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The Win Machine: The Road to Hell is Paved With Intervention
Mike Malloy’s hedge fund is more than just a money machine - it’s a weapon of insight, capable of forecasting global events with chilling accuracy.
When Mike’s proprietary software predicts an inevitable conflict between the United States and China, he faces an impossible exploit the knowledge to secure unimaginable wealth, or risk everything to avert a nuclear war.
As financial markets teeter on the brink and global tensions escalate, Mike finds himself at the crossroads of ethics and ambition. With his closest allies questioning his every move and powerful enemies circling, he must decide - will he become the savior of humanity or the architect of its destruction?
In The Win Machine, Ryan McBeth delivers a gripping techno-thriller that explores the terrifying power of technology, the dangers of unchecked ambition, and the razor-thin line between profit and catastrophe. As the countdown to global annihilation ticks away, the ultimate question How far would you go to win?
When Mike’s proprietary software predicts an inevitable conflict between the United States and China, he faces an impossible exploit the knowledge to secure unimaginable wealth, or risk everything to avert a nuclear war.
As financial markets teeter on the brink and global tensions escalate, Mike finds himself at the crossroads of ethics and ambition. With his closest allies questioning his every move and powerful enemies circling, he must decide - will he become the savior of humanity or the architect of its destruction?
In The Win Machine, Ryan McBeth delivers a gripping techno-thriller that explores the terrifying power of technology, the dangers of unchecked ambition, and the razor-thin line between profit and catastrophe. As the countdown to global annihilation ticks away, the ultimate question How far would you go to win?
207 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 21, 2024
64 people are currently reading
166 people want to read
About the author
Ryan McBeth
6 books24 followersRyan McBeth is an intelligence analyst, software architect, cybersecurity guy, novelest and YouTube content creator of military, intelligence and disinformation topics. He appears on NEWSMAX as an intelligence consultant and consults for Veloxxity on OSINT and information warfare.
Ryan spent 20 years as an anti-armor and heavy weapons infantryman with two overseas deployments and developed C4ISR software for Accenture Federal Services. He lives in Silver Spring, Maryland with a large humidor and whiskey library.
Ryan spent 20 years as an anti-armor and heavy weapons infantryman with two overseas deployments and developed C4ISR software for Accenture Federal Services. He lives in Silver Spring, Maryland with a large humidor and whiskey library.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
February 6, 2025
I really wanted to like this. I'm a fan of Ryan McBeth on YouTube and figured I'd give this a try and support him. It's a quick read, but nothing too exciting.
My first complaint is that the characters are flat, the main character is clearly wish fulfillment for Mr.McBeth with his wealth and hot wife. The wife character doesn't do anything for the story really. She has no impact on the plot or characters. The other characters are also flat, there is no character growth or change, all the characters are the same at the start as at the end.
My main problem with the book is how the central conflict is handled. The book is very cavalier about military conflict. I wasn't convinced that the conflict being described is actually happening to the characters. It feels like the plot around the "win machine" itself is the only thing the author cared about, he didn't explore the implications of the ideas and actions of the story and as a result the whole thing feels static and monotone.
Finally, I will say that I know Ryan McBeth takes pride in his rational, cogent, and non-partisan intelligence views, and I won't dispute that. However, this book reveals to me that he leans Republican, not explicitly, but through the action of the plot. I kind of wish I didn't know that.
Still, it was a fun and quick read. Not bad, not unreadable, but nothing special. I'll continue learning about military matters from him on YouTube but will be skipping future novels.
My first complaint is that the characters are flat, the main character is clearly wish fulfillment for Mr.McBeth with his wealth and hot wife. The wife character doesn't do anything for the story really. She has no impact on the plot or characters. The other characters are also flat, there is no character growth or change, all the characters are the same at the start as at the end.
My main problem with the book is how the central conflict is handled. The book is very cavalier about military conflict. I wasn't convinced that the conflict being described is actually happening to the characters. It feels like the plot around the "win machine" itself is the only thing the author cared about, he didn't explore the implications of the ideas and actions of the story and as a result the whole thing feels static and monotone.
Finally, I will say that I know Ryan McBeth takes pride in his rational, cogent, and non-partisan intelligence views, and I won't dispute that. However, this book reveals to me that he leans Republican, not explicitly, but through the action of the plot. I kind of wish I didn't know that.
Still, it was a fun and quick read. Not bad, not unreadable, but nothing special. I'll continue learning about military matters from him on YouTube but will be skipping future novels.
January 2, 2025
I was surprised to say that I actually liked Ryan McBeth's "The Win Machine". At first I thought it was going to be kind of dumb but then when the author presented the plot development and brought in themes like uncertainty, quantum computing, and tanglement, it's affect on life and the future, it got to be very interesting. Having a military background and being a scientist also helped me in my enjoyment.
The Win Machine is a captivating techno-thriller that explores the potential for manipulating financial markets, international relations, elections through advanced technology with supercomputers, AI and algorithms. The novel centers around a fictional machine capable of predicting and influencing voter behavior with unprecedented accuracy. While the book offers a chilling glimpse into the future of political warfare, a critical analysis reveals several areas for discussion.
Probability of Technological Development:
The novel's central premise hinges on the existence of a "Win Machine," a sophisticated technology capable of analyzing vast datasets, predicting individual tradable market trends and then later on voter preferences, and then micro-targeting persuasive messages. While the book's technology is fictional, it draws inspiration from real-world advancements in data analytics, artificial intelligence, social media manipulation and the coming development of more advanced computing networks like quantum computers. See my recent review of the excellent book The End of Reality https://dhmarks.blogspot.com/2024/02/...
1. Argument for Plausibility: The rapid evolution of AI and the increasing sophistication of data mining techniques make it conceivable that a less extreme version of the "Win Machine" could emerge in the near future.
Argument Against Plausibility: The book depicts a level of technological sophistication and predictive accuracy that “maybe” is just beyond the current capabilities of AI. True mind reading and perfectly orchestrated social engineering remain for the moment at least largely in the realm of science fiction.
2. Overlooking AI-Generated Data:
McBeth's novel appears to predate the current AI revolution. A significant critique lies in its potential oversight of how easily the vast datasets required by the "Win Machine" can now be generated using AI agents. These agents could:
Create Synthetic Data: AI can now generate incredibly realistic synthetic data, including social media posts, news articles, and even video content. This could and probably is right now used to manipulate public opinion and create the illusion of grassroots support.
Automate Data Collection: AI can already efficiently shift through massive amounts of online data, identifying patterns and vulnerabilities that human analysts might miss. This could be used to target specific demographics with tailored propaganda.
3. Foreign Interference and Election Manipulation:
The book raises valid concerns about the potential for foreign powers , particularly Russia and China, to exploit such technology to interfere in elections.
Real-World Examples: Recent history provides numerous examples of foreign actors attempting to influence elections through cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, and social media manipulation.
Increased Risk: The "Win Machine" amplifies these concerns, suggesting that advanced technology could be used to manipulate entire populations with unprecedented precision.
4. Other Areas of Mild Criticism I have:
Ethical Considerations: The book raises important ethical questions about the use of such technology. Is it morally justifiable to manipulate voters, markets, governments even if it's for a "good" cause? Who decides what constitutes a "good" cause?
Erosion of Trust: The widespread use of such technology could erode public trust in democratic institutions and the electoral process. I have already been there for a while. As Stalin has said. It's not the voters who decide an election, but the people who count the vote
Potential for Abuse: The "Win Machine" could be used to suppress dissent, target vulnerable populations, and further entrench existing power structures. I think we are already seeing this
In conclusion, "The Win Machine" serves as a thought-provoking exploration of the potential dangers of unchecked technological advancement in the political arena. While the book's central premise may be a work of fiction, it highlights real-world concerns about data privacy, the manipulation of public opinion, and the erosion of trust in democratic institutions.
The author Ryan McBeth is a very knowledgeable man and a veteran and has an interesting YouTube channel and a Substack, which I highly recommend.
The Win Machine is a captivating techno-thriller that explores the potential for manipulating financial markets, international relations, elections through advanced technology with supercomputers, AI and algorithms. The novel centers around a fictional machine capable of predicting and influencing voter behavior with unprecedented accuracy. While the book offers a chilling glimpse into the future of political warfare, a critical analysis reveals several areas for discussion.
Probability of Technological Development:
The novel's central premise hinges on the existence of a "Win Machine," a sophisticated technology capable of analyzing vast datasets, predicting individual tradable market trends and then later on voter preferences, and then micro-targeting persuasive messages. While the book's technology is fictional, it draws inspiration from real-world advancements in data analytics, artificial intelligence, social media manipulation and the coming development of more advanced computing networks like quantum computers. See my recent review of the excellent book The End of Reality https://dhmarks.blogspot.com/2024/02/...
1. Argument for Plausibility: The rapid evolution of AI and the increasing sophistication of data mining techniques make it conceivable that a less extreme version of the "Win Machine" could emerge in the near future.
Argument Against Plausibility: The book depicts a level of technological sophistication and predictive accuracy that “maybe” is just beyond the current capabilities of AI. True mind reading and perfectly orchestrated social engineering remain for the moment at least largely in the realm of science fiction.
2. Overlooking AI-Generated Data:
McBeth's novel appears to predate the current AI revolution. A significant critique lies in its potential oversight of how easily the vast datasets required by the "Win Machine" can now be generated using AI agents. These agents could:
Create Synthetic Data: AI can now generate incredibly realistic synthetic data, including social media posts, news articles, and even video content. This could and probably is right now used to manipulate public opinion and create the illusion of grassroots support.
Automate Data Collection: AI can already efficiently shift through massive amounts of online data, identifying patterns and vulnerabilities that human analysts might miss. This could be used to target specific demographics with tailored propaganda.
3. Foreign Interference and Election Manipulation:
The book raises valid concerns about the potential for foreign powers , particularly Russia and China, to exploit such technology to interfere in elections.
Real-World Examples: Recent history provides numerous examples of foreign actors attempting to influence elections through cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, and social media manipulation.
Increased Risk: The "Win Machine" amplifies these concerns, suggesting that advanced technology could be used to manipulate entire populations with unprecedented precision.
4. Other Areas of Mild Criticism I have:
Ethical Considerations: The book raises important ethical questions about the use of such technology. Is it morally justifiable to manipulate voters, markets, governments even if it's for a "good" cause? Who decides what constitutes a "good" cause?
Erosion of Trust: The widespread use of such technology could erode public trust in democratic institutions and the electoral process. I have already been there for a while. As Stalin has said. It's not the voters who decide an election, but the people who count the vote
Potential for Abuse: The "Win Machine" could be used to suppress dissent, target vulnerable populations, and further entrench existing power structures. I think we are already seeing this
In conclusion, "The Win Machine" serves as a thought-provoking exploration of the potential dangers of unchecked technological advancement in the political arena. While the book's central premise may be a work of fiction, it highlights real-world concerns about data privacy, the manipulation of public opinion, and the erosion of trust in democratic institutions.
The author Ryan McBeth is a very knowledgeable man and a veteran and has an interesting YouTube channel and a Substack, which I highly recommend.
July 12, 2025
Ryan McBeth delivers a raw, insider's look at why America often loses wars it technically “wins.” Drawing from his own military background, he critiques the strategic blind spots, cultural misunderstandings, and bureaucratic inertia that plague U.S. interventions abroad.
The book is strongest when McBeth focuses on real-world failures and the systems that prop them up—like his analysis of how metrics, rather than outcomes, drive decisions, or how flashy tech (e.g., drones and software tools) creates a false sense of control. His writing is no-frills and sharp, clearly informed by field experience and a desire to challenge comfortable narratives.
However, as a full-fledged book, The Win Machine reads more like an extended essay or video transcript than a fully developed work of nonfiction. The pacing is uneven, there’s limited emotional depth, and some sections repeat ideas without pushing them further. Readers hoping for gripping narrative arcs or deep character profiles may find it underwhelming.
That said, the honesty and clarity of voice are refreshing. McBeth doesn’t claim to have all the answers—just a front-row seat to the dysfunction—and that humility is part of the book’s strength. It’s not perfect, but it is worth reading, especially for anyone interested in the disconnect between military might and real-world outcomes.
I look forward to his progression as an author and would recommend this book to anybody looking for a quick read.
The book is strongest when McBeth focuses on real-world failures and the systems that prop them up—like his analysis of how metrics, rather than outcomes, drive decisions, or how flashy tech (e.g., drones and software tools) creates a false sense of control. His writing is no-frills and sharp, clearly informed by field experience and a desire to challenge comfortable narratives.
However, as a full-fledged book, The Win Machine reads more like an extended essay or video transcript than a fully developed work of nonfiction. The pacing is uneven, there’s limited emotional depth, and some sections repeat ideas without pushing them further. Readers hoping for gripping narrative arcs or deep character profiles may find it underwhelming.
That said, the honesty and clarity of voice are refreshing. McBeth doesn’t claim to have all the answers—just a front-row seat to the dysfunction—and that humility is part of the book’s strength. It’s not perfect, but it is worth reading, especially for anyone interested in the disconnect between military might and real-world outcomes.
I look forward to his progression as an author and would recommend this book to anybody looking for a quick read.
January 18, 2025
Świetna książka political i science fiction w jednym. Mamy rok 2035. Świat jest na skraju konfliktu nuklearnego między Chinami a USA. Biuro maklerskie korzysta z komputera kwantowego do transakji giełodwych. Nagle alogrytmy tego komputera nagle wskazują iż prawdopodobieństwo wyuchu wojny pratycznie osiąga prawie sto procent. Właściciel biura maklerskiego szuka kontaktu z rządzem USA aby podzielić się tą informacją. Z dnia na dzień do biura maklerskiego wchodzą wojskowi aby wykorzystać go do celów obronnych. Dochodzi do inwazji China na Taiwan i wybucha wojna. Niesamowicie ciekawa książka. Co ciekawe, to na rychły wychuch wojny wskazywała kampania na Tik-Tocu która zachęcała Chińczyków do honorowego kriodastwa, zwiększony zakupy Chin wieprzowiny na rynku światowy, zwiększona produkcja konerowanej wieprzowiny w China mocno przekraczająca popyt oraz kampania w mediach społecznościowych która zachęcała do przyrządzania najróżniejszych potraw z konserwowej wieprzowiny. Bardzo ciekawa książ i naprawdę dość oryginalna.
December 3, 2024
I enjoyed this novel, and I want to give credit to Ryan McBeth for an original and interesting story. It is a quick read, and I give that as a compliment. This book's pacing encourages you to turn the pages to find out what happens next. Ryan McBeth has a lot of hats he wears, and I'm not sure where he made the time to write this book, ideally for me it would have been a longer and more detailed story. I think the fiction world needs another Tom Clancy style writer, and it would be great to see his writing develop and be sustained. I'd definitely read buy and read another book from this author. I subscribe to his Substack, and I think he does a great job of crafting thoughtful and informative reporting about political and military events around the world. I'd encourage others to buy the book.
January 30, 2025
The Win Machine is a great read. I’m almost a character from the book, working in IT, and ex-hedge fund/current banker. Of all the recent books about what’s going to be possible in a few years with AI and its possible military applications, this is a very plausible story. I appreciate that the story was not bogged down with details of how our machine works - good pacing. Ryan’s the military expert and I am not, so I leave it to others to comment if he got those details correct. I read a lot of fiction about Wall Street that is clueless but this one is over the target. The book is the right length. Too many techno-thrillers are too long. Follow Ryan on You Tube and Substack.
August 18, 2025
What it lacks in literary mastery, it makes up for in sheer originality and suspense. The main characters are a bit one-dimensional, and don't really serve as a backdrop for the story, but more as an excuse to balance out the interesting bits (more on that in a second) with something that a publisher might actually want to publish.
As for the interesting bits: I love the office banter, technology, overlap of civilian and military life, speculative fiction--so, basically, the things that Ryan is knowledgeable about!
That said, I do think the book balances well, and I really enjoyed the (audio) read.
As for the interesting bits: I love the office banter, technology, overlap of civilian and military life, speculative fiction--so, basically, the things that Ryan is knowledgeable about!
That said, I do think the book balances well, and I really enjoyed the (audio) read.
December 27, 2024
A great page turner. I really appreciated the captivating nature of the story as well as character development and how the various technologies were laid out.
The book felt short, but that made it a fun read. I imagine he could have developed a number of the story lines more extensively and easily doubled the size of the book and brought more drama and intrigue to things.
I look forward to his next book and will likely read it.
The book felt short, but that made it a fun read. I imagine he could have developed a number of the story lines more extensively and easily doubled the size of the book and brought more drama and intrigue to things.
I look forward to his next book and will likely read it.
January 16, 2025
McBeth leverages his vast experience in cyber and Intel to weave a terrifying scenario that seems eerily familiar.
While at times it could have benefited from giving the ideas and characters a little bit more time to develop, the interesting premise and detailed world building more than make up for it. Manages to give considerable background detail without losing the pacing of the story and keeps the reader engaged right up to the last page.
Really looking forward to his next work.
While at times it could have benefited from giving the ideas and characters a little bit more time to develop, the interesting premise and detailed world building more than make up for it. Manages to give considerable background detail without losing the pacing of the story and keeps the reader engaged right up to the last page.
Really looking forward to his next work.
June 13, 2025
This is an interesting concept stretched to call it a book.
The Win Machine is an interesting concept, it gets into an interesting scenario, and in plays out an attack that is (now) somewhat prophetic.
However, the delving into quantum effects devolves into techno-babble and the discussion of multiple dimensions and timelines gets bizarre.
Aside from that, the book jumps from scene to scene with little transition.
The Win Machine is an interesting concept, it gets into an interesting scenario, and in plays out an attack that is (now) somewhat prophetic.
However, the delving into quantum effects devolves into techno-babble and the discussion of multiple dimensions and timelines gets bizarre.
Aside from that, the book jumps from scene to scene with little transition.
November 7, 2025
probably one of the better youtuber books I've read, the incessant ip dropping really started to get on my nerves. I found some of the dialogue to be a little strange, not necessarily bad, but like who uses the proper name for Amazon packaging etc.. once the plot got started it really picked up, it just kinda sucks that it wasnt until about the 3/4 mark for it to start. otherwise for a first book it was pretty good, I actually enjoyed a good part of it, I would probably give it a 5/10.
December 25, 2024
A quick and interesting read. The background info dumps were where this book shone. A novel take on the ASI trope set in the near future world of 2024. The characters were unfortunately thin, especially the MC. Motivations felt forced or contrived just to push the narrative. I'd love to read more like this from McBeth and hope he keeps polishing the craft. Good first book.
December 24, 2024
Great Story
Really kept my interest. As an Army Officer and former Morgantown resident it hit a lot of buttons for me. Patagonia zip ups don't become standard until after CCC when you can afford them.
Really kept my interest. As an Army Officer and former Morgantown resident it hit a lot of buttons for me. Patagonia zip ups don't become standard until after CCC when you can afford them.
February 24, 2025
Scary stuff...
Reminds me of books by Richard Clarke... Possible futures based on actual knowledge of the subject. The threat is speculative but certainly a possibility worth considering. All wrapped up in a compelling story.
Reminds me of books by Richard Clarke... Possible futures based on actual knowledge of the subject. The threat is speculative but certainly a possibility worth considering. All wrapped up in a compelling story.
December 21, 2024
Excellent!
This novel really held my attention. I enjoyed the characters and in the plot. Dothur really did a great job.
This novel really held my attention. I enjoyed the characters and in the plot. Dothur really did a great job.
December 28, 2024
Ominous, foreshadowed and predictable ending. Still well paced and interesting to read.
March 11, 2025
Fantastic, I really enjoy these types of stories. Nice short and to the point
April 2, 2025
A captivating book, with lots of interesting ideas and moral contemplations, that connect to the evolution of current conflicts and geopolitics.
April 3, 2025
Short novel, intelligent writing, captured my attention
June 3, 2025
Excellent work!
Really enjoyed the book! Fascinating use of future technology and an imaginative plot. Looking forward to Ryan’s next book. Thank you!
Really enjoyed the book! Fascinating use of future technology and an imaginative plot. Looking forward to Ryan’s next book. Thank you!
June 18, 2025
good quick read
In the vein of Tom Clancy. A good quick read that is both exciting and scary as you have to wonder if this is a work of fiction, or a glimpse into our future.
In the vein of Tom Clancy. A good quick read that is both exciting and scary as you have to wonder if this is a work of fiction, or a glimpse into our future.
June 18, 2025
A new Tom Clancy
Look out people we have a new Tom Clancy writing. Well done Ryan I am eagerly awaiting the next book in the series.
Look out people we have a new Tom Clancy writing. Well done Ryan I am eagerly awaiting the next book in the series.
September 10, 2025
This is a damn good read especially for someone who wants an exciting on the modern crisis genre.
January 5, 2025
Nuclear war nightmare fuel
June 18, 2025
Short. Could have expanded more on a lot of points, and added a lot more color. 3.8 rounded up to 4
May 29, 2025
Well written fiction about an alternate future. I really like this author.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews