I’m glad to have stumbled upon this underrated gem. The main character, Josephine Rivers, is a child prodigy with a knack for numbers. Mathematics is hidden all around us and we can predict many things using applied mathematics. Josephine’s ability to physically see equations in her surroundings or when she thinks of a situation and calculate them in real time lets her make perfect predictions and take precise decisions. This makes her a target of a criminal mastermind who wants to use her powers for profit.
The book was intriguing from the first page. Shifting the narrative between the past and the present made me hooked. The author manages to subtly weave her knowledge of China into the story. I particularly liked the emphasis on the number 8 and infinity. The character growth, the setting and the philosophical quotes made it an interesting read. It was quite fast paced and did not feel like almost 400 pages.
Even though the story contains heavy subjects of human trafficking, kidnapping, death, abuse and betrayal, it manages not to be graphic. Meanwhile, a wise old friend of the the main character who acts as her mentor teaches her forgiveness, redemption, justice and hope during her dark times. This brings a good balance to the story.
This book resolves the main conflicts and can be read as a standalone, except for the cliffhanger epilogue. I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading the sequels. Also, it is being adapted into a film and I’m super excited.
