My original Prototype D audiobook review and many others can be found at Audiobook Reviewer.

Prototype D takes place in the not too distant future where the world has been decimated by nuclear war. Cutting down the population from billions to millions. This new time is much like it was before, the war appears to not have interfered with the progression of technology and the like. It did, however, leave the world divided into two groups. Mainlanders and Outlanders. Take a guess at which group are the outcasts of this new society.

Starting off with a completely engrossing first couple chapters, introducing us to Prototype D. Who happens to be the fourth try from the Mainlanders to create artificially intelligent mechanized military warriors. “D” was programmed so well that he found himself paralyzed by fear during the training session. The programmer, Dez, was very happy about this yet the military, her employer, was not. Onward to Prototype E, who must not feel fear.

From here the story expands into the role of the Outlanders. The reasoning for wanting to create the robots to wipe out the Outlanders was not very clear. Nor was the back story of what happened to get society to where it is. There is a lot more that happens, but I do not want to spoil anything for you.

Where Morrow succeeded is in exploring the ethics behind artificial intelligence, and at what point does it become real intelligence, in a way that will be approachable for most. The strife that must be endured by a demonized or prejudiced people. The silent war that happens in a society where this is allowed to happen.

Bottom line Prototype D is a pretty well thought out and believable political science fiction story that will make you think a little bit and will not bombard you with too much technical jargon.

James Foster’s performance here was good. He told the story in a crisp and clear manner. Creating slightly different voices, as he normally does, for the different characters. But there was something missing and I cannot put my finger on it. Maybe he just wasn’t feeling the story while he was recording. This did not detract from the story, although the audiobook experience could have been better. And I only say this because I have heard the fire in Foster’s voice before.

Audiobook was provided for review by the narrator. ( )