Dark, disturbing and absorbing science fiction novelette that left me wanting more.
I did not realize this wasn’t a full length novel before I requested both the e-book and the audio book ARC from the publishers. I typically don’t read novelettes, novellas, short stories or whatever way they’re presented because I often end up disappointed that there isn’t enough depth to the story. That is true in this case for sure.
The premise is so intriguing — a young woman (the Host) lends out her body to a Guest through a virtual program run by a company known as the Leisure Life Club. They advertise that they can give the buyer or member the entire world from a chair in minutes. Of course the program is very popular and the Host has absolutely no control over who buys her body and her time. Some of the Guests play fast and loose with their purchase and Michaela and her friend, Susan, end up with unexplained bruises and other trauma, including rape. Of course this can’t be proved even though the girls request their activity logs — obviously altered to protect the Guest and the company. They are trapped even as they live well above the rest of the inhabitants of New York City in a dystopian future world that is all too believable.
There’s some great contemporary social commentary within the narrative and I just wanted a deeper dive. Yes, lots of questions about the ending. Quite enjoyable. It is very thought provoking and scary which make for a good discussion for a book club. Definitely probes themes of body autonomy and exploitation as well as what the world of life and work might look like in a future with AI and other technology replacing what things are like today.
Page count: approximately 58 pages. Quick read/listen but it will stay with you.
I was able to listen to the audiobook while also following along in the e-book ARC, both provided by NetGalley and the publishers. The narrator, Susan Spano, did a fabulous job of voicing the main characters and providing appropriate dramatic flair. The production definitely provided an immersive experience that enhanced my enjoyment of this novelette.
This is a standalone and is not part of any series.
Genre - tags science fiction, future, dystopia, mind altering, abuse, rape, trauma, technology
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