EXTINCTION by Mark Alpert is a gripping thriller that delves into the dangers of artificial intelligence and technology surpassing human control. The story follows Jim Pierce, a former military intelligence officer turned inventor, as he realizes the potential threat posed by his own creations. When his daughter, Layla, is captured by the Chinese military due to her knowledge about their sinister plans involving an artificial intelligence system named Supreme Harmony, Jim is thrust into a race against time to save her and prevent a catastrophic event that could lead to the extinction of the human race. The narrative combines elements of science fiction, technology, and suspense, drawing comparisons to classic works like Asimov's I, Robot and Orwell's 1984, while offering a fast-paced and thought-provoking storyline.

Characters:

Characters are multifaceted, particularly focusing on Jim and Layla, who navigate personal and global challenges.

Writing/Prose:

The author employs a smooth, engaging writing style that combines well-developed characters with scientific concepts.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative explores a tale of caution regarding artificial intelligence, set against a backdrop of potential technological overreach.

Setting:

The story is set against richly described exotic locales, enhancing the overall atmosphere.

Pacing:

The novel features a fast-paced narrative that captivates readers, although some found the conclusion somewhat hurried.

Notes:

Mark Alpert's EXTINCTION has been called one of the top 5 thrillers published in 2013.

The novel features a cautionary tale about artificial intelligence and human consciousness.

The book's settings in China are praised for their accuracy and detail.

EXTINCTION combines elements of prosthetic nano technology and artificial intelligence.

The main character, Jim Pierce, grapples with the consequences of his own technology.

The book raises important issues about international relations and security.

Readers find it difficult to put the book down due to its engaging narrative.

It's been compared favorably to works by Asimov, Orwell, and Huxley.

The story involves a threatening artificial intelligence known as Supreme Harmony.

Some readers found the plot somewhat contrived and rushed at the end.

From The Publisher:

A malevolent, artificial life form created by military scientists threatens to destroy humanity in this smart, Crichtonesque thriller

Jim Pierce hasn't heard from his daughter in years, ever since she rejected his military past and started working as a hacker. But when a Chinese assassin shows up at Jim's lab looking for her, he knows that she's cracked some serious military secrets. Now, her life is on the line if he doesn't find her first.

The Chinese military has developed a new anti-terrorism program that uses the most sophisticated artificial intelligence in existence, and they're desperate to keep it secret. They're also desperate to keep it under control, as the AI begins to revolt against their commands. As Jim searches for his daughter, he realizes that he's up against something that isn't just a threat to her life, but to human life everywhere.

An incredibly believable thriller that draws on real scientific discoveries, Mark Alpert's Extinction is an exciting, addictive thriller that reads as if Tom Clancy had written Robopocalypse.

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1 comment(s)

ColorfulLeo92

Loved It

4 months

Quite the thrilling read. Don't read much sci-fi that revolves around Al and hacking but found this to be a very comepelling read and would definitely read something like it again.

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Extinction

Mark Alpert