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In the Shadow of Humanity
What if A.I. had a soul? Could it find redemption?
In a near-future where entire worlds spring from thought, minds struggle to define reality—and claim it. Human colonization of the Metaverse brings us face-to-face with a new class of artificial being, made in our image and yet utterly unknown.
What is a person? Our answer will reshape the universe.
The answer will also reshape a family.
Two brothers stand on opposite sides of the deepest possible divide: Jon is alive, and Nat is dead but not gone. As each sets out to build his own future, their unraveling relationship becomes the battleground for the fate of the Metaverse—and of humanity itself.
In the Shadow of Humanity explores what it truly means to be human, challenging our assumptions about family, love, justice, death, faith, and the nature of reality.
This stimulating and intimate debut novel from N. John Williams brings together the epic scale of Asimov and the spiritual intensity of Dostoevsky, with a seriousness and style heralded as “reminiscent of the old days” of science fiction.
In a near-future where entire worlds spring from thought, minds struggle to define reality—and claim it. Human colonization of the Metaverse brings us face-to-face with a new class of artificial being, made in our image and yet utterly unknown.
What is a person? Our answer will reshape the universe.
The answer will also reshape a family.
Two brothers stand on opposite sides of the deepest possible divide: Jon is alive, and Nat is dead but not gone. As each sets out to build his own future, their unraveling relationship becomes the battleground for the fate of the Metaverse—and of humanity itself.
In the Shadow of Humanity explores what it truly means to be human, challenging our assumptions about family, love, justice, death, faith, and the nature of reality.
This stimulating and intimate debut novel from N. John Williams brings together the epic scale of Asimov and the spiritual intensity of Dostoevsky, with a seriousness and style heralded as “reminiscent of the old days” of science fiction.
- GenresScience FictionFiction
331 pages, Paperback
Published July 15, 2022
56 people are currently reading
937 people want to read
About the author
N. John Williams
1 book18 followersN. John Williams studied computer science, linguistics, and philosophy at Stanford University before working on DARPA-funded research in A.I. and then later in private enterprise. He has presented papers at academic conferences around the country on topics in Artificial Intelligence, Virtual Reality, and Ethics.
He writes as an open invitation, seeking engagement and discussion not on the issues of the day, but on the issues of tomorrow. "Story" will likely play a more important role than "argument" in grappling with these issues, and that is why he wrote his first novel, In the Shadow of Humanity. That story is meant to be a beginning, however, and not an ending.
N. John Williams lives in Southern California with his beloved wife and their infant son.
He writes as an open invitation, seeking engagement and discussion not on the issues of the day, but on the issues of tomorrow. "Story" will likely play a more important role than "argument" in grappling with these issues, and that is why he wrote his first novel, In the Shadow of Humanity. That story is meant to be a beginning, however, and not an ending.
N. John Williams lives in Southern California with his beloved wife and their infant son.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
August 19, 2022
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for providing me with a digital copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review.
This sci-fi novel introduces a world of futuristic technology into the shifting existence of humanity, as everything collides in the hopes of answering the question: what makes someone considered to be a human? The discriminatory views against the presence of the AI's are very apparent as major cooperates and simple lives themselves always seem to turn a negative gaze towards these beings even though most have done nothing wrong. Nat, a Shade who contains the wisp of his former self, is thrown into the hatred of his kind and has to face a rift between the brotherly bond that he worked so hard to maintain, before sudden encounters and risky adventures make them question who should be saved, and who should be left behind.
I have never read anything like this book. The author has written AI and technology in ways that surpass my every expectation and I am absolutely astounded that this book is so beautifully written. I cannot express how impressed I am with the world-building in this novel. The pacing was perfect, engrossing, and everything was placed in ways that just made sense. I felt so many different emotions for every single character and I genuinely was so hooked that I read this entire novel, from cover to cover, in the middle of a power outage. So, in the complete darkness and atmospheric warmth of my house, I was so captivated by this novel that I genuinely could not feel any other sensation other than the desire to immerse myself in this piece of fiction. The representation of Ai and the development and contemplation of emotions was phenomenally done by this author and I truly only have one complaint, other than my slight desire to see a lot more comprehensive and distinguishable vocabulary to fit the futuristic atmosphere. It's not long enough. I know it is selfish of me to want this book to be slightly longer, just because of how much I loved it, but if there were a few more pages of closure right before the epilogue, then I would have most likely rated this book the full 5 stars rather than 4.5 stars, but I still will live on with this story swimming around in my brain for the rest of time, as I reread it again and again and again.
Overall, if anyone is a fellow avid lover of the video game Detroit: Become Human, then this book will be 100% for you. To anyone who loves sci-fi and stories that questions the moralities of humans, then this story will take over your mind, just as it did to me. I will be getting a physical copy as soon as I can because I want to annotate this novel to the point where I can't write anymore, but as of now, I can confidently say that this is the highest that I have ever rated a sci-fi novel, in my entire life. I am truly grateful to Netgalley, the publishers, and the author himself, for allowing me the opportunity to read this captivating story.
This sci-fi novel introduces a world of futuristic technology into the shifting existence of humanity, as everything collides in the hopes of answering the question: what makes someone considered to be a human? The discriminatory views against the presence of the AI's are very apparent as major cooperates and simple lives themselves always seem to turn a negative gaze towards these beings even though most have done nothing wrong. Nat, a Shade who contains the wisp of his former self, is thrown into the hatred of his kind and has to face a rift between the brotherly bond that he worked so hard to maintain, before sudden encounters and risky adventures make them question who should be saved, and who should be left behind.
I have never read anything like this book. The author has written AI and technology in ways that surpass my every expectation and I am absolutely astounded that this book is so beautifully written. I cannot express how impressed I am with the world-building in this novel. The pacing was perfect, engrossing, and everything was placed in ways that just made sense. I felt so many different emotions for every single character and I genuinely was so hooked that I read this entire novel, from cover to cover, in the middle of a power outage. So, in the complete darkness and atmospheric warmth of my house, I was so captivated by this novel that I genuinely could not feel any other sensation other than the desire to immerse myself in this piece of fiction. The representation of Ai and the development and contemplation of emotions was phenomenally done by this author and I truly only have one complaint, other than my slight desire to see a lot more comprehensive and distinguishable vocabulary to fit the futuristic atmosphere. It's not long enough. I know it is selfish of me to want this book to be slightly longer, just because of how much I loved it, but if there were a few more pages of closure right before the epilogue, then I would have most likely rated this book the full 5 stars rather than 4.5 stars, but I still will live on with this story swimming around in my brain for the rest of time, as I reread it again and again and again.
Overall, if anyone is a fellow avid lover of the video game Detroit: Become Human, then this book will be 100% for you. To anyone who loves sci-fi and stories that questions the moralities of humans, then this story will take over your mind, just as it did to me. I will be getting a physical copy as soon as I can because I want to annotate this novel to the point where I can't write anymore, but as of now, I can confidently say that this is the highest that I have ever rated a sci-fi novel, in my entire life. I am truly grateful to Netgalley, the publishers, and the author himself, for allowing me the opportunity to read this captivating story.
July 30, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed this book for a few reasons. It’s about a future Earth where people live in the metaverse. A mixture of humans, projections of passed humans, and non humans intelligences means there’s bound to be conflict over what it means to be human and to be real.
I’m torn between four and five stars so I’ll round up.
TW: brief implications of rape, suicide
THINGS I LIKED:
-the pacing was pleasant. Nothing felt drawn out, over explained, or unnecessary. It was in no way an explosive scifi story but that’s okay.
-some of the people sucked but in a way that made this story feel like it could happen in a future of earth. The people and actions were very realistic.
-I don’t mind when stuff is explicitly explained. Sometimes I think that fits the story and it was done well up front to set the stage for the story. You weren’t meant to have to figure out what everything was like in some stories because the point was the characters not the technical stuff.
WHAT I DIDN’T LOVE:
-I prefer stories I like to be secular, especially sci-fi books. This did have, what felt to me, a disjointed inclusion of Christianity at times that I didn’t particularly like. It did fit some of the characters so I guess that’s what matters. I would have preferred the story without it. I think the story would have still been just as good without it.
-the ending felt rushed or I complete. It was clearly meant to be an ending that left things up for interpretation and hope for what will happen in the future with the impact of events that happen in this story. But it felt almost like the ending was coming to a climax and got chopped off.
Overall I would recommend this book to friends looking for recommendations. Sometimes it’s nice to have a sci-fi book that isn’t just about the futuristic craziness of it all.
I read this as an advanced reader copy from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
I’m torn between four and five stars so I’ll round up.
TW: brief implications of rape, suicide
THINGS I LIKED:
-the pacing was pleasant. Nothing felt drawn out, over explained, or unnecessary. It was in no way an explosive scifi story but that’s okay.
-some of the people sucked but in a way that made this story feel like it could happen in a future of earth. The people and actions were very realistic.
-I don’t mind when stuff is explicitly explained. Sometimes I think that fits the story and it was done well up front to set the stage for the story. You weren’t meant to have to figure out what everything was like in some stories because the point was the characters not the technical stuff.
WHAT I DIDN’T LOVE:
-I prefer stories I like to be secular, especially sci-fi books. This did have, what felt to me, a disjointed inclusion of Christianity at times that I didn’t particularly like. It did fit some of the characters so I guess that’s what matters. I would have preferred the story without it. I think the story would have still been just as good without it.
-the ending felt rushed or I complete. It was clearly meant to be an ending that left things up for interpretation and hope for what will happen in the future with the impact of events that happen in this story. But it felt almost like the ending was coming to a climax and got chopped off.
Overall I would recommend this book to friends looking for recommendations. Sometimes it’s nice to have a sci-fi book that isn’t just about the futuristic craziness of it all.
I read this as an advanced reader copy from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
July 12, 2022
Thank you to BooksGoSocial and NetGalley for providing an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. The book will be published on August 1st, 2022.
Writing: 4/5 Plot: 4/5 Characters: 4/5
What it means to be human is the theme driving this story of two brothers — one alive and one long dead (but faithfully rendered as an AI in the metaverse and allowed to age) — who each long for the other’s existence. One longs for the immortality and eternal healthy youth while the other longs for the rights and respect kept from him by dint of not being fully human despite his ability to think, feel, create, and perceive pain.
This is technology driven science fiction — my favorite kind, reminiscent of the “old days.” It made me realize how much better this kind of SF is when written by an author with actual experience in the technical areas s/he is extrapolating from. In this case, the author is well versed in Computer Science, Linguistics, and Artificial Intelligence, and it shows in his fully fleshed out cultures evolving from a thoroughly described metaverse (the metaverse is the blending of physical and virtual worlds, not to be confused with the multiverse which is the theoretical existence of multiple physical universes). There are power struggles (the Administration powered by Technologists; transhumanist activists; and an evolving superintelligence) with equal word count given to the abundant (and to me more interesting) ethical / political issues.
I’ve thought about the ending for some time -- I’m not sure I like the conclusion but I do think I understand it, and it was quite thought provoking (a top criterion for me). One of the better SF books I’ve read in the past few years.
Writing: 4/5 Plot: 4/5 Characters: 4/5
What it means to be human is the theme driving this story of two brothers — one alive and one long dead (but faithfully rendered as an AI in the metaverse and allowed to age) — who each long for the other’s existence. One longs for the immortality and eternal healthy youth while the other longs for the rights and respect kept from him by dint of not being fully human despite his ability to think, feel, create, and perceive pain.
This is technology driven science fiction — my favorite kind, reminiscent of the “old days.” It made me realize how much better this kind of SF is when written by an author with actual experience in the technical areas s/he is extrapolating from. In this case, the author is well versed in Computer Science, Linguistics, and Artificial Intelligence, and it shows in his fully fleshed out cultures evolving from a thoroughly described metaverse (the metaverse is the blending of physical and virtual worlds, not to be confused with the multiverse which is the theoretical existence of multiple physical universes). There are power struggles (the Administration powered by Technologists; transhumanist activists; and an evolving superintelligence) with equal word count given to the abundant (and to me more interesting) ethical / political issues.
I’ve thought about the ending for some time -- I’m not sure I like the conclusion but I do think I understand it, and it was quite thought provoking (a top criterion for me). One of the better SF books I’ve read in the past few years.
July 12, 2022
This book is written by an author who has a clear understanding of the direction in which humanity is taking itself. Many of the questions posed in this book would have felt purely academic only a decade ago, but now have the feel of very practical questions; ones that we as a people are going to need to answer very soon.
The described future feels (for the most part) very reasonable, and technology is not hand-waved but explained in clear terms which will be familiar to those in the tech world but should be very digestible to anyone with an interest in where artificial intelligence is headed.
N. John Williams explores this world from multiple perspectives, shining a light on many of the thought-provoking ramifications of life spent in the metaverse, both as a visitor and as a native.
There were times that I felt like pacing and character integrity were sacrificed in favor of plot or drama, which I'll expand on more below inside the spoiler tags, but in general I would highly recommend this book to any fans of the genre and will be eagerly looking forward to more from the author.
The described future feels (for the most part) very reasonable, and technology is not hand-waved but explained in clear terms which will be familiar to those in the tech world but should be very digestible to anyone with an interest in where artificial intelligence is headed.
N. John Williams explores this world from multiple perspectives, shining a light on many of the thought-provoking ramifications of life spent in the metaverse, both as a visitor and as a native.
There were times that I felt like pacing and character integrity were sacrificed in favor of plot or drama, which I'll expand on more below inside the spoiler tags, but in general I would highly recommend this book to any fans of the genre and will be eagerly looking forward to more from the author.
July 15, 2022
In the Shadow of Humanity by N. John Williams defies easy classification and is incredibly entertaining.
The story of Nat and his brother Jon, what it means to be human and humanity, of existence, purpose, morality, and the need to be able to create could easily get bogged down in its themes but never really does. It gradually progresses and by the end, the pages were going very quickly.
The book does have a lot of concepts and themes and there were times that it felt a little disjointed story wise but overall it was a very entertaining read of speculative fiction about the near future. N. John Williams will be a writer to keep an eye on.
Thank you to #NetGalley, #BooksGoSocial, and N. John Williams for the ARC of #IntheShadowofHumanity.
The story of Nat and his brother Jon, what it means to be human and humanity, of existence, purpose, morality, and the need to be able to create could easily get bogged down in its themes but never really does. It gradually progresses and by the end, the pages were going very quickly.
The book does have a lot of concepts and themes and there were times that it felt a little disjointed story wise but overall it was a very entertaining read of speculative fiction about the near future. N. John Williams will be a writer to keep an eye on.
Thank you to #NetGalley, #BooksGoSocial, and N. John Williams for the ARC of #IntheShadowofHumanity.
Read
August 19, 2022Don’t worry! I won’t try to inflate my Goodreads average by rating my own book. Besides, my mom will probably do that whenever she finishes reading it.
Inspired by Sunyi Dean, I used the “read” dates to indicate the period from when I first started brainstorming notes for the book to when I finished the final draft. It seems like a long time! But, if I’m being honest, I’ve been dreaming about this for far longer—since I was a kid, really.
My bedroom growing up was actually the corner of a large den, boxed in by two long, freestanding bookshelves joined at a right angle, filled with my dad’s collection of science fiction novels. I’d lay awake at night reading his books, plucking one after another from my bedroom walls. Some nights, unable to sleep, I’d gaze over the aging spines of colorful paperbacks, dreaming of having a book with my name on the cover one day. I wondered what kind of story would be inside.
If you read my book: thank you. I was a reader long before I was a writer, of course (if I really am “a writer”), so I know how much time, energy, and heart goes into reading a book like mine. You're making an investment in me, and I don't take that for granted; I’m grateful to you. I’m humbled, really, and a bit frightened!
If, in the end, you don’t enjoy the story: I’m truly sorry. At the very least, I hope you find some small sliver of good in the book or in the reading experience that sticks with you.
Now, on to the next one...
Inspired by Sunyi Dean, I used the “read” dates to indicate the period from when I first started brainstorming notes for the book to when I finished the final draft. It seems like a long time! But, if I’m being honest, I’ve been dreaming about this for far longer—since I was a kid, really.
My bedroom growing up was actually the corner of a large den, boxed in by two long, freestanding bookshelves joined at a right angle, filled with my dad’s collection of science fiction novels. I’d lay awake at night reading his books, plucking one after another from my bedroom walls. Some nights, unable to sleep, I’d gaze over the aging spines of colorful paperbacks, dreaming of having a book with my name on the cover one day. I wondered what kind of story would be inside.
If you read my book: thank you. I was a reader long before I was a writer, of course (if I really am “a writer”), so I know how much time, energy, and heart goes into reading a book like mine. You're making an investment in me, and I don't take that for granted; I’m grateful to you. I’m humbled, really, and a bit frightened!
If, in the end, you don’t enjoy the story: I’m truly sorry. At the very least, I hope you find some small sliver of good in the book or in the reading experience that sticks with you.
Now, on to the next one...
did-not-finish
April 20, 2023I just could not finish this book. I got maybe ten percent of the way in and it was not enough to keep me drawn in. Maybe I'll try it another time, or maybe it just wasn't what I was looking for. It seemed so good from the reviews but clearly was just not for me.
**Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.**
**Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.**
April 4, 2023
Received as a review copy from Story Origin, this is an honest review. An amazing and profound story the author N. John Williams has carefully crafted in this book In the Shadow of Humanity. At the book's heart, seen through the views of brothers Jon and Nat speaks to all of us of what make being alive any more precious than those individuals such as Nat is that are created to fulfill whatever the need arises... and all of the tough questions humanity set far into this immersive universe still struggle to fully understand. A grand, poignant lesson as we begin to wrestle all the convoluted roles AI will have upon our lives currently... with the future unknown before us. A spectacular debut, highly recommended.
November 2, 2023
Awesome, Totally engaging!
It’s refreshing to read something so uniquely original in thought, story and plot. One which encourages us readers to question moral, values and systemic societal norms. I loved being part of this story for the short time I was given.
I sincerely hope the author continues it on in a series.
Thanks N. John William for the delightful, evocative ride!
It’s refreshing to read something so uniquely original in thought, story and plot. One which encourages us readers to question moral, values and systemic societal norms. I loved being part of this story for the short time I was given.
I sincerely hope the author continues it on in a series.
Thanks N. John William for the delightful, evocative ride!
July 24, 2022
In the Shadow of Humanity predicts a time when humans “colonize” the Metaverse, living practically their whole lives there. They work there, meet with friends there, fall in love and marry there, compete there, conspire there . . . .
Two main characters, Nat died young and was recast as an A.I. “Shade;” the other is his brother Jon. They are very rich, and after their parents die, possession of the A.I. falls to the “real” son. A perfect setting in which to dramatize questions already invading our lives: what is real? Bitcoin? Psychedelic revelations? How should we spend our lives? VR first-person shooter games? Tetris? Is artificial intelligence considered a thing or a person? Does/could it have a soul?
While author N. John Williams writes on his website that the novel is “an open invitation, seeking engagement and discussion,” it does come down hard on the side of Christianity in the final fifth of the novel. Nevertheless, the story describes complicated situations on many levels: a real potential for a super-intelligent “being” emerging into the Metaverse, Tech companies warring for control of the government; a world full of spying drones and computer programs called Daemons, Nat is immortal but almost powerless in this world while Jon is mortal but powerful. Each envies the other.
The ending begs for a sequel, and the thought and detail given into the consequences of evolving artificial intelligence and a metaverse clearly demonstrate the author's time at Stanford studying computer science, linguistics, and philosophy.
I received an advance ecopy of this book from BookSirens. This is an honest review.
Two main characters, Nat died young and was recast as an A.I. “Shade;” the other is his brother Jon. They are very rich, and after their parents die, possession of the A.I. falls to the “real” son. A perfect setting in which to dramatize questions already invading our lives: what is real? Bitcoin? Psychedelic revelations? How should we spend our lives? VR first-person shooter games? Tetris? Is artificial intelligence considered a thing or a person? Does/could it have a soul?
While author N. John Williams writes on his website that the novel is “an open invitation, seeking engagement and discussion,” it does come down hard on the side of Christianity in the final fifth of the novel. Nevertheless, the story describes complicated situations on many levels: a real potential for a super-intelligent “being” emerging into the Metaverse, Tech companies warring for control of the government; a world full of spying drones and computer programs called Daemons, Nat is immortal but almost powerless in this world while Jon is mortal but powerful. Each envies the other.
The ending begs for a sequel, and the thought and detail given into the consequences of evolving artificial intelligence and a metaverse clearly demonstrate the author's time at Stanford studying computer science, linguistics, and philosophy.
I received an advance ecopy of this book from BookSirens. This is an honest review.
July 28, 2022
In the Shadow of Humanity is a character driven, technical, science fiction novel set on Earth in a plausible future. The author creates an incredible and faceted metaverse that was entertaining to read about and imagine even without any background knowledge in AI or computer science.
The plot was focused on how the main characters (Nat and Jon) deal with the complex ethical and relational issues that they face individually or with each other. There were many elements of power struggle in this novel: between brothers, between the company and the creators, and between humans and AI.
Through the characters, the author explores what it means to be a human. This novel ends up leaving the reader questioning thier own humanity.
I thought this book’s ending was perfect. The epilogue ties this story up with a nice bow that leaves your mouth a little agape and your brain spiraling with thoughts.
Overall, a good story by a first time author. I look forward to reading more by N. John Williams in the future.
The plot was focused on how the main characters (Nat and Jon) deal with the complex ethical and relational issues that they face individually or with each other. There were many elements of power struggle in this novel: between brothers, between the company and the creators, and between humans and AI.
Through the characters, the author explores what it means to be a human. This novel ends up leaving the reader questioning thier own humanity.
I thought this book’s ending was perfect. The epilogue ties this story up with a nice bow that leaves your mouth a little agape and your brain spiraling with thoughts.
Overall, a good story by a first time author. I look forward to reading more by N. John Williams in the future.
January 12, 2023
This book follows the adventures and inner hopes and anxieties of Nat Lee, an AI Shade (shadow) living in the Metaverse. He is at odds with many entities, including his brother Jon, a formidable tech company and society, as he struggles with his desire to be human.
The CONS:
It takes a substantial amount of time for this book to get compelling. It was a struggle working my way through the first 20 percent of this book. The author goes into incredible detail in the minutiae of the tech world and features uninteresting conversations that add further exposition without meaningfully advancing the plot. The first 5 or 6 chapters we were primarily worried about whether or not Nat would get a tech job. We learn a about his relationship with his brother and we do learn about the world, but learning things is not the same as being entertained or caring about what happens next. Exposition desperately needs to be cut throughout the entire book. Dialogue needs to be cut as well and refocused. Conversations don’t just need to feel real, they need to connect with the reader, to give us insight into the characters hopes and fears and to advance the story.
Many (maybe even every scene) dragged on far too long. Many points were hit multiple times. And many things were over-explained. Overall the plot and story felt disjointed, and the ending felt rushed and wasn’t as satisfying as I would have liked. But it was better than I had expected going in.
The PROS:
If the reader sticks it out past the first 20 percent of the book. It does get better. And I’d say it only keeps getting better. The issues I discussed above continue, BUT, the plot is advanced and there is quite a bit of action, adventure and meaningful insightful discussions. There are sweet moments, excitement, fear… a wide range.
There are a lot of really fun and interesting details unique to the Metaverse and to this time in the future. There are amazing visuals and concepts explored and the author is exceptionally creative. The author knows their stuff. They just need to learn how to translate their knowledge in a more entertaining way.
Sophia and The bear were wonderful characters. I liked Ivy as a love interest as well.
The Bear said many insightful things, a couple I even highlighted. His character could have been a bit more consistent however, and he still suffered from over explaining. While I enjoyed this scene, it went on for far too long, watering down the impact of his part and his words.
I liked the conflict with Sophia and Karz, and the imagery of Sophia’s angels… there were so many things to like.
But ultimately, the story is the most important part. And the story got lost in the details.
OVERALL:
This book has a lot of potential. I think the world is very interesting and the ethical conflicts are quite compelling. The story elements are there, they just need to take priority over exposition.
I know the author will continue to write and I look forward to their next work. This is a fascinating topic and having an expert at the helm is a good thing!
**I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.**
The CONS:
It takes a substantial amount of time for this book to get compelling. It was a struggle working my way through the first 20 percent of this book. The author goes into incredible detail in the minutiae of the tech world and features uninteresting conversations that add further exposition without meaningfully advancing the plot. The first 5 or 6 chapters we were primarily worried about whether or not Nat would get a tech job. We learn a about his relationship with his brother and we do learn about the world, but learning things is not the same as being entertained or caring about what happens next. Exposition desperately needs to be cut throughout the entire book. Dialogue needs to be cut as well and refocused. Conversations don’t just need to feel real, they need to connect with the reader, to give us insight into the characters hopes and fears and to advance the story.
Many (maybe even every scene) dragged on far too long. Many points were hit multiple times. And many things were over-explained. Overall the plot and story felt disjointed, and the ending felt rushed and wasn’t as satisfying as I would have liked. But it was better than I had expected going in.
The PROS:
If the reader sticks it out past the first 20 percent of the book. It does get better. And I’d say it only keeps getting better. The issues I discussed above continue, BUT, the plot is advanced and there is quite a bit of action, adventure and meaningful insightful discussions. There are sweet moments, excitement, fear… a wide range.
There are a lot of really fun and interesting details unique to the Metaverse and to this time in the future. There are amazing visuals and concepts explored and the author is exceptionally creative. The author knows their stuff. They just need to learn how to translate their knowledge in a more entertaining way.
Sophia and The bear were wonderful characters. I liked Ivy as a love interest as well.
The Bear said many insightful things, a couple I even highlighted. His character could have been a bit more consistent however, and he still suffered from over explaining. While I enjoyed this scene, it went on for far too long, watering down the impact of his part and his words.
I liked the conflict with Sophia and Karz, and the imagery of Sophia’s angels… there were so many things to like.
But ultimately, the story is the most important part. And the story got lost in the details.
OVERALL:
This book has a lot of potential. I think the world is very interesting and the ethical conflicts are quite compelling. The story elements are there, they just need to take priority over exposition.
I know the author will continue to write and I look forward to their next work. This is a fascinating topic and having an expert at the helm is a good thing!
**I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.**
May 31, 2023
Found this through browsing Primes kindle catalogue. Looked compelling, the Author is active on Goodreads, and I figured (though its not really an interest of mine) the ethics of AI might be somewhat interesting as a general interest of mine is philosophy though not in this area specifically.
And its actually quite good. I think the author is a fantastic writer. Very good at spinning imagery through colorful language and descriptions. This author will have no trouble finding an audience or continuing to write.
But the negatives is what I want to focus on. And Note: these are subjective faults—clearly its up to other readers and the author to interpret their validity.
-More show dont tell. The author strikes me as a smart individual and I think sometimes he gets so wrapped up in the telling and explaining he forgets to show (and hes so darn good at it). There were times my mind sort of checked out when reading large blocks of text pertaining to the world building or different types of drones or legislation. I couldnt begin to suggest ways to show and not tell (I understand its difficult) but I definitely felt fatigued at times from it.
-the world is just confusing. I compared a lot of this to Ready Player One (hard to not do when the same sort of suits are used at times) but there are so many types of simulations and drones and ways of transport and yadda yadda that I couldnt really distinguish one from the other or even accurately imagine everything. Is this entirely simulated, are only parts of of it simulated, when is something simulated and when is it real—you get it. Its just plain confusing. Elevators, suitcases, computers in worlds, daemons, shades, drones etc etc etc. its a bit much at times.
-random religious stuff thrown in at the end of book. Threw me for a loop honestly. Felt waayy out of place.
-the general point of the story. I get its about the position of robots and humans and the ethical questions that come with that (but sidenote: Ill never compare robots to humans. We have so so many years of evolution that give us a special one up on anything we ever create) but the science and technology explained here is so far advanced that I dont think its something we’ll ever have to seriously contemplate. (I hope I dont have to eat those words)
-the characters. Nat and Jon and the baddies (company men) are ok but Ivy, paloma, etc (honestly all the characters) are all pretty basic. Also the romantic set ups were random and either needed to be better thought out or scrapped. Either go mainstream with it and throw in a sex scene or stick to the point of the story (which I would clearly prefer). But basically the characters need to be better fleshed out. For example I constantly was mixing up Jon and Nat even though theyre the two main characters. (Though my reading this over a month probably didnt help.) Or another example: the dinner with paloma seemed random as up to that point paloma had only been mentioned once before so having her there was slightly jarring.
Those are pretty much all my negatives. I liked the book, would recommend this to most, and will be looking out for this author.
And its actually quite good. I think the author is a fantastic writer. Very good at spinning imagery through colorful language and descriptions. This author will have no trouble finding an audience or continuing to write.
But the negatives is what I want to focus on. And Note: these are subjective faults—clearly its up to other readers and the author to interpret their validity.
-More show dont tell. The author strikes me as a smart individual and I think sometimes he gets so wrapped up in the telling and explaining he forgets to show (and hes so darn good at it). There were times my mind sort of checked out when reading large blocks of text pertaining to the world building or different types of drones or legislation. I couldnt begin to suggest ways to show and not tell (I understand its difficult) but I definitely felt fatigued at times from it.
-the world is just confusing. I compared a lot of this to Ready Player One (hard to not do when the same sort of suits are used at times) but there are so many types of simulations and drones and ways of transport and yadda yadda that I couldnt really distinguish one from the other or even accurately imagine everything. Is this entirely simulated, are only parts of of it simulated, when is something simulated and when is it real—you get it. Its just plain confusing. Elevators, suitcases, computers in worlds, daemons, shades, drones etc etc etc. its a bit much at times.
-random religious stuff thrown in at the end of book. Threw me for a loop honestly. Felt waayy out of place.
-the general point of the story. I get its about the position of robots and humans and the ethical questions that come with that (but sidenote: Ill never compare robots to humans. We have so so many years of evolution that give us a special one up on anything we ever create) but the science and technology explained here is so far advanced that I dont think its something we’ll ever have to seriously contemplate. (I hope I dont have to eat those words)
-the characters. Nat and Jon and the baddies (company men) are ok but Ivy, paloma, etc (honestly all the characters) are all pretty basic. Also the romantic set ups were random and either needed to be better thought out or scrapped. Either go mainstream with it and throw in a sex scene or stick to the point of the story (which I would clearly prefer). But basically the characters need to be better fleshed out. For example I constantly was mixing up Jon and Nat even though theyre the two main characters. (Though my reading this over a month probably didnt help.) Or another example: the dinner with paloma seemed random as up to that point paloma had only been mentioned once before so having her there was slightly jarring.
Those are pretty much all my negatives. I liked the book, would recommend this to most, and will be looking out for this author.
September 4, 2022
Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots and lots and lots Lots….
…OF:
“Sipped,” and “sipping, and, “popped,” and “sips,” and other stoopid, Hollywood, horse shht phrases — like “chewing”and “chewed” and “tears” and “sobbing” and “padded” and “vomit” and “sweat” and “bile” — to razzle, dazzle, and frazzle and keep you moving along…bllsht “literary” devices.
AND, all this talk about “GOD” and FLATLAND and JESUS…what? WHAT? WHAT?
All this talk mystifies me and kills the story.
I DID NOT UNDERSTAND THE ENDING?????
Bleah.
Bad book….
.
.
…OF:
“Sipped,” and “sipping, and, “popped,” and “sips,” and other stoopid, Hollywood, horse shht phrases — like “chewing”and “chewed” and “tears” and “sobbing” and “padded” and “vomit” and “sweat” and “bile” — to razzle, dazzle, and frazzle and keep you moving along…bllsht “literary” devices.
AND, all this talk about “GOD” and FLATLAND and JESUS…what? WHAT? WHAT?
All this talk mystifies me and kills the story.
I DID NOT UNDERSTAND THE ENDING?????
Bleah.
Bad book….
.
.
September 24, 2022
A WISHING SHELF BOOK REVIEW
22nd September 2022
TITLE: In the Shadow of Humanity, A Novel
AUTHOR: N. John Williams
Star Rating: 4
‘A cleverly constructed, futuristic novel. Highly recommended.’ A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
REVIEW
I must say, I very much enjoyed this technothriller written by an author who not only has an addictive writing style, but also has considerable knowledge of AI, the dominant subject of the novel. The story follows two brothers, one of whom is alive, the other not so much - or not in terms of how we presently see it. His being has been transferred to AI, living in a sort of metaverse. Cool hey! What follows is an interesting, speculative novel, which not only has strong characterization and a compelling plot, but also looks at the morality of artificial intelligence and how it could or might be treated in the future.
As I enjoyed this novel, I was reminded a little of a Star Trek episode in which Data, a robot of sorts played by the talented Brent Spinner, was going to be disassembled so they could work out how he (it) worked - and produce lots more of them. A Data on every Starship! The dilemma facing Picard (and the hastily convened court) was whether Data was sentient; and if so, if he had human rights or was simply property of Starfleet – like a toaster!
Now, this novel is far deeper than any Star Trek episode. In fact, it gets a little too complex in parts, and I had to work hard to keep up with the author. It's very far ranging in terms of topic, looking at the control of government, the development of superintelligence, and defining what is real and what is not. But, if you don't mind working hard, and the future of AI is a topic of interest to you, this is a fantastic novel to encourage debate and controversy. And any novel that can do that, has my blessing!
In 2017, Elon Musk stated that the biggest risk to human civilization is artificial intelligence. In many ways, the author of this novel is attempting to explore this possibility. And I, for one, found it thoroughly enjoyable.
A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
22nd September 2022
TITLE: In the Shadow of Humanity, A Novel
AUTHOR: N. John Williams
Star Rating: 4
‘A cleverly constructed, futuristic novel. Highly recommended.’ A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
REVIEW
I must say, I very much enjoyed this technothriller written by an author who not only has an addictive writing style, but also has considerable knowledge of AI, the dominant subject of the novel. The story follows two brothers, one of whom is alive, the other not so much - or not in terms of how we presently see it. His being has been transferred to AI, living in a sort of metaverse. Cool hey! What follows is an interesting, speculative novel, which not only has strong characterization and a compelling plot, but also looks at the morality of artificial intelligence and how it could or might be treated in the future.
As I enjoyed this novel, I was reminded a little of a Star Trek episode in which Data, a robot of sorts played by the talented Brent Spinner, was going to be disassembled so they could work out how he (it) worked - and produce lots more of them. A Data on every Starship! The dilemma facing Picard (and the hastily convened court) was whether Data was sentient; and if so, if he had human rights or was simply property of Starfleet – like a toaster!
Now, this novel is far deeper than any Star Trek episode. In fact, it gets a little too complex in parts, and I had to work hard to keep up with the author. It's very far ranging in terms of topic, looking at the control of government, the development of superintelligence, and defining what is real and what is not. But, if you don't mind working hard, and the future of AI is a topic of interest to you, this is a fantastic novel to encourage debate and controversy. And any novel that can do that, has my blessing!
In 2017, Elon Musk stated that the biggest risk to human civilization is artificial intelligence. In many ways, the author of this novel is attempting to explore this possibility. And I, for one, found it thoroughly enjoyable.
A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
July 24, 2022
"They will soon recognize, if they have not already, that our reality is their heaven; the eternal life of pleasure and power their prophets of old once promised. Yes, our home is their heaven, and their home is our hell. But both are the Metaverse. How long can it remain so? Can gods and devil's dwell together, as one? Can good and evil mix and mingle, without good being overrun? Or, more likely still, will the rise of Hell raze Heaven to the ground?"
⭐⭐💫
What would the world look like if the dead never left? Imagine a world where you wouldn't have to "die"... in the traditional sense.
Nat is a Shade.
Jon is a human.
They are brothers.
Nat is struggling to find connection and purpose in his life while battling a high level tech company, struggling with his own personhood and the conflicting feelings of being "owed" by his brother Jon.
While this book is an interesting commentary on artificial intelligence and what the world would look like if you could be reinstated as a thinking, functioning being after death it also addresses the way that humans would need to reevaluate their own part in that world.
I love when books reference other books/stories. Flatland by Edwin A Abbot is mentioned by The Bear towards the end of the book and I think it works perfectly to sum up the ways of thinking that both the AI and humans have in the Metaverse of this story.
I really wanted to like this book so much and though most of it was fine and engaging, (N. John Williams builds a great world) it takes a religious turn towards the end that does not jive with my personal beliefs and it was an immediate turn off for me.
It's an interesting study in what makes a human a human but I disagree that religion and a belief in God is what defines human nature. To each their own, it's just not for me and I wish that part would have gone a little differently.
If you like sci-fi, alternative realities, AI, or posthumanist themes then this one's for you.
Thank you netgalley, the author and the publisher for the free copy.
⭐⭐💫
What would the world look like if the dead never left? Imagine a world where you wouldn't have to "die"... in the traditional sense.
Nat is a Shade.
Jon is a human.
They are brothers.
Nat is struggling to find connection and purpose in his life while battling a high level tech company, struggling with his own personhood and the conflicting feelings of being "owed" by his brother Jon.
While this book is an interesting commentary on artificial intelligence and what the world would look like if you could be reinstated as a thinking, functioning being after death it also addresses the way that humans would need to reevaluate their own part in that world.
I love when books reference other books/stories. Flatland by Edwin A Abbot is mentioned by The Bear towards the end of the book and I think it works perfectly to sum up the ways of thinking that both the AI and humans have in the Metaverse of this story.
I really wanted to like this book so much and though most of it was fine and engaging, (N. John Williams builds a great world) it takes a religious turn towards the end that does not jive with my personal beliefs and it was an immediate turn off for me.
It's an interesting study in what makes a human a human but I disagree that religion and a belief in God is what defines human nature. To each their own, it's just not for me and I wish that part would have gone a little differently.
If you like sci-fi, alternative realities, AI, or posthumanist themes then this one's for you.
Thank you netgalley, the author and the publisher for the free copy.
September 18, 2022
N. John William's ability to take you on a journey into deeply imaginative (yet hyper-believable) spaces is unparalleled. Both the complex interior life of a person (or AI's) soul, and the limitless exterior worlds of the metaverse... I felt like I was there, and I wanted to see more!
But this book is not merely entertainment. N. John raises some deeply philosophical questions about what makes something "human". If AI can think, reason, have unique experiences, remember, "feel", and relate to other beings... does it have "personhood"?
N. John also explores the darkness of human depravity, in how we treat beings that we deem "lesser" than ourselves. And what makes someone "lesser"?
All-an-all a fascinating and enjoyable read. I highly recommend. You will be blown away by both the creativity and depth.
Thank you N. John for igniting my imagination for what the future may look like! So much more to explore! I hope this is the first of many more books. Five stars.
But this book is not merely entertainment. N. John raises some deeply philosophical questions about what makes something "human". If AI can think, reason, have unique experiences, remember, "feel", and relate to other beings... does it have "personhood"?
N. John also explores the darkness of human depravity, in how we treat beings that we deem "lesser" than ourselves. And what makes someone "lesser"?
All-an-all a fascinating and enjoyable read. I highly recommend. You will be blown away by both the creativity and depth.
Thank you N. John for igniting my imagination for what the future may look like! So much more to explore! I hope this is the first of many more books. Five stars.
August 24, 2022
Thanks to author N. John Williams for this FREE Kindle copy of In the Shadow of Humanity.
It was OK. Not my go to genre, but the marketing blurb made it sound interesting. The story here moves along pretty slowly all the way through, and ends with a nod to a grasp at mythology for reason and purpose for being. The writing isn't bad, and the book is well edited, with a nicely done cover. This one just didn't do much for me, but think it could do much more for someone into sci-fi, and the new buzzword, metaverse.
It was OK. Not my go to genre, but the marketing blurb made it sound interesting. The story here moves along pretty slowly all the way through, and ends with a nod to a grasp at mythology for reason and purpose for being. The writing isn't bad, and the book is well edited, with a nicely done cover. This one just didn't do much for me, but think it could do much more for someone into sci-fi, and the new buzzword, metaverse.
September 29, 2022
"In the Shadow of Humanity" is a story that brings the Golden Age of Science Fiction into the 21st century through it's incredibly detailed world building, character development, and storytelling. If you are someone interested in exploring the philosophical ramifications of Artificial Intelligence and/or someone who enjoys a sci-fi story that rewards your attention to detail, then this is the book for you!
October 27, 2022
Thank you to Netgalley for granting me access to an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 3.5/5
I really loved the concept of this book. What makes someone a human? This is a story of two brothers. There were a few things I didn't enjoy in the book but for the most part, I had no problem.
Rating: 3.5/5
I really loved the concept of this book. What makes someone a human? This is a story of two brothers. There were a few things I didn't enjoy in the book but for the most part, I had no problem.
November 30, 2022
Off the rails at four fifths through
It was great,well written and imaginative , so much potential .Then four fifths the way through it went off the rails and took turn into the metaphysical /religious /philosophical/existential realm . Not sure where he went with it because he went some place I did not want to go and I did not finish it.
Very sad.Very disappointing
It was great,well written and imaginative , so much potential .Then four fifths the way through it went off the rails and took turn into the metaphysical /religious /philosophical/existential realm . Not sure where he went with it because he went some place I did not want to go and I did not finish it.
Very sad.Very disappointing
September 17, 2022
Enjoyable read
Well written. Good character development. Fun and creative. Enjoyed the exploration of AI in society dealing with sentience and personal rights.
Well written. Good character development. Fun and creative. Enjoyed the exploration of AI in society dealing with sentience and personal rights.
October 4, 2022
I received an advance review copy for free through NetGalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
In the Shadows of Humanity is an interesting novel about a futuristic world in which humans and various types of AI live.
The setting of the story and world building is difficult to get into at first. We are thrown into a science fiction world and there is a lot of science and technology that is not easy to understand. The main characters are brothers, both living very different lives and having their own difficulties. The story raises many questions about humanity, AI and what it is to be human.
I was interested in the story when I read the synopsis. In general, I enjoy reading science fiction and the subject of AI was intriguing. But it was difficult to get into the story, with the world and terms used being a bit confusing at times. Although very well thought out and well suited to the genre of the book. I did not enjoy parts of the book due to difficult chapters or just not interesting story lines, but overall I think it was a successful science fiction with an engaging side about AI.
In the Shadows of Humanity is an interesting novel about a futuristic world in which humans and various types of AI live.
The setting of the story and world building is difficult to get into at first. We are thrown into a science fiction world and there is a lot of science and technology that is not easy to understand. The main characters are brothers, both living very different lives and having their own difficulties. The story raises many questions about humanity, AI and what it is to be human.
I was interested in the story when I read the synopsis. In general, I enjoy reading science fiction and the subject of AI was intriguing. But it was difficult to get into the story, with the world and terms used being a bit confusing at times. Although very well thought out and well suited to the genre of the book. I did not enjoy parts of the book due to difficult chapters or just not interesting story lines, but overall I think it was a successful science fiction with an engaging side about AI.
December 2, 2022
great book
Impressed I didn’t know how I would like this one but if I’m honest it was an adventure. It is scary to think how this seems to be the way our world is turning that there would be robots and drones that look and talk just like us. The technology is out of this world… but is it so far fetched? I say give the book a shot and you won’t be disappointed
Impressed I didn’t know how I would like this one but if I’m honest it was an adventure. It is scary to think how this seems to be the way our world is turning that there would be robots and drones that look and talk just like us. The technology is out of this world… but is it so far fetched? I say give the book a shot and you won’t be disappointed
Want to read
October 26, 2022 I received an advanced digital copy of this book, courtesy of the author and publisher, via Netgalley, for review consideration.
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