Zero Sum Game

Cas Russell is a mercenary who can instantly perform complex mathematical calculations, giving her superhuman abilities in combat and spatial reasoning. When she takes on what seems like a routine retrieval job in Los Angeles, she becomes entangled in a dangerous conspiracy involving mind control and corporate manipulation. The story moves at a rapid pace through the criminal underworld of Los Angeles, with Cas facing off against both physical threats and psychological warfare. Her mathematical abilities are tested to their limits as she works to uncover the truth while questioning who she can trust. The novel combines elements of science fiction, action, and psychological thriller while exploring themes of identity, free will, and the ethical implications of power. Through Cas's unique perspective, the narrative examines how logic and emotion intersect in human decision-making, and what it means to remain true to oneself in a world of shifting loyalties.

Most readers describe Zero Sum Game as a fast-paced action thriller with an interesting mathematical twist. The protagonist's math-based superpowers provide a unique angle that sets it apart from standard superhero narratives. Readers liked: - The creative use of mathematics as a superpower - Quick pacing and action sequences - Complex morality of the main character - Technical accuracy of the math concepts Readers disliked: - Character relationships felt underdeveloped - Some found the math explanations confusing - Violence level too high for some readers - Plot became convoluted in later sections Ratings: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (2,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.1/5 (180+ ratings) Reader quotes: "Like Jason Bourne with a math degree" - Goodreads reviewer "The math concepts went over my head but the action kept me reading" - Amazon reviewer "Wanted to connect more with the supporting characters" - Barnes & Noble review

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📚 S.L. Huang is a professional stuntwoman and weapons expert who brings her real-world experience with firearms and martial arts into her writing of action scenes. 🧮 The protagonist, Cas Russell, has superhuman mathematical abilities that allow her to calculate trajectories, angles, and physics equations instantly—a unique twist on the typical superhero power set. 🎓 The author holds a degree in mathematics from MIT and incorporates complex mathematical concepts throughout the novel while making them accessible to general readers. 🏆 Zero Sum Game was originally self-published before being acquired by Tor Books, where it became the first book in the Russell's Attic series. 🌍 The novel explores themes of memory manipulation and consent through a science fiction lens, drawing parallels to real-world discussions about privacy and psychological manipulation.