Exit Party by Emily St. John Mandel

A few years from now a party celebrating, in part, the new Republic of California is held. This party forever changes the lives of multiple attendees. Because I really enjoyed Mandel’s Sea of Tranquility I was surprised by how indifferent I am to Exit Party. Everything interesting to me—the world-building and politics—is just background noise, and given short shrift. The author instead chooses to focus on a small group of characters and the intertwining of their lives. While the writing is fine it felt detached, as though trying to keep me at arms-length. I also struggled to find any of the characters compelling, all feeling a little flat, and insular, none evoking either affinity or antipathy. While I will read more of her work, I may stick to her earlier novels for now. ★★★☆☆

Commenting on Bubbles has been removed. Why? If you want to talk about this post, write to the author, use the comments on their blog if it has them, or reply with a "RE:" post on your own blog. Suggestions? feedback@bubbles.town