Contraptions

by Jeffrey Weinzweig

*A dead surgeon. A top secret code. A genetic engineering fiasco. Two inventors. Many contraptions. *

A surgeon is found dead in Washington Square Park. Murdered. Who would murder a surgeon in cold blood? Ojo Jenachukwu, an inventor, is framed for the killing. He and his business partner, Derek Cannon, will unravel the shocking scenario that resulted in this murder while doing everything they can to prevent their own. A multitude of clever inventions play pivotal roles uncovering evidence that proves Ojo's innocence while infiltrating the depraved world of NEXUS.

CONTRAPTIONS is a techno-medical thriller that tells the story of how these inventors become entangled in a heinous plot involving inter-species genetic engineering research at NEXUS that produces a series of grotesque birth deformities. Motive for the surgeon's murder comes as a gruesome revelation as Ojo and Derek utilize a myriad of their own contraptions to shut down the fiendish research occurring in Sector 13 that has been creating these monstrosities. And to derail the ultimate plan of NEXUS which will have global consequences.

CONTRAPTIONS incorporates elements of suspense and ingenuity as the story of these inventors unfolds. Imagine a scenario in which human eggs are harvested without patients' knowledge or consent, fertilized in vitro, and implanted as embryos - in rhesus monkeys! This is precisely what is occurring in the operating room in Sector 13. And NEXUS has a very specific purpose for those embryos. This pair of inventors turned sleuths and their sarcastic robot sidekick will sacrifice everything to halt the wheels of human destruction already set in motion.

526 pages, Paperback

Published May 15, 2025

Reviews

[Tracy Stopler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Five stars to Jeffrey Weinzweig for his awe-inspiring, electrifying, and mesmerizing debut novel, CONTRAPTIONS, a groundbreaking work that will empower readers and leave them breathless. Weinzweig's expertise in medicine, combined with his creative genius, yields a fast-paced medical thriller that sustains tension throughout every masterful storytelling page. The well-developed characters and vivid descriptions of various scenes will transport readers to a world of wonder, bringing the narrative alive in their minds and fueling their imagination. I eagerly anticipate reading more from this gifted author.

[Tracy Stopler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Five stars to Jeffrey Weinzweig for his awe-inspiring, electrifying, and mesmerizing debut novel, CONTRAPTIONS, a groundbreaking work that will empower readers and leave them breathless. Weinzweig's expertise in medicine, combined with his creative genius, yields a fast-paced medical thriller that sustains tension throughout every masterful storytelling page. The well-developed characters and vivid descriptions of various scenes will transport readers to a world of wonder, bringing the narrative alive in their minds and fueling their imagination. I eagerly anticipate reading more from this gifted author.

[Andrew Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had me hooked from page one. The mix of science, suspense, and sheer imagination was brilliant. The contraptions themselves were as entertaining as the plot twists, and Ojo quickly became a character I rooted for. If you enjoy thrillers that ask “what if?” in the scariest way possible, this one’s for you.

[Thomas Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

What impressed me most was the way the book balanced action with real ethical issues. The idea of human embryos being used in genetic experiments on monkeys is chilling, and the author doesn’t shy away from showing how horrifying that would be. At the same time, it’s still a fast-paced, enjoyable read.

[Danielle Rowland · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Contraptions. It’s fast-paced, full of twists, and the mix of medical science, mystery, and clever inventions kept me hooked. The way Ojo and Derek uncover the dark secrets of NEXUS makes for a thrilling and unforgettable read.

[Lizzy Rowland · Rating 5 out of 5]

What stood out to me in Contraptions was how it balanced science and suspense so well. The deeper I got into the story, the more disturbing the secrets at NEXUS became. It’s not just a murder mystery—it’s a smart thriller that makes you think about where science can cross the line.

[Sherwood Braun · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honestly, I didn’t know what to expect, but this book surprised me. The science parts were clear enough for a non-science person like me to follow, and the suspense kept building until the very end. There were a few over the top moments, but I didn’t mind, it added to the ride.

[Daniel Diaz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ll admit, I had to pause a few times because the science hit a little too close to home, it felt disturbingly possible. That’s what makes the book work, though. It’s thrilling but also thought-provoking. Definitely not a forgettable read.

[Andriana Ginni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Contraptions reminded me a lot of early Michael Crichton. The science is bold, the pace is relentless, and the ethical questions linger after you put it down. I don’t usually finish books this fast, but I burned through it in two nights.

[Ryan Fecher · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is wild, in the best way. Murder, secret labs, genetic nightmares, and two inventors who are way in over their heads. It’s like Clive Cussler meets sci-fi medical drama. Definitely unique, and I hope there’s a sequel.

[John V. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is wild in the best way possible. It’s not just a thriller, it’s a mix of science, invention, and suspense that kept me guessing. The whole NEXUS storyline is both terrifying and fascinating.

[Emily Šeter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Contraptions is different from most thrillers I’ve read. It mixes humor, science, and horror into one package. Not every scene landed for me, but I admire how bold and inventive it was.