... rooted in deep, realistic human emotion ... the best kind of dystopian novel: one rooted deeply in the hearts of its characters and emphasizing hope and connection over fear. Chen has a true gift for making the biggest of worlds center around the most complex workings of the heart, and his newest is compelling, realistic, and impossible to put down.
Sometimes it is not the violent battles of post-apocalyptic stories that pull readers in; it is the emotional connection of humanity finding their way. Chen’s prose lights a brilliant, fragile path through the darkness.
... imaginative ... Even against a science fiction backdrop, humanity is the center of Chen’s post-apocalyptic tale ... Chen’s fast-paced tale is an optimistic look at how our humanity can bring out the best in us, even in the darkest times.
Chen gives readers a chilling look at what a global pandemic could do to our society and crafts an intriguing story of how such a scenario could play out.
A lot of backstory and confusing subplot told in document fragments detract from an imaginative premise, likable characters, and an uplifting ending ... A refreshingly nondystopian end-of-the-world story that falls short of Chen's smart debut.
... delivers big emotions by keeping the focus small ... By foregrounding family, Chen manages to imbue his apocalypse with heart, hope, and humanity. Sci-fi fans will delight in this lovingly rendered tale.
