Girlfriend on Mars

Girlfriend on Mars is a novel about a couple who grow weed in their basement in Vancouver and when the girlfriend is selected for a reality show to compete for a seat on the first human-led mission to Mars, the relationship is tested.

Format: Hardback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 06 July 2023
Publisher: Profile Books Ltd

In the novel "Girlfriend on Mars," author Bobby Palmer takes readers on a captivating journey through a futuristic world where love, reality, and technology intertwine in unexpected ways. The story revolves around Kevin, a thirtysomething homebody who is happily committed to his girlfriend, Amber, an expert in hydroponics. Together, they cultivate weed in their basement in Vancouver, living a peaceful and uncomplicated life. However, everything changes when Amber receives an unexpected invitation: she has been selected for a reality show that offers the chance of a lifetime—to compete for one of two seats on the first human-led mission to Mars.

At first, Kevin is hesitant and skeptical about Amber's decision. He questions whether it is a suicide mission or a bold new frontier. As Amber prepares for the show, which takes place in a remote and isolated location on Mars, Kevin becomes increasingly fascinated by the idea of her being on the other side of the planet. He watches the reality TV show, where viewers vote for their favorite contestant to stay on the show, and he receives crates of Mars-mission branded protein shakes as gifts.

As the reality show progresses, Kevin's relationship with Amber begins to unravel. He starts to doubt her commitment to their relationship and wonders if she is truly in love with him or if she is just playing a game for the cameras. He becomes increasingly isolated and detached from his own life, spending most of his time in the basement, growing weed and watching the show.

Meanwhile, on Mars, Amber faces challenges and obstacles that test her physical and emotional resilience. She must navigate a world where truth is dictated by Facebook ads and reality TV is as scripted as any politician's speech. She must also contend with the pressure of the viewers, who are rooting for her to stay on the show and who are sending her crates of protein shakes as a show of support.

As the novel reaches its climax, Kevin must confront his own demons and decide whether to follow Amber to Mars or stay behind on Earth. He must also come to terms with the reality that his relationship with Amber has been irrevocably altered by the reality show and the distance that has grown between them.

"Girlfriend on Mars" is a thought-provoking and entertaining novel that explores the complexities of love, reality, and technology in a world where everything is possible. With its sharp writing, captivating characters, and intriguing premise, the book has already gained a loyal following among readers and has been longlisted for the prestigious 2023 ScotiaBank Giller Prize. Whether you are a fan of science fiction, romance, or social commentary, this book is sure to leave you thinking and reflecting long after you have turned the last page.

Weight: 478g
Dimension: 145 x 223 x 36 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800817579
Edition number: Main