In The Lives of Puppets
- Author: TJ Klune
- Published: April 25th, 2023
- Publisher: Tor Books
- Rating: 5/5
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Goodreads Synopsis
In a strange little home built into the branches of a grove of trees, live three robots–fatherly inventor android Giovanni Lawson, a pleasantly sadistic nurse machine, and a small vacuum desperate for love and attention. Victor Lawson, a human, lives there too. They’re a family, hidden and safe.
The day Vic salvages and repairs an unfamiliar android labelled “HAP,” he learns of a shared dark past between Hap and Gio-a past spent hunting humans.
When Hap unwittingly alerts robots from Gio’s former life to their whereabouts, the family is no longer hidden and safe. Gio is captured and taken back to his old laboratory in the City of Electric Dreams. So together, the rest of Vic’s assembled family must journey across an unforgiving and otherworldly country to rescue Gio from decommission, or worse, reprogramming.
Along the way to save Gio, amid conflicted feelings of betrayal and affection for Hap, Vic must decide for himself: Can he accept love with strings attached?
My thoughts
In the realm of fantasy and science fiction, where stories are crafted with boundless imagination, “This was the perfect fantasy, sci-fi loose retelling of Pinocchio.”
As an avid reader, I hold a deep appreciation for tales that leave an indelible mark on the heart. This book, without a doubt, falls into that category. “I absolutely loved this book a whole lot.”.
One of the aspects that heightened my reading experience was the decision to venture into the audiobook format. Upon receiving an ARC from the publisher, I decided to immerse myself in the world of sound, and it was a choice I am immensely grateful for. The narrator, Daniel Henning, proved to be a master of his craft, breathing life into the characters with remarkable skill. Each voice he embodied was distinct and nuanced, drawing me deeper into their intricate lives and enriching the storytelling in an unparalleled manner.
A strong foundation in worldbuilding is crucial for any fantastical narrative, and this book excelled in this regard. “I really enjoyed the worldbuilding.” The author’s meticulous attention to detail transported me to an immersive realm, where magic and technology seamlessly intertwined.
Moreover, the banter between the characters added a layer of charm and authenticity to the narrative. The interactions felt organic, brimming with wit and cleverness. Among the ensemble cast, there were two standout personalities that captured my heart: nurse Retched (a I want to fix you and everything else little Psycho) and Rambo (an anxious, loveable little thing). Oh, how I adored them! Their unique traits and endearing quirks made them instantly lovable, and I found myself rooting for their success and growth. Truth be told, my affection extended to every character.
In conclusion, “This was the perfect fantasy, sci-fi loose retelling of Pinocchio.” From the sheer brilliance of the story to the impeccable narration, I highly recommend this enchanting adventure to all readers who crave a spellbinding tale that tugs at the heartstrings and stirs the imagination.
Chapters We Love 