Summary: Altered Carbon by Richard Morgan is a gritty, cyberpunk novel set in a future where consciousness can be transferred between bodies, making death nearly obsolete. The story follows Takeshi Kovacs, a former soldier turned private investigator, who is hired by Laurens Bancroft, a wealthy aristocrat, to investigate Bancroft's own apparent suicide. As Kovacs delves into the case, he uncovers a complex web of intrigue, corruption, and violence that stretches from the underbelly of society to its highest echelons. The novel explores themes of identity, mortality, and the ethical implications of advanced technology.
Opinion: The most compelling aspect for me was the exploration of what it means to be human in a world where bodies are interchangeable and consciousness can be stored digitally. This concept raised many ideas about identity, mortality, and the essence of self, all set against a futuristic world. The pacing had lagged behind quite a bit and the detective work was also significantly slowed down. I would recommend Altered Carbon to fans of science fiction, especially those who enjoy cyberpunk genres. If you liked Blade Runner, this book is definitely for you. It's also a great pick for anyone interested in reading a book about science fiction wrapped in a thrilling, action-packed narrative. I give this book a three out of five.