Mal Goes to War

Enjoyable read. Similar to Wells' Murderbot, if Murderbot were an AI. 

TLDR: Enjoyable read. Similar to Wells' Murderbot, if Murderbot were an AI. 

Ashton’s Mal Goes to War is a sharp exploration of AI in a near-future setting that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking. The novel cleverly integrates artificial intelligence as a central element, making it feel fresh and inventive without overwhelming the story’s human core. Ashton’s near-future world-building is detailed yet grounded, creating a setting that feels both relatable and plausibly futuristic.

The dialogue and narration are infused with snark and wit, striking a good balance between humor and tension. Mal, the AI protagonist, is an absolute standout - hilarious, self-aware, and surprisingly relatable. The interplay between Mal and the human characters builds much of the story’s charm, with razor-sharp exchanges that keep the narrative engaging throughout.

For fans of AI-centric sci-fi, Mal Goes to War is a gem. Ashton masterfully blends action, humor, and heart, leaving readers entertained while pondering the implications of near-future technologies. If this is just the beginning of Mal’s story, I’m eagerly hoping for sequels. This world and its snarky AI hero definitely deserve more pages.