I was originally intrigued by this story because of the unique premise. Stealing memories from others is a magic system I haven't seen used all too often, and I think Mansy did a fantastic job of using it in her story. I also love the Etta and her desire to save her mother and her traveling through the city. It was all fun to read and kept me interested. But even so there were a few points were I found myself bored. It just didn't wow me like I expected it to. Still a fun read, though.

I really enjoyed the idea behind this book and the unique use of memories as something prized and even stolen. It made the world-building fun to explore, and honestly is what pushed me to finish this book. 

When it came to the dialogue, it all felt a bit flat leading me to have short bursts of boredom. I also wasn't the biggest fan of how the main character connected with the others. She didn't have much to invest in personally, so I wasn't really cheering for her in the book. 

I gave this one 3 out of 5 stars as it still was a really interesting concept, just the character's execution wasn't my favorite story to dive into.

The concept of this story is unlike anything I’ve ever read before, not only did it involve a dystopian type society where the rich and powerful are of course on top while the rest have to either obey orders or face the heavy consequences. This book delves into the idea of what if, people had the ability to delve into other people’s minds to share, steal and even sell memories.

Who wouldn’t want the ability to say.. learn how to be a kungfu champion by night and master chef by day? All these things are a possibility and more in this book setting. But just like any where else, having this much power leads to a society where everyone is trying to do their best to survive while living with a woman by the title of “Madame” who lives to terrorize those she’s ruling. Told in a single point of view through the thoughts of Julietta a young girl who wants nothing more than to save her mother even at the cost of her own freedom, this story has everything; long lost relatives, a fight for survival, gut wrenching character deaths and a tiny bit of romance mixed in.

A definite must read for any fantasy lover!

I really enjoyed this and it was a fairly quick read. I liked the concept of memories being traded between people and the different gifts that people had. The characters were good and flushed out. I didn't see the plot twist coming at all. I do think that the ending went down very quickly, but I still enjoyed the ending.

This story had such a great premise and I wanted to love it but in the end it fell flat for me. The idea that people can buy and sell memories and the feelings that go a long with them is such as interesting idea. I liked the main character and the premise but other than a few moments of interest and action I found myself getting bored and putting the book down.

Etta lives in the city of Craewick which is ruled by the ruthless Madame. In this world, Gifted individuals can transfer memories through touch. Four years ago, after an accident that left her mother in a coma, Etta made a deal with Madame to keep her safe in the asylum. But now, Madame threatens to put her mother up for auction, to sell all her memories, and the only way Etta can save her is to seek the aid of the rebel group known as the Shadows - the same group Etta was once sworn to, and betrayed. To prove her loyalty this time though, she must embark on a quest to steal a map of a dangerous prison known as the Maze from the mind of the cruel ruler of a neighbouring city and free someone she has thought long dead.

I loved the concept of this book, and reading about how the Gifted's talents work. The world-building within the limited time is excellent and it is easy to visualize this dark and desperate society. Etta is an exceptional main character, determined to do whatever it takes to save her mother, but also flawed, haunted by the losses she has experienced in life. The plot twists completely took me by surprise and the flashbacks in the story gives some really good insight into the characters. I have to add here that the pretty cover is half the reason I initially noticed this book. I do wish, however, that this book had been extended into atleast a duology. There are so many ways the plot could have gone, and so much more of this world to explore - for starters, Aravid before Porter's transformation.

Considering all she has been through, Etta is remarkably trusting. She believes what she finds in Aravid too easily, and I was almost sure there was going to be a plot twist there and that things were going to go downhill at that point. We learn about Madame, the main villain, almost entirely through Etta's memories, and she doesn't really appear until the end, which I found odd, especially since this is a standalone. I always prefer when the villain is complex and gets their share of page time.

While I expected to enjoy this book way more than I did, it was still an entertaining read. The Memory Thief has a unique concept and a writing style and pacing that makes it very easy to follow. I would recommend this if you're looking for a standalone fantasy novel that is a quick and not overly complicated read.

Thank you to the publisher for an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own.

The Memory Thief
By: Lauren Mansy

*REVIEW* 🌟🌟🌟
I expected to like The Memory Thief much more than I actually did. The premise is unique. Imagine buying and selling memories! Do you have memories you would gladly sell? In the world of the story, some characters are Gifted, essentially meaning they can touch(or, rarely, look at) someone and steal their memories. The heroine, Etta, is Gifted but hiding this fact, from all but a few, for the sake of her mother's life. Now, with her mother in danger once again, Etta must make a perilous journey to retrieve something. Her Gifted abilities will be needed on this journey. It's an intriguing storyline that didn't deliver. There are moments of interest with action and drama, but there are also too long stretches of boring material. The story as a whole did not maintain it's magical little something to make me want to keep reading. I forced myself through half of it because I'm not a quitter. The ending was anticlimatic, and overall, it's mediocre at best. I think this story will be best for a young adult audience interested in fantasy fiction and magic. It's got the goods for those readers but not for me.

I really enjoyed the overall plot of THE MEMORY THIEF.

There were some neat revelations and surprises throughout the story, the world was interesting and I Enjoyed the characters.

The romance was meh. I am not a fan of the insta-love with no real build up. Etta goes from not trusting Reid to trusting him with her life in a snap. My biggest issue with THE MEMORY THIEF was the pacing. Seems to go from a nice pace with buildup to way too fast towards the end and through the major showdown.

I enjoyed the overall story and would read more in this world if more books were written.

* This book was provided free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Genre: YA Fantasy
My rating: 5 stars
Language: Clean!
Age Range: 13+
Content: Very mild action scenes/death scenes. A few kisses.
Favorite Character: Etta + Reid
Favorite quote: "Sunsets are ten times prettier after a storm. They're proof that good can come out of something really bad." - Penn

Conclusion: This book has been amazing! It was interesting twist that you can give and take away someone's memory. The story was fascinating and I love how it talks about forgiveness and how good can come from evil. I highly recommend this book!

*I received an ARC from Netgalley for my honest review. These opinions are my own.*

Publication Date: October 1st 2019

I really loved this book.

Lauren Mansy created a dank, dark and disturbing world where memories were currency and the people of Craewick were divided, those that were gifted and those that were not. I found the whole idea original and Mansy’s ability to build this depressing world left me with a complete picture of her story. There were no gaps in plot or characterization and the sheer amount of effort she took is evident from beginning to end. The Memory Thief will introduce you to a world that deals with memories where you’re only as strong as your ability to steal. This is a place that brings your insecurities to light, exposes vulnerabilities and where skills can be bought and sold rather than learned. I couldn’t put this book down and I would definitely recommend this to anyone who loves a good YA book. It’s got an alternate world that mixes fantasy and action with a sweet and emotional hit of romance.

I want to thank Netgalley and the publishers at Blink for giving me this opportunity to read and review an advanced copy.

“Perhaps, but a Gift should always be used to care for and protect those less fortunate than ourselves. Do you know why we’re called the Gifted, Julietta? Long ago, memories weren’t used like coins. Memories were gifts, to show a glorious sunset to one who’d lost their sight, or share music with one who could no longer hear. Somewhere along the way, we became callous and hollow.”

I loved all the raw emotional scenes like this one. It gave wisdom where there was lawlessness and it gave characters, especially Julietta, the hope they needed to overcome the villain of this story. It also depicts Mansy’s talent to incorporate wise words into the plot seamlessly.

“Being with Reid is helping me remember all the good parts.”

Reid’s and Julietta’s relationship is built on mutual trust and respect. They balanced one another in both skill and wit that produced a sweet, slow burn romance. They connect on an emotional level and work together toward a common goal that makes their relationship an honest one. They can’t afford to keep secrets because

secrets could get them killed. There is a learning curve between them but Mansy offset this with great dialogue and witty humour. A lot of times the romance in fantasy novels is either rooted in its foundation and a key plot device or it fades into the background but in here it just propelled the story and got me wanting more. It took time to build a trust like it should but they respected one another from the beginning and I loved that. There wasn’t an enemies to lovers trope in this story and that will set this book apart. This romance is not whatsoever disappointing and anyone who loves an emotionally deep connection between characters will love The Memory Thief.

“Write, Jules. Write about your day, your every thought and feeling, and all the memories you’re carrying. Then you’ll always remember who you are.”

Great sentiment and I really think this adds value to any writer because it’s so relatable. It’s written with poetic flare and it speaks volumes.

“If I dwelt on my regrets, I wouldn’t have the strength to get out of bed every morning. We can’t forget what we’ve done, but it’s what we do with those regrets that mold us. We’re given a past to learn from and grow, but sometimes the greatest miracle can change a future for the better. And the girl I see sitting before me may have weaknesses but she isn’t weak. There’s quite a difference. Harness your past and use it for good, Julietta. What is a life without love, or hope and joy? You must live for something higher than yourself. It’s who we chose to live for that defines us.”

This is a relatable statement full of rich advice and lessons to learn and it reads a lot like a fairytale. It was a nice touch that brought home the characters’ drive to fight back.

The Memory Thief by Lauren Mansy is a hidden gem that I think many will appreciate. It had heart, emotion, and great writing. There’s tons of twists and turns where characters proved their true nature and the genuine dialogue between them propelled the plot forward. Mansy wasn’t afraid to add darkness to her story which only elevated the plot and provided a more determined bunch of personalities that all had a vulnerable, sadness to their lives whether it be because they were gifted or ungifted, orphaned or betrayed. They all had secrets and you will not stop until you finish the whole damn thing!

The Memory Thief by Lauren Mansy had me hooked right from the start. The concept of exchanging memories, and all the pros and cons that come with that, is a (to me) completely new premise that made for an exciting adventure for Etta and her companions. Etta is a strong female character that shows the readers that anybody can be a hero, even if there are dark and horrible things in your past. She's had to make extremely difficult decisions regarding her family and friends, had to learn to live with the consequences of those decisions, but also realized the incredible things that can be accomplished by putting your trust in unlikely and unexpected people.

While I enjoyed the straightforward writing style for most of the book, I would've liked more descriptions of this world that we know nothing about. I also found both the meeting with a certain ruler and the final "battle" somewhat anticlimactic and simplified. I think this was a great debut novel overall though and Mansy shows a lot of potential for great books in the future.

Imagine a world where everything you love and hold dear can be ripped away from you in an instant, without any warning or recourse. We are what we remember, and in The Memory Thief, the "Gifted" can steal part or all of who you are with only a touch. The "Ungifted", those without this powerful ability, live at the mercy of the "Gifted", and society has divided itself according to this unsettling divide of psychological power. Etta lives in this world, and has just learned that her own mother's memories may soon be ripped out and auctioned off to the highest bidder. To prevent this from happening, Etta must do the unthinkable: she must return to the shady social group that helped land her mother in the asylum years ago, and use her own memory to win freedom for her dear mother.

The concepts and themes within The Memory Thief are thought-provoking and interesting. Memory isn't a concept that's played around with centrally in many stories, so I enjoyed this change of pace. As the book moves along, a romance develops, however I feel like the book would have been stronger without it, focusing instead on the camaraderie that a shared mission and purpose brings. Etta combats an unjust and unfair society as it attacks her emotional core, and for most of the book that goal is very compelling. I feel like the ending could have been stronger, but Etta's journey comes to a close well enough in the end. If you're looking for an overall great story and don't mind that it gets a touch trope-y and peters out a bit at the end, I think you'll really enjoy reading (and remembering) The Memory Thief.

This was a middle of the road YA fantasy novel in a crowded field of stand out works. The plot and characters started out intriguing but did not stand up as the book progressed and fell flat. It seemed almost as though maybe a bit more editing would have helped to clean up the story line, and keep it cohesive throughout. Overall, I'm interested in what else this author puts out but not certain if there was enough character and world building in this novel to seek a sequel read. So, just an okay read. This isn't my go-to genre though so people drawn into fantasy YA might totally love this. And I may give it a try again later. Sometimes its timing with books like this.

#TheMemoryThief #NetGalley #Blink

I normally don’t read standalone fantasies but this one was surprisingly decent. I enjoyed it more than I thought I was going to. It’s not really a favorite of mine but I did like it!

The main character Etta wasn’t someone I could really connect to but that doesn’t mean I didn’t enjoy reading about her. I thought she was a solid character that went through a lot over the course of the book. I also enjoyed the romance and was so happy there wasn’t a love triangle. The romance between Etta and Reid was cute and sweet if not a little bit heartbreaking as well.

I liked the writing a lot more than I thought I would. It was simple and clear which is honestly my favorite writing style. I thought that it was very easy to read which I enjoyed.

I think the world that Mansy created was really cool and well planned out. It was interesting to read about as well as learn more about. I thought the magic system was cool and there were so many possibilities that could have been thought of. The fact that memories were such a commodity is interesting to think about especially in today’s society and how society interacts with one another in a world with technology. The plot was decent, not anything spectacular but I did enjoy it.

I thought this was a decent book. It wasn’t anything special but I did still enjoy reading it. If you’re looking for a standalone fantasy with a sweet plot and not anything too complicated then this could be for you.

I was intrigued by the premise from the very beginning. I'm glad it lived up to the expectations. This book felt fresh, and new, in a genre that's full to bursting of fantastic books. I really enjoyed the characters, the plot, the book as a whole. I'll be recommending this one for sure.

DNF at 27%. The premise sounded interesting, but the world-building and characters fell flat for me. Plus it was so info dumpy and the first few chapters were so hard to keep up with.

*Advanced copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion*

This was a really fun book to read! I was first drawn to it after seeing the cover on NetGalley – and the cover is gorgeous LOOK AT IT! – but I enjoyed the story even more. I love when fantasy stories can tell a really good tale of redemption and this book did just that.

Since this is a fantasy, let’s start with the story world. I was fascinated by it! The fact that memories can be given and taken, even used for currency, was a very interesting idea, but I also liked that there were distinct consequences. For example, the rich could afford to buy as many happy memories as they wanted, but having too many memories in their brain could basically overload a person and make them lose their actual identity. That’s really scary! I also thought it was cool that you could learn a talent that way by basically absorbing someone’s skill. It makes sense by the rules of this magic system – a lot of skills, whether artistic or fighting – are based on muscle memory. If you steal the muscle memory, you can do the thing.

Now let’s talk about our protagonist – Etta. Also known as Julietta, also known as Jules. Etta is a fighter. She’s a survivor. But she’s also done some pretty bad things and has a lot of guilt surrounding it, especially around her mother. There is also a lot of things in her past that she doesn’t know or understand (which is understandable in a society where memories can be taken) and it was really cool to discover all these things with Etta. I also really loved Ryder, the street urchin who Etta has taken in and has been looking after. I do have a soft spot for street urchins and Ryder is just so adorable.

This was a very unpredictable story, which I always appreciate. The people you expect to be on Etta’s side aren’t always in her corner, and some people who you expect to be enemies are actually allies. Except for Madame. She is evil. No redeeming qualities whatsoever. It’s scary because she seems to constantly have the upper hand. Plus, she has an incredibly powerful gift that they have to figure out how to counteract. It makes for a very tense final showdown.

This book has such an interesting concept and it was explored so well! Gifted people can take or give memories to and from other people when they touch their skin. Ungifted can only receive memories. I loved seeing this idea develop and seeing how taking memories and having them be taken away can change a person so deeply.
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I loved the romance between Etta and Ried. It had its sweet moments and times of betrayal and hurt, but they cared deeply enough for one another that they didn’t give up.
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I only had a couple issues with the book, but they weren’t pressing enough to keep me from loving the rest of the story.
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I didn’t quite believe Porter’s transformation. I didn’t see his before, only his after, so trying to imagine him being different was hard.
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I also feel like tiny moments could have been fine tuned. Reveals being held just a little longer, more dialogue and less narrating that a character told someone something.
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But really, this book was pretty good. Great characters, great story, great writing. Thank you to Netgalley and Blink for an e-arc to review!

I knew from practically the first moment that I disliked the writing, and I continued to dislike it to the end of the book. There's no subtlety here. The book doesn't trust you to get anything on your own. When the author wants you to get a message, the characters straight up say it. They practically turn to the reader and go, "Wow, it's so sad that this person died. However, I will put away my guilt and try to live a happy life anyway, because the only way I can move forward is by devoting myself to a higher purpose, which I learned from this other person just now, which you know because you were there. So, yeah. I'm gonna go do that now."

The plot happened too fast. I often feel that books like this try to rely on the fact you've read other books like it to make its arcs work -- like, you've read generic YA fantasy, so you know that when a girl and a boy go on a dangerous journey into the forest together, they're going to fall in love eventually. So maybe, the author thinks sneakily, this book can just skip the part where we pretend we don't know that, and maybe it doesn't have to put so much work into convincing you that these characters are in love. Except that then its character dynamics becomes flat and boring because there's so little to them. Nothing much original. And no excellent writing to add an animating spark to lifeless, stilted conversations.

I did eventually get into the plot, but it took until about 65% in and I still ended up skimming stilted dialogue because I didn't see the point in boring myself any more.

The magic system has some interest to it, which I would certainly hope given that the memory economy was what drew me to this book. But outside of that, the worldbuilding falls flat. The four realms are basic cookie cutter Fantasy Lands™ that are also weirdly small? Like is Craewick larger than one single city? I can't tell. How large is the maze? It might be the size of a house or the size of a city. Are the forests in between the realms larger than the realms themselves? I think they must be, but who knows! There is so much traveling in this book yet no sense of space! I implore this writer to read The Thief by Megan Whalen Turner to learn how to do a grounded Fantasy Road Trip where you understand and are rooted in the characters' landscape.

So like... it's fine. It's okay. There's nothing horrible in it besides mediocre writing. I wouldn't warn people away from this book, I'm just not recommending it.

I cannot get over how cool and unique the concept for this book was. The power to see, take and transport someone else’s memories, an ability which only some people have, was fascinating. What was even more fascinating was the use of those memories after they were taken from their owners, like the rich taking happy memories to feel those good emotions, absorbing the skills someone spent years perfecting or using painful memories as a means of torture. The whole idea really brings to mind how important our memories are to who we become as people. The system of magic was handled so well and played a huge part in the world-building. I loved Etta, and the more we learned about her backstory the more I loved her. We meet her at such an interesting point in her life, and it was interesting to watch her try to pick up the pieces of her mistakes and deal with her grief. The plot in the first half of the book was entirely gripping and I couldn’t put it down. The pacing of all the little reveals about the past and its ripples were incredibly well done. There was a great and unexpected twist in the middle of the book but after that the action kind of lost its luster. It felt rushed through and they had very little obstacles until the ending. Her relationship with her love interest was sweet and a bit of a slow burn, but I wish they would have had more heat and tension between them so we could really feel the build-up. The ending was was smart, but I wish it would have been a tad bit clearer so I could have fully embraced the effects of its cleverness. I’m torn with what to rate this book because I am still completely awed by the concept and the exciting plot of the first half, but in the end, I was left a bit underwhelmed. Because of that, I have to give it a high 3 stars.