A review by artcheyne
Unanimity by Alexandra Almeida

challenging dark emotional informative sad medium-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

5.0

The existential dread feels real and appropriate given the advancements in AI. The contrast between a young Tom and the Shadow he becomes is well executed so is the trauma he experiences. The strength of this book are the unique characters and their relationships and the themes explored. The girls are a lot of fun, and the queer romance an excellent representation on how to write LGBTQI characters right. The themes confronted could easily go wrong and fall into tropes, but they never do. Yes, some of the characters struggle with life, but the underlining thread that pulls this series forward is one of hope and idealism. I liked how the world building is connected with the characters and their traits, and look forward to exploring more of Spiral Worlds and its history. My only complaint is that It's a series starter, however based on book one I trust the author to answer the questions that remain open regarding the past and the five days remaining until the end of the worlds. I liked the narrative structure a lot. It''s unusual, but starting in the middle of the history and going back to fill the gaps added more weight to the backstory as we already know how things will end up.