WTP Review: Recursion by Blake Crouch — ★★★★☆ (4/5)

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Overview

In Recursion, Crouch tackles memory, time, and the terrifying possibility of rewriting reality. The story follows Helena, a neuroscientist building a device to preserve memory, and Barry, a detective investigating a phenomenon called False Memory Syndrome.

What Works

Crouch’s writing here is razor-sharp. The book blends thriller pacing with sci-fi speculation in a way that feels urgent and terrifyingly possible. The emotional threads — particularly Helena’s sacrifice — give the novel surprising depth.

Where It Falls Short

It can feel like the narrative tries to juggle too much at once, and some of the repeated “memory reset” sequences drag in the second half. Still, the ending pays off.

Verdict

This is another 4-star read for me. While not flawless, Recursion cements Crouch as one of the best at blending heart with high-stakes science fiction.

Best for: readers who loved Dark Matter and want another smart, twisty thriller about memory and identity.

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