*Lifers* by **J. P. McLean** is a thrilling and thought-provoking work of speculative fiction that takes a daring look at the consequences of humanity's quest for longevity. Set in the year 2050, the novel explores the aftermath of a radical genetic breakthrough—the "Methuselah gene"—that dramatically extends human life. What begins as a scientific marvel quickly spirals into a global crisis, as populations explode, social structures collapse, and ageism reaches an unprecedented, lethal level.

The story is anchored by Zinn, the creator of the Methuselah gene, who is now on the run from the fallout of his invention. Hunted by Adele, a CIA biowarfare specialist, Zinn’s race to contain the damage before it’s too late forms the novel's gripping core. Adele is a fascinating character, haunted by her past and driven by her determination to find a cure. She is pitted against a society unraveling at the seams, where the generational divide grows ever wider.

The novel's multiple perspectives—from the anti-aging government agency led by Adele's former lover, Dan Altman, and his wife Marion, to their son Nolan’s controversial “death wish algorithm”—add layers of complexity and tension. Nolan's creation, a suicide pill that targets the super-aged, presents a chillingly practical solution to the problem of immortality, while his daughter Claire emerges as a leader of the anti-lifer movement, fighting for a world where the elderly are no longer seen as a burden.

McLean deftly blends action and social commentary, creating a narrative that feels like a fast-paced cautionary tale while also offering a pointed critique of contemporary issues such as ageism, the fear of death, and the shifting power dynamics between generations. The novel’s speculative elements are grounded in a stark, believable reality, making its examination of mortality and societal inequities all the more unsettling.

What makes *Lifers* particularly compelling is its exploration of the social and political consequences of unchecked longevity. As the aging population grows, the divide between the "lifers" and the younger generations deepens, leading to resentment, conflict, and violent backlash. McLean’s exploration of this age-based inequality adds a deeply relevant layer to the narrative, making it a powerful commentary on our current societal attitudes toward aging and the elderly.

The novel’s satire is sharp and timely, presenting a world where the drive for eternal life not only strains the social fabric but challenges our very understanding of what it means to live a full life. Through the complex relationships between characters like Zinn, Adele, Dan, Marion, Nolan, and Claire, McLean examines the bonds of loyalty, love, and the darker impulses that arise when faced with the knowledge that immortality is within our grasp—but at a terrible cost.

Fast-paced, intense, and filled with moments of profound emotional depth, *Lifers* is a stunning work of speculative fiction that will leave readers questioning the implications of humanity's obsession with longevity. It’s perfect for fans of dystopian fiction, social commentary, and political thrillers, offering a chilling look at a future where ageism, mortality, and the fear of endless life collide. McLean’s novel is not just a gripping read; it’s a poignant reminder of the price we might pay for our desire to live forever.

I love the way science fiction can help us examine our lives and think critically, and this author makes effective use of this part of the genre. I enjoyed this book as a literary escape and as a speculative way of thinking about now and the future.

A wild blend of sci-fi, speculative fiction, thriller, and then – what it really means to be human, with a hefty dose of futuristic visions – made to make you look back at who you are now and who you used to be.

I really loved this under the radar, speculative fiction / biomedical thriller focusing on ageism and genetics after “the Methuselah gene” causes a longevity plague.

i was really interested about the premise of this book and i enjoyed my time with it. it felt nice to pick up a sci-fi book like this after some time. i enjoyed both the writing and the pacing. can’t deny the fact that it was a little weird to read about the pandemic in a book

A very interesting and fascinating thought experiment which answers the question: what happens when people stop dying.
It talks about all the ways this would impact our lives and how people go about their life. We follow a group of people who are all connected throughout the story, as they go through the new status quo. 4/5 stars

Well written thriller that could use slightly more editing but the pacing was well done and the concept unique. I enjoyed the book and would read more from the author.

Keith G. McWalter wrote this perfectly, it had everything that I was hoping for and enjoyed what I read.This was a beautifully done scifi novel, it uses everything that I was hoping for and enjoyed the way the story unfolded. The characters had that overall feel that I wanted and enjoyed the way they used the satire element to the advantage.

Very interesting futuristic read full of philosophical thoughts and what-ifs! It'll definitely make you think deeply and take a look at your own life/where you want to go.