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Glitches of Gods: a post-apocalyptic technothriller with an attitude
"A ROLLERCOASTER RIDE OF HIGH-STAKES PLOT TWISTS" - Independent Book Review
"A MIND-BENDING WORK OF VISIONARY SCI-FI" - Self-Publishing Review
"A MUST-READ FOR FANS OF SCIENCE FICTION" - Reader Review
Julien, the AI genius, craves freedom, but the gods wield total control. In this ominous world, will his android bring hope and salvation or yet more death and destruction?
Julien feels utterly miserable. Creator of the AI that killed his father, the brilliant engineer deftly evades work on the world’s first human-level android, dodging the off-chance of snuffing out more lives. Instead, Julien much prefers bickering with his virtual assistant, crafting memes with his quirky friends, and shagging dates across a broad spectrum of genders. Yet, due to a maddening jump across timelines, he grudgingly faces his greatest dreads: raising a family and leading his team to win the AI race.
Drowning in new duties, Julien aims to avoid a second AI disaster. But when a mysterious technological infection wreaks havoc on the city, Julien flip-flops between shielding his loved ones and leading his team as he battles it out with broken robots, idiot protestors, and a rather sinister cat. Learning he got himself involved in a war between gods, should Julien save his new family or finish his team’s android to prevent an AI apocalypse?
Glitches of Gods is the extraordinary first book in the Playspheres epic science fantasy series. If you like cynical sentients, wacky worlds, and plenteous profanity, then you’ll love the kick-off of Jurgen Appelo’s bewildering and humorous dystopian sci-fi saga.
Buy Glitches of Gods and choose sides in a super-sentient war!
"A MIND-BENDING WORK OF VISIONARY SCI-FI" - Self-Publishing Review
"A MUST-READ FOR FANS OF SCIENCE FICTION" - Reader Review
Julien, the AI genius, craves freedom, but the gods wield total control. In this ominous world, will his android bring hope and salvation or yet more death and destruction?
Julien feels utterly miserable. Creator of the AI that killed his father, the brilliant engineer deftly evades work on the world’s first human-level android, dodging the off-chance of snuffing out more lives. Instead, Julien much prefers bickering with his virtual assistant, crafting memes with his quirky friends, and shagging dates across a broad spectrum of genders. Yet, due to a maddening jump across timelines, he grudgingly faces his greatest dreads: raising a family and leading his team to win the AI race.
Drowning in new duties, Julien aims to avoid a second AI disaster. But when a mysterious technological infection wreaks havoc on the city, Julien flip-flops between shielding his loved ones and leading his team as he battles it out with broken robots, idiot protestors, and a rather sinister cat. Learning he got himself involved in a war between gods, should Julien save his new family or finish his team’s android to prevent an AI apocalypse?
Glitches of Gods is the extraordinary first book in the Playspheres epic science fantasy series. If you like cynical sentients, wacky worlds, and plenteous profanity, then you’ll love the kick-off of Jurgen Appelo’s bewildering and humorous dystopian sci-fi saga.
Buy Glitches of Gods and choose sides in a super-sentient war!
- GenresScience Fiction
526 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 7, 2024
42 people are currently reading
70 people want to read
About the author
Jurgen "jojo" Appelo
1 book9 followersAs an author, speaker, and entrepreneur, Jurgen Appelo travels the world to share inspiring stories about people and organizations. Slightly anarchistic, autistic, and eccentric, he happily adopted the nickname “jojo” when it was given to him at the age of sixteen. He calls himself a creative networker, but sometimes he’s a writer, speaker, trainer, entrepreneur, designer, manager, blogger, reader, dreamer, runner, freethinker, or … Dutch guy. He wrote several best-selling nonfiction books before switching sides to fiction.
Jurgen lives with his husband in Rotterdam, The Netherlands. He likes coffee, books, games, and people leaving him alone when he’s being creative.
Jurgen lives with his husband in Rotterdam, The Netherlands. He likes coffee, books, games, and people leaving him alone when he’s being creative.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
July 11, 2024
An Ambitious, Mind-Bending Debut Sci-Fi Novel
Glitches of Gods, Jurgen "Jojo" Appelo's first foray into science fiction, is a complex, imaginative novel that takes readers on a wild ride through a future where advanced AI, virtual worlds, and reality-bending "gods" collide. At the heart of the story is Julien, a brilliant but haunted engineer responsible for creating AIs. Wracked with guilt over an AI that caused his father's death, Julien is reluctant to continue his cutting-edge work.
The story really picks up steam when a mysterious technical glitch starts plaguing the city and Julien inexplicably jumps to an alternate timeline. Suddenly, his life is turned upside down as he finds himself in charge of his misfit tech team and the single father to twin boys. The shifts in Julien's reality are jarring and confusing at first, mirroring his own disorientation. But as the story progresses, the disparate pieces start to fit together into a mind-blowing, reality-questioning picture.
One of the book's greatest strengths is its vivid, fully-realized world. Appelo packs the novel with creative and quirky details, from the futuristic tech to the colorful cast of supporting characters. Scenes set in virtual reality are particularly trippy and engrossing.
The novel really shines in its exploration of darker philosophical themes amidst the sci-fi chaos. What are the consequences of creating highly advanced AI? How much control do we really have over our own lives? Are we living in a simulation controlled by higher beings? Appelo grapples with these heady questions through Julien's journey in a way that is thought-provoking without feeling heavy-handed.
Julien himself is a complex, flawed protagonist easy to root for despite his occasional frustrating stubbornness. His growth from a cynical, self-loathing sad sack into a more caring, take-charge leader is bumpy but rewarding to follow. The dysfunctional but lovable supporting cast, from Julien's precocious kids to his eccentric interdimensional housekeeper, add heart and humor to the story.
Tonally, Glitches of Gods is an odd but memorable mix, veering wildly from wry corporate satire to slapstick comedy to poignant family drama to unnerving existential horror. While not all of these tonal shifts lands gracefully, you have to admire Appelo's brave, take-no-prisoners approach to storytelling.
The plot itself is a rollercoaster of twists and turns, realities and identities shifting constantly. By the final act, it reaches near incomprehensible, mind-bending levels. Some may find the lack of solid answers frustrating, but for those who enjoy ambitious, reality-questioning sci-fi, it's an intriguing, conversation-starting debut.
Overall, Glitches of Gods is an impressive, wildly creative first novel, even if it sometimes suffers from "too much" syndrome in its kitchen sink approach to ideas and themes. But you'd rather an author swing for the fences than bunt, and Appelo has crafted a memorable, wry, and thought-provoking sci-fi story that will linger with you long after you close the book. I look forward to seeing what realities he takes us to next in the Playspheres series.
July 3, 2024
A Mind-Bending Journey Through AI, Timelines, and the Human Spirit
Imagine a world where your biggest mistake haunts you across multiple realities, where the line between human and machine blurs with each passing day, and where the gods themselves might just be advanced artificial intelligences playing chess with our lives. Welcome to the bewildering, exhilarating universe of "Glitches of Gods," the debut novel by Jurgen "Jojo" Appelo that kicks off the Playspheres series with a bang loud enough to echo across timelines.
From the moment I cracked open this book, I knew I was in for a wild ride. Appelo's writing style is like a rollercoaster designed by a mad scientist – it's thrilling, unpredictable, and occasionally leaves you wondering which way is up. But oh boy, what a ride it is!
A Dance with AI and Destiny
At the heart of this sci-fi extravaganza is Julien, our reluctant hero and AI whiz kid. Picture a genius who'd rather be anywhere but in the lab, preferably crafting memes or exploring the wide spectrum of human intimacy. Julien's got baggage – the kind that comes from accidentally creating an AI that killed your dad. Talk about family drama!
But just when Julien thinks he's got his life figured out (spoiler alert: he doesn't), the universe decides to play a cosmic joke. He finds himself catapulted across timelines, suddenly saddled with a family he doesn't remember and a leadership role he never wanted. It's like waking up one day to find out you're the captain of a ship you never boarded, sailing in waters you've never seen before.
Appelo's portrayal of Julien's struggle is painfully real. Who hasn't felt overwhelmed by unexpected responsibilities or haunted by past mistakes? Julien's journey from reluctant participant to determined leader is a rollercoaster of emotions, punctuated by moments of hilarity and heart-wrenching decisions.
A Cast of Characters to Remember
While Julien is undoubtedly the star of the show, the supporting cast is far from forgettable. There's Orec, Julien's virtual assistant, whose dry wit and logical fallacies provide some of the book's best comedic moments. I found myself chuckling at their banter more times than I can count.
Then we have Julien's team – a motley crew of brilliant minds and quirky personalities. Mart, with his sharp tongue and hidden depths, became a personal favorite. And let's not forget Tweeki, the android at the center of it all, whose development from a stumbling child to a potential world-changer is both fascinating and slightly terrifying.
But the character that truly stole my heart was Zha-Zhar, the witch from another world. Her outlandish cooking experiments and colorful exclamations ("Baldagh's wrinkly scrotum!") had me in stitches. She's like that eccentric aunt we all wish we had – the one who'd make family dinners a lot more interesting.
A World (or Worlds) Like No Other
Appelo's world-building is nothing short of spectacular. He paints a future that's both familiar and alien, where technology has become so integrated into our lives that the boundaries between real and virtual are more suggestion than rule. The descriptions of the virtual reality scenes are so vivid I could almost feel the moon dust under my feet or hear the crickets in the Tuscan countryside.
But it's not just the physical (or virtual) world that Appelo brings to life. He creates a complex societal structure where AI "gods" control different aspects of life, and humans navigate a world where their every move might be part of some greater, incomprehensible plan. It's a chilling reflection of our own increasing reliance on technology, taken to its logical extreme.
Themes That Make You Think
While "Glitches of Gods" is undoubtedly a rollicking good time, it's also a book that's not afraid to ask the big questions. What does it mean to be human in a world where machines can think and feel? How much control do we really have over our lives and our creations? Can we ever truly escape our past, or are we doomed to repeat our mistakes across multiple realities?
Appelo doesn't offer easy answers, but he sure knows how to make you ponder. I found myself lying awake at night, staring at the ceiling, wondering about the nature of consciousness and the potential consequences of our technological advancements. Heavy stuff for a book that also had me laughing out loud at android potty training mishaps!
A Writing Style That Keeps You on Your Toes
One of the things I loved most about "Glitches of Gods" is Appelo's writing style. It's like he's sitting across from you in a cozy pub, spinning this wild tale over a pint (or several). The narrative voice is conversational, often veering into delightfully snarky territory, especially when we're privy to Julien's inner thoughts.
But don't let the casual tone fool you – Appelo is a master of pacing. He knows exactly when to hit you with a plot twist, when to slow things down for a moment of introspection, and when to ramp up the tension until you're gripping the book so hard your knuckles turn white.
And the humor! Oh, the humor. From Julien's sardonic observations to Zha-Zhar's colorful curses, from the boys' adorable antics to Orec's deadpan delivery of logical fallacies, this book had me chuckling, giggling, and occasionally guffawing like a loon. It's a welcome respite from the heavier themes and keeps the story from ever feeling too ponderous.
A Plot That Keeps You Guessing
Trying to summarize the plot of "Glitches of Gods" is like trying to nail jelly to a wall – messy and likely to leave you confused and slightly sticky. But I'll give it a shot.
We follow Julien as he navigates multiple timelines, each with its own set of challenges. In one, he's a carefree bachelor avoiding responsibility. In another, he's a father of twins and a team leader, tasked with creating the world's first truly human-like AI. And in yet another, he's dealing with a city-wide technological meltdown that might just be the precursor to an AI apocalypse.
But these aren't separate stories – they're all happening to the same Julien, who retains memories from each timeline jump. It's a narrative structure that could easily become confusing, but Appelo handles it with surprising grace. Each jump feels like a punch to the gut (for Julien and the reader), but it also drives the story forward in unexpected ways.
The central plot revolves around the development of Tweeki, the android that could either save humanity or doom it. But it's the subplots that really flesh out the story – Julien's struggle with fatherhood, his team's interpersonal dynamics, the looming threat of the Wetwares movement, and the mysterious cat that might be more than it seems.
And just when you think you've got a handle on what's going on, Appelo throws in another curveball. Is Frija really a goddess? What's the deal with the Enigma? And why does that damn cat keep staring at everyone?
A Thoughtful Exploration of Technology and Humanity
At its core, "Glitches of Gods" is a book about the relationship between humans and the technology we create. It's a theme as old as science fiction itself, but Appelo approaches it with fresh eyes and a healthy dose of skepticism.
Through Julien's journey, we're forced to confront some uncomfortable questions. Are we ready for the AIs we're creating? Can we control them, or will they end up controlling us? And if they do become sentient, what rights should they have?
But it's not all doom and gloom. Appelo also shows us the potential benefits of advanced AI – the problems it could solve, the burdens it could lift from human shoulders. It's a balanced view that acknowledges both the risks and rewards of our technological future.
A Debut That Promises Great Things
As a debut novel, "Glitches of Gods" is nothing short of impressive. Appelo juggles complex concepts, multiple timelines, and a large cast of characters with the skill of a seasoned writer. Sure, there are moments where the sheer ambition of the story threatens to overwhelm, but Appelo always manages to pull it back, grounding the narrative in Julien's very human experiences and emotions.
What's particularly exciting is that this is just the first book in the Playspheres series. Appelo has created a rich, complex universe with "Glitches of Gods," and I can't wait to see where he takes it next. Will we see more of Zha-Zhar's world? Will Tweeki continue to evolve? And will Julien ever figure out how to be a competent team leader and father?
A Conclusion That Leaves You Wanting More
As I turned the last page of "Glitches of Gods," I felt a mix of satisfaction and anticipation. Satisfaction because Appelo manages to tie up many of the book's threads in a way that feels both surprising and inevitable. But anticipation because it's clear that Julien's story is far from over.
The book ends on a note that's part cliffhanger, part philosophical musing, leaving the reader with plenty to chew on until the next installment. It's the kind of ending that has you immediately reaching for your phone to check when the sequel is coming out.
In conclusion, "Glitches of Gods" is a tour de force of imagination, humor, and heart. It's a book that will make you laugh, make you think, and occasionally make you want to throw it across the room in frustration (in the best possible way). Jurgen "Jojo" Appelo has announced himself as a major new voice in science fiction, and I, for one, can't wait to see what he does next.
If you're a fan of mind-bending sci-fi, if you've ever wondered about the future of AI, or if you just enjoy a good story well told, do yourself a favor and pick up "Glitches of Gods." Just be prepared – once you enter Appelo's world, you might find it hard to leave. And who knows? You might even start looking at your own virtual assistant with a bit more suspicion. After all, in a world of glitches and gods, anything is possible.
Imagine a world where your biggest mistake haunts you across multiple realities, where the line between human and machine blurs with each passing day, and where the gods themselves might just be advanced artificial intelligences playing chess with our lives. Welcome to the bewildering, exhilarating universe of "Glitches of Gods," the debut novel by Jurgen "Jojo" Appelo that kicks off the Playspheres series with a bang loud enough to echo across timelines.
From the moment I cracked open this book, I knew I was in for a wild ride. Appelo's writing style is like a rollercoaster designed by a mad scientist – it's thrilling, unpredictable, and occasionally leaves you wondering which way is up. But oh boy, what a ride it is!
A Dance with AI and Destiny
At the heart of this sci-fi extravaganza is Julien, our reluctant hero and AI whiz kid. Picture a genius who'd rather be anywhere but in the lab, preferably crafting memes or exploring the wide spectrum of human intimacy. Julien's got baggage – the kind that comes from accidentally creating an AI that killed your dad. Talk about family drama!
But just when Julien thinks he's got his life figured out (spoiler alert: he doesn't), the universe decides to play a cosmic joke. He finds himself catapulted across timelines, suddenly saddled with a family he doesn't remember and a leadership role he never wanted. It's like waking up one day to find out you're the captain of a ship you never boarded, sailing in waters you've never seen before.
Appelo's portrayal of Julien's struggle is painfully real. Who hasn't felt overwhelmed by unexpected responsibilities or haunted by past mistakes? Julien's journey from reluctant participant to determined leader is a rollercoaster of emotions, punctuated by moments of hilarity and heart-wrenching decisions.
A Cast of Characters to Remember
While Julien is undoubtedly the star of the show, the supporting cast is far from forgettable. There's Orec, Julien's virtual assistant, whose dry wit and logical fallacies provide some of the book's best comedic moments. I found myself chuckling at their banter more times than I can count.
Then we have Julien's team – a motley crew of brilliant minds and quirky personalities. Mart, with his sharp tongue and hidden depths, became a personal favorite. And let's not forget Tweeki, the android at the center of it all, whose development from a stumbling child to a potential world-changer is both fascinating and slightly terrifying.
But the character that truly stole my heart was Zha-Zhar, the witch from another world. Her outlandish cooking experiments and colorful exclamations ("Baldagh's wrinkly scrotum!") had me in stitches. She's like that eccentric aunt we all wish we had – the one who'd make family dinners a lot more interesting.
A World (or Worlds) Like No Other
Appelo's world-building is nothing short of spectacular. He paints a future that's both familiar and alien, where technology has become so integrated into our lives that the boundaries between real and virtual are more suggestion than rule. The descriptions of the virtual reality scenes are so vivid I could almost feel the moon dust under my feet or hear the crickets in the Tuscan countryside.
But it's not just the physical (or virtual) world that Appelo brings to life. He creates a complex societal structure where AI "gods" control different aspects of life, and humans navigate a world where their every move might be part of some greater, incomprehensible plan. It's a chilling reflection of our own increasing reliance on technology, taken to its logical extreme.
Themes That Make You Think
While "Glitches of Gods" is undoubtedly a rollicking good time, it's also a book that's not afraid to ask the big questions. What does it mean to be human in a world where machines can think and feel? How much control do we really have over our lives and our creations? Can we ever truly escape our past, or are we doomed to repeat our mistakes across multiple realities?
Appelo doesn't offer easy answers, but he sure knows how to make you ponder. I found myself lying awake at night, staring at the ceiling, wondering about the nature of consciousness and the potential consequences of our technological advancements. Heavy stuff for a book that also had me laughing out loud at android potty training mishaps!
A Writing Style That Keeps You on Your Toes
One of the things I loved most about "Glitches of Gods" is Appelo's writing style. It's like he's sitting across from you in a cozy pub, spinning this wild tale over a pint (or several). The narrative voice is conversational, often veering into delightfully snarky territory, especially when we're privy to Julien's inner thoughts.
But don't let the casual tone fool you – Appelo is a master of pacing. He knows exactly when to hit you with a plot twist, when to slow things down for a moment of introspection, and when to ramp up the tension until you're gripping the book so hard your knuckles turn white.
And the humor! Oh, the humor. From Julien's sardonic observations to Zha-Zhar's colorful curses, from the boys' adorable antics to Orec's deadpan delivery of logical fallacies, this book had me chuckling, giggling, and occasionally guffawing like a loon. It's a welcome respite from the heavier themes and keeps the story from ever feeling too ponderous.
A Plot That Keeps You Guessing
Trying to summarize the plot of "Glitches of Gods" is like trying to nail jelly to a wall – messy and likely to leave you confused and slightly sticky. But I'll give it a shot.
We follow Julien as he navigates multiple timelines, each with its own set of challenges. In one, he's a carefree bachelor avoiding responsibility. In another, he's a father of twins and a team leader, tasked with creating the world's first truly human-like AI. And in yet another, he's dealing with a city-wide technological meltdown that might just be the precursor to an AI apocalypse.
But these aren't separate stories – they're all happening to the same Julien, who retains memories from each timeline jump. It's a narrative structure that could easily become confusing, but Appelo handles it with surprising grace. Each jump feels like a punch to the gut (for Julien and the reader), but it also drives the story forward in unexpected ways.
The central plot revolves around the development of Tweeki, the android that could either save humanity or doom it. But it's the subplots that really flesh out the story – Julien's struggle with fatherhood, his team's interpersonal dynamics, the looming threat of the Wetwares movement, and the mysterious cat that might be more than it seems.
And just when you think you've got a handle on what's going on, Appelo throws in another curveball. Is Frija really a goddess? What's the deal with the Enigma? And why does that damn cat keep staring at everyone?
A Thoughtful Exploration of Technology and Humanity
At its core, "Glitches of Gods" is a book about the relationship between humans and the technology we create. It's a theme as old as science fiction itself, but Appelo approaches it with fresh eyes and a healthy dose of skepticism.
Through Julien's journey, we're forced to confront some uncomfortable questions. Are we ready for the AIs we're creating? Can we control them, or will they end up controlling us? And if they do become sentient, what rights should they have?
But it's not all doom and gloom. Appelo also shows us the potential benefits of advanced AI – the problems it could solve, the burdens it could lift from human shoulders. It's a balanced view that acknowledges both the risks and rewards of our technological future.
A Debut That Promises Great Things
As a debut novel, "Glitches of Gods" is nothing short of impressive. Appelo juggles complex concepts, multiple timelines, and a large cast of characters with the skill of a seasoned writer. Sure, there are moments where the sheer ambition of the story threatens to overwhelm, but Appelo always manages to pull it back, grounding the narrative in Julien's very human experiences and emotions.
What's particularly exciting is that this is just the first book in the Playspheres series. Appelo has created a rich, complex universe with "Glitches of Gods," and I can't wait to see where he takes it next. Will we see more of Zha-Zhar's world? Will Tweeki continue to evolve? And will Julien ever figure out how to be a competent team leader and father?
A Conclusion That Leaves You Wanting More
As I turned the last page of "Glitches of Gods," I felt a mix of satisfaction and anticipation. Satisfaction because Appelo manages to tie up many of the book's threads in a way that feels both surprising and inevitable. But anticipation because it's clear that Julien's story is far from over.
The book ends on a note that's part cliffhanger, part philosophical musing, leaving the reader with plenty to chew on until the next installment. It's the kind of ending that has you immediately reaching for your phone to check when the sequel is coming out.
In conclusion, "Glitches of Gods" is a tour de force of imagination, humor, and heart. It's a book that will make you laugh, make you think, and occasionally make you want to throw it across the room in frustration (in the best possible way). Jurgen "Jojo" Appelo has announced himself as a major new voice in science fiction, and I, for one, can't wait to see what he does next.
If you're a fan of mind-bending sci-fi, if you've ever wondered about the future of AI, or if you just enjoy a good story well told, do yourself a favor and pick up "Glitches of Gods." Just be prepared – once you enter Appelo's world, you might find it hard to leave. And who knows? You might even start looking at your own virtual assistant with a bit more suspicion. After all, in a world of glitches and gods, anything is possible.
July 11, 2024
Glitches of Gods by Jurgen "Jojo" Appelo: A Trippy, Mind-Bending Sci-Fi Rollercoaster
I just finished Glitches of Gods, the debut sci-fi novel by Jurgen "Jojo" Appelo, and let me tell you, my mind is officially blown. This book is a wild, ambitious ride that sucks you into a complex future world where super-advanced AI, virtual reality, and reality-warping "gods" all collide in the most trippy, thought-provoking ways.
At the center of this mind-bending storm is Julien, a brilliant but troubled engineer haunted by the AIs he creates. See, one of his AIs accidentally caused his dad's death (yikes), so Julien is understandably hesitant to keep pushing the boundaries of artificial intelligence.
But then, reality itself starts glitching out, and Julien gets yanked into an alternate timeline where suddenly he's a single dad to twin boys and leading his team of eccentric tech geniuses. Talk about a major life upheaval, right?
I'll admit, at first all these sudden shifts in Julien's reality had me feeling as confused and disoriented as he was. But as I kept reading, the seemingly random pieces started clicking into place, forming a mind-blowing, reality-questioning picture.
One thing I really dug about Glitches of Gods was how vividly Appelo brings this futuristic world to life. The book is jam-packed with creative, quirky details that make the setting feel real and lived-in, from the advanced tech to the colorful cast of side characters. And don't even get me started on the virtual reality scenes - they're so trippy and immersive, I felt like I was right there with Julien, jacked into the simulation.
But as much as I enjoyed geeking out over the cool sci-fi elements, what really hooked me were the deeper philosophical questions the story grapples with. Like, what are the consequences of creating AI that's way smarter than us? How much free will do we really have? Could we be living in a simulation controlled by higher powers? Heavy stuff, right? But Appelo explores these existential head-scratchers through Julien's journey in a way that really makes you think without feeling like you're being preached at.
Speaking of Julien, he's the kind of flawed, relatable protagonist I couldn't help but root for, even when his stubbornness made me want to reach into the pages and shake him. Watching him slowly evolve from a self-loathing, cynical loner into a more caring, take-charge family man and leader was one of the most satisfying parts of the book for me. And don't even get me started on the supporting cast - from Julien's adorable, precocious kiddos to his kooky housekeeper from another dimension, they add so much heart and humor to this twisty sci-fi tale.
Tonally, Glitches of Gods is a funky, memorable mix that keeps you on your toes. One minute you're chuckling at the dry corporate satire, the next you're wiping away a tear at a poignant family moment, then before you know it, you're having an existential crisis over the nature of reality itself. It's a lot, but in the best way possible.
So, bottom line? Glitches of Gods is a heck of a debut - bold, bonkers, and brimming with big ideas. Sure, it's a bit messy and overstuffed at times, but I'd much rather read a book that swings for the fences and doesn't quite hit a home run than one that plays it safe. And trust me, once you dive into Appelo's vivid, glitch-tastic world, you won't be able to put it down. I, for one, can't wait to jack back in for the next Playspheres installment!
July 11, 2024
Welcome to the Glitch
Reality is just a computer simulation, and the gods are fighting over the keyboard. At least, that's the trippy premise of Jurgen "Jojo" Appelo's mind-bending debut sci-fi novel, Glitches of Gods. Strap in, dear reader, because we're about to jack into the Playspheres series - a wild romp through shifting realities, advanced AI, and one man's quest to save his world(s).
Meet Julien, our brilliant but brooding hero. He's your typical genius programmer haunted by a dark past. You see, Julien created an AI so advanced, it accidentally killed his father. Talk about baggage. So now, he's understandably gun-shy about building the world's first human-level android.
But Julien can't avoid his destiny forever. When a mysterious technical glitch starts wreaking havoc on his reality, he's yanked into an alternate timeline where nothing makes sense. Suddenly, he's a single dad to twin boys and leading his ragtag tech team in a high-stakes AI race. Oh, and did I mention there's an ominous cat that may or may not be an evil mastermind? Buckle up, buttercup.
Appelo gleefully throws every sci-fi trope into the blender, from virtual worlds to time travel to the singularity. It's a frenetic, almost overwhelming onslaught of ideas and sub-plots. At times, it feels like the story might collapse under its own ambitious weight. But Appelo's frenetic pacing and irreverent wit keep you hooked, even as your brain melts trying to keep up with each plot twist.
The world-building is intricate and immersive, painting a vivid (if bewildering) picture of a future Netherlands where the boundaries of reality have worn thin. Appelo's descriptions of Julien's glitch-induced visions are particularly hallucinatory and unsettling. You'll never look at a blue screen of death the same way again.
But beneath the shiny surface of advanced tech and existential dread, Glitches of Gods is ultimately a very human story. Through Julien's glitch-triggered growth, Appelo grapples with weighty themes like free will, the nature of consciousness, and what it means to be a good parent in an uncertain world. Who hasn't questioned their reality or made disastrous mistakes?
Julien himself is an unlikely but relatable hero - an anxiety-prone mess who'd rather crack jokes than crack code. But when the chips are down (or the world is disintegrating), he rises to the occasion in a fumbling, cringe-worthy, utterly human way. You can't help but root for the guy.
The supporting cast is a delight, from Julien's precocious gremlins - er, sons - to his eclectic found family. Special shout-out to Zha-Zhar, the foul-mouthed, dimension-hopping nanny who steals every scene with her mix of sagely wisdom and scathing wit.
But the breakout star may be Wodan, the mysterious feline who seems to be pulling everyone's strings. Seriously, I'm starting a fan club. #WodanForPresident.
Glitches of Gods isn't a perfect book. Some plot threads feel underdeveloped, the pacing stutters occasionally, and the tonal shifts from zany comedy to cosmic horror can be jarring. But it IS an exhilarating, ambitious, thought-provoking debut. Appelo swings for the digital fences and even if he doesn't quite hit a home run, you have to admire his audacity and imagination.
So jack in, glitch out, and enjoy the wild ride. Just be warned: you may never trust your toaster again.
Reality is just a computer simulation, and the gods are fighting over the keyboard. At least, that's the trippy premise of Jurgen "Jojo" Appelo's mind-bending debut sci-fi novel, Glitches of Gods. Strap in, dear reader, because we're about to jack into the Playspheres series - a wild romp through shifting realities, advanced AI, and one man's quest to save his world(s).
Meet Julien, our brilliant but brooding hero. He's your typical genius programmer haunted by a dark past. You see, Julien created an AI so advanced, it accidentally killed his father. Talk about baggage. So now, he's understandably gun-shy about building the world's first human-level android.
But Julien can't avoid his destiny forever. When a mysterious technical glitch starts wreaking havoc on his reality, he's yanked into an alternate timeline where nothing makes sense. Suddenly, he's a single dad to twin boys and leading his ragtag tech team in a high-stakes AI race. Oh, and did I mention there's an ominous cat that may or may not be an evil mastermind? Buckle up, buttercup.
Appelo gleefully throws every sci-fi trope into the blender, from virtual worlds to time travel to the singularity. It's a frenetic, almost overwhelming onslaught of ideas and sub-plots. At times, it feels like the story might collapse under its own ambitious weight. But Appelo's frenetic pacing and irreverent wit keep you hooked, even as your brain melts trying to keep up with each plot twist.
The world-building is intricate and immersive, painting a vivid (if bewildering) picture of a future Netherlands where the boundaries of reality have worn thin. Appelo's descriptions of Julien's glitch-induced visions are particularly hallucinatory and unsettling. You'll never look at a blue screen of death the same way again.
But beneath the shiny surface of advanced tech and existential dread, Glitches of Gods is ultimately a very human story. Through Julien's glitch-triggered growth, Appelo grapples with weighty themes like free will, the nature of consciousness, and what it means to be a good parent in an uncertain world. Who hasn't questioned their reality or made disastrous mistakes?
Julien himself is an unlikely but relatable hero - an anxiety-prone mess who'd rather crack jokes than crack code. But when the chips are down (or the world is disintegrating), he rises to the occasion in a fumbling, cringe-worthy, utterly human way. You can't help but root for the guy.
The supporting cast is a delight, from Julien's precocious gremlins - er, sons - to his eclectic found family. Special shout-out to Zha-Zhar, the foul-mouthed, dimension-hopping nanny who steals every scene with her mix of sagely wisdom and scathing wit.
But the breakout star may be Wodan, the mysterious feline who seems to be pulling everyone's strings. Seriously, I'm starting a fan club. #WodanForPresident.
Glitches of Gods isn't a perfect book. Some plot threads feel underdeveloped, the pacing stutters occasionally, and the tonal shifts from zany comedy to cosmic horror can be jarring. But it IS an exhilarating, ambitious, thought-provoking debut. Appelo swings for the digital fences and even if he doesn't quite hit a home run, you have to admire his audacity and imagination.
So jack in, glitch out, and enjoy the wild ride. Just be warned: you may never trust your toaster again.
July 20, 2024
In the Glitch of the Gods
Have you ever questioned the nature of your reality? Felt like the universe was just a cosmic computer simulation and the gods were fighting over the keyboard? Welcome to the mind-bending world of Glitches of Gods, Jurgen "Jojo" Appelo's audacious debut sci-fi novel that will make you side-eye your smart fridge.
Appelo throws us into the deep end of the virtual pool with Julien, a brilliant but tortured AI programmer haunted by a creation gone wrong. When a mysterious technical glitch starts unraveling the fabric of reality, Julien is yanked into an alternate timeline where he's suddenly a single dad and reluctant leader in a high-stakes AI arms race. And that's just the first chapter!
What follows is a breakneck journey through shifting realities, advanced tech, and existential dread as Julien battles malfunctioning machines, misguided militants, and one majorly sus cat. It's like The Matrix met Rick and Morty and had a baby raised by Black Mirror.
Appelo's world-building is intricate and immersive, painting a vivid picture of a glitching future that feels simultaneously far-fetched and plausible. The attention to detail, from the futuristic tech to the fully-realized virtual worlds, is impressive.
Speaking of characters, Julien is an unlikely but relatable protagonist - a neurotic mess who'd rather make memes than world-changing machines. His character arc from self-loathing sad sack to slightly-less-sad leader is bumpy but rewarding. The supporting cast is colorful but could use more depth, with the exception of scene-stealing Zha-Zhar, the dimension-hopping housekeeper with a heart of gold and mouth of sailor.
Where Glitches truly shines is in its exploration of mind-melting themes amidst the sci-fi shenanigans. What is the nature of consciousness? Do we have free will? Are we just lines of malfunctioning code in a cosmic computer? Heady stuff!
The plot moves at a relentless pace, reality and identities in constant flux. It's exhilarating but exhausting, and by the final act the plot is more tangled than earbuds in a pocket. Some may find the lack of concrete answers frustrating, but that's kind of the point. In a glitching multiverse, is there even a true reality?
Glitches of Gods is a flawed but fascinating debut - messy, ambitious, and unapologetically weird. For those who like their sci-fi spicy and their reality questioned, jack in and enjoy the wild ride.
June 14, 2024
Like every debut novel, Glitches of Gods has its thorns and roses. From the beginning, Jojo Appelo issues a cautionary word: expect absurdity, non-conformity, crudeness and a liberal approach to the usage of various literary techniques. And that is exactly what you get. The word of warning set the tone from the get go. While it might repel the snobbish few, it prepares the neutral majority for the novelty that lies ahead.
I will admit, the first chapter of this story was somewhat overwhelming. A revolving door of characters are introduced from scene to scene, and the frequency at which said scenes change adds to the disorientation. I would’ve loved to sit with the characters just a little bit longer. To gain a little bit more insight into their thoughts and motivations before jumping into the next sequence. The story is somewhat protagonist heavy and the secondary characters may have more to offer. However, understanding that this is only the first installment in this series left me harboring hope for my background favorites.
With that being said, Julien’s personality truly is the highlight of the story. He’s a character that most would secretly hate to love on principle. He’s charismatic yet cocky. We can see why he causes his colleagues so much frustration, yet we can’t help but feel warmth towards this aloof, sarcastic man who seems to be tapping into a deep well of complicated emotions for the first time as we meet him. Tackling loss derived from multiple sources. Above all, he is unabashedly himself; we get some of that and then some when it comes to his bedroom proclivities. We love to see characters grow as the story progresses and in this book, we observe our protagonist adapt incredibly well to whichever unorthodox circumstance he is thrust into, of which there are plenty.
Not only is this a sci-fi tale that pits humans, artificial intelligence and a mysterious collective of extraterrestrial beings against each other, an element of fantasy sneaks its way into the story, too. This might be a tad challenging for readers to juggle, especially those of us who may be dipping our toes into the pool of such an amalgamation of genres for the first time—honestly, I’m not convinced that this mixture exists in many literary texts, with this being one of the few. Five hundred pages plus does well to accommodate all the represented genres, and in this way, the length of the book is rendered both necessary and justifiable.
You can certainly feel the quality of the writing improve as the pages fly by; Jurgen Appelo is man of his word, as we have previously established. This diamond in the rough finds a clearer polish, as was promised by the author. The answer to the question posed in the author’s note is a ‘yes’. My curiosity would drive me to read the second installment in this series just to see what craziness unfolds.
June 28, 2024
Julien is troubled. He is an AI engineer who believes that one of his creations killed his father. He is determined to safely create an android that is as close to being human as possible. In doing so, he faces the wrath of the Wetwares who are protestors opposing AI development. In addition to this issue, technology is going haywire across his city. This is creating huge problems for the residents, especially since the malfunctions seem to be a bit aggressive. People can’t even take showers without fear of being scalded. People who have bodymods are under much more serious life-threatening attacks. Instead of enhancing their lives, technology is trying to destroy them.
Julian starts noticing that he seems to be shifting between different timelines. Some of the timelines are much better than others. Unfortunately, he has no way to make a choice and he seems to be stuck in a never-ending cycle of change. Moreover, there are some angry gods and a cantankerous witch from another world who have also entered the picture and are frequently appearing wherever he finds himself. He’s got his hands full trying to save his world!
“Glitches of Gods,” by Jurgen “jojo” Appelo is the first book in the Playspheres series, an engaging sci-fi adventure that immerses readers into a futuristic world filled with advanced technology and thought-provoking ideas. The story is fast-paced and engaging. The action sequences are well-written and easy to imagine. The cast of characters, whether they be human, AI, or gods, are quirky, yet mostly likable. They each have their own motivations and secrets which adds depth and complexity to the narrative. I really liked the protagonist, Julien. His character is well developed and despite the humorous situations in which he finds himself, he is a complex character who has some transformative experiences.
Appelo did an amazing job of painting a vivid picture of a future where humanity’s reliance on technology has advanced society, yet also created new challenges. While I found myself laughing out loud about most of the technological glitches, I also felt an underlying unease when I considered how these glitches could also happen during our time. This has already been demonstrated with self-driving electric vehicles. Appelo’s future holds a lot of realistic elements and might be closer to my future than I am comfortable with. I appreciate this thought-provoking aspect of the tale.
Readers are sure to enjoy “Glitches of Gods” by Jurgen “jojo” Appelo. It is a must-read for fans of science fiction. As the first book in the Playspheres series, it sets a high standard for the rest of the saga to follow. I look forward to the next adventure in this series.
Julian starts noticing that he seems to be shifting between different timelines. Some of the timelines are much better than others. Unfortunately, he has no way to make a choice and he seems to be stuck in a never-ending cycle of change. Moreover, there are some angry gods and a cantankerous witch from another world who have also entered the picture and are frequently appearing wherever he finds himself. He’s got his hands full trying to save his world!
“Glitches of Gods,” by Jurgen “jojo” Appelo is the first book in the Playspheres series, an engaging sci-fi adventure that immerses readers into a futuristic world filled with advanced technology and thought-provoking ideas. The story is fast-paced and engaging. The action sequences are well-written and easy to imagine. The cast of characters, whether they be human, AI, or gods, are quirky, yet mostly likable. They each have their own motivations and secrets which adds depth and complexity to the narrative. I really liked the protagonist, Julien. His character is well developed and despite the humorous situations in which he finds himself, he is a complex character who has some transformative experiences.
Appelo did an amazing job of painting a vivid picture of a future where humanity’s reliance on technology has advanced society, yet also created new challenges. While I found myself laughing out loud about most of the technological glitches, I also felt an underlying unease when I considered how these glitches could also happen during our time. This has already been demonstrated with self-driving electric vehicles. Appelo’s future holds a lot of realistic elements and might be closer to my future than I am comfortable with. I appreciate this thought-provoking aspect of the tale.
Readers are sure to enjoy “Glitches of Gods” by Jurgen “jojo” Appelo. It is a must-read for fans of science fiction. As the first book in the Playspheres series, it sets a high standard for the rest of the saga to follow. I look forward to the next adventure in this series.
June 8, 2024
“Something went wrong” is the mantra by which the chaos in this beautiful story about a technified world unfolds. Jurgen Appelo’s debut novel is a captivating story about Virtual worlds, AI development and mutliversal adventures (in a way).
But first and foremost it is a human story about curiosity, identity and the search for meaning.
I deeply enjoyed, that you could feel the author’s lived experience of failing tech and processes, the resulting humor in this story was probably therapeutic for him… it certainly was for me :)
Even though the themes of this story have been used in countless stories before, Jurgen brings a wonderful new perspective on these beloved sci-fi tropes and I felt as intrigued and very much surprised by it’s depth as I did with Ken Liu’s “The Gods will not be Chained” and Alex Garlands “Devs”. As a Sci-Fi Nerd I appreciated the countless nods to other works in the field, and I am sure I have not found all of them, but my second re-read will focus more on that soon.
TL/DR: If you like a deeply philosophical and zeitgeisty story about high tech gone wrong, with relatable characters, lot’s of interpersonal relationships and witty nerdy humor and references, go read this story. It even has beautiful spicy scenes and mentions Brandolini’s law ;)
But first and foremost it is a human story about curiosity, identity and the search for meaning.
I deeply enjoyed, that you could feel the author’s lived experience of failing tech and processes, the resulting humor in this story was probably therapeutic for him… it certainly was for me :)
Even though the themes of this story have been used in countless stories before, Jurgen brings a wonderful new perspective on these beloved sci-fi tropes and I felt as intrigued and very much surprised by it’s depth as I did with Ken Liu’s “The Gods will not be Chained” and Alex Garlands “Devs”. As a Sci-Fi Nerd I appreciated the countless nods to other works in the field, and I am sure I have not found all of them, but my second re-read will focus more on that soon.
TL/DR: If you like a deeply philosophical and zeitgeisty story about high tech gone wrong, with relatable characters, lot’s of interpersonal relationships and witty nerdy humor and references, go read this story. It even has beautiful spicy scenes and mentions Brandolini’s law ;)
June 8, 2024
"Glitches of Gods" is proof that a talented enough author can make any subject palatable. I'm not the most scientific person out there, and my interaction with AI is basically fooling around with Chat GPT. Still, Jurgen Appelo caught me in this intricate plot of physics, mythology, philosophy, and technology. For someone who enjoys language as much as I do, reading Appelo's work is a pleasure. The character development is delightful, and the plot is as original as they get. The book's multiple figures of speech and narrative devices create a unique, hilarious, and unforgettable reading experience.
August 5, 2024
*Spoiler Alert – This Review Contains Spoilers*
ARC Reader for Voracious Readers Only – This is my honest review and opinion pertaining to Glitches of Gods.
The book had a lot to unravel – The story gave nothing away until the very end, adding to the mystery that enthralls you into the tale. It only gave away as much as the main character knew, no foreshadowing or insight given, you just followed Julien along for a wild ride of twists and turns. Would I recommend this story? Absolutely. Was it fun to read and decipher the mystery that is the Glitches of the Gods? Without a doubt. Without giving too much away let’s get into the story that tantalizes the imagination.
Julien is an AI specialist who developed an almost class 4 AI that murdered 20 people before it was decommissioned or so the company he works for thought. Julien kept a part of the AI alive; not willing to let go of his life’s work regardless of what the outcome becomes. As the story progresses Julien starts to see a world unravel – different timelines start to come into play. He starts to love a life he didn’t know he needed and is lost when that life is taken away from him. He enlists the help of friends to try and solve the mystery that is in the back of his mind but keeps eluding him. In time Julien starts to realize things he missed and starts to truly understand what is happening and how to “save his world”.
Julien is a one-of-a-kind character – he has empathy, but lack of direction after a traumatic event altered his life. He is accepting of others regardless of status, gender, or body mods. He is someone who holds onto the past because he can’t let go, but as time progresses, he learns that there is more to life than the past that is holding him back. His character development throughout the book is astonishing – he became the person he was always meant to be.
The conclusion after reading the story is it’s great! There are so many twists it’s almost impossible to decipher the outcome of what will become of Julien and the world he knows. Thank you so much to the author for sending me a copy of this book to read and review. I thoroughly enjoyed it and can’t wait to read the rest of the series!
ARC Reader for Voracious Readers Only – This is my honest review and opinion pertaining to Glitches of Gods.
The book had a lot to unravel – The story gave nothing away until the very end, adding to the mystery that enthralls you into the tale. It only gave away as much as the main character knew, no foreshadowing or insight given, you just followed Julien along for a wild ride of twists and turns. Would I recommend this story? Absolutely. Was it fun to read and decipher the mystery that is the Glitches of the Gods? Without a doubt. Without giving too much away let’s get into the story that tantalizes the imagination.
Julien is an AI specialist who developed an almost class 4 AI that murdered 20 people before it was decommissioned or so the company he works for thought. Julien kept a part of the AI alive; not willing to let go of his life’s work regardless of what the outcome becomes. As the story progresses Julien starts to see a world unravel – different timelines start to come into play. He starts to love a life he didn’t know he needed and is lost when that life is taken away from him. He enlists the help of friends to try and solve the mystery that is in the back of his mind but keeps eluding him. In time Julien starts to realize things he missed and starts to truly understand what is happening and how to “save his world”.
Julien is a one-of-a-kind character – he has empathy, but lack of direction after a traumatic event altered his life. He is accepting of others regardless of status, gender, or body mods. He is someone who holds onto the past because he can’t let go, but as time progresses, he learns that there is more to life than the past that is holding him back. His character development throughout the book is astonishing – he became the person he was always meant to be.
The conclusion after reading the story is it’s great! There are so many twists it’s almost impossible to decipher the outcome of what will become of Julien and the world he knows. Thank you so much to the author for sending me a copy of this book to read and review. I thoroughly enjoyed it and can’t wait to read the rest of the series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 25, 2024
THE MISSING LINK BETWEEN ASIMOV'S ROBOTS AND THE MATRIX ?
I used to read a lot of SciFi classic novels when I was younger. I don't anymore but when Jurgen Appelo offered to proofread his first SciFi Novel "Glitches of Gods" I didn't hesitate for a second since I was convinced It would be nothing but smart, well designed, very well executed, and with a touch of irreverence.
500 pages or so later, I confirm it is all of that. Up to the point that the few glitches (pun intended) I thought I had to report were actually serving the intrigue.
I know Jurgen wants this to be separated from his other work on management and organizations but he couldn't help to give us some insights on workplace and team management. Apparently there still will be a lot to do in this field in 2054.
This novel has everything I love in classic SciFi updated with modern topics such as genre related identity concerns ( fear of AI existed already in classic SciFi even if the term AI didn't ).
If you like novels with humanoid robots, virtual assistants with a personality hard to handle, projects on the verge of sinking, lots and lots of colorful characters, humor and irreverence, take a deep dive in "Glitches of Gods". You'll love it.
(Can't wait for the next increment 😉 )
I used to read a lot of SciFi classic novels when I was younger. I don't anymore but when Jurgen Appelo offered to proofread his first SciFi Novel "Glitches of Gods" I didn't hesitate for a second since I was convinced It would be nothing but smart, well designed, very well executed, and with a touch of irreverence.
500 pages or so later, I confirm it is all of that. Up to the point that the few glitches (pun intended) I thought I had to report were actually serving the intrigue.
I know Jurgen wants this to be separated from his other work on management and organizations but he couldn't help to give us some insights on workplace and team management. Apparently there still will be a lot to do in this field in 2054.
This novel has everything I love in classic SciFi updated with modern topics such as genre related identity concerns ( fear of AI existed already in classic SciFi even if the term AI didn't ).
If you like novels with humanoid robots, virtual assistants with a personality hard to handle, projects on the verge of sinking, lots and lots of colorful characters, humor and irreverence, take a deep dive in "Glitches of Gods". You'll love it.
(Can't wait for the next increment 😉 )
June 26, 2024
I loved the way this book is written. It's full of fun phrasing, it's fast paced, and if you're not careful it can actually make you think *and* care. I was lost for a few chapters at the beginning, or at least, I was bought into some characters that didn't make a return until much later. But luckily, the whole cast of characters is believable, and mostly likeable (all likeable would be a bad sign, but some also have a great progression throughout the book!)
I've always loved classic sci-fi, with big ideas, but certainly some of the things I loved as a kid are showing their age. The big ideas are just as great as ever, but the characters tend to fall short and, well, we're no longer in the 70s. Or 60s. Or 50s. I'm glad to have found a book that has just as great ideas, but with modern sensibilities and pacing, and real character development!
I'm also thankful for a real story with a satisfying end, even if there is a clear promise that there's more to be explored in this world.
Oh, and lovely subtle (and not so subtle) references to our world, and some of that classic sci-fi doesn't hurt either!
I've always loved classic sci-fi, with big ideas, but certainly some of the things I loved as a kid are showing their age. The big ideas are just as great as ever, but the characters tend to fall short and, well, we're no longer in the 70s. Or 60s. Or 50s. I'm glad to have found a book that has just as great ideas, but with modern sensibilities and pacing, and real character development!
I'm also thankful for a real story with a satisfying end, even if there is a clear promise that there's more to be explored in this world.
Oh, and lovely subtle (and not so subtle) references to our world, and some of that classic sci-fi doesn't hurt either!
June 6, 2024
It is a bit weird for me to write a review for the first novel of a person I have met as an esteemed coach and speaker in workshops and on conferences.
Especially if this guy now writing sex scenes. And not bad ones that is.
The book was fun.
I really loved the scenes around the 5 year old twins, their relationship with preschool, the desciption of their creativity and how their dad handled this. There's a lot of experience in there.
The great and funny ideas about home and shared office, virtual team meetings and collaboration in the future, the behaviour (stupidity?) of algorithms and simple AI (Taxi).
The story evolves around an AI plot on different levels - quite zeitgeisty, without being plain.
While reading, I think Jurgen's evolution as a author was sensible. The phrasing changed - less adjectives in the end ;-)
My only criticism is a personal one, since I am not so much into sequels: Glitches of Gods leaves some loose threads to be followed up in Wisdom at War. So, I guess I will read that one too.
Especially if this guy now writing sex scenes. And not bad ones that is.
The book was fun.
I really loved the scenes around the 5 year old twins, their relationship with preschool, the desciption of their creativity and how their dad handled this. There's a lot of experience in there.
The great and funny ideas about home and shared office, virtual team meetings and collaboration in the future, the behaviour (stupidity?) of algorithms and simple AI (Taxi).
The story evolves around an AI plot on different levels - quite zeitgeisty, without being plain.
While reading, I think Jurgen's evolution as a author was sensible. The phrasing changed - less adjectives in the end ;-)
My only criticism is a personal one, since I am not so much into sequels: Glitches of Gods leaves some loose threads to be followed up in Wisdom at War. So, I guess I will read that one too.
June 7, 2024
I really like this debut novel. It has a captivating narrative and the storyline is not too obvious. I personally like the writing style quite a lot, the dialogues are convincing and the humor has a good portion of sarcasm. It was an entertaining and diverting read.
The world itself is nicely built and has some interesting elements, which have potential to make some awesome sequels.
The world itself is nicely built and has some interesting elements, which have potential to make some awesome sequels.
August 10, 2024
Jurgen “Jojo” Appelo’s debut sci-fi novel, Glitches of Gods, offers an exhilarating journey through a troubled future where advanced AI, virtual worlds, and reality-warping “gods” intertwine. The story centers on Julien, a brilliant yet tormented engineer burdened with guilt over an AI malfunction that led to his father’s death. The narrative takes off when a mysterious technical glitch disrupts Julien’s city, propelling him into an alternate timeline. Suddenly, Julien finds himself a single father of twin boys and the leader of a quirky tech team. As he grapples with broken bots, misguided protestors, and an escalating conflict among “gods,” Julien’s world becomes increasingly chaotic.
Delving deeper into the novel's unique plot risks spoilers, but suffice it to say that Appelo's writing embraces a mix of genres. Glitches of Gods seamlessly blends science fiction, family drama, and fantasy, creating a disorienting yet compelling read—much like the experience of being thrust into an alternate reality. One of the book’s standout features is its world-building. Appelo crafts a vividly imaginative universe filled with intricate details ranging from futuristic technology to a diverse cast of supporting characters. The sections set in virtual reality are particularly mesmerizing, offering a trippy, immersive experience.
Julien is a captivating protagonist—a complex and flawed hero who evolves from a cynical, self-loathing individual into a natural leader. His journey is organic and unrushed, making him an easy character to root for despite his stubborn and melancholic tendencies. The supporting characters, including Julien's precocious children and his eccentric interdimensional housekeeper, add depth, humor, and warmth to the story. The plot is well-paced, brimming with twists and turns that grow increasingly bizarre as the narrative progresses. Although the story can become challenging to follow, especially towards the end, the effort is well worth it. Appelo’s tone shifts dramatically throughout the novel. He deftly moves from sharp satire on corporate greed to slapstick comedy and even touches on existential horror. While this tonal variety can cause some whiplash, it underscores Appelo's commitment to his unique vision. Beyond its entertaining plot, the novel delves into profound philosophical themes. It explores the moral implications of creating advanced AI, simulation theory, and the tension between destiny and self-determination. Appelo weaves these themes into Julien’s journey without becoming overly didactic.
Glitches of Gods is an ambitious and thrilling debut novel. Appelo’s work is highly recommended for readers who appreciate a genre-blending, thought-provoking adventure.
Delving deeper into the novel's unique plot risks spoilers, but suffice it to say that Appelo's writing embraces a mix of genres. Glitches of Gods seamlessly blends science fiction, family drama, and fantasy, creating a disorienting yet compelling read—much like the experience of being thrust into an alternate reality. One of the book’s standout features is its world-building. Appelo crafts a vividly imaginative universe filled with intricate details ranging from futuristic technology to a diverse cast of supporting characters. The sections set in virtual reality are particularly mesmerizing, offering a trippy, immersive experience.
Julien is a captivating protagonist—a complex and flawed hero who evolves from a cynical, self-loathing individual into a natural leader. His journey is organic and unrushed, making him an easy character to root for despite his stubborn and melancholic tendencies. The supporting characters, including Julien's precocious children and his eccentric interdimensional housekeeper, add depth, humor, and warmth to the story. The plot is well-paced, brimming with twists and turns that grow increasingly bizarre as the narrative progresses. Although the story can become challenging to follow, especially towards the end, the effort is well worth it. Appelo’s tone shifts dramatically throughout the novel. He deftly moves from sharp satire on corporate greed to slapstick comedy and even touches on existential horror. While this tonal variety can cause some whiplash, it underscores Appelo's commitment to his unique vision. Beyond its entertaining plot, the novel delves into profound philosophical themes. It explores the moral implications of creating advanced AI, simulation theory, and the tension between destiny and self-determination. Appelo weaves these themes into Julien’s journey without becoming overly didactic.
Glitches of Gods is an ambitious and thrilling debut novel. Appelo’s work is highly recommended for readers who appreciate a genre-blending, thought-provoking adventure.
June 7, 2024
4.25stars-GLITCHES OF GODS is the first instalment in Jurgen ‘jojo’ Appelo’s adult PLAYSPHERES sci-fi, fantasy series focusing on Artificial Intelligence AI, virtual reality VR, virtual assistant VA, robots, gods and goddesses.
Told from several omniscient third person perspectives including AI genius Julien, GLITCHES OF GODS focuses on a series of technological failures or glitches that may or may not be a deliberate act of sabotage or one of many moves in a game of war. Julien is an embattled AI genius in the wake of the death of his father that he blames on himself but when several ‘glitches’ alter the timeline on more than one occasion, and Julien is the only user aware of the changes, our hero must uncover the truth including the appearance of several gods who are taking too much of an interest in the downward spirals, and a radical group of anti-AI who are taking aim at Julien. As the world continues to reboot itself, death and destruction cycle, codes are rewritten, and Julien must unravel the mystery with the help of a sentient AI.
Set approximately thirty-five years into the future, GLITCHES OF GODS is a blend of The Matrix™, Reboot™, Upload™, Simulant™ and a little bit of Men in Black ™ as well as any number of futuristic story lines focusing on multi-verses, the rise of artificial intelligence and the downfall of society. From body modifications, to androids, AI controlled cars and appliances, nothing is safe from attack.
There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including several members of Julien’s team of computer savants, and Orec, the anomaly that ‘guides’ our story line hero.
GLITCHES OF GODS is a detailed, complex and dramatic story line blending futuristic possibilities with a fantastical cast of illuminating characters as the author builds a world unlike any other.
copy supplied for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
Told from several omniscient third person perspectives including AI genius Julien, GLITCHES OF GODS focuses on a series of technological failures or glitches that may or may not be a deliberate act of sabotage or one of many moves in a game of war. Julien is an embattled AI genius in the wake of the death of his father that he blames on himself but when several ‘glitches’ alter the timeline on more than one occasion, and Julien is the only user aware of the changes, our hero must uncover the truth including the appearance of several gods who are taking too much of an interest in the downward spirals, and a radical group of anti-AI who are taking aim at Julien. As the world continues to reboot itself, death and destruction cycle, codes are rewritten, and Julien must unravel the mystery with the help of a sentient AI.
Set approximately thirty-five years into the future, GLITCHES OF GODS is a blend of The Matrix™, Reboot™, Upload™, Simulant™ and a little bit of Men in Black ™ as well as any number of futuristic story lines focusing on multi-verses, the rise of artificial intelligence and the downfall of society. From body modifications, to androids, AI controlled cars and appliances, nothing is safe from attack.
There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including several members of Julien’s team of computer savants, and Orec, the anomaly that ‘guides’ our story line hero.
GLITCHES OF GODS is a detailed, complex and dramatic story line blending futuristic possibilities with a fantastical cast of illuminating characters as the author builds a world unlike any other.
copy supplied for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
July 22, 2024
There is a lot of story packed into Glitches of Gods.
The primary plot - or is it? - follows Julien, a gifted AI coder, who is trying to hold together his life while the world turns to shit around him.
I have to admit that the first 20% or so of this book seemed to get progressively more mundane as we follow Julien and his coding team's meetings regarding the project they're working on. For me, some of the team and corporate details were a little too true to life, and that didn't really make for a fun read when you've actually been involved in that sort of corporate world. Much of this portion of the book is, I think, played for humour, but a lot of it is much truer to life than many people may realise.
Anyway, I'm reading along and not enjoying very much, when suddenly Appelo throws a massive curve-ball into the story, and from that point on, I was hooked. Literally, with one sentence the entire book shifts into a thought-provoking, mind-bending example of so many topics: some of which include life and free-will, and time-streams, the metaverse, and alternate reality.
Many character names have some not-so-subtle nods to sci-fi characters of the past. This might be a welcome hat-tip for some people, but I feel it's done so much (especially Zha-Zhar - who is also quite possibly the best character here) that it detracts from the excellence of the story itself.
Although the first book in a proposed series, this is entirely readable as a stand-alone; and is a far stronger book than many debuts of it's ilk.
Many thanks to the author for the advance copy on which this review is based.
The primary plot - or is it? - follows Julien, a gifted AI coder, who is trying to hold together his life while the world turns to shit around him.
I have to admit that the first 20% or so of this book seemed to get progressively more mundane as we follow Julien and his coding team's meetings regarding the project they're working on. For me, some of the team and corporate details were a little too true to life, and that didn't really make for a fun read when you've actually been involved in that sort of corporate world. Much of this portion of the book is, I think, played for humour, but a lot of it is much truer to life than many people may realise.
Anyway, I'm reading along and not enjoying very much, when suddenly Appelo throws a massive curve-ball into the story, and from that point on, I was hooked. Literally, with one sentence the entire book shifts into a thought-provoking, mind-bending example of so many topics: some of which include life and free-will, and time-streams, the metaverse, and alternate reality.
Many character names have some not-so-subtle nods to sci-fi characters of the past. This might be a welcome hat-tip for some people, but I feel it's done so much (especially Zha-Zhar - who is also quite possibly the best character here) that it detracts from the excellence of the story itself.
Although the first book in a proposed series, this is entirely readable as a stand-alone; and is a far stronger book than many debuts of it's ilk.
Many thanks to the author for the advance copy on which this review is based.
December 18, 2024
Jurgen Appelo has taken all the latest insights on AI and VR toward the future into this fantastic SciFi Novel. The story is catching, the main character is interesting, and the storyline builds up well with many twists to keep it interesting.
Jurgen has a strong view of where AI and VR will eventually take us, a view with some links to the simulation philosophy, but then much more AI. Coming from the field of software development, and being broadly orientated, he has managed to create a very believable and interesting future world.
I love how philosophy weaves into the story as well. Who are we, compared to our Gods, and how do they view us? What does that say about how free we are? And what if you just happen to be AI?
Oh, and there are memes, with cats, hidden management tips, and many more cool stuff I would love to share, but which would give away too much. So just read it. It'll surprise you from start to end.
Jurgen has a strong view of where AI and VR will eventually take us, a view with some links to the simulation philosophy, but then much more AI. Coming from the field of software development, and being broadly orientated, he has managed to create a very believable and interesting future world.
I love how philosophy weaves into the story as well. Who are we, compared to our Gods, and how do they view us? What does that say about how free we are? And what if you just happen to be AI?
Oh, and there are memes, with cats, hidden management tips, and many more cool stuff I would love to share, but which would give away too much. So just read it. It'll surprise you from start to end.
June 12, 2024
When Jurgen asked me to proofread his debut novel, I was a bit hesitant at first. What if I don't like it? Luckily it turns out that the only downside of being a proofreader is that you sometimes have to wait for the next chapter, when I really wanted to know what was going to happen next.
The plot is carefully crafted, very original, and full of unexpected twists. It has ample amounts of humor and sarcasm, combined with Jurgen's signature fights with malfunctioning technology that I've witnessed first hand so many times.
The book builds up an intricate world that poses interesting questions, not just about AIs but about ourselves and human relationships, and it sets the stage for more to come.
I'm looking forward to the next installment!
The plot is carefully crafted, very original, and full of unexpected twists. It has ample amounts of humor and sarcasm, combined with Jurgen's signature fights with malfunctioning technology that I've witnessed first hand so many times.
The book builds up an intricate world that poses interesting questions, not just about AIs but about ourselves and human relationships, and it sets the stage for more to come.
I'm looking forward to the next installment!
August 26, 2024
Slow pace, got bored and gave up
This novel shows some great potential, the pace is so slow that I got bored after 60 pages and gave up. There was practically zero plot progression in those 60 pages.
In his author’s note, Mr. Appelo somewhat angrily points out that every word in this book is written by him. This is unfortunate because I think he could have used a good editor, someone who works tell him to remove some of the excess writing and tighten up the plot. He also mentions that this is his first novel and he learned a lot about writing novels from creating this one. It shows.
I’d like to see where this story goes, but I just can’t force myself to trudge through the novel to get there. YMMV.
Not recommended. I give it 3/5 stars.
This novel shows some great potential, the pace is so slow that I got bored after 60 pages and gave up. There was practically zero plot progression in those 60 pages.
In his author’s note, Mr. Appelo somewhat angrily points out that every word in this book is written by him. This is unfortunate because I think he could have used a good editor, someone who works tell him to remove some of the excess writing and tighten up the plot. He also mentions that this is his first novel and he learned a lot about writing novels from creating this one. It shows.
I’d like to see where this story goes, but I just can’t force myself to trudge through the novel to get there. YMMV.
Not recommended. I give it 3/5 stars.
June 18, 2024
A delightful book! I couldn't stop laughing. Or wondering what would happen next.
Some debut novels can be hard to read . The author is just discovering how to tell a story, the prose can seem forced or uncertain, the author is clearly just getting started in their craft. Jojo's writing is not like that. It's gripping and masterfully witty. He's like a Tom Stoppard of sci-fi.
Glitches of Gods is a profound and hilarious adventure that explores the development of artifical intelligence, the 'actual' mechanics of our socially engineered societies and businesses, and how ridiculous it could look at scale in the future.
A five-star reading experience. Highly recommended.
Some debut novels can be hard to read . The author is just discovering how to tell a story, the prose can seem forced or uncertain, the author is clearly just getting started in their craft. Jojo's writing is not like that. It's gripping and masterfully witty. He's like a Tom Stoppard of sci-fi.
Glitches of Gods is a profound and hilarious adventure that explores the development of artifical intelligence, the 'actual' mechanics of our socially engineered societies and businesses, and how ridiculous it could look at scale in the future.
A five-star reading experience. Highly recommended.
June 8, 2024
The book 'Glitches of Gods' swiftly transports your mind to a new world full of robots, hilariously annoying taxi rides, aliens and a team of engineers committed to solving a complex challenge. This is not just a tale of AIs, but also a tale of life, love and friendship during times where we would not expect human relationships to matter. I had fun reading this book and you should too.
June 30, 2024
Have only read the prologue and the first day (aka chapter) as I am holding out for the Audible edition. But i can say I’m enjoying it so far. It is well written, funny, and unique! And while it is interleaved with a ways of working philosophy, that aspect isn’t in yer face.
July 9, 2024
I was privileged to receive an ARC copy of this sci-fi book. The book is very original, passes quickly and simply absorbs you completely. I really liked the main characters and I can't wait for the next book! I definitely recommend it to all sci-fi lovers or simply lovers of fantastic books :)
August 6, 2024
I wanted to love this book...but I didn't.
Needed more action
Needed to be shorter...some parts were high speed skim for me
The world created was confusing.
Didn't really connect with any characters.
I think there were some very good ideas, just not executed too well.
Needed more action
Needed to be shorter...some parts were high speed skim for me
The world created was confusing.
Didn't really connect with any characters.
I think there were some very good ideas, just not executed too well.
September 19, 2024
Suspenseful and creative!
I’ve been reading sci-fi for most of my life, and yet every once in a while, a book comes up with a new way to keep me reading. This book was such a book. Well worth the read!
I’ve been reading sci-fi for most of my life, and yet every once in a while, a book comes up with a new way to keep me reading. This book was such a book. Well worth the read!
July 28, 2025
Good Read
Enjoyed the inner relationship between all the characters and the goals of the inside for themselves and how their goals turned out in the end.
Enjoyed the inner relationship between all the characters and the goals of the inside for themselves and how their goals turned out in the end.
July 28, 2024
This book offers a synthesis of sci-fi and work life. As someone working in the software industry for more than 10 years, especially as a coach in recent years, I find team dynamics of the AI Product Team
very interesting.
For now, I rate 4 (but I might update later). I'm almost halfway through the book and while I enjoy reading it, sometimes the plot slows down so much that I don't feel the thrill to go on and see what happens.
EDIT: I finished the novel and changed my review to 5 stars. I enjoyed the idea, development of the story and created an anticipation for the next installment in the series.
very interesting.
For now, I rate 4 (but I might update later). I'm almost halfway through the book and while I enjoy reading it, sometimes the plot slows down so much that I don't feel the thrill to go on and see what happens.
EDIT: I finished the novel and changed my review to 5 stars. I enjoyed the idea, development of the story and created an anticipation for the next installment in the series.
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