Recommended by Yerim because I liked the Ancillary series.

I devoured this book in one day. It's exciting, has great characters, and didn't slow down. I love reading how Murderbot tries to figure out how to handle feelings without even wanting to admit they have them. Watching them navigate a world that doesn't see them as human is nearly as fascinating as the rest of the plot. I have read all 5 in the series, and my only complaint is that there aren't more of them.

I was pleasantly surprised by how engrossing a read this was. It was also quick which is a nice break. Murderbot is like a lot of us: a bit lazy in their job and just wanting to be left alone. Pretty funny premise.

Recommended by the Ageist

Murderbot, as it calls itself, is part of a futuristic society and is currently serving as security for a survey team on a distant planet. Murderbot has figured out how to turn off its governor module and now the only orders it follows are its own. Something strange is going on where Murderbot and its team are trying to gather survey data. An unknown creature has attacked two of Murderbot's team and it barely saves them before bringing them back for medical attention. Murderbot and its team quickly realize that the company that has given them the contract to survey the planet may have left out vital information that they will need to survive. Murderbot has killed before and will do so again if necessary, especially to protect its humans to which it has formed a peculiar attachment.
All Systems Red is a very unique story told from the perspective of a sentient bot that is logical with a sarcastic voice. Murderbot loves its serials and has difficulty with human face-to-face interaction. It isn't supposed to think or feel, but Murderbot excels at both. A very interesting character and story that would have benefited from a little more plot, character, and setting development, but overall, an enjoyable read, which includes an unusual protagonist with a distinctive voice.

An artificial intelligence, once it is free, that has slacker tendencies and anxiety when dealing with humans might just be the most likable and trustworthy fictional A.I. in the universe.

The Murderbot series might be one of the best pieces of literature produced in the 2010s. No joke, it's fire.

Oh, to be a genderless killing machine watching soap operas all day.

Gripping from page one, this novella (under 100 pages) introduces the delightful organic/android Murderbot, a neurotic romantic at heart who has developed both sentience and principles in a universe of cut-throat, competing corporations. Rented out as a security unit to scientists prospecting on an alien planet, he must protect them and his independent mind from unscrupulous marauders. Jaded but honourable, he carries out his duties with a humorous inner-dialogue while maintaining a deadpan exterior. First in a series, All Systems Red could make a great, multi-movie franchise with the right actor. Ryan Reynolds?!

Is there a character I connect with more than Murderbot? You know, I don't think there is. Murderbot is grumpy, has anxiety, and would rather watch tv than interact with people. Just replace reading with watching tv and I think we're pretty much identical. Well, other than actually being a murderbot. If you like sci-fi, sarcastic main characters, and character driven stories then you should definitely pick up the Murderbot Diaries. You will not be disappointed!