Title: The Automatic Detective
Author: A. Lee Martinez
First published January 1, 2008
320 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780765318343 (ISBN10: 0765318342)
Rating: 3.97
Overview
Welcome to Empire City, a place where robots and weird science rule the roost. Mack Megaton is a hulking robot, but he’s not what you’d call typical.
He’s not interested in world domination, just trying to earn his citizenship and prove that he’s more than just a smashing machine. Unfortunately, things never seem to go smoothly for Mack, and when his neighbors are kidnapped, he has to set out on a quest to save them.
Along the way, he’ll encounter a talking gorilla, a brainy dame, a mutant lowlife, and more trouble than he ever bargained for. What begins as a simple rescue mission turns into a battle for the future of Empire City and every citizen who calls it home.
Join Mack on his journey through the dark alleys and gleaming skyscrapers of this fascinating city, and discover the secret conspiracy at the heart of Empire’s founders.
About the Author
Lee Martinez hails from El Paso, Texas. He began crafting novels at the ripe age of 18 for reasons unbeknownst to anyone but himself.
It took him a mere thirteen years and a little over 12 written works to finally get his first novel, Gil’s All Fright Diner, published. When he’s not putting pen to paper, you can find him partaking in hobbies such as juggling, playing a variety of games, and exploring astral projection.
He also enjoys belting out tunes along with the radio when he’s cruising solo in his car.
Editoral Review
In “The Automatic Detective” by A. Lee Martinez, readers are introduced to a thrilling science fiction world which Martinez has expertly crafted in his unique style.
Published originally in 2008, the book takes place in a city filled with robots and humans who live among each other. The author has created a fascinating universe and the book tackles several themes such as the price of justice, discovering one’s true identity, and the pursuit of happiness.
The plot revolves around an unconventional lead character, Mack Megaton, a massive robot who is neither content with his current life nor is he respected among humans. He receives an opportunity to win back some of his self-respect when a couple of scientists are kidnapped and he is tasked to find them.
The journey of Mack ultimately leads him to many gory challenges which test his strength, his mind, and his loyalty to his new-found friends. Martinez has done an exceptional job in crafting a world in which the humans and the robots interact and gradually develop relationships that are both relatable and engaging.
The inter-dialogue between the characters is witty, fresh and humorous making the reading experience all the more entertaining. Despite the book’s serious themes, the author’s writing style keeps the reader engaged and invested in the growing bond between the characters.
However, as a critical reviewer, I must say that there are some shortcomings which make the book somewhat predictable at times, especially the portrayal of the villains, which become too one-dimensional. There are a few clichés too, as the conventional hero, Mack, develops his character and goes on his hero’s journey.
Overall, “The Automatic Detective” is an innovative and thrilling book that has a unique take on the science fiction genre. It reflects societal struggles and speaks to the issues of prejudice and ‘otherness’ that still haunt us.
Martinez has utilized his creative prowess, delivering a book that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking, leaving the reader wanting more.
I would highly recommend “The Automatic Detective” to anyone who loves sci-fi and adventure stories.
It’s sure to provide a great escape from day-to-day life while making the reader investigate the values which guide us. My rating for “The Automatic Detective” would be 4 out of 5 stars.
