The first in a new series that will follow the adventures of Cassandra Kresnov, this is more then an action packed sci-fi tale set far into the future. Delving deeply into issues of sentience, self-determination and artificial intelligence this is an examination of the possible political implications that will arise as artificial intelligence progresses and begins thinking for itself. Developed by the League, Cassandra began “life” as a GI for the sole purpose of fighting in an ongoing interstellar war. Most lower model GI’s were programmed with thought processes that were too literal to be fully effective in battle. Cassandra was patterned directly from a human thus allowing her to think laterally, to reason and see the big picture. What her creators failed to take into account was her ability to begin questioning them, to begin thinking for herself, learn and draw her own conclusions.
That she would defect from the League and attempt to fit into a civilian environment in Callay’s upscale capital city of Tanusha, was an exploitable opportunity. Brutally vivisected and left for dead, Cassandra awakens drugged and in restraints, the prisoner of the Callayan Security Agency and they want to know her deepest secrets. They also find themselves having to deal up close and personal with a GI, an artifical creature, something much less then human yet Cassandra’s obvious wit, emotion and intelligence forces some to begin reevaluating their perceptions. League and Federation plots and counterplots as well as the political aspirations of Callay’s government officials keep tensions high and forces the CAS to enlist Cassandra’s assistance. The problem is, can a machine designed to kill, with the strength and smarts to raise havoc be trusted to switch allegiances, can it be trusted in any capacity? Can it be granted citizenship status?
This fast paced read uses political intrigue, dirty dealings, old and new friendships to keep the story well grounded in human issues while raising some interesting points to ponder. Shepherd’s new series is certain to gain an instant following with this exciting and thoughtful entry.
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