I want to read an AI book of this sort, but is this a good place to start with this series? (erm, maybe no, since it's sad---it sounds so interesting though!).
You can technically read the books in any order, they might just make a little more sense in published or chronological order, but should still be enjoyable no matter what!
http://www.amazon.com/Robot-Evolution-Perfect-Partners-Inc-ebook/dp/B01CASNMMC - the first five books, collected in chronological (not published) order