Amazon Customer Reviews
Remember To Recycle: Psychological Suspense By Tantra Bensko is so much more than what it seems. You follow characters like Becky, Nancy, and the most intriguing Dave into this world where a heroic group such as “The Rescuers” live, where going through people’s belongings are a thing, and acting as other people is a necessary duty. This is all to know what others are up to, and not only can you find out how much beer and chocolate one has eaten: you can also find out, to an extent, if a certain person is going to die.
Curiosity stems from the first few paragraphs reading Remember to Recycle: Psychological Suspense, and carries out in every single chapter. I have to say, I can’t decide which character I’m in love with more! I was so eager to tie together all of the character’s interactions with one another. Becky and Nancy’s dynamic is interesting because Becky is so fragile compared to the “tough” and “proactive” Nancy. And then being introduced by the strange, observer Dave, who most definitely lives an exciting life dressing up as all sorts of characters, was so much fun.
Reading this reminded me of reading the Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. You have to read on to find out the truth and every chapter gradually takes you there. There were some moments where I lacked clarity about who was narrating, but I quickly caught on to the book’s pace and transitions became a piece of cake! I definitely recommend this book to add on to your list!
Remember to Recycle: Psychological Suspense by Tantra Bensko is a mystery, thriller, suspense book that is the second book in the Agents of the Nevermind series. The book asks the question of: “what if the homeless men going through your recycling know more about your life than you do; like who is going to die”. Dave is a man who lives under a bridge, memorizes the information in people's bins, and idolizes the Rescuers. Becky is a woman who lives close to Dave’s bridge and donates to the Rescuers so much that she has jeopardized her own finances, but Becky also has a mystery to uncover; she has been finding things in her apartment used or moved around. Scared out of her mind Becky hires a friend to spy on her current lover to see if he is the one moving things and using them when she is not home. Who are the Rescuers really, how much does Dave know, and who is scaring Becky?
Remember to Recycle: Psychological Suspense by Tantra Bensko is a very well written book with scenes that are so vivid that you cannot help, but see them in your mind as they playout. Some of the scenes actually had me wishing they were a little less vivid because of the creepy images they created in my mind.The characters are all wonderfully crafted to have their own wants, fears, and unique personalities that make them seem so realistic. I read this book without having read book one first and while there were a few spots that had me wishing that I had read book one first, overall I did not suffer any confusion over the events or the characters. I have to say though that I enjoyed this one so much that I have decided to go back and seek out book one.
Without giving any spoilers I want to state that author Tantra Bensko, has intelligently written a Suspense novel based upon modern times in a time period of a possible WWIII outbreak. Nations, Allies and citizens are divided with the dense political corruption and biased, regulated media depicted in this novel.
Main characters Nancy who is an ex Higher Intelligence Agent has been sent on a mission to befriend a local aspiring artist Becky. Both women form a strong friendship and help each other overcome their personal paranoias with the world they live in.
Becky and Nancy have different opinions when it comes to the purpose of the "Rescuers" yet don't discuss it for the sake of their friendship. Nancy feels like the Rescuers are moderate terrorists, working with the government only to appear as hero's who save children from the destruction of war and chemical warfare. Becky feels like they are true hero's because of the way the media portrays them. But what Becky doesn't know, is that Nancy is an ex espionage for the government who has a insight to how the government is managed and revealed too ordinary citizens.
It isn't until Becky asks Nancy to spy on her current boyfriend Stan that the women start to reveal the political corruption and secrets kept from its everyday citizens. Neither of them were ready for what they were about to discover.
And then there is the mystery Recycler who has a strange infatuation with Becky. How does this mystery man with many "characters" play a role with this suspenseful mystery? Better start reading and find out yourself!
I love the author’s lack of boundaries in the writing
What an exciting read, full of surprises! The writing is twisted, which creates an alluring story. I love the author’s lack of boundaries in the writing. The characters are real. Becky, the main character, is messed up and interesting. I did not want to stop reading this book. It is a masterful thriller, filled with suspense, conspiracies, spies, and darkness. “Remember to Recycle” reminds us of the invisible conspiracies that surround us and brings them into our conscious mind. There is not anything predictable about this book.
The writing is for those who do not mind graphic descriptions and dark writing. Bravo to Tantra Bensko for a great thriller! I love books that are of with suspense; they make me feel alive. And, the ending…well, you will not see it coming. Read “Remember to Recycle”!
PSYCHO-THRILLER / QU'EST-CE QUE C'EST?
The much awaited follow-up to Glossolalia (one of those books that shines in memory, *haunts* long after you put it down ..), but don't fret: Remember to Recycle functions perfectly as a stand-alone production and, in my view, you wouldn't lose anything experientially if - owing to circumstance - you happened to read Glossololia after: they truly enhance each other (heroine Nancy is the string that ties them together).
In terms of content, the novel is very much its own animal. One might recall the "Operation Mindf*ck" aspects of Wilson & Shea's Illuminatus! - which treated, half-satirically, the shenanigans and secret machinations of the powerful (mind control, assassinations, engineered viruses) before Watergate (tho' the trilogy would not see publication till 1975). Remember to Recycle, however, is very different from *that*, perhaps its closest relative. The (overall) tone is more serious because more is at stake. The threats to society, to the chief characters, are updated and mesh nicely with the (non-fiction) work of Alex Constantine and the late James Shelby Downard. And perhaps *most* key is that much of it is filtered through a woman's perspective, through Nancy, through her friend Becky. This for me was a welcome feature, as I marvel at the startling and/or beautiful fiction of Anna Kavan, Carson McCullers, Patricia Highsmith, and many others.
And in terms of pure *technique* Remember to Recycle is a knock-out. There's a LOT going on, MANY balls are tossed in the air, and - by the end - the author catches them all with grace: nothing is forced or jarringly implausible. One of the book's fine features are its VOICES: you're never in any doubt about who is speaking or whose head you're inhabiting. Dave the Recycler, for example, provides much of the book's humor, breaking the fourth wall with his personal meditations and sometimes hilarious schemes (often involving morphing into other characters: he is a master of disguise!). But what can I say? Bensko's novel is both frighteningly relevant AND hopeful, a countercultural thriller that's also about redemption. In short, an entire catalog of unexpected pairings/arrangements - like a still life of "toaster with cow skull" - but, once you read it, you can't imagine it any other way.
Wow! For psychological suspense at its very best, read this book!
As the second book in the Agents of the Nevermind Suspense series, Remember to Recycle continues the dark, paranoid thrill ride. Nancy, former agent of the Nevermind Intelligence Agency, has received a strange message to befriend Becky. Nancy travels across the nation to find Becky and discovers that Becky is a wonderful, if somewhat confused young artist. Becky has her share of phobias and Nancy can relate as Nancy has to live 'off the grid' and 'under the radar' to avoid being caught by the Nevermind. For instance, Becky doesn’t like being watched and she has an excruciating fear of heights. Becky also is noticing that things have been a bit 'off' in her apartment. She thinks perhaps that it could be her boyfriend Stan visiting when she isn't at home but isn't sure. And, she's completely head over heels in love with Stan and knows that he will ask her to marry him any day now. If only she could believe him….
The reader is also introduced to one of the recyclers. Homeless people who go through the recycling bins, in reality. But, this recycler is also a person who is a member of a society that has successfully remained invisible while living in plain sight. And, a person who knows a lot about Becky – so much so, that he has fallen in love with her. Becky has even talked with him but doesn't remember at all.
Becky is worried that Stan isn't being true and that someone is watching her all the time. That's where Nancy can help. Becky asks her to spy on Stan and also sets up a camera in her apartment to see what or who the problem with her apartment is. But what Nancy finds out about Stan puts her in direct contact with the very Agency that she escaped from and reveals that Becky is directly in the path of certain death if she doesn't get away from him. Nancy asks the recyclers to help with varied success.
Like the first book in this series, the political intrigue and manipulations of the masses continues in force through social media, television, advertisements, and police reinforcement. WWIII is imminent and the Rescuers are the good guys AND the bad guys – just depends on who you ask. The action and suspense continues where it left off in the first book and takes you straight to the edge of your seat. This is a series to read!
Crazy story and fun to follow along with.
Remember to Recycle, written by Tantra Bensko, is a suspense novel that combines government conspiracy, corruption, madness, friendship, paranoia, psychoses, and mystery into an exciting, if warped, read. The plot is almost science fiction-like, and yet… oddly plausible. Ms. Bensko’s writing style is quite creative, and I found myself immersed in the first few pages before I could even begin to understand the plot narrative.
My interest was immediately drawn to the characters eloquently painted in this book. Of Becky and Nancy, brought together by unique personal circumstances, but who develop true admiration and trust for one another. Of Dave, the mysterious recycler who keeps disguises hidden under the bridge and learns even the minutiae of other people's lives. Of Stan, Becky's lover who is suspected of tamping with Becky's apartment. Of the Rescuers, who could either be described as humanitarian heroes or terrorists involved in a government conspiracy -- it all depends on your point of view. They are all beautifully written characters, and they each have a secret.
The chapters are short and easy to digest in single servings, but the culmination of them – along with the frequent shifts in writing perspective – makes this story crazy and fun to follow along. Each chapter left me wondering and wanting more, until the satisfying ending. This is book two in The Agents of the Nevermind series, but stands on its own. I'll definitely be interested in reading other works by this author.
Remember to Recycle - Radical, Madcap, Dystopic, Yet a Story About Roommates
Becky and Nancy live together in a freeform tenement neighborhood, much in the style of Gentlemen Prefer Blondes or How to Marry a Millionaire, in a sisterly, girls-only sort of way. They trust each other totally, but, when they venture out into the real world (which gives off faint lingering whiffs of dystopia), they seem to be on high alert for assault and aggressive townspeople in an uncertain future (i.e. threat of international terrorist warfare, public shows of support/charity, flyer propaganda, violence in the streets).
There are defined switches between third and first-person narration: its first-person is from the utilitarian, know-all but says-none recycling man, who is leeringly aware of the neighborhood’s business, based on his finding Becky’s diary and other personal items, and sees himself as being quite a ladies’ man by dating inside and outside of his recycling pickup jurisdiction. The third-person narration comes from Becky and Nancy's worrisome, unsafe musings. Thrown in as almost a counterpoint is a sideplot about an open (yet hallowed) dialogue about sex, instability of mainstream news, and the self-absorbing qualities of this book's version of social media.
All in all, Bensko keeps it a bit radical, a bit madcap - it’s a terrific first effort, full of content, intercharacter suspicion, and dystopic uprisings - and admits that several authors/imperators inspired her to include different kinds of references toward terrorism, homeland protests, and the Deep Web (known in the book as ‘Neverland’). What I enjoyed most, though, was the girls-doin’-it-for-themselves interactions between Becky and Nancy and found myself wanting more of that than what waylaid the path beyond their apartment.
Psychological suspense hits the nail on the head for the description of this book. There’s a lot going on to capture the reader in a detailed world of mystery. This book actually gives people a lot to think about. In the news, one of the big things is identity theft. Well, Bensko takes it even farther, to something that is not that implausible. What if someone going through your stuff learns more about your life then you want them too. This book not only explores that, but even makes that character, a Recycler named Dave, one of the narrators.
The description of the book lists the phrase “twist a minute”. This is a pretty accurate description. This is a fast paced thriller that spans personal and political suspense, and even touch on the idea of a looming World War 3. What I liked the most about this book was its realism. Everything in this book is written in a way that the reader can believe it is, or will, happen. Not many authors can pull that off. There’s always a level where the reader has to suspend reality to believe a book, especially in this day where the supernatural reigns supreme.
The main characters, Becky and Nancy, are well written and complex. At times, they tend to act as foils to each other with their differing beliefs, but still manage to hold on to their friendship through it all.
Even though this is the second book of a series, it is a standalone book, but I will definitely have to check out the first book and more from Bensko.
Remember to Recycle: Psychological Suspense by Tantra Bensko is full of mystery and adventure. From Becky and Nancy's high awareness of future events and the recycling man, I believed that the things which occurred in this book could happen to anyone in real life, because we throw so any things out into out recycling that contains so much information about us without even knowing it, from the types of foods you eat to things as personal as a diary or as public as flyers, each object contains some kind of information about us and once it leaves the house there's no telling what is done with those items.
Bensko's use of imagery, detailed descriptions and thoughts, helps the reader to be fully aware of what is going on between the characters and events taking place in their life. After reading Remember to Recycle I did wish I had read Bensko's first book Glossolalia because I like Bensko's writing and because I personally prefer to read books in order so that I can follow but even though I did not read Glossolalia before jumping in and reading Remember to Recycle I was still able to follow what was happening, and unlike other series Bensko's The Agents of Nevermind is a series of stand alone books. So you don't have to read book 1 before book 2 if you don't want to, which I really like because I with me starting with book 2 I don't feel like I'm missing a piece of the story, unlike other series where if you start at book 2 you feel like you've missed a whole chunk of the characters' lives, which really affects how much you enjoy that book because you decided to be rebel and read out of order than to be a good person and read in the order that was listed in front of you.
Extremely Innovative And Thrilling!
This is one of the best books I've read in a long time. Being an ardent reader of psychology, the title and description of the book caught my eye and set my expectations to a high level and I was not one bit disappointed. It in fact, exceeded anything I had expected.
The book is fast paced, and has a lot of suspense. It revolves around the idea of the protagonist having subconscious influences in her actions and various aspects of her life. I personally enjoyed analyzing the protagonist the most. She has a very interesting personality and has a lot of layers to her. As the story progresses, different layers of her personality are peeled back.
I would recommend this book to absolutely anyone that enjoys a good thrill, especially if you're interested in psychology. Hats off for the creativity.
Very exciting thrilling and suspenseful!
I've always been interested in suspense and thriller one. This book, however, gave a new point of view, from the side that I have not heard much about. Love the action and intrigue from start until ending. I found it to be so great to read.
Good Time to Be had reading Remember to Recycle !
5.0 out of 5 starsOne of those books you don't want to put down...
By Amazon Custome ron May 10, 2017
Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
Remember to Recycle is a very interesting novel. The only thing that was not my favorite was the cover. But the cover only takes up such a brief amount of time compared to the story line inside the pages. While this book had many unexpected parts, it also inspired me with my own story that I am writing. I like how the author intertwined the characters stories. Each of the main characters were so different from one another yet each bringing their own major impact on the story. The author clearly knows what she is doing and as a reader you really get a sense of who the characters are and what they want. I think the author might be one of my favorites when it comes to crafting characters. I have never read anything like this book. I don't know if the author meant for some of the book contents to reflect international politics and conflicts but it did remind me of some current issues. Overall, I am impressed with this book. This author is clearly no amateur writer. If she did a writing class locally I would love to take it. I will keep an eye out for her future books in the meantime.
A suspenseful thriller for conspiracy fans
In Remember to Recycle Tantra Bensko creates a world of corruption and brutality and buries it deeply within a world of Rescuers, charitable citizens and pleasant suburbia. Tantra develops the main character - Nancy - in much the same way; an enigma wrapped within a mystery.
The story pays on its promise and delivers psychological suspense from cover to cover. We're introduced to Nancy - an off the grid corporate spy turned rogue agent of the Nevermind - just after she's moved across after receiving a mysterious message to "befriend Becky." Both women have significant phobias - ones that seem superficial at first, but pull you in gradually as you read and make you question their character and mental stability. While being pulled along, you're given more to question when Bensko introduces Stan, Recycler Dave, Buck and The Blob...all secondary characters who are anything but secondary. As these characters meet and become involved with one another, you begin to recognize the disguises that hide a world on the brink of World War 3, a city with an underbelly that is well beyond "seedy," and the lies these characters tell one another to try and hide their own involvement in all of it.
If you're a fan of suspense, the occult, or a just plain strange story, Remember to Recycle is right up your alley. With an ending that makes you want to jump right back to the beginning and read the book all over again from a new perspective, you'll be stunned up until the final page and constantly wondering what's real, what's not and what's going on with that Recycler?
5.0 out of 5 starsAll kinds of good craziness!
ByJennifer L. Traficanteon May 13, 2017
Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
Wow! “Remember to Recycle” is such a strange and wonderful dystopian thriller. From the very beginning, you get how strange it really is. This isn’t a bad strange, either. It is a strange that challenges you to keep reading and to really delve into the complex story.
As the second book in the series, it is a standalone, you don’t need to read the first book to “get” this story. While this book uses a plot of World War 3, it is a fresh story, nothing is routine here. It is also rather frightening how some of the details are mirroring our present day political situations.
Tantra Bensko’s characters are very interesting. From the main characters, Nancy, who is always changing her appearance, to Becky, who you can sympathize with as she questions her sanity. Bensko does a great job in her descriptions and I could almost feel Becky’s fear of heights and her confusion of whether or not she is indeed losing it. Nancy reminds me of a badass rogue, someone who had seen some stuff and was bucking the system. I felt for Becky because of her naivete and her love of her cat. All she wants is to get a nice place for her cat to be able to be comfortable.
The Recyclers are an interesting concept. They go through the things that people are throwing away and learn as much as possible about them. Sort of identity theft on steroids. Of course, there is also The Rescuers, a group who is either made up of heroes or villains, it’s up to you to decide how you feel about them. Much as the world is today with the “fake news” and crazy politics, this book mirrors that.
This book is going to pull you in and make you think. You will not be bored at all!
5.0 out of 5 stars‘Moderate Terrorists? Working hand-in-hand with the acknowledged terrorists — which we’re also supporting.’
ByGrady HarpHALL OF FAMETOP 100 REVIEWERVINE VOICEon May 13, 2017
Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
California author Tantra Bensko has published ten books and has been included in a number of anthologies. Her degrees include an MFA from the Iowa Writers Workshop at the University of Iowa. And she has studied the methods of social engineering through manipulation of mass beliefs which she blogs about social engineering at Agents of the Nevermind. Tantra teaches fiction writing through UCLA X Writing Program, Writers.com, and her own Online Writing Academy. She also is a widely published as a visual artist, and her work was extensively displayed internationally, such as a solo show called Reality Burn!, which traveled for years through the Spanish levant, with openings including speakers and bands. She was the artist on staff at MKzine, Art Director at Mad Hatters Review, Times Journal of Photography’s “World Class Photographer,” and an international judge of photography and visual arts at BTDesigns. GLOSSOLALIA was Book 1 of her series The Agents of Nevermind. REMEMBER TO RECYCLE is Book 2 of that series.
Tantra offers helpful comments on the inspiration for this series The Agents of Nevermind – ‘Psychological Suspense combines profound, innovative aspects of Literary Fiction with Genre’s fast paced, high octane intensity, straightforward language, forward momentum, and tense intrigue and mystery. Psychological Suspense is perfect for entertainment about the antagonists such as media’s social engineers, who are informed by military secrecy and toxic corporate lobbyists. The genre is made for exploring eerie and important questions about identity and reality, bewilderment, being tricked and gaslighted, mental aberrations, coping mechanisms, intense mystery and intrigue. Since our society’s behavior is orchestrated using propaganda’s illogic, this genre is an appropriate one for exploring larger issues of international politics. Intrigue and mystery are always integral, as the reader finds his way through the maze. Suspense tends to be slower paced than Thrillers, more internalized and focused on what might happen, a building dread of the victims, but can be combined with the Thriller genre by the victimized characters becoming more proactive in creating far-reaching effects in the world, whether for the good or the bad. This book, and Glossolalia are Suspense Thrillers. Often the distinction between the antagonist and the hero is ambiguous, and there may be an anti-hero, someone dangerous and impulsive enough that he’s prone to moving the plot forward through the explosions, car chases, fights, last minute struggles, doing what he needs to survive or help others survive in continual life-or-death situations. We often see such conflicted, gritty characters in Noir and Crime.’
It is so rare to find a writer who can combine abuse, mind control, corporations bent on destroying the environment, and government conspiracies with cocky humor and a sci-fi overtones. But Tantra does just that. In her synopsis enough of the story’s secrets are revealed to entice the curious reader – ‘What if the homeless men going through your recycling know more about your life than you do? Like who is going to die. One of the recyclers, Dave, wearing disguises he keeps under a bridge, memorizes the information in people's bins. He, like many others, idolizes the Rescuers, a supposedly neutral, unarmed humanitarian aid group in a Balkanized country, as the possibility of WWIII looms. The Nevermind Agents lie on the evening news to garner support for proxy wars. They say the Rescuers are unarmed, neutral, and giving humanitarian aid to a Balkanized country. Their movie about them is a blockbuster. Rescuer costumes are the bit hit for Halloween. But it's time to unmask them. And that requires a plan so ingenious, even the planner can't know how it's done. Living not far away from Dave's bridge, Becky donates generously to the Rescuers, making her finances even more insecure. She doesn't know what to think when she finds things in her apartment moved slightly. The toothbrush is wet. There's a stain on the ironing board. The cat food is nearly gone. Is it her imagination? Is someone messing with her mind? Could it be Stan, breaking in because he loves her? He certainly loves putting her body into mysterious BDSM contortions for their videos. But what's that muffled moan she hears in the background when she calls him on the phone? Becky hires her friend to spy on Stan. The woman has gone underground since escaping from the Nevermind; she wears a wig, and a mask meant for burn victims. She has traveled across the country to befriend Becky, taking a chance on an anonymous message recommending she do so, though she doesn't yet know the reason.’
Tantra’s story is mindboggling – in a good way. While films and television series attempt to push borders of belief with the help of CGI, Tantra accomplishes this goal better with just words. She is extraordinarily fascinating. Highly recommended for thinking readers. Grady Harp, May 17
5.0 out of 5 starsGet The Book!
ByCristiAkon May 14, 2017
Oh my goodness! I don't even know where to start. I'm still reeling from the ride.
First let me tell you this is part of a series. I did not know that. I was led to this book by BookTasters, (thank you), who were offering as a review consideration book. I prefer to go into those books with little to no information beside genres. So I read it as a standalone. I did suspect, after reading it a bit that I might have missed a book. I was, however, able to fully enjoy and follow this book on its own.
The genre I was given for this was suspense thriller with hashtags of political and conspiracy. I ride the fence on accepting these. I don't know about you but I am freaking tired of politics, lies, fake news along with general crying and whining from all parties as well as the public. But then psychological was thrown in the ring and I am huge on psychological thrillers. I am so happy that was tossed out there as I might have missed this gem.
So what is the book about? All those things and more that I am so freaking tired of! So how did I get sucked into not being able to stop reading? The author, (who I don't know anything really about), is a master at weaving current events, current theories, and fantasy into a magical mystery tour where the three are blurred so well you basically feel as though you lost your mind. Of course you must find it so you have to keep reading. Can you trust anything or anybody in it? I waffled on who could be trusted, who should be trusted, throughout the book only to be blown up at the end. I don't know; maybe I would have known who to trust if I had read the books in order. My personal feeling about this book...stop reading reviews. Go in with what you know and let the story unfold for you. Decide for yourself if you will read them in order or not. I will be reading the other parts to this but at this moment, I can't recommend which way to go on that. What I can tell you is to read this book even if you are tired of what is going on in this country. Maybe I should have used especially instead of even there.
Thank you to the author who provided an ebook for review consideration. The opinions expressed are my honest thoughts, (jumbled as my mind still is from reading this).
By Dee Ritchieon May 15, 2017
Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
The book Remember To Recycle: Psychological Suspense written By Tantra Bensko is so much more than what I imagined. The book asks the question of: “what if the homeless men going through your recycling know more about your life than you do; like who is going to die.” The character Dave is a man who lives and sleeps under a bridge remembers the information in people's bins and idolizes the Rescuers. Also, the character Becky is a woman who lives very close to Dave’s bridge and contributes to the Rescuers so much that she has jeopardized her own finances. But Becky also has a mystery to reveal; she has been noticing things in her apartment moved around and even used. Scared out of her mind Becky had to hire a friend to spy on her present lover to know if he is the one moving things around and using them when she is not home. Who are the Rescuers really, how much does Dave know, and who is making Becky scared?
This book is really full of suspense; you will find yourself eager to know what the next chapter entails. The chapters are kind of short and easy to digest in single servings, but the culmination and conclusion of them – along with the regular shifts in writing perspective – makes this suspense filled story crazy and fun to follow along. Each chapter left me wondering and craving more, until the satisfying ending. I will highly recommend, and I'll definitely be interested in reading other works by this author.
Psychological Thriller Unlike Any Other
By V.E.on May 17, 2017
Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
With a little bit of mystery, conspiracy, terrorism, and secrets, Tantra Bensko has written a tantalizing psychological thriller in her book, Remember to Recycle: Psychological Suspense(The Agents of the NeverMind Book 2). With a gang of interesting homeless characters who are trying to survive, there is plenty to wonder about when the recyclers go through someone's garbage. Becky and Dave are some of the main characters, and when Becky suspects that her personal items in her apartment have been moved around, she becomes paranoid and suspicious. Maybe it is her boyfriend Stan, but Becky must devise a plan to find out. With a clever plot line that weaves in and out, rough language, and a general sense of unease in this dystopian thriller, there are a multitude of problems that come up to confound the reader. Highly recommend for an intense and surprising look at the all too scary, and hopefully impossible future.
The title of this novel was pretty interesting given that the synopsis describes this book as ...
By JA Armstrongon May 19, 2017
Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
The title of this novel was pretty interesting given that the synopsis describes this book as a Thriller. So, to figure out what recycling had to do with excitement and thrillers I started reading this book. I certainly did not expect the direction the author took this book. Homeless people who go through your trash and can figure out by that just when you are going to die? BDSM and strange happenings in your apartment? Certainly, a weird and dark story that for all its strangeness still grips you and compels you forward through the pages to discover what lies at the ending. What does Dave, Becky and Stan have in common? And why was a stranger to Becky given a message to befriend her? So many unanswered questions in this book it was refreshing to read with the amount of intellectualism that went into it. Thought provoking, well written and edited and the flow of the story is a steady rush from beginning to end.
By Maranda Russellon May 22, 2017
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“Remember to Recycle: Psychological Suspense”, written by author Tantra Bensko, is the second book in “The Agents of the Nevermind” thriller series. I haven’t read the first book in the series, but I had no trouble understanding or getting into the story, so obviously this volume can be read either as a stand-alone read or as part of a progressive series. The plot of this particular book is quite interesting and original. Not often do you read a suspense novel revolving around homeless bums acting as spies and the recycling industry! In fact, I never really even thought about all the information you could decode from a person’s refuse until reading this. It honestly creeped me out a bit. There are actually a lot of creepy moments in this book, but luckily, that happens to be the way I like it. I found the BDSM elements thrown in added a nice touch of sensual excitement to the mix as well. There is A LOT thrown into this book, so it can be a little overwhelming at times, but the author does a decent job of sorting it all out and making it come together.
An intriguing, conspiracy-filled adventure for political minds.
By Alex on May 31, 2017
Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
Tantra Bensko will stir the minds of those who enjoy being tangled in the web of conspiracy theories and mystery. Remember to Recycle: Psychological Suspense provides an eerily surrealistic perspective on the idea that we, as a country, may not be as helpful to the "lesser fortunate" as we would like to believe. Bensko's description of the general people as so naive yet self-righteous illustrates the society as a sort of disillusioned dystopia forces the reader to compare this world to what we are experiencing today. The story clearly emphasizes which the characters and beliefs we are not to trust, but are we able to see the parallels in our own lives?
The storytelling is a bit clunky at first; there is no particular pattern to Bensko's switching between the three different perspectives that are presented, and one of them is in first person while the others are in third (the reason for this is clarified within the story). Readers will definitely need to make sure that they have read the first book so that they can prime themselves. Although I felt that I was stumbling into the story, seeing different pieces and views of the conspiracy that Bensko creates certainly kept me wondering how everything would fit together.
Overall, Bensko writes a twisted adventure that will keep readers curious as to how Nancy and Becky's relationship is significant to the political turmoil building in their world. With staged global relief missions and "fake news" in the book, the gears in your mind will turn over the ideas of media censorship and what role the government may have in it.
By Brendan Vu on June 3, 2017
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Remember to Recycle: Psychological Suspense (The Agents of the Nevermind Book 2 engaged me from the opening scene when Nancy, an otherwise skittish and awkward person, courageously follows a truck she believes is dumping illegal toxins. Throughout the story, one aspect of Nancy especially resonated with me: the everyday war with oneself and our vices. I think she represents many people in the sort of Gen X/Y age group. We continue to harm bodies and the environment despite the fact we know we’re destroying ourselves. Our grandparents didn’t know that smoking was bad, that their cars were polluting the air, and that food coloring and preservatives were dangerous, but our generation does know, and most of us still go on as before. Like Nancy, we’re stuck in the gap between the past and the future and unconsciously hate ourselves for it.
Glossolalia is layered with visions from Nancy's past, present (as a person with mental health problems and a gluten intolerance), and a fantastical land tied to the ancient flamingo God, Nebu. Sometimes I couldn’t quite connect all the dots together between her experiences in her various mental states and the reality of her situation, but I liked the underlying themes and the provoking questions raised by the story and the charming way it was told.
I recommend this psychological suspense to people who enjoy books that step outside the usual tropes. Remember to Recycle: Psychological Suspense (The Agents of the Nevermind Book 2 shows how toxins, whether in our mind, body, or environment, can seep inside us and contaminate our lives.
Byzakaria on June 5, 2017
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Remember to recycle by Tantra Bensko is a real psychological thriller just as the book says. Remember to recycle is the second book in the Nevermind series. The book follows the life of three characters who each lead completely different live from one another but are tied together by the strings of fate.
The views of each of the characters about their world is completely different from one another and it is extremely fascinating and enlightening to experience their world as they think completely differently, Bensko does an excellent job in expressing their individual accent which they think in and you can tell who is who from the first paragraph of a new chapter.
The book is intended for a mature audience as it contains a lot of graphic r rated content from raping to torture and murder in gory detail. The writer also gives her view in how the third world war will start and some very convincing reasons with whom and why it will start. There are also a lot of conspiracy theories in the book which make a lot of sense if you know the history of wars fought after the second world war.
The book starts off slowly but slowly builds momentum as you move through the book climaxing around two thirds of the way with, each chapter building up the suspense. Overall it is an excellent thriller with a great plot and if I had to say one negative aspect that would be the monologues of the characters gets confusing until you figure out what’s going on but other than that the book will keep you entertained on every page.
By Alex Robbins on June 6, 2017
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The most powerful, and outstanding thing in this book isn't the political drama, or the mysteries behind the recycling man or the possibly cheating boyfriend: it's the two female leads. Both Nancy and Becky are fun to read. Whether we're combating Becky's fear of heights or Nancy is combating agents of her old outfit, these girls are a wild ride. Despite their lapses in judgement every now and then, the reader is rooting for these two women from the very beginning of the book.
Arguably, the main character of the book is Nancy and the best part of "Remember to Recycle." Nancy has an abundance of intrigue surrounding her. Throughout the book, the reader follows Nancy's struggle to be a good person. This craving for a normal life gets her into some tough and questionable situations that rely heavily on her past as an Agent of the Nevermind; a time when she was a less than stellar role model. Despite her less than clean past, she finds herself living a life of paranoia that has the reader following her every step of the way.
5.0 out of 5 stars A True Gem of a Book!
By Cassandra Foster on June 8, 2017
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This is my first foray into Bensko's world, and I have to say I'm a fan! Remember to Recycle has all the ingredients that a truly memorable and stand-alone novel of our time needs: mystery, suspense, strong female characters and a sense of urgency that keeps the reader on the edge of their seats, hungry for each word.
Set in a WW3 type era, Recycle brings forth all the possibilities and unfortunate truths of corruption and biased media, but doesn't cut away from the very human attributes that makes the main characters, Nancy and Becky, so relatable and likable. Though they are women of different values and opinions, their strong friendship and connection keeps them in harmony with each other in a world full of fear, paranoia, and tomorrows that aren't promised.
The "Rescuers" in the story (a group of supposed heroes and vigilantes) that the two women can't agree on, but unbeknownst to Becky, Nancy has a secret reason for her opinions of the group. With so many secrets, hidden agendas, and corruption, is there any way these two women can save their friendship...and perhaps even the society they're a part of? Trust me, those answers and more are worth the read!
5.0 out of 5 stars An intriguing read with an unexpected twist!
By Melanie Perry on June 8, 2017
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Remember to Recycle by Tantra Bensko hooked me from the start. Although it is a work of fiction, this psychological suspense book delves into topics which are very relevant to current social and political situations. Privacy concerns, bias in mass media, reinforcement theory, trafficking, pornography, blackmail, and subcultures are just some of the many various topics that this book encompassed.
It could be considered by some to contain an underlying conspiracy theory theme, but is it really conspiracy theory when the conspiratorial events in the book prove to be true (in the story)? This book managed to get me thinking seriously about perception versus reality, especially as it pertains to the media. The characters in the story are rich and well-developed, with each character speaking in their own voice, which I loved.
Nancy was a mysterious and somewhat dangerous person who seemed to have a good heart, as she was trying to make amends for the evils of her past. The Recycler was a fun, unique, and interesting character. I wasn’t sure until the end of the book whether or not he was completely deranged, and I was caught off guard by the surprising twist! I can often predict endings in stories, shows, and movies, and this book was a rare exception.
That, in my opinion, puts it in a class above many other books that I have read. I would definitely recommend this book to any psychological suspense fans, people interested in any of the aforementioned topics, or really anyone who is looking for an intriguing read.
Due to the sometimes dark & disturbing sexual content of the book, I would recommend it for mature audiences only. I am personally looking forward to immersing myself in more of Tantra Bensko’s work!
5.0 stars Creative and interesting!,
June 12, 2017 By Nikky Show
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This review is from: Remember to Recycle: Psychological Suspense (The Agents of the Nevermind Book 2) (Kindle Edition)
The author has intelligently written a suspenseful, psychological thriller novel in a more engaging fictional style.
The novel centered on Nancy, an ex intelligence agent, who was sent on a mission to befriend a local aspiring artist named Becky
This book is complex, full of twists and turns, radical characters, mystery and adventure. From the very first chapter, the author gripped me with vivid imagery. What a Great Read.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Thrilling, shocking, and captivating to the last page
By Amber on June 15, 2017
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Set on the brink of WWIII, this dystopian style novel is complex and terrifying at every turn. Readers will enjoy the change in narration and viewpoint as you navigate the story and try to predict how everything could possibly come together at the end. Bensko orchestrates her story flawlessly, fills it with eerie conspiracy and strong lead characters, and builds a mystery that you can’t wait to unravel.
I particularly enjoyed the main character Becky, who knows her future is uncertain and her circumstances are ever-changing. Her friend Nancy comes a long way to be by her side, but is harboring her own secrets as well. There are a lot of parallels to social media, modern news outlets, and political corruption, making this book a great modern, dystopian-style read.
If you like thrillers, mysteries, and plenty of twists and turns, this book is an easy choice for your next read.
By Jimmy ray on June 16, 2017
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This is a great read. The author Tantra Bensko does a great job of creating a suspenseful thriller with good characters and story line. There are a variety of side stories going on around the main story. Becky and Nancy are the main characters who are opposites and still have a good bond. A great story of mystery and suspense with conspiracy and many opposing views. Would recommend if you like a great thriller with suspense and action this is the one. Take this for a read you won't be disappointed.
Enjoyable yet dark suspense read
By jessi on June 19, 2017
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Remember To Recycle is an interesting suspense story following three characters, Nancy an ex-Nevermind agent with a taste for investigation, Becky an aspiring artist struggling to create a future with her past holding her back, and a shifty homeless Recycler with an obsession for disguises and spoken for women. This story is uniquely told showcasing each character and how the storylines intersect. I would recommend the Nevermind series to anyone who likes suspense stories centered in conspiracies, cover-ups, and situations that are larger than they appear. I really enjoyed discovering the world these characters live in, from the odd Recyclers who pick through other people’s discards to make money and in turn end up knowing more about the residents than they realize, to the secret Nevermind agent organization and how power can become too powerful.
I’m not usually one for the larger scale stories where the news and government play a part, but I actually enjoyed the Rescuer aspect and how that piece wasn’t at all what it originally seemed. Throughout the story I was eager to learn how pieces were connected and had to see how things resolved for Nancy and Becky. This is the second book in the Nevermind series, and while I didn’t read the first one and felt a little left out of the Nevermind loop, it was an enjoyable book even without having knowledge of the first one. Remember To Recycle wasn’t what I was expecting from a psychological suspense story but I really enjoyed its unique details and how the story created a world to investigate.
Remember to Recycle - a great mystery thriller
By Eric Jung on June 20, 2017
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What does a struggling woman, a homeless man, and a mysterious investigator all have in common? Well, Remember to Recycle intertwines these unique characters into a story full of twists and turns. The novel takes place in today’s era, where World War III can happen at any time. Tensions are high, but an altruistic, non-violent group called the Rescuers are trying to lower that tension as much as possible. Although they are supported by many, they keep a secret that is hidden from the general public. Which begs the question: what is the secret that they don’t want the people to know?
Author Tantra Bensko does a fantastic job in creating a novel full of mystery and thrills. She takes you on a complex adventure with a storyline that keeps you wanting more. Rest assured, when you read the ending, your jaw will be hanging in awe and shock. That said, I do recommend this book for mature audiences only as harsh language does appear in it.
5.0 out of 5 stars Remember to Recycle- A Unique Psychological Thriller!
By Sheryl on June 21, 2017
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Remember to Recycle is a unique psychological suspense and adventure story. The book has a heavy, dark and suspenseful feel that gives you goosebumps with the anticipated dangers. It is about conspiracy at a political level as well as at a medical level that tests the friendship and strength of two strong women. The characters are well developed and the plot is highly intriguing. Remember to Recycle speaks about media generated hypes and lies and shows the true picture of powerful people where the innocent ones have to struggle, sacrifice and often give their lives. The book is highly complex and the readers would have to struggle to predict the surprising end.
A well-written roller-coaster of a book in a slightly alternate universe.
By David Styles on June 22, 2017
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It was quick and easy to pick up the threads of the plot and an overview of the main characters, I found, despite having leapt into this book on a recommendation without having read what I now realise was the previous book.
Bensko accomplishes that feat without wordy exposition (or recaps, as far as I could tell), which is always a sign of a good writer, when it comes to a book series.
There’s a distinct psychological yo-yo going on, and I don’t mean just between our point-of-view characters, the connection between whom we learn more about towards the end of the book, in a plot twist that I didn’t see coming, and you probably won’t either. Rather, I also mean in the sense that there are large swathes of the book that are utterly credible, and there are parts that seemed more like they walked out of the famous “Illuminatus!” trilogy.
All-in-all, this book is very well-written and definitely kept my attention rapt from start to finish; I drop it a star only because I consider that some of the greater steps into absurdity should really have merited it having a sci-fi / horror tag, so that readers understand what we’re getting in that regard.
5.0 out of 5 stars
A fascinating story beautifully told
By Romuald Dzemo on June 22, 2017
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Remember to Recycle: Psychological Suspense is the second book in the The Agents of the Nevermind series, a story with complex characters and an exciting plot. Imagine that the people who rummage through the duct bins know more about your life, including information like who is going to die and when? Dave is a master in disguise, lives under the bridge and adores the rescuers. Becky, who donates unreservedly to the cause of the rescuers observes strange happenings in her home, can she follow the signs to the truth? Now, get to know the Nevermind agents and how they gather information for their movies on the rescuers. As the war looms ahead, can people get to the truth and choose the right side?
This is an entertaining and mind-blowing story that will excite the minds of readers and warm up their emotions. Well-told, with generous moments of action, streams of consciousness that take the reader into the mind of the characters. I enjoyed the prose, the excellent writing, the powerful; descriptions, and the pervading sense of mystery that accompanies the read.
By Rebecca Norton on June 23, 2017
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"Remember to Recycle" is the first book I've read in the "psychological thriller" genre, and wow - it hits the ground running and never slows down. From the very beginning it's clear that in this creepy near-future world, nothing is as it seems. The story jumps back and forth each chapter, following three main characters: Nancy, Becky, and Dave - but who are they, really? And what is actually happening overseas, where the supposedly heroic Rescuers are saving children while the world teeters on the brink of World War Three?
As a side note, in the whole situation with the Rescuers, I think the author does an amazing job skewering our current culture of "armchair activism" and showing what it might be like taken to the extreme. Movies and action figures and public disapproval if you don't donate - but nobody actually understands what they're supporting.
This book has politicians, fake news, mind control, secret agencies, depravity beyond belief (seriously, don't let your kids read this)... but also innocence and personal growth, at least in Becky's case. And the ending, while crazy in many ways, has a good amount of hope in it. I'm definitely interested to see what happens in the next book in the series.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Fast paced and frightening, with enough psycho to make you turn on the lights at night.
By Krystallyne on June 27, 2017
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This book is disturbingly riveting. I recommend reading it during the daytime when the people who creep around your rubbish bins are tucked away in their respective homes. You will never look at the homeless the same way again. This book has an edgy realism that I immediately could identify with. This is a psychological adult thriller for sure.
Psycholocial Suspense and "Phobia Nights"
By Crys O. on June 28, 2017
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After reading “Glossolalia,” I was excited to pick up another book written by Tantra Bensko. The way she writes leaves you wanting more, as her story-telling ability just seems to flow from one plot point to the next. “Remember to Recycle: Psychological Suspense”, is the second book in the “The Agents of the Nevermind” psychological thriller series, but each of the books I read are stand along. Although, Nancy, the main character remains the heroine throughout the series, Bensko finds a way to delve into different aspects of her character as the series progresses. As a reader, I found that Bensko is able to really develop her characters as the story unfolds.
Like the first book in the series, Remember to Recycle includes a lot of vivid detail and really interesting personalities. Bensko has an uncanny way of making her characters relatable by putting their vulnerability on display—even going to far as having two friends attend a “Phobia night” together. You see the suspense unfold in the story through the personality quirks of the characters. And, my favorite part of Bensko’s writing, is her ability to shine a light on the darkness of modern events through fiction.
I recommend this read if you want an escape from the news, but still want a little modern-day relevancy in your fiction.
Can you believe everything you see on the news?
By BookBunny on July 4, 2017
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This is another ‘Agents of the Nevermind’ series of psychological thrillers. If you are a sucker for every conspiracy theory going, you will thoroughly enjoy the premise behind these books, which is that we are completely controlled, with fake news orchestrating public opinion.
In this story we have an ominous group called the Rescuers, which is hugely successful in raising money to support their charitable works across the world. However, news isn’t always to be trusted. Are the Rescuers actually creating newsworthy shots to fill their coffers, by posing children in harrowing settings and even killing people to make a good photograph? The Rescuer need to be unmasked – they’re more devils than saints. It has to be a very ingenious plan.
5.0 out of 5 stars Remember to Recycle
By Amazon Customer on July 6, 2017
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The United States today is bombarded by terrorism, crime and hate that it is all over the news every day. It has come to a point that we are overloaded with so many bad happenings that it largely outweighs the good. Just a few days ago, North Korea tested their missile with success. This missile could very well possibly hit the United States. I'm sure that this has caused worry among the residents. We hold a lot of fear in our hearts.
This fear is not only for our well being but for others as well. It isn't just the United States that has been under attack. The United States has provided a tremendous amount of financial aid to those effected to terrorism and or to those countries who have been involved in national disasters. Some of us have our doubts about our government and how well it is being run and how corrupt some of our politicians and state officials have become.
What would you do if were watching the news and seen footage of children who were buried under rubble caused by attacks in another country? Would you donate your hard earned money to help save those children? What if you found out that the money you donated to save those children was used to help start WWIII instead of the children? What if the government knew about it but didn't stop this cause?
How corrupt could you imagine our government really is?
"Remember to Recycle," by Tantra Bensko is a story full of imagination and creativity. Becky, an artist who is a beautiful young woman with a phobia to heights, falls in love with Stan, a rich photographer. Becky wishes for a husband who would take care of her because of her phobia. Becky started to notice odd things out of place in her apartment and decides to purchase a security camera. Becky calls Stan on the phone and hears a woman's voice in the background. Becky asks Nancy, Becky's friend, to spy on Stan to see if he was cheating on her. Nancy sets on a mission to find out the truth to save Becky's sanity but discovers more than she ever imagined.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys suspense. This book is so creative with so many twists and turns, that you would never be able to guess what is going to happen next. You'll be sitting on the edge of your seat enjoying the ride!
5.0 out of 5 stars Seamlessly switches perspectives
By Brittany on July 6, 2017
This was not at all what I expected. I wasn't aware at first that this is the SECOND book, but honestly that it didn't really affect my reading, I didn't feel like I was missing anything by not knowing. Creepy, psychological thriller, the author seamlessly switches narrative perspectives between first and third person, following friends Becky and Nancy and their recycling man. The connection between the recycling man and the two friends is a bit of a mystery at first, one of the threads you have to follow as you read. I was a bit concerned part of the way through the book that there was too much going on that wouldn't be resolved but I was completely wrong. The author did an AMAZING job tying it all together. Suspenseful with some dystopian undertones, definitely worth the read.
5.0 out of 5 stars digging through garbage and recycling
By Brian on July 13, 2017
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Just about everyone has a general idea that pops into mind when thinking about a secret agent or spy: maybe it's James Bond as 007, dashing and debonair; or perhaps a steely-faced Russian hacker, as is currently in vogue. But what might be the most effective disguise? One which is almost guaranteed to leave you undetected by the majority of city-dwellers?
Enter the "homeless" secret agent, digging through garbage and recycling. Would you pay them any mind, besides perhaps a brief sneer of derision?
Tantra Bensko does a fantastic job here of exploring alternate views of the psychological thriller and spy genres. The whole book had me guessing, chapter after chapter!
Though I picked this book up first, I'll certainly be reading the first in the series next.
5.0 out of 5 starsThis book is hilariously scary and totally intriguing.....
By Amazon Customer on July 15, 2017
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A simple note, containing only a name is sent to Nancy telling her to befriend the said woman....thus commenced the introduction of Nancy into Becky's life. The never stopping Ice Cream Van...with which seems to follow a catalysis of troubles....The weird video shoot in which Stan-Becky's thought to be lover- has Becky doing unimaginable poses and to top it off, a 'Cycler' as they are called, who is in love with Becky and whom enters her house when she is not at home.
My favourite part been him feeding her cat, whom he imagines to be their child and even ironing her clothes!! These among other weird happenings are what take place in this town....Can Nancy help Becky see the impending disaster before its too late? This book is hilariously scary...definitely one of a kind. I love it :)
5.0 out of 5 stars It was like being in a whole new world
By Lindy Welch on July 15, 2017
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When reading Remember to Recycle: Psychological suspense, It was like being in a whole new world. I got sucked into the book and couldn’t put it down. The books takes place before World War 3 Nancy who is friend of Becky and starts talking about her life and her apartment with a cat that she has.Then you find out about the Rescuers who are a human aid group which is from a far away land.
Becky comes into the picture donates some things to the Rescuers and what comes next is unimaginable. Weird things begin to happen to her and her apartment and she doesn’t know who is doing it. She can only think of her boyfriend Stan but it just would be odd if it were true. She tries to call but hears weird noises on the other end of the line The books comes with a surprising ending no one new coming.
I would consider this book a great thriller. I always wanted to know what was going to happen next. I couldn’t wait to turn the page. I would recommend this book to anyone that loves suspense and thrillers and love to think. It really leaves you thinking about the book way after you're done reading it. I highly enjoyed reading this book. I give this book 5 of 5 stars and love the way the wording is presented you really gets you hooked even by the first chapter. Highly recommended.
By justme on July 15, 2017
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I really enjoyed this book. It had a kind of creepy feel, in a "I'm never putting my recycling out unless all evidence of my life is erased from it" sort of way! I like how Bensko wrote from several characters point of view. It really grabbed my attention and kept me interested.
I suspect there are many mental disorders in this book and it's interesting to see how each character handles their own instabilities. The relationships in the book are clearly defined, Nancy and Becky have an interesting friendship, Becky and her boyfriends relationship is questionable, and the recycle man is all around strange. They all have interesting perspectives on the story and there are a lot of twists and turns throughout the book.
Bensko really did a great job of describing each character in a way that makes them instantly interesting. I'm looking forward to reading more of her work!
I was dying to find out and so glad that I purchased it
By One up on July 18, 2017
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Remember to recycle
When I first read the title I thought to myself maybe this book will be about the reasons to recycle and benefits of it. But also in the title was about physiological suspense. How could these words be related to the book? I was dying to find out and so glad that I purchased it.
The books takes place in WWII, it has multiple characters and each character has their own point of view. One of the main characters is Becky, she one day recycles to a group of people called the Rescuers. Little does she know that this will change her life as creepy things start happening in her home and outside the home. The book takes you on a whirlwind of an adventure in the scary yet fascinating tale. It is one you will question what is going to happen next? I'm glad I stuck this book out until the very end, I may think twice about what I now recycle because you never know who is watching.
The author did an excellent job with gaining the attention of the reader from the very beginning and keeping the attention until the very end. She did not over add information into the story line, it was just enough to wonder what is going on? What will happen next? So if you are looking for mystery, suspense, thriller and more this book is the one! I am looking forward to continue to read more from the author and the rest of the series!
5.0 out of 5 stars A Psychological Suspense Worth Reading!
By G.A. HESSE on July 29, 2017
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This novel is hard to put down! Not only is it a fascinating work of fiction, it's also a brave, ear-curling political expose. This well-plotted page turner keeps us guessing and sometimes turns us upside down. The three main characters are colorful and credible, and create a tension that makes us always want to know what happens next. One of my favorite characters is Dave, the recycler who lives under a bridge, a street person whose interior dialogue and actions are hilarious---until they aren't! Bensko skillfully and successfully combines the ridiculous with the macabre. As the dark subject matter unfolds, we gratefully embrace the brief comic relief that allows us to catch our breath. Congratulations to Tantra Bensko for her success with book two in her series of psychological suspense thrillers.
5.0 out of 5 stars Exciting as well as smart
By Bonnie E. Wright on July 31, 2017
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The book has an interesting way of switching POV. Not only does it switch between Nancy and Becky, two of the main characters, but it also switches between first and third person limited. The first person POV is only used on Becky's stalker, whose identity is a secret until the end. These three are who I consider to be the main characters that drive the plot around. Becky is a struggling artist trying to make ends meet, and who hopes that her borfriend will marry her and support her financially. Nancy is someone with a secret. She's portrayed as a caring person as she agrees to help Becky in exchanged for Becky's art. The stalker is completely mysterious, to the point where you're not even sure what gender they are.
As a fan of George Orwell's 1984, I'm always into dystopian novels. This one has a unique take on a system that uses people's pure intentions for their own greedy benefit. Rescuers are said to be the heroes, and everyone is expected to recycle and donate constantly. Even Becky, who is struggling with money, falls into peer pressure in giving money she can't afford to part with.
Unlike 1984, the characters don't start off wanting to undo the status quo, which I think is a strong suit of the story. I think it's good that they're not actively trying to change it, but have to deal with it anyway. In that sense, it helps show just how much control this society has on their lives. All Becky wants is for Nancy to see if her boyfriend is cheating on her. Little do they know, that the boyfriend's secrets might be a bit darker than either of them expected.
The stalker plays a large part too. What seems like three seperate cases actually comes nice together in the end. Without giving away any spoilers, I will say that the plotlines connect quite nicely.
In every case, the character struggles with their identity. The theme of identity plays a large role in this book. It focuses a lot on identity vs. conformity. There is, especially with the stalker, a lot of instances where the characters have to pretend to be someone they're not in order to achieve their goals.
I would recommend this reading for anyone who wants to be challenge. But I especially recommend it for fans of dystopian settings, people looking for themes of identity, and for people who feel wrongly accused of being called "conspiracy theorists." I certainly had a lot of fun reading it. It's worth checking out.
5.0 out of 5 stars You'll Remember Remember to Recycle
By Brown the Reviewer on August 1, 2017
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Remember to Recycle is a psychological suspense novel about a ragtag crew that reside within a tenement in a dystopian society. The story jumps back and forth each chapter, following three main characters: Nancy, Becky, and Dave. Remember to Recycle intertwines the stories of a struggling woman, a homeless man, and a mysterious investigator against a political backdrop where World War III can be launched at anytime.
All of the characters are complex, well-developed, and beautifully written. The story vacillates between the first and third person. The one con to this approach is that the shifts can be abrupt and a little confusing. Nonetheless, the powerful and alluring narrative will make the reader push through in order to get to the crazy good surprise ending. As an aside, this book is actually the second in The Agents of the Nevermind installment. However, I haven’t yet read Glossolalia and was still able to keep up with the action.
I wholeheartedly give this book ten out of ten stars! Not only is it entertaining but also a commentary on the current political climate. Remember to Recycle speaks volumes on the effects of social engineering through the manipulation of mass beliefs. Themes of fascism, intel, propaganda, fake news, and questionable regime change plots makes this a must-read for mystery lovers and conspiracy theorists alike.
5.0 out of 5 stars Ingenious novel!
By John Sheffer on August 3, 2017
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Author Tantra Bensko did tremendous job with this entire story. The novel is very rich in content. The book has loads of imagination and everything sums up to be a masterpiece as you turn down every page. The story has various ups and downs and after reading “Remember to Recycle” your perspective regarding the homeless. Becky, Nancy, and Dave are such fabulous characters that bind every chapter as you go through the write up. I personally consider that Dave is the most influential character among all others. The character is somewhat unique and impressive.
The suspense stories are always my favorite but this one surprised me and I think it is going to be my all time favorite novel now. Also, I liked the investigation style of Nancy as it made me curious. I can relate various things inside this book to the real world. If you are a person who is into suspenseful thriller stories then I would highly recommend “Remember to Recycle”. In fact I would suggest reading entire Nevermind series.
5.0 out of 5 stars Watch what you put in the trash!
By Cwicket on August 23, 2017
Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
Watch what you put in the trash! You never know who will read it later. Watch where you use your computer, someone will find out what you’re doing and blackmail you. People going into a house across the street and never leaving. People are walking around in costumes and watching you. The news on the television really is fake and being produced to manipulate you. There is a lot to be paranoid about in life and this book really brings a lot of them to the surface
It at times feels like you are in the middle of a strange dream when you read this book, even though this book is not a catalog of the events of a dream. It is a deeply psychological tale about the world around Becky, who at times feels like a background character to her own story. There is just so much going on in the world around her, which is a deeply complex and conspiratorial world. A world that even creeps into her only safe space, her home.
There are times when this book feels like it has placed me in the middle of a Thomas Pynchon novel as the world becomes so complicated and thick with character and shadowy intent. Some passages I had to reread because they became so dense with action that they really ran away from me. But all of it really builds into a fever of thought and image that spins around you.
I haven’t read the other books in this series, but now I’m interested in seeing what came before this book and how much wider and wilder Bensko's world stretches.
Professional Reviews
Publishers Daily Reviews
Mystery and conspiracy lovers rejoice! Standout author Tantra Bensko is back with another incredible mystery/adventure featuring Nancy and the nefarious forces of the Nevermind.
In this delightfully offbeat novel, Nancy is the friend of a troubled tenant who wonders if she is being visited by a creepy stalker. Best case scenario, it’s her kinky boyfriend, Stan, because he loves her so much he can’t get enough of her. But asking him directly about that, and about a sound she hears during a phone call with him, might jeopardize the forthcoming marriage proposal. She asks Nancy to investigate, plunging Nancy into dastardly complexities of intrigue.
Meanwhile, the tenant — Nancy’s friend, Becky – bewildered by the seemingly clandestine visits inside her flat, is a little disturbed that her cat can apparently climb to the top shelf on her own and eat a portion of dry food, then close the bag again. And what’s up with the strange lipstick smear on her coffee cup? Not even her color. But never mind.
The main thing is to make sure the Rescuers — the brave men and women who risk their lives on TV each day to pull dying children from the rubble of ruined buildings right on cue in a faraway bombed-out land — the main thing is to make sure she donates regularly to help make it happen. God is smiling on her, she’s sure.
But wait. Isn’t that the same child who was rescued last week? And the week before that? And why do his clothes look so fresh and clean? Could it be a colossal hoax? Another devious deception devised by government handlers keen to keep certain dictators in power?
The Recycler — that guy, wearing disposable gloves and hairnet, who noisily cruises your neighborhood before dawn, sifting through your recyclables, collecting salable stuff – no one pays any attention to what he’s doing. He might as well be invisible. But he knows you. He’s read your receipts. Your love letters. Your dreams. Your future.
In this latest installment of the brilliant Nevermind series, Nancy once again delivers an impeccable performance as a person who is persecuted persistently by people more problematic than she is. But it’s all right. She’s got Phobia Night with Becky to exorcise her conspiracy demons.
In an engaging, free-flowing fictional style, the author takes us deep into Nancy’s mind, where she is trying to pull together the scattered skein that links people close to her, corrupt politicians and illegal schemes. It’s not easy, and every step she takes toward solving the mystery puts her life more at risk.
The book glitters with theatrical disguises. Nancy takes off her usual mask and adopts an outrageous femme fatale disguise to out a crooked official, leading to a surprise of surprises about a wicked secret plot to steal far more than money.
Now Nancy must figure out a way to foil the sadistic scheme — and stave off an imminent third world war into the bargain.
This is a twist-a-minute narrative that switches adeptly between three points-of-view: Nancy, Becky, and, most creepily, the Recycler, Dave, who dresses in wildly varying costumes. He even adopts the persona of a gypsy fortuneteller, relying on information he’s gleaned from the trash to deliver deep insights about the past, present and future – to reveal exactly who is going to die very soon.
How can he prove this startling statement? It’s a complex, intricately woven plotline that culminates in an ending that’s as dark and outre as anything Stephen King ever wrote. Seriously, this book ties itself up with a dénouement so sinister, you’ll be stunned.
Along the way, U.S. foreign policy in faraway Baltic regions is called repeatedly into question and, in fact, figures heavily into how the action unfolds. But we can’t reveal more about that, or we’ll have to kill you, as they say.
To sum up, this five-star sequel to the author’s acclaimed debut novel, Glossolalia, will leave you breathless and wanting more. What’s next for the Agents of the Nevermind? We can’t wait.
Publishers Daily Reviews
US Review of Books RECOMMENDED STATUS
Remember to Recycle: Psychological Suspense (The Agents of the Nevermind, Volume 2)
by Tantra Bensko
Insubordinate Books
reviewed by Anita Lock
"Am I having a Kundalini experience? If so, why is everything murky?"
In book two of The Agents of the Nevermind series, as WWIII seems imminent, especially with the rise of attacks on civilians in some Balkanized country, Nancy has escaped the bizarre Nevermind intelligence agency and is now in disguise. Unfortunately, she thinks she has been identified. Her artist friend Becky, who has phobia issues, becomes paranoid when she finds strange clues that appear to indicate that her lover Stan may be having an affair with another woman. And then there is the multiple personality Recycler who seems to be more aware of what’s happening in people’s lives (“Like who is going to die.”) than garbage picking. Becky asks Nancy to spy on Stan. What Nancy and Becky learn is far more sinister than they could ever imagine.
Bensko shines a light on present day political upheavals amid a twisted tale in her recent psychological suspense thriller. Of course, Nancy, the series’ heroine, is back. While Glossolalia centers on Nancy’s bizarre connection with Nevermind, Remember to Recycle is just plain surreal. Bensko floods her plot with a carefully crafted cast brimming with crazed characters that exhibit equally crazed traits (i.e., phobias, multiple personalities, alternate personas, dreamers)—a real mark of a psychological thriller.
It's difficult at times to distinguish from good and bad (or even from corrupt and downright evil) characters. Bensko magnifies this confusion by keeping to third person point of view for much of her storyline, except for the Recycler ironically set to first person narrative. Amid alternating bizarre character scenes punctuated with sex, Bensko weaves in the disconcerting tenor of the times—both in the U.S. and internationally. Heavily laced throughout are themes of propaganda, fake news, regime change schemes, fascist puppets, and all things about intelligence. This book is a winner among psychological thriller enthusiasts.
RECOMMENDED by the US Review
Reviewed by Divine Zape for Readers' Favorite
Remember to Recycle by Tantra Bensko is a well-crafted mystery that will keep readers on the edge of their seats, a story with an intricate plot line, awesome characters and an exciting setting. Meet Dave, the recycler who wears disguises and stays under the bridge, the man who knows every detail that could be found in people’s trash cans. He is a fan of the Rescuer, the group that is supposed to be unarmed and neutral, offering humanitarian help to a Balkanized country. But is this group really neutral? Watch as the story unfolds to discover how they get unmasked. Encounter Becky, a selfless donor to the Rescuer, and her unusual odyssey to discover the truth about strange happenings in her home.
Tantra Bensko has won me over as a fan. I loved her storytelling gifts and her uncanny ability to create suspense, and introduce readers to unexpected twists and surprises. The plot is well-imagined and each detail occupies an enviable place in the overall story. Her prose is excellent and it features powerful psychological insights, great descriptions, and compelling dialogues. I love reading about extraordinary stories that sound ordinary, and Remember to Recycle is one such story. It reads so well that the reader feels they are part of the action. There is a lot of drama going on and, most often, the reader is completely absorbed in it. Bensko’s book is a tantalizing read, a gripping suspense novel that will have the reader hooked from the first to the very last page. It was an excellent read for me.
Readers' Favorite
Review by Best Thrillers
Remember to Recycle, a Whip-Smart Psychological Thriller by Tantra Bensko
By Best Thrillers Staff on June 18, 2017 in Conspiracy Thriller Books, New Book Releases, Psychological Thriller Books, Thriller Book Reviews, Thriller Reviews
The Bottom Line: A whip-smart conspiracy thriller that manages to be disturbing, insightful and absurd all at once.
Virtually every character in Tantra Bensko’s cleverly crafted Remember to Recycle defies snap judgment. Nancy, an occasionally homeless woman who moved across states to befriend a mysterious woman named Becky, is a wealth of insider information. She’s also the ultimate unreliable narrator.
Dave is dependent on community recycling for basic survival, and that’s core to his spiritual purpose in life. Like some speculative investigative journalist reading every homework assignment, prescription and diary, he has become an expert on the personal and professional lives of the families in his neighborhood. He even claims to know who is going to live and who is going to die.
At the core of the book are the Rescuers, a humanitarian aid group. Meanwhile, World War III is threatening to break out. Or is it? Remember to Recycle is filled with layer upon layer of disguises (literal and figurative), bold concepts and red herrings. While the book’s plot is deliberately intricate, it can also be challenging. Thriller fans looking for a summer beach read should look elsewhere, as you’ll constantly be second-guessing the motives and perceptions of Bensko’s characters while the plot reveals itself.
But is it ultimately thrilling? Absolutely. And given how rich Bensko’s story is with character and geopolitics, it’s a powerful mirror for society. We can’t think of a more topic-rich novel for your book club.
Amazon
5.0 out of 5 stars Shockingly Great!
By Brandi Perry on September 6, 2017
Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
I'll be perfectly honest. I stared at the cover of this book for several moments before I decided to dig in. I was hoping it would give me some kind of hint of what to expect. But, looking back now, I'm so glad it didn't. Remember to Recycle is a gritty novel set in a time that's not so different than the one we currently live in. The world is teetering on the verge of World War III and there are so many powerful groups of people that claim they have and know what's best for the our future. Even though the plot line and the characters are complex creatures, Tantra Bensko does an incredible job of making it easy to read and easy to fall head over heels for. The thrilling action will have you turning page after page, trying to finish one more chapter before calling it quits. For myself, I love conspiracy theorists and she works this theme well into her book. It's one you'll have a hard time putting down. I had not read her first novel when I started this one, but I definitely will be now. Remember to Recycle is a book that stays with you for awhile, from the suspense and thriller aspect to it, to the weird but wonderful way you feel at the end, this is a must read. Tantra Bensko has a fan for life in myself. Now, I think I'll delve into her first novel and anything else she may have written!
5.0 out of 5 stars Highly engaging thriller
By Amazon Customer on September 5, 2017
Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
I recently decided to pick up Remember to Recycle by Tantra Bensko. Her novel is a psychological thriller, a genre that seems to be creeping up more and more with the popularity of novels such as Gone Girl or Girl on the Train. And Benkso’s novel is a welcome addition to that edge-of-your-seat thriller. Already a brief novel, it clocks in at just over two hundred and fifty pages, so the plot really feels as though it moves at a breakneck pace at different points. I do want to take a momentary step back and assure any potential readers--it’s a good thing her novel moved quickly. Too many times an author will spend hundreds of pages developing an intricate and weaving backstory only for their actual story to start a few hundred pages later. Not so with this novel.
Bensko’s characters were just as equally thrilling to read about. They were engaging yet she didn’t feel as though she had to spend a monstrous amount of time developing the the history of each and every character. All of her characters felt fleshed out and I was never left wanting about any of them.
In the end, I highly encourage Tantra Bensko’s novel, it is a welcome addition to the bookshelf of anyone who appreciates a good psychological thriller.
5.0 out of 5 stars Being able to relate to Becky and her paranoia made me be able to connect with the book on a pretty high level
By mmknaplesfl on September 7, 2017
Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
Wow ! This book has left me speechless. Being able to relate to Becky and her paranoia made me be able to connect with the book on a pretty high level. Such a wonder full book full of twists and turns that will leave you utterly speechless. I especially appreciated the realism and the use of characters that have some sort of mental illness and them bringing such life to the story. Becky and Nancy's relationship is beautiful like the love between two sisters. I'd reccommend this to anybody seeking a great book to read Tantra really hit the nail on the head with this book.
5.0 out of 5 stars Psycho Thrill Ride!
By Reubee on September 13, 2017
Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
Dave lives under a bridge. His hobbies are disguising his self and digging through his neighbor's lives left in their recycle bins. Meanwhile, society watches helpless as foreign conflict ravages and world war is eminent. Becky is an artist in love. Instead of planning her wedding; however, she is busy selling art and donating even what she can't afford. She heartily supports the Rescuers, but there are some who swear the lot of them are just fakes. Nancy is an agent gone rogue with one last case to crack. Her mission to uncover the ultimate cover up leads her to Becky and her suspicious fiancé Stan.
This macabre tale of political schemes, murder, and suspense takes the reader on a winding ride in search of truth. As these complex characters cross paths a sinister plot unfolds leaving discord in it's wake. Against a darkly entertaining backdrop of intrigue, facism, false propaganda, and the occult; these three misfits struggle with their own identities.
Although the far reaching plot can beguil and confuse, the surprise ending will leave you with good thoughts. It's well worth the bumpy ride. Without giving away the juicy yet creepy details, I recommend this uniquely depicted thriller. Conspiracy theorists will rejoice!
4.0 out of 5 starsRemember to Recycle
By James R Davis on September 27, 2017
Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
Remember to Recycle: Psychological Suspense (The Agents of the Nevermind Book 2) by Tantra Bensko, is an enlightening read. Now I need you to stick with me on this. This book is not engaging like you would expect it to be. It is engaging but not due to the story, it is more engaging on the reader on a meta level I guess. As you can not help read this with skepticism, but that is not a bad thing. I chalk this up to the conspiracy theorist aspect present in this book. Which I guess does make sense if you look at conspiracy theory as the new form of the “ghost” story. As in the world being so topsy turvy now we create these “monsters” or in this case organizations to take the blame. When in reality Alan Moore was right, the truth is much scarier. “The main thing that I learned about conspiracy theory, is that conspiracy theorists believe in a conspiracy because that is more comforting. The truth of the world is that it is actually chaotic. The truth is that it is not The Iluminati, or The Jewish Banking Conspiracy, or the Gray Alien Theory.
The truth is far more frightening - Nobody is in control.
The world is rudderless.”
This feels the needs that our ancestors used to explain the horrors of primitive life, thus why From ghoulies and ghosties
And long-leggedy beasties
And things that go bump in the night, were used to explain away the fear of death and horror that lurked around them. Well and I guess still do. However, you will read this book and you will find yourself wondering is this person a reliable narrator? You will crave and need someone to corroborate character’s stories even down to their appearances. I was not prepared for the level this story took me on but I am very happy it did, as I found it very eye opening to myself as a person and as a better reader in general.
4.0 out of 5 stars Wow, mysterious!
By Laurie Beemer on October 7, 2017
This was a book that you definitely could not judge by its cover. This book was unlike anything that I have read before but seems to be something that I will read again. This is the second book in the series so it was a little bit of a struggle to get going but do not stop and keep turning the pages or you will upset with yourself. This story switched between Becky and Nancy telling their story and even switched between first and third person POV, which is something that I usually do not care for but it was done in a way that it really built up the plot of the book. There are several intriguing things going on with this story and as you read it you begin to wonder about Becky and her severe paranoia and anxiety, is she really that paranoid and does she have a real reason to be? As you find out the mystery that is Nancy you cannot help but wonder what the heck is going to happen next. I am looking forward to reading more books from this author.
By Scilla Yasland on February 25, 2018
This book is amazing. I was a little worried not to understand it because this is the second book and I didn’t read the first, but it was only a little part that I couldn’t fully get. I could still follow and enjoy immensely this story. I was expecting something really exciting, with twists and that made me gasp, and I really got it. Some aspects felt really close, and some others sounded like the dystopian story it is, but as a whole, it’s really interesting.
English is not my first language, but I’m used to reading and writing in it. Even though, I sometimes had trouble following the narrative, but all I had to do was to re-read once or twice more. I really enjoyed it.
Tension, suspense and an air of mystery
By Kerstin Vollbrecht on April 17, 2018
Remember to Recycle is a book full of suspense, conspiracy and mystery about the ways life is handled by government's and their institutions. This book has everything one cab ask for in order to keep the reader on the edge of her seat, it is full of tension and surprises, bringing together the most unlikely persons.
Even the characters are presented with a certain veil of mystery, although they are quite lively described, giving insight in their personal beliefs, hopes and struggles. The plot is very well developed, keeping tendon from beginning to end and maintaining the reader's attention through many twists and surprises.
Tension, suspense and an air off mystery
By Kerstin Vollbrecht on April 17, 2018
Remember to Recycle is a book full of suspense, conspiracy and mystery about the ways life is handled by government's and their institutions. This book has everything one cab ask for in order to keep the reader on the edge of her seat, it is full of tension and surprises, bringing together the most unlikely persons.
Even the characters are presented with a certain veil of mystery, although they are quite lively described, giving insight in their personal beliefs, hopes and struggles. The plot is very well developed, keeping tendon from beginning to end and maintaining the reader's attention through many twists and surprises.
By vtreviewer on August 18, 2018
Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
“Remember to Recycle” by author Tantra Bensko, is a true psychological nightmare in wonderful novel form. I applaud the author for this wonderfully fresh, un-thought-of method of defining and uncovering everything about a life, from their recycling habits.
Just the idea of a homeless person who is obsessed with going through other peoples’ paper and plastic and defining their lives through what they receive and throw away is simply awesome!
There is much taking place in this novel, and the only negative comment I have is that it is a bit ‘busy’. I had some problem following the plot to the end, but the end was worth it. The suspense throughout the book is almost ‘too real’. The government involvement is, likewise, too truthful to be anything but extremely scary. Wow!
This book is unlike others I have read, in the aspects of suspense and conspiracy. It is a true phycological thriller in the best sense, and a novel full of twists and turns that you will have to think through, in every chapter. As I said, it is a bit ‘busy’, and you will need to pay attention. No watching your favorite TV show while you read. Give this book your complete attention. It’s worth it!
I am happy that I purchased “Remember to Recycle” and would buy it again. I look forward to reading more from Tantra Bensko.
I was not impressed with the cover pic. Please don't let that dissuade you if you don 't like it. The book is worth the read.
By Janelle Fila on August 19, 2018
Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
Remember to Recycle: Psychological Suspense by Tantra Bensko is a complicated and dark story with many twists, turns, complications, and ultimately a shocking surprise ending that is as dark and twisted as all of the previous story. The story starts in an era very similar to what we are used to. It is part alternate history, part sci-fi recreation, and part dystopian tale (but all eerily believable and conceivable that it could actually be our world in the not so distant future).
The story follows three main characters who take turns narrating their story in different points of view. Nancy is hiding and on the run, from what, you may well know if you’ve read Bensko’s previous novel (the answer is conspiracies and cover ups, if you have not).
Becky is aspires to be an artist and seems more naïve about the darkness and dankness that surrounds the world around her. Dave (the recycling man) is one of the more interesting characters. Not only is he a homeless man living on the streets, but he’s also an actor who frequently “acts” like he is other characters, complete with costumes. Oh, and he also sifts through the neighbors’ trash, spying on them and learning as many intimate details as possible.
Some of the story is straight forward and reads like a spy or thriller novel. A lot of Dave’s sections are more poetic and lyrical and a tiny bit harder to follow. Sometimes you wonder how all of the characters’ stories are going to tie together, but don’t worry, you will find out how it all comes together in the end.
5.0 out of 5 stars
A complex plot with political intrigue, government spying, and psychological manipulation.
By Linda Ratcliff on August 26, 2018
Format: Kindle EditionVerified Purchase
At first, “Remember to Recycle: Psychological Suspense” by Tantra Bensko seems like it might be a story about homeless people who go through the recycle bins to support themselves. But it soon evolves into a complex plot with political intrigue and threats of terrorists, psychological manipulation, and blackmail attempts.
There is fake news everywhere. In particular, a group called the Rescuers uses fake video clips to portray themselves as an organization of kind people bringing aid to war-torn countries, tugging on heartstrings to collect money to aid the downtrodden. But is in reality, they use the money for evil – such as using children they “rescue” for sex trafficking. People watch the news avidly, but very little truth is coming through the media.
There are cameras everywhere, hooked up to facial recognition technology, taping every angle of every street and street corner, and there is way to hide from law enforcement agencies. Our heroine, a former government agent, has escaped her job and certain death only by having plastic surgery, losing weight, dealing in cash, and wearing a burn mask constantly as part of her disguise. In spite of that, someone has recognized her and sends messages asking her to befriend and protect a naïve young woman.
The story is told from 3 points of view – the homeless person who goes through recycle bins to gather personal information about people in his neighborhood, our heroine wearing the burn mask, and the naïve young woman. If you like a mystery with plenty of unexpected twists and turns, you’ll love this book.
Book describes crazy plot twists and daring detective work with brilliance
By my nguyen on September 5, 2018
Format: Kindle EditionVerified Purchase
‘Remember to Recycle’ by Tantra Bensko opens up to a setting ridden with political turmoil. The onset of WWIII serves as the backdrop to the lives of the characters to Tantra Bensko’s latest psychological suspense thriller, ‘Remember to Recycle’, the second in The Agents of the Nevermind series.
In the book, Becky begins to see inconsistencies in the media that starts to poke a hole in her trust in what the mainstream news is feeding the public. She notices from a news report that the footage showing the reporter broadcasting his report displayed his hair blowing in the wrong direction of the dust storm that was filmed brewing in the background. This led her to suspect that the news channel she was watching used a green screen in order to fool viewers that the reporter was reporting on location.
Nothing is as it seems in this book. Like the green screen used to cast a veil onto viewer impressions, Nancy, a former agent of the Nevermind, who goes incognito as a piano teacher, hides her face behind a medical burn-mask, and masquerades herself as a close friends of Becky’s, a woman who she meets by a chance encounter she happens to orchestrate after receiving an anonymous tip to befriend Becky. Nancy makes this her secret mission, going on to successfully recruit Becky as a friend.
Like the Rescuers who could be seen unearthing small children beneath the rubble of a war-zone area, Nancy is seen as a hero. With Nancy’s help, Becky attempts to get over her fear of heights through attending their monthly meetings of Phobia Nights, an all-nighter for the girls to hang out while simultaneously working over getting Becky over her greatest fears.
The roles begin to become blurred next when we see Dave, a homeless man, who digs through people’s recycling bins for profit. But Dave isn’t just simply Dave. Like Nancy, he can be many persons at once. He is at once Haley, Connors, and Pete Zelite all in one mix. Just a change with a fedora here, a new wig, add in a different accent, and you got yourself a whole new persona. Dave soon notices that the clothes he procures from the recycling bins always seemed to fit the character study he was personifying, as if the people whose recycling bins he was shifting through were subconsciously enabling his undercover schemes. But soon the reader finds out that Dave is not doing this alone and is answering to a covert operation after all – it is revealed that he is sharing his thoughts with an unknown agent, who simply goes by ‘The Interrogator’.
The roles grow more ambiguous further on into the novel as questions begin to fester whether Nancy was going to initiate Dave in her grand plan to unearth the Rescuers scam and expose the secret agency, Nevermind, for their role they played in pulling a PR farce over the world’s eyes.
As concerns begin to grow whether Becky and Dave were the same person, the plot thickens, but one thing remains: both have Becky’s safety on their minds.
Becky and Nancy’s exchanges are above all enthusiastic and captivating. A lot of the dialogue in the book is written with sharp wit and gives a closer examination of the layers that lies within each character. But as we get closer to Dave’s POV, we see more of a rambling series of incoherent rants of a madman. Delving a little deeper, I began to see a pattern. Dave’s venting could be loosely seen as one long monologue that is addressed to the audience or in this case ‘The Interrogator’. Though moving seamlessly from one thought to the next, I thought the novel could slow down a bit in some parts and give more explanation as far as what is going on in the action.
One other problem I saw was that there were several grammatical and formatting issues, but that is usually the case in most books I read and shouldn’t be a problem here.
Nevertheless, ‘Remember to Recycle’ was an intriguing read. I did not read the first book, but this book truly stands alone as a stimulating read all on its own. Bensko does a good job of depicting Nancy and her many personas as she goes undercover and embarks on her roles of espionage.
Bensko has written a true political suspense thriller filled with powerful intrigues and elaborate government cover-ups. Containing winding plot twists and compelling story-telling, ‘Remember to Recycle’ is a must-read that will be hard to put down once you start reading.
By Christina on September 5, 2018
Format: Kindle Edition Verified Purchase
What immediately drew me in to this book was its premise – Dave a man who keeps disguises under a bridge to peruse the trash of others, is set against the likely brink of World War III. There is a great deal of political thrillers out there, but what makes this story stand out is how unique the premise is and how well it does to blend many different subgenres together. Before I get into the strengths of the book, along with any qualms I have, it is important to know that this book is part of a series. However, this is my first perusal so know that it can certainly work as a standalone piece. The only real tie is the character of Nancy, but again you don’t have be too familiar with that book to get enjoyment out of this one.
That said, Remember to Recycle is a plot-driven thriller that lays out many different narrative threads throughout the piece. Where many books would have multiple subplots going on, but fail to answer any questions, the author does well to tie them all up, short of packing them neatly with a bow. That’s understandable because you do want to leave the book with some food for thought, and you certainly do. The characters themselves are all deeply engaging and as mentioned, it translates pretty well in terms of plot and pacing.
Perhaps my only nitpick with the book is the tense changes that occurs throughout. The first person comes from Dave while third person comes from Becky and Nancy. It was supposed to make these distinctions easier, but only came off jarring. In spite of that, it was an all-around very good read.
By Insome A on September 3, 2018
Format: Kindle Edition Verified Purchase
Suspense started so well, like why is Nancy hiding?? Why is she hiding from face recognition applications or kind of camera, why doesn’t she want to be found, why is the term or name terrorist hit her that bad!!! Like the many questions you ask yourself make you wonder who is this person, trying to relate her life, she is just but a piano teacher, which for me doest sound like she is a terrorist type, but why does she have only one friend and she stays up hill where even her friend can’t visit. The author brings some enjoyment in the beginning and makes a reader read and want to know more. The language is cool and the book’s story run in the current New York city, the USA government highest task is fighting terrorism so it is a very relevant topic.
The life of spyind and bidding information. The author used that style in writing, where she named places with words like Nevermind and called people by words like Mr. Interrogator. The author creates good kind of drama movie maybe from crime aspect, you know, that’s how I feel of the story. The writer decides to arrange her story in an eventful manner of days, like calling a day and bringing it in a chapter and describing the events that took place.
Nancy and Becky are the two people that the story evolves in. Nancy is a silent one and never shares a lot but Becky tells Nancy everything and she confirms that Nancy is a good listener. The story is nice and I am giving the author, a 4 star review.
5.0 out of 5 stars Suspenseful, engaging, and satisfying
By Natalie on September 6, 2018
Format: Kindle Edition Verified Purchase
The sense of familiarity you feel when reading the overwhelming and sometimes chaotic thoughts of the main characters allows you to quickly form a personal connection and immediately draws you into the story demanding you ask questions. The casual expression and ease in the relationship between the lead characters gives you an intimate feeling of friendships and world exploration from a sometimes overly psychoanalyzed point of view. It isn't only the journey they take on together but the level of detail that pulls you into this story, allowing you to experience what they experience, fear what they fear.
The story itself is shockingly different from any story I have read, encountering challenges and situations you rarely see in print. This allows you to explore a new world that lives within a world we all already know, experiencing ideas that you haven’t previously considered while being pulled into understanding the relationships, the dangers, and the fears of the characters in this novel.
As I stated, this book is shockingly different from what I am used to read and that alone pulled me into the story. As I began reading I was instantly filled with questions about the story, the scene, and the people constantly questioning the events. This book is amazing for mentally engaging the reader to pull you even deeper into the world living within the world we already know. Questioning what is real, what is imagined, and how it effects the relationships of those involved.
The book answered my questions, and that is the most important aspect of a good ending. Even as the characters were still questioning themselves I felt I understood the underlying message as I finally finished the novel!
5.0 out of 5 stars What an awesome ride!
By Christina Anderson on September 8, 2018
Format: Kindle EditionVerified Purchase
This book had me on the edge of my seat. From doing my research this is book two from another book that Tantra wrote that I have not read yet. I am missing some of the pieces so I’m going to get the first book so that some of the story line gaps can be put into place. I really enjoyed this book because it was one thrill after another and very suspenseful. I couldn’t wait to read what was going to happen next. I sat down and read this book in a few hours. Usually it takes me a few days to read a book, but I just couldn’t put this one down. When I read other thrillers I’d just get one big thrill and that was it. This story has one after the other. It is full of intrigue and mystery. I also loved how it related to a lot of political events that got a lot of attention back around a year ago.
When it came to writing a review on this book I was so blown away that I really didn’t know where to start. I can’t figure out whether if I have had my mind blown or messed with. If I had to stay it sure might have been both. Usually I’m not really into politics but the way the writer puts everything they can think of in the story to put you on some sort of adventure is purely amazing.
I have to tell you how I really got stuck into the story where I just couldn’t put it down. The writer, who I have never heard of, is surely an artist when it comes to putting current event, theories and fantasy into a wonderful master piece that is full of mystery. Your wondering what characters you can trust and when you get to the end your so shocked that you get something that you are not really expecting.
If you want to be taken on a joy ride you should buy this book. However, I recommend getting the first book in the series and reading first so you can fully appreciate the scope of the full story.
Author's Den
Reviewed by Kim Aalaie5/21/2018
When I first began reading, I started asking myself why did you select this book, as it was a genre I normally wouldn't select. I picked it though and I had promised a review, so I continued to read. I am so glad I did! I thoroughly enjoyed "Remember to Recycle" by Tantra Bensko. It had twists and turns and was completely thought provoking. I was very entertained by the entire book.
It touched on numerous matters, such as chemical weapons (sarin gas), CIA covert ops, organ harvesting, human trafficking, just to name a few. You never knew where the author was going to take you or the characters. All the characters were well-described with traits provided in great detail.
I had my own personal favorite but I will leave it to you to decide yours. It was well-written and in the end all story-lines were brought together. The author said it best..."the public was gullible enough to never grasp it." Let me end by saying this...'Nevermind',................... {read the book).
Reviewed by Brittany Dalton6/9/2018
When I first started reading this book I asked myself why this book. Then the more I read it I got more into it.The characters were well written and took me on an adventure threw out the book. For me it was a quick read.