In The God Protocol: Dragon, author D. L. Wilburn JR. weaves an intricate tapestry of characters, each contributing uniquely to the unfolding narrative. At the outset, their roles seem disparate, but as the story advances, Wilburn artfully unveils the interconnectedness of their journeys. Sharon and his team, pioneers in the discovery of an alien ship, provide riveting updates on its trajectory. Meanwhile, Jackie’s team delves into the mysteries of the alien race, eventually pinpointing their expected arrival. Wu Kai’s team stands out, engineering the very AI that becomes humanity’s last line of defense. And George, ever the modern influencer, builds his YouTube channel to emerge as the public’s voice on the pressing extraterrestrial matters.

This is a riveting science fiction novel that delves deep into the age-old question of extraterrestrial existence. What sets it apart, however, is its refreshing take on artificial intelligence. Set against diverse backdrops—from the United States to Iraq, China, and the vastness of space—the narrative confronts prevalent fears surrounding AI. While many voice concerns over AI’s potential to evolve into an unchecked superintelligence, this novel posits a contrasting perspective: that fostering such an evolution can be humanity’s salvation. This is epitomized when the Global Dragon, a supremely intelligent AI dispatched by China, becomes Earth’s beacon of hope against the alien onslaught.

What struck me was Wilburn’s ability to craft a narrative grounded in realism despite its science fiction roots. The societal fragmentation following the revelation of an impending alien arrival felt all too genuine, capturing the potential chaos and division such a moment would engender in our world. My only reservation lies in the initial complexity of tracking the myriad characters. However, as the plot unraveled, these early intricacies only enriched the overall experience, making for a truly immersive read.

Pages: 351 | ASIN: B0BYMTDC8H