A review by cryosphinx
All Systems Red by Martha Wells

emotional funny mysterious reflective fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.25

Being a novella, it's hard to really get a good beginning, middle, end and make the story cohesive. All Systems Red aaaalmost does it but right at the climax, everything gets quickly resolved "off screen." It does set up the next one one though so it's good knowing there will be more. I didn't really get too attached or cared about of the other characters. This is about Murderbot after all but not a big deal but they seem mostly to serve as the shoulder devil vs. shoulder angel in regards for self awareness and how to treat Murderbot.

I love Murderbot character, but maybe because I relate as I too need to shut down and recharge after dealing with humans too much.  I like the exploration of the humans including Murderbot and treating him with more humanity and him being absolutely baffled but it teaching him what it means to be self aware outside of "I hacked myself so I could watch soap operas" into "Hey, I might actually give a damn." Looking forward to continuing the series.


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