Book Review: Dark Matter by Blake Crouch
As the summer sun sets and Labor Day weekend approaches, I find myself eagerly preparing for my annual trek from Nantucket to Maine. It’s a trip filled with family, friends, and all the fun that comes with it, but getting there? Well, that’s a different story. This year, as I sat on the ferry for what felt like an eternity and braced myself for the holiday traffic ahead, I decided to elevate my journey with an audiobook. Enter Dark Matter by Blake Crouch—a book I had heard raving reviews about but knew little to nothing concerning its plot. All I was told? It was excellent. Little did I know how right they were!
Crouch’s gripping narrative pulls you in with the harrowing tale of Jason Dessen, a scientist-turned-professor who finds himself in the strangest night of his life. After a seemingly ordinary night out, he faces a jarring twist that sets him adrift in a world where nothing is what it seems. The concept of the multiverse—a theme I adore—is masterfully woven into the fabric of this tale, making my heart race with each plot twist and revelation.
What I appreciated most was the way Crouch delved into the ‘what-ifs’ that haunt many of us: What if our lives took a different path? What if every choice led us down an entirely different avenue? As I navigated the congested roads through Boston and southern Maine, I found myself lost in Jason’s mind, contemplating decisions and alternate realities—not an easy thing to do amidst holiday chaos!
The pacing of Dark Matter is like a thrilling rollercoaster ride; Crouch doesn’t waste a moment before thrusting us into action. It kept me wide awake, glued to my steering wheel as I was skillfully narrated by Jon Lindstrom. A good narrator can make or break an audiobook, and Lindstrom’s voice became the perfect companion for my drive, bringing Jason’s existential plight to life while I weaved through irritable drivers and construction zones.
I also loved how Crouch grounded the science fiction elements in human emotion. While the concept of a multiverse can feel grand and unapproachable, he kept it relatable. Jason’s struggle to reconnect with the life he thought he knew resonated deeply with me. Quotes like, “You don’t know what you’ve lost until you’ve seen what you could have,” stuck with me long after the last chapter. It’s a poignant reminder wrapped in a thrilling narrative—a true testament to Crouch’s talent.
So, who would enjoy Dark Matter? If you’re a fan of mind-bending sci-fi, philosophical musings on life choices, or simply enjoy a fast-paced ride through pages (or audiobooks), this one is for you. It certainly made my long journey bearable and rewarding.
My trip ended with me a little more reflective and a lot more inspired, ready to tackle the joys of reunion moments with family. Whether you find yourself stuck in traffic or lounging at the beach, let Jason Dessen’s thrilling chase through the multiverse sweep you away—because, like me, you may find more than just a captivating story. You may uncover a deeper connection to the choices that shape your own life. Trust me, you’ll be glad you took this ride!