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Children of the Consortium #1
Recorder
The Consortium is All. But Recorder Can No Longer Obey.
Recorder has no family, no friends, and no name. Donated to the Consortium before birth, her sole purpose is to maintain and verify the records. A neural implant and drone ensure compliance, punishing for displays of bias.
Suddenly cut off from controlling technology, Recorder tastes what it means to be human. But if the Consortium discovers her feelings, everyone she knows will be in danger.
With no name, no resources, and only an infinitesimal possibility of escape, Recorder's time is running out.
Recorder has no family, no friends, and no name. Donated to the Consortium before birth, her sole purpose is to maintain and verify the records. A neural implant and drone ensure compliance, punishing for displays of bias.
Suddenly cut off from controlling technology, Recorder tastes what it means to be human. But if the Consortium discovers her feelings, everyone she knows will be in danger.
With no name, no resources, and only an infinitesimal possibility of escape, Recorder's time is running out.
367 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 9, 2021
22 people are currently reading
932 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 184 reviews
July 6, 2024
I have no idea what to think about this book 😅 I mean, I liked some elements but I can’t tell you why but then again there were parts that were just plain sad/depressing to me?? I don’t know. Going to have to think on this one a bit. 🧐
Some thoughts and I'll share the content in a day or so on here:
This was wildly different from really any book I’ve ever read before. She’s basically like a robot and when events happen that alter her, she has to learn to manage her emotions and life without her technology—including having to monitor her own vials and knowing when to eat. Recorders are said to keep everyone honest and safe, but some will argue that point because of past troubles with them.
Even after typing this looooong review, I’m still unsure of how I feel about this book, so let’s list some pros and cons:
Pro- I was able to follow along pretty well and never felt too overwhelmed by the sci-fi plot. The author explained things very well and naturally, it never felt like info-dumping.
Con- The story did start to drag for me around the halfway point.
Pro- I liked seeing the eventual found family trope.
Con- There was a lot of characters and names to keep track of (including the same person being called three different names 🥴)
Pro- this was incredibly different from my normal read and I liked that aspect.
Con- The cockroaches were disgusting and completely icky as someone who can’t stand those. I now have trust issues for this author and creatures she adds to this series.
Pro- Our main Recorder didn’t understand different idioms and taking them literally was so Amelia Bedelia-like and I really liked that part.
Con- At times, it stated to feel overly sad and depressing to me. That could totally be me, but I was waiting for something good to finally happen to these characters.
I really wanted to really like this book. It didn’t quite meet my expectations, I’ll admit. Major sci-fi fans will probably enjoy this one more, but I struggled with different elements of this book. I needed more hope throughout it and it sorely lacking that element. I do plan to continue the rest of the series as I own them and am curious about certain things. The concept is there and the characters were well done, but for some reason it still didn’t meet the expectations I had for it.
Some thoughts and I'll share the content in a day or so on here:
This was wildly different from really any book I’ve ever read before. She’s basically like a robot and when events happen that alter her, she has to learn to manage her emotions and life without her technology—including having to monitor her own vials and knowing when to eat. Recorders are said to keep everyone honest and safe, but some will argue that point because of past troubles with them.
Even after typing this looooong review, I’m still unsure of how I feel about this book, so let’s list some pros and cons:
Pro- I was able to follow along pretty well and never felt too overwhelmed by the sci-fi plot. The author explained things very well and naturally, it never felt like info-dumping.
Con- The story did start to drag for me around the halfway point.
Pro- I liked seeing the eventual found family trope.
Con- There was a lot of characters and names to keep track of (including the same person being called three different names 🥴)
Pro- this was incredibly different from my normal read and I liked that aspect.
Con- The cockroaches were disgusting and completely icky as someone who can’t stand those. I now have trust issues for this author and creatures she adds to this series.
Pro- Our main Recorder didn’t understand different idioms and taking them literally was so Amelia Bedelia-like and I really liked that part.
Con- At times, it stated to feel overly sad and depressing to me. That could totally be me, but I was waiting for something good to finally happen to these characters.
I really wanted to really like this book. It didn’t quite meet my expectations, I’ll admit. Major sci-fi fans will probably enjoy this one more, but I struggled with different elements of this book. I needed more hope throughout it and it sorely lacking that element. I do plan to continue the rest of the series as I own them and am curious about certain things. The concept is there and the characters were well done, but for some reason it still didn’t meet the expectations I had for it.
December 19, 2021
Wow! What an emotional, exciting, unique, and utterly beautiful story!
Cathy McCrumb has a beautiful style that immersed me in the story heart and soul. The setting and world is so real, and the characters are my absolute favourites. I adored watching Recorder grow and change and all the relationships were complex and wonderful.
I highly recommend this book! Such a wonderful read.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and was not required to write a positive review.
Cathy McCrumb has a beautiful style that immersed me in the story heart and soul. The setting and world is so real, and the characters are my absolute favourites. I adored watching Recorder grow and change and all the relationships were complex and wonderful.
I highly recommend this book! Such a wonderful read.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and was not required to write a positive review.
March 19, 2024
Recorder by Cathy McCrumb - Book 1 in the Children of the Consortium Series
5 Stars
Wow, what an ending! I must read book 2 immediately! This is book 1 in a Christian Sci-Fi series that really is #SciFiWithHeart as many have said. I am not usually someone who reads the Sci-Fi genre because I have a fear of not understanding what's going on - but this was SUPER easy to understand and you are immediately connected to our characters, their relationships and the friendships made. Cathy truly tugs at your heart strings in this one as our main character, who is a Recorder, starts to realize she has value for who she is.
I can't say too much for this as I really think you should go in this book knowing as little as possible, but to quote the synopsis, "Recorder has no family, friends and no name. Donated to the Consortium before birth, her sole purpose is to maintain and verify records. A neural implant and drone ensure compliance, punishing for displays of bias. Suddenly cut off from controlling technology, she tastes what it means to be human. But if the Consortium discovers her feelings, everyone she knows will be in danger." The story goes on from here as time starts to run out for Recorder in all the events that take place.
From the very first chapter, you are immersed in the story and I am so glad this was a book club read with my friends because it really made me step outside of my comfort zone and find something I really enjoyed. If you are someone who is interested even in the least to try Sci-Fi, highly recommend checking this one out because it was not confusing. The audio was great but I think it's best to read in physical format or at least have an ebook or physical copy on hand to read in tandem with the audio because we do have some flashbacks that I missed were flashbacks sometimes for not paying enough attention and would start back over on that audio chapter.
There are some faith elements in this - light but it's there and I appreciated that. This book ends where you really need book 2 on DECK by the way, so make sure you are prepared before you dive in!💛
5 Stars
Wow, what an ending! I must read book 2 immediately! This is book 1 in a Christian Sci-Fi series that really is #SciFiWithHeart as many have said. I am not usually someone who reads the Sci-Fi genre because I have a fear of not understanding what's going on - but this was SUPER easy to understand and you are immediately connected to our characters, their relationships and the friendships made. Cathy truly tugs at your heart strings in this one as our main character, who is a Recorder, starts to realize she has value for who she is.
I can't say too much for this as I really think you should go in this book knowing as little as possible, but to quote the synopsis, "Recorder has no family, friends and no name. Donated to the Consortium before birth, her sole purpose is to maintain and verify records. A neural implant and drone ensure compliance, punishing for displays of bias. Suddenly cut off from controlling technology, she tastes what it means to be human. But if the Consortium discovers her feelings, everyone she knows will be in danger." The story goes on from here as time starts to run out for Recorder in all the events that take place.
From the very first chapter, you are immersed in the story and I am so glad this was a book club read with my friends because it really made me step outside of my comfort zone and find something I really enjoyed. If you are someone who is interested even in the least to try Sci-Fi, highly recommend checking this one out because it was not confusing. The audio was great but I think it's best to read in physical format or at least have an ebook or physical copy on hand to read in tandem with the audio because we do have some flashbacks that I missed were flashbacks sometimes for not paying enough attention and would start back over on that audio chapter.
There are some faith elements in this - light but it's there and I appreciated that. This book ends where you really need book 2 on DECK by the way, so make sure you are prepared before you dive in!💛
January 30, 2022
Characters: I enjoyed seeing the Recorder learn to adapt to life without all of her sci-fi technological advances. She had a distinct way of talking that set her apart from the other characters.
Language: Clean. The fake cuss words did start getting on my nerves after a while, and I wish they'd been excluded altogether.
Moral: While this book didn't have much Christian content at first, more started coming into play during the second half. I'm thinking the next book in the series will further develop that thread. If I had to pick a theme, I'd go with something along the lines of your job doesn't make you who you are.
Plot: The first fifty or so pages had lots of action in them! Once the characters reached their space ship, things became a little more character-driven as the Recorder focused on figuring out her life and solving a mystery.
Random comments: I wasn't a fan of a couple of characters implying they might have evolved, but I'm hoping they'll come to see this as false in the next book.
Romance: Clean. Just a kiss or two.
Writing: Cathy McCrumb's writing style worked well for this book!
Overall: Recorder was an entertaining read, and I'd recommend it to those who enjoy Christian fiction and sci-fi novels.
Language: Clean. The fake cuss words did start getting on my nerves after a while, and I wish they'd been excluded altogether.
Moral: While this book didn't have much Christian content at first, more started coming into play during the second half. I'm thinking the next book in the series will further develop that thread. If I had to pick a theme, I'd go with something along the lines of your job doesn't make you who you are.
Plot: The first fifty or so pages had lots of action in them! Once the characters reached their space ship, things became a little more character-driven as the Recorder focused on figuring out her life and solving a mystery.
Random comments: I wasn't a fan of a couple of characters implying they might have evolved, but I'm hoping they'll come to see this as false in the next book.
Romance: Clean. Just a kiss or two.
Writing: Cathy McCrumb's writing style worked well for this book!
Overall: Recorder was an entertaining read, and I'd recommend it to those who enjoy Christian fiction and sci-fi novels.
June 16, 2024
When I say I don't read sci -fi, I mean it. I had to add a sci-fi tag to my account here on GR after reading this book and I've been here almost from the beginning, guys. All I can say is, my buddies on BookTube made me do it. You know who you are.
Anyway.
4.5 ⭐
This is sci-fi, yes, but it's much more than that or I wouldn't have read it. When I heard everyone on BookTube talking about it, I was immediately intrigued by the concept of a main character who is not allowed to experience emotion in an effort to maintain a balanced record of all events for the powers that be (in this case, a galactic big brother).
This concept allows the author to explore a lot of themes that interested me within the format of an engaging and nail-biting story, filled with characters (all human except for drones - again, probably wouldn't have read it if there were like aliens and stuff) who were very real despite their futuristic environment.
I had some questions at the end that I hope are answered in the next couple books in the series. Some aspects of the story I found difficult to track but I got the gist of what was going on. Mostly I was there for the character interaction and development, which I thoroughly enjoyed.
Anyway.
4.5 ⭐
This is sci-fi, yes, but it's much more than that or I wouldn't have read it. When I heard everyone on BookTube talking about it, I was immediately intrigued by the concept of a main character who is not allowed to experience emotion in an effort to maintain a balanced record of all events for the powers that be (in this case, a galactic big brother).
This concept allows the author to explore a lot of themes that interested me within the format of an engaging and nail-biting story, filled with characters (all human except for drones - again, probably wouldn't have read it if there were like aliens and stuff) who were very real despite their futuristic environment.
I had some questions at the end that I hope are answered in the next couple books in the series. Some aspects of the story I found difficult to track but I got the gist of what was going on. Mostly I was there for the character interaction and development, which I thoroughly enjoyed.
May 1, 2024
um. WoW. 😭😭
Did not expect to love this book as much as I did. I’m not a sci-fi girly, after all. But the grip this story has on me now. 🫣 I need the next one in the series NOW.
Did not expect to love this book as much as I did. I’m not a sci-fi girly, after all. But the grip this story has on me now. 🫣 I need the next one in the series NOW.
March 14, 2024
I've heard this book described as sci-fi with heart and I couldn't agree more!
From the very first chapter, I was sucked in! Cathy does a marvelous job of setting the stage: of creating the world and societal structure, and also building the intensity and anticipation in certain moments. You feel for Recorder in how she longs for connection and feeling. I read this for a book club and I had to force myself to put the book down long enough to update them on my thoughts in our group chat!
All of the characters are well-written and distinct--very human. You get backstories via flashbacks that don't take the reader out of the main story but help build the characters.
I didn't know their was a romance in this but hooray, that makes it even better! I must say I am a sucker for a male love interest who sees more to her than others do, who appreciates her value even if others don't.
If you are wanting to try out sci-fi, I would definitely recommend starting with this one as it has the sci-fi elements without being confusing or too sciency. But a word of caution: you need to have the 2nd book handy as soon as you finish this one!!
Also, the audiobook is excellent! (My only complaint is she said Ensign wrong, but other than that, I think the narrator perfectly captured Recorder!)
Content: eugenics, loss of parental rights, death of parent
Christian faith rating: 1/3 (it is definitely Christian but it is fairly subtle which I am guessing it will be expanded upon more in the next books)
From the very first chapter, I was sucked in! Cathy does a marvelous job of setting the stage: of creating the world and societal structure, and also building the intensity and anticipation in certain moments. You feel for Recorder in how she longs for connection and feeling. I read this for a book club and I had to force myself to put the book down long enough to update them on my thoughts in our group chat!
All of the characters are well-written and distinct--very human. You get backstories via flashbacks that don't take the reader out of the main story but help build the characters.
I didn't know their was a romance in this but hooray, that makes it even better! I must say I am a sucker for a male love interest who sees more to her than others do, who appreciates her value even if others don't.
If you are wanting to try out sci-fi, I would definitely recommend starting with this one as it has the sci-fi elements without being confusing or too sciency. But a word of caution: you need to have the 2nd book handy as soon as you finish this one!!
Also, the audiobook is excellent! (My only complaint is she said Ensign wrong, but other than that, I think the narrator perfectly captured Recorder!)
Content: eugenics, loss of parental rights, death of parent
Christian faith rating: 1/3 (it is definitely Christian but it is fairly subtle which I am guessing it will be expanded upon more in the next books)
February 5, 2022
This book. Can I give it 10/5 stars? I had the huge pleasure of reading an advanced copy of Recorder, and my goodness it did not disappoint! This was honestly such a timely read, and I found myself relating to Recorder so much. Recorder is stripped from everything familiar and comforting, and she has to work through so many human emotions. She so often feels like she's drowning, but in the midst of her struggles, she finds friends such as Timmons (SQUEAL) and Max and Jordan that encourage her and help her work through her struggles. Once I started reading this book, I couldn't put it down because McCrumb's characters became MY friends helping me work through MY struggles, and I just felt like I was right there with Recorder in her strange, ever-changing world.
All in all, I love this book. So much.
All in all, I love this book. So much.
February 26, 2025
4.5 ⭐️Amazing! So much fun!
August 29, 2023
“Just because a drone used to hurt you doesn’t mean you need to hurt yourself.”—brb, crying
This book is absolutely incredible. Character driven sci fi with the sweetest slow burn romance, found family, a character allowing herself to feel and understand what it is to be human, plus a mystery to solve?! GIMMEEEEEE.
Nate and the Recorder are OTP and no one can dissuade me from this. And the change from “The Recorder isn’t really a human” to “I must protect her with my life” is so beautiful <3 *sob*
Also the giant bugs were gross.
Also when the drone hurt the Recorder I wanted to DESTROY it, tear it limb from limb, because how DARE it hurt my Recorder >:(
This book is absolutely incredible. Character driven sci fi with the sweetest slow burn romance, found family, a character allowing herself to feel and understand what it is to be human, plus a mystery to solve?! GIMMEEEEEE.
Nate and the Recorder are OTP and no one can dissuade me from this. And the change from “The Recorder isn’t really a human” to “I must protect her with my life” is so beautiful <3 *sob*
Also the giant bugs were gross.
Also when the drone hurt the Recorder I wanted to DESTROY it, tear it limb from limb, because how DARE it hurt my Recorder >:(
May 2, 2024
4-4.5 stars!! WOW!
Sci-fi isn't my kind of genre normally. I have always struggled with it, and being honest, the beginning confused me for a hot minute. I also struggled with recorder being so robotic but I understand it's the point. I listened to this and that maybe attributed to me constantly putting this down to process then pick up again. I probably needed to physically read this. Once the plot ticked up...whew!...it definitely kept me engaged. The blossoming romance was adorable and that endinggggg!! 😭😭😳😳 need book 2 pronto!
Sci-fi isn't my kind of genre normally. I have always struggled with it, and being honest, the beginning confused me for a hot minute. I also struggled with recorder being so robotic but I understand it's the point. I listened to this and that maybe attributed to me constantly putting this down to process then pick up again. I probably needed to physically read this. Once the plot ticked up...whew!...it definitely kept me engaged. The blossoming romance was adorable and that endinggggg!! 😭😭😳😳 need book 2 pronto!
dnf
May 21, 2025DNFd in chapter 12 because I was just so not interested, and I felt bored 🤷🏼♀️
May 25, 2022
I am a little conflicted with my review here. I think I'm settling on a 3.75 rating...and I'll explain why.
Recorder is a fascinating sci-fi novel. It's a deep exploration of a nameless character that has been raised to reject normal human tendencies, instead becoming a recorder meant to watch and record. But when she has the opportunity to change, she fights against her training and against her new friends that are trying to help her learn what it means to be a human.
This was fascinating because the book is a struggle. It's her fighting against herself. We got a very good look at who she is and it really builds up to an epic second book, which I'm very excited for.
That said, this book would be dull for someone looking for a book with a solid plot. This has a plot, but a lot of it feels like setup for a climax that we never got. So I would describe this as a really good, if not slightly dull, book.
Recorder is a fascinating sci-fi novel. It's a deep exploration of a nameless character that has been raised to reject normal human tendencies, instead becoming a recorder meant to watch and record. But when she has the opportunity to change, she fights against her training and against her new friends that are trying to help her learn what it means to be a human.
This was fascinating because the book is a struggle. It's her fighting against herself. We got a very good look at who she is and it really builds up to an epic second book, which I'm very excited for.
That said, this book would be dull for someone looking for a book with a solid plot. This has a plot, but a lot of it feels like setup for a climax that we never got. So I would describe this as a really good, if not slightly dull, book.
February 22, 2023
4 ½ stars 🌟
I really liked Recorder. She kind of talked and acted like a robot, which is part of what made her such an interesting character. But then I also loved seeing her have to navigate unsuppressed human emotions for the first time and make new friends and not to mention the romanceeee. So sweet 😭❤️
On another note, this book may not be for you if you don't like 1st person POV or have a fear of giant killer bugs. Also while the book is completely clean, there's also not really any faith content other than a couple mentions of God and maybe prayer and a girl wearing a cross necklace. I'm assuming there will be more in the next book.
I really liked Recorder. She kind of talked and acted like a robot, which is part of what made her such an interesting character. But then I also loved seeing her have to navigate unsuppressed human emotions for the first time and make new friends and not to mention the romanceeee. So sweet 😭❤️
On another note, this book may not be for you if you don't like 1st person POV or have a fear of giant killer bugs. Also while the book is completely clean, there's also not really any faith content other than a couple mentions of God and maybe prayer and a girl wearing a cross necklace. I'm assuming there will be more in the next book.
November 26, 2021
A riveting Sci-fi adventure with excellent world building and compelling character growth.
A well written, engaging debut, with realistic and convincing world building, I liked how the author used a dual timeline to show not tell the past events, utilizing functions of the plot. I had a hard time putting this one down and I liked the growing relationships between the characters that we got to see in the past and the present.
Overall, a must read for fans of sci-fi, the author artfully constructs a mysterious futuristic world, terrifying and intriguing, compelling and consistent, this book did a fantastic job of reeling me in and keeping me invested as the story unfolded, while also bringing up deeper questions of what it means to be human. I am excited to see where this series will go!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
A well written, engaging debut, with realistic and convincing world building, I liked how the author used a dual timeline to show not tell the past events, utilizing functions of the plot. I had a hard time putting this one down and I liked the growing relationships between the characters that we got to see in the past and the present.
Overall, a must read for fans of sci-fi, the author artfully constructs a mysterious futuristic world, terrifying and intriguing, compelling and consistent, this book did a fantastic job of reeling me in and keeping me invested as the story unfolded, while also bringing up deeper questions of what it means to be human. I am excited to see where this series will go!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 2, 2025
It's a mystery and a story about someone who's always considered herself only a tool learning to be a person; what more could I ask for?
February 12, 2022
pooled ink Reviews:
OH MY WORD. THIS BOOK. WHERE IS THE SEQUEL???? *deep breaths*
WARNING: If you have things you need to get done then DO NOT pick up this book (yet). Once you start it, that's it. You're in until the end and forcing yourself to put it down before it's over will cause excruciating pain and great distraction.
But in all seriousness...
THIS BOOK WAS SO GOOD. The cover and blurb don't do it justice. I'm not sure anything really could. This book intrigued me even if I wasn't sure it would be something I'd wholly enjoy. I do read science fiction, but I can be very picky. This book, however, turned out to be the perfect balance of tech and characters and plot. Never boring, never overly technical, never distractingly clinical or arrogantly written...it was amazing and I might cry over the thought of the months separating me from book 2.
Recorder is just that, a recorder. That isn't her name because Recorders don't have names. Raised in The Consortium, she's been trained to subdue her emotions and strive for impartiality, neutrality. Now older, trained, and with drones of her own, she's been sent out on her first mission only for it go horribly awry. Hehe and that is when we get to all of the good n' messy stuff like emotions and friendship and love and stopping secret bad guys!
I really adored the Recorder. She grew on me the more I read and the more she evolved, but even from the start there was just something about her that made me root for her. And NATE. *swoons* Oh my precious Nate. I shipped Nate and the Recorder right away and CATHY MCCRUMB I WILL SCREAM IF YOU SINK THAT SHIP (haha). You'll meet so many fantastic characters like Max (*gives him a hug*), Jordan (*salutes*), Alec and Zhen (*fist bumps both of them*), and Kyleigh (*high-fives her and a cat*). I've grown so protective of this group and oh I can't bear not knowing how it will all end!
I won't ramble on for ages here, I'll save that for my blog, but just know that this was fantastic and I whole-heartedly recommend it!
Recorder, the first book in the new sci-fi trilogy Children of the Consortium, invites us into a world where there are eyes always watching, always recording, always monitoring. Humans and Recorders live together but separate, each understanding their roles and precarious standing, until one Recorder is stripped of her ability to record and a crew of humans decide to show her how to live and love. A gripping balance of sci-fi adventure and philosophical pondering threaded through with all that makes humans human from humor to hate and love to loss. Do not miss out on this stellar debut!
Read my full review here: https://pooledink.com/2021/09/14/reco...
Thank you to the publisher for sending me a copy to review!
OH MY WORD. THIS BOOK. WHERE IS THE SEQUEL???? *deep breaths*
WARNING: If you have things you need to get done then DO NOT pick up this book (yet). Once you start it, that's it. You're in until the end and forcing yourself to put it down before it's over will cause excruciating pain and great distraction.
But in all seriousness...
THIS BOOK WAS SO GOOD. The cover and blurb don't do it justice. I'm not sure anything really could. This book intrigued me even if I wasn't sure it would be something I'd wholly enjoy. I do read science fiction, but I can be very picky. This book, however, turned out to be the perfect balance of tech and characters and plot. Never boring, never overly technical, never distractingly clinical or arrogantly written...it was amazing and I might cry over the thought of the months separating me from book 2.
Recorder is just that, a recorder. That isn't her name because Recorders don't have names. Raised in The Consortium, she's been trained to subdue her emotions and strive for impartiality, neutrality. Now older, trained, and with drones of her own, she's been sent out on her first mission only for it go horribly awry. Hehe and that is when we get to all of the good n' messy stuff like emotions and friendship and love and stopping secret bad guys!
I really adored the Recorder. She grew on me the more I read and the more she evolved, but even from the start there was just something about her that made me root for her. And NATE. *swoons* Oh my precious Nate. I shipped Nate and the Recorder right away and CATHY MCCRUMB I WILL SCREAM IF YOU SINK THAT SHIP (haha). You'll meet so many fantastic characters like Max (*gives him a hug*), Jordan (*salutes*), Alec and Zhen (*fist bumps both of them*), and Kyleigh (*high-fives her and a cat*). I've grown so protective of this group and oh I can't bear not knowing how it will all end!
I won't ramble on for ages here, I'll save that for my blog, but just know that this was fantastic and I whole-heartedly recommend it!
Recorder, the first book in the new sci-fi trilogy Children of the Consortium, invites us into a world where there are eyes always watching, always recording, always monitoring. Humans and Recorders live together but separate, each understanding their roles and precarious standing, until one Recorder is stripped of her ability to record and a crew of humans decide to show her how to live and love. A gripping balance of sci-fi adventure and philosophical pondering threaded through with all that makes humans human from humor to hate and love to loss. Do not miss out on this stellar debut!
Read my full review here: https://pooledink.com/2021/09/14/reco...
Thank you to the publisher for sending me a copy to review!
August 11, 2022
I don’t read a lot of sci-fi, so I wasn’t sure how I would feel about this one. But man, this book stole my heart. It’s very character driven, which isn’t always something I like. I tend to love fast paced stories with a lot of action. But Cathy is such a master at character work that you just love spending time with this found family.
Especially Timmons. Truly, I am not the type to fawn over male characters, but Nathaniel Timmons is an exception. You will see what I mean when you read this wonderful story.
I love how the Christian elements came through later on, especially the emphasis on the value of human life, family, and friendships against the background of a very unfeeling and clinical society. This book had a beautiful message. I can’t wait for book 2. Can’t. Wait. Especially after the ending we got! I MUST KNOW WHAT HAPPENS!
I listened to this on audio and I think it greatly enhanced the experience (even though the narrator pronounced “viscous” as “vicious” several times, which made me laugh, lol), and I hope to do so with book 2 as well. :)
Especially Timmons. Truly, I am not the type to fawn over male characters, but Nathaniel Timmons is an exception. You will see what I mean when you read this wonderful story.
I love how the Christian elements came through later on, especially the emphasis on the value of human life, family, and friendships against the background of a very unfeeling and clinical society. This book had a beautiful message. I can’t wait for book 2. Can’t. Wait. Especially after the ending we got! I MUST KNOW WHAT HAPPENS!
I listened to this on audio and I think it greatly enhanced the experience (even though the narrator pronounced “viscous” as “vicious” several times, which made me laugh, lol), and I hope to do so with book 2 as well. :)
August 13, 2022
Soo good. So sad, so deep. I love the characters so much. I really can’t wait to see how the story continues.
October 14, 2023
The Giver meets Star Trek. Please and thank you.
Content:
Violence, an unwanted kiss
Content:
Violence, an unwanted kiss
August 30, 2025
This is the first sci-fi book I have ever read to get 5 stars. It was amazing. While definitely sci-fi, McCrumb doesn't get too technical, and she makes the MC so poignant and the side characters so engaging that I stayed connected the entire time.
The audiobook has some mispronunciations, but it is otherwise very well done.
The audiobook has some mispronunciations, but it is otherwise very well done.
July 1, 2024
3.5⭐️
This is my first Sci-Fi and while it is not a favorite genre I loved getting to know the Recorder and seeing her interact with other humans as she adjusts to losing the technology that controls her. I found that very intriguing. There were a lot of characters to follow and at times I felt a little lost but that could be because I was missing my historical Christian fiction that I am used to 😬☺️
This is my first Sci-Fi and while it is not a favorite genre I loved getting to know the Recorder and seeing her interact with other humans as she adjusts to losing the technology that controls her. I found that very intriguing. There were a lot of characters to follow and at times I felt a little lost but that could be because I was missing my historical Christian fiction that I am used to 😬☺️
November 28, 2021
Although Dystopian Science Fiction is not my preferred genre of choice this debut novel by Cathy McCrumb was pretty interesting. It definitely captures your imagination and brings you into a complete different world. This story is told through the point of view Recorder and we see his world through his eyes. It was interesting and captivating. I will admit that at points I was disinterested but not because the writing was lacking but simply because its just not my kind of writing.
Overall if you enjoy science fiction and dystopian stories you will definitely enjoy this one.
I received a copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Overall if you enjoy science fiction and dystopian stories you will definitely enjoy this one.
I received a copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
February 6, 2022
I really wanted to like this book. It has a good underlying thread, but it is poorly executed. If you like loads of drama and angst, with a smattering of sense, you might enjoy it.
September 4, 2025
A stunning, thought provoking novel! I did not expect to be so moved by this story, but it sucked me in and Recorder has won me over completely. The unique premise captured my imagination and that ending is so beautiful and bittersweet. I loved the themes of worth and friendship as well as the yearning and discovery of self. Even though there are incredibly sad moments and themes, there is always an undercurrent of hope running throughout the plot.
With her slightly robotic speech, Recorder is such an endearing character and I can’t wait to watch her soar through the rest of the series! Nate was another sweet character. I loved how gentle he was and he better make it out or I’ll riot 😅. Kylie, Max, J, Alec and Jen (tried to spell their names as best I could but I listened to the audiobook 😂) were amazing and I loved the found family in this story!
I am on the edge of my seat waiting to uncover more answers and find out what happens to these beloved characters next! I can’t wait to add this series to my physical collection as I think it’s shaping up to be my favorite sci-fi series yet!
With her slightly robotic speech, Recorder is such an endearing character and I can’t wait to watch her soar through the rest of the series! Nate was another sweet character. I loved how gentle he was and he better make it out or I’ll riot 😅. Kylie, Max, J, Alec and Jen (tried to spell their names as best I could but I listened to the audiobook 😂) were amazing and I loved the found family in this story!
I am on the edge of my seat waiting to uncover more answers and find out what happens to these beloved characters next! I can’t wait to add this series to my physical collection as I think it’s shaping up to be my favorite sci-fi series yet!
August 23, 2025
Picked this one up from the library and started reading while on a weekend trip. Proceeded to then ignore my family members to finish it during naptime, and walked about the rest of the weekend in a book hangover daze.
Being human is such a complicated thing. The Recorder finds this out when her usual mechanisms for interfacing with the world are ripped away from her, and she must [gasp] decipher social cues and read facial expressions without assistance. This is a struggle that resonated pretty deeply with me, especially as she navigated the times when she misread or misinterpreted things. And then there's the greater drama unfolding in the background, with the slow realization that the people she'd implicitly trusted may not be best for either her or humanity at large.
Suffice it to say, I immediately ordered my own copy...and then the remainder of the series. I can't wait to see what's coming next.
Being human is such a complicated thing. The Recorder finds this out when her usual mechanisms for interfacing with the world are ripped away from her, and she must [gasp] decipher social cues and read facial expressions without assistance. This is a struggle that resonated pretty deeply with me, especially as she navigated the times when she misread or misinterpreted things. And then there's the greater drama unfolding in the background, with the slow realization that the people she'd implicitly trusted may not be best for either her or humanity at large.
Suffice it to say, I immediately ordered my own copy...and then the remainder of the series. I can't wait to see what's coming next.
February 16, 2023
Oh my goodness. My heart. I cannot. How could you do this to us Cathy???? I need book 2. I NEED IT
Recorder follows a woman who is part human, part drone controlled being. She has no hair, no identity and her sole purpose is to record accurately. Never allowed to intervene or else suffer the consequences. But when a mission goes wrong and her implants and drones are destroyed, can she still call herself Recorder?
Recorder follows a woman who is part human, part drone controlled being. She has no hair, no identity and her sole purpose is to record accurately. Never allowed to intervene or else suffer the consequences. But when a mission goes wrong and her implants and drones are destroyed, can she still call herself Recorder?
October 30, 2023
Honestly, this book took me a bit by surprise. Typically, I prefer sci-fi on screen to written sci-fi. I like the visual effects, worlds, and stories, but often find the world building drudgery and too hard to understand in books (unlike fantasy worldbuilding for some reason? I think all the science is harder for me to follow). So, I put this one off, despite the raving reviews. I had friends who said it was phenomenal, so I put it on my TBR, but didn't prioritize it until I met the author and saw the very Iron Giant-esque cover for the sequel (we bonded over our mutual trauma XD). Now that I've read it, I must say I believe this may perhaps be my favorite read of the year.
First of all, it was easy to read and follow. The worldbuilding was peppered in just perfectly enough to make it intriguing and yet still easy to understand. I wanted to learn more and explore. It was done with such a light, skilled hand. We spent most of our time on a ship, and yet McCrumb kept us on our toes, engaging the reader, building tension, and fleshing out the culture of her society and its unique structure. We got snippets of other places like the Consortium the Recorder grew up in and the stark contrast against the outside world was so effectively portrayed through the variety of responses she observed in the characters around her.
As a bit of a sidenote, I will say that for some reason, I expected the story to be about robots or androids or something like that. I’m honestly not sure where I got that idea from or why I developed that expectation, but I was surprised to learn the story had so many humans in it XD
However, speaking of characters and their dynamics and responses to the Recorder. *insert absolute fangirling* This book was so freaking well-written! Well-paced with the tension and reveals, well-developed with the beautifully different character dynamics and growth, and the well-built world, well-plotted story points, all of it. It was like a delectable treat or stunning work of art. I was so thoroughly impressed on a technical level, but emotionally, I was simply not prepared.
My absolute favorite part of the book was the team the Recorder was placed on and watching how each one interacted with one another and with her. Spanos, Timmons, Jordan, and DuBois absolutely tore my heart out with their brilliant flashback chapters. And of course, we cannot neglect Max, Kyleigh, Ross, & Elliot. McCrumb really pulled these threads together to spin a tightly woven, spellbinding tale. It was a page-turning, suspenseful mystery I just wanted to unravel. I couldn’t seem to put it down.
It was fascinating to watch the Recorder learn how society truly worked, miss or pick up on social cues, and being dropped into the deep end of a new culture with minute nuances. Watching her adapt and rooting for her from her severely disadvantaged starting point made this book such a treat. I’ve heard some say that the Recorder is an excellent example of autism, and upon reflection, I can totally see that from my own experience. The characters are all so brilliantly written, but when you drop them into situations together, that’s where the real magic happens.
Though, honestly, above all of the excellence of the writing, the plot, and the characters, what pushed this book over the edge for me was the absolutely stunning observation on humanity. The thematic exploration of worth, morality, and the bravery of choosing to do what is right no matter the sacrifice or cost resonated deeply with me. This story portrayed the depth of human suffering, deception, bitterness and rage, and searing grief and aching loss of our broken world is so effectively and beautifully overlayed into this sci-fi world. But there is also great valor and strength, a depth of compassion, and utter hope in growth and restoration. Along with a few nods to government interference and ridiculous, restrictive regulations. Ah! I simply don’t have the words for how this beautiful book made me feel. <3 GO READ IT!
Content: clean romance, subtle and sweet, no foul language (in fact, there was an anti-obscenity law and it was humorous to see how it was handled XD), and I don't remember any graphic violence, though there were some mild sci-fi injuries, etc. I heard a few complaints about the cockroach scene, but as someone who grew up with Men in Black, this was laughably harmless. So, some people have been a little grossed out, but I really just didn’t see what the big deal was personally. The themes, while deep, aren’t handled in a way that would make me want to give the book to an older audience. I’d feel fine giving the book to a preteen.
I’m dying to read the second book! Just writing the review makes me want to read this one again!
First of all, it was easy to read and follow. The worldbuilding was peppered in just perfectly enough to make it intriguing and yet still easy to understand. I wanted to learn more and explore. It was done with such a light, skilled hand. We spent most of our time on a ship, and yet McCrumb kept us on our toes, engaging the reader, building tension, and fleshing out the culture of her society and its unique structure. We got snippets of other places like the Consortium the Recorder grew up in and the stark contrast against the outside world was so effectively portrayed through the variety of responses she observed in the characters around her.
As a bit of a sidenote, I will say that for some reason, I expected the story to be about robots or androids or something like that. I’m honestly not sure where I got that idea from or why I developed that expectation, but I was surprised to learn the story had so many humans in it XD
However, speaking of characters and their dynamics and responses to the Recorder. *insert absolute fangirling* This book was so freaking well-written! Well-paced with the tension and reveals, well-developed with the beautifully different character dynamics and growth, and the well-built world, well-plotted story points, all of it. It was like a delectable treat or stunning work of art. I was so thoroughly impressed on a technical level, but emotionally, I was simply not prepared.
My absolute favorite part of the book was the team the Recorder was placed on and watching how each one interacted with one another and with her. Spanos, Timmons, Jordan, and DuBois absolutely tore my heart out with their brilliant flashback chapters. And of course, we cannot neglect Max, Kyleigh, Ross, & Elliot. McCrumb really pulled these threads together to spin a tightly woven, spellbinding tale. It was a page-turning, suspenseful mystery I just wanted to unravel. I couldn’t seem to put it down.
It was fascinating to watch the Recorder learn how society truly worked, miss or pick up on social cues, and being dropped into the deep end of a new culture with minute nuances. Watching her adapt and rooting for her from her severely disadvantaged starting point made this book such a treat. I’ve heard some say that the Recorder is an excellent example of autism, and upon reflection, I can totally see that from my own experience. The characters are all so brilliantly written, but when you drop them into situations together, that’s where the real magic happens.
Though, honestly, above all of the excellence of the writing, the plot, and the characters, what pushed this book over the edge for me was the absolutely stunning observation on humanity. The thematic exploration of worth, morality, and the bravery of choosing to do what is right no matter the sacrifice or cost resonated deeply with me. This story portrayed the depth of human suffering, deception, bitterness and rage, and searing grief and aching loss of our broken world is so effectively and beautifully overlayed into this sci-fi world. But there is also great valor and strength, a depth of compassion, and utter hope in growth and restoration. Along with a few nods to government interference and ridiculous, restrictive regulations. Ah! I simply don’t have the words for how this beautiful book made me feel. <3 GO READ IT!
Content: clean romance, subtle and sweet, no foul language (in fact, there was an anti-obscenity law and it was humorous to see how it was handled XD), and I don't remember any graphic violence, though there were some mild sci-fi injuries, etc. I heard a few complaints about the cockroach scene, but as someone who grew up with Men in Black, this was laughably harmless. So, some people have been a little grossed out, but I really just didn’t see what the big deal was personally. The themes, while deep, aren’t handled in a way that would make me want to give the book to an older audience. I’d feel fine giving the book to a preteen.
I’m dying to read the second book! Just writing the review makes me want to read this one again!
July 26, 2022
(actual star rating 4.5)
This book was awesome.
To be completely honest, I wasn't sure how much I was going to like Recorder before I started reading it. But once I started it, I was completely sucked in. It was actually hard for me to put the book down at times.
The characters were amazing. I loved the crew and their dynamics. They were all different from each other and well-rounded. They also played off of each other fantastically. I love all of them and can't wait to know what happens next to them in the series. Seriously, the characters were fantastic. McCrumb also did a wonderful job of revealing the characters' backstories through dialogue and their interaction with other characters and then finally through a signal chapter from that character's POV.
The worldbuilding was great. While most of the story actually takes place in one location, you could tell that McCrumb had developed the entire world and knows so much about it. You know that there is more to explore, and hopefully we'll get to see and learn more about the rest of the world in the rest of the series.
The plot was well-paced and layered nicely. It had me sucked in and kept me flipping pages.
Recorder is a fantastic start to the Children of the Corsortium series, and I'm excited to see what happens next.
Cautions: mild/moderate romance; two kisses; one forced kiss; mention of an unmarried couple living together*; non-graphic violence; two "bleeped" out instances of swearing **
*Marriage has been changed in this world so that it doesn't really exist, and instead there are "contracts" that last for a certain amount of time.
**It's been a while since I finished Recorder, so I may have forgotten a caution.
This book was awesome.
To be completely honest, I wasn't sure how much I was going to like Recorder before I started reading it. But once I started it, I was completely sucked in. It was actually hard for me to put the book down at times.
The characters were amazing. I loved the crew and their dynamics. They were all different from each other and well-rounded. They also played off of each other fantastically. I love all of them and can't wait to know what happens next to them in the series. Seriously, the characters were fantastic. McCrumb also did a wonderful job of revealing the characters' backstories through dialogue and their interaction with other characters and then finally through a signal chapter from that character's POV.
The worldbuilding was great. While most of the story actually takes place in one location, you could tell that McCrumb had developed the entire world and knows so much about it. You know that there is more to explore, and hopefully we'll get to see and learn more about the rest of the world in the rest of the series.
The plot was well-paced and layered nicely. It had me sucked in and kept me flipping pages.
Recorder is a fantastic start to the Children of the Corsortium series, and I'm excited to see what happens next.
Cautions: mild/moderate romance; two kisses; one forced kiss; mention of an unmarried couple living together*; non-graphic violence; two "bleeped" out instances of swearing **
*Marriage has been changed in this world so that it doesn't really exist, and instead there are "contracts" that last for a certain amount of time.
**It's been a while since I finished Recorder, so I may have forgotten a caution.
March 24, 2023
Another book that I read in fall '21 when I didn't have energy for Goodreads.
This sci-fi reads like a novel I would have been assigned in 10th-11th grade lit and would be described by Sonlight curriculum as "emotional" and "thought-provoking", and I love it. There's much to unpack and much to simply enjoy. I want to write long deep thoughts about it but I have not the wherewithal for that tonight. Let me just say that you should read it for the situational humor (and poignancy) of a cyborg trying to come to terms with till-now suppressed human sensations and emotions, the knife-edge suspense moments of trying to solve a mystery from the past that might have alarmingly immediate consequences in the present, the excellent storytelling that refuses to hand-hold but leaves you to consider the implications, and the doctor (awwww the doctor). I can't wait to read the sequel. My brain is sobbing every time I think of it because I do not have a budget for books until much later this year.
This sci-fi reads like a novel I would have been assigned in 10th-11th grade lit and would be described by Sonlight curriculum as "emotional" and "thought-provoking", and I love it. There's much to unpack and much to simply enjoy. I want to write long deep thoughts about it but I have not the wherewithal for that tonight. Let me just say that you should read it for the situational humor (and poignancy) of a cyborg trying to come to terms with till-now suppressed human sensations and emotions, the knife-edge suspense moments of trying to solve a mystery from the past that might have alarmingly immediate consequences in the present, the excellent storytelling that refuses to hand-hold but leaves you to consider the implications, and the doctor (awwww the doctor). I can't wait to read the sequel. My brain is sobbing every time I think of it because I do not have a budget for books until much later this year.
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