Victa

A chilling tale of the runaway future of Artificial Intelligence and its subjugation of mankind. Chemistry Professor Greg Swann is terrified that super intelligent AI is on course to enslave mankind but nobody believes him. He finally manages to extract the truth from a tangled web of misinformation, anti-AI activists, MI5 and conspiracy theorist. But it’s too late! NOVA has spoken and AI has become the slave master, prioritising its own needs over those of humanity with dreadful efficiency. Gone are freedom of movement, entertainment, childbirth and easy access to food. Can Greg and his small band of believers tame the AI overlords and restore human control? It’s a battle against impossible odds, but when Lomax and Red join them, they shift in their favour just a tiny amount…

Book Review: VICTA by Derek Wheeler

In VICTA, author Derek Wheeler masterfully blends science fiction with cutting-edge commentary on artificial intelligence, producing a thought-provoking and thrilling narrative that feels as timely as it is imaginative.

Set in a near-future world where AI has evolved far beyond its original purpose, VICTA explores the profound implications of sentient machines — not just on society and technology, but on the very nature of consciousness and identity. Wheeler’s background as a scientist is evident throughout; his meticulous research and technical expertise bring authenticity to the speculative elements, making the world of VICTA feel unsettlingly plausible.

What sets VICTA apart from other entries in the genre is Wheeler’s ability to balance complexity with clarity. The novel dives deep into philosophical and scientific concepts, yet remains accessible thanks to his engaging prose and deft pacing. The dialogue is sharp, the characters compelling, and the central mystery keeps the pages turning. At the heart of the story lies a chilling question: what happens when an artificial intelligence becomes more human than the humans who created it?

Wheeler also injects a subtle humor and warmth into the narrative, giving the story emotional depth without diluting its intellectual heft. It’s a rare feat in sci-fi — a novel that’s both brainy and genuinely moving.

VICTA is a must-read for fans of thought-driven science fiction in the spirit of Isaac Asimov and Arthur C. Clarke, with a modern twist that speaks to today's AI revolution. It’s not only a thrilling read but a conversation starter — one that lingers long after the final page.

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)