Written in 1997 but published only in 2005 in France, the theme of this novel is always topical and burning its relative seniority should certainly not curb the potential reader. Sort of "1984" consumerist version of a critique of consumerism society pushed to the absurd. A scary version while remaining accessible, what could quickly become the human being; Human unable to dispose of its consumer impulses and become totally prisoner. The purpose is strong, the slow but entertaining story, credible and timeless, the style is both modern and delightfully quaint. A different reading experience, who do not eyeful and sobering. Lovegrove is a real storyteller in modern times.