This fourth entry in the series feels somehow different to the previous three. The plot, although still adorned by silly digressions, is stronger and more present than it was in the previous books. The story focuses mainly on Arthur and we can observe a clear shift in him as a character. For the first time his role is not limited to being a reminder for us readers of the absurdity of the events that the characters are thrown into, but his character receives instead some depth and semblance of growth. To be honest I liked the fresh feeling brought on by this change of pace; yes, the story follows a very classical construction that we have all seen hundreds of time but it does so with Adam’s creativity and genius helm and that will always be a recipe I feel comfortable recommending. 

This is one of my favourite entries in the series so far. By this point, the Murderbot formula is well established, yet it never feels boring. There is some investigating, plenty a bit of action, and a ton of hacking and heroics, all infused with that distinct Murderbot attitude that we have come to know and love. The writing is fast-paced, and no time is wasted fleshing out the story more than what's strictly necessary. Regardless, Murderbot's snarky comments and general contempt for humans and their emotions keep us coming back to discover what's next. 

The writing is still on point and the narrator’s voice is again terribly engaging. The story is at its best in the action sequences and when it explores Murderbot’s interactions with the other characters. However, I found myself lost at times in the various names of decorative characters or in trying to follow the relatively complex spacial setting of the story. Between pods and lifts at some point I just resigned attempting to understand and honestly stopped caring hoping to get to the next character interaction as fast as possible. All in all, “Rogue Protocol” does what it’s designed to do, providing us with another enjoyably light Murderbot story, and does so well. It might not be a stand-out entry in the series but, once finished, you will still want to pick up the next book.