2.5 stars

Lots of profanity, some sexual references, and a very negative portrayal of religion (Christianity in particular).

Aside from those bigger issues, the story was anti-climactic and the characters were not engaging - they just didn't have strong personalities that made me care about them.

The conclusion was so open-ended, it felt like a cop-out. I got the impression the author was setting up for a sequel, but this just doesn't deserve one. ( )

Matt Mercer narrating this book is the reason why I requested an audio review copy. He surely lives up to my expectation, and does not disappoint me. I was surprised when i find out this is his first time narrating a book. I guess all the voice over and narrating D&D on Twitch truly helps with his narrating skill. He was actually acting the book out with his voice. He was singing the song part, giving each character a different voice and much more. Everything is on point and brings the book to life.

As for the book, I like it. However, if you are a hardcore or well-read science fiction fan, this might not be the book for you. It is about teleportation, very similar to Star-Trek. I have heard of the same concept before reading this book, how one dies or looses a part of oneself every time he/she teleports. This book spends quite a lot time explaining the concept, which can be boring to some. The story itself is good and fast paced. My favorite character is the ambulance. It is adorable and funny.

4.5 out of 5 stars
I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Tal M. Klein. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it. ( )

heavy handed, poorly conceived, with flat characters and irrelevant narrative. ( )

Not for me. A little too clever for its own good. Hard SF is best done by incorporating the science into the plot and story, not by explanations in the footnotes, addressed to "future readers" who might not be familiar with the antiquated science of the 22nd century. It felt like a writer who didn't trust his readers to understand, and wanted to make sure we all knew exactly how well he had thought out the science of his ideas. ( )

This was a very good book, and a positive surprise. The central plot revolves around teleportation and identity (which isn't much of a spoiler). Klein did a good job on this to the degree I'd consider this the definitive sci-fi book about teleportation, now.

It's definitely action/thriller vs. more introspective or character development, but for this story it works well. (And would make a great movie).

The audible version is excellent. ( )