The two main characters in this novel about gaming and video game creation, are often in love, but never lovers. Sam and Sadie forge an unusual relationship as they come together as creative partners in a world of design. In games, players experience the fragility and challenges of life vicariously. Of course, in a game if things go wrong, you can just start over and try the level again. In real life, not so much.
Even though I enjoyed the premise and the unique topic of this novel, I must say I found the character development and story arc quite weak. I was frequently bored but still kept reading because it has been much hyped and enjoyed.
Clearly I am in the minority here. Many reviewers loved this book and it was the top pick for Fiction in this year’s Goodreads Choice Awards. I was especially disappointed because up till now I’ve been a huge fan of this author. Two other books by Zevin were definite favourites of mine: The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry (recently a movie on Prime starring Kunal Nayyar from The Big Bang Theory) and Young Jane Young.
Here’s an excellent description of the book by the author herself–much better than I could ever do! It’s worth a listen.
Joanne's Reading Blog 