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The Automatic Detective

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About this listen

Even in Empire City, a town where weird science is the hope for tomorrow, it's hard for a robot to make his way. It's even harder for a robot named Mack Megaton, a hulking machine designed to bring mankind to its knees. But Mack's not interested in world domination. He's just a bot trying to get by, trying to demonstrate that he isn't just an automated smashing machine, and to earn his citizenship in the process. It should be as easy as crushing a tank for Mack, but some bots just can't catch a break.

When Mack's neighbors are kidnapped, Mack sets off on a journey through the dark alleys and gleaming skyscrapers of Empire City. Along the way, he runs afoul of a talking gorilla, a brainy dame, a mutant lowlife, a little green mob boss, and the secret conspiracy at the heart of Empire's founders - not to mention more trouble than he bargained for. What started out as one missing family becomes a battle for the future of Empire and every citizen that calls her home.

©2008 A. Lee Martinez (P)2011 Audible, Inc. Modern Detectives Mystery Science Fiction

Critic reviews

"Martinez tickles the funny bone in this delightful, fast-paced mishmash of SF and hard-boiled detective story.... Eccentric characters, all of whom are clever twists on stereotypes, populate a smart, rocket-fast read with a clever, twisty plot that comes to a satisfying conclusion." (Publishers Weekly)
“This combination sci-fi/hard-boiled detective story is a hoot….Narrator Marc Vietor approaches the story with a classic noir tone that is hilarious.” (AudioFile)
All stars
Most relevant
I was looking for a noir story, and I found this. If you love both the SciFi genre and a Noir style detective story, this may be what you're looking for! I really hope that the author, A. Lee Martinez, has plans to explore this world further!

We need more MAC MEGATON!

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thought it was a good story with a great performance on the naritive side, would really recommend

Great story

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Where does The Automatic Detective rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

As with all Martinez books - the wit and humour make his books stand out not matter the story line.

What did you like best about this story?

I certainly enjoyed Mack's view on the squishy flesh bags

Which character – as performed by Marc Vietor – was your favourite?

the sleazy lead female of course

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

Certainly Mack's devotion to helping his friends and the little girl April.

Any additional comments?

Good cheesy SF fun.

Robotic detective SF at its best

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loved it. Went in expecting cheese and parody, but was completely charmed by the first chapter. Hopefully the first of a series!

Zzzzzzzap

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A really fun story set in the noir genre with interesting characters especially Mac Megaton the erstwhile detective. I really enjoyed it and the narrator was perfect for the noir theme.

Noir Robot Detective

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