Reading List
I read mostly fantasy and non-fiction.
Currently Reading
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The Alignment Problem
A deep dive into the challenges of getting AI systems to do what we actually want. Covers the history of machine learning through the lens of alignment, from early behaviorist psychology to modern deep learning.
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The Blade Itself
8 books finished
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Dreadgod
Book 11 in the Cradle series. I enjoyed this one, but the progression is starting to feel a bit too fast. I understand Lindon is consuming gods at this point, but it’s hard to believe that no one else in Cradle’s history has had similar opportunities. Some of his power doesn’t feel quite earned. Still along for the ride though.
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Reaper
Book 10 in the Cradle series. Solid progression throughout, though the big twist at the end was telegraphed a bit too heavily—I’d pieced it together before the reveal. Still a good twist, but the foreshadowing could have been more subtle. Need to revisit earlier books to see if the continuity fully holds up.
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Atlas of AI
A bit too critical of AI for my taste, and spent more time than necessary on individual case studies rather than building toward broader insights. The material on labor and resources was interesting, but the overall framing felt one-sided.
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Bloodline
Book 9 in the Cradle series. Lindon returning makes for compelling drama. The contrast between who he was and who he’s become is handled well. Emotional stakes complement the action.
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Wintersteel
Book 8 in the Cradle series. Peak Cradle. The tournament conclusion is intense and the character moments land perfectly. Yerin’s arc in particular shines here. The power scaling feels earned rather than arbitrary.
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Uncrowned
Book 7 in the Cradle series. The tournament arc delivers. Seeing Lindon compete against sacred artists from across the world is satisfying payoff for the earlier books. Great action sequences and the stakes feel real.
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Underlord
Book 6 in the Cradle series. Solid progression fantasy but felt like a transitional book. The advancement system remains compelling, though the pacing dragged in the middle. Sets up future conflicts well.
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Waybound
I’m sad to have finished my journey in Cradle. While none of the writing was extraordinary, I found the world that Wight put together, the ensemble of characters, and the concepts to be delightful in the end. For a series that had quite a lot of death, it never took on a grim or particularly dark feel to it. Here’s to hoping Wight will do a sequel series.