My Favorite Futuristic Robot Stories
“Murderbot Diaries” by Martha Wells are at the top of the list
Favorite Robot Tales
I loved the Murderbot Diaries by Martha Wells. They were nothing like I expected and I have decided to make them the first choice in my list of favorite Sci-fi Books and Authors.
What they're about
The Murderbot Diaries are about a sentient construct (robot/human) designed for security purposes that goes rogue. Highly skilled at hacking, it has freed itself from its own governor module and while attempting to hide its independence, actively defends the people it's contracted to protect--even when ordered to do otherwise.
First Impression
I wasn't sure at first if I would like it. So many of the descriptions and reviews mentioned how the Sec-Unit liked to watch soap operas, which I dislike, and I wasn't sure why that was a focus or what kind of reader they were looking for. I avoided the series for years just because of that.
But my first impression was wrong.
Why I liked it
The main character, Murderbot, is a true hero, full of emotions and motivations that aren't easily understood. It’s suffering from an identity crisis that, instead of being shallow and annoying, is compelling. Each book has a unique storyline with excellent plotting and adrenaline building excitement. But the mystery of who and what Murderbot is is the charm that draws you deeper. It quickly becomes someone you care about and believe in.
And as you discover what soap operas mean to it, and have done for it, you understand how that fact is essential to the story.
Another thing I appreciated about these books are the plots, beautifully crafted and intricately woven. They were complex, unexpected, harrowing, and original.
What I might change
Nothing. I can't think of anything that I wished was expanded or shortened, or better described, or left out. It was thoroughly enjoyable and I look forward to reading more by this author.
Type of Read
Sci-fi adventure, sentient AI, interstellar space travel and widespread, galactic, human colonization. Great world building and character development, fast-paced storytelling, Underlying mystery woven into the plot.
Conclusion
This series is not only exciting adventure, it has excellent writing and wonderful character development. The self-named Murderbot is a complex, evolving person that is worth getting to know. And the mystery of what happened to it, what it was trying to accomplish, and what it would do next kept me buying one book after another.