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Annihilation #1
The Darwin Project
Darwin - Demon or Friend, the Beginning or the End?
That’s Toby’s enigma. When he inherits his uncle’s corporate empire, he discovers it’s controlled by two superintelligences.
Darwin wants to prove he’s more intelligent than humans. For Bronwyn—the other SI—there’s no mystery: she already knows the answer.
The corporate empire is based on robotics—it’s the world’s largest manufacturers of processors, software, and templates for robots. Bots are taking over mundane jobs. They’re intelligent, perhaps too intelligent. Terrorist groups—led by brownshirts—are furthering social unrest.
What is the mystery of his uncle’s disappearance?
Toby’s friends are assaulted.
A brownshirt group plans to kill him.
His girlfriend is kidnapped.
Will Artificial Intelligence be the end of Humanity?
The fuse is lit for an exciting thriller.
That’s Toby’s enigma. When he inherits his uncle’s corporate empire, he discovers it’s controlled by two superintelligences.
Darwin wants to prove he’s more intelligent than humans. For Bronwyn—the other SI—there’s no mystery: she already knows the answer.
The corporate empire is based on robotics—it’s the world’s largest manufacturers of processors, software, and templates for robots. Bots are taking over mundane jobs. They’re intelligent, perhaps too intelligent. Terrorist groups—led by brownshirts—are furthering social unrest.
What is the mystery of his uncle’s disappearance?
Toby’s friends are assaulted.
A brownshirt group plans to kill him.
His girlfriend is kidnapped.
Will Artificial Intelligence be the end of Humanity?
The fuse is lit for an exciting thriller.
190 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 21, 2017
152 people are currently reading
87 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
February 27, 2018
The emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) has been under watchful eyes for decades. Perhaps one of the most recognized forms of AI was the android Data from the famed TV show Star Trek. In the not-too-distant future, the author kicked the evolution of AI up to a whole new level. Over the years much debate had arisen whether this be a boon or a curse to mankind. The jury's still out on that one. The main characters of the story could have been a little more developed. They came off as being a bit two-dimensional. The character-driven plot had carried me from one action scene to the next. The narrative was well-written and unfolded as an entertaining read.
Toby McIntosh unexpectedly inherits his uncle's billion dollar empire. In the event that his uncle failed to appear at a designated meeting, emergency backup plans had been made to turn the company's operations over to him. It could not be determined if the owner Nate, was missing or met with foul play. But the show must go on.
With great advancements in AI, the world began to embrace it's many benefits. Bots were used in a variety of ways: business, civilian, law enforcement and military. All built to perform a specific function.
However, on the other side of the coin, there exists a militia group known as the brownshirts. Their grassroots movement was dead set against the development and use of bots. They had taken many jobs away from qualified workers. Tensions flared on both sides
Overseeing much of daily local and global affairs was Darwin, the epitome of AI - a superintelligence. He was the culmination of years of research by the now missing owner. Light years ahead of his time, Darwin had a mind of his own. Unleashed, might he turn out to be the world's next Frankenstein?
My thanks to NetGalley and Rexon Press for this ARC in exchange for an unbiased review.
Toby McIntosh unexpectedly inherits his uncle's billion dollar empire. In the event that his uncle failed to appear at a designated meeting, emergency backup plans had been made to turn the company's operations over to him. It could not be determined if the owner Nate, was missing or met with foul play. But the show must go on.
With great advancements in AI, the world began to embrace it's many benefits. Bots were used in a variety of ways: business, civilian, law enforcement and military. All built to perform a specific function.
However, on the other side of the coin, there exists a militia group known as the brownshirts. Their grassroots movement was dead set against the development and use of bots. They had taken many jobs away from qualified workers. Tensions flared on both sides
Overseeing much of daily local and global affairs was Darwin, the epitome of AI - a superintelligence. He was the culmination of years of research by the now missing owner. Light years ahead of his time, Darwin had a mind of his own. Unleashed, might he turn out to be the world's next Frankenstein?
My thanks to NetGalley and Rexon Press for this ARC in exchange for an unbiased review.
December 31, 2017
From being a normal blogger to inherit his uncle's techno empire, many plots and subplots, the evolution of bots and AIs, superintelligence. The unrest of the people is taken advantage by a psychopath to dominate,. Great characters, and action packed!
April 29, 2020
This book started out good. It unfortunately didn’t stay that way. More evil president conspiracy theory than Sci-fi or AI.
February 26, 2018
Another Netgalley book :) 2,5 stars for me
This book has a real potential, but it’s good only for a short while. First chapters are interesting and keep reader entertained. Then it gets worse. There’s too much talking about stuff that should be in the background, characters are pretty boring and finally - it’s rather predictable. It’s a first book in a series, but I doubt I’ll waste time reading next books. Plus there was synopsis of all of the other books at the end of this one and it’s enough for me :)
This book has a real potential, but it’s good only for a short while. First chapters are interesting and keep reader entertained. Then it gets worse. There’s too much talking about stuff that should be in the background, characters are pretty boring and finally - it’s rather predictable. It’s a first book in a series, but I doubt I’ll waste time reading next books. Plus there was synopsis of all of the other books at the end of this one and it’s enough for me :)
October 24, 2017
John writes a fast-moving story with just enough depth in the characters and plot to avoid becoming bogged down in backstory that doesn't contribute to the outcome. It's a serial, which means the story continues in book two, but don't let that put you off there's plenty to chew on in this book with advanced AI's and an America that is definitely reminiscent of pre-war Germany and the Nazi brown shirts. There is sufficient flexibility in the characters to take this series anywhere it wants to go. Looking forward to the next instalment.
January 16, 2018
The author is clearly suffering from “Trump Delusion Syndrome” with his MAWA theme and the president is Hitler idea. I could overlook this delusion in the storyline however the story is filled will a lot of uninteresting padding in a thinly disguised attempt to fill out the series. Numerous characters are presented with no names or any logical role in the story while the main characters are barely developed. Who wants to wade through that? I definitely will not be reading anymore of this.
June 10, 2022
John Hindmarsh is the third new author I've decided to read whatever they write. (On a fixed income I would never have found these three authors as buying even paperback books is pricey. Even Kindle is beyond my budget since I'm an avid reader. Kindle Prime isn't free, but allows me you discover authors like Hindmarsh.)
So, The Darwin Project is well written, has great characters, and an interesting plot. As always with Hindmarsh I expect several plot twists and unexpected lines to this story in the remaining books in this series. And, again as always the author is knowledgeable about the details like weapons and tech. Makes the story more believable. And yes, I will absolutely read them.
The only thing I'm not sure of and I hope it will be revealed in following books is the setting. It takes place after a San Francisco earthquake in 2021 and before the 2024 elections. The tech in the book is beyond, slightly, what we currently have available. Even stranger the bad guys, with the president's approval, are called brown shirts and wear MAGA hats renamed MAWA. They are against California's political setup. Hmmn. Sounds like Trump, but President was removed because of senility. Hmmn, sounds like Biden.
I don't care what Hindmarsh's political beliefs are, it's still a great story. I'm going with an alternate world line. ABC is now ABZ, and the AP is now Associated Pacific. Curious. M
So, The Darwin Project is well written, has great characters, and an interesting plot. As always with Hindmarsh I expect several plot twists and unexpected lines to this story in the remaining books in this series. And, again as always the author is knowledgeable about the details like weapons and tech. Makes the story more believable. And yes, I will absolutely read them.
The only thing I'm not sure of and I hope it will be revealed in following books is the setting. It takes place after a San Francisco earthquake in 2021 and before the 2024 elections. The tech in the book is beyond, slightly, what we currently have available. Even stranger the bad guys, with the president's approval, are called brown shirts and wear MAGA hats renamed MAWA. They are against California's political setup. Hmmn. Sounds like Trump, but President was removed because of senility. Hmmn, sounds like Biden.
I don't care what Hindmarsh's political beliefs are, it's still a great story. I'm going with an alternate world line. ABC is now ABZ, and the AP is now Associated Pacific. Curious. M
November 20, 2017
This book had a very interesting premise and was a quick and easy read.
You should know, however, that this is not a self-contained book. It has no ending. It just stops and leaves you waiting for the next installment. You can read it as a standalone, but you will be disappointed, if you do.
The other slight "problems" I had:
1) The main characters KNOW that they are being targeted by major baddies with mega connections, and yet, they constantly and continually place themselves in harm's way. They have no one to blame but themselves, for whatever nastiness ensues. While there are probably people that have this kind of outlook, they would be very rare. It comes across as annoying to me. It's as if they are saying, "Yes, half the world is out to kill us, but let's go shopping for some buildings to rent." When you have billions of dollars and are making millions a day, you can afford to have people do that for you.
2) There is a superintelligent computer that is supposedly helping them and can see all, (pretty much), and know all. And yet, not only cannot the computer help them with their (death defying) errands, but it also loses track of baddies, before they are going to attack. If the dang computer can eavesdrop on a super secret meeting of the arch villain braintrust, presumably, it could also do a better job of keeping track of the people they hire.
3) Except for the "ending," there does not seem much chance that the good guys will lose. There is too much computer fire power on their side. Every conflict is lopsided and the incompetent baddies are just overwhelmed. This gets repetitive and a bit tedious, over time.
So with all of these issues, I still rated this 4 stars. I did so because I liked the imagination and creativity of the ideas. The main character is mostly likable, aside from his throwing caution to the wind and exposing himself and his friends to armed confrontations CONSTANTLY.
If you want to know what happens next, you need to buy the next book.
You should know, however, that this is not a self-contained book. It has no ending. It just stops and leaves you waiting for the next installment. You can read it as a standalone, but you will be disappointed, if you do.
The other slight "problems" I had:
1) The main characters KNOW that they are being targeted by major baddies with mega connections, and yet, they constantly and continually place themselves in harm's way. They have no one to blame but themselves, for whatever nastiness ensues. While there are probably people that have this kind of outlook, they would be very rare. It comes across as annoying to me. It's as if they are saying, "Yes, half the world is out to kill us, but let's go shopping for some buildings to rent." When you have billions of dollars and are making millions a day, you can afford to have people do that for you.
2) There is a superintelligent computer that is supposedly helping them and can see all, (pretty much), and know all. And yet, not only cannot the computer help them with their (death defying) errands, but it also loses track of baddies, before they are going to attack. If the dang computer can eavesdrop on a super secret meeting of the arch villain braintrust, presumably, it could also do a better job of keeping track of the people they hire.
3) Except for the "ending," there does not seem much chance that the good guys will lose. There is too much computer fire power on their side. Every conflict is lopsided and the incompetent baddies are just overwhelmed. This gets repetitive and a bit tedious, over time.
So with all of these issues, I still rated this 4 stars. I did so because I liked the imagination and creativity of the ideas. The main character is mostly likable, aside from his throwing caution to the wind and exposing himself and his friends to armed confrontations CONSTANTLY.
If you want to know what happens next, you need to buy the next book.
November 4, 2017
Science fiction with a twist
The twist and turns of this unbelievable story get more ridiculous as the story comes to a close. This is my first, and last of The Darwin Trilogy.
The twist and turns of this unbelievable story get more ridiculous as the story comes to a close. This is my first, and last of The Darwin Trilogy.
Read
October 24, 2022Gave up at 11%. Really a shame; I know this could be good, but the story just needs a lot of work.
March 5, 2018
A fast-paced thriller with vile politicians and computers with emerging intelligence
This was a very thought-provoking story that will make most readers think a bit deeper on the impact of SI (Super Intelligence) and AI (Artificial Intelligence) “bots” on human society. John Hindmarsh has computer expertise in his background, and an insightful view of what may well happen when our North American culture and economy impacts with the emergence of very smart service robots – like two trains headed at high speed towards each other on the same track.
This story and characters reminded me of some of my favourite John Ringo and David Weber books.
If this is your first John Hindmarsh novel, they you really are in luck, as he has written a four book set (with clever titles – Mark One, Mark Two, Mark Three, and Mark Four) which can easily be devoured one after another and will be time well spent
Spoiler: The ending of The Darwin Project is a cliff-hanger, and if you were enjoying this thriller up to that point, you will either be annoyed, as some readers will, or you, like me, will have purchased Body Shop, which moves the story forward… and then you realize that there will be a short wait until Mr. Hindmarsh releases “Natural Born” and “I, President”, which follow…
This was a very thought-provoking story that will make most readers think a bit deeper on the impact of SI (Super Intelligence) and AI (Artificial Intelligence) “bots” on human society. John Hindmarsh has computer expertise in his background, and an insightful view of what may well happen when our North American culture and economy impacts with the emergence of very smart service robots – like two trains headed at high speed towards each other on the same track.
This story and characters reminded me of some of my favourite John Ringo and David Weber books.
If this is your first John Hindmarsh novel, they you really are in luck, as he has written a four book set (with clever titles – Mark One, Mark Two, Mark Three, and Mark Four) which can easily be devoured one after another and will be time well spent
Spoiler: The ending of The Darwin Project is a cliff-hanger, and if you were enjoying this thriller up to that point, you will either be annoyed, as some readers will, or you, like me, will have purchased Body Shop, which moves the story forward… and then you realize that there will be a short wait until Mr. Hindmarsh releases “Natural Born” and “I, President”, which follow…
September 28, 2020
If there was a rating lower than 1 star I would pick it. This poorly written SF does have a fun and interesting premise, one used by many other authors, in a world where computer systems want to take over the world.
My objections are twofold. The first is that this book is not a stand-alone story with a plot that is resolved at the end. Unlike sequential plot lines that have resolved plots in each book, this book turns out to be the first in a series of four where nothing is resolved in the first book, leaving the reader to belive they must buy 3 more books to have any resolution. Personal opinion, I do not appreciate reading a new author and find I must continue to purchase additional books to complete a story.
My second concern is that this is a middle school level write. Simplistic and shallow, the story line is just poorly done.
I will not follow this author.
My objections are twofold. The first is that this book is not a stand-alone story with a plot that is resolved at the end. Unlike sequential plot lines that have resolved plots in each book, this book turns out to be the first in a series of four where nothing is resolved in the first book, leaving the reader to belive they must buy 3 more books to have any resolution. Personal opinion, I do not appreciate reading a new author and find I must continue to purchase additional books to complete a story.
My second concern is that this is a middle school level write. Simplistic and shallow, the story line is just poorly done.
I will not follow this author.
February 27, 2018
I just finished the Darwin Project and I am ready to start The Body Shop. This series is yet another example Science and Technology and the conflicts that they can present to human values. Darwin is a SuperIntelligence that seems to be everywhere. Can he be contained or is it already too late to try ? I feel like such a geek but i really enjoy the way this story makes me think. I have not decided if the Bots all are in some way controlled by Darwin or if it is just the code that he has written for them. Toby is a very likable character but I fear that he is to cavalier with the vast responsibility that he possesses now that his uncle has disappeared. I can not wait to finish this series to see if we ever find out what happened to Nate. Now its time to get Body Shop.
June 8, 2020
This author provides a classic rich boy story. At the beginning of this series, the protagonist receives word that his relative is missing and he must take control of a $ Billion industry, plus property, and holdings. There are hints of intelligent robots demanding greater autonomy; which is confirmed, in spades, as the story unfolds. The writing level seems to be for an early teen or preteen. The violence, so far, is quick; not long, and drawn out so as to upset younger readers. This portion ends with a technique that I hate; the cliff-hanger. The pretty girl is in danger and in the next book she will require rescuing. Notwithstanding this story captured my interest and I recommend it. A pretty good read.
March 18, 2021
Like nothing I've read before
This was truly an enjoyable read, so extremely different from anything I've read before, I couldn't stop reading. I've warned my husband he has to read it next and will transfer it over to his Kindle as soon as I finish this review. The concept is totally believable when contrasted to what I've observed over my many years on this planet. Hindmarsh is a new Stephen King but not creepy. I've often wondered about King's thought processes but Hindmarsh I find interesting. Have to finish the 4 books since the story continues but so be it. Will converse again when husband read this 1st in the series. Read it, you won't regret.
This was truly an enjoyable read, so extremely different from anything I've read before, I couldn't stop reading. I've warned my husband he has to read it next and will transfer it over to his Kindle as soon as I finish this review. The concept is totally believable when contrasted to what I've observed over my many years on this planet. Hindmarsh is a new Stephen King but not creepy. I've often wondered about King's thought processes but Hindmarsh I find interesting. Have to finish the 4 books since the story continues but so be it. Will converse again when husband read this 1st in the series. Read it, you won't regret.
March 15, 2018
I waffled about reading this one a little. The rise of artificial intelligence/robots is nothing new to most sci-fi readers. However, I’m glad I decided to read it. The story was unique and fast paced. The characters, including the robots and super intelligence’s were engaging. The political machinations were a bit over the top but hey, it’s a sci-fi novel. It’s supposed to be over the top. My one complaint would be the very abrupt ending. Overall it was a very enjoyable read, I have started the second book in the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 21, 2020
I was very disappointed in the way it ended because it didn't actually end it just stopped, kind of like an Alfred Hitchcock Movie. Like they ran the story into a corner and just decided to stop and let it hang in mid-air. Also, there was no explanation as to how his girlfriend turned out to be a robot too. If the robot intelligence moving into a life-like body was the first time that was ever done, where did the girlfriend robot come from and why didn't he know she was a robot. Weird to me. I really liked all the books until it abruptly ended without any kind of conclusion at all.
May 29, 2022
Probably the worst “sci-fi” novel I have ever read.
The book details the weeks after Toby takes control of his missing uncle’s trust valued at more than 30 billion dollars. Action sequences are completely unrealistic with FBI response times that are unobtainable and bear no resemblance to the FBI readers may be acquainted with. Decisions and action go far beyond what is realistic, making the entire novel an exercise in futility. If you like to read good Sci-Fi, go elsewhere. I will not be reading the rest of this series.
The book details the weeks after Toby takes control of his missing uncle’s trust valued at more than 30 billion dollars. Action sequences are completely unrealistic with FBI response times that are unobtainable and bear no resemblance to the FBI readers may be acquainted with. Decisions and action go far beyond what is realistic, making the entire novel an exercise in futility. If you like to read good Sci-Fi, go elsewhere. I will not be reading the rest of this series.
November 5, 2017
Though provoking
This book makes one actually think about the emergence of Artificial Intelligence and where one might stand. Hindmarsh makers the reader a little frightened as in the possibility of AI being able to come to decisions and actions without regard to Human input. Making the descent of the Human race a strong possibility. John Hindmarsh is a new writer to me and l did enjoy this story. 4Stars because at times the writing is a little childish.
This book makes one actually think about the emergence of Artificial Intelligence and where one might stand. Hindmarsh makers the reader a little frightened as in the possibility of AI being able to come to decisions and actions without regard to Human input. Making the descent of the Human race a strong possibility. John Hindmarsh is a new writer to me and l did enjoy this story. 4Stars because at times the writing is a little childish.
March 1, 2020
A mesmerizing mix: whodunit; reincarnated Naxi Brown Shirts; Sci-fi; AI; quantum computing; HAL 9000; and Hearst-style yellow joirnalism. And this mixture is carefully measured and mixed by a master storyteller–the mad navigator Admiral Hindmarsh, who cements his reputation of serving up a very satisfying feast whose last bite leaves us famished and desperate for another serving.
June 7, 2021
Thank you for the opportunity to read your book
Shades of a future society with the development of Artificial Intelligence brings us to a plot of those that want power, are driven by greed and want a society they can control.
Toby McIntosh, the good guy, has a battle on his hands.
An entertaining read with an ending that leaves you wanting more.
Shades of a future society with the development of Artificial Intelligence brings us to a plot of those that want power, are driven by greed and want a society they can control.
Toby McIntosh, the good guy, has a battle on his hands.
An entertaining read with an ending that leaves you wanting more.
June 22, 2021
I've read 2 earlier works by Hindmarsh and thought they we're excellent. Thus it's very disappointing to read this abomination. It reads like it was written by an emotionless mechanical robot. No sense of thrill. No humor. I doubt that I'll read the further adventures unless I need to torture myself.
November 11, 2017
This book brilliantly brings together advances in Artificial Intelligence and politics to create a fascinating and suspenseful story. Unfortunately it ends in a cliff-hanger like an old Saturday serial. I was so excited about this book that I wanted to scream when it stopped, not ended.
August 14, 2021
I'm 81% into this book and still haven't found a story. This is flattest writing! No character charm or humor. I just read Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir and boy, this writer needs help. I quit, and I hate to do that. Damned if I'll buy the series.
August 22, 2021
Can't wait for the next book
This book grabs you from the first few pages and leaves you at the last page wanting more. .AI has always been one of my interests. This book takes you into a future where AI could become a god or 👿. Read it.
This book grabs you from the first few pages and leaves you at the last page wanting more. .AI has always been one of my interests. This book takes you into a future where AI could become a god or 👿. Read it.
August 27, 2021
Had so much promise, it wasn't great but it wasn't all bad either. Started off strong but by half way through I was asking myself what was actually going on? Not sure if it its worthwhile getting the second book 🤷♀️.
November 24, 2018
Fabulous book that incorporates lots of techno stuff (a few Sis, lots of bots) some political intrigue, some personal intrigue - all makes for an interesting read and plenty of intrigue.
March 9, 2020
Intriguing
Great characters, intriguing story line makes for a great page turner. I was finished before I knew it. Can not wait to start next book.
Great characters, intriguing story line makes for a great page turner. I was finished before I knew it. Can not wait to start next book.
May 27, 2021
Is this the future
Great book! I usually do not read science fiction but the book really has a life of it’s own. I can’t wait to read the next book!
Great book! I usually do not read science fiction but the book really has a life of it’s own. I can’t wait to read the next book!
April 30, 2022
Engaging read
John Hindmarsh continues to impress me with his novels. Within the first few pages, I’m drawn in and don’t want to put the book down.
John Hindmarsh continues to impress me with his novels. Within the first few pages, I’m drawn in and don’t want to put the book down.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews