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The Algorithm
At the pinnacle of his law career, Christian Jarvik is on the brink of a major technology deal that promises wealth and security for his family.
During a reunion with an old friend, he receives a fortune-telling from an app claimed to commune with the spirits. He dismisses the reading as a gimmick, but when the app foretells details of his business deal he is haunted by the darkening significance of its prophecies.
Is his friend manipulating the readings? Can the app really know his most deeply held secrets? He attempts to regain control of his future, but his actions cause the very events he struggles to avoid. He descends into a paranoid obsession.
Only Jarvik suspects the secret behind his persecution. But will pursuing the truth risk the destruction of everything he knows and loves?
During a reunion with an old friend, he receives a fortune-telling from an app claimed to commune with the spirits. He dismisses the reading as a gimmick, but when the app foretells details of his business deal he is haunted by the darkening significance of its prophecies.
Is his friend manipulating the readings? Can the app really know his most deeply held secrets? He attempts to regain control of his future, but his actions cause the very events he struggles to avoid. He descends into a paranoid obsession.
Only Jarvik suspects the secret behind his persecution. But will pursuing the truth risk the destruction of everything he knows and loves?
- GenresThriller
ebook
Published June 1, 2021
2 people are currently reading
17 people want to read
About the author
William Knight
5 books86 followersI'm a British born journalist and technologist currently living and working in Wellington, New Zealand. I've chased a varying career. I began in acting, progressed to music, enjoyed a brief flirtation with handbag manufacturing and was eventually wired into technology in 1989.
I had my first feature published in 2003 in Computing magazine and have since written about the many successes and failings of high-tech for the Guardian, Fianancial Times and the BBC among many others publications. I also work as a computer consultant in Wellington.
The Donated (Generation), my debut novel first conceived from a New Scientist article in 2001 and has been ten years in development. I love concepts at the edge of reality. Not so fantastic they are impossible, only improbable; better still, shocking.
I had my first feature published in 2003 in Computing magazine and have since written about the many successes and failings of high-tech for the Guardian, Fianancial Times and the BBC among many others publications. I also work as a computer consultant in Wellington.
The Donated (Generation), my debut novel first conceived from a New Scientist article in 2001 and has been ten years in development. I love concepts at the edge of reality. Not so fantastic they are impossible, only improbable; better still, shocking.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
August 15, 2021
A techno-thriller that I couldn't put down. My rating is a 4.5 rolled up to 5 stars. It is hard to review this without revealing things I don't want to. Christian is a successful lawyer and a family man. When a close friend creates a psychic app, Christian loads it onto his phone. When predictions start seeming to come true, Christian's life changes. He develops an obsession with the predictions that appear to include a mystic element. Does the app have true psychic abilities or is someone doing this to him?
The book does start a bit slow and uses flashbacks to provide the backstory. I enjoyed the authors writing and the way the backstory developed, so enjoyed this. I really enjoyed how the suspense continued to build through the story. The ending was perfect. The epilogue wasn't. This was the only thing I didn't like about the book. The epilogue created what I think is an unnecessary ambiguity for the conclusion. I received a free copy of this book but this review is mine and voluntary.
The book does start a bit slow and uses flashbacks to provide the backstory. I enjoyed the authors writing and the way the backstory developed, so enjoyed this. I really enjoyed how the suspense continued to build through the story. The ending was perfect. The epilogue wasn't. This was the only thing I didn't like about the book. The epilogue created what I think is an unnecessary ambiguity for the conclusion. I received a free copy of this book but this review is mine and voluntary.
May 29, 2021
3.5 stars, but rounded up to 4 because the final ~10% of the book really ramped up the tension, and it ended on a high note, without over-explaining everything. Prior to that, the extended flashbacks slowed things down a bit for me; I found myself wanting to get back to the present-day storyline any time a flashback began. They (the flashbacks) definitely served to flesh out the characters' personalities and motivations, I just thought that the info they contained could have been communicated more briefly/efficiently, for the most part. Another quibble is that I wish we'd gotten to know one of the main characters, Lilith, better as a character in her own right, not so much through the lens of the two main male characters, Christian and Zach.
Those critiques aside, this was a page-turner with a very relatable, Black Mirror-esque premise (it also put me in mind of a Blumhouse horror movie, although it's a thriller not horror; it just had a similar sort of feel to me, and I mean that as a compliment). The idea that an app could trawl a person's social media accounts/other online presence and make spookily accurate predictions, which in turn affect the user's behavior in unsettling ways, is such a great concept. I enjoyed the underlying tension of "is Christian taking this too seriously/being paranoid? or IS there a sinister explanation behind the app? is it supernatural or the work of his "friends"? can they be trusted??). Also, the **MINOR SPOILER ALERT** death of one major character really hit home and added emotional weight near the ending. Plus, the epilogue was like a surprise kick in the teeth.
Altogether, a (darkly) fun read!
Those critiques aside, this was a page-turner with a very relatable, Black Mirror-esque premise (it also put me in mind of a Blumhouse horror movie, although it's a thriller not horror; it just had a similar sort of feel to me, and I mean that as a compliment). The idea that an app could trawl a person's social media accounts/other online presence and make spookily accurate predictions, which in turn affect the user's behavior in unsettling ways, is such a great concept. I enjoyed the underlying tension of "is Christian taking this too seriously/being paranoid? or IS there a sinister explanation behind the app? is it supernatural or the work of his "friends"? can they be trusted??). Also, the **MINOR SPOILER ALERT** death of one major character really hit home and added emotional weight near the ending. Plus, the epilogue was like a surprise kick in the teeth.
Altogether, a (darkly) fun read!
May 24, 2021
Its hard to pigeon hole this book, so don't bother. Its a real page turner, I thought it would be something to read on my bedside table, but I ended up turning the pages over 2 days. It starts slow but once the intrigue builds, you just have to get to the end.
August 5, 2021
Lawyer Christian Jarvik has a great life, with his wife pregnant and a lucrative contract on the horizon. Then his friend Zach introduces him to ‘The Algorithm’, an app written by Zach, which apparently has psychic powers. When the app successfully forecasts a problem with his upcoming contract, Christian is at first intrigued, but then becomes increasingly obsessed by the apps predictions.
Flashbacks to Christian and Zach’s earlier friendship come at regular intervals, each time providing a snippet of information from the past that adds a piece to the jigsaw puzzle of this novel’s plot.
It’s a cleverly written story, and the drip-feeding of the flashbacks slowly changes how you feel about both Christian and Zach as you progress through the book. I wasn’t overly keen on Christian’s unhealthy obsession with Lilith. Although I understood that it was important to the plot, I felt it was rather unnecessarily graphic for my taste and didn’t add anything to Lilith’s depth as a major character.
The ending was largely unexpected (I had an idea of what might happen but got caught up on a red herring) and the epilogue took the final twist to a whole new level of ‘What the…’
I thought I would come to the end of this novel wondering if I should delete all my social media accounts, but instead it made me think rather more deeply about human nature.
Flashbacks to Christian and Zach’s earlier friendship come at regular intervals, each time providing a snippet of information from the past that adds a piece to the jigsaw puzzle of this novel’s plot.
It’s a cleverly written story, and the drip-feeding of the flashbacks slowly changes how you feel about both Christian and Zach as you progress through the book. I wasn’t overly keen on Christian’s unhealthy obsession with Lilith. Although I understood that it was important to the plot, I felt it was rather unnecessarily graphic for my taste and didn’t add anything to Lilith’s depth as a major character.
The ending was largely unexpected (I had an idea of what might happen but got caught up on a red herring) and the epilogue took the final twist to a whole new level of ‘What the…’
I thought I would come to the end of this novel wondering if I should delete all my social media accounts, but instead it made me think rather more deeply about human nature.
September 20, 2021
If you love a psychological thriller which is becoming my favourite kind of read this is definitely for you.
Christian Jarvik was an incredible character in this book. The chaos that arrives throughout every few chapters completely took me off guard. Every chapter just felt like the intensity began to rise. The technology built into this read with how we use technology right now really got me thinking to how far it could expand over the next few years.
For an app that can potentially reveal the future it’s scary, unique and incredibly addictive. I loved the twists of if it was actually the technology over psychological aspects. The torment kind of feel takes over you as you read deeper. It was quite a short read for such an outstanding layout and plot but it really worked and did this book incredible justice.
The cover completely fits the read. Normally I hate a cover that doesn’t link up. This however, literally does not give anything away before you read but as soon as you discover certain elements you almost find yourself flicking back to look at the cover again. I’ve never found myself doing that before but I loved that.
When I got to the end and finished the last chapter I was left with such an unexpected feeling it blew me away. I did not expect the ending at all. I don’t think I wanted it to end. I would love to see this advance onto a second book. As I feel like the app could do so much more with other characters.
Christian Jarvik was an incredible character in this book. The chaos that arrives throughout every few chapters completely took me off guard. Every chapter just felt like the intensity began to rise. The technology built into this read with how we use technology right now really got me thinking to how far it could expand over the next few years.
For an app that can potentially reveal the future it’s scary, unique and incredibly addictive. I loved the twists of if it was actually the technology over psychological aspects. The torment kind of feel takes over you as you read deeper. It was quite a short read for such an outstanding layout and plot but it really worked and did this book incredible justice.
The cover completely fits the read. Normally I hate a cover that doesn’t link up. This however, literally does not give anything away before you read but as soon as you discover certain elements you almost find yourself flicking back to look at the cover again. I’ve never found myself doing that before but I loved that.
When I got to the end and finished the last chapter I was left with such an unexpected feeling it blew me away. I did not expect the ending at all. I don’t think I wanted it to end. I would love to see this advance onto a second book. As I feel like the app could do so much more with other characters.
September 24, 2021
This book in 3 words: Mind-boggling. Intense. Distinct.
Today is my stop for the @lovebookstours book tour for The Algorithm. I was gifted an early copy for an honest review. Swipe for synopsis.
First of all, let me start by saying, I would never download an app that claims to be able to tell my future. Hard pass. No thanks. Luckily, our main character does download the app and that's where this story blossoms. 🖤
Riddled with complicated relationships and characters, The Algorithm is an exciting read and fits perfectly in our current technological climate. An engaging techno thriller where anyone with a smartphone will be able to connect to characters and ideas presented.
I did think the start of this book was a little slow.I found myself unsure what the main points of the plot were, but they do kick in, eventually. Once it gets going, it feels like you're jogging down steep stairs, all the way until you reach the end. I wasn't sure what to expect at the end, but I still found myself surprised. Those last few chapters really make this book worth it.
Triggers: death, stalking, violent sexual encounters, manipulation, miscarriage.
Today is my stop for the @lovebookstours book tour for The Algorithm. I was gifted an early copy for an honest review. Swipe for synopsis.
First of all, let me start by saying, I would never download an app that claims to be able to tell my future. Hard pass. No thanks. Luckily, our main character does download the app and that's where this story blossoms. 🖤
Riddled with complicated relationships and characters, The Algorithm is an exciting read and fits perfectly in our current technological climate. An engaging techno thriller where anyone with a smartphone will be able to connect to characters and ideas presented.
I did think the start of this book was a little slow.I found myself unsure what the main points of the plot were, but they do kick in, eventually. Once it gets going, it feels like you're jogging down steep stairs, all the way until you reach the end. I wasn't sure what to expect at the end, but I still found myself surprised. Those last few chapters really make this book worth it.
Triggers: death, stalking, violent sexual encounters, manipulation, miscarriage.
September 20, 2021
This story involves a man named Christian who is doing well in his career, lovely family and new addition on the way. His long lost friend reappears with his estranged wife Lilith and a new business. The friends reunite and the story follows how the app has an impact on their already strained relationship.
I thought the idea of the book was good and throughout I wanted to keep reading to find out what happens. I found the actual story rather different to what I expected but it was an enjoyable read. I felt that the ending left a lot for me to try to work out which some people would enjoy but I felt I needed more answers. Overall it was a great read
I thought the idea of the book was good and throughout I wanted to keep reading to find out what happens. I found the actual story rather different to what I expected but it was an enjoyable read. I felt that the ending left a lot for me to try to work out which some people would enjoy but I felt I needed more answers. Overall it was a great read
July 16, 2021
Intense, powerful and thrilling! A chillingly-realistic novel with an easily-imaginable plot considering our increasingly tech-savvy world! Held me captive from Page 1 to The End! This is a book not to be missed by fans of psychological thrillers and techno horror.
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
September 4, 2021
I absolutely devoured this book it's such a page turner from the very beginning.
This book is classed as a thriller which I totally get but id also say it touches on sci-fi/ paranormal too.
The book is mostly set in the now but often has flashbacks to Christians past. I found the flashbacks a little slow and wanted to get back to the now as it was definitely more intriguing. However I think these flashbacks were necessary to set up doubt in the reader.
I went from thinking that the app was just based on machine learning and data collection to maybe his friends have set it up to punish him to is this actually real?
I think that William wrote Christians character so well and him going from a confident lawyer to being super paranoid was very interesting to read. Overall I really enjoyed this book and really look forward to more like this!
This book is classed as a thriller which I totally get but id also say it touches on sci-fi/ paranormal too.
The book is mostly set in the now but often has flashbacks to Christians past. I found the flashbacks a little slow and wanted to get back to the now as it was definitely more intriguing. However I think these flashbacks were necessary to set up doubt in the reader.
I went from thinking that the app was just based on machine learning and data collection to maybe his friends have set it up to punish him to is this actually real?
I think that William wrote Christians character so well and him going from a confident lawyer to being super paranoid was very interesting to read. Overall I really enjoyed this book and really look forward to more like this!
August 15, 2021
I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
When I read the synopsis for this I was instantly intrigued. The premis of the story was really good and sounded almost "black mirror-ish" taking something from technology and putting a dark spin on it. The idea of an app that can tell the future is exciting but also scary.
It was faced paced for the most part and kept you wanting to read on. I will admit that I did think the switch in personality of one of the characters was a bit unbelievable for me but it didn't take anything away from enjoying the story. I was not expecting the ending and it did hit me in the feels a bit.
When I read the synopsis for this I was instantly intrigued. The premis of the story was really good and sounded almost "black mirror-ish" taking something from technology and putting a dark spin on it. The idea of an app that can tell the future is exciting but also scary.
It was faced paced for the most part and kept you wanting to read on. I will admit that I did think the switch in personality of one of the characters was a bit unbelievable for me but it didn't take anything away from enjoying the story. I was not expecting the ending and it did hit me in the feels a bit.
August 10, 2021
An intriguing read and an interesting concept.
I don’t know much about computer software and how it works but the app in this book sounded terrifying.
It was slightly unbelievable with how drastic Christians actions got but it did fit the story very well and didn’t need to be believable in the end.
Shocking and twisty. A decent thriller.
I don’t know much about computer software and how it works but the app in this book sounded terrifying.
It was slightly unbelievable with how drastic Christians actions got but it did fit the story very well and didn’t need to be believable in the end.
Shocking and twisty. A decent thriller.
September 6, 2021
I wasn't sure if this would be my thing, but once I started, I couldn't stop. A well written, fast paced techno thriller. Compelling, intense & that ending was a definite mouth agape moment!
An app that can predict your future would have me too scared to even look at it for fear of something ominous happening, but I'm sure in time this will be the thing 😱
First book I've read by this author & certainly going to be checking out his other works.
An app that can predict your future would have me too scared to even look at it for fear of something ominous happening, but I'm sure in time this will be the thing 😱
First book I've read by this author & certainly going to be checking out his other works.
September 20, 2021
I'm still reeling from the ending people!
BLURB:
Christian Jarvik has it all. A beautiful wife and daughter with another child on the way, the promise of Partner in the successful company he works for, and an organised determination to all aspects of his life. Cue entry of his old best friend, a stranger for the last two years due to Christian's firm stealing his lifetime's work, a technology that can change someone's life.
But he's happy and has let the betrayal go. With him he brings his beguiling wife and the tech. An app that can make predictions about one's life. Supposedly linked to the spirits, this app is the tech version of Mystic Meg, but scarier.
The app takes hold of Christian; are these predictions real? Or a con? Because they become so very true!
*
OK, so I struggled at first to get into this. I kept wondering where it was going. But as I got into it, I was both hooked and slightly terrified!
*
Technology is capable of so much already. It's changed the world we live in. So the prospect of an app that can predict our future is not the most unbelievable thing. And what makes it scarier is that the app in the story gets all its information from scouring the Web and all forms of social media. This already happens right? That in itself is scary enough.
*
The plot was a good one and an a warning in a way, be careful what you put out there into the world on these social media apps. Anyone can use your information!
*
William Knight's imagination is brilliant. Linking technology with witchcraft had terrifying effects and I did not see the twists at the end coming. I was speechless at 3 points and I didn't imagine the story to end the way it did.
*
It was brilliant and I loved it!
Thank you to @lovebooktours and @owlwithattitude for this gifted e version and for a wild ride!
BLURB:
Christian Jarvik has it all. A beautiful wife and daughter with another child on the way, the promise of Partner in the successful company he works for, and an organised determination to all aspects of his life. Cue entry of his old best friend, a stranger for the last two years due to Christian's firm stealing his lifetime's work, a technology that can change someone's life.
But he's happy and has let the betrayal go. With him he brings his beguiling wife and the tech. An app that can make predictions about one's life. Supposedly linked to the spirits, this app is the tech version of Mystic Meg, but scarier.
The app takes hold of Christian; are these predictions real? Or a con? Because they become so very true!
*
OK, so I struggled at first to get into this. I kept wondering where it was going. But as I got into it, I was both hooked and slightly terrified!
*
Technology is capable of so much already. It's changed the world we live in. So the prospect of an app that can predict our future is not the most unbelievable thing. And what makes it scarier is that the app in the story gets all its information from scouring the Web and all forms of social media. This already happens right? That in itself is scary enough.
*
The plot was a good one and an a warning in a way, be careful what you put out there into the world on these social media apps. Anyone can use your information!
*
William Knight's imagination is brilliant. Linking technology with witchcraft had terrifying effects and I did not see the twists at the end coming. I was speechless at 3 points and I didn't imagine the story to end the way it did.
*
It was brilliant and I loved it!
Thank you to @lovebooktours and @owlwithattitude for this gifted e version and for a wild ride!
May 6, 2021
Very good book.
August 27, 2021
Often times, I assign a book either lesser or more stars based on the following: Am I still thinking about the book? Did the author make me think about alternative endings. Why did it end the way it did?
Based on this rating system, I had to grant The Algorithm five stars. In the beginning, there was a lot of time shifting among Zach and Christian. Zach is the irresponsible college student very into technology. Christian has his life's track planned and despises the use of smartphones, computers, etc.
Zach starts a company based on Artificial Intelligence and computer algorithms. Christian works within the legal system focused on company Mergers and Acquisitions.
For many years, the gentleman have gone their separate ways - Zach resided in Germany. Christian and his family lived in Bristol. According to eFace, Zach returns with Lilith, his ex-wife, to live in Bristol.
One evening, Zach and Lilith introduce Christian & Rachel (his wife) to their new app. To log in, you must use your eFace account. Lock of hair are cut from Christian & Rachel. (How is this done with other participants, or was this particular to them)?
Zach introduces this is app as a parlor trick like reading horoscopes. With each accurate "reading," Christian becomes addicted and adjusts his life.
He becomes concerned that black magic is somehow utilized within the app. How can it foresee his life and the events with 100% success. Christian reaches out to Zach to ask these questions.
His behavior begins to spiral out of control. Rachel, pregnant with their second child, faces health concerns. The outcome is what drives him over the edge.
The book makes you think about how submerged we are in the world of social media, reading horoscopes, etc.
How much information is there on the Internet that people can access to control our lives?
The ending is unforeseen and chilling. The darkness Christian goes to and the extent he allows this app control over his life is haunting.
I am still rethinking the ending. I am thinking about the extent that Zack and Lilith had in the readings, or how much was merely an algorithm.
It is a dark book and makes you question the extent technology weaves a web leaving us vulnerable.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Based on this rating system, I had to grant The Algorithm five stars. In the beginning, there was a lot of time shifting among Zach and Christian. Zach is the irresponsible college student very into technology. Christian has his life's track planned and despises the use of smartphones, computers, etc.
Zach starts a company based on Artificial Intelligence and computer algorithms. Christian works within the legal system focused on company Mergers and Acquisitions.
For many years, the gentleman have gone their separate ways - Zach resided in Germany. Christian and his family lived in Bristol. According to eFace, Zach returns with Lilith, his ex-wife, to live in Bristol.
One evening, Zach and Lilith introduce Christian & Rachel (his wife) to their new app. To log in, you must use your eFace account. Lock of hair are cut from Christian & Rachel. (How is this done with other participants, or was this particular to them)?
Zach introduces this is app as a parlor trick like reading horoscopes. With each accurate "reading," Christian becomes addicted and adjusts his life.
He becomes concerned that black magic is somehow utilized within the app. How can it foresee his life and the events with 100% success. Christian reaches out to Zach to ask these questions.
His behavior begins to spiral out of control. Rachel, pregnant with their second child, faces health concerns. The outcome is what drives him over the edge.
The book makes you think about how submerged we are in the world of social media, reading horoscopes, etc.
How much information is there on the Internet that people can access to control our lives?
The ending is unforeseen and chilling. The darkness Christian goes to and the extent he allows this app control over his life is haunting.
I am still rethinking the ending. I am thinking about the extent that Zack and Lilith had in the readings, or how much was merely an algorithm.
It is a dark book and makes you question the extent technology weaves a web leaving us vulnerable.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 6, 2021
I really didnt know what to expect from this and I must admit I went in a bit sceptical as it was a slow start.
But once it got going boy did it get going. I had a vague inkling of what was happening with certain tidbits re drinks etc but not enough to say definitely (I quite liked that). Towards the end really went into its stride and the ending is just perfect.
I am not going to go into any plot spoilers as don't want to ruin anything accidentally - but take a chance and read it.
I was given an advance copy by the author but the review is entirely my own.
But once it got going boy did it get going. I had a vague inkling of what was happening with certain tidbits re drinks etc but not enough to say definitely (I quite liked that). Towards the end really went into its stride and the ending is just perfect.
I am not going to go into any plot spoilers as don't want to ruin anything accidentally - but take a chance and read it.
I was given an advance copy by the author but the review is entirely my own.
August 31, 2021
3.5⭐️
This was #gifted by @lovebookstours and the author for review.
The author explores the impact that technology has on our lives and how we interact with it. Technology is everywhere and we rely on it. Most of us carry smartphones and this story is about an app. An app like something we would all download. A novelty. Can it predict the future? Can our behaviour impact the predictions coming to fruition?
As this is something we can relate to, it was a bit anxiety inducing. I kept wanting Christian to snap out of it. To delete the app and spend time with his pregnant wife and daughter. He became obsessed. An intelligent lawyer just had to know how it knew. When his old friend and his wife (the app developers) came in to the story I automatically didn’t like them. Didn’t trust them. I felt like Christian. I wanted to know where it was all leading and why. This kept me reading on. The story went directions that I didn’t expect and the epilogue explained said everything that needed to be said to wrap it up but without going in to detail (if that makes sense).
This was quite a short book but fit a lot in to it. It does make you think about how much we share online but also there is another element to this that makes it about more than technology. It was an enjoyable read. Thank you for the gifted copy.
This was #gifted by @lovebookstours and the author for review.
The author explores the impact that technology has on our lives and how we interact with it. Technology is everywhere and we rely on it. Most of us carry smartphones and this story is about an app. An app like something we would all download. A novelty. Can it predict the future? Can our behaviour impact the predictions coming to fruition?
As this is something we can relate to, it was a bit anxiety inducing. I kept wanting Christian to snap out of it. To delete the app and spend time with his pregnant wife and daughter. He became obsessed. An intelligent lawyer just had to know how it knew. When his old friend and his wife (the app developers) came in to the story I automatically didn’t like them. Didn’t trust them. I felt like Christian. I wanted to know where it was all leading and why. This kept me reading on. The story went directions that I didn’t expect and the epilogue explained said everything that needed to be said to wrap it up but without going in to detail (if that makes sense).
This was quite a short book but fit a lot in to it. It does make you think about how much we share online but also there is another element to this that makes it about more than technology. It was an enjoyable read. Thank you for the gifted copy.
August 24, 2021
This book has a slow start but them after a couple of chapters it picks up.
It was focused more on Christian and his wife, providing some flashbacks of the past to set up the tone of his friendship with his old friend Zach. I would have appreciated more background on Lilith as it seemed a bit superficial to me and her character is as important as the others.
Nevertheless, it is a page-turner one. I wasn’t expecting the ending to be like that, very twisted! It could be turned into a tv show or movie.
It was focused more on Christian and his wife, providing some flashbacks of the past to set up the tone of his friendship with his old friend Zach. I would have appreciated more background on Lilith as it seemed a bit superficial to me and her character is as important as the others.
Nevertheless, it is a page-turner one. I wasn’t expecting the ending to be like that, very twisted! It could be turned into a tv show or movie.
April 22, 2021
Magic 8 ball comes to mind while reading this. I had one as a kid and used it to answer life and death questions about my life ... Does he like me? Will I pass math class, etc.
Christopher's friend from college has developed an app that will give you daily advise and points to ponder. Christopher, at first, won't download the app but is finally convinced to do so.
The thing about the 8 ball is everyone using it knew that the answers were random and couldn't be counted on. Like this app, it is just a bit fun...or is it.
Don't start reading at bedtime. The thrill ride will keep you up reading toward the next twist.
Christopher's friend from college has developed an app that will give you daily advise and points to ponder. Christopher, at first, won't download the app but is finally convinced to do so.
The thing about the 8 ball is everyone using it knew that the answers were random and couldn't be counted on. Like this app, it is just a bit fun...or is it.
Don't start reading at bedtime. The thrill ride will keep you up reading toward the next twist.
September 24, 2021
It's very strange for a thriller to be able to accomplish the feats this book does in so few pages! At 193 pages, this is a book you can easily devour in one sitting and still enjoy it greatly.
This is a many layered novel, and the multiple flashbacks offer the reader a miniscule piece of information each time that ends up require a second reading of the chapter just to make sure you're on the right track. Christian and Zach are not what they seem on the surface, and the jumps between past and present in their friendship are very interesting.
Overall, I love the concept of this novel and it does succeed to surprise you, even if you are a regular reader of this genre.
This is a many layered novel, and the multiple flashbacks offer the reader a miniscule piece of information each time that ends up require a second reading of the chapter just to make sure you're on the right track. Christian and Zach are not what they seem on the surface, and the jumps between past and present in their friendship are very interesting.
Overall, I love the concept of this novel and it does succeed to surprise you, even if you are a regular reader of this genre.
September 20, 2021
Apps - Every second of everyday someone somewhere is probably in the process of downloading some type of app onto some sort of device, wether it's their phone, a tablet or some type of computer. There are thousands of different apps, gaming apps,dating apps, betting apps, you name it, there is probably a app for it, including the sickening things that shouldn't exist in reality, never mind being avail on the internet.
Now, imagine if you were told that there was a app that could predict what was going to happen in your future, you would probably laugh and dismiss it as nonsense just like Christian did in this story. Then imagine what you would do if the app's predictions appeared to start coming true and one of its predictions was that the deal that you had been putting years of your life into was doomed to fail. Would you continue to dismiss the app as nonsense or would you do everything in your power into ensuring that the prediction didn't come true even if it meant placing your future happiness with your family in jeopardy?
The internet is a oxymoronic space but is it really possible that a app can predict the future or was what was happening to Christian just due to manipulation, smoke and mirrors and the power of suggestion?
The story is narrated from the duel perspectives of Christian who was a lawyer and his wife Rachel who was pregnant with their second child, they also has a adorable little girl called Jessica. Life was going really well for the couple, Christian was about to sign off on a deal that he had spent two years perfecting and was looking at being promoted to Managing Partner at the law firm where he worked. Then, his friend Zach suddenly appeared back in his life and them having no contact for two years bringing with him his alluring wife Lilith. It is after Christian and Rachel are persuaded to download the app that Zach has developed that strange things start happening and Christian's perfect life started to fall apart. Christian was a complex character, the problem was that I found it difficult to feel any sympathy for him mainly due to his obsession with Lilith which had started years before when he had first met her on her wedding day. I thought his only redeemable quality was his obvious love for little Jessica. Rachel was a very likeable individual and as the story unfolded, I felt a lot of concern for both her's and Jessica's safety and well-being. I did feel a lot of stone for Zach and even when I finished the book, I was never completely sure if he had any knowledge about what was happening to Christian. Occasionally, the author had Christian take the reader back in time and gave us a insight into events from Christian and Zach's interactions in the past.
This is a well written story that could slot into a number of genre's including domestic drama, supernatural, erotica, thriller and sci-fi. It's has a captivating plot that works its way to a intense conclusion and has a spine chilling closing chapter. The cast of characters were vivid, realistic and relatable and the story was, fortunately for non techno people like me, not overly scientific. I thought that this was a enjoyable, entertaining read and I would happily read more of this author's books in the future.
Now, imagine if you were told that there was a app that could predict what was going to happen in your future, you would probably laugh and dismiss it as nonsense just like Christian did in this story. Then imagine what you would do if the app's predictions appeared to start coming true and one of its predictions was that the deal that you had been putting years of your life into was doomed to fail. Would you continue to dismiss the app as nonsense or would you do everything in your power into ensuring that the prediction didn't come true even if it meant placing your future happiness with your family in jeopardy?
The internet is a oxymoronic space but is it really possible that a app can predict the future or was what was happening to Christian just due to manipulation, smoke and mirrors and the power of suggestion?
The story is narrated from the duel perspectives of Christian who was a lawyer and his wife Rachel who was pregnant with their second child, they also has a adorable little girl called Jessica. Life was going really well for the couple, Christian was about to sign off on a deal that he had spent two years perfecting and was looking at being promoted to Managing Partner at the law firm where he worked. Then, his friend Zach suddenly appeared back in his life and them having no contact for two years bringing with him his alluring wife Lilith. It is after Christian and Rachel are persuaded to download the app that Zach has developed that strange things start happening and Christian's perfect life started to fall apart. Christian was a complex character, the problem was that I found it difficult to feel any sympathy for him mainly due to his obsession with Lilith which had started years before when he had first met her on her wedding day. I thought his only redeemable quality was his obvious love for little Jessica. Rachel was a very likeable individual and as the story unfolded, I felt a lot of concern for both her's and Jessica's safety and well-being. I did feel a lot of stone for Zach and even when I finished the book, I was never completely sure if he had any knowledge about what was happening to Christian. Occasionally, the author had Christian take the reader back in time and gave us a insight into events from Christian and Zach's interactions in the past.
This is a well written story that could slot into a number of genre's including domestic drama, supernatural, erotica, thriller and sci-fi. It's has a captivating plot that works its way to a intense conclusion and has a spine chilling closing chapter. The cast of characters were vivid, realistic and relatable and the story was, fortunately for non techno people like me, not overly scientific. I thought that this was a enjoyable, entertaining read and I would happily read more of this author's books in the future.
August 2, 2022
This book was entered in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards. This is what our readers thought:
Title: The Algorithm
Author: William Knight
Star Rating: 4 Stars
Number of Readers: 15
Stats
Editing: 8/10
Writing Style: 7/10
Content: 6/10
Cover: 5/5
Of the 15 readers:
13 would read another book by this author.
15 thought the cover was good or excellent.
15 felt it was easy to follow.
14 would recommend this book to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 6 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
Of all the readers, 3 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
Of all the readers, 6 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘writing style’.
11 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
13 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
“A sort of techno-thriller with a strong protagonist and a fantastic climax. If you enjoy thought-provoking thrillers, this is for you.” Male reader, aged 52
“The power of the internet is, indeed, startling. The way Facebook, Twitter, etc are developing AI – with little or no oversight – is a frightening thought. This novel looks at an app which can predict the future! I thought that was very clever and hooked me into the story. Personally, although the premise is excellent, I felt the story was not as strong, and got a bit bogged down in the middle. Still, it was a compelling read which I enjoyed.” Female reader, aged 59
“I didn´t particularly like the characters or connect with them in any way. But I liked the plot and the twists at the end were clever and took me by surprise. Christian was the strongest character and I enjoyed following him as he attempted to uncover if the app was correct or if it was all just a clever scam.” Female reader, aged 62
“It´s worth reading just for the last 20% of the book – which is a blast!” Male reader, aged 60
“Enjoyed it. Not overly long, interesting premise, a little technical here and there – but never too technical, plenty of twists. Good novel.” Male reader, aged 18
To Sum It Up:
‘A cleverly plotted story with an intriguing premise and a killer ending! A FINALIST and highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
Title: The Algorithm
Author: William Knight
Star Rating: 4 Stars
Number of Readers: 15
Stats
Editing: 8/10
Writing Style: 7/10
Content: 6/10
Cover: 5/5
Of the 15 readers:
13 would read another book by this author.
15 thought the cover was good or excellent.
15 felt it was easy to follow.
14 would recommend this book to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 6 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
Of all the readers, 3 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
Of all the readers, 6 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘writing style’.
11 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
13 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
“A sort of techno-thriller with a strong protagonist and a fantastic climax. If you enjoy thought-provoking thrillers, this is for you.” Male reader, aged 52
“The power of the internet is, indeed, startling. The way Facebook, Twitter, etc are developing AI – with little or no oversight – is a frightening thought. This novel looks at an app which can predict the future! I thought that was very clever and hooked me into the story. Personally, although the premise is excellent, I felt the story was not as strong, and got a bit bogged down in the middle. Still, it was a compelling read which I enjoyed.” Female reader, aged 59
“I didn´t particularly like the characters or connect with them in any way. But I liked the plot and the twists at the end were clever and took me by surprise. Christian was the strongest character and I enjoyed following him as he attempted to uncover if the app was correct or if it was all just a clever scam.” Female reader, aged 62
“It´s worth reading just for the last 20% of the book – which is a blast!” Male reader, aged 60
“Enjoyed it. Not overly long, interesting premise, a little technical here and there – but never too technical, plenty of twists. Good novel.” Male reader, aged 18
To Sum It Up:
‘A cleverly plotted story with an intriguing premise and a killer ending! A FINALIST and highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
August 26, 2021
Thank you to the author and Love Books Tours for gifting me with a review copy and giving me a spot on the book tour.
This is a 3.5 rounded up for me.
For the most part, I really enjoyed this book - more specifically, the plot. I was drawn in completely within the first few chapters. I wanted to read this book initially because I love the tv show Black Mirror and this sounded like a book that had a similar general vibe/premise as a lot of the episodes of the show, and I definitely wasn’t let down plot wise. The idea of this psychic app combined with Zach and Christian’s history was fantastic and well executed. Some of the flashbacks were a little slow but I kind of found the need for most of them as the book went on so it isn’t a strong criticism.
Honestly, I only have two reasons for this book not being a solid four stars, or even 4.5: the epilogue and the characters. Firstly, I did like the characters for the most part, and I think our main characters were brilliant. But I’m definitely a reader that needs good characters and relationships and good character development - I’m character driven when reading. I definitely found those things in part with Z & C, but there just wasn’t quite enough on some of the side characters for me, which just made my overall emotional attachment and relation to the book decrease. The epilogue just didn’t quite fit for me. I really enjoyed the ending and I thought everything made sense but I wasn’t a huge fan of the last minute twist. I’ve seen from other reviews that some people loved it so that’s probably just a preference thing.
Overall, this was a really fun and interesting read, even for someone like me who doesn’t always love sci-fi, but i didn’t connect to it so my enjoyment was limited (obviously that wouldn’t apply to everyone, only particularly emotional readers like me). I absolutely recommend.
This is a 3.5 rounded up for me.
For the most part, I really enjoyed this book - more specifically, the plot. I was drawn in completely within the first few chapters. I wanted to read this book initially because I love the tv show Black Mirror and this sounded like a book that had a similar general vibe/premise as a lot of the episodes of the show, and I definitely wasn’t let down plot wise. The idea of this psychic app combined with Zach and Christian’s history was fantastic and well executed. Some of the flashbacks were a little slow but I kind of found the need for most of them as the book went on so it isn’t a strong criticism.
Honestly, I only have two reasons for this book not being a solid four stars, or even 4.5: the epilogue and the characters. Firstly, I did like the characters for the most part, and I think our main characters were brilliant. But I’m definitely a reader that needs good characters and relationships and good character development - I’m character driven when reading. I definitely found those things in part with Z & C, but there just wasn’t quite enough on some of the side characters for me, which just made my overall emotional attachment and relation to the book decrease. The epilogue just didn’t quite fit for me. I really enjoyed the ending and I thought everything made sense but I wasn’t a huge fan of the last minute twist. I’ve seen from other reviews that some people loved it so that’s probably just a preference thing.
Overall, this was a really fun and interesting read, even for someone like me who doesn’t always love sci-fi, but i didn’t connect to it so my enjoyment was limited (obviously that wouldn’t apply to everyone, only particularly emotional readers like me). I absolutely recommend.
July 15, 2021
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This technothriller tells the story about an unlikely friendship and what can happen when you betray a friend. Zach lost his job and the intellectual property rights to his software developments. And his friend Christian supplied the information his law firm needed for the takeover.
Years later, Zach comes back, together with his wife, Lilith. He introduced Christian to The Algorithm, an app he has developed that predicts the future. Since then, everything went south for Christian. Is The Algorithm really predicting his future, or is Zack exacting subtle revenge?
Zach knew about Christian’s obsessive-compulsiveness. Did he count on this to manipulate Christian to self-destruct?
The author creates doubt in the reader's mind through the way Lilian supports Rachel (Christian’s wife), as Christians behaviour becomes more erratic. And through Zach’s repeated reassurances that The Algorithm only uses information from the internet to make general, broad predictions.
Even at the end, you are still wondering if it was revenge or if Christian subconsciously acted on the predictions from The Algorithm, thereby causing his own demise?
Trigger Warnings: Profanity | Deity Swears | Death | Occult & Superstition
October 4, 2021
I was looking for a psychological thriller, and based on the description, chose this story. Christian Jarvik is a successful lawyer in a firm that conducts business mergers and acquisitions, whose attention to detail has led him to the verge of partnership in the firm. Along the way, he was lead lawyer in a merger that left his best friend, Zak Hunter, out of work and without the software he developed that was key to the deal. Ten years later, Zak is back, ready to reconnect with Christian and excited to show him the success he’s had with a new software app that uses AI to create horoscopes for users. Christian is amazed at the results of his first use of the app, The Algorithm of the title, and becomes increasingly obsessed, and also convinced that it is all a hoax being used as revenge for his previous business dealings.
I found myself at first surprised that someone like Christian would not simply scoff at the results as mere coincidence. But as the story reached its climax, the level of his psychological torment was nearly suffocating. And to me, the conclusion was brilliant. I would recommend for the suspense, but would advise don’t start if you plan to sleep before finishing.
I did receive a free copy of this story through BookSirens for an honest review.
I found myself at first surprised that someone like Christian would not simply scoff at the results as mere coincidence. But as the story reached its climax, the level of his psychological torment was nearly suffocating. And to me, the conclusion was brilliant. I would recommend for the suspense, but would advise don’t start if you plan to sleep before finishing.
I did receive a free copy of this story through BookSirens for an honest review.
August 27, 2021
I was drawn to this book by the cover and I loved the idea behind the story that an app would be able to accurately predict your future.
It scarily demonstrated how much information there could be about us all online and how much social media knows about us (constantly collecting information in the background!) Despite the main storyline there was not much tech details involved so I found it quite an easy read (as I am not a big SciFi fan)
It took me a little while to get into this book but I loved the second half which really picked up the pace.
I liked the two main characters and really felt sorry for Rachel as Christian became more emersed in his work and totally obsessed by the app. I really wanted him to turn his phone off and stop reading the predictions!
I enjoyed the back stories involving the main characters but I would have liked more details about Lillith as she was such an interesting part of the book and I would have liked to see her character develop.
I wasn't expecting the ending to this at all and thought it was a clever twist.
Overall an enjoyable and different type of thriller. This would be perfect for black mirror fans.
Rating 3.5 🌟
It scarily demonstrated how much information there could be about us all online and how much social media knows about us (constantly collecting information in the background!) Despite the main storyline there was not much tech details involved so I found it quite an easy read (as I am not a big SciFi fan)
It took me a little while to get into this book but I loved the second half which really picked up the pace.
I liked the two main characters and really felt sorry for Rachel as Christian became more emersed in his work and totally obsessed by the app. I really wanted him to turn his phone off and stop reading the predictions!
I enjoyed the back stories involving the main characters but I would have liked more details about Lillith as she was such an interesting part of the book and I would have liked to see her character develop.
I wasn't expecting the ending to this at all and thought it was a clever twist.
Overall an enjoyable and different type of thriller. This would be perfect for black mirror fans.
Rating 3.5 🌟
September 9, 2021
Christian is a hard working lawyer who after a reunion with an old friend, he decides to download a fortune telling app📱. Sounds like silly fun with a killer marketing campaign, right? Until the app starts to be freakishly accurate. 😮
I’ve seen a couple of other reviewers compare it to an episode of “Black Mirror” and I definitely agree with that! To me this is part thriller, part sci-fi. Just like the tv show, this book explores how technology has infiltrated our lives.📱
Interspersed throughout the book there’s flashbacks of how the two guys met each other and then their wives, Rachel and Lilith. The app seems to be psychic🔮; as the app seemingly predicts his future, Christian gets more paranoid and obsessed. Christian becomes convinced that his frenemy Zach is manipulating the readings - it seems to know more information than it should and he doesn’t know why.🔥
This book kept me intrigued and reading quickly to get to know what happens at the end!📖
✨Thank you to Love Books Tours and the publisher for sending me a free copy of the ebook and for having me as part of the tour!📚
I’ve seen a couple of other reviewers compare it to an episode of “Black Mirror” and I definitely agree with that! To me this is part thriller, part sci-fi. Just like the tv show, this book explores how technology has infiltrated our lives.📱
Interspersed throughout the book there’s flashbacks of how the two guys met each other and then their wives, Rachel and Lilith. The app seems to be psychic🔮; as the app seemingly predicts his future, Christian gets more paranoid and obsessed. Christian becomes convinced that his frenemy Zach is manipulating the readings - it seems to know more information than it should and he doesn’t know why.🔥
This book kept me intrigued and reading quickly to get to know what happens at the end!📖
✨Thank you to Love Books Tours and the publisher for sending me a free copy of the ebook and for having me as part of the tour!📚
September 20, 2021
A smartphone app that foretells the future. Terrifying predictions or dangerous deceit?An intuitive smartphone app launched by an innovative technology firm.
Two programmers burned alive, trapped inside a Frankfurt basement.
A billion-dollar business merger delayed by accusation of fraud.
A paranoid obsession with a best friend’s beguiling wife.
A child killed by meningitis.
Are these events linked by a burning chain of revenge and the union of tech genius with dark religion?
Christian Jarvik suspects the connection, but will pursuing the truth risk his business, his sanity, and more than he can possibly imagine?
The idea of this book intrigued me and highlighted how as a society we are run by technology. Scary to wonder what life may be like if we continue to let technology rule our decisions and day to day lives. I enjoyed the premise of this book however found the story could have moved forward a bit faster to add to the urgency and thrilling nature of the topic.
Thank you to Love Books Tours for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Two programmers burned alive, trapped inside a Frankfurt basement.
A billion-dollar business merger delayed by accusation of fraud.
A paranoid obsession with a best friend’s beguiling wife.
A child killed by meningitis.
Are these events linked by a burning chain of revenge and the union of tech genius with dark religion?
Christian Jarvik suspects the connection, but will pursuing the truth risk his business, his sanity, and more than he can possibly imagine?
The idea of this book intrigued me and highlighted how as a society we are run by technology. Scary to wonder what life may be like if we continue to let technology rule our decisions and day to day lives. I enjoyed the premise of this book however found the story could have moved forward a bit faster to add to the urgency and thrilling nature of the topic.
Thank you to Love Books Tours for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
January 10, 2023
I was definitely intrigued by the premise of this book and the storyline doesn't disappoint. At times it borders amusing but that's outweighed by a dark and foreboding feel that leads up to some interesting twists and turns.
Overall I was impressed and it certainly kept me reading long past midnight on more than one occasion. The plot is really what makes this book and the ending is one that lingers. It lost a star for me because some of the characters weren't padded out as much as I like. I'm someone who gets deeply involved in characters' lives and somehow I didn't feel quite as invested as I wanted to because I didn't feel enough depth. I also found that I didn't really like any of the characters although this isn't necessarily a problem.
I do recommend this book, especially if plot is more important to you than getting inside the characters. I'd be happy to read more from this author.
I was lucky enough to snag a copy of this book from Book Sirens and wanted to leave an honest review so other readers can decide whether it's worth a purchase.
Overall I was impressed and it certainly kept me reading long past midnight on more than one occasion. The plot is really what makes this book and the ending is one that lingers. It lost a star for me because some of the characters weren't padded out as much as I like. I'm someone who gets deeply involved in characters' lives and somehow I didn't feel quite as invested as I wanted to because I didn't feel enough depth. I also found that I didn't really like any of the characters although this isn't necessarily a problem.
I do recommend this book, especially if plot is more important to you than getting inside the characters. I'd be happy to read more from this author.
I was lucky enough to snag a copy of this book from Book Sirens and wanted to leave an honest review so other readers can decide whether it's worth a purchase.
September 2, 2021
Another new author & it’s set in Bristol - double whammy!
This book is a techno-thriller, I say that upfront as if that’s not your thing, despite it being a cracking read, you won’t enjoy it.
Christian is an extremely successful lawyer & family man. A close friend, who he has recently been reunited with, has developed a psychic app & persuades him to download it on to his phone.
Predictions come true. Christian’s life changes. He becomes obsessed with the app & its seemingly mystic abilities.
Is it the app or is it someone who he knows?
The book is predominantly told through flashbacks & I love the way it was written, it was just the right tempo.
If it had ended before the epilogue, this would have been 5 stars. However, I felt that addition was unnecessary.
Recommended.
This book is a techno-thriller, I say that upfront as if that’s not your thing, despite it being a cracking read, you won’t enjoy it.
Christian is an extremely successful lawyer & family man. A close friend, who he has recently been reunited with, has developed a psychic app & persuades him to download it on to his phone.
Predictions come true. Christian’s life changes. He becomes obsessed with the app & its seemingly mystic abilities.
Is it the app or is it someone who he knows?
The book is predominantly told through flashbacks & I love the way it was written, it was just the right tempo.
If it had ended before the epilogue, this would have been 5 stars. However, I felt that addition was unnecessary.
Recommended.
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