From The Shadows by G R Halliday #fromtheshadows @gr_halliday @PointBlankCrime @randomttoours #MonicaKennedy #TheDark

 

Seven days. Four deaths. One chance to catch a killer.

Sixteen-year-old Robert arrives home late. Without a word to his dad, he goes up to his bedroom. Robert is never seen alive again.

The discovery of a body on the coast of the Scottish Highlands plunges Detective Inspector Monica Kennedy into a murder investigation that won't begin and end with one death.

Meanwhile, seventeen-year-old Nichol has been missing for seven days. His last message was to social worker Michael, who can't quite shake the suspicion that something is terribly wrong.

As Monica is faced with catching a murderer who has been meticulously watching and waiting, Michael keeps searching for Nichol, desperate to find him before the killer claims another victim.

From The Shadows by G R Halliday was originally published in 2020. It has been re-packaged and re published by Point Blank / Oneworld and has been adapted for screen for ITV - the series, entitled The Dark begins on 12 July. 

I am delighted to share my original review as part of this #RandomThingsTours Virtual Book Tour today 

THIS REVIEW WAS ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED ON MY BLOG IN 2020 

Oh my goodness, I am so glad that I discovered G R Halliday's writing and his fabulous detective Monica Kennedy. This is crime fiction at its best, it's dark and deadly, compelling and chilling and I was gripped from that incredible opening, right through to the final paragraph. 

Halliday's setting of the Scottish Highlands and Inverness adds so much to this story, the desolate and eerie environment makes for the perfect setting for some horrific and brutal killings. It is clear that the author knows and loves the setting, the descriptions are wonderfully done.

The body of a teenage boy is found, brutally slain and with a black stone lodged in his throat. Monica Kennedy is heading up the investigation and it is not long before another body is found, it's obviously the same killer. Is there a serial killer lose in the Highlands? Monica is an interesting character, her appearance is unusual, her home life is chaotic and she has many issues with her superiors and colleagues too. Michael Bach is a social worker and one of his clients is missing, he is very concerned about this and suspects that there are links to the killings. Both Monica and Michael are not averse to bending the rules somewhat, as long as they get the job done, they will do it their way. Whilst this may move things along, it will also get them into trouble, and danger. 

This is a complex and multi layered crime story, with multiple characters and many suspects. Interwoven through the investigative part of the narrative, the reader hears from a character called The Watcher; a mysterious, anonymous voice whose words are chilling.

This is dark, the killings are violent and the prose is very descriptive. It's so very well done though and never feels gratuitous or sensational.

This is a great start to a new detective series, it is gripping and atmospheric and cleverly constructed. I look forward to reading the next instalment. 

G.R. HALLIDAY was born in Edinburgh and grew up near Stirling in Scotland. He spent

his childhood obsessing over the unexplained mysteries his father wrote about as a paranormal investigator, which have been a major inspiration for his writing. Gareth studied Ancient History at Edinburgh University and is a co-founder of the Caledonian Crime Collective. 

In 2024, h qualified from the University of the Highlands and Islands as a counsellor and psychotherapist.

He works as a volunteer for an addiction charity and has his own private counselling practice.

Gareth lives with his partner in the rural Highlands outside Inverness, where he pursues his favourite pastimes of mountain climbing and swimming in the sea, before returning home to his band of semi-feral cats.

The Sufragette of Ironbridge by Mollie Walton #thesuffragetteofironbridge @beccamascull @mountainleopardpress #molliewalton #historicalfiction #ironbridge

 

Ironbridge, 1911: Childhood sweethearts Jo and Alfie Woodvine couldn't be happier to finally be married with a home of their very own. But when their son, Harry, arrives, Jo finds herself quickly cut off from the world. Though she loves her baby, she hadn't anticipated the confines of motherhood - the long nights and the loneliness.

Only when she is introduced to a local group of bold suffragettes does Jo finally find her spark again - and with it a new sense of purpose. These brave, uncompromising women are willing to risk life and limb for the cause, and, despite her husband's reservations, Jo is determined to be a part of it however she can.

But 1914 brings news of war in Europe and as tragedy comes to Ironbridge, can Jo find the strength to keep helping others, even in the darkest hour of wartime?

Return to Shropshire for a spell-binding new WW1 saga novel, full of compelling historical detail and an addictive story of love, loss, heartbreak and bravery...

The Suffragette of Ironbridge by Mollie Walton was published on 9 April 2026 by Mountain Leopard Press. My thanks to the author who sent my copy for review. 

I have been reading Mollie Walton (aka Rebecca Mascull, and Harper Ford) for many years now. I've not read all of the Ironbridge series yet, but do intend to catch up with them all eventually. I really enjoy them, so much so that I actually visited Ironbridge, just after lockdown to see the place that the author so vividly describes. 

The Suffragette of Ironbridge is another wonderful addition to this much-loved series. 

Jo and Alfie Woodvine have been together since childhood, and their relationship feels so warm and natural. They are a couple that I have to root for, but life is never straightforward. Jo's struggles after the arrival of baby Harry are handled with such sensitivity. Her feelings of loneliness and isolation are easy to understand, and I found myself willing her to find something that belonged to her as well as to her family.

The story really becomes Jo's when she becomes involved with the local suffragette movement. I loved seeing her confidence grow as she discovers friendships with women who are passionate about making a difference. The suffragette storyline is fascinating and perfectly balanced throughout the story. It shines a light on an important period in history through the lives of ordinary women.

As the First World War begins to cast its shadow over Ironbridge, the whole mood shifts. The author captures both the uncertainty of the time and the incredible strength shown by those left at home. There are moments that are touching and emotional, but they never feel overwhelming because she makes sure that hope always shines through. It is this balance that makes the story such an absorbing read.

One of the real strengths of this series has always been its sense of place. Ironbridge is so vividly portrayed that it feels like another member of the cast. The bustling community, the familiar faces and the everyday details all combine to create a setting that is rich with atmosphere. The historical detail is woven beautifully into the story, yet the characters and their experiences do remain at the heart of everything.

Jo is a heroine who grows in confidence and determination, and I loved following every step of her journey. Alongside a wonderful supporting cast, she makes this a story that lingers.

Full of heart unforgettable characters, The Suffragette of Ironbridge is a beautifully written historical novel that completely drew me into its world. Mollie Walton continues to write historical fiction that entertains, informs and, above all, makes you care deeply about the people on the page. Fans of the series will adore this latest instalment, and anyone who loves character-led historical fiction is in for a real treat.

Mollie Walton is the saga pen-name for historical novelist Rebecca Mascull. 

She has always been fascinated by history and has worked in education, has a Masters in Writing and lives by the sea in the east of England. 

Under Mollie Walton, Rebecca is the author of The Ironbridge Saga and the Raven Hall trilogy.

The Colour of Home by Tammye Huf #thecolourofhome @tammyehuf @bantambooksuk @randomthingstours #bookreview

 

A compelling and moving historical love story exploring the untold impact of segregation during WW2, for fans of The Women by Kristen Hannah and The Tattooist of Auschwitz.

‘You want to risk everything – for a country that’s never cared if you live or die?’

1941: In a segregated Florida town, three young Black men enlist to fight for a freedom they’ve never known at home.

Before they leave, Cora marries in haste to secure her future – but her heart remains divided between the man she wed and the man she truly loves.

1945: As war finally ends, everything shifts. The boys Cora knew return as men she barely recognises, carrying scars no one can see – and truths that threaten to unravel everything Cora has fought to hold together.

Set against the backdrop of war where Black men and women weren’t allowed to be heroes, comes a powerful, deeply moving novel about love, sacrifice and the epic resilience of the human spirit.

The Colour of Home by Tammye Huf was published on 2 July 2026 by Bantam Books / Transworld. My thanks to the publisher who sent my copy to review as part of this #RandomThingsTours Virtual Book Tour 

One of my very best friends, and top class book recommender; Nina (from Prima) raved about this book months ago. She told me that I would love it, and that it would remind me a little of the late Vanessa Lafaye's writing (I loved Vanessa and still miss her).  I had high expectations, and they were certainly met, I adored this book. 

The Colour of Home has very quickly worked its way into my heart. It is so emotionally rich and filled with beautifully created characters, the story has lingered with me for weeks. 

Set in a segregated Florida community during and after the Second World War, the novel features a part of history that deserves far more attention. While many novels explore the war itself, Tammye Huf focuses on the lives of Black men and women whose courage and sacrifice were met with prejudice instead gratitude when they returned home. It is compelling and thought-provoking. 

Cora is a wonderful central character. Faced with impossible choices, she is determined, loyal and so easy to root for. Her relationships with those around her are woven with love, hope, heartbreak and uncertainty. The young men who leave to fight return changed by their experiences, and watching them navigate a world that still refuses to see them as equals is so moving and unforgettable.

The Florida setting is created so very well. From close-knit neighbourhoods where everyone knows one another to the harsh realities of segregation that cast a shadow over everyday life. The contrast between the warmth of family and community and the cruelty of the society surrounding them gives the novel a real emotional depth.

Alongside its powerful historical backdrop, this is also a beautifully told story of love, family, friendship and resilience. The romance touched my heart but is not overwhelming the wider story. Tammye Huf balances hope and heartbreak with real skill, and has created a novel that is both enlightening and engaging.

I found myself completely invested in these characters and desperately wanted the best for them. Their journeys are filled with courage, difficult decisions and acts of strength, making this an emotional and utterly absorbing read.

The Colour of Home is a moving and memorable historical novel that combines impeccable research with wonderful storytelling. It's a book that entertains whilst also making the reader think, introducing readers to an overlooked chapter of history through characters they will care about. I loved every page and would highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical fiction with heart, depth and unforgettable characters.

Originally from the US, Tammye has lived in the UK with her husband and three kids for the last twenty years. 

Since earning her BA from Wellesly College, she has worked as a teacher, copywriter and translator. 

Her debut novel, A More Perfect Union, was published in 2020 and won the Diverse Book Award; it was also listed for The Times and The Sunday Times' Best Historical Fiction Novel, and selected as a BBC Radio 2 Book Club pick.

The Catalyst by Andrea Goyan #VirtualBookTour @andreagoyan.bsky.social @rachelsrandomresources #bookextract

 

When human bodies are found with scales and tails, DNA specialist Kat Crocker is assigned to uncover the cause of the mutations and stop them before they spread. 

But her growing visibility makes her a target. 

As attacks escalate, the trail leads her to a newly released VR game powered by impossible genetics—and to one man: the mentor who taught her everything, the father she buried years ago.

The Catalyst by Andrea Goyan was published on 1 July 2026 and is the first book in the Kat Crocker series. As part of this Blog Tour hosted by Rachel's Random Resources, I am delighted to share an extract with you here today. 

Extract from The Catalyst by Andrea Goyan 

It wasn’t quite dusk, but the yard was lit up by Tiki torches and small, martini-shaped, multi-colored lights strung haphazardly around trees, chair legs, and bushes. I’d seen none of those decorative objects when I’d been there before and checked Blake’s containment system.

Holy hell. That was only yesterday. 

Time and space had run amok, and in the center of the patio, was a sight which confirmed things weren’t returning to normal anytime soon—or ever.

Mimi stood in a spotlight on the patio. Stood on hind legs. She held a microphone in her…hand and wore an appalling pink, haltered cocktail dress and lime-green stiletto heels. Tufts of fur peeked out of her dress where the beginnings of cleavage showed. An entirely disturbing spectacle.

She crooned along with a karaoke mixer, a contraption I’d only seen in period movies.  I wondered whether Blake found it at the same place where he’d purchased the gaudy statue of a hula dancer covered in Day-Glo plastic leas. 

“Aaaa!” Mimi held a long note.

I grimaced.

Blake lay on the ground watching Mimi. The music was loud, or they would have heard me approaching, especially with their sensitive canine ears.

Mimi squeezed the microphone with one hand and held a wine glass in front of her face with the other. Her voice rose in pitch and volume, which I figured coincided with the song’s climax. Maybe she hoped her voice would break the glass. Guess she didn’t realize doing so was a statistical anomaly. The sound was mournful, haunting, almost beautiful, and then, Mimi’s voice cracked. The tone morphed from soprano loveliness to a common canine howl. Blake lifted his head and cocked it. Mimi broke off, glaring at the glass in her hand. She opened her jaw and tried again. This time, she choked out something that sounded neither human nor canine. She looked at the wine goblet one more time before hurling it against the cement. It shattered, and shards of glass scattered. Blake leaped to his feet and Mimi stormed off.

“Pumpkin, it’s vocal strain, that’s all…you’ll be fine tomorrow! I’ll make you some tea!”

“Ah-hem,” I cleared my throat.

Blake whipped around, lips curled revealing pointed canine teeth. As soon as he recognized me, he morphed the snarl into a grin.

“Oh, hey, hey. Didn’t hear you come in…gave me a start…don’t sneak up on me like that.” He sniffed the air, eying me quizzically. 

“Did you just growl at me?”

“Well, hey…No! No, how silly, of course not.”

“Yes, you did. You growled at me. I could haul your ass in right now for threatening me.”

I played fast and loose with my abilities. My job description didn’t include arresting people, only citing them. And growling hardly constituted a real threat. But I’d play hardball and hope Blake’s good nature kept him from second-guessing me.

“But I—”

“Sit!” I pointed at the ground.

“What?”

“I said sit.”

Blake plunked his butt down, assuming the consummate, universal sitting dog position.

“That’s better,” I said.

I pulled the mixer’s plug, throwing the backyard into silence. Blake and I stared at each other. One of the tiki torches crackled. Brand-new tennis balls lay scattered about the patio. I picked one up, tossed it over my head, and caught it in my hand. Blake’s gaze followed the ball intently. 

“Now,” I said. “You and I need to have a little talk.” I tossed the ball again. Muscles in Blake’s body twitched. He wanted to lunge for the ball. “Stay.” I bounced the ball once against the cement and caught it again. “It’s difficult, isn’t it? Mastering the two parts of yourself. At least you can still manage. Not so lucky for the three dead people we’ve found so far.”

I held the ball over my shoulder so Blake would think I was about to throw it across the yard, but I never released it. Blake lifted his bottom off the ground. “Stay!” He sat back down on his heels. “That’s better, that’s a good Blake.”

Something moved behind me. I turned. Mimi stood by the back door. I tossed the ball toward her. It landed by her feet and came to a dead stop. Mimi squinted and peered at the ball before shifting her gaze to the seated, quivering Blake. She shook her head and went inside, closing the door behind her.

“Girlfriend won’t touch your balls,” I said.

“Why are you being so mean?”

“Because you’ve been holding out on me.” I clapped my hands together, and he winced. “Robert Taft, Blake. Where can I find Robert Taft?”

Blake averted his eyes and said, “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“Don’t make me call Animal Control because I’ll do it, and they’ll haul your asses right off to the local shelter.”

“You can’t scare me.”

I scoffed. “It’s not you I’m thinking about. They don’t allow high heels in the shelter, and they don’t let the animals wear clothing, much less cocktail wear. How’s Mimi looking naked these days?”

Blake’s jaw dropped. “I don’t… I’ve never…”

I shrugged. “Just saying.”

“All right, I know of a Robert Taft. He’s a designer. Done some great games.” Blake’s tail thumped twice. 

He still wasn’t telling me everything.

Andrea Goyan is an award-winning author and an avid animal person who grew up being
called Goat-Girl and Raccoon-Mama. 

She is a grateful part of a flock of collaborative Magpie Poets whose first collection, An Illegal Feast, was released in 2025. Andrea also co-hosts MetaStellar Magazine’s “Long-Lost Friends” and “Storytime.” 

In her spare time, she walks her dogs and loves to paint, especially animal portraits. 

Many of her stories are available for free on her website.

 

Website Andrea Goyan

Facebook Andrea Goyan Storyteller

 

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The Wrong Man by Chris McDonald #thewrongman @cmacwritescrime @harpernorthuk #bookreview #piethanadler #manchestercrime

 

A new PI. A dead rockstar. A tangled web of secrets.

When Ethan Adler set up his new PI agency in central Manchester, he wasn’t expecting his first case to be so high profile – investigating the mysterious death of rock star Dylan Vy.

Ethan has been avoiding the spotlight ever since his beloved wife Maggie’s untimely passing. His grief has been complicated by rumours that Maggie was pregnant with another man’s child at the time of her fatal accident. And because said accident took place just hours after Ethan won the lottery, a cloud of suspicion has followed Ethan ever since.

With the help of his assistant Amelia, Ethan throws himself into uncovering the truth about Dylan Vy. In a fast-escalating investigation, they uncover a labyrinth of secrets, lies and deadly connections between bandmates, girlfriends and a volatile manager. And when Dylan's unreleased music is leaked on the dark web, speculation swirls that the lyrics contain hidden clues that might lead to the killer. But who leaked these songs, and what is their secret motive? In the midst of a media frenzy and a storm of fan conspiracy theories, who can Ethan trust?

As Ethan digs deeper, he must also confront his own demons ― the lingering questions about Maggie’s death and the growing realisation that those closest to him may have played a role…

The Wrong Man by Chris McDonald was published by Harper North on 4 June 2026. My thanks to the author who sent my copy for review. I've now ordered a shiny new hardback copy from Bert's Books because I know, for sure, this series is going to become a favourite. 

I read this whilst on holiday and was transfixed throughout. What a fabulous way to start a new series. 

I first met Chris McDonald when he was a book blogger way back in 2019, I always admired his reviews and when he went on to get a publishing deal with (the much missed) Red Dog Books, I was there for those. My signed copies sit proudly on my shelf, and I now see that Harper North have repackaged and republished those.  As Chris Frost he has written his Christmas crime series, which I've enjoyed too and now we have PI Ethan Adler and his assistant Amelia - and what a fabulous duo they are. 

Ethan Adler is a fascinating leading man. A newly qualified private investigator, he's still carrying the weight of personal tragedy and the shadow of public suspicion following the death of his wife. His first case certainly isn't a gentle introduction to life as a PI; investigating the death of rock star Dylan Vy throws him straight into a world of celebrity, secrets, lies and endless speculation. As the investigation gathers pace, the tangled relationships between bandmates, former lovers, management and devoted fans really make this a deliciously compelling story that had me totally engrossed throughout. 

I adored this quirky, original and perfectly formed cast of characters.  Ethan is thoughtful and vulnerable and also really determined. Then there's Amelia, his assistant, who is an absolute delight. She brings such warmth and humour to every scene, and together they make a fabulous investigative duo. Their friendship develops so naturally, with plenty of really cracking exchanges, that make me chuckle and they seem really fond of each other.

Chris McDonald balances the darker themes beautifully with moments of warmth and gentle humour. Alongside the murder investigation he weaves in Ethan's own unresolved grief and the unanswered questions surrounding his wife Maggie's death, adding real emotional depth without ever slowing the pace. The Manchester setting feels so real and the backdrop of the music industry gives the story an extra sparkle and a wonderfully fresh feel.

The plotting is clever, confident and beautifully constructed, with twists arriving at exactly the right moment. Every time I thought I had worked things out, another surprise appeared around the corner. Best of all, nothing feels forced, or awkward and everything slots perfectly into place.

The Wrong Man is a fabulous start to what I am convinced is going to be a brilliant new series. Engaging characters, an irresistible mystery and great writing make this an absolute joy to read. I cannot wait to see where Ethan and Amelia take us next. Highly recommended. 

Chris McDonald grew up in Northern Ireland before settling in the appropriately named Marple. 

He is the author of several crime novels including the DI Erika Piper series; under the festive pen name Chris Frost, he has also written the Kindle Top 20 and Audible Top 10 bestseller The Killer’s Christmas List. 

He is a scriptwriter, husband, father to two beautiful girls and a regular voice on The Blood Brothers Podcast. 

He is a fan of 5-a-side football, heavy metal and dogs.

How To Survive in the Woods by Kat Rosenfield #howtosurviveinthewoods @katrosenfield @zaffrebooks @randomthingstours #bookreview

 

Emma Sharp knows the rules of survival. From being raised by a doomsday-fearing father and hardened by the startup world, she has learned how to endure - especially in her marriage to Logan Grant, a charismatic tyrant who keeps her under tight control. To Emma, her marriage is a cage: it keeps you in, but it also keeps you safe. Until it doesn't.

When Emma forms an unexpected bond with Logan's former girlfriend, the two women form a plan to help Emma reclaim her life. Destination: the punishing final stretch of the Appalachian Trail.

After all, bad things happen in the woods all the time.

As the three venture deeper into Maine's backcountry, desire and dread curdle into something unpredictable, dark and deadly. Someone is lying. Someone is watching. And in the remote heart of the forest, someone is about to be lost . . . or found.

How To Survive in the Woods by Kat Rosenfield was published in paperback on 25 June 2026 by Zaffre. My thanks to the publisher who sent my copy for review as part of this #RandomThingsTours Virtual Book Tour 

How To Survive in the Woods is set in the woods in Maine and it is a novel where  psychological suspense blends with a survival story.

Emma is a fascinating central character. Brought up by her survivalist father, she has spent her life coping with difficult situations. She is trapped in a controlling marriage to Logan, and has convinced herself that staying is her safest option. Unexpectedly, she makes friends with Logan's ex, Taylor and she then sees a possible escape. This takes them onto the remote Appalachian Trail, but once they venture into the wilderness, it quickly becomes clear that everyone is hiding something and trusting the wrong person could prove fatal.

The setting is definitely one of the book's greatest strengths for me. The isolation of the forest creates an eerie backdrop, and the author captures both the beauty and the menace brilliantly. 

Emma's past is revealed through flashbacks, this gradually builds up a  picture of the experiences that have shaped her character.  Whilst these chapters do add important layers to her story, I occasionally found the move between the past and present were a bit clunky. 

The characters themselves are complicated rather than particularly likeable. Their tangled relationships, different motivations and hidden agendas create tension throughout, and the uncertainty over who can be trusted keeps the suspense brewing. There are plenty of twists along the way, and although some required a little suspension of disbelief, the story never stood still.

This is a dark, unsettling thriller with moments that are surprisingly graphic. I found parts of the storytelling a little confusing but the fabulous setting and increasing tension kept me reading to the end. An entertaining wilderness thriller with plenty of secrets hidden among the trees.

Kat Rosenfield partnered with the late, great Stan Lee to co-author the NYT-bestselling A
Trick of Light, and also wrote two acclaimed YA titles– the Edgar-Nominated AMELIA ANNE IS DEAD AND GONE and INLAND. 

A former reporter for MTV news, her work as a pop culture and political writer has appeared in Wired, Vulture, Entertainment Weekly, Playboy, US Weekly, and TV Guide. 

She lives with her family in Connecticut.

Artificial Wisdom by Thomas R Weaver #ArtificialWisdom @tom_weaver @bantambooksuk @randomthingstours #speculativefiction #dystopia #bookreview

 

Who would you trust with the future?

The year is 2050. In the teeth of a climate catastrophe, the world is left with a drastic solution: one global leader to steer it through the coming apocalypse.

The final two candidates are ex-US President Lockwood, and Solomon, the world’s first political artificial intelligence.

As whispers of a global conspiracy emerge, investigative journalist Marcus Tully find himself at the centre of it – when Solomon’s creator turns up murdered.

Overnight, one investigation becomes two, and it’s not just the result of the election that’s at stake but the future of the species. Suddenly humanity must make an impossible choice – between salvation, or freedom.

Artifical Wisdom by Thomas R Weaver was published in paperback on 4 June by Penguin. My thanks to the publisher who sent my copy for review as part of this #RandomThingsTours Virtual Book Tour 

I am always attracted to speculative fiction, especially when it feels as though it could become reality far sooner than we'd like to imagine. Artificial Wisdom is a perfect fit for me.  It's intelligent, gripping and filled with issues that stayed with me long after I had turned the final page.

Set in 2050, the world is facing the full force of the climate crisis. Countries are struggling, millions of people have been displaced and humanity is desperate for a solution. In an extraordinary global election, the two final candidates are former US President Lockwood and Solomon, the world's first political artificial intelligence. It is an absolutely fascinating idea and one that frightens the life out of me to be honest ..... but then again, some of our current world leaders absolutely terrify me, so maybe that is a better option??? a

At the centre of the story is investigative journalist Marcus Tully. When the creator of Solomon is murdered, Marcus gets caught up in an investigation that becomes more complex and more dangerous. As he follows the evidence, he also discover secrets and this really turns up the tension. I really enjoyed the mix of mystery, political thriller and speculative fiction. 

I really loved the imagined future. The technology is inventive without ever feeling too ridiculous, compared to what we already have, while the impact of climate change is genuinely unsettling because so much of it feels possible. 

There are quite a few characters introduced early on, so I needed a little time to settle in with them all, but they each had their own distinct voice and purpose. I also liked that very few people were entirely good or entirely bad. Everyone seemed to be making difficult choices in impossible circumstances, which added plenty of depth to the story.

As someone who really enjoys speculative and dystopian fiction, this was exactly the sort of book I hoped it would be. It combines an engaging thriller with thought provoking questions about artificial intelligence, leadership, climate change and the choices we may one day have to face. There's also some emotional depth too, which I enjoyed. 

If you enjoy fiction that entertains while also giving you plenty to think about, then I would highly recommend Artificial Wisdom. It is an ambitious and compelling novel that feels remarkably relevant. Highly recommended 

Thomas R. Weaver writes stories about tomorrow to help make sense of today. A tech entrepreneur turned author, he holds a degree in Computer Science but never expected to actually use it in his career. After spending years exploring how technology could transform experiences in the places outside of the home and the office, he founded a tech startup in the restaurant hospitality space, which was later acquired by Just Eat Takeaway. Exiting in 2018–2019 left him with no more excuses not to pursue a long-held dream: writing fiction.

Despite vowing he had enough grey hair already and he’d never to run another startup, he continues to build a portfolio of interesting new ideas with his former cofounder, backed by a major Silicon Valley tech accelerator.

Outside of spending time with his family, he loves to cook, draw, paint and lose at online bullet chess. He loves a great movie or TV series, and collects more books than time allows to read.