A Son of the Rock

Little Lost Robot by Paul McAuley

Paul McAuley is an example of that rare beast, a Science Fiction writer who has experience of scientific research. He trained as a biologist but his SF has not confined itself to biological influences, and has explored most aspects of the genre.

Here, a galaxy travelling robotic killing machine is ravaging the planets and suns of its creator’s enemies, seeking out life and civilisations, boldly destroying where others have gone before.

It does its job too well and, despite increasing difficulties in subduing their ever more frantic efforts to frustrate it and not without suffering from their depredations itself, runs out of enemies.

Its attention turns to a faint sign of life from way across the galaxy. A sign that is in some way haunting and familiar…. I guessed the rest.

Another cold story, another lacking in engagement. Another told, rather than showing us. I’m beginning to detect a pattern.