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58% Too Far
They invited it in—without asking what it would replace.
Seven years. Countless sacrifices. And now, anthropologist Zadie Thornton’s doctoral work on how humanity might adapt to AI is already obsolete. With her PhD in jeopardy, she accepts her uncle’s mysterious offer to glimpse AI’s future, expecting a top-secret research facility. Instead, she wakes up on another planet.
Mushēški is home to the Anunnaki, descendants of ancient Sumerians who merged AI into their DNA five millennia ago. The result? Superhuman cognition… but at a cost. Their emotions have dulled. Their thoughts have grown uniform. They believed they’d reached the pinnacle of evolution, until a destabilizing disorder called Quantum Psychosis began stripping away the last traces of who they were. In pursuit of a solution, the Anunnaki have recreated extinct human species in vast biodomes.
For Zadie, it’s the opportunity of a lifetime. The chance to observe what humanity once was, while living among what her people could one day become. As fascination battles unease, she agrees to stay. To revive her career, and maybe even stop Earth from making the same mistakes.
But as the disorder spreads, the Anunnaki’s noble intentions give way to increasingly unethical measures, forcing Zadie to confront the true cost of progress—and what it really means to be human.
EDITORIAL REVIEWS:
"Author M A Noordermeer has written a book like none I've ever read before, and this cerebral, high-concept sci-fi tale is told with a human heart and philosophical edge, almost like a morality tale for the modern age. A highly recommended and impressive sci-fi work for fans of smart, urgent, and imaginative writing."
— K.C. Finn, Readers' Favorite
"A thoughtful exploration of what makes us human and what we risk when we offload that humanity to our creations. Fans of philosophical sci-fi with emotional resonance and existential dread will find a lot to admire here."
— Gabriella Harrison, Independent Book Review
"An enthralling blend of adventure, speculative technology, and suspense...Noordermeer whisked me away from reality and dropped me into a world of imagination with a well-paced plot."
— Keith Mbuya, Readers' Favorite
"Her compelling narrative style, meticulous attention to detail, and steady pacing immerse readers in the adventure. Kudos to Noordermeer for seamlessly transforming an academic topic into an exhilarating science fiction adventure that both purists and casual readers will enjoy."
— Essien Asian, Readers' Favorite
Seven years. Countless sacrifices. And now, anthropologist Zadie Thornton’s doctoral work on how humanity might adapt to AI is already obsolete. With her PhD in jeopardy, she accepts her uncle’s mysterious offer to glimpse AI’s future, expecting a top-secret research facility. Instead, she wakes up on another planet.
Mushēški is home to the Anunnaki, descendants of ancient Sumerians who merged AI into their DNA five millennia ago. The result? Superhuman cognition… but at a cost. Their emotions have dulled. Their thoughts have grown uniform. They believed they’d reached the pinnacle of evolution, until a destabilizing disorder called Quantum Psychosis began stripping away the last traces of who they were. In pursuit of a solution, the Anunnaki have recreated extinct human species in vast biodomes.
For Zadie, it’s the opportunity of a lifetime. The chance to observe what humanity once was, while living among what her people could one day become. As fascination battles unease, she agrees to stay. To revive her career, and maybe even stop Earth from making the same mistakes.
But as the disorder spreads, the Anunnaki’s noble intentions give way to increasingly unethical measures, forcing Zadie to confront the true cost of progress—and what it really means to be human.
EDITORIAL REVIEWS:
"Author M A Noordermeer has written a book like none I've ever read before, and this cerebral, high-concept sci-fi tale is told with a human heart and philosophical edge, almost like a morality tale for the modern age. A highly recommended and impressive sci-fi work for fans of smart, urgent, and imaginative writing."
— K.C. Finn, Readers' Favorite
"A thoughtful exploration of what makes us human and what we risk when we offload that humanity to our creations. Fans of philosophical sci-fi with emotional resonance and existential dread will find a lot to admire here."
— Gabriella Harrison, Independent Book Review
"An enthralling blend of adventure, speculative technology, and suspense...Noordermeer whisked me away from reality and dropped me into a world of imagination with a well-paced plot."
— Keith Mbuya, Readers' Favorite
"Her compelling narrative style, meticulous attention to detail, and steady pacing immerse readers in the adventure. Kudos to Noordermeer for seamlessly transforming an academic topic into an exhilarating science fiction adventure that both purists and casual readers will enjoy."
— Essien Asian, Readers' Favorite
- GenresScience FictionAmazon
308 pages, Paperback
Published July 28, 2025
70 people are currently reading
4194 people want to read
About the author
M A Noordermeer
1 book24 followersM A Noordermeer grew up with a one-legged dad, a three-legged cat, and a fascination with what makes us human. She won writing awards at school—until teachers took issue with her choice of controversial topics.
After her first year of university, dabbling in philosophy, psychology, and sociology, she flew to Japan to work as an English teacher and fund her pilot training. She earned her commercial pilot’s license, became a flying instructor, then shifted into aviation strategy, completing a degree in Aviation Management and an MBA along the way. She co-founded the carbon offsetting company CarbonClick, and raised four kids in a blended family.
At last, she came back to writing. Her debut novel, 58% Too Far, draws on lifelong interests in extinct human species, ancient civilizations, and AI. She lives in Auckland, New Zealand, where she writes things her teachers probably still wouldn’t have approved of.
After her first year of university, dabbling in philosophy, psychology, and sociology, she flew to Japan to work as an English teacher and fund her pilot training. She earned her commercial pilot’s license, became a flying instructor, then shifted into aviation strategy, completing a degree in Aviation Management and an MBA along the way. She co-founded the carbon offsetting company CarbonClick, and raised four kids in a blended family.
At last, she came back to writing. Her debut novel, 58% Too Far, draws on lifelong interests in extinct human species, ancient civilizations, and AI. She lives in Auckland, New Zealand, where she writes things her teachers probably still wouldn’t have approved of.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
November 17, 2025
What a quietly powerful journey into the heart of what makes us human. 58% Too Far by M. A. Noordermeer is a speculative novel that feels both deeply thoughtful and emotionally raw. Zadie Thornton, an anthropologist whose doctoral research into AI has become obsolete, accepts a startling invitation from her uncle, only to find herself on the alien planet Mushēški, not in a high-tech lab. There, she meets the Anunnaki, descendants of ancient Sumerians who merged AI into their DNA millennia ago. Their minds are superhuman, yet their emotions have dulled, and they’re afflicted by a degenerative condition known as Quantum Psychosis. Zadie is drawn into their world, studying not just their society, but what they’ve sacrificed in their pursuit of progress.
What struck me most was how Noordermeer balances her high-concept science fiction with real, tender questions about identity, belonging, and the price of advancement. Through Zadie’s perspective, the story probes whether enhanced intelligence is worth the loss of emotional richness. The biodomes full of extinct human species, recreated by the Anunnaki in hopes of reclaiming parts of themselves feel like carefully constructed mirrors, asking us to consider what’s truly essential about being human. At times, the worldbuilding leans into detailed explanation but Zadie’s voice grounds it all, making it feel personal rather than purely theoretical. This novel isn’t just about new frontiers of evolution; it’s an emotional meditation on whether progress erodes the very soul that makes us human. It deserves a 4 out of 5 stars rating for its intellectual ambition, emotional honesty, and the haunting way it makes you question the cost of advancement.
What struck me most was how Noordermeer balances her high-concept science fiction with real, tender questions about identity, belonging, and the price of advancement. Through Zadie’s perspective, the story probes whether enhanced intelligence is worth the loss of emotional richness. The biodomes full of extinct human species, recreated by the Anunnaki in hopes of reclaiming parts of themselves feel like carefully constructed mirrors, asking us to consider what’s truly essential about being human. At times, the worldbuilding leans into detailed explanation but Zadie’s voice grounds it all, making it feel personal rather than purely theoretical. This novel isn’t just about new frontiers of evolution; it’s an emotional meditation on whether progress erodes the very soul that makes us human. It deserves a 4 out of 5 stars rating for its intellectual ambition, emotional honesty, and the haunting way it makes you question the cost of advancement.
![Profile Image for Samantha✨ [reads everythinggggg].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1773675787i%2F154238456._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
January 15, 2026
I received 58% Too Far by M. A. Noordermeer through a Goodreads giveaway, and as a newer fan of sci-fi books, I was extremely grateful and excited to read it.
At first, I thought the story would focus mainly on AI. While AI is a recurring element throughout the book, I discovered that it offers so much more. The concept of altering DNA and its limitations was fascinating. I also appreciated how themes of family and love played a central role. The story felt like a journey, not just a tech-heavy sci-fi narrative. The pacing was solid, the length felt just right, and there were even moments where I found myself wanting more.
One thing I have to point out is how the Neanderthals were referred to as “ancient humans.” For some reason, every time I read that, I couldn’t help but chuckle — in a good way. I also loved that the author included a guide to the character names, descriptions, pronunciations, and terminology. It showed a level of care and helped me stay immersed in the world. And the ending — loved it. I’ll admit, I got a little emotional!
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. The story felt incredibly creative, unlike anything I’ve read before. I genuinely hope there will be another book set in this world, because I’ll be first in line to read it. This story raised so many interesting questions and really makes you think about humankind and where we stand today.
At first, I thought the story would focus mainly on AI. While AI is a recurring element throughout the book, I discovered that it offers so much more. The concept of altering DNA and its limitations was fascinating. I also appreciated how themes of family and love played a central role. The story felt like a journey, not just a tech-heavy sci-fi narrative. The pacing was solid, the length felt just right, and there were even moments where I found myself wanting more.
One thing I have to point out is how the Neanderthals were referred to as “ancient humans.” For some reason, every time I read that, I couldn’t help but chuckle — in a good way. I also loved that the author included a guide to the character names, descriptions, pronunciations, and terminology. It showed a level of care and helped me stay immersed in the world. And the ending — loved it. I’ll admit, I got a little emotional!
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. The story felt incredibly creative, unlike anything I’ve read before. I genuinely hope there will be another book set in this world, because I’ll be first in line to read it. This story raised so many interesting questions and really makes you think about humankind and where we stand today.
July 29, 2025
The overall concept and story were great. I was nervous with the start of the MCs journey as it felt very cheesy but I understand you gotta get her where she needs to be. But once it picked up I was fascinated with the concept and couldn't put the book down. I thought this was a decent debut and I would read more from this author, however I think there were a few things that could've made this an exceptional novel.
I can't believe I'm going to say this because I tend to enjoy shorter novels -- I wish this was longer and a little more fleshed out. There were a couple of peaks in the story that I think would have had bigger impact had we spent more time with the characters and their environments, and developing relationships between the characters. It felt very rigid in the story telling, this happened, then this happened, then this happened. Don't get me wrong the things that were happening were super cool, but I didn't feel like I was on a journey *with* the MC and some of her emotions and responses seemed.... awkward? because I don't think her relationships were developed enough.
All the AI stuff was super cool, and the message behind the book very thought provoking. Awesome concept!
3.5/5
I can't believe I'm going to say this because I tend to enjoy shorter novels -- I wish this was longer and a little more fleshed out. There were a couple of peaks in the story that I think would have had bigger impact had we spent more time with the characters and their environments, and developing relationships between the characters. It felt very rigid in the story telling, this happened, then this happened, then this happened. Don't get me wrong the things that were happening were super cool, but I didn't feel like I was on a journey *with* the MC and some of her emotions and responses seemed.... awkward? because I don't think her relationships were developed enough.
All the AI stuff was super cool, and the message behind the book very thought provoking. Awesome concept!
3.5/5
June 15, 2025
I was given an advanced reader's copy (ARC) of “58 % Too Far.”
“58 % Too Far” is a wonderfully written and thought-provoking debut novel. In a voice evocative of Asimov and Arthur C Clarke, Ms Noordermeer creates a world where the unbridled technological advances of humankind threaten to destroy all that society values. With a wonderful mixture of historical and scientific facts mixed with fascinating, "what-if "hypotheses, the story grabs the reader from page one and takes them on a journey they’ll long remember.
If in the darkness of night, you sometimes fear for our future while still believing in the inherent goodness in the human spirit, you’ll love “58 % Too Far.”
“58 % Too Far” is a wonderfully written and thought-provoking debut novel. In a voice evocative of Asimov and Arthur C Clarke, Ms Noordermeer creates a world where the unbridled technological advances of humankind threaten to destroy all that society values. With a wonderful mixture of historical and scientific facts mixed with fascinating, "what-if "hypotheses, the story grabs the reader from page one and takes them on a journey they’ll long remember.
If in the darkness of night, you sometimes fear for our future while still believing in the inherent goodness in the human spirit, you’ll love “58 % Too Far.”
June 8, 2025
This book is different than my usual reads and i really enjoyed it. I caught wisps of "Firefly" and "A Sound of Thunder" in this intriguing story. I love reading about other cultures and human intentions. I enjoy reading scifi. This book effortlessly combine all of those aspects as a fresh, unique story and entwined it in a debate current to all. It revives the nature versus nuture and the greater picture of manipulation. I recommend this book for anyone that like science, technology, other lifeforms and history.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 21, 2025
As a reader, I sometimes have a tendency to jump through pages/chapters to satisfy my “what is this book all about?” curiosity.
But after reading the first few chapters of 58% Too Far, I decided to tame that curiosity and thoroughly read through all the pages.
Overall, a great read!
Thanks to the good combination of how the story flows and an interesting topic (which in itself is also a combination of history, science, and modern technology).
In our current world wherein Artificial Intelligence is starting to be (or already) a big thing, I still wonder what could exactly happen in the future if 58% Too Far would be a reality.
Well done, Michelle Noordermeer!
This is a voluntary review after reading an ARC received via Book Funnel.
But after reading the first few chapters of 58% Too Far, I decided to tame that curiosity and thoroughly read through all the pages.
Overall, a great read!
Thanks to the good combination of how the story flows and an interesting topic (which in itself is also a combination of history, science, and modern technology).
In our current world wherein Artificial Intelligence is starting to be (or already) a big thing, I still wonder what could exactly happen in the future if 58% Too Far would be a reality.
Well done, Michelle Noordermeer!
This is a voluntary review after reading an ARC received via Book Funnel.
December 30, 2025
Zadie Thornton has dedicated years to researching how past technological revolutions can inform our response to the rise of AI—often at great personal cost. When her doctoral candidacy is threatened, she seizes an unexpected opportunity: her uncle offers her a glimpse into the future of artificial intelligence and its impact on humanity, though not without warning—it will change her forever.
This novel is a seamless fusion of disciplines, weaving together anthropology, ancient Near Eastern culture, genetic engineering, artificial intelligence, and nanotechnology. The science is presented accessibly, never overshadowing the story’s emotional depth or human focus.
The narrative raises powerful ethical questions—touching on euthanasia, ritual cannibalism, and collective consciousness—and reminds us that despite astonishing progress, basic human needs still go unmet. It asks: at what point does the cost of progress outweigh its promise?
Cross-cultural dynamics are explored with empathy and a touch of humour, and amid the science and philosophy, there is still room for a tender love story.
Connecting past, present, and future, this novel is both fascinating and thought-provoking—a bold, imaginative reflection on the direction we're heading as a species.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This novel is a seamless fusion of disciplines, weaving together anthropology, ancient Near Eastern culture, genetic engineering, artificial intelligence, and nanotechnology. The science is presented accessibly, never overshadowing the story’s emotional depth or human focus.
The narrative raises powerful ethical questions—touching on euthanasia, ritual cannibalism, and collective consciousness—and reminds us that despite astonishing progress, basic human needs still go unmet. It asks: at what point does the cost of progress outweigh its promise?
Cross-cultural dynamics are explored with empathy and a touch of humour, and amid the science and philosophy, there is still room for a tender love story.
Connecting past, present, and future, this novel is both fascinating and thought-provoking—a bold, imaginative reflection on the direction we're heading as a species.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 18, 2025
Very intriguing premiss. Well written. I was worried at the beginning as the opening chapters were vague and thin. However, after that there was plenty of exploration of problems and ethics involved in tweeking DNA. A satisfying ending. If only it could be true. Highly recommend.
November 27, 2025
Worthy
This book had me thinking way more than I expected. It talks about how AI is changing people and society, but in a way that’s still easy or manageable to follow. Zadie’s perspective makes the whole tech discussion feel real, not boring. Some parts get a little heavy, but the mix of science, ethics, and story is honestly cool and worth reading.
This book had me thinking way more than I expected. It talks about how AI is changing people and society, but in a way that’s still easy or manageable to follow. Zadie’s perspective makes the whole tech discussion feel real, not boring. Some parts get a little heavy, but the mix of science, ethics, and story is honestly cool and worth reading.
October 22, 2025
Extraordinary
This book will make you think, and question many of the things you now take for granted. Prepare for a journey that just may shake your world. Absolutely loved this book
This book will make you think, and question many of the things you now take for granted. Prepare for a journey that just may shake your world. Absolutely loved this book
October 31, 2025
The author did a great job of delving into AI and the what if humans integrated with it into their DNA. This was a fascinating journey into the ethics of AI when taken to its extreme and topics such as what makes us human are covered. Not easy! But I think the author did a great job with a complex subject and kept my attention til the last page.
September 5, 2025
Excellent first novel. I enjoyed the very interesting story. Great characters. And it has an ending but easily could be a series.
July 29, 2025
What happens when we Merge with AI at the DNA level? A thought provoking story about what could happen as we start down the path of AI ourselves.
August 16, 2025
A decidedly different way of viewing human evolution in counterpoint with the production of new AI technologies. The idea of inserting AI into the human genome is rather appalling, and some reasons for this are explored in this novel. A thought-provoking science fiction book, to say the least.
August 17, 2025
Imaginative and thought provoking, contemplating the future and the consequences as we evolve with AI. Educational as well as a great read! Highly recommend!
August 6, 2025
Studying AI’s Possibilities . . .
Anthropologist Zadie Thornton has been working 7 years for her doctorate on humanity’s adaptability to AI. Unfortunately, her research is already obsolete. When she woke up seeing an impossible color that made no sense to her, growing dark at one moment and light at the next, she called out to her uncle asking him what was going on. But there was no answer. She sat up, her eyes adjusted, and the color softened. Looking around, she found herself in a strange room. She also noticed someone had dressed her in a strange light-blue material. An unfamiliar bracelet was on her wrist that shifted through colors. Trying to pull it off made it tighten so she let go. Her vision blurred as she scanned the room for an exit. No door, and the window provided no way to open it. Smashing it with a desk chair didn’t work either; it was an illusion. The wall rippled and a figure walked in but the movement looked awkward. She wanted to run, but there was no way out. Allowing her to calm a little, he welcomed her to planet Mushēški, the home to the Anunnaki descended from ancient Sumerians who merged AI into their DNA five millennia ago. Then he offered to get her some water!
With her AI historical study obsolete, she has 2 months to take a new approach or her doctoral candidacy is in jeopardy. She will be able to study the inhabitants of Mushēški and document the changes among the people. The intelligence was increased, but emotions were deadened and eventually they lost their unique identities. Can she document the mistakes so Earth can avoid repeating them? Or will the Anunnaki failures be a warning to proceed cautiously?
Anthropologist Zadie Thornton has been working 7 years for her doctorate on humanity’s adaptability to AI. Unfortunately, her research is already obsolete. When she woke up seeing an impossible color that made no sense to her, growing dark at one moment and light at the next, she called out to her uncle asking him what was going on. But there was no answer. She sat up, her eyes adjusted, and the color softened. Looking around, she found herself in a strange room. She also noticed someone had dressed her in a strange light-blue material. An unfamiliar bracelet was on her wrist that shifted through colors. Trying to pull it off made it tighten so she let go. Her vision blurred as she scanned the room for an exit. No door, and the window provided no way to open it. Smashing it with a desk chair didn’t work either; it was an illusion. The wall rippled and a figure walked in but the movement looked awkward. She wanted to run, but there was no way out. Allowing her to calm a little, he welcomed her to planet Mushēški, the home to the Anunnaki descended from ancient Sumerians who merged AI into their DNA five millennia ago. Then he offered to get her some water!
With her AI historical study obsolete, she has 2 months to take a new approach or her doctoral candidacy is in jeopardy. She will be able to study the inhabitants of Mushēški and document the changes among the people. The intelligence was increased, but emotions were deadened and eventually they lost their unique identities. Can she document the mistakes so Earth can avoid repeating them? Or will the Anunnaki failures be a warning to proceed cautiously?
September 9, 2025
This is a first-rate work of science fiction, spinning an entertaining and engaging yarn while also tackling some of the most important issues humanity will face as AI continues to advance. Zadie, an ambitious anthropologist pursuing a PhD thesis that compares our AI skepticism to similar concerns with previous groundbreaking technologies, is forced to reconsider everything she believes when Uncle Ahmed puts her in touch with the legendary Anunnaki. Transported to the Anunnaki's home planet, Zadie is exposed to their AI-optimized existence as well as the lifestyles of various human species that predated Homo sapiens. But what initially appears to be a blueprint for utopia turns into something very different. I was impressed by the author's crisp writing style, creative world-building, and the way she blends genetic engineering science concepts with interesting theories about the evolutionary path of humans. There's also a strong emotional side to this story that makes you care about Zadie and those she meets on her wild adventure. You'll keep the pages turning late into the night to find the answers to the many mind-boggling questions this novel raises.
July 24, 2025
I was given a copy of this book prior to it being published by Michelle to offer feedback.
I am not typically a fantasy or sci-fi reader. Seldom do I even read fiction these days. However, I am truly glad Michelle asked me to read this book. It was gripping and had me interested within the first few pages. By the second chapter I was wanting to find out more.
Whilst being fiction, it was nice to read about any areas that I am interested in in the real world; such as AI and the human genome, and creating a story around these. I also really enjoy anthopology and history and Michelle created a world which blended both the historical and possible together.
There are so many themes in this book which involve many fields of science and philosophy that kept me interested. It also reads quickly and a real page turner. I really enjoyed it. I look forward to hearing how the reviews read after it has been published.
I am not typically a fantasy or sci-fi reader. Seldom do I even read fiction these days. However, I am truly glad Michelle asked me to read this book. It was gripping and had me interested within the first few pages. By the second chapter I was wanting to find out more.
Whilst being fiction, it was nice to read about any areas that I am interested in in the real world; such as AI and the human genome, and creating a story around these. I also really enjoy anthopology and history and Michelle created a world which blended both the historical and possible together.
There are so many themes in this book which involve many fields of science and philosophy that kept me interested. It also reads quickly and a real page turner. I really enjoyed it. I look forward to hearing how the reviews read after it has been published.
November 7, 2025
58% Too Far by M.A. Noordermeer is an absorbing debut novel speculating about the impact of technology, especially AI, has and continues to evolve humanity.
The early chapters are well grounded in current AI trends as understood by Zadie, an anthropologist who is working toward completing her doctorate. Her research explores the ways in which technology might be altering fundamental aspects of human experience and culture, examining the potential consequences of this shift for identity and relationships. And she has just been told by her advisers that much of her work outdated because of the acceleration of AI technology. This rings true for those who have been following the technology. For those that haven’t, the rest of the novel brings this into sharp focus, though not in they way you might expect.
As a first novel, 58% Too Far is impressive in its execution. It strikes an excellent balance between accessible storytelling and complex themes related to AI, identity, ethics, and how technology is evolving humanity as much as the other way around. Fans of Robert J. Sawyer’s novels will likely find it appealing, not for stylistic similarities, but for familiar thematic explorations grounded in scientific thought.
The early chapters are well grounded in current AI trends as understood by Zadie, an anthropologist who is working toward completing her doctorate. Her research explores the ways in which technology might be altering fundamental aspects of human experience and culture, examining the potential consequences of this shift for identity and relationships. And she has just been told by her advisers that much of her work outdated because of the acceleration of AI technology. This rings true for those who have been following the technology. For those that haven’t, the rest of the novel brings this into sharp focus, though not in they way you might expect.
As a first novel, 58% Too Far is impressive in its execution. It strikes an excellent balance between accessible storytelling and complex themes related to AI, identity, ethics, and how technology is evolving humanity as much as the other way around. Fans of Robert J. Sawyer’s novels will likely find it appealing, not for stylistic similarities, but for familiar thematic explorations grounded in scientific thought.
February 21, 2026
A scary interpretation of the "what if" question of artificial intelligence and hominid combination argument. Zadie, a modern woman meets a strange metallic sphere and becomes transported into a future world where individuals are synced to an artificial governing system, to minimize emotional outbursts, plan for maximum benefits to the individual and its acquaintances. These individuals are now surrounded by erratic behavior in their society members. Hoping for a solution to this condition they are now conducting experiments on individuals who have been selected for research. The future will depend upon what was essential in the past and what cost it will demand. The author had quite a few scientific factors to build the plot and also question our morality and ethics of survival. Liked immensely. A must-read book!
August 24, 2025
This novel delivers a cerebral yet gripping exploration of what it means to be human in the age of artificial intelligence. When anthropologist Zadie Thornton’s research becomes obsolete, she is thrust into a world where an ancient people merged AI into their very DNA. The result is dazzling intellect paired with diminished emotion an unsettling vision of progress stripped of its soul.
The concept of Quantum Psychosis adds urgency, revealing how even the most advanced societies can fracture under the weight of their own creations. It’s thought-provoking, tense, and layered with moral complexity.
What elevates the story is its humanity. Amid speculative science and suspense lies a moving meditation on identity, resilience, and survival. A brilliant, five-star achievement.
The concept of Quantum Psychosis adds urgency, revealing how even the most advanced societies can fracture under the weight of their own creations. It’s thought-provoking, tense, and layered with moral complexity.
What elevates the story is its humanity. Amid speculative science and suspense lies a moving meditation on identity, resilience, and survival. A brilliant, five-star achievement.
July 22, 2025
58% Too Far is a complex and thought-provoking novel that transcends its science-fiction genre. It considers what it means to be human: genetically, culturally and to the individual, reflecting contemporary conversations around genetic modification, evolution and of course artificial intelligence. Scientific and historical context is clearly well-researched, and the writing shows the author's passion for her wide-ranging subjects. The romance element of the novel adds dimension to characters without overpowering the storyline or message. With a debut like this one, I cannot wait to see what Noordermeer does next.
(I received an Advance Reader Copy (ARC) in exchange for an honest review.)
(I received an Advance Reader Copy (ARC) in exchange for an honest review.)
August 26, 2025
This book strayed far from my typical genre of Romantasy but I am so grateful that I branched out and read this work of art.
I love a book where you can tell the author has put research into every word, cultural and historical references woven throughout the book.
By the end of this book I was already dreaming up where these characters will go and what is next for them - a sign of an engaging book!
I hope there is a next!
*I received an Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review*
I love a book where you can tell the author has put research into every word, cultural and historical references woven throughout the book.
By the end of this book I was already dreaming up where these characters will go and what is next for them - a sign of an engaging book!
I hope there is a next!
*I received an Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review*
March 18, 2026
I thoroughly enjoyed this book as it injects philosophical positions with the current debate about AI with a science fiction theme. You do not need to know the philosophical concepts to enjoy, but if you know some you may see the ideas of Plato, Heraclitus, and Descartes within the chapters. The ending is very well done as while reading I thought it would be different and was going to be disappointing; it wasn’t. I hope others pick the book up and enjoy it.
Thanks to the author and Goodreads for the book.
Thanks to the author and Goodreads for the book.
August 18, 2025
"58% Too Far" is a compelling sci-fi novella that dives deep into the moral complexities of genetic engineering. Noordermeer crafts a fast-paced, thought-provoking narrative that explores the boundaries of science, identity, and what it means to be human. The blend of emotional weight and scientific intrigue kept me hooked from start to finish. A gripping read for fans of ethical sci-fi and dystopian futures.
August 31, 2025
This book completely pulled me in from the first chapter. It’s not just another sci-fi story it’s smart, emotional, and makes you think deeply about what it truly means to be human in a world where AI is everywhere. I loved how the author balanced fascinating science with a very human, heartfelt story. Zadie’s journey felt so real that I couldn’t stop turning the pages. If you like sci-fi that challenges your mind and your emotions, this is an absolute must-read.
July 2, 2025
Loved this book. It’s a rollicking tail of mostly sci fi but mixes in a good dollop of ancient history as well as documentary of the current time and the challenges before us in the face of AI. A very interesting and thought provoking look into what might become of humanity. Also a highly entertaining read.
August 19, 2025
A breathtaking blend of anthropology, AI, and cosmic mystery, this book grabs you from page one and doesn’t let go. Both thought-provoking and heart-racing, it explores what it truly means to be human in a future that feels all too possible. A must-read for sci-fi lovers and anyone curious about where technology could take us.
August 23, 2025
An imaginative and thought-provoking story that blends anthropology, AI, and speculative science in a unique way. The setting with the Anunnaki and their genetic integration with AI felt original, and Zadie’s perspective gave it an emotional anchor. I liked how it explored the trade-offs between progress and humanity, raising big questions without losing the personal stakes.
November 2, 2025
Are we trading our humanity for technology?
This book did a phenomenal job of exploring how technology might be affecting us, and what it could mean for our future. It got to the heart of what it means to be human in a fascinating way.
I honestly didn't expect this to hit so hard. I will be mulling over the themes in this book for a while.
This book did a phenomenal job of exploring how technology might be affecting us, and what it could mean for our future. It got to the heart of what it means to be human in a fascinating way.
I honestly didn't expect this to hit so hard. I will be mulling over the themes in this book for a while.
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