Apex

This long book starts right where the second book left off, answers most of the questions from the series and explores new ground also. The scale is global, with a number of characters to match - like other reviewers, I got lost at times in this cast. A worthy ending to a solid series.

I read the first book right around the time the second came out - I think I had heard it was a duology? Anyhow, the second book did not come to a solid end, and by the time the third was available, I found myself unable to remember much about the story. Not a good sign.

For late 2022, I reread the first book and the second, and I think the reason was that global scope and the sheer number of characters and points of view. Book two also showed the stored personality of Su-Yong Shu, somewhat insane through lack of contact with a human brain. I think Naam is looking at this as the start of an AI, and explores that along with the rights of augmented humans. A lot to cover, and more than 600 pages to cover it. Overall rating of this book, 4 of 5 stars.

The math is simple for the series - three books rated 4 of 5 stars equals a series rating 4 of 5 stars. This is accurate - I really liked some of the characters, most of the situations and villains. The second book and definitely the third lost the thread of Nexus OS, with patches for vulnerabilities. I thought the series as a whole did a good job exploring the potential vulnerabilities with this situation - even if the MESH solution was mostly hand waving in the third book.

I look forward to reading more from local Seattleite Ramez Naam.