4 out of 4 stars
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Final Notice is a work of fiction by Van Fleisher about what people do when they find out that their smart watch tells them how many days they have left to live! The device is called a VT2. It features complex nanotechnology and precisely monitors biological functions. When stats begin to decline permanently death is predicted within 10 to 30 days. The device sends a notification to an app on the consumer’s phone as well as a fax to their primary care provider. This critical message is known as the “Final Notice”, hence the name of the book. Vijay, the creator of the VT2, originally stated that the purpose of the device was to give people time to sort out their last affairs before they pass away and say goodbye to loved ones. Trudi and Vince, a senior couple in California, are the main characters in the story. There are mini stories about other VT2-holders, many of which have complicated and controversial deaths that involve guns and mental health. These individuals eventually influence Trudi and Vince in their decision to buy a gun. Vince eventually gets a VT2.
This book is fresh and contemporary. The technology of the VT2 is congruent with current electronics. Themes within the book such as varied state gun laws, gun violence, discrimination against immigrants and mental health echo the trials that we face in 2019’s society. There are a plethora of characters that have different views about these themes, and it is very engaging to delve into the minds of these unique points of view. The majority of the characters are seniors which I believe have limited voices in the world of fiction. I appreciate that Fleisher focused on more mature minds to lead the philosophy behind the text. It is not often that I get to read books featuring this age group.
I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars. It is professionally edited since I only found one error. The plot is developed and layered. The controversy makes the story provocative and engaging. It makes the reader think:
The one thing I did not enjoy about Final Notice was the manner in which it was written. The tone is very cut and dry at times. It reads like a reality show or a news article. The text is very matter-of-fact yet informative, and there were moments where I felt I was reading it not because I was compelled to but because I wanted to know what would happen. I would have liked more of an emotional approach, but that is a matter of personal preference. It is very well-written in a technical sense. Despite my feelings, I believe those interested in politics, business, philanthropy and a suspenseful read will enjoy this book.“If you knew, for sure, that you only had X days to live, what would you do?” (Location 13825)
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Final Notice
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