The Amazon Anomaly

by Chris Cosmain

When a mysterious biological threat arises in the Amazon Rainforest, a brilliant scientist must grapple with her own mental health to help save humanity.In 2028, using satellite data, scientists stumble upon a mysterious heat source hidden deep within the Amazon Rainforest. Reports surface of Amazon Indigenous communities vanishing without a trace. At the same time stories emerge of deadly attacks by new species of insects, some capable of manipulating human behaviour.Scarlett Silverman, a renowned systems ecologist, is invited to research what has become known as the Amazon Anomaly. While it’s the opportunity of a lifetime, solving this puzzle will exact a dire toll upon her.As knowledge of the anomaly spreads and the threat rapidly approaches the city of Manaus, radical environmental groups claim the phenomenon is nature's revolt against destructive environmental practices. Amidst growing global unrest, a small group of scientists races against time to understand and stop the Anomaly, while the fate of the world hangs in the balance.

Genres: Science Fiction, Fiction

518 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 2024

About the author

My work provides a keen insight into the psychology of its characters, relies upon real science as well as thoroughly researched extrapolation of current technological trends – all while not compromising on being action-packed.

I write adult psychological hard science fiction.
In broad terms, psychological fiction is often strongly character-driven, propelled by a depiction of the characters’ inner world, mental state and even mental health. Characters are frequently flawed, or have inner conflicts which can drive a story, impacting upon the plot.

Psychological science fiction offers an infinite palette of unique and often surreal settings which challenge protagonists in interesting ways. It not only posits powerful “what if?” questions around technological, social or political trends, it allows characters to be placed in quite unusual settings, such as the surreal situations which can arise from time travel. This genre explores how those bizarre situations might impact on the psyche of the characters and ultimately explores the question of what it means to be human.

Hard science fiction is characterised by its devotion to scientific accuracy, logic and cause and effect. While many hard science fiction stories avail themselves of the odd “scientific MacGuffin” to enable certain technologies (like time travel), they strive for attention to technical detail and integrity around the laws of physics.

I trained as a scientist before becoming a medical doctor. I've had a lifelong love affair with science and have always been an avid reader of science fiction. As a scientist, I have always been drawn to the accuracy of hard science fiction and its considered, realistic extrapolation of current trends. As a doctor working in mental health, I am drawn to diversity, complex characters, and flawed protagonists. Above all, I am curious about exploring the impact of extraordinary circumstances on the mental state of ordinary people.

I live with my family in sunny Australia.

Reviews

[Sandra Knapp · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, talk about a roller coaster ride. For me, this was one of the best stories I've read in some time. I was literally sitting on the edge of my seat, and wanting to close my eyes so I didn't have to see the carnage! Oh my, talk about scary? Well, it sure had my nerves all a-tingle, and I loved every chapter and verse.

The main characters were so likeable, you feel at home with them right away. Even many of the lesser characters you can't help but feel empathy and concern for. The Author did such a good job in presenting them. The story "made sense" to me, not something that would be totally impossible, and that made it all the more frightening. Need I mention I simply loved it, cover to cover?

[Alan Loewen · Rating 4 out of 5]

An Amazing Tour de Force

Part documentary, part thriller, part romance, and part science fiction, The Amazon Anomaly is a brilliant novel that teaches as it entertains.

Interspersed among the action are a number of lectures in simple English that guarantees you will not only enjoy the work, but you will learn a lot about a large number of scientific subjects.

[J.K. Bunta · Rating 5 out of 5]

I genuinely enjoyed reading this novel. The seamless integration of hard science fiction with deep psychological character development is a challenging feat, yet it was accomplished masterfully here. This combination is a rarity in the realm of hard science fiction, making this book a standout.

The scientific background is portrayed with impressive realism, which adds a layer of authenticity to the narrative. Simultaneously, the intricate depiction of the protagonists' mental landscapes kept me thoroughly engaged.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who appreciates realistic science fiction paired with relatable and profound psychological character portrayals. Big thanks to the author for this pleasurable book!

[Mike Conner · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very well written, and lots of intelligent science. However, there is just too much filler. If the book were 2/3s or 1/2 as long it would have been very good, but it just has too much detail (that is not needed) and too much unnecessary extra stuff. Also the good good guys (which is almost everybody) are just too good. Even the politicians are mostly rational and focused on what is best for the country.

[Colleen Villasenor · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is hard science fiction. It is based on well researched science which I particularly enjoyed. The extrapolation was convincing. The characters had relatable struggles with mental health and neuro-diversity. Characters dealt with things like grief, anxiety, and agoraphobia. I enjoyed the diversity of the characters. There were a couple of places where the writing style threw me out of the narrative momentarily, but overall, I enjoyed the book and was very invested in the plot

[Dan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Hard sci-fi, great characters, edge-of-seat action

The Amazon Anomaly by Chris Cosmain

Scarlett Silverman: renowned systems ecologist, recruited to investigate scourge of the Amazon by genetically altered biota. Great hard science, realistic characters (liked the multiple POVs), edge-of-seat action.

[Sam · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was excellent! I did really enjoy it! So well written, brilliant ideas, great mix of apocalyptic thriller & nanotechnology gone mad! Great action & pace, brilliant plot, an amazing story! I do recommend & I will look for more by this writer!

[Jim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent and very enjoyable.

I truly enjoyed reading this book. Thank you for the hours of enjoyment it gave me. I recommend it to everyone and look forward to reading more of your good work!

[Bruce · Rating 5 out of 5]

GMO

An intriguing story about the possible dangers with genetically modified organisms and their possible combination with micro-machines. While the intention may be to benefit man the accidental release through unintended or unforeseen actions may have disastrous consequences.

[Dwayne Auernheimer · Rating 1 out of 5]

Unreadable

Confusing, convoluted, poorly written. Turned an interesting concept into a yawn, dialog is stilted and unbelievable, bounces around too much. You just don't care about anyone or what is hay.

[Mark Bonner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well structured

Th II s book is well structured to give the true sci-fi fan a story founded upon science and developed through realistic characters to peak your interest.

[MarieStrong · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Amazon Anomaly

I especially enjoyed this book. This writing had me on the edge of many seat throughout. I believe everyone should read this story.

[Connie Zinsmeister · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazingly inventive

Intense and detailed science with a riveting story
You may think you know what is coming next, but you don't! This is a very entertaining story

[Kim Rozwadowski · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an exciting read. Good characters, tense situations, and a very interesting storyline.

[Perry · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF, too slow and tedious.

[Richard Pender · Rating 2 out of 5]

reads

[Susan E Weagle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bots and nano bots

This a thoroughly researched book. It has plenty of scientific facts with some romance and a sprinkle of international intrigue.

[Terry D. Russell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Novel happening

I enjoyed it very much and I wish to recommend it to any sifi reader. Cool glasses and strange critters though.