Life as a Southern Californian billionaire and inventor of futuristic technology isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. At least in David Wright’s case. He may be young, handsome, and rich, but he’s also a man with many values and self-imposed rules. Having fun isn’t his concern. With his wealth and scientific genius, he only wishes to make the world a better place. The year is 2024. David alone lives as if he’s in the 22nd century. Between his flying car and various gadgets, he gets by fairly easily. David has his AI, Jonathan, to thank the most. Jonathan is as helpful and loyal as he is witty and sarcastic. When an arrogant, yet powerful scientist threatens everything David believes in, his uneventful life takes a turn for the worst. However, what undergoes the most change is David's morality...
I wasn't sure about the genre mix but I ended up enjoying the interesting ethical and philosophical questions raised. The read is fast-paced as you would expect for a short narrative and the plot includes some creative and original technological ideas about near future advances.
"Converted" provides a combination of socio-psychological drama and science fiction that one might expect of a novella by Isaac Asimov or H.G. Wells. This story demonstrates how the prevailing human tendency to try and "play god" - whether via genetic engineering or visual deception - will only increase with the advancement of technology. Author Terry Wells creates likable characters, including an audacious AI, that each play a role in this intricate mosaic of what exactly it means to be a deity that holds all the cards. I highly recommend this fast-paced and thought-provoking read for sci-fi fans, regardless of faith or lackthereof.