Dark Matter is a sci-fi thriller with an infinitely intriguing concept - the multiverse. The reader follows Jason, previously a scientist, now a teacher, who is thrown into the multiverse by an alternate version of him.

This book thrives in its exploration of the self / the many selves. It tackles many interesting questions on how personalities, how people, develop - is it the sum of one’s choices? Is it fate? Is it a series of inherent qualities found within each person? Jason, a relatively average man in his iteration, explores himself thoughtfully and tragically throughout the story up until the bittersweet end. Dark Matter also thrives in its thrilling elements; it’s fast pace and brutal moments land well, making it a page turner. The action scenes are well written and entertaining, and at times quite emotional.

Dark Matter struggles in its character development, as Jason’s character, while decently rounded, seems to twist and fluctuate in unnatural ways to fit the plot. One moment he’s a rational scientist, the next he makes a rather unintelligent decision that leaves the reader frustrated (talking to you, plague world scene). Daniela and Charlie are rather one dimensional characters, and with the arrival of Amanda later in the story, there’s a bit of “man writing a female character” syndrome that slips through. It wasn’t unbearable, but it was noticeable. Personally, during the more character driven scenes, while they weren’t so poorly done to make me not enjoy them, I did find myself rolling my eyes a little. It’s also worth mentioning that some of the writing felt clunky and unengaging, which is to the detriment of the story. Many of what seem “plot twists” were rather predictable. Personally, the ending fell a little flat to me, but it did give me a slight sense of content and satisfaction for characters that I came to semi-love. 

Dark Matter is a solid, fast paced sci-fi thriller I’d recommend to anyone who is fascinated by the multiverse, the human personality, and seeks a quick and easy read.