All Systems Red, by Martha Wells

A small research exploration team on a remote, uninhabited planet runs into trouble, but is it malfunction or sabotage? The Company they are contracted to has supplied the cheapest and shoddiest equipment; does this include the cyborg security unit charged with keeping them safe? This particular SecUnit calls itself Murderbot. It has a chequered past, a shy nature, an addiction to TV drama serials and a dangerous secret. With the team in deadly peril, Murderbot must decide how much of itself to expose to these unusually pleasant humans in order to protect them. In this slim novel Wells creates a world reminiscent of Becky Chambers’ sci fi stories, with diverse, relatable characters and a deep dive into what it means to be human – physically, emotionally and ethically. Murderbot is a fabulous protagonist – individual, complex, talented and flawed, who promises to be something of a space lone ranger. Will there ever be a Tonto? Probably not, but it will be fun finding out.