"Glasshouse" is a science fiction novel by Charles Stross that explores themes of identity, memory, and social constructs in a future society. The story is set in a post-apocalyptic world where the protagonist, a man named Reeve, willingly undergoes an extreme form of identity alteration to escape a war-torn environment. He joins a project designed to simulate life in a historical period, reminiscent of the 21st century, to understand the complexities of human behavior and societal norms. However, he soon discovers that the reality he is experiencing is fraught with danger and deception.
The narrative delves into Reeve's struggles as he navigates the intricacies of his new environment while grappling with his past. The book raises questions about the essence of self and how memories shape our identities. As Reeve interacts with other participants in the simulation, he becomes embroiled in a web of intrigue and conflicting motivations, highlighting the fragility of truth in a world where reality can be manipulated.