This time there’s more at stake than just her life—now they want to take her past.
London, the near future. GRM, a shadowy company running private prisons, has introduced a programme to alter prisoners’ memories, removing those that led to their criminal behaviour. When journalist Antonia Conti hears rumours that the technology has deadly side effects, she decides to investigate.
Antonia has looked into GRM’s corrupt dealings with the government before, and when a stolen lorry ploughs into a whistle-blower’s car, leaving him dead and her trapped in the burning vehicle, she’s convinced GRM are responsible. Enlisting her old friend DI Russell Chapman to check out the supposed ‘accident’, she discovers that he’s already investigating three other deaths that appear suspiciously linked to her own investigations.
The deeper Antonia probes, the more her friends and colleagues are at risk. Whatever sinister experiments GRM are conducting, they are determined to keep them secret. By any means necessary. Can Antonia and Chapman thwart them before anyone else loses their life? Or their mind?
This is the second book in the series, and having read the first last week I couldn’t wait to find out what Antonia Conti and DI Russell Chapman got involved in next. It is readable as a stand alone but you won’t want to miss book one which will give you a good introduction to the friendship between Conti and Chapman.
Again they are embroiled in the dark goings on of GRM, having tried but failed to bring down this powerful company in book 1. This time it appears they are undertaking tests on prisoners minds, apparently trying to take away or replace some of their memories. This procedure can have devastating consequences. The prisoners are banned from discussing the process but one prisoner’s mother gets in touch with Antonia to tell her what is happening.
Antonia again seeks the help of DI Russell Chapman to investigate this claim.
Most prisons are now run privately, in the near future when the book is set so there is little protection for the prisoners and the owners have a free hand to do what they want.
Along the way, Chapman is faced with investigating two suicides of men who just happen to be setting up a company to compete with GRM. The owner, Gustav Reed-Mayhew, would not like that one bit.
I was really pleased that Sabirah and her two children appear again in book two. Sabirah, fighting to stay in the UK after being summoned by the Internal Security Agency, is helped by a solicitor from her native country of Syria. But can he be trusted?
A few new characters appear in this book keeping the storyline fresh; one of which is Adam, a firefighter who rescues Antonia from a car crash.
Can Antonia be protected from whoever is out to get her?
Will she find sufficient evidence to bring down the powerful GRM this time?
I am eternally grateful to Rhiannon at FMcM Associates for introducing me to David Beckler’s books. David writes such incredibly fast paced thrillers chock full of action and storylines, and completely believable well developed characters who jump off the page. I love the friendship between Chapman and Conti, and the new firefighter Adam who soon becomes a great ally and source of protection for Conti.
I really didn’t know who to trust in this one! Who could Conti really rely on?
I’m looking forward to book three now, which is out in a few months.
Thank you again Rhiannon at FMcM Associates for kindly supplying copies of both books for me to review. I’ve found a new author to add to my favourites list.
Having finished book one in this series on Saturday, I picked up book 2 on Sunday evening, keen to know what comes next for Journalist Antonia Conti and the other characters I was pleased to find were also in this book along with some new ones.
I really enjoyed book one, but I think book 2 was better. Antonia is still trying to bring down the CEO of GRM, Gustav Reed-Mayhew. GRM has a lot of control in book one Reed-Mayhew was attempting to own and run the Met Police, already controlling a lot if security agencies and police officers it’s difficult to know who can be trusted. GRM already run private prisons. Antonia has a whistleblower who has some vital information, but meeting up has to be well done taking all precautions to make sure either party is not being followed. The rumour is that the prisons are using some new technology to erase or alter a prisoner’s memories, the idea being they can erase a memory that led to a prisoners criminal behaviour. But is that what they really want to use it for? There are also some side effects from this treatment which can be deadly.
The explosive first chapter held me gripped, as Antonia meets her whistleblower, things don’t go as planned. I found myself holding my breath as the scenes unravelled. Back with Antonia is DI Russell Chapman, who is still hanging on to his job by the skin of his teeth as I said earlier who can you trust. Luckily Chapman and his partner Sanchez are so far trustworthy. Back as well is Sabirah and her two children Nadimah and Hakim they had fled Syria in fear for their lives, Sabirah’s husband had been killed so it was up-to Sabhira to keep her children safe. Why has she been called back to the Internal Security Agency?
I really enjoyed reading this, the pages flew, which is a good job with 522 of them. If you have read book one you will know some of the characters already. Antonia is flawed, but things had been hard for her as a young girl. Someone is out to kill Antonia but who? She may have made more than a few enemies. The news that she posts in her newspaper is not fluff pieces, it’s real life things happening that needs to be known. But some will try and stop her from publishing stories about them. I found this one interesting on the memory altering, imagine having sections of your memory removed and modified, quite a scary prospect especially in the wrong hands.
The Red Herrings were cleverly inserted, the whole story kept you on the edge of your chair gripped, wondering how it was going to end. All of the characters were believable, relatable and three dimensional, as each scene was described you could picture it. I found myself wincing a few times when some of the action was taking place. I can’t wait until the third book In the series now. Because this can only get better and better. An absolute ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💥💥💥💥💥 grab a copy of book 1 and book 2 if you like action and a fast paced adrenalin fuelled read then this is for you.
I would like to thank the publishers @FMcM and @DavidBeckler1 for a gifted copy of this book, all opinions are my own and not influenced in any way.
I recently read the first book in David Beckler's Antonia Conti series, A Long Shadow and knew I'd found a new favourite but there's always some trepidation when reading the second novel – would it live up to my expectations? The answer to that question has to be a resounding yes... and actually, A Stolen Memory is even better than I'd hoped! I would recommend reading the series in order, if possible; A Stolen Memory can be enjoyed as a standalone but those who have read A Long Shadow first will have a greater depth of understanding as to what drives Antonia in particular, if they know what occurred previously. It's an absolutely cracking read too, of course! The novel is set in a near future which seems a little too prescient and much as I want this book to be a success, I must admit to hoping it doesn't fall into the hands of certain politicians and opinion shapers who might think some of the developments which are employed to supposedly reduce crime rates could actually be a good idea. The more authoritarian society depicted here is only too believable and would almost certainly appeal to the more hardline sections of the media (and public). There are already prisons run by private companies, of course and their track record is far from impressive, so it's not difficult to accept that the actions of GRM, the sinister fictional company running prisons, are entirely plausible. I can understand how prisoners having their memories modified to prevent them offending again could be spun as a positive advancement but I personally think it's a horrifying idea and that's borne out by what takes place as the storyline progresses. As an investigative journalist, especially one with a very personal reason to want to bring GRM down, Antonia is understandably determined to find out more about the side effects allegedly noted in some prisoners. Both she and readers quickly realise the lengths people are prepared to go to in order to prevent the truth being exposed and the sense of tension engendered throughout the novel ensures this is a nail-biting read from start to finish. It's not just the threat of physical danger which is so nerve-racking however, and one of the sub-plots in particular reinforces just how the powerfully corrupt can manipulate the desperate and vulnerable. Antonia is a first-rate protagonist and undoubtedly the star of the book; resolute, resourceful and courageous but not infallible and still shaped by the tragedy of her past – of which we learn more about here. She's a really interesting character and I'm looking forward to seeing how she is developed in subsequent books but the strength of a series such as this lies in the rendering of the other characters too, whether they will just appear in the one novel or be recurring figures. DI Russell Chapman makes a welcome return in A Stolen Memory and the friendship which is developing between him and Antonia is a highlight; it feels natural and even though the bonds which are forming are tested here for various reasons, there's real depth and even some humour to their relationship. I also really like another returning character, Sabirah who has a pivotal role to play; perhaps more than anybody else, she epitomises how some people are treated now and what may be exacted on them in the near future, if we continue on our current path. Two new characters, Adam and Jean also stand out, while the many antagonists are a chilling combination of the cunning and the brutal. This is a complex read which demands attention but it rewards its readers with a pacy, exciting plot which is as thought-provoking as it is dramatic. I'm mindful not to give away any spoilers but I can say that the twists, turns and shocking revelations come thick and fast. There are a number of scenes which had my heart in my mouth and despite the ominous sense of foreboding which makes clear the risks Antonia is taking, the plot is satisfyingly unpredictable throughout with a conclusion which left me eagerly anticipating the next instalment. A Stolen Memory is an atmospheric, electrifying thriller: I enjoyed it immensely and very highly recommend it.
I really liked this book about the intrigue of highly placed "robber barons" who use their money, status and power to influence everything in their lives, even at the expense of the "little people". I won't mention character names as there are so many to remember, but the main character to remember, Antonia, is the driving force of an investigative publication that seeks to report the news, not the sugar-coated pap we have been conditioned to expect. Antonia is a very flawed human with her own set of skeletons in her closets but who is trying to exorcise those demons. What is the stolen memory? No spoiler here, just be prepared to read lots of facts , some of which seemed to be added for the word count for publication. Don't let that stop you from reading this book. The writing is top notch and the characters are so fully developed as to seem to pop off the page as you greet each in every scene written. The story tended to drag a bit but not enough to keep me from finishing and I did expect there to be some mind-boggling surprise that hit me square between the eyes. All added together, you'll enjoy this read!
A Stolen Memory is book two in the Antonia Conti series. Whilst some may say this can be read as a standalone, I disagree, to fully understand Antonia, her mission, the dystopian world she lives in, and who GRM are you need to read book one ‘A Long Shadow‘.
In this second book Journalist Antonia Conti is looking into GRM again, this time it is their experiments on prisoners that has been brought to her attention. It has been alleged that GRM is altering the prisoner’s memories which in return stops their criminal behaviours – Sounds like a win, win for society until you realise that GRM is a shady company and altering the memories isn’t where they are going to stop, not now they have the technology.
Just like in the first book, Antonia finds herself in hot water with GRM trying to stop her investigations, plus she is also back working with DS Chapman.
A Stolen Memory is an edge-of-your-seat drama. It has short chapters, which I love, and which quickens the pace of the book, making it fast-paced from beginning to end. The characters are likeable, stubborn, determined, and clearly have a death wish. Whilst most people would have walked away given how in danger their lives are not Antonia or Chapman.
The plot does cause some moral dilemmas in which you have to work out whether it is a good or bad thing for criminals to have their minds altered meaning they can’t commit crimes again. Is this a good thing for society given it would mean less crowding in prisons and less reoffending or is this against a person’s human rights? You get to decide that for yourself.
Another fabulous thriller from David Beckler. I now can’t wait for book three, A Nuclear Reaction, due to be released in May.
Looking for solutions when it comes to criminal behaviour, seems like such an obvious thing to back and support. The current methods or justice system doesn’t appear to be working – time for new solutions, right. The idea sounds very dystopian and a way to address quite a few deviant and violent behaviours. Erase the memories, reduce triggers that cause the behaviours – it all seems so simple.
Yeh, aside from the fact nothing is ever that easy I’m sure it would be a very profitable venture for any company. The real problem is that if you can manipulate people that easily, and their behaviour, then someone is going to use the technology for nefarious purposes. Enter this premise stage left.
This is the sequel to A Long Shadow, and I think it is fair to say both Conti and the author are just getting started. Corruption, greed and power is a very deep and endless source of material. The question is how Antonia is going to keep herself from being swallowed up by the pit.
The author gives us the kind of premise that can become a bit of a moral dilemma, in the sense that a lot of people could be persuaded to ignore the clear negative aspects of this idea and the collateral damage, because of the profit margin and many ways this can used to control, but also because the conscience of the do-gooders in society will be easily swayed by an easy-fix. A little bit like when everyone thought a lobotomy was an insta-fix for every and any illness.
This main character is getting a bit of a reputation for being fearless and relentless. Can’t wait to see where this series goes next.
This is another winner for David Beckler and his Antonia Conti series. It is dark, suspenseful, action-packed, and fast-paced, and will cause serious heart palpitations! Once I started it I did not want to put it down, especially once I reached the ~60% mark. Things began moving so fast that I couldn't seem to turn pages fast enough. But while this is definitely an action thriller, it is also character-driven. Antonia and her allies work desperately to make their world a better place, despite those who think wealth and power are the ultimate goal. This is the second book in the Antonia Conti series, and while I really want to see GRM get his just desserts I would love for the series to continue for several more books. Mr. Beckler creates a believable and difficult world in his near future London; one that should give the reader pause because it could easily become our future if we aren't careful. It has almost the same feel as George Orwell's 1984. I highly recommend it and am looking forward to book #3, I received a review copy from the author via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
I found out after reading this story that it really needed to be read after the 1st book in the series. I imagine that's why I struggled so much through most of the book trying to figure out what was going on. I really had a hard time getting through this book and the only part I really enjoyed was the end. There was a lot of action, murders, stories and sub-stories all going on at the same time. Even though there was action from the beginning, I really had a hard time reading it and keeping up my interest in the story. This just wasn't one of those books that made me want to stop reading it. Actually it was more the opposite. The characters were ok, not as developed as I would have liked. Maybe that would have been better if I'd read the 1st book in the series before this one. The "bad guys" in this story were too easy to spot and left me waiting for the story to uncover them. It wasn't a bad book, just not really my taste in books.
I received an ARC copy of this book and this is my honest review.
How to reduce the crime rate??? Very easily, invent a program that will erase the memories of convicted criminals and reduce the triggers for those urges... But if you entrust that task to a morally debatable company like GPM, where espionage is every day occurrence and the lack of knowledge just a small inconvenience, then don't be surprised by the deadly outcomes...
No matter how hard you try to silence the rumors, it's impossible. That's exactly what will force our heroine Anthonia to try to investigate what's behind the deal with private prisons and that whole memory erasure program. She embarks on this dangerous game, but will she succeed?
If you are interested in an interesting crime thriller with elements of science fiction, don't miss this one... For a better experience, you can first read the first book in the series...
This is book two in the Antonia Conti thriller series, I kind of wished I had read the first book first as I would of got to know a little more about the characters but I chose to read book two first, it can be read as a standalone. I am looking forward to reading book one next so I can get the back story. I found Antonia relatable and realistic and the author David has written her well. I liked the short chapters it makes you want to read on and also I liked how fast paced the story is, it kept me on my toes wondering what Antonia was going to do next. I liked the mixture of characters and the story was really good. I look forward to reading more of the Antonia Conti thriller series. If you after a great series read these books.
Antonia finally got a call from her source to give her information about the rumors she was hearing of the side effects of a drug. The story of the alternating drug for prison guys, to erase memories of their crime tendencies. To find he sold out to another for a higher pay. Someone found out about the meeting and a whistle blower got killed. She further finds there has been other similar accidents like this, and they were being investigated. She’s taking a risk, also putting others at harm if the company found out. Good mystery GivenARC for my voluntary review and my honest opinion
The author has delivered a fast paced and deliciously wicked tale. The characters are well rounded and come across as believable, whether you love them or hate them. This provocative, somewhat dark and twisted story grabs you from the first page and keeps you guessing until the very end! It was so captivating and exciting that I simply couldn't put it down. I look forward to reading future installments in this series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK who provided me with a copy of this book. I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Let me start with a warning, if you are starting reading this book as a standalone you will lose much of the history content, go back and read the first installment of the series before you start with this one. The author has delivered us an extremely fast paced thriller that will hook you from beginning to end. The characters are believable and whether you like them or not they feel real. There are quite a few twists and turns and a lot of action that make this book a fast read, I can't wait to read the next installment of the series because I really need to know what happens next.
This is one of those stories that hook you quick and keep you hooked. A well thought out story that has plenty of twists and turns. I found myself getting involved in the characters rooting them on. If you enjoy a long deep who done it, this is it. There are a lot of ups and downs with the main characters, you hope this can't be the end for them, they surely don't stop here,, you have to read it to find out. Well done, can't wait for the next one.
This is the second book in the series and just as good, if not better than the first. There are lots of different plot lines but they all come together as the story progresses. Like the last book, this is quite long, but I did not lose interest at any time. It also is set up for book 3 and Antonia finally gaining revenge on her arch enemy. 5 out of 5 from me.
This ARC was provided to me via Kindle, from Amazon Publishing UK and #NetGalley. Thank you to the publishers, NetGalley and the author for the opportunity to preview and review. Opinions expressed are completely my own.
A Stolen Memory isn’t like other mysteries and thrillers. A unique twist in this tale of crime, deception and betrayal.
An intriguing thriller that keeps you guessing right up to the end. David Beckler lays out an innovative story where individuals memories are being altered. Journalist Antonia faces danger at every turn trying to get the story. I really enjoyed this book with all the twists in the plot. I look forward to the next book.
An excellent fast paced crime thriller with a well written storyline and great realistic characters. A real page turner with plenty of action, lots of suspense, and many twists/turns. Keeps you guessing right to the very end. Highly recommended book, series, and author. Bring o the next adventure in this great series.
Antonia and Russell get together again and with the help of Adam who rescues Antonia they get nearer to hurting GRM where it hurts. Antonia nearly loses her life to GRM but gets rescued in time. Good read.
I have been trying to finish this book since I won it in a goodreads giveaway. My advice is to read book 1 first as this is book 2. I had a difficult time getting to know the characters and plot. Once I got halfway through, things started to come together and it was more fast pace and enjoyable.
This is the second story I have read in this series. It is just as good as the first one. If you enjoy mystery and suspense then I know you will enjoy this story.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley. This is my honest and voluntary review.
What a brilliant read, follows on from the first volume and is equally intense and gripping. The characters are people that you really care about and the storyline is very frightening in a tory (with a small t) democracy. I need to steal myself to read the next edition once I've caught my breath.
Well written, fast paced, full~on action with an excellent storyline. Definitely one to read. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Well written, fast paced, full~on action with an excellent storyline. Definitely one to read. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.