4.5⭐️ rounded up

The only slight issue I had was that there were quite a lot of characters throughout this story, which, on occasion, I found challenging. However, I am aware this is a me thing. I am not necessarily sure I can say what was written was too much for the storyline involved.

Primarily the author focuses on Yuki and Sam who were a couple in love expecting to spend their lives together until Sam chooses to take the "wonder drug" that promises eternal youth and no more of the aging process while Yuki has been advocating against this she was shocked at this ultimately leading to the breakdown of their relationship.

It was a time of great breakthroughs in a fast changing world, and although Yuki didn't hold any grudges, she just couldn't quite understand or go along with Sam's decision.. Much of this world we live in today people are acclimatised to the superficial of life and how one SHOULD look etc. Seeing this as more important than many other aapect of their lives. I can understand the prospect of not to face ill health and pain within the storyline. However, the superficial comments around 70% mark had me reeling because this is exactly what we face already today. People get slated for wrinkles, etc, pushing more to consider botox or fillers, etc, when they maybe didn't previously feel overly concerned about this in the past!

Many people grow old gracefully but sadly too many feel the pressures from those who are not only friends, colleagues etc and social media platforms but the core of this really comes from advertising, from those in higher powers or positions in this world stage, singers, actors, political figures etc, whome everyday people look up to. They are already setting certain standards of what is to be expected, making the world much more diverse in such topics. I could easily see how this can and will be something that is happening in our future.

The storyline plays out in a dualiastic timeline of mostly 2020 and 2039 (roughly). There is so many thought provoking moments in this where you can very easily see how this is exploitation in all it's glory, political moves, business whether you agree or disagree on the ethics of the product it is out there... This is something that is really already on our doorstep and I genuinely can and do understand how fantastic the idea would be of knowing you won't have to face ill health etc there are just so many layers to this, many morals and ethics that really only each individual can and will have their own view here and although I've highlighted a couple of areas of significance this doesn't share my overall opinion but points out how thought provoking this piece of writing actually is...!

What would you decide if given the choice?

Fantastic work and beautifully narrated a really peaceful tranquil voice that Lydia Wilson has. She was absolutely perfect for this audiobook.

With much gratitude and pleasure to Netgalley & Octopus Audio for this ELC, it is one I will remember.

Sam and Yuki are a young married couple, soulmates, destined to grow old together; or so it should be. Things get complicated when Sam decides to start taking Yareta, a drug that promises eternal youth.

The books tackles such an interesting premise in the most incredible way, making it all feel so grounded in reality. It brings up so many questions, and is incredibly thought-provoking; it's definitely one of those reads that will stick with you for a while for a reason or the other. The characters were so compelling, very easy to root for and very fascinating to follow through their lives. I also really loved the writing, it was so beautiful, and captivating, making it impossible to put this down. I listened to the audiobook, and I also really enjoyed the narration,

Many thanks to Octopus Audio & NetGalley for the ALC. All opinions are my own.

A powerful and compelling debut novel, that’ll keep you thinking long after you’ve closed the book.

Uose cleverly poses the question would you want immortality? If you could buy a drug that preserved you at the same age for eternity would you take it? At what cost?

Sam and Yuki are a young married couple, soulmates, destined to grow old together. Sam is an aspiring musician. Yuki campaigns against the introduction of Yareta, the drug that promises eternal youth. Sam decides to take the drug and essentially leave Yuki behind. As the story unfolds we are introduced to a diverse cast of characters the world over, but the world is changing and seems divided between those on Yareta and those who are ageing.
It’s big business. It’s political. It’s believable, fascinating and a little bit terrifying, yet tender and beautiful.

The writing is stunning, I didn’t want the story to end. I predict big things for this book! Don’t miss it.

I really enjoyed Lydia Wilson’s audio narration on the title🎧

Huge thanks to Octopus Audio via NetGalley for the opportunity to review this ALC 🎧

I received the audiobook arc of this book. Unfortunately the narrator voice isn't the type I enjoy listening to. So I'll wait to read this one physically because I do not want my rating to change because of a narrator (which isn't their fault)


Thank you netgalley for the copy.