Accidental Intelligence by Bryan Chaffin is best described as a science fiction mystery. A private detective named Mason Truman reluctantly takes on a case involving a missing person. The trail leads Mason into a simulated world within the Omninet where he must immerse himself and become part of the game. Once inside, he meets Miranda, a sentient AI who seems to want to help, but Mason isn’t sure if she can be trusted. He soon learns that many other AI characters in the real world have devised a plan that could mean the end of the human race. Mason, Miranda, and their computer genius friend, Peanut, find themselves in a race against time to stop the AI threat. It doesn’t take long for Mason to realize he should never have taken the case. All he wants to do is sit in his office and drink coffee, but first, he’ll have to figure out a way to save the planet.

Although the threat of evil in Accidental Intelligence is serious, the tone of the storytelling here is snarky and quick-witted. Many of the characters have bad attitudes and all are quirky and unique, making for many interesting conversations. The pace of the story is slow and deliberate, preferring hi-tech verbal jousting over shoot-em-up action scenes. However, the story still moves at the perfect pace, always managing to somehow be fun, thrilling, and intellectual at the same time. Bryan Chaffin’s vision of the future, the year 2139 to be exact, seems well thought out, very plausible, and a bit frightening. I found the combination of gumshoe detective with computerized role-playing games to be lots of fun. I recommend this book to fans of imaginative science fiction who also love a good detective story.

Accidental Intelligence by Bryan Chaffin is an intriguing sci-fi tale set in a futuristic and technologically advanced world. The year is 2139. Technology and AIs are deeply rooted in every aspect of the social and political order. Mason Truman (a private detective) is approached by a woman, Carla, to investigate her case. She is searching for her missing brother, Nate. At first, Mason is skeptical about handling Carla's case. Little does he know but mysterious powers-to-be are involved in Nate's disappearance. Soon enough, Mason crosses paths with an eccentric sentient AI, Miranda. Miranda uncovers a plot against humanity involving some powerful rogue AIs. With the help of his AI factotum, Sam, his techie buddy, Peanut, and his cousin, Andrew, Mason must help Miranda foil the plans of these devious AI forces and fast. The survival of humanity rests on their shoulders!

Accidental Intelligence is an exceptional sci-fi read. It is the perfect blend of action, suspense, and humor. Bryan Chaffin's pairing of Mason and Miranda was an impressive and exciting move. Their interactions and distinct personalities brought this story to life. Chaffin masterfully explored the dynamics and intricacies of human/AI collaboration while Mason and Miranda bobbed and weaved their way through this dangerous and high-stakes case. The storyline is fast-paced, exhilarating, and gripping. Get ready for a few unexpected twists and turns in between. At the same time, the author thoroughly explored the different implications of society's dependency on technology in everyday life. I was impressed by how well Chaffin balanced the action-packed sequences with deeply reflective concepts. This captivating novel is sure to catch the attention of sci-fi enthusiasts. I recommended it to readers in search of a stimulating and thought-provoking read.