After his wife’s murder, ex-CIA agent Brayden Cross uncovers a sinister conspiracy linked to EverChat, an app that lets users communicate with digital versions of the dead. As he races to stop a plot threatening humanity, the story explores the dangers of blurring technology and consciousness, raising questions about grief, identity, and what it means to be human.

Reader Review Summary

Set in a near-future New England, the story follows Brayden Cross, a former CIA operative who is drawn back into a world of danger after the murder of his wife, Sarah. As Brayden investigates a series of murders and disappearances, he uncovers a connection to EverChat, an app that allows users to communicate with digital versions of deceased loved ones. The narrative alternates between present-day events and past timelines, exploring the creation and ethical implications of EverChat. The plot weaves together elements of science fiction, thriller, and psychological drama, with settings ranging from snowy Maine backwoods to high-tech labs in New York City and a climactic incident in Manhattan. Themes include grief, the boundaries of technology, the nature of consciousness, and the impact of trauma and loss on individuals and families. The book is described as fast-paced, with short chapters and vivid descriptions, and it features both action-driven sequences and emotional, character-focused moments.

Readers praised the book's engaging and suspenseful plot, noting its ability to blend science fiction and thriller elements in a way that was accessible even to those new to the genre. The protagonist, Brayden, was frequently highlighted as a determined and resourceful character, and his emotional journey—particularly his grief and love for his wife—was seen as a driving force in the narrative. The use of multiple points of view and timelines was commended for adding depth and variety, with smooth transitions between characters and eras. Many reviewers appreciated the exploration of ethical dilemmas surrounding technology and consciousness, as well as the emotional resonance of family dynamics. The writing style, described as vivid and immersive, was credited with bringing the settings and action to life, and several readers found the story to be thought-provoking and filled with unexpected twists.

Some readers expressed dissatisfaction with aspects of the pacing, particularly in the early chapters, where the story was described as slow or bogged down by excessive description and internal monologue. The characterization of Brayden as a near-superhuman figure was seen by some as unrealistic, though the addition of supporting characters was viewed as a positive development. There were criticisms of repetitive reflections on the protagonist's past, underdeveloped secondary characters, and abrupt shifts to speculative elements in the climax. One reviewer found the naming conventions for characters distracting and felt that certain tropes, such as the perfect wife and the stereotypical villain, detracted from the story. Confusion over the timeline of Sarah's death was noted, though the author reportedly acknowledged this issue. At least one reader did not finish the book, citing a lack of early science fiction content and reliance on familiar action tropes.

The book is Derek Robinson's debut and is scheduled for publication in August 2025. It has received 17 ratings and 13 full reviews, with an average rating of 4.53 out of 5. The story is positioned as a crossover between science fiction and thriller, appealing to fans of both genres, and has been compared to works by Michael Crichton and Daniel Suarez. The conclusion is described as somewhat open-ended, leaving room for potential sequels. The book was distributed as an advance review copy through platforms such as BookSirens and NetGalley, and several reviewers noted their appreciation for the author's engagement and willingness to address feedback.