A junior researcher on a fact-finding mission to old Earth gets entangled in a seedy underworld of politics and state-sponsored battle-droid prizefights after being tricked into a high-stakes wager. The novella explores themes of futuristic technology, intergalactic diplomacy, and a sapphic romance amidst giant mech arena battles.

"Hard Reboot" by Django Wexler is a thrilling and imaginative sci-fi novella that masterfully blends high-stakes mecha battles, intergalactic politics, and a charming sapphic romance into a compact but immensely satisfying package.

Set in a richly conceived far-future world where humanity has spread to the stars but Old Earth remains a decaying hub of vintage technology and underground mech fighting, the story follows Kas, an off-world academic researcher who finds herself unexpectedly entangled in the seedy underbelly of Earth's warbot prizefighting scene after being conned into betting university funds on a match. Desperate to recover the money, Kas teams up with Zhi, a quick-witted native mech pilot with dreams of winning big and escaping her debts.

Despite the novella's brief length, Wexler crafts a fully realized and engrossing universe, deftly weaving in vivid worldbuilding details without bogging down the swift, action-packed plot. The decrepit Earth setting in the shadow of fallen empires feels lived-in and plausible, while the social hierarchies and divisions between the planet's inhabitants and the "waves" of humans who left add thought-provoking depth. Wexler also deserves praise for the inventive and cinematic mech battle sequences - while I wished for even more robot-fighting action, the climactic clashes are undeniably exhilarating and memorable.

The unlikely duo of prim academic Kas and street-smart rebel Zhi instantly sparks with romantic chemistry and witty banter. Watching their relationship develop from mistrust to mutual understanding to something more is a delight. Wexler imbues both women with relatable flaws, hidden strengths, and well-drawn character arcs packed into the novella format.

Although a few side characters could have used more page-time, and some may find the ending a tad abrupt, these are minor quibbles. "Hard Reboot" is a clever, heartfelt and explosively entertaining sci-fi romp that left me craving more time in this world and with these characters. With its perfect balance of pulse-pounding action, earthy humor, tender romance and thought-provoking concepts, it's a must-read for anyone seeking an irresistible futuristic adventure.