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Aether Robotics is at the forefront of AI research and can't afford damaging press, which is why lawyers made non-disclosure agreements. Recent events, such as the destruction of the humanoid prototype Janus after it became self-aware, along with the death of a scientist from another AI robot, needed to be contained. The two men most affected by the events at Aether have taken divergent paths in life. Dr. Samuel Lawrence retains certain information to help make a far superior version of Janus. Meanwhile, Elias Blackwood is distraught after the tragic loss of his wife due to the murderous actions of a bot and is hellbent on revenge. The opportunity presents itself as Lawrence's new creation, Aurora, forms a bond with a castoff humanoid robot from Aether Robotics named Happy. Elias wants to avenge the loss of his wife and illustrate the dangers of AI.
The quandary of artificial intelligence becoming sentient has been written about in the past, but the story of Happy and Aurora offers something more profound and moving. While the beginning of the narrative features scenes of suspense and horror, a combination of War Games and Maximum Overdrive, the plot comes together as the two scientific innovations, Happy and Aurora, meet. There are tragic undertones to this speculative science fiction narrative, whether it be how Elias' loss left him bereft of his wife and later his sanity or how intolerant the people of Millbridge are towards Happy and Aurora when they attempt to enjoy the world. Fundamentally, this is a moving story about humankind, the potential—good and bad—of technological innovation, and whether there can be peaceful coexistence once AI starts showing real feelings. This book is an all-around great read.
RECOMMENDED by the US Review