Set in 1986 San Francisco, this book offers a thrilling origin story for Martin Hench, the character who will go on to invent the concept of the forensic accountant—someone who tracks money the way a bounty hunter tracks people. Martin, an MIT dropout, is making ends meet with odd jobs in a city on the cusp of a technological revolution. When he’s hired by a Silicon Valley startup called the Three Wise Men to investigate a rival company founded by their ex-employees, Martin quickly realises he’s backing the wrong side.

The rival, Magenta Women’s Enterprise, is a group of brilliant and determined women driven by the dream of making better computers and taking down the predatory practices of their former bosses. Located in the heart of San Francisco’s Mission District, their company pulses with the optimism and innovation of the burgeoning tech boom. But the challenges they face run deeper than they ever imagined, as corporate greed and cutthroat competition threaten not just their company but their lives.

This prequel is a must-read for anyone fascinated by computers, especially those intrigued by the tech boom of the 1970s and 80s. It deftly explores how even at the dawn of the industry, business practices often prioritised profit over people, echoing schemes like Amway and the broader ethos of corporate exploitation.

The book excels in its depiction of moral complexity. Martin is a captivating protagonist whose journey reveals how the line between good intentions and questionable actions can blur. His struggle for redemption adds depth to an already compelling narrative.

The writing is fantastic, with rich historical and cultural details that create an immersive backdrop. The characters are vibrant and engaging, each contributing to a story that is equal parts thrilling and thought-provoking. This is more than just a story about technology—it’s a gripping tale of ambition, betrayal, and the search for integrity in a rapidly changing world. A must-read for fans of historical fiction and tech history alike.

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