Annie Bot

This novel contains numerous and often graphic sex scenes. In a novel that depicts a relationship between a human man and his “Cuddle Bunny” bot, this is not out of place. Although detailed, the sex depicted does not become gratuitous in large part because of the way that it speaks to the novel’s interest in The Dangers of Toxic Masculinity. In this way, sex symbolizes control and power.

All the intimacy between Annie and Doug, both physical and emotional, is characterized by inequality. Annie’s purpose for existing is to sexually fulfill her owner, and although her libido is programmable, it is typically Doug who determines at what level her libido is to be set. Annie is not programmed to say no to sex, and she responds with excitement each time that Doug indicates that he is in the mood. Annie has been programmed to perceive that she enjoys sex, but it is always Doug who directs their sexual activity, and Annie is only shown to initiate sex with Doug a handful of times after she has been in autodidact mode for a lengthy period of time and is trying to repair their relationship.