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Cas Russell #1
Zero Sum Game
A blockbuster, near-future science fiction thriller, S.L. Huang's Zero Sum Game introduces a math-genius mercenary who finds herself being manipulated by someone possessing unimaginable power.....
Cas Russell is good at math. Scary good. The vector calculus blazing through her head lets her smash through armed men twice her size and dodge every bullet in a gunfight, and she'll take any job for the right price.
As far as Cas knows, she’s the only person around with a superpower...until she discovers someone with a power even more dangerous than her own. Someone who can reach directly into people’s minds and twist their brains into Moebius strips. Someone intent on becoming the world’s puppet master.
Cas should run, like she usually does, but for once she's involved. There’s only one problem...
She doesn’t know which of her thoughts are her own anymore.
Cas Russell is good at math. Scary good. The vector calculus blazing through her head lets her smash through armed men twice her size and dodge every bullet in a gunfight, and she'll take any job for the right price.
As far as Cas knows, she’s the only person around with a superpower...until she discovers someone with a power even more dangerous than her own. Someone who can reach directly into people’s minds and twist their brains into Moebius strips. Someone intent on becoming the world’s puppet master.
Cas should run, like she usually does, but for once she's involved. There’s only one problem...
She doesn’t know which of her thoughts are her own anymore.
336 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2014
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 488 reviews
November 13, 2018
3.5 of 5 stars at The BiblioSanctum https://bibliosanctum.com/2018/11/13/...
Zero Sum Game by S.L. Huang was a fast-paced and entertaining page-turner that put me in mind of a sci-fi blockbuster thriller. The story’s protagonist, a self-described retrieval specialist named Cas Russell, is a quick-witted and legitimate badass who is scarily good at what she does. People may hire her to do rough jobs like smash-and-grabs or hostage recovery, but her logical mind ensures she always has a plan. Her tremendous math skills and ability to calculate complex equations on the fly have helped her navigate through the worst dangers of her profession and made her a survivor.
Which is why Cas is thrown for a loop on her latest assignment when what should have been an easy rescue operation goes completely awry. Receiving a tip from her colleague Rio, our protagonist accepts a mission that takes her deep into the heart of drug cartel territory to find and retrieve a young woman named Courtney Polk. The problem, however, is that Courtney’s sister, the one who is paying Cas for the job, isn’t in fact who she claims to be at all. Before long, Cas finds herself entangled in web of conspiracy and lies involving a shadowy organization and its deranged telepathic leader who has designs on world domination.
My thoughts on the plot: fun, if not entirely cogent or deep. Both protagonist and antagonist are kind of hokey, though a blast to follow. I also like how the book does not take itself too seriously, which allows the reader to laugh at the corny jokes or overlook some of the story’s more absurd and farcical moments. There are a lot of cool ideas in in here, which made this one a quick and enjoyable read, even if there were parts that made me scratch my head or grit my teeth in frustration.
First, let’s start with the things I felt could have been improved. Like a lot of debuts, Zero Sum Game suffered from quite a few pacing issues. If I recall correctly, the book began as a self-published project before it was picked up by Tor for this second iteration, and throughout that process, I assume it went through a lot more polishing and editing. I was therefore a bit surprised at the clunkiness of some of the prose, as well as the awkward delivery of some of Cas’ more cringe-worthy lines. A lot of the times her internal dialogue felt like a messy stream of consciousness, spelling out every thought process and emotion, which really made it hard to concentrate on everything else happening in the plot.
Story-wise, this novel also falls squarely in the technothriller category. But with regards to the “techno” part of thet equation, I feel as though the author left things neither here nor there. She goes into a great deal of detail about certain mathematical or technological concepts, but overall worldbuilding feels pretty vague and undefined. On top of the sci-fi elements, there are also paranormal factors at play, but again, the why’s and how’s of it are not very well explained.
But here’s what I did like: the characters, despite their flaws, are compelling and memorable—especially Cas. Without giving away too much of the story, what our protagonist struggles with here is a conflict that rattles her to her core, because it threatens one of the only things she can count on: her mind. When someone who prides herself on her logic and intelligence is faced with the possibility that she can’t trust her own thoughts, the results are as interesting to read about as you would expect. Even the villain is impressive, their whole bent-on-taking-over-the-world angle notwithstanding. I liked how none of the characters were black and white, with the line between good and evil not only being blurred and uncertain, but redrawn again and again throughout the course of this tale.
All told, Zero Sum Game was a lot of fun to read, the story made even more intriguing by its bold and unforgettable characters as well as themes exploring topics like psychology, mind control, and futuristic tech. That said, I thought the novel’s full scope and potential was likely held back by minor issues like plot pacing and structural flaws. Nevertheless, it’s a solid debut and I think most sci-fi and thriller fans will enjoy it and appreciate it for what it is.
Zero Sum Game by S.L. Huang was a fast-paced and entertaining page-turner that put me in mind of a sci-fi blockbuster thriller. The story’s protagonist, a self-described retrieval specialist named Cas Russell, is a quick-witted and legitimate badass who is scarily good at what she does. People may hire her to do rough jobs like smash-and-grabs or hostage recovery, but her logical mind ensures she always has a plan. Her tremendous math skills and ability to calculate complex equations on the fly have helped her navigate through the worst dangers of her profession and made her a survivor.
Which is why Cas is thrown for a loop on her latest assignment when what should have been an easy rescue operation goes completely awry. Receiving a tip from her colleague Rio, our protagonist accepts a mission that takes her deep into the heart of drug cartel territory to find and retrieve a young woman named Courtney Polk. The problem, however, is that Courtney’s sister, the one who is paying Cas for the job, isn’t in fact who she claims to be at all. Before long, Cas finds herself entangled in web of conspiracy and lies involving a shadowy organization and its deranged telepathic leader who has designs on world domination.
My thoughts on the plot: fun, if not entirely cogent or deep. Both protagonist and antagonist are kind of hokey, though a blast to follow. I also like how the book does not take itself too seriously, which allows the reader to laugh at the corny jokes or overlook some of the story’s more absurd and farcical moments. There are a lot of cool ideas in in here, which made this one a quick and enjoyable read, even if there were parts that made me scratch my head or grit my teeth in frustration.
First, let’s start with the things I felt could have been improved. Like a lot of debuts, Zero Sum Game suffered from quite a few pacing issues. If I recall correctly, the book began as a self-published project before it was picked up by Tor for this second iteration, and throughout that process, I assume it went through a lot more polishing and editing. I was therefore a bit surprised at the clunkiness of some of the prose, as well as the awkward delivery of some of Cas’ more cringe-worthy lines. A lot of the times her internal dialogue felt like a messy stream of consciousness, spelling out every thought process and emotion, which really made it hard to concentrate on everything else happening in the plot.
Story-wise, this novel also falls squarely in the technothriller category. But with regards to the “techno” part of thet equation, I feel as though the author left things neither here nor there. She goes into a great deal of detail about certain mathematical or technological concepts, but overall worldbuilding feels pretty vague and undefined. On top of the sci-fi elements, there are also paranormal factors at play, but again, the why’s and how’s of it are not very well explained.
But here’s what I did like: the characters, despite their flaws, are compelling and memorable—especially Cas. Without giving away too much of the story, what our protagonist struggles with here is a conflict that rattles her to her core, because it threatens one of the only things she can count on: her mind. When someone who prides herself on her logic and intelligence is faced with the possibility that she can’t trust her own thoughts, the results are as interesting to read about as you would expect. Even the villain is impressive, their whole bent-on-taking-over-the-world angle notwithstanding. I liked how none of the characters were black and white, with the line between good and evil not only being blurred and uncertain, but redrawn again and again throughout the course of this tale.
All told, Zero Sum Game was a lot of fun to read, the story made even more intriguing by its bold and unforgettable characters as well as themes exploring topics like psychology, mind control, and futuristic tech. That said, I thought the novel’s full scope and potential was likely held back by minor issues like plot pacing and structural flaws. Nevertheless, it’s a solid debut and I think most sci-fi and thriller fans will enjoy it and appreciate it for what it is.
July 24, 2023
I really liked this. It was a smart urban fantasy with a mask of science fiction. It's gritty, it's mathy, it's confronting social decline and disease in a telling way, and honestly, I think that's UF at its finest.
The star is removed because the central conceit was a bit thin, for me, compared to the world written. But I will (and have!) continue the series.
CONTENT WARNING:
The star is removed because the central conceit was a bit thin, for me, compared to the world written. But I will (and have!) continue the series.
CONTENT WARNING:
May 13, 2020
Reseña en español en el blog
First of all, thank you to Tor Books and NetGalley for providing me with an eARC of this book in exchange of my honest opinion.
I’ve had my eye on this book, first self-published in 2014, for a while, so when I heard Tor was going to reprint it this year, I knew I had to read it. After all, a thriller in which the main character’s superpower is no less than math made me too curious to let it pass.
Even though Zero Sum Game turned out to be very different from what I expected, it pleasantly surprised me. To begin with, it has a quick pace from the beginning that doesn’t slow down at any point, and lots of plot twists that I didn’t expect at all. Also, as far as I know, the author worked as a stuntwoman in Hollywood, and that’s reflected in her frenetic action scenes that’d sure be perfect for a movie adaptation.
However, the best part of the novel for me was, without a doubt, its characters. Cas is stubborn, impulsive, hot-headed, selfish and immoral, but also extremely intelligent. Her powerful personality, along with Huang’s passion for math that she shares with our heroine, make her one of the most interesting narrators I’ve read in a long time. And, despite having superpowers in a world where it’s not common to have them, she isn’t invincible, which makes her even more human.
The rest of the characters don’t fall far behind: Rio is the only person Cas trusts and a psychopath with firm religious convictions who only attacks those who deserves God’s punishment. Arthur is a private detective with a good heart, but ready to break any rules to achieve his goal. And Checker is a brilliant, sassy hacker with a great sense of humour. The group dynamics is most curious and, although Cas makes it clear none of them is her friend, it’s impossible not to grow fond of them.
As a negative thing, I’ll say the ending was a bit disappointing because it was too open and left lots of questions unresolved, but there are more books in the series and I hope to enjoy them as much as this one.
All in all, if you’re looking for a fresh, original story, full of action (and math references) and that’ll surprise you, Zero Sum Game is a safe bet.
Trigger warnings:
Violence, ableism (called out), death, hallucinations, imprisonment, manipulation.
First of all, thank you to Tor Books and NetGalley for providing me with an eARC of this book in exchange of my honest opinion.
I’ve had my eye on this book, first self-published in 2014, for a while, so when I heard Tor was going to reprint it this year, I knew I had to read it. After all, a thriller in which the main character’s superpower is no less than math made me too curious to let it pass.
Even though Zero Sum Game turned out to be very different from what I expected, it pleasantly surprised me. To begin with, it has a quick pace from the beginning that doesn’t slow down at any point, and lots of plot twists that I didn’t expect at all. Also, as far as I know, the author worked as a stuntwoman in Hollywood, and that’s reflected in her frenetic action scenes that’d sure be perfect for a movie adaptation.
However, the best part of the novel for me was, without a doubt, its characters. Cas is stubborn, impulsive, hot-headed, selfish and immoral, but also extremely intelligent. Her powerful personality, along with Huang’s passion for math that she shares with our heroine, make her one of the most interesting narrators I’ve read in a long time. And, despite having superpowers in a world where it’s not common to have them, she isn’t invincible, which makes her even more human.
The rest of the characters don’t fall far behind: Rio is the only person Cas trusts and a psychopath with firm religious convictions who only attacks those who deserves God’s punishment. Arthur is a private detective with a good heart, but ready to break any rules to achieve his goal. And Checker is a brilliant, sassy hacker with a great sense of humour. The group dynamics is most curious and, although Cas makes it clear none of them is her friend, it’s impossible not to grow fond of them.
As a negative thing, I’ll say the ending was a bit disappointing because it was too open and left lots of questions unresolved, but there are more books in the series and I hope to enjoy them as much as this one.
All in all, if you’re looking for a fresh, original story, full of action (and math references) and that’ll surprise you, Zero Sum Game is a safe bet.
Trigger warnings:
Violence, ableism (called out), death, hallucinations, imprisonment, manipulation.
March 18, 2023
Zero Sum Game
By S.L. Huang
What an exciting ride! A gal that does fast computations in her head is also a kick a$$ at getting bad guys, or those she thinks are bad guys. But some powerful players after her for her brain but not for her math skills.
This is a fast paced, high action, mystery, with mind control psychics. Extremely believable. Loved it!
By S.L. Huang
What an exciting ride! A gal that does fast computations in her head is also a kick a$$ at getting bad guys, or those she thinks are bad guys. But some powerful players after her for her brain but not for her math skills.
This is a fast paced, high action, mystery, with mind control psychics. Extremely believable. Loved it!
January 15, 2019
I'll thank you to talk to me like the heavily armed person I am.
Galley provided by publisher
Rep: Latino side character
If, like me, you enjoy plenty of action (and I mean plenty) in your books, then Zero Sum Game is the book for you. From page one, it's busy and intense, and there were definitely no points where I thought there was too much of a lull. So, all in all, perfect for me and my short attention span.
You might think, therefore, that I'd rate this book a lot higher than I have. Mainly, I didn't because, for all that the plot never let up, I had a little trouble always feeling sympathetic towards some of the characters, in particular Cas and Rio. I liked Cas, but every time she blithely insisted on asserting how much she trusted Rio and couldn't work with anyone who wouldn't work with him too, I had to roll my eyes. Because Rio is described as being a mass-murdering sadist. He is a psychopath (although apparently calling him this is crossing a line for Cas. And mass murder isn't? Okay). But Cas trusting him is supposed to be enough for other people to trust him too. So yeah. I could definitely see more where Arthur and Checker were coming from with this. Additionally, the plot somewhat revolved around Rio and I just couldn't side with him and Cas enough to actually care.
Then there was the little problem of how Cas just seemed to kill everyone who got in her way. I wouldn't mind so much if they were all genuinely bad guys but they just seemed to be anyone she categorised as impeding her. There was a part in the middle, when Arthur calls her out on this, where I thought here we go, here's going to be some soul-searching and character development, but it seemed to get dropped fairly quickly.
But lack of sympathy for characters aside, I enjoyed this book. It was an action-packed ride and definitely one I'd recommend if you're looking for a quick thriller to read.
January 8, 2023
Re-read 1/8/2023. I listened to the audio version this time. The narrator added a lot of color to a great story. 5 stars for the audio version.
---------------
Thanks to a NetGalley ARC I've had this gorgeous piece of speculative fiction sitting in my tbr for long weeks. At the publisher's request, reviews shouldn't be posted more than two weeks before publishing date. My excitement and expectation levels were through the roof before I could finally dive into this amazing story.
This is a crime thriller with PNR elements.
🌟 Non-stop action
🌟 Utterly unique characters
🌟 Mind bending mystery
🌟 Great flow & pacing
I was so hungry for it that I literally inhaled this story. 5 stars for the cover and 5 stars for the title which are always the strongest selling points for me to pick up a book.
If there is any little thing I found lacking, it would be just a smattering of humor to lighten up the heavy plot. Other than that, it is perfect.
PS. for my romance loving reader friends --- there is no romance in this book. Sorry #notsorry ;-)
---------------
Thanks to a NetGalley ARC I've had this gorgeous piece of speculative fiction sitting in my tbr for long weeks. At the publisher's request, reviews shouldn't be posted more than two weeks before publishing date. My excitement and expectation levels were through the roof before I could finally dive into this amazing story.
This is a crime thriller with PNR elements.
🌟 Non-stop action
🌟 Utterly unique characters
🌟 Mind bending mystery
🌟 Great flow & pacing
I was so hungry for it that I literally inhaled this story. 5 stars for the cover and 5 stars for the title which are always the strongest selling points for me to pick up a book.
If there is any little thing I found lacking, it would be just a smattering of humor to lighten up the heavy plot. Other than that, it is perfect.
PS. for my romance loving reader friends --- there is no romance in this book. Sorry #notsorry ;-)
July 19, 2024
This was good, with some reservations. I enjoyed the near future world, most of the characters and some of the moral dilemmas set up. The three main protagonists were all a little bit over-powered. It was hard to reconcile the seemingly omnipotence of the bad "guy" when she made obvious mistakes. Cas was a tad bit too competent as well but the science geek in me tended to overlook that just in case the fantasy that I can do math that quickly actually comes true.
I will almost certainly read the next
I will almost certainly read the next
December 2, 2019
Total, popcorn fun. A protagonist whose normal reaction to situations is to shoot first (and probably second, too) and whose superpower is applied physics and geometry, or math, as she calls it.
Cas Russell does retrievals, and her latest case gets her into serious trouble, on the run with various shady types after her and the detective on the same case. There are lots of examples of Cas' amazing ability to figure out where something will be, based on computations, and a growing sense that there's something deeper and darker going on, with her ability and how she came about it. We're only given hints, and I'm on board for possibly more details, and more crazy Cas action, in book 2.
Cas Russell does retrievals, and her latest case gets her into serious trouble, on the run with various shady types after her and the detective on the same case. There are lots of examples of Cas' amazing ability to figure out where something will be, based on computations, and a growing sense that there's something deeper and darker going on, with her ability and how she came about it. We're only given hints, and I'm on board for possibly more details, and more crazy Cas action, in book 2.
October 30, 2018
An action-filled first novel, featuring Cas Russell, a female super(anti)hero who can calculate trajectories (etc.) on the fly, in her head. She’s well-armed, quick to shoot a (perceived) enemy, and her mentor and protector is a psychopathic killer. The setting is contemporary LA, and the action is largely gun battles and car chases. The supervillain, a poised beauty who has a library of first editions, specializes in telepathy and mind control, and her org, the mysterious Pithica, claims to be working for Whirled Peas -- but leaves a pretty awesome body-count of collateral damage behind their “philanthropy.” Note that there is a truly gruesome mass-murder crime scene, and a disturbing number of killings by the antihero.
But, wait, there are actually some hints of subtlety and character development between action scenes. Nice hooks for sequels, but no resolution whatever here — this is book 1 of at least 4. The author previously self-published four volumes of her “Russell’s Attic” series, Tor picked them up, and edited a revised vol. 1.
Mixed feelings on this one. The pages fly by, and the action is nonstop. The level of graphic violence is disturbing, and cost the book a star. But it’s pretty much superhero-cartoon level stuff, at the better end of that spectrum. So, strong 3 stars here, and I’ll likely read the next.
Love her tagline: “SL Huang – SpecFic author. Mathematician. Gunslinger.” She says that she started the series in frustration that her math skills weren’t making her a better softball player. She’s the first professional female armorer in the (film) Industry: https://www.slhuang.com/
Here's the best review I saw here, by Charlotte: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
But, wait, there are actually some hints of subtlety and character development between action scenes. Nice hooks for sequels, but no resolution whatever here — this is book 1 of at least 4. The author previously self-published four volumes of her “Russell’s Attic” series, Tor picked them up, and edited a revised vol. 1.
Mixed feelings on this one. The pages fly by, and the action is nonstop. The level of graphic violence is disturbing, and cost the book a star. But it’s pretty much superhero-cartoon level stuff, at the better end of that spectrum. So, strong 3 stars here, and I’ll likely read the next.
Love her tagline: “SL Huang – SpecFic author. Mathematician. Gunslinger.” She says that she started the series in frustration that her math skills weren’t making her a better softball player. She’s the first professional female armorer in the (film) Industry: https://www.slhuang.com/
Here's the best review I saw here, by Charlotte: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
sample-but-no
September 19, 2023It pains me, but I don't think this book is gonna work for me. I picked it up after very much enjoying S.L. Huang's The Water Outlaws and Burning Roses, but this is a very different beast, more of a sci-fi action book, heavy on the action.
I knew we were off to a rocky start when we are dropped into a scene with violent Colombian drug lords... Um, just sorry. I've worked in the drug policy field too long to accept this as anything other than Hollywood fiction 95% of the time. The story quickly takes a turn into conspiracy territory that could potentially make it more interesting...but 15% in and I'm already struggling with Cas, the main character. She's maybe 25 and has a world-weary sarcasm that feels both unearned and like an overused stereotype.
This was Huang's debut and I can confidently say from reading her later works she's improved LOADS in terms of character and story pacing. I think I will just wait to see what she offers us next, rather than delving into this early book / trilogy of hers.
I knew we were off to a rocky start when we are dropped into a scene with violent Colombian drug lords... Um, just sorry. I've worked in the drug policy field too long to accept this as anything other than Hollywood fiction 95% of the time. The story quickly takes a turn into conspiracy territory that could potentially make it more interesting...but 15% in and I'm already struggling with Cas, the main character. She's maybe 25 and has a world-weary sarcasm that feels both unearned and like an overused stereotype.
This was Huang's debut and I can confidently say from reading her later works she's improved LOADS in terms of character and story pacing. I think I will just wait to see what she offers us next, rather than delving into this early book / trilogy of hers.
March 6, 2022
Ridiculously fun sci-fi thriller, exactly what I needed to take my mind off the news this week. Ostensibly a book about a mathematically superpowered gunslinger for hire chasing a shadowy conspiracy, actually a character-driven thrill-ride centering not one but two delightful platonic male/female friendships. (Rating for language.)
August 7, 2019
Just one question now: WHERE ARE MY DAMN MATH SUPERPOWERS?
On to book two!
4.5 stars!
On to book two!
4.5 stars!
October 1, 2018
3.5 stars
Zero Sum Game is a sci-fi thriller and the first book in the Russell's Attic series. It follows Cas Russell, a mercenary whose superpower is based on mathematics.
I think this is the kind of story that would work perfectly as a movie. It's fast-paced and full of action, fight scenes and unpredictable twists - just the kind of thing I'd like to watch on a screen. Someone please adapt this, I need it.
As a book, it's not exactly my kind of thing, but I liked it anyway.
I'm not sure sci-fi thrillers are a genre that appeals to me, but I can't deny that I was really invested in the characters even when I wasn't finding the plot interesting. If you like this genre and you're interested in a story with magical mathematics and a diverse cast, I really recommend this. I decided to read this story because I want to read most books in which the main characters are women who are in some way scientists - and I ended up really liking Cas and the descriptions of her mathematical abilities, but the main reason this book worked for me were the character dynamics.
I loved Cas Russell's narration. Hotheaded, antisocial, not as rational as she think she is, flawed, one-woman army Cas Russel. I love her. And she's not too powerful for the story (reading about a character who solves things only with their superpowers would be boring), since the villain's power ends up being literal mind control.
I also really liked the side characters:
★ Rio was my favorite of the side characters. I never would have thought I would like a character who is basically a really religious psychopath, but he was a really entertaining one.
★ Arthur Tresting is a black PI, probably the most normal person in the group and would ordinarily be the sanest person in the room. Since sane people are easier to manipulate for the villain, that isn't always true.
★ Checker is the hacker. He collaborates with Arthur, is very good as disappearing, and has a sense of humor that often includes annoying others. I loved the humor in this book (another aspect that, again, would translate really well on a screen). Checker uses a wheelchair.
I loved them individually, but I loved them even more as a group. Powerful people working together against someone who's worse and reluctant friendships are some of my favorite things to read about.
Another thing I really liked were the questions this book raised about ethics and free will. I would have liked to see more of that.
While I did really like the characters and their interactions, I wasn't always invested in the plot. I think mind control makes the plot less interesting - when the villain can make everyone act like they want, there's an excuse for really unwise decisions that isn't only "because we needed a plot", but it doesn't make those decisions any wiser. It doesn't leave that much space for interesting character growth. Mind control also seems to make for a somewhat unsatisfying ending, but I can't explain without spoilers.
Zero Sum Game is a sci-fi thriller and the first book in the Russell's Attic series. It follows Cas Russell, a mercenary whose superpower is based on mathematics.
I think this is the kind of story that would work perfectly as a movie. It's fast-paced and full of action, fight scenes and unpredictable twists - just the kind of thing I'd like to watch on a screen. Someone please adapt this, I need it.
As a book, it's not exactly my kind of thing, but I liked it anyway.
I'm not sure sci-fi thrillers are a genre that appeals to me, but I can't deny that I was really invested in the characters even when I wasn't finding the plot interesting. If you like this genre and you're interested in a story with magical mathematics and a diverse cast, I really recommend this. I decided to read this story because I want to read most books in which the main characters are women who are in some way scientists - and I ended up really liking Cas and the descriptions of her mathematical abilities, but the main reason this book worked for me were the character dynamics.
I loved Cas Russell's narration. Hotheaded, antisocial, not as rational as she think she is, flawed, one-woman army Cas Russel. I love her. And she's not too powerful for the story (reading about a character who solves things only with their superpowers would be boring), since the villain's power ends up being literal mind control.
I also really liked the side characters:
★ Rio was my favorite of the side characters. I never would have thought I would like a character who is basically a really religious psychopath, but he was a really entertaining one.
★ Arthur Tresting is a black PI, probably the most normal person in the group and would ordinarily be the sanest person in the room. Since sane people are easier to manipulate for the villain, that isn't always true.
★ Checker is the hacker. He collaborates with Arthur, is very good as disappearing, and has a sense of humor that often includes annoying others. I loved the humor in this book (another aspect that, again, would translate really well on a screen). Checker uses a wheelchair.
I loved them individually, but I loved them even more as a group. Powerful people working together against someone who's worse and reluctant friendships are some of my favorite things to read about.
Another thing I really liked were the questions this book raised about ethics and free will. I would have liked to see more of that.
While I did really like the characters and their interactions, I wasn't always invested in the plot. I think mind control makes the plot less interesting - when the villain can make everyone act like they want, there's an excuse for really unwise decisions that isn't only "because we needed a plot", but it doesn't make those decisions any wiser. It doesn't leave that much space for interesting character growth. Mind control also seems to make for a somewhat unsatisfying ending, but I can't explain without spoilers.
May 8, 2024
This was not a good book for me. The bodycount is much too high and the casual way in which life is ended just makes me sad. There wasn't even that much gore when put in relation to the number of killings. In my opinion, Cas might be the most unpleasant main character I've come across in my last ten or so years of reading.
Gosh, and this was a BotM that I suggested. What a fail. I will not continue the series, but I still want to check out a more recent book by S.L. Huang to get a grasp on if her writing changed.
Gosh, and this was a BotM that I suggested. What a fail. I will not continue the series, but I still want to check out a more recent book by S.L. Huang to get a grasp on if her writing changed.
November 28, 2018
Actual rating: 4.5/5
Thanks to good teachers I fell in love with mathematics and geometry early in my life. There are art and thrill in reasoning, imagination and finding the truth.
Zero Sum Game’s protagonist - Cas Russell is a weaponized mathematics genius and a kick-ass heroine with mild psychopathic tendencies. She literally equates her way out of impossible situations and devastates her opponents with preternatural ease and speed. It seems I have a new crush.
Cas is a loner and an outcast leaving off the grid as a retrieval expert. Human life doesn’t mean much to her, and she rarely hesitates to pull the trigger. She trusts only one person, Rio, an absolute and ruthless psychopath whose ability to be effective borders on the unrealistic.
Her latest job goes wrong. It turns a seemingly naïve drug mule Cas rescued from Colombians is part of a secret and well-connected organisation, called Pithica. Despite the evident danger, Cas can’t help digging deeper into the case. Supported by Rio, irritatingly moral PI investigator and a brilliant computer-whiz she faces opponents with augmented psychic skills (telepathy).
I have a soft spot for unlikable heroes with psychopathic tendencies. Add genius mind to the mix and I’m sold. Cas and Rio are a lethal, terrifying duo. Cas’s mind-bending math skills allow her to dodge bullets, eavesdrop through closed doors thanks to in-depth understanding of sound waves properties, or jump from building to building through armed window. People don’t understand her and she doesn’t function well in society.
Rio is an unstoppable killing machine. He’s unable to experience normal human emotions. For unknown reasons the two trust each other on a visceral level. I hope SL Huang will explore their non-romantic, intriguing relationship in the sequels.
Secondary characters felt entertaining and well rounded. That said, remember we’re talking about explosive, fast and over-the-top pulp read. Don’t expect these characters to be realistic. Unless you live in a much more interesting world than I.
I loved this book. It has it all. Kick-ass heroine with mild psychopathic tendencies and genius mind. Mathematics. Preternatural skills. Conspiracies. Breakneck speed. Guns, mines and grenades.
I choose to turn a blind eye to its flaws - small inconsistencies, open ending, a ton of unanswered questions, cheesy moments directly out of an action B-movie. If such things irritate you Cas’s story will tire and disappoint you. If, however, you love explosive, hard-hitting and straightforward crime fiction with a supernatural twist try it.
Interesting fact Originally, the Cas Russell series (formerly the Russell’s Attic series) was self-published by the author and consisted of four books and two short stories. Because of upcoming Tor re-release of the series only book 1 is available for purchase at the moment. Some happy people still have older ebooks, for example books 1-3 bundle published in 2016. The question remains if the quality of the re-release improves the story enough to justify long wait for next instalments.
There is something beautiful about the high-speed math of a gunfight. I’ve heard other people opine that gunfights are confusing and disorienting, but to me, they always happen with perfect clarity: every bullet impact leads back to its source, every barrel sweeping through with its own exact trajectory.
Thanks to good teachers I fell in love with mathematics and geometry early in my life. There are art and thrill in reasoning, imagination and finding the truth.
Zero Sum Game’s protagonist - Cas Russell is a weaponized mathematics genius and a kick-ass heroine with mild psychopathic tendencies. She literally equates her way out of impossible situations and devastates her opponents with preternatural ease and speed. It seems I have a new crush.
Cas is a loner and an outcast leaving off the grid as a retrieval expert. Human life doesn’t mean much to her, and she rarely hesitates to pull the trigger. She trusts only one person, Rio, an absolute and ruthless psychopath whose ability to be effective borders on the unrealistic.
Her latest job goes wrong. It turns a seemingly naïve drug mule Cas rescued from Colombians is part of a secret and well-connected organisation, called Pithica. Despite the evident danger, Cas can’t help digging deeper into the case. Supported by Rio, irritatingly moral PI investigator and a brilliant computer-whiz she faces opponents with augmented psychic skills (telepathy).
I have a soft spot for unlikable heroes with psychopathic tendencies. Add genius mind to the mix and I’m sold. Cas and Rio are a lethal, terrifying duo. Cas’s mind-bending math skills allow her to dodge bullets, eavesdrop through closed doors thanks to in-depth understanding of sound waves properties, or jump from building to building through armed window. People don’t understand her and she doesn’t function well in society.
Rio is an unstoppable killing machine. He’s unable to experience normal human emotions. For unknown reasons the two trust each other on a visceral level. I hope SL Huang will explore their non-romantic, intriguing relationship in the sequels.
Secondary characters felt entertaining and well rounded. That said, remember we’re talking about explosive, fast and over-the-top pulp read. Don’t expect these characters to be realistic. Unless you live in a much more interesting world than I.
I loved this book. It has it all. Kick-ass heroine with mild psychopathic tendencies and genius mind. Mathematics. Preternatural skills. Conspiracies. Breakneck speed. Guns, mines and grenades.
I choose to turn a blind eye to its flaws - small inconsistencies, open ending, a ton of unanswered questions, cheesy moments directly out of an action B-movie. If such things irritate you Cas’s story will tire and disappoint you. If, however, you love explosive, hard-hitting and straightforward crime fiction with a supernatural twist try it.
Interesting fact Originally, the Cas Russell series (formerly the Russell’s Attic series) was self-published by the author and consisted of four books and two short stories. Because of upcoming Tor re-release of the series only book 1 is available for purchase at the moment. Some happy people still have older ebooks, for example books 1-3 bundle published in 2016. The question remains if the quality of the re-release improves the story enough to justify long wait for next instalments.
July 30, 2020
Loved the lead, Cas, the action/adventure, the math, and I would watch the hell out of a movie about her. And the short feature on weapons training with the author and the lead. The plot moved along at a brisk pace. Just the thing between naps on a sick day.
Library copy
Library copy
September 1, 2020
Das Debüt der Hollywood-Stuntfrau, Schusswaffen-Expertin („Battlestar Galactica“ und „Raising Hope“) und MIT Absolventin in Mathematik, S.L. Huang (Shi Lian Huang) ist ein ebenso rasantes wie abwechslungsreiches Thriller-Garn, das mit einem Schuss paranormalen Effekten hantiert. Die (Roman-)Heldin Cas Russell ist eine professionelle Wiederbeschafferin. Diesmal hat sie den telefonischen Auftrag einer gewissen Dawna Polk aus L.A. angenommen, ihre kleine Schwester Courtney aus den Fängen eines Drogenkartells zu befreien. Der Grund, warum Cas den Auftrag überhaupt angenommen hat, ist der, dass sich Dawna auf Cas‘ einzigen Freund, den mysteriösen Auftragskiller Rio, berufen hat. Cas gelingt es, Courtney mit Hilfe ihrer eigenen Superkräfte (sie ist ein Mathematikgenie und kann ihre Umgebung als eine Sammlung aus Gleichungen und Vektoren wahrzunehmen, damit verwandelt sie Alltagsgegenstände in tödliche Waffen) aus den Fängen der Drogenmafia zu befreien und zu einem sicheren Ort zu bringen. Gleichzeitig mischt ein Privatermittler sich in die Sache ein und findet die beiden in einem Motelzimmer, Cas fragt sich, wie er sie orten konnte und geht direkt zum Angriff über. Er hat sie nach „Pithica“ gefragt, aber der Name sagt Cas nichts. Kaum hat sie ihn entwaffnet, düst sie mit einem geklauten Wagen ab…
Im Laufe des Romans trifft Cas, unsere Superheldin, auf Dawna Polk, die nichts anderes als eine Superschurkin ist. Cas hat bereits am eigenen Leib erfahren, wozu sie fähig ist: Sie kann Gedanken lesen. Als wäre das nicht schon schlimm genug: Dawna kann einem auch einreden, was man denken und fühlen soll. Sie dreht Menschen um und macht sie zu ihren Sklaven. Selbst eine mentale Mauer aus mathematischen Aufgaben, die Cas gegen diesen Einfluss errichtet, kann sie nicht vollständig schützen.
Dawna Polk rekrutiert Menschen für ihre Organisation „Pithica“. Dieses Netzwerk hat bereits Regierungsbehörden unterwandert und errichtet allmählich eine auf Gedankenkontrolle basierende Herrschaft. Cas findet irgendwann heraus, dass „Pithica“ nicht davor zurückschreckt, jedes notwendige Opfer zu bringen, das nötig ist, um die eigene Existenz verborgen zu halten. Dazu gehört auch das Eliminieren von lästigen Mitwissern. Müßig ist es noch zu erwähnen, dass der Knoten zum Schluß zu Cas Wohlgefallen aufgelöst wird, nicht ohne daß sie sich fragt, ob ein Mensch wie Cas Freunde haben kann…
Ich muss gestehen, dass ich den Roman in erster Linie deshalb gelesen habe, weil ich die Autorin mit der chinesisch-amerikanischen Autorin R.F. Kuang verwechselt habe. Das hat aber dem Lesegenuss keinen Abbruch getan, ich habe nur etwas anderes bekommen als erwartet. Wie gesagt, der Roman ist spannend und ein Pageturner, er demonstriert nicht nur eine doppelbödige Handlung, bei der sich die Protagonisten sich selbst nicht trauen können. Für die leicht autistische Cas bedeutet es, dass sie (am Ende) beginnt Vertrauen zu schenken und auch Vertrauen annimmt. So machen das Freunde eben und aber es fällt ihr schwer…
Es wäre für mich ein sympathisches Buch geworden, wenn die Autorin (und Cas) nicht so eine Waffenfetischistin gewesen wäre, bei fast jeder sich bietenden Möglichkeiten erwähnt sie, die Vorzüge und Nachteile der jeweiligen Tötungsmaschinen und als ausgemachte Soziopathin benützt sie sie auch. Sie wird als ein Nerd geschildert, die keine Freunde hat und diese auch nicht braucht. Tatsächlich aber reagiert sie ständig hochemotional. Wobei sie im Wesentlichen die Grundemotionen Wut und Ärger bedient. Und da sie auch noch eine extrem geringe Frustrationstoleranz hat, zu der sich eine extrem hohe Gewaltbereitschaft gesellt, ist es kein Wunder, dass es an jeder Ecke knallt. Ich kann mit dem amerikanischen Waffenfetischismus, den diese Autorin voll im Sinne der NRA praktiziert, weder etwas anfangen noch ertragen, deshalb einen Punkt Abzug bei einem insgesamt guten Debüt...
Im Laufe des Romans trifft Cas, unsere Superheldin, auf Dawna Polk, die nichts anderes als eine Superschurkin ist. Cas hat bereits am eigenen Leib erfahren, wozu sie fähig ist: Sie kann Gedanken lesen. Als wäre das nicht schon schlimm genug: Dawna kann einem auch einreden, was man denken und fühlen soll. Sie dreht Menschen um und macht sie zu ihren Sklaven. Selbst eine mentale Mauer aus mathematischen Aufgaben, die Cas gegen diesen Einfluss errichtet, kann sie nicht vollständig schützen.
Dawna Polk rekrutiert Menschen für ihre Organisation „Pithica“. Dieses Netzwerk hat bereits Regierungsbehörden unterwandert und errichtet allmählich eine auf Gedankenkontrolle basierende Herrschaft. Cas findet irgendwann heraus, dass „Pithica“ nicht davor zurückschreckt, jedes notwendige Opfer zu bringen, das nötig ist, um die eigene Existenz verborgen zu halten. Dazu gehört auch das Eliminieren von lästigen Mitwissern. Müßig ist es noch zu erwähnen, dass der Knoten zum Schluß zu Cas Wohlgefallen aufgelöst wird, nicht ohne daß sie sich fragt, ob ein Mensch wie Cas Freunde haben kann…
Ich muss gestehen, dass ich den Roman in erster Linie deshalb gelesen habe, weil ich die Autorin mit der chinesisch-amerikanischen Autorin R.F. Kuang verwechselt habe. Das hat aber dem Lesegenuss keinen Abbruch getan, ich habe nur etwas anderes bekommen als erwartet. Wie gesagt, der Roman ist spannend und ein Pageturner, er demonstriert nicht nur eine doppelbödige Handlung, bei der sich die Protagonisten sich selbst nicht trauen können. Für die leicht autistische Cas bedeutet es, dass sie (am Ende) beginnt Vertrauen zu schenken und auch Vertrauen annimmt. So machen das Freunde eben und aber es fällt ihr schwer…
Es wäre für mich ein sympathisches Buch geworden, wenn die Autorin (und Cas) nicht so eine Waffenfetischistin gewesen wäre, bei fast jeder sich bietenden Möglichkeiten erwähnt sie, die Vorzüge und Nachteile der jeweiligen Tötungsmaschinen und als ausgemachte Soziopathin benützt sie sie auch. Sie wird als ein Nerd geschildert, die keine Freunde hat und diese auch nicht braucht. Tatsächlich aber reagiert sie ständig hochemotional. Wobei sie im Wesentlichen die Grundemotionen Wut und Ärger bedient. Und da sie auch noch eine extrem geringe Frustrationstoleranz hat, zu der sich eine extrem hohe Gewaltbereitschaft gesellt, ist es kein Wunder, dass es an jeder Ecke knallt. Ich kann mit dem amerikanischen Waffenfetischismus, den diese Autorin voll im Sinne der NRA praktiziert, weder etwas anfangen noch ertragen, deshalb einen Punkt Abzug bei einem insgesamt guten Debüt...
April 16, 2021
Review to come!
February 18, 2022
4/5
https://delivreenlivres.home.blog/202...
Il y a des moments où on a très envie de lire un genre précis et où il est vraiment très satisfaisant d’avoir trouvé LE livre qui tombe tellement bien. Ici je venais de visionner la première saison de série TV Reacher et j’avais fortement envie de rester dans une ambiance de thriller d’action. Zero Sum Game était le livre parfait pour cela, j’ai donc passé un excellent moment.
On est sur un thriller qui commence comme un thriller action contemporain classique, mais auquel s’ajoute un twist SF qui arrive plus tard.
Ce livre c’est un peu comme le principe de tout les séries policières américaines qui inondent notre TV depuis des années : on a un protagoniste qui a « un truc » en plus et qui utilise ce truc pour chasser les méchants ou faire son travail (genre Mentalist, Elementary, Numb3rs …)
Bon ici on n’est pas dans un contexte policier du tout, mais on a le protagoniste qui a un truc que les autres n’ont pas ce qui l’aide à faire son boulot.
Et ce truc pour Cas Russell c’est une obsession pour les calculs, par exemple les calculs de vecteurs de trajectoire, l’optimisation de chaque geste … A tel point que son cerveau est en permanence en train de calculer tout ce qui se passe autours d’elle. Plus même qu’un obsession, c’est une obligation pour elle. Elle ne peux pas s’en empêcher sinon elle a l’impression de devenir folle, son cerveau tournant en boucle.
Cette particularité l’a toujours maintenu éloignée des autres, surtout parce que pour elle la logique est toujours plus importante que l’émotionnel. Elle est trop bizarre pour l’humain moyen. Mais elle n’a pas de problème avec ça, elle considère même sa particularité un peu comme un super pouvoir et elle en joue du mieux qu’elle peut.
Son seul « ami » d’ailleurs est un sociopathe (je précise : pas un tueur en série), le genre de personne dont la vie est une mission mais qui plait à Cas parce qu’elle peut le « calculer ». Il lui est compréhensible car comme elle il n’est pas entièrement régit par ses émotions et elle n’a pas de surprise avec lui, contrairement aux autres humains.
Cas a trouvé un équilibre en devenant mercenaire. Elle utilise ses calculs pour se sortir de situations très dangereuses et cet exercice forcé apaise ses pulsions. En plus le fait de devoir calculer tout en permanence l’aide pour ses missions car du coup elle reste calme et concentrée quoi qu’il arrive. La peur, elle ne connait pas ou peu, du moins pendant l’action car elle n’a pas le temps d’y penser en tout cas.
Bien sur elle s’assure toujours d’être du bon coté de la morale quand elle prend une mission, elle n’a pas envie de se retrouver recherchée par toutes les polices. Elle compte bien reste inconnue et mise sa réputation sur sa discrétion.
L’intrigue de ce tome commence alors que Cas a été payé pour sauver une jeune femme qui a été capturé par un gang. C’est la sœur de la jeune femme qui l’a contacté via une connaissance commune.
Mais c’est la que les choses semblent devenir de plus en plus bizarre. Un ancien policier, devenu détective privé, est aussi sur l’affaire et recherche la même jeune femme. Apparemment celle ci n’est pas aussi propre sur elle que tout semblait l’indiquer dans les recherches que Cas a fait avant d’accepter l’affaire. Elle est même la principale suspecte dans une série de meurtres de journalistes dans un autre état, ainsi que livreuse de drogue pour le gang …
Cas va vite comprendre qu’on l’a totalement dupé depuis le début et que rien dans toute cette affaire n’est ce qu’il semble être au premier abord … Evidemment elle n’a pas l’intention de laisser ceux qui l’ont forcée à se mettre en danger et se dévoiler s’en sortir indemne. Elle compte bien les retrouver et se venger … Mais ça ne va pas être simple …
Pour ceux qui ont un peu peur du coté mathématique je vous rassure. Il n’y a aucune équation ni chiffres dans le livres, tout est raconté de façon simple et compréhensible. Pour Cas tout est instinctif, elle ne se mets pas devant un papier pour calculer son prochain saut xD
Du coup c’est bien moins « geek » (si on veut) que Numb3rs par exemple, on n’a pas de passages d’explications des théories et autre … C’est vraiment un livre qui peut être lu par tout le monde.
Après je c’est vrai que c’est le genre de principe qui peut avoir du mal à passer au début. C’est un peu gros quand même. J’étais un peu dans ce cas sur le début, pas super convaincue.
Mais je dois dire que si on aime le genre du thriller d’action avec moult retournements de situation, et si on arrive à ne pas trop se questionner sur le réalisme de l’ensemble, c’était une lecture vraiment très sympa et immersive.
Un bon page-turner en fait.
J’ai bien aimé le fait que Cas se remette en cause petit à petit. Cette situation étrange dans laquelle elle se trouve la pousse au delà de ses habitudes et lui fait rencontrer d’autres personnes. D’autres personnes qui éclairent des pans de ce qu’elle est devenu avec le temps sous une nouvelle lumière. Et elle n’aime pas trop qu’on lui ouvre les yeux sur ses priorités et les choix qu’elle a progressivement pris et qui l’ont enfermé dans une espèce de bulle sans personne pour la conseiller ou remettre en cause ses choix de vie extrêmes.
Du coup en plus d’être très porté sur l’action, l’enquête pour découvrir qui est derrière tout ça et les retournements de situation, on peut dire qu’on est aussi sur un roman très centré sur les personnages et leur évolution. Ce qui rajoute un gros plus.
Dans l’ensemble j’ai passé un bon moment, je l’ai lu quasiment d’une traite et c’était exactement ce que je recherchais dans un livre à ce moment la !
Je lirai la suite avec plaisir.
https://delivreenlivres.home.blog/202...
Il y a des moments où on a très envie de lire un genre précis et où il est vraiment très satisfaisant d’avoir trouvé LE livre qui tombe tellement bien. Ici je venais de visionner la première saison de série TV Reacher et j’avais fortement envie de rester dans une ambiance de thriller d’action. Zero Sum Game était le livre parfait pour cela, j’ai donc passé un excellent moment.
On est sur un thriller qui commence comme un thriller action contemporain classique, mais auquel s’ajoute un twist SF qui arrive plus tard.
Ce livre c’est un peu comme le principe de tout les séries policières américaines qui inondent notre TV depuis des années : on a un protagoniste qui a « un truc » en plus et qui utilise ce truc pour chasser les méchants ou faire son travail (genre Mentalist, Elementary, Numb3rs …)
Bon ici on n’est pas dans un contexte policier du tout, mais on a le protagoniste qui a un truc que les autres n’ont pas ce qui l’aide à faire son boulot.
Et ce truc pour Cas Russell c’est une obsession pour les calculs, par exemple les calculs de vecteurs de trajectoire, l’optimisation de chaque geste … A tel point que son cerveau est en permanence en train de calculer tout ce qui se passe autours d’elle. Plus même qu’un obsession, c’est une obligation pour elle. Elle ne peux pas s’en empêcher sinon elle a l’impression de devenir folle, son cerveau tournant en boucle.
Cette particularité l’a toujours maintenu éloignée des autres, surtout parce que pour elle la logique est toujours plus importante que l’émotionnel. Elle est trop bizarre pour l’humain moyen. Mais elle n’a pas de problème avec ça, elle considère même sa particularité un peu comme un super pouvoir et elle en joue du mieux qu’elle peut.
Son seul « ami » d’ailleurs est un sociopathe (je précise : pas un tueur en série), le genre de personne dont la vie est une mission mais qui plait à Cas parce qu’elle peut le « calculer ». Il lui est compréhensible car comme elle il n’est pas entièrement régit par ses émotions et elle n’a pas de surprise avec lui, contrairement aux autres humains.
Cas a trouvé un équilibre en devenant mercenaire. Elle utilise ses calculs pour se sortir de situations très dangereuses et cet exercice forcé apaise ses pulsions. En plus le fait de devoir calculer tout en permanence l’aide pour ses missions car du coup elle reste calme et concentrée quoi qu’il arrive. La peur, elle ne connait pas ou peu, du moins pendant l’action car elle n’a pas le temps d’y penser en tout cas.
Bien sur elle s’assure toujours d’être du bon coté de la morale quand elle prend une mission, elle n’a pas envie de se retrouver recherchée par toutes les polices. Elle compte bien reste inconnue et mise sa réputation sur sa discrétion.
L’intrigue de ce tome commence alors que Cas a été payé pour sauver une jeune femme qui a été capturé par un gang. C’est la sœur de la jeune femme qui l’a contacté via une connaissance commune.
Mais c’est la que les choses semblent devenir de plus en plus bizarre. Un ancien policier, devenu détective privé, est aussi sur l’affaire et recherche la même jeune femme. Apparemment celle ci n’est pas aussi propre sur elle que tout semblait l’indiquer dans les recherches que Cas a fait avant d’accepter l’affaire. Elle est même la principale suspecte dans une série de meurtres de journalistes dans un autre état, ainsi que livreuse de drogue pour le gang …
Cas va vite comprendre qu’on l’a totalement dupé depuis le début et que rien dans toute cette affaire n’est ce qu’il semble être au premier abord … Evidemment elle n’a pas l’intention de laisser ceux qui l’ont forcée à se mettre en danger et se dévoiler s’en sortir indemne. Elle compte bien les retrouver et se venger … Mais ça ne va pas être simple …
Pour ceux qui ont un peu peur du coté mathématique je vous rassure. Il n’y a aucune équation ni chiffres dans le livres, tout est raconté de façon simple et compréhensible. Pour Cas tout est instinctif, elle ne se mets pas devant un papier pour calculer son prochain saut xD
Du coup c’est bien moins « geek » (si on veut) que Numb3rs par exemple, on n’a pas de passages d’explications des théories et autre … C’est vraiment un livre qui peut être lu par tout le monde.
Après je c’est vrai que c’est le genre de principe qui peut avoir du mal à passer au début. C’est un peu gros quand même. J’étais un peu dans ce cas sur le début, pas super convaincue.
Mais je dois dire que si on aime le genre du thriller d’action avec moult retournements de situation, et si on arrive à ne pas trop se questionner sur le réalisme de l’ensemble, c’était une lecture vraiment très sympa et immersive.
Un bon page-turner en fait.
J’ai bien aimé le fait que Cas se remette en cause petit à petit. Cette situation étrange dans laquelle elle se trouve la pousse au delà de ses habitudes et lui fait rencontrer d’autres personnes. D’autres personnes qui éclairent des pans de ce qu’elle est devenu avec le temps sous une nouvelle lumière. Et elle n’aime pas trop qu’on lui ouvre les yeux sur ses priorités et les choix qu’elle a progressivement pris et qui l’ont enfermé dans une espèce de bulle sans personne pour la conseiller ou remettre en cause ses choix de vie extrêmes.
Du coup en plus d’être très porté sur l’action, l’enquête pour découvrir qui est derrière tout ça et les retournements de situation, on peut dire qu’on est aussi sur un roman très centré sur les personnages et leur évolution. Ce qui rajoute un gros plus.
Dans l’ensemble j’ai passé un bon moment, je l’ai lu quasiment d’une traite et c’était exactement ce que je recherchais dans un livre à ce moment la !
Je lirai la suite avec plaisir.
February 11, 2020
Кас Ръсъл е много добра в откриването на изгубени вещи или хора, благодарение на това, че е аналитична и страхотен математик. Когато обаче я наемат да спаси младо момиче от лапите на мафията, осъзнава, че ситуацията в която се е забъркала е много по-опасна отколкото е подозирала.
Амииии, тази книга определено не е мой тип. Не ми допадна, четох я на инат, заради книжно предизвикателство и определено, не мисля да чета друго от този сорт. Да кажа, че не ми беше приятно да съм "в главата" на главната героиня, ще е прекалено меко казано. И преди са ме дразнили героини или герои, но тук положението беше плачевно. Ръсъл ми беше антипатична. Държанието и мислите й не можеха да задържат вниманието ми. Непрестанните пресмятаници на ум ме изкарваха извън нерви... просто не ми се четеше това отново и отново, макар че се подразбираше от името, корицата и резюмето, че ще бъдем заровени в математика... Героинята имаше проблясъци тип Макгайвър, които също ме дразнеха... никога не съм харесвала Макгайвър. Като добавим и факта, че героите в книгата си говориха ту на фамилия, ту на малко име.... СУПЕР ДРАЗНЕЩО... да му се не знае автора не може ли да избере или малко име или фамилия... непрестанно ту едното ту другото, в началото на книгата чак се обърквах ту Кортни, ту Полк... все едно са две различни личности. В добавка към всичко това, не можех да си изградя ясна представа как изглеждат героите. И това ме ПОБЪРКВАШЕ. Свикнала съм при първата ни среща с героите автора да ни даде описание.
Единствено харесах Рио. Допадаше ми това как всички се гипсираха щом разберяха кой е. Беше здраво, яко копеле. Сцените с него донесоха на тази книга от мен 2 звезди. Иначе щеше да е 1.
Амииии, тази книга определено не е мой тип. Не ми допадна, четох я на инат, заради книжно предизвикателство и определено, не мисля да чета друго от този сорт. Да кажа, че не ми беше приятно да съм "в главата" на главната героиня, ще е прекалено меко казано. И преди са ме дразнили героини или герои, но тук положението беше плачевно. Ръсъл ми беше антипатична. Държанието и мислите й не можеха да задържат вниманието ми. Непрестанните пресмятаници на ум ме изкарваха извън нерви... просто не ми се четеше това отново и отново, макар че се подразбираше от името, корицата и резюмето, че ще бъдем заровени в математика... Героинята имаше проблясъци тип Макгайвър, които също ме дразнеха... никога не съм харесвала Макгайвър. Като добавим и факта, че героите в книгата си говориха ту на фамилия, ту на малко име.... СУПЕР ДРАЗНЕЩО... да му се не знае автора не може ли да избере или малко име или фамилия... непрестанно ту едното ту другото, в началото на книгата чак се обърквах ту Кортни, ту Полк... все едно са две различни личности. В добавка към всичко това, не можех да си изградя ясна представа как изглеждат героите. И това ме ПОБЪРКВАШЕ. Свикнала съм при първата ни среща с героите автора да ни даде описание.
Единствено харесах Рио. Допадаше ми това как всички се гипсираха щом разберяха кой е. Беше здраво, яко копеле. Сцените с него донесоха на тази книга от мен 2 звезди. Иначе щеше да е 1.
March 16, 2019
'Note to self: To avoid being vulnerable to telepathy, become a psychopath.
No, bad plan, Cas.'
CAS RUSSELL CAN STEP ON ME ANY DAY
I mean the sass, the asshole demeanor, the character development, the Kate Daniels style kinda sorta found family arc? I'M WEAK. She's definitely remorseless about killing in a way that Kate isn't at all, but that's also something that improves as the story progresses so no complaints, really.
Cas has dark skin and looks Middle Eastern so points for a non-white heroine, Rio AKA closest-thing-to-a-friend is Asian and she gets involved with a Black PI who's tech guy is disabled and uses a wheel chair so not your usual run-of-the-mill sci-fi thriller with an all-white cast. What's more, the main antagonist is Asian and female so points for that, too. Oh and there's no romance.
Having said all that, I'll admit that I'm conflicted about my rating because while I think that the plot is a solid 3 stars, I loved the main character too much (and okay, the rest of the characters, too) to not give the book 4 stars so ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Favorite quotes: 'In fact, I'll be so unamused I'll put a bullet in you.'
'I was never quite clear on where the gray ended and the black and white began.'
'So I'll thank you to talk to me like the heavily armed person I am.'
'You look up ‘problem’ in the dictionary, you’ll find a picture of me putting a gun to your head, which is what I’m considering doing in about three seconds.'
No, bad plan, Cas.'
CAS RUSSELL CAN STEP ON ME ANY DAY
I mean the sass, the asshole demeanor, the character development, the Kate Daniels style kinda sorta found family arc? I'M WEAK. She's definitely remorseless about killing in a way that Kate isn't at all, but that's also something that improves as the story progresses so no complaints, really.
Cas has dark skin and looks Middle Eastern so points for a non-white heroine, Rio AKA closest-thing-to-a-friend is Asian and she gets involved with a Black PI who's tech guy is disabled and uses a wheel chair so not your usual run-of-the-mill sci-fi thriller with an all-white cast. What's more, the main antagonist is Asian and female so points for that, too. Oh and there's no romance.
Having said all that, I'll admit that I'm conflicted about my rating because while I think that the plot is a solid 3 stars, I loved the main character too much (and okay, the rest of the characters, too) to not give the book 4 stars so ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Favorite quotes: 'In fact, I'll be so unamused I'll put a bullet in you.'
'I was never quite clear on where the gray ended and the black and white began.'
'So I'll thank you to talk to me like the heavily armed person I am.'
'You look up ‘problem’ in the dictionary, you’ll find a picture of me putting a gun to your head, which is what I’m considering doing in about three seconds.'
September 29, 2018
I received this book through the publisher via Netgalley.
I've read a lot of urban fantasies--somewhere over 130--and it's hard for me to get into a new series at this point. I feel like I've seen it all. While Zero Sum Game does utilize some familiar tropes, Huang twists them around in inventive, fun ways. Straight up, Cas Russell comes across as many urban fantasy heroines do: almost friendless, ruthless, profane, and good at killing, and in the course of the book, she does make some genuine friends and allies. However, Cas's power is pretty darn unique: MATH. She algorithms her way into being the ultimate killing machine. Her battles are especially fun because you never know how she's going to scrape through.
And oh yeah, there are a lot of battles because Cas has caught the attention of some pretty bad folks. When people with kinda-sorta-superpowers clash, the action is fast and intense. Huang explores the greater Los Angeles area and creates some serious collateral damage in the process. I tend to be good at predicting endings, but I was genuinely surprised at where this book went.
This is a very promising start to a new series, and I'm thankful I had the chance to read an early galley!
I've read a lot of urban fantasies--somewhere over 130--and it's hard for me to get into a new series at this point. I feel like I've seen it all. While Zero Sum Game does utilize some familiar tropes, Huang twists them around in inventive, fun ways. Straight up, Cas Russell comes across as many urban fantasy heroines do: almost friendless, ruthless, profane, and good at killing, and in the course of the book, she does make some genuine friends and allies. However, Cas's power is pretty darn unique: MATH. She algorithms her way into being the ultimate killing machine. Her battles are especially fun because you never know how she's going to scrape through.
And oh yeah, there are a lot of battles because Cas has caught the attention of some pretty bad folks. When people with kinda-sorta-superpowers clash, the action is fast and intense. Huang explores the greater Los Angeles area and creates some serious collateral damage in the process. I tend to be good at predicting endings, but I was genuinely surprised at where this book went.
This is a very promising start to a new series, and I'm thankful I had the chance to read an early galley!
June 11, 2019
Reminds me a little of Fringe (tv show) + a tiny bit of Middlegame + rip-roaring action movies = AKA an incredible combination because there's scifi (ish) and action and grand conspiracies and moral dilemmas and Y.E.S. Ugh it was so good. Cas is amazing and brutal and wonderful and I like seeing her evolve over this book with regards to her relationships to other people. Checker was probably my fav - who doesn't love the funny computer whiz?? I need more of him. I like that there are more mysteries to be unraveled in the future books but I also don't like that because I want to know now!!!! haha. There were two characters in the beginning that I wish we had gotten more of though, that's really my only complaint.
July 18, 2024
I read this two months too late for the book of the month with my GR group, and because I'm so dedicated to avoiding spoilers I didn't read the group's comments on the book. Til now.
This story is set in the modern day and begins with a heist, of sorts, with our protag Cas Russell getting punched in the face. She's been captured while trying to rescue a kidnapped girl, but despite her precarious situation of being tied up and getting that aforementioned ass whooping Cas is not too concerned because she has a special gift. And that gift is math.
Cas is special, her brain is always running calculations and it gives her a lot of leverage against others. However a downside is that she seems to struggle with doing what is ethical versus doing what is efficient.
The moral and ethical conflict comes further into play after Cas gets caught up in a PI's investigation into a suspicious suicide case. Even if the man did kill himself, he tells Cas, the case is connected to a string of people making unusual decisions, some social, some political, and all completely out of left field.
Basically, it's possible there are people with other abilities out there... (hint since it's already in the summary blurb. it's psychic powers)
In short, now that I've finished and have read reviews from my gr group I can see that several dnf'ed this one and I get why, but I think the real disappointment comes from finishing because... what the heck? I love to complain about "telling and no showing" but this character literally tells us, the readers about how they have changed their attitude and immediately goes and does the same stuff. But not in a fun "fool the reader" way, just in a "area you serious rn" way.
Well. Closing review statement: At least it had fun action
This story is set in the modern day and begins with a heist, of sorts, with our protag Cas Russell getting punched in the face. She's been captured while trying to rescue a kidnapped girl, but despite her precarious situation of being tied up and getting that aforementioned ass whooping Cas is not too concerned because she has a special gift. And that gift is math.
Cas is special, her brain is always running calculations and it gives her a lot of leverage against others. However a downside is that she seems to struggle with doing what is ethical versus doing what is efficient.
The moral and ethical conflict comes further into play after Cas gets caught up in a PI's investigation into a suspicious suicide case. Even if the man did kill himself, he tells Cas, the case is connected to a string of people making unusual decisions, some social, some political, and all completely out of left field.
Basically, it's possible there are people with other abilities out there... (hint since it's already in the summary blurb. it's psychic powers)
In short, now that I've finished and have read reviews from my gr group I can see that several dnf'ed this one and I get why, but I think the real disappointment comes from finishing because... what the heck? I love to complain about "telling and no showing" but this character literally tells us, the readers about how they have changed their attitude and immediately goes and does the same stuff. But not in a fun "fool the reader" way, just in a "area you serious rn" way.
Well. Closing review statement: At least it had fun action
February 17, 2022
Well this was an absolute blast. Mathematics as a "superpower", or at least a story about a mathematician, has been something I've wanted to read for at least the last decade.
Conceptually this book is perfect for me, unfortunately I think the application of mathematics in this story is a little underwhelming but I haven't sat down to think of a better way to write such a story and even though it seemed like a simple nerdy facade it was still a whole lot of fun for an amateur enthusiast.
If you're not maths savvy this probably has no appeal for you, but at least be sure that you don't need to understand any mathematics to follow the story. Mostly the maths is used to accentuate badass kung fu manoeuvres, for eg. "I quickly calculated the trajectory which would maximise the impact force of a flying kick while allowing multiple possible exit vectors to hasten my departure". I made that quote up, but that's the kind of thing.
I think I've used the word enough times now to have turned away the maths haters, so let's get to the bones of the book. We're following around a loosely organised group of vigilante types as they uncover a conspiracy. It's really a detective style mystery that is tackled from a few angles.
Even though I've learned to deal with psychic powers running rampant in science fiction I'm still always disappointed when a story heads that way, as I was when it first came up in this story. It seemed like such a bad move in a maths-positive narrative but when I step back and think about it, it couldn't be more apt.
Pitting our logically minded mathemagician against such an illogical force was a clever choice. Psychic stuff always seems dodgy to me, the "forgetting I'm under the influence" ploys and the "I want to stop but I can't" moments grind my gears every time. But whack in a maths whiz and watch the logic loops untwirl, it's more fun than I anticipated.
The characters were all likeable. These are mostly not good people, maybe with the exception of the old private eye who seems at least to want to do the right thing, but I enjoyed all of their personalities.
We've got our young maths whiz, who is some kind of mercenary for hire. Her "friend" who she thinks is probably not actually a friend, but is the only person she truly trusts, and is something like a sociopathic religious zealot with a weird morality that drives his mass murderous activities. These two are joined by the older P.I. who is an ex cop now taking freelance work and his geeky tech guy who is actually hilarious, but also very good at his hacking and tracking.
They're a reluctant group and the reference to "herding cats" is used at least once. I really liked the mix of age groups and motivations. The endgame appears to be different for each individual even though their objectives intertwine. Does that make sense? I know what I mean.
Well I probably shouldn't say too much about the "bad guys" even though much of what I want to say is revealed pretty early. Suffice to say that these are interesting characters too and the mystery around their organisation is compelling.
Even though it's not as mathsy as I wanted, and even though the maths is more of a stylish embellishment than a feature of the plot, I enjoyed this immeasurably and I am going to chew through this series exponentially. (I wish it was more than just a pun, but I actually foresee a downward trend in the near future for my average reading times as I'm currently catching up on a bunch of recent scifi tv stuff).
Conceptually this book is perfect for me, unfortunately I think the application of mathematics in this story is a little underwhelming but I haven't sat down to think of a better way to write such a story and even though it seemed like a simple nerdy facade it was still a whole lot of fun for an amateur enthusiast.
If you're not maths savvy this probably has no appeal for you, but at least be sure that you don't need to understand any mathematics to follow the story. Mostly the maths is used to accentuate badass kung fu manoeuvres, for eg. "I quickly calculated the trajectory which would maximise the impact force of a flying kick while allowing multiple possible exit vectors to hasten my departure". I made that quote up, but that's the kind of thing.
I think I've used the word enough times now to have turned away the maths haters, so let's get to the bones of the book. We're following around a loosely organised group of vigilante types as they uncover a conspiracy. It's really a detective style mystery that is tackled from a few angles.
Even though I've learned to deal with psychic powers running rampant in science fiction I'm still always disappointed when a story heads that way, as I was when it first came up in this story. It seemed like such a bad move in a maths-positive narrative but when I step back and think about it, it couldn't be more apt.
Pitting our logically minded mathemagician against such an illogical force was a clever choice. Psychic stuff always seems dodgy to me, the "forgetting I'm under the influence" ploys and the "I want to stop but I can't" moments grind my gears every time. But whack in a maths whiz and watch the logic loops untwirl, it's more fun than I anticipated.
The characters were all likeable. These are mostly not good people, maybe with the exception of the old private eye who seems at least to want to do the right thing, but I enjoyed all of their personalities.
We've got our young maths whiz, who is some kind of mercenary for hire. Her "friend" who she thinks is probably not actually a friend, but is the only person she truly trusts, and is something like a sociopathic religious zealot with a weird morality that drives his mass murderous activities. These two are joined by the older P.I. who is an ex cop now taking freelance work and his geeky tech guy who is actually hilarious, but also very good at his hacking and tracking.
They're a reluctant group and the reference to "herding cats" is used at least once. I really liked the mix of age groups and motivations. The endgame appears to be different for each individual even though their objectives intertwine. Does that make sense? I know what I mean.
Well I probably shouldn't say too much about the "bad guys" even though much of what I want to say is revealed pretty early. Suffice to say that these are interesting characters too and the mystery around their organisation is compelling.
Even though it's not as mathsy as I wanted, and even though the maths is more of a stylish embellishment than a feature of the plot, I enjoyed this immeasurably and I am going to chew through this series exponentially. (I wish it was more than just a pun, but I actually foresee a downward trend in the near future for my average reading times as I'm currently catching up on a bunch of recent scifi tv stuff).
January 26, 2019
This is tricky. I've read one Jack Reacher book. I don't watch action movies. I'm no expert.
But this is a comic book in text.
It's the sort of book that makes you think the author has a math degree. does stunts, and loves guns. Which in fact is the case.
The heroine isn't credible, the plot is iffy, the sidekicks are creepy, and for all that it's unputdownable.
So ... Cas is good at math, the way Spider-man is good at physics. But somehow that also gives her advanced parkour skills, Bruce Lee's reflexes, Olympic shooting accuracy, and enough money to have safe houses all over North America. She kills anyone who looks at her crosswise, yet somehow the authorities never notice. She's OK because Rio is worse. And because she's offset by Dudley Do-right, oops I mean Arthur.
Rio wears a duster. Sigh. Really?
And Rio-Arthur are the men from every Stephanie Plum novel.
Cas's math skills are that thing Cumberbatch's Sherlock does when he visualizes boards full of equations. But I admit Huang's math degree at least allows us to read about math concepts that actually exist.
The villain requires us to suspend disbelief in a different area, but that's OK in a superhero story.
And, lest things get too silly, there are in fact some interesting moral dilemmas. Some are credible. Others are more, "Should I have killed all those people (thinks a minute) Yeah. I'm good."
And, of course, Cas can also hotwire a car in seconds. Probably one-handed. This Only Happens In Movies. Stop It, You Authors! And of course she is an expert motorcycle rider.
Read this book fast, enjoy it, and don't ask too many questions.
Doubt I'll read #2. These are not engaging characters, the kind you can build a series on.
But this is a comic book in text.
It's the sort of book that makes you think the author has a math degree. does stunts, and loves guns. Which in fact is the case.
The heroine isn't credible, the plot is iffy, the sidekicks are creepy, and for all that it's unputdownable.
So ... Cas is good at math, the way Spider-man is good at physics. But somehow that also gives her advanced parkour skills, Bruce Lee's reflexes, Olympic shooting accuracy, and enough money to have safe houses all over North America. She kills anyone who looks at her crosswise, yet somehow the authorities never notice. She's OK because Rio is worse. And because she's offset by Dudley Do-right, oops I mean Arthur.
Rio wears a duster. Sigh. Really?
And Rio-Arthur are the men from every Stephanie Plum novel.
Cas's math skills are that thing Cumberbatch's Sherlock does when he visualizes boards full of equations. But I admit Huang's math degree at least allows us to read about math concepts that actually exist.
The villain requires us to suspend disbelief in a different area, but that's OK in a superhero story.
And, lest things get too silly, there are in fact some interesting moral dilemmas. Some are credible. Others are more, "Should I have killed all those people (thinks a minute) Yeah. I'm good."
And, of course, Cas can also hotwire a car in seconds. Probably one-handed. This Only Happens In Movies. Stop It, You Authors! And of course she is an expert motorcycle rider.
Read this book fast, enjoy it, and don't ask too many questions.
Doubt I'll read #2. These are not engaging characters, the kind you can build a series on.
December 18, 2019
Zero Sum Game is a faced-paced, action-packed, nior techno-thiller with some clever twists. Reads like a mashup of Black Widow, The Matrix, and Mission Impossible. The story: An interesting morality play told by unreliable narrator Cas Russel, an angry young woman with a secret past (ala Natasha Romanoff) who excels at math and killing people. Pithica is the Matrix, a shadowy organization that affects global crime, politics and business for good, ill, or maybe both. The question is who to believe? The Mission: Take down Pithica, with her “friends,” the even more murderous Rio, the moralist Arthur and computer wiz Checker. Very fun. Huang's narrative keeps you guessing til the end and maybe after! I’ll definitely read the sequel.
June 13, 2019
Zero Sum Game is a fast paced, sci-fi/thriller that features plenty of bombastic action sequences, a diverse cast of morally gray characters, and a heroine who's basically a superhero powered by math.
And yes, it's just as fun as that sounds. I will certainly be picking up book two in the future.
And yes, it's just as fun as that sounds. I will certainly be picking up book two in the future.
February 23, 2019
Incredibly fun, action packed science fiction. I just love that the main character kicks ass... with math. Lots of murder if violence gets to you, but probably something that would be a good slump antidote.
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