I like the basic concept of the book, but there are two main problems in my opinion; the characters come across as robotic, especially their dialogue and thought processes, and the writer is so progression driven that ambiance is utterly neglected.
The dialogue is succinct to the point of removing any feel of natural conversation. Nobody seems to have to think about what to say, and nobody seems to fumble their messages, it almost feels like their readings scripts rather than living in the story. It’s like listening to people take turns reading PowerPoint slides *yaaaawn*.
Characters’ emotions come across as very hollow, without physicality or effect. Nobody is moved, everybody leaves an interaction without growth or subtle changes in their opinions.
The story progresses so quickly, that we don’t get a feel for the world, it doesn’t seem “lived in”. It very much feels like a JJ Abrams movie, where constant, fast action, and short, intense shouts, are supposed to distract from lack of plot and setting details.