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Crosstalk

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Crosstalk

By: Connie Willis
Narrated by: Mia Barron
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Part romantic comedy and part social satire, here one of science fiction's most lauded authors examines the consequences of having too much connectivity, and what happens in a world where, suddenly, nothing is private. One of science fiction's premiere humorists turns her eagle eye to the crushing societal implications of telepathy.

In a not-too-distant future, a simple outpatient procedure that has been promised to increase empathy between romantic partners has become all the rage. So when Briddey Flannigan's fiancé proposes that he and Briddey undergo the procedure, she is delighted! Only, the results aren't quite as expected. Instead of gaining an increased empathetic link with her fiancé, Briddey finds herself hearing the actual thoughts of one of the nerdiest techs in her office. And that's the least of her problems.

©2016 Connie Willis (P)2016 Recorded Books Contemporary Fantasy Genetic Engineering Romantic Comedy Science Fiction
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Critics' reviews

"An engaging and satirical look at relationships, technology, and connectivity in the digital age is expertly narrated by Mia Barron.... Barron does an outstanding job of distinguishing between the conversations in Briddey's head and those happening in real life as well as adding authenticity to each of the characters Briddey interacts with." ( AudioFile)
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There's some interesting concepts in this book, but it's ultimately a frustrating listen. The main character is constantly getting harangued by everyone she interacts with (had she only once put her foot down, such as forbidding her extended family from contacting her at work). Furthermore this protagonist manages to suffer from main-character syndrome if that makes sense. Finally the frequeny use of voice-calls in this book seems unrealistic (who the hell calls people anymore!?)

I got stressed just listening to this.

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Venture into the mind-numbing ramblings of an utterly self-absorbed, personality-void middle-class American overachiever. Prepare for a tale so dull, it could make watching paint dry seem thrilling.

This woman's incessant chatter about her mundane life, petty grievances, and inflated ego is akin to being trapped in an elevator with your vain colleague from work who just won't shut up about her petty achievements. The idea that a rich, attractive guy desires her is laughable because her self-absorption is an insult to intelligence.
Avoid this book unless you enjoy being tortured by inane chatter. It's the literary equivalent of waterboarding.

Middle class American overachiever talking.

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