Book Review: Who Wants to Live Forever by [Author’s Name]
When I first stumbled upon Who Wants to Live Forever, I couldn’t shake the tantalizing question of longevity from my mind. Would you take a drug promising to extend your life by 200 years? It’s a dilemma that sends chills up my spine! This debut novel by [Author’s Name] captured my attention not just for its intriguing premise but also for its promise to delve deep into the moral quagmire surrounding such an innovation. Spoiler alert: this isn’t just about living longer; it’s about living better.
Set against the backdrop of 2025 London, the story follows Yuki and Sam, an ordinary married couple grappling with unfulfilled desires and mundane routine. Yuki is a passionate advocate for her community, while Sam, stuck at home, dreams of being a musician. Their lives take a stark turn when an American pharmaceutical company introduces Yareta, a life-extending drug already creating ripples across the pond. Herein lies the crux of the story: Yuki joins the protests against Yareta, while Sam considers the drug. This ideological divide sets the stage for a compelling narrative that spans decades, each perspective offering a unique lens on themes of moral complexity, societal implications, and personal choice.
What struck me the most was the book’s remarkable exploration of its characters. Each person—be they from London, Tokyo, or California—brings their background to the table, illustrating how societal norms shape our thoughts on life and death. The characters are diverse in ethnicity, sexual orientation, and life experiences, yet their arcs remain poignantly relatable. I found myself wondering what I would do in their shoes—a testament to the author’s ability to ignite empathy and reflection in the reader.
The writing style is intricate, weaving together multiple timelines and perspectives with elegance. At times, the pacing felt deliberate, and while I appreciate a slower burn that builds tension, there were moments, especially towards the final quarter, when the story seemed to meander. The back-and-forth of timelines can be tricky, particularly when experienced through the audiobook format, which I must admit made it challenging to keep track of those shifts. Lydia Wilson’s soft voice took a while to grow on me too—perhaps a touch too understated for this intricately layered narrative.
While my heart yearned for a more satisfying conclusion, I’m left both impressed and unsettled. Without giving anything away, let’s just say the ending provokes a great deal of thought about choices and consequences. The emotional resonance is impactful, though I wished it had delivered that last punch with more finesse.
If you’re a fan of literary speculative fiction that invites you to ponder complex issues while juggling a diverse set of characters and timelines, then Who Wants to Live Forever is definitely one to pick up. It’s a book that challenges your perceptions and makes you question what you would do when faced with the ultimate choice. Just prepare yourself for a journey that’s intellectually stimulating and, at times, emotionally taxing.
I’d give this compelling debut 4.25 stars. Whether you love thought-provoking fiction or simply a well-constructed narrative that straddles the fine line between reality and speculation, this book’s allure is one you won’t want to resist.
Much gratitude to Octopus Audio and Brazen Books for the advanced listener copy, and happy reading, everyone!
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