Content levels
Trigger warnings
Hero archetypes
Protagonist archetypes
Tropes
Themes
Synopsis
Ash Bell has a secret— A deadly eight foot robot lives in his basement. Designed by Ash’s father, a genius scientist working for defense contractor North American Automation, the AI was created to become the ultimate war machine. That is until it begins asking questions and demonstrating behaviors beyond Dr. Bell’s programming—changes that only Ash sees. At school, Ash’s life is imploding; he’s been suspended and outed as gay. An ex wants to pull Ash with him into a downward spiral. Now, his father’s military robot might be the only one who can save him. And Ash might be the only one to help the AI become more than just a weapon.
Tags
Is Sentient Bonds appropriate for my child?
Suitable for most readers 14 and up.
A gay teen forms an unexpected bond with his father's military AI robot while dealing with suspension, outing, and mental health struggles. Contains themes of bullying, homophobia, and suicidal ideation, balanced with hopeful found family dynamics.
What to know going in
This book has moderate violence, no sexual content, and mild language. Content notes include homophobia, bullying, and suicidal ideation (see the full list above).
Who'll love this
Teens will connect with Ash's struggles at school and his unlikely friendship with an AI questioning its purpose as a weapon.