The Heretic

by Jason K. Chapman

When computer records are trusted more than our own emories, more than our own senses, whoever controls the computers controls reality. The Heretic is a new kind of story, blending high-speed action with the fantasy elements of virtual reality. In the shadows of the net, a battle rages among powerful programmers whom novices see as no less than wizards. The of the very fabric of reality.

Genres: Fiction, Science Fiction

212 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2000

Reviews

[Jon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've stopped reading this book ages ago, but never fear, that was my fifth or sixth re-read. I like this book. A lot. And I'm not sure why. It's not particularly well written, the characters, while interesting, aren't anything special, and the tech depictions, while also interesting, aren't anything ground breaking.

But I like it. The idea of computer programmers as a traditional guild intrigues me, since I am one, and I like the "power corrupts" idea of the whole thing. The sorcery as metaphor for computer skill is over played and feels awkward at times, but it does work within the whole world overall. It's a neat read.

[Michelle Brust · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an incredibly active story. There's very few moments of down time, the plot is interesting, and all the events keep you guessing as to what is really going on. My only gripe is I feel like this story had tons of build up, tons of plot events, and once you (and the main characters) finally know what's going on, the story resolves itself in less than ten pages. I was content with the resolution and it complimented the story but it just felt rushed. This was an awesome mix of fantasy and mystery

[Joe · Rating 5 out of 5]

I ran across this book when it was released as a webpage. It made me realize I actually like to read....I just hate physical books. Since then I've read a few hundred books (ebooks). Thanks.

[Eric Fritz · Rating 2 out of 5]

I started reading this back in the 90s when it was up online for free and never finished. I finally went back to it and kind of wish I hadn't. It starts out as an interesting hacker adventure and turns into some kind of james bond fantasy. It's a pretty bad attempt at predicting the future state of the internet with a two-dimensional main character who can magically break into any computer system in the planet, while also being able shoot trained assassins to death and have sex with a beautiful woman within 24 hours of meeting her. It's a fun read though, if you like your action simple and fast-paced.

[Brian · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read this book twice...Which is saying alot for me.

[Sean Bravener · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read this book years ago and loved it first time around. Have read it numerous times since and have worn out several copies. I recommend it to anyone who wants an easy read with a great story.