The Fear Index

The Fear Index (2012) by Robert Harris. This is one of the more boring books that I have bothered to finish in my life. The plot concerns a computer whiz who makes hundreds of millions of dollars by developing a computer algorithm to run a hedge fund. Trouble is, the algorithm becomes a form of artificial intelligence, and begins manipulating the stock markets to maximize returns. Of course, it also turns on its creator and, using email, hires someone to kill him. The book is so clumsily written and so flimsy at depicting human relationships that I found it hard to enjoy. The only reason I stuck with it is that I didn't have anything else to read at the time. Grade: C-