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The Trading Game, by Gary Stevenson

The Trading Game promised to be a page-turner, and it delivered on that promise—at least in the first half. The exhilarating journey into London's trading floor captures the essence of what the world of finance is all about. It vividly brings the atmosphere of London to life, making it feel like being back in the city. However, it left me wondering: what would someone unfamiliar with that experience take away from it? Does it truly offer an insightful look into the finance world, or does it rely too heavily on surface-level thrills?

While The Trading Game starts strong, its initial momentum fades in the second half. The focus shifts to (probably) predictable personal crises, which dilute the intensity of the earlier chapters. And while it’s important to consider the cost behind the hectic world of trading, global enterprises, and living on the edge, it feels almost too obvious—like a foregone conclusion that comes with "the game."

Overall, it’s an entertaining read with moments of brilliance, but it doesn’t quite live up to its full potential.

My rating: ★★★☆☆[?]