lover.
Kavan may not be the most advanced manbot, but he has been given software that enables him to learn. Interestingly, what he picks up from Gray makes him more and more human – at least where his emotions are concerned. He still wants to protect Gray, and will do anything to keep him safe. That almost costs him his existence, but also strengthens the bond these two beings have to the point where they really do become lovers.
This is a thought-provoking story. There is the whole "what makes us human" and "how do we know a robot is a robot if he behaves like a man" question. There is also the discussion of some humans mistreating anyone they do not believe to be human; see racial, religious, and other minorities in the past (and some still in the present), and possible artificially created life in the future. The answer Scarlet Blackwell gives here is clear, and satisfied my need for justice and doing the right thing – to a degree.
If you like speculative science fiction that includes an examination of what makes us human, if manbots hold a certain fascination for you (as they do for me), and if you want a story that has the ability to make you think, not just entertain you, this is one you should not miss. I think it is stunning!
NOTE: This book was provided by Pride Publishing for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
November 25, 2012
Awwww.
This is a very cute short novella that begins to explore the relationship between a lonely man and the handsome robotic servant, or "housebot", who has cooked and cleaned for him for the past year. Gray has been quietly appreciative of Kavan's domestic talents, and wryly observant of the fact that Gray's cat prefers the robot's company to Gray's own. (Cats are like that.) But he does not allow himself to consciously think of Kavan in more intimate ways until, one night at a bar, a friend of his reveals that he has been engaging in lascivious acts with his own manbot.
This idea both fascinates and disturbs Gray, for prurient and moral reasons, and he struggles with it. His awakening desire for Kavan overtakes his ethical quandary. Once Kavan learns the question in Gray's mind, the concept seems to consume him as well, in his own way, and the man and the robot both have to deal with it.
This was thoughtfully written and raised many curious questions about the robots, most of which were not answered due to its length. The romance, however, was fully realized and satisfying.
I had a couple of niggles which prevented a higher rating. The story was explicitly set in the United States, but everything about the writing and the dialogue was pure British, in ways that should have been corrected for supposedly American characters. It was so noticeable that it made me wonder why the author had not simply set the story in the UK; there was nothing about the concept that made it uniquely American. There were also anachronisms in the terminology used. Terms such as "memory banks" and "blew a fuse," which are outdated even now, when the story is supposedly futuristic. Finally, there was a legal situation where . This last issue could have been explored and explained more thoroughly in a longer novel. All of these were minor, however, and did not get in the way of enjoying the characters and their relationship.
This is a very cute short novella that begins to explore the relationship between a lonely man and the handsome robotic servant, or "housebot", who has cooked and cleaned for him for the past year. Gray has been quietly appreciative of Kavan's domestic talents, and wryly observant of the fact that Gray's cat prefers the robot's company to Gray's own. (Cats are like that.) But he does not allow himself to consciously think of Kavan in more intimate ways until, one night at a bar, a friend of his reveals that he has been engaging in lascivious acts with his own manbot.
This idea both fascinates and disturbs Gray, for prurient and moral reasons, and he struggles with it. His awakening desire for Kavan overtakes his ethical quandary. Once Kavan learns the question in Gray's mind, the concept seems to consume him as well, in his own way, and the man and the robot both have to deal with it.
This was thoughtfully written and raised many curious questions about the robots, most of which were not answered due to its length. The romance, however, was fully realized and satisfying.
I had a couple of niggles which prevented a higher rating. The story was explicitly set in the United States, but everything about the writing and the dialogue was pure British, in ways that should have been corrected for supposedly American characters. It was so noticeable that it made me wonder why the author had not simply set the story in the UK; there was nothing about the concept that made it uniquely American. There were also anachronisms in the terminology used. Terms such as "memory banks" and "blew a fuse," which are outdated even now, when the story is supposedly futuristic. Finally, there was a legal situation where . This last issue could have been explored and explained more thoroughly in a longer novel. All of these were minor, however, and did not get in the way of enjoying the characters and their relationship.
October 24, 2015
This was interesting premise...that every household would get a manbot or fembot to take care of them in every way.
Of course, Kavan the manbot is super hot and when Gray learns from a friend that he's having sex with his bot, Gray mentions this to Kavan. Some unexpected things start happening and their relationship evolves quickly.
Some unanswered questions, so I'm hoping for a sequel.
Of course, Kavan the manbot is super hot and when Gray learns from a friend that he's having sex with his bot, Gray mentions this to Kavan. Some unexpected things start happening and their relationship evolves quickly.
Some unanswered questions, so I'm hoping for a sequel.
August 4, 2012
3.5 stars
I loved Kavan, the cute manbot, and his porn talk with a robotty twist but the ending was too open for my taste. I hope the author will write a sequel.
I loved Kavan, the cute manbot, and his porn talk with a robotty twist but the ending was too open for my taste. I hope the author will write a sequel.
October 24, 2014
*shrug*
Неожиданно романтично, чувственно и про любоф там, где хотелось порнографии.
Пожалуй идею можно было развернуть лучше, но автору виднее.
Прочитать прочитала. Ну так ничо.
Неожиданно романтично, чувственно и про любоф там, где хотелось порнографии.
Пожалуй идею можно было развернуть лучше, но автору виднее.
Прочитать прочитала. Ну так ничо.
October 19, 2018
Redefining Human
Science fiction should make the reader think 'what-if' in order to really challenge the order of things. I've always been attracted to stories which touch on the question "What does it mean to be human?" There's something incredibly fascinating to me about the idea humanity is not simply a term for a specific form of organic life which I happen to belong to but rather that humanity is a term for a being capable of something more than other lifeforms.
Humans can create, feel, and articulate.
If an artificial intelligence could be created to mimic those abilities, at what point would the A.I. cease being an "artificial intelligence" and simply become "intelligent" on its own?
Scarlet Blackwell presents a future in which all houses are allowed a robotic servant which is standard issue. These manbots or fembots are caregivers for humans; sexual desire is a human trait which is part of their natural needs so it comes as no real surprise to the reader when the main character starts to explore the idea of using his manbot for sexual release. It's the fact his manbot seeks out the contact, wants it, craves it, and feels more emotion than only a physical reaction to a physical stimuli which makes the story interesting.
Kavan about broke my heart asking his human lover to please believe him, please love him, please accept his feelings, please allow him to feel.
There's another ethical dilemma broached in this short which I won't disclose as it's a huge spoiler, but I will say I absolutely love how it was handled by the author. I felt for those involved in the event. I wanted justice. I wanted someone to speak up for housebots to say they weren't only a sum of their parts.
I'm so glad I read this one; it's got a fantastic message along with the best ending I could have imagined. I sincerely recommend it to anyone who is a fan of sci-fi romance or anyone who has ever enjoyed trying to redefine humanity.
Science fiction should make the reader think 'what-if' in order to really challenge the order of things. I've always been attracted to stories which touch on the question "What does it mean to be human?" There's something incredibly fascinating to me about the idea humanity is not simply a term for a specific form of organic life which I happen to belong to but rather that humanity is a term for a being capable of something more than other lifeforms.
Humans can create, feel, and articulate.
If an artificial intelligence could be created to mimic those abilities, at what point would the A.I. cease being an "artificial intelligence" and simply become "intelligent" on its own?
Scarlet Blackwell presents a future in which all houses are allowed a robotic servant which is standard issue. These manbots or fembots are caregivers for humans; sexual desire is a human trait which is part of their natural needs so it comes as no real surprise to the reader when the main character starts to explore the idea of using his manbot for sexual release. It's the fact his manbot seeks out the contact, wants it, craves it, and feels more emotion than only a physical reaction to a physical stimuli which makes the story interesting.
Kavan about broke my heart asking his human lover to please believe him, please love him, please accept his feelings, please allow him to feel.
There's another ethical dilemma broached in this short which I won't disclose as it's a huge spoiler, but I will say I absolutely love how it was handled by the author. I felt for those involved in the event. I wanted justice. I wanted someone to speak up for housebots to say they weren't only a sum of their parts.
I'm so glad I read this one; it's got a fantastic message along with the best ending I could have imagined. I sincerely recommend it to anyone who is a fan of sci-fi romance or anyone who has ever enjoyed trying to redefine humanity.
November 6, 2021
Me encantó, sin dudas fue un libro inesperado pero me quedé con ganas de más, quiero saber qué pasa con ellos después de ese final.
September 10, 2014
4 Stars ~ This is a fun novella set in the future where every household has either a manbot or a fembot to perform the household tasks. Gray is a gay 33 year old english teacher who lives with his cat Humphry and his manbot, Kavan. When a friend tells him that he's had sex with his manbot, George, Gray finds this distressing. He own manbot is very attractive, and Gray has had a few of his own fantasties but never had he wondered if Kavan could perform sexual functions. With the idea now in his head, he asks Kavan if it's possible, and what he thinks about that. Kavan in his very analytical way, explains it is indeed possible, and that some of his robot peers do perform that function for their owners. He asks Gray if he'd like him to add sex to his functions, but Gray tells him that he wouldn't want Kavan to perform sexually if he didn't want to. Having no previous experience with a sex act, Kavan is indifferent, but he can clearly see that Gray is conflicted. When Kavan offers to give him a blow job, Gray can't refuse, but what startles them both is that Kavan finds pleasure in performing the act. As they experiment with passionate kisses, Kavan actually short circuits briefly, and when Kavan takes this up with his programmer, he learns that he had had his first experience of pleasure. With every encounter, Kavan seems to experience real feelings, and there is no doubt that he enjoys the sex, in fact, he's often the one to initiate it.
This was a fun novella about a unique couple with some serious questions of morality and what may constitute abuse. There are some really hilarious scenes as Kavan strives to be more human. Kavan and Gray's mutual sexual explorations are hot and explicit. The short format works well for this HFN story.
This was a fun novella about a unique couple with some serious questions of morality and what may constitute abuse. There are some really hilarious scenes as Kavan strives to be more human. Kavan and Gray's mutual sexual explorations are hot and explicit. The short format works well for this HFN story.
May 7, 2016
pick it for me challenge May 2016
2.5 stars
Set in a future where robot household assistants are the norm things get personal between teacher Gray and his 'manbot' Kavan - who seems to display a more emotional range than had been thought possible.
I found this story kind of frustrating. There was a lot of potential to develop the story further and deal with the ethics of the situation and the back ground to the society. also the ending is very hea with no real conclusion -
2.5 stars
Set in a future where robot household assistants are the norm things get personal between teacher Gray and his 'manbot' Kavan - who seems to display a more emotional range than had been thought possible.
I found this story kind of frustrating. There was a lot of potential to develop the story further and deal with the ethics of the situation and the back ground to the society. also the ending is very hea with no real conclusion -
October 7, 2012
Enjoyed that quite a bit since it's one of my favourite themes. Falling for a robot, drawing feelings from a robot.
I felt for both Gray and Kavan. They are pretty lovable, surprisingly (there's always an a***ole in SB's books, and this time it's not one of the MCs).
I wish the way Kavan's "feelings" worked was better explained though. But it's not Azimov, I realize that. I bought everything anyway :D
I felt for both Gray and Kavan. They are pretty lovable, surprisingly (there's always an a***ole in SB's books, and this time it's not one of the MCs).
I wish the way Kavan's "feelings" worked was better explained though. But it's not Azimov, I realize that. I bought everything anyway :D
September 8, 2012
I enjoyed the story. Though because it was a HFN and was left open-ended, I wished there was more. I wanted to know what happened to Kavan and Gray! Because of that it felt like it was missing something. The rest was good, though.
May 22, 2015
Just not a me book
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