Book review by Corey
All Systems Red
All Systems Red follows a security android that has secretly hacked its own control system and would much rather spend its time watching entertainment feeds than dealing with humans. When the scientists it is protecting run into serious trouble on a remote planet, Murderbot is forced to step in and figure out what is really going on.
The story is short, fast, and surprisingly funny, with most of the charm coming from Murderbot’s awkward view of people and its constant desire to avoid unnecessary interaction. Underneath the humour, there is also a lot about independence, identity, and what it means to make your own choices.
The Goods
- Murderbot is a great main character
- Very funny without trying too hard
- Fast and easy to get into
- Good mix of action and personality
- Interesting ideas about identity and control
The Bads
- Very short
- The mystery is fairly simple
- Some side characters are lightly developed
- The world-building is limited
- Ends before everything feels fully explored
My Recommendation
Anyone who likes smart, character-driven science fiction should have a good time with this one. Murderbot’s personality is what really makes the book stand out, and the mix of sarcasm, action, and quieter ideas about freedom works surprisingly well. It is a quick read, but it leaves enough interesting questions behind to make continuing the series very tempting.