again - thanks all for your help.
already added 'fate's mirror' and going to read the other recommended books.
'hardwired' still great to read.... definitely a thumbs-up.
btw.. I already read some books from charles stross. liked them a lot as well. guess he is worth a look for people who like SF.
hope this thread might be also of use to others with same tastes and likings.
regards....