Ahoy there me mateys!  I received this sci-fi eARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.  So here be me honest musings . . .

This book is apparently a prequel to sea of rust that shows how the end of the world began (though it can be read as a standalone).  I thought this was set in a different world.  That said, I really did enjoy this novel.  I loved Pounce the nannybot tiger trying to figure out his purpose in life now that the humans and the robots are at war.  Is his concern for the boy Ezra an effect of his programming or his natural inclination?

The highlight of this book was the introduction to Pounce and the lead up to the beginning of the war.  I loved getting the story from Pounce's point of view.  I loved his relationships with the other robots.  I loved his relationship with Ezra and how Pounce deals with the harsh new truths of the world.  I loved Pounce's inner turmoil and questioning identify and purpose.

The big downside for me was that I was not as enamored with almost the entire journey through the suburbs.  There were some unprobeable coincidences. There were light references to current politics which I wish had been avoided.  Also the book seemed too fast paced with not enough real exploration of the enemy or the consequences of Pounce's actions.  The ending was also silly.

I do not regret this one but did like the other book better.  Arrr!