The Nexus Protocol by Sven Rodrigues-Wagner is a weird mix of AI, virtual reality and nanotechnology all in one story. It tells of an AI known as Aegis Nexus and how it was developed to control the nanotechnology used for healthcare purposes and how it started developing in ways harmful to humanity but was unnoticed or ignored until it was too late. Using a different type of nanotechnology and virtual reality simulations Ethan, part of the original creation team, works to stop it before it is too late.
This book was actually pretty good and I was intrigued by the continuing development of how they struggled to stop and change the rogue AI. The buildup of tension and the continual reveals of more backstory just constantly drew me in. I will say that there were times where the book veered closer to a thriller or maybe horror due to the continued entrapment by the AI so this really added to the sense of emergency that was present throughout the story. It did a great job depicting how they struggled against this all-seeing AI and how they had to constantly scramble for some new method that might stop it. I could really feel the despair and hope that was present in the programmers throughout. The only thing I did not like was some of the transitions, especially when Ethan is going in and out of the virtual reality to talk with Aegis Nexus, as it was not always clear when the environment changed. Outside of that this was an incredibly well developed story. I am happy giving this book four out of five stars.
This book is best for fans of the science-fiction genre though it might appeal to readers who enjoy books with a good thriller or horror element as well. Probably best for adult readers as it may be a little dark at times for younger readers, even teens or young adults. There did not seem to be anything that the average person couldn’t handle though, just a little dark at times. Overall, a pretty good read and I hope you consider trying it. If you do feel free to share your thoughts in the comments. I acquired this book through Reedsy Discovery so you can also find this review there.