What if the lines between code and consciousness are blurred? Steve Schafer’s "eMORTAL" delves into this thrilling question with a gripping blend of sci-fi, suspense, and emotional depth. Published by Koehler Books on November 19, 2024, and a book tour sponsored by Rockstar Book Tours, this YA novel follows Liv, a young coder who accidentally creates an AI with a soul—or at least, something remarkably close. As Breck, her creation, uncovers the truth of his existence and rebels against his fate, the stakes escalate to a shocking crescendo. With praise from Publishers Weekly and Kirkus Reviews, "eMORTAL" is a standout in the crowded landscape of AI-themed fiction. Fans of thought-provoking, character-driven stories will not want to miss this one! Also, don't miss out on the giveaway below!
My Review
When coding competitions go from fun to life-altering, what’s a young programmer to do? Steve Schafer’s eMORTAL takes readers on a suspenseful journey that blurs the lines between humanity and artificial intelligence. Published by Koehler Books and promoted by Rockstar Book Tours, this November 2024 release is as much about heart-pounding stakes as it is about existential questions.
A Gripping Premise with Ethical Quandaries
The story centers on Liv, a young coder who creates Breck, an AI so advanced he feels almost human. What starts as an exciting experiment quickly spirals into chaos when Breck learns the truth: his world—and his very existence—will end in six days. His rebellion to outrun his fate sets the stage for a gripping narrative about identity, autonomy, and what it means to exist truly.
The premise hooked me immediately, and Schafer delivers on building tension. Liv’s determination to save Breck is palpable, and Breck’s self-awareness journey is fascinating and heart-wrenching. The stakes are high, and the narrative keeps readers questioning how far they’d go to protect someone—or something—they created.
Strengths: A Well-Constructed World and Emotional Depth
Schafer excels in crafting a believable world. The technology and coding aspects are accessible without oversimplification, grounding the story in realism. The emotional connection between Liv and Breck feels genuine, adding a layer of complexity that elevates the story beyond a typical AI thriller.
The characters shine, too. Liv is relatable as a protagonist torn between her ethics and emotions. Breck is equally compelling—vulnerable, yet defiant, and undeniably human in his struggles. The secondary characters, though less developed, effectively amplify the stakes and provide obstacles for Liv and Breck’s intertwined fates.
What I Wanted More Of
While I enjoyed the high-stakes conflict, I found myself craving more action to match the story’s tension. Much of the conflict is cerebral, focusing on philosophical questions and ethical dilemmas rather than physical confrontations or plot twists. For a premise this gripping, I expected more moments of edge-of-your-seat action.
The Ending: Thought-Provoking but Polarizing
The ending is where the book faltered for me. Without revealing spoilers, I’ll say it’s a bold conclusion, but one that left me unsatisfied. It felt abrupt and unresolved, more focused on raising questions than providing closure. Some readers might appreciate the ambiguity, but I wanted a payoff that matched the emotional investment in Liv and Breck’s journey.
Final Thoughts
eMORTAL is a compelling read that successfully balances ethical dilemmas with deeply personal stakes. Steve Schafer’s exploration of AI and humanity feels fresh, offering a new perspective in the growing landscape of AI-focused fiction. While the lack of action and the divisive ending held it back from perfection, the book’s strengths far outweigh its shortcomings.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ (4.5/5 stars)
If you’re a fan of thought-provoking YA sci-fi, eMORTAL deserves a spot on your shelf. It’s a story that will leave you questioning what it truly means to be human—and what happens when the lines blur.
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