How does ''The Peripheral'' explore the idea of parallel universes?

William Gibson's 2014 novel ''The Peripheral'' explores the concept of parallel universes through a complex and fascinating plot that spans multiple timelines and realities.

In the novel, we are introduced to a world in which the rich and powerful have access to a technology that allows them to communicate with and manipulate events in parallel universes. This technology creates a web of intersecting timelines and alternate realities, where the consequences of actions in one world can have far-reaching effects on others.

The story centers around a woman named Flynne Fisher, who lives in a small town in rural America. Flynne's brother, a veteran who suffers from PTSD, works as a beta tester for a mysterious new virtual reality game. When he is injured and unable to work, Flynne takes his place in the game and finds herself embroiled in a world of high-stakes intrigue and danger.

As Flynne becomes more involved in the game, she discovers that it is not just a game, but a tool used by powerful people in different realities to manipulate events in her world and others. The novel explores themes of power, control, and the nature of reality itself.