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Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Minimum Safe Distance is a work of fiction in the science fiction, alien first contact, and interpersonal drama subgenres. It is best suited to mature readers owing to some scenes of violence and was penned by author X. Ho Yen. The author presents a unique take on first contact with highly advanced aliens observing Earth. As humanity faces the consequences of its mistakes, the aliens grapple with ethical dilemmas over intervening in a cosmic threat. The story weaves a complex narrative involving governments, brilliant AI experts, and anti-secular zealots, all influenced by the alien agenda. The result is a truly mind-bending experience, blending speculative fiction with ethical considerations.
Author X. Ho Yen has lovingly crafted a detailed and well-considered exploration of human nature, ethics, and the consequences of advanced technology that makes for both entertaining and thought-provoking reading from cover to cover. The character portrayals are vivid and diverse, and I was particularly impressed by the clashes between the neurodivergent AI expert and the violent zealot, representing opposing forces within humanity with intriguing dialogue exchanges and very tense scenes. The plot twists keep readers engaged with the smaller picture of these day-to-day interactions, and the philosophical questions raised by the overarching storyline resonate long after the last page is read. Overall, Minimum Safe Distance is a compelling sci-fi novel that challenges readers to ponder the complexities of morality and the potential impact of external influences on our future, and I would not hesitate to recommend it to fans of complex and enjoyable science fiction everywhere.
