Recursion

7.5/10

Author : Blake Crouch

Narrator : Jon Lindstrom & Abby Craden

Length : 10h 47m

Published By : Macmillan

Release Date : June 13, 2019

Genre : Science Fiction

Short Review :

"An intriguing, though slightly repetitive, sci-fi thriller by Blake Crouch. Recursion shares similarities with Dark Matter, particularly in its exploration of parallel universes. I enjoyed the plot, but there was one potential loophole that I pondered about for quite some time. You can find more on this in the Plot Inconsistencies section of the blog, but only read it if you've already finished the novel, as it may contain spoilers. Let me know if you agree with my thoughts in the comments. The narration, delivered by Jon Lindstrom & Abby Craden , was excellent."

Long Review :

Recursion explores the concept of multiple timelines. In simple terms, neuroscientist Helena Smith builds, what we can call a time machine that allows a person to travel into the past. The story begins with Barry Sutton, a New York detective, trying to prevent a woman from jumping off a building. It’s at this point that a mental problem called FMS—False Memory Syndrome—is introduced. People start experiencing memories from two different timelines, with one seeming more real than the other. At first, it’s hard to grasp what’s happening, but as the story unfolds, things become clearer. Some readers may need to pay extra attention to fully understand how the time machine works and what’s truly going on.

Helena soon realizes that the project she started to help her mother preserve her memories, lost to dementia, has spiraled out of control, creating a device with the potential to destroy humanity. Unfortunately, she can't undo what she's done, as the knowledge of the machine has already spread across the world. Both Helena and Barry lead very different lives—Helena as a scientist and Barry as an NYPD cop with a family—but their paths intersect because of the time machine.

By the time I reached the end, I found the narrative a bit repetitive, but I understand that it was necessary for the plot. Recursion reminded me somewhat of Dark Matter, another of Blake Crouch's novels, though they aren't exactly the same. While I've read and watched other time travel stories, none explore the intricacies of time travel quite as thoroughly as Recursion. I highly recommend giving it a listen, whether you're a fan of science fiction or not, as I found it thoroughly engaging. Grab your audiobook here!

Plot Inconsistencies (Spoilers Ahead)

Note : Please read this section only if you have finished reading the novel.

In Parts 4 and 5 of the novel, Helena keeps jumping back 33 years to her childhood. Honestly, though, wouldn’t it be way simpler if she just went back to a time when she could find a scientist she could trust and used to work with ? If you really think about it, there are so many other scenarios which could work better, in a way that would not damage Helena's brain like it did in one of her final jump.

This is just my personal opinion, but if you were able to spot any other inconsistencies or loopholes, feel free to share them in the comments below.

About The Author

Blake Crouch

The author of Recursion, Blake Crouch, is an American novelist and screenwriter known for his gripping, mind-bending science fiction and thriller works. Crouch gained widespread recognition with his bestselling Wayward Pines trilogy, which was adapted into a successful TV series. His writing often explores complex themes related to memory, identity, and the boundaries of human experience, blending speculative fiction with intense psychological and philosophical questions.

With Recursion, Crouch delves into the nature of time, memory, and reality, creating a fast-paced, thought-provoking narrative that keeps readers questioning what is real and what is possible. Crouch's ability to blend high-concept science with deeply emotional storytelling has earned him a loyal following among fans of speculative fiction and thrillers alike.

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