While this is not a uniquely new idea (do those even exist anymore?) it is presented in a new and interesting way. This book is very meta and self-aware, and I love the fact that Sammy Scott acknowledges that the novel doesn’t exist in a vacuum. He references other similar works of fiction within the story, such as Dean Koontz’s Demon Seed and Alex Garland’s Ex Machina. Despite the similar subject matter, Beta still has plenty of fresh ideas and clearly establishes itself as an entirely separate entity.
What really caught me off guard about this story was not the terrifying idea of technology run amok, but the raw emotion contained within this tale. Initially content and complacent in his idyllic-seeming test home, Michael becomes increasingly paranoid and panicky as this dream home becomes a nightmare. And there is so, so much more. This book has me questioning not only my relationship with technology, but also my relationship with other people. There were some incredibly insightful moments, so much so that I had goosebumps inside on an 80°F day. The incredible voice work by Shawn Compton added an extra layer of excellence, with each character having a unique voice, tone, and diction.
This is definitely one of the the best books I’ve listened to this year. I would recommend it to anyone.