Who Would Like This Book:
If the thought of a grumpy, introverted security robot who just wants to binge-watch soap operas instead of dealing with humans sounds appealing, this book will be your new favorite. Murderbot’s dry, snarky narration is both hilarious and relatable - especially if you’ve ever wanted to hide behind a screen and avoid social interaction. The story delivers fast-paced sci-fi action, memorable character moments, and musings on what it means to be “human,” all in a short, bingeable read. Perfect for fans of character-driven sci-fi, introverts looking for a kindred spirit, and anyone who loves stories about AI, found family, or unlikely heroes.
Who May Not Like This Book:
Readers looking for deep world-building, complex plotlines, or strong character development beyond the main character might feel a bit underwhelmed. The novella format means some side characters and the setting take a backseat to Murderbot’s internal monologue. If you want hard sci-fi with lots of technical details, lush descriptions, or you don’t vibe with deadpan, self-deprecating humor, this one might feel a bit light or too focused on the protagonist’s personal journey.
About:
In "All Systems Red," readers are introduced to Murderbot, a rogue cyborg struggling to navigate its identity and emotions while protecting a survey team on a routine mission that quickly turns into a complex web of conspiracy and danger. The novella delves into themes of artificial intelligence, personhood, empathy, and the blurred lines between human and non-human entities. Through Murderbot's unique perspective and wry narration, the story unfolds as a mix of action, mystery, and character exploration, offering a fresh take on the sci-fi genre.
Genres:
Tropes/Plot Devices:
Topics:
Notes:
From The Publisher:
A murderous android discovers itself in All Systems Red, a tense science fiction adventure by Martha Wells that interrogates the roots of consciousness through Artificial Intelligence.
"As a heartless killing machine, I was a complete failure."
In a corporate-dominated spacefaring future, planetary missions must be approved and supplied by the Company. Exploratory teams are accompanied by Company-supplied security androids, for their own safety.
But in a society where contracts are awarded to the lowest bidder, safety isn't a primary concern.
On a distant planet, a team of scientists are conducting surface tests, shadowed by their Company-supplied 'droid - a self-aware SecUnit that has hacked its own governor module, and refers to itself (though never out loud) as "Murderbot." Scornful of humans, all it really wants is to be left alone long enough to figure out who it is.
But when a neighboring mission goes dark, it's up to the scientists and their Murderbot to get to the truth.
Winner: 2018 Hugo Award for Best Novella
Winner: 2018 Nebula Award for Best Novella
Winner: 2018 Alex Award
Winner: 2018 Locus Award
One of the Verge's Best Books of 2017
A New York Times and USA Today Bestseller
Ratings (1092)
Incredible (263) | |
Loved It (420) | |
Liked It (243) | |
It Was OK (115) | |
Did Not Like (45) | |
Hated It (6) |
Reader Stats (2113):
Read It (1121) | |
Currently Reading (17) | |
Want To Read (663) | |
Did Not Finish (24) | |
Not Interested (288) |
47 comment(s)
Love the series, but have to admit, it might have been the second book that hooked me.
The people aren't wrong about this book. I listened to this at work, and that definitely didn't make me connect with the story as much as I would have if I was reading it physically. But it was still fun, and I'll definitely pick up the next one (I already have, thank you libby)
This novella was really fast paced and fun. I will say I’m not a huge novella fan because with my ADHD I tend to get lost when the story is going so fast and your not getting to know all the characters as much. I will say, Martha Wells did a great job making sure you got the sense of who the characters were, especially murder bot who is obviously the star of the book. Murderbot is so relatable and just such a fun character to read from. I really like the thought process that it has and how independent it is. I will tell you that this book reads so fast that by the end I was like, wait it’s over?? Excited to continue on with the story and see where it goes, and ready to spend some more time in murderbots head!
learning that murderbot was masc presenting made it infinitely less relatable
murderbot: I turned around and walked into the corner, facing away from them.
me, twirling my hair around my finger: haha then what
MurderBot is a literal icon
Never did I think I would identify so much with a android. I feel you Murder bot. I hate talking to people too.
4.5/5
I've never related to a robot more! The internal plot of the main character felt well portrayed and relatable (as much as one can relate to a murderbot).
The pacing was fantastic, and the action engaging. I wish some of the side characters were explored a little more, but that kinda fits the way murderbot engages with humans.
I'd say my favorite thing about this is that the resolution is a very fitting end to its character arch, and makes the internal development throughout the book pay off well.
I think I didn't really get it the way others have. Honestly expected something a little better considering the fanfare surrounding this series. Instead the writing felt a little dialed back, almost like that of a YA series but without any of the charm and young joi de vivre you'd expect from that genre.
IDK, pretty decent plot and interesting enough world. But I think the short length robs the reader of the chance to click with the characters. (Though I suspect that if it were a novel I probably would have DNF'D)
This reminded me a little of Mickey 7, and especially of Antimatter Blue, which I think could’ve been as short as All Systems Red. I read 2 chapters a day and couldn’t read more because I found it boring and wanted to get to some other books of short stories I have checked out. Only finished because it’s short and will return to the library tomorrow. I originally was gonna buy all of the Murderbot books just based on YouTube videos and online reviews of people gushing over this, but I think sci-fi (SF) isn’t my cup of tea for reading. Glad I saved some money and thankful my library has had so many books I’ve been curious about.
What can you read after
All Systems Red?
About the Author:
MARTHA WELLS has written many fantasy novels, including The Wizard Hunters, Wheel of the Infinite, the Books of the Raksura series (beginning with The Cloud Roads and ending with The Harbors of the Sun), and the Nebula-nominated The Death of the Necromancer, as well as YA fantasy novels, short stories, and non-fiction.
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.
