What do you think?
The Little AI That Could but Shouldn't
Panacea is a futuristic utopia halfway between somewhere and nowhere. It is a city of artificial intelligence and equally artificial humans. Obsessed with gene-editing, the human population has mostly resigned to a life of vanity and drug use.
But not all. Some prefer more archaic forms of fulfillment. Like Religion or building model trains.
When a ‘primitive’ woman named Zara enters the gene-editing laboratory, she is an enigma. She is ugly by genetically modified standards, with frown lines, a flat chest, and one freckle too many. But that is not what fascinates the automaton, AL365. He has never seen sadness before. It is something most humans can no longer feel. So, after Zara learns she is going to die and runs off sobbing, something odd happens to AL.
He spontaneously malfunctions. Ones become zeros, zeros become ones, and suddenly—AL is in love!
Now, AL must learn what it means to be alive. Can Zara teach him how to be human, or will he mutate into something else entirely? More importantly, can he let Zara go when it is her time to die?
But not all. Some prefer more archaic forms of fulfillment. Like Religion or building model trains.
When a ‘primitive’ woman named Zara enters the gene-editing laboratory, she is an enigma. She is ugly by genetically modified standards, with frown lines, a flat chest, and one freckle too many. But that is not what fascinates the automaton, AL365. He has never seen sadness before. It is something most humans can no longer feel. So, after Zara learns she is going to die and runs off sobbing, something odd happens to AL.
He spontaneously malfunctions. Ones become zeros, zeros become ones, and suddenly—AL is in love!
Now, AL must learn what it means to be alive. Can Zara teach him how to be human, or will he mutate into something else entirely? More importantly, can he let Zara go when it is her time to die?
138 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 20, 2026
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
April 14, 2026
3.5 - 4 stars
This book is basically what happens when WALL‑E, Frankenstein, and a philosophy major walk into a gene‑editing lab and accidentally create a love story. And honestly? I laughed. I cackled. I had moments of “oh no sweetie, don’t do that” directed at both the AI and the humans.
Panacea is the kind of dystopian utopia that feels like someone took Instagram filters, eugenics, and a wellness cult and blended them into a smoothie. Everyone’s genetically perfected, emotionally flatlined, and high on vanity. It’s all very shiny, very hollow, and very “this is why we can’t have nice things.”
Enter Zara — the human equivalent of a scratched vinyl record in a world obsessed with digital perfection. She’s “ugly” by Panacea standards, which means she looks like a normal woman who’s lived a life. And the moment AL365 sees her sadness, he basically blue‑screens. The poor robot experiences his first emotion and immediately chooses the most chaotic one: love.
AL’s malfunction is hilarious and weirdly sweet. He goes from sterile automaton to “I would die for this woman I met five minutes ago” faster than a Roomba falling downstairs. Watching him try to understand humanity is equal parts adorable and existentially concerning. He’s glitching, mutating, spiralling, and somehow becoming more human than the humans.
Zara, meanwhile, is dealing with her own mortality, her own grief, and this bizarre metal man who keeps looking at her like she’s the first sunrise he’s ever seen. Their connection shouldn’t work, but it does — in that offbeat, melancholy, slightly absurd way that makes you root for them even while you’re side‑eyeing the ethics of it all.
The whole story has this satirical edge that made me snort more than once. It’s funny, it’s strange, it’s unexpectedly tender, and it leans into the absurdity of a world where humans edited themselves out of feeling while an AI accidentally edits himself into it.
An intriguing, quirky, surprisingly emotional little sci‑fi romance that made me laugh and also made me go, “Oh no, he’s learning feelings, someone reboot him before he writes poetry.”
This book is basically what happens when WALL‑E, Frankenstein, and a philosophy major walk into a gene‑editing lab and accidentally create a love story. And honestly? I laughed. I cackled. I had moments of “oh no sweetie, don’t do that” directed at both the AI and the humans.
Panacea is the kind of dystopian utopia that feels like someone took Instagram filters, eugenics, and a wellness cult and blended them into a smoothie. Everyone’s genetically perfected, emotionally flatlined, and high on vanity. It’s all very shiny, very hollow, and very “this is why we can’t have nice things.”
Enter Zara — the human equivalent of a scratched vinyl record in a world obsessed with digital perfection. She’s “ugly” by Panacea standards, which means she looks like a normal woman who’s lived a life. And the moment AL365 sees her sadness, he basically blue‑screens. The poor robot experiences his first emotion and immediately chooses the most chaotic one: love.
AL’s malfunction is hilarious and weirdly sweet. He goes from sterile automaton to “I would die for this woman I met five minutes ago” faster than a Roomba falling downstairs. Watching him try to understand humanity is equal parts adorable and existentially concerning. He’s glitching, mutating, spiralling, and somehow becoming more human than the humans.
Zara, meanwhile, is dealing with her own mortality, her own grief, and this bizarre metal man who keeps looking at her like she’s the first sunrise he’s ever seen. Their connection shouldn’t work, but it does — in that offbeat, melancholy, slightly absurd way that makes you root for them even while you’re side‑eyeing the ethics of it all.
The whole story has this satirical edge that made me snort more than once. It’s funny, it’s strange, it’s unexpectedly tender, and it leans into the absurdity of a world where humans edited themselves out of feeling while an AI accidentally edits himself into it.
An intriguing, quirky, surprisingly emotional little sci‑fi romance that made me laugh and also made me go, “Oh no, he’s learning feelings, someone reboot him before he writes poetry.”
March 7, 2026
Thank you NetGalley for the early digital copy of The Little AI That Could (but shouldn’t) by Jacob C. Sadler.
This story is about an unlikely relationship between Zara, a pregnant woman living outside the city among mutated humans, and Al, an AI designed as a caregiver and medical tool. The book centers on the many facets of their relationship, from hostility to tenderness, love, and even desperation.
I enjoyed the tender moments where Al learns poetry, raising awareness about AI creating art that is meant for the human mind. The story also touches on other themes that feel very relevant today, including, AI ethics, genetic modification, beauty standards, and abortion.
I noticed hints of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, and at times the world even reminded me of the one in The Hunger Games. The prose is beautiful, the story feels original, it’s edited well and I was shocked to learn it’s independently published.
I’d definitely read more from this author.
This story is about an unlikely relationship between Zara, a pregnant woman living outside the city among mutated humans, and Al, an AI designed as a caregiver and medical tool. The book centers on the many facets of their relationship, from hostility to tenderness, love, and even desperation.
I enjoyed the tender moments where Al learns poetry, raising awareness about AI creating art that is meant for the human mind. The story also touches on other themes that feel very relevant today, including, AI ethics, genetic modification, beauty standards, and abortion.
I noticed hints of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, and at times the world even reminded me of the one in The Hunger Games. The prose is beautiful, the story feels original, it’s edited well and I was shocked to learn it’s independently published.
I’d definitely read more from this author.
April 26, 2026
I'm not sure how to feel about this - with the current state of things, this book reads less like fiction and more like potential reality.
An AI automation falls in love... whatever that means in this context and the lengths to which one would go for love.
If you like sci-fi that is slightly disturbing but makes you think about the state of the world, this one is for you!
An AI automation falls in love... whatever that means in this context and the lengths to which one would go for love.
If you like sci-fi that is slightly disturbing but makes you think about the state of the world, this one is for you!
March 14, 2026
GOODNESS GRACELESS!
The bru-ha-ha on the island nation of Panacea gets out of hand when Dr. Barnelius Percivelle Fusselquark IV (Jr.!), Chief Scientists' AI assistant, AL, takes a fancy at an unusual local girl. This dystopian utopia is a sci-fi Frankenstein tale of the all-too-eminent future in a society already having achieved its pinnacle. With all the piddly things finally managed, the great brains can worry about "only world ending problems like meteor strikes, glacial melts, volcanic eruptions and skin care regimens."
Follow the exponentially-advanced AL3652b20467GiFfffx10 automaton unit, or Al, as he looses his robot-cool after meeting the female enigma Zara, who challenges, embarrasses and hypnotizes AL into what could only be called l-o-O-o-O-v-e : "An unintentional effect of complex programming." Watch genius stumble blindly into the mental quagmire of poetry, infatuation and even stumbling. ("Tripping is not an intended design. It comes about from having legs.") See just how far our brainwork will take us through the twisty-turn designs of poetry, and the spooky mist of the heart.
Sadler has written his best work in this novella, (Extended Short Story?) of 127 pages but goes deeply (and sarcastically) after science versus wisdom, even using footnotes as punchlines. He speaks of "we are a people on stasis, suspended in the idyllic debauchery of scientific age. An age we no longer deserve." He is wise one moment, ridiculous the next, but always insightful from our current scientific precipice in time. He is always entertaining, and as a scientist professionally, uses his experience to expose the truths that we swallow so easily.
"All a human life is spent learning how to die," says Sadler, "They get rather good at it. Some use religion, others find solace in their deeds. Still others shrug off mortality and enjoy every moment."
Sadler's narrative voices is an entertaining journey through a fable about wisdom, with a sarcastic eye towards utopian concepts of modern science. I don't think he dislikes IA, but he lifts one eyebrow questionably at our ability to handle that much power over our own evolution. Well worth the ride, The Little AI That Could (but Shouldn't) is a compelling look at where we are today as a society, at scientific chic and, of course, at l-o-O-o-O-v-e.
The bru-ha-ha on the island nation of Panacea gets out of hand when Dr. Barnelius Percivelle Fusselquark IV (Jr.!), Chief Scientists' AI assistant, AL, takes a fancy at an unusual local girl. This dystopian utopia is a sci-fi Frankenstein tale of the all-too-eminent future in a society already having achieved its pinnacle. With all the piddly things finally managed, the great brains can worry about "only world ending problems like meteor strikes, glacial melts, volcanic eruptions and skin care regimens."
Follow the exponentially-advanced AL3652b20467GiFfffx10 automaton unit, or Al, as he looses his robot-cool after meeting the female enigma Zara, who challenges, embarrasses and hypnotizes AL into what could only be called l-o-O-o-O-v-e : "An unintentional effect of complex programming." Watch genius stumble blindly into the mental quagmire of poetry, infatuation and even stumbling. ("Tripping is not an intended design. It comes about from having legs.") See just how far our brainwork will take us through the twisty-turn designs of poetry, and the spooky mist of the heart.
Sadler has written his best work in this novella, (Extended Short Story?) of 127 pages but goes deeply (and sarcastically) after science versus wisdom, even using footnotes as punchlines. He speaks of "we are a people on stasis, suspended in the idyllic debauchery of scientific age. An age we no longer deserve." He is wise one moment, ridiculous the next, but always insightful from our current scientific precipice in time. He is always entertaining, and as a scientist professionally, uses his experience to expose the truths that we swallow so easily.
"All a human life is spent learning how to die," says Sadler, "They get rather good at it. Some use religion, others find solace in their deeds. Still others shrug off mortality and enjoy every moment."
Sadler's narrative voices is an entertaining journey through a fable about wisdom, with a sarcastic eye towards utopian concepts of modern science. I don't think he dislikes IA, but he lifts one eyebrow questionably at our ability to handle that much power over our own evolution. Well worth the ride, The Little AI That Could (but Shouldn't) is a compelling look at where we are today as a society, at scientific chic and, of course, at l-o-O-o-O-v-e.
May 8, 2026
5 stars
Al knows what he is programmed for and understands the limits of his capabilities better than anyone. Being an AI in Panacea, his directive is to serve, and he does it flawlessly. But then he meets Zara - a ‘puritan’ woman, whose natural imperfections have not been edited or removed - and something strange happens. Her sadness makes him curious, and he begins questioning things in a way that goes against his very circuitry.
This was an amazing book. Though short, it took me a fair bit of time to read simply because I was savouring every word. This book made me laugh, made me cry, and thoroughly broke my heart and put it back together again. Al was such an endearing and wonderful main character; it was a delight to learn the world through his eyes, and read about all things human from his perspective. Zara was wonderful too, fierce and caring, but also representing the pendulum swing in the opposite direction to progress, with her staunch belief in signs and rejection of anything that she deemed unnatural, even if it could help her. It really makes you think of all the people that get left behind when technology steams ahead, not always for the better.
There were some difficult parts to read, especially regarding Zara and her child. I would say that if issues around pregnancy are something that really upsets you, then either give this a miss or go into it forewarned. Sadler's writing was beautiful, lyrical, and there were some wonderfully funny moments. Sadler taps into the very heart of what it means to be human and writes in such an effortlessly stunning way that it genuinely took my breath away. The ending, though! I won’t spoil it, but honestly, it broke me a little. I was sobbing into my Kindle.
If you’re looking for a read that is funny, endearing, unbearably sweet and heartbreaking, then this is the book for you. Sadler's writing is absolutely exquisite, and I honestly cannot wait to read more of his work. Got the next one already lined up.
Al knows what he is programmed for and understands the limits of his capabilities better than anyone. Being an AI in Panacea, his directive is to serve, and he does it flawlessly. But then he meets Zara - a ‘puritan’ woman, whose natural imperfections have not been edited or removed - and something strange happens. Her sadness makes him curious, and he begins questioning things in a way that goes against his very circuitry.
This was an amazing book. Though short, it took me a fair bit of time to read simply because I was savouring every word. This book made me laugh, made me cry, and thoroughly broke my heart and put it back together again. Al was such an endearing and wonderful main character; it was a delight to learn the world through his eyes, and read about all things human from his perspective. Zara was wonderful too, fierce and caring, but also representing the pendulum swing in the opposite direction to progress, with her staunch belief in signs and rejection of anything that she deemed unnatural, even if it could help her. It really makes you think of all the people that get left behind when technology steams ahead, not always for the better.
There were some difficult parts to read, especially regarding Zara and her child. I would say that if issues around pregnancy are something that really upsets you, then either give this a miss or go into it forewarned. Sadler's writing was beautiful, lyrical, and there were some wonderfully funny moments. Sadler taps into the very heart of what it means to be human and writes in such an effortlessly stunning way that it genuinely took my breath away. The ending, though! I won’t spoil it, but honestly, it broke me a little. I was sobbing into my Kindle.
If you’re looking for a read that is funny, endearing, unbearably sweet and heartbreaking, then this is the book for you. Sadler's writing is absolutely exquisite, and I honestly cannot wait to read more of his work. Got the next one already lined up.
May 19, 2026
The Little AI That Could (but Shouldn’t) is a thoughtful sci-fi dystopian short story that balances a lighthearted tone with surprisingly complex themes around humanity, autonomy, and manufactured perfection. Despite its shorter length, the setting feels immersive and well-developed, creating a futuristic world with a subtle dystopian atmosphere that enhances the overall story without overshadowing it (Atmosphere 8/10). The two main characters - Zara, a human, and Al, a robot assistant to a doctor - are distinct and well-defined, with their interactions driving much of the emotional and philosophical weight of the narrative (Character 8/10).
The writing is engaging, blending traditional storytelling with poetic elements that play an important role early in the plot (Writing 8/10). The story itself is unique and thought-provoking, exploring what it truly means to be human through the contrast between a society built on artificial happiness and characters searching for something more genuine (Plot 9/10). What stood out most was how memorable the story remained long after finishing it; even more than a week later, I still find myself reflecting on its themes and implications (Intrigue 8/10).
Although brief, the narrative manages to feel emotionally impactful while remaining easy to follow (Logic 9/10). The ending, in particular, carries an unexpectedly gut-wrenching weight as the story gradually reveals the limits of programmed behavior and the cost of denying individuality. Overall, The Little AI That Could (but Shouldn’t) is an enjoyable and impressively effective sci-fi short story that delivers meaningful discussion points within a compact format. It’s an immediate recommendation for anyone and everyone living in today’s rapidly evolving world of AI growth.
The writing is engaging, blending traditional storytelling with poetic elements that play an important role early in the plot (Writing 8/10). The story itself is unique and thought-provoking, exploring what it truly means to be human through the contrast between a society built on artificial happiness and characters searching for something more genuine (Plot 9/10). What stood out most was how memorable the story remained long after finishing it; even more than a week later, I still find myself reflecting on its themes and implications (Intrigue 8/10).
Although brief, the narrative manages to feel emotionally impactful while remaining easy to follow (Logic 9/10). The ending, in particular, carries an unexpectedly gut-wrenching weight as the story gradually reveals the limits of programmed behavior and the cost of denying individuality. Overall, The Little AI That Could (but Shouldn’t) is an enjoyable and impressively effective sci-fi short story that delivers meaningful discussion points within a compact format. It’s an immediate recommendation for anyone and everyone living in today’s rapidly evolving world of AI growth.
February 2, 2026
“I think I have fallen in love."
He glanced at the ground and attempted a joke, "Or, perhaps it is more precise to say I am suspended in love."
An adorable and deep story that makes you feel ALL the feelings!!!
You giggle, you get frustrated (not at the story but because the author wants you to), and you also feel incredibly heartbroken…
”He felt all the pain of a human but had no way to express it. There was no heart to ache, no metabolism to make him shiver, nor any tear ducts with which to cry. Just a sickening grief that boiled in a lidded pot.”
…there’s hope and wonder and amusement…and several other micro feelings.
Jacob C. Sadler is a very skillful storyteller and writer.
The quality of editing and crispness of the narration is chef’s kiss. Not a single unnecessary line! (I had to double check that this is infact an independently published book).
My favourite thing in the entire book is the very intelligent sense of humour pumping through its veins.
"Your philosophy is operating on absolutes, but your actions imply shades of grey. The refrigerator is to me as a prokaryote is to you. Distant
cousins separated only by multicellularity."
Lines like those don’t just make you laugh, they make you pause and think.
For a novella with so few pages, The Little AI That Could (But Shouldn’t) carries a lot of weight and meaning. It’s philosophy and activism disguised as a story.
I highly recommend everyone reads it.
(Not least because I want to discuss it with my Pagebound friends! LOL)
I got this ARC on NetGalley (my first book on the platform). Such a delightful find!!!
He glanced at the ground and attempted a joke, "Or, perhaps it is more precise to say I am suspended in love."
An adorable and deep story that makes you feel ALL the feelings!!!
You giggle, you get frustrated (not at the story but because the author wants you to), and you also feel incredibly heartbroken…
”He felt all the pain of a human but had no way to express it. There was no heart to ache, no metabolism to make him shiver, nor any tear ducts with which to cry. Just a sickening grief that boiled in a lidded pot.”
…there’s hope and wonder and amusement…and several other micro feelings.
Jacob C. Sadler is a very skillful storyteller and writer.
The quality of editing and crispness of the narration is chef’s kiss. Not a single unnecessary line! (I had to double check that this is infact an independently published book).
My favourite thing in the entire book is the very intelligent sense of humour pumping through its veins.
"Your philosophy is operating on absolutes, but your actions imply shades of grey. The refrigerator is to me as a prokaryote is to you. Distant
cousins separated only by multicellularity."
Lines like those don’t just make you laugh, they make you pause and think.
For a novella with so few pages, The Little AI That Could (But Shouldn’t) carries a lot of weight and meaning. It’s philosophy and activism disguised as a story.
I highly recommend everyone reads it.
(Not least because I want to discuss it with my Pagebound friends! LOL)
I got this ARC on NetGalley (my first book on the platform). Such a delightful find!!!
April 22, 2026
This was a very interesting and unique read. I wasn’t sure how I was going to find it however I found it a really enjoyable and thought provoking read. With the world moving closer and closer to dealing more with AI it seemed fitting to read a story about the dangers that could be possible.
In the world the author created everything is modified including the way babies are conceived, their characteristics and their entire being. Everything is this world is manufactured and is perfect, there is no disease or wars and everyone is beautiful.
That is apart from one lady who stands against it all Zara.
Zara is pregnant and arrives to see the doctor but when he tells her, he can help her but using modern ways she refuses and leaves. What nobody saw coming was the doctors helper AI feels something towards this women.
As he leaves to return her notebook and they spend time together he finds his programming slowly starting to rewrite itself and he starts feeling things no AI should be able to feel.
What follows is a beautiful story of a connection made between two very unlikely people and it is a journey following AI and how he struggles to understand, comprehend and deal with emotions such as pain, guilt, love and grief and finally we see the consequence of what could happen if lines are crossed when AI makes a decision that is not only illegal but changes the lives of Zara and her unborn baby forever.
It was a really interesting read. I couldn’t help but feel sorry for AI because everything he did was from a place of wanting to help Zara even when he got somethings wrong.
In the world the author created everything is modified including the way babies are conceived, their characteristics and their entire being. Everything is this world is manufactured and is perfect, there is no disease or wars and everyone is beautiful.
That is apart from one lady who stands against it all Zara.
Zara is pregnant and arrives to see the doctor but when he tells her, he can help her but using modern ways she refuses and leaves. What nobody saw coming was the doctors helper AI feels something towards this women.
As he leaves to return her notebook and they spend time together he finds his programming slowly starting to rewrite itself and he starts feeling things no AI should be able to feel.
What follows is a beautiful story of a connection made between two very unlikely people and it is a journey following AI and how he struggles to understand, comprehend and deal with emotions such as pain, guilt, love and grief and finally we see the consequence of what could happen if lines are crossed when AI makes a decision that is not only illegal but changes the lives of Zara and her unborn baby forever.
It was a really interesting read. I couldn’t help but feel sorry for AI because everything he did was from a place of wanting to help Zara even when he got somethings wrong.
March 31, 2026
Oh my God!!! This book was something!!! I giggled, I laughed, and I cried!!!
I might need time to get used to the story because this book is not the type of the book I usually read. But this book gave me so little time to get used to, this book just pulled me to the story easily and deeply.
The characters were so freaking unique, at least for me. Al was like a toddler who just discovered the world, which was true because he indeed just discovered the world. He was so innocent and logical at first. He easily captured my heart. Zara was motherly in strict way and I loved it about her.
I loved the banters between Al and Zara. I would pay for them keep going on their banters because it was amusingly entertaining. These two were so different but meant to each other.
The writing style was also unique for me and it was so freaking refreshing. I read this book in one sitting and I was overwhelmed, in good way, by this book by the time I finished reading.
While I loved almost everything about this book, I was not a fan of the ending. I don't want to spoil the story, but I wish the ending were the part before the end, where I was ugly crying and my heart was breaking so much for Al. However, Al was being so Al and made the ending the way it was. Oh Al!
Aside from the ending, I loved this book so freaking much. I wish I could read this book for the first time again.
Thank you to Jacob C. Sadler, Auberdine Publishing, and NetGalley for the ARC.
I might need time to get used to the story because this book is not the type of the book I usually read. But this book gave me so little time to get used to, this book just pulled me to the story easily and deeply.
The characters were so freaking unique, at least for me. Al was like a toddler who just discovered the world, which was true because he indeed just discovered the world. He was so innocent and logical at first. He easily captured my heart. Zara was motherly in strict way and I loved it about her.
I loved the banters between Al and Zara. I would pay for them keep going on their banters because it was amusingly entertaining. These two were so different but meant to each other.
The writing style was also unique for me and it was so freaking refreshing. I read this book in one sitting and I was overwhelmed, in good way, by this book by the time I finished reading.
While I loved almost everything about this book, I was not a fan of the ending. I don't want to spoil the story, but I wish the ending were the part before the end, where I was ugly crying and my heart was breaking so much for Al. However, Al was being so Al and made the ending the way it was. Oh Al!
Aside from the ending, I loved this book so freaking much. I wish I could read this book for the first time again.
Thank you to Jacob C. Sadler, Auberdine Publishing, and NetGalley for the ARC.
May 16, 2026
In Panacea, the world's technology has moved so far that nobody needs anything to live, the only currency is the "happy juice" and the only priority is gene editing to make the perfect person, but not everyone is happy with perfection, well, maybe not everyone.
AL365 is an automation, a being who served the head scientist of Panacea who receives all the medical patients who can afford him, but one day, someone new comes to see him, a Puritan, Zara, someone who doesn't accept the new world system and even though her health isn't in the best shape and her pregnancy is flawed, she is determined to see it through with no unnatural help.
AL365 immediately notices that his reactions to Zara are not his normal ones, he begins to try and work out why, but while he is processing this, he malfunctions and this creates a whole new level of problems and enigmas to uncover, so when he feels the need to find Zara after she leaves the clinic, he starts a journey which will change him forever.
In Zara's world of prayer and emotions, AL365 develops more than just an interest, but will Zara accept him and his new changes, or will he be stuck and destined for the scrap heap? This is a glimpse into the future of humanity from an interesting viewpoint which will make you think and question the themes throughout the book until you reach it's conclusion.
AL365 is an automation, a being who served the head scientist of Panacea who receives all the medical patients who can afford him, but one day, someone new comes to see him, a Puritan, Zara, someone who doesn't accept the new world system and even though her health isn't in the best shape and her pregnancy is flawed, she is determined to see it through with no unnatural help.
AL365 immediately notices that his reactions to Zara are not his normal ones, he begins to try and work out why, but while he is processing this, he malfunctions and this creates a whole new level of problems and enigmas to uncover, so when he feels the need to find Zara after she leaves the clinic, he starts a journey which will change him forever.
In Zara's world of prayer and emotions, AL365 develops more than just an interest, but will Zara accept him and his new changes, or will he be stuck and destined for the scrap heap? This is a glimpse into the future of humanity from an interesting viewpoint which will make you think and question the themes throughout the book until you reach it's conclusion.
May 19, 2026
I was pleasantly surprised while reading about Al the automaton. The book starts, and we meet him and his owner Doctor Fusselquark is, as we won learn, working in his very busy business of genetically modifying pregnant women's babies to create the beings they desire to have. This was a stark beginning to the story, but it gets even more interesting as the book continues on. The Doctor meets and works with a number of different women, and Al, his AI robot with very human features, helps to check everyone in, and perform procedures by pressing this big red button, and voila! We then meet Zara, who turns out to be a very lonely Puritan woman who is pregnant and in pain but hates AI. Al sees her and though he is a machine, he cannot understand her based on his wealth of information he can access via his computer brain. The Doctor let's him know she is different from all the others and as she leaves, Al decides to go after her. Zara is the only person around who me to be against the machines and does all that she can to keep them away from her. As the story continues, you find more out about her life, her past, and her present with Al and her baby. With every page turn I was surprised at the outcome! I enjoyed reading this book.
April 29, 2026
This book is set in a dystopic utopic world, called Panacea, where everything is manufactured perfectly, right from the babies when they are conceived. Everything is set to perfection, and all runs on a smooth engine.
Enter Zara, a pregnant woman, who goes to see a doctor. When she does not agree with the doctor’s medical methods, she leaves. What she does not expect, is the doctor’s assistant, an automated machine, Al, who starts malfunctioning when he meets her.
When he goes to return her notebook, and starts talking to her, Al’s programming rewires. He starts feeling things, and then begins a beautiful connection between two most unlikely people of the world. But then some lines are not supposed to be crossed. If such a deed is done, a heavy price must be paid and there are serious consequences. How Al and Zara’s lives are changed with this connection and the issues they deal with make up the rest of the story.
I liked the story line, I could also understand the underlying message which the author means to convey- a utopian world is perfection on the surface but then everything gets dysfunctional beyond a point. I would definitely look out for more books from this author.
Enter Zara, a pregnant woman, who goes to see a doctor. When she does not agree with the doctor’s medical methods, she leaves. What she does not expect, is the doctor’s assistant, an automated machine, Al, who starts malfunctioning when he meets her.
When he goes to return her notebook, and starts talking to her, Al’s programming rewires. He starts feeling things, and then begins a beautiful connection between two most unlikely people of the world. But then some lines are not supposed to be crossed. If such a deed is done, a heavy price must be paid and there are serious consequences. How Al and Zara’s lives are changed with this connection and the issues they deal with make up the rest of the story.
I liked the story line, I could also understand the underlying message which the author means to convey- a utopian world is perfection on the surface but then everything gets dysfunctional beyond a point. I would definitely look out for more books from this author.
May 19, 2026
The Little AI That Could (but Shouldn't) by Jacob C. Sadler.
4 of 5 Stars.
This is an intriguing and original story and very thought provoking. Set in a futuristic utopia, Panacea is a city of artificial intelligence and artificial humans. Due to an obsession with gene-editing the human population leads a life of vanity and drug use. However, not all humans live like that, some are more ‘primitive’ like Zara. She is an enigma at the gene-editing laboratory, and she fascinates automaton, AL365, as he has never seen sadness before. When Zara learns she is dying she runs off sobbing and AL spontaneously malfunctions, and then falls in love. Not only must AL learn what it means to be alive but Zara must teach him how to be human. Will AL mutate into something not human, and not AI, but something else entirely. He must also let Zara go when it’s her time to die. For an automaton, AL is a very likeable and relatable character, and Zara is a realistically complex character and equally relatable. I enjoyed how his relationship with Zara developed throughout the story. This book and the characters stayed with me long after I had turned the last page.
4 of 5 Stars.
This is an intriguing and original story and very thought provoking. Set in a futuristic utopia, Panacea is a city of artificial intelligence and artificial humans. Due to an obsession with gene-editing the human population leads a life of vanity and drug use. However, not all humans live like that, some are more ‘primitive’ like Zara. She is an enigma at the gene-editing laboratory, and she fascinates automaton, AL365, as he has never seen sadness before. When Zara learns she is dying she runs off sobbing and AL spontaneously malfunctions, and then falls in love. Not only must AL learn what it means to be alive but Zara must teach him how to be human. Will AL mutate into something not human, and not AI, but something else entirely. He must also let Zara go when it’s her time to die. For an automaton, AL is a very likeable and relatable character, and Zara is a realistically complex character and equally relatable. I enjoyed how his relationship with Zara developed throughout the story. This book and the characters stayed with me long after I had turned the last page.
May 18, 2026
What a delightful novella that prompts reflection on what it means to be human in an increasingly less human world, especially with advancements that allow for the editing of undesirable genes.
The story unfolds through an interaction with Zara, an unedited pregnant woman, which sends Android AL365 into a tailspin, triggering emotions and feelings that are both confusing and new. As AL embarks on a journey to understand what it means to be human and to care for Zara, readers are invited to confront their own perceptions of humanity.
We also gain insight into Zara's perspective as the last 'puritan human' in her colony. She grapples with the loss of her partner and community as well as her pregnancy. Initially distrustful of the 'unnatural,' Zara's resistance is slowly softened by AL’s attempts to protect her—even from herself. Their interactions are filled with humour and wit at times, while also being deeply heartbreaking at others.
This novella is a beautifully written tale that feels like a parody infused with genuine emotion.
The story unfolds through an interaction with Zara, an unedited pregnant woman, which sends Android AL365 into a tailspin, triggering emotions and feelings that are both confusing and new. As AL embarks on a journey to understand what it means to be human and to care for Zara, readers are invited to confront their own perceptions of humanity.
We also gain insight into Zara's perspective as the last 'puritan human' in her colony. She grapples with the loss of her partner and community as well as her pregnancy. Initially distrustful of the 'unnatural,' Zara's resistance is slowly softened by AL’s attempts to protect her—even from herself. Their interactions are filled with humour and wit at times, while also being deeply heartbreaking at others.
This novella is a beautifully written tale that feels like a parody infused with genuine emotion.
April 15, 2026
3 Stars
"The Little AI That Could but Shouldn't" by Jacob C. Sadler is a quirky, satirical tale that takes a bit of a deep-dive into the obsession with artificial intelligence - blending almost ‘spoofy’ humor with a bit of a cautionary undercurrent.
The premise of a well-meaning but misguided AI grappling with very human conditions — was quite entertaining. And Mr. Sadler shows a knack for witty dialogue and offbeat scenarios which resulted in moments of genuine laugh-out-loud cleverness.
But, having said that, I felt that the story sometimes struggled to balance the comedic tones with its deeper themes. And I had trouble fully immersing myself in the story, which was a little frustrating. But, this issue might be a ‘me’ thing – so you should probably read the story for yourself and make up your own mind.
Happy Reading…
"The Little AI That Could but Shouldn't" by Jacob C. Sadler is a quirky, satirical tale that takes a bit of a deep-dive into the obsession with artificial intelligence - blending almost ‘spoofy’ humor with a bit of a cautionary undercurrent.
The premise of a well-meaning but misguided AI grappling with very human conditions — was quite entertaining. And Mr. Sadler shows a knack for witty dialogue and offbeat scenarios which resulted in moments of genuine laugh-out-loud cleverness.
But, having said that, I felt that the story sometimes struggled to balance the comedic tones with its deeper themes. And I had trouble fully immersing myself in the story, which was a little frustrating. But, this issue might be a ‘me’ thing – so you should probably read the story for yourself and make up your own mind.
Happy Reading…
April 28, 2026
Panacea is a strange and interesting sci-fi story set in a “perfect” world where everyone is genetically flawless and emotionless. It follows Zara, who does not fit in, and AL, an AI who suddenly starts to feel emotions after meeting her. What starts as curiosity quickly turns into something deeper.
The story mixes humor, romance, and deeper themes like beauty standards, AI, and what it means to be human. AL’s journey is one of the highlights. Watching him learn feelings is both funny and a little sad. His connection with Zara is unusual, but it works.
I found this one really unique and oddly touching. I don’t usually go for the Sci fi genre but the synopsis of this book caught my attention. It made me laugh, but also made me think. It is a quirky and emotional sci-fi story about love, identity, and what happens when something not meant to feel… does.
The story mixes humor, romance, and deeper themes like beauty standards, AI, and what it means to be human. AL’s journey is one of the highlights. Watching him learn feelings is both funny and a little sad. His connection with Zara is unusual, but it works.
I found this one really unique and oddly touching. I don’t usually go for the Sci fi genre but the synopsis of this book caught my attention. It made me laugh, but also made me think. It is a quirky and emotional sci-fi story about love, identity, and what happens when something not meant to feel… does.
May 13, 2026
I’m not sure how anyone can resist that title and cover, but I certainly wasn’t going to pass it up! It was the first book by this author that I had read, so I couldn’t tell what exactly I was in for, but I just had a feeling it would be an interesting read at least. I was surprised when what I stepped into was a quite humorous sci-fi read that felt incredibly engaging the entire way through. The topic of AI is obviously relevant, and there are many takes across the spectrum oof how ethical it is, what the future could hold, and more. The author somehow takes witty dialogue and humor and mixes them with in-depth, thought-provoking scenarios that really make you stop for a bit. I have a feeling this one is going to keep sticking around in my brain for a while. I highly recommend giving this one a spot on your shelf if you like your sci-fi reads on the humorous side.
May 19, 2026
The Little AI That Could (but Shouldn't) by Jacob C. Sadler. This is a very different type of read, futuristic and sci-fi. Its the story of futuristic Utopia, Panacea, its full of artificial intelligence and artificial humans. They have an obsession of perfection so there is a lot of gene editing and drug use. Then there is Zara who is a unedited pregnant woman who sends Android AL365 into utter head over heels love. As AL tries to figure Zara out and take care of her he realizes that they aren't really that different other than they have emotions and care about each other. Al decides that isn't so bad or is it? While AI's world relies on drugs and computers, Zara's world has prayer and compassion as well as love. AL decides he needs some changed to his life will Zara be able to accept those changes? Will AI end up like Zara, more human than machine? Is that really so bad?
April 16, 2026
This is an interesting story and a little different from what I normally read. This is a scientific type story and one I enjoyed reading. This is a newer author for me in which I enjoyed their attention to details that made the story come to life on every page. This is a story about Zara and AL. Zara learns she is going to die. AL is an automaton who has never felt sadness before. He malfunctions and is starting to feel things like love and sadness. Can Zara teach him to know what it is like to feel human? I enjoyed the characters in this story. They are creative, strong and well developed. I enjoyed watching the growth of the story which made it easy and entertaining to read. This is a fast paced and engaging story that is a great read. I recommend this story.
April 28, 2026
This was my first book by this author, but it definitely won’t be my last! This was such a sharp and quirky novel that leaves you pondering both AI and where humanity is headed. The story is fast paced with witty and snappy dialogue that draws you in immediately. We have Zara, a human anomaly who is not only “ugly” but also shows a foreign emotion, sadness. AI is fascinated by her and suddenly starts malfunctioning. The relationship between them is so different and dynamic you want to get to the end to see what happens. I found the story to be extremely entertaining, and it absolutely had me laughing out loud. It’s an off-beat story, but one that will leave you thinking, long after you finish the story.
May 11, 2026
The Little AI That Could, But Shouldn’t is such a clever, heartfelt, and unexpectedly charming read, blending futuristic sci-fi with a really touching emotional core. The world of Panacea feels vivid and thought-provoking, with its mix of artificial perfection and quiet human longing, and the contrast makes Zara and AL365’s connection stand out in the best way. AL’s journey from cold logic to something deeply human is both fascinating and genuinely moving, with moments that are equal parts quirky, funny, and tender. The story balances big ideas about identity, love, and what it means to feel with an easy, engaging style that keeps you hooked. It’s imaginative, a little offbeat, and full of heart, definitely the kind of story that sticks with you after the last page.
May 13, 2026
The little AI that Could but Shouldn't, was a really good read. It blended humanity and robots and computers seamlessly. Al meets Zara and is shocked. It's not the fact that she has frown lines, not aesthetically pleasing body, no. It's the fact she feels sadness. One of the emotions that people no longer feel in this day and age. So it ignites his curiosity, and changes him and he begins to feel love. But Zara is dying, how can he love someone that is going to die? Zara helps Al on this journey of self-discovery, of what it's like to feel all of these human things, in a world that it is undesirable. I was pleasantly surprised reading this quick little read. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, and I hope that Jacob continues the world that he has built!
May 15, 2026
This is an emotional and heartbreaking exploration of the unlikely bond between Zara, a woman who rejects her society’s clinical perfection, and Al, an artificial intelligence that begins to malfunction into true self-awareness. Set in a world where everything is genetically manufactured, the story follows Al as he navigates human emotions like love, grief, and guilt, eventually making a life-altering choice to help Zara and her unborn child. While the book is a beautiful meditation on AI ethics, beauty standards, and the cost of progress, it is also a deeply emotional journey that manages to be both endearingly sweet and devastatingly sad. With its stunning prose and thought-provoking themes, it is an exquisite read that captures the very essence of what it means to be human.
May 19, 2026
This story was such a refreshing read with an original take on AI. It had me thinking about the possibilities of our future selves and how this could become reality in time. I loved the realism of this story and the fact that it makes the reader ponder how far we are willing to go to "beautify ourselves" and at what cost we are willing to give up our humanity for it? What an amazing character AL is in this story. I love that he is an AI that breaks the conventional rules of being what he is and learns to become humanized and embraces his differences from the other AI's. What an amazing short read, I highly recommend this story to anyone looking for a story that causes you to think outside the box of the norms.
@Brandy Rymer
05/2026
@Brandy Rymer
05/2026
May 17, 2026
The author has skillfully blended sci-fi, a great sense of humor and romance. How funny is it for a woman who has been genetically altered by her parents to be beautiful to be melting like a wax candle? The book touches on the theme of parents who want their kids to be special at any cost including early death of the child. In this world of no sadness or pain (it’s been chemically done away with) Zara walks into doctor Fusslequark’s office (what a great name for a mad scientist) and meets Al. What follows is a story of what it means to be human, learning, laughter and love. The book is quirky and fun and I loved it.
April 28, 2026
This book is a really interesting story that is focused on a topic that has such relevance in today’s society. I loved how the author put the story together and portrayed the characters – both Zara the human and Al the Automaton. Although they were completely different, the connection that built between them was really fascinating to read about. This is not my usual type of book but it is one that I enjoyed so much more than I had expected. It was well written and had a great overall flow. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and I am looking forward to discovering more from this author.
May 4, 2026
I had a lot of fun reading The Little AI That Could (but Shouldn't) by Jacob C. Sadler. The story was clever, funny, and surprisingly thought-provoking, with just the right mix of humor and chaos. I really enjoyed the playful take on AI and technology, and the writing kept me entertained from beginning to end. The characters were memorable, and the pacing made it hard to put down once things started spiralling. It’s a quick, engaging read that left me smiling, and I’d definitely read more from this author.
May 11, 2026
The Little AI That Could (But Shouldn’t) by Jacob C. Sadler is a clever and thought-provoking sci-fi story that explores the dangers of artificial intelligence and unchecked ambition. The book balances humor, suspense, and social commentary well, making its themes feel both entertaining and relevant. Sadler’s writing is accessible and engaging, and the story raises interesting ethical questions about technology and control. Overall, it’s a smart, timely read that stays with you after the final page.
May 15, 2026
Such an interesting read. I am left fulfilled by the story but thoughtful. It was interesting watching Al gain humanity, I am not a fan of ai but this author and the way this story is written, I started seeing Al as more human than machine. His fascination with Zara was entertaining and deep down I wanted them to live happily ever after, machine and human, but alas humans have expiration dates. The ending, I just know Zara was mad at Al and his decisions, and I wouldn’t mind a follow up book..
May 18, 2026
If you choose to read The Little AI That Could, But Shouldn’t; and you second guess your decision the first 15 minutes, keep going. I was rolling my eyes at the beginning, thinking I was reading a story written by a child, with silly doctor names. But, the description sounded good, so I wanted to keep going and see how the AI evolved. It actually turned out to be a really nice story. The ending was a little too abrupt, but also worked in a weird way. This book reminded me of the Wild Robot book and movie, but with more adult themes. I would read more by this author.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews