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Perfect People

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'Perfect People' by Peter James is a gripping thriller that delves into the controversial topic of genetic modification. The story follows a couple, John and Naomi, who turn to a geneticist, Dr. Leo Dettore, in their quest to have a child free of genetic diseases. As they navigate the process of selecting traits for their future child, they are faced with ethical dilemmas and unforeseen consequences. The narrative unfolds with twists and turns, keeping the readers on the edge of their seats, while also provoking thought on the implications of altering human genetics.

The book addresses complex issues surrounding genetic manipulation, morality, and the consequences of playing "God." Through well-developed characters and a thought-provoking storyline, Peter James explores the potential risks and ethical considerations of creating "designer babies." The writing style is engaging, blending elements of science fiction with mystery, making the readers question the boundaries of science and morality.

Characters:

The characters are richly developed, particularly the couple whose emotional journey drives the narrative, supplemented by the morally complex figure of the geneticist.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is accessible and engaging, utilizing short chapters to maintain reader interest while weaving emotional depth into the narrative.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot explores genetic engineering's moral and ethical dilemmas through the struggles of a couple seeking to have a genetically modified child, highlighting both their desires and the repercussions of their choices.

Setting:

The setting is primarily contemporary, situated within a world grappling with the implications of genetic modification, reflecting both personal and societal themes.

Pacing:

The pacing varies; it begins slowly in places but accelerates during key plot developments, bolstered by the use of short chapters that maintain suspense.

Notes:

The novel explores moral and ethical dilemmas surrounding genetic engineering.
Peter James is known for his crime novels featuring Detective Superintendent Roy Grace.
'Perfect People' is James' first standalone novel in eleven years.
The story follows a couple, John and Naomi, who lost their first child to a genetic disorder.
They seek help from a geneticist, Dr. Leo Dettore, to create a genetically modified baby without a fatal gene.
The book raises concerns about the implications of designer babies on society, potentially creating a divide based on wealth.
James uses short chapters to keep the narrative fast-paced and engaging, with a total of 131 chapters.
The novel addresses the tension between scientific advancement and ethical considerations regarding human genetics.
Readers found the premise both fascinating and terrifying, highlighting the future of genetic modification.
The book incorporates elements of thriller and science fiction, blending real-life issues with speculative concepts.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include themes of grief, loss of a child, ethical dilemmas surrounding genetic modification, and violence from extremist groups.

From The Publisher:

Be careful what you wish for . . . John and Naomi are grieving the death of their four-year-old son from a rare genetic disorder. They desperately want another child, but they realize the odds of their next child contracting the same disease are high. Then they hear about geneticist Dr Leo Dettore. He has methods that can spare them the heartache of ever losing another child to any disease. At his clinic is where their nightmare begins. They should have realized something was wrong when they saw the list. Choices of eye colour, hair, sporting abilities. They can literally design their child. Now it's too late to turn back. Naomi is pregnant and already something is badly wrong . . .

 
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