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Back: Where You Once Belonged
If you suspect you already exist in a simulated reality... you should read this book NOW!
Bruno Matthams of Braxton University is on the cusp of creating an AI powerful enough to simulate an entire universe.
Rhett Gourmand of Birmingham University might be able to use the technology to reunite with his former wife... but at what cost?
Back explores the potential impact of AI and simulated realities on what it means to be human.
The eclectic cast of relatable characters face the ethical dilemmas that we as a soceity will soon be forced to confront.
Bruno Matthams of Braxton University is on the cusp of creating an AI powerful enough to simulate an entire universe.
Rhett Gourmand of Birmingham University might be able to use the technology to reunite with his former wife... but at what cost?
Back explores the potential impact of AI and simulated realities on what it means to be human.
The eclectic cast of relatable characters face the ethical dilemmas that we as a soceity will soon be forced to confront.
242 pages, Paperback
Published September 11, 2022
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5 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
September 23, 2022
This is an Advance Review Copy of Back, provided to me from the Noy Estate. This edition was signed by the author in what appears to be Mont Blanc Toffee Brown ink with a vintage nib. I owe a great debt of gratitude to the Noy Estate for this outstanding piece of literature.
Whereas much of science fiction (especially time travel) attempts to stand on its head explaining the universe and all of its moving pieces, Back has a heartbeat. The insight Swift provides on tech and simulated realities is met with a symphonic arrangement of the soul. Swift has danced so sweetly with the Deus ex machina, that Gilbert Ryle himself would submit to his new master.
Whereas much of science fiction (especially time travel) attempts to stand on its head explaining the universe and all of its moving pieces, Back has a heartbeat. The insight Swift provides on tech and simulated realities is met with a symphonic arrangement of the soul. Swift has danced so sweetly with the Deus ex machina, that Gilbert Ryle himself would submit to his new master.
September 30, 2022
I have long followed the work of futurist Robert Swift, and was delighted to see that his work has received the endorsement of the Noy Estate (an institution to which I am a staunch supporter).
'Back' is a beautiful meditation on the nature of reality, on the frightening and exciting power of technology, and on the enduring power of love. Yes, Back is a classic love story, albeit immersed within the explosive shell of a smart, thrilling, sci-fi novel.
A superb, layered story, well told, with an astonishing pay off. I hope to read more from Swift and I salute his vision!
'Back' is a beautiful meditation on the nature of reality, on the frightening and exciting power of technology, and on the enduring power of love. Yes, Back is a classic love story, albeit immersed within the explosive shell of a smart, thrilling, sci-fi novel.
A superb, layered story, well told, with an astonishing pay off. I hope to read more from Swift and I salute his vision!
September 27, 2022
Terrific debut novel! I went into this book with no expectations and was absorbed into the worlds of the story and the characters' lives. A lot of stories build interest in a core mystery, but few deliver as complete and sublimely as "Back". This book has unexpected and unpretentious philosophical depth that fits naturally with the romance and heartbreaks at the core of the narrative. Also, one of the most grounded and relatable sci fi books you'll ever read!
December 7, 2022
After finding out that 'Back' was writer Robert Swift's debut novel, I was utterly surprised.
The idea that reading a science fiction novel may put some readers off.... however, this novel is littered with heartbreak, excitement and is literally bursting with life. It had me laughing and weeping together and all at once.
Hats off to Mr Swift and I can't wait for the next one, if it hasn't already been written.
The idea that reading a science fiction novel may put some readers off.... however, this novel is littered with heartbreak, excitement and is literally bursting with life. It had me laughing and weeping together and all at once.
Hats off to Mr Swift and I can't wait for the next one, if it hasn't already been written.
October 30, 2023
The Noy Estate continues its excellent work in distributing urgent literature of the highest quality. Back provides a philosophical conundrum wrapped up in an endless love story nestled within a sprawling conceptual sci-fi novel.
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews