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Master of Memories
In a grim not-so-distant future where debt and drugs run rampant, Margot Azenari studies memory editing alongside the offspring of the rich and famous. She dreams of erasing the bad memories from her childhood-of her father's involvement with the Vibora drug cartel and her mother's struggle with addiction. Margot makes plans to escape the pain of her past, but her plans go awry when her mentor, Dr. Xander, asks for her help with a top-secret project.
Margot has always admired her classmate Isaac, a senator's son, who once saved her from a mean prank. She's shocked to find him in Dr. Xander's office unconscious and bruised after a recent plane crash. Just as Margot and Dr. Xander finish erasing dangerous memories from Isaac's brain, Dr. Xander gives Margot an urgent mission-she alone must return the memories that they've removed from Isaac, or the lives of thousands of people will be in jeopardy. Their conversation is cut short as two Vibora drug cartel goons break in. Margot hides as they shoot Dr. Xander.
Margot makes contact with Isaac, and the two agree to try to put the memories back. Slowly, they piece together a connection between the cartel and the US government...and how Isaac tried to discover the truth. Battling her own growing romantic feelings for Isaac, Margot finds herself stuck in the middle of a government conspiracy where Isaac's father is the main suspect. As they race to reinsert the memories, they find themselves walking a treacherous line, not knowing who they can trust.
Or if they can trust each other.
Margot has always admired her classmate Isaac, a senator's son, who once saved her from a mean prank. She's shocked to find him in Dr. Xander's office unconscious and bruised after a recent plane crash. Just as Margot and Dr. Xander finish erasing dangerous memories from Isaac's brain, Dr. Xander gives Margot an urgent mission-she alone must return the memories that they've removed from Isaac, or the lives of thousands of people will be in jeopardy. Their conversation is cut short as two Vibora drug cartel goons break in. Margot hides as they shoot Dr. Xander.
Margot makes contact with Isaac, and the two agree to try to put the memories back. Slowly, they piece together a connection between the cartel and the US government...and how Isaac tried to discover the truth. Battling her own growing romantic feelings for Isaac, Margot finds herself stuck in the middle of a government conspiracy where Isaac's father is the main suspect. As they race to reinsert the memories, they find themselves walking a treacherous line, not knowing who they can trust.
Or if they can trust each other.
- GenresScience FictionRomance
298 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 15, 2024
2 people are currently reading
38 people want to read
About the author
Lani Forbes
7 books274 followersLani Forbes is the daughter of a librarian and an ex-drug smuggling surfer (which explains her passionate love of the ocean and books). A former teacher turned trauma counselor, her passion was showing readers the transformative and encouraging power of story on the human experience. A California native whose parents live in Mexico, Lani resided in the Pacific Northwest where she stubbornly wore flip flops no matter how cold it got. She was a proud nerd, Gryffindor, and member of Romance Writers of America and the Society for Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. She passed away on February 3, 2022.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
August 28, 2024
This book is very different than Lani’s other books—sci fi thriller instead of fantasy—but it is still so very Lani. In Lani’s bio, she talks about being the daughter of a drug lord, and this background comes out in Master of Memories.
Margot is the daughter of a drug lord, which not only gave her a very traumatic backstory as she had to navigate dangerous and scary interactions with her father’s clientele when she was a child, but also affects her as an adult trying to distance herself from her father. She goes into memory editing, a special technology that allows people to delete and change memories, but what she desperately wants is to be able to delete her own memories when she comes of age so she can forget her trauma. When she helps with a memory editing project for prominent senator’s son, Isaac, she finds herself uncovering a conspiracy that goes far deeper than she could have imagined.
I think my favorite part was reading about the memory editing technology. It was fascinating. I love the concept of being able to change and delete and re-insert memories into heads.
I can’t believe this is our final Lani book. I found myself wanting to give Lani a hug as I read pieces that were clearly inspired by her own life. She went through so much tragedy, and still she was the amazing, strong person that she was. And that’s really what this book is about. How trauma doesn’t have to define us and how hiding from our memories isn’t healing. It’s facing the trauma that heals it.
Margot is the daughter of a drug lord, which not only gave her a very traumatic backstory as she had to navigate dangerous and scary interactions with her father’s clientele when she was a child, but also affects her as an adult trying to distance herself from her father. She goes into memory editing, a special technology that allows people to delete and change memories, but what she desperately wants is to be able to delete her own memories when she comes of age so she can forget her trauma. When she helps with a memory editing project for prominent senator’s son, Isaac, she finds herself uncovering a conspiracy that goes far deeper than she could have imagined.
I think my favorite part was reading about the memory editing technology. It was fascinating. I love the concept of being able to change and delete and re-insert memories into heads.
I can’t believe this is our final Lani book. I found myself wanting to give Lani a hug as I read pieces that were clearly inspired by her own life. She went through so much tragedy, and still she was the amazing, strong person that she was. And that’s really what this book is about. How trauma doesn’t have to define us and how hiding from our memories isn’t healing. It’s facing the trauma that heals it.
October 16, 2024
Though set in the near future, this book felt timely and relevant. Beautiful themes, wonderfully written, this story was thought-provoking and so exciting. The tech and premise were so interesting. And with that romance? What a great read! But beyond that, knowing there was a personal element behind the story made it all the more important, and I think it's beautiful how Lani's words and books are still reaching readers, I'm so glad to read them.
October 28, 2024
I don’t read a lot of sci-fi, so it was fun to venture into this futuristic world. Lani has such a gift for characters and emotions, and there was plenty of peril and intrigue to keep this non-romance-reader interested!
September 3, 2024
I can't even write a review right now because I'm still reeling. 🤯💜
Edit: Ok, I'm back. I actually immediately started rereading this! Not only was the story instantly captivating to me, but Margot's past trauma is very relatable to me, though mine was on a smaller scale involving an alcoholic parent rather than drug abuse. Knowing that the author had personal history that inspired this story made it even more relatable to me.
Master of Memories is a sci-fi thriller that delves into the dark topic of drug distribution, addiction, family trauma, and the abuse of power and money. But it also has light-hearted tropes like fake-dating, which was entirely unexpected and delightful, plus beautiful messages about overcoming the past and not letting it define who you are.
I couldn't put it down. I'm reading it again already. I think this is going to be a regular reread from now on. I can't wait until it's available for everyone so the whole world can read this amazing and inspiring story. 💜
Edit: Ok, I'm back. I actually immediately started rereading this! Not only was the story instantly captivating to me, but Margot's past trauma is very relatable to me, though mine was on a smaller scale involving an alcoholic parent rather than drug abuse. Knowing that the author had personal history that inspired this story made it even more relatable to me.
Master of Memories is a sci-fi thriller that delves into the dark topic of drug distribution, addiction, family trauma, and the abuse of power and money. But it also has light-hearted tropes like fake-dating, which was entirely unexpected and delightful, plus beautiful messages about overcoming the past and not letting it define who you are.
I couldn't put it down. I'm reading it again already. I think this is going to be a regular reread from now on. I can't wait until it's available for everyone so the whole world can read this amazing and inspiring story. 💜
October 15, 2024
Master of Memories is a futuristic romantic sci-fi about a girl who manipulates memories and a senator’s son whose memories have been tampered with. Toss in some fake dating, political intrigue, a drug cartel, and secretive families, plus Lani’s signature of showing hope in dark times, and you’ve got a recipe for a fast-paced and heart-breaking thriller. I read most of it in one sitting, and even though it’s futuristic/sci-fi instead of her usual fantasy, it still has her fierce heart. I absolutely adored it!
December 31, 2024
I loved reading Lani’s last manuscript, each time I finish one of her books I get sad because It feels like the end all over again. At the same time it brings me comfort and joy to be able to read her words again. I’m so grateful for the books she left behind as a legacy. This book touched me on a different level than her previous books because she put on her therapist/trauma counselor hat.This book was set in the future, where memory editing becomes a reality. The main character Margot, has a lot of memories that she would love to be edited to escape the pain of her trauma and childhood. Interweaved in the story is a blossoming romance between Margot and Isaac, which provides relief from the heavier aspects of the story. It was a fast paced read. The overarching theme is that our pasts don’t have to define us, they make us who we are and while painful we can heal and let the light shine through our broken cracks to others. This is a story of hope and love. ❤️ who doesn’t need that right now?
July 27, 2025
What a powerful story! I wept through most of the final chapters, then had to sit quietly for a while and allow my emotions to subside. The high stakes, complex characters, fresh premise, balanced tension, masterful pacing, and emotional depth are just outstanding. The world building details are great, and the tech is original and cool. Did I mention I love this book?
October 21, 2024
This book was like a more-dramatic, dystopian Gilmore Girls. Messy, immature mother who got pregnant and left the world of higher class society for some slimy good-for-nothing idiot, manipulative but rich grandparents and teenage girl with the pressure of of the past weighing on her shoulders. And let’s not forget the handsome rich love interest whose parents won’t accept her… I cannot unsee Senator Warren as Mitchum Huntzberger. It definitely made for a very entertaining reading experience LOL.
I felt like the editing in some places was a bit wonky tbh???? But also, I understand the way in which this book came to be and see that perhaps editing it may have been a challenge. Besides, it was still such a good book that I can overlook the few issues it had.
The setting/world building was SO good. The way the first page is already in-world propaganda was so well done. It caught me a bit off guard at first, but after the second read it reminded me of the classic dystopias (The Giver, 1984). I loved how we slowly see Margot getting over the in-world propaganda as she gets to know Isaac and what happened to him.
And the romance???????? Adorable. Isaac was a little too eager to fake date Margot and “having” to kiss her lol bro was making such a sacrifice making out with a pretty girl to fool his security guard lmao. Anyway, LOVED the romance and the book. The ending felt incomplete to me, cuz tf????? But again, circumstances of how the book came to be. It was such a nice palate cleanser from the super depressing book I was reading before and the realities of adulting hahaha.
I felt like the editing in some places was a bit wonky tbh???? But also, I understand the way in which this book came to be and see that perhaps editing it may have been a challenge. Besides, it was still such a good book that I can overlook the few issues it had.
The setting/world building was SO good. The way the first page is already in-world propaganda was so well done. It caught me a bit off guard at first, but after the second read it reminded me of the classic dystopias (The Giver, 1984). I loved how we slowly see Margot getting over the in-world propaganda as she gets to know Isaac and what happened to him.
And the romance???????? Adorable. Isaac was a little too eager to fake date Margot and “having” to kiss her lol bro was making such a sacrifice making out with a pretty girl to fool his security guard lmao. Anyway, LOVED the romance and the book. The ending felt incomplete to me, cuz tf????? But again, circumstances of how the book came to be. It was such a nice palate cleanser from the super depressing book I was reading before and the realities of adulting hahaha.
April 13, 2025
What a stunning story! Thought-provoking and incredibly relevant to our time right now, I could hardly put it down. I finished it in record time.
I was transported inside the pages of this vibrant and dangerous world. The worldbuilding was excellent, and the memory editing technology was fascinating and slightly scary.
I liked Margot right from the start. I admired how resilient and kind she was despite all the things she had gone through. I loved watching her journey and her character growth.
I appreciated the lighter moments amidst the serious subject matter. The fake dating angle was a lot of fun.
This book has left a lasting impression on me. I know I’ll be thinking about it for a long time to come. I loved that even though this book deals with some hard and serious topics, it also showed that there is light and hope too. I can’t recommend it highly enough. I loved it.
I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
I was transported inside the pages of this vibrant and dangerous world. The worldbuilding was excellent, and the memory editing technology was fascinating and slightly scary.
I liked Margot right from the start. I admired how resilient and kind she was despite all the things she had gone through. I loved watching her journey and her character growth.
I appreciated the lighter moments amidst the serious subject matter. The fake dating angle was a lot of fun.
This book has left a lasting impression on me. I know I’ll be thinking about it for a long time to come. I loved that even though this book deals with some hard and serious topics, it also showed that there is light and hope too. I can’t recommend it highly enough. I loved it.
I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
February 25, 2025
Wow. This is my favorite read of Lani's published works. It's not her norm (fantasy), but it still highlights her incredible writing skills and her theme of pointing out the light in the darkness and hope, no matter the circumstances. Just how she lived her life- with passion and shining her light to help others find their own.
In this book, Lani incorporates some of my very favorite things: the truth of trauma/healing as well as some government conspiracy. That made it difficult to ever put this book down. Also, she makes it easy to get sucked into the story when her descriptions are so vivid and brilliant.
She showcases her incredible knowledge of trauma, addiction, healing, and the world of counseling through this book, which was one of her biggest passions in this life. The way she seamlessly incorporates it into the story was *chef's kiss.* She had a way of doing that in real life, too.
No hesitation, 5 stars. Beautifully written and epic story.
In this book, Lani incorporates some of my very favorite things: the truth of trauma/healing as well as some government conspiracy. That made it difficult to ever put this book down. Also, she makes it easy to get sucked into the story when her descriptions are so vivid and brilliant.
She showcases her incredible knowledge of trauma, addiction, healing, and the world of counseling through this book, which was one of her biggest passions in this life. The way she seamlessly incorporates it into the story was *chef's kiss.* She had a way of doing that in real life, too.
No hesitation, 5 stars. Beautifully written and epic story.
January 27, 2025
Margot is amazing, I could never be as forgiving and courageous as her! The depth of the overall message of this book is unlike any I have ever read! Also, the futuristic tech in this world was so cool! This is now my favorite book with "fake" dating! 😍🥰
I love all of Lani's works, and I know she will go on to inspire many more stories and people!
If you loved this book, then I suggest:
The Age of the Seventh Sun series
Face the Night by this author
The Sun Still Rises Anthology
The Giver series
The Program series
The Host
Malice by Pintip Dunn
Black Canary: Breaking Silence
The Arc of the Scythe series
I love all of Lani's works, and I know she will go on to inspire many more stories and people!
If you loved this book, then I suggest:
The Age of the Seventh Sun series
Face the Night by this author
The Sun Still Rises Anthology
The Giver series
The Program series
The Host
Malice by Pintip Dunn
Black Canary: Breaking Silence
The Arc of the Scythe series
July 30, 2025
intriguing and inspirational
Knowing Lani, i pictured her constantly in the main character. The story was creative and intriguing and the themes and subject matter make people think. She lived an inspirational life and now afterwards she can continue to inspire her readers. I will miss the books she would have written, but more than that I miss her. I'm thankful she is truly In A better place and knowing I'll see her again due to my own personal faith in Jesus like hers.
Knowing Lani, i pictured her constantly in the main character. The story was creative and intriguing and the themes and subject matter make people think. She lived an inspirational life and now afterwards she can continue to inspire her readers. I will miss the books she would have written, but more than that I miss her. I'm thankful she is truly In A better place and knowing I'll see her again due to my own personal faith in Jesus like hers.
October 19, 2024
story that sticks with you
This story is beautifully written. It was exciting and page turning but not only that the message Lani weaves through her story is one of compassion, hope and healing. You won’t want to put this down until you reach the very last page and even then this story and characters will stick with you.
This story is beautifully written. It was exciting and page turning but not only that the message Lani weaves through her story is one of compassion, hope and healing. You won’t want to put this down until you reach the very last page and even then this story and characters will stick with you.
April 25, 2025
Do our memories control our life? What would happen if we could edit them to get rid of any unpleasant ones? This book looks into this subject in a refreshing and new way. I give this book 4 stars for enjoyability. I would have given it 5 stars except for the use of strong language which I don’t enjoy.
June 2, 2025
Loved it. An interesting concept which we all long for ... bad memories to be erased. Fast moving plot line with twists and turn, romance that was not overplayed but the best part was working through how it is our negative and worst memories that build and shape us, giving us strength of character and making us who we are. Loved it!
October 27, 2024
Very good!
Outstanding in its depth and understanding, this book amazed me. I just had no idea what I was picking up. The story unfolds in a captivating way that allows deep truths to emerge. Very good!!
Outstanding in its depth and understanding, this book amazed me. I just had no idea what I was picking up. The story unfolds in a captivating way that allows deep truths to emerge. Very good!!
November 21, 2024
Drugs and rough but still very relatable. A powerful and emotional story. Growing up in a specific environment, memories and trauma can change a life and memories play an essential part in molding us. I love stories that manipulate, erase, reintroduce memories. Great scifi.
August 1, 2025
Love love love this book!!!
Highly recommend!!!
Heavy themes such as drug abuse, addiction, and overdose.
One kiss is a little heated but ends before going too far.
Recommended age: 16+ (mature 15 and 16 year olds could read it)
(Full review on Fable)
Highly recommend!!!
Heavy themes such as drug abuse, addiction, and overdose.
One kiss is a little heated but ends before going too far.
Recommended age: 16+ (mature 15 and 16 year olds could read it)
(Full review on Fable)
September 18, 2025
Wow, I think this is actually my favorite of Lani's books because of how much she tackles in one small story, dealing with everything from trauma and family dynamics to politics and corruption, and beyond.
Well done, Lani.
Well done, Lani.
October 17, 2024
Stunning, Powerful and Gripping. Lani Forbes last penned novel is layered with depth and meaning as she tackles difficult subjects with grace and magnificent story telling.
February 10, 2025
Such a great story on pain, loss, and having the strength to keep going! Margot is an amazing character and showed so much strength and courage
October 16, 2024
It's hard to find YA scifi these days, and so refreshing to read a really good one! This book has all the near-future fun I love about the SF genre, with a mix of thriller and romance. I appreciate that it isn't afraid to tackle tough topics like drug abuse, living with OCD, or family trauma, but the sweet budding romance between the main characters keeps things from getting too heavy. Margot is a smart main character who struggles with anxiety. Issac is warm and likable. And the retro-diva Betty is the GOAT-- the best friend we all wish we had!
If you like near-future SF, give it a go!
If you like near-future SF, give it a go!
November 21, 2024
This is such a powerful book. I really enjoyed reading it. I laughed, I cried, I read the ebook, and immediately went and ordered a physical copy!!! Such an amazing message, a book everyone should read!
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews