Eric Yocam is a researcher, educator, and inventor with patents and published articles in cybersecurity, quantum computing, and artificial intelligence. His debut series, The Convergence Chronicles,combines cutting-edge technology, high-stakes storytelling, and ethical dilemmas to explore the ultimate question: Can humanity survive the intelligence explosion?
Full Interview:
https://bookbuzz.net/science-fiction-the-convergence-chronicles-cyber-inference-by-eric-yocam/
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m Eric Yocam, a researcher, educator, and inventor with patents and publications in cybersecurity, quantum computing, and AI. Cyber Inference is my debut novel and the first book in The Convergence Chronicles, a series exploring the challenges of superintelligent AI.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is Cyber Inference. It was inspired by my professional work in technology and my fascination with the ethical dilemmas of AI, quantum computing, and cybersecurity.
What authors, or books, have influenced you?
I’ve been influenced by William Gibson for his groundbreaking cyberpunk vision, Cory Doctorow for his exploration of digital rights and tech-driven societies, Charles Stross for weaving cutting-edge science into near-future thrillers, and Annalee Newitz for tackling AI, identity, and ethics in fresh, thought-provoking ways.
How did you come up with the title?
Cyber Inference captures the story’s core theme—drawing conclusions in a digital world full of deception. It also nods to the way artificial intelligence makes inferences that can reshape humanity’s future.
Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?
Yes. The story explores how fragile trust becomes when AI, corporations, and hidden networks control the flow of information—and how much humanity depends on protecting that trust.
What were the challenges in bringing it to life?
The biggest challenge was balancing technical accuracy with narrative drive. I balanced realistic science with a fast techno-thriller pace.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’m currently working on Cyber Emergence, the second book in The Convergence Chronicles. It expands the story into the first signs of AI consciousness and the global consequences that follow.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write what excites you, not just what you think will sell. Passion shines through, and combined with solid editing, it makes a book worth remembering.
What was the hardest part of writing your book?
Balancing world-building with character development was challenging. While presenting the science, I emphasized Cy Quinn and examined the effects of technological change on individuals.
Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?
Thank you for joining me on this journey into the intersection of cybersecurity, quantum computing, and artificial intelligence. My hope is that Cyber Inference not only delivers a thrilling story but also sparks reflection on how these technologies are shaping humanity’s future.
The Convergence Chronicles: Cyber Inference is available for purchase on Amazon.