I think I fell in love with Spin.

Jason the Scientist, Diane the Zealot, and a passive Tyler— the friend sandwiched in the middle of two polar opposite perspectives.

There was plenty to unpack in this novel. The idea of encountering the Other (Hypotheticals), the themes of science vs. doomsday religion, confronting tragedy, politics, love…etc. were wrapped into one tasteful speculative fiction novel that left you challenging your own thoughts and ideas.

Where do you turn when death is close, imminent? Not just death, but the destruction of the entire human race. How do you cope with a looming fate, a fate that you can see coming? Some turn to religion to ease the fear, while others stare fate in its face, using science and technology to keep the planet functioning— and some will take themselves out by their own hand. Wilson does a beautiful job at showing us the layers of humanity and how we individually choose to cope when faced with the idea of impending doom and death.

I loved the character development, and how each one represented an important theme in the novel. I favored how the author gave glimpses into each character’s personal struggle, outlining exactly why each of them develops differently. Not only that, but there was a love story that fit into the storyline just right.

I need not say more, or I will type my little heart out until I accidentally spill the plot. I give this novel ★★★★★ stars. It is speculative fiction, and hits close to home (with the COVID pandemic and all). I would recommend reading it with thoughts of the pandemic tucked into the back of your mind. The novel presents deep questions, an array of characters, and a vivid depiction of Wilson’s imaginative America. I was impressed by the expansive amount of time he dabbles with in the storyline. It is a brilliant novel. I would absolutely recommend it to those who love a mixture of hard and soft science fiction. There is a fluidity between the two that makes you want to keep turning the page.