"Exit Strategy" by Martha Wells is the thrilling fourth entry in The Murderbot Diaries series. In this instalment, Murderbot, our beloved human-like construct, has finally gathered enough dirt on the nefarious GrayCris corporation to cause some real damage. However, there's a new complication: Dr. Mensah, the very person who freed Murderbot from a lifetime of slavery, has gone missing.

Despite its tough exterior and claims of indifference, Murderbot cares deeply about Dr. Mensah. Her kidnapping by GrayCris sets the stage for a gripping rescue mission. As Murderbot embarks on this quest, it continues to evolve as a character, slowly shedding its deeply ingrained introversion. Yet, it remains reluctant to fully embrace friendship and connection, adding layers to its complex personality.

What stands out in this novella is Murderbot’s snarky, dry sense of humour and its unique perspective on human behaviour. Its candid commentary, peppered with a few choice expletives, reveals a brewing resentment towards those who have treated it as mere machinery. At the same time, Murderbot’s growing affection for the humans who have shown it kindness is heartwarming and poignant.

The journey through these four novellas has been nothing short of amazing. "Exit Strategy" evokes a full spectrum of emotions, with happiness at the forefront—a testament to the joy of discovering a truly great series. If you haven’t yet met Murderbot, I highly encourage you to suit up in your sci-fi armour and dive into "All Systems Red." By the time you reach "Exit Strategy," you’ll be as hooked on this series as Murderbot is to watching "Sanctuary Moon."