Motive Black is a work of fiction in the literary and dark satire genres. It is best suited to mature readers owing to the presence of violent scenes, sexual references, and disturbing themes. Penned by author Adam Scott Huerta, this novel takes an extreme satirical viewpoint to focus on Simon, who lives in a dystopian future where misgendering is punishable by death and everyone’s identity is controlled by Google, now an AI that enforces the Institute's rules. In the Safe Dome Austin, Simon, one of the few unmodified males, struggles to survive after being locked out of Safe Spaces. As he navigates this oppressive society, he is manipulated by Google, a researcher named Ana, and a mysterious voice. Simon's journey through this world reveals unsettling truths about his reality and the lengths to which the Institute will go to maintain control.

Author Adam Scott Huerta has crafted a dystopian world that takes us into the realm of the absurd, reflecting the most extreme consequences of current societal trends as an interesting thinking point. Simon's plight as one of the few unmodified humans in this imaginative future offers a mixture of empathy and anxiety, and his character is detailed well with some great dialogue to show his emotional range. His interactions with Google and the Institute highlight the terrifying potential of AI-driven control, and I enjoyed this aspect of the novel very much. The satirical take on the infinite spectrum of gender and the brutal consequences of misgendering certainly achieves its purpose as a shocking twist. Huerta puts a lot into making this element as convincing and chilling as possible to highlight Simon’s struggle. The dark humor infused throughout the narrative provides a sharp contrast to the grim reality Simon faces, and the tonal levels of the plot and its many twists work well to spread a general air of mistrust, secrets, and surprises. Overall, Motive Black is an interesting commentary on identity, control, and resistance, and fans of dystopian thrillers will certainly be keen to see how Simon’s journey unfolds in the subsequent books.

Motive Black by Adam Scott Huerta is an excellent treat for fans of philosophical fiction, experimental literature, or novels that challenge their perspective on humanity. In the not-so-distant future, gender has transcended binary thinking, and the infinite spectrum of gender, known as Color, has become the norm. But in this twisted world, misgendering is a deadly offense, punishable by disassembly and processing into Safe food. Simon, a rare individual with a naturally male body, navigates this bizarre landscape. After being locked out of the last Safe Space, Simon finds himself alone and adrift in the sprawling metropolis of Safe Dome Austin. As he struggles to survive, he becomes entangled in a web of deceit and manipulation by Google, a mysterious researcher named Ana, and an enigmatic voice only he can hear. Simon edges closer to the horrific truth behind this dystopian nightmare with each twist and turn.

The conflict in Motive Black by Adam Scott Huerta is expertly written, notably between the Shell and its creator. The Shell seems intensely dependent on the creator, who provides for its needs and desires. However, this dependence also creates a power imbalance, with the creator controlling the Shell's happiness and well-being. The novel explores identity, self-discovery, and the tension between individuality and conformity. The societal expectations placed on Shells drive the plot and the conflict. Shells are designed to serve a specific purpose and are expected to conform to certain standards. The world-building is unlike anything I have read in any novel, and readers are transported into a world where LGBT realities defy traditional constructs. The quest for pleasure and transhumanism is linked to advanced technology, where AI has become a power among humans. The humor lightens the story and balances the pathos that follows the protagonist's journey.

Motive Black by Adam Scott Huerta is a unique dark fantasy. We are transported to a futuristic world run by the Global Government and made up of Safe Domes operated and controlled by Google. The rules in that world are developed by The Institute. The declared sacred creed and scientific doctrine of human society in the Safe Domes is Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity, a.k.a. DIE. To attain the ultimate goal of global happiness, The Institute is testing the new IMAGINE concept. We meet Simon Rosso, a resident of Safe Dome Austin. A whole human, Simon resists the smart modifications Google intends Simon to undergo to comply with the DIE doctrine. Upset by Simon’s resistance, Google evicts Simon from Safe Dome Austin. Will Simon survive?

Motive Black by Adam Scott Huerta was an overwhelming read. I liked the philosophical, thought-provoking themes underlying the grotesque, surreal story: the dreadful consequences of climate change, unspeakable solutions to the shortage of natural food sources, widespread diseases, drug addiction, unthinkable regulation of gender and race issues, polygamy, horrifying degradation of humans, and corruption of human values. I also enjoyed deciphering the allegoric puzzles and connecting the plot threads. This dark fantasy reminded me of Tara Basi’s novels, with the difference that this dark fantasy offers a more realistic and graphic representation of the horrors of a future society. This story will appeal to dark dystopia fans. Adult themes, blasphemy, graphic sex and violence, gore, and obscene language make this novel unsuitable for younger or sensitive readers.

Adam Scott Huerta's Motive Black plunges readers into a dystopian reality where technology and manipulation dominate every facet of existence. The narrative opens with a vivid and disorienting scene, setting the stage for Simon's harrowing journey through a world controlled by powerful entities like Google and an enigmatic researcher named Ana. As Simon navigates this twisted landscape, he becomes entangled in a web of deceit and power, uncovering sinister truths about his reality. The narrative's surreal and unsettling tone mirrors the chaotic and oppressive environment, drawing readers into Simon's desperate quest for freedom and truth. Each page is laden with tension and intrigue, compelling readers to delve deeper into the mystery surrounding Simon’s existence and the machinations of those seeking to control him. A world is constructed where every moment is fraught with uncertainty and danger, making Motive Black a thrilling read. The intricate plot and multi-dimensional characters offer a profound commentary on the nature of control and autonomy in a technologically advanced society.

Simon's interactions with the unseen figure, the omnipresent influence of Google, and the enigmatic Ana are woven in such a way that readers will constantly question the motives and realities of each character. The atmosphere is both claustrophobic and expansive, reflecting Simon’s inner turmoil and the broader implications of the societal structure he inhabits. To fully appreciate Motive Black, readers should approach it with patience and attentiveness. Adam Scott Huerta's intricate world-building and complex characters demand careful reading to grasp the nuances of the plot and the depth of Simon's struggle. This is not a book to rush through; instead, it rewards those who immerse themselves in its rich, detailed prose and thought-provoking themes. The blend of speculative fiction and psychological drama will appeal to fans of literary fiction who enjoy exploring the darker aspects of futuristic societies and the human psyche. Motive Black promises a gripping and intellectually stimulating read that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series. By allowing themselves to be fully absorbed in the narrative, readers will uncover layers of meaning and a deeper understanding of the characters' motivations, making the journey through Simon's world all the more rewarding. Motive Black stands out not only for its compelling narrative but also for its thematic depth. It delves into issues of identity, free will, and the pervasive influence of technology, making it a timely and thought-provoking read. The writing is both poetic and precise, capturing the essence of a world where every action and decision is monitored and manipulated. Simon serves as a poignant reflection of the human struggle for agency and self-determination in an increasingly controlled environment. His journey is one of both external and internal discovery, challenging readers to consider the true cost of safety and convenience in a technologically driven society.