Jilly Gagnon's What If It's You? is a captivating exploration of the age-old question: "What if?" Through the lens of speculative fiction, Gagnon crafts a narrative that is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant, inviting readers to ponder the complexities of choice, fate, and the paths not taken.

The premise of the novel is immediately intriguing. Laurel Everett, the protagonist, finds herself at a crossroads when she discovers an engagement ring hidden in her boyfriend Ollie's sock drawer. Instead of feeling elated, she is haunted by the specter of a past decision: what if she had accepted a date with her work crush, Drew, before she and Ollie became serious? This question sets the stage for a journey through alternate realities, facilitated by the AltR project at her workplace, Pixel. The project, still in its experimental phase, promises glimpses into alternate realities, hinging on the burgeoning power of quantum computing.

Gagnon deftly uses this speculative technology as a narrative device to explore deeper themes of identity and self-discovery. As Laurel navigates between her life with Ollie and an alternate existence with Drew, the novel delves into the nuances of happiness and fulfillment. The transitions between these realities are seamless yet jarring, reflecting the tumultuous nature of Laurel's internal conflict. The author skillfully portrays Laurel's growing horror and fascination as she slips between worlds, creating a palpable tension that keeps readers engaged.

One of the novel's strengths lies in its character development. Laurel is a well-rounded protagonist whose journey is both relatable and compelling. Her indecision and introspection are portrayed with authenticity, capturing the essence of a woman torn between two potential futures. Gagnon does not shy away from depicting Laurel's flaws, making her a more realistic and empathetic character. The supporting characters, particularly Ollie and Drew, are also well-developed, each representing different facets of love and companionship. Ollie embodies stability and familiarity, while Drew represents excitement and the allure of the unknown.

The novel's exploration of alternate realities serves as a metaphor for the choices we make in life and the potential consequences of those choices. Gagnon raises poignant questions about the nature of happiness and whether it is determined by external circumstances or internal contentment. As Laurel grapples with her dual lives, she is forced to confront her own desires and fears, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of herself.

Gagnon's writing is both engaging and accessible, with a narrative style that balances humor and introspection. The dialogue is sharp and realistic, adding depth to the characters and their interactions. The pacing of the novel is well-executed, with the alternating realities creating a sense of urgency and unpredictability. The stakes are high, as Laurel's continued oscillation between worlds threatens her very existence, adding a layer of suspense to the narrative.

In comparison to other works in the genre, What If It's You? stands out for its unique blend of romance and speculative fiction. While it shares thematic similarities with novels like Blake Crouch's Dark Matter, which also explores alternate realities and the impact of choices, Gagnon's novel is distinguished by its focus on personal relationships and emotional depth. The romantic elements are woven seamlessly into the speculative framework, creating a story that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally satisfying.

The novel also invites comparisons to films like Sliding Doors, which similarly explores the concept of parallel lives and the impact of seemingly small decisions. However, Gagnon's approach is more nuanced, delving into the psychological and emotional ramifications of living multiple lives. The result is a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, encouraging readers to reflect on their own lives and the choices that define them.

Overall, What If It's You? is a compelling and imaginative novel that offers a fresh perspective on the concept of alternate realities. Jilly Gagnon has crafted a story that is both entertaining and meaningful, with well-developed characters and a narrative that resonates on multiple levels. Whether you're a fan of speculative fiction or romance, this novel is sure to captivate and inspire, leaving you pondering the "what ifs" in your own life long after you've turned the final page.

For those interested in exploring this intriguing narrative, you can find What If It's You? on popular platforms like GoodReads or Amazon.