This was a stellar read.
The plot twists were sudden, and ingenious.
Changing from one form of a civilization technology, into ever deepening and moral challenging territories. I was quite pleased, as I’m one that enjoys the rug beibg pulled out from undeneath - completely, swiftly, without losing one’s feet!
Balance?
Assuredly!
That’s it’s sine qua non - a sudden paradigm shift in orientation/perspective.
Came across by applied serendipity[another story].
But then, real serendipity came when I found out that another book, with a lot of press, had a very simular title[on order now, had to see what’s what]
The Daemon Protocol by JL Spears Sep 25, 2025
Both address AI
The Derand deals with telepathy/mind reading being weaponized
As far as Daemon, I haven’t read it; except in plot description.
Also orderred Part 2 of Derand.
Will have a problem with part 3, as in electronic form only[as outof print]
Will NOT go for an electronic book format!
Amazon sucks!