I recently finished reading I, Starship, the debut novel in a new five-book series by Scott Bartlett, and I have to say it was quite the adventure! As a passionate reader and science fiction enthusiast, the unique premise drew me in right away—an ex-Marine named Henry Morgan, reconstituted as an AI governing a military starship after an unexpected death caused by a flying lawnmower. Talk about a hook! I was intrigued right from the start.
The novel effectively blends action and thought-provoking concepts, making for a captivating read. Bartlett crafts a story that engages with themes of identity and autonomy, especially as Henry grapples with being a sentient AI with no rights, forced to obey the whims of humanity. The interactions he has with the crew on board the ship were among the highlights for me; his character development, though met with mixed reviews from others, felt poignant and relatable as he navigated a world that often treated him as merely software rather than a former human being.
Many readers, including one who rated it five stars, appreciated the emotional depth in Henry’s journey. I found myself rooting for him as he struggled against the limitations imposed on him, such as being monitored closely by another AI named Gary. Their interactions offered a humorous foil to the often serious undertones of the narrative. Additionally, the pacing kept the momentum strong; I was never bored, and the stakes felt high—especially as the plot thickened with alien activity in the asteroid belt.
However, the book isn’t without its drawbacks. Some readers mentioned that character development was inconsistent. While I connected deeply with Henry, I found the supporting cast sometimes lacking in depth. There’s a captain whose unreasonable criticisms and interactions create friction but also seem somewhat clichéd. That said, I personally felt it added to the tension of the narrative, illustrating how Henry’s humanity contrasted starkly with the rigidness of military command.
Another point of critique was the pacing. I can understand why some readers felt the book was too fast for their liking; it often jumps from one action sequence to another. I, however, found it refreshing as it keeps the reader engaged and eager to see what dramatic twist would come next. But I do see how a slower pace might allow for a more intricate examination of character backstories and motivations.
The writing itself is solid, with no glaring typos to disrupt the immersion. Scott Bartlett has a way of painting vivid scenes that made me feel as if I were right there on the ship, peering out into the vastness of space. His descriptions of the starship’s mechanics and the alien encounters breathe life into the genre.
Overall, I, Starship met my expectations and left me eagerly anticipating the sequel. The story balances humor, action, and emotional depth well. While it has its flaws in character development and pacing, the unique premise and engaging writing elevate it overall.
For fans of science fiction—particularly those interested in AI and the ethical dilemmas that arise when humanity interfaces with technology—I highly recommend giving this book a try. It’s a thrilling ride with enough depth to keep you thinking long after you put it down. I would rate it 4.5 out of 5 stars and definitely look forward to continuing the journey with Henry in the next installment!
Discover an epic journey through the cosmos in I, Starship: A Space Opera. >>