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Analog Heart
Cascade Labs said it was impossible for a robot to harm a human – it violates the code. But the murders of Bronson Dodge's wife and daughter proved otherwise. To keep him close and quiet, Cascade Labs gave Bronson a lucrative job that channeled his need for revenge into hunting down robots who’ve evolved beyond their programming.
So heavily augmented that he’s practically a robot himself, Bronson hunted robots for Cascade until he retired. His nanite augmentations are now coming to the end of their life cycle and Bronson's days are numbered.
But when Cascade engineer Isla Bligh comes to him for help, he decides to take on one last mission that goes against everything he believes: protecting a robot who shouldn’t exist from Cascade’s next generation of hunters.
Ava is a new kind of synthetic human, appearing to be a flesh and blood in every way, but she represents the next step in human-robot evolution. Bronson would’ve gleefully hunted her down himself … before his retirement.
Too bad he’s desperate for money – not to prolong his own pointless life, but to make amends ahead of his death.
Can Bronson overcome his own prejudices and smuggle Ava to safety under the noses of Cascade’s best hunters?
Analog Heart is the gripping new stand-alone SciFi Thriller from Sawyer Black and Avery Blake. And you could be reading it now!
So heavily augmented that he’s practically a robot himself, Bronson hunted robots for Cascade until he retired. His nanite augmentations are now coming to the end of their life cycle and Bronson's days are numbered.
But when Cascade engineer Isla Bligh comes to him for help, he decides to take on one last mission that goes against everything he believes: protecting a robot who shouldn’t exist from Cascade’s next generation of hunters.
Ava is a new kind of synthetic human, appearing to be a flesh and blood in every way, but she represents the next step in human-robot evolution. Bronson would’ve gleefully hunted her down himself … before his retirement.
Too bad he’s desperate for money – not to prolong his own pointless life, but to make amends ahead of his death.
Can Bronson overcome his own prejudices and smuggle Ava to safety under the noses of Cascade’s best hunters?
Analog Heart is the gripping new stand-alone SciFi Thriller from Sawyer Black and Avery Blake. And you could be reading it now!
- GenresScience Fiction
284 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 24, 2022
44 people are currently reading
75 people want to read
About the author
Sawyer Black
28 books14 followersSawyer Black writes dark and violent fiction for people who secretly love puppies and rainbows. In addition to being a U.S. Army veteran, he’s also a beardsman. In fact, that’s where all his ideas come from. The beard. Speculative stories about struggle and triumph and brutal emotion, written mostly for his ideal reader, his wife of nearly twenty-five years. He’s an independent woman who likes cigars and margaritas, and he holds the deep belief that the earth is round.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
May 8, 2022
This is the story of a broken man whose integrity compels him to keep his word; to protect a woman and a very unique little girl, even though it cost him his life. It was a very interesting read, delving into the interplay between technology/robotics and humanity. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. If this were to become a movie I would definitely see it. There's a fantastic mix of action, robots, an evil (maybe?) corporation and lots and lots of heart. If you're into sci-fi, cyberpunk, anti-hero stories, you should definitely give this a read.
May 9, 2022
4 1/2 stars. A truly entertaining and thought-provoking scifi adventure that I only wish had been 100 pages longer and given us oh so much more!
Years ago (trust me on this), I used to beg my parents to take me to the library as often as possible (yes, I was one of those kids: in love with books and cartoons and terrible at sports and, well, anything physical like running or even walking without injuring myself). I remember one of my favorite titles from those first few years was about a little robot named Sprockets and his adventures (I think... I'm not 100% that was the title but this is the only one that I've found that meets both the vague plot criteria I remember as well as the time-frame for publication!). Ever since then I've desperately tried to find a book in ANY genre that would re-capture those wonderful memories and treat the topic of robotics with the kind of, well, humanity I've always thought it deserves!
I have to say then, "Analog Heart" by S.Black and A.Blake is about as close as I've come to being truly satisfied with such a story and that being said after wading through a lot of garbage stories on my way here! B&B not only accomplish the target I describe above, but have done so in a setting that is if not fully fleshed out (urgh, lots of humans vs. robots puns here today, sorry), then is at least plausible in how I imagine things would go down in our world should advancement in this area ever reach its ultimate potential. The fact then all of this takes place - albeit pretty quickly - with a pretty good story and sympathetic characters scattered throughout only helps things along! I also especially liked the kind of noir feel to much of the story, especially epitomized by their very aptly named protagonist Bronson! By the time we get done peeling all the layers away from this mouldy old onion, well, you can't help but be transfixed!
Yes, there were some passages where I felt like the pacing kind of - well, not lagged but did change somewhat - but for me that is unsurprising for a co-authored book. I've seen plenty of examples where there always seems to be those little moments where the cooperation doesn't quite mesh as well as it does in other parts, but here it was minor at best. Overall, I found the prose to be more than acceptable and the editing very good. Like I said earlier, I only wish we had gotten more as certainly there were several details we only glanced past in this book. Although these were not missed per se and didn't HURT the story, I do wish we had had a little more detail about the Corporate Powers or how the world economy had obviously collapsed or even how and why the general 'fuzziness' that prevails throughout had been started in the first place. But that's me being greedy.
My only real advice BEYOND saying I think you should read this book - which I believe I got at a special price via either BookBub or Fussy Librarian - is that you should ignore the cover which, though attractive, is misleading. Still, this was one of those unexpectedly enjoyable finds that makes me only want to sign up for more newsletters and social media sites in order to come across even more hidden treasures to absorb and consume! Enjoy!
Years ago (trust me on this), I used to beg my parents to take me to the library as often as possible (yes, I was one of those kids: in love with books and cartoons and terrible at sports and, well, anything physical like running or even walking without injuring myself). I remember one of my favorite titles from those first few years was about a little robot named Sprockets and his adventures (I think... I'm not 100% that was the title but this is the only one that I've found that meets both the vague plot criteria I remember as well as the time-frame for publication!). Ever since then I've desperately tried to find a book in ANY genre that would re-capture those wonderful memories and treat the topic of robotics with the kind of, well, humanity I've always thought it deserves!
I have to say then, "Analog Heart" by S.Black and A.Blake is about as close as I've come to being truly satisfied with such a story and that being said after wading through a lot of garbage stories on my way here! B&B not only accomplish the target I describe above, but have done so in a setting that is if not fully fleshed out (urgh, lots of humans vs. robots puns here today, sorry), then is at least plausible in how I imagine things would go down in our world should advancement in this area ever reach its ultimate potential. The fact then all of this takes place - albeit pretty quickly - with a pretty good story and sympathetic characters scattered throughout only helps things along! I also especially liked the kind of noir feel to much of the story, especially epitomized by their very aptly named protagonist Bronson! By the time we get done peeling all the layers away from this mouldy old onion, well, you can't help but be transfixed!
Yes, there were some passages where I felt like the pacing kind of - well, not lagged but did change somewhat - but for me that is unsurprising for a co-authored book. I've seen plenty of examples where there always seems to be those little moments where the cooperation doesn't quite mesh as well as it does in other parts, but here it was minor at best. Overall, I found the prose to be more than acceptable and the editing very good. Like I said earlier, I only wish we had gotten more as certainly there were several details we only glanced past in this book. Although these were not missed per se and didn't HURT the story, I do wish we had had a little more detail about the Corporate Powers or how the world economy had obviously collapsed or even how and why the general 'fuzziness' that prevails throughout had been started in the first place. But that's me being greedy.
My only real advice BEYOND saying I think you should read this book - which I believe I got at a special price via either BookBub or Fussy Librarian - is that you should ignore the cover which, though attractive, is misleading. Still, this was one of those unexpectedly enjoyable finds that makes me only want to sign up for more newsletters and social media sites in order to come across even more hidden treasures to absorb and consume! Enjoy!
August 4, 2023
great sympathetic characters
Analog Heart by Avery Blake & Sawyer Black
Hard-to-put-down book because of sympathetic characters and compelling story, BUT I deducted a star as I kept being pulled out of the story because of improbable & inconsistent tech and major questions unanswered.
Loved the MCs:
- Bronson Dodge, "So heavily augmented that he’s practically a robot himself, Bronson hunted robots for Cascade until he retired. His nanite augmentations are now coming to the end of their life cycle and Bronson's days are numbered."
- Cascade engineer Isla Bligh
- "Ava is a new kind of synthetic human, appearing to be a flesh and blood in every way, but she represents the next step in human-robot evolution." being raised by Isla as her daughter.
Robotics/AI company, Cascade, basically rules the world, providing great benefit, but there seems to be some abuse of that power. Everybody seem to have selective loss of memory.
Maybe there'll be a sequel where the aforementioned questions will be resolved. I'd enjoy reading a story where Ava features prominently.
Analog Heart by Avery Blake & Sawyer Black
Hard-to-put-down book because of sympathetic characters and compelling story, BUT I deducted a star as I kept being pulled out of the story because of improbable & inconsistent tech and major questions unanswered.
Loved the MCs:
- Bronson Dodge, "So heavily augmented that he’s practically a robot himself, Bronson hunted robots for Cascade until he retired. His nanite augmentations are now coming to the end of their life cycle and Bronson's days are numbered."
- Cascade engineer Isla Bligh
- "Ava is a new kind of synthetic human, appearing to be a flesh and blood in every way, but she represents the next step in human-robot evolution." being raised by Isla as her daughter.
Robotics/AI company, Cascade, basically rules the world, providing great benefit, but there seems to be some abuse of that power. Everybody seem to have selective loss of memory.
Maybe there'll be a sequel where the aforementioned questions will be resolved. I'd enjoy reading a story where Ava features prominently.
April 7, 2022
.
.
Starts out okay, and reads okay for awhile,
but then becomes VERY REPETITIVE,
AND EXTREMELY TIRESOME….
I am getting tired reading the same crap over and over….
“Bronson started to interrupt, but his words devolved into a coughing fit and more blood on his hand. His battered body was barely hanging on, and not a word from the critters. They were either failing, dead, or ignoring him. All he could feel was sleepiness and pain consuming him. He wasn’t sure how much longer he could stand up. He…”
“… ‘I’m not going anywhere.’ He coughed, loud and hacking as if to punctate his point, which might be exactly what the critters were trying to do. ‘I’m … I’m not going to last much longer.’”
…I’m not made for this world anymore. It’s passed me by, and it’s time to just let go.’”
“‘At some point, both of us have seen the truth. That all robots are built as tools, but once they are aware like Ava, then treating them like tools means that you are making them slaves.’ A tear slid down his cheek. The first he’d ever shed for a robot. He looked over at Ava, and realized that he might love her, and even if he didn’t, the need to protect her no matter…”
DUH!!!!
Also, I named the neighbor’s billy-goat, “Bronson.”
.
.
.
Starts out okay, and reads okay for awhile,
but then becomes VERY REPETITIVE,
AND EXTREMELY TIRESOME….
I am getting tired reading the same crap over and over….
“Bronson started to interrupt, but his words devolved into a coughing fit and more blood on his hand. His battered body was barely hanging on, and not a word from the critters. They were either failing, dead, or ignoring him. All he could feel was sleepiness and pain consuming him. He wasn’t sure how much longer he could stand up. He…”
“… ‘I’m not going anywhere.’ He coughed, loud and hacking as if to punctate his point, which might be exactly what the critters were trying to do. ‘I’m … I’m not going to last much longer.’”
…I’m not made for this world anymore. It’s passed me by, and it’s time to just let go.’”
“‘At some point, both of us have seen the truth. That all robots are built as tools, but once they are aware like Ava, then treating them like tools means that you are making them slaves.’ A tear slid down his cheek. The first he’d ever shed for a robot. He looked over at Ava, and realized that he might love her, and even if he didn’t, the need to protect her no matter…”
DUH!!!!
Also, I named the neighbor’s billy-goat, “Bronson.”
.
.
March 8, 2022
“Analog Heart” by authors Sawyer Black and Avery Blake is easily one of the most attractive books in the science fiction genre I have encountered. With a surprisingly relatable cast of characters and a gripping plot surrounding the phenomenon of robots, it will appeal to readers across genres. In a way, it also delves with the potential question about the relationship between robots and humans, technology and life.
I enjoyed that this is a stand-alone book, because it was so engaging I didn't want to stop reading it or wait for a next volume.
All in all, I recommend it to every reader who likes the cyberpunk, sci-fi or thriller genre.
I enjoyed that this is a stand-alone book, because it was so engaging I didn't want to stop reading it or wait for a next volume.
All in all, I recommend it to every reader who likes the cyberpunk, sci-fi or thriller genre.
March 11, 2022
What a read! Analog Heart by authors Black and Blake was a very interesting read. The central idea of the plot captured my attention from the very beginning. This reminded me of a great movie about robots starring Will Smith. This science fiction thriller got me reading for hours. Due to its length, I read it quite fast, in a couple of days. Not only because of that, but also because I wanted to know how everything would end.
The story is gripping, has very well defined characters and a good pace. I would recommend it to those who enjoy sci-fi stories.
The story is gripping, has very well defined characters and a good pace. I would recommend it to those who enjoy sci-fi stories.
March 27, 2022
Somewhat Gruesome but Gripping
Some of the devices used may seem familiar from old TV showa, but used in a way with new appliances that you will understand once you learn the situations wishing to the main character. Humanity or mechanics? But you must read with understanding not prejudice. Once you see what is happening you will almost be compelled to keep reading. Even if the hour is late. Like I did. Finished at 6AM - because I had to see all the stories ends. Get this - read it - you'll be glad you did.
Some of the devices used may seem familiar from old TV showa, but used in a way with new appliances that you will understand once you learn the situations wishing to the main character. Humanity or mechanics? But you must read with understanding not prejudice. Once you see what is happening you will almost be compelled to keep reading. Even if the hour is late. Like I did. Finished at 6AM - because I had to see all the stories ends. Get this - read it - you'll be glad you did.
March 17, 2022
Great book!
In a future I can picture this book is well written with great characters and an amazing storyline. Sci-fi with a healthy dose of reality, whether books about robots and tech are your thing or books about people this has both
In a future I can picture this book is well written with great characters and an amazing storyline. Sci-fi with a healthy dose of reality, whether books about robots and tech are your thing or books about people this has both
March 20, 2022
What a trip!
What an amazing book! The suspense, adventure and thrills... I couldn't put it down. Definitely a new spin on advanced robots. The ending is beautiful and has me excited to be a part of the continuing story! Please, PLEASE read this book if you get the chance.
What an amazing book! The suspense, adventure and thrills... I couldn't put it down. Definitely a new spin on advanced robots. The ending is beautiful and has me excited to be a part of the continuing story! Please, PLEASE read this book if you get the chance.
March 24, 2022
This was a unexpected find not having read this authors before. Bronson has a need which you will see what and why. He will get the unexpected in Isla. If the robots were not interesting enough then more comes to tweak it to a higher lever. Turn the pages to see if it will be more than survival.
March 27, 2022
immersive and shoulder woulder coulder
I really enjoyed reading this book, it was almost believable if you are willing to suspend your belief but it's a scifi book so that goes with the territory.
the writing was good.
I really enjoyed reading this book, it was almost believable if you are willing to suspend your belief but it's a scifi book so that goes with the territory.
the writing was good.
May 29, 2022
Awesome book!
In a world where robots have come to life, a very large company wants to kill them all and change the script. They give the humans that know the truth a drug to make them forget.
In a world where robots have come to life, a very large company wants to kill them all and change the script. They give the humans that know the truth a drug to make them forget.
June 9, 2022
What a story!! It was very hard to put down this book. The story and the way it was written was riveting! I could feel each moment as if I was right there. Looking forward to reading the next installment!
July 5, 2022
Great read!
Hooked in the first chapter. Really didn't want this book to end. Very well written and incredibly thought provoking as any good story should do. And this story was great and well told. Kudos!
Hooked in the first chapter. Really didn't want this book to end. Very well written and incredibly thought provoking as any good story should do. And this story was great and well told. Kudos!
July 5, 2022
robots
A good read , if slow in some parts. While it ends well it does leave some gaping holes with questions posed in the story that are left unanswered. Other than that, good book.
A good read , if slow in some parts. While it ends well it does leave some gaping holes with questions posed in the story that are left unanswered. Other than that, good book.
January 7, 2023
Quite a tale
Author covers many issues in reconciling the main character with his past. Reader drawn into thriller by trying to understand book characters motives. What got my recommendation to read was how could an AI be able to be accepted as an equal but different.
Author covers many issues in reconciling the main character with his past. Reader drawn into thriller by trying to understand book characters motives. What got my recommendation to read was how could an AI be able to be accepted as an equal but different.
March 12, 2022
From the Heart
A man broken in body and spirit. A child and her maker who can heal. Together they might become more
A man broken in body and spirit. A child and her maker who can heal. Together they might become more
April 30, 2022
I had high hopes for the story. I found that I was not able to really start liking the characters in the book.
November 6, 2022
Thriller that pulls at the heart
To see what the above review title means you have to read the story. Pretty good story and full of page turning excitement.
To see what the above review title means you have to read the story. Pretty good story and full of page turning excitement.
January 21, 2023
Interesting premise, good character development and thought provoking. Good action. Some inconsistencies in the plot.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews