A Sense for Memory

Part One (Z-Verse)

Fiction - Science Fiction
371 Pages
Reviewed on 05/21/2026
Buy on Amazon

This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Free Book Program, which is open to all readers and is completely free. The author will provide you with a free copy of their book in exchange for an honest review. You and the author will discuss what sites you will post your review to and what kind of copy of the book you would like to receive (eBook, PDF, Word, paperback, etc.). To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email.

This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Book Review Exchange Program, which is open to all authors and is completely free. Simply put, you agree to provide an honest review an author's book in exchange for the author doing the same for you. What sites your reviews are posted on (B&N, Amazon, etc.) and whether you send digital (eBook, PDF, Word, etc.) or hard copies of your books to each other for review is up to you. To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email, and be sure to describe your book or include a link to your Readers' Favorite review page or Amazon page.

This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Book Donation Program, which was created to help nonprofit and charitable organizations (schools, libraries, convalescent homes, soldier donation programs, etc.) by providing them with free books and to help authors garner more exposure for their work. This author is willing to donate free copies of their book in exchange for reviews (if circumstances allow) and the knowledge that their book is being read and enjoyed. To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email. Be sure to tell the author who you are, what organization you are with, how many books you need, how they will be used, and the number of reviews, if any, you would be able to provide.

    Book Review

Reviewed by Paul Zietsman for Readers' Favorite

A Sense for Memory by R.H. Stevens is an imaginative and exciting science fiction novel combined with stunning illustrations of alien worlds and species. Stevens uses elements of mystery, psychological thriller, cosmic horror, and political intrigue to create a truly captivating story. From the very first few pages, the author establishes a universe that is ancient, mysterious, and rich in history. In particular, the story revolves around Ushen-Takaan, a former soldier with a mysterious artifact called the Reivosumet. What appears to be his ordinary mission soon turns into an eerie and outlandish journey. It is followed by a thrilling investigation conducted by Commander Qwatajawa and Science Officer Acazoitaw, two of the protagonists who prove to be extremely interesting and well-developed.

The strength of R.H. Stevens' writing lies in his world-building skills. In A Sense for Memory, Stevens creates a vivid and believable universe full of political and historical context and complex cultures of both the Rej-Jir and the Zurxok. The cultures of these nations are so thoroughly thought out that they seem almost real, including their systems of politics, spirituality, mental powers, and relations with other civilizations. Particularly noteworthy is the concept of Entombment. As the author makes us understand from Acazoitaw's and Qwatajawa's exchange on hearing others' memories, this practice can be a devastating and terrifying ordeal. Psychological themes of fear, trauma, duty, and memories make this novel not only entertaining but also thought-provoking and meaningful. Couple this with the imaginative drawings that are detailed, bold, and daring, and you have an outstanding story that will haunt readers for a long time.