This is the fourth and final book in Asimov's series of robot novels. This is set 200 Earth years after the action of the previous three so does not feature detective Elijah Bailey, though a distant descendant of his appears, alongside the long lived Solarian/Auroran Gladia, and of course Robots Daneel Olivaw and Giskard Reventlov, the latter of whom has acquired the ability to read human emotions. The whole course of this novel is basically around Giskard and Daneel arriving through stumbling ratiocination at a new Zeroth Law of robotics, that a robot may not harm humanity or, by inaction, allow humanity to come to harm. They arrive at this law in the course of foiling the plans by two Auroran roboticists to wipe out Earth through accelerating its natural radioactivity until it gallops out of control and makes the planet unlivable, thus, in their estimation, freeing the galaxy for the Spacer worlds to conquer. This is, as always, a very clever narrative, yet, I felt it suffered without a strong and likeable central human character, so this is probably my least favourite of the robot novels, though still very good. ( )

Not my favorite robot book--probably because I'm not a fan of Gladia--but lots of Daneel whom I love! And a necessary glue between the robot books and the rest of the series. ( )

The 5th in what can be seen as the "extended" 15 book Foundation Series. This book introduces "Elijah Bailey's" descendant "D.G. Bailey". This book is important in regards the "Foundation Series" as it provides the story of how Earth fits into its role within the Foundation trilogy. Also, the concept of the Zeroth Law of Robotics is introduced - modifying the "3 Laws of Robotics". This new law is key to the role R. Daniel plays , especially on the later written books of the Foundation Series, following on from the Foundation Trilogy ( )

What I love most about this book is the prevalence of Daneel and Giskard, two of my favorite characters in this epic story. There's also a lot of Gladia, and we get to know her better as well as see her come into her own as a person, which I had no desire for before starting this book but I am so glad for it. We meet other interesting characters, too, and get some good mystery and intrigue.
There was a sad part that I'm sure to not get over any time soon, or ever as I continue reading these books. I wish that hadn't happened. Asimov really gets me feeling invested in these characters and situations, and brings out my emotions in both sentimental, touching scenes as well as heartbreaking ones.
I look forward to continuing the saga of the Galactic Empire, to see how the future comes about. ( )

Loved the complete Robot series. My interest is piqued for the Foundation series for sure. ( )