GENESIS ALPHA
by Rune Michaels
In her debut, Michaels takes on some of the age-old big questions: good vs. evil, nature vs. nurture, evolution vs. creationism, free will. Fortunately for the reader, she does so with a fresh and compelling story. Josh and Max are brothers, in a close-knit, well-adjusted, stable family. Or are they? Josh’s adored older brother is accused of a brutal murder. And it was Josh’s creation as a designer baby that saved Max’s life as an infant. Is Max guilty? The victim’s sister is sure of it. This is a fascinating and realistic page-turner, and virtually impossible to put down. It leaves gory details out, and focuses on the emotional interaction within the family, as well as Josh’s introspection as he contemplates his future. Can he determine what he becomes? Or is it all in his genes? The surprises come naturally, and the ending leaves readers to decide. (Science fiction. 12-14)