I found this a 'page tuner' and on many different levels. I know some readers might be put off by some of the language and relationships - but it is the real world and the characters are in the real world and respond accordingly. The understanding portrayal of the autism of the main character was masterly and enormously helpful - worth reading for that alone.(based I believe on the son of the author). The characters are well written. The crime element is good. The descriptions of Cambridge were nostalgic (met my husband there!). Have to say I did NOT understand all the mathematical and bitcoin allusions but that's just me as I have dyscalculia, and it did not detract from the overall enjoyment or understanding of the book and its plot. And I loved the inside of the dust jacket and its beautiful drawing of the centre of Cambridge.

Anne Atkins has written a beautiful book; an unforgettable adventure that takes place in and around Cambridge where Anne grew up. The central character is Theo,a gentle, endearing mathematician who is autistic and intelligent, based on the author’s own beloved son. But all is not well in Cambridge. Sin is no respecter of people or places and great danger lurks there, especially for one, glorious, iconic building and event....and Christmas 2018 is fast approaching. The story has certainly created in me a desire to revisit this lovely City and to enjoy and explore it further. I enjoyed this book so much and I recommend it enthusiastically. The colourful map of Cambridge on the cover of the book is an added joy.

This book is on one level, like its title, elegant, the setting in Cambridge draws you into the iconic place, where, in some ways, nothing has changed. The criminal threat and technological mystery, impose the contemporary world on the academic establishment, causing ripples and threatening the people and ancient buildings. The characters are what makes this story stand out. I did find it difficult to get into initially, but Theo and Charlotte have an intriguing relationship, that faces both internal and external conflict. Theo's character is significant and gives an honest portrayal of autism and how it affects the individual's perception of the world, and those around him. The detailed theory will not be for everyone, but even if that is not for you, there is still a lovely character-driven drama to enjoy. I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.