Cassidy can “see” into machines as if they were made of glass. She yearns to work at the forefront of robot technology. She gets her wish at Lorbar Corporation, where she will meet the owners, a power-hungry and ruthless woman, Loren, and her husband, a lecherous womanizer, Barton. These two will turn Cassidy’s dream job into a nightmare. Loren announces Sam, an android with the most advanced robotics in the world, will run for office, an idea at first thought crazy, but gradually the advantages of an AI politician resonates with many. The long election campaign separates Cassidy from her boyfriend, Alex, and their estrangement leads to a break-up. Barton attempts to rape Cassidy and Sam stops him. Barton dies in a car crash caused by Sam. Although Cassidy wants to go to the police, Loren insists they cover up the murder. She threatens Alex, so Cassidy reluctantly goes along. Cassidy tells the police everything. Sam learns that Cassidy will say no to his proposal of marriage and decides he will commit murder-suicide. He tries to kill Cassidy twice, but she thwarts him. Then he attempts to strangle her. She breaks free and shoots him.
Cassidy can “see” into machines as if they were made of glass. She yearns to work at the forefront of robot technology. She gets her wish at Lorbar Corporation, where she will meet the owners, a power-hungry and ruthless woman, Loren, and her husband, a lecherous womanizer, Barton. These two will turn Cassidy’s dream job into a nightmare. Loren announces Sam, an android with the most advanced robotics in the world, will run for office, an idea at first thought crazy, but gradually the advantages of an AI politician resonates with many. The long election campaign separates Cassidy from her boyfriend, Alex, and their estrangement leads to a break-up. Barton attempts to rape Cassidy and Sam stops him. Barton dies in a car crash caused by Sam. Although Cassidy wants to go to the police, Loren insists they cover up the murder. She threatens Alex, so Cassidy reluctantly goes along. Cassidy tells the police everything. Sam learns that Cassidy will say no to his proposal of marriage and decides he will commit murder-suicide. He tries to kill Cassidy twice, but she thwarts him. Then he attempts to strangle her. She breaks free and shoots him.
Prologue
2031
Cassidy Barr slid back toward her desk chair, never taking her eyes off the body. A dark spot had appeared from underneath it, spreading across her office carpet. A metallic smell assaulted her senses.
She slumped by her desk. She couldn’t think. For an hour, she remained as still as a statue. Outside her window, the gray afternoon faded to dark. Then she stirred, sat up straighter, and rubbed her eyes. What should she do next?
Call someone. Her cell phone. In her jacket pocket. The jacket had fallen when she’d pulled out the gun. There. She spotted the jacket on the carpet on the other side of her desk. She moved toward it on slow hands and knees. Her long braid trailed over her shoulder and brushed along the stained floor.
She retrieved her cell phone. Who should she call first? The police.
No, not the police. Not yet. Their arrival would mean a long night of questioning that could end in her arrest. She’d give herself some time first.
Loren, then. But that would cause a terrible scene. Loren would go crazy. How could Cassidy tell Loren she’d ruined her dreams? She’d ruined Loren’s company. She’d ruined everything.
No, not Loren. Not just yet.
Cathy Parker’s Robot: A Deadly Love Story is an ambitious blend of romance, science fiction, and suspense that invites readers into a world where love and artificial intelligence collide—with often unpredictable consequences. While not without its flaws, the novel offers an engaging, thought-provoking narrative that raises important questions about humanity, emotion, and control.
At its core, the story follows the complicated relationship between a human protagonist and an AI being, exploring themes of trust, identity, and obsession. Parker’s writing is vivid, often poetic, and at times reminiscent of classic science fiction with a modern, emotionally charged twist. The plot maintains a steady pace and keeps readers guessing, though certain developments may feel either rushed or overly dramatic depending on the reader's preferences.
The novel's strength lies in its emotional intensity and the unique dynamic between the characters. Parker does a good job of blurring the lines between love and danger, creating moments that are both unsettling and compelling. While the concept of a deadly AI romance isn’t entirely new, Parker adds her own perspective, making the story feel personal and fresh in places.
Some readers may find the characters' motivations murky or the tone uneven. At times, the book leans heavily into melodrama, which may not appeal to everyone. Yet, these elements can also be seen as part of the novel’s charm—reflecting the unstable, often extreme emotions at the heart of the story.
What stands out most is Parker’s willingness to take narrative risks, pushing boundaries in ways that feel both bold and occasionally disorienting. She clearly has a strong vision for her characters and the world they inhabit, even if not every thread is tied up neatly.
Overall, Robot: A Deadly Love Story is a memorable read that won’t be for everyone, but those willing to embrace its eccentricities will find an inventive, emotionally charged tale that leaves a lingering impression.