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Mystery in the Metaverse

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Chief technical officer of Emergence A.I., Damien Zili has gone missing. He was last seen conducting a ceremony inside the metaverse. All that remains of him now is a trail of blood and intrigue throughout his all-glass mansion in the hills above Silicon Valley.

FBI Special Agent Asher Bloom arrives at the scene to find an elaborate puzzle sprawled throughout the bizarre mansion and inside a futuristic reality simulator, accessible by Damien’s high-tech VR room known as the “Metaverse Theater.” While Agent Bloom investigates these ominous surroundings he discovers someone is targeting a “cult” nearing their goal of creating the world’s first sentient “A.I. God.” Jumping in and out of many worlds, real and imaginary, Agent Bloom is thrust into a high stakes game to save humanity.

297 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 11, 2023

7 people are currently reading
6 people want to read

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Nick Airus

8 books1 follower

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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
Profile Image for Lady Clementina ffinch-ffarowmore.
943 reviews244 followers
September 14, 2024
I received a review copy of this book from the author via Booktasters for which my thanks.

Set in the not-too-distant future, Nick Airus’ Mystery in the Metaverse (2023) unfolds in a world where like the present, the real and virtual exist parallelly, except that the virtual by this point is far more developed with a bustling life, thriving economy and fantastical spaces coexisting on the same plane with ‘real’ (real here referring those mirroring the current-day world) ones. In this world, our story opens with a mysterious ceremony underway, interrupted by a masked Samurai bent on destroying its participants. When one participant exits the metaverse to escape his assailant, he is shocked to find his pursuer has ‘followed’ him into the real world! How could that be?

An FBI team led by top investigator, Asher Bloom arrives in the Silicon Valley and the marvellous residence of tech-billionaire Damien Zili, made entirely of glass. Zili has been attacked and has vanished—kidnapped or perhaps killed. As Bloom and his team begin to investigate the home’s many occupants, Zili’s staff—both human and mechanoid—he finds not only that the case relates to the metaverse and a cult but also that several of his clues might actually lie in the metaverse. Tracking down the identity of the virtual samurai, Bloom is challenged to a high-stakes game of Hangman, where clues are hidden across the metaverse and failure to win will unleash destruction. Now Bloom must carry on his real-world investigation to find what became of Zili while alongside travelling through various destinations in the Metaverse to unveil clues and get to the bottom of the puzzle—all against a ticking clock.

Mystery in the Metaverse is a creative and absorbing read with plenty of action. The world that the author creates here (and as he explains in a one-para note at the start) isn’t all that far from our present-day world with the technologies already in development. So while the real world is not too different from ours, the virtual one is much changed with real-world parallels—hotels, businesses, even the military—occupying space and functioning alongside purely fantastical worlds—gamers’ paradises, each operating with their rules and currencies. On the one side, the metaverse is a wondrous space where one can travel back and forth in time, ‘live’ or spend time in fantastical places, carry out real-world activities and even regenerate when one ‘dies’ (well, when one’s avatar can, provided of course one has the resources), on the other are also the dangers, not only ones faced within these worlds but from the potentials of these technologies. And this is where things become unsettling, because unlike science fiction which is indeed prophetic but is often a lens into some time into the future, what the author deals with here can become real far too soon. And there are some very scary possibilities here!

Interestingly in exploring themes of real and virtual and the potentials and perils of AI (particularly in how things pan out at the end), the book also throws up points that mirror questions one considers when thinking in terms of the nature of human and divine, things within and beyond our comprehension.

The mystery element was engaging and kept me reading and I especially enjoyed how things play out side-by-side in real and virtual spaces, both equally compelling. The various worlds (many of them gaming spaces) that Bloom must visit to retrieve his clues are fun to explore (for us readers) but also dangerous (for Bloom)—Plato and dragons to ancient Egypt among them. The author also brings in some thinly disguised real-life figures—well, one at least.

While I didn’t manage to work out the entire answer to the mystery, especially which of the suspects might have actually been involved and to what extent (and enjoyed the reveal in this respect), the hangman puzzle segment was slightly disappointing. After one particular letter was revealed I could clearly see the answer and thought Bloom would too, but it took him much too long to work it out. Also, with Bloom supposed to be a top investigator, he seems also to do things contrary to what one would expect in that position like wanting to detain a suspect on as flimsy grounds as he has just a few pages previously told off his teammate for doing. The author also weaves in traces of a romance thread which I felt was not at all necessary to the story.

But these minor complaints aside, I thought this was a very enjoyable read, both in its plot as well as in bringing up issues in the context of AI and its potential that we could be facing very soon!
6 reviews2 followers
August 10, 2023
The brilliance of Nick Airus's latest work lies in its perfect balance, a fulcrum positioned delicately between contemporary relevance and unending entertainment. Readers will encounter familiar faces—some almost mirror reflections of personalities like Elon Musk—and scenarios plucked from our present reality, then meticulously stitched into the narrative's fabric.

Airus's artful storytelling teases out possibilities that are both thrilling and terrifying, slowly unraveling the classic mystery plot. What sets this work apart is the way it transforms from a mere novel into a probing exploration of "what if" scenarios. The themes that pervade the narrative—the future of Artificial Intelligence, the burgeoning landscape of the metaverse, and the potential consequences of disruptive technologies—are handled with such finesse that they resonate deeply with our current preoccupations.

As a reader with an interest in understanding the complex interplay between cryptocurrency and virtual reality, I found myself captivated by the vivid and promising visions of the so-called "metaverse." Rarely has any work offered such an unexpected yet uncannily plausible outlook on the future—a future that seems both promised and shaped by visionaries like Mark Zuckerberg.

I found myself deeply identifying with the protagonist. Detective Asher Bloom is an everyman whose relatable inner monologue and oftentimes snappy irreverence kept me feeling like I was him - this gumshoe detective thrust into the extraordinary circumstance.

Airus's pacing is impeccable, calibrated for those who crave high-speed, high-intensity narratives. The twists and turns, crafted with precision, guide the reader's breath, holding it hostage until the story's conclusion. The final twist is perhaps the most intellectually stimulating, an enigma best left unspoiled here.

In sum, Nick Airus has crafted a masterpiece that transcends genre boundaries. Whether your passion lies in detective mystery novels, realistic and edgy science fiction, or an amalgamation of both, this work is a compelling invitation to explore a table richly laden with innovation and insight. Trust in the journey Airus offers; it's one filled with surprises and profound reflections on a world both familiar and unknown.
Profile Image for Pratip Vijayakumar.
131 reviews10 followers
March 1, 2024
***Note:* I received a free copy of this e-book through [Booktasters](https://twitter.com/BookTasters) in return for an honest review.**

Damien Zilli, CTO of Energence AI is missing. Asher Bloom an FBI agent arrives at Silicon Valley’s most intriguing Bungalow to investigate this Puzzle. What he uncovers is one of the most mysterious and powerful hackers the world has witnessed and on the other hand, someone is targeting a Cult that is in the process of creating a first Sentient A.I. God. Did Asher Bloom solve the puzzle or did he get caught into the mystery himself? You’ll have to read this [book](https://amzn.to/3SS94Yo) to know more.

***Author:** Nick Airus
**Language:** English
**No. of Pages:** 296
**Format:** eBook
**Genre:** Sci-Fi, Whodunit*

What I loved the most about this book is that the Author takes real-world Technologies/Companies and weaves a very interesting Sci-fi Thriller. You’re on the edge of your seat trying to understand everything that’s happening and there is also a danger with this book. If this book gets into the hands of Conspiracy theorists they’ll have a field day with it.

The novel delves deeper into some of the emerging technologies right now amongst us and also some of the Technologies that are in the R&D stage from the Big Tech giants. For someone who started staying away from emerging Technologies gave me a sense of threat at what these organizations can do or the Individuals and techno elites can exploit the knowledge and the powers vested in them. All I’m hoping is that the things happening in the book shouldn’t come true.

I would call this book a Philosophical Twin of “Ready Player One”, even though I haven’t read the book, I have watched the movie, and some of the things from the book reminded me of this movie. Unfortunately, I can’t reveal anything more than this since it will become a spoiler and might hinder your reading experience.

One thing, I would say is, please go grab “[Mystery in the Metaverse](https://amzn.to/3SS94Yo)” and get indulged into the world of Technology, AI, and mystery. I’m really curious to read other works of Nick Airus. If, I do read his other books, I’ll write a detailed review of them as well.

Happy Reading 😎
Profile Image for Prashanth Bhat.
2,162 reviews140 followers
December 31, 2023
One chief technical officer is missing. He left a trail of blood. In.this metaverse thriller an FBI officer is in.search of a missing officer .he finds a VR of metaverse in the home of missing officer. But the input is puzzling.

Firstly, science fiction with an investigation angle is interesting
Telling that with a catchy story is captivating

I liked the book
Initially it was confusing but it progressed It got me hooked .
227 reviews17 followers
February 18, 2024
Nick Airus explores the good and bad of AI and the Metaverse with his thought provoking and harrowing Science Fiction/ Mystery, Mystery in the Metaverse.

Damien Zill, Chief Technical Officer of Emergence AI and member of a secret group known as Obsidian Goal, has been attacked and is reported missing from his home. Detective Asher Bloom and Evidence Response Team Leader, Jade Heart investigate the disappearance. Witnesses said that Zill spent a lot of time in his Metaverse theater and books and notes left in Zill’s home describe a singularity and a cult. To find out what all of this means, Bloom has to travel inside the AI Metaverse to find clues towards Zill’s disappearance and other murders and death threats that pile up. To solve this mystery, Bloom must play the sadistic games of the enigmatic avatar known only as Ninjagod1138, who knows more than they are letting on.

This book has many highlights but the greatest among them is the Metaverse setting itself. When Bloom enters the virtual world, it is almost as real as the physical one. However, it is populated with various settings and characters that seem just a little bit off in that uncanny valley way where the virtual world seems real but not quite. It adds to the tension and blurred lines between AI and human, imagination and reality making them even more faint the longer that Bloom and others stay in this VR world.

The best parts of the book are the trips into the Metaverse. Bloom is like a stranger in a strange land, in awe and amazement but wary about the dangers around him. The Metaverse manages to activate all senses and provides the visitor with knowledge to interact with other avatars.
When arriving in Meta City, Bloom sees a city with shiny skyscrapers and avatars of all kinds from humans, to animals, to superheroes, walking around. It's like everyone's fantasy brought to life but it has a dark side. He also visits various other locations such as an ancient Greek civilization, under water, and a desert.
It would be fascinating to visually imagine the transition as pixels and binary numbers transform into a setting that is technically animated, but appears more real than reality itself.
That dark side is seen when characters get hurt in the simulation world and still suffer the pain in the real world suggesting yes, if they die in the Metaverse, they die in real life too. It is a fascinating ever changing AI world and visiting it only covers a third of what this technology can do. That is a fascinating and terrifying thought and Mystery in the Metaverse covers those alternating schools of thought towards AI.

The investigation is intricate and detailed as well. Ninjagod1138 provides clues and games for Bloom and his colleagues to follow to find each hint and solve the case. One of the creepier aspects occurs when Bloom and his colleagues are forced to play Hangman to find a vital clue. Ninjagod 1138 is a sadistic genius who enjoys forcing the other characters to play off their sick and disturbing mind games.

The investigation also reveals much of the suspects’ motives on how they tried to put AI in its place but ended up becoming more servile than ever to the invention that humans created.
Robotics CEO, Eon Tarik (I thought ELONg and hard over who was Tarik’s inspiration but the results seem rather MUSKy) reveals some key information about the plans that he and his colleagues are working towards. It becomes clear that their plans are about to change but not by their own intended will. Instead, they have to bear the responsibility for what they made and what will result from it. What is particularly frightening is that they do so without any remorse. No “what have I done” cries of anguish No, “I have become Death, Destroyer of Worlds” moments of self-realization. They not only acknowledge and own up to it, but welcome the destruction and change their AI baby will bring about. It says something that the human characters like the tech gurus and possibly those behind the avatars like Ninjagod 1138 are more terrifying and inhuman than the AI that strives to conquer through subjugation and assimilation.

The Metaverse takes an even wider perspective especially towards the end where a transformation occurs that goes beyond known technological capabilities. After a while, I nearly forgot what book that I was reading as it turned from Science Fiction/Mystery into something else. The tone is changed by the end and the world goes through an evolution but it remains to be seen whether it's for the better or worse.






This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
7 reviews2 followers
August 8, 2023
In a world where technology and imagination intertwine, Nick Airus takes readers on an interesting journey through his latest novel, "Mystery in the Metaverse." Blending elements of science fiction, mystery, and virtual reality, the author crafts a narrative that challenges our perception of reality and engages the mind in unexpected ways.

Set in a near-future where the lines between the physical world and the digital realm are blurred, the story follows Special Agent Asher Bloom and his junior, Jade Heart as they solve a cryptic puzzle hidden within a hi-tech VR simulator called Metaverse Theater. As the clues unfold and the stakes rise, both Asher and Jade find themselves entangled in a web of intrigue that not only tests their ability but also raises questions about the existence of humanity. Zilli's tech savviness has come across very vividly; so is the intentions of the AI God.

One of the book's standout strengths is its vivid portrayal of the metaverse. Airus crafts a digital landscape that is both inspiring and eerily plausible. From bustling virtual cities to serene landscapes, the metaverse feels tangible and immersive, pulling readers into its enchanting fantasy. The author's meticulous attention to detail adds depth to this imagined world, painting a vivid picture that's easy to get lost in.

The pacing of "Mystery in the Metaverse" is generally well-executed, keeping readers engaged as they try to unravel the intricate riddles along with the characters. The sense of urgency is palpable, driving the story forward and encouraging readers to piece together clues just as the characters do. The blending of traditional mystery elements with the innovative backdrop of the metaverse adds a unique flavour to the plot, making it a unique read.

However, the book does have its moments of pacing inconsistency. At times, the plot might feel slightly rushed, with certain developments occurring too quickly, potentially leaving readers wishing for more gradual exploration. Occasionally, readers might feel the urge to question the advancement of technology and its adverse possibilities in one's life. Additionally, while the characters are relatable and well-rounded, a deeper exploration of their motivations and backstories could have added extra layers of depth to the narrative and emotions.

A major highlight of "Mystery in the Metaverse" is its exploration of philosophical themes. As the story delves into questions about reality, identity, and the power of human connection in a digital world, readers are invited to contemplate the boundaries of existence and the potential consequences of merging our lives with technology. The author also has the ability to traverse between real and virtual worlds and yet enabling readers to visualize the storyline. Personally, that's a plus for me.

In conclusion, "Mystery in the Metaverse" by Nick Airus offers a blend of mystery and science fiction that pushes the boundaries of imagination. With its immersive metaverse, intricate puzzles, and thought-provoking themes, the novel successfully engages its readers and invites them to reflect on the intricate interplay between humanity and technology. While a few pacing issues and character depth concerns slightly hinder the overall experience, the book remains a commendable addition to the genre and a promising achievement by the author.
Profile Image for Swapna Peri ( Book Reviews Cafe ).
2,221 reviews80 followers
January 9, 2024
The Disappearance of Damien Zili: A Cryptic Beginning
In the opening act of "Mystery in the Metaverse," the chief technical officer of Emergence A.I., Damien Zili, vanishes mysteriously after a ceremony inside the metaverse. FBI Special Agent Asher Bloom steps onto the stage to investigate, finding a trail of blood and intrigue throughout Zili's glass mansion above Silicon Valley. As he navigates the labyrinthine puzzles within the futuristic reality simulator, known as the "Metaverse Theater," Agent Bloom stumbles upon a sinister plot targeting a "cult" striving to birth the world's first sentient "A.I. God." The stakes are high, plunging Agent Bloom into a captivating game to save humanity.

Blurring Realities: A Near-Future Exploration
Author Nick Airus seamlessly blends science fiction, mystery, and virtual reality in "Mystery in the Metaverse." Set in a near-future where the physical and digital worlds intertwine, the story follows Agent Bloom and his junior, Jade Heart, as they unravel a cryptic puzzle within the high-tech VR simulator, Metaverse Theater. The narrative explores the implications of technology on humanity, showcasing Zili's tech-savviness and the ambitious pursuit of the A.I. God. The lines between reality and imagination blur, creating a unique and thought-provoking reading experience.

Metaverse as a Vivid Landscape: Strengths and Pacing
A standout feature of the book lies in Airus's vivid portrayal of the metaverse. The digital landscape, from bustling virtual cities to serene landscapes, feels tangible and immersive. The meticulous attention to detail adds depth, making it easy for readers to get lost in this enchanting fantasy. While the pacing is generally well-executed, occasional rushes in the plot may leave readers yearning for a more gradual exploration. The characters, though relatable, could benefit from deeper motivations and backstories to enhance the narrative's emotional depth.

Philosophical Reflections: Engaging the Mind
On the whole, "Mystery in the Metaverse" invites readers to explore philosophical themes surrounding reality, identity, and the impact of technology on human connection. The narrative seamlessly traverses between real and virtual worlds, enabling readers to visualize the storyline. Despite minor pacing issues and character depth concerns, the book stands as a commendable addition to the genre. Airus's exploration of the intricate interplay between humanity and technology offers a compelling and promising achievement for both seasoned and curious readers.
9 reviews1 follower
August 10, 2023
A Hidden Gem in Literary Exploration - A Review of "Mystery in the Metaverse" by Nick Airus

Rating: ★★★★★

Every so often, one stumbles upon an author writing in relative obscurity, and there is a tingling sense that you've unearthed something extraordinary. That feeling of discovering the next bright spot in literature is exactly what I experienced with "Mystery in the Metaverse" by Nick Airus.

Airus is a rare talent, an author with a flair for entertainment and an insatiably deep intellect that probes subjects without the reader really noticing how much depth has been covered because the story is simply engaging and fun as can be. His writing style seems to gamify the process of sharing his fascinating mind with the world, packaging it in an entertaining, witty, and accessible manner that just might keep the modern, gadget-obsessed population engaged with the age-old art of novel reading.

Every so often you read a book that you realize is both a work of profound genius with unique and special intellectual nuance as well as keeping it on a level that works as a fun mystery thriller. The blend of cozy mystery novel ambiance and probing intellectual exploration is where Airus truly shines. His writing sustains the reader with an eerie charm, simultaneously challenging and comforting. It's as if he has transformed a book about technology into the next must-have gadget, making us rethink our current reality and perceive it in a fresh and exciting way.

Airus's ability to address deep questions while maintaining a sense of playfulness and intrigue sets him apart from many contemporary authors. His voice is distinctive and captivating, a blend of sophistication and genuine curiosity. Whether exploring the complexities of the metaverse or unraveling the subtle undercurrents of human relationships, he does so with a finesse that keeps the reader enthralled.

In conclusion, Nick Airus's "Mystery in the Metaverse" is more than a novel; it's an exploration, a game, a reflection on our world, and a glimpse into the mind of a truly gifted writer. Airus has that indefinable quality that elevates writing from mere words on a page to an immersive experience. He is a hidden gem in the literary landscape, and "Mystery in the Metaverse" is a delightful discovery that leaves you feeling both charmed and intellectually enriched. Whatever that unique gift is that makes a novel resonate deeply and linger long after reading, Nick Airus undeniably has it.
Profile Image for Nohemibook.
483 reviews27 followers
January 9, 2024
Esta es la historia del agente del FBI Asher Bloom quien es llamado a un caso donde el multimillonario Damien Zili ha desaparecido y una Inteligencia Artificial se ha desarrollado tanto que ha sobrepasado la inteligencia humana y ahora es un peligro donde el agente deberá usar la realidad virtual para resolver un caso donde podría peligrar la humanidad.

El autor crea una historia muy interesante donde explora una de las ideas que más intriga a las personas y es que pasaría si la inteligencia artificial supera en algún punto a la humanidad y se convierte en un peligro para esta, logrando crear en este libro una intriga que mantiene al lector bastante enganchado, la narración aunque las primeras hojas parecía un poco lenta pronto se vuelve bastante fluida hasta el final.

Los personajes son complejos, reales y puedes sentirte de algún modo identificado con ellos, si bien aveces se siente que va un poco rápido en general es una combinación de thriller y ciencia ficción perfecto sobre todo para quienes disfrutan de teorías de conspiración y misterios donde puedes descubrir pistas junto a los protagonistas.

Agradezco mucho al autor y a Booktasters por el envío del libro digital para esta colaboración lo disfrute mucho.

-----------------------------------------

This is the story of FBI agent Asher Bloom who is called to a case where billionaire Damien Zili has disappeared and an Artificial Intelligence has developed so much that it has surpassed human intelligence and is now a danger where the agent must use virtual reality to solve a case where humanity could be endangered.

The author creates a very interesting story where he explores one of the ideas that most intrigues people and that is what would happen if artificial intelligence surpasses humanity at some point and becomes a danger to it, managing to create an intrigue in this book. which keeps the reader quite hooked, the narrative, although the first pages seemed a little slow, soon becomes quite fluid until the end.

The characters are complex, real and you can feel in some way identified with them, although sometimes it feels like it goes a little fast, in general it is a combination of thriller and science fiction, perfect especially for those who enjoy conspiracy theories and mysteries where you can Discover clues with the protagonists.

I am very grateful to the author and Booktasters for sending the digital book for this collaboration, I really enjoyed it.
437 reviews17 followers
July 10, 2023
Begin with a premise such as - there is an Artificial Intelligence (AI), a sort of new god that is vastly superior in intelligence to any human, and is bent on murdering all humans unless a God Code can be properly addressed to temper its ambitions. Given this premise, two realities emerge. The first is, there are actually people who see things in these terms, folks who are genuinely fascinated in examining the potential limits, if any, of AI. I daily become more convinced that, regardless of the field of endeavor or research, if one looks, he can find aficionados in the language, the details, and the potential of that field, whether it be growing a new form of beet, defining a new form of statistical analysis for baseball, refining a method by which GPS operates, or objectively evaluating the menus of various restaurants. Select a field, someone will become fascinated with it, and among those fields is, as is the case with Mystery of the Metaverse, guessing or predicting the farthest reaches of artificial intelligence. The second emerging reality to looking at the potential limits of artificial intelligence is that, to an author of this subject, there are no holds barred. An author of an AI book can introduce Bored Apes, time travel to the age of Plato, Descartes or even dinosaurs, a game of metaverse hangman, a God Code, a new cryptocurrency, and the reader is expected to simply take it all in stride.

OK, now we've established the proper mindset for the book. In it, Damien Zili, billionaire lover of the metaverse, has gone missing and what remains of him is a blood trail. FBI agent Asher Bloom is summoned, along with his Evidence Response Team, headed by Jade Heart. A virtual game of Clue emerges. Whodunit? Was it potential love interest Ms. Frock, personal trainer Derek Scott, family member? Xander Furan, or possibly CEO Eon Tarik? Has Zili in fact disappeared, or was he killed? How does Dr. Shaw factor in, how does this all relate to DIOS, and is there a single member of this cast who isn't wisecracking and who has actual respect for an FBI investigator?

If you elect to read this book, strap yourself in and brace for extending the limits of your imagination.
Profile Image for Kathleen Van Lierop.
271 reviews20 followers
October 14, 2023
Mystery at the Metaverse is a gripping thriller novel by Nick Airus
that explores the dark side of the metaverse, a virtual world where
anything is possible.

Airus does a masterful job of creating a believable and immersive
metaverse world. The novel is full of vivid descriptions of the metaverse's
landscapes, characters, and technologies. Airus also explores the ethical
and social implications of the metaverse in a thoughtful way.

The mystery itself is well-crafted and suspenseful. Airus keeps the reader
guessing until the very end. The characters are also well-developed and relatable.

Overall, Mystery at the Metaverse is a highly recommended read for fans of
thrillers, science fiction, and the metaverse. It's a fast-paced and suspenseful
novel that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Here are some of the things I liked about the novel:

* The metaverse world is well-created and believable.
* The mystery is well-crafted and suspenseful.
* The characters are well-developed and relatable.
* The novel explores the ethical and social implications of the
metaverse in a thoughtful way.


I would recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys thrillers, science
fiction, or the metaverse. Therefore I give without any doubts a 5 star rating.
Profile Image for Scott, aka Elitelixir.
18 reviews
Read
December 6, 2023
Mystery in the Metaverse: A Dazzling Fusion of Reality and Fiction

Mystery in the Metaverse by Nick Airus is a gripping work of fiction that masterfully blends elements of the real and virtual worlds. Set in the near future, Airus skilfully incorporates current developments in the metaverse, including emerging technologies, cryptocurrencies, play-to-earn games, and NFTs, lending the narrative an air of exciting plausibility.

The story commences with a mysterious ceremony in a Temple Room, where cloaked figures gather around an obsidian obelisk, creating an atmosphere of intrigue and suspense from the get-go​​. The plot then swiftly moves to a thrilling helicopter ride over San Francisco, leading the protagonist towards an enigmatic mission in Silicon Valley. This vivid description of the journey captures the reader’s imagination, setting the stage for a story that skillfully intertwines the complexities of the digital world with the physical realm​​.

With its richly detailed settings and a plot that weaves together elements of mystery, technology, and adventure, Mystery in the Metaverse promises to be an exhilarating read for those intrigued by the blending of the real and virtual worlds. Airus' novel is perfect for readers who enjoy a futuristic twist on the classic mystery genre, offering an immersive journey into the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Profile Image for Maria Rivas-mc.
267 reviews8 followers
January 1, 2024
Genre: sci fi/fantasy
The author creates a world where the lines between AI and human are blurred. Into this world comes a gumshoe homicide detective (right down to spitting out his gum) who needs his non existent gaming skills to both solve the possible murder, and survive.

It’s an interesting pretext with some allegorical thinking going on. I felt the writing style was more suited to a YA target while gamers especially should enjoy the series of tests to which he’s subjected (something like the 12 Labours of Hercules).

If you’re into conspiracy theories, particularly re AI, the subject matter would grab you.
Profile Image for Sean.
46 reviews5 followers
October 9, 2024
Mystery in the Metaverse by Nick Airus was an excellent read! I really enjoyed this story which brilliantly tied together the current themes of AI, cryptocurrencies, and the metaverse into a compelling an interesting story. I especially liked the way the author gave one of the main characters a similar name to a popular and notorious tech icon that has been in the news quite frequently these days. The story creates a fictional account in the future using the very issues that are being discussed today in terms of artificial intelligence and the danger it could poise for humanity and the world today. If you like SCI-FI and mysteries, this is definitely a book you should read!
Profile Image for Kelly.
2,488 reviews118 followers
July 10, 2023
I thought this was a very interesting book. I loved its uniqueness - it seemed unlike anything I've read before.

It fits into the sci-fi genre, but the mystery element was very present too. I found parts of the story suspenseful and satisfyingly eerie.

I found the Metaverse Hangman interesting, and also the concept of AI God's too. It seemed to me that this book wasn't set in our world as we know in, but in another world, that was somehow believable.

I would recommend this to fans of sci-fi, and also to fans of mystery.
Profile Image for Ladii Pazzion.
13 reviews3 followers
February 1, 2024
The intensity of the opening scene of this book, sets the tone of the mystery of the metaverse and the differentiation between reality and fantasy. The entitlement of AI makes me second guess the endless possibilities of similar scenario that can happen in real life. The author taking the reader on a suspense game of "who did it and why?", allowing the reader to get a the perspective of being a detective battling between 2 systems. Stranger than fiction or is this book is a introduction to the future reality? Hypothetically reading, of course.
Profile Image for Carolyn.
63 reviews2 followers
April 8, 2025
Any sort of mystery novel has always been my choice in reading and this book isn’t an exception. I found it to be a cross between a mystery and a science fiction novel—a slightly different take on many that I normally read. In addition, I find that it was a bit enlightening towards the end of the book.
1 review
August 11, 2023
I was so thrilled to start reading this book! Nick Airus is one of my favorite authors and just diving into it and I can tell it’s an absolute masterpiece. Highly recommended
Profile Image for Angelika Silva.
820 reviews
November 30, 2023
The “amazing” lead detective was horny and annoying and the billionaires run the show. The only neat part was the Metaverse.
Profile Image for Yvette.
141 reviews
February 1, 2024
I liked this book very much. It was all over the place when you talk about fiction. Trail of blood was all to lead you to search for ....... good book. It's like Roblox gone wild.
Profile Image for Asif Imtiaz.
22 reviews1 follower
October 9, 2023
Nick Aurus's "Mystery in the Metaverse" is a thrilling rollercoaster. His fluent writing style immerses you in a virtual world which is very close to reality. Detective fans will love the cryptic clues and mind-bending puzzles. I can't wait for Aurus's next masterpiece.
Profile Image for Lizz Taylor.
1,430 reviews16 followers
September 21, 2023
This intense and gripping thriller was a page turner that made me wonder if I should turn off my smartphone, smartwatch and other such devices. The story was compelling and thought provoking. I tend to read lighter fare but after so much discussion about AI and all the issues it can cause I really wanted to read this book. I did make the mistake of reading it while on vacation and after one scene involving a plane, I think I will be a little more on edge than usual until the wheels hit the ground! Overall I enjoyed this book and think it would make an excellent miniseries and/or graphic novel.
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