A review by jessspeake
Crosstalk by Connie Willis

adventurous emotional funny hopeful lighthearted mysterious fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

This is my first Connie Willis novel, and it certainly won't be my last. I loved this book. So far, it's my favorite read of 2021, by far!

synopsis: This story takes place in the near future, where technology, social media and being connected is even more all-consuming than it is now. The story follows our main character Briddey, who has an animated and nosy family, and a boyfriend ready to propose. Before Trent proposes he suggests, to Briddey's delight, that they undergo a minor procedure to heighten their emotional connection, and deepen their communication. However, the procedure has some unexpected consequences, and Briddey quickly learns there is such a thing as being too connected - especially when you end up connected to a different person than you intended!

thoughts:

Even though the book is almost 500 pages, I flew though it. I definitely didn't want to put down this story. It's the perfect mix of adventure, mystery, excitement, comedic relief, and romance.

My only complaint is that I didn't love Briddey at first. I generally prefer strong female characters, and she definitely is not. However, as the book went on, she started to grow on me, and by the end I was really rooting for her. Normally if I don't like a character at first, it's unlikely I'll grow to like them, but I did with Briddey.

I adored CB's character, and Mauve is a true gem in this book - I loved every scene she was involved in.

There is a fantastical aspect of the book that causes the characters to create alternate worlds in their minds, and the descriptions of these times were so detailed, I felt like I was there myself. I could picture everything so vividly, through Connie Willis' writing.

Even the ending of this book was great. I often find when reading mysteries, that the wrap-ups leave something to be desired, but this one went out on a high note.

As I read this book, I found myself rooting for the characters, and getting swept up in the story. It was such a great read, and I highly recommend it if you enjoy quick paced, comedic, mysterious, adventurous stories.

Definitely a good read, one of my favorites this year so far!

Expand filter menu Content Warnings