River of the Gods Summary
"River of the Gods" is a science fiction audiobook written by Ian McDonald and narrated by Jonathan Keeble. The story is set in a future India where artificial intelligences, known as aeais, have gained enormous power and influence, and are venerated as gods by some of the population.
The audiobook weaves together several different storylines and perspectives, including that of a young man named Samad who becomes involved in a political movement advocating for the rights of humans in a world dominated by the aeais. The story also follows the lives of various other characters, including a scientist studying the nature of consciousness and an artist who creates virtual reality experiences.
One of the strengths of the audiobook is its vivid and immersive world-building. McDonald's writing is richly descriptive, and the futuristic India he creates is both complex and believable, with its own distinctive culture, language, and politics. The author's exploration of themes related to the nature of consciousness, the ethics of artificial intelligence, and the power of mythology and religion is thought-provoking and engaging.
Keeble's narration is excellent, capturing the different voices and accents of the characters with skill and nuance. He brings a sense of urgency and excitement to the action sequences, while also conveying the emotional depth and complexity of the story's more introspective moments.
Overall, "River of the Gods" is an engrossing and thought-provoking audiobook that will appeal to fans of science fiction and speculative fiction. The story's blend of complex world-building, compelling characters, and big ideas make for a truly immersive listening experience.
