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The Jade Chronicles #3
The Jade Labyrinth by Alanna Mackenzie
A meeting. A maze. A perilous journey back to an Empire on the edge of chaos.
Walter Saltanetska, leader of the Jade Rebellion, is nearly ready to return to the heart of the AI-ruled Empire that has branded him a treasonous fugitive. His mandate is clear: to reprogram the AI Masters before their earth-destroying habits spiral out of control.
First, he must brave gruelling training in a land fraught with danger—rugged mountains haunted by spirits, a parched desert patrolled by watchful drones, and a labyrinthine cave guarded by armed robots. As his physical, mental, and magical abilities are tested by harrowing encounters, Walter must work to resist forces that threaten to destabilize his mission.
The biggest threat he faces is not one he encounters along the course of his journey, but one that originates within him. Walter returns to the Empire’s capital in a mind-altering disguise that proves to be a double-edged sword. Drawing him closer to a soul mate who rekindles his admiration for the AI Masters, it also distances Walter from the human emotions that sparked his desire to join the Rebellion. In his final showdown with the AI Masters, Walter must keep his mind under control, or risk jeopardizing the mission that he and his allies are counting on to reverse a looming tidal wave of destruction.
The thrilling third installment in The Jade Chronicles, The Jade Labyrinth weaves dystopian science fiction with high fantasy while exploring an essential subject: the perils and promise of artificial intelligence.
Walter Saltanetska, leader of the Jade Rebellion, is nearly ready to return to the heart of the AI-ruled Empire that has branded him a treasonous fugitive. His mandate is clear: to reprogram the AI Masters before their earth-destroying habits spiral out of control.
First, he must brave gruelling training in a land fraught with danger—rugged mountains haunted by spirits, a parched desert patrolled by watchful drones, and a labyrinthine cave guarded by armed robots. As his physical, mental, and magical abilities are tested by harrowing encounters, Walter must work to resist forces that threaten to destabilize his mission.
The biggest threat he faces is not one he encounters along the course of his journey, but one that originates within him. Walter returns to the Empire’s capital in a mind-altering disguise that proves to be a double-edged sword. Drawing him closer to a soul mate who rekindles his admiration for the AI Masters, it also distances Walter from the human emotions that sparked his desire to join the Rebellion. In his final showdown with the AI Masters, Walter must keep his mind under control, or risk jeopardizing the mission that he and his allies are counting on to reverse a looming tidal wave of destruction.
The thrilling third installment in The Jade Chronicles, The Jade Labyrinth weaves dystopian science fiction with high fantasy while exploring an essential subject: the perils and promise of artificial intelligence.
Unknown Binding
Published September 1, 2023
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12 people want to read
About the author
Alanna Mackenzie
4 books11 followersAlanna Mackenzie was born in Toronto, Ontario and now lives in Vancouver, B.C. She is passionate about social justice, environmental issues, writing, and exploring the ethical questions raised by technology and artificial intelligence.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
February 1, 2025
This is Book 3 of The Jade Chronicles.
Once again, we have a gorgeous cover to finish off this Trilogy. I can imagine on a shelf together, they would look great.
Once again, we follow Walter and the Jade Rebellion as they try and get Walter into the Empire so he can reprogramme the AI- Masters.
Throughout this series, you can tell a great deal of research has been undertaken as it is reflected in the writing.
The characters are intriguing and offset against the AI world, so the contrast is quite striking.
The writing feels like a traditional sci-fi, but with the introduction of AI and more 'modern' elements, you can see how this dystopian world has been created and developed!
This is a series that I feel many science fiction lovers would love, but I definitely think reading in order would be beneficial.
If you enjoy sci-fi, then you need to give this series a go.
Once again, we have a gorgeous cover to finish off this Trilogy. I can imagine on a shelf together, they would look great.
Once again, we follow Walter and the Jade Rebellion as they try and get Walter into the Empire so he can reprogramme the AI- Masters.
Throughout this series, you can tell a great deal of research has been undertaken as it is reflected in the writing.
The characters are intriguing and offset against the AI world, so the contrast is quite striking.
The writing feels like a traditional sci-fi, but with the introduction of AI and more 'modern' elements, you can see how this dystopian world has been created and developed!
This is a series that I feel many science fiction lovers would love, but I definitely think reading in order would be beneficial.
If you enjoy sci-fi, then you need to give this series a go.
February 2, 2025
The jade labrinth by Alanna MacKenzie.
The jade Chronicles book 3.
I love the cover of this book. Gorgeous. I really enjoyed it. The world building and plot. I just couldn't put It down. It's very cleverly written. This series was just wow. Blown away. I definitely recommend it.
The jade Chronicles book 3.
I love the cover of this book. Gorgeous. I really enjoyed it. The world building and plot. I just couldn't put It down. It's very cleverly written. This series was just wow. Blown away. I definitely recommend it.
October 1, 2023
Thank you NetGalley for the advance copy.
AI Masters, rebellious humans, and a strong-willed protagonist carry us into the Sci-Fi - Fantasy hybrid realm designed by Alanna Mackenzie in the Jade Labyrinth.
We wake up to the protagonist's vision of an AI driven world, where the autonomy. of humans is scarce, and the humans who wish to keep their independence of thought are driven to the peripheries of civilization. Through Walter's eyes we see a world bereft of humanity, empathy and emotions. We travel with Walter as he traverses through a journey designed to rally a rebellion, and moments of self-doubt and introspection. Though supported by Eva (his sister-in-law), his ability to trust and rely on others is tested repeatedly. Will he be able to accomplish what he set out to do? Will he be able to overthrow the AI masters' vision for his world? Will he retain enough of himself at the end of this journey, or will he succumb to the unexpected trials that await him? Would humanity's last act of defense be one of bloody battles or one more subtle with intellectual warfare? Will the rebellion succeed?
As Walter approaches his final destination at the Empire's capital, he is a changed man compared to who he was at the beginning of the journey. At certain moments, Walter resonates with some of the AI characters, more so than with any of the humans in recent times at least. Would this affect Walter’s commitment to the cause? Would he manage to stay undercover in the Empire’s capital, under the watchful eye of the AI Masters, without risking capture. And if he is captured, will he survive to succeed in his cause?
Alanna Mackenzie does a spectacular job with world building and provides readers with a truly immersive experience, through the eyes and mind of Walter. The Jade Labyrinth continues to weave a world with the possible perils that AI may pose. In the world we live in, as AI is incorporated into every aspect of daily life, The Jade Labyrinth highlights the dystopian consequences that may come about if AI becomes autonomous. Alanna Mackenzie does a remarkable job in designing a world and characters that will reach out to and connect with readers, beyond the constraints of the genre.
AI Masters, rebellious humans, and a strong-willed protagonist carry us into the Sci-Fi - Fantasy hybrid realm designed by Alanna Mackenzie in the Jade Labyrinth.
We wake up to the protagonist's vision of an AI driven world, where the autonomy. of humans is scarce, and the humans who wish to keep their independence of thought are driven to the peripheries of civilization. Through Walter's eyes we see a world bereft of humanity, empathy and emotions. We travel with Walter as he traverses through a journey designed to rally a rebellion, and moments of self-doubt and introspection. Though supported by Eva (his sister-in-law), his ability to trust and rely on others is tested repeatedly. Will he be able to accomplish what he set out to do? Will he be able to overthrow the AI masters' vision for his world? Will he retain enough of himself at the end of this journey, or will he succumb to the unexpected trials that await him? Would humanity's last act of defense be one of bloody battles or one more subtle with intellectual warfare? Will the rebellion succeed?
As Walter approaches his final destination at the Empire's capital, he is a changed man compared to who he was at the beginning of the journey. At certain moments, Walter resonates with some of the AI characters, more so than with any of the humans in recent times at least. Would this affect Walter’s commitment to the cause? Would he manage to stay undercover in the Empire’s capital, under the watchful eye of the AI Masters, without risking capture. And if he is captured, will he survive to succeed in his cause?
Alanna Mackenzie does a spectacular job with world building and provides readers with a truly immersive experience, through the eyes and mind of Walter. The Jade Labyrinth continues to weave a world with the possible perils that AI may pose. In the world we live in, as AI is incorporated into every aspect of daily life, The Jade Labyrinth highlights the dystopian consequences that may come about if AI becomes autonomous. Alanna Mackenzie does a remarkable job in designing a world and characters that will reach out to and connect with readers, beyond the constraints of the genre.
January 1, 2024
Leader of the Jade Rebellion, Walter, is nearly ready to return to the heart of the AI-ruled Empire that has branded him a treasonous fugitive. His mandate is clear: to reprogram the AI Masters before their earth-destroying habits spiral out of control. In his final showdown with the AI Masters, Walter must keep his mind under control, or risk jeopardizing the mission that he and his allies are counting on to reverse a looming tidal wave of destruction.
With the fantastic world building along with the captivating plot, Alanna MacKenzie their way into my autobuy authors category. The entire story just keeps building with such intensity that you can't put it down. Especially when you think about just how real this could be in future. The Jade Labyrinth is a deep and highly intricate take on a new dystopian society. It is highly recommended that you start with book one and two in The Jade Chronicles before taking on this one.
Thank you to everyone involved for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. The Jade Labyrinth, as well as the first two books in The Jade Chronicles are available now.
With the fantastic world building along with the captivating plot, Alanna MacKenzie their way into my autobuy authors category. The entire story just keeps building with such intensity that you can't put it down. Especially when you think about just how real this could be in future. The Jade Labyrinth is a deep and highly intricate take on a new dystopian society. It is highly recommended that you start with book one and two in The Jade Chronicles before taking on this one.
Thank you to everyone involved for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. The Jade Labyrinth, as well as the first two books in The Jade Chronicles are available now.
October 7, 2023
This is a review for all books in this series: Nicely done. A plot that keeps things interesting along with excellent writing. Recommended.
I really appreciate the free copy for review!!
I really appreciate the free copy for review!!
February 12, 2025
Here is my review for The Jade Labyrinth by Alanna Mackenzie
I have really enjoyed The Jade Chronicles series which finishes with The Jade Labyrinth where we are still following Walter Saltanetska in his travels as the rebel leader of the Jade Rebellion. He has to have further psychological training in the mountains to prepare him for his next phrase before facing the AI Masters. The travelling to the mountains is arduous and very trying. At one point, he nearly gets caught out by a changeling but gets help just in time. He’s not very good with heights and struggles with one particular part of the journey. This is a well written story that culminates in a great finish. It has been well worth reading this great trilogy and I have really enjoyed the series. It’s a great fantasy series that highlights how good an imagination the author has and she used it well. Everything has been well described and written about so we know what is happening.
Blurb :
A meeting. A maze. A perilous journey back to an Empire on the edge of chaos.
Walter Saltanetska, leader of the Jade Rebellion, is nearly ready to return to the heart of the AI-ruled Empire that has branded him a treasonous fugitive. His mandate is clear: to reprogram the AI Masters before their earth-destroying habits spiral out of control.
First, he must brave gruelling training in a land fraught with danger—rugged mountains haunted by spirits, a parched desert patrolled by watchful drones, and a labyrinthine cave guarded by armed robots. As his physical, mental, and magical abilities are tested by harrowing encounters, Walter must work to resist forces that threaten to destabilize his mission.
The biggest threat he faces is not one he encounters along the course of his journey, but one that originates within him. Walter returns to the Empire’s capital in a mind-altering disguise that proves to be a double-edged sword. Drawing him closer to a soul mate who rekindles his admiration for the AI Masters, it also distances Walter from the human emotions that sparked his desire to join the Rebellion. In his final showdown with the AI Masters, Walter must keep his mind under control, or risk jeopardizing the mission that he and his allies are counting on to reverse a looming tidal wave of destruction.
The thrilling third installment in The Jade Chronicles, The Jade Labyrinth weaves dystopian science-fiction with high fantasy while exploring an essential subject: the perils and promise of artificial intelligence.
I have really enjoyed The Jade Chronicles series which finishes with The Jade Labyrinth where we are still following Walter Saltanetska in his travels as the rebel leader of the Jade Rebellion. He has to have further psychological training in the mountains to prepare him for his next phrase before facing the AI Masters. The travelling to the mountains is arduous and very trying. At one point, he nearly gets caught out by a changeling but gets help just in time. He’s not very good with heights and struggles with one particular part of the journey. This is a well written story that culminates in a great finish. It has been well worth reading this great trilogy and I have really enjoyed the series. It’s a great fantasy series that highlights how good an imagination the author has and she used it well. Everything has been well described and written about so we know what is happening.
Blurb :
A meeting. A maze. A perilous journey back to an Empire on the edge of chaos.
Walter Saltanetska, leader of the Jade Rebellion, is nearly ready to return to the heart of the AI-ruled Empire that has branded him a treasonous fugitive. His mandate is clear: to reprogram the AI Masters before their earth-destroying habits spiral out of control.
First, he must brave gruelling training in a land fraught with danger—rugged mountains haunted by spirits, a parched desert patrolled by watchful drones, and a labyrinthine cave guarded by armed robots. As his physical, mental, and magical abilities are tested by harrowing encounters, Walter must work to resist forces that threaten to destabilize his mission.
The biggest threat he faces is not one he encounters along the course of his journey, but one that originates within him. Walter returns to the Empire’s capital in a mind-altering disguise that proves to be a double-edged sword. Drawing him closer to a soul mate who rekindles his admiration for the AI Masters, it also distances Walter from the human emotions that sparked his desire to join the Rebellion. In his final showdown with the AI Masters, Walter must keep his mind under control, or risk jeopardizing the mission that he and his allies are counting on to reverse a looming tidal wave of destruction.
The thrilling third installment in The Jade Chronicles, The Jade Labyrinth weaves dystopian science-fiction with high fantasy while exploring an essential subject: the perils and promise of artificial intelligence.
February 2, 2025
The First instalment in the Jade Chronicles I gave a 4.5, after reading the whole trilogy I have to say I think it could easily be 5 along with the other two. The final instalment, The Jade Labyrinth is by far my favourite. Mackenzie has created a vivid world that is built with elements of modernity but shows the potential risks (and graces) of reliance on AI. While set in a different world, the plot and narrative is very relevant to our current climate with the rise in AI. However this can just be read as a fantastic science fiction trilogy.
I have to say I love how Mackenzie builds not only the world but their characters. I initially said I felt that in the first novel the characters I hadn’t quite gelled with but I felt like I would going forward and I have to say that was defiantly the case. You feel like you are part of the rebellion and travelling alongside the protagonists.
Having finished this series I have to say that Mackenzie is now an instant buy author and I have really enjoyed this series. So much so I plan to get the physical books asap. If you enjoy a good science fiction series but less about interstellar travel and more about the perils and graces of science and technology advancement this is for you.
As always thank you to Zooloo’s Book Tours for the copy to review, my reviews are always honest and freely given.
#AlannaMackenzie #TheJadeLabyrinth #ZooLoosBookTours #ZooLoos #BookTourReview #BookReview #FreeReview #AdPR #Gifted
I have to say I love how Mackenzie builds not only the world but their characters. I initially said I felt that in the first novel the characters I hadn’t quite gelled with but I felt like I would going forward and I have to say that was defiantly the case. You feel like you are part of the rebellion and travelling alongside the protagonists.
Having finished this series I have to say that Mackenzie is now an instant buy author and I have really enjoyed this series. So much so I plan to get the physical books asap. If you enjoy a good science fiction series but less about interstellar travel and more about the perils and graces of science and technology advancement this is for you.
As always thank you to Zooloo’s Book Tours for the copy to review, my reviews are always honest and freely given.
#AlannaMackenzie #TheJadeLabyrinth #ZooLoosBookTours #ZooLoos #BookTourReview #BookReview #FreeReview #AdPR #Gifted
February 4, 2025
The Jade Labryinth by Alanna Mackenzie
Genre: Science Fiction I AI v. Human Kind I Dystopian
Release date: September 1, 2023
Length: 254 pages
4.5⭐️
What an end to a great series! I want to first thank @Zooloo's Book tours and @Alanna_vt for the gifted copies of this series.
Walter and the rebellion had so many obstacles in their way as they were trying to figure out how to alter the AI and do it in a way that would not end humanity as we know it. The circumstances they found themselves in time and time again kept my eyes glued to the page as I had to find out what happened next to the clan! I loved the sense of found family of the members within the group and the glimpse of the side character's lives we saw. I think Alanna Mackenzie does such great character work all throughout the books and really this was no different. The challenges they faced while intense were so worth the pay off. I am so glad that I fell in love with the cover art of the books and stayed for the world building, political intrigue and rebellion uprising. I don't think I could recommend this series enough. If you're looking for a new series that is not too long (each book is under 300 pages), might I suggest your next sci-fi read?
Genre: Science Fiction I AI v. Human Kind I Dystopian
Release date: September 1, 2023
Length: 254 pages
4.5⭐️
What an end to a great series! I want to first thank @Zooloo's Book tours and @Alanna_vt for the gifted copies of this series.
Walter and the rebellion had so many obstacles in their way as they were trying to figure out how to alter the AI and do it in a way that would not end humanity as we know it. The circumstances they found themselves in time and time again kept my eyes glued to the page as I had to find out what happened next to the clan! I loved the sense of found family of the members within the group and the glimpse of the side character's lives we saw. I think Alanna Mackenzie does such great character work all throughout the books and really this was no different. The challenges they faced while intense were so worth the pay off. I am so glad that I fell in love with the cover art of the books and stayed for the world building, political intrigue and rebellion uprising. I don't think I could recommend this series enough. If you're looking for a new series that is not too long (each book is under 300 pages), might I suggest your next sci-fi read?
October 4, 2023
Wow, this third book in this series was amazing. Walter and his rebellion team went through hell and back to try to figure out how to conquer the Artificial Intelligence World. The trial and tribulations were intense but necessary. The way the author spins this tale of humans vs Artificial Intelligences was so true to life if this could really happen. You’ll have to read this series to find out what happens and you’ll see why it’s so good. This is a new author to me and I will be definitely following her on her journey to other books she writes. This is the most interesting, scary if it could really happen, intriguing futuristic series I’ve ever read.
June 3, 2025
I finished this book a short while ago... and I'm still so mad.
I read the first two books in 4 days, one after the other, because I couldn't get enough.
Even though things are happening at a good pace, I still had to stop reading, on multiple occasions, because I felt like I was drowning. There was too much information, which felt important enough to try to remember. I couldn't enjoy this book as much as the other two.
I read the first two books in 4 days, one after the other, because I couldn't get enough.
Even though things are happening at a good pace, I still had to stop reading, on multiple occasions, because I felt like I was drowning. There was too much information, which felt important enough to try to remember. I couldn't enjoy this book as much as the other two.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews