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Мемория
Русскоязычная версия романа "Мемория. Корпорация лжи" Алексея Бобла, опубликованного издательством "Астрель" в серии ЗОНА ТАЙНЫ зимой 2012 года.
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First published February 29, 2012
127 people are currently reading
684 people want to read
About the author
Alex Bobl
25 books47 followersAuthor's FB pages:
https://www.facebook.com/alexbobl
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Alex (Aleksei) Bobl is a science fiction writer, author of 13 novels. An ex-paratrooper, he used his military knowledge and experience to write his debut novels for S.T.A.L.K.E.R., a bestselling science fiction action adventure series set in a post-apocalyptic Chernobyl.
Alex started writing in 2007 when he joined Russia's biggest writing community Samizdat. He submitted his first stories to several online writing contests at the same time as he discovered the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. game. He then came up with his first original story featuring military stalkers.
At Samizdat, Alex met Andrei Levitski. Together, they co-authored The Zone Warriors, Alex's first novel for the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. series. However, due to marketing considerations, his byline didn't appear on the book. In the process of novel research, the two co-authors visited the Chernobyl nuclear power station and traveled across the entire Exclusion Zone, witnessing many deserted towns and villages, including the ill-fated towns of Chernobyl and Prypiat. In 2009, Alex published his second novel, A Quantum Bullet, featuring the adventures of two military stalkers, Labus and Camper.
The same year Alex and Andrei came up with a new eight-novel project. Entitled TechnoTma ("tma" meaning "darkness" in Russian), it depicts a post-apocalyptic world after The Peril. The first novel to come out was Password Eternity, followed by The Wastelands Clans, Barbarians of the Crimea, Jager and The Sand Blues. After that, Andrei Levitski started working on a sequel to The Wastelands Clans, while Alex Bobl wrote the final books of the series, The Fall of the Skies and The Last Battle, where all the protagonists unite in order to confront the enemy and get to the roots of The Peril.
After that, the two co-authors continued working together, writing a novella for a TechnoTma anthology The Wastelands Legends, out in April 2012. And a month later, the German release of TechnoTma followed. The eight books of TechnoTma had a total print run of over 250,000 copies and have been translated into German and Spanish. Talks are now under way about translating TechnoTma into English.
Alex's next project, a standalone novel Memoria. A Corporation of Lies, came out in February 2012 to controversial reviews. A SF action thriller dramatically different from his earlier works, it tells the story of a lone fighter who challenges the power-grabbing plans of an international corporation capable of erasing people's memories. After that he wrote novel Point Apocalypse - a sci-fi action adventure set in the near future.
Alex now is a literary agent. He lives in Moscow with his wife and two boys.
https://www.facebook.com/alexbobl
https://www.facebook.com/Alex.Bobl.fans
Alex (Aleksei) Bobl is a science fiction writer, author of 13 novels. An ex-paratrooper, he used his military knowledge and experience to write his debut novels for S.T.A.L.K.E.R., a bestselling science fiction action adventure series set in a post-apocalyptic Chernobyl.
Alex started writing in 2007 when he joined Russia's biggest writing community Samizdat. He submitted his first stories to several online writing contests at the same time as he discovered the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. game. He then came up with his first original story featuring military stalkers.
At Samizdat, Alex met Andrei Levitski. Together, they co-authored The Zone Warriors, Alex's first novel for the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. series. However, due to marketing considerations, his byline didn't appear on the book. In the process of novel research, the two co-authors visited the Chernobyl nuclear power station and traveled across the entire Exclusion Zone, witnessing many deserted towns and villages, including the ill-fated towns of Chernobyl and Prypiat. In 2009, Alex published his second novel, A Quantum Bullet, featuring the adventures of two military stalkers, Labus and Camper.
The same year Alex and Andrei came up with a new eight-novel project. Entitled TechnoTma ("tma" meaning "darkness" in Russian), it depicts a post-apocalyptic world after The Peril. The first novel to come out was Password Eternity, followed by The Wastelands Clans, Barbarians of the Crimea, Jager and The Sand Blues. After that, Andrei Levitski started working on a sequel to The Wastelands Clans, while Alex Bobl wrote the final books of the series, The Fall of the Skies and The Last Battle, where all the protagonists unite in order to confront the enemy and get to the roots of The Peril.
After that, the two co-authors continued working together, writing a novella for a TechnoTma anthology The Wastelands Legends, out in April 2012. And a month later, the German release of TechnoTma followed. The eight books of TechnoTma had a total print run of over 250,000 copies and have been translated into German and Spanish. Talks are now under way about translating TechnoTma into English.
Alex's next project, a standalone novel Memoria. A Corporation of Lies, came out in February 2012 to controversial reviews. A SF action thriller dramatically different from his earlier works, it tells the story of a lone fighter who challenges the power-grabbing plans of an international corporation capable of erasing people's memories. After that he wrote novel Point Apocalypse - a sci-fi action adventure set in the near future.
Alex now is a literary agent. He lives in Moscow with his wife and two boys.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
August 30, 2012
I got this book for free, from Making Connections,in exchange of an honest review. Get your copy here.
For some reason, I found it hard to read the first few pages of this book. I followed Frank’s journey from the airport, the phone call to Kathleen and his conversation with the cab driver, without much interest. Then he got to the apartment and bam! Everything changed. The story became a whirlwind and the action never stopped.
I also liked that the author didn’t try to force a romance on us-between Frank and Maggie. Frank liked her but that was it.
A few issues that I had:
I never connected with Frank– I liked Max and Barney much better than I liked the MC.
There wasn’t enough world building-the migrants were one topic that I would have loved to know more about.
For some reason, I found it hard to read the first few pages of this book. I followed Frank’s journey from the airport, the phone call to Kathleen and his conversation with the cab driver, without much interest. Then he got to the apartment and bam! Everything changed. The story became a whirlwind and the action never stopped.
I also liked that the author didn’t try to force a romance on us-between Frank and Maggie. Frank liked her but that was it.
A few issues that I had:
I never connected with Frank– I liked Max and Barney much better than I liked the MC.
There wasn’t enough world building-the migrants were one topic that I would have loved to know more about.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 1, 2016
Executive Summary: Descent thriller story with a sci-fi setting.
Full Review
I came across this book via a self-promotion in Sword & Laser. This is the only thing I have read by the author. From what I read, I think this might be the first novel he's written in English. For the most part it wasn't noticeable. Some phrases struck me as a bit odd, but not much beyond that.
As this is a fairly short novel (at least by my standards), you don't get a depth into the characters, but there is enough there that they don't feel flat. I found myself rooting for the main character Frank, and hoping he would manage his way out the predicament he found himself in.
The story is really more thriller than sci-fi, but there is a sci-fi setting that serves as the vehicle for the plot.
Overall, I enjoyed the book. It was a fairly quick read to hold me while waiting for Cold Days to come out on Tuesday. It came to a satisfying enough conclusion, though it seems like from the epilogue however, that Mr. Bobl may be setting it up for the possibility of a sequel.
Full Review
I came across this book via a self-promotion in Sword & Laser. This is the only thing I have read by the author. From what I read, I think this might be the first novel he's written in English. For the most part it wasn't noticeable. Some phrases struck me as a bit odd, but not much beyond that.
As this is a fairly short novel (at least by my standards), you don't get a depth into the characters, but there is enough there that they don't feel flat. I found myself rooting for the main character Frank, and hoping he would manage his way out the predicament he found himself in.
The story is really more thriller than sci-fi, but there is a sci-fi setting that serves as the vehicle for the plot.
Overall, I enjoyed the book. It was a fairly quick read to hold me while waiting for Cold Days to come out on Tuesday. It came to a satisfying enough conclusion, though it seems like from the epilogue however, that Mr. Bobl may be setting it up for the possibility of a sequel.
June 28, 2012
This noir take on a dystopian USA will appeal to all those who take today's technological advances seriously enough. Imagine a perfect state where even a serial killer can be turned into a cute and cuddly law-abiding citizen, thanks to the obligatory memory cleanse. Imagine a government that claims it can make everyone happy in a crime-free New York, safe in the care of the almighty Memoria corporation.
Not so crime-free, apparently, otherwise who would want to kill off one of Memoria's top neuroscientists? And what's Frank Shelby got to do with it, a quiet law-abiding citizen who's long forgotten his teenage fighting classes and who is now accused of the murder? The last thing he needs is a dystopian nightmare on his head, but that's what he gets when he ventures into the can of worms called Memoria's HQ.
Not so crime-free, apparently, otherwise who would want to kill off one of Memoria's top neuroscientists? And what's Frank Shelby got to do with it, a quiet law-abiding citizen who's long forgotten his teenage fighting classes and who is now accused of the murder? The last thing he needs is a dystopian nightmare on his head, but that's what he gets when he ventures into the can of worms called Memoria's HQ.
May 31, 2013
I received a free e-copy of this work from the author on GR - below is my honest review
I rate it 4/5 for the way the suspense was handled, 3.5/5 overall.
A formidable sci-fi thriller, Alex Bobl gets it right. His world is a dystopian future New York, run by the mega-corporation Memoria that helps its citizens erase traumatic memories and thus live happily - what more could one want? But under the carpet, this city is grappling with the consequences of the vicious intersections of power and technology. Memoria is about to start the Vaccination program. But what is its agenda? How will it change the world that already has no memory of its own? Who are involved in this mysterious affair?
Fast-paced, thrilling and well-written, this novel explores the ramifications of the abuse of technology in powerful hands. Without being sentimental, nostalgic or melodramatic, it probes through the course of events what it means to be human and how memories build up our sense of reality, integrity and ethics – and consequently, how manipulated memories can erase an entire history and construct a new reality for its subjects. A reality where people are controlled through chemically embedded memories that are not their own.
Kathleen Baker is murdered. Frank Shelby is accused of it. And then there are the migrants – a whole sprawling community, a “lower” class of people that provides New York its food, electricity and water supply, thus balancing the power status quo with immensely powerful corporation of Memoria and ensuring its own survival in the deal.
The characters are believable – but it is not a story about its protagonists, but action-packed ruminations about the nature of technology that humans are intelligent enough to invent but not wise enough to handle. It explores the deadly combination of power and technology, where the desire to control supersedes the desire to remain humane.
Thought-provoking, intense and well-crafted, this novel does exactly what is expected of science-fiction – question what it means to be human and explore the ramifications of misuse of science on human lives. It lives up to Isaac Asimov’s observation about the nature of the two – “The saddest aspect of life right now is that science gathers knowledge faster than society gathers wisdom.”
The only drawbacks - a few loopholes and a rather abrupt, unsatisfactory end - a more polished, drawn out end would have raised the stature of this strong work even higher.
The descriptions are very apt - brevity of dialogues, an evocative, crisp narration and an exceptionally well-maintained suspense are the highlights of this novel. Also the noteworthy absence of romance and sexism usually present in thriller novels - although it is not feminist in any sense, it does not prick a feminist reader's conscience.
Overall, it is a good read - not literary, but thought--provoking, and a treat for readers who like a mix of intellectual stimulation and action bereft of heady romantic vows in the midst of fatal gunfire.
However, it is only for those who love thrillers and its fast-paced narratives. Purely literature-oriented people may well complain rightly so.
I rate it 4/5 for the way the suspense was handled, 3.5/5 overall.
A formidable sci-fi thriller, Alex Bobl gets it right. His world is a dystopian future New York, run by the mega-corporation Memoria that helps its citizens erase traumatic memories and thus live happily - what more could one want? But under the carpet, this city is grappling with the consequences of the vicious intersections of power and technology. Memoria is about to start the Vaccination program. But what is its agenda? How will it change the world that already has no memory of its own? Who are involved in this mysterious affair?
Fast-paced, thrilling and well-written, this novel explores the ramifications of the abuse of technology in powerful hands. Without being sentimental, nostalgic or melodramatic, it probes through the course of events what it means to be human and how memories build up our sense of reality, integrity and ethics – and consequently, how manipulated memories can erase an entire history and construct a new reality for its subjects. A reality where people are controlled through chemically embedded memories that are not their own.
Kathleen Baker is murdered. Frank Shelby is accused of it. And then there are the migrants – a whole sprawling community, a “lower” class of people that provides New York its food, electricity and water supply, thus balancing the power status quo with immensely powerful corporation of Memoria and ensuring its own survival in the deal.
The characters are believable – but it is not a story about its protagonists, but action-packed ruminations about the nature of technology that humans are intelligent enough to invent but not wise enough to handle. It explores the deadly combination of power and technology, where the desire to control supersedes the desire to remain humane.
Thought-provoking, intense and well-crafted, this novel does exactly what is expected of science-fiction – question what it means to be human and explore the ramifications of misuse of science on human lives. It lives up to Isaac Asimov’s observation about the nature of the two – “The saddest aspect of life right now is that science gathers knowledge faster than society gathers wisdom.”
The only drawbacks - a few loopholes and a rather abrupt, unsatisfactory end - a more polished, drawn out end would have raised the stature of this strong work even higher.
The descriptions are very apt - brevity of dialogues, an evocative, crisp narration and an exceptionally well-maintained suspense are the highlights of this novel. Also the noteworthy absence of romance and sexism usually present in thriller novels - although it is not feminist in any sense, it does not prick a feminist reader's conscience.
Overall, it is a good read - not literary, but thought--provoking, and a treat for readers who like a mix of intellectual stimulation and action bereft of heady romantic vows in the midst of fatal gunfire.
However, it is only for those who love thrillers and its fast-paced narratives. Purely literature-oriented people may well complain rightly so.
July 31, 2012
In the burned out, bombed out New York City of the future, Frank Shelby is accused of the murder of a woman he knows only as Kathleen. So begins his odyssey in a post-apocalyptic world where the Memoria Corporation offers a cure for all your ills by erasing memories of unpleasant things.
A big plan called the Vaccination is in the offing and Memoria is offering it free of charge as an introductory incentive. But what is it really? And how is a United States Congressman, who is also a board member of Memoria involved? What will Frank Shelby do to clear himself of trumped up charges? Is there anything he can do in the face of an organization that can erase the memories of witnesses and bend reality to suit its own purpose?
Alex Bobl weaves an intricate tale where one huge corporation is intent on taking all the power for itself and it looks like it just might succeed. Reminiscent of the noir setting of Blade Runner, Memoria: A Corporation of Lies is an entertaining read and perhaps a cautionary tale. Translated from Russian, there are a few places where the translation hiccups, but those places are small and incidental. If you’re a fan of dystopian fiction, then Memoria: A Corporation of Lies will be right up your alley!
A big plan called the Vaccination is in the offing and Memoria is offering it free of charge as an introductory incentive. But what is it really? And how is a United States Congressman, who is also a board member of Memoria involved? What will Frank Shelby do to clear himself of trumped up charges? Is there anything he can do in the face of an organization that can erase the memories of witnesses and bend reality to suit its own purpose?
Alex Bobl weaves an intricate tale where one huge corporation is intent on taking all the power for itself and it looks like it just might succeed. Reminiscent of the noir setting of Blade Runner, Memoria: A Corporation of Lies is an entertaining read and perhaps a cautionary tale. Translated from Russian, there are a few places where the translation hiccups, but those places are small and incidental. If you’re a fan of dystopian fiction, then Memoria: A Corporation of Lies will be right up your alley!
February 19, 2013
Disclosure:
Actually this is the first time I win a book as a gift from the Writer himself. Alex Bobl gave me the chance to explore his talent in writing. And here I am, reviewing his nice work. The version I am reviewing is in English. and I have it in a Kindle Version.
My Plot:
I hope that I am not so spoiler to break the surprise of the reader, but my Plot will go like this: In a Bombed New York, Frank Shelby coming from DC to New York for a personal visit to his girlfriend Kathleen Baker, the scientist of Memoria - the corporation that helped people to erase their mind from the past events of War -. At the airport Frank had been forced to take the cab of a bald man, but fortunately he was saved by his allergy against the Leather. He took another cab heading toward his apartment, Kathleen was waiting him there. She tells him that she has a secret that he needs to know. Arriving to the apartment, Frank finds Kathleen dead in his bed, and here starts the story. Police catch him, he was accused of several crimes including Terrorist attacks and Manslaughter. During the interrogation by the police, a group of armed guys breaks in the Police station trying to kidnap Shelby but he breaks free heading to the post office to get Kathleen's hard disk. The operation passed successfully, and Frank got the Hard Disk; fleeting from another attempt of kidnapping by the bald heads group. Frank heads toward his coach Max, and seeks help from his part. Max consult Barney for a solution to open this hard disk. Now the three heroes have to lead a war against Memoria in order to know the secret project that Kathleen wants to reveal. Through an enormous adventures, Barney was caught by Memoria's security team, Max had been killed in the migrants camp. Frank and Maggie continues the battle in order to discover the mysterious vaccination project of Memoria, and to show the corruption that dominate the Corporation Plan.
Positive and Negative Aspects:
I know that I shrink the plot so much but I do it for purpose, I have to let the reader find out what's going out inside the story. Speaking of positive sides, I would admit that this is the first science fiction I read in my life, It discusses the relation between Humans and New Technology, corruption and domination also were present in the story. It was simple and the events go smooth, The writer shares all his knowledge in the subject of science and military with the reader, and that's quite obvious through his depiction of Memoria and the techniques used inside this company to erase people's mind. Another nice aspect was the clever depiction of New York, the writer gave New York a depiction as if he is a permanent resident inside it. Besides the description of the migrants camp was so professional. Actually it was a nice combination between Realism, Science and Technology. The Time and the Past were a very valuable elements to understand the events of the story. Many would wonder why I don't state any negative aspect, my answer would be so simple, I enjoy this science fiction and I don't face any frustration from it.
My Personal View:
Inside the story I enjoy two things simultaneously, I explore the sights of New York and the nice places inside it without getting a visa to see it. And the second thing I enjoy was the talent of the writer in writing. Actually this Science fictions makes me believe that the Russians have been given a talent from God to improve the quality of Literature. I assume that reading this story made my time all enjoyment, especially when I stop in the scenes of fighting and Military missions. Finally all I have to say is to wish a good continuation to the writer in his career. Because for me, writing a science fiction and a techno thriller is not that simple task as we think. The writer have to keep the reader excited and to bring him out from boredom to a new world just through the words. So summing up all the review. The story was amazing and worth being read again and again. I hope that It would be made in a movie, I am sure the story will get the approval of all viewers.
Recommendations:
Before to start reading, the reader should bear in mind that all the events inside the story are fictitious, so there is no need to interpret it to the present events. Apart from this, the story is simple and the events are so smooth, so all I wish you is a good reading.
Actually this is the first time I win a book as a gift from the Writer himself. Alex Bobl gave me the chance to explore his talent in writing. And here I am, reviewing his nice work. The version I am reviewing is in English. and I have it in a Kindle Version.
My Plot:
I hope that I am not so spoiler to break the surprise of the reader, but my Plot will go like this: In a Bombed New York, Frank Shelby coming from DC to New York for a personal visit to his girlfriend Kathleen Baker, the scientist of Memoria - the corporation that helped people to erase their mind from the past events of War -. At the airport Frank had been forced to take the cab of a bald man, but fortunately he was saved by his allergy against the Leather. He took another cab heading toward his apartment, Kathleen was waiting him there. She tells him that she has a secret that he needs to know. Arriving to the apartment, Frank finds Kathleen dead in his bed, and here starts the story. Police catch him, he was accused of several crimes including Terrorist attacks and Manslaughter. During the interrogation by the police, a group of armed guys breaks in the Police station trying to kidnap Shelby but he breaks free heading to the post office to get Kathleen's hard disk. The operation passed successfully, and Frank got the Hard Disk; fleeting from another attempt of kidnapping by the bald heads group. Frank heads toward his coach Max, and seeks help from his part. Max consult Barney for a solution to open this hard disk. Now the three heroes have to lead a war against Memoria in order to know the secret project that Kathleen wants to reveal. Through an enormous adventures, Barney was caught by Memoria's security team, Max had been killed in the migrants camp. Frank and Maggie continues the battle in order to discover the mysterious vaccination project of Memoria, and to show the corruption that dominate the Corporation Plan.
Positive and Negative Aspects:
I know that I shrink the plot so much but I do it for purpose, I have to let the reader find out what's going out inside the story. Speaking of positive sides, I would admit that this is the first science fiction I read in my life, It discusses the relation between Humans and New Technology, corruption and domination also were present in the story. It was simple and the events go smooth, The writer shares all his knowledge in the subject of science and military with the reader, and that's quite obvious through his depiction of Memoria and the techniques used inside this company to erase people's mind. Another nice aspect was the clever depiction of New York, the writer gave New York a depiction as if he is a permanent resident inside it. Besides the description of the migrants camp was so professional. Actually it was a nice combination between Realism, Science and Technology. The Time and the Past were a very valuable elements to understand the events of the story. Many would wonder why I don't state any negative aspect, my answer would be so simple, I enjoy this science fiction and I don't face any frustration from it.
My Personal View:
Inside the story I enjoy two things simultaneously, I explore the sights of New York and the nice places inside it without getting a visa to see it. And the second thing I enjoy was the talent of the writer in writing. Actually this Science fictions makes me believe that the Russians have been given a talent from God to improve the quality of Literature. I assume that reading this story made my time all enjoyment, especially when I stop in the scenes of fighting and Military missions. Finally all I have to say is to wish a good continuation to the writer in his career. Because for me, writing a science fiction and a techno thriller is not that simple task as we think. The writer have to keep the reader excited and to bring him out from boredom to a new world just through the words. So summing up all the review. The story was amazing and worth being read again and again. I hope that It would be made in a movie, I am sure the story will get the approval of all viewers.
Recommendations:
Before to start reading, the reader should bear in mind that all the events inside the story are fictitious, so there is no need to interpret it to the present events. Apart from this, the story is simple and the events are so smooth, so all I wish you is a good reading.
November 11, 2012
Memoria. A Corporation of Lies
By Alex Bobl
In futuristic New York City, Memoria Corporation offers a service that people cannot refuse erasing traumatic memories from a person’s mind. Frank Shelby comes home one day to find his girlfriend lying strangled in his bed leading him into the maze that is Memoria. He must infiltrate Memoria to clear his name and as he does so he soon stumbles onto something much more heinous.
I love dystopian novels so it would be hard to disappoint me when I pick one up. This one though, stands out amongst the rest not only is it an adult novel (most dystopian novels lately have been geared towards young adults) but it is also plausible. The citizens must wear electronic bracelets that track the persons movements, also people who were born after the great war must have their memories wiped every year by law, add in the big bad monster is a corporation you have an interesting take on what the future could be. I have to say that this novel reminded me a lot of 1984, though with a much better ending, so if you enjoyed that one you will most definitely like this one. All in all it’s a great read full of espionage and conspiracy and the best side of humanity’s survival instinct.
For More Reviews be sure to visit my blogs at:
http://reflectionsofabookworm.wordpre...
http://bookwormrflects8.blogspot.com/
By Alex Bobl
In futuristic New York City, Memoria Corporation offers a service that people cannot refuse erasing traumatic memories from a person’s mind. Frank Shelby comes home one day to find his girlfriend lying strangled in his bed leading him into the maze that is Memoria. He must infiltrate Memoria to clear his name and as he does so he soon stumbles onto something much more heinous.
I love dystopian novels so it would be hard to disappoint me when I pick one up. This one though, stands out amongst the rest not only is it an adult novel (most dystopian novels lately have been geared towards young adults) but it is also plausible. The citizens must wear electronic bracelets that track the persons movements, also people who were born after the great war must have their memories wiped every year by law, add in the big bad monster is a corporation you have an interesting take on what the future could be. I have to say that this novel reminded me a lot of 1984, though with a much better ending, so if you enjoyed that one you will most definitely like this one. All in all it’s a great read full of espionage and conspiracy and the best side of humanity’s survival instinct.
For More Reviews be sure to visit my blogs at:
http://reflectionsofabookworm.wordpre...
http://bookwormrflects8.blogspot.com/
January 31, 2013
3.5 stars rounded up to 4. This is a difficult one to rate because the story’s plot was fabulous, but the writing not so much, due to the fact that this is a translated work.
I have no plans on going into the grammatical errors because frankly others have done that to the point that one walks away thinking this is not a good read, when the opposite is true. So I will move forward and tell you more about why you might wish to read this story.
The action/suspense/thrill factor of this story is intense. From the moment the book starts to its final pages, the story pulls the reader into the main characters precarious plight to survive.
The characters are well written for this genre. There are a few flat characters here and there but the main characters get a decent fleshing out.
The plot is full of twists and turns, so much that I had to pause and regroup my running theories to catch up with the plots advances.
The ending, was perfect for this story. I do hope for a sequel but one is not necessarily needed.
So do I recommend this one? Yes.
As others have stated, you will have to endure some glitches here and there BUT if you stick with this story, allow yourself to be swept into the main characters plight, you will have an enjoyable read.
I have no plans on going into the grammatical errors because frankly others have done that to the point that one walks away thinking this is not a good read, when the opposite is true. So I will move forward and tell you more about why you might wish to read this story.
The action/suspense/thrill factor of this story is intense. From the moment the book starts to its final pages, the story pulls the reader into the main characters precarious plight to survive.
The characters are well written for this genre. There are a few flat characters here and there but the main characters get a decent fleshing out.
The plot is full of twists and turns, so much that I had to pause and regroup my running theories to catch up with the plots advances.
The ending, was perfect for this story. I do hope for a sequel but one is not necessarily needed.
So do I recommend this one? Yes.
As others have stated, you will have to endure some glitches here and there BUT if you stick with this story, allow yourself to be swept into the main characters plight, you will have an enjoyable read.
March 15, 2014
I've had this sitting on my kindle as a free book for ages now and finally got around to reading it. To be honest reading some of the reviews of goodreads it sounded like this was a terrible, horribly written book but I found that to be far from the case.
Granted there is little in the way of character back story or even information to fully flesh them out but you do kind of get drawn in and find yourself rooting for Frank and his cohorts despite that.
The general story is reminiscent of other stories/novels but is well paced, not badly written at all considering that the author is Russian and the book was translated into English and at under 300 pages not that taxing to read either.
I've read far worse books by some far more "established" authors and I can think of worse ways to spend a few hours of your time.
Granted there is little in the way of character back story or even information to fully flesh them out but you do kind of get drawn in and find yourself rooting for Frank and his cohorts despite that.
The general story is reminiscent of other stories/novels but is well paced, not badly written at all considering that the author is Russian and the book was translated into English and at under 300 pages not that taxing to read either.
I've read far worse books by some far more "established" authors and I can think of worse ways to spend a few hours of your time.
May 31, 2015
A very well written story, set in what appears to be a 'Not too distant future' or maybe even an 'Alternative now' in New York.
Frank finds himself caught up in a whirlwind of sinister conspiracy from the opening, as a senator attempts to grab absolute power!
Within the first few pages I very nearly gave up and called the whole story far fetched, but then I gave my head a disapproving shake as I remembered that there is no such thing as Far Fetched in Sci Fi. I'm glad I stuck to it, as only a few pages more and I was with Frank untying the strange tangle that he has found himself in, and then rooting for him as the powers that be hunted him down to silence him!
A very enjoyable fast paced Sci Fi action-fest!
Frank finds himself caught up in a whirlwind of sinister conspiracy from the opening, as a senator attempts to grab absolute power!
Within the first few pages I very nearly gave up and called the whole story far fetched, but then I gave my head a disapproving shake as I remembered that there is no such thing as Far Fetched in Sci Fi. I'm glad I stuck to it, as only a few pages more and I was with Frank untying the strange tangle that he has found himself in, and then rooting for him as the powers that be hunted him down to silence him!
A very enjoyable fast paced Sci Fi action-fest!
September 19, 2012
This was a really well written and action packed book that I enjoyed. I loved the concept of Memoria. Messing with memories is a scary thing to think about. The characters really made this book for me. I really liked Frank, and his growing chemistry with Maggie. Overall, a very well thought out and exciting novel.
June 9, 2015
this is a fascinating concept, well written, but with a few flaws introduced,I suspect, by the translators. the author is Russian, and the story is set in New York, but every now and then jarring Anglicisms creep in.
I'm really not sure that it would be possible to have a culture in which forgetting played such a central part, but if you could,Bobl's thesis seems highly likely.
I'm really not sure that it would be possible to have a culture in which forgetting played such a central part, but if you could,Bobl's thesis seems highly likely.
November 25, 2012
Had to keep in mind that it is a translation from Russian, set in NY/DC. Some of the phrases and terms were simply not American usage: "spanner in the works", "Sort them out". Seems that the translator was either a Brit or learned British English... Otherwise, the plot was interesting, characters a bit shallow and stero-typic.
November 26, 2012
I really liked this story and the characters in it. As mentioned by other reviewers, there were a few spots or phrases in the book that were a bit "akward" to read. But it didn't take away from the story for me. I will definitely be looking for future books by this author.
January 7, 2013
Fast paced fun read. Not a lot of background which could have made it better in my opinion.
December 1, 2017
Pretty mediocre "thriller" that is fast-paced, scattered and not very well translated. Ok for a quick read, but rather unsatisfying. 2 stars.
January 22, 2014
This is an ebook made available free by the author (Mr. Bobl is a Russian adventure/S-F writer with a military background) through Goodreads, and as usual I appreciate any author who puts his/her work “out there” for review with no financial compensation.
This was a quite enjoyable story, involving a post-war world in almost-destroyed New York, and the Memoria Corporation, which stopped the war thirty years ago and remains the predominant force (translation: totalitarian). Memoria volunteered to destroy one’s traumatic memories (Boy, would the VA like that!), freeing one’s mind up for more positive ones. Problem is, there’s a much more sinister reason behind the scenes, which will turn the populace into soldiers for Memoria with no free will, and will use their memories to…Well, I’ll let you read all that, pretty creepy. Everyone has to wear ID bracelets which are mostly used as tracking devices. This brings to mind Ira Levin’s “This Perfect Day,” to my mind a quite worthy companion to “Brave new World” and “1984.” I would hope Mr. Bobl has somewhere acknowledged Mr. Levin’s work.
The protagonist in this book is Frank Shelby, government, who returns to his apartment to find his girlfriend Kathleen Baker (Memoria spokesman and daughter of Memoria’s founder John Baker) murdered. Frank is soon pegged as the prime suspect in the murder, as he finds out from two other men. One is his old boxing coach Max Doherty, now working with the resistance; and Barney Duggan, father of Maggie Duggan, secretary to Russell Clarey, one of Memoria’s executives and potential Presidential candidate. They inform Frank that Kathleen was about to blow the whistle on a major Memoria project called “The Vaccination,” which is the “sinister reason” referred to above. Another “player” in this novel is a large (100,000) group called “Migrants,” which act much as migrant workers, providing crops and other food for the city dwellers; they of course have had struggles with survival and keeping their territory from the encroachments of Memoria, The rest of the book is more of a thriller, but with a strong S-F background. I greatly enjoyed this book, would give it four stars, and would recommend it for thriller and/or S-F fans.
I would like to make a comment on the Kindle format: It is a DANDY way to read a book! Has instant definitions, listing of characters and major organizations, highlighting and notes features (which I write out when I read print books, due to my flagging memory) I must, however, comment on a consistent irritant in this particular Kindle edition, namely that on every page there was at least one instance of a word with a space inserted (e.g., “Memo ria”). I tried to be as diligent as I could in spotting and reporting them (100), but I’m sure I didn’t get ‘em all. Really, folks, if you’re gonna put books out there, make sure these silly things are taken care of before you publish it. ‘Nuf said, still was a good read. I have “Point Apocalypse” (also free, through Mr. Bobol’s generosity), looking forward to reading it.
This was a quite enjoyable story, involving a post-war world in almost-destroyed New York, and the Memoria Corporation, which stopped the war thirty years ago and remains the predominant force (translation: totalitarian). Memoria volunteered to destroy one’s traumatic memories (Boy, would the VA like that!), freeing one’s mind up for more positive ones. Problem is, there’s a much more sinister reason behind the scenes, which will turn the populace into soldiers for Memoria with no free will, and will use their memories to…Well, I’ll let you read all that, pretty creepy. Everyone has to wear ID bracelets which are mostly used as tracking devices. This brings to mind Ira Levin’s “This Perfect Day,” to my mind a quite worthy companion to “Brave new World” and “1984.” I would hope Mr. Bobl has somewhere acknowledged Mr. Levin’s work.
The protagonist in this book is Frank Shelby, government, who returns to his apartment to find his girlfriend Kathleen Baker (Memoria spokesman and daughter of Memoria’s founder John Baker) murdered. Frank is soon pegged as the prime suspect in the murder, as he finds out from two other men. One is his old boxing coach Max Doherty, now working with the resistance; and Barney Duggan, father of Maggie Duggan, secretary to Russell Clarey, one of Memoria’s executives and potential Presidential candidate. They inform Frank that Kathleen was about to blow the whistle on a major Memoria project called “The Vaccination,” which is the “sinister reason” referred to above. Another “player” in this novel is a large (100,000) group called “Migrants,” which act much as migrant workers, providing crops and other food for the city dwellers; they of course have had struggles with survival and keeping their territory from the encroachments of Memoria, The rest of the book is more of a thriller, but with a strong S-F background. I greatly enjoyed this book, would give it four stars, and would recommend it for thriller and/or S-F fans.
I would like to make a comment on the Kindle format: It is a DANDY way to read a book! Has instant definitions, listing of characters and major organizations, highlighting and notes features (which I write out when I read print books, due to my flagging memory) I must, however, comment on a consistent irritant in this particular Kindle edition, namely that on every page there was at least one instance of a word with a space inserted (e.g., “Memo ria”). I tried to be as diligent as I could in spotting and reporting them (100), but I’m sure I didn’t get ‘em all. Really, folks, if you’re gonna put books out there, make sure these silly things are taken care of before you publish it. ‘Nuf said, still was a good read. I have “Point Apocalypse” (also free, through Mr. Bobol’s generosity), looking forward to reading it.
May 31, 2013
Although this book is primarily a futuristic thriller set in a world where the perpetrator might not remember their actions, it also raises questions the question whether, if we are the product of our experiences, we remain us if we lose the bad memories.
Following a civil war the United States of America is divided into three classes: migrants, a necessary underclass formed of the losers and their families, veterans, respected but expected to retain their memories of war, and citizens, required by law to have their memories edited regularly to remove the psychological causes of crime. Frank Shelby, a lawyer working on negotiations with the migrant enclaves, returns home to find himself a murder suspect. With the Memoria Corporation scaling up to announce a new government supported program, he must avoid not only the police but those who would use him as a pawn in their attempts to advance or stop the initiative.
This novel owes much to noir fiction, both in style and plot arc. Depending on your opinion of the tropes of the genre you will either enjoy this as a vehicle for a good idea, or find it lacking in nuance and finesse. While Bobl might not be as insightful as Philip K Dick, his dystopia is solidly written and paced.
As befits a noir thriller, much of the characterisation is done using action rather than introspection, which does occasionally lead to Shelby acting before his motivation is made clear to the reader. However, the lack of long conversations works well against a backdrop of a broken and dangerous society.
Both the history of the world and the technology are also introduced in action. Although there are some speculations about what Memoria might be doing, characters talk and act as if the class structure and memory-removal are both just another part of life. This absence of facts does require the reader to piece some things together in the first few chapters, but also adds to the realism of the world and will protect the narrative from being overtaken by real world events.
Overall I enjoyed this book. I would recommend it to readers looking for an enjoyable science-fiction thriller.
I received a free copy of this book.
Following a civil war the United States of America is divided into three classes: migrants, a necessary underclass formed of the losers and their families, veterans, respected but expected to retain their memories of war, and citizens, required by law to have their memories edited regularly to remove the psychological causes of crime. Frank Shelby, a lawyer working on negotiations with the migrant enclaves, returns home to find himself a murder suspect. With the Memoria Corporation scaling up to announce a new government supported program, he must avoid not only the police but those who would use him as a pawn in their attempts to advance or stop the initiative.
This novel owes much to noir fiction, both in style and plot arc. Depending on your opinion of the tropes of the genre you will either enjoy this as a vehicle for a good idea, or find it lacking in nuance and finesse. While Bobl might not be as insightful as Philip K Dick, his dystopia is solidly written and paced.
As befits a noir thriller, much of the characterisation is done using action rather than introspection, which does occasionally lead to Shelby acting before his motivation is made clear to the reader. However, the lack of long conversations works well against a backdrop of a broken and dangerous society.
Both the history of the world and the technology are also introduced in action. Although there are some speculations about what Memoria might be doing, characters talk and act as if the class structure and memory-removal are both just another part of life. This absence of facts does require the reader to piece some things together in the first few chapters, but also adds to the realism of the world and will protect the narrative from being overtaken by real world events.
Overall I enjoyed this book. I would recommend it to readers looking for an enjoyable science-fiction thriller.
I received a free copy of this book.
August 9, 2014
Disclaimer: I did receive a free copy of this book through a goodreads offer.
Disclaimer over, spoiler alert begin:
I did really enjoy this story. The characters were defiant of a strict regime, incredibly strong willed and kept integrity to the end. They live in a tough world where it would be easy to give in and go with the flow, but they don't.
Parts of the story felt a little vague. I would have really enjoyed more details on Memoria, the history and how they gained so much power. I know there was a war, and people fought, died, won, lost. But the different sides and what exactly they were fighting for is still a little unclear.
A post-apocalyptic sci-fi thriller suspense, this book covers a lot of genres and wont disappoint if you enjoy any or all of those I listed.
Disclaimer over, spoiler alert begin:
I did really enjoy this story. The characters were defiant of a strict regime, incredibly strong willed and kept integrity to the end. They live in a tough world where it would be easy to give in and go with the flow, but they don't.
Parts of the story felt a little vague. I would have really enjoyed more details on Memoria, the history and how they gained so much power. I know there was a war, and people fought, died, won, lost. But the different sides and what exactly they were fighting for is still a little unclear.
A post-apocalyptic sci-fi thriller suspense, this book covers a lot of genres and wont disappoint if you enjoy any or all of those I listed.
January 25, 2016
Where to begin? Memoria is a thriller about a man, Frank Shelby, who is framed for a murdering Kathleen Baker, his girlfriend. Kathleen worked for the company Memoria and had discovered some disturbing truths about a new technology that Memoria plans to use for nefarious activities.
Before her death, Kathleen had sent Frank a mysterious package which could reveal Memoria's scheme. Unfortunately, Frank is arrested for her murder and has to survive an assassination attempt in the Police Station, avoid a hit squad sent to kill him, an insane politician, amongst other roadblocks before he can clear his name.
This a very interesting and thrilling read. It has lots of twists and turns. Mr Bobl has populated this world with lots of great characters and different sub-cultures such as the migrants, the veterans, and evil corporate types. I would definitely recommend this book! Looking forward to finding out what happens next!
Before her death, Kathleen had sent Frank a mysterious package which could reveal Memoria's scheme. Unfortunately, Frank is arrested for her murder and has to survive an assassination attempt in the Police Station, avoid a hit squad sent to kill him, an insane politician, amongst other roadblocks before he can clear his name.
This a very interesting and thrilling read. It has lots of twists and turns. Mr Bobl has populated this world with lots of great characters and different sub-cultures such as the migrants, the veterans, and evil corporate types. I would definitely recommend this book! Looking forward to finding out what happens next!
August 20, 2014
As a book, this was at times difficult to read. The action sequences, though detailed, were difficult to follow. the characters were not developed enough for me to connect. The premise and interconnecting stories were difficult to keep up with. However, having said that, if this were a screenplay for a major upcoming action flick, I would not only be interested but also probably love it. It is action packed with the requisite hero, damsel side kick, older sages to provide experience and advice, heartbreak, fear, a good cop, evil corporation. Seriously, it has the makings of a great movie.
January 23, 2013
Memoria delivers a well polished gritty dystopian novel. Why the plot is familiar it has enough twist and turns to keep you on edge and entertained
A man framed for murder tries to find out why and who has set him up. An evil corporation is behind it all. As the accused travels through the story he discovers an intricate plot to turn the citizens into mindless puppets. Can he stop them? Can he clear his name? You are going to have to read the book to find out the answers.
A man framed for murder tries to find out why and who has set him up. An evil corporation is behind it all. As the accused travels through the story he discovers an intricate plot to turn the citizens into mindless puppets. Can he stop them? Can he clear his name? You are going to have to read the book to find out the answers.
October 25, 2012
The first chapter pretty much sets the rest of the story up and there is not really much action at that point. However, once you start chapter two, you better hold on because you will be on an action-packed roller-coaster ride for the rest of the book.
May 17, 2019
Memoria By alex Bobl (They control your memories - They tell you how to live.)
This was one of those few that took my interest by the book cover. It's cover reminded me of Philip K Dick's Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep in its incantation as Blade Runner (the movie) and the tag line and it's title reminded me of Philip K Dick's We Can Remember it For You Wholesale aka Total Recall. But in reading it I couldn't help but be reminded of Aldous Huxley's Brave New World. The story sucked me in and caught my interest and eventually the closest it ever came was mostly to the movie versions of the Philip K Dick Stories which include all the dynamic twist and turns of plot while mayhem and carnage reigned supreme.
While little that's published today seems to ever reach that same literary level that the Huxley parody of other utopian works has reached it is of note that there are some interesting similarities in this story that plot-wise bring it close only toward being like examining Brave New World in a distorted fun-house mirror that populates today's writing styles.
I love a good suspense novel. I confess that I could never read them at any sustained level. I like mine in small doses. This is the second one this year and both have contained a theme that borders onto paranoid conspiracy theories and the possibility of mass mind control. They both have high body counts also.
As the story goes; Frank Shelby is an attorney coming back to the city from a non-productive meeting and is looking forward to connecting with his girl friend Kathleen whom he believes he wants to take the next step with despite the fact that he doesn't know that much about her, including her last name. His troubles start when a pushy cabbie tries to pick him up, he doesn't know it yet but that's his first clue things will go south. When he arrives at his apartment where Kathleen is waiting, because he gave her a key, he finds her dead and ends up embroiled in...well a conspiracy of a sort.
Frank becomes a fugitive and as the bodies begin to pile up it's clear that giving himself up is no option. The problem is that he lives in a world where everything and everyone is controlled by Memoria tech that monitor everyone all the time and everyone is expected to periodically show up at Memoria to have their brains cleaned. They have their thoughts scanned and have bad memories removed. This of course leads to something similar to PKD's Minority Report where criminals might be caught by their thoughts. The bracelets they wear and the procedure they undergo are similar to the notion of Soma in BNW. But soon we will see that things might go further with the Memoria tech and skills might be transferable which is similar to what goes on in PKD's We Can Remember It For You Wholesale (Total Recall).
The group Frank is helping to negotiate with are the people who don't have bracelets and are on a sort of reservation away from the rest. These are like the savages in Huxley's BNW. Because the Memoria tech has been weakening the will of the people they have come to rely on much of their food and energy coming from the reservation. The powers that be are looking toward changing that.
If the author Alex Bobl tried to tell me he'd never read Philip K Dick he'd be hard pressed to convince me although it's possible since Aldous Huxley did claim he'd not read We by Yevgeny Zamyatin prior to writing Brave New World.
Anyone that loves Suspense Novels and lots of action and body counts should find this enjoyable. And for those who have read the other books mentioned it will be an added treat. For anyone who hasn't read those books I'd suggest reading a few them to make the comparison and because i feel they are superior.
As always I warn there were a few grammatical stumbles with word choices that seemed odd and sentence structure that had me reading a few times to figure something out and the use of things like 151th that just seemed like it would sound better as 151st although it looks just as bad that way. As a total less than a handful of serious road-stops so not so bad.
J.L.Dobias
This was one of those few that took my interest by the book cover. It's cover reminded me of Philip K Dick's Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep in its incantation as Blade Runner (the movie) and the tag line and it's title reminded me of Philip K Dick's We Can Remember it For You Wholesale aka Total Recall. But in reading it I couldn't help but be reminded of Aldous Huxley's Brave New World. The story sucked me in and caught my interest and eventually the closest it ever came was mostly to the movie versions of the Philip K Dick Stories which include all the dynamic twist and turns of plot while mayhem and carnage reigned supreme.
While little that's published today seems to ever reach that same literary level that the Huxley parody of other utopian works has reached it is of note that there are some interesting similarities in this story that plot-wise bring it close only toward being like examining Brave New World in a distorted fun-house mirror that populates today's writing styles.
I love a good suspense novel. I confess that I could never read them at any sustained level. I like mine in small doses. This is the second one this year and both have contained a theme that borders onto paranoid conspiracy theories and the possibility of mass mind control. They both have high body counts also.
As the story goes; Frank Shelby is an attorney coming back to the city from a non-productive meeting and is looking forward to connecting with his girl friend Kathleen whom he believes he wants to take the next step with despite the fact that he doesn't know that much about her, including her last name. His troubles start when a pushy cabbie tries to pick him up, he doesn't know it yet but that's his first clue things will go south. When he arrives at his apartment where Kathleen is waiting, because he gave her a key, he finds her dead and ends up embroiled in...well a conspiracy of a sort.
Frank becomes a fugitive and as the bodies begin to pile up it's clear that giving himself up is no option. The problem is that he lives in a world where everything and everyone is controlled by Memoria tech that monitor everyone all the time and everyone is expected to periodically show up at Memoria to have their brains cleaned. They have their thoughts scanned and have bad memories removed. This of course leads to something similar to PKD's Minority Report where criminals might be caught by their thoughts. The bracelets they wear and the procedure they undergo are similar to the notion of Soma in BNW. But soon we will see that things might go further with the Memoria tech and skills might be transferable which is similar to what goes on in PKD's We Can Remember It For You Wholesale (Total Recall).
The group Frank is helping to negotiate with are the people who don't have bracelets and are on a sort of reservation away from the rest. These are like the savages in Huxley's BNW. Because the Memoria tech has been weakening the will of the people they have come to rely on much of their food and energy coming from the reservation. The powers that be are looking toward changing that.
If the author Alex Bobl tried to tell me he'd never read Philip K Dick he'd be hard pressed to convince me although it's possible since Aldous Huxley did claim he'd not read We by Yevgeny Zamyatin prior to writing Brave New World.
Anyone that loves Suspense Novels and lots of action and body counts should find this enjoyable. And for those who have read the other books mentioned it will be an added treat. For anyone who hasn't read those books I'd suggest reading a few them to make the comparison and because i feel they are superior.
As always I warn there were a few grammatical stumbles with word choices that seemed odd and sentence structure that had me reading a few times to figure something out and the use of things like 151th that just seemed like it would sound better as 151st although it looks just as bad that way. As a total less than a handful of serious road-stops so not so bad.
J.L.Dobias
November 18, 2022
как боевичок класса Б сойдет под пивко
January 17, 2013
In a dystopian world, a major corporation, Memoria, develops technology that enables memories to be selectively erased. Memoria’s control of the city-based population has been solidified by the authorities such that each citizen is obliged by law to undergo memory modification each year. Most of the city dwellers seem to enjoy this process and return even more frequently to have unpleasant memories removed.
Only the Militants, located behind barbed wire fencing on the outskirts of the cities, live free. Memoria develops a new technology that will deliver even more active control over the population and they devise a subterfuge by which all citizens, Militant and otherwise, will be “vaccinated”. The populace enthusiastically volunteers because they believe they are having a new and desirable skill imprinted on their minds, but instead, this is a dastardly plot to turn them into mind-slaves.
This was a tough slog for me. The premise seemed weak. If Memoria’s objective was control and power, why would they allow the Militants to live free on their borders. Not only did they live free, but the Militants provided all the basic services for the cities—they grew the food, provided the water, handled the garbage and sewage. I was unclear exactly what the city folk did.
The story opens with the protagonist, Frank, an ex-boxer, being framed for the murder of his girlfriend. Before her death, the girlfriend (Frank is dumbfounded to discover she is a significant player in Memoria, even though he’s considering inviting her to move in with him!) mailed a package that would expose Memoria’s plan to control everyone in the world.
The rest of the book is a chase where the corporation and some bent-politicians try to reclaim the package from Frank and frame him for any bad stuff that happens, and Frank tries to release the information in the package to the general public.
Frank falls in with some old colleagues who just happen to have all the skills and the connections inside Memoria needed to thwart the evil corporation. Our ex-boxer miraculously turns into someone with Mission Impossible skills: shimmying down elevator shafts and knocking out anyone he punches like Popeye jacked-up on spinach. And should his fortunate choice in friends or innate fighting prowess fail, have no fear, fate will intervene to rescue him from the seemingly impossible situation he’s trapped in.
The plot isn’t experienced through scenes in the book, instead, I was told who was doing what to whom (and why) through dialog between the characters and through Frank’s internal narrative. I couldn’t understand how Frank et-al drew their conclusions based on the information I was given, and because I didn’t experience the events they talked about, I couldn’t get engaged with the plot.
The dialog felt flat and long (because they were explaining the story) with ‘action beats’ that often seemed formulaic and disconnected from the topic of conversation so they ended up being distracting rather than giving life to the characters and their situations.
I didn’t connect with any of the characters. I didn’t understand what Memoria really wanted (they seemed to have it all anyway). I was often confused by the action sequences, which seemed frenetic and often jumped around without setting the scene clearly—or maybe I was just glazing over.
I can’t tell if my confusion derives from this being a translated story (I think it was originally written in Russian), but an English-speaking editor could surely figure that out.
Disclaimer: This review was originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. I may have received a free review copy.
Only the Militants, located behind barbed wire fencing on the outskirts of the cities, live free. Memoria develops a new technology that will deliver even more active control over the population and they devise a subterfuge by which all citizens, Militant and otherwise, will be “vaccinated”. The populace enthusiastically volunteers because they believe they are having a new and desirable skill imprinted on their minds, but instead, this is a dastardly plot to turn them into mind-slaves.
This was a tough slog for me. The premise seemed weak. If Memoria’s objective was control and power, why would they allow the Militants to live free on their borders. Not only did they live free, but the Militants provided all the basic services for the cities—they grew the food, provided the water, handled the garbage and sewage. I was unclear exactly what the city folk did.
The story opens with the protagonist, Frank, an ex-boxer, being framed for the murder of his girlfriend. Before her death, the girlfriend (Frank is dumbfounded to discover she is a significant player in Memoria, even though he’s considering inviting her to move in with him!) mailed a package that would expose Memoria’s plan to control everyone in the world.
The rest of the book is a chase where the corporation and some bent-politicians try to reclaim the package from Frank and frame him for any bad stuff that happens, and Frank tries to release the information in the package to the general public.
Frank falls in with some old colleagues who just happen to have all the skills and the connections inside Memoria needed to thwart the evil corporation. Our ex-boxer miraculously turns into someone with Mission Impossible skills: shimmying down elevator shafts and knocking out anyone he punches like Popeye jacked-up on spinach. And should his fortunate choice in friends or innate fighting prowess fail, have no fear, fate will intervene to rescue him from the seemingly impossible situation he’s trapped in.
The plot isn’t experienced through scenes in the book, instead, I was told who was doing what to whom (and why) through dialog between the characters and through Frank’s internal narrative. I couldn’t understand how Frank et-al drew their conclusions based on the information I was given, and because I didn’t experience the events they talked about, I couldn’t get engaged with the plot.
The dialog felt flat and long (because they were explaining the story) with ‘action beats’ that often seemed formulaic and disconnected from the topic of conversation so they ended up being distracting rather than giving life to the characters and their situations.
I didn’t connect with any of the characters. I didn’t understand what Memoria really wanted (they seemed to have it all anyway). I was often confused by the action sequences, which seemed frenetic and often jumped around without setting the scene clearly—or maybe I was just glazing over.
I can’t tell if my confusion derives from this being a translated story (I think it was originally written in Russian), but an English-speaking editor could surely figure that out.
Disclaimer: This review was originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. I may have received a free review copy.
February 12, 2013
Taken from my Amazon review
This book has a lot going for it - right off the bat you've got 237 pages for 2.99, a very reasonable price point for a big book packed full of story. It's very low-risk, there's very little reason not to give it a shot!
On to the story itself, it moves VERY quickly. No skimming these pages because there's no padding here. There's one exception in the middle, where I encountered a rather awkward few chapters of exposition, but the story hopped right back on track after that, and then picked up speed even more. So, it may be 237 pages, but it'll blow by like a hundred and feel like you've read a thousand.
The plot is highly engaging, nowhere did I find myself disinterested in what would happen next. Where Memoria really shines, however, is the world it's set in - this isn't New York as we know it, the rules have changed. However, instead of just throwing a big scary super-corp in, there's a real dynamic between factions, emphasized by the Migrants (of whom I'm afraid we just don't get enough, but more on that in a bit.) Memoria is a living, breathing world, where subtle pushes and pulls can be felt across the plot. Despite the overarching sci-fi, it feels real enough - even if some of the more impressive action sequences stretch suspension of disbelief a tad.
(I'm now going to pick apart a few flaws, but I want to remind the review reader that my score is still 4-star. I'm just a bit critique-heavy.)
However, the exciting and engaging world does the characters a disservice, because against its impressive backdrop, they fall rather flat. We've got an action hero-esque main character, a few "too old for this" veterans, and a damsel (who does an excellent job at not being in distress, though she doesn't often accomplish much on her own.) The background ensemble, regrettably, was rarely touched on. The Migrant leader, for example, I would have liked to get to know better over the course of the story. I think my bigger issue was with the main character when **FIRST/SECOND CHAPTER SPOILER WARNING** he returns home to find the girl he was going to propose to dead in his bed - and we barely see a moment of grief. **END SPOILER WARNING** This lack of relatability plagued much of the story.
Despite these flaws, I am very interested in where the tale goes from here - the ending does suggest a sequel, and I'm certainly hoping for one.
OVERALL: Good plot, great world, weak characters, solid bang for your buck. Recommended.
This book has a lot going for it - right off the bat you've got 237 pages for 2.99, a very reasonable price point for a big book packed full of story. It's very low-risk, there's very little reason not to give it a shot!
On to the story itself, it moves VERY quickly. No skimming these pages because there's no padding here. There's one exception in the middle, where I encountered a rather awkward few chapters of exposition, but the story hopped right back on track after that, and then picked up speed even more. So, it may be 237 pages, but it'll blow by like a hundred and feel like you've read a thousand.
The plot is highly engaging, nowhere did I find myself disinterested in what would happen next. Where Memoria really shines, however, is the world it's set in - this isn't New York as we know it, the rules have changed. However, instead of just throwing a big scary super-corp in, there's a real dynamic between factions, emphasized by the Migrants (of whom I'm afraid we just don't get enough, but more on that in a bit.) Memoria is a living, breathing world, where subtle pushes and pulls can be felt across the plot. Despite the overarching sci-fi, it feels real enough - even if some of the more impressive action sequences stretch suspension of disbelief a tad.
(I'm now going to pick apart a few flaws, but I want to remind the review reader that my score is still 4-star. I'm just a bit critique-heavy.)
However, the exciting and engaging world does the characters a disservice, because against its impressive backdrop, they fall rather flat. We've got an action hero-esque main character, a few "too old for this" veterans, and a damsel (who does an excellent job at not being in distress, though she doesn't often accomplish much on her own.) The background ensemble, regrettably, was rarely touched on. The Migrant leader, for example, I would have liked to get to know better over the course of the story. I think my bigger issue was with the main character when **FIRST/SECOND CHAPTER SPOILER WARNING** he returns home to find the girl he was going to propose to dead in his bed - and we barely see a moment of grief. **END SPOILER WARNING** This lack of relatability plagued much of the story.
Despite these flaws, I am very interested in where the tale goes from here - the ending does suggest a sequel, and I'm certainly hoping for one.
OVERALL: Good plot, great world, weak characters, solid bang for your buck. Recommended.
March 21, 2013
I so wanted to like this book. It was supposed to have everything I love: SciFi, Dystopian, mystery/crime, suspense/thriller. I'm not sure how much of my displeasure came from the poor English translation and how much came from actual story flaws. As soon as I started reading, I ran into strange wording and poor grammar which made it difficult for me to fully engage in the characters and story.
Our introduction to this world is an interaction between the main character, Frank and a strangely hostile cabbie. It just doesn't make any sense. Why is the cabbie so angry? Whatever. Oh I see, it was a lead-in to the really forced mentioning of Memoria and how people can get their memories wiped, blah blah. It doesn't come off as anything but "We need to mention Memoria right away". Just weird and forced. Frank calls his girlfriend on the phone. He notes they've been together 6 months, he gave her a key to his place after the 2nd or 3rd date, and he doesn't EVEN KNOW HER LAST NAME? Say what? Nonsense like this ruins any chance of getting into the book. Other reviewers have gone into the various areas of the story that don't make sense or don't come off well so I won't keep beating that dead horse.
I sincerely hope the story works better in its original Russian and the author enjoys great success with that version. I just wasn't feeling it with the English version.
Our introduction to this world is an interaction between the main character, Frank and a strangely hostile cabbie. It just doesn't make any sense. Why is the cabbie so angry? Whatever. Oh I see, it was a lead-in to the really forced mentioning of Memoria and how people can get their memories wiped, blah blah. It doesn't come off as anything but "We need to mention Memoria right away". Just weird and forced. Frank calls his girlfriend on the phone. He notes they've been together 6 months, he gave her a key to his place after the 2nd or 3rd date, and he doesn't EVEN KNOW HER LAST NAME? Say what? Nonsense like this ruins any chance of getting into the book. Other reviewers have gone into the various areas of the story that don't make sense or don't come off well so I won't keep beating that dead horse.
I sincerely hope the story works better in its original Russian and the author enjoys great success with that version. I just wasn't feeling it with the English version.
June 17, 2013
Memoria by Alex Bobl
This is an action packed novel depicting what may be possible in the future for mankind with the increase of technology. Memoria HQ has developed a sophisticated system that can alter a person’s memory. They offer two free visits a year to the general public, so if you are subjected to a life altering trauma you can simply take a free pass to Memoria and have your memory erased! Sounds pretty interesting, however other things come into play.
“Memoria’s goals were to amass as much money and power as possible. Those were the only two things Memoria cared about. With the exception of Jesus, no one had ever given people bread for fee. “
The inhabitants of the Migrant camp were the only ones who preserved American history. They also supplied food, and water to the rest of the population. They were treated as the lesser of society even though life could not go on without food and water.
Frank is the main character of the story and he is framed for his girlfriend’s murder, but the plot runs much deeper. Franks enlists a small group of three loyal assistants who offer up their lives to get to the bottom of Memoria’s plot of deception. This is an action packed book that involves a very smart cop who also risks it all on the gut feeling that Frank is truly innocent.
I downloaded this book from Amazon.com for FREE.
This is an action packed novel depicting what may be possible in the future for mankind with the increase of technology. Memoria HQ has developed a sophisticated system that can alter a person’s memory. They offer two free visits a year to the general public, so if you are subjected to a life altering trauma you can simply take a free pass to Memoria and have your memory erased! Sounds pretty interesting, however other things come into play.
“Memoria’s goals were to amass as much money and power as possible. Those were the only two things Memoria cared about. With the exception of Jesus, no one had ever given people bread for fee. “
The inhabitants of the Migrant camp were the only ones who preserved American history. They also supplied food, and water to the rest of the population. They were treated as the lesser of society even though life could not go on without food and water.
Frank is the main character of the story and he is framed for his girlfriend’s murder, but the plot runs much deeper. Franks enlists a small group of three loyal assistants who offer up their lives to get to the bottom of Memoria’s plot of deception. This is an action packed book that involves a very smart cop who also risks it all on the gut feeling that Frank is truly innocent.
I downloaded this book from Amazon.com for FREE.
April 17, 2013
There was a lot of action in Memoria, I will definitely give it that. Not that many twists and turns, but full of hand-on-hand, guns, helicopters, and many injuries. This is the type of book that would turn into a good movie because of the conspiracy theory and the very detailed action scenes. The whole "memory" aspect of the book plays second to the hunt for our main character and his hunt for the truth.
Overall it was a pretty good book, but it didn't have a real draw factor to read the next chapter; "I will stop reading after this chapter" and I actually did instead of convincing myself to read just one more. A very simplistic book in it's writing and it's structure, but that is what helped make it a mindless action thriller. The story was well plotted and the characters were on the most part believable, what lacked was the real care for the characters well-being or any compassion for them.
I would recommend this book as just candy for the brain and not anything further than that. Other than the amounts of blood splattered throughout, I would say this is more of a "young adult" styled book than anything more.
Overall it was a pretty good book, but it didn't have a real draw factor to read the next chapter; "I will stop reading after this chapter" and I actually did instead of convincing myself to read just one more. A very simplistic book in it's writing and it's structure, but that is what helped make it a mindless action thriller. The story was well plotted and the characters were on the most part believable, what lacked was the real care for the characters well-being or any compassion for them.
I would recommend this book as just candy for the brain and not anything further than that. Other than the amounts of blood splattered throughout, I would say this is more of a "young adult" styled book than anything more.
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