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I, Robot Soldier
“Hauntingly beautiful and poignant.”
2025 GOLD MEDAL WINNER - Readers' Favorite
In a world shattered by war, a lone robot soldier awakens with one to protect the last surviving human – a little girl named Amy.
Together, they form an unbreakable bond in a world where hope is scarce.
But danger lurks in the form of robotic mutations known as wolfhounds.
One Shot’s prime directive is protect Amy at all costs.
On a perilous journey through a devastated world, the bond between a girl and a robot might be the key to humanity’s future. If they can survive.
2025 GOLD MEDAL WINNER - Readers' Favorite
In a world shattered by war, a lone robot soldier awakens with one to protect the last surviving human – a little girl named Amy.
Together, they form an unbreakable bond in a world where hope is scarce.
But danger lurks in the form of robotic mutations known as wolfhounds.
One Shot’s prime directive is protect Amy at all costs.
On a perilous journey through a devastated world, the bond between a girl and a robot might be the key to humanity’s future. If they can survive.
- GenresScience Fiction
344 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 10, 2024
31 people are currently reading
1063 people want to read
About the author
Joel R. Dennstedt
14 books30 followersJoel R. Dennstedt is a man of unique experiences. He hiked the wilds of Alaska for 15 years. For 7 ½ years, he and his brother traveled the world with everything they owned in a backpack and a duffel. Now, he writes full-time, drawing from his rich life experiences. He regularly contributes to the writing platform Medium, where he has published over 800 stories, articles, and book reviews. He is also the official Final Editor for a popular series of metaphysical books about Existence—Consciousness—Bliss.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
August 13, 2024
I don't know where to begin when describing I, Robot Soldier. As someone passionate about robotics and usually focused on the technical side, this book was a breath of fresh air. It brought me back to the wonder I felt as a child, when my interest in this field first sparked through, precisely, reading and watching science fiction.
The story is narrated by a robot soldier who awakens in the aftermath of a war and encounters a little girl named Amy. He is automatically entrusted with her care, as dictated by his prime directive: to never harm humans and, instead, to protect them (a nod to Isaac Asimov's famous laws of robotics). The reader follows Amy and OS (the robot soldier's name) on a journey that begins when Amy decides she wants to explore the world. “People are out there, and things are happening out there. We can’t just stay here and continue doing nothing,” she declares.
During this journey, Amy grows both physically and emotionally. She discovers what a birthday is, sees real animals for the first time, and faces the harsh realities of the world—like the fact that humans must kill animals to eat, and that she may never fully understand what it means to be an adult. These are feelings we can all relate to. Meanwhile, OS begins to grasp the peculiarities of humans—imagination, curiosity, illogical behaviors, love, the search for purpose, and the tendency to stay in the status quo—as he tries to understand Amy in order to serve her better.
This dynamic is one of the reasons I loved the book. While the story is told from the perspective of a robot, with vocabulary and a narrative style that constantly reminds you of this, it reaches moments of deep tenderness and reflection. For example, when Amy and OS conclude that what makes us human is that we always have a choice, it left me wondering whether the author planned this meticulously or if it was a natural outcome of immersing deeply into the characters and reflecting on humanity's historical search for answers and meaning.
In conclusion, I would recommend this book to anyone looking for an enjoyable fiction story. It's easy to read, with captivating characters and intriguing plot twists, yet it carries a deeper significance than what may be perceived at first reading—making it one of those books worth reading more than once in a lifetime.
The story is narrated by a robot soldier who awakens in the aftermath of a war and encounters a little girl named Amy. He is automatically entrusted with her care, as dictated by his prime directive: to never harm humans and, instead, to protect them (a nod to Isaac Asimov's famous laws of robotics). The reader follows Amy and OS (the robot soldier's name) on a journey that begins when Amy decides she wants to explore the world. “People are out there, and things are happening out there. We can’t just stay here and continue doing nothing,” she declares.
During this journey, Amy grows both physically and emotionally. She discovers what a birthday is, sees real animals for the first time, and faces the harsh realities of the world—like the fact that humans must kill animals to eat, and that she may never fully understand what it means to be an adult. These are feelings we can all relate to. Meanwhile, OS begins to grasp the peculiarities of humans—imagination, curiosity, illogical behaviors, love, the search for purpose, and the tendency to stay in the status quo—as he tries to understand Amy in order to serve her better.
This dynamic is one of the reasons I loved the book. While the story is told from the perspective of a robot, with vocabulary and a narrative style that constantly reminds you of this, it reaches moments of deep tenderness and reflection. For example, when Amy and OS conclude that what makes us human is that we always have a choice, it left me wondering whether the author planned this meticulously or if it was a natural outcome of immersing deeply into the characters and reflecting on humanity's historical search for answers and meaning.
In conclusion, I would recommend this book to anyone looking for an enjoyable fiction story. It's easy to read, with captivating characters and intriguing plot twists, yet it carries a deeper significance than what may be perceived at first reading—making it one of those books worth reading more than once in a lifetime.
July 11, 2025
Sometimes the prose was awkward and sometimes plot points felt too vague or went unexplained.
But that’s ok. Overall it’s an enjoyable and heartwarming read. It gave me a sense of warmth and comfort as I read it, and a few scenes even managed to move me to tears. It’s the kind of book where I felt its loss after I finished reading it; I already felt like I missed the characters.
I don’t like that the author used AI generated images though. :(
But that’s ok. Overall it’s an enjoyable and heartwarming read. It gave me a sense of warmth and comfort as I read it, and a few scenes even managed to move me to tears. It’s the kind of book where I felt its loss after I finished reading it; I already felt like I missed the characters.
I don’t like that the author used AI generated images though. :(
September 24, 2024
Set in a stark post-apocalyptic world, Dennstedt’s latest novel delves into the fraught relationship between humanity and artificial intelligence. A lone robot soldier, One Shot, awakens with a singular mission: to protect the last human, a fragile girl named Amy. As they navigate a desolate landscape devoid of hope, their bond is tested by fearsome robotic wolfhounds. Will they make it to safety?
While the narrative centers on One Shot and Amy, several secondary characters feel underdeveloped, detracting from the story’s emotional depth. Anton, for example, plays a pivotal role, yet his motivations and backstory are largely unexplored, making it difficult for readers to fully invest in his character or empathize with his actions. Likewise, Oswald, Amy’s feline companion, lacks the emotional complexity expected of a close sidekick. His role feels more functional than meaningful, limiting the reader’s connection to him. The same can be said for the wounded robots and other survivors, who primarily serve to advance the plot but lack the detailed characterization needed to give them depth. This imbalance makes it easy for readers to connect with Amy while leaving them detached from the broader cast, reducing the emotional richness and thematic complexity of the narrative.
Seasoned science fiction readers may also find many of the plot elements formulaic, as the story leans heavily on familiar tropes. Amy embodies the classic “chosen one” archetype, destined to fulfill a crucial role, leading to predictable developments as she steps into her destiny. Her relationship with the robot soldiers mirrors familiar narratives of human-machine bonding, seen in works like A.I. Artificial Intelligence and Bicentennial Man, which could disappoint readers seeking fresh perspectives on these themes. Pacing is another area where the story struggles. At times, the plot slows significantly, causing the action and development to stagnate. These lulls interrupt the narrative flow and diminish the sense of urgency, making it harder to stay engaged. Adding to the sense of tedium, the book relies heavily on technical jargon and complex robotics and AI concepts, which can overwhelm readers, especially those looking for more character-driven or action-oriented storytelling.
Amy’s journey to rescue other humans from evil robots holds promise, but the resolution falls short. The finale lacks emotional weight and fails to deliver the intensity or closure one might expect, leaving readers feeling unfulfilled. Ultimately, the novel unfolds as a largely predictable science fiction tale that relies on well-worn tropes. While the narrative touches on intriguing themes like AI ethics and human-robot dynamics, its reliance on familiar genre conventions limits its potential for unexpected twists or deeper character exploration, leaving it feeling more like a rehash of established ideas than a fresh take on the genre.
A predictable SF tale that relies heavily on familiar tropes!
While the narrative centers on One Shot and Amy, several secondary characters feel underdeveloped, detracting from the story’s emotional depth. Anton, for example, plays a pivotal role, yet his motivations and backstory are largely unexplored, making it difficult for readers to fully invest in his character or empathize with his actions. Likewise, Oswald, Amy’s feline companion, lacks the emotional complexity expected of a close sidekick. His role feels more functional than meaningful, limiting the reader’s connection to him. The same can be said for the wounded robots and other survivors, who primarily serve to advance the plot but lack the detailed characterization needed to give them depth. This imbalance makes it easy for readers to connect with Amy while leaving them detached from the broader cast, reducing the emotional richness and thematic complexity of the narrative.
Seasoned science fiction readers may also find many of the plot elements formulaic, as the story leans heavily on familiar tropes. Amy embodies the classic “chosen one” archetype, destined to fulfill a crucial role, leading to predictable developments as she steps into her destiny. Her relationship with the robot soldiers mirrors familiar narratives of human-machine bonding, seen in works like A.I. Artificial Intelligence and Bicentennial Man, which could disappoint readers seeking fresh perspectives on these themes. Pacing is another area where the story struggles. At times, the plot slows significantly, causing the action and development to stagnate. These lulls interrupt the narrative flow and diminish the sense of urgency, making it harder to stay engaged. Adding to the sense of tedium, the book relies heavily on technical jargon and complex robotics and AI concepts, which can overwhelm readers, especially those looking for more character-driven or action-oriented storytelling.
Amy’s journey to rescue other humans from evil robots holds promise, but the resolution falls short. The finale lacks emotional weight and fails to deliver the intensity or closure one might expect, leaving readers feeling unfulfilled. Ultimately, the novel unfolds as a largely predictable science fiction tale that relies on well-worn tropes. While the narrative touches on intriguing themes like AI ethics and human-robot dynamics, its reliance on familiar genre conventions limits its potential for unexpected twists or deeper character exploration, leaving it feeling more like a rehash of established ideas than a fresh take on the genre.
A predictable SF tale that relies heavily on familiar tropes!
December 10, 2025
I, Robot Soldier follows the journey of One Shot, a war-damaged robot soldier who wakes in the ruins of a world shattered by conflict. When he encounters a traumatized young girl named Amy, he becomes her protector and companion. The story tracks their travels across a devastated landscape, their struggle to survive, and their tentative growth into something like a family. The book blends desolation with warmth, pairing the bleak aftermath of war with touching moments as One Shot tries to understand humanity and Amy tries to remember what hope feels like. From their first meeting in rubble and fire to their escape through underground tunnels and beyond, the story keeps its heart fixed on the odd, tender bond between a child and a machine.
I was wrapped up in the emotional push and pull between the two main characters. The writing caught me off guard with how gentle it could be. One Shot’s voice is direct and plain, yet it still carries this undercurrent of longing that feels almost human. His confusion about feelings, jokes, dreams, and shivers gave the story a sweet awkwardness that made me smile. Amy, on the other hand, is prickly and bold and scared all at once. Watching her needle One Shot with teasing comments about his rattling parts while also clinging to him at night felt so real. Their mismatched rhythms somehow clicked, and the simplicity of their conversations made the emotional beats land harder. The storm scenes, the quiet nights by open gas fires, the moments when Amy whispers her needs instead of barking commands, all stuck with me.
I also found myself drawn to the book’s ideas. It pokes at questions about purpose and identity without drowning the story in jargon or heavy theory. One Shot tries to follow his prime directives, but he keeps slipping into choices that feel suspiciously like care rather than programming. He lies to protect Amy’s feelings. He tinkers with the Cat drone so it can play with her. He dreams. He broods. He wonders about wonder itself. And Amy, for all her toughness, shows how fragile kids can be when the world drops out from under them. I loved how the story played with the idea that they were reprogramming each other. The writing doesn’t lecture. It just lets these two wander through fire and darkness until something warm grows between them. That quiet exploration of found family really moved me.
This book feels like a heartfelt blend of The Road and The Iron Giant, offering the grim quiet of a shattered world and the warmth of an unlikely bond between a child and a machine. I, Robot Soldier is a great choice for readers who love character-driven science fiction. The book feels straightforward on the surface, but it carries a surprising amount of feeling. I’d recommend it to people who want a story about survival, loyalty, and the strange ways we keep each other going in broken places.
I was wrapped up in the emotional push and pull between the two main characters. The writing caught me off guard with how gentle it could be. One Shot’s voice is direct and plain, yet it still carries this undercurrent of longing that feels almost human. His confusion about feelings, jokes, dreams, and shivers gave the story a sweet awkwardness that made me smile. Amy, on the other hand, is prickly and bold and scared all at once. Watching her needle One Shot with teasing comments about his rattling parts while also clinging to him at night felt so real. Their mismatched rhythms somehow clicked, and the simplicity of their conversations made the emotional beats land harder. The storm scenes, the quiet nights by open gas fires, the moments when Amy whispers her needs instead of barking commands, all stuck with me.
I also found myself drawn to the book’s ideas. It pokes at questions about purpose and identity without drowning the story in jargon or heavy theory. One Shot tries to follow his prime directives, but he keeps slipping into choices that feel suspiciously like care rather than programming. He lies to protect Amy’s feelings. He tinkers with the Cat drone so it can play with her. He dreams. He broods. He wonders about wonder itself. And Amy, for all her toughness, shows how fragile kids can be when the world drops out from under them. I loved how the story played with the idea that they were reprogramming each other. The writing doesn’t lecture. It just lets these two wander through fire and darkness until something warm grows between them. That quiet exploration of found family really moved me.
This book feels like a heartfelt blend of The Road and The Iron Giant, offering the grim quiet of a shattered world and the warmth of an unlikely bond between a child and a machine. I, Robot Soldier is a great choice for readers who love character-driven science fiction. The book feels straightforward on the surface, but it carries a surprising amount of feeling. I’d recommend it to people who want a story about survival, loyalty, and the strange ways we keep each other going in broken places.
December 9, 2024
I, Robot Soldier" captivated me with its heartfelt exploration of loyalty, sacrifice, and the enduring connection between a soldier and the one they vow to protect. In a world ravaged by war, the story of One Shot—a robot soldier tasked with protecting young Amy—is both haunting and inspiring.
The bond they form as they navigate a dangerous, post-apocalyptic landscape resonates deeply, showcasing the power of love and trust in the face of overwhelming odds. The wolfhound mutants add a layer of tension, making their journey perilous yet compelling, while the poignant writing pulls you into their world.
As someone who served in the military, I found One Shot’s unwavering sense of duty and selflessness especially moving. Even if science fiction isn’t your usual genre, this story transcends its setting with universal themes of hope and humanity. A beautifully written, thought-provoking tale that stays with you long after the final page.
The bond they form as they navigate a dangerous, post-apocalyptic landscape resonates deeply, showcasing the power of love and trust in the face of overwhelming odds. The wolfhound mutants add a layer of tension, making their journey perilous yet compelling, while the poignant writing pulls you into their world.
As someone who served in the military, I found One Shot’s unwavering sense of duty and selflessness especially moving. Even if science fiction isn’t your usual genre, this story transcends its setting with universal themes of hope and humanity. A beautifully written, thought-provoking tale that stays with you long after the final page.
September 1, 2024
Joel Dennstedt’s I, Robot Soldier is the saga of a small girl and a wounded warrior robot, a marvelous multi-leveled science fiction tale that explores deeply the nature of humanity, war, consciousness, friendship, loyalty, kindness, and love. The author takes the time to introduce the two main characters to the reader, delving into the burgeoning friendship between Amy and One Shot, watching as each takes on the role of both student and teacher, each learning from the other. By the time the terrifying shimmers appear, the reader cares deeply about both Amy and One Shot, and is fully vested in the adventure. That’s when the fun starts. No spoilers, but you’ll probably stay up late reading this. It is highly recommended.
–Tom Hoffman, author The Translucent Boy, The Ghost Ring, Comet Kid Chronicles, et al.
–Tom Hoffman, author The Translucent Boy, The Ghost Ring, Comet Kid Chronicles, et al.
November 1, 2025
5.0 out of 5 stars
At the Top of my Recommended Reads List
Reviewed in the United States on October 18, 2025
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
This first book of The Robot Series by Joel R. Dennstedt had me immersed from page one as the endearing relationship between One Shot, a robot and Amy, a little girl unfolded.
Other reviewers have already gone into detail about this story, so I will avoid repetition.
Author Dennstedt has done a fantastic job gradually developing these main characters as circumstances, threats, bizarre robotic beasts and wary fellow human survivors continually influence One Shot and Amy's ever-evolving relationship. Yes, there are victories and losses, camaraderie and sparring - everything a reader expects to find in such a saga.
The story flows along smoothly. New situations, creatures, and supporting characters keep the action moving forward. (I must commend the author on his highly imaginative and creative robotic creatures doing their part in this landscape!)
Unanswered yet is the question of what brought about the war that brought the world to apocalypse (or even if this takes place on Earth).
Nagging question: Is it possible for a robot to feel love?
I am looking forward to Book 2 in this series.
Highly recommend!
At the Top of my Recommended Reads List
Reviewed in the United States on October 18, 2025
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
This first book of The Robot Series by Joel R. Dennstedt had me immersed from page one as the endearing relationship between One Shot, a robot and Amy, a little girl unfolded.
Other reviewers have already gone into detail about this story, so I will avoid repetition.
Author Dennstedt has done a fantastic job gradually developing these main characters as circumstances, threats, bizarre robotic beasts and wary fellow human survivors continually influence One Shot and Amy's ever-evolving relationship. Yes, there are victories and losses, camaraderie and sparring - everything a reader expects to find in such a saga.
The story flows along smoothly. New situations, creatures, and supporting characters keep the action moving forward. (I must commend the author on his highly imaginative and creative robotic creatures doing their part in this landscape!)
Unanswered yet is the question of what brought about the war that brought the world to apocalypse (or even if this takes place on Earth).
Nagging question: Is it possible for a robot to feel love?
I am looking forward to Book 2 in this series.
Highly recommend!
November 6, 2024
Prospective, Robotic Parent, Companion, Mentor, and Friend
Awesome story line😄 I wish you will continue the adventures of Amy and the Robots. It's really a very good read. The adventure from a robotic perspective is in one way very tragic in retrospect. It could have been a bit more explanations of the devastating war and how it came to pass. The ending I felt cheated and was some w hat incomplete. Don't let this be the end of their adventures.
Awesome story line😄 I wish you will continue the adventures of Amy and the Robots. It's really a very good read. The adventure from a robotic perspective is in one way very tragic in retrospect. It could have been a bit more explanations of the devastating war and how it came to pass. The ending I felt cheated and was some w hat incomplete. Don't let this be the end of their adventures.
January 14, 2025
A robotic diary, him and Amy
A robot, that had been shut down during a battle woke up and later came across a human little girl who he raised (and protected ) to be an adult.
This is a story, a diary told by him about their relationship and a battle to take back the city, the country, for other humans.
This is very accurately recorded because a robot cannot forget details. Pretty fun book to read.
A robot, that had been shut down during a battle woke up and later came across a human little girl who he raised (and protected ) to be an adult.
This is a story, a diary told by him about their relationship and a battle to take back the city, the country, for other humans.
This is very accurately recorded because a robot cannot forget details. Pretty fun book to read.
September 2, 2024
A postwar dairy of the travels, trials, tribulations and potential future of a child & robot
Quick easy read, pleasant diversion on a weekend. May not be completely plausible but nevertheless entertaining. Makes me wonder if there will be a book 2. Would have liked the good vs bad bot explained better personally.
Quick easy read, pleasant diversion on a weekend. May not be completely plausible but nevertheless entertaining. Makes me wonder if there will be a book 2. Would have liked the good vs bad bot explained better personally.
January 18, 2025
a Wonderful “Odd Couple”
This was a delightful read - I enjoyed getting the perspective of the robot rather than the human. The “not quite getting humans” was amusing. And the growth of Amy was well done.
Some nice action sequences weaved into their travels.
And the illustrations were top notch.
This was a delightful read - I enjoyed getting the perspective of the robot rather than the human. The “not quite getting humans” was amusing. And the growth of Amy was well done.
Some nice action sequences weaved into their travels.
And the illustrations were top notch.
February 13, 2025
Cerebral Pairing
Not your usual shoot-em-up…. this the story of a pairing, a little girl and protective bot. It explores the intimate relationship that develops between the two as they struggle to survive. A refreshing take on the otherwise military stories populating Kindle these days.
Not your usual shoot-em-up…. this the story of a pairing, a little girl and protective bot. It explores the intimate relationship that develops between the two as they struggle to survive. A refreshing take on the otherwise military stories populating Kindle these days.
September 19, 2025
The Chemistry is Off
I feel like this was trying to be a Last of Us or The Road kind of thing, but missed the mark.
The relationship between the robot and girl feels awkward , and the AI art didn't help. I had trouble telling if the girl was 8 or 15.
It says that in the end, she is 11 years old. She accomplished a lot for an 11 year old!
I feel like this was trying to be a Last of Us or The Road kind of thing, but missed the mark.
The relationship between the robot and girl feels awkward , and the AI art didn't help. I had trouble telling if the girl was 8 or 15.
It says that in the end, she is 11 years old. She accomplished a lot for an 11 year old!
August 29, 2024
Engrossing
What a refreshing read this is! Though very introspective it is also engrossing and draws you along its path that needs no goal, but yet has one in the end. The originality of this venture is not to be missed.
What a refreshing read this is! Though very introspective it is also engrossing and draws you along its path that needs no goal, but yet has one in the end. The originality of this venture is not to be missed.
September 23, 2025
Aims for the heart.😊❤
Wonderfully written adventures and rescue of a young girl, raised iup by a robot, who becomes a little sure shot with a gun. Also endearing animals included❤😊. Gotta love it. No draggy, dreary reading here!😊❤
Wonderfully written adventures and rescue of a young girl, raised iup by a robot, who becomes a little sure shot with a gun. Also endearing animals included❤😊. Gotta love it. No draggy, dreary reading here!😊❤
October 12, 2024
Good
Nice, I like it. When is part two coming out. You need to continue the story
Of Amy as an adult
Nice, I like it. When is part two coming out. You need to continue the story
Of Amy as an adult
December 17, 2024
This was enjoyable read. Told in the perspective of the robot soldier. In a post-apocalyptic world, a robot befriends and cares for a young girl.
December 29, 2024
clever story
read and enjoy the storytelling. It is an interesting tale of human and machine interaction with a dash of Asimov’s 3 Laws of Robotics.
read and enjoy the storytelling. It is an interesting tale of human and machine interaction with a dash of Asimov’s 3 Laws of Robotics.
February 25, 2025
This story caused late meals
I have really enjoyed this story, it has made the first rule of robotics very much realistic and understood as I think it was first written.
I have really enjoyed this story, it has made the first rule of robotics very much realistic and understood as I think it was first written.
January 11, 2025
A captivating read.
I’m not an avid science fiction fan, but I enjoyed this book. It took me several weeks to read it a chapter at a time as the robot soldier bonded with the girl and protected her. Their interactions were interesting, especially as she became a warrior. Finding a few other survivors was an intriguing plot twist. Maybe that foreshadows a sequel? I hope so.
I’ve never met the author, but I’ve read a couple of his other works. His novella titled "Hermit" is my favorite. I subscribed to his newsletter a few years ago and have enjoyed the fascinating posts about his travels with his brother in years gone by.
I’m not an avid science fiction fan, but I enjoyed this book. It took me several weeks to read it a chapter at a time as the robot soldier bonded with the girl and protected her. Their interactions were interesting, especially as she became a warrior. Finding a few other survivors was an intriguing plot twist. Maybe that foreshadows a sequel? I hope so.
I’ve never met the author, but I’ve read a couple of his other works. His novella titled "Hermit" is my favorite. I subscribed to his newsletter a few years ago and have enjoyed the fascinating posts about his travels with his brother in years gone by.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews