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The Mechanics of Memory
🎧Listening Length = 10 hours and 8 minutes
Beware of false memories. They keep secrets and tell lies. Memory is Copeland-Stark’s business. Yet after months of reconsolidation treatments at their sleek new flagship facility, Hope Nakano still has no idea what happened to her lost year, or the life she was just beginning to build with her one great love. Each procedure surfaces fragmented clues which erode Hope’s trust in her own memories, especially the ones of Luke. As inconsistencies mount, her search for answers reveals a much larger secret Copeland-Stark is determined to protect. But everyone has secrets, including Hope.
This “mesmerizing” Earphones Award winner (AudioFile) performed by a trio of talented narrators is “an intoxicating mix of psychological thriller and domestic drama à la the streaming series Severance” (Naomi Hirahara). Hope Nakano can’t recall an entire year of her life. With each memory treatment she receives, new secrets come to light, revealing dizzying truths. “A binge-worthy audiobook” (Booklist).
Beware of false memories. They keep secrets and tell lies. Memory is Copeland-Stark’s business. Yet after months of reconsolidation treatments at their sleek new flagship facility, Hope Nakano still has no idea what happened to her lost year, or the life she was just beginning to build with her one great love. Each procedure surfaces fragmented clues which erode Hope’s trust in her own memories, especially the ones of Luke. As inconsistencies mount, her search for answers reveals a much larger secret Copeland-Stark is determined to protect. But everyone has secrets, including Hope.
Audible Audio
First published August 27, 2024
50 people are currently reading
14468 people want to read
About the author
Audrey Lee
2 books107 followersAudrey Lee’s debut novel, The Mechanics of Memory, was nominated for the Edgar® Award for Best First Novel, the Anthony Award for Best First Novel, the Silver Falchion Award for Best Thriller, and the Lefty Award for Best Debut Mystery. The audiobook was also awarded the IPPY Gold Medal for Best Mystery/Thriller.
Before she started writing fiction, Audrey received her master’s degree in education from UC Berkeley (Go Bears!) and spent over two decades in public education. When she isn’t writing books, she consults with school systems about creating environments for students that are more equitable, culturally responsive, and socially just.
Audrey lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband and Maltipoo, Luna. She spends the majority of her free time missing her son, Derek, who abandoned her for college. When not doing that, Audrey is compulsively organizing, max betting on a slot machine, making miniatures, and cheering for the Golden State Warriors with a dirty martini in hand.
Before she started writing fiction, Audrey received her master’s degree in education from UC Berkeley (Go Bears!) and spent over two decades in public education. When she isn’t writing books, she consults with school systems about creating environments for students that are more equitable, culturally responsive, and socially just.
Audrey lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband and Maltipoo, Luna. She spends the majority of her free time missing her son, Derek, who abandoned her for college. When not doing that, Audrey is compulsively organizing, max betting on a slot machine, making miniatures, and cheering for the Golden State Warriors with a dirty martini in hand.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 176 reviews
October 15, 2024
There are simply no words for the utter perfection held within the pages of The Mechanics of Memory. Nevertheless, I’ll give it a go. A near-future work of speculative fiction that felt more realistic than I can explain, I was in rapture from the very first page. With a blindingly fast pace, believable characters, and a wholly unguessable plot, the magic held within the premise was truly something to behold. Most astounding of all, though, was that I realized that fact in the very first chapter.
I’m not quite sure how to explain it, but there was a je ne sais quoi element that took this book from merely great to one in a million. Subtly walking a fine line between sci-fi and psychological thriller, the nuanced plot kept me off-balanced with multiple blind turns. Only in hindsight, though, did I realize that it was packed full of a whole host of deftly obscured clues. After all, while I was actually binge reading the book, there wasn’t a chance of me guessing where the immersive storyline was taking me next.
The characters were the true gold in a packed field of winners, however. From Hope to her motley crew of fellow residents, I was quickly pulled deeply into the story as I became invested in the well-constructed characters who shimmered with genuine verve. From the moments of humor to the “us against them” feel, they were fully fleshed out and felt 100% real. But Hope was the true standout nonetheless. Somewhere between unreliable and trustworthy, I was rooting for her from the very moment she was introduced.
All in all, by the last page, I was entirely under Ms. Lee’s control. A master of the written word, I have no doubt that she’s going to be a highflier in the world of bestselling fiction. After all, with palpable tension, richly layered characters, and precise plotting, it was not only a masterclass in suspense but a book that had me feeling all of the feels. So thank you, dear author, for this hypnotic tale. To all of my readers, this is one book you have GOT to order right now. So go on. I mean it. Head to your favorite bookseller ASAP. You definitely won’t regret it one bit. Rating of 5+++ stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Memory is Copeland-Stark’s business. Yet after months of reconsolidation treatments at their sleek new flagship facility, Hope Nakano still has no idea what happened to her lost year, or the life she was just beginning to build with her one great love. Each procedure surfaces fragmented clues which erode Hope’s trust in her own memories, especially the ones of Luke. As inconsistencies mount, her search for answers reveals a much larger secret Copeland-Stark is determined to protect.
But everyone has secrets, including Hope.
Thank you to Audrey Lee and CamCat Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: August 27, 2024
Trigger warning: memory loss, kidnapping, mention of: abusive relationship
I’m not quite sure how to explain it, but there was a je ne sais quoi element that took this book from merely great to one in a million. Subtly walking a fine line between sci-fi and psychological thriller, the nuanced plot kept me off-balanced with multiple blind turns. Only in hindsight, though, did I realize that it was packed full of a whole host of deftly obscured clues. After all, while I was actually binge reading the book, there wasn’t a chance of me guessing where the immersive storyline was taking me next.
The characters were the true gold in a packed field of winners, however. From Hope to her motley crew of fellow residents, I was quickly pulled deeply into the story as I became invested in the well-constructed characters who shimmered with genuine verve. From the moments of humor to the “us against them” feel, they were fully fleshed out and felt 100% real. But Hope was the true standout nonetheless. Somewhere between unreliable and trustworthy, I was rooting for her from the very moment she was introduced.
All in all, by the last page, I was entirely under Ms. Lee’s control. A master of the written word, I have no doubt that she’s going to be a highflier in the world of bestselling fiction. After all, with palpable tension, richly layered characters, and precise plotting, it was not only a masterclass in suspense but a book that had me feeling all of the feels. So thank you, dear author, for this hypnotic tale. To all of my readers, this is one book you have GOT to order right now. So go on. I mean it. Head to your favorite bookseller ASAP. You definitely won’t regret it one bit. Rating of 5+++ stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Memory is Copeland-Stark’s business. Yet after months of reconsolidation treatments at their sleek new flagship facility, Hope Nakano still has no idea what happened to her lost year, or the life she was just beginning to build with her one great love. Each procedure surfaces fragmented clues which erode Hope’s trust in her own memories, especially the ones of Luke. As inconsistencies mount, her search for answers reveals a much larger secret Copeland-Stark is determined to protect.
But everyone has secrets, including Hope.
Thank you to Audrey Lee and CamCat Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: August 27, 2024
Trigger warning: memory loss, kidnapping, mention of: abusive relationship
August 1, 2024
3.5🌟
Reconsolidation ~ Allowing the mind to restructure memories.
Can you imagine being able to erase traumatic memories? Assaults, PTSD? The chance to literally leave your past behind and move forward.
Or how about retrieving lost memories? Dementia patients being able to remember their happiest moments from their lives?
The potential greatness is endless. But with that, there are always those who would take advantage for nefarious reasons.
Hope Nakano has woken in what is supposed to be a spa. An institute, where through new technologies, she will be able to retrieve lost memories.
But with every treatment she realizes this spa is not what it seems. Patients aren’t just checking out…
Loved the premise, and the rave reviews had me immediately wanting to read this book. Unfortunately for me it just didn’t click. I never felt totally engaged and lacked any connection with Hope and the other characters (of which, there were MANY.)
At times it felt that this reconsolidation was just gas-lighting taken to another level. Nope. Not for me.🙈
Again, I’m very much on outlier island here!🏝️
Make sure to read all the five-star reviews.
This is a debut, lite sci fi thriller, and I did enjoy the premise enough that I would definitely read an additional book by this new author.
Thank you to NetGalley and CamCat Books
Reconsolidation ~ Allowing the mind to restructure memories.
Can you imagine being able to erase traumatic memories? Assaults, PTSD? The chance to literally leave your past behind and move forward.
Or how about retrieving lost memories? Dementia patients being able to remember their happiest moments from their lives?
The potential greatness is endless. But with that, there are always those who would take advantage for nefarious reasons.
Hope Nakano has woken in what is supposed to be a spa. An institute, where through new technologies, she will be able to retrieve lost memories.
But with every treatment she realizes this spa is not what it seems. Patients aren’t just checking out…
Loved the premise, and the rave reviews had me immediately wanting to read this book. Unfortunately for me it just didn’t click. I never felt totally engaged and lacked any connection with Hope and the other characters (of which, there were MANY.)
At times it felt that this reconsolidation was just gas-lighting taken to another level. Nope. Not for me.🙈
Again, I’m very much on outlier island here!🏝️
Make sure to read all the five-star reviews.
This is a debut, lite sci fi thriller, and I did enjoy the premise enough that I would definitely read an additional book by this new author.
Thank you to NetGalley and CamCat Books
April 2, 2025
fuck it, it's a full on 5 star read
August 31, 2024
I received an advanced copy of Audrey Lee’s debut novel, and I am blown away. This book is so well done! The Memory Mechanic features an intriguing—and complex—concept, and the storytelling is top notch. I enjoyed the believable characters, the solid imagery, and the story development. Each piece of Hope and Luke’s story was told at the right time, keeping me hooked. I loved the unexpected twists sprinkled throughout the story, as well as the fact that Audrey didn’t leave the reader behind when the story dug into the science concept. Can’t wait to see what else Audrey Lee creates!!
July 17, 2024
What an exciting read. I really didn’t know what to expect going into this one, and was pleasantly surprised but the thrilling nature of the book. Set in a strange “state of the art” treatment center for patients who lost their memory, the story quickly unfolds to reveal there’s a lot more going on than you think.
What starts off as a slow burn ends up full of twists turns and corporate manipulations. I loved the characters and the overall heart of the story.
Great debut novel full of rich sci-fi and well developed characters and technology.
I received an advance review copy from Book Sirens for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
What starts off as a slow burn ends up full of twists turns and corporate manipulations. I loved the characters and the overall heart of the story.
Great debut novel full of rich sci-fi and well developed characters and technology.
I received an advance review copy from Book Sirens for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 27, 2024
What I loved most about this book was the uniqueness of the storyline with the sci-fi idea of being able to retrieve lost memories. Hope was an interesting character, and the story took a turn earlier on that had me wondering what had happened to Hope and how the story would play out for her. I liked the secondary cast made up of Hope's fellow residents in Wilder, an institution that supposedly treats memory loss. I have to say Wilder gave me the Heebie Jeebies from the start, and my instinct was that something was off, but I really couldn't have predicted how this one would turn out. If you like Blake Crouch and Andy Weir, then you'll probably also enjoy this one.
March 16, 2024
Well this was a trip, not sure how to review this book without totally spoiling it (and that would be a shame cause the twists are the best part). Hope has been in a relationship with Luke for a while and she's getting along great with his daughter, until she wakes up committed in some kind of medical facility. Told she lost the last year of her life she works to regain her memories even though it means remembering being a monster. Or maybe not. Maybe this is all a lie and the reason she's here is way more sinister.
Despite all the twists, one thing remains clear almost the whole book : Luke and Hope love each other and are ready to do very crazy things. Hope isn't sure who her allies are and who she can trust, but she knows that the memories they're trying to make her believe are true, are actually false ones. If you were alive in the 90's, that whole thing may remind you of the satanic panic craze, with people suddenly "remembering" that they were abused in satanic cults as kids. Memories of events that never actually happened.
The best scifi books are the ones rooted in reality, the ones that could actually be true cause it makes them even more scary, they also have characters that you can help but root for. This book has all of that
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Despite all the twists, one thing remains clear almost the whole book : Luke and Hope love each other and are ready to do very crazy things. Hope isn't sure who her allies are and who she can trust, but she knows that the memories they're trying to make her believe are true, are actually false ones. If you were alive in the 90's, that whole thing may remind you of the satanic panic craze, with people suddenly "remembering" that they were abused in satanic cults as kids. Memories of events that never actually happened.
The best scifi books are the ones rooted in reality, the ones that could actually be true cause it makes them even more scary, they also have characters that you can help but root for. This book has all of that
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 29, 2023
A really engaging and intriguing story that had me trying to figure out what was really going on and surprised and delighted me to the end. The characters are well-drawn, the plot is well-paced, and the writing flows and is often very funny. An excellent debut!
August 8, 2024
This turned out to be an exhilarating thrill ride! It has all the ingredients of a five-star thriller. It begins as a captivating slow-burn, leading you through a maze of cunning manipulations and unexpected twists. Combine that with expertly crafted characters, and you have an unforgettable five-star read!
It's astounding that this is a debut. I'm calling it now—Audrey Lee is destined to be a powerhouse in the literary world.
It's astounding that this is a debut. I'm calling it now—Audrey Lee is destined to be a powerhouse in the literary world.
July 23, 2024
How do you solve a mystery when you've forgotten the game you were playing?
How do you hold onto what you know, when the world is trying to reprogram you in the name of 'accepting the truth'?
How do you fight a battle from inside a closed facility, with no clues and no memories, and with those who discover too much simply 'disappearing' from the ward?
Intriguing and unsettling, The Mechanics of Memory is a powerful mystery brimming with hidden secrets, forgotten memories and ploys for power in a psychiatry recovery facility that is most decidedly not what it pretends to be.
Though it was outside my preferred genre, it pulled me in and wouldn't let go.
I enjoyed the feeling of the world where everything was just a bit off-kilter, and even normal actions seemed to carry more weight than I knew. I got to understand and learn with the character, and the twists and turns were planned superbly to be invisible from the front, but evident in hindsight.
Brilliantly executed, I would definitely recommend.
[I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for my opinion. If you're also interested in screening yet-to-be-published works in exchange for a review, head on over to BookSirens to start reading]
How do you hold onto what you know, when the world is trying to reprogram you in the name of 'accepting the truth'?
How do you fight a battle from inside a closed facility, with no clues and no memories, and with those who discover too much simply 'disappearing' from the ward?
Intriguing and unsettling, The Mechanics of Memory is a powerful mystery brimming with hidden secrets, forgotten memories and ploys for power in a psychiatry recovery facility that is most decidedly not what it pretends to be.
Though it was outside my preferred genre, it pulled me in and wouldn't let go.
I enjoyed the feeling of the world where everything was just a bit off-kilter, and even normal actions seemed to carry more weight than I knew. I got to understand and learn with the character, and the twists and turns were planned superbly to be invisible from the front, but evident in hindsight.
Brilliantly executed, I would definitely recommend.
[I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for my opinion. If you're also interested in screening yet-to-be-published works in exchange for a review, head on over to BookSirens to start reading]
June 24, 2024
I was absolutely hooked (and honestly a bit stressed) by this book! I literally went to sleep thinking about it and woke up the next morning needing to continue reading right away to find out what would happen next. Very well-written, descriptive, and extremely thrilling. Highly recommend!
January 18, 2024
Great read! Kept me engaged and guessing. Full of twists I didn't anticipate. Highly recommend this book.
February 11, 2025
“The impermanence of memory can be a troubling fact for some. As a species, we want to believe our memories are infallible because they make us, us. However, consider the liberation in embracing this fluidity and instead allowing your mind only to retain that which is most cherished.”
Hope Nakano is at a treatment center for help to regain missing memories from the past year. Before that, she was content and happy with the love of her life Luke and his daughter Charlotte. As she receives treatments via virtual reality and visits to ‘the labyrinth’ she doubts the returning memories…
Once in a while there’s a novel that hits EVERY note PERFECTLY. This is THAT book! THE MECHANICS OF MEMORY is a cerebral sci fi techno thriller of the highest order. A suspenseful mystery with heart, so brilliantly written the many layers had my mind spinning! Are you a sci-fi geek? A comic book nerd? A gamer? A coder? A film nut? There are pop culture references FOR DAYS and done in a way that feels natural. Anyone who knows about Firefly and Soylent Green… is my people. (Pun intended. IYKYK!)
The best part was easily the characters. Hope is everything I love in a MC, she’s relatable, tough yet vulnerable, and despite wanting to trust her, completely unreliable. Inside the creepy ‘wellness’ center where platitude posters are everywhere, Hope discovers found family in a quirky motley crew of fellow patients. With inside jokes and nicknames like ‘Head Games’ for the rec room, I was attached to SEVERAL people, even as I doubted who they really were. As many people as there were to love, there were equally as many to despise. Don’t get me started on the doctors! At times, it was hard to distinguish who fit into which category, and that only added to the thrills! I was never quite sure who to trust...
Whip smart, full of twists and turns, irreverent humor and sardonic wit, with a love story at its core, THE MECHANICS OF MEMORY is a science fiction thriller NOT to be missed! This is a book that would immediately have me diving into the author’s backlist. But guess what? I CAN’T. This is Audrey’s DEBUT. What?! YES. Audrey Lee utterly CRUSHES her debut with a SMASH hit I won’t soon forget! Trust me, get your hands on this ASAP! Now I must simply wait on pins and needles for her next book.
____
Thank you Audrey Lee for the gifted copy. All opinions are mine.
Potential spoiler content warnings below.
⚠️Content warnings by me: language, Mention of: assault, gaslighting, drug addiction, drug overdose, attempted suicide
Hope Nakano is at a treatment center for help to regain missing memories from the past year. Before that, she was content and happy with the love of her life Luke and his daughter Charlotte. As she receives treatments via virtual reality and visits to ‘the labyrinth’ she doubts the returning memories…
Once in a while there’s a novel that hits EVERY note PERFECTLY. This is THAT book! THE MECHANICS OF MEMORY is a cerebral sci fi techno thriller of the highest order. A suspenseful mystery with heart, so brilliantly written the many layers had my mind spinning! Are you a sci-fi geek? A comic book nerd? A gamer? A coder? A film nut? There are pop culture references FOR DAYS and done in a way that feels natural. Anyone who knows about Firefly and Soylent Green… is my people. (Pun intended. IYKYK!)
The best part was easily the characters. Hope is everything I love in a MC, she’s relatable, tough yet vulnerable, and despite wanting to trust her, completely unreliable. Inside the creepy ‘wellness’ center where platitude posters are everywhere, Hope discovers found family in a quirky motley crew of fellow patients. With inside jokes and nicknames like ‘Head Games’ for the rec room, I was attached to SEVERAL people, even as I doubted who they really were. As many people as there were to love, there were equally as many to despise. Don’t get me started on the doctors! At times, it was hard to distinguish who fit into which category, and that only added to the thrills! I was never quite sure who to trust...
Whip smart, full of twists and turns, irreverent humor and sardonic wit, with a love story at its core, THE MECHANICS OF MEMORY is a science fiction thriller NOT to be missed! This is a book that would immediately have me diving into the author’s backlist. But guess what? I CAN’T. This is Audrey’s DEBUT. What?! YES. Audrey Lee utterly CRUSHES her debut with a SMASH hit I won’t soon forget! Trust me, get your hands on this ASAP! Now I must simply wait on pins and needles for her next book.
____
Thank you Audrey Lee for the gifted copy. All opinions are mine.
Potential spoiler content warnings below.
⚠️Content warnings by me: language, Mention of: assault, gaslighting, drug addiction, drug overdose, attempted suicide
August 28, 2024
I'm obsessed with this book. This was one of the top novels I was looking forward to reading in 2024, and it lived up to all the hype...and then some. Mechanics of Memory follows Hope Nakano into Wilder, a California mental institute specializing in memory, where Hope is trying to recover a year that is missing from her life. Searching for the truth about her past and the man she loves leads her to more questions: namely, what is really going on at Wilder? Spellbinding writing with wry, witty, and beautiful observations, Audrey Lee spins a mind-bending psychological thriller with a twist you won't see coming. Think: Blake Crouch caliber, literary execution. This book will suck you in, keep you up past your bed-time, and have you thinking about it long after the last page is turned. HIGHLY recommend.
*****
*****
August 17, 2024
This is a well-written, witty, well-paced story - hard to pin down the genre, but with appealing characters and a mystery that keeps you hooked. Loved the dialogue and the wide range of characters, and despite the action/mystery, how it felt so true to modern life, technology, and the culture I know. (read the ARC)
July 28, 2024
wowowowww I'm finally getting back to reading again and this book blew me away!
I'm always big on having characters I care a lot for and this book definitely had me on the edge of my seat for the characters, especially the main character, Hope, who's journey was so fascinating to see pan out. I didn't expect to be so attached to the side characters as well, particularly Quinn and Spooky, whom I always loved seeing on-page.
The story itself was quite intense, which had me nervous trying to figure out what was yet to come. Honestly, that was just how I liked it- not knowing all the information in the beginning, therefore trying to puzzle out the mystery with the characters. It definitely made me feel more attached to the characters and story itself.
That being said, I kid you not, there was a moment while I was reading this book in my library that my jaw went:
from one of the twists.
Definitely for fans of mystery, thriller stories, but also, just anybody because I don't even read that many mysteries and thrillers and I had a blast with this one.
Thank you to the author and Netgalley for sending me this arc to review.
I'm always big on having characters I care a lot for and this book definitely had me on the edge of my seat for the characters, especially the main character, Hope, who's journey was so fascinating to see pan out. I didn't expect to be so attached to the side characters as well, particularly Quinn and Spooky, whom I always loved seeing on-page.
The story itself was quite intense, which had me nervous trying to figure out what was yet to come. Honestly, that was just how I liked it- not knowing all the information in the beginning, therefore trying to puzzle out the mystery with the characters. It definitely made me feel more attached to the characters and story itself.
That being said, I kid you not, there was a moment while I was reading this book in my library that my jaw went:
from one of the twists.Definitely for fans of mystery, thriller stories, but also, just anybody because I don't even read that many mysteries and thrillers and I had a blast with this one.
Thank you to the author and Netgalley for sending me this arc to review.
May 24, 2024
I received an advanced review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Audrey Lee's debut novel, The Mechanics of Memory is a mind-bending story where science fiction meets thriller. Follow Hope Nakano as she clings to her long-term memories of Luke and learns to recover her memory from her lost year inside of Wilder treatment facility. With lovable, quirky, and evil characters, I was delighted to follow along multiple character's point of view to piece together what's really going on at Wilder and Copeland-Stark.
I loved how Lee played with the insight of how malleable memories can be and paired it with black mirror-esque scenes using the latest technology (VR + modern cognitive therapy + medicine) to illustrate Hope's flashbacks, dreams, and current reality.
Detailed world building paired with witty dialogue between Hope and her friends (Quinn, Spooky, and Carter) will keep you turning page after page to follow along their arcs. I loved the contrast of how Wilder is seen from the outside as a posh expensive resort style facility and the grim reality of the awful things the doctors and nurses are doing to patients.
Throughout the story, Lee does a fantastic job of throwing in easter eggs and twists and turns to keep you on the edge of your seat. I'm looking forward to future books in this series and hope we get more Spooky and Quinn cameos. The Mechanics of Memory comes out in this August and is worth pre-ordering now!
Audrey Lee's debut novel, The Mechanics of Memory is a mind-bending story where science fiction meets thriller. Follow Hope Nakano as she clings to her long-term memories of Luke and learns to recover her memory from her lost year inside of Wilder treatment facility. With lovable, quirky, and evil characters, I was delighted to follow along multiple character's point of view to piece together what's really going on at Wilder and Copeland-Stark.
I loved how Lee played with the insight of how malleable memories can be and paired it with black mirror-esque scenes using the latest technology (VR + modern cognitive therapy + medicine) to illustrate Hope's flashbacks, dreams, and current reality.
Detailed world building paired with witty dialogue between Hope and her friends (Quinn, Spooky, and Carter) will keep you turning page after page to follow along their arcs. I loved the contrast of how Wilder is seen from the outside as a posh expensive resort style facility and the grim reality of the awful things the doctors and nurses are doing to patients.
Throughout the story, Lee does a fantastic job of throwing in easter eggs and twists and turns to keep you on the edge of your seat. I'm looking forward to future books in this series and hope we get more Spooky and Quinn cameos. The Mechanics of Memory comes out in this August and is worth pre-ordering now!
June 15, 2024
What a twisty, turning dark and emotional ride!!
Hope has woken up at Wilder, a center for “wellness”. She needs help with her nightmares and recovering part of her memory that she is missing.
Are the doctors at Wilder trying to help the patients recover their memories or are they using them as lab rats for their psychological experiments? This is the major question at the center of this psychological thriller.
If you are looking for a light, easy to read, feel good book to help you unwind on vacation, then this is not that book. If you are looking for something dark and thought provoking, that gives your mind a good workout, then pick up this book!
There are some trigger warnings that I would like to mention for this book. There are mentions of suicide, mental illness, and substance abuse.
This book would be a great pick for a book club because of all the issues that come up in the book that would lead to some great conversations.
The fact that this is Audrey’s debut book is amazing! It is so good and I can’t wait to see what else she comes up with!!
Hope has woken up at Wilder, a center for “wellness”. She needs help with her nightmares and recovering part of her memory that she is missing.
Are the doctors at Wilder trying to help the patients recover their memories or are they using them as lab rats for their psychological experiments? This is the major question at the center of this psychological thriller.
If you are looking for a light, easy to read, feel good book to help you unwind on vacation, then this is not that book. If you are looking for something dark and thought provoking, that gives your mind a good workout, then pick up this book!
There are some trigger warnings that I would like to mention for this book. There are mentions of suicide, mental illness, and substance abuse.
This book would be a great pick for a book club because of all the issues that come up in the book that would lead to some great conversations.
The fact that this is Audrey’s debut book is amazing! It is so good and I can’t wait to see what else she comes up with!!
June 12, 2024
An e-ARC was provided by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions remain my own.
-5 stars
A very fun and intriguing read. Hope wakes up at Copeland-Stark’s new sanctuary for folks needing treatment for mental health, memory loss and addiction. This book has so many twists and turns. It keeps you guessing about who you can trust? What’s real and what’s not? This book is multiple POV, which I felt added the extra depth and mystery to the storyline. The synopsis is short for a reason, I think it’s best to go into this book knowing as little as possible.
-5 stars
A very fun and intriguing read. Hope wakes up at Copeland-Stark’s new sanctuary for folks needing treatment for mental health, memory loss and addiction. This book has so many twists and turns. It keeps you guessing about who you can trust? What’s real and what’s not? This book is multiple POV, which I felt added the extra depth and mystery to the storyline. The synopsis is short for a reason, I think it’s best to go into this book knowing as little as possible.
June 14, 2024
What a twisted, tangled web we weave! This book was a hell of a wild ride. Everything you think you know you as you’re reading it, you really don’t. Also, what a terrifying concept that real-life scientists have probably gotten closer to than any of us would suspect.
Thoroughly entertaining and actually made me gasp out loud once. I loved it!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an ARC. This review contains my honest, unbiased opinion.
Thoroughly entertaining and actually made me gasp out loud once. I loved it!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an ARC. This review contains my honest, unbiased opinion.
August 20, 2024
I loved Mechanics of Memory! Audrey Lee has a gift for developing both likable and detestable characters within a slightly creepy, suspenseful, and twisty plot. This book has stayed with me long after I finished reading. Is this a glimpse into the future? I wouldn’t be surprised!
(Read an ARC)
(Read an ARC)
August 27, 2024
Thank you to CamCat Books and NetGalley for sending me an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
I had so much fun with this book! I have been in such a mystery/thriller mood lately so this book was right up my alley. It had everything that I wanted from a book in that genre. It had twists and turns, it had suspense and kept the truth from the reader while slowly giving a trickle of information to give the feeling of the reader "solving" the mystery themselves.
I absolutely loved the addition of the codes and made a whole page in my notebook trying to decipher the simple code that Hope and Luke use, but I was not able to completely crack it. I wish there was a cipher key in the back of the book so that I could have finally deciphered all the code in the book, but oh well 😅
Absolutely loved the asian representation and asian protagonist, as well as how the book portrayed some family expectations within Asian communities that are unfortunately far too prevalent.
My absolute favourite line in the book was "from farmhouse to nuthouse" 🤣
As for the ending, I'll put this bit behind spoilers:
I had so much fun with this book! I have been in such a mystery/thriller mood lately so this book was right up my alley. It had everything that I wanted from a book in that genre. It had twists and turns, it had suspense and kept the truth from the reader while slowly giving a trickle of information to give the feeling of the reader "solving" the mystery themselves.
I absolutely loved the addition of the codes and made a whole page in my notebook trying to decipher the simple code that Hope and Luke use, but I was not able to completely crack it. I wish there was a cipher key in the back of the book so that I could have finally deciphered all the code in the book, but oh well 😅
Absolutely loved the asian representation and asian protagonist, as well as how the book portrayed some family expectations within Asian communities that are unfortunately far too prevalent.
My absolute favourite line in the book was "from farmhouse to nuthouse" 🤣
As for the ending, I'll put this bit behind spoilers:
March 22, 2024
Intrigue guaranteed, but beware of spoilers! This mind-bending story follows Hope, whose seemingly happy life takes a shocking turn when she wakes up in a medical facility with a year of missing memories. Here, the line between truth and manipulation blurs. Are the memories they're forcing her to accept real, or a sinister plot? The book masterfully explores the terrifying concept of implanted memories, making it all the more chilling because it feels plausible.
This is science fiction with a dose of reality. The story's core question - can we trust our own memories? - lingers long after the final page. The characters, including Hope, are fiercely relatable, making you root for them despite the unsettling circumstances.
The Wilder Sanctuary promises healing for trauma-induced memory loss. But as Hope delves deeper, she uncovers a disturbing truth. The line between medical treatment and corporate greed blurs, transforming the narrative from a medical thriller into a full-blown psychological one.
The author's meticulous plotting demands your attention. The story unfolds with increasing tension, rewarding careful reading. However, be prepared for a world where clear-cut good guys are scarce. Here, you'll encounter victims, villains, and those existing in a terrifying gray area.
A perfect page-turner, but not for bedtime reading! "The Wilder Sanctuary" will keep you guessing and might disrupt your sleep with its exploration of a world where reality itself is uncertain.Intrigue guaranteed, but beware of spoilers! This mind-bending story follows Hope, whose seemingly happy life takes a shocking turn when she wakes up in a medical facility with a year of missing memories. Here, the line between truth and manipulation blurs. Are the memories they're forcing her to accept real, or a sinister plot? The book masterfully explores the terrifying concept of implanted memories, making it all the more chilling because it feels plausible.
This is science fiction with a dose of reality. The story's core question - can we trust our own memories? - lingers long after the final page. The characters, including Hope, are fiercely relatable, making you root for them despite the unsettling circumstances.
The Wilder Sanctuary promises healing for trauma-induced memory loss. But as Hope delves deeper, she uncovers a disturbing truth. The line between medical treatment and corporate greed blurs, transforming the narrative from a medical thriller into a full-blown psychological one.
The author's meticulous plotting demands your attention. The story unfolds with increasing tension, rewarding careful reading. However, be prepared for a world where clear-cut good guys are scarce. Here, you'll encounter victims, villains, and those existing in a terrifying gray area.
A perfect page-turner, but not for bedtime reading! "The Wilder Sanctuary" will keep you guessing and might disrupt your sleep with its exploration of a world where reality itself is uncertain.
This is science fiction with a dose of reality. The story's core question - can we trust our own memories? - lingers long after the final page. The characters, including Hope, are fiercely relatable, making you root for them despite the unsettling circumstances.
The Wilder Sanctuary promises healing for trauma-induced memory loss. But as Hope delves deeper, she uncovers a disturbing truth. The line between medical treatment and corporate greed blurs, transforming the narrative from a medical thriller into a full-blown psychological one.
The author's meticulous plotting demands your attention. The story unfolds with increasing tension, rewarding careful reading. However, be prepared for a world where clear-cut good guys are scarce. Here, you'll encounter victims, villains, and those existing in a terrifying gray area.
A perfect page-turner, but not for bedtime reading! "The Wilder Sanctuary" will keep you guessing and might disrupt your sleep with its exploration of a world where reality itself is uncertain.Intrigue guaranteed, but beware of spoilers! This mind-bending story follows Hope, whose seemingly happy life takes a shocking turn when she wakes up in a medical facility with a year of missing memories. Here, the line between truth and manipulation blurs. Are the memories they're forcing her to accept real, or a sinister plot? The book masterfully explores the terrifying concept of implanted memories, making it all the more chilling because it feels plausible.
This is science fiction with a dose of reality. The story's core question - can we trust our own memories? - lingers long after the final page. The characters, including Hope, are fiercely relatable, making you root for them despite the unsettling circumstances.
The Wilder Sanctuary promises healing for trauma-induced memory loss. But as Hope delves deeper, she uncovers a disturbing truth. The line between medical treatment and corporate greed blurs, transforming the narrative from a medical thriller into a full-blown psychological one.
The author's meticulous plotting demands your attention. The story unfolds with increasing tension, rewarding careful reading. However, be prepared for a world where clear-cut good guys are scarce. Here, you'll encounter victims, villains, and those existing in a terrifying gray area.
A perfect page-turner, but not for bedtime reading! "The Wilder Sanctuary" will keep you guessing and might disrupt your sleep with its exploration of a world where reality itself is uncertain.
August 26, 2024
Originally reviewed for Chick Lit Central: (www.chicklicentral.com)
I’m completely in love with The Mechanics of Memory! I’m a sucker for a good psychological sci-fi thriller with elements of romance sprinkled into it, and this fits that to perfection. Copeland-Stark’s facility reminded me of an upscale rehabilitation resort for A-listers, combined with the Hawkin’s National Laboratory the character Eleven from Stranger Things has had to fight to survive in. And Hope has had to fight to survive, too. Nothing is as it seems, despite everything the employees try to do to make it appear that the facility is doing it’s best to make the inhabitants “be well,” a phrase the reader will encounter often between staff and the “guests” there. All for research. But to what end?
Soon, Hope and other cohorts figure out that there is more behind the scenes, and they go to great lengths to discover the truth behind what Copeland-Stark is really up to. In every chapter, there are a myriad of clues and answers that are given to the reader in the best of ways, a few steps at a time, and even when I thought I knew what was happening and how Hope ended up at a place like Copeland-Stark, in the end I was completely wrong in my assessment. The virtual reality rooms and the scenes between Hope and her friends who have banded together through trauma were engaging moments that provided so much to the story. Through it all, despite having memory stripped away at every turn, it’s never really gone. Not entirely. Particularly when there is love involved.
While I enjoy this genre, I don’t often get the opportunity to read from this genre. It’s a favorite of my husband’s, too, and it was nice to have the chance to recommend this book to him. There’s a big scene in the book where computer code is used to decipher some hidden secrets and meanings and it was fun to hear from my husband (a computer programmer/web developer) on what it all means and where it had been derived from. It’s definitely been added to his TBR list. The Mechanics of Memory is a definite five-star page turner, and if I could give it more stars than that, I would in a heartbeat!
I’m completely in love with The Mechanics of Memory! I’m a sucker for a good psychological sci-fi thriller with elements of romance sprinkled into it, and this fits that to perfection. Copeland-Stark’s facility reminded me of an upscale rehabilitation resort for A-listers, combined with the Hawkin’s National Laboratory the character Eleven from Stranger Things has had to fight to survive in. And Hope has had to fight to survive, too. Nothing is as it seems, despite everything the employees try to do to make it appear that the facility is doing it’s best to make the inhabitants “be well,” a phrase the reader will encounter often between staff and the “guests” there. All for research. But to what end?
Soon, Hope and other cohorts figure out that there is more behind the scenes, and they go to great lengths to discover the truth behind what Copeland-Stark is really up to. In every chapter, there are a myriad of clues and answers that are given to the reader in the best of ways, a few steps at a time, and even when I thought I knew what was happening and how Hope ended up at a place like Copeland-Stark, in the end I was completely wrong in my assessment. The virtual reality rooms and the scenes between Hope and her friends who have banded together through trauma were engaging moments that provided so much to the story. Through it all, despite having memory stripped away at every turn, it’s never really gone. Not entirely. Particularly when there is love involved.
While I enjoy this genre, I don’t often get the opportunity to read from this genre. It’s a favorite of my husband’s, too, and it was nice to have the chance to recommend this book to him. There’s a big scene in the book where computer code is used to decipher some hidden secrets and meanings and it was fun to hear from my husband (a computer programmer/web developer) on what it all means and where it had been derived from. It’s definitely been added to his TBR list. The Mechanics of Memory is a definite five-star page turner, and if I could give it more stars than that, I would in a heartbeat!
April 13, 2025
2.5 stars
The synopsis sounded intriguing but ultimately this was underwhelming. I didn’t care for the stiff prose and the characters lacked depth. There was far more telling than showing, which made it difficult to connect with the story. The relationship between Hope and Luke fell flat for me, there wasn't enough groundwork to make their connection believable or worth rooting for. Where were the emotional stakes?
The supporting characters didn't contribute much either and while the mystery had potential, it often felt muddled and overly drawn out. The first half dragged and though the pace picked up later on, it was too late to redeem the book in my eyes. Overall, it’s not a terrible read, but it just didn’t work for me.
The synopsis sounded intriguing but ultimately this was underwhelming. I didn’t care for the stiff prose and the characters lacked depth. There was far more telling than showing, which made it difficult to connect with the story. The relationship between Hope and Luke fell flat for me, there wasn't enough groundwork to make their connection believable or worth rooting for. Where were the emotional stakes?
The supporting characters didn't contribute much either and while the mystery had potential, it often felt muddled and overly drawn out. The first half dragged and though the pace picked up later on, it was too late to redeem the book in my eyes. Overall, it’s not a terrible read, but it just didn’t work for me.
May 13, 2024
For a debut novel, Audrey Lee knocks it out of the park! This is an amazing psychological thriller that has you living the unknown with the Hope, the main character, for the entire book. As the female lead, Hope is a very well developed and complex character. She's smart but also vulnerable. The underlying Asian cultural references were very well done and helped you understand why Hope responded to situations the way she did. The secondary characters were also brilliantly written and helped balance the seriousness of the story with some levity. I can't wait for readers to have this book in their hands. I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 18, 2024
I received an ARC of this book from Book Sirens and this is my voluntary and unbiased review.
After months of treatments at the high-end Copeland-Stark memory care facility, Hope Nakano still has no clue what happened during her lost year, or to the life she was beginning to build with Luke. Each procedure brings up partial clues that make Hope question her own memories. As inconsistencies increase, she is determined to uncover her past, but she will discover a much larger secret that Copeland-Stark wants to keep hidden.
I absolutely loved this book! It was so captivating! I love an unreliable narrator, but I have read so many books where the MC is unreliable but also insufferable to the point where I don't enjoy it. That was not my experience with Hope in this book! She was such a strong character, and even though she was struggling with memory throughout this book, it never made her act irrational and dumb. Not only did I love Hope, but the friendships she made with the other patients opened up multiple storylines to keep me guessing! This was very sci-fi but also a thriller. Even if you aren't a fan of sci-fi, I think you should give this one a try! There were so many good twists, and I loved how it all came together!
This book comes out in August 2024, and is Audrey Lee's first novel!! Definitely keep your eyes out for this release. I will be impatiently waiting to see what she writes next!
After months of treatments at the high-end Copeland-Stark memory care facility, Hope Nakano still has no clue what happened during her lost year, or to the life she was beginning to build with Luke. Each procedure brings up partial clues that make Hope question her own memories. As inconsistencies increase, she is determined to uncover her past, but she will discover a much larger secret that Copeland-Stark wants to keep hidden.
I absolutely loved this book! It was so captivating! I love an unreliable narrator, but I have read so many books where the MC is unreliable but also insufferable to the point where I don't enjoy it. That was not my experience with Hope in this book! She was such a strong character, and even though she was struggling with memory throughout this book, it never made her act irrational and dumb. Not only did I love Hope, but the friendships she made with the other patients opened up multiple storylines to keep me guessing! This was very sci-fi but also a thriller. Even if you aren't a fan of sci-fi, I think you should give this one a try! There were so many good twists, and I loved how it all came together!
This book comes out in August 2024, and is Audrey Lee's first novel!! Definitely keep your eyes out for this release. I will be impatiently waiting to see what she writes next!
July 17, 2024
Thanks to Netgalley, CamCat Books & Audrey Lee for this copy of the book!
It was strange how Wilder advertised themselves to people who were already here, as if anyone watching this screen had a choice.
First off, let’s talk about the general setup of the book. From the font to the simple yet decorative section dividers, it was exquisite. It’s been a while since I’ve seen such a beautifully tailored book, and it definitely enhanced the reading experience.
As someone who's been dabbling in programming for the last three years, this book was a treat with its sprinkles of code. While I couldn’t quite wrap my head around all of it, I still enjoyed the nerdy flair it added.
The first 25% of the book felt a bit slow with all the setup (plus my reading slump wasn’t helping either). But then, it picked up a delightful pace with twists and turns on every page. It turned into a very enjoyable ride, making it well worth the wait.
I got way too many arcs! HELP!!
I see, Read now, I click 😖
Thoughts while reading:
1. Reading slump incoming. I'm not enjoying as much as I want to.
2. It's interesting and unexpected.
It was strange how Wilder advertised themselves to people who were already here, as if anyone watching this screen had a choice.
First off, let’s talk about the general setup of the book. From the font to the simple yet decorative section dividers, it was exquisite. It’s been a while since I’ve seen such a beautifully tailored book, and it definitely enhanced the reading experience.
As someone who's been dabbling in programming for the last three years, this book was a treat with its sprinkles of code. While I couldn’t quite wrap my head around all of it, I still enjoyed the nerdy flair it added.
The first 25% of the book felt a bit slow with all the setup (plus my reading slump wasn’t helping either). But then, it picked up a delightful pace with twists and turns on every page. It turned into a very enjoyable ride, making it well worth the wait.
I got way too many arcs! HELP!!
I see, Read now, I click 😖
Thoughts while reading:
1. Reading slump incoming. I'm not enjoying as much as I want to.
2. It's interesting and unexpected.
March 22, 2025
This isn't a bad book necessarily, I think it's a good idea for a book, but I always felt like I never really quite connected to any of the characters or any of the story that was happening. So like, when , I really didn't find that I cared, which is a bummer because it's one of the main mysteries that's still left unsolved at the end of the novel.
To make what could be a long review short - this book is like 85% vibes. And I needed it to be a little bit more strong writing and character development.
To make what could be a long review short - this book is like 85% vibes. And I needed it to be a little bit more strong writing and character development.
October 27, 2025
This was such a different premise than any other I have read in a while. It is more sci-fi than I realized, which I don’t read often, but I enjoyed this one and thought it was well executed. The narrators did an outstanding job, and as a result I really loved listening to this one, it was a wonderful reading experience. It is best to go into this one blind, so I don’t want to say too much here other than the ending was not what I expected but I loved it. I cannot wait to see what Audrey writes next!
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