A review by obscurepages
Network Effect by Martha Wells

adventurous challenging emotional funny tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.5



Excuse me but who gave Martha Wells the right to create this masterpiece?? 😭

Like the first four installments in this series, Network Effect is a delight. But unlike the first four, this one is a full-length novel instead of just a novella. Of course, I was so excited when I learned this was a full novel! More Murderbot, yay! But then, oh. I remember that Martha Wells is a genius when it comes to plots, world-building, and human relationships. I was in for a ride.

This was just so good. I don't think I can fully explain how humorous, tense, exciting, and wonderful this was. And I just love how this book (and the whole series in general) was plot-driven, and yet it did not neglect the characters, no not at all. In fact, you fall in love with the characters as you read! I love Murderbot, I love ART, and I especially love their chemistry together. Like how did these two AI/bot constructs give me a lot of feels? Made me cry and laugh and gasp all throughout the book? (view spoiler) I love their banter and their semi-emotional conversations. Of course, I love their humans, too lol.

And the plot! Somehow the author managed to expound on the corporate greed and corruption in this universe, and we see it more as the characters interact with a new planet and colonies. I also love how the plot delved into alien intelligence and life, especially with the antagonists they were facing here. Wells was able to make this more engaging and unique, and I really enjoyed that.

This, of course, was also action-packed. There might have been a few chapters that seemed idle in terms of pacing. But then I turn into a new chapter, and we're back on the rollercoaster. I thought the storytelling here was just exquisite. The way the author left clues for the readers, which also happened to be crucial for the characters in the book? That was just brilliant. Also, the perspectives?! I did not see that coming, but it was just incredible.

AND ONE LAST POINT: the way this book features robots as the main characters but still highlights the complexity and beauty of humanity and free will? Precious.

Overall, this book is a sensational installment and a great first full novel for the Murderbot series. I am so excited to dive into the next book. 🥹

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Marking this book as part of my reading challenge: #ReadQueerly2024. 
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