The Downloaded - 2nd Edition by Robert J Sawyer (Paperback)

About the Book

Astronauts and prisoners uploaded separately into a quantum computer must download back into physical reality and find a way to work together to save Earth, in the 25th novel by Canada's top science fiction and fantasy writer.

Book Synopsis

The new novel by Canada's top Science Fiction writer

In 2059 two very different groups have their minds uploaded into a quantum computer in Waterloo, Ontario.

One group consists of astronauts preparing for Earth's first interstellar voyage. The other? Convicted murderers, serving their sentences in a virtual-reality prison.

But when disaster strikes, the astronauts and the prisoners must download back into physical reality and find a way to work together to save Earth from destruction.

The Downloaded debuted in a six-month exclusive window as an Audible Original narrated by Academy Award-winner Brendan Fraser promoted by national TV and radio ad campaigns. This print edition is coming out immediately after Audible's exclusivity ends and is being supported by a six-city cross-Canada author book tour.

Review Quotes

"Hope wins out in this triumph of a postapocalyptic tale from Hugo and Nebula award winner Sawyer . . . Sawyer keeps the stakes climbing ever higher as he toggles between the perspectives of his disparate cast. A smattering of droll humor breaks up the gloom and plot twists aplenty keep the pages flying. Sci-fi fans will eat this up." - Publishers Weekly (Starred Review)

"The Downloaded absolutely sizzles with fascinating ideas. You want space travel, a ruined Earth, virtual worlds, a cast of relatable characters, and a glimpse into the labyrinth of human destiny? Look no further: this book has all that and more." --Robert Charles Wilson, Hugo Award-winning author of Spin

"The Downloaded is a wonderful demonstration of Sawyer's deep understanding of -- and compassion for -- people, regardless who or what they are, or even what they have done. It's a rare and potent humanity that elevates his work high above the rest." --Julie E. Czerneda, Aurora Award-winning author of To Each This World

"In The Downloaded, Sawyer proves he's not just a master at using science fiction to address social issues but also a master at portraying diverse characters." --James Alan Gardner, Theodore Sturgeon Award-winning author of Commitment Hour

"The Downloaded is a wicked-smart thrill ride from start to finish. I loved it." --Sylvain Neuvel, bestselling author of A History of What Comes Next

"One of the best SF novels I've read in years." --Allen Steele, Hugo Award-winning author of Coyote