I am becoming more invested with the characters through the effective expression of their individual voices. This is not an easy task to separate the beliefs, thought processes and figures of speech of the author, or even the narrator, from those of the characters in the story. Marshall and Penelope are slowly revealing their desires, beliefs and motivation through their unique interactions with others. The conversations are natural and true to character.

For Marshall I’m seeing a recurring theme of food as a form of expression or freedom. Our preferences for certain foods or methods of preparation are diverse and can reveal as much about us as our favorite songs or movies. Penelope seems to be mostly raging against the machine; I’m just waiting to see the catalyst that will provide her with direction.

Marshall and Penelope, like most of us, are searching for meaning between DoB and DoD. Marshall seems more resigned to his fate, maybe focusing on the ludicrous nature of his existence, but there is a hint that the answer might be in the simpler pleasures like a well prepared meal.

Penelope expects more than the path that has been laid out for her. I expect more risk taking to test the boundaries. I’m not clear on the variables in play in the universe of The Experiment.  The speeding red car reveals the limitations predicting DoD as they relate to accidents, but what if an individual choses a deliberately destructive path, both for themselves and for others?

This is just my observation, but when we are looking at a finished product, like the journal entries, we need to infer the thought process and intent at the time of its creation. I would like to be in the room as Marshall is mulling over his entry--I can imagine him bouncing his ideas off of Toby, who is obviously his most trusted friend. This interaction would provide the reader with insight into their relationship.

The rules of The Experiment remind me of Asimov’s Three Laws of Robotics laid out in his I, Robot series. I think it’s important to define the laws of your alternate universe, but I feel it could be tightened up a bit, and I can anticipate some difficulty maintaining the integrity and/or logic of The Experiment.

I like the Penelope character, especially her spontaneity and willingness to risk her life for the old woman. It is easy for the reader to care about her.