Adrian Tchaikovsky is quite well known in the science fiction and fantasy world. His Children of Time series as well as Shadows of the Apt series can convert anyone into fans. Yet it was one of his other novels that got me hooked. Dogs of War is a science fiction novel that revolves around bio-engineered animals; most common of whom happen to be man’s best friend. These animals are being employed in various capacities around the world as they are sentient, loyal, tough, and expendable.

The main characters of the story are part of a military outfit that are in place to quell rebellions if and when they arise. But all these animals are made to know is that their master has some bad people that need to be taken care of and they are more than ready to help him. Why? Because they are good boys and girls, and their master tells them so.

But soon realisations begin to dawn that people once considered enemies may not be so, and that the master may not be a good boi himself. The story brings to light the growing conflict in these animals’ heads regarding what is right and what is wrong.

Does doing something bad, but being praised for it by your master, make one a good boi, or bad? The story tackles issues regarding where the line between a being with rights, and a machine / a thing to be used, should be drawn. Are such beings at fault for following their beloved master’s orders depite not knowing who is good or bad, and what is right and what is wrong?

The story was rivetting. The dialogue, and the shifting viewpoints of the bioforms, offers a very personal view into the inner conflicts they face. It made me want to hug Rex and let him know that he was a good boi; inspite of him being the terminator in doggo form. The very first line of the book reads:

My name is Rex. I am a good dog.

Yes buddy. No matter what anyone says. You are a good boi. The goodest.

Rating: 4/5

Links: Goodreads – Dogs of War