content warnings:

Spoiler

multiple character deaths, ableist language (incl. "cr*zy"), implied borderline self-cest, suicidal ideation, grief, mentions of stroke

I'm sure a more "serious" sci-fi fan would've picked up on the Big Reveal earlier, but hey, I got there eventually and I enjoyed it much more than I expected. Funny how I was ready to DNF after the opening chapter because I thought it was so bad, because

Spoiler

that's kind of exactly the point, the show writers are terrible and that's how the characters figure out they're on a show

.

So as far as the premise and plot and implications of this novel go, I'm totally sold. It's brilliant. I wasn't quite as sold on the actual characters or the worldbuilding, which I normally prioritize above the plot, but seriously, the narrative execution comes very close to making up for it.

-----------
CONVERSION: 11.73 / 15 = 4 stars

Prose: 6 / 10
Characters & Relationships: 7 / 10
Emotional Impact: 7 / 10
Development / Flow: 8 / 10
Setting: 9 / 10

Diversity & Social Themes: N/A
Intellectual Engagement: 4 / 5
Originality / Trope Execution: 5 / 5
Rereadability: N/A
Memorability: 4 / 5