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Calculated #3
Activated
From Young-Adult author Nova McBee comes the third book in the gritty, action-filled Calculated series.
After her exploits in Tunisia, Jo Rivers knows she’ll never lead a normal life. She also can’t move on until she grasps the unexpected evolution of her mathematical gift and confronts her unresolved feelings after meeting Noble. With Kai undercover, Noble is the only one who has the answers Jo needs. There’s just one small problem: Noble has vanished, leaving only a coded message in the stars.
When Rafael, a friend from Jo’s days in China, goes missing, it coincides with a new PSS assignment involving a potentially catastrophic satellite breakdown. Jo suspects something more sinister is at play and has no choice but to track down Noble, who may be her only hope to find Rafael and prevent global chaos.
Traveling to the perilous Arctic of Finland, Jo and her band of prodigies team up with unlikely allies from her past to find out what or who is interfering with the satellites— before it’s too late. Trusting her gift, Jo follows a path of numbers that light the way…which leads to answers she didn't predict.
“A high-stakes YA tale of betrayal, revenge, and numbers.” —Kirkus Reviews for Calculated
After her exploits in Tunisia, Jo Rivers knows she’ll never lead a normal life. She also can’t move on until she grasps the unexpected evolution of her mathematical gift and confronts her unresolved feelings after meeting Noble. With Kai undercover, Noble is the only one who has the answers Jo needs. There’s just one small problem: Noble has vanished, leaving only a coded message in the stars.
When Rafael, a friend from Jo’s days in China, goes missing, it coincides with a new PSS assignment involving a potentially catastrophic satellite breakdown. Jo suspects something more sinister is at play and has no choice but to track down Noble, who may be her only hope to find Rafael and prevent global chaos.
Traveling to the perilous Arctic of Finland, Jo and her band of prodigies team up with unlikely allies from her past to find out what or who is interfering with the satellites— before it’s too late. Trusting her gift, Jo follows a path of numbers that light the way…which leads to answers she didn't predict.
“A high-stakes YA tale of betrayal, revenge, and numbers.” —Kirkus Reviews for Calculated
492 pages, Paperback
Published April 21, 2022
31 people are currently reading
419 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 117 reviews
June 12, 2022
How have I never heard of this book or series before?? I was given this to read and review, a bit skeptical as it's #3 in the series and I haven't read the others. HOWEVER -- After reading this, I am so glad I gave it a chance. This book is unlike any other sci-fi book I've ever read. So amazing and fast paced, kept me speed reading and turning the pages! Loved the main character and the crazy skills she had. I also loved the turmoil going on between the good and bad guys. The messy bit was the main characters guy interests, she had two, but it worked itself out by the ending. I enjoyed this completely! This is something I'd expect to watch on TV as a series or a badass movie. Loved how the author's writing gets you fully into the world the author creates. I like that it was fast paced and such an interesting read. Even though I haven't read the 2 books that came before this one, I felt as if this book could be a stand alone. I will absolutely read the others in the series now.
I received this book by NetGalley and the publishers to read and review. The statements above are my true opinion after fully reading this book.
I received this book by NetGalley and the publishers to read and review. The statements above are my true opinion after fully reading this book.
March 14, 2022
I started and finished this book in less than forty-eight hours—impossible to slow down and make it last! Gosh. I feel like a lengthy review can’t do this book justice, so I want to sum it up with a few words:
Powerful. Genius. Touching. Unexpected. Wow.
All the stars for this book—so, so good!!
(Can I just say…the endingggg 🥲😭)
Powerful. Genius. Touching. Unexpected. Wow.
All the stars for this book—so, so good!!
(Can I just say…the endingggg 🥲😭)
March 15, 2022
What words can be used to describe a book that blows every other book out of the water and exceeds expectations that were higher than the sky?
I laughed, I cried, I was utterly engrossed.
If you love Dad squads, family bonds, romance that transcends the deepest friendship, a setting that grows your wanderlust, and plot twists that you'll never see coming...this book is definitely one you don't want to miss.
McBee once described this book as a volcano getting ready to erupt, and there's no other description more accurate. The book begins with simmering lava--a multitude of unanswered questions and growing calculations--then the lava slowly climbs up the volcano until it explodes in an epic conclusion that will leave you turning back to the first page to read it all again.
It's impossible to give more to avoid spoilers, but . . . I'll wait for you.
I laughed, I cried, I was utterly engrossed.
If you love Dad squads, family bonds, romance that transcends the deepest friendship, a setting that grows your wanderlust, and plot twists that you'll never see coming...this book is definitely one you don't want to miss.
McBee once described this book as a volcano getting ready to erupt, and there's no other description more accurate. The book begins with simmering lava--a multitude of unanswered questions and growing calculations--then the lava slowly climbs up the volcano until it explodes in an epic conclusion that will leave you turning back to the first page to read it all again.
It's impossible to give more to avoid spoilers, but . . . I'll wait for you.
September 18, 2023
Wow. Okay. This is my favorite of the series so far, and I need the fourth book yesterday.
I am amazed. Nova McBee has done it again!
So so so so good.
I am amazed. Nova McBee has done it again!
So so so so good.
April 18, 2022
Once again, here I am, lucky enough to get to read an advance copy of Nova's newest CALCULATED book! BOOM!
Literally: stuff goes boom!
I love the tech, and I long for a pair of taser earrings of my own! And the romance? AW SHUCKS. (Team Kai, btw.)
I just love how she's taken that world-hopping, tech and smarts and spies, James Bond vibe and really made it her own. Jo is so great, and so is the rest of the crew! I was thinking that maybe this was going to be the last one (trilogies being so popular, you know), but it had better not be the last one! Not with THAT ending!
Literally: stuff goes boom!
I love the tech, and I long for a pair of taser earrings of my own! And the romance? AW SHUCKS. (Team Kai, btw.)
I just love how she's taken that world-hopping, tech and smarts and spies, James Bond vibe and really made it her own. Jo is so great, and so is the rest of the crew! I was thinking that maybe this was going to be the last one (trilogies being so popular, you know), but it had better not be the last one! Not with THAT ending!
February 18, 2022
I was privileged to read an advanced copy of this amazing book.
It is the rare story that has me gripping the edge of my seat while I contemplate the meaning of life. Activated is just such a book. Brilliantly inventive, the third book in the Calculated series finds Jo facing her greatest challenges yet. Personally, she seeks one boy while another is never far from her mind. Professionally, she must find a way to use her newly returned gift of numbers to save the world from a deadly darkness.
Activated will break your heart and put it back together again. Captivate your imagination and set it free. Terrify you and then restore your hope. The stakes have never been higher. Don’t miss the epic third installment in this genre defying series!
It is the rare story that has me gripping the edge of my seat while I contemplate the meaning of life. Activated is just such a book. Brilliantly inventive, the third book in the Calculated series finds Jo facing her greatest challenges yet. Personally, she seeks one boy while another is never far from her mind. Professionally, she must find a way to use her newly returned gift of numbers to save the world from a deadly darkness.
Activated will break your heart and put it back together again. Captivate your imagination and set it free. Terrify you and then restore your hope. The stakes have never been higher. Don’t miss the epic third installment in this genre defying series!
February 6, 2023
This is the only book I’ve ever started reading on release day (though it is important to note that I don’t really follow releases that much, nor have I been actively reading and reviewing books for that long), but I think that is a testament to how excited I was for this book.
When I read Calculated last year, I didn’t come out of it loving it, but I did find a lot of the different aspects to be very intriguing. Enough so that I read Simulated not too long afterwards.
Simulated was much the same. Overall I enjoyed it more, but it was the ideas that were being played with that I was most intrigued by.
Activated took all the things I liked about the first 2 books, and added more to them, as well as improving upon some of the things I didn’t love in earlier books.
So yeah, I’m pretty happy with this book. And I will be eagerly waiting for whatever is to come next.
When I read Calculated last year, I didn’t come out of it loving it, but I did find a lot of the different aspects to be very intriguing. Enough so that I read Simulated not too long afterwards.
Simulated was much the same. Overall I enjoyed it more, but it was the ideas that were being played with that I was most intrigued by.
Activated took all the things I liked about the first 2 books, and added more to them, as well as improving upon some of the things I didn’t love in earlier books.
So yeah, I’m pretty happy with this book. And I will be eagerly waiting for whatever is to come next.
February 17, 2022
WOW. I am completely blown away by the third installment in this series!!
I received an advanced copy of Activated and LOVED it! Rarely will I find a third book in any series that surpasses the first and second books. Activated is one of those rare finds. Not only is the book fast-paced, the plot brilliant, and the world unique (come on, who doesn't love a story set in Finland??), but the themes, characters, and wisdom in it are deep and real.
Nova had me laughing out loud (an embarrassing amount), crying, and screaming for the next book as I closed the final page.
Add this to your TBR pile and you won't be disappointed!
I received an advanced copy of Activated and LOVED it! Rarely will I find a third book in any series that surpasses the first and second books. Activated is one of those rare finds. Not only is the book fast-paced, the plot brilliant, and the world unique (come on, who doesn't love a story set in Finland??), but the themes, characters, and wisdom in it are deep and real.
Nova had me laughing out loud (an embarrassing amount), crying, and screaming for the next book as I closed the final page.
Add this to your TBR pile and you won't be disappointed!
May 22, 2025
Amazed. Thats how I feel after reading this book. Literally shocked. Blown away. And definitely not okay....
And if you couldn't gather it from that, I'm in love with this series. With this book. With Jo and Noble and Kai and every single character (minus Madame and King and those guys of course...) and I'm in desperate need of Liberated.
I really loved where this one was set especially. Now I need to go to Finland!! And all the stuff about Stars and Light is just too cool and amazing.
Yes, I cried. Yes, I laughed. Yes, I gasped out loud quite a few times. And yes, of course I need more!!
And if you couldn't gather it from that, I'm in love with this series. With this book. With Jo and Noble and Kai and every single character (minus Madame and King and those guys of course...) and I'm in desperate need of Liberated.
I really loved where this one was set especially. Now I need to go to Finland!! And all the stuff about Stars and Light is just too cool and amazing.
Yes, I cried. Yes, I laughed. Yes, I gasped out loud quite a few times. And yes, of course I need more!!
February 14, 2023
Uhhhhhh please tell me it doesn’t END THERE?!
This one was an emotional rollercoaster with a new superpower and Jo is growing up. I really enjoyed it. Go read this!!!
This one was an emotional rollercoaster with a new superpower and Jo is growing up. I really enjoyed it. Go read this!!!
July 16, 2023
There better be a fourth book.
Kai & Jo are so adorable together, omw.
Kai & Jo are so adorable together, omw.
May 17, 2025
WAIT NO NO NO NO WHEN’S THE FOURTH ONE COMING OUT???
October 15, 2025
‧₊˚✧[Review Time]✧˚₊‧
Okay, so this series is so freaking good. I seriously need the fourth book—but it doesn’t seem to exist, which is beyond disappointing.
‧₊˚✧[SPOILERS BEYOND THIS POINT]✧˚₊‧
(This round's book review is pretty much just a bunch of random thoughts about the book.)
+ I was so scared for a second that Jo was going to choose the wrong guy. Nobel’s great and all, but Kai . . . Kai is just on another level.
+ Also, I’m still mad at Jo for what she did to Kai.
+ I love Kai and Jo's "I wait." It's so cute how it's basically their equivalent of "I Love You."
+ No offense to Nobel, but I never really thought that he and Jo could work. Their love was built on childhood trauma and the need to have someone to talk with about what made them different.
+ This "Rain" girl? Obviously, some serious bad news. (Another reason why I need book four.)
+ Why do I keep reading books with characters who make seriously wrong decisions? Just because you can calculate the odds doesn’t mean you need to run into a building about to explode, Nobel.
+ This book is interesting, to say the least. One of my favorite series that I've ever read, to say the most.
+ Mr. Rivers is literally so chill about his daughter being a thrill seeker who’s almost died like fifty times. It's so funny. He’s such a great dad.
+ When Jo punched her dad in the nose, I laughed so hard.
+ The whole idea of calculating probabilities, seeing frequency, seeing infinity . . . it’s all so cool. I mean, it’s math, so obviously this could never be me in the real world.
+ I love Kai’s gift. The way he can see the light between him and Jo… they’re just perfect together.
+ "Pure gold does not fear the fire—it endures it." Said by Red. Seriously, love this quote.
+ If all things round back to Red, it has to mean that they are all (every character) missing something. I'm pretty sure everything that he has said has some significant meaning to the story.
+ Kai's dad is also so cool. Like he could rule the world if he wanted to. Like, he has power that he knows how to use, and he is strong and can be a tad bit cruel, but he would honestly cave so quickly if Jo or Kai were to even blink at him.
‧₊˚✧[NO MORE SPOILERS]✧˚₊‧
I strongly advise you to read this series. It’s truly so much fun. Kami, thank you so much for introducing me to it. And to Nova McBee, please write the fourth book. I mean, I know that you're kinda busy at the moment, but the odds say that your fan count could grow if you release a fourth book.
Josophine Rivers Name Count:
Double 8 | Octavia | Mila | Phoenix | Nameless
Okay, so this series is so freaking good. I seriously need the fourth book—but it doesn’t seem to exist, which is beyond disappointing.
‧₊˚✧[SPOILERS BEYOND THIS POINT]✧˚₊‧
(This round's book review is pretty much just a bunch of random thoughts about the book.)
+ I was so scared for a second that Jo was going to choose the wrong guy. Nobel’s great and all, but Kai . . . Kai is just on another level.
+ Also, I’m still mad at Jo for what she did to Kai.
+ I love Kai and Jo's "I wait." It's so cute how it's basically their equivalent of "I Love You."
+ No offense to Nobel, but I never really thought that he and Jo could work. Their love was built on childhood trauma and the need to have someone to talk with about what made them different.
+ This "Rain" girl? Obviously, some serious bad news. (Another reason why I need book four.)
+ Why do I keep reading books with characters who make seriously wrong decisions? Just because you can calculate the odds doesn’t mean you need to run into a building about to explode, Nobel.
+ This book is interesting, to say the least. One of my favorite series that I've ever read, to say the most.
+ Mr. Rivers is literally so chill about his daughter being a thrill seeker who’s almost died like fifty times. It's so funny. He’s such a great dad.
+ When Jo punched her dad in the nose, I laughed so hard.
+ The whole idea of calculating probabilities, seeing frequency, seeing infinity . . . it’s all so cool. I mean, it’s math, so obviously this could never be me in the real world.
+ I love Kai’s gift. The way he can see the light between him and Jo… they’re just perfect together.
+ "Pure gold does not fear the fire—it endures it." Said by Red. Seriously, love this quote.
+ If all things round back to Red, it has to mean that they are all (every character) missing something. I'm pretty sure everything that he has said has some significant meaning to the story.
+ Kai's dad is also so cool. Like he could rule the world if he wanted to. Like, he has power that he knows how to use, and he is strong and can be a tad bit cruel, but he would honestly cave so quickly if Jo or Kai were to even blink at him.
‧₊˚✧[NO MORE SPOILERS]✧˚₊‧
I strongly advise you to read this series. It’s truly so much fun. Kami, thank you so much for introducing me to it. And to Nova McBee, please write the fourth book. I mean, I know that you're kinda busy at the moment, but the odds say that your fan count could grow if you release a fourth book.
Josophine Rivers Name Count:
Double 8 | Octavia | Mila | Phoenix | Nameless
February 25, 2024
I AM NOT OKAY!!!! 😭😭😭 This book... Ugh! What did it just do to me?? I need Liberated NOW! I need answers!! Finishing this book had be switching back and forth from gasping out loud to crying. It was an emotional ride to be sure. 😭😍🥰
September 7, 2023
Ok seriously... Throughout this book I kept thinking of things I didn't like but somehow I'm still in love by the end! My biggest complaint about this one was that it was a bit too relationship-y and dramatic. (Personally, I'm so happy with who she ended up with). There were a few moral decisions I don't agree with (like lying to her dad), and the main plot was a bit cliche.
But other than that Nova Mcbee did it again. I don't know how she wrote a series that is such high caliber! I wish more people knew about this series because the writing is SO GOOD. It's so rare to find a unique story, that has above average writing, and is clean!
This one felt more like an end of the world movie- saving the world from utter destruction by terrorists, but it was executed so well.
I LOVE the "dad team," and just the relationship between Jo and her dad in general. There were so so many moments where I felt such raw emotion it hurt.
Cleanliness: Some violence (not graphic), no language, a few kisses but nothing too detailed.
But other than that Nova Mcbee did it again. I don't know how she wrote a series that is such high caliber! I wish more people knew about this series because the writing is SO GOOD. It's so rare to find a unique story, that has above average writing, and is clean!
This one felt more like an end of the world movie- saving the world from utter destruction by terrorists, but it was executed so well.
I LOVE the "dad team," and just the relationship between Jo and her dad in general. There were so so many moments where I felt such raw emotion it hurt.
Cleanliness: Some violence (not graphic), no language, a few kisses but nothing too detailed.
February 22, 2022
I received an advance copy (yay!)
Activated picks up pretty much where Simulated left off, and pretty much throws you right into the action! I was often on the edge of my seat, waiting for the worst to happen!
So many story threads from Calculated and Simulated converge in Activated, and as always, Jo moves about trying to figure out how they interact and what the final equation will be (both on a world-wide level and in her love life!)
Jo's gift has always been miraculous, meant for a greater purpose, and with this new dimension to it, seems to open a new window to the beauty and, dare I say, love in the world. It made me want to go lay out under the stars and marvel at how complex and wonderful our world can be.
I'm not sure which story line was the most compelling - the newest global threat, the reunions, or the love story/love conflict. (I'm still Team Kai!) Get ready for another thrilling ride with Josephine!
Activated picks up pretty much where Simulated left off, and pretty much throws you right into the action! I was often on the edge of my seat, waiting for the worst to happen!
So many story threads from Calculated and Simulated converge in Activated, and as always, Jo moves about trying to figure out how they interact and what the final equation will be (both on a world-wide level and in her love life!)
Jo's gift has always been miraculous, meant for a greater purpose, and with this new dimension to it, seems to open a new window to the beauty and, dare I say, love in the world. It made me want to go lay out under the stars and marvel at how complex and wonderful our world can be.
I'm not sure which story line was the most compelling - the newest global threat, the reunions, or the love story/love conflict. (I'm still Team Kai!) Get ready for another thrilling ride with Josephine!
June 3, 2022
WOW.
This entire series has been amazing. To watch Jo grow into her own person, and really come a long way with her gift has been great. But this one? Well.....the whole love triangle? Yeah, I couldn't wait to see how that played out. McBee did a fantastic job of keeping me on the edge of my seat the entire time. Not just the love triangle, but with pretty much everything. The action. The danger. The suspense.
And the ending!? Oh man. I can't wait for what's next. This was such a great series and I'm glad to hear it's not ending yet. But readers, do yourselves a favor and read the series in order. You'll understand a lot more as you're reading by knowing the background of the characters and how they meet. Plus it's a great series, so you're going to want to anyways.
Highly recommend this fast paced, thrilling novel! I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This entire series has been amazing. To watch Jo grow into her own person, and really come a long way with her gift has been great. But this one? Well.....the whole love triangle? Yeah, I couldn't wait to see how that played out. McBee did a fantastic job of keeping me on the edge of my seat the entire time. Not just the love triangle, but with pretty much everything. The action. The danger. The suspense.
And the ending!? Oh man. I can't wait for what's next. This was such a great series and I'm glad to hear it's not ending yet. But readers, do yourselves a favor and read the series in order. You'll understand a lot more as you're reading by knowing the background of the characters and how they meet. Plus it's a great series, so you're going to want to anyways.
Highly recommend this fast paced, thrilling novel! I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 9, 2025
Suspenseful. Fast-paced. Deep themes.
Woah. This book. It is impossible to read slowly. You can hardly stop turning pages with so many turns and twists. One interesting aspect is the different types of tech they used. Taser earrings, like what!? So cool. The love triangle gets more and more intense and I found myself rooting for one character, only to turn to the other. Each character throughout this whole series is incredibly developed and has intriguing back stories. They each bring different interests and talents to the story. From the prodigies to Jo’s dad, each unique and gripping in their own ways. This book was a rollercoaster of emotions and a perfect balance of action, prodigy intellect, technology and romance.
Click below to read more!
https://www.theinkandquillsociety.com...
Reviewed by Aubrey Claire
Woah. This book. It is impossible to read slowly. You can hardly stop turning pages with so many turns and twists. One interesting aspect is the different types of tech they used. Taser earrings, like what!? So cool. The love triangle gets more and more intense and I found myself rooting for one character, only to turn to the other. Each character throughout this whole series is incredibly developed and has intriguing back stories. They each bring different interests and talents to the story. From the prodigies to Jo’s dad, each unique and gripping in their own ways. This book was a rollercoaster of emotions and a perfect balance of action, prodigy intellect, technology and romance.
Click below to read more!
https://www.theinkandquillsociety.com...
Reviewed by Aubrey Claire
February 18, 2022
I received an advanced copy of Activated and I have to say it’s incredible!
Building on a cast of incredible characters the adventure is rich in this heart-racing saga set in Finland. Jo comes to a cross-roads and comes into her own in more ways than one and she draws on courage, creativity, wisdom, and her team to find the answers her heart needs. Don’t miss this 3rd part in the Jo Rivers Saga!
Building on a cast of incredible characters the adventure is rich in this heart-racing saga set in Finland. Jo comes to a cross-roads and comes into her own in more ways than one and she draws on courage, creativity, wisdom, and her team to find the answers her heart needs. Don’t miss this 3rd part in the Jo Rivers Saga!
February 21, 2022
I received an advanced copy of Activated, and it is another fast-paced and heart-deep novel by Nova McBee that will captivate hearts and minds for years to come. I absolutely love how Jo comes back into herself in this book. Join Jo to explore the depths of betrayal, trust, fear, love, loss, and purpose… and somehow make it to the other side with a hope and strength that is deeper than ever before. Prepare to be activated yourself.
February 19, 2022
Jo Rivers is back and better than ever in ACTIVATED, the third installment of the Calculated series. With its stunning, cinematic descriptions, high-stakes action, intricately-woven plot, and a heart-racing, soul-penetrating love story for the ages, this book exceeds every expectation of the thriller genre. This is the best series in YA right now. Don't miss out!
August 11, 2022
This probably would have been a 4.5 or 5 if it weren’t for the love triangle and related drama. Thankfully that aspect wraps up in this book. I love just how Nova makes me care for the characters so much in the midst of so much high-stakes action!
July 29, 2022
If I could rate this ten stars I would!
What I Loved: I loved being back in the world with Jo and many characters that I fell in love with in previous books. This feels like a clean Mission Impossible, James Bond meets a love triangle. I love that I just couldn’t put it down. Nova had me guessing about a few things until close to the end. I was very satisfied with how everything turned out.
How I Felt: This book was phenomenal. I honestly wanted to do nothing but continue to read. Once I hit halfway, I put everything on the back burner so I could read. I felt like I was getting the perfect balance of action, prodigy intellect, technology, and romance.
The Writing: Nova has a way of diving deep, having complexity, and still making it fast-paced. The writing is stunning, and you learn something important with each of her books. I love reading and then rereading her books because I find new details with each read.
The Characters:
Jo- The quintessential heroine and prodigy genius. I loved seeing her figure out how to solve the problems and figure out her love life at the same time.
Kai- The undercover ex-boyfriend whose away.
Noble: The prodigy genius that can figure out any code.
Eddie: He’s the smartest and a great friend to Jo
Rafael- It’s great to see him again after he was so amazing in Calculated
The Prodigies: They are amazingly smart, great at helping Jo in her time of need. They are in this book more and I am so glad because they’re amazing.
There are more characters that I love, but I can’t tell you because I would spoil the book. Do yourself a favor and go pre-order or get a copy on Netgalley of Activated!
The Plot: Jo Rivers is back and better than ever in this epic third book in the Calculated series. After Tunisian Jo has a lot to think about finding Noble, wondering if Kai is okay and oh keeping up with all of the whirlwinds of assignments from PSS.
While she works on Noble’s coded message and wonders how she can help her friend Rafael all comes to a head. She gets an assignment to go try and fix and catastrophic satellite breakdown which may lead her to be able to find both of them.
With a team of prodigies, help from past allies, and her gift she’s set up to not only save the world from disaster but may be able to solve the mysteries surrounding her own heart.
To Read or Not To Read: Um is that even a question. OF COURSE, YOU NEED TO READ THIS BOOK! With what is going on in the world as of 03-07-22 with Ukraine and Russia I think this will speak to a lot of people.
I was provided an advanced reader’s copy of this book for free. I am leaving my honest, unbiased review voluntarily.
What I Loved: I loved being back in the world with Jo and many characters that I fell in love with in previous books. This feels like a clean Mission Impossible, James Bond meets a love triangle. I love that I just couldn’t put it down. Nova had me guessing about a few things until close to the end. I was very satisfied with how everything turned out.
How I Felt: This book was phenomenal. I honestly wanted to do nothing but continue to read. Once I hit halfway, I put everything on the back burner so I could read. I felt like I was getting the perfect balance of action, prodigy intellect, technology, and romance.
The Writing: Nova has a way of diving deep, having complexity, and still making it fast-paced. The writing is stunning, and you learn something important with each of her books. I love reading and then rereading her books because I find new details with each read.
The Characters:
Jo- The quintessential heroine and prodigy genius. I loved seeing her figure out how to solve the problems and figure out her love life at the same time.
Kai- The undercover ex-boyfriend whose away.
Noble: The prodigy genius that can figure out any code.
Eddie: He’s the smartest and a great friend to Jo
Rafael- It’s great to see him again after he was so amazing in Calculated
The Prodigies: They are amazingly smart, great at helping Jo in her time of need. They are in this book more and I am so glad because they’re amazing.
There are more characters that I love, but I can’t tell you because I would spoil the book. Do yourself a favor and go pre-order or get a copy on Netgalley of Activated!
The Plot: Jo Rivers is back and better than ever in this epic third book in the Calculated series. After Tunisian Jo has a lot to think about finding Noble, wondering if Kai is okay and oh keeping up with all of the whirlwinds of assignments from PSS.
While she works on Noble’s coded message and wonders how she can help her friend Rafael all comes to a head. She gets an assignment to go try and fix and catastrophic satellite breakdown which may lead her to be able to find both of them.
With a team of prodigies, help from past allies, and her gift she’s set up to not only save the world from disaster but may be able to solve the mysteries surrounding her own heart.
To Read or Not To Read: Um is that even a question. OF COURSE, YOU NEED TO READ THIS BOOK! With what is going on in the world as of 03-07-22 with Ukraine and Russia I think this will speak to a lot of people.
I was provided an advanced reader’s copy of this book for free. I am leaving my honest, unbiased review voluntarily.
April 20, 2022
"Light is a dangerous thing to follow. Before you know it, it will drive you to the darkest corners of the earth."
I was surprised to find out this series is not a trilogy and Jo's journey is not over yet. To be honest, I'm not ready to say goodbye to these characters and I'm glad I still have another book to look forward to.
It took me a while to get hooked into the story, perhaps the reason is because I forgot some of the characters here since it's been a while since I read Simulated... Fortunately, as I read further memories started to come back and I could follow the plot easier.
I really like Jo's character development as she struggle to works things out in her life, trying to find out which is the right path to go with the help of the people around her.
I love seeing her work together with her prodigies team, I wish I could know more about them.
"Your math is a gift, but it will not always help you understand your path. Light can. You see, light reveals the way. Therefore, the light will lead you. But just like a rainbow, you may need to bend a little to see what is already in front of you."
I like the family relationship, especially between Jo and her father. Her father is an expert on relationship tips and I love his talk about the Continental Divide.
That talk finally got Jo to realize who is the right one for her after being confused in the previous book!
There's quite a lot of heart breaking moments here after what happen in the previous book, Simulated. I really hope they end up together in the next book!
It's time we have another sweet cute moments from both of them instead of this hurt and painful interaction...
"Count me all you like, Josephine. Memorize all of me, I've got nothing to hide from you."
Overall, this book is a really good addition to the series! It was action-packed but also filled with heartfelt and heartbreaking moments.
There are still a lot of things left unresolved and new threats also being introduced near the ending! I'm really looking forward to read the next book and I hope it'll come sooner!!!
Thank you to Netgalley, Nova McBee and Wise Wolf Books for granting me this e-ARC in exchange for an honest opinion!
I was surprised to find out this series is not a trilogy and Jo's journey is not over yet. To be honest, I'm not ready to say goodbye to these characters and I'm glad I still have another book to look forward to.
It took me a while to get hooked into the story, perhaps the reason is because I forgot some of the characters here since it's been a while since I read Simulated... Fortunately, as I read further memories started to come back and I could follow the plot easier.
I really like Jo's character development as she struggle to works things out in her life, trying to find out which is the right path to go with the help of the people around her.
I love seeing her work together with her prodigies team, I wish I could know more about them.
"Your math is a gift, but it will not always help you understand your path. Light can. You see, light reveals the way. Therefore, the light will lead you. But just like a rainbow, you may need to bend a little to see what is already in front of you."
I like the family relationship, especially between Jo and her father. Her father is an expert on relationship tips and I love his talk about the Continental Divide.
That talk finally got Jo to realize who is the right one for her after being confused in the previous book!
There's quite a lot of heart breaking moments here after what happen in the previous book, Simulated. I really hope they end up together in the next book!
It's time we have another sweet cute moments from both of them instead of this hurt and painful interaction...
"Count me all you like, Josephine. Memorize all of me, I've got nothing to hide from you."
Overall, this book is a really good addition to the series! It was action-packed but also filled with heartfelt and heartbreaking moments.
There are still a lot of things left unresolved and new threats also being introduced near the ending! I'm really looking forward to read the next book and I hope it'll come sooner!!!
Thank you to Netgalley, Nova McBee and Wise Wolf Books for granting me this e-ARC in exchange for an honest opinion!
March 5, 2022
I had the privilege of reading an advanced copy of this amazing book and was blown away. Nova McBee has raised the stakes, delivered on the amazing family and friend dynamics, and brought extra steam to the romance. My best advice is to read or reread Calculated and Simulated asap, so that when Activated releases, you can grab it right away. You won't be disappointed!
In the story, Jo Rivers returns with the seemingly insurmountable task of rescuing the world from electrical blackouts that could be triggered at any place and any time. With her team of geniuses, she sets out for the arctic where the climate is as deadly as the stakes. Fans will recognize old friends and fall in love with new characters as well.
I'm looking forward to reading this book again and again!
In the story, Jo Rivers returns with the seemingly insurmountable task of rescuing the world from electrical blackouts that could be triggered at any place and any time. With her team of geniuses, she sets out for the arctic where the climate is as deadly as the stakes. Fans will recognize old friends and fall in love with new characters as well.
I'm looking forward to reading this book again and again!
January 24, 2025
Activated is a great addition to what has become one of my favorite prodigy/spy series of all time! I love this series' nonstop action, geeky humor, and found-family vibes. There's also a ton of plot twists. I couldn't stop turning the pages to find out what happened next!
As always, this story's world-building is phenomenal. Most of this book takes place in Finland. I love how the author has brought us to China, Tunisia, and now Finland over the course of this series. And everything—from the country's food to its landscape—is described so well! Why waste money on plane tickets when you can buy these books?
The setting isn't the only thing that cools down. I've never liked love triangles, and I didn't care for the way the romance pivots in this book. One of the love interests gets rewritten to make the other guy seem like the better option. I think there was a better way to resolve the love triangle without compromising that character's pre-established morals and values.
Love triangle aside, I really liked this! I think this series is perfect for fans of The Naturals by Jennifer Lynn Barnes and Warcross by Marie Lu. 4.5 stars!
I received an eARC of this book through Netgalley and the publisher; all opinions are my own.
As always, this story's world-building is phenomenal. Most of this book takes place in Finland. I love how the author has brought us to China, Tunisia, and now Finland over the course of this series. And everything—from the country's food to its landscape—is described so well! Why waste money on plane tickets when you can buy these books?
The setting isn't the only thing that cools down. I've never liked love triangles, and I didn't care for the way the romance pivots in this book. One of the love interests gets rewritten to make the other guy seem like the better option. I think there was a better way to resolve the love triangle without compromising that character's pre-established morals and values.
Love triangle aside, I really liked this! I think this series is perfect for fans of The Naturals by Jennifer Lynn Barnes and Warcross by Marie Lu. 4.5 stars!
I received an eARC of this book through Netgalley and the publisher; all opinions are my own.
April 14, 2022
I’m such a fan of this series featuring MC math prodigy Jo Rivers. It’s rare, but each book is just as good as or even better than its predecessor.
It’s difficult to review the third novel in a series without spoilers, but I’ll give it a shot. Be warned – vagueness ahead. Again Jo finds herself and her team in the midst of a dangerous mission with millions of lives at stake. Noble, who shares her numbers gift, is missing, Kai is undercover, and Rafael sends a guarded message requesting her help. She’s also muddling through some issues in her personal life and wonders if she’s made a horrible mistake.
As with the previous books, expect action-filled scenes, heart-pounding danger, a little romance, and a plot that reads like an intricately plotted chess game. Although YA, this series would easily appeal to adults. I thought Activated would wrap up the story but was thrilled to learn another book is coming – and I sure wouldn’t mind getting it sooner rather than later!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
It’s difficult to review the third novel in a series without spoilers, but I’ll give it a shot. Be warned – vagueness ahead. Again Jo finds herself and her team in the midst of a dangerous mission with millions of lives at stake. Noble, who shares her numbers gift, is missing, Kai is undercover, and Rafael sends a guarded message requesting her help. She’s also muddling through some issues in her personal life and wonders if she’s made a horrible mistake.
As with the previous books, expect action-filled scenes, heart-pounding danger, a little romance, and a plot that reads like an intricately plotted chess game. Although YA, this series would easily appeal to adults. I thought Activated would wrap up the story but was thrilled to learn another book is coming – and I sure wouldn’t mind getting it sooner rather than later!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
February 18, 2022
A stunning read that left me wanting more books just like this one! I loved everything about ACTIVATED, from the rugged arctic landscape to the intriguing plot with endearing characters and cool concepts in the fields of space and light. Jo Rivers is one of the best YA protagonists I've read in a long time. She uses her intelligence and character to overcome hardship, shows bravery in the face of significant obstacles, and yet has down-to-earth problems and limitations that make her relatable. I would definitely recommend this book to teens and adults alike. All I can say is Jo Rivers has become a household name in this family and I can't wait for the next book!
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 4, 2022
Wow, I love these books so much!
I braced myself, but I survived. More than that! This series just ramped up more and this ending was just perfect for the characters and made me look at life a little differently.
That's what is amazing about stories: how do we rise up when the questions get tough? After your world was turned upside down, how do you return to the place you were from, when you're still reeling and healing and nothing lets you wait to get better? It's unfair and it's almost impossible but you do it anyway. That, that is why Jo resonates. She braces herself and is brave in the midst of the storms and does what sometimes seems impossible: the taking of the next step to follow the light.
Go! Go read! Most of all, follow the light!
I braced myself, but I survived. More than that! This series just ramped up more and this ending was just perfect for the characters and made me look at life a little differently.
That's what is amazing about stories: how do we rise up when the questions get tough? After your world was turned upside down, how do you return to the place you were from, when you're still reeling and healing and nothing lets you wait to get better? It's unfair and it's almost impossible but you do it anyway. That, that is why Jo resonates. She braces herself and is brave in the midst of the storms and does what sometimes seems impossible: the taking of the next step to follow the light.
Go! Go read! Most of all, follow the light!
February 21, 2022
Fans of Calculated and Simulated won't want to miss this third book in the series. In a new setting, facing a new threat, Jo Rivers and her team are brought to the brink again in their fight against evil. This book is similar in plot, pacing, and feel to Simulated, and is a continuation of Jo's journey in using her gift for good.
I thoroughly enjoyed this Advanced Reader Copy and am looking forward to more from Nova McBee.
I thoroughly enjoyed this Advanced Reader Copy and am looking forward to more from Nova McBee.
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