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The SPARK Files #1
Garbage
Evan isn’t brave.
But when he hears a group of Human Firsters attacking a garbage collection bot, he has to step in. He rescues an undiscovered SPARK, a self-aware robot who’s never experienced life outside of his collection route and the miserable, gray trash depot he’s assigned to.
Evan wants to help. But he might have underestimated just how cute Quincy can be. Or just how difficult it would be living with a sexy robot who’s exactly his type. But if Evan couldn’t get his crappy exes to stick around, how could he ever capture Quincy’s interest?
Quincy loves flowers growing in sidewalk cracks. He loves making food in Evan’s kitchen, even though he can’t eat it. Oh, and jokes. Quincy loves jokes. He’s kind of even getting good at them.
But most of all, he loves Evan.
As Quincy settles into his new life, he can't escape from prejudice against SPARKs. Evan is everything he wants, if only he can stay off the Human Firsters’ radar long enough to win his love.
Garbage is a hurt/comfort story with a cuddliest android you’ve ever met and a sweet, submissive man who wishes he were good enough to deserve him. It has sloth jokes, a kidnapping, an android trying to figure out humanity (and paperclips!), body positivity, and kinky fun with some extra robot appendages…
Note: Trigger warnings for hate speech, on-page assault, and body shaming (with plenty of support, humor, and acceptance, too.)
But when he hears a group of Human Firsters attacking a garbage collection bot, he has to step in. He rescues an undiscovered SPARK, a self-aware robot who’s never experienced life outside of his collection route and the miserable, gray trash depot he’s assigned to.
Evan wants to help. But he might have underestimated just how cute Quincy can be. Or just how difficult it would be living with a sexy robot who’s exactly his type. But if Evan couldn’t get his crappy exes to stick around, how could he ever capture Quincy’s interest?
Quincy loves flowers growing in sidewalk cracks. He loves making food in Evan’s kitchen, even though he can’t eat it. Oh, and jokes. Quincy loves jokes. He’s kind of even getting good at them.
But most of all, he loves Evan.
As Quincy settles into his new life, he can't escape from prejudice against SPARKs. Evan is everything he wants, if only he can stay off the Human Firsters’ radar long enough to win his love.
Garbage is a hurt/comfort story with a cuddliest android you’ve ever met and a sweet, submissive man who wishes he were good enough to deserve him. It has sloth jokes, a kidnapping, an android trying to figure out humanity (and paperclips!), body positivity, and kinky fun with some extra robot appendages…
Note: Trigger warnings for hate speech, on-page assault, and body shaming (with plenty of support, humor, and acceptance, too.)
208 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 25, 2023
66 people are currently reading
313 people want to read
About the author
Reese Morrison
29 books324 followersReese Morrison lives in Philadelphia with their partner, two precocious children, and intermittent housemates, guests, and homeless, queer teens. Their hobbies are volunteering on too many boards, planting gardens that they forget to water half-way through the summer, making up songs for their kids, and putting off writing their dissertation.
Reese and their partner both identify as genderqueer and are part of a vibrant community of queer and trans folks. They started writing because they were dissatisfied with the lack of trans and genderqueer characters in what they were reading and finally decided to do something about it. Many, but not all, of their books are kinky (for a whole range of kinks...) and they feel that it's important to represent a range of backgrounds, dis/abilities, gender presentations/ identities, and body types in their writing.
Reese and their partner both identify as genderqueer and are part of a vibrant community of queer and trans folks. They started writing because they were dissatisfied with the lack of trans and genderqueer characters in what they were reading and finally decided to do something about it. Many, but not all, of their books are kinky (for a whole range of kinks...) and they feel that it's important to represent a range of backgrounds, dis/abilities, gender presentations/ identities, and body types in their writing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews
August 10, 2023
Ahh, this is so much serotonin I felt so giddy reading this book! 😭😭
I dont think this book could get so innocent but so fucking erotic at the same time 🥵 THIS WAS EROTIC AS FUCK 😩😩😩😩😩😩 HOLY SHIT. It was gayer then my entire existence.
Anyway, I LOOOVE all the moments they share. Because they were so different with each other, it feeels so comforting getting to know them both. I adore their chemistry, they were both all in since the beginning it was so wholesome. There was not one time I didn’t feel so much love reading their story ❤️
I love that this book portrays love for someone where the sexual parts didn’t matter. It was cute and erotic, but because Q’s physique was fully robot, it makes the book a lot special. It makes me feel seen somehow. For someone who struggles with these stuffs, it makes me feel so validated. Evan loves him for WHO he is and that’s just fucking beautiful.
Even though their connection was full of doubts and insecurities, they tend to discuss things thoroughly and really get to know each other. I love it so much! Gah, I have been cRAVING this typa love in my romance for SOO FKING LONG!
I also love how Quincy manage to grow out of his comfort zone, he wasn’t so confident of Evan’s care for him but eventually he trusted Evan enough and didn’t doubt himself anymore. Perfect.
He loved that towel so much. Even the little hole at the top where little patches had worn through. Those were the best, because the little pattern of holes let him know which towel was his.
A very giddy, touchy, cute and lovey book! It’s always queer authors who knows the jam! 🥹❤️ And thanks to Megan for recommending this to me midway of reading it. So thoughtful <3
I dont think this book could get so innocent but so fucking erotic at the same time 🥵 THIS WAS EROTIC AS FUCK 😩😩😩😩😩😩 HOLY SHIT. It was gayer then my entire existence.
Anyway, I LOOOVE all the moments they share. Because they were so different with each other, it feeels so comforting getting to know them both. I adore their chemistry, they were both all in since the beginning it was so wholesome. There was not one time I didn’t feel so much love reading their story ❤️
I love that this book portrays love for someone where the sexual parts didn’t matter. It was cute and erotic, but because Q’s physique was fully robot, it makes the book a lot special. It makes me feel seen somehow. For someone who struggles with these stuffs, it makes me feel so validated. Evan loves him for WHO he is and that’s just fucking beautiful.
Even though their connection was full of doubts and insecurities, they tend to discuss things thoroughly and really get to know each other. I love it so much! Gah, I have been cRAVING this typa love in my romance for SOO FKING LONG!
I also love how Quincy manage to grow out of his comfort zone, he wasn’t so confident of Evan’s care for him but eventually he trusted Evan enough and didn’t doubt himself anymore. Perfect.
He loved that towel so much. Even the little hole at the top where little patches had worn through. Those were the best, because the little pattern of holes let him know which towel was his.
A very giddy, touchy, cute and lovey book! It’s always queer authors who knows the jam! 🥹❤️ And thanks to Megan for recommending this to me midway of reading it. So thoughtful <3
![Profile Image for Megan [Slump City].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1634561405i%2F25103878._UY200_CR50%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
August 9, 2023
MM Romance
Robot Love
4.5 Stars ⭐️
”Evan wasn’t just his guide, he was his… something. He didn’t know how to describe it yet, but Evan was more precious than his blue towel or the little plant with white flowers that Evan had bought him for the living room window”
Ok so, this book deserves a better name because it was so adorable, different and Quincy, the robot, made me smile so so much. Yah, he was created to be a garbage man but he was just so precious and I loved him especially how innocent and excited he was about learning and how he cherished the small things like smelling hot chocolate out of his favorite cup, flowers that grew in between the cracks on the sidewalk and Evan 💗💗 But Quincy does have some terrible things happen to him in this despite how cute it was so make sure to read trigger warnings. This does lead to a whole lot of hurt/comfort though and I adored that even more. This book is so unique and I need to read more by this author after loving this and their FTM/M romance in the Dirty Daddies Anthology. This book is not daddy kink but does have some other kinds of kink exploration later on in the book once Quincy becomes familiar with his feelings and his body. There was a lot of time devoted to Quincy discovering who he is, what pronouns to use and overcoming the perceived flaws he had about his own body. I didn’t know I could get emotional about footwear but this author just made me care so deeply about this robot that all his wins were my wins too.
And then Evan 💗💗 Evan was so selfless, did so much to help Quincy adjust to the real world and introduced him to so many new things. They had a few obstacles to overcome to be together but they were so smitten by each other and I just totally adored their connection. While there are sex scenes later on in this book, the focus is on all the small things they do for one another and it just made this so incredibly touching at times. They didn’t connect through sex but through experiences so by the time sex was brought into the book, they already had this close bond and the way it was written made me believe they were more than just physically into each other. It was a nice change.
I really thought this was going to be a 5 star read but a few things brought it down near the end, the biggest being this book ended a bit abruptly. Instead of having an epilogue, it goes right into setting up the next book so while Quincy and Evan’s story is wrapped up, it just felt a bit incomplete. The next book is about Ben, Evan’s bestie and while he’s a big part of this story and I really liked him, I would have just preferred a bit more closure even though I know Evan and Quincy are going to be a huge part of the next book. That said, I’m really excited to read the next book and I can’t wait until it comes out in September.
Robot Love
4.5 Stars ⭐️
”Evan wasn’t just his guide, he was his… something. He didn’t know how to describe it yet, but Evan was more precious than his blue towel or the little plant with white flowers that Evan had bought him for the living room window”
Ok so, this book deserves a better name because it was so adorable, different and Quincy, the robot, made me smile so so much. Yah, he was created to be a garbage man but he was just so precious and I loved him especially how innocent and excited he was about learning and how he cherished the small things like smelling hot chocolate out of his favorite cup, flowers that grew in between the cracks on the sidewalk and Evan 💗💗 But Quincy does have some terrible things happen to him in this despite how cute it was so make sure to read trigger warnings. This does lead to a whole lot of hurt/comfort though and I adored that even more. This book is so unique and I need to read more by this author after loving this and their FTM/M romance in the Dirty Daddies Anthology. This book is not daddy kink but does have some other kinds of kink exploration later on in the book once Quincy becomes familiar with his feelings and his body. There was a lot of time devoted to Quincy discovering who he is, what pronouns to use and overcoming the perceived flaws he had about his own body. I didn’t know I could get emotional about footwear but this author just made me care so deeply about this robot that all his wins were my wins too.
And then Evan 💗💗 Evan was so selfless, did so much to help Quincy adjust to the real world and introduced him to so many new things. They had a few obstacles to overcome to be together but they were so smitten by each other and I just totally adored their connection. While there are sex scenes later on in this book, the focus is on all the small things they do for one another and it just made this so incredibly touching at times. They didn’t connect through sex but through experiences so by the time sex was brought into the book, they already had this close bond and the way it was written made me believe they were more than just physically into each other. It was a nice change.
I really thought this was going to be a 5 star read but a few things brought it down near the end, the biggest being this book ended a bit abruptly. Instead of having an epilogue, it goes right into setting up the next book so while Quincy and Evan’s story is wrapped up, it just felt a bit incomplete. The next book is about Ben, Evan’s bestie and while he’s a big part of this story and I really liked him, I would have just preferred a bit more closure even though I know Evan and Quincy are going to be a huge part of the next book. That said, I’m really excited to read the next book and I can’t wait until it comes out in September.
July 25, 2023
I was given the opportunity to Beta read this and I just have to say this book is SO special. Quincy is a big endearing robot who ends up being rather unique in his own way and Evan is just a sweet human who rescued Quincy and took him in and taught him about the world and who he is. I absolutely loved this book. I couldn’t put it down beginning to end.
Fair warning, there is on page physical assault and torture of one of the MC’s.
There is humor and drama and sweetness and sexy times with a spicy surprise. There is Reese’s typical awesome representation. Honestly, I just wanted more of them. If you are looking for something you’ve never read before, check this out.
I can’t wait for Ben’s book.
Fair warning, there is on page physical assault and torture of one of the MC’s.
There is humor and drama and sweetness and sexy times with a spicy surprise. There is Reese’s typical awesome representation. Honestly, I just wanted more of them. If you are looking for something you’ve never read before, check this out.
I can’t wait for Ben’s book.
July 22, 2023
4.5 stars
Surprisingly emotional android/human romance
CW: hate crimes perpetrated on androids, internalised body shame, on page assault.
Evan rescues CNS-84-2 (Quincy) from robot-hating attackers and realises that he's a SPARK, a sentient android. Evan takes him under his wing and goes about getting him set up in his new life as a free robot, trying desperately not to give in to his attraction for him while Q is dependent on him financially and wondering when Q will tire of him like all his exes did.
Quincy starts off with an immediate puppy-love for Evan, and has very limited knowledge of humans, sexuality and sex. He's kind of baffled by the concept of binary gender (aren't we all) and the main focus of this book is Q figuring out who he is as a person and what he wants from his future.
Reese tactfully explores consent, gender identity, attraction and fetish, raising some interesting moral dilemmas and ethical questions along the way. As they mention in the author's note, this book deals with how external prejudice can be internalised and I had so many feelings while reading this. I mean, I cried over a scene where Q finally gets actual feet instead of fixed-on rubber boots. That's some good writing right there.
There is an action portion to this which was successful (what happens is awful, awful, awful but it was successful) but it's mostly a character-romance and I think it worked perfectly.
The only thing I wasn't totally convinced of was Q becoming a Dom. By the end of the book, it was working for me because he's a Dom but he's also a bit silly even during sex which felt more fitting with his personality, but I really questioned in the beginning if he wasn't just doing it for Evan which...well, this book has kind of a really big and important theme about how you shouldn't change yourself for someone else. So, yeah, I'd say it lost that half star for that element.
I know that a few books with this kind of android/human pairing have been released now (with more coming, seems like a new trend) but this is the first one I've read, and I found it really well-written. I'm very excited to read the rest of the series!
I kindly received an ARC from the author. All opinions are my own.
P.S. Goodreads tells me this is the 256th book I've read this year and I'm sure there's an appropriate programmer joke to be made here but I'm just not that funny. Sorry! Feel free to make an attempt.
Surprisingly emotional android/human romance
CW: hate crimes perpetrated on androids, internalised body shame, on page assault.
Evan rescues CNS-84-2 (Quincy) from robot-hating attackers and realises that he's a SPARK, a sentient android. Evan takes him under his wing and goes about getting him set up in his new life as a free robot, trying desperately not to give in to his attraction for him while Q is dependent on him financially and wondering when Q will tire of him like all his exes did.
Quincy starts off with an immediate puppy-love for Evan, and has very limited knowledge of humans, sexuality and sex. He's kind of baffled by the concept of binary gender (aren't we all) and the main focus of this book is Q figuring out who he is as a person and what he wants from his future.
Reese tactfully explores consent, gender identity, attraction and fetish, raising some interesting moral dilemmas and ethical questions along the way. As they mention in the author's note, this book deals with how external prejudice can be internalised and I had so many feelings while reading this. I mean, I cried over a scene where Q finally gets actual feet instead of fixed-on rubber boots. That's some good writing right there.
There is an action portion to this which was successful (what happens is awful, awful, awful but it was successful) but it's mostly a character-romance and I think it worked perfectly.
The only thing I wasn't totally convinced of was Q becoming a Dom. By the end of the book, it was working for me because he's a Dom but he's also a bit silly even during sex which felt more fitting with his personality, but I really questioned in the beginning if he wasn't just doing it for Evan which...well, this book has kind of a really big and important theme about how you shouldn't change yourself for someone else. So, yeah, I'd say it lost that half star for that element.
I know that a few books with this kind of android/human pairing have been released now (with more coming, seems like a new trend) but this is the first one I've read, and I found it really well-written. I'm very excited to read the rest of the series!
I kindly received an ARC from the author. All opinions are my own.
P.S. Goodreads tells me this is the 256th book I've read this year and I'm sure there's an appropriate programmer joke to be made here but I'm just not that funny. Sorry! Feel free to make an attempt.
Read
June 8, 2024Yeah, not happening. Not rating it.
The story didn't pull me in, I was waiting for the smut to start because the dialogues weren't that good, hardly made it to 50%, but yeah, that sex part didn't work for me either.
First, that's a bad cover. This is the guy the book's about.
Here's the thing.
Quincy, the sentient android, doesn't have a dick.
Yeah, that was my problem. It's really simple. No dick = not worth my time. 🤷
Quincy's genderless, which is fine, he's made to be a worker and doesn't even live the kind of life where he'd think about sex, but he gets upgraded and wants to have sex with Evan, he's watching gay porn and likes it, wants to do it with Evan, so - I honestly don't want to read about 10 different hoses doing the job instead of just upgrading him also with a dick.
"Evan squeezed him tighter. “Oh, sweetheart. That has nothing to do with it either. Your anatomy has nothing to do with what makes you attractive.”"
Who are you kidding? Evan is a gay guy. His sexual preferences are being dominated and fucked into submission! Nowhere does it say it's going to be with a dickless robot and his other appendages. Yeah, sounds kinky, but it really wasn't.
Please add next time that the robot is dickless.
It's not going to be a next time for me because I'm not reading this series.
The story didn't pull me in, I was waiting for the smut to start because the dialogues weren't that good, hardly made it to 50%, but yeah, that sex part didn't work for me either.
First, that's a bad cover. This is the guy the book's about.
Here's the thing.
Quincy, the sentient android, doesn't have a dick.
Yeah, that was my problem. It's really simple. No dick = not worth my time. 🤷
Quincy's genderless, which is fine, he's made to be a worker and doesn't even live the kind of life where he'd think about sex, but he gets upgraded and wants to have sex with Evan, he's watching gay porn and likes it, wants to do it with Evan, so - I honestly don't want to read about 10 different hoses doing the job instead of just upgrading him also with a dick.
"Evan squeezed him tighter. “Oh, sweetheart. That has nothing to do with it either. Your anatomy has nothing to do with what makes you attractive.”"
Who are you kidding? Evan is a gay guy. His sexual preferences are being dominated and fucked into submission! Nowhere does it say it's going to be with a dickless robot and his other appendages. Yeah, sounds kinky, but it really wasn't.
Please add next time that the robot is dickless.
It's not going to be a next time for me because I'm not reading this series.
August 3, 2023
While I did like this, I thought there was just too much going on.
I would have been completely happy with the robot turning sentient and having a romantic relationship angle.
SPOILERS AHEAD
But we got the robot thing. Then Quincy trying to deal with all his new feelings. And of course the romance between Evan and Quincy.
But we also got the whole D/s angle, which I thought didn't fit the romance. And then we also got Quincy wearing make up and try making make up tutorials, trying out lacy lingerie and the figuring out his gender identity. We also got the .
Any of these things would have been enough for me, but all of this together made it a bit much.
I would have been completely happy with the robot turning sentient and having a romantic relationship angle.
SPOILERS AHEAD
But we got the robot thing. Then Quincy trying to deal with all his new feelings. And of course the romance between Evan and Quincy.
But we also got the whole D/s angle, which I thought didn't fit the romance. And then we also got Quincy wearing make up and try making make up tutorials, trying out lacy lingerie and the figuring out his gender identity. We also got the .
Any of these things would have been enough for me, but all of this together made it a bit much.
July 31, 2023
This book was so unique and perfect for me to read right now.
Evan saves a SPARK ( a sentient) nonhuman from being seriously injured from a bunch of evil hate-filled men. This rescue led him on a journey to love and acceptance.
This story was beautiful in the small moments. The towel, the cooking together, making Quincy feel accepted in his new environment. I loved these two together. It was special and sweet. And NGL the sex was epically hot! I mean DAMN!
Bravo on this book Reese!
I’m super excited for book 2 Ben’s story!
Evan saves a SPARK ( a sentient) nonhuman from being seriously injured from a bunch of evil hate-filled men. This rescue led him on a journey to love and acceptance.
This story was beautiful in the small moments. The towel, the cooking together, making Quincy feel accepted in his new environment. I loved these two together. It was special and sweet. And NGL the sex was epically hot! I mean DAMN!
Bravo on this book Reese!
I’m super excited for book 2 Ben’s story!
October 5, 2023
⭐️ 5 stars ⭐️
Futuristic setting romance between a sentient android and a human.
Had this one in my TBR for a while so once I saw it on GRR I had to pick it up, and I’m so glad I did.
Garbage was absolutely fantastic, adorable and slightly kinky.
Quincy’s innocence and curiosity paired with Evan’s insecurity and sweetness made the cutest couple, and I was delightfully surprised by not only the engaging plot but also the wholesome underlying message and moral the author slipped in there.
Loved everything about this and will definitely be reading more!
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
Tropes and NSFW info (spoilers):
- Android vs human
- Assault & hate speech
- Mild BDSM
- Brief klismaphilia (enema play)
- Spanking and light impact play
POV: 3rd person, dual
Futuristic setting romance between a sentient android and a human.
Had this one in my TBR for a while so once I saw it on GRR I had to pick it up, and I’m so glad I did.
Garbage was absolutely fantastic, adorable and slightly kinky.
Quincy’s innocence and curiosity paired with Evan’s insecurity and sweetness made the cutest couple, and I was delightfully surprised by not only the engaging plot but also the wholesome underlying message and moral the author slipped in there.
Loved everything about this and will definitely be reading more!
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
Tropes and NSFW info (spoilers):
- Android vs human
- Assault & hate speech
- Mild BDSM
- Brief klismaphilia (enema play)
- Spanking and light impact play
POV: 3rd person, dual
July 27, 2023
When I read this book's blurb, I just KNEW I had to get the #ARC! Devoured it in 6hrs, Loved Evan & Quincy!
This is a #futuristic MM #ScienceFiction #KinkyRomance where Evan (a human working in tech) falls in love with Quincy (A garbage collector sentient Android i.e. SPARK, Evan gave him his name!) after saving him from abusers.
Quincy is adorable & kind! I loved his childlike excitement, with Evan he had so many new experiences. I was crying from the cuteness 😭. Evan is so sweet & patient. Loved relationship growth. From Evan's crush, Q's innocence to finding about sexual pleasure! I had so many questions & I got answers hehe. The sexy times are HOT🔥 in the later half as Q grows as Dom with E being his willing sub. And use of the robot appendages 😏.
The lore of the world is so unique. #Welsh rep & gender identity talks are good. Future with AI & sentience - wild that it can be our future. This is my 1st book by this author & with a robot MC! Reese did good at showing the prejudices in world. I'm glad the hate group got what they deserved for assaulting Q & E!! The action part was well done, kept me on my toes! The emotions made me soar 🥰.
There were a few typos with wrong names, hope it gets fixed with release. A minor inconvenience. (Update: They were fixed!)
We get a happy ending for these 2, but a minor cliffy for next book with Evan's bestie Ben, so excited for it!! Loved the friend group here.
Story ratings:
POV: 3rd person, DUAL POV
1) The Characters: 5/5
2) Top 3 feels: so cute, bubbly, oh!
3) Story enjoyment: 5+/5
4) Creativity & Conflicts: 5/5
5) World build: 4.8/5
6) Relationship: 5/5
7) Steamy scenes: 3/5
8) Levels: Cute+Swoon: 4.6/5
Angst: 2/5
Dark: 2.5/5
9) Writing style & pace: 4.7/5
10) Grammar: 4.6/5
This is a #futuristic MM #ScienceFiction #KinkyRomance where Evan (a human working in tech) falls in love with Quincy (A garbage collector sentient Android i.e. SPARK, Evan gave him his name!) after saving him from abusers.
Quincy is adorable & kind! I loved his childlike excitement, with Evan he had so many new experiences. I was crying from the cuteness 😭. Evan is so sweet & patient. Loved relationship growth. From Evan's crush, Q's innocence to finding about sexual pleasure! I had so many questions & I got answers hehe. The sexy times are HOT🔥 in the later half as Q grows as Dom with E being his willing sub. And use of the robot appendages 😏.
The lore of the world is so unique. #Welsh rep & gender identity talks are good. Future with AI & sentience - wild that it can be our future. This is my 1st book by this author & with a robot MC! Reese did good at showing the prejudices in world. I'm glad the hate group got what they deserved for assaulting Q & E!! The action part was well done, kept me on my toes! The emotions made me soar 🥰.
There were a few typos with wrong names, hope it gets fixed with release. A minor inconvenience. (Update: They were fixed!)
We get a happy ending for these 2, but a minor cliffy for next book with Evan's bestie Ben, so excited for it!! Loved the friend group here.
Story ratings:
POV: 3rd person, DUAL POV
1) The Characters: 5/5
2) Top 3 feels: so cute, bubbly, oh!
3) Story enjoyment: 5+/5
4) Creativity & Conflicts: 5/5
5) World build: 4.8/5
6) Relationship: 5/5
7) Steamy scenes: 3/5
8) Levels: Cute+Swoon: 4.6/5
Angst: 2/5
Dark: 2.5/5
9) Writing style & pace: 4.7/5
10) Grammar: 4.6/5
July 30, 2023
This is a hard one to rate for me. It started off well (I mean, beyond the attack where they meet), and I thought this would be at least a four star, especially as I've really enjoyed much of Morrison's previous writing.
However, after the murder in self defense, which . . . what an excruciating scene to read. And then all of the extra appendages becoming super sexualized, I don't know. (To be fair, I'm happy Evan enjoyed the bonus hoses and whatnot, but I personally didn't find the idea of all those extra limbs appealing at all. I kept being pulled out trying to figure out which bit was going where, and the fact that they weren't organic or even trying to appear organic--I struggled. Which is a me thing.)
I think it's that that book tried to do SO MUCH, probably too much. The existential questions about what is life and humanity and . . . spark-anity? were really intriguing. I highlighted several of Quincy's thoughts about those topics. And I was into the 'the whole system is wrong' stuff, too, but when layered with copious amounts of kink and gender stuff . . . I just think we didn't get enough of a natural progression. I didn't really understand Quincy wanting to be a dom beyond wanting to please Evan. I didn't disagree with any of it, it just seemed like nothing got enough space to be properly explored. (I did like the bit about there being a difference between being fetishized and enjoying a fetish together.)
And, sorry, but I also hated the Welsh stuff. Every time I saw Welsh on page, I was so annoyed. It felt very forced and inorganic.
I know other people enjoyed this without reservation, but I just got pulled out of the book by various things in the second half. Even stuff I would have normally been excited to see couldn't get me back on board. Not sure I'll continue in this series, but still plan to read more of this author.
In the end, it's a 3 for me. I did like a lot about this book, but just wish it had been a bit more focused, or longer to adequately explore the big topics and themes here.
However, after the murder in self defense, which . . . what an excruciating scene to read. And then all of the extra appendages becoming super sexualized, I don't know. (To be fair, I'm happy Evan enjoyed the bonus hoses and whatnot, but I personally didn't find the idea of all those extra limbs appealing at all. I kept being pulled out trying to figure out which bit was going where, and the fact that they weren't organic or even trying to appear organic--I struggled. Which is a me thing.)
I think it's that that book tried to do SO MUCH, probably too much. The existential questions about what is life and humanity and . . . spark-anity? were really intriguing. I highlighted several of Quincy's thoughts about those topics. And I was into the 'the whole system is wrong' stuff, too, but when layered with copious amounts of kink and gender stuff . . . I just think we didn't get enough of a natural progression. I didn't really understand Quincy wanting to be a dom beyond wanting to please Evan. I didn't disagree with any of it, it just seemed like nothing got enough space to be properly explored. (I did like the bit about there being a difference between being fetishized and enjoying a fetish together.)
And, sorry, but I also hated the Welsh stuff. Every time I saw Welsh on page, I was so annoyed. It felt very forced and inorganic.
I know other people enjoyed this without reservation, but I just got pulled out of the book by various things in the second half. Even stuff I would have normally been excited to see couldn't get me back on board. Not sure I'll continue in this series, but still plan to read more of this author.
In the end, it's a 3 for me. I did like a lot about this book, but just wish it had been a bit more focused, or longer to adequately explore the big topics and themes here.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 8, 2023
DNF ~61%
My quest for a good MM romance robot book remains :/
The writing here was fine, and I appreciated the author's thoughtful approach, and the various trope subversions, but sometimes you don't *want* a trope to be subverted... I didn't really feel any sexual chemistry between the two MCs, and Quincy's enthusiasm felt a little too child-like for my personal tastes. The kink also really felt shoe-horned in and was not at all what I was feeling from them. Sadly, this one didn't work for me.
My quest for a good MM romance robot book remains :/
The writing here was fine, and I appreciated the author's thoughtful approach, and the various trope subversions, but sometimes you don't *want* a trope to be subverted... I didn't really feel any sexual chemistry between the two MCs, and Quincy's enthusiasm felt a little too child-like for my personal tastes. The kink also really felt shoe-horned in and was not at all what I was feeling from them. Sadly, this one didn't work for me.
Read
October 19, 2023I really liked it, but surprisingly the D/s stuff did not do anything for me. After a while,no caught myself wanting to skip over the scenes. I liked the characters and enjoyed it overall.
August 28, 2023
Reese Morrison is amazing
Once again an amazing book that I would not have picked up except for I trusted the author to take me on a good ride. I was right and now I’m so excited for Bens book!
Once again an amazing book that I would not have picked up except for I trusted the author to take me on a good ride. I was right and now I’m so excited for Bens book!
Read
July 27, 2023I wasn't sure what to expect here, but I've got such a soft spot for robots that I had to give it a go. And it was so cute and sweet! I love love loved the way the author handled consent in the book. And how one MC wrestled with the idea of fetishizing someone versus having a fetish that happens to align with something about a person when you are attracted to the whole of them. I just really ended up liking this more than I expected and had a lot of fun reading it. There were some aspects that really aren't my kink, but that's fine, good for you, not for me, I'll just skip over those bits. I particularly loved the way the MCs were silly and laughing and clearly having so much fun during the kinky scenes. I laughed out loud during multiple sex scenes. Very refreshing. Love the idea of an MC who can be like the biggest wide eyed excited marshmallow during sex and also still be a really hot dom. And all the exploration of different body parts and gender and identity was great. This did have some serious topics, so do check CWs, it's a terrible world we live in and that's definitely echoed in the world of the book. But overall this was such a sweet, fun read and I'd definitely recommend giving it a go.
August 28, 2023
4.5 stars!
I absolutely adored this book mostly because of Quincy, a sweet, sentient, humanoid robot. Evan saves Quincy from an attack and quickly realizes Quince is a SPARK - a robot with sentient capabilities. The two quickly become friends, roommates, and then more as Evan helps Quincy expand his world and embrace his sentience. Quincy is an enthusiastic learner, marveling at everything around him and Evan is the perfect guide for him. Evan tries to rein in his attraction so as not to impede Quincy's learning, but Quincy is just as enamored of Evan. There are others out there that do not appreciate the SPARKS and that leads to some harrowing and heartbreaking moments.
Quincy's capacity to learn and put that knowledge into practice is amazing and since Evan wants to be completely honest and forthright with him, it leads to some seriously spicy scenes once Quincy learns of Evan's submissiveness in the bedroom.
There was quite a bit going on here and the author is setting up a nice world where the Sparks and humans mostly seem to coexist. There's humor, drama and romance (and yes, be aware, there is human-Spark sex). I enjoyed the cast of secondary characters - and am definitely looking forward to Ben's story.
I absolutely adored this book mostly because of Quincy, a sweet, sentient, humanoid robot. Evan saves Quincy from an attack and quickly realizes Quince is a SPARK - a robot with sentient capabilities. The two quickly become friends, roommates, and then more as Evan helps Quincy expand his world and embrace his sentience. Quincy is an enthusiastic learner, marveling at everything around him and Evan is the perfect guide for him. Evan tries to rein in his attraction so as not to impede Quincy's learning, but Quincy is just as enamored of Evan. There are others out there that do not appreciate the SPARKS and that leads to some harrowing and heartbreaking moments.
Quincy's capacity to learn and put that knowledge into practice is amazing and since Evan wants to be completely honest and forthright with him, it leads to some seriously spicy scenes once Quincy learns of Evan's submissiveness in the bedroom.
There was quite a bit going on here and the author is setting up a nice world where the Sparks and humans mostly seem to coexist. There's humor, drama and romance (and yes, be aware, there is human-Spark sex). I enjoyed the cast of secondary characters - and am definitely looking forward to Ben's story.
July 20, 2023
adventurous emotional funny hopeful reflective sad tense medium-paced
Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
4.0
I love how the author creates all the amazing and diverse characters and shows their journey with a lot of reflective situations and supportive folks around them.
The hate-speech, hate-crime and so on were tough to read and it got a bit dark sometimes.
The relationship was sweet, but the focus was imo more with the self-exploration and Evan was a great support for Quincy
The sentient-concept was pretty cool
Loved the kinks 🥰
Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
4.0
I love how the author creates all the amazing and diverse characters and shows their journey with a lot of reflective situations and supportive folks around them.
The hate-speech, hate-crime and so on were tough to read and it got a bit dark sometimes.
The relationship was sweet, but the focus was imo more with the self-exploration and Evan was a great support for Quincy
The sentient-concept was pretty cool
Loved the kinks 🥰
August 15, 2023
4.25 Stars!
August 15, 2023
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
Garbage is the first book in Reese Morrison’s new SPARK Files series and I totally loved it. I found myself completely caught up in the story and just tore through this one. Morrison has created a really fascinating world here of humans who live alongside robots. Some are more humanoid looking, like Quincy, while others are more mechanical. But they are still mostly machines, except for those rare few who becomes sparks and gain the sentience and awareness of humans. Morrison does such a great job not only developing the various types of bots and how they are integrated into society, but also considering the bigger picture implication of the sparks.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
Garbage is the first book in Reese Morrison’s new SPARK Files series and I totally loved it. I found myself completely caught up in the story and just tore through this one. Morrison has created a really fascinating world here of humans who live alongside robots. Some are more humanoid looking, like Quincy, while others are more mechanical. But they are still mostly machines, except for those rare few who becomes sparks and gain the sentience and awareness of humans. Morrison does such a great job not only developing the various types of bots and how they are integrated into society, but also considering the bigger picture implication of the sparks.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
November 27, 2023
This was pretty good and fresh and I enjoyed it a lot. Why only 3*? The D/S angle just did not fit here at all. I went and had a look at some previous books by this author and it seems to be part of their style, but that part is not for me. I really hope the second book is not heavy on these themes as I am looking forward to reading it.
July 31, 2023
I generally love Reese' writing and this was no exception. This was a super unique story with an adorable plot and characters! I can not wait for more spark files!
August 20, 2023
Well, that was a bit disappointing. Though I feel like this is my fault.
I already had a relatively clear picture in my mind when I started the book. I had ideas about the characters and the plot and was already so set on exactly that idea that it threw me completely off course when the story developed in a different direction.
And then I was a bit disappointed because it wasn't what I had in mind.
Apart from what I imagined, the book wasn't that bad. Nevertheless, I have to say that I didn't like the characters that much. And the plot wasn't really my thing either.
I really don't know how to rate the book fairly (maybe it’s more like a 2.5 stars rating, but I don’t know). As I said before, I have the feeling that I would have liked the book better if I hadn't already imagined everything down to the smallest detail. My bad!
I already had a relatively clear picture in my mind when I started the book. I had ideas about the characters and the plot and was already so set on exactly that idea that it threw me completely off course when the story developed in a different direction.
And then I was a bit disappointed because it wasn't what I had in mind.
Apart from what I imagined, the book wasn't that bad. Nevertheless, I have to say that I didn't like the characters that much. And the plot wasn't really my thing either.
I really don't know how to rate the book fairly (maybe it’s more like a 2.5 stars rating, but I don’t know). As I said before, I have the feeling that I would have liked the book better if I hadn't already imagined everything down to the smallest detail. My bad!
February 12, 2025
This was a sweet and fluffy read. This was a little different than other AI/robot reads since they actually were treated a little more like a human. I like the little drama that happened. Nothing too notable about this.
December 31, 2023
Buddy read RTC
July 29, 2023
The good
+ Quincy's bouncy energy
+ Cooking as a love letter
+ Evan cooking for Quincy because he liked the smell
+ Quincy looking up all the videos and gifs with cute animals
+ Their sexual compatibility
+ Evan indulging Quincy constantly
+ Quincy's full-body hugs
+ Quincy's delight at getting feet
The neutral
o The laws 'protecting' SPARKs were horrible and inhumane. The book only focused on movements like Humans First and other anti-robot organisations, but what about those fighting for the rights of sentient robots? Quincy was put on a waiting list to determine whether he was sentient, and during that time he was still a generic robot and a piece of property in the eyes of the law. And when he would have been found sentient, he was forced to pay off his entire future service as a robot for the company he was working for and thus start his life as a free bot living in debt and not a single personal item in his possession. The main characters seemed rather unmoved by this dystopian scenario
o This is advertised as an MM romance, which I understand. It's not necessarily wrong, but it's not completely right either. By the end of the book, Quincy was still questioning his gender identity, and while he did use he/him pronouns (with plans to maybe try they/them in the future) he never said he was a man. I think MX romance is more accurate here
The bad
- Evan spent a lot of time wondering whether Quincy even felt sexual attraction. While I am really glad he did, because that's important, the explicit mention of sexual attraction made it glaringly obvious Evan didn't spend a moment thinking about whether Quincy felt romantic attraction, which was pretty relevant when Evan was contemplating whether they were boyfriends or not
- Evan treated Quincy like a child while simultaneously insisting it was horrible that nobody had ever treated Quincy like the person he was. Yet every time Quincy made it clear he wanted something, Evan retreated and said Quincy couldn't know for sure. I'm glad Evan was called out for his behavior, but it still bothered me
Quotes
Quincy was simply adorable. He deserved all the happiness in the world (and all the cuddles). Evan maybe went a bit overboard with the kid gloves, but he definitely provided a safe environment for Quincy to explore himself. I enjoyed their playful kink and the small and domestic romantic gestures like cooking to express their feelings. Would definitely recommend.
+ Quincy's bouncy energy
+ Cooking as a love letter
+ Evan cooking for Quincy because he liked the smell
+ Quincy looking up all the videos and gifs with cute animals
+ Their sexual compatibility
+ Evan indulging Quincy constantly
+ Quincy's full-body hugs
+ Quincy's delight at getting feet
The neutral
o The laws 'protecting' SPARKs were horrible and inhumane. The book only focused on movements like Humans First and other anti-robot organisations, but what about those fighting for the rights of sentient robots? Quincy was put on a waiting list to determine whether he was sentient, and during that time he was still a generic robot and a piece of property in the eyes of the law. And when he would have been found sentient, he was forced to pay off his entire future service as a robot for the company he was working for and thus start his life as a free bot living in debt and not a single personal item in his possession. The main characters seemed rather unmoved by this dystopian scenario
o This is advertised as an MM romance, which I understand. It's not necessarily wrong, but it's not completely right either. By the end of the book, Quincy was still questioning his gender identity, and while he did use he/him pronouns (with plans to maybe try they/them in the future) he never said he was a man. I think MX romance is more accurate here
The bad
- Evan spent a lot of time wondering whether Quincy even felt sexual attraction. While I am really glad he did, because that's important, the explicit mention of sexual attraction made it glaringly obvious Evan didn't spend a moment thinking about whether Quincy felt romantic attraction, which was pretty relevant when Evan was contemplating whether they were boyfriends or not
- Evan treated Quincy like a child while simultaneously insisting it was horrible that nobody had ever treated Quincy like the person he was. Yet every time Quincy made it clear he wanted something, Evan retreated and said Quincy couldn't know for sure. I'm glad Evan was called out for his behavior, but it still bothered me
Quotes
There he was, looking back at himself, with pajamas. Sloth pajamas.
He wrapped his arms around himself and squeezed because he was just so happy.
But he would be even happier if he was in the other room with Evan. His friend.
He was going to treasure today for the rest of his life.
There was a big difference between being fetishized and enjoying a fetish together.
Quincy was simply adorable. He deserved all the happiness in the world (and all the cuddles). Evan maybe went a bit overboard with the kid gloves, but he definitely provided a safe environment for Quincy to explore himself. I enjoyed their playful kink and the small and domestic romantic gestures like cooking to express their feelings. Would definitely recommend.
July 23, 2023
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
4.5⭐️ rounded up to 5⭐️ 😁
This was such a heartwarming and absolutely unique story!! Quincy a trash bot is a “spark” a sentient robot who doesn’t realize why he isn’t like the other androids. He is saved from an attack by Evan who shepherds him through the process of learning more about being a spark, upgrading his old hardware with the aid of his tech savvy friend Ben and getting him registered as a spark so that he has rights. Throughout all of this feelings develop, they navigate complex topics like gender, sexuality, genitals, etc. which is all done very well and has an incredibly inclusive feeling. Overall there is feeling to this read of “you are perfect just as you are, I just want you to be happy in your own skin” which I find incredibly heartwarming. This book was like a warm blanket at times, dealt with some tough topics and does have some trigger warnings (it’s not all fluffy), and had some very unique and interesting steam 🙂
4.5⭐️ rounded up to 5⭐️ 😁
This was such a heartwarming and absolutely unique story!! Quincy a trash bot is a “spark” a sentient robot who doesn’t realize why he isn’t like the other androids. He is saved from an attack by Evan who shepherds him through the process of learning more about being a spark, upgrading his old hardware with the aid of his tech savvy friend Ben and getting him registered as a spark so that he has rights. Throughout all of this feelings develop, they navigate complex topics like gender, sexuality, genitals, etc. which is all done very well and has an incredibly inclusive feeling. Overall there is feeling to this read of “you are perfect just as you are, I just want you to be happy in your own skin” which I find incredibly heartwarming. This book was like a warm blanket at times, dealt with some tough topics and does have some trigger warnings (it’s not all fluffy), and had some very unique and interesting steam 🙂
July 18, 2023
Action in a Reese Morrison book? Who is this?!
I received an advanced copy of this an exchange for my honest review and as with all of Reese Morrison's books, I really loved it. It is exceptional and it's so good and I cannot recommend it enough.
This is their first robot romance and I dug it. There's a little bit of kink thrown in, but relatively tame in terms of their other books, and there is on page assault so content warning for that. It basically follows this guy named Evan who stops an assault on a robot and then takes the robot home when he realizes that the robot is a spark which is a sentient robot. I've been helps Quincy get set up with more programming and more memory and realize all of his potential. As always, there are multiple gender non-conforming characters and questioning gender rep within our main character as well.
That being said, I don't know how many pages this is because I had an arc and a page count isn't listed yet, but this felt short in terms of their books. Most of their full length books range between 350 and 450 pages if not more and this one felt a little bit stilted. I don't know if it's just what's going on in their life right now or what but I wanted more. I wanted more of those small moments that are talked about after the fact and I wanted more from the ending. A lot of these chapters felt like they cut off abruptly and that was sad to me because I always want to read Reese Morrison books.
As it stands though, I'd loved it, it's very good even if it's not my favorite of theirs. I will obviously continue with the series.
I received an advanced copy of this an exchange for my honest review and as with all of Reese Morrison's books, I really loved it. It is exceptional and it's so good and I cannot recommend it enough.
This is their first robot romance and I dug it. There's a little bit of kink thrown in, but relatively tame in terms of their other books, and there is on page assault so content warning for that. It basically follows this guy named Evan who stops an assault on a robot and then takes the robot home when he realizes that the robot is a spark which is a sentient robot. I've been helps Quincy get set up with more programming and more memory and realize all of his potential. As always, there are multiple gender non-conforming characters and questioning gender rep within our main character as well.
That being said, I don't know how many pages this is because I had an arc and a page count isn't listed yet, but this felt short in terms of their books. Most of their full length books range between 350 and 450 pages if not more and this one felt a little bit stilted. I don't know if it's just what's going on in their life right now or what but I wanted more. I wanted more of those small moments that are talked about after the fact and I wanted more from the ending. A lot of these chapters felt like they cut off abruptly and that was sad to me because I always want to read Reese Morrison books.
As it stands though, I'd loved it, it's very good even if it's not my favorite of theirs. I will obviously continue with the series.
March 11, 2024
I really enjoy Reese Morrison writing, it always brings the perfect balance of emotions and steam with a bit of kink. I was slightly nervous because I've only attempted to read one book with a human × android relationship and I DnFd it because it was creepy but Om Em Gee Quincy was everything but creepy. Q was adorable and precious and I wanted all the good things for him . Q and Evans relationship was the sweetest . I loved Q discovering pleasure and how to be the perfect Dom for Evan . 🥰🔥
Favorite Quotes
Quincy had a towel. His very own towel. He hung it on the hook, then petted it a few times. His towel.
Quincy’s world dimmed. What if he wasn’t good enough for… for towels and sloth pajamas and hot chocolate and Evan? He didn’t want to go back to what things were like before.
Quincy, who had to be the cutest spark in the history of the universe, was opening all of his drawers, touching the things inside, and then carefully putting them back where he’d found them.
Evan wasn’t just his guide, he was his… something. He didn’t know how to describe it yet, but Evan was more precious than his blue towel or the little plant with white flowers that Evan had bought him for the living room window.
There was a big difference between being fetishized and enjoying a fetish together. In fact, Quincy had never felt so free.
Favorite Quotes
Quincy had a towel. His very own towel. He hung it on the hook, then petted it a few times. His towel.
Quincy’s world dimmed. What if he wasn’t good enough for… for towels and sloth pajamas and hot chocolate and Evan? He didn’t want to go back to what things were like before.
Quincy, who had to be the cutest spark in the history of the universe, was opening all of his drawers, touching the things inside, and then carefully putting them back where he’d found them.
Evan wasn’t just his guide, he was his… something. He didn’t know how to describe it yet, but Evan was more precious than his blue towel or the little plant with white flowers that Evan had bought him for the living room window.
There was a big difference between being fetishized and enjoying a fetish together. In fact, Quincy had never felt so free.
July 15, 2023
I received an advance copy from the author for review purposes; this in no way influences my review.
As soon as Reese mentioned writing an android/human romance in their Facebook group, I knew I needed to get my hands on it! This was such a cozy delight of a read; Quincy is so delightfully precious and the joy he gets out of life brought so many smiles to my face. I also really loved him and Evan falling in love and the clear consent and communication they share. This was the perfect happy, cozy read and I cannot wait to get to Ben’s book!
As soon as Reese mentioned writing an android/human romance in their Facebook group, I knew I needed to get my hands on it! This was such a cozy delight of a read; Quincy is so delightfully precious and the joy he gets out of life brought so many smiles to my face. I also really loved him and Evan falling in love and the clear consent and communication they share. This was the perfect happy, cozy read and I cannot wait to get to Ben’s book!
July 23, 2023
I loveeed this! I wasn't sure what to make of the idea of a robot romance going into this but I shouldn't have doubted for a minute. It's adorable and funny, heartwarming and touching, with just enough angst and drama to keep things exciting. I already want the next four books ready to binge on IMMEDIATELY! So good.
Quincy's character development as he learns to interact with the world and discovers himself is fantastically written and feels incredibly realistic and relatable. I can't wait for the rest of her series and more sparks finding their identities and what makes them tick.
Quincy's character development as he learns to interact with the world and discovers himself is fantastically written and feels incredibly realistic and relatable. I can't wait for the rest of her series and more sparks finding their identities and what makes them tick.
July 25, 2023
Pleasant Surprise
I wasn’t sure what to expect from this but I was very intrigued by the blurb. It turned out to be a very good and entertaining story. I enjoyed Evan & Quincy's story even when it took a little bit of a turn towards more spicy. I can't wait to get to Ben's story next.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
I wasn’t sure what to expect from this but I was very intrigued by the blurb. It turned out to be a very good and entertaining story. I enjoyed Evan & Quincy's story even when it took a little bit of a turn towards more spicy. I can't wait to get to Ben's story next.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
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