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Black Market DNA #1
Enhancement
In the year 2058, Baltimore's latest crime epidemic is illegal genetic enhancements. Convicted dealer Christopher Morgan swears off black market genetics for good. Before he's even released from prison, he finds himself on a hit list. Someone wants Chris dead and he has no idea why.
Once released, Chris takes the first job he's offered. But, soon after, the new boss at his lab is murdered. Chris fears it has something to do with his past—and so do the police. He enlists the help of a close colleague, Tracy Harrow, to clear his name and search for answers. They discover a shocking connection between Chris and the other names on the hit list.
In a perilous race against time, Chris and Tracy realize that far more is at stake than just Chris's life. Together, they uncover a dark conspiracy that goes deeper into the world of bioengineering and genetic enhancements than they could have imagined.
Enhancement is a fast-paced, near-future thriller about genetic engineering, organized crime, and the abuse of advanced technology.
Once released, Chris takes the first job he's offered. But, soon after, the new boss at his lab is murdered. Chris fears it has something to do with his past—and so do the police. He enlists the help of a close colleague, Tracy Harrow, to clear his name and search for answers. They discover a shocking connection between Chris and the other names on the hit list.
In a perilous race against time, Chris and Tracy realize that far more is at stake than just Chris's life. Together, they uncover a dark conspiracy that goes deeper into the world of bioengineering and genetic enhancements than they could have imagined.
Enhancement is a fast-paced, near-future thriller about genetic engineering, organized crime, and the abuse of advanced technology.
302 pages, Paperback
First published June 10, 2014
About the author
Anthony J. Melchiorri
67 books371 followersAnthony J Melchiorri is a scientist with a PhD in bioengineering. Originally from the Midwest, he now lives in Texas. By day, he develops cellular therapies and 3D-printable artificial organs. By night, he writes apocalyptic, medical, and science-fiction thrillers that blend real-world research with other-worldly possibility. When he isn't in the lab or at the keyboard, he spends his time running, reading, hiking, and traveling in search of new story ideas.
Read more at http://anthonyjmelchiorri.com and sign up for his mailing list at http://bit.ly/ajmlist to hear about his latest releases and news.
Read more at http://anthonyjmelchiorri.com and sign up for his mailing list at http://bit.ly/ajmlist to hear about his latest releases and news.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
July 1, 2014
Review copy
Anthony J. Melchiorri is a writer and bio-engineer living in Maryland. He spends most of his days developing cardiovascular devices for tissue engineering to treat children with congenital heart defects. He's also a very competent writer.
Enhancement: Black Market DNA is set a bit more than 40 years into the future. There are driver-less taxis and comp cards (all-purpose communication devices that also serve as credit cards), but this novel is not about the gadgets and the way we live, work, and play in the future, as much as it is about genetic enhancements and specifically the black market for such products.
That black market landed Christopher Morgan in prison for his involvement and almost costs him his life, until a mysterious benefactor has him paroled and offers him a job right back in the field of genetic engineering.
Enhancement: Black Market DNA is a story where the lead character doesn't know who to trust. The people you think are trustworthy, aren't. Those who seem to be evil, may not be as bad as you think. And even the central character is extremely flawed.
Enhancement: Black Market DNA is fast-paced, thrilling and enjoyable read and is available now in paperback and for the Kindle through Amazon.com.
Recommended.
Anthony J. Melchiorri is a writer and bio-engineer living in Maryland. He spends most of his days developing cardiovascular devices for tissue engineering to treat children with congenital heart defects. He's also a very competent writer.
Enhancement: Black Market DNA is set a bit more than 40 years into the future. There are driver-less taxis and comp cards (all-purpose communication devices that also serve as credit cards), but this novel is not about the gadgets and the way we live, work, and play in the future, as much as it is about genetic enhancements and specifically the black market for such products.
That black market landed Christopher Morgan in prison for his involvement and almost costs him his life, until a mysterious benefactor has him paroled and offers him a job right back in the field of genetic engineering.
Enhancement: Black Market DNA is a story where the lead character doesn't know who to trust. The people you think are trustworthy, aren't. Those who seem to be evil, may not be as bad as you think. And even the central character is extremely flawed.
Enhancement: Black Market DNA is fast-paced, thrilling and enjoyable read and is available now in paperback and for the Kindle through Amazon.com.
Recommended.
February 5, 2018
Interesting, fast paced
This is not a genre I normally read, but it looked interesting enough to give it a try. The action was intense and the pacung of the story was very good. It held my interest enough to finish in spite of my struggle to fully understand much of the scientific lingo. I was able to grasp the idea and move forward, but I haven’t decided if I’ll continue the series. I liked the characters. They are reasonably well developed. Because I don’t have any true knowledge of bioengineering, I can’t comment on the accuracy or realism there. It is for that reason I can’t give 4 stars. I did enjoy the book and recommend it for anyone interested in a scientific/medical/biolgy type mystery-thriller. It is well written and has enough story to keep even the less science minded types turning pages, but those readers may be a bit more flustered by the language at times. I occasionally felt like I was reading a foreign language. Overall 3.5 stars. I liked Chris and Jordan and am curious what they get into next. I just don’t know if I’m ready to strain my brain for another round just yet.
This is not a genre I normally read, but it looked interesting enough to give it a try. The action was intense and the pacung of the story was very good. It held my interest enough to finish in spite of my struggle to fully understand much of the scientific lingo. I was able to grasp the idea and move forward, but I haven’t decided if I’ll continue the series. I liked the characters. They are reasonably well developed. Because I don’t have any true knowledge of bioengineering, I can’t comment on the accuracy or realism there. It is for that reason I can’t give 4 stars. I did enjoy the book and recommend it for anyone interested in a scientific/medical/biolgy type mystery-thriller. It is well written and has enough story to keep even the less science minded types turning pages, but those readers may be a bit more flustered by the language at times. I occasionally felt like I was reading a foreign language. Overall 3.5 stars. I liked Chris and Jordan and am curious what they get into next. I just don’t know if I’m ready to strain my brain for another round just yet.
December 28, 2020
Well written by an outstanding professional in his field, Enhancement is outstanding!
The storyline is amazing, requiring no prior knowledge of DNA or enhancement technology. The characters are crisp, well defined and all the flu edges polished clean. I have no experience with any of the characters' situations or any of the science used or described, but I didn't need to be a novice or doctor to follow the storyline. I now have a bit of knowledge, gleaned from the pages, and they say a little knowledge is a dangerous thing!
I loved the characters and the technology described and the twisting, unexpected storyline and the research and knowledge which filled out the actors and their actions. Well done! Well written! And, well, I'll be reading the next book in the series, real soon! You read it, you'll feel the same. I guarantee it!
The storyline is amazing, requiring no prior knowledge of DNA or enhancement technology. The characters are crisp, well defined and all the flu edges polished clean. I have no experience with any of the characters' situations or any of the science used or described, but I didn't need to be a novice or doctor to follow the storyline. I now have a bit of knowledge, gleaned from the pages, and they say a little knowledge is a dangerous thing!
I loved the characters and the technology described and the twisting, unexpected storyline and the research and knowledge which filled out the actors and their actions. Well done! Well written! And, well, I'll be reading the next book in the series, real soon! You read it, you'll feel the same. I guarantee it!
May 23, 2018
Different type of Mystery.
Good story overall, a little slow through the middle third of the book. But the last third was entertaining and kept me reading throughout. Looking forward to reading book 2.
Good story overall, a little slow through the middle third of the book. But the last third was entertaining and kept me reading throughout. Looking forward to reading book 2.
November 5, 2018
Interesting to say the least!!
I have been reading the Tide Series and now the Black Market DNA has really caught my interest. The story seems to be in the not so far future with gene technology and all the small hints of self driving cars and com cards.
I have been reading the Tide Series and now the Black Market DNA has really caught my interest. The story seems to be in the not so far future with gene technology and all the small hints of self driving cars and com cards.
September 25, 2020
Pretty good
I was somewhat disappointed in the main characters flaws but maybe that’s because he was to human apparently. The story was very interesting and well researched to reflect a possible future very well
I was somewhat disappointed in the main characters flaws but maybe that’s because he was to human apparently. The story was very interesting and well researched to reflect a possible future very well
February 2, 2018
Interesting
Following Chris from prison through tortuous pathways is stimulating and engaging. I certainly hope this isn't a for telling of our true future....
Following Chris from prison through tortuous pathways is stimulating and engaging. I certainly hope this isn't a for telling of our true future....
August 1, 2019
Okay that was good
This was a very impressive story. Really looking forward to reading the next one. The story line just flowed smoothly
This was a very impressive story. Really looking forward to reading the next one. The story line just flowed smoothly
November 17, 2014
The story opens during a prison riot where our protagonist, Chris Morgan, is desperate to escape the melee. In the process, he is stabbed repeatedly before a fellow prisoner shows up to protect him from further onslaught. After recuperating in the prison medical ward, Chris returns to his cell to discover a new bunkmate. Unlike his previous companion, who listened to Chris' ramblings about genetics and biochemistry and spent his own time endlessly journaling, the newcomer gives Chris cause for pause. However, just when he's convinced he'll never get another full night's sleep, the warden announces an early release.
The one caveat? He must either take a questionable position offered by a mysterious businessman or secure gainful employment within the next thirty days or he'll be right back with the terrifying cellmate. With a conviction involving black market genetics hanging over his head, Chris finds himself nearing the end of freedom when no one in the field will hire him, thus forcing him into accepting the businessman's proposition.
Yet things aren't so bad. Chris quickly delves into the lab work, finds friends among co-workers, and soon garners a girlfriend. But it all dissipates when the past returns to haunt him. One-by-one friends old and new turn up dead. The only common link? Chris.
Or so he thought.
Enhancement starts off well. The prison riot, Chris' stabbing and sudden release, revisiting the past with determination not to repeat it - all came together to immediately offer up Chris as the sympathetic character who wishes to right the wrongs in an industry run amok, where men and women can become physically stronger and more attractive than nature intended. But only for a price.
Soon, however, this thriller loses direction and focus. I personally think suspense would be a better genre fit than thriller because after the opening events little exciting occurs. Chris and his girlfriend, Tracy, simply run back and forth between Chris' apartment, Tracy's apartment, the lab, and friends' apartments. The supposed bad guys are so far off in the periphery, they seem more a pair of bumbling afterthoughts when they do show their hands. The point of the story is easy to deduce and the real baddie is quite obvious early in the novel.
Pacing never picks up steam after the beginning sequences. Cutting numerous unnecessary scenes would helps this somewhat, and adding in some thoughts that were merely alluded to and never fully developed might give an adrenaline shot to move the story along. The style is written in very passive voice, which bogs pacing down as well, but it's a pretty easy editing fix to rewrite sentences to make them more active.
As far as editing goes, very similar issues pop up here as in many indie books - missing small words, duplicate words, transposed phrases, misplaced comas, then instead of than and the like. There are far too many pronouns and overuse of the protagonist's name multiple times in a sentence, even when we're supposed to be in Chris' POV (i.e. "He didn't expect the man to answer honestly if the intent was to have Chris killed but at least, the man would know Chris was suspicious").
Chris was the only character who received any fleshing-out. Most of the side players never received any further attentions other than mentions, which left them feeling very one-dimensional. Motivations among the characters were murky at best. We never find out the reasons behind the bad guys' actions. At times even Chris' actions left me scratching my head as he allowed Tracy to simply lead him by the nose (or other body parts). Then when certain characters face danger and death, there's no evoking of emotion because there is no connection with the character.
Point-of-view, however, remained constant with Chris without straying here and there into other character's heads. I enjoyed the genetics references and actually could've used more. Setting was handled well in many scenes without becoming overly descriptive.
The only issues of concern for younger audiences are the plentiful rough language, scenes involving drinking/partying by adults, and consensual sex between adults. I would say this is a novel best left to those 18+.
For the promising opening suspenseful scenes, the interesting exploration of genetics, and the sympathetic character of Chris, I'll offer up a rating of three stars.
I was provided with a copy of this novel in exchange for review and was not financially compensated for my opinion.
The one caveat? He must either take a questionable position offered by a mysterious businessman or secure gainful employment within the next thirty days or he'll be right back with the terrifying cellmate. With a conviction involving black market genetics hanging over his head, Chris finds himself nearing the end of freedom when no one in the field will hire him, thus forcing him into accepting the businessman's proposition.
Yet things aren't so bad. Chris quickly delves into the lab work, finds friends among co-workers, and soon garners a girlfriend. But it all dissipates when the past returns to haunt him. One-by-one friends old and new turn up dead. The only common link? Chris.
Or so he thought.
Enhancement starts off well. The prison riot, Chris' stabbing and sudden release, revisiting the past with determination not to repeat it - all came together to immediately offer up Chris as the sympathetic character who wishes to right the wrongs in an industry run amok, where men and women can become physically stronger and more attractive than nature intended. But only for a price.
Soon, however, this thriller loses direction and focus. I personally think suspense would be a better genre fit than thriller because after the opening events little exciting occurs. Chris and his girlfriend, Tracy, simply run back and forth between Chris' apartment, Tracy's apartment, the lab, and friends' apartments. The supposed bad guys are so far off in the periphery, they seem more a pair of bumbling afterthoughts when they do show their hands. The point of the story is easy to deduce and the real baddie is quite obvious early in the novel.
Pacing never picks up steam after the beginning sequences. Cutting numerous unnecessary scenes would helps this somewhat, and adding in some thoughts that were merely alluded to and never fully developed might give an adrenaline shot to move the story along. The style is written in very passive voice, which bogs pacing down as well, but it's a pretty easy editing fix to rewrite sentences to make them more active.
As far as editing goes, very similar issues pop up here as in many indie books - missing small words, duplicate words, transposed phrases, misplaced comas, then instead of than and the like. There are far too many pronouns and overuse of the protagonist's name multiple times in a sentence, even when we're supposed to be in Chris' POV (i.e. "He didn't expect the man to answer honestly if the intent was to have Chris killed but at least, the man would know Chris was suspicious").
Chris was the only character who received any fleshing-out. Most of the side players never received any further attentions other than mentions, which left them feeling very one-dimensional. Motivations among the characters were murky at best. We never find out the reasons behind the bad guys' actions. At times even Chris' actions left me scratching my head as he allowed Tracy to simply lead him by the nose (or other body parts). Then when certain characters face danger and death, there's no evoking of emotion because there is no connection with the character.
Point-of-view, however, remained constant with Chris without straying here and there into other character's heads. I enjoyed the genetics references and actually could've used more. Setting was handled well in many scenes without becoming overly descriptive.
The only issues of concern for younger audiences are the plentiful rough language, scenes involving drinking/partying by adults, and consensual sex between adults. I would say this is a novel best left to those 18+.
For the promising opening suspenseful scenes, the interesting exploration of genetics, and the sympathetic character of Chris, I'll offer up a rating of three stars.
I was provided with a copy of this novel in exchange for review and was not financially compensated for my opinion.
October 11, 2018
This gripping story follows the (mis)adventures of Christopher Morgan, as he not only survives a prison riot, but is rather unexpectedly thrust back into the outside world, where he cannot escape his past in producing and selling illegal genetic enhancements. He has to confront conspiracy, romance, intrigue, violence, and a whole lot more on the way to reclaiming a bit of normalcy in his life.
The author excels at capturing the world that Christopher Morgan experiences, a Baltimore in the not-so-distant future. He manages to create a truly immersive atmosphere that perfectly complements the story and stops short of boring the reader with excessively detailed descriptions. The futuristic setting is very believable, with regard to the central biotechnological elements no doubt helped by the author's background in biomedical engineering. Importantly, the futuristic aspects only serve to enhance the story rather than stealing the spotlight away from it.
While the portrayal of the thoughts and feelings of the protagonist doesn't always quite measure up to the same standard, it retains sufficient depth to make Chris a very relateable character. The major characters he encounters are similarly more or less well-rounded -- while some are definitely either on the white or black end of the spectrum, none (with one very forgivable major exception) fall entirely into either category, and the antagonists have logical motives for their deeds. Indeed, the reader can never be quite sure what shade of grey a character might be until the very end.
This is reflected in the story itself, which leaves the reader (and Chris) guessing throughout, as befits a well-crafted mystery. As Chris uncovers more and more clues, they are never quite what the reader might have expected. Combined with the fast (but not rushed) pace of the novel, this makes it hard to put down. The author manages to avoid clichés, or addresses them head on when they come up by making the associated choices/events very understandable (e.g. your average protagonist not involving police when in danger, or choosing confrontation when retreat would be the smarter choice). The denouement is satisfying, with many pieces falling into place, but with enough minor questions unresolved to engage the reader even past the point of finishing the book.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel. From an experienced author, I might only rate it four stars, but as a debut, this is fully deserving of five! I am already looking forward to discovering what other stories Anthony Melchiorri might have to tell in the future.
The author excels at capturing the world that Christopher Morgan experiences, a Baltimore in the not-so-distant future. He manages to create a truly immersive atmosphere that perfectly complements the story and stops short of boring the reader with excessively detailed descriptions. The futuristic setting is very believable, with regard to the central biotechnological elements no doubt helped by the author's background in biomedical engineering. Importantly, the futuristic aspects only serve to enhance the story rather than stealing the spotlight away from it.
While the portrayal of the thoughts and feelings of the protagonist doesn't always quite measure up to the same standard, it retains sufficient depth to make Chris a very relateable character. The major characters he encounters are similarly more or less well-rounded -- while some are definitely either on the white or black end of the spectrum, none (with one very forgivable major exception) fall entirely into either category, and the antagonists have logical motives for their deeds. Indeed, the reader can never be quite sure what shade of grey a character might be until the very end.
This is reflected in the story itself, which leaves the reader (and Chris) guessing throughout, as befits a well-crafted mystery. As Chris uncovers more and more clues, they are never quite what the reader might have expected. Combined with the fast (but not rushed) pace of the novel, this makes it hard to put down. The author manages to avoid clichés, or addresses them head on when they come up by making the associated choices/events very understandable (e.g. your average protagonist not involving police when in danger, or choosing confrontation when retreat would be the smarter choice). The denouement is satisfying, with many pieces falling into place, but with enough minor questions unresolved to engage the reader even past the point of finishing the book.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel. From an experienced author, I might only rate it four stars, but as a debut, this is fully deserving of five! I am already looking forward to discovering what other stories Anthony Melchiorri might have to tell in the future.
July 18, 2014
Chris finds himself in the midst of a prison riot. He's been in Fulton Penitentiary for 8 months for producing genies, illegal genetic implants used to enhance physical characteristics such as muscle mass and strength, of which there is a huge black market demand. He is released from prison soon after the riot and approached by a suited stranger who offers him a job in return for doing him a favour later on. As an ex-con Chris struggles to find employment and takes up the stranger's offer. An evening out with his workmates leads to the murder of his supervisor but why would anyone want to kill him? Along with new work colleague Tracey he discovers that he is on a list of which five people are already dead. Can he stay alive and prevent more killing?
This futuristic thriller hit the ground running as it starts off in the middle of a violent prison riot and the story develops quite fast from there. I would have to concede that the first half is shrouded in mystery and although the odd clue is there, things don't really pick up until the second half. There are some really fantastic futuristic hardware and cars that drive themselves but although Chris is not unlike able I didn't find him a particularly strong character. Tracey taking charge in the second half improved the pace and narrative but the finale dragged as descriptions got needlessly in the way as it was stretched a long way beyond interesting suspense.
There are some good bits of writing here: "In the vast lobby of the building, a contingent of Grecian columns stretched like ivory fingers from the swirled marble floor to the reliefs carved into the ceiling. Everything from the lush tropical plants adorning the artificial creek to the enormous holo-displays of rotating Greek pottery was just as gaudy and magnificent as Chris remembered." However, as descriptive as this is I found the action parts a bit too slowed with descriptions that were a bit excessive.
There were aspects of this futuristic techno-thriller I really enjoyed, there are twists and you want to find out what the bad guys are after, but I didn't find the premise exciting enough and the characters strong enough to feel enthused about reading a sequel. If you like techno-thrillers about genetics, this one is for you.
This futuristic thriller hit the ground running as it starts off in the middle of a violent prison riot and the story develops quite fast from there. I would have to concede that the first half is shrouded in mystery and although the odd clue is there, things don't really pick up until the second half. There are some really fantastic futuristic hardware and cars that drive themselves but although Chris is not unlike able I didn't find him a particularly strong character. Tracey taking charge in the second half improved the pace and narrative but the finale dragged as descriptions got needlessly in the way as it was stretched a long way beyond interesting suspense.
There are some good bits of writing here: "In the vast lobby of the building, a contingent of Grecian columns stretched like ivory fingers from the swirled marble floor to the reliefs carved into the ceiling. Everything from the lush tropical plants adorning the artificial creek to the enormous holo-displays of rotating Greek pottery was just as gaudy and magnificent as Chris remembered." However, as descriptive as this is I found the action parts a bit too slowed with descriptions that were a bit excessive.
There were aspects of this futuristic techno-thriller I really enjoyed, there are twists and you want to find out what the bad guys are after, but I didn't find the premise exciting enough and the characters strong enough to feel enthused about reading a sequel. If you like techno-thrillers about genetics, this one is for you.
October 29, 2014
I was gifted this book by inkspand in exchange for an honest review.
Action from the start! When I first began reading I had to double check and make sure I was on the first page! I love books like this that have action beginning to end. The book begins with Chris in the middle of a prison riot and Lash, another inmate, coming to his rescue. Chris learns from Kurt,yet another inmate, that just because he lived through the riot didn't mean the others were finished.
Chris is released from prison only to find out that he is on a list where five other people are already dead. He is stuck trying to stay alive while trying to find out who would want him dead. Plenty of twists and turns that keep the action exciting!
I love that I have to either pull out the dictionary or read the next few lines to discover what some of the words mean, there's a lot of medical jargon when he is in the hospital that I relied on the next sentence or two to understand. Thanks Anthony for adding those lines so I knew what they were talking about!
I am giving the book five stars for the level of excitement from beginning to end! It is short, which is wonderful, because it's the kind of book I hated to put down. At around 150 pages it was perfect for a quick read while keeping me entertained the whole time! LOVED IT!!
I would purchase this book for $9.99 if it was offered as an ebook.
Action from the start! When I first began reading I had to double check and make sure I was on the first page! I love books like this that have action beginning to end. The book begins with Chris in the middle of a prison riot and Lash, another inmate, coming to his rescue. Chris learns from Kurt,yet another inmate, that just because he lived through the riot didn't mean the others were finished.
Chris is released from prison only to find out that he is on a list where five other people are already dead. He is stuck trying to stay alive while trying to find out who would want him dead. Plenty of twists and turns that keep the action exciting!
I love that I have to either pull out the dictionary or read the next few lines to discover what some of the words mean, there's a lot of medical jargon when he is in the hospital that I relied on the next sentence or two to understand. Thanks Anthony for adding those lines so I knew what they were talking about!
I am giving the book five stars for the level of excitement from beginning to end! It is short, which is wonderful, because it's the kind of book I hated to put down. At around 150 pages it was perfect for a quick read while keeping me entertained the whole time! LOVED IT!!
I would purchase this book for $9.99 if it was offered as an ebook.
July 23, 2014
An Enhanced Novel
With all the current trends in looking younger, healthy living and genetic engineering in medicine, Anthony Melchiorri strikes a chord with his novel Enhancement: Black Market DNA. Beginning with a gifted geneticist in prison, it is soon revealed there is a black market for enhancing the natural gifts of people through manipulation of DNA. Chris Morgan got caught selling enhancements in a future where the newest drug deals have less to do with euphoric highs, and more to do with physical heights that can’t be reached without an assist. Add in a mysterious benefactor who arranges an early release for Chris with a waiting job and you have an intriguing techno-thriller with several twists and turns. Someone is helping Chris and going to great lengths to keep him safe. With a new woman in his life and an old friend helping him, Chris is trying to find out why people around him are dying because of these enhancements.
Melchiorri gives just enough of the technical information to make the story interesting and plausible, without getting into minutia that would have made it read like a technical manual. The story is engaging but not surprising, with characters that are likable. This is a novel that may turn out to be prophetic of a not-too-distant future.
With all the current trends in looking younger, healthy living and genetic engineering in medicine, Anthony Melchiorri strikes a chord with his novel Enhancement: Black Market DNA. Beginning with a gifted geneticist in prison, it is soon revealed there is a black market for enhancing the natural gifts of people through manipulation of DNA. Chris Morgan got caught selling enhancements in a future where the newest drug deals have less to do with euphoric highs, and more to do with physical heights that can’t be reached without an assist. Add in a mysterious benefactor who arranges an early release for Chris with a waiting job and you have an intriguing techno-thriller with several twists and turns. Someone is helping Chris and going to great lengths to keep him safe. With a new woman in his life and an old friend helping him, Chris is trying to find out why people around him are dying because of these enhancements.
Melchiorri gives just enough of the technical information to make the story interesting and plausible, without getting into minutia that would have made it read like a technical manual. The story is engaging but not surprising, with characters that are likable. This is a novel that may turn out to be prophetic of a not-too-distant future.
October 31, 2014
Disclaimer: I was provided with a free copy of this book through Reading Deals so I could give an honest review.
This book can best be described as a futuristic medical mystery.
The book takes you on an adventure through the downside of the world of Black Market DNA. A major part of the mystery involves who the main character, Chris, should and should not trust. Maybe he should have listened when others tried to steer him to the straight and narrow. Instead he choose to go for the direction that he thought would bring him fame and fortune. Only to come up short and on the wrong side of the law. Now he does his best to start life anew but will his past come back to haunt him. Wise decisions are hard to come by when you feel your life is no longer your own.
While I realize that understanding medical jargon is not everyone's cup of tea, I thoroughly enjoyed the interspersing of medical jargon among the action. It adds to the authenticity of the story. In some ways the story was like reading a Robin Cook novel only set in the future. Great job Mr. Melchiorri.
This book can best be described as a futuristic medical mystery.
The book takes you on an adventure through the downside of the world of Black Market DNA. A major part of the mystery involves who the main character, Chris, should and should not trust. Maybe he should have listened when others tried to steer him to the straight and narrow. Instead he choose to go for the direction that he thought would bring him fame and fortune. Only to come up short and on the wrong side of the law. Now he does his best to start life anew but will his past come back to haunt him. Wise decisions are hard to come by when you feel your life is no longer your own.
While I realize that understanding medical jargon is not everyone's cup of tea, I thoroughly enjoyed the interspersing of medical jargon among the action. It adds to the authenticity of the story. In some ways the story was like reading a Robin Cook novel only set in the future. Great job Mr. Melchiorri.
January 8, 2015
The story has been covered quite a few times: the sci-fi premise of genetic manipulation to create better living through genes. That would have interested me, but for the poor writing, which probably could have been improved with a couple rounds of editing.
Not to overdo it, but the name "Chris" was repeated so many times, it was distracting. It got to the point that "Chris" was mentioned back to back, the last word of one sentence and the first word of the next.
Needless details, such as: he loosened the tie "from his neck". Where else could his tie have been? This is a common problem throughout the book, the needless words.
Also, the writer tells us his heart is beating "in his chest", no kidding. But also, it beating "in his ears" and "in his stomach".
Overall, if you can ignore the poor writing, which is basically an almost final draft, you might enjoy the book. But the author should have had the book edited, which might have made the story enjoyable.
Not to overdo it, but the name "Chris" was repeated so many times, it was distracting. It got to the point that "Chris" was mentioned back to back, the last word of one sentence and the first word of the next.
Needless details, such as: he loosened the tie "from his neck". Where else could his tie have been? This is a common problem throughout the book, the needless words.
Also, the writer tells us his heart is beating "in his chest", no kidding. But also, it beating "in his ears" and "in his stomach".
Overall, if you can ignore the poor writing, which is basically an almost final draft, you might enjoy the book. But the author should have had the book edited, which might have made the story enjoyable.
May 3, 2015
Note: I won this from FirstReads giveaways.
Thrilling book, great story, interesting characters, it was better than I expected. I knew I'd like it, but it was still a bit surprising.
The technical words and details don't really bog it down or anything. I was worried at first they'd get to be too much, but it was fine, doesn't really matter if you can follow all the medical jargon, the story flows well enough without understanding it all.
This story gets you right away, first page, the whole first chapter is a thrill ride all on its own. It grips you and doesn't let go. The story doesn't seem to ever slow down, there's always something happening, some new twist or new character crashing the party.
It's not overly complicated, but it is a complex mystery going on throughout and leaves you wondering whats going to happen next, several times.
I'd really like to read more of the same, hopefully this author writes a lot more in future!
Thrilling book, great story, interesting characters, it was better than I expected. I knew I'd like it, but it was still a bit surprising.
The technical words and details don't really bog it down or anything. I was worried at first they'd get to be too much, but it was fine, doesn't really matter if you can follow all the medical jargon, the story flows well enough without understanding it all.
This story gets you right away, first page, the whole first chapter is a thrill ride all on its own. It grips you and doesn't let go. The story doesn't seem to ever slow down, there's always something happening, some new twist or new character crashing the party.
It's not overly complicated, but it is a complex mystery going on throughout and leaves you wondering whats going to happen next, several times.
I'd really like to read more of the same, hopefully this author writes a lot more in future!
January 12, 2015
"Enhancement (Black Market DNA Book 1)" by Anthony J Melchiorri is a great futuristic medical thriller that touches upon very important issues while delivering fast paced action scene and great suspense.
I found plenty of interesting themes in the story, e.g. criminal abuse of medical technology, body enhancement and their ethical implications. Interesting and relevant topis, wrapped into a very entertaining story.
The narrative has an intimate point of view with the perspective focused on Chris, how he experiences the dreadful time in prison and the subsequent scares and worries. It created a great intensity that kept me edgy throughout, even in scenes with lesser action. Melchiorri's background in science comes in handy as it makes the writing very effortless and feels very competent. At the same time this is not overplayed and never gets into the way of the thriller.
A good story and a promising start to the series.
I found plenty of interesting themes in the story, e.g. criminal abuse of medical technology, body enhancement and their ethical implications. Interesting and relevant topis, wrapped into a very entertaining story.
The narrative has an intimate point of view with the perspective focused on Chris, how he experiences the dreadful time in prison and the subsequent scares and worries. It created a great intensity that kept me edgy throughout, even in scenes with lesser action. Melchiorri's background in science comes in handy as it makes the writing very effortless and feels very competent. At the same time this is not overplayed and never gets into the way of the thriller.
A good story and a promising start to the series.
July 7, 2015
Chris Morgan is in jail for his involvement in illegal genetic enhancement trade. When he survives a prison riot and is suddenly bailed out by a mysterious man with a suspicious agenda, he is launched into a fight for his life and conscience that he could have never expected.
This is another thrilling biomedical page-turner from Mr. Melchiorri. It's the first in a series, but it also briefly references elements from his completely separate novel "The God Organ", which I thought was a nice touch. It took me a little longer than usual to read this one, just because it's so information-dense. The author is a bioengineer himself, so he knows his stuff and weaves it into his stories in amazingly rich detail. It's not a light read by any means, but it is a highly fascinating one.
A free copy was provided to me by the author with no obligation attached.
This is another thrilling biomedical page-turner from Mr. Melchiorri. It's the first in a series, but it also briefly references elements from his completely separate novel "The God Organ", which I thought was a nice touch. It took me a little longer than usual to read this one, just because it's so information-dense. The author is a bioengineer himself, so he knows his stuff and weaves it into his stories in amazingly rich detail. It's not a light read by any means, but it is a highly fascinating one.
A free copy was provided to me by the author with no obligation attached.
August 28, 2014
**I received a copy of this book via free download from Story Cartel in exchange for my review.**
ENHANCEMENT takes place in the future year of 2058 and Christopher Morgan has just had an attempt on his life. In prison. Convicted of dealing black market, illegal genetic enhancements, he wonders if this is why someone is trying to kill him. Weirder still, is the stone-faced man waiting to hire him when he gets out.
Eventually having little choice but to accept the offered position, Chris's suspicions only escalate when a co-worker is killed. Because somehow he's involved.
This book was a lot of fun with brilliant medical thrills, dubious alibis, and a lady scientist who can stand up and knock 'em down in a fight. In other words, awesome.
ENHANCEMENT takes place in the future year of 2058 and Christopher Morgan has just had an attempt on his life. In prison. Convicted of dealing black market, illegal genetic enhancements, he wonders if this is why someone is trying to kill him. Weirder still, is the stone-faced man waiting to hire him when he gets out.
Eventually having little choice but to accept the offered position, Chris's suspicions only escalate when a co-worker is killed. Because somehow he's involved.
This book was a lot of fun with brilliant medical thrills, dubious alibis, and a lady scientist who can stand up and knock 'em down in a fight. In other words, awesome.
June 30, 2014
I was captured within the first few lines of the book. I became completely absorbed in the story and couldn't put it down until the very end. I loved the story-line, the bits of medical insight and also hearing about the gene altering/manufacturing. It was wonderful! Please, please carry on with a series. I just can't wait to see where Chris takes us next, or where you take us next. I love your writing style!! Thank-you!
I highly recommend this book!!!
Enhancement: Black Market DNA
I highly recommend this book!!!
Enhancement: Black Market DNA
January 23, 2015
Genetics for a price?
What price are we willing to place on "good" genes or "enhanced" genes? Some stories are straight-forward while others are willing to explain and entertain. Anthony J Melchiorri has done this and supplied us with a twist or two that I thoroughly enjoyed. Once again his science is well grounded, but could use a few modifications. Perhaps we will see those in his future offerings.
**This review is offered in return for being allowed to read the book before its' official release.**
What price are we willing to place on "good" genes or "enhanced" genes? Some stories are straight-forward while others are willing to explain and entertain. Anthony J Melchiorri has done this and supplied us with a twist or two that I thoroughly enjoyed. Once again his science is well grounded, but could use a few modifications. Perhaps we will see those in his future offerings.
**This review is offered in return for being allowed to read the book before its' official release.**
February 2, 2015
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The main character didn't make it to the top of my favorite characters, but the concept of DNA altercation and enhancement interests me.
I like the fact that the vocabulary was for a skilled reader (I am a 4th grade ELA teacher). Melchiorri is now on my to read author list.
Overall this book was an easy and fun read. I think we have a new up and coming author here. :)
"I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review."
I like the fact that the vocabulary was for a skilled reader (I am a 4th grade ELA teacher). Melchiorri is now on my to read author list.
Overall this book was an easy and fun read. I think we have a new up and coming author here. :)
"I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review."
November 13, 2015
Enhancement
Enhancement is an interesting thriller featuring the unlawful sale of biogenetic material used for the enhancement of human abilities. Different from any other thriller I've read, but very interesting. No need for any scientific degree as it explains itself in easy-to-understand layman's terms. Gripping plot and interesting characters.
Enhancement is an interesting thriller featuring the unlawful sale of biogenetic material used for the enhancement of human abilities. Different from any other thriller I've read, but very interesting. No need for any scientific degree as it explains itself in easy-to-understand layman's terms. Gripping plot and interesting characters.
July 12, 2014
I loved this book! A great book to enjoy on vacation! A fast paced techno-thriller, it kept me engaged through all the twists and turns. I really am excited to read the next book by Anthony Melchiorri!
February 15, 2015
Fun read!
This is a great storyline, very interesting and fun to see what will happen next. Likeable characters that get into a lot of trouble! This was gifted to me by the author for an honest review and I did enjoy this book and am looking forward to the next book!
This is a great storyline, very interesting and fun to see what will happen next. Likeable characters that get into a lot of trouble! This was gifted to me by the author for an honest review and I did enjoy this book and am looking forward to the next book!
Currently Reading
February 25, 2015Received Free for Read-for-Review : Goodreads Group : Pro-Active Destruction: Anthony J. Melchiorri
June 5, 2015
Suspenseful thriller
Modern suspense thriller with cutting edge plot which does not let you go throughout the whole book. Entertaining look at where science can ultimately lead us.
Modern suspense thriller with cutting edge plot which does not let you go throughout the whole book. Entertaining look at where science can ultimately lead us.
September 21, 2016
Can't say I like any of the characters so far in this series, however, the science is very interesting.
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