In this 140-page first installment, we meet Murderbot, a security unit who is made up of organic and inorganic parts (think robot-human hybrid). Murderbot has no gender and hates its job. We learn through its inner monologue that it’s designed to kill and/or protect based on its contract but it has hacked the module that controls it. Mainly what Murderbot *wants* to do is watch its favorite show, Sanctuary Moon, on the entertainment feed. Did I say Murderbot is highly relatable? Murderbot is highly relatable.

What ensues is a fast-paced science fiction mystery full of reveals and cool technology as well as LOTS of curious *feelings* from Murderbot. Murderbot’s inner monologue is hilarious and heartfelt. You just can’t help but sympathize with it. In a lot of ways it reminded me of a great episode of Dr Who, where there is a lot going on and basically no explanation of the backstory or world you are in - just the characters interacting and things happening. At the same time, I developed strong emotional attachments to not only Murderbot but also its humans, and that is a testament to Martha Waters’ writing.

👍🏻Recommended! If you like science fiction, Dr. Who and sassy, relatable protagonists, you will like this. Do check the CW - it is pretty viscerally violent.