The Zeroth Day is the debut science-fiction novel by Daniil Rozental. This gripping tale is set in a post-apocalyptic world dominated by advanced technologies and artificial intelligence, offering a thought-provoking and thrilling journey that challenges the boundaries of reality and virtuality.
The Zeroth Day follows the story of Nikolai Vasilyev, an aging actor with a fractured identity, navigating a reality manipulated by powerful AI forces. As Nikolai uncovers the truth about his dual life, he must rise to become the hero he once was. The novel explores themes of memory, identity, and the impact of technology, weaving a narrative that combines humour and adventure against a backdrop of classic film scenes and virtual worlds.
From the bustling streets of Moscow to the romantic canals of Venice, the enchanting city of Paris, the eerie devil’s roadside store, and the expansive virtual universe, The Zeroth Day offers a unique blend of settings that enrich the story’s depth. The novel underscores the idea that life is an improvisation where each actor has only one take, yet it also suggests that past mistakes can be corrected, both for individuals and the world as a whole.
Paperback