In a near-future where quantum computing has unlocked the doors to alternate realities, "Parallel" introduces Anna, a software engineer whose life is steeped in monotony and unfulfilled dreams. When a revolutionary new VR system called Parallel Lives VR hits the market, it offers users not just an escape, but a chance to experience their lives had they made different choices.
As Anna dives deeper into her alternate realities—becoming everything from a celebrated writer in Paris to a powerful tech CEO—she finds the line between her real life and her parallel lives blurring. Artifacts from her virtual experiences begin appearing in her actual life, revealing a disturbing overlap. The thrill of escapism quickly turns into a haunting nightmare as Anna discovers that the VR system does not simulate these realities but accesses actual parallel universes. Each choice she makes in the VR affects not only her, but her other selves in these interconnected worlds.
Faced with the ethical dilemma of her actions affecting realities beyond her own, Anna must decide how far she's willing to go for a taste of the life she’s always wanted. "Parallel" is a gripping tale that explores the consequences of our choices and the seductive power of technology.
Genre: Science Fiction
As Anna dives deeper into her alternate realities—becoming everything from a celebrated writer in Paris to a powerful tech CEO—she finds the line between her real life and her parallel lives blurring. Artifacts from her virtual experiences begin appearing in her actual life, revealing a disturbing overlap. The thrill of escapism quickly turns into a haunting nightmare as Anna discovers that the VR system does not simulate these realities but accesses actual parallel universes. Each choice she makes in the VR affects not only her, but her other selves in these interconnected worlds.
Faced with the ethical dilemma of her actions affecting realities beyond her own, Anna must decide how far she's willing to go for a taste of the life she’s always wanted. "Parallel" is a gripping tale that explores the consequences of our choices and the seductive power of technology.
Genre: Science Fiction
Used availability for Justin Greathouse's Parallel