When the Numbers Don't Add Up

by Clare Evans

What if your life had a countdown—and someone else controlled the clock?

In disarmingly familiar London, everyone is born with 100 years of life, tracked by an implanted Life Counter. Break the rules, and time is deducted. But when a new law punishes babies for their parents’ mistakes, Cooper and Lexie’s newborn is already running out of time.

Determined to fight the system, Cooper is forced to confront his estranged father—the very man who built the program. As their battle intensifies, so does the public outcry, fuelled by a rebellious neighbour, an insider with a conscience, and the unstoppable power of social support systems.

With the clock ticking, new parents Cooper and Lexie must risk everything to save their child’s future. But in a world where time is currency, some will do anything to keep control.

455 pages, Hardcover

Published June 1, 2025

Reviews

[Robynne Eagan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Debut author Clare Evans blends emotional depth, relentless tension and a cast of unforgettable characters in a gripping, high-stakes thriller that carries shades of "Black Mirror" and "1984".
In a chillingly plausible future London, a Life Counter allots everyone 100 years. But when the system is hacked from within, babies are quietly punished for their parents’ transgressions.
When Cooper and Lexie realize their newborn is losing years, they spring into action, and Cooper is pitted against his estranged father—the heartless mastermind behind the altered system. Alongside Lexie, an indignant elderly neighbor, a conflicted insider, and an online influencer, Cooper sparks a rebellion against a world where the ticking of time is everything. The cyber-premise hits disturbingly close to home, making for a riveting, suspense-filled read!

[Anita Goodfellow · Rating 5 out of 5]

A riveting read with relatable characters set in an alternative Britain where an implanted life counter tracks your every move and any misbehaviour can shorten your life.

[Margaux Y · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic first book from a new author - kept me gripped, a real page turner!

[Hayley Watts · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book. Great plot, great characters and kept me guessing as to where it was going

[DR M A D PICKARD · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book on the recommendation of my wife, Dollina, since she enjoyed it so much. The first few chapters set the scene and developed the characters and thereafter it became an enthralling page turner. The dystopian basis of the novel seemed scarily credible. looking forward to the next novel from this author.

[Penny Jordan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great story with believable characters and a real sense of jeopardy.