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nichole1988's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
mysterious
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
claytell's review against another edition
4.0
I am interested in this universe and seeing how it all comes together. Beyond the book’s scifi, I am interested in the philosophy associated with the idea of humans living in a simulation
terminalfin's review against another edition
5.0
WOW! I absolutely love this style of audiobook that Jeremy puts out. And by style, I am referencing simulation theory which brings into question the very nature of our reality/being. Following Infinite and Alter along this timeline, I absolutely loved this book as it really hit home on a theory I've believed since my teenage years.
The ways in which Jeremy introduced the concept of reality were astounding in this novel. The nature of non-player characters that serve as a sort of automated response or guidance mechanism for the real people in our world really gets you thinking. How do you know that the person working the register at your local store continues to exist after you've left? How do you know their world doesn't pick up as soon as you have them in your sight/realm of influence again?
This was a book that I can see being troubling to the more devoted religious readers out there. The story paints a reality that really makes you question how we know what we know to be real.
I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys thinking about the nature of reality, that really makes you introspective about your world, that really makes you stop and think. Kaffer and Bray did an awesome job tag-teaming this novel. This book ranks right up there in the top five audiobooks that I've listened to, Robinson's Infinite being another.
The ways in which Jeremy introduced the concept of reality were astounding in this novel. The nature of non-player characters that serve as a sort of automated response or guidance mechanism for the real people in our world really gets you thinking. How do you know that the person working the register at your local store continues to exist after you've left? How do you know their world doesn't pick up as soon as you have them in your sight/realm of influence again?
This was a book that I can see being troubling to the more devoted religious readers out there. The story paints a reality that really makes you question how we know what we know to be real.
I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys thinking about the nature of reality, that really makes you introspective about your world, that really makes you stop and think. Kaffer and Bray did an awesome job tag-teaming this novel. This book ranks right up there in the top five audiobooks that I've listened to, Robinson's Infinite being another.
abeckstrom's review against another edition
4.0
This review is for the audiobook version of NPC by Jeremy Robinson and narrated (tag-team style) by the unstoppable duo of R.C. Bray & Jeffrey Kafer. Do yourself a favor and skip the reviews. Pick up this book, read or listen to it for yourself then come back to see if you agree with me.
New England pastor, Ezekiel Ford, feels like he's living a lie. After the death of his beloved wife, does he still have the faith he needs to shepherd his flock? Ruthless polymath, Samael Crane, sees in Ezekiel one of the few "real people" in a world of NPCs.
In NPC, Robinson weaves together the best elements of the Matrix and Signs (by M. Night Shyamalan) with shades of William Gibson and Daniel Suarez into a new creation that examines crises of faith and redemption while exploring simulation theory. Robinson kept me guessing throughout the book and I was often unsure as to who was the hero and who was the villain in NPC.
Bray and Kafer are always a treat and their tandem narration only increased the overall quality of Robinson's text. I found the dual narration quite effective with Bray alternating on the Ezekiel chapters and Kafer on Samael chapters.
I've learned that when it comes to Jeremy Robinson novels, the less I know going in, the better. I have yet to be disappointed by any of the half dozen of his novels I've read so far. NPC is no exception. I recommend NPC for anyone who enjoys post-cyberpunk and technothrillers, as well as fans of faith-based novels.
***Full Disclosure: I was voluntarily provided this free review copy audiobook by the author, narrator, or publisher.
New England pastor, Ezekiel Ford, feels like he's living a lie. After the death of his beloved wife, does he still have the faith he needs to shepherd his flock? Ruthless polymath, Samael Crane, sees in Ezekiel one of the few "real people" in a world of NPCs.
In NPC, Robinson weaves together the best elements of the Matrix and Signs (by M. Night Shyamalan) with shades of William Gibson and Daniel Suarez into a new creation that examines crises of faith and redemption while exploring simulation theory. Robinson kept me guessing throughout the book and I was often unsure as to who was the hero and who was the villain in NPC.
Bray and Kafer are always a treat and their tandem narration only increased the overall quality of Robinson's text. I found the dual narration quite effective with Bray alternating on the Ezekiel chapters and Kafer on Samael chapters.
I've learned that when it comes to Jeremy Robinson novels, the less I know going in, the better. I have yet to be disappointed by any of the half dozen of his novels I've read so far. NPC is no exception. I recommend NPC for anyone who enjoys post-cyberpunk and technothrillers, as well as fans of faith-based novels.
***Full Disclosure: I was voluntarily provided this free review copy audiobook by the author, narrator, or publisher.
barbtrek's review against another edition
5.0
I was having trouble staying focused on whatever I was reading until I picked up this book. This story successfully kept my attention. I found it entertaining and thought provoking. I’ll have fun from now on trying to spot the NPCs vs. the real people.
readers_together's review against another edition
5.0
Jeremy Robinson never fails to entertain and this book is no different in that regard.
If you like books that make you think this is the book for you. It’s not going to be to everyone’s taste but what book is? I really enjoyed it. It kept me guessing throughout. Jeremy is known for his action and although this does have that, it’s not what some readers will expect. When I heard he was doing a serial killer story, I was both excited and apprehensive, but I should know by now that nothing is as it seems when it comes to Jeremy’s mind, and he never fails to hook me. His writing is addictive and keeps you turning the page and thinking long after you’ve finished. Jeremy has some of the most interesting characters and storylines. I’ve yet to meet a Jeremy book that doesn’t blow me away. Once I started reading/ listening it was hard to pull myself away. I devoured it.
Knowing that RC Bray and Jeffrey Kafer were narrating this book made it an instant purchase for me. They both have very distinctive voices, yet complemented each other really well. The book is performed in dual narration which gives this book another layer of awesomeness. Reading this story was great, listening to it was another experience entirely. I vote for more #Brayfer narrated books.
If you like books that make you think this is the book for you. It’s not going to be to everyone’s taste but what book is? I really enjoyed it. It kept me guessing throughout. Jeremy is known for his action and although this does have that, it’s not what some readers will expect. When I heard he was doing a serial killer story, I was both excited and apprehensive, but I should know by now that nothing is as it seems when it comes to Jeremy’s mind, and he never fails to hook me. His writing is addictive and keeps you turning the page and thinking long after you’ve finished. Jeremy has some of the most interesting characters and storylines. I’ve yet to meet a Jeremy book that doesn’t blow me away. Once I started reading/ listening it was hard to pull myself away. I devoured it.
Knowing that RC Bray and Jeffrey Kafer were narrating this book made it an instant purchase for me. They both have very distinctive voices, yet complemented each other really well. The book is performed in dual narration which gives this book another layer of awesomeness. Reading this story was great, listening to it was another experience entirely. I vote for more #Brayfer narrated books.
tinysealoot's review against another edition
3.0
I loved the actors who read for the two main characters! Fun romp with twists!
jkellyjr's review against another edition
4.0
Are you real?
Book Information
NPC, written by Jeremy Robinson, was published on June 30, 2020. The book spans 319 pages and is also available in audiobook format, narrated by R.C. Bray and Jeffrey Kafer, with a running time of 10 hours and 4 minutes. The book is part of Robinson's Infinite Timeline, a universe of overlapping stories that are interconnected. Although NPC is a stand-alone novel, it is likely that its themes and characters will play a role in future books within the same universe.
Summary
Samael Crane, a brilliant scientist, is on a mission to prove that non-player characters (NPCs) exist and that the world we live in is nothing but a simulation. He believes that "God" is nothing but a programmer with a grudge against humanity, and he's willing to go to deadly lengths to prove his theory.
When a mysterious body is discovered in the bay off Essex, Massachusetts, small-town pastor and former Marine Ezekiel Ford finds himself in the middle of the investigation. The deceased man's identity is unknown, and no one seems to know where he came from. However, Ezekiel remembers the man living on the fringes of reality and sometimes staying at the homeless shelter supported by his church.
As Ezekiel delves deeper into the case, Samael becomes aware of his involvement and sees him as an obstacle in his mission. The two men's paths become intertwined, leading them on a dangerous journey through the gray area between science and religion, good and evil, and reality and simulation.
My Thoughts
Jeremy Robinson's "NPC" is a departure from his typical fast-paced, action-packed novels, but that doesn't mean it's any less thrilling. While there are certainly moments of high tension and excitement, the book also delves into more introspective and thought-provoking territory.
The story is told through alternating perspectives of Samael and Ezekiel, the latter of whom is investigating the disappearance of several homeless people in his small town. Ezekiel, still reeling from the loss of his wife, is struggling with his faith and Samael's theory poses a direct threat to his beliefs. As the two engage in a battle of wits, the mystery deepens, and the stakes become increasingly high.
What makes "NPC" so unique is Robinson's ability to make the reader question Samael's theory while also presenting evidence that supports it. The boundaries between reality and simulation become blurred, and the reader is left wondering what is real and what is not. The characters are complex and well-developed, with their beliefs and actions blurring the lines between right and wrong.
The story is engaging and thought-provoking, with numerous twists and turns that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The audiobook version is particularly well done, with a different narrator for each of the main characters' perspectives, making it easy to follow the story and get lost in the world Robinson has created.
Recommendation
Overall, "NPC" is a thought-provoking and captivating novel that explores the limits of science, religion, and humanity's understanding of reality. It's a must-read for fans of science fiction, thriller, and mystery novels alike.
Rating
4 Simulated (or real... it's hard to tell) Stars
Book Information
NPC, written by Jeremy Robinson, was published on June 30, 2020. The book spans 319 pages and is also available in audiobook format, narrated by R.C. Bray and Jeffrey Kafer, with a running time of 10 hours and 4 minutes. The book is part of Robinson's Infinite Timeline, a universe of overlapping stories that are interconnected. Although NPC is a stand-alone novel, it is likely that its themes and characters will play a role in future books within the same universe.
Summary
Samael Crane, a brilliant scientist, is on a mission to prove that non-player characters (NPCs) exist and that the world we live in is nothing but a simulation. He believes that "God" is nothing but a programmer with a grudge against humanity, and he's willing to go to deadly lengths to prove his theory.
When a mysterious body is discovered in the bay off Essex, Massachusetts, small-town pastor and former Marine Ezekiel Ford finds himself in the middle of the investigation. The deceased man's identity is unknown, and no one seems to know where he came from. However, Ezekiel remembers the man living on the fringes of reality and sometimes staying at the homeless shelter supported by his church.
As Ezekiel delves deeper into the case, Samael becomes aware of his involvement and sees him as an obstacle in his mission. The two men's paths become intertwined, leading them on a dangerous journey through the gray area between science and religion, good and evil, and reality and simulation.
My Thoughts
Jeremy Robinson's "NPC" is a departure from his typical fast-paced, action-packed novels, but that doesn't mean it's any less thrilling. While there are certainly moments of high tension and excitement, the book also delves into more introspective and thought-provoking territory.
The story is told through alternating perspectives of Samael and Ezekiel, the latter of whom is investigating the disappearance of several homeless people in his small town. Ezekiel, still reeling from the loss of his wife, is struggling with his faith and Samael's theory poses a direct threat to his beliefs. As the two engage in a battle of wits, the mystery deepens, and the stakes become increasingly high.
What makes "NPC" so unique is Robinson's ability to make the reader question Samael's theory while also presenting evidence that supports it. The boundaries between reality and simulation become blurred, and the reader is left wondering what is real and what is not. The characters are complex and well-developed, with their beliefs and actions blurring the lines between right and wrong.
The story is engaging and thought-provoking, with numerous twists and turns that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The audiobook version is particularly well done, with a different narrator for each of the main characters' perspectives, making it easy to follow the story and get lost in the world Robinson has created.
Recommendation
Overall, "NPC" is a thought-provoking and captivating novel that explores the limits of science, religion, and humanity's understanding of reality. It's a must-read for fans of science fiction, thriller, and mystery novels alike.
Rating
4 Simulated (or real... it's hard to tell) Stars
vanncrowe's review against another edition
3.0
I liked it, but in my opinion, it ended without having said anything interesting.
theadorek9's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
dark
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0