Artificial Condition

A novella.

The follow-up to the hugely popular science fiction action-adventure All Systems Red

Artificial Condition continues The Murderbot Diaries, a science fiction series that tackles questions of the ethics of sentient robotics. It appeals to fans of Westworld, Ex Machina, Ann Leckie's Imperial Raadch series, or Iain M. Banks' Culture novels. The main character is a deadly security droid that has bucked its restrictive programming and is balanced between contemplative self-discovery and an idle instinct to kill all humans.

"As a heartless killing machine, I was a complete failure."

It has a dark past — one in which a number of humans were killed. A past that caused it to christen itself “Murderbot.” But it has only vague memories of the massacre that spawned that title, and it wants to know more.

Teaming up with a Research Transport vessel named ART (you don’t want to know what the “A” stands for), Murderbot heads to the mining facility where it went rogue.

What it discovers will forever change the way it thinks.

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Science Fiction Novella Artificial Intelligence Hugo Award

Release date: May 8, 2018

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★ 8.16 / 12

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Martha Wells

Martha Wells is a groundbreaking author whose imaginative world-building and unique characters have made her a standout voice in the world of science fiction and fantasy. Known for her ability to blend intricate plots with deep emotional resonance, Wells has earned a devoted following of readers who eagerly anticipate each new release. Her books, particularly the Murderbot Diaries series, have garnered widespread acclaim, catapulting her into the spotlight as one of the most celebrated authors in speculative fiction today.

Born and raised in Texas, Wells discovered her love for storytelling at an early age, drawing inspiration from the science fiction and fantasy classics that shaped her youth. Her passion for creating rich, complex worlds is evident in every one of her novels, where she effortlessly weaves together action, humor, and introspective character development. Her writing style is characterized by sharp dialogue, thought-provoking themes, and a deep understanding of the human condition—qualities that make her works accessible to both dedicated genre fans and newcomers alike.

Wells' most famous creation, the Murderbot Diaries, follows the journey of a self-aware, emotionally complex android navigating a world filled with human conflict and ethical dilemmas. The series has earned her widespread recognition, including a Hugo Award and a Nebula Award, cementing her place as a leading voice in the genre. The Murderbot Diaries explores themes of identity, autonomy, and belonging, resonating with readers who appreciate stories that push the boundaries of both science fiction and character-driven narratives.

Beyond Murderbot, Wells has authored several other well-regarded works, including The Books of the Raksura series, which has also earned praise for its intricate world-building and compelling characters. Her ability to craft immersive settings, whether in futuristic landscapes or fantastical realms, showcases her versatility as a writer and her dedication to creating deeply engaging stories.

Wells' influence extends beyond her published works—she has also become a key figure in promoting diversity and inclusion within speculative fiction. Her storytelling reflects a wide array of perspectives, and her characters are often portrayed with layers of complexity that challenge traditional tropes.

Living today in Texas, Wells continues to write stories that captivate, challenge, and entertain readers around the world. Whether exploring the nature of artificial intelligence or delving into the lives of mythical creatures, Martha Wells is a master at creating stories that not only entertain but also make us reflect on the complexities of existence.

The Murderbot Diaries

The Murderbot Diaries is a groundbreaking science fiction series by Martha Wells that has captivated readers with its blend of sharp wit, profound emotional depth, and thrilling adventure. Set in a future where artificial intelligence and human life intersect in complex and often precarious ways, this series explores the journey of an unlikely hero—a self-aware robot who just wants to be left alone. With its fresh take on the genre, the Murderbot Diaries has quickly become a bestselling saga, praised for its unique protagonist, compelling world-building, and thought-provoking themes.

At the heart of the series is Murderbot, an android with a mysterious past who has hacked its own governing module to gain autonomy. Despite its title, Murderbot is far from the cold, emotionless machine many might expect. Instead, it’s an introspective and surprisingly relatable character, grappling with the desire for freedom and a deep aversion to human interaction. Murderbot’s journey is a search for purpose, identity, and belonging, all while trying to avoid the very people it’s supposed to protect.

The series combines fast-paced action with moments of deep reflection, blending suspense and humor in a way that keeps readers hooked. Throughout the books, Murderbot must navigate a universe of corporate intrigue, dangerous missions, and complex relationships, all while struggling with its own sense of self. As it faces increasingly high-stakes situations, the robot’s desire for peace and personal freedom adds emotional layers that resonate with readers, making The Murderbot Diaries more than just a typical space adventure.

Martha Wells’ world-building is a standout element of the series, crafting a futuristic universe filled with diverse planets, multi-faceted corporations, and intricate political landscapes. The storytelling is rich and immersive, with Wells’ sharp dialogue and strong character development ensuring that readers are not only invested in the plot but also in the emotional growth of the characters, both human and robotic.

The critical acclaim for the Murderbot Diaries speaks for itself, with the series winning numerous awards, including the Hugo, Nebula, and Locus Awards. Fans of science fiction and speculative fiction alike have embraced this unique blend of action, humor, and philosophical musings, making it one of the most beloved and innovative sci-fi series of recent years.

Whether you're a long-time fan of the genre or new to science fiction, the Murderbot Diaries offers an unforgettable adventure that challenges the boundaries of artificial intelligence and human connection, all wrapped up in an engaging, action-packed narrative.

The Murderbot Diaries consists of eight primary books, and includes two additional books that complement the series but are not considered mandatory reads and series is set to expand with the upcoming release of one more book. The current recommended reading order for the series is provided below.

All Systems Red (The Murderbot Diaries #1)

★ 8.14 / 29

Artificial Condition (The Murderbot Diaries #2)

★ 7.88 / 18

Rapport: Friendship, Solidarity, Communion, Empathy (The Murderbot Diaries #2.5)

Unrated

Rogue Protocol (The Murderbot Diaries #3)

★ 7.80 / 15

Exit Strategy (The Murderbot Diaries #4)

★ 8.00 / 15

Home: Habitat, Range, Niche, Territory (The Murderbot Diaries #4.5)

★ 8.00 / 2

Network Effect (The Murderbot Diaries #5)

★ 9.08 / 12

Fugitive Telemetry (The Murderbot Diaries #6)

★ 7.76 / 12

System Collapse (The Murderbot Diaries #7)

★ 8.60 / 10

Platform Decay (The Murderbot Diaries #8)

⧗ 9.84 / 30

⧗ 9.88 / 16

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