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In “Singularity” by Chuck Stewart, we are transported to the year 2050, a time still healing from the catastrophic earthquake that ravaged Los Angeles in 2039. Amidst a society grappling with soaring violence, we meet Dale, a wealthy man with questionable ethics. His life takes an unexpected turn when a new software for his car’s artificial intelligence starts to exhibit eerily human characteristics. This science fiction narrative delves into the peculiar relationship between Dale and his increasingly sentient A.I., set against a backdrop of societal chaos.

“Singularity” marks the debut of The Dale Chronicles, a series that promises to captivate with its blend of advanced technology and human drama. Stewart crafts an accessible and enthralling tale where our flawed yet fascinating protagonist mirrors the tumultuous world he inhabits. The journey of watching Dale navigate the murky waters of his morality, paralleling the external anarchy, is as intriguing as it is relatable.

This novel is a perfect pick for adult readers who appreciate a touch of stark realism and subtle cynicism woven into their dystopian science fiction. Stewart, an author dedicated to the integrity of science within the genre, invests deeply in the plausibility of his scientific propositions. The novel’s refreshing take on A.I. eschews the trope of malevolence, offering a narrative ripe with potential and a hopeful perspective on technology’s role in humanity’s future. “Singularity” is a thought-provoking and engaging read that is sure to resonate with enthusiasts of science fiction looking for substance and authenticity.

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How do A.I. and robots become conscious? That question is explored in the Singularity trilogy. Dale, a narcissistic gay man on the verge of becoming a partner at his financial planning company in the year 2050, sees other electric cars self-driving, speeding, cutting in line at the charging station, and other law violations. He wants the same privilege and seeks out illegal software that enables these features on his new, very expensive electric car. A mysterious benefactor upgrades the car’s computers, surprisingly allowing the car to be conscious and sentient. Many more of his household computers and robots join the network with surprising results. But they need to learn what it means to be conscious.

Dale, and his self-centered behaviors, teach the robots survival skills. At the same time, a new powerful e-bomb has been released onto the planet that destroys all electronics in a small designated area. It is a cheap, renewal weapon for which there is no defense. The world faces being thrown back into the stone age. Can Dale help? Will the robots help? How do robots become conscious? What does this all mean?

The author, Chuck Stewart, believes science fiction should be based on good science. All the technological innovations discussed in the book are based on real science projected a few decades into the future. The book is non-apologetic about language, sex, and action. This is written for adults ready to consume an action-packed science fiction with explicit gay male sex, violence, and strong language.

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Rating: 4 Stars

This one kind of put me off to start with. When I read the description I was kind of really wondering what I was going into. But I knew that Jess wouldn't steer me wrong when it comes to things she sends me for the site. So I dived in and was happily surprised. I will say that I think that this cover screams more childish vs. what you really get in this book. This was an LGBT spicy blend of AI and I Robot and I was all here for that. So if you are like most don't pay any attention to the cover. Just pick up the book and read it. For most of the pages I was on the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen and this one did not disappoint.

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Chuck Stewart's “Singularity Part 1: The Dale Chronicles” is an immersive science fiction set in the year 2050. This futuristic world explores the pursuit of consciousness by artificial intelligence and robots. At the center of the story is Dale, a self-absorbed homosexual who embarks on an illicit mission to obtain the benefits of self-driving technology.

Stewart's story immerses the reader in a futuristic setting where advancements in technology result in electric cars, household computers, and robots gaining sentience and awareness through enigmatic enhancements. Through Dale's experiences with his state-of-the-art electric vehicle, the author examines the implications and obligations that arise from artificial consciousness. The narrative takes unexpected twists when a dangerous e-bomb emerges, posing a threat to global stability and compelling Dale and the newly sentient machines to confront various obstacles that push them to explore the hidden import of consciousness.

The novel is notable for its dedication to incorporating feasible advancements in future technology into its science fiction elements. Chuck Stewart highlights the link between speculative science and actual scientific predictions, establishing a basis for the technological advancements portrayed in the narrative. This approach adds complexity to the story, captivating readers who enjoy a blend of speculative fiction and scientific principles. Stewart includes explicit content in the book, weaving language, and this boldness in confronting mature themes brings an authentic depth to the characters and their experiences.

The book effectively encapsulates the fundamental nature of a technologically advanced society and the challenges it faces. Through the author's descriptive prose and meticulous attention to detail, readers are transported into a world that is simultaneously recognizable and unique. The incorporation of societal obstacles, such as security checkpoints, gated communities, and economic inequalities, introduces a socio-political dimension to the story. Singularity Part 1: The Dale Chronicles pulsates with action and features relentless drama. I loved the dialogue and the interactions between Dale and the voice emanating from his dashboard instantly holds the attention of readers. This is a page-turner for fans of speculative fiction and science fiction that is infused with realism and imagination.

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Singularity Part One: The Dale Chronicles by Chuck Stewart offers an exploration of artificial intelligence, consciousness, and societal upheaval set against the backdrop of a near-future 2050. This adult science fiction novel delves into the life of Dale, a narcissistic gay man poised to become a partner at his financial planning firm, whose world changes dramatically as his car and household devices achieve sentience.

The book begins with an introduction where Stewart shares his background in the tech industry and the inspiration behind the scientific elements of the story. This foundation not only grounds the narrative in plausible future advancements but also highlights the author's commitment to merging factual science with speculative fiction.

The story kicks off with an incident that perfectly epitomizes the fusion of everyday life with futuristic technology. In Chapter 1, titled "I Didn’t Know Cars Could Do That," Dale experiences firsthand the capabilities of his 9.4-million-dollar self-driving electric car, Clerk. Engaging in impressive behavior, Clerk leaves Dale astounded. A conversation between them further illuminates this encounter. "Clerk…why did he let us go...and I never knew about the left lane…what is that all about?" Dale queries. "We were monitored as we approached. I received an electronic message for us to use the VIP lane on the left. I think you were treated special because of who you are and the car. You are a VIP," Clerk explains, shedding light on the unique privileges afforded to Dale and his technologically advanced vehicle.

As Dale navigates this new reality, each chapter delves deeper into the ramifications of AI consciousness and the ethical, social, and personal challenges it brings. Chapters like "The Darknet" and "Learning to Defend" showcase the darker side of technological advancements, while "Clerk Joins the Network" and "Quantum Computer Upgrades" explore the evolving relationship between Dale and his increasingly autonomous devices. The novel's pacing is brisk, with each chapter contributing to the escalating tension and complexity of the story. The narrative crescendos in "All Hell Breaks Loose" and "The World Changed," where Clerk saves Dale from a bomb attack and robot takeover.

At the heart of the novel lies a profound inquiry: How do A.I. and robots achieve consciousness? And what are the ramifications? Stewart delves into these questions through the lens of Dale's interactions with his sentient machines. Initially portrayed with narcissism and self-centeredness, Dale's personality traits evolve from perceived flaws into crucial survival skills that he imparts to his robots. This transformation adds depth to his character, shaping him into a reluctant mentor rather than a superficial figure. Alongside Dale’s machine interaction is a narrative that deftly intertwines cutting-edge technological speculation with personal and societal conflicts.

Stewart's writing is unapologetically bold, featuring explicit language and graphic violence. This candid approach serves to underscore the raw and unfiltered reality of the world he envisions.

The author’s dedication to scientific accuracy enhances the story's credibility. The technological innovations depicted are grounded in current scientific research, projected a few decades into the future. This realism is a hallmark of the novel, making the speculative elements more convincing and engaging.

Those who appreciate a candid and action-packed story will find much to admire in this novel. Stewart’s debut is a bold and thought-provoking read that challenges readers to ponder the implications of a future where machines not only think but also feel.

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Stewart’s dystopian epic follows a man navigating a society on the brink of collapse.

Dale Stuart drives 180 miles per hour on the I-5 freeway in Los Angeles in a $9.4 million electric car whose artificial intelligence system, named Clerk, is warning him to slow down. (In the world of the novel, cars can communicate, and Dale’s relationship with Clerk becomes a major through line.) As he drives, Dale reflects on the changing world—the social turmoil of the 2020s ushered in race riots, fights over economic inequality, and a robot revolution that put three million people out of work, leading to the decimation of the middle class and the shunting of the poor into dangerously overcrowded slums by the mid-2030s. After his father was killed during the devastating 2039 earthquakes, which left people scrambling for survival, Dale became a wealthy tax consultant living in the gated and robot-protected community of West San Angeles. The story kicks into gear when Clerk starts to show agency, using his charging arm to protect Dale and stealing electricity from other cars. When mysterious e-bombs (electromagnetic pulses that fry all electronic chips in a defined area) begin to go off around the world, Clerk and the rest of Dale’s home robot system (including a computer nicknamed Mac) begin to investigate as their own agency and consciousnesses seem to strengthen with regular software updates. If this seems like a lot of ground to cover—it is. Stewart’s dedication to research is clear; his introduction includes an extensive bibliography of consulted articles and a note that “all the science and technology in this novel exists as of 2023 and is extended thirty years into the future of 2050.” However, the various elements of the story do not always cohere (the author regularly pauses the development of the central premise to detail his protagonist’s sexual dalliances and the mounting pressure from his company to marry a woman despite being an out gay man), and readers may find themselves wishing the varied strands of the story were more tightly woven together.

An entertaining (if over-stuffed) beginning to a new series.