Review of Anticipation Day

Post by **Laney K** » 04 May 2025, 10:41

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Anticipation Day" by Jeff Michelson.]

4 out of 5 stars

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Anticipation Day by Jeff Michelson takes readers to the near future, where simulations can place you into a character's body in any setting. While in reality only around seven hours pass, it can seem as though any amount of time, from a day to an entire year, has passed in the simulation. The government hopes to use these simulations as a way to motivate the population. You need to maintain a job, attend health screenings, and keep out of legal trouble to be allowed to participate. The novel follows a group of friends as they participate in the simulations. Will this be the peaceful vacation that many of them need, or is it something more sinister than it appears?

I thought the concept of the book was fascinating. The advances in technology and the rise of virtual reality make the future presented in Anticipation Day seem plausible. I enjoy science fiction novels that are set in the near future. Having a simulation that can take you anywhere, while perhaps scary to think about, does not seem far-fetched.

I also thought that Michelson did an excellent job bringing the characters to life. For example, through Alexandra's simulation, the depth of her stress is revealed. She chose to live as a single, 30-year-old woman who was vacationing in Brazil. Leaving behind her kids, marriage issues, and an alcoholic husband, she was able to escape to a beach vacation. As she made choices, it was clear how unhappy she was in reality. I thought that each character was well-developed, and their simulations were well-tailored to help them face a major issue in their lives.

The only part I disliked was the ending. It felt rushed. Given the space and detail each of the other sections received, I was surprised at how quickly the book wrapped up. The book was already rather lengthy, but I feel the ending could have been expanded upon more.

I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars. The book did contain a few errors, and I thought the ending was too abrupt. These factors both led to taking a star off the rating. Otherwise, this was an engaging novel. It would appeal to those who enjoy diving into multiple characters and seeing the potential of technology in the future. Those who are sensitive to strong language, sexual content, or discussions of substance abuse may want to avoid this book. Otherwise, dive into the world of Anticipation Day and see where the simulations could take you!

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Anticipation Day
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Yasmeen Arsh · Post by **Yasmeen Arsh** » 18 May 2025, 07:39

This book cleared out a solid impression on me, fundamentally since of its enthusiastic profundity and the astute way it handles complex topics. What I enjoyed most was how it utilized a theoretical, cutting edge concept not fair for exhibition, but as a way to investigate human feeling, memory, and lament. The composing is distinctive and frequently very expressive, particularly in how it depicts the inward lives of the characters. The creator clearly put a part of care into creating people who feel genuine, with trustworthy battles and calm minutes of reflection. It's a slow-burning, contemplative story, and I acknowledged its reflective tone.

What didn't work as well for me was the pacing. The novel takes its time building up, and at times, it felt like it waited as well long on backstory or inside monolog. Whereas this included profundity, it too made the early parts of the book feel a bit drowsy. I found myself wishing the plot would move forward more rapidly, particularly since the central concept is so interesting. A more tightly structure might have made a difference keep up a more grounded sense of force.

Still, the generally encounter was fulfilling. The philosophical questions it raises—about how much control we ought to have over our recollections and feelings, and what it implies to genuinely stand up to ourselves—stayed with me long after I wrapped up perusing. It's one of those books that welcomes thought and discourse without being preachy or heavy-handed.

I too acknowledged how the story didn't depend on activity or show to form its point. Instep, it trusted the passionate genuineness of its characters and the calm pressure of their choices. That restriction made the more effective minutes hit even harder.

Within the conclusion, whereas the book seem have profited from a few altering to progress the pacing, I found it to be a unique and meaningful perused. It's not for everyone—especially those trying to find fast-moving sci-fi—but for perusers who appreciate character-driven stories with a philosophical center, it offers a part to reflect on.

Hills Christopher Albert · Post by **Hills Christopher Albert** » 25 May 2025, 11:26

This review makes me even more curious about Anticipation Day! I love sci-fi that explores realistic future tech, and it sounds like the character development is really strong. A rushed ending is disappointing, but the concept still sounds too intriguing to pass up!

NetMassimo · Post by **NetMassimo** » 25 May 2025, 16:20

I bought the book after discovering that it will be the June Book of the Month, as I found its basic concept intriguing. The idea of using simulations to improve people's mental health to the point that the US government sponsors its use has various ramifications. In the end, the story is about the human protagonists with their problems, their personal struggles, and their reactions to living the simulations. Thank you for your great review!

Post by **Rebecca De Figueiredo** » 01 Jun 2025, 06:34

I agree with the reviewer, the plot is fascinating, and by the looks of the first few pages, it definitely has an inviting feel. I haven’t read till the end yet… so I’ll see if I agree with the reviewer on that count.

Chi Chiu Michael Mak · Post by **Chi Chiu Michael Mak** » 01 Jun 2025, 06:54

I am seeing a character arc where someone (like Alexandra) chooses to escape or avoid their problems in real life via a simulation, but then, they gradually realise they are not getting better. Anticipation Day hooked me in at the very beginning. It also makes me reflect on the implications of virtual/augmented reality towards our society.

VARUNH · Post by **VARUNH** » 01 Jun 2025, 07:07

Okay, so I just finished "Anticipation Day." It's definitely got a unique premise, this idea of a government-sponsored simulation day. I found myself really invested in the characters and their individual experiences within the simulations. It makes you think about what you'd choose and why. The writing is solid, and it kept me turning the pages. While the ending felt a little quick, overall, it was a thought-provoking and engaging read. I'd recommend it if you're looking for something a bit different.

Bokamoso Mogopole · Post by **Bokamoso Mogopole** » 01 Jun 2025, 07:22

Ok,i just finished reading "Anticipation day" the title itself is eye catching and i love the way the writer used emotions on characters,like to me its thoughtful and gives an idea of even though u are pressurerized you still need to have a room for calmness...i imagined it so well while reading and its fantastic,the endinh is rushed though.

Post by **Sushan Ekanayake** » 01 Jun 2025, 08:01

What if escaping your problems meant living a whole year in a virtual world—in just 7 hours? "Anticipation Day" by Jeff Michelson explores a near-future where simulations offer freedom… but at what cost? A gripping sci-fi tale about tech, escape, and truth. Congratulations on being BOTD!

Love Ukaegbu · Post by **Love Ukaegbu** » 01 Jun 2025, 08:05

This book, Anticipation Day" by Jeff Michelson, seems like an interesting dystopian book. I like the plot, but I doubt this will be a peaceful vacation, as long as the government is involved. Congratulations on the book of the day.

tarafarah7 · Post by **tarafarah7** » 01 Jun 2025, 08:22

Today’s BOTD is a thought-provoking sci-fi read that follows a group of friends who get the opportunity to escape their daily lives once a year through an immersive simulation experience. Readers who enjoy novels set in the near-future that explore themes of identity and meaning will love this one! Thank you so much for your engaging review!

Post by **Sarah Zain** » 01 Jun 2025, 08:33

A carefully written review that also illustrates the aspects of the book well.
Imagine a near-realistic simulation and how we can use it to escape from reality. The story of the book is like a near future . What would we do if we could change reality even for just a day, and live in virtual world? It's interesting. I think the book will be a good read. Congrats on BOTD

Post by **Mr Benj** » 01 Jun 2025, 08:41

Anticipation Day" by Jeff Michelson, a book that features time, simul

Post by **Rupali Mishra** » 01 Jun 2025, 08:42

Congrats on BOTD!
Jeff Michelson's "Anticipation Day" examines a near future in which simulations provide liberty, a compelling science fiction story about technology, freedom, and reality. Imagine spending an entire year in a virtual environment was the only way to escape your troubles.

Post by **Mr Benj** » 01 Jun 2025, 08:42

Anticipation Day" by Jeff Michelson, a book that features time, simulation, and the government. It will be interesting to read about the various issues in the story and the group of friends with their encounters.