Review of Terms of Service

[Fausta Buk]

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

---

4 out of 5 stars

---

Share This Review

---

The book is set in a dystopian future, where various social issues are presented in a completely unique and creative way. The world is told through the main character Kim, who at a first glance is the perfect member of their totalitarian, gender-neutral society. However, as the book progresses, issues with the current order and the obsessive pursuit of order are revealed. The true purpose of AI comes into question as the main character discovers more truths about the world and therefore questions the basic assumptions of her life. There were themes of simulation theory, personal identity crisis, discrimination based on sexuality issues, and mob mentality phenomenon, all wrapped in a light storyline that seemingly only focuses on Kim's exposure to the dystopian society.

Craig W. Stanfill is a master in world-building. Even as the book proposes hard-to-relate-to facts of their futuristic society, it is easy to follow and the introduction to their norm is seamless and easily understandable. The captivating storytelling is constant throughout the book, I personally finished the whole thing in one sitting. Even readers who are not avid sci-fi fans will find themselves entirely captivated by this book. Also, huge kudos to the author's creative intro to the book as well as utilizing the title Terms of Service in a distinctive and individual way. Furthermore, even as the scientific principles of AI are accurately explained and used in the book, it does so in such a way that even if you are introduced to the concept as you open the book, it is still crystal clear and intriguing to read.

I only wish that the book was not made into parts (meaning that there is a sequel to this one) and the story would have come to completion by the end of the book, however, this is a personal preference. There were also a few usages of LOL and OMG that could have been forgone.

The overall book is definitely worth your time and I would rate this book 4 out of 5 stars mainly because it has been such a pleasant surprise as I myself don't read many sci/fi books, but this was exceptionally captivating. The only reason why I don't give it 5 stars is because as before mentioned, the book ends on a standard cliffhanger for series books, most of the story was resolved but there we questions left unanswered. The book is exceptionally well-edited. I will definitely read the sequel.

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