The Downloaded Book Reviews

The Downloaded by Robert J. Sawyer Book Summary

The new novel by Canada's top Science Fiction writer

In 2059 two very different groups have their minds uploaded into a quantum computer in Waterloo, Ontario.

One group consists of astronauts preparing for Earth's first interstellar voyage. The other? Convicted murderers, serving their sentences in a virtual-reality prison.

But when disaster strikes, the astronauts and the prisoners must download back into physical reality and find a way to work together to save Earth from destruction.

The Downloaded debuted in a six-month exclusive window as an Audible Original narrated by Academy Award-winner Brendan Fraser promoted by national TV and radio ad campaigns. This print edition is coming out immediately after Audible's exclusivity ends and is being supported by a six-city cross-Canada author book tour.

"Robert J. Sawyer's latest novel is a potent distillation of everything that makes science fiction so addictive. The Downloaded explores a broad swath of future history and absolutely sizzles with fascinating ideas. You want space travel, a ruined Earth, virtual worlds, a cast of relatable characters, and a glimpse into the labyrinth of human destiny? Look no further: this story has all that and more."

—Robert Charles Wilson, Hugo Award-winning author of Spin

"In The Downloaded, Robert J. Sawyer proves he's not just a master of using science fiction to address social issues but also a master of devious plot twists and diverse character voices."

—James Alan Gardner, Theodore Sturgeon Award-winning author of Expendable

"No one does the end of the world quite like Robert J. Sawyer. The Downloaded is a wicked-smart thrill ride from start to finish. The interview format brings genuine intimacy to this action-packed story that also raises questions about consciousness, society, and the very nature of humanity. I loved it."

—Sylvain Neuvel, bestselling author of Sleeping Giants

"Robert J. Sawyer is well known for big-concept original SF and rigorous research. While The Downloaded continues in this vein, it's also a wonderful demonstration of another aspect of this impressive author: his deep understanding of—and compassion for—people, regardless of who or what they are, or even what they have done. It's a rare and potent humanity that elevates Sawyer's work high above the rest."

—Julie E. Czerneda, Aurora Award-winning author of To Each This World

"One of the best SF novels I've read in years. The Downloaded is a tightly-written SF story that will hold your attention, but it's more than just that. Sawyer has given us an advance look at a technology that we may have someday if we're fortunate, but also a near-future world that we may get, too, and God help us if we do. The juxtaposition of the two makes this a fascinating tale."

—Allen Steele, Hugo Award-winning author of Coyote

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The Downloaded (Robert J. Sawyer) Book Reviews 2024

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