A Heart-Wrenching Journey: A Review of Calculated by Nova McBee
From the moment I stumbled upon Calculated, I was intrigued. The premise—a child prodigy thrust into a world of manipulation and darkness—evoked the same tension and emotional depth I found in the movie Taken. Nova McBee’s storytelling promised a complex exploration of identity, destiny, and the painful dance between revenge and justice, and it certainly delivered.
The story follows Jo Rivers, a brilliant 15-year-old whose life takes an unimaginable turn when she is kidnapped and forced to use her extraordinary abilities for nefarious purposes. Jo’s journey is one of survival, but also of profound self-discovery. Meeting Red, a character who serves as both a foil and a guide, helps Jo appreciate the world through a lens of hope rather than despair. Their dynamic is beautifully crafted, brimming with heart and poignant moments that had me genuinely rooting for Jo’s redemption.
McBee expertly weaves together layers of meaning that resonate deeply. Key themes such as trust versus logic, the complexities of love, and the search for purpose unfold with elegant precision. Her decision to incorporate elements of a Bible story added a rich texture to the narrative, making the story feel not only engaging but also reflective and morally rich. It is a narrative that challenges readers to consider the impact of their choices.
The pacing of Calculated kept me engaged, blending character-driven moments with thrilling plot developments that felt seamless. However, I opted for the audiobook version, and I must admit, while narrators often bring stories to life, there were times I felt the emotional nuances were slightly overlooked. Still, the essence of McBee’s writing shone through, making the listening experience enjoyable overall.
One of the standout qualities of the book is its poignant quotes. Lines like, “Love. We are created for it. To become one with it. Without it, we die,” lingered with me long after I turned the final page. Each quote feels like a lifeline in the midst of Jo’s chaos, reminding us of the fundamental truths about love and existence. These reflections made me think about the relationships in my own life—how vital it is to embrace both love and purpose in our journeys.
As I closed the book, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for having stepped into Jo’s turbulent world. Calculated is more than just a thriller; it’s a story about the intricacies of the human spirit and our capacity for resilience, making it a must-read for anyone who appreciates emotionally gripping narratives.
If you enjoy stories that tug at your heartstrings, thrill you with tension, and leave you pondering deep philosophical questions, then Calculated is for you. This book has an uncanny ability to meld excitement with profound insights, and I think it will resonate with anyone looking for a journey of self-discovery amidst the chaos of life. I know it did for me, urging me to reflect on the values I hold dear and the legacy I wish to leave behind.
In short, be prepared for a rollercoaster of emotions and an exploration of life’s biggest questions. Don’t miss out on this gem—it’s a read worth savoring.
Discover more about Calculated (Calculated #1) on GoodReads >>