Malfunction is a fast-paced, post-apocalyptic sci-fi where humans face extinction. The world has been stripped of its atmosphere. Humans live underground in a strict society. Dangerous aliens live on the surface devouring any that would venture up. Scientists conduct questionable experiments on humans with alien genes and tech in an effort to survive.

The story follows three people: Menrva, a geneticist; Cowl, an outcast; and Bas, a Cyborg. Together they discover a terrible secret that the City has kept from its people.

I liked the characters. Menrva seemed shallow at first, but she grew on me. Cowl occasionally got on my nerves, but maybe he was supposed to. He’s a bit morally gray, but he has a soft spot for his friend. I adore Bas, who is both strong and sensitive.

I do wish there was a little more descriptive writing. I had to use a lot of my own imagination to picture the City and the Pit. However, I thought the contrast between the sterile City and Dust Town was really good.

The plot and the stakes quickly ramp up toward the end of the book with a surprising and heart wrenching ending.

Notes: There is a lot of swearing in this book, mostly S***.