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509
Novel • Fiction
Contemporary
2015
Adult
18+ years
Memory Man by David Baldacci follows Amos Decker, a former football player turned detective who can’t forget anything due to a unique brain condition caused by a head injury. Traumatized by the unsolved murders of his family, Decker becomes a private investigator. When a suspect confesses, Decker realizes it’s a ruse and investigates a connected school shooting, uncovering a personal vendetta from a past victim. The story includes themes of violence and trauma surrounding the murders of Decker’s family and a school shooting.
Suspenseful
Mysterious
Dark
Unnerving
Gritty
248,186 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
David Baldacci's Memory Man features an intriguing protagonist with hyperthymesia, which readers find captivating. Positive reviews highlight the novel's gripping plot and strong character development. However, some critics note a reliance on familiar crime thriller tropes, which may detract from originality. Overall, it's praised for its compelling mystery and fast pace.
A reader who would enjoy Memory Man by David Baldacci is likely a fan of intricate crime thrillers with complex characters. They might also appreciate works like Michael Connelly’s The Lincoln Lawyer or James Patterson’s Alex Cross series, given their similar focus on suspense, detective work, and psychological depth.
248,186 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Alex Jamison
A reporter with the News Leader in her late twenties, who is tall and slim with bobbed brunette hair. She initially seeks a story from Decker but ends up joining him as an investigator.
Mary Lancaster
Decker's former partner, a tough detective and the only female officer in the Burlington Police Department. Concerned about Decker's mental state, she encourages his involvement in a school shooting investigation.
Ross Bogart
A senior FBI agent in his forties with an athletic build who is impeccably dressed. He assembles an elite task force, seeing potential in Decker and Jamison's unique skills.
Sebastian Leopold
A medium-height individual with drug tracks on his arms, carrying scars and a tattoo, claiming to have murdered Decker's family as revenge. He preys on victims of unsolved crimes through manipulation.
Belinda Wyatt
An individual with augmented mental abilities after a traumatic assault at 16, who is intersex and underwent a sex-change operation to become Billy. Wyatt harbors resentment toward past adversaries, including Decker.
Captain Miller
Decker’s former police captain, who is stocky and respects Decker’s abilities as a detective. Although displeased with Decker’s involvement in an investigation, he seeks his help with a high school shooting case.
509
Novel • Fiction
Contemporary
2015
Adult
18+ years
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