Martha Wells continues her thrilling journey of the highly entertaining and most complex AI around. (Sorry, ChatGPT, take a seat this time) In Rogue Protocol, Murderbot finds itself on a new task, seeking evidence against the sinister corporation GrayCris.
The story picks up with Murderbot on its way to a transit station, almost forgotten in a hyper-connected society, hoping to find evidence against GrayCris and help Doctor Mensah (who we first meet in All Systems Red) in her case against the entity for its safety violations.
Rogue Protocol might just be my favourite out of the novellas in this series. While I prefer the previous novellas’ quieter introspection, Murderbot is pushed to the limits in this one as it’s a lot more action-packed and adventurous. As usual, Murderbot navigates the complexities of human emotions while dealing with its growing anxieties, but this time with the ever-increasing threat of GrayCris hovering closer in their mind, as it notes that people have begun to question its disappearance from the public eye.
After adopting its human persona again, Murderbot’s cover is almost completely ruined when it realises another research group has their own security bot called Miki, who can detect Murderbot’s presence if they’re not careful. So, it convinces Miki that it is a hired help to ensure Miki’s group’s survival.
In Artificial Conditions, we see how Murderbot understands its fellow AI counterparts, understanding its different needs and expectation from their contractors, but Miki is different. Miki is treated as part of the team, even referring to them as her friends. For once, Murderbot can almost wonder what life could be like if they didn’t see it as a mass murderer.
Wells continues to develop and improve upon Murderbot as an engaging and hilarious character, its thought processes dive deeper into its struggle with identity and relationships. Overall, Rogue Protocol is incredibly engaging and another captivating instalment in the adventures of Murderbot. As we step closer to the dangerous reach of GrayCris, you can’t help but root for the snarky SecUnit who can’t seem to catch a break.
as told by zaheerah 
MURDERBOT MY BELOVED
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