Due to a sudden, unexpected passing in the family a few years ago and another more recently and my subsequent (mental) health issues stemming from that, I was unable to download this book in time to review it before it was archived as I did not visit this site for several years after the bereavements. This meant I didn't read or venture onto netgalley for years as not only did it remind me of that person as they shared my passion for reading, but I also struggled to maintain interest in anything due to overwhelming depression. I was therefore unable to download this title in time and so I couldn't give a review as it wasn't successfully acquired before it was archived. The second issue that has happened with some of my other books is that I had them downloaded to one particular device and said device is now defunct, so I have no access to those books anymore, sadly.

This means I can't leave an accurate reflection of my feelings towards the book as I am unable to read it now and so I am leaving a message of explanation instead. I am now back to reading and reviewing full time as once considerable time had passed I have found that books have been helping me significantly in terms of my mindset and mental health - this was after having no interest in anything for quite a number of years after the passings. Anything requested and approved will be read and a review written and posted to Amazon (where I am a Hall of Famer & Top Reviewer), Goodreads (where I have several thousand friends and the same amount who follow my reviews) and Waterstones (or Barnes & Noble if the publisher is American based). Thank you for the opportunity and apologies for the inconvenience.

A very sobering, as well as occasionally horrifying, look at how new media is transforming the world in a way that established institutions are struggling to keep up with and adapt to. Miller covers several topics throughout the book, from internet giants such as Google, to social media, to the hikikomori of Japan and South Korea. Interviewing a variety of hackers, digital vigilantes, former trolls, and programmers along the way, the author keeps a neutral tone throughout and keeps any editorialising to a minimum, letting the facts speak for themselves which makes them all the more frightening.

While probably not for someone who wants a more in-depth look at the hot topics of the day like troll farms and data mining companies such as Cambridge Anyalitica, Death of the Gods does given an excellent overview of the impact the internet has had on modern life.

Recommended,

With thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the arc.

A fascinating book, well researched and full of food for thought. I liked how it explains and talks about what is now and what it could be our future.
Highly recommended!
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.