Exit Strategy (Murderbot Diaries, 4); Martha Wells

I am so impressed with this series. Each time I read a Murderbot Diary I think: “THIS! This must be the pinnacle, no way can the next book top this one!” And I am always, joyously, proven wrong. Murderbot is once again hit with complex emotions over non-fictional humans as it rushes back to help MB’s first group of (favorite) humans before GreyCris can get Dr Mensah to shut up for good about their illegal, murderous activities. Honestly, I didn’t know how much I missed Murderbot interacting with this original crew until the reality of them reuniting was upon me. So many sounds of joy were uttered while reading this novella!

---

The story starts immediately with setting the stakes high, there is no easing into it like previous installations and I really enjoyed that. MB’s classic dry humor is back and starts at the very first line and carries on consistently throughout the entire book, but is mixed with moments of “aw!” emotion and pure, efficient action in a way that only Murderbot is capable of. And, for the record, I, too, would consider a hug from Murderbot to be a form of first aid. This book was thoroughly enjoyable from start to finish and oh so very satisfying, especially that ending! I love Murderbot, and that’s why it gets all the stars. That is all.