Reviews: Artificial Wisdom (23)
“A fast-paced, high-concept sci-fi thriller that grabs you from page one”
(Hardback)
by stephen cadman
Artificial Wisdom by Thomas R. Weaver is a fast-paced, high-concept sci-fi thriller that grabs you from page one and doesn’t let go. I’d seen this book raved about on Instagram and went in completely blind. Honestly, if I’d known what the premise was, I would have read it much sooner. It’s precisely the kind of twisty, intelligent near-future thriller I love. Set in a world where artificial intelligence, surveillance, and politics intersect, this book explores power, autonomy, and truth in a way that feels both thrilling and disturbingly real. The pace is sharp, the writing is accessible, and the plot is layered with tension and moral ambiguity. What stood out to me is how the story raises significant questions about AI and control without getting bogged down in overly technical explanations. It’s clever without being complicated, and the mystery at its core kept me hooked throughout. If you're into stories that feel like Black Mirror meets Upgrade with the punch of a political thriller, you’ll fly through this. It's innovative, addictive, and surprisingly thought-provoking.
“one of the year biggest hits”
(Hardback)
by Andy wormald
Undoubtedly this will be one of the biggest hits of the year, it’s a compelling, fascinating and original read. Be prepared for something different, expect the unexpected Part Sci Fi, part political thriller, part murder mystery combine to form a unique and deeply satisfying read It ‘s a read which makes you stop and think, asks plenty of questions and will certainly surprise you, a crime mystery but so much more. This is somewhat difficult to review as you really need to read this without any pre conceived thoughts Whilst it might be set 25 years in the future in many ways it has striking parallels to todays geo political world, and depending on your view point not necessarily in a good way. The writing is crisp and on point, it’s one of those reads where you need to take it all in, a read which packs a mighty punch. In someways at a high level the plot is straight forward, however, the layers and the twists the author throws in and you realise that in fact it is a complex multifaceted and layered read, full of meaning and depth It is alright having a great plot but you need characters to give the story a beating heart, here the author brings characters to life that sing at you on the page. Tully as the central character is a man on a mission, haunted by his recent past written with such feeling and emotion. There is plenty of doubt thrown into his character in the processes. For me also the settings in the book played a vital role in giving a glimpse of how life could be. The author paints a different looking world Whilst the book maybe set against the backdrop of an election to choose a world leader, it is in many ways one persons inner struggle for the truth seeking redemption for the death of his wife. The author cleverly interweaves the two into a fascinating glimpse into what the future may hold. At times there are dark and sinister undertones at work, however, these are undercut by moments of human emotion There are plenty of reference to a tehcnological world which I know nothing about, however, at no point did i feel overwhelmed by this but embraced what the future may look like Superbly paced the story rolls along as election days loom, throwing in plenty of curve balls, making you question yourself, the author has a way of making you feel as though you are part of the story and that your vote counts As a read it builds up the suspense and tension until the dramatic and intense finale I was fascinated as I read the book as to how my thoughts between Soloman and Lockwood kept shifting and my pre conceived thoughts and ideas were challenged by the author The story shows how people can be manipulated by the actions of one person, though at times I had the feeling that I was being manipulated. An intricate web of intrigue and political power struggles You have an often emotional read, you definetly have a thought provoking read, one of those page turning reads The quality of the storytelling. combined with characters who get under your skin make this a standout read, gripping, from the opening pages I was intrigued by what I was reading. A read that stays with you, one to highly recomend
“Clever and Thought Provoking”
(Hardback)
by Elizabeth Currie
Artificial Wisdom is a clever and thought-provoking mix, a multi-layered sci-fi thriller and so much more. Set in 2050, the world has been ravaged by climate change. Two candidates are competing to be elected as Global Protector - former US president Lockwood and highly sophisticated AI artilect Solomon. Investigative journalist Marcus Tully is contacted by an anonymous whistleblower that suggests that Lockwood may be involved in a huge political scandal, and one with very personal consequences for Tully. He is determined to uncover the truth - but at what cost? This is a story that touches on so many things - amongst them AI and technology more broadly, climate change, conspiracy theories and political intrigue, and even a murder mystery. And at the same time the characters are very well drawn and Weaver does a great job of immersing the reader in this futuristic world that feels all too plausible. There is no shortage of twists and turns - and this is a book that keeps you guessing right till the end as you try and sift fact from fiction. It isn’t necessarily my normal type of go-to read but it had me hooked from beginning to end - and with a second book to follow, I look forward to another visit to this thought-provoking, if often terrifying, universe.
This reviewer received a free of charge product for review.
“So deeply relevant”
(Hardback)
by Emily Greenough
So important to our times and perfectly encapsulates every fear and speck of confusion we are experiencing currently.
“Like nothing you've read before”
(Hardback)
by Anthony at Waterstones Coventry
Weaver's debut is simply phenomenal. Artificial Wisdom is an extraordinary exploration of the intersection between artificial intelligence and human consciousness, offering a profound meditation on the ethical and philosophical implications of AI. The novel presents a gripping political thriller/murder mystery/ eco-fiction narrative that not only keeps readers on the edge of their seats but also challenges them to rethink the very nature of what it means to be human. Weaver’s writing is captivating and intellectual, effortlessly weaving complex ideas into a compelling story. The characters are deeply developed, particularly the AI protagonist, Solomon, who I found myself empathising for to my surprise. Through Solomon, the novel delves into questions of autonomy, purpose, and the potential for AI to evolve beyond its creators. The way Weaver addresses these questions is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant! One of the most impressive aspects of Artificial Wisdom is its exploration of the moral dilemmas posed by advanced AI. Weaver does not shy away from the darker, more uncomfortable possibilities, but he also shows a thoughtful, nuanced perspective on the potential for AI to benefit humanity. This balance of optimism and caution makes the novel not only a fascinating work of speculative fiction but also an essential read for anyone interested in the future of technology and society! I can't wait to see what Weaver does next!
Page
of 5
Artificial Wisdom

Artificial Wisdom

Fiction & Poetry, Science Fiction, Fantasy & Horror , Science Fiction & Fantasy
Thomas R. Weaver (author)
Paperback Published on: 04/06/2026
Price: £10.99
In stock
Usually dispatched within 1-2 days
Check click & collect stock near you
Collect today: Pay in shop