Friday, May 8, 2020

Network Effect: A Murderbot Novel by Martha Wells

May 8, 2020

Network Effect: A Murderbot Novel by Martha Wells


Part machine, part human, Murderbot is a Security Unit (SecUnit) responsible for protecting stupid humans who insist on doing things likely to get them killed.  SecUnit is on what should be a routine mission from Preservation Sector that its team leader, Dr. Mensah, has sent it on in order to protect some of her family members including her daughter Amena.  But an unexpected twist occurs when SecUnit encounters its old friend ART (short for Asshole Research Transport), and SecUnit finds it must cooperate with ART if it wants to brings its humans home alive.

This is the first full-length Murderbot novel after four novellas (if you haven't read the novellas, go back and do that immediately - the first one is  All Systems Red).  Murderbot (its private name for itself) is a wonderful creation, who really just wants to watch its favorite shows on its media feed all day.  Filled with constant action, adventure and world building, Murderbot's internal dialog and snarky comments make this a delight even for readers who don't normally enjoy science fiction.  Illinois is still under the shelter-in-place order, and this was some great escapist fiction to pass the time.  Highly recommended!

Many thanks to Edelweiss and the publisher for providing an eARC in return for a review.

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