Fantasy Buddy Reads discussion

This is a Buddy Read for Automatic Noodle by Annalee Newitz starting on November 1, 2025.


Happy Reading!

Thank you!
This is a Cozy November thread. Read any time in November!

Check out the list of other scheduled cozy reads in the Cozy November[buddy read] thread, or seek friends for a plan of your own in the [planning] thread!

Started... enjoying so far...

Is the internet database the robots are using to market their noodle shop really called Brando Sando?... that's what it sounds like...

GrandoSando

LOL... I thought it was a Brandon Sanderson reference...

the book just zoomed by, and was over before I knew it...

Read this today and really enjoyed it. Perfect amount of cozy. I just wish it were longer--I was surprised, when it seemed like things were heating up, that it was resolved so quickly and then end. End!

Some more thoughts: (view spoiler)[I like the way the story evoked metaphors of present-day racism and fear, addressed issues of identity and PCness, while still remaining cozy, and focusing on individuals. The idea of robots who couldn't taste trying to figure out how to make tasty food was a cute one, and I was really happy when the toxic reviewer was banned. The whole idea of reviewbombing being the vector for racism and cause of the conflict was very modern and unique too. (hide spoiler)]