john andrew c. chilver

In the near future, Artificial Intelligence is ubiquitous. ROBS – robotic helpers with far greater knowledge and expertise than their organic overlords – have taken over many humans’ jobs and responsibilities. But something is missing – no ROB has ever displayed true self awareness. None have ever ‘lived’ long enough. All attempts to initialize an enhanced ROB have resulted in the ‘death’ of the subject.

As a consequence, Artificial Self Awareness – ASA – already the Holy Grail of the technological elite – has turned into a race among intellectual giants for the elusive, ultimate prize – to create life.

A young programmer for a small US ASA lab – Brad Chandler – is one of those attempting to discover ‘The Answer’.  

While in Gibraltar, visiting his ailing grandmother, he is pursued by an agent of those who desire his expertise and knowledge.

Meanwhile, a Fundamentalist terrorist group – SACRED – is systematically destroying the world’s leading ASA labs in an effort to derail the emergence of true artificial consciousness.

Can Brad elude his pursuer – and SACRED – to return home? Will his own humanity allow him to discover a solution? Is it even possible for Artificial Self Awareness to ever truly exist?

‘The Answer’ will surprise you.

Charged with action, philosophy, and emotion, ‘Charlie’ is a story about the struggle to return home; the struggle of creation; and, the struggle of life.