one of the best dystopian/sci-fi fiction i've read so far.

<i>"When I was a boy, my mother used to tell me stories of a world before memories could be shared between strangers..."</i>

in this book we get a tech-driven future where memories aren’t just personal—they’re currency. The Qin Empire rules with an iron grip, using Mindbanks, devices implanted into citizens’ brains, to record and even sell experiences. Enter Memory Capitalism, a system where the rich can live someone else’s life and the powerful can erase or manipulate history itself. the story kicks off with the unnamed narrator inheriting his mother’s illegal memories after her sudden death. but these aren’t just nostalgic moments—they’re explosive. it was packed with truths that could destabilize the empire, even owning them makes him a target. as the protagonist scrambles to share these memories before they’re destroyed, the novel unravels a series of snapshots—tales of sumo wrestlers, activists, swimmers, and watchmakers—all resisting the empire’s suffocating control.

each memory feels like its own little world, but together, they paint a bigger picture of rebellion and resilience. from ancient rituals to futuristic protests, the stories are gripping, diverse, and deeply human. the narrator’s mission to preserve his mother’s legacy gives the novel its emotional core, while the memories themselves push the boundaries of genre, blending sci-fi, history, and dystopian drama into something unforgettable. what makes this book hit so hard is how timely it feels ESPECIALLY TODAY. the surface of memory-swapping tech and empire politics is a sharp commentary on how easily governments and media can twist the truth. it's a reality check for anyone living in an age of misinformation and curated narratives. but don't get it twisted—the novel pulses with themes of love, sacrifice, and the power of storytelling to push back against erasure.

the writing is so immersive, with a modern vibe that keeps the pace sharp while still digging deep. the narrator’s voice feels raw and urgent, pulling you into his desperate mission as the stakes climb. this isn’t just another dystopian tale—it’s a wake-up call wrapped in a high-stakes, emotionally charged narrative.

if you’re into speculative fiction that’s smart, intense, and deeply relevant, These Memories Do Not Belong to Us is a must-read. it's a bold reminder that even in the darkest times, stories can save us—and that some truths are worth risking everything for.

thank you so much Yiming Ma & Mariner Books!
this novel deserves all the 5 stars in the world. it was so good.