Network Effect

On va déjà évacuer le sujet principal: des "iel" à la place des "il" du français correct absolument partout. Une horreur à lire. Ajoutez à ça des expressions françaises mal utilisées, par exemple "il y a beau longtemps que je n'ai plus (...)"... Très franchement, au lieu de pondre des textes en woke, l'éditeur ferait mieux de s'acheter un relecteur. Traduction: 1/5. Pour l'effort. Les prochains, je piraterai le ebook, et je ferai un s/iel/il/g . Non seulement ça me coûtera moins cher, mais en plus j'arrêterai d'avoir les yeux qui saignent. Tant pis pour l'éditeur, il ne veut pas écouter les lecteurs.

Maintenant, le roman lui-même. Toujours dans la même lignée, avec le retour (bienvenu) d'anciens personnages haut en couleurs. Le roman reste intéressant, on explore toujours plus l'univers de la Bordure Corporatiste... Mais il traîne un peu en longueur vers le milieu. Je soupçonne que le format (grosse) "nouvelle" est plus adapté au style de l'auteur. Du coup, 4/5, principalement à cause de ces longueurs, mais l'exploration de l'univers imaginé par Wells reste intéressant.

The novella felt like the perfect length for a Murderbot episode so I wasn't sure it would work well in a full novel. Not to worry, Wells keeps it interesting and entertaining in the 5th installment and first novel.

"Network Effect," the fifth instalment in The Murderbot Diaries series by Martha Wells, is a triumph that will satisfy both longtime fans and newcomers alike. This full-length novel, the longest in the series, continues the adventures of our favourite misanthropic, soap-opera-loving killer cyborg, Murderbot, while introducing new dimensions to its story.

What makes "Network Effect" so engaging is its masterful blend of humour, heart, and action. The story centres on the evolving friendship between Murderbot and ART, the utterly amoral AI of a large spaceship. Their interactions are hilarious and deeply humane, offering a refreshing take on the concept of companionship between non-human entities. Despite their cranky, sarcastic exteriors, both characters exhibit profound growth, developing feelings, friendships, and a sense of responsibility.

While the external plot can occasionally blur, it is the character development and narrative style that truly shine. Wells crafts a deeply emotional arc for Murderbot, making it impossible not to root for this traumatized yet endearing protagonist. The action sequences are thrilling, and there are plenty of creepy moments to keep readers on edge. The novel's spectacular readability lies in Wells’ ability to weave magic into her writing, captivating readers from start to finish.

The return of ART adds a delightful layer to the story. ART's cranky, sarcastic demeanour perfectly complements Murderbot’s own, creating a dynamic duo that is as entertaining as it is compelling. The inclusion of the Preservation team into the action is a brilliant move, setting up exciting possibilities for future stories.

In essence, "Network Effect" maintains the essence of the previous novellas while expanding the universe with greater depth and complexity. Murderbot remains its cranky, sarcastic, and amazing self, navigating one action-packed sequence after another. For those seeking a science fiction series with heart, humour, and plenty of thrills, "Network Effect" is a must-read.