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Calculated #2
Simulated: A YA Action Adventure Series
From Young-Adult author Nova McBee comes the second book in the gritty, action-filled Calculated series.
Jo Rivers, safely back in Seattle, asks the same question daily-how does a math genius go from taking down international criminals and saving the world economy to living a normal teenage life? The only answer she can come up with is-she doesn't.
With an overprotective father on her back and Kai on the other side of the world, Jo accepts an offer from Prodigy Stealth Solutions (PSS), who may have found a way to get her gift back. Using a newly developed technology, PSS tries a simulation process on Jo to restore her abilities, but during the attempt, PSS is hacked and a blacklist file containing some of PSS's most sensitive secrets is stolen. Meanwhile, a mysterious caller who seems to know more than he should delivers a warning to Jo about Kai, who then goes missing.
Despite her father's concerns, Jo sets off on a risky trip to Tunisia with a PSS team of teen prodigies to find an urgently needed solution for PSS and locate Kai. All the while, Jo has to trust the mysterious informant who, frighteningly, is like no one she has ever met before.
"Simulated has all the Mission Impossible action you could hope for, paired with a love triangle that rivals the intensity of Twilight's. Be Prepared to choose sides and hold on tight. You're in for one wild ride.-Chelsea Bobulski, author of The Wood and Remember Me
Jo Rivers, safely back in Seattle, asks the same question daily-how does a math genius go from taking down international criminals and saving the world economy to living a normal teenage life? The only answer she can come up with is-she doesn't.
With an overprotective father on her back and Kai on the other side of the world, Jo accepts an offer from Prodigy Stealth Solutions (PSS), who may have found a way to get her gift back. Using a newly developed technology, PSS tries a simulation process on Jo to restore her abilities, but during the attempt, PSS is hacked and a blacklist file containing some of PSS's most sensitive secrets is stolen. Meanwhile, a mysterious caller who seems to know more than he should delivers a warning to Jo about Kai, who then goes missing.
Despite her father's concerns, Jo sets off on a risky trip to Tunisia with a PSS team of teen prodigies to find an urgently needed solution for PSS and locate Kai. All the while, Jo has to trust the mysterious informant who, frighteningly, is like no one she has ever met before.
"Simulated has all the Mission Impossible action you could hope for, paired with a love triangle that rivals the intensity of Twilight's. Be Prepared to choose sides and hold on tight. You're in for one wild ride.-Chelsea Bobulski, author of The Wood and Remember Me
464 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2023
56 people are currently reading
2517 people want to read
About the author
Nova McBee
3 books227 followersNova McBee, a Seattle native, has lived nearly half her life in the Middle East, Europe, and Asia. When she is not writing, she thrives on complex plots, deep conversation, ends of the earth adventures, and spending time with her family and friends.
Calculated is currently in development to become a major motion picture. Emmy-Award winning screenwriter, Ann Peacock, best known for The Chronicles of Narnia, will adapt the novel for the screen in partnership with One Door Studios and Apelles Entertainment, who owns the rights to all of the books.
For more info visit:
www.novamcbee.com or www.onedoorstudios.com
*Calculated Awards: Winner of Best Young Adult Novel by the Independent Press Awards; Finalist for Best Young Adult by the International Thriller Awards
Calculated is currently in development to become a major motion picture. Emmy-Award winning screenwriter, Ann Peacock, best known for The Chronicles of Narnia, will adapt the novel for the screen in partnership with One Door Studios and Apelles Entertainment, who owns the rights to all of the books.
For more info visit:
www.novamcbee.com or www.onedoorstudios.com
*Calculated Awards: Winner of Best Young Adult Novel by the Independent Press Awards; Finalist for Best Young Adult by the International Thriller Awards
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews
May 17, 2021
I wasn't expecting a sequel to the excellent CALCULATED, but I'm delighted that there is one! (And soon to be a third!) Jo is back with her family, she has a hot boyfriend, she's working with a team of prodigies . . . but . . . her gift for numbers is gone.
OR IS IT?
And Madame, the horrifying kingpin who had made her life a hell for the past two years, is also gone.
OR IS SHE?
The best thing I can think to compare these books to is The Bourne Identity, except it's a teen girl and she doesn't have amnesia. But it's very much that vibe. There's mental gymnastics, hand to hand fighting, action, spies, cool tiny gadgets . . . but the "team" is made up of young nerds, which I just LOVE. Or maybe it's like James Bond, if Q were the one in the field, and a girl . . .
OR IS IT?
And Madame, the horrifying kingpin who had made her life a hell for the past two years, is also gone.
OR IS SHE?
The best thing I can think to compare these books to is The Bourne Identity, except it's a teen girl and she doesn't have amnesia. But it's very much that vibe. There's mental gymnastics, hand to hand fighting, action, spies, cool tiny gadgets . . . but the "team" is made up of young nerds, which I just LOVE. Or maybe it's like James Bond, if Q were the one in the field, and a girl . . .
April 24, 2021
I loved this book, maybe almost more than Calculated! I am always a little nervous to read sequels because so many second books feel like placeholders in the larger story. Not Simulated! The story told in this book can stand alone with a solid character arc for Jo, a new setting, spy gadgets and intrigue, lots of adventure, a little romance, and great new characters introduced. With the vivid descriptions of gorgeous settings and Nova somehow even making mathematical theories come to life in tangible and beautiful ways, I found myself seeing this story unfold like a movie would. For someone who was raised on and maybe a little obsessed with Carmen Sandiego, these books give me all the Carmen vibes in the best way. I can't wait to see where the next book takes Jo and her crew of prodigies!
April 26, 2021
Brilliantly crafted, this technological thriller delivers punch after punch of heart pounding action. The fearless heroine and two equally intriguing love interests had me flying through the pages. I’m in love with this series!
April 24, 2021
4/5
I was luck enough to get book 2 of Calculated as an e-arc and I was so excited to get to read Simulated! Calculated was an exciting and adventurous novel, and Simulated was much more!
Simulated is continued from the perspective of Jo Rivers who is officially back in Seattle, she used to be a math genius with powers to calculate equations and numbers of her surroundings, but once she lost her powers from her time in China, Jo is lost and does not know what to do. PSS ( Prodigy Stealth Solutions ) sends an offer that will help trigger Jo's powers though simulations dating back to problems she went through. But during her simulations, there are attempts made to hack into Jo's challenges and into PSS's blacklist file which has many of their sacred secrets. Meanwhile, Jo receives mysterious calls warning Jo about her boyfriend, who has gone lost.
Looking for her boyfriend, Jo sets into a risky trip to Tunisia, which her father reluctantly accepts to locate the PSS blacklist and her boyfriend, and through her adventure, Jo has to trust the mysterious caller who said was by her side.
Simulated has action, adventure, and cliffhangers, that we all want and hope for, and that is paired with a thrilling love triangle. It is enchanting and mysterious, and makes your heart beat radically throughout most chapters!
There were many positives of the book and factors that I really enjoyed that made the story entrancing and different from many more books I have read before.
Nova McBee takes you though different countries and really introduces you different cultures and teaches you through the action all about this country. It's like you are a tourist in this country through the book. You go to Tunisia, and China, and you get a glimpse of the culture throughout Nova McBee's writing because she displays the scene, and she writes about many famous sites in that actual country which is so intriguing!
As well as this, Nova used different languages in the book. You get some Chinese dialogue and also some Arabic which added more depth to the story plot, and it just made it so much more different from other books because you get a look at different cultures, languages, beliefs and it is so interesting!
Simulated is one of the most interesting and heart pounding sequels and novels I have ever read! It is riveting, and the writing is so easy yo understand that it really invites you into the story which is really good because it is easy to understand, but the plot is not easy to crack which is good because it is never fun to know what will happen in the coming plot.
You can also really see the character development, and usually I am not a fan of love triangles however the character development made it all the more better!
Can't wait to see what Nova McBee will do in the last book of the series!
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March 19, 2024Simulated is just as intriguing and fast-paced as Calculated. The stakes are so high, and the suspense kept me hooked the whole way through! Nova McBee knows how to tell a well-researched story that grabs her readers from page one. (Plus, she's just a lovely person, something that's so evident from the way she loves on her friends and readers through social media and otherwise!) I also love the way the author blends world cultures together and presents them in such a beautiful way. The descriptions are vibrant and amazing and depict unique settings for a YA novel. The Tunisian setting and culture especially jump off the page; the author appeals to all my senses to create a vibrant picture in my imagination. (Also, the covers for the books in this series are amazing!)
There were things that weren't my favorite for sure, but overall, I really did enjoy reading Simulated. And I'd definitely like to read its successors when they release. (And see the Calculated movie when it releases!) If you’re looking for an intriguing, dramatic, fast-paced spy-adventure novel, this sequel to Calculated could be it!
🇹🇳 content: violence, some kissing, mention of “X girls” that Jo’s former kidnapper trafficked 🇹🇳
There were things that weren't my favorite for sure, but overall, I really did enjoy reading Simulated. And I'd definitely like to read its successors when they release. (And see the Calculated movie when it releases!) If you’re looking for an intriguing, dramatic, fast-paced spy-adventure novel, this sequel to Calculated could be it!
🇹🇳 content: violence, some kissing, mention of “X girls” that Jo’s former kidnapper trafficked 🇹🇳
April 16, 2021
ADD THIS TO YOUR TBR LIST & YOU WON'T BE DISAPPOINTED!
Just when you think there's no way Nova McBee can possibly write something as captivating, heart-warming and unique as CALCULATED, she does it with SIMULATED.
SIMULATED continues the story of Jo Rivers post China. It explores healing, love and sacrifice, all while bumping along exotic camel caravans, thwarting underground coups, tracking down hackers, and preventing government collapse. Set in the beautiful and unique landscape of Tunisia, this book is every bit as gripping as the first as we follow the same lovable and spunky character, Jo.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough! If you're looking for a book to devour in a day, this is it!
Just when you think there's no way Nova McBee can possibly write something as captivating, heart-warming and unique as CALCULATED, she does it with SIMULATED.
SIMULATED continues the story of Jo Rivers post China. It explores healing, love and sacrifice, all while bumping along exotic camel caravans, thwarting underground coups, tracking down hackers, and preventing government collapse. Set in the beautiful and unique landscape of Tunisia, this book is every bit as gripping as the first as we follow the same lovable and spunky character, Jo.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough! If you're looking for a book to devour in a day, this is it!
May 7, 2021
It's very, very rare that I love a second book in a series as much as the first. Which means that I was a little nervous to read this book. Calculated was easily one of my top favorite reads of 2021, and I couldn't help but have really high expectations for this book. But I needn't have worried. Nova McBee is one of the most masterful storytellers in the YA genre, and this book was just was good as its predecessor!
What does a teen prodigy do when she's lost her gift? Team up with a mysterious hacker and a team of other prodigies to save the world, of course! The gadgets and bright world of Tunisia brought this story to life, and I felt like I was right there with the characters, experiencing everything they did. The bond I developed with these characters was so strong, and I feel like we're best friends. I can't wait for book 3!
**I received an advanced copy and all opinions are my own.
What does a teen prodigy do when she's lost her gift? Team up with a mysterious hacker and a team of other prodigies to save the world, of course! The gadgets and bright world of Tunisia brought this story to life, and I felt like I was right there with the characters, experiencing everything they did. The bond I developed with these characters was so strong, and I feel like we're best friends. I can't wait for book 3!
**I received an advanced copy and all opinions are my own.
April 17, 2021
The most riveting sequel I’ve ever read! SIMULATED is a masterpiece! A teen prodigy and mysterious hacker find their future written in the stars—and it’s a gold rush of adventure, mystery, and the perfect romance! Not only are the characters and plot well done, but the research behind this book is phenomenal. The gadgets, hacking world, international setting, all of it is done with precision and blends so well into this epic adventure! I can’t wait for the conclusion of this fantastic series!
*I received an advanced reader copy. All thoughts expressed are my own
*I received an advanced reader copy. All thoughts expressed are my own
September 1, 2023
Okay, so Simulated was good. Like SO good! I may have even enjoyed it more than Calculated, which was also like crazy good.
Where to begin? Well, the stakes are super high, and now there’s a love triangle—which I normally really don’t like and still wasn’t a huge fan of in this case—BUT, it made sense and worked, so I get it.
I’m team Kai, which I’m not ashamed to say, but I’m worried how Nova will string my heart along in book 3 👀
Plus, THAT ENDING!
Overall, this book was amazing! And I’ve already started Activated & can say this series is arguably an all time favorite 💛
Where to begin? Well, the stakes are super high, and now there’s a love triangle—which I normally really don’t like and still wasn’t a huge fan of in this case—BUT, it made sense and worked, so I get it.
I’m team Kai, which I’m not ashamed to say, but I’m worried how Nova will string my heart along in book 3 👀
Plus, THAT ENDING!
Overall, this book was amazing! And I’ve already started Activated & can say this series is arguably an all time favorite 💛
April 21, 2021
All of the Mission Impossible action you could hope for, paired with a love triangle that rivals the intensity of Twilight's. Be prepared to choose sides and hold on tight. You're in for one wild ride.
January 16, 2024
This is the 2nd book in the trilogy. It took longer for me to get into than the first (Calculated) but in the end an excellent book. Clean.
February 12, 2023
Wow! I enjoyed Simulated so so much more than Calculated.
If you read Calculated, you need to read Simulated. It was so much better.
When the book mentioned love triangle in its synopsis, I was prepared to be like....ehhhh.... but this is nothing like most of the love triangles in YA. None of that hunger games or Twilight saga gushy kissing stuff. Yes Jo does ask the question, “who do I like...or love?” but it is mainly her deciding what love actually is and you don’t see all this kissing both love interests all the live long day. I can’t handle that. There is maturity in the other love interest that I admired and I think you might too if you appreciate more mature MC’s and SC’s.
This was mostly an action packed spy story with Jo figuring life out and deciphering memories and trying to get her gift back. Does she get if back or does she not? You’ll have to read it to find out.😉
Kai’s character is fleshed out a bit more and he isn’t as perfect as he appeared in the first book. While the kung fu side of him is kinda ehhh to me I still Liked him much better here than in Calculated.
You meet some new characters in this book and the plot twist at the climax is so good!
The ending sets you up for Activated and I can’t wait for what project PSS tackles next!
If you read Calculated, you need to read Simulated. It was so much better.
When the book mentioned love triangle in its synopsis, I was prepared to be like....ehhhh.... but this is nothing like most of the love triangles in YA. None of that hunger games or Twilight saga gushy kissing stuff. Yes Jo does ask the question, “who do I like...or love?” but it is mainly her deciding what love actually is and you don’t see all this kissing both love interests all the live long day. I can’t handle that. There is maturity in the other love interest that I admired and I think you might too if you appreciate more mature MC’s and SC’s.
This was mostly an action packed spy story with Jo figuring life out and deciphering memories and trying to get her gift back. Does she get if back or does she not? You’ll have to read it to find out.😉
Kai’s character is fleshed out a bit more and he isn’t as perfect as he appeared in the first book. While the kung fu side of him is kinda ehhh to me I still Liked him much better here than in Calculated.
You meet some new characters in this book and the plot twist at the climax is so good!
The ending sets you up for Activated and I can’t wait for what project PSS tackles next!
May 12, 2025
I read Calculated and thought it couldn't get better. This book proved me wrong. Simulated blew my mind in so many ways! Gripping. Intriguing. Fast-paced. Powerful. Deep. All things I look for in good books. All found right here in this fascinating novel, Simulated.
Honestly shocked an author can be this good!
And I have to say it....I think Noble has to be my most favorite character in this whole series! 😍
Honestly shocked an author can be this good!
And I have to say it....I think Noble has to be my most favorite character in this whole series! 😍
February 25, 2024
ACK!!! I CAN'T BELIEVE THIS JUST TOPPED BOOK ONE!!! 😭🤩😍🥰 Definitely my favorite in the series so far. This book was loads of fun while also being action packed and nail biting. 😆 And Noble... 😭😭😭 ACK!!
April 27, 2021
Another great read by Nova McBee!
SIMULATED, the tech action-adventure sequel to McBee's CALCULATED is just as captivating as the first. Be prepared to carve out some time to read this cover to cover because you will simply not want to put it down.
SIMULATED, the tech action-adventure sequel to McBee's CALCULATED is just as captivating as the first. Be prepared to carve out some time to read this cover to cover because you will simply not want to put it down.
January 9, 2025
Wow. Just when I thought Calculated couldn't get any better, here comes this sequel! A full new cast of engaging characters, and a love triangle making its way into the picture.
PSS prods and a mysterious hacker, along with Jo losing the one thing that defines who she is. Questions emerge from every corner. Who should she trust? Should she trust anyone? Jo must learn to face the problems even without calculation.
In this thrilling novel, Jo is faced with new troubles, and new adventures. Each page, there was a new question or plot twist, adding to the suspense.
Click below to read more!
https://www.theinkandquillsociety.com...
Reviewed by Aubrey Claire
PSS prods and a mysterious hacker, along with Jo losing the one thing that defines who she is. Questions emerge from every corner. Who should she trust? Should she trust anyone? Jo must learn to face the problems even without calculation.
In this thrilling novel, Jo is faced with new troubles, and new adventures. Each page, there was a new question or plot twist, adding to the suspense.
Click below to read more!
https://www.theinkandquillsociety.com...
Reviewed by Aubrey Claire
August 28, 2024
Calculated (#1) was such an exciting read that created an intriguing foundation that made me run into….Simulated (#2) which had my mind whirling in intense loops every chapter, leaving me on a cliffhanger that I cannot help but jump into…..Activated (#3). Super smart writing and character building. Love this series!
May 12, 2025
I have no words.
Except these:
- The first one was definitely better
- I don’t like Noble
- If Kai and Jo don’t get back together in Activated, I’m going to pretend that it’s not a trilogy and that Calculated is the only book.
Except these:
- The first one was definitely better
- I don’t like Noble
- If Kai and Jo don’t get back together in Activated, I’m going to pretend that it’s not a trilogy and that Calculated is the only book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 27, 2023
Memorizing and brimming with nonstop action, Simulated lives up to its predecessor! On to book 3. Nova McBee is definitely an author to watch and I hope she releases a new project soon.
January 30, 2024
I think I have a new favorite author, you guys.🥰
April 27, 2021
I was so lucky to get to read this story early! What a great continuation of Jo's story. Another amazing, immersive setting. Action worthy of big-screen movie. Interesting characters. I couldn't put it down. I can't wait to see how the series wraps up!
March 22, 2022
So, I... put off reading this for so long, but I finally did it...
And I really enjoyed it! I missed the Shanghai setting, but let me just say, Tunisia seems like an amazing place. I'd love to visit there someday. The way Nova McBee brings all these settings to life is just *chef's kiss* perfect. The whole thing with the sims and the other prodigies was pretty cool too, though I wish we could've gotten to know them better. It's okay though; there's still time!
Also, can I just applaud the author for writing in adults who don't try to put a stop to every single thing the teenagers get up to? (Not to say that kind of character isn't completely absent from the book, but I think it was understandable and not overdone.) I get why adults would want to stop us from doing crazy things, but it does get old to read about. Anyway, I think it was done quite well here.
Just like Calculated, Simulated was a fast-paced, thrilling read with lots of action but a little less math. And just like Calculated, it kept me turning page after page.
So then... why the drastic drop of 2 whole stars from Calculated to its sequel? Well... you might say it's called the Sequel Phenomenon.
You guys, I loved the first book so much. It wasn't perfect, but there was really only one thing that took anything away from me at all, and I didn't think it was that big of a deal. Well, you know what? It came back to kick me in the face in the Sequel.
Yes, you know what I'm talking about. I won't mark this section as spoilers since if you know anything about this series you should already know about this, but I did avoid this book for so long because of it, and to be fair it really wasn't that bad. In my opinion, Kai and Noble would be great characters on their own, or even if it was just a simple straightforward romance. It's all because of Jo that I'm really complaining.
What happened to Calculated's Jo? Never mind that--what happened to the Phoenix, Double-Eight Jo? And who came and swapped her out with another emotionally unstable, indecisive YA heroine who for whatever reason can't figure out one of the most obvious "plot twists" I have ever read because she's convinced she can't do anything without math? Who needs mathto have seen that coming?!! (I certainly don't, because mine sucks.)
I wanted to shake her by the shoulders so many times through the book. And don't get me wrong, I understand that there should be some emotional turmoil and stuff like that considering the nature of a thriller, but this was a bit too much. It felt like Jo was losing all her development from Calculated and dissolving it into the YA heroine soup. It made me so sad...
But, well. I still enjoyed this book overall. Just wouldn't be able to recommend it after the brilliance that was its predecessor, though that may change once book three comes out. I'm so excited to see my boy Rafael again, and I really hope all this love triangle drama will be resolved soon.
And I really enjoyed it! I missed the Shanghai setting, but let me just say, Tunisia seems like an amazing place. I'd love to visit there someday. The way Nova McBee brings all these settings to life is just *chef's kiss* perfect. The whole thing with the sims and the other prodigies was pretty cool too, though I wish we could've gotten to know them better. It's okay though; there's still time!
Also, can I just applaud the author for writing in adults who don't try to put a stop to every single thing the teenagers get up to? (Not to say that kind of character isn't completely absent from the book, but I think it was understandable and not overdone.) I get why adults would want to stop us from doing crazy things, but it does get old to read about. Anyway, I think it was done quite well here.
Just like Calculated, Simulated was a fast-paced, thrilling read with lots of action but a little less math. And just like Calculated, it kept me turning page after page.
So then... why the drastic drop of 2 whole stars from Calculated to its sequel? Well... you might say it's called the Sequel Phenomenon.
You guys, I loved the first book so much. It wasn't perfect, but there was really only one thing that took anything away from me at all, and I didn't think it was that big of a deal. Well, you know what? It came back to kick me in the face in the Sequel.
Yes, you know what I'm talking about. I won't mark this section as spoilers since if you know anything about this series you should already know about this, but I did avoid this book for so long because of it, and to be fair it really wasn't that bad. In my opinion, Kai and Noble would be great characters on their own, or even if it was just a simple straightforward romance. It's all because of Jo that I'm really complaining.
What happened to Calculated's Jo? Never mind that--what happened to the Phoenix, Double-Eight Jo? And who came and swapped her out with another emotionally unstable, indecisive YA heroine who for whatever reason can't figure out one of the most obvious "plot twists" I have ever read because she's convinced she can't do anything without math? Who needs mathto have seen that coming?!! (I certainly don't, because mine sucks.)
I wanted to shake her by the shoulders so many times through the book. And don't get me wrong, I understand that there should be some emotional turmoil and stuff like that considering the nature of a thriller, but this was a bit too much. It felt like Jo was losing all her development from Calculated and dissolving it into the YA heroine soup. It made me so sad...
But, well. I still enjoyed this book overall. Just wouldn't be able to recommend it after the brilliance that was its predecessor, though that may change once book three comes out. I'm so excited to see my boy Rafael again, and I really hope all this love triangle drama will be resolved soon.
February 17, 2022
Wow. Wow wow wow! What an adventurous ride through a landscape I didn't even know I needed to see more of! Tunisia provides the perfect back drop to Simulated and I just love how the author described the beauty of the landscape, culture, food, and customs. It makes Simulated the perfect "escape" novel, especially if you can't travel at the moment.
I was so ready to jump into this new adventure after loving Calculated and this one didn't disappoint one bit! Just as addicting as Calculated, Simulated explores a world where Jo doesn't have her numbers and how she learns to cope without them and yet struggles to get them back. I felt it was very applicable to anyone who's lost the ability to do something (either for a time or for good) and how you feel in that state and what it takes to heal.
On the action front, Simulated takes over right where Calculated ended and draws you into Jo's next adventure but this time with a new company. For anyone who lives near-future tech you're going to LOVE everything the author describes. I love stuff like this and imagining what *could* be possible if only we had a bit more advancement (or Prods like Jo!).
And then the romance....*sigh* Okay, so if you've followed me and my reviews for any length of time you'll know I am just not a fan of love triangles so...that was the only thing that wasn't my absolute favorite. That's no fault of the authors and 100% my own preference, though McBee did a great job of balancing it. It was realistic, never crossed lines, and pulls your heart in two directions which is the point. But GAH! While it was written well, I'm a loyalist. I just love Kai....that's all I'm going to say LOL.
Upon finishing this I'm soooo ready for the next book! I've got grabby hands for Activated!
If you love action-filled, well written, fleshed out, and exciting books - the Calculated series is for you! I highly recommend!
---
Thanks to the publisher for the physical copy though I did end up reading this as an audiobook. All opinions are my own.
I was so ready to jump into this new adventure after loving Calculated and this one didn't disappoint one bit! Just as addicting as Calculated, Simulated explores a world where Jo doesn't have her numbers and how she learns to cope without them and yet struggles to get them back. I felt it was very applicable to anyone who's lost the ability to do something (either for a time or for good) and how you feel in that state and what it takes to heal.
On the action front, Simulated takes over right where Calculated ended and draws you into Jo's next adventure but this time with a new company. For anyone who lives near-future tech you're going to LOVE everything the author describes. I love stuff like this and imagining what *could* be possible if only we had a bit more advancement (or Prods like Jo!).
And then the romance....*sigh* Okay, so if you've followed me and my reviews for any length of time you'll know I am just not a fan of love triangles so...that was the only thing that wasn't my absolute favorite. That's no fault of the authors and 100% my own preference, though McBee did a great job of balancing it. It was realistic, never crossed lines, and pulls your heart in two directions which is the point. But GAH! While it was written well, I'm a loyalist. I just love Kai....that's all I'm going to say LOL.
Upon finishing this I'm soooo ready for the next book! I've got grabby hands for Activated!
If you love action-filled, well written, fleshed out, and exciting books - the Calculated series is for you! I highly recommend!
---
Thanks to the publisher for the physical copy though I did end up reading this as an audiobook. All opinions are my own.
May 28, 2021
Stuck at home when you just want to travel? Then Nova McBee’s books are perfect for you!
In Simulated, I loved going from Seattle to Tunisia! McBee’s writing drops readers in amazing locales and makes it feel as if one is really there!
Add in awesome action and super cool tech, and readers will feel like spies in their own adventure!
Simulated has the heart of Calculated but with more intense twists, turns and... dare I say... a love triangle that will leave your head spinning!
With a prodigy group teaming up and dangers threatening what Jo cares about most, she has to navigate the world without her math ability.
This is one book you don’t want to miss!
In Simulated, I loved going from Seattle to Tunisia! McBee’s writing drops readers in amazing locales and makes it feel as if one is really there!
Add in awesome action and super cool tech, and readers will feel like spies in their own adventure!
Simulated has the heart of Calculated but with more intense twists, turns and... dare I say... a love triangle that will leave your head spinning!
With a prodigy group teaming up and dangers threatening what Jo cares about most, she has to navigate the world without her math ability.
This is one book you don’t want to miss!
May 3, 2021
It's devastating for a teenaged mathematics genius to lose her gift for numbers. So, Jo Rivers is going through a simulation process with Prodigy Stealth Solutions in an attempt to recover her gift. But when PSS is hacked and a sensitive file goes missing, Jo heads to Tunisia on a mission where more than PSS's secrets are at stake in Simulated by author Nova McBee.
Once I plunged into this YA suspense sequel to Calculated with both feet, I had to keep swimming with as few pauses as possible. While the gradual build in Book One wasn't always the most gripping for me, its solid foundation allowed me to take off and enjoy this second novel more.
Goodness. The danger and all the moving parts to the intrigue. The ingenuity and teen prodigies. The thought-provoking nuggets that add true depth to Jo's journey. So good!
Now, I did become frustrated with some of Jo's rash decision-making, which sometimes felt a little contrived for the action's sake. And I'm not sure if the reader is supposed to share Jo's unawareness about who the anonymous hacker is, but the hacker's identity was clear to me quite early on. Also, there are a few reasons why I usually don't care for love triangles in fiction—but because this book isn't a romance novel, at least it didn't have to rush toward a resolution that would've left me irritated.
Now, after the exciting time I had racing through this adventure, I can't wait for Book Three.
____________
I received an advance reading copy of this book via Netgalley for an honest review.
Once I plunged into this YA suspense sequel to Calculated with both feet, I had to keep swimming with as few pauses as possible. While the gradual build in Book One wasn't always the most gripping for me, its solid foundation allowed me to take off and enjoy this second novel more.
Goodness. The danger and all the moving parts to the intrigue. The ingenuity and teen prodigies. The thought-provoking nuggets that add true depth to Jo's journey. So good!
Now, I did become frustrated with some of Jo's rash decision-making, which sometimes felt a little contrived for the action's sake. And I'm not sure if the reader is supposed to share Jo's unawareness about who the anonymous hacker is, but the hacker's identity was clear to me quite early on. Also, there are a few reasons why I usually don't care for love triangles in fiction—but because this book isn't a romance novel, at least it didn't have to rush toward a resolution that would've left me irritated.
Now, after the exciting time I had racing through this adventure, I can't wait for Book Three.
____________
I received an advance reading copy of this book via Netgalley for an honest review.
October 9, 2021
I enjoyed this book a lot, I think a bit more then Calculated, the predecessor. One thing I had a lot of trouble with in Calculated was the characters, which were very one-dimensional, and it gave me pause throughout the book. I'm happy to say that the characters had much more depth and personality this time around.
I was not excited to find out a love triangle was involved before reading this. Though I really don't enjoy them anywhere, I found this one to be much better done than the one in The Hunger Games, which is my best comparison. This one had much more moral questions asked by the main character than in Hunger Games, which I appreciated. I think it could have been avoided, but it did not bother me as much as I thought it would.
The settings, as in Calculated, were Nova McBee's strongest point. I was once again blown away by the vivid way she described the places the main character visited. Tunisia was described in a way that did not paint it as a paradise, but showed it's beauty and faults.
The one problem I have with this book is the description. I found many things to be a bit underexplained, and would find myself wondering what plan the characters were following, as many times important conversations were omitted. Overall, YA novels or books with chapter cliffhangers have never been my style, and as this book is both of those, I found it tough at times.
That said, I really did enjoy this a lot. One of the better YA books I've read in a long time.
4.25 Stars
I was not excited to find out a love triangle was involved before reading this. Though I really don't enjoy them anywhere, I found this one to be much better done than the one in The Hunger Games, which is my best comparison. This one had much more moral questions asked by the main character than in Hunger Games, which I appreciated. I think it could have been avoided, but it did not bother me as much as I thought it would.
The settings, as in Calculated, were Nova McBee's strongest point. I was once again blown away by the vivid way she described the places the main character visited. Tunisia was described in a way that did not paint it as a paradise, but showed it's beauty and faults.
The one problem I have with this book is the description. I found many things to be a bit underexplained, and would find myself wondering what plan the characters were following, as many times important conversations were omitted. Overall, YA novels or books with chapter cliffhangers have never been my style, and as this book is both of those, I found it tough at times.
That said, I really did enjoy this a lot. One of the better YA books I've read in a long time.
4.25 Stars
August 13, 2023
Simulated, book 2 of the calculated series by Nova Mcbee
Topic or themes I saw: Having a potential you can’t tap into. Peace in chaos.
Read it if you love:
✔️Heart tugging love triangles
✔️Different setting (Africa 🤗)
✔️Thrillers
✔️YA novels
Story: A few months ago I heard about fractals for the first time. It was really cool they were at the center of this novel.
Jo Rivers has lost her mathematical gift and is trying to get it back. When she encounters someone who has the same gift, it gives her an understanding of how it feels to be on the other side. I really loved that element of this book.
Even though Red is dead, there are still nuggets of his wisdom scattered through and I drank those up.
And just like Calculated, there were so many amazing quotes I took away.
“We don’t give in to fear around here—ours or anyone else’s.”
“Truth should dictate your actions, not emotions. One is a master, the other a servant.”
“Trauma, danger, stress, all shut a mind down. Only healing and peace open it back up.”
“We live knowing our life affects others.”
“I liked doing what I loved without the pressure of performance and expectation.”
“Chaos is winning because I see no perfect answer.”
Topic or themes I saw: Having a potential you can’t tap into. Peace in chaos.
Read it if you love:
✔️Heart tugging love triangles
✔️Different setting (Africa 🤗)
✔️Thrillers
✔️YA novels
Story: A few months ago I heard about fractals for the first time. It was really cool they were at the center of this novel.
Jo Rivers has lost her mathematical gift and is trying to get it back. When she encounters someone who has the same gift, it gives her an understanding of how it feels to be on the other side. I really loved that element of this book.
Even though Red is dead, there are still nuggets of his wisdom scattered through and I drank those up.
And just like Calculated, there were so many amazing quotes I took away.
“We don’t give in to fear around here—ours or anyone else’s.”
“Truth should dictate your actions, not emotions. One is a master, the other a servant.”
“Trauma, danger, stress, all shut a mind down. Only healing and peace open it back up.”
“We live knowing our life affects others.”
“I liked doing what I loved without the pressure of performance and expectation.”
“Chaos is winning because I see no perfect answer.”
August 8, 2021
I had the pleasure of reading an advance reader copy of this fast-paced sequel to Calculated. After the textured depth of Calculated I honestly wondered how Nova would follow up on it. Well, folks, she's done it! Simulated has a different feel from Calculated but it holds up beautifully on its own. It pulls you in right away and just keeps moving till the last page as you wonder how Jo and team will handle the situation they find themselves in. The characters, setting, and themes will stay with you. Don't miss it!
April 15, 2022
Book one has both personal and global stakes, but it didn't feel intense for as much of the story as this one does.
In Simulated, the threat is more mysterious, which means you never really feel like you can let your guard down. Plus there are more fun characters. Some of them aren't developed much, but they make a good team.
And, of course, it includes the obligatory teen love triangle. But it handles the love triangle very well. Both the boys seem like good people, and yet are quite distinct from each other.
Fun story. Would recommend.
In Simulated, the threat is more mysterious, which means you never really feel like you can let your guard down. Plus there are more fun characters. Some of them aren't developed much, but they make a good team.
And, of course, it includes the obligatory teen love triangle. But it handles the love triangle very well. Both the boys seem like good people, and yet are quite distinct from each other.
Fun story. Would recommend.
November 25, 2023
Simulated is the sequel to Calculated.
I didn’t want to put this one down! I love the complexity of both the characters and the story. Would recommend this series to upper YA readers (ages 15+).
I’m looking forward to reading Activated (book 3) soon.
I didn’t want to put this one down! I love the complexity of both the characters and the story. Would recommend this series to upper YA readers (ages 15+).
I’m looking forward to reading Activated (book 3) soon.
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