Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of The Boy Behind the Glass Screen.

I have to say I really struggled with this book. Nearly DNF at about 5% as I had no clue what was happening! Then it picked up and I followed the story for the bulk of the book. I felt it was way too long and drawn out, and found I really didn’t care for any of the characters, or how everything would turn out. I skimmed the last 20% or so as I couldn’t bring myself to DNF when I was so far in.

Not for me I’m afraid.

The Boy Behind the Glass Screen is a tale of two brothers, who have been experimented on by their father for their entire lives, but when he ends up dead, who is to blame?

I really don’t want to give too much away about this story – there are three very big twists throughout which I honestly did not see coming and which change the trajectory of the entire story. The book alternates between the perspectives of one of the brothers – Aidan, journalist Deshane Edwards and gamer Harry Priest. It is also intercut with court and government meeting transcripts as well as news articles. This kept the pace high throughout, however I do think that the government transcripts could have been edited down as they didn’t really add much to the story.

It's a complex story with a lot of twists and turns and it keeps its card close to its chest as a result. This does get a little frustrating as a reader as you do feel that you are not being let into the plot as much as you’d like, and I did find the ending confusing with a lot of loose ends which didn’t really feel like they had been resolved.

The main crux of the story is the part that I don’t really want to spoil but it’s an interesting debate and it’s told really well, giving opinions on both sides and really making you empathise with one of the characters in a surprising way.

Overall, The Boy Behind the Glass Screen is one of those books you just need to go in blind to read, but I do think it could have been tightened up in its editing in places. Thank you to NetGalley and Books Go Social for the chance to read the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

The Boy Behind the Glass Screen by Ian Siragher is a captivating and timely exploration of artificial intelligence, consciousness, and the boundaries of human rights. It is also a murder-mystery told from the unique perspective of an AI entity, the story offers a fresh and thought-provoking narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish. At the novel's heart is the complex relationship between two 'brothers', who have spent their lives confined to a basement laboratory, separated by a glass wall. The experiments conducted by their father shape their life experiences, leading to a life of isolation and scientific manipulation. When their father is murdered in his home, the story raising questions about identity and freedom.

One of the novel's most compelling aspects is its exploration of whether AI has legal rights. This central argument is woven throughout the story, challenging readers to consider the ethical implications of advanced technology. The writing is sharp and the pacing is excellent, with each chapter pulling the reader deeper into the brothers' world and the court case related to the murder. The use of the first-person AI narrative adds a layer of intrigue, as it forces readers to question what it means to be conscious and aware and whether these are unique to humans.

As the world watches the unfolding drama, the novel raises fundamental questions that could reshape our understanding of consciousness and individual rights. 'The Boy Behind the Glass Screen' is more than just a suspenseful page-turner; it is a profound exploration of humanity and the nature of life itself. The author's ability to weave complex philosophical questions into a gripping narrative makes this book a must-read for anyone interested in the future of AI and its impact on society.

The Boy Behind the Glass Screen is a thought-provoking, well-crafted and entertaining novel that challenges readers to rethink their assumptions about AI and what it means to be human.

3.5 stars for this one.

This futuristic plot is set up well. The beats of the story are set at the right intervals - at 30% you get the first piece of information that will change your understanding, at 50% the story changes course, at about 80% there is the third chilling revelation and the plot ends with an unexpected twist followed by another twist as you flip the pages of the last chapter.

My criticism is about the prose - in some parts it is slightly wordy where ideas are explored over generous paragraphs. If the writing was tighter it would have delivered the punches better. a quick spellcheck would also be good before it goes to print.

Thanks to Netgalley and Ian Siragher for this ARC.

I read 10% before marking it as DNF. Personally, this was not a book for me specially when it came to the writing, where I was confused alot of the time. However, I did enjoy the small interactions I read between the two boys.

This books offers a seemingly incredible plot which the author makes all too believable. It makes you think about the darker sides of human nature and how far people will go, even when it comes to people they love. I really liked the writing style and there is a touch of humour throughout the book which works, even though the darker aspects of the plot might make you think twice. Sometimes complex, you’ll need to pay attention when reading to get the most out of this clever thriller.

this is one of those books where i don't want to reveal too much. the boy behind the glass screen deserves discovery and understanding by reading it oneself.

however what i will say is the twist did get me! i didn't find this novel too predictable or bland, in fact the multiple perspectives and timelines made for an intriguing storyline. my favorite line in this book, as silly it may be is the harry styles statement. i actually laughed, cannot believe it. my main criticism is i think this book could have been cut in half. really solid standing debut.

thank you so much ian siragher and netgalley for the ARC!