4.5 stars.

This was one of my most anticipated reads for 2021. The premise is cool and creepy and totally unique. The writing is really well done, with a lot of scientific information that was totally over my head, but sounded legit. I can't vouch for the legitimacy of it, but I enjoyed it.

This scientific background wasn't overwhelming, but rather served to create a really rich atmosphere. I certainly connected with a feeling of a sterile research lab along with the other locations described during the writing. It was all very gothic and tinted dark, just what I like.

The primary characters were really well done. I felt like I knew the protagonist (Evelyn) pretty darned well and her decisions made sense given what I new about her. She was very different from me and not necessarily a person I would like in real life, but she was very strong and steady in her convictions. Though the story is only told from Evelyn's point-of-view, there was a lot of discussion about Martine and her actions, potential emotions, & thoughts. It was a good choice of perspective and gave a good amount of information while still keeping a good aire of tension and mystery.

The plot was somewhat predictable, but I wasn't mad at it. The writing was done so well that I still enjoyed watching everything unfurl. And I certainly hadn't guessed the entire plot nor all the twists and turns. I really enjoyed this read and devoured it in just a couple of days. The audiobook was also excellently narrated. Highly recommend.