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I’m not going to lie, I found this to be a bit of a slog.

The concept for this book is brilliant and is by far the best thing about it. But you pretty much know the concept once you read the blurb.

The problem is that the book splits into alternating chapters: in the future and in the present (about 2001). The chapters in the present are very readable and enjoyable. The chapters in the future are absolute torture to read. Partly because of the way the dialogue is written and partly because the future story line is so boring.

If you’re intrigued then this is definitely worth a go, but just ready yourself for some dull quasi sci-fi twaddle in between all the good bits.

Why did I find this book to be such a struggle? I suppose it may be the god-like view of the narrator that makes every thing seem inevitable and removes the feeling that anything is at stake. Maybe it’s because it’s meant to be humorous (if Hilary Mantel is to be believed) but the jokes never land. The narrator chugs along, giving away the future when it suits, and concealing when it doesn’t. Maybe that bothers me too: it’s density seems to be a trick to obscure the story, which feels a little frustrating sometimes.

Personally I find it hard to recommend even though it is clearly well crafted.