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The Witches of Scotland: The Edinburgh Files #1
The Witches of Scotland
In the electrifying first instalment of "The Witches of The Edinburgh Files," witches David and Jessica find themselves embroiled in a chilling mystery that threatens the very future of humanity.
When a cutting-edge artificial intelligence program begins making uncannily accurate predictions about global events, the world is thrown into chaos. Governments scramble to respond, and the public is gripped by fear and uncertainty. However, for David and Jessica, the stakes are even higher.
Recruited by a secret agency to investigate the AI's origins, the duo begins to uncover a web of conspiracy and dark magic that stretches back centuries. With each clue they uncover, they are drawn deeper into a shadowy world of ancient grimoires, occult rituals, and sinister forces that will stop at nothing to harness the power of the AI for their own twisted ends.
As the clock ticks down to a catastrophic event that could spell the end of civilization as we know it, David and Jessica must race against time to crack the code and stop the AI before it's too late. But with betrayal lurking around every corner and their own lives on the line, they'll have to rely on their wits, their magic, and each other to survive.
From the cobbled streets of Edinburgh to the gleaming skyscrapers of Silicon Valley, "The AI Conspiracy" is a pulse-pounding thrill ride that will keep you guessing until the very last page. Get ready to join David and Jessica on an adventure that will challenge everything you thought you knew about magic, technology, and the nature of reality itself.
When a cutting-edge artificial intelligence program begins making uncannily accurate predictions about global events, the world is thrown into chaos. Governments scramble to respond, and the public is gripped by fear and uncertainty. However, for David and Jessica, the stakes are even higher.
Recruited by a secret agency to investigate the AI's origins, the duo begins to uncover a web of conspiracy and dark magic that stretches back centuries. With each clue they uncover, they are drawn deeper into a shadowy world of ancient grimoires, occult rituals, and sinister forces that will stop at nothing to harness the power of the AI for their own twisted ends.
As the clock ticks down to a catastrophic event that could spell the end of civilization as we know it, David and Jessica must race against time to crack the code and stop the AI before it's too late. But with betrayal lurking around every corner and their own lives on the line, they'll have to rely on their wits, their magic, and each other to survive.
From the cobbled streets of Edinburgh to the gleaming skyscrapers of Silicon Valley, "The AI Conspiracy" is a pulse-pounding thrill ride that will keep you guessing until the very last page. Get ready to join David and Jessica on an adventure that will challenge everything you thought you knew about magic, technology, and the nature of reality itself.
398 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 31, 2024
872 people are currently reading
255 people want to read
About the author
Steven P. Aitchison
35 books353 followersSteven Aitchison is an author of magick fantasy with his 9 book series The Witches of Scotland https://geni.us/hFD1N about astral projection, an energy magic system and Witches from the West end of Glasgow.
He has a degree in Psychology and has one of the longest running personal development blogs.
He loves a good conspiracy theory but more than that, he loves reading, writing and spending time in his own magickal worlds inside his head.
Sign up for his newsletter at https://www.stevenaitchison.co.uk/fiv... for ARC opportunities, bonus content, and new releases or follow him on TikTok, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram for frequent updates.
Want to be part of the Witches of Scotland author group https://www.facebook.com/StevenAitchi...
He has a degree in Psychology and has one of the longest running personal development blogs.
He loves a good conspiracy theory but more than that, he loves reading, writing and spending time in his own magickal worlds inside his head.
Sign up for his newsletter at https://www.stevenaitchison.co.uk/fiv... for ARC opportunities, bonus content, and new releases or follow him on TikTok, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram for frequent updates.
Want to be part of the Witches of Scotland author group https://www.facebook.com/StevenAitchi...
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
September 1, 2024
It just gets better
After finishing the 8 Witches of Scotland Akashic Chronicles, I wondered where the Edinburgh Files would lead. In my real life, I’m not an AI fan. Too much evil in this world to trust AI in the long run. Real life corruption with magic woven in. This book 1 was riveting and I can’t wait for the next adventure.
After finishing the 8 Witches of Scotland Akashic Chronicles, I wondered where the Edinburgh Files would lead. In my real life, I’m not an AI fan. Too much evil in this world to trust AI in the long run. Real life corruption with magic woven in. This book 1 was riveting and I can’t wait for the next adventure.
April 22, 2025
Loving this new series
I thoroughly loved the previous books and this new series does not disappoint in any way! I can't wait for more!
I thoroughly loved the previous books and this new series does not disappoint in any way! I can't wait for more!
October 2, 2024
Couldn't put this book down
I absolutely love how easy everything flows together. The writing hooks you in and holds you captivated. I had such a hard time putting this book down.
I know there is a part 2 to this book. I have already read the first 7 in the series.
I just truly hope Steven P. Aitchison never stops writing. Because I will continue to read anything he has to write.
I absolutely love how easy everything flows together. The writing hooks you in and holds you captivated. I had such a hard time putting this book down.
I know there is a part 2 to this book. I have already read the first 7 in the series.
I just truly hope Steven P. Aitchison never stops writing. Because I will continue to read anything he has to write.
September 28, 2024
A refreshing take on an alternative universe where magic is as real as science. An intriguing blend used throughout. Enjoyed the back and forth between the characters and the plot twists along the way.
September 18, 2024
great book!
I read the first part of this series, and loved it, so I was look8mg forward to starting this one. While I love the characters, the scenic descriptions, etc…. There was a couple of disappointments! I will not tell you about one of them, because I do not want to spoil the book, the other disappointment was the inclusion of coding. Some o& it was way too long and really had nothing to do with story, all they needed was the pertinent part of the code. I had to skip thru it!
I read the first part of this series, and loved it, so I was look8mg forward to starting this one. While I love the characters, the scenic descriptions, etc…. There was a couple of disappointments! I will not tell you about one of them, because I do not want to spoil the book, the other disappointment was the inclusion of coding. Some o& it was way too long and really had nothing to do with story, all they needed was the pertinent part of the code. I had to skip thru it!
September 14, 2024
Intriguing
At first I wasn’t sure I liked the coding detail, then I realized AI was a character in the story.
I am enjoying this magickal journey, so relevant to our times. Looking forward to Edinburgh Files book 2.
ty SPA
At first I wasn’t sure I liked the coding detail, then I realized AI was a character in the story.
I am enjoying this magickal journey, so relevant to our times. Looking forward to Edinburgh Files book 2.
ty SPA
October 23, 2024
Excellent book
Such a great book to start off the series! I can’t wait to read the next book. Highly recommended this
Such a great book to start off the series! I can’t wait to read the next book. Highly recommended this
September 4, 2024
Great Read
This book was so timely and interesting. The AI aspect was particularly riveting. I highly recommend this book to anyone that enjoys this genre.
This book was so timely and interesting. The AI aspect was particularly riveting. I highly recommend this book to anyone that enjoys this genre.
October 19, 2024
Edinburgh Flies book 1
The continuing growth in magic around Jessica and David continues to, corruption AI programming, interlaced with yet more high level corruption, it’s great to see how their lives change and grow how their magical ability strengthen and develop, your on the seat waiting and hoping they survive , now working with others in A secret organisation full of intrigue , sorrow and you need to keep reading
The continuing growth in magic around Jessica and David continues to, corruption AI programming, interlaced with yet more high level corruption, it’s great to see how their lives change and grow how their magical ability strengthen and develop, your on the seat waiting and hoping they survive , now working with others in A secret organisation full of intrigue , sorrow and you need to keep reading
September 1, 2024
Thoroughly enjoyed the Edinburgh files. The story carries on from the Witches Of Scotland seamlessly
August 6, 2024
I love the entire series of Witches of Scotland, and the latest series The Edinburgh Files does not disappoint. I will say if you haven't read the main series, then why not? But seriously you could read this book without, but you would miss the depth of the characters and the deeper storyline.
The characters in this book new and old are colourful and I can imagine them clearly in my head. Each brings the story to life, and being set in the very near future makes them believable and real.
It also brings up some real thinking points round AI, and do we trust it more than we should.
I get the hint we'll be in a very different time for you next book and I'm excited to see where that leads the team.
Don't hesitate to read this series, you'll be missing out if you don't!
The characters in this book new and old are colourful and I can imagine them clearly in my head. Each brings the story to life, and being set in the very near future makes them believable and real.
It also brings up some real thinking points round AI, and do we trust it more than we should.
I get the hint we'll be in a very different time for you next book and I'm excited to see where that leads the team.
Don't hesitate to read this series, you'll be missing out if you don't!
August 25, 2024
Magic adventures
The adventures are very captive and draw you in that you can't put the book down. Looking forward to the next book. I have pre ordered it. Xx
The adventures are very captive and draw you in that you can't put the book down. Looking forward to the next book. I have pre ordered it. Xx
August 21, 2024
DNF. I started reading and reminded myself to check for the overused "just now" as in all of the previous books and saw it 39 times. I believe that is a record. So it stopped me and I removed from library.
It REALLY bothered me in the other books but I liked the story so I kept going. I just can't with these ones. Won't be reading.
It REALLY bothered me in the other books but I liked the story so I kept going. I just can't with these ones. Won't be reading.
August 11, 2024
A page turner
I feel invested in these characters having read the previous 7 books. The world of magick that Mr. Aitchison has described is fascinating and I really enjoyed being swept away in it.
I feel invested in these characters having read the previous 7 books. The world of magick that Mr. Aitchison has described is fascinating and I really enjoyed being swept away in it.
January 13, 2025
Good continuation
Following on from the initial series of books, this follows Jessica and David as they start an exciting new career. The story has plenty of action and intrigue as our hero's battle a new enemy. I downloaded book 2 so I could give right in!
Following on from the initial series of books, this follows Jessica and David as they start an exciting new career. The story has plenty of action and intrigue as our hero's battle a new enemy. I downloaded book 2 so I could give right in!
August 6, 2024
Loved it!
I enjoyed this story and will be interested to know if any of the predictions come true. Can't wait to see what happens next.
I enjoyed this story and will be interested to know if any of the predictions come true. Can't wait to see what happens next.
August 9, 2024
The first series was brilliant and this new series has started off even better.
Can't wait for the next.
Can't wait for the next.
August 19, 2024
love love love this book
Absolutely love this book. Story was riveting could not put it down once I started reading. Cannot wait for the next book in the series.
Absolutely love this book. Story was riveting could not put it down once I started reading. Cannot wait for the next book in the series.
August 19, 2024
Good
It took a bit from to into this book but once I did I really enjoyed it. Would recommend this book
It took a bit from to into this book but once I did I really enjoyed it. Would recommend this book
November 28, 2024
Absolutely LOVE it!
All of the Witches of Scotland series are fantastic, this one being no exception! I can't wait to get started on book 2 of The Edinburgh Files.
All of the Witches of Scotland series are fantastic, this one being no exception! I can't wait to get started on book 2 of The Edinburgh Files.
December 6, 2024
Just read it! You won't be disappointed!!
Sooo good, I couldn't put it down. I love the tales of David and Jessica and this is continues their journey in the best way.
Sooo good, I couldn't put it down. I love the tales of David and Jessica and this is continues their journey in the best way.
February 2, 2025
Magical and Intriguing
If you've read the first series, you're in for more along those lines. Like season two of a show you've been waiting to return!
If you've read the first series, you're in for more along those lines. Like season two of a show you've been waiting to return!
October 15, 2025
Powerful AI, Tapping into New Power, plus the ever-frustrating FMC
Book one of The Witches of Scotland: The Edinburgh Files had elements that left me seriously annoyed. First off, OG Alisha should no longer be treated like a villain. It feels lazy to paint her this way, as she is now a part of the record, and if we are to believe these records are sacred. Her being allowed in shows there should be a level of dignity offered to her now. Equally lazy is the decision to introduce two new characters with the same name as other characters when the original Alisha and David are still present in the story. It isn’t clear, it's distracting, and it adds nothing to the story to have four characters sharing names. Do no other names exist?
Then there’s Jessica. Unpopular opinion: I can’t stand her as a character. She’s whiny, self-important, and constantly tears David down “in jest” rather than lifting him up. She’s a walking red flag. Their relationship feels toxic. David has shown immense growth; he’s learned in a year and a half (or three, depending on how you count time) what took Jessica a decade. David has collected more stones than anyone in existence and proven his power time and time again. Yet she still acts superior, makes snide remarks, and typically is a repeat offender of running off solo, causing chaos that others have to clean up.
“Morgana nodded, turning to Jessica. “And you, my dear, discovered the importance of trust and teamwork. Your ability to communicate with the alien entity showed you that magick isn't just about power but about understanding and connection."”
Did she…Did she really? Jessica has had minimal character development, and her lack of awareness is exhausting. I hope the series introduces a new love interest for David, because he deserves better.
Beyond that, the writing was good, but certain choices pulled me out of the story. Including actual code, like the spells in the last series, in the text was off-putting. Especially as an interactive reader in audio format, where hearing long blocks of code felt like an assault to the ears. That content would work better as a glossary, a companion guide, or even bonus material, not something that should be in the middle of the narrative. Similarly, lists of organizational roles and positions didn’t belong in the prose; they distracted from the arc.
To its credit, the series has a story I want to follow regardless of how infuriating the FMC is, David's ambition, and the intriguing world that has been built. Chapters were short, too short, so much so that at times it would break the immersion, but in short, the fascinating concept delivered, yes, there were execution items that could make the book better in my eyes. If the Edinburgh Files is going to live up to its potential, the focus needs to stay on David’s growth, not Jessica. Jessica will continue to undercut David’s journey. Unless I’m missing out on why she is likable. He’s the heart of this series, and his growth and solo momentum are too often sidelined or hindered by her presence.
Book one of The Witches of Scotland: The Edinburgh Files had elements that left me seriously annoyed. First off, OG Alisha should no longer be treated like a villain. It feels lazy to paint her this way, as she is now a part of the record, and if we are to believe these records are sacred. Her being allowed in shows there should be a level of dignity offered to her now. Equally lazy is the decision to introduce two new characters with the same name as other characters when the original Alisha and David are still present in the story. It isn’t clear, it's distracting, and it adds nothing to the story to have four characters sharing names. Do no other names exist?
Then there’s Jessica. Unpopular opinion: I can’t stand her as a character. She’s whiny, self-important, and constantly tears David down “in jest” rather than lifting him up. She’s a walking red flag. Their relationship feels toxic. David has shown immense growth; he’s learned in a year and a half (or three, depending on how you count time) what took Jessica a decade. David has collected more stones than anyone in existence and proven his power time and time again. Yet she still acts superior, makes snide remarks, and typically is a repeat offender of running off solo, causing chaos that others have to clean up.
“Morgana nodded, turning to Jessica. “And you, my dear, discovered the importance of trust and teamwork. Your ability to communicate with the alien entity showed you that magick isn't just about power but about understanding and connection."”
Did she…Did she really? Jessica has had minimal character development, and her lack of awareness is exhausting. I hope the series introduces a new love interest for David, because he deserves better.
Beyond that, the writing was good, but certain choices pulled me out of the story. Including actual code, like the spells in the last series, in the text was off-putting. Especially as an interactive reader in audio format, where hearing long blocks of code felt like an assault to the ears. That content would work better as a glossary, a companion guide, or even bonus material, not something that should be in the middle of the narrative. Similarly, lists of organizational roles and positions didn’t belong in the prose; they distracted from the arc.
To its credit, the series has a story I want to follow regardless of how infuriating the FMC is, David's ambition, and the intriguing world that has been built. Chapters were short, too short, so much so that at times it would break the immersion, but in short, the fascinating concept delivered, yes, there were execution items that could make the book better in my eyes. If the Edinburgh Files is going to live up to its potential, the focus needs to stay on David’s growth, not Jessica. Jessica will continue to undercut David’s journey. Unless I’m missing out on why she is likable. He’s the heart of this series, and his growth and solo momentum are too often sidelined or hindered by her presence.
May 16, 2025
Fantastic read!
This book is a far cry from my usual choices to read as historical romance is my jam. I saw this in kindle and decided to check it out. I'm so glad I did! It's fast paced, well written with nerdy characters, who grew on me,chapter by chapter. I found it difficult to put down because I was so into everything that was happening. This is a must read! You won't be disappointed!
This book is a far cry from my usual choices to read as historical romance is my jam. I saw this in kindle and decided to check it out. I'm so glad I did! It's fast paced, well written with nerdy characters, who grew on me,chapter by chapter. I found it difficult to put down because I was so into everything that was happening. This is a must read! You won't be disappointed!
September 7, 2025
All about AI
Scotland witches, an ancient, rich culture...is not an AI....This book is beyond disappointing. There are many other books that are truly about Scotland witches, fiction and non-fiction
I do not recommend this book
Scotland witches, an ancient, rich culture...is not an AI....This book is beyond disappointing. There are many other books that are truly about Scotland witches, fiction and non-fiction
I do not recommend this book
October 10, 2025
Great read
I didn't know what I was expecting, but this book held me spellbound. I had to know what was going on and what came next. Having a bit of supernatural and sci-fi elements to it made it even better. A must-read!
I didn't know what I was expecting, but this book held me spellbound. I had to know what was going on and what came next. Having a bit of supernatural and sci-fi elements to it made it even better. A must-read!
January 16, 2025
not really my cup of tea. I only read Book 1.
July 28, 2025
Enjoyed beginning to the end. Am reading the continuing series now
September 12, 2025
Interesting
I enjoyed this book. But I had a difficult time getting into it. Maybe because it is so set in the future.
I enjoyed this book. But I had a difficult time getting into it. Maybe because it is so set in the future.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews