Crosstalk (novel)
Crosstalk is a science fiction novel by Connie Willis, published in 2016. It is a romantic comedy that explores the intersection of telephones and telepathy. In a similar situation to Bellwether and Passage, the main character, Briddey Flannigan, is part of a larger institution who gets caught up in series of escalating events. Additionally, Crosstalk like Bellwether and Passage feature themes of neuroscience, communication and technology.
 | |
| Author | Connie Willis |
|---|---|
| Country | United States |
| Language | English |
| Genre | Science fiction |
| Publisher | Del Rey |
Publication date | 2016 |
| Media type | Print (hardback & paperback) |
| Pages | 480 |
| ISBN | 0345540689 |
Plot
Briddey Flannigan, part of the middle management of a tech-company is engaged to one of the senior executives. The company is experimenting with communication technology that transmits neural activity as spoken words. The technology is still being tested and theoretically relies on emotional bonds between two people to work effectively. Briddey agrees to become part of the experiment but it goes dramatically wrong, upending her life.
Reception
Amal El-Mohtar at NPR Books argued that the book was "not a great showcase" for Connie Willis's oeuvre.[1] However, Eric Brown of The Guardian was more laudatory, writing that "Willis tells a fast-paced tale with well-observed dialogue and some gentle humour."[2]
References
- El-Mohtar, Amal (13 October 2016). "The Humor In 'Crosstalk' Gets Lost In The Hubbub". npr.org. NRP. Retrieved 9 June 2018.
- Brown, Eric (8 September 2016). "The best recent science fiction and fantasy novels – reviews roundup". theguardian.com. The Guardian. Retrieved 9 June 2018.