Review of Terms of Service

This forum is for volunteer reviews by members of our review team. These reviews are done voluntarily by the reviewers and are published in this forum, separate from the official professional reviews. These reviews are kept separate primarily because the same book may be reviewed by many different reviewers.
Post Reply
Taiwô Deborah
Posts: 13
Joined: 17 Feb 2023, 11:21
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 27
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-obynorich.html
Latest Review: Of Zots and Xoodles by Zarqnon the Embarrassed

Review of Terms of Service

Post by Taiwô Deborah »

[Following is a volunteer review of "Terms of Service" by Craig W. Stanfill.]
Book Cover
5 out of 5 stars
Share This Review


In Craig W. Stanfill's captivating work of science fiction, Terms of Service: Subject to Change Without Notice, readers are transported to a world where humans are free yet enslaved by terms and conditions. The author's passionate writing style informs and entertains readers as they are introduced to diverse characters, each with unique motivations and drives.

At the center of this thrilling tale is Kim, a young woman whose fascination with AI and its potential to improve the world led her to pursue a degree in the field and was later employed at the artificial intelligence company. Despite the promise of a brighter future, Kim quickly learns that her society is heavily controlled by an oppressive and dishonest regime that monitors every aspect of its citizens' lives. Even the slightest breach of the terms of service can result in severe consequences, including a cold shower, an undesirable meal, or a decrease in one's social credit score.

As Kim navigates this world, she meets Shan, a friend who invites her on a forbidden biking adventure into a restricted area. There, they stumble upon the ruins of an ancient city and encounter something that is not human called Blanks, a mysterious race of creatures who urge Kim to keep their meeting a secret. The Blanks reveal that the AI company's greatest fear is the truth, a realization that haunts Kim as she uncovers troubling facts about the company's practices. Despite Kim's newfound knowledge, which she obtained in blatant disobedience to the terms of service, she is rewarded with a promotion. As she grapples with the ethical implications of her work, she must decide whether to keep the company's secrets or risk everything to fight for a better future.

Throughout the book, the author's creativity and authenticity shine through, transporting readers to a world filled with vivid imagery and complex characters. What I like most in the book is how Kim's backstory adds depth and complexity to her character, allowing readers to understand her motivations and drive to break free from her oppressive society. While the book's cover is graphic and alluring, its depiction of excessive drug and alcohol use in the storyline seems irrelevant and constitutes a negative aspect of the book. Additionally, a list of characters would aid readers in keeping track of the diverse cast.

Despite these minor drawbacks, Terms of Service: Subject to Change Without Notice is a unique and thought-provoking work that addresses emancipation from mental slavery and freedom. Its well-structured plot, exhilarating action, and excellent editing make it a must-read for anyone looking for a thrilling story of machines and humans living together. Overall, I give Terms of Service: Subject to Change Without Notice a well-deserved 5 out of 5 stars for the reasons discussed above.

******
Terms of Service
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon | on iTunes
Post Reply

Return to “Volunteer Reviews”