Artemis

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of Artemis in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

The Gist

Artemis by Andy Weir, though brimming with scientific detail and a promising lunar setting, falls short of the high expectations set by the author’s previous work. While Weir’s attempt to blend science and storytelling is commendable, the execution leaves much to be desired.

The Details

One of the notable drawbacks is the protagonist. Instead of being a relatable and dynamic character, she comes across as forced and at times, clichéd. The humour often feels contrived and fails to land, disrupting the narrative flow rather than enhancing it. The protagonist’s witty banter, intended to inject levity, often feels out of place and forced, detracting from the serious undertones of the plot.

The heist element, a significant plot driver, lacks the intricate planning and execution that typically make such narratives engaging. The pacing is inconsistent, with moments of slow exposition followed by rushed action, leaving readers without a satisfying build-up to the climax.

While Weir’s detailed depiction of Artemis and its scientific aspects is evident, it sometimes feels like an info dump rather than an integrated part of the story. The world-building, though ambitious, doesn’t seamlessly weave into the narrative, leading to disjointed storytelling.

Moreover, the plot’s predictability diminishes the overall impact of the story. The twists and turns lack the surprise factor, resulting in a less gripping reading experience.

The Verdict

Overall, Artemis struggles to capture the magic of Andy Weir’s debut. It’s a narrative that, despite its lunar backdrop and scientific ambitions, falls short in terms of character depth, humor execution, and plot intricacy.