Beautiful, exciting and involving

John, a computer scientist from the USA,  is temporarily living in Tokyo.  Whilst there he meets Neotnia and her ex-sumo wrestler friend.   Set a little way into the future this speculative fiction includes mystery, relationships and plenty of excitement  Also there are historical facts and explorations of so many interesting aspects life and customs in  Japan.

The 3 main characters (plus the dog) were great and I found myself involved with them, their background stories and what would happen next.  After the first few chapters I wondered whether this was going to be a love story or an exciting adventure along with a look at what the future may hold.  It turned out to be all of these, and so much more. 

For me this novel was about what makes us human, about first appearances, and working out what is true or not – both about individuals and the world around us.  It is also about computers and AI, and their power to influence for good and bad. 

5*s from me for this beautifully written story, which drew me in, gave me excitement, interest and also a few shocking moments.  Lots to think about within these pages, and I am pleased to have already found myself discussing ideas from this book, and watching a YouTube video on AI.  I’m thrilled to discover that the author, Michael Grothaus,  is planning follow on books!

I read this as it was the 1^st book of the Orenda Books Book Club.  I am so glad, I joined in this Orenda event and discovered a first class novel, that I had previously missed.  Big thank you Orenda (and of course Michael Grothaus for writing it!)

Set:  Tokyo

Publisher:  Orenda Books

Published:  March 2023

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