Review of Terms of Service

Navera A · Post by **Navera A** » 29 Apr 2023, 07:33

[Following is a volunteer review of "Terms of Service" by Craig W. Stanfill.]

5 out of 5 stars

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Terms of Service by Craig W. Stanfill is a science fiction book set in a future where AIs control every part of human life, including the exact time you wake up, leave for work, and even what you get to have for breakfast! We follow our protagonist Kim as she goes about her life like everyone else, accepting the fact that she doesn't get to make any decisions for herself. But her peace can't last forever, as circumstances lead her to begin questioning the role of AIs in her world. The book explores many themes such as freedom and human identity in a totalitarianist society.

I absolutely adored the worldbuilding and setting in this book. The author creates a society so realistic that it's scary to think about. Everything in this dystopian future is forced to be neutral, so much so that even using the word "I" is forbidden. Pronouns are absolutely out of the question; everyone is simply referred to as "she." The AIs get to choose what you eat, when you sleep or wake up, what you watch, and even who you date. If you follow their rules, you get points that elevate your social ranking and allow you to have a better quality of life. What happens if you break too many rules? Well, let's just say that the AIs are not very forgiving.

I also loved Kim's complex characterisation. She's not your typical hero right from the start—just like any real person, she has to overcome her fears and doubts before she can fight for what she believes in. She makes mistakes and learns from them. I couldn't help but root for her throughout the entire book, thanks to her resilience and bravery.

The book is exceptionally well-edited, and the formatting is beautiful. I did not find a single error, thanks to its professional editing. Craig W. Stanfill's writing style is engaging and kept my attention the entire time, even while explaining complicated technological concepts.

I believe this book will become even more relevant as time goes by, thanks to the unimaginably rapid developments in the field of AI these days. It's only the first half of 2023, and AI-powered apps with scarily advanced capabilities are already being released every day. This book's immersive setting and thought-provoking themes are enough to make anyone seriously consider the current role of technology in our world and wonder where we'll be in a few centuries. For all these reasons, I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys dystopian themes and the science fiction genre.

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Terms of Service
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Post by **Sarah Zain** » 21 May 2023, 19:28

I have read many reviews about this book, and your review is distinguished. The idea of artificial intelligence controlling us and what it can reach with everything we see around , something that gives me a kind of anxiety. well-written review.

Hazel Mae Bagarinao · Post by **Hazel Mae Bagarinao** » 21 May 2023, 19:33

I thoroughly enjoyed this book because of how the character development stands out. Kim's situation was not easy, as she was controlled by AIs. I agree with what you said about the book about worldbuilding. Your review is compelling, Navera!

Kavita Shah · Post by **Kavita Shah** » 21 May 2023, 20:28

That ending paragraph hits hard when you realise everything is true. Being controlled and given points for following rules and otherwise not forgiving, scary to think what if this happens. Amazing review Navera A, it has an intriguing summary, your likes and well-laid out thoughts on the book.

The Keeper Jr · Post by **The Keeper Jr** » 21 May 2023, 23:07

Terms of Service is an amazing book, with an interesting story. Reading your review, It made me revive the good moments I had with the book. Also the second book in the series is a great piece of work by the author and it feels complete when you read both of them. Thank you for the great review.