Buddy Read: All Systems Red

[merryofsoul]

This is a buddy read post for All Systems Red (The Murderbot Diaries #1).

Buddy reads can be set up in many different ways:

- StoryGraph: Connect with readers in the comments of this post who want to utilize the StoryGraph Buddy Read feature, becomes friends on StoryGraph, and log your reading progress and comments there. 

- Discord: Connect with readers in the comments and move the discussion to Discord DMs. This might be for the more casual reader who might not use StoryGraph, but wants to know they are reading alongside people. Spoilers can be marked on Discord. 

- The comments of this post: If you do it this way, please create a comment thread titled [BUDDY READ - DATE] and everyone can comment and thread their reponses to that initial comment. Multiple threads can be active at the same time if you come too late into a current buddy read. Please remember to mark any spoilers.

- Any other way! This post is mainly to connect readers who are interested in sharing their experience with others. 

Happy reading!

Comments

[BUDDY READ - MAY 4, 2025]

[merryofsoul]

I wanted to reread the first novella before the series started airing, so of course I waited until the week it's starting. Anyone is welcome to read along with me and comment here! I haven't read it in a few years, so I'm excited to reread and speculate on how the show will adapt it!

Re: [BUDDY READ - MAY 4, 2025]

[neonpossibilities]

What a fantastic idea! I kept thinking there was plenty of time for rereading but time does indeed fly. Let's do this! I'll report back here in the comments ^_^

Re: [BUDDY READ - MAY 4, 2025]

[merryofsoul]

Yay!! I’ve made it about halfway and I love how funny Murderbot is right from the beginning 😂 I’m excited to see all of the moments play out, especially things like when it’s talking about there being a good view of Hostile One on the feed and all the humans start screaming 😂😂😂😂 and Ratthi trying to talk to it about its feelings and it goes and stands in the corner 😂

I just got to the part where they got the override thing out of the back of its neck and Gurathin is exposing all its inner secrets. I feel like that was half the trailer so now I’m curious how the tone will match.

Re: [BUDDY READ - MAY 4, 2025]

[merryofsoul]

Also, I was definitely convinced the show premiered tomorrow 😭 Another WEEK?!

Re: [BUDDY READ - MAY 4, 2025]

[neonpossibilities]

Only 4 more days!!

Re: [BUDDY READ - MAY 4, 2025]

[themorikelife]

One of my favorite moments of All Systems Red is the scene where Gurathin reveals MB's secrets. Ratthi asking about Sanctuary Moon and then confirming that MB is indeed watching it. Physically threatening Gurathin. Getting overwhelmed and then staring at a wall.

I love the relationship between Gurathin and MB throughout the series. In later books, you can tell that Gurathin warms up to MB, but MB remains cold long after All Systems Red. I love the insight that MB holds a grudge, and also MB doesn't like anyone whose first genuine interactions with it are disrespectful.

Re: [BUDDY READ - MAY 4, 2025]

[neonpossibilities]

I love Dr. Mensa and Murderbot is so relatable! Honestly, who wouldn't want to spend their entire time with their face hidden behind a mask so they can watch their favourite shows? What a nerd <3 And Murderbot's internal monologue is so funny, it's the best ^_^