logo

43 pages 1 hour read

Recursion

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2019

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Book Brief

logo
Blake Crouch

Recursion

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2019
Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • Contemporary

Publication Year

2019

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

In Recursion by Blake Crouch, NYPD detective Barry Sutton investigates the mysterious phenomenon of False Memory Syndrome (FMS) and becomes entangled with neuroscientist Helena Smith's time travel technology, created to re-experience memories. Together, they aim to prevent the destructive consequences of this technology falling into the wrong hands. Sensitive topics include suicide and death.

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Emotional

Dark

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.3

287,837 ratings

82%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Recursion by Blake Crouch receives praise for its innovative plot and suspenseful pacing, effectively blending science fiction with a human story. Reviewers appreciate the intriguing exploration of memory and time. However, some criticize the complex narrative as occasionally confusing. Overall, it’s lauded for its imaginative and gripping storytelling.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Recursion?

Readers who relish mind-bending science fiction and psychological thrillers will enjoy Recursion by Blake Crouch. Fans of Michael Crichton's Jurassic Park and the conceptually intricate storytelling found in Dark Matter will find this novel compelling for its exploration of memory, identity, and reality.

4.3

287,837 ratings

82%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Character List

Helena Smith

A dedicated neuroscientist driven to help Alzheimer’s patients by capturing memories, whose personal connections to the disease motivate her work.

An NYPD officer facing personal tragedy following the death of his daughter, who becomes entangled in complex scientific discoveries throughout the story.

A successful businessman and innovator with a dark past, who aims to exploit a scientific invention for his own gain.

Slade’s loyal second in command, known for his neat and friendly appearance, yet capable of carrying out harsh orders.

Helena’s subsequent employer, who is optimistic about harnessing technology for global betterment but cautioned against potential consequences.

Barry's ex-wife who shares a strained but cordial relationship with him, impacted by shared grief over their daughter's death.

Barry and Julia’s daughter, whose presence or absence in timelines affects her parents' lives, remembered for her strong will and kindness.

Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • Contemporary

Publication Year

2019

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Continue your reading experience

Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.