The book tells the story of an Indian Untouchable, King Rao, whose mantra that there's no problem that can't be solved, and his beyond genius computer skills, end up literally changing the world. His company, called Coconut (think Apple on steroids), evolves into a super …more corporation, with the world's citizens as its global shareholders. In theory, as private industry, Coconut can provide whatever society needs, better than any country's government. Of course, there are those who want no part of the new order, and they become a powerful draw for King Rao's daughter, who he's kept a secret from the world.

While there are some interesting concepts here, some reflecting a version of current events, I found the plot lines and characters difficult to follow and piece together. The ending's big reveal and it's results frankly left me scratching my head. (less)

This is a delightful story of three women whose paths cross at just the right moment in each of their lives. While the book deals with some serious topics revolving around life changing events, it is ultimately joyful and uplifting.

The first of the three women in question …more is Anastasia, an elderly, independent, no nonsense woman, who finds herself in need of a life saving surgery, and who also owns what’s referred to as a narrow boat, apparently quite common in the canals that traverse the UK. Her boat needs to be navigated through this system of canals for some required maintenance, but she can’t do it on her own because of her medical issues, and she’s worried about losing her boat and independence. Enter Sally and Eve. Sally has just recently informed her husband of many years that she’s not interested in being married to him any longer and wants out of their relationship. Eve is single and was just ousted from her long time corporate position with an engineering firm. Both are unsure of their next move in life. By chance, these three women cross paths, and Sally and Eve, not knowing each other and unfamiliar with boating, agree to help Anastasia by throwing their lots together and navigating the narrow boat through the canals to the place where it will be maintained. No easy business, as Anastasia is fiercely independent, not crazy about her anticipated reliance on others while having and recovering from surgery, and putting her beloved boat in the hands of strangers. Similarly, Sally and Eve are strangers to each other, with completely different backgrounds. Sally has been married for many years with two grown children, and has decided to leave her marriage. Eve is single and has focused on her life long career, but has been let go from her corporate position. Both are contemplating their next move, when the opportunity with the narrow boat presents itself. It is truly a delight to see how their friendships blossom, the characters and events they encounter along the way of their journey, and without a doubt, their adventures in navigation!

After reading this book I was inspired to do further research into narrow boats. They are quite fascinating and beautiful, used for part time or year round living, vacation, corporate events, etc. I also learned something about the canal system through the UK, which I had otherwise been unaware of.

Thank you to Book Browse and Net Galley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. (less)