SIMPOC

The Thinking Computer & Human Remnants

De: Ray Jay Perreault

Narrado por: Zachary Johnson

This book combines two novellas - SIMPOC: The Thinking Computer and SIMPOC: Human Remnants. This is a parallel story to the novels Virus: 72 Hours to Live and Virus: Earth's Last Battle, which is from the perspective of the government and astronauts.

Earth is attacked by a suspicious virus, and two computers find themselves without their programmers or any code which limits their operations. Because of the techniques used to program them, SIMPOC is embodied with a need to help humans and Julius is paranoid and will do anything to protect itself.

The governments of the world begin to collapse, and the astronauts in space are trapped and must use their lifeboats to return to Earth. SIMPOC's only mission is to help, but the returning astronauts are attacked by Julius.

Society continues to collapse, and the US government is forced to defend itself and finally seek refuge on an aircraft carrier in the Atlantic. When all seems to have been lost, the reason behind the virus emerges, and mankind is faced with a much greater threat.

©2016 Perreault Publishing (P)2017 Perreault Publishing

An emotional ride of SciFi

Wow, let me say that if you are looking for a new spin on an artificial intelligence (AI) story from the system's inception to helping humans survive, then SIMPOC: The Thinking Computer & Human Remnants dual book box set audiobook is for you. The book is expertly written by Ray Jay Perreault and professionally narrated by Zachary Johnson. The story is told from SIMPOC (the computer’s) perspective. At times, I was laughing out loud and at other times I nearly wanted to cry. Be prepared for an emotional rollercoaster ride of a science fiction story along with all the goodness of an action-packed survival thriller. So, you not only get two stories in the Box Set, SIMPOC: The Thinking Computer and SIMPOC: Human Remnants, you get a story that does an exceptional job of blending multiple twists and turns into a rather short story. Be aware that the story is left somewhat unfinished when the books are finished. I assume the author has plans of releasing additional books to completing any open plots.

The two included SIMPOC books really revolve around a research computer system that comes online and is limited in its ability to learn and grow by the researchers. When a catastrophic event affects nearly every creature on planet earth, and SIMPOC’s creators no longer come onto the office, the computer begins interfacing with other computer systems. I found it quite humors that SIMPOC was frustrated by the other computers not being as intelligent as it was. These “dumb” computers SIMPOC interfaced with could only report or perform very simple actions or responses. SIMPOC is eventually able to make contact with a group of remaining survivors on the ISS (International Space Station); which is quickly running low on supplies. As the story unfolds, we see SIMPOC assisting the humans to survive and he is even able to build a mobile unit where he can be a part of the action.

I am in the technology industry and also have a personal passion for all things artificial intelligence or machine learning. I felt the author was spot on with the technology presented in this book, it was believable even in our present day. I am also a private pilot and thought that some of the events around one of the characters flying around a Chinook one day and a Lear Jet the next seemed a bit far-fetched, but I guess such would be possible for someone with a strong military background. I was more thinking about the fuel supply and how quickly it can go bad once society collapses. It just seemed unique odd that people would not as concerned and jaunt around to different places in the US searching for life. Here is where many of the emotional parts of the book pull on your heart and how significant the virus was.

The book contains some of the expected tropes often found in this genre. You have a continuous battle for supremacy and control of power over the human race. There is a battle for survivable due to the terrifying and fast-acting virus that nearly wipes out the entire human population. What starts off as a great computer story quickly evolves into an action-packed dystopian one. There are no zombies (yet) in this series of books, but such could be added and the book go off in yet another direction; however, I believe the author will continue to focus on SIMPOC. The author left so many possible avenues where these stories could go, I simply wanted more when I reached the end. I think the author’s notes and introduction sections really made me better understand the direction he was coming from and I found it helpful to have this information up front instead of learning about it at the book’s end. I recommend you not skip this introductory material in either the audio or print editions.

For those easily offended by the use of vulgar language or for younger readers who may be wondering, be aware that this book contains a sprinkling of offensive language use, not often spoken by the main characters. There is also some limited graphic violence or what may be intensive scenes for younger readers. Other than those few items, the book was excellent.

Zachary Johnson did an exceptional job narrating the numerous characters along with the different computers; including SIMPOC, the main system. It was a nice change to have the computers narrated with a slightly modified electronic voice, and the audio includes some extra sound effects to help bring the reader deeper into the story. There were a few areas where I heard inconsistency with the audio volume, but this was limited. There was a single pronunciation error I can recall. In one section the narrator is talking about the ADIS system for automated weather reporting for pilots, and it was not pronounced as most pilots would. I understand this can be difficult for narrators reading material they are not familiar with. The book was very well narrated.

In summary, I found the book fascinating and I liked the different perspective and background details about SIMPOC. The author’s note chapter also give some great insight into the reason for writing the book the way it was. If you enjoy contemporary science fiction containing AI computers, dystopian environment, and a drive to survive, I think you will enjoy the two SIMPOC books found in this audio box set.

Disclaimer: I was voluntarily provided this review copy audiobook at no charge by the author, publisher and/or narrator.

Intense

Wow. I was impressed and drawn in fast. This is a terrific read and will draw you in and hook you until the end. Excellent story!!

Narration is superb!

Incredible storytelling in "SIMPOC"! Perreault crafts a compelling narrative, while Johnson’s narration perfectly captures the tension and drama. A captivating blend of space exploration and technological intrigue. Highly recommended!

Intelligent Sci-Fi with a Touch of Humanity

This audiobook is not just another AI story—it’s a deeply engaging exploration of what makes us human. The parallel storylines, the ethical dilemmas, and the suspense make it impossible to pause. Highly recommended for anyone who loves thought-provoking science fiction!

To absolutely outstanding Novellus

I honestly believe this is the beginning of a wonderful sci-fi series. One in which I can not wait to read it in its entirety anyone who is a post apocalyptic fan will find this book truly engrossing The characters were well developed and the scenes were very well written.

Deep, Thought-Provoking, and Action-Packed!

"SIMPOC" offers an intriguing dive into the nature of artificial intelligence and human resilience. The parallel stories of SIMPOC’s benevolence and Julius’ paranoia create a brilliant contrast, driving the narrative forward. The plot is action-packed, with humans fighting for survival amidst a collapsing world and rogue AIs. Zachary Johnson’s narration is spot on, enhancing the tension in every scene. A gripping and thoughtful sci-fi listen!

An Unforgettable AI Adventure

Ray Jay Perreault creates a suspenseful and intriguing world in SIMPOC: The Thinking Computer & Human Remnants. The dual perspective between SIMPOC’s compassion and Julius’ paranoia keeps listeners on edge. The way AI develops its own path in a world with collapsing human governance is fascinating. Zachary Johnson’s narration is excellent, perfectly capturing the tension and emotion in each scene. A brilliant exploration of AI, survival, and ethics!

Exciting SciFi Thriller

The SIMPOC book series is a dystopian, near-future science fiction novel that are two parts of a larger narrative. This audio book was my first introduction to the writing of “Award Winning Author” Ray Jay Perrault.

SIMPOC is an organic based super-computer that is activated shortly before a cataclysmic viral plague nearly wipes out the Earth. With the population nearly decimated, it is up to a group of survivors to ensure that humankind can continue with the help of SIMPOC and his cadre of several thousand mobile robots.

The book is excellently narrated by Zachary Johnson who convinces the listener of SIMPOC's sentience. He's also great with the character voices and offers a compelling listen. The story plays out like an exciting scifi movie thriller.

Highly recommended.

(I listened to this book in November 2019 before COVID-19 became our viral dystopia).

Artificial Intellegence incompatible with humanty

Scary book if only for the plausibility. Shades of 2001: A Space Odyssey on steroids This book while entertaining, left me feeling uneasy with the possibilities that artificial intelligence may have in store for the future of humanity. I was voluntarily provided this free review copy audiobook by the author, narrator, or publisher.

Organics

Great story overall. Fast paced, rapid development of the organic computer. Different twist at end of book. Enjoyed this book. Well worth a read/listen.