What do you think?
Rate this book
Condition #3
Condition - Book Three: The Final Correction
Is America about to start World War Three?So, Professor Savage has been unmasked as the monster Alex Salib always knew he was. But what was their agreement and why is she still determined to see it through? The war on terror appears to be back on track but why does President Kalten seem hell bent on ramping it up - are the Americans seriously intent on starting World War Three?And what of the treatment itself? Despite Savage's arrest, the 'corrections' go on but to what end? The laws of unintended consequences are about to cause a seismic shift in the very nature of our existence. But then our new masters know that and won't let it happen until we're ready......ready to accept the unacceptable.I. Am. Speechless. Alec Birri and Jonathan Keeble have once again created audiobook greatness, and I'm glad that I have had the opportunity to review this trilogy. Beyond impressive - Bookworms Corner Blog SpotExcellent descriptions and depictions that will haunt readers long after the final words are read - Hall Ways BlogIf you are a lover of Sci-Fi and movies that focus on the AI then this series is definitely for you - eBook AddictsJonathan Keeble has grown into one of my favorite narrators with his pleasant tones, vivid characterizations (including what seem to be accurate accents in a variety of cultures) and his ability to evoke all kinds of feelings about the story - Buried Under Books
260 pages, Paperback
Published January 28, 2017
20 people are currently reading
36 people want to read
About the author
Alec Birri
13 books24 followersAlec Birri served thirty years with the UK Armed Forces. He commanded an operational unit that experimented in new military capabilities classified at the highest level (Top Secret Strap 3) and it is this that forms the basis of his novels.
Although semi-autobiographical, for national security and personal liberty reasons, the events and individuals portrayed have to be fiction, but are still nonetheless in keeping with his experiences.
Although semi-autobiographical, for national security and personal liberty reasons, the events and individuals portrayed have to be fiction, but are still nonetheless in keeping with his experiences.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
March 26, 2018
Story: 5
Narration: 5
Overall: 5
I. Am. Speechless.
I think I have been the most highly strung 18 year old in the country this month due to my job, and this book has been a haven for me when I need to kick back and think of something else, and my word did this book get me thinking. I guess I’m sort of a low-key conspiracy theorist (no tinfoil I promise!) and so any little detail I get in these books gets my brain racing like crazy! After the huge plot twist that Alec Birri wrote at the very end of The Curing Begins (no spoilers) my mind started making that whirring noise that old computers do. I didn’t know what to do with myself! My skin was crawling with anticipation at what was going to happen next! What could happen next?!
Apparently a lot of things could happen next.
The Final Correction begins with a father and daughter from Israel embarking on some sort of religion themed quest, and I was a bit stumped as to what year this was set in due to some of the views the father has. The appearance of futuristic technology however made it clear these chapters aren’t set in the past. There’s a huge theme of religion present in a lot of this book, and at the start I was quite confused again (apparently I’m quite good at being confused) with what this had to do with everything else! But once again Alec Birri’s talent at making it all tie together came shining through towards the middle of the book. Dr. M- , ahem, Dr. Savage boldly faces a lot of controversy to do with his ‘cure’ for seemingly everything and his AI inventions.
There are many points where lines were blurred – reality was blurred! The world created by Alec is given a choice to comply with the new rules or not.
The Final Correction goes very in-depth with science fiction and is the sort of book that may need reading/listening to twice to let everything set in (like the Matrix but a little bit more hardcore).
Jonathan Keeble’s voice acting skills continue to be beyond impressive, and the many voices he has faced in this book were incredible. His approach to the voices of AI characters were very well done, not seeming too robotic yet being distinct. This book was incredibly intense, and Keeble projected that intensity in every character and line. He’s an outstanding voice actor and is definitely one to look out for.
Alec Birri and Jonathan Keeble have once again created audiobook greatness, and I’m glad that I have had the opportunity to review this trilogy.
I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Alec Birri. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
Narration: 5
Overall: 5
I. Am. Speechless.
I think I have been the most highly strung 18 year old in the country this month due to my job, and this book has been a haven for me when I need to kick back and think of something else, and my word did this book get me thinking. I guess I’m sort of a low-key conspiracy theorist (no tinfoil I promise!) and so any little detail I get in these books gets my brain racing like crazy! After the huge plot twist that Alec Birri wrote at the very end of The Curing Begins (no spoilers) my mind started making that whirring noise that old computers do. I didn’t know what to do with myself! My skin was crawling with anticipation at what was going to happen next! What could happen next?!
Apparently a lot of things could happen next.
The Final Correction begins with a father and daughter from Israel embarking on some sort of religion themed quest, and I was a bit stumped as to what year this was set in due to some of the views the father has. The appearance of futuristic technology however made it clear these chapters aren’t set in the past. There’s a huge theme of religion present in a lot of this book, and at the start I was quite confused again (apparently I’m quite good at being confused) with what this had to do with everything else! But once again Alec Birri’s talent at making it all tie together came shining through towards the middle of the book. Dr. M- , ahem, Dr. Savage boldly faces a lot of controversy to do with his ‘cure’ for seemingly everything and his AI inventions.
There are many points where lines were blurred – reality was blurred! The world created by Alec is given a choice to comply with the new rules or not.
The Final Correction goes very in-depth with science fiction and is the sort of book that may need reading/listening to twice to let everything set in (like the Matrix but a little bit more hardcore).
Jonathan Keeble’s voice acting skills continue to be beyond impressive, and the many voices he has faced in this book were incredible. His approach to the voices of AI characters were very well done, not seeming too robotic yet being distinct. This book was incredibly intense, and Keeble projected that intensity in every character and line. He’s an outstanding voice actor and is definitely one to look out for.
Alec Birri and Jonathan Keeble have once again created audiobook greatness, and I’m glad that I have had the opportunity to review this trilogy.
I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Alec Birri. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
October 26, 2019
I went into this with fairly average expectations as I have read and given the previous 2 books in the trilogy 3*/5 each, they weren’t bad just not exactly exciting.
This however started off pretty interesting which was hopeful but then I get lost again with what is actually happening. It’s hard to follow the narrative as it jumps all over the place between characters and storylines and is often vague too which doesn’t help when the details of the storyline are quite complicated. Simply put it’s an Armageddon of sorts and a dystopian future heavily based on AI which is usually right up my street but the ideas were confusing and not well explained and so it lost some of its thrill and made for hard work at times.
I can only give this a 3*/5 which is a shame as the premise is way better than the execution of the book.
This however started off pretty interesting which was hopeful but then I get lost again with what is actually happening. It’s hard to follow the narrative as it jumps all over the place between characters and storylines and is often vague too which doesn’t help when the details of the storyline are quite complicated. Simply put it’s an Armageddon of sorts and a dystopian future heavily based on AI which is usually right up my street but the ideas were confusing and not well explained and so it lost some of its thrill and made for hard work at times.
I can only give this a 3*/5 which is a shame as the premise is way better than the execution of the book.
March 26, 2018
The Story:
This final instalment to the Condition Trilogy was, I have to admit confusing at best, but boy did it suck me in. We are met with new characters in the first part of this book Isra and Faruk, and at first I wasn't sure what part in time we were in - past, present or future, but as the story unfolds we discover they are very much in the future and Dr Savage and his AI are dominating the world - ok not fully but the AI interaction has stepped up a great deal. Humans are turning to the AI whist some are still clinging to the old ways and that is were the conflict comes into play. Can a world relying heavily on AI really co-exist or will the AI take over? And the red pill to cure not just dementia etc but more "deviant" behaviour like paedophilia and homosexuality and murderers? It is all another form of control, that just blew my mind. To think that this may or even actually happen is a scary prospect at best.
If you are a lover of Sci Fi and movies like "I am Legend" that focus on the AI then this series is definitely for you - this series really gave me food thought and I loved Birri's way of sucking me into the story from book 1 and I couldn't stop until the very end of book 3 when I finally let out a sigh of "wow".
Sci-Fi is not my normal genre but Birri may have just changed my mind, and I can wait to read more from him.
The Narrator:
Once again Jonathan Keeble has done a brilliant job at narrating this book and I am glad he was there from book 1 and his voice was one that you instantly knew and fitted well with the story.
I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Alec Birri. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
This final instalment to the Condition Trilogy was, I have to admit confusing at best, but boy did it suck me in. We are met with new characters in the first part of this book Isra and Faruk, and at first I wasn't sure what part in time we were in - past, present or future, but as the story unfolds we discover they are very much in the future and Dr Savage and his AI are dominating the world - ok not fully but the AI interaction has stepped up a great deal. Humans are turning to the AI whist some are still clinging to the old ways and that is were the conflict comes into play. Can a world relying heavily on AI really co-exist or will the AI take over? And the red pill to cure not just dementia etc but more "deviant" behaviour like paedophilia and homosexuality and murderers? It is all another form of control, that just blew my mind. To think that this may or even actually happen is a scary prospect at best.
If you are a lover of Sci Fi and movies like "I am Legend" that focus on the AI then this series is definitely for you - this series really gave me food thought and I loved Birri's way of sucking me into the story from book 1 and I couldn't stop until the very end of book 3 when I finally let out a sigh of "wow".
Sci-Fi is not my normal genre but Birri may have just changed my mind, and I can wait to read more from him.
The Narrator:
Once again Jonathan Keeble has done a brilliant job at narrating this book and I am glad he was there from book 1 and his voice was one that you instantly knew and fitted well with the story.
I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Alec Birri. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
August 29, 2017
https://anaslair.wordpress.com/2017/0...
I finished this last night and I am still not quite sure what I read.
I enjoyed it as the previous ones but I cannot say I understood everything. That Professor Savage character was just too mysterious, I guess I needed it dumbed down more so that I could fully grasp what the author was trying to say. It's not that there was that much scientific mumbo-jumbo to sift through, I just felt a lot of important information lacked in favour of suspense.
Overall I enjoyed the trilogy. I particularly loved the two first books' prologues and how, when I finished each book, I would see them in a completely different light. It is food for thought, if nothing else.
Disclaimer: I would like to thank the publisher and Netgalley for providing me a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I finished this last night and I am still not quite sure what I read.
I enjoyed it as the previous ones but I cannot say I understood everything. That Professor Savage character was just too mysterious, I guess I needed it dumbed down more so that I could fully grasp what the author was trying to say. It's not that there was that much scientific mumbo-jumbo to sift through, I just felt a lot of important information lacked in favour of suspense.
Overall I enjoyed the trilogy. I particularly loved the two first books' prologues and how, when I finished each book, I would see them in a completely different light. It is food for thought, if nothing else.
Disclaimer: I would like to thank the publisher and Netgalley for providing me a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
March 24, 2018
Note: This review likely contains spoilers! That being said, onward! :)
At the top of book 3, we are once again shocked by Birri as he brings us to the third arc of the story. We begin in the year 2028, by following Faruk and his daughter Isra’s journey through the desert in the middle east. With new characters and events unfolding, readers are eager to push forward so that sense can be made from the stunning conclusion at the end of book 2, with the truth of Professor Savage being revealed. However, Birri takes us further down the rabbit hole of corruption, AI interactions with humans, and the mystery surrounding government control alongside scientific advancements from the notorious “red pill.”
With book 3 divided into three pronounced parts, Birri allows us to see each of these story arcs unfold and then brings them together at the very end. In part 1, we see how Faruk brings his daughter to the prince as one of the “chosen ones” for his mysterious cause, that is seemingly related to the trials, the pill, and the Interworld—the “world” existing between this world and the next.
On a quick RECAP: It came into existence through science’s advances to create a computer-generated environment, where disembodied forms of intelligence can reside. These can include the consciousness of humans (if “uploaded” into the Interworld), AI intelligence, and the like). When connected with the Interworld, apparently enabled by use of the red pill, the telepathic connection of “merging” is possible, where human consciousness and artificial intelligence can become one, of sorts. This piece of the story is nothing short of complex but it closely relates to each of the areas of the story as they progress.
In part 2, we return to the story of Professor Savage and his subsequent release from prison, only to go on house arrest. He continues to feud both in views and actions with his arch-nemesis, Alex Saib who is the polar opposite of Savage, as a feminist far-left politician, aiming to eradicate the “evil” that Savage has unleashed within the world with his trials and AI integration into the human population. Part 3 ties all the arcs together, revealing Dan Passen, Dr. Adams, Emil, Maria, Faruk, Isra, Salib, American President Kalten, and Savage’s purpose in the entire saga, ending with the stunning (if it is possible to be further stunned at this point) conclusion and apt progression of the human race! I’ve decided not to reveal the final and most thought-provoking spoiler at the end, so it can be enjoyed by other readers. All I can say is it is worth the wait!
Overall, I give this final installation 5 stars as an excellent conclusion to a very enjoyable series! I would recommend this trilogy to readers seeking an intricate, thought-provoking political thriller. It is an intelligent read and requires really taking time to soak in all that Birri puts before us. A fantastic read!
At the top of book 3, we are once again shocked by Birri as he brings us to the third arc of the story. We begin in the year 2028, by following Faruk and his daughter Isra’s journey through the desert in the middle east. With new characters and events unfolding, readers are eager to push forward so that sense can be made from the stunning conclusion at the end of book 2, with the truth of Professor Savage being revealed. However, Birri takes us further down the rabbit hole of corruption, AI interactions with humans, and the mystery surrounding government control alongside scientific advancements from the notorious “red pill.”
With book 3 divided into three pronounced parts, Birri allows us to see each of these story arcs unfold and then brings them together at the very end. In part 1, we see how Faruk brings his daughter to the prince as one of the “chosen ones” for his mysterious cause, that is seemingly related to the trials, the pill, and the Interworld—the “world” existing between this world and the next.
On a quick RECAP: It came into existence through science’s advances to create a computer-generated environment, where disembodied forms of intelligence can reside. These can include the consciousness of humans (if “uploaded” into the Interworld), AI intelligence, and the like). When connected with the Interworld, apparently enabled by use of the red pill, the telepathic connection of “merging” is possible, where human consciousness and artificial intelligence can become one, of sorts. This piece of the story is nothing short of complex but it closely relates to each of the areas of the story as they progress.
In part 2, we return to the story of Professor Savage and his subsequent release from prison, only to go on house arrest. He continues to feud both in views and actions with his arch-nemesis, Alex Saib who is the polar opposite of Savage, as a feminist far-left politician, aiming to eradicate the “evil” that Savage has unleashed within the world with his trials and AI integration into the human population. Part 3 ties all the arcs together, revealing Dan Passen, Dr. Adams, Emil, Maria, Faruk, Isra, Salib, American President Kalten, and Savage’s purpose in the entire saga, ending with the stunning (if it is possible to be further stunned at this point) conclusion and apt progression of the human race! I’ve decided not to reveal the final and most thought-provoking spoiler at the end, so it can be enjoyed by other readers. All I can say is it is worth the wait!
Overall, I give this final installation 5 stars as an excellent conclusion to a very enjoyable series! I would recommend this trilogy to readers seeking an intricate, thought-provoking political thriller. It is an intelligent read and requires really taking time to soak in all that Birri puts before us. A fantastic read!
March 22, 2021
The conclusion for the Condition Trilogy was good, although a bit on the confusing side. I think I understand all of what happened, but a re-read is likely called for.
Disclaimer: I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Disclaimer: I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
April 7, 2018
Although I found the first book in the series really intriguing, I started to lose interest with the second, finding it too confusing at times. With this one I was unable to relate at all. I think the fact that the second didn't move me should have been a signal about the third. It grew more confusing, I couldn't connect to the characters, and I didn't care about anything. Birri had finally lost me.
I think the story had great potential but Birri's storytelling skills need some more polishing. The characters didn't feel real enough, and the descriptions could have used some more work.
Jonathan Keeble's narration was very good though, setting the right atmosphere for the story and delivering great characters interpretations.
I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Alec Birri. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
I think the story had great potential but Birri's storytelling skills need some more polishing. The characters didn't feel real enough, and the descriptions could have used some more work.
Jonathan Keeble's narration was very good though, setting the right atmosphere for the story and delivering great characters interpretations.
I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Alec Birri. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
June 12, 2018
Note: This is Book 3 in the series and you really need to experience Books 1 & 2 in order to get this book.
As with Book 2, we start with brand new characters in a different part of the world but it seems to be contemporary with Professor Savage (2028). In the Middle East, the world of Islam has changed, as has most things, with the advent of Savage’s latest technology. He gave the world two major things: the ability to modify your most basic behaviors even from conception and also the world of AI in both virtual worlds and in robots. Very exciting!
Isra and her dad Faruk are our new main characters. The first third of this book explores how the new technologies have affected the up & coming generation as well as the older generations with all their traditions. The world is moving on with or without the traditions of the Middle East and people have to choose. Faruk and Isra are great characters to get these complex themes across. Faruk believes in the old traditions; however, that means he’s easily offended by so many things. Isra doesn’t have a commitment to the old traditions. Also, being a woman, the old traditions limit her. The new technologies set her free. So, lots of great conflicts going on there that I enjoyed watching play out.
Eventually, we rejoin Professor Savage and Dr. Addams in prison. Maria and Emile (who I inadvertently called Emmanuel in my review of Book 2) put in a brief appearance as well. I was hoping for more of them since I really enjoyed their characters in Book 2. Nurse Tracy is now a mom and still devoted to Dr. Addams. So Tracy remains a sex object and a comforter; I had hoped more would be done with her character. It’s a good thing we have some very interesting new characters in this book.
Part of the plot plays out in the real world and part of it plays out in a virtual reality. Some humans are aware of the difference and some are not. Some of the AIs want to preserve humanity and some have become lost themselves and need help or to be put down. At some point I did lose track of what was taking place in the real world and what was happening in VR. Still, it was a very interesting plot.
At the end, there’s a twist and I think I got it… I’m pretty sure I got it… maybe. Or perhaps it was left a bit nebulous so each reader can make up their minds as to how the story ends. At any rate, it has been a wild, crazy, memorable, and entertaining tale. I recommend the series. 4.5/5 stars.
The Narration: Jonathan Keeble has done another great job. Each character was distinct and his female voices were believable. I liked his Middle Eastern accents and his Argentinian accents as well. There were plenty of emotions in this tale and he did a great job performing them all, subtle or big. 5/5 stars.
I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Alec Birri. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
As with Book 2, we start with brand new characters in a different part of the world but it seems to be contemporary with Professor Savage (2028). In the Middle East, the world of Islam has changed, as has most things, with the advent of Savage’s latest technology. He gave the world two major things: the ability to modify your most basic behaviors even from conception and also the world of AI in both virtual worlds and in robots. Very exciting!
Isra and her dad Faruk are our new main characters. The first third of this book explores how the new technologies have affected the up & coming generation as well as the older generations with all their traditions. The world is moving on with or without the traditions of the Middle East and people have to choose. Faruk and Isra are great characters to get these complex themes across. Faruk believes in the old traditions; however, that means he’s easily offended by so many things. Isra doesn’t have a commitment to the old traditions. Also, being a woman, the old traditions limit her. The new technologies set her free. So, lots of great conflicts going on there that I enjoyed watching play out.
Eventually, we rejoin Professor Savage and Dr. Addams in prison. Maria and Emile (who I inadvertently called Emmanuel in my review of Book 2) put in a brief appearance as well. I was hoping for more of them since I really enjoyed their characters in Book 2. Nurse Tracy is now a mom and still devoted to Dr. Addams. So Tracy remains a sex object and a comforter; I had hoped more would be done with her character. It’s a good thing we have some very interesting new characters in this book.
Part of the plot plays out in the real world and part of it plays out in a virtual reality. Some humans are aware of the difference and some are not. Some of the AIs want to preserve humanity and some have become lost themselves and need help or to be put down. At some point I did lose track of what was taking place in the real world and what was happening in VR. Still, it was a very interesting plot.
At the end, there’s a twist and I think I got it… I’m pretty sure I got it… maybe. Or perhaps it was left a bit nebulous so each reader can make up their minds as to how the story ends. At any rate, it has been a wild, crazy, memorable, and entertaining tale. I recommend the series. 4.5/5 stars.
The Narration: Jonathan Keeble has done another great job. Each character was distinct and his female voices were believable. I liked his Middle Eastern accents and his Argentinian accents as well. There were plenty of emotions in this tale and he did a great job performing them all, subtle or big. 5/5 stars.
I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Alec Birri. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
September 6, 2017
Review originally posted on The Bibliophile Chronicles
The Final Correction is the third book in the Condition series, ending a trilogy of mysterious medical thrillers. I really loved the premise, the idea that brain disorders were treatable. But it’s so much more than just treating brain disorders, those with thoughts that are not what society wants them to be – murderers, those with extreme views, their ‘brain disorders’ can also be treated. I think with the advancement of technology and how rapidly medicine is advancing this is quite a realistic premise, and as a result that made the book even more enjoyable because it felt infinitely possible.
As stated this is the third book in the series. I haven’t personally read the other two books, and this one can be read as a stand alone. After having read the book I do feel like I’d like to go back and read books one and two, because although I enjoyed the story I felt there were some things I had missed out on in the first parts of the series.
The one thing about this book is that it constantly surprised me. Just when I thought I knew where things were headed, they twisted off in another direction. It’s a really enjoyable story, and the more you read the more intrigued you get – as the reader you definitely want to know more. The book is well written and paced excellently, giving the reader time to comprehend the multi-layered plot that is going on. Although there aren’t too many characters, they are very well portrayed, showing plenty of depth and emotion.
After finishing the book I went to do a little research before I wrote my blog post and was stunned to find that this series is actually based on the authors own experience in command of a top secret government organisation. For me this made the book all the more frightening and realistic. If that doesn’t give you food for thought, I don’t know what will!
The Final Correction is the third book in the Condition series, ending a trilogy of mysterious medical thrillers. I really loved the premise, the idea that brain disorders were treatable. But it’s so much more than just treating brain disorders, those with thoughts that are not what society wants them to be – murderers, those with extreme views, their ‘brain disorders’ can also be treated. I think with the advancement of technology and how rapidly medicine is advancing this is quite a realistic premise, and as a result that made the book even more enjoyable because it felt infinitely possible.
As stated this is the third book in the series. I haven’t personally read the other two books, and this one can be read as a stand alone. After having read the book I do feel like I’d like to go back and read books one and two, because although I enjoyed the story I felt there were some things I had missed out on in the first parts of the series.
The one thing about this book is that it constantly surprised me. Just when I thought I knew where things were headed, they twisted off in another direction. It’s a really enjoyable story, and the more you read the more intrigued you get – as the reader you definitely want to know more. The book is well written and paced excellently, giving the reader time to comprehend the multi-layered plot that is going on. Although there aren’t too many characters, they are very well portrayed, showing plenty of depth and emotion.
After finishing the book I went to do a little research before I wrote my blog post and was stunned to find that this series is actually based on the authors own experience in command of a top secret government organisation. For me this made the book all the more frightening and realistic. If that doesn’t give you food for thought, I don’t know what will!
March 22, 2018
Audio Book Review. Artificial intelligence, the Interworld, telepathy, robots, virtual reality, and evolution -- for the serious sci-fi fan, Condition Book Three: The Final Correction, the third book of the dystopian trilogy by Alec Birri, THIS is your series (and you must start with book one).
As with the prior two books, The Final Correction wastes no time immersing readers into this not so distant world. Birri begins the book by telling one of Aesop’s fables, about the north wind and the sun, which focuses on man’s overconfidence and belief he is in control when he ultimately is not. That is the crux of the story, and the theme is good to keep in mind as readers make their way through this complex story.
A new setting and group of characters dominate part one of the book. Initially, it is difficult to tell whether it is past, present, or future. There’s an Islamic father and daughter making a trek (pilgrimage?) and their rituals and attitudes could place them a hundred years back. Soon, technologies begin to emerge, and it’s clear that we are in the world changed by Dr. Savage and sentient robots are the norm. However, some humans are clinging to the old ways and are resistant to the changes away from traditional teachings. As part one moves along, familiar characters are re-introduced and this seemingly new story line begins to get woven into the story lines set-up in the earlier books in the trilogy.
From the Middle East, readers transition into the western world and are reminded of how this world is defined. People with brain disorders can receive “the treatment” to cure any brain ailment. Not just medical problems like autism and dementia are now curable; also, the deviant behaviors of pedophiles and murderers can and are being corrected. As the medical and scientific advances and their applications seem to move humanity into a better world, the lines become blurred when leaders and powerful players differ in how they are defining deviant behaviors and “the treatment” is being taken too far.
Naturally, there are warring factions and people resistant to removing the humanity from humans. With the ability to have a hybrid existence of time in the real world and time in the virtual world, again, the lines are blurred as to where one ends and the other begins – or whether a real world exists at all for some. There are some deep, mind blowing concepts happening in this series, and especially in this final installment of the trilogy.
Birri has some excellent descriptions and depictions that will haunt readers long after the final words are read. The author also does a great job in making readers feel conflicted about their feelings for the various characters as each is more fully developed. Readers will love some of the big reveals, and there are satisfying twists and turns-of-events. Happily, there is some humor sprinkled about, and I got a real chuckle (of course) when a character spoke a clunker, and the doctor responded with "Maybe it was the Grammar Nazis I wanted to take over the world. Not the jack-booted ones."
Admittedly, I had some trouble with the last third of the book as it went heavily into the science fiction realm. I couldn’t keep all the sub-plots straight and at times had absolutely no idea what was happening. As much as I LOVE the narration by Jonathan Keeble, The Final Correction got too complicated for me to comprehend by reading with my ears. I need to get this series in print so that I can easily flip back and re-read and let things soak in. Unfortunately, I don’t think I could honestly say how the book ended. Heaven, Hell, end of times, or a new beginning? Not sure. I think it was open-ended enough that there could be more stories to tell, so perhaps there will be another series. (Or perhaps not since it’s quite possible that I missed something huge in the chaos.)
A few words about the narration and narrator, Jonathan Keeble: Seriously – seek out anything voiced by this guy; he is amazing. I have nothing but the highest praise for how he handles this huge, international cast of characters. You can read my gushing about him in the prior book reviews. Top notch.
Thank you to the author and Audiobookworm Promotions for providing me an audio download in exchange for my honest opinion. This full review, links to the first two book reviews, and more features on Hall Ways Blog: https://kristinehallways.blogspot.com...
As with the prior two books, The Final Correction wastes no time immersing readers into this not so distant world. Birri begins the book by telling one of Aesop’s fables, about the north wind and the sun, which focuses on man’s overconfidence and belief he is in control when he ultimately is not. That is the crux of the story, and the theme is good to keep in mind as readers make their way through this complex story.
A new setting and group of characters dominate part one of the book. Initially, it is difficult to tell whether it is past, present, or future. There’s an Islamic father and daughter making a trek (pilgrimage?) and their rituals and attitudes could place them a hundred years back. Soon, technologies begin to emerge, and it’s clear that we are in the world changed by Dr. Savage and sentient robots are the norm. However, some humans are clinging to the old ways and are resistant to the changes away from traditional teachings. As part one moves along, familiar characters are re-introduced and this seemingly new story line begins to get woven into the story lines set-up in the earlier books in the trilogy.
From the Middle East, readers transition into the western world and are reminded of how this world is defined. People with brain disorders can receive “the treatment” to cure any brain ailment. Not just medical problems like autism and dementia are now curable; also, the deviant behaviors of pedophiles and murderers can and are being corrected. As the medical and scientific advances and their applications seem to move humanity into a better world, the lines become blurred when leaders and powerful players differ in how they are defining deviant behaviors and “the treatment” is being taken too far.
Naturally, there are warring factions and people resistant to removing the humanity from humans. With the ability to have a hybrid existence of time in the real world and time in the virtual world, again, the lines are blurred as to where one ends and the other begins – or whether a real world exists at all for some. There are some deep, mind blowing concepts happening in this series, and especially in this final installment of the trilogy.
Birri has some excellent descriptions and depictions that will haunt readers long after the final words are read. The author also does a great job in making readers feel conflicted about their feelings for the various characters as each is more fully developed. Readers will love some of the big reveals, and there are satisfying twists and turns-of-events. Happily, there is some humor sprinkled about, and I got a real chuckle (of course) when a character spoke a clunker, and the doctor responded with "Maybe it was the Grammar Nazis I wanted to take over the world. Not the jack-booted ones."
Admittedly, I had some trouble with the last third of the book as it went heavily into the science fiction realm. I couldn’t keep all the sub-plots straight and at times had absolutely no idea what was happening. As much as I LOVE the narration by Jonathan Keeble, The Final Correction got too complicated for me to comprehend by reading with my ears. I need to get this series in print so that I can easily flip back and re-read and let things soak in. Unfortunately, I don’t think I could honestly say how the book ended. Heaven, Hell, end of times, or a new beginning? Not sure. I think it was open-ended enough that there could be more stories to tell, so perhaps there will be another series. (Or perhaps not since it’s quite possible that I missed something huge in the chaos.)
A few words about the narration and narrator, Jonathan Keeble: Seriously – seek out anything voiced by this guy; he is amazing. I have nothing but the highest praise for how he handles this huge, international cast of characters. You can read my gushing about him in the prior book reviews. Top notch.
Thank you to the author and Audiobookworm Promotions for providing me an audio download in exchange for my honest opinion. This full review, links to the first two book reviews, and more features on Hall Ways Blog: https://kristinehallways.blogspot.com...
March 25, 2018
The year 2028 finds Faruk and Isra, his daughter, traveling through a Middle Eastern desert, en route to deliver Isra to The Prophet. The world has changed thanks to the scientific innovations brought about by Professor Savage and the traditional Faruk has a good deal of trouble blending his old ways with the new face of Islam. Isra, on the other hand, is finding a lot of freedom she never knew before as a young Muslim woman. This particular section of the story is very relevant today as we try, not always successfully, to accept and accommodate cultures and religions that vary widely.
Later, we re-encounter Professor Savage, Nurse Tracy and Dr. Addams as well as a host of new characters; in fact, I began to wish for a cast of characters, not that such a thing is very helpful with an audiobook. What began as an attempt to treat---or, rather, correct---brain disorders has morphed into a mishmash of real time and virtual reality as well as an evolution in the abilities of AI's to have the emotions of humans. Unfortunately, the question of who is to decide what is aberrant or deviant behavior in need of "correction" is a very heavy issue, as heavy as that of the anti-terror activities that may lead to a new world war.
There is no tidy end to this trilogy but much is left to the reader's own thoughts, not a bad way to conclude such a tale.
Jonathan Keeble has grown into one of my favorite narrators with his pleasant tones, vivid characterizations (including what seem to be accurate accents in a variety of cultures) and his ability to evoke all kinds of feelings about the story. I don't think Mr. Birri could have asked for a better voice for his tale.
Later, we re-encounter Professor Savage, Nurse Tracy and Dr. Addams as well as a host of new characters; in fact, I began to wish for a cast of characters, not that such a thing is very helpful with an audiobook. What began as an attempt to treat---or, rather, correct---brain disorders has morphed into a mishmash of real time and virtual reality as well as an evolution in the abilities of AI's to have the emotions of humans. Unfortunately, the question of who is to decide what is aberrant or deviant behavior in need of "correction" is a very heavy issue, as heavy as that of the anti-terror activities that may lead to a new world war.
There is no tidy end to this trilogy but much is left to the reader's own thoughts, not a bad way to conclude such a tale.
Jonathan Keeble has grown into one of my favorite narrators with his pleasant tones, vivid characterizations (including what seem to be accurate accents in a variety of cultures) and his ability to evoke all kinds of feelings about the story. I don't think Mr. Birri could have asked for a better voice for his tale.
July 10, 2018
Like the other books in the series, this one requires you to be completyely involved in dystopian thought to fully grasp. I really enjoyed the first book. The Alzheimer's angle was intriguing. Unfortunately, that theme was almost completely left behind in the next two. At times I felt I had Alzheimer's. I had to reread quite a few paragraphs to make sure I understood the writer's intent. I'm not the smartest guy in the world, but good writing is accessible writing. If the concept can't be clearly defined for the average reader, then you should be writing textbooks. It was still enjoyable, even with the anti-Christian/pro-Islam theme, as I understand it was done to get a rise out of Christians and Jews. Not sure if I'll give his next book a try or not.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 7, 2018
Great read with a problematic and somewhat confusing conclusion
I bought and read the trilogy before reviewing it. I found the first two books compelling! I didn't find the last to have a satisfying conclusion and it's pretty much up to the reader's imagination to achieve their own ending. It was well-written and held interest throughout! Just would have wished for a more solid finish.
I bought and read the trilogy before reviewing it. I found the first two books compelling! I didn't find the last to have a satisfying conclusion and it's pretty much up to the reader's imagination to achieve their own ending. It was well-written and held interest throughout! Just would have wished for a more solid finish.
January 20, 2018
I liked the first two books in this trilogy quite a bit. However, this final installment was hard for me to follow ... I often didn't really understand what was going on. It wasn't horrible and it kept my interest as I wanted to know where it was going.
May 1, 2022
Condition book 3 by Alec Birri.
The final correction.
So, Professor Savage has been unmasked as the monster Alex Salib always knew he was. But what was their agreement and why is she still determined to see it through?
A good read with good characters. Likeable story. 3*.
The final correction.
So, Professor Savage has been unmasked as the monster Alex Salib always knew he was. But what was their agreement and why is she still determined to see it through?
A good read with good characters. Likeable story. 3*.
March 22, 2018
A mind boggling and very imaginitive book. From start to finish this has everything from nanobots, artificial intelligence to mad professors and strange experiments. Fascinating.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews