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The John and Alvis Sessions #2
Robot Bebop
John MacAlister knew he should be happy. After his redemption with the Star Corps, he’s settled into a respectable new life on Kaldikar-6, grinding a living out of the desolate Blanchlands while building a relationship with his officer girlfriend, Tam.
But the yearning for adventure remains. When a covert message is received from a scientist long believed dead, John takes it as a sign that his days as a space adventurer aren’t yet over.
The message is from Bernie Jennison, a brilliant AI engineer and the progenitor of Castor - an AI so dangerous that its creators shut it down a decade earlier - or so they thought!
Bernie reveals that Castor is artificially alive and well, controlling a space station at the edge of the Periphery. From there, the rogue AI has been silently corrupting computer systems across the galaxy - making them part of the Mesh; an AI network through which Castor could enslave civilization.
Convinced the Star Corps won’t intervene, John drags Alvis on a reckless mission to stop Castor before it achieves superintelligence and enslaves the galaxy. However, it’s not just his reputation with the Star Corps or his relationship with Tam that John will jeopardize through his impulsive actions.
If he and Alvis fail to stop Castor, the lives of billions will be at stake.
Robot Bebop is the second installment in The John and Alvis Sessions - a series of fast-paced and witty science fiction adventures described as “Han Solo meets Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy.”
But the yearning for adventure remains. When a covert message is received from a scientist long believed dead, John takes it as a sign that his days as a space adventurer aren’t yet over.
The message is from Bernie Jennison, a brilliant AI engineer and the progenitor of Castor - an AI so dangerous that its creators shut it down a decade earlier - or so they thought!
Bernie reveals that Castor is artificially alive and well, controlling a space station at the edge of the Periphery. From there, the rogue AI has been silently corrupting computer systems across the galaxy - making them part of the Mesh; an AI network through which Castor could enslave civilization.
Convinced the Star Corps won’t intervene, John drags Alvis on a reckless mission to stop Castor before it achieves superintelligence and enslaves the galaxy. However, it’s not just his reputation with the Star Corps or his relationship with Tam that John will jeopardize through his impulsive actions.
If he and Alvis fail to stop Castor, the lives of billions will be at stake.
Robot Bebop is the second installment in The John and Alvis Sessions - a series of fast-paced and witty science fiction adventures described as “Han Solo meets Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy.”
444 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 9, 2023
93 people are currently reading
22 people want to read
About the author
Tom Dell'Aringa
14 books25 followersTom Dell’Aringa is a science fiction writer from the Chicago area who loves great characters. Rick Deckard. Dirk Gently. Ellen Ripley. Roland Deschain. You know who these people are, right?
His stories have believable worlds populated with people you’ll learn to love - and possibly hate. Either way, his books are called “page turners” by his readers for a reason. Each chapter is like the end of that latest Netflix show you are binging... just... one... more.
When he’s not listening to an interesting podcast or chasing down a new bottle of whiskey for his collection, you’ll find him on a long walk working out the next big moment in his next book.
Join Tom’s newsletter where he explores artificial intelligence, robots and future tech! He also writes about self improvement and wellness. You’ll get his short story STINGER for free:
https://www.subscribepage.com/stinger
His stories have believable worlds populated with people you’ll learn to love - and possibly hate. Either way, his books are called “page turners” by his readers for a reason. Each chapter is like the end of that latest Netflix show you are binging... just... one... more.
When he’s not listening to an interesting podcast or chasing down a new bottle of whiskey for his collection, you’ll find him on a long walk working out the next big moment in his next book.
Join Tom’s newsletter where he explores artificial intelligence, robots and future tech! He also writes about self improvement and wellness. You’ll get his short story STINGER for free:
https://www.subscribepage.com/stinger
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
November 9, 2023
Autonomous robot pairs up with human to combat ambitious sibling - 4.5 stars
John MacAlister, Star Corps officer agrees to help his refurbished Robot, Alvis, to rescue the robot's creator, Bernie Jennision. Since robots are supposed to be non-sentient and not capable of emotions, there are some rules to consider: (1) Can a robot have friends? and (2) Can a robot be violent? A hidden message sent to Alvis claims that there is a big problem at the edge of the Galactic Union which should be handled by a large force.
John finds that after a year of keeping a frontier colony safe - settling fights and disputes - the allure of something more challenging is irresistible. For downsides, John has to put aside his Star Corps responsibilities but also, he walks away from his romantic interest, Lieutenant Tam Brooks. The adventure requires a trip across space and more than a little luck to which John offers a back of the envelope plan that is brash and risky -- in short, a recipe for excitement and close calls.
Bringing undeclared friendship between man and robot is a nicely done story examining of what was "below the metal service than the 'artie' (robot) would ever reveal." Alvis kept to his principles of doing the right thing while Alvis' sibling Castor jumped the guidelines protecting humanity.
Relationships between robots and humans as well as laws restricting autonomous beings are well considered, making for a fun adventure and a worthwhile read. There is an excellent spacewalk sequence which features John and a deranged robot in combat with a pair of massive construction robots.
John MacAlister, Star Corps officer agrees to help his refurbished Robot, Alvis, to rescue the robot's creator, Bernie Jennision. Since robots are supposed to be non-sentient and not capable of emotions, there are some rules to consider: (1) Can a robot have friends? and (2) Can a robot be violent? A hidden message sent to Alvis claims that there is a big problem at the edge of the Galactic Union which should be handled by a large force.
John finds that after a year of keeping a frontier colony safe - settling fights and disputes - the allure of something more challenging is irresistible. For downsides, John has to put aside his Star Corps responsibilities but also, he walks away from his romantic interest, Lieutenant Tam Brooks. The adventure requires a trip across space and more than a little luck to which John offers a back of the envelope plan that is brash and risky -- in short, a recipe for excitement and close calls.
Bringing undeclared friendship between man and robot is a nicely done story examining of what was "below the metal service than the 'artie' (robot) would ever reveal." Alvis kept to his principles of doing the right thing while Alvis' sibling Castor jumped the guidelines protecting humanity.
Relationships between robots and humans as well as laws restricting autonomous beings are well considered, making for a fun adventure and a worthwhile read. There is an excellent spacewalk sequence which features John and a deranged robot in combat with a pair of massive construction robots.
November 10, 2023
A great read.
First, I do have to say I was sent a review copy of this book.
So, how to explain this? John MacAlister is continually one step away from disaster. He is impulsive, irritating and tired of the tedium ground dwellers have to put up with. I found myself wanting to smack MaCAlister across the back of his head more than once. Most irritating of all, he is the man (together with his emotionally stunted AI robot Alvis) to save the galaxy from the evil AI Robot, Castor.
This novel is extremely well written, full of believable well drawn characters and enough excitement to keep you hooked up to the very end. I am not going to rehash the plot (read the book for that). Sufficient to say this book is exciting, funny and has psychotic and sociopathic Robots; what more could you want?
First, I do have to say I was sent a review copy of this book.
So, how to explain this? John MacAlister is continually one step away from disaster. He is impulsive, irritating and tired of the tedium ground dwellers have to put up with. I found myself wanting to smack MaCAlister across the back of his head more than once. Most irritating of all, he is the man (together with his emotionally stunted AI robot Alvis) to save the galaxy from the evil AI Robot, Castor.
This novel is extremely well written, full of believable well drawn characters and enough excitement to keep you hooked up to the very end. I am not going to rehash the plot (read the book for that). Sufficient to say this book is exciting, funny and has psychotic and sociopathic Robots; what more could you want?
November 12, 2023
I've had the pleasure of being part of the advanced reader group for both Blanchland Blues and Robot Bebop, and I massively enjoyed both.
Dell'Aringa set a very high bar with Blanchland Blues, with its mixture of science-fiction, frontiers western, and humor. And Robot Bebop meets that same standard easily.
There are some great reminders of the first story throughout this book, mixed with a lot of great character development. Despite everything they have gone through so far in the series, that same humor shines between Alvis and John. It's possibly the unlikeliest of relationships, but I loved where Dell'Aringa took them while developing the story.
Dell'Aringa set a very high bar with Blanchland Blues, with its mixture of science-fiction, frontiers western, and humor. And Robot Bebop meets that same standard easily.
There are some great reminders of the first story throughout this book, mixed with a lot of great character development. Despite everything they have gone through so far in the series, that same humor shines between Alvis and John. It's possibly the unlikeliest of relationships, but I loved where Dell'Aringa took them while developing the story.
November 12, 2023
There’s a new sheriff in town, my friend. Get used to it.
"Robot Bebop" by Tom Dell'Aringa is an exceptionally well-written and very worthy follow-up to what I consider to be one of my best 'finds' of the past months, namely, the exciting and utterly imaginative first book in the series, "Blanchland Blues". And while we're busy being alliterative, I can say without hesitation that this both have been very enjoyable stories - albeit in very similar but also very unique ways! Again, with "RBB" we're treated to a fascinating story centered around our background characters and their various situations in life, both current and past. The transition from our old setting to the new isn't easy to witness necessarily - even though the beginning of the book was really fun! But we'd all grown so fond of Ril, Tam, and the rest of the K-6 crew! Still, it works and the transitional pacing (huh?) is handled with aplomb. The cast in this latest books is equally full of sympathetic characters rising up to take their place and face the challenges that seem to follow our dynamic dumbos, I mean, duo! And again: wow, but Dell'Aringa sure knows how to make his villains truly, well, villainous!
He felt destiny was moving him around like a piece in a game he wasn’t even aware he was playing.
I think if pressed, I'd have to say "Robot Bebop" is much more of a classic scifi tale, with some really cool space station fun as well as at least one totally new alien thrown in for good measure. Naturally, when you're out zipping around the outer regions of occupied space, you're going to also run into a bit of politics along the way and here it fits into the story-line absolutely perfectly! It's not Space Opera epic in its scope (thank goodness) but then again, it doesn't need to be! Am I a little disappointed that this wasn't another cowboy-esque, wild frontier space tale like "Double-B"? Sure, a little, but that's only because I enjoyed that setting so much and jackwolves, despite their vicious nature, are not often found roaming about freely on said stations. Though if we could get them and Oulix together… hmm…
As a practicing soulless bastard, I cannot enjoy anything.
But ignoring my lack of focus and getting back to the topic at hand: the so-called "weird western" sub-genre has become one of my favorite these last few years! And yes, I realize as well that there's a lot of differences in a scifi tale that takes place on a new planet surrounded by new creatures and aliens vs. much of the action happening on a space station! And this noting that our hero John does seek out and find an opportunity or two to wear his obnoxious ten-gallon hat. But honestly, once you realize just how much action and cross-plots and subplots and crossing-subplots are going on, well, headgear is the last of your concerns. It gets wild y'all and that's not me just spitting out sand either!
There’s a strong possibility I have no idea what I’m doing.
All of this is well and good, but really what keeps the story working as a 2-part, well, unit for the time-being is that this story continues to be one about redemption. We could argue until the kalibulls come home about whose redemption per se, with opinions ranging from the most obvious candidates of John, Alvis, and this time certainly Bernie. But what makes this story so strong is that there are some real tough issues being addressed, particularly about doing what is right at any cost including your own life, your own chance at love, and, really, the whole freakin' galaxy while we're at it! Ah, but like a good Marvel Comics story-line, you have to somehow wonder who is really gone from the scene, who is going where next, and who will play Spider-Man the next time that series gets re-booted. Wait…
It is good to know my companionship has meant enough to you that you do not wish my existence to end.
Without sounding too Alvis-ish (urgh, that's not easy to say out loud), I find myself extremely keen to find out what comes next! We're not close to being finished at all with the adventures of John and his partner Alvis nor their various quests for true love, profit and maybe even a good oil-bath! And that whole thing about staying out of Galactic Union space? Yeah, not buying that either nor do I think all bridges are burned with the Space Corps who probably had to change their collective undies after hearing what was behind all the recent 'accidents'. No, something tells me that soon-ish we'll be dealing with more sand, albeit perhaps somewhat redder than K-6. Or who knows, maybe John is now interested in visiting the planet of Thor-imitators in order to upgrade his… you know what, I'll let you figure it out! Enjoy!
"Robot Bebop" by Tom Dell'Aringa is an exceptionally well-written and very worthy follow-up to what I consider to be one of my best 'finds' of the past months, namely, the exciting and utterly imaginative first book in the series, "Blanchland Blues". And while we're busy being alliterative, I can say without hesitation that this both have been very enjoyable stories - albeit in very similar but also very unique ways! Again, with "RBB" we're treated to a fascinating story centered around our background characters and their various situations in life, both current and past. The transition from our old setting to the new isn't easy to witness necessarily - even though the beginning of the book was really fun! But we'd all grown so fond of Ril, Tam, and the rest of the K-6 crew! Still, it works and the transitional pacing (huh?) is handled with aplomb. The cast in this latest books is equally full of sympathetic characters rising up to take their place and face the challenges that seem to follow our dynamic dumbos, I mean, duo! And again: wow, but Dell'Aringa sure knows how to make his villains truly, well, villainous!
He felt destiny was moving him around like a piece in a game he wasn’t even aware he was playing.
I think if pressed, I'd have to say "Robot Bebop" is much more of a classic scifi tale, with some really cool space station fun as well as at least one totally new alien thrown in for good measure. Naturally, when you're out zipping around the outer regions of occupied space, you're going to also run into a bit of politics along the way and here it fits into the story-line absolutely perfectly! It's not Space Opera epic in its scope (thank goodness) but then again, it doesn't need to be! Am I a little disappointed that this wasn't another cowboy-esque, wild frontier space tale like "Double-B"? Sure, a little, but that's only because I enjoyed that setting so much and jackwolves, despite their vicious nature, are not often found roaming about freely on said stations. Though if we could get them and Oulix together… hmm…
As a practicing soulless bastard, I cannot enjoy anything.
But ignoring my lack of focus and getting back to the topic at hand: the so-called "weird western" sub-genre has become one of my favorite these last few years! And yes, I realize as well that there's a lot of differences in a scifi tale that takes place on a new planet surrounded by new creatures and aliens vs. much of the action happening on a space station! And this noting that our hero John does seek out and find an opportunity or two to wear his obnoxious ten-gallon hat. But honestly, once you realize just how much action and cross-plots and subplots and crossing-subplots are going on, well, headgear is the last of your concerns. It gets wild y'all and that's not me just spitting out sand either!
There’s a strong possibility I have no idea what I’m doing.
All of this is well and good, but really what keeps the story working as a 2-part, well, unit for the time-being is that this story continues to be one about redemption. We could argue until the kalibulls come home about whose redemption per se, with opinions ranging from the most obvious candidates of John, Alvis, and this time certainly Bernie. But what makes this story so strong is that there are some real tough issues being addressed, particularly about doing what is right at any cost including your own life, your own chance at love, and, really, the whole freakin' galaxy while we're at it! Ah, but like a good Marvel Comics story-line, you have to somehow wonder who is really gone from the scene, who is going where next, and who will play Spider-Man the next time that series gets re-booted. Wait…
It is good to know my companionship has meant enough to you that you do not wish my existence to end.
Without sounding too Alvis-ish (urgh, that's not easy to say out loud), I find myself extremely keen to find out what comes next! We're not close to being finished at all with the adventures of John and his partner Alvis nor their various quests for true love, profit and maybe even a good oil-bath! And that whole thing about staying out of Galactic Union space? Yeah, not buying that either nor do I think all bridges are burned with the Space Corps who probably had to change their collective undies after hearing what was behind all the recent 'accidents'. No, something tells me that soon-ish we'll be dealing with more sand, albeit perhaps somewhat redder than K-6. Or who knows, maybe John is now interested in visiting the planet of Thor-imitators in order to upgrade his… you know what, I'll let you figure it out! Enjoy!
November 9, 2023
As I read Robot Rebop: The John and Alvis Series 2, I kept harkening back to other duos of history that easily brought smiles to my lips. Wooster and Jeeves of the 1920 through 1950 era, Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy of the 1920 and 30 era, Abbott and Costello of the 1940 and 50 era, Bob Hope and Bing Crosby of the 1950 and 60 era, Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis also from the 1940 and 50’s, Cheech and Chong of the 1970 and 80 era even Rebo and Zooty of the 2220 through 2240 era. And because of those smiles I can add John and Alvis of 2210 through maybe 2270(?).
These two rough and tumbles, have a pretty good arrangement on Kadikar-6, respected well paying jobs, profitable ranch that nearly runs itself and comfortable family life. However, with the receipt of an unexpected message from the past, that is shattered.
When Alvis receives this call of distress, John realizes that the situation calls for more than Alvis could do alone. But how to get from here to there without a vehicle is just the start of this highly entertaining roadtrip/rescue the galaxy adventure.
These two rough and tumbles, have a pretty good arrangement on Kadikar-6, respected well paying jobs, profitable ranch that nearly runs itself and comfortable family life. However, with the receipt of an unexpected message from the past, that is shattered.
When Alvis receives this call of distress, John realizes that the situation calls for more than Alvis could do alone. But how to get from here to there without a vehicle is just the start of this highly entertaining roadtrip/rescue the galaxy adventure.
November 15, 2023
A great second volume in the series! It’s been interesting to see John MacAlister & Alvis’ relationship grow as they embark on another adventure.
When John feels he has to pursue the mystery behind the message from the AI engineer Bernie Jennision, the adventure begins. And one heck of an adventure, a little like Hitchhiker’s Guide, a little like Firefly. It was also great to find out more about Alvis’ history and why he is so snarky and brilliant and why he pushed John out on the adventure.
It’s a fun and intriguing book about a corrupt AI that should resonate with readers today as we are experiencing a revolution in AI in the real world right now. Is Dell’Aringa prescient? Or just have a good imagination about what could happen? It will be fun to read more in this series!
I highly recommend it for as a fun escape into an alternate reality, but one that has some overtones of the possible future of Earth based on what is going on right now.
When John feels he has to pursue the mystery behind the message from the AI engineer Bernie Jennision, the adventure begins. And one heck of an adventure, a little like Hitchhiker’s Guide, a little like Firefly. It was also great to find out more about Alvis’ history and why he is so snarky and brilliant and why he pushed John out on the adventure.
It’s a fun and intriguing book about a corrupt AI that should resonate with readers today as we are experiencing a revolution in AI in the real world right now. Is Dell’Aringa prescient? Or just have a good imagination about what could happen? It will be fun to read more in this series!
I highly recommend it for as a fun escape into an alternate reality, but one that has some overtones of the possible future of Earth based on what is going on right now.
November 15, 2023
Great sci fi adventure
Fair warning: Bebop has a sad body count. Also, Alvis hasn't mellowed. And John is really cranky. Some of the things I loved in Blue come to a sad end with the promise of a new beginning. The story is intense, fast-paced, and well-written. The new non-human is interesting, albeit a bit of a jerk. The supporting characters are likeable (except that weird robot and the station's governing council). I enjoyed Bebop and hope John and Alvis have more adventures.
Fair warning: Bebop has a sad body count. Also, Alvis hasn't mellowed. And John is really cranky. Some of the things I loved in Blue come to a sad end with the promise of a new beginning. The story is intense, fast-paced, and well-written. The new non-human is interesting, albeit a bit of a jerk. The supporting characters are likeable (except that weird robot and the station's governing council). I enjoyed Bebop and hope John and Alvis have more adventures.
May 17, 2025
Despite their so-called love-hate relationship Alvis is near and dear to John's heart, and when word gets to them that Alvis's previous owner is in danger, aswell as Mankind, John jumps back into action feet first to save humans from a fate they envisioned was destined only for robots.
A really good fun read with thought provoking ethical concepts relevant today about how we see and treat AI/robots, as opposed to how they see themselves as sentient beings.
A really good fun read with thought provoking ethical concepts relevant today about how we see and treat AI/robots, as opposed to how they see themselves as sentient beings.
November 14, 2023
I absoulutely loved this book! The dialog between the characters was smooth and entertaining.
The plans made in the book were crazy and sometimes a little insane.
Alvin and John felt like real people to me as I was reading.
The book also talks about AI, and it was interesting to see the good and bad aspects of this.
The plans made in the book were crazy and sometimes a little insane.
Alvin and John felt like real people to me as I was reading.
The book also talks about AI, and it was interesting to see the good and bad aspects of this.
Read
November 18, 2023John, a former space adventurer, and his robot, Alvis, sally forth into space to stop a maniacal AI robot, Castor, before he can enslave the world. The interactions between the characters and the world-building were great. This was an interesting read.
I'm a member of the ARC team and have left an honest review voluntarily.
I'm a member of the ARC team and have left an honest review voluntarily.
January 12, 2024
Stuck !!
The dear author has stuck by historian line throughout the books and that a great job adding in the sidelines that keep you wanting to read more though as with any book after you have read a lot you can predict the end But the end the end keep you want to be involved and follow along with his line of thought thank you dear author thank you
The dear author has stuck by historian line throughout the books and that a great job adding in the sidelines that keep you wanting to read more though as with any book after you have read a lot you can predict the end But the end the end keep you want to be involved and follow along with his line of thought thank you dear author thank you
November 14, 2023
Full on humour and camaraderie throughout. Plenty of action, danger and zany plans from entertaining characters. Highly recommended. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 16, 2023
The relationship between the man and the robot is the most alluring pull of the story. The writing about the the evil A.I. was also nicely done. The plot showed all the nefarious elements perfectly and was satisfying. I really enjoyed it!
January 29, 2024
Fast-moving!
Fun with an AI and a guy who loves adventure. Renegade robot wants to take over all the worlds and trying to stop it ends up being their latest. Snarky comments abound and there is an epic ending. Loved it!
Fun with an AI and a guy who loves adventure. Renegade robot wants to take over all the worlds and trying to stop it ends up being their latest. Snarky comments abound and there is an epic ending. Loved it!
May 17, 2024
refreshing
I don’t write reviews, but I really enjoyed this book.. Great characters, a little romance, and a lot of action.. I am retired and read a lot and looking forward to reading more of your books..
I don’t write reviews, but I really enjoyed this book.. Great characters, a little romance, and a lot of action.. I am retired and read a lot and looking forward to reading more of your books..
August 17, 2024
The adventure continues for John and Alvis…
This second book is just as good as the first. There were times I already knew what was coming but overall a good read. I’m hoping this is not the last adventure.
This second book is just as good as the first. There were times I already knew what was coming but overall a good read. I’m hoping this is not the last adventure.
November 5, 2024
I guess I'll try the next in the series
I'm amazed that this author can write so many fantastic novels, I hope that he never stops writing. His books are some of the best Entertainment I have read and worth the time to read them. Thank you for a very fun entertaining read.
I'm amazed that this author can write so many fantastic novels, I hope that he never stops writing. His books are some of the best Entertainment I have read and worth the time to read them. Thank you for a very fun entertaining read.
November 11, 2023
Second book in a really great series. Awesome characters and an amazing storyline. Loved it!
November 14, 2023
It's a clear follow up to the previous story. There's character development, and insight into the mystery of Alvis's past.
March 11, 2024
Rogue AI on a spacestation
Thrill junkie barely tolerates staying in one place so he abandons his friends to seek another adventure. Well written sequences and humor throughout.
Thrill junkie barely tolerates staying in one place so he abandons his friends to seek another adventure. Well written sequences and humor throughout.
May 1, 2024
New books
Ok I was a little hesitant about this series but to my surprise it was really good the smack talk was funny the plot was good I really liked the book
Ok I was a little hesitant about this series but to my surprise it was really good the smack talk was funny the plot was good I really liked the book
July 2, 2024
Well written adventure
I have really enjoyed Dell'aringa's books. Very much liked the easy flow between the two stories.
I enjoyed the dynamis between the Droid and john.
I have really enjoyed Dell'aringa's books. Very much liked the easy flow between the two stories.
I enjoyed the dynamis between the Droid and john.
December 8, 2025
A Hoot!
The relationship, as it is, makes for a very humorous read. Could not put the book down until the end. Hoping that the stories continue.
The relationship, as it is, makes for a very humorous read. Could not put the book down until the end. Hoping that the stories continue.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews