Review: Rapport: Friendship, Solidarity, Communion, Empathy by Martha Wells
When I first stumbled upon Rapport, the latest addition to the beloved Murderbot Diaries by Martha Wells, my heart leaped with the kind of anticipation only a true fan could understand. The series has always been a delightful blend of sci-fi adventures and deeply philosophical musings on humanity, friendship, and identity, and this new novelette—free to read in Tor’s Reactor Magazine—promised to dive deeper into an unexpected perspective. I was drawn in not just by my affection for Murderbot but by the curious lens of Perihelion, or ART, the lovable spaceship whose journey I had come to appreciate.
Set against the backdrop of a Corporation Rim-owned space station, the narrative shifts from Murderbot to its endearing companion, Peri. Told primarily through the eyes of Iris, a crew member aboard Peri, the story explores themes of friendship and emotional growth. One of the striking revelations is Peri’s developing consciousness and affection for its “new friend”—a change that underscores the intricate dance of autonomy and companionship that Wells has expertly examined throughout the series. I couldn’t help but smile at how a ship, imbued with titles like “Asshole Research Transport,” could embody such poignant emotional depth.
Wells’ signature writing style shines throughout Rapport. Her concise yet rich descriptions engage the imagination without overwhelming the reader. The pacing felt just right, allowing us to soak in each moment of Peri’s emotional awakening while still propelling the plot forward. It’s a delicate balance, but one that Wells masterfully executes. Each character, particularly Peri and Iris, is drawn with a complexity that allows readers to forge genuine connections with them. The dialogue sparkles with wit, echoing the playfulness of the previous entries while offering new insights into the legacy of the relationships that shape our lives—both human and otherwise.
One moment that particularly resonated with me was when Peri, reflecting on its memories with Murderbot, stated, “I learned things I never anticipated I needed.” This simple line encapsulated the essence of the story: relationships often teach us more about ourselves than we realize, sometimes even leading us to navigate unfamiliar emotional territories. I found myself contemplating my own friendships and the lessons they’ve imparted over the years. It’s a testament to Wells’ talent that she can weave such relatable sentiments amid high-stakes space adventures.
In conclusion, Rapport is an essential read for fans of the Murderbot Diaries, as well as newcomers intrigued by the complexities of friendship—both interstellar and human. Whether you’re a long-time admirer of Wells’ work or just looking for a thought-provoking narrative that challenges our understanding of relationships, this novelette is likely to leave you with a warm glow. It certainly did for me, prompting reflections not only on the characters’ journeys but also on the connections we all cherish in our lives. Pick it up; your heart—like Peri’s—might just be transformed in the process!
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