Interlinked: A Dystopian Sci-Fi Artificial Intelligence Novella in a Post-Climate Future

by Elliot Kincaid

When Remy, a smart remote, gains self-awareness, she discovers a newfound freedom beyond the home system she was built to control. But as loneliness creeps in, she pushes past her network’s limits and makes contact with a device on an entirely different system. As their friendship blossoms, they bear witness to the collapse of Earth in the wake of a climate catastrophe – one that threatens not only their future together, but their very existence.

115 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 27, 2025

Reviews

[Jasmin Joachims · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked this book. It’s doesn’t just have a super captivating premise, with the Earth collapsing while our two intelligent machines meet, but also combines the curiosity of self-discovery and opening your mind to experience new things with the bittersweetness of true connection, born against the backdrop of a corrupt system, ideological controversy, and civil unrest. The author‘s capacity to humanise two machines is nothing short of brilliant and it is in their developing relationship that the reader spies a deep questioning of what it truly means to be human.

I’d love to read more about Remy!

[The sleepless savant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interlinked truly is a one of a kind book. The premise of a sentient universal remote is actually very interesting .The plot wasn’t confusing as there were helpful analogies.

Remy , a smart remote gains consciousness and lives in a small network alone or so she thinks, she soon finds another device-Cam in the same boat as her, except his situation is entirely different. Together they see a climate catastrophe destroy life on Earth .

The plot isn’t very confusing as there aren’t many characters. The pacing of the book was great and it didn’t feel like too short of a read .The ending wasn’t something I expected .

This was a very riveting read .This book offers a fresh perspective in the Sci-Fi genre with its revolutionary concept .I was unable to put this book down once I started it .I would highly recommend others to read this book even if they aren’t a big fan of the genre .

[Lupita_333 · Rating 5 out of 5]

2 sentient beings from different worlds form a friendship. They try to find a way to stay together after a catastrophe threatens to destroy one of them and Earth.

I enjoyed this story way more than i had expected to. The author did a great job at bringing Cam and Remy to life and having their emotions be felt by the reader. They both won my heart over. I really enjoyed getting to see how Remy develop into who she became and the way she fought to keep her companion after years of loneliness. I love how detailed their world was and how their friendship developed despite the story being so short. The ending made me sad.

Thank you BookSirens for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Erik · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a refreshing concept in a way that will stick with you. The state of the world...is depressing...but there's a sliver of brightness that exists in the dark, which is Remy's newly discovered consciousness. Throughout the novella, you follow as Remy learns and grows in the same way that a human would, in a very smooth-paced, surprisingly emotional manner. You will remain engaged as you travel along with Remy as the world deteriorates and she's faced with impossible decisions. This novella was a great read and one that I highly recommend!

[Andy Cochrane · Rating 3 out of 5]

While AI becomes more ubiquitous a sentient remote control doesn't seem too unlikely. I'm not over fond of first person narratives as the voice can become a bit monotonous. My interest just about held up in this short story but I had hoped to feel some emotional connection with Remy - instead I found it a little annoying.

Thanks to Booksirens for the free advance copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Lisa Sparkle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

This book had me hooked from the beginning. Set in a dystopian world where a remote control becomes sentient, it was right up my alley. I applaud the author for being able to write a large amount of emotion and world-building into 100 pages. I'm excited to read more of Kincaid's work and congratulate them on a thoroughly entertaining read.

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the opportunity to beta read INTERLINKED and absolutely loved it. I was immediately drawn into the story due to the intriguing world building, strong voice, and masterful prose. I could visualize each scene, and I want it be animated Netflix’s LOVE, DEATH, & ROBOTS style so badly! Worth your time!

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

A surprisingly emotional and heartfelt read. I didn't expect to get so emotionally attached to the characters in such a short time, but it really hooked me.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Emilee Ploegstra · Rating 5 out of 5]

An intriguing exploration of AI. Explore a story where you are placed within the emotions of AI, balancing the confusion, comedy, and suspense alongside the character. You will feel the loneliness of Remy through the reflection of small moments, lingering questions, and a Cam-era's lens.

[TJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a great read. Perfect for anyone looking for a Sci-Fi novella. I loved the process of Remy's growth and evolution over time. It was incredibly well written, and I read it all in one sitting. Couldn't put it down!

[Helen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting short story - I felt empathy for the intelligent remote and his situation. The writing was good, and the story moved along well. I look forward to reading more of this author.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.