A review by izzalice
Service Model by Adrian Tchaikovsky

challenging dark funny mysterious slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes

4.25

What happens to a robot valet who malfunctions, murders his owner, and no longer has purpose in a dystopian and confusing future? I don’t tend to reach for science fiction much but upon reading the synopsis, I knew I had to pick this one up. 

Tchaikovsky tackles a vast concept in a darkly comedic and quietly terrifying manner that intrigued me right from the first chapter. The protagonist is both a unique and oddly charming character to go on this journey with and I found his inner voice highly entertaining. 

As the plot slowly unravels and Charles is met with various pitfalls along his journey, the reader really gets to see how much the robots rely on logic to a sometimes-hilarious fault. I found myself laughing out loud in parts, particularly during Charles’ time spent at diagnostics and his interactions with the Wonk. This in conjunction with some tense scenes that had me glued to the page makes Service Model a brilliant and delightful novel that both science fiction lovers and those newer to the genre can enjoy!