Dark Matter is a gripping, high-concept science fiction novel that explores identity, choice, and the mind-bending possibilities of quantum physics.

What’s Inside?

“Are you happy with your life?”

Those are the last words Jason Dessen hears before the kidnapper knocks him unconscious…Before he awakens to find himself strapped to a gurney, surrounded by strangers in hazmat suits. Before a man he’s never met smiles down at him and says, “Welcome back, my friend.”

In this world he’s woken up to, Jason’s life is not the one he knows. His wife is not his wife. His son was never born. And Jason is not an ordinary college professor but a celebrated genius who has achieved something remarkable. Something impossible.

Is it this life or the other that’s the dream? And even if the home he remembers is real, how will Jason make it back to the family he loves?

How did it make me feel?

The Narrative

As someone who devours content related to quantum mechanics—whether fiction or nonfiction—the premise of this book was exceptional. Like Crouch’s Recursion, the overall plot was thrilling, layered, and deeply immersive. The twists were unpredictable, and the stakes felt real throughout the protagonist’s journey. However, some aspects could have been executed better. Certain conversations between characters felt slightly off, as if they didn’t flow naturally in real-life dialogue. A different approach might have made them feel more organic while still conveying the necessary ideas.

The ending was another element that left me conflicted. While it certainly wrapped up the story in an unexpected way, it wasn’t what I had anticipated—or hoped for. That said, the journey to get there was undeniably exciting, making this book well worth the read for any sci-fi enthusiast.

The Characters

The characters in Dark Matter had so much potential, but I felt like none of them got a fair character arc. The protagonist had a compelling journey, but the supporting characters often felt like plot devices rather than fully realized individuals. Their development was minimal, and their motivations could have been explored more deeply to create a stronger emotional impact. While the story itself was thrilling, a bit more depth in character arcs would have made the experience even more immersive.

Would I recommend it?

Dark Matter is an exhilarating sci-fi thriller packed with mind-bending twists and a brilliant concept. However, the character development felt a bit underwhelming, and the dialogue could have been more natural. Despite these flaws, the book is a must-read for speculative fiction fans, especially those intrigued by quantum physics and alternate realities.

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