A review by oliviabeckreads
All Systems Red by Martha Wells

adventurous funny tense fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

This is my second most favorite book ever! (The first is Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir.) So let’s get to it.

Given that the book series is called The Murderbot Diaries, it’s unsurprising that the murderbot is the viewpoint character. So what does this murderbot think? He doesn’t think much of humans in general, but has no particular animosity toward them either. He is cynical, shy, and would really rather be watching his shows. (His internal monologue is a hoot!)

The book jumps right into the story, and we learn about both the structure of society and the other characters as the plot progresses. I much prefer this method as rule, rather than a separate description of either. Of course, it must be done well, and Martha Wells does an excellent job. 

The human characters are interesting and mostly likable.

A mystery propels the plot: The survey team is experiencing some unexplained glitches, and as the story unfolds it becomes clear that something sinister is at work…. 

And yes, I watched the show, Murderbot, before listening to this book. The show is great, but the book is better.

Will I read more of this author? Absolutely!