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R4G3: Vein of Mortals
The experiment was meant to heal. Instead, it created something unstoppable.
For eighty-four years, Project Joy failed to accelerate human regeneration. Every subject died—until a convicted murderer survived.
Thomas Evers didn’t walk out of that lab human. Something ancient woke in his blood, fusing forbidden biotechnology with a power that should never have touched this world.
Now the scientist who saved him finds herself guiding a man caught between evolution and extinction. A man the military wants as a weapon. A man a shadow cult sees as a prophecy. A man a ruthless billionaire intends to control at any cost.
As alliances fracture and old powers stir, Dr. Charli Stanwick faces a single impossible truth:
If Thomas loses control, humanity will fall. If she loses him, the last hope of a better world dies with him.
R4G3 is a science-fantasy thriller where genetic engineering collides with ancient power—perfect for fans of monster-evolution thrillers, conspiracies, and dark fantasy.
For eighty-four years, Project Joy failed to accelerate human regeneration. Every subject died—until a convicted murderer survived.
Thomas Evers didn’t walk out of that lab human. Something ancient woke in his blood, fusing forbidden biotechnology with a power that should never have touched this world.
Now the scientist who saved him finds herself guiding a man caught between evolution and extinction. A man the military wants as a weapon. A man a shadow cult sees as a prophecy. A man a ruthless billionaire intends to control at any cost.
As alliances fracture and old powers stir, Dr. Charli Stanwick faces a single impossible truth:
If Thomas loses control, humanity will fall. If she loses him, the last hope of a better world dies with him.
R4G3 is a science-fantasy thriller where genetic engineering collides with ancient power—perfect for fans of monster-evolution thrillers, conspiracies, and dark fantasy.
449 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2025
56 people are currently reading
761 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
December 12, 2025
This was a pretty entertaining book, sort of a "what happens when science meets mythology" and a cautionary tale about what could happen when you're so focused on your scientific pursues and trying to avoid "things going wrong" that you don't really think of what could happen if "things go right".
At first glance, it seemed to make used of some overused literary tropes, what with the titular "R4G3" patient, being a death row prisoner that somehow was the only survivor of this borderline unethical treatment that turns him into a monter. Looking at that, you can almost imagine how the book will go, but no, the author very cleverly turns those tropes on their head and comes up with this really interesting tale about camaraderie, found family, and second chances.
There's a quite diverse cast of characters, and I'll admit that I found some more entertaining/interesting than others. "Warden" was a favorite of mine throughout the book, but I'm sure other people will have different preferences. If I had any complaint, it would be that even if the book has a few "downtime" scenes where the group of characters bond, I would've loved to see more of this found family dynamic. But well, seeing how this is "Book 1" I imagine there will be more opportunities in the future.
Bring on Book 2! I'm looking forward to it.
At first glance, it seemed to make used of some overused literary tropes, what with the titular "R4G3" patient, being a death row prisoner that somehow was the only survivor of this borderline unethical treatment that turns him into a monter. Looking at that, you can almost imagine how the book will go, but no, the author very cleverly turns those tropes on their head and comes up with this really interesting tale about camaraderie, found family, and second chances.
There's a quite diverse cast of characters, and I'll admit that I found some more entertaining/interesting than others. "Warden" was a favorite of mine throughout the book, but I'm sure other people will have different preferences. If I had any complaint, it would be that even if the book has a few "downtime" scenes where the group of characters bond, I would've loved to see more of this found family dynamic. But well, seeing how this is "Book 1" I imagine there will be more opportunities in the future.
Bring on Book 2! I'm looking forward to it.
December 3, 2025
R4G3: Vein of Mortals is a bold science fantasy novel that blends biotech and character-driven drama into a fast-paced thriller. The world feels dangerous, complex, and unique, and I really enjoyed the international aspect of the story. Most scenes take place in Tampa but the shifts to other countries like Nicaragua and cities like New Orleans kept everything fresh and interesting. The emotional stakes hit hard as the characters face wild and often impossible choices, which made the story even more engaging.
SPOILER ALERT: There is a romantic subplot between two of the main characters that I did not see coming, but I loved it all the way to the end. The story delivers strong drama and emotional beats for a thriller, adding real depth to the action. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series from this up and coming author.
SPOILER ALERT: There is a romantic subplot between two of the main characters that I did not see coming, but I loved it all the way to the end. The story delivers strong drama and emotional beats for a thriller, adding real depth to the action. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series from this up and coming author.
November 11, 2025
Candamo strikes again from the corporate realm, to bring us a great thriller, which will grip one's thoughts in a way quite incurable.
He shows knowledge is transferable; and like the gems of old, it is much preferable.
Let us be not be burnable: he who generalizes is amongst the most determinable.
He shows knowledge is transferable; and like the gems of old, it is much preferable.
Let us be not be burnable: he who generalizes is amongst the most determinable.
November 11, 2025
Excellent
This story is very scary. It has a monster, many secrets and much betrayal. As usual scientists go for what they can do without considering whether or not they should. Of course it helps that there are secrets even they didn't know.
This story is very scary. It has a monster, many secrets and much betrayal. As usual scientists go for what they can do without considering whether or not they should. Of course it helps that there are secrets even they didn't know.
November 14, 2025
loved it!
This book was such a thrill. I could barely wait to know what was happening next. The characters were relatable and the plot was very unique. I had a hard time putting it down because I could not wait to tell what was happening next.
This book was such a thrill. I could barely wait to know what was happening next. The characters were relatable and the plot was very unique. I had a hard time putting it down because I could not wait to tell what was happening next.
November 9, 2025
I recently read R4G3 by Joshua Candamo, and it really made me think about the limits of science and what happens when those limits are crossed. The story begins with Dr. Charli, a scientist who finally succeeds where many before her failed. She brings a man on death row back to life through a regeneration experiment. What follows is a fast-paced and emotional journey involving the military, a secret cult, and powerful people who all want to control what she has created.
The book takes place in Tampa, which is pretty neat, and features a real historic city in the U.S. called Ybor. It keeps you turning the pages with a mix of real historical references, like Project Paperclip, and science fiction grounded in believable research. Even though regeneration isn’t possible today, the story makes it feel as real as it could be. What really makes R4G3 stand out is how it explores right and wrong, faith, and what it truly means to be human. Charli is a great lead character (smart, strong, and compassionate) and the supporting cast adds depth and heart to the story.
By the end, R4G3 leaves you thinking about life, death, and how far people are willing to go in the name of progress. It’s more than just a science thriller. It’s a story that asks hard questions and stays with you long after it ends.
I’d love to see follow-up stories that explore each character’s past and what shaped them.
The book takes place in Tampa, which is pretty neat, and features a real historic city in the U.S. called Ybor. It keeps you turning the pages with a mix of real historical references, like Project Paperclip, and science fiction grounded in believable research. Even though regeneration isn’t possible today, the story makes it feel as real as it could be. What really makes R4G3 stand out is how it explores right and wrong, faith, and what it truly means to be human. Charli is a great lead character (smart, strong, and compassionate) and the supporting cast adds depth and heart to the story.
By the end, R4G3 leaves you thinking about life, death, and how far people are willing to go in the name of progress. It’s more than just a science thriller. It’s a story that asks hard questions and stays with you long after it ends.
I’d love to see follow-up stories that explore each character’s past and what shaped them.
November 10, 2025
The novel deals with genetics and its corresponding ethical issues, magic and billionaires who fund questionable projects. Although I have serious ethical concerns regarding the science used, it’s not beyond belief. However, the magic and cult storyline is rather disjointed and not very well explained. Hence the 3* rating.
Genesis 6 is a research facility hidden in plain sight of the Port of Tampa. It’s funded by billionaires who expect success at just about any cost. Charli Stanwick, a geneticist, is the head of research at the facility. She’s working there because she sees the potential for the research to find a cure for all illnesses and diseases. Thomas Evers, subject R4G3, is the first successful human trial in Project Joy. It was conceived by Hitler who hoped to create a super soldier. In 1945, after the war ended, President Roosevelt authorized the continuation of the research, under the name above. The treatment was only administered, with a person’s consent, to the terminally ill or to death row inmates. Thomas is participant number 18,473 and the only one to survive the treatment. As I already mentioned, this part of the storyline is quite interesting. The magic/supernatural storyline is confusing and convoluted.
I received and ARC of the novel and this is my personal opinion.
Genesis 6 is a research facility hidden in plain sight of the Port of Tampa. It’s funded by billionaires who expect success at just about any cost. Charli Stanwick, a geneticist, is the head of research at the facility. She’s working there because she sees the potential for the research to find a cure for all illnesses and diseases. Thomas Evers, subject R4G3, is the first successful human trial in Project Joy. It was conceived by Hitler who hoped to create a super soldier. In 1945, after the war ended, President Roosevelt authorized the continuation of the research, under the name above. The treatment was only administered, with a person’s consent, to the terminally ill or to death row inmates. Thomas is participant number 18,473 and the only one to survive the treatment. As I already mentioned, this part of the storyline is quite interesting. The magic/supernatural storyline is confusing and convoluted.
I received and ARC of the novel and this is my personal opinion.
December 3, 2025
Loved this book! R4G3 completely pulled me in from the start. What begins as a story about a medical experiment gone wrong (or right in this case) becomes something much bigger, blending science, mythology, and moral questions that stay with you long after you finish.
It’s one of those books you want to re-read after you know more about the characters and what’s really going on. Certain moments hit differently once you understand the deeper layers behind Project Joy and the connections between the lab, the Societas, and what Thomas truly is.
The world building is phenomenal, dark, believable, and full of tension. I loved how every character had real purpose and depth, especially Dr. Charli Stanwick. She’s complex, compassionate, and strong in a quiet, grounded way that makes her stand out.
There are a few intense scenes involving violence and mature content, so it’s definitely not a young adult read, but it all fits the tone of the story and the evolution of the characters.
If you like stories that mix biotech, morality, and ancient power with a touch of redemption and humanity, R4G3 is a must-read. It has a permanent place on my bookshelf, and I can’t wait for what comes next in the series. I would love to see follow-up stories or spin-offs that explore each character’s past and what shaped them into who they are.
It’s one of those books you want to re-read after you know more about the characters and what’s really going on. Certain moments hit differently once you understand the deeper layers behind Project Joy and the connections between the lab, the Societas, and what Thomas truly is.
The world building is phenomenal, dark, believable, and full of tension. I loved how every character had real purpose and depth, especially Dr. Charli Stanwick. She’s complex, compassionate, and strong in a quiet, grounded way that makes her stand out.
There are a few intense scenes involving violence and mature content, so it’s definitely not a young adult read, but it all fits the tone of the story and the evolution of the characters.
If you like stories that mix biotech, morality, and ancient power with a touch of redemption and humanity, R4G3 is a must-read. It has a permanent place on my bookshelf, and I can’t wait for what comes next in the series. I would love to see follow-up stories or spin-offs that explore each character’s past and what shaped them into who they are.
November 11, 2025
5 BIG STARS!
WOW. JUST WOW. Joshua Candamo completely blew me away with R4G3. This story had everything I love in a sci-fi thriller. It’s rare to see a story blend science fiction and fantasy so seamlessly, but this one hits the spot perfectly.
The world felt real and detailed, mixing science, emotion, and suspense in a way that pulled me in from the start. The idea of human regeneration and what happens when it actually works was fascinating and terrifying at the same time. I couldn’t stop reading.
The characters were incredible. Dr. Charli Stanwick is smart, strong, and easy to connect with. You can feel her struggle to do what’s right. And Thomas… his story broke me. Watching him fight between who he was and what he’s become kept me hooked. Their connection felt real. I really liked Echo, but I have to say Warden was my favorite (you might hate him, but I loved him). He reminded me of Butcher from The Boys.
This book made me think, feel, and question what it means to be human. I loved every part of it.
R4G3 is a must-read for anyone who enjoys dark science fiction with heart, tension, and good old-fashioned character development.
WOW. JUST WOW. Joshua Candamo completely blew me away with R4G3. This story had everything I love in a sci-fi thriller. It’s rare to see a story blend science fiction and fantasy so seamlessly, but this one hits the spot perfectly.
The world felt real and detailed, mixing science, emotion, and suspense in a way that pulled me in from the start. The idea of human regeneration and what happens when it actually works was fascinating and terrifying at the same time. I couldn’t stop reading.
The characters were incredible. Dr. Charli Stanwick is smart, strong, and easy to connect with. You can feel her struggle to do what’s right. And Thomas… his story broke me. Watching him fight between who he was and what he’s become kept me hooked. Their connection felt real. I really liked Echo, but I have to say Warden was my favorite (you might hate him, but I loved him). He reminded me of Butcher from The Boys.
This book made me think, feel, and question what it means to be human. I loved every part of it.
R4G3 is a must-read for anyone who enjoys dark science fiction with heart, tension, and good old-fashioned character development.
November 26, 2025
R4G3 pulled me in from the very first chapter. The mix of secret-lab science, military tension, and emotional depth makes this story feel unique. I loved following Dr. Charli Stanwick—she’s smart, flawed, and incredibly human—and the transformation scene with R4G3 was absolutely jaw-dropping.
There are definitely heavy themes—death, grief, moral ambiguity—but the writing style is clear and keeps things moving. Even when things got intense, I never felt lost.
The multiple POVs (especially Tank and Warden) added layers I didn’t expect, and the story balances action, heart, and moral questions really well. It is dark, so check the content warnings, but if you love fast-paced sci-fi thrillers with high stakes, this book is a must-read. I’m already excited for the next one.
There are definitely heavy themes—death, grief, moral ambiguity—but the writing style is clear and keeps things moving. Even when things got intense, I never felt lost.
The multiple POVs (especially Tank and Warden) added layers I didn’t expect, and the story balances action, heart, and moral questions really well. It is dark, so check the content warnings, but if you love fast-paced sci-fi thrillers with high stakes, this book is a must-read. I’m already excited for the next one.
December 9, 2025
A Must-Read: "R4G3: Vein of Mortals" !
I just finished reading this book and I am absolutely blown away. This book is a relentless, visceral sci-fi thriller that masterfully blends cutting-edge bio-science with the darkest depths of the human psyche, set against the sun-baked, familiar backdrop of Tampa, Florida. Forget what you think you know about military-industrial fiction—this book carves out its own gruesome, unforgettable niche. This book
is a spectacular achievement of science mixed with savagery. It’s a non-stop thrill ride that doesn't sacrifice intellectual depth for action. If you love a sci-fi thriller that pushes boundaries, explores the ethical abyss of military science, and delivers sequences of unrelenting, high-octane savagery, then read this book asap.
I just finished reading this book and I am absolutely blown away. This book is a relentless, visceral sci-fi thriller that masterfully blends cutting-edge bio-science with the darkest depths of the human psyche, set against the sun-baked, familiar backdrop of Tampa, Florida. Forget what you think you know about military-industrial fiction—this book carves out its own gruesome, unforgettable niche. This book
is a spectacular achievement of science mixed with savagery. It’s a non-stop thrill ride that doesn't sacrifice intellectual depth for action. If you love a sci-fi thriller that pushes boundaries, explores the ethical abyss of military science, and delivers sequences of unrelenting, high-octane savagery, then read this book asap.
December 14, 2025
INTRESTING
In the beginning it reminded me of the "bad" people in the upside down! (STRANGER THINGS). Then I kept reading and theirs a lot of different povs! One persons in jail, one person has a family with like 4 kids, one person is like the assistant to the boss that died, and so on and so forth! So then it kinda just gets into a heap of confusion. Since you have to all that information from all those people.
In the beginning it reminded me of the "bad" people in the upside down! (STRANGER THINGS). Then I kept reading and theirs a lot of different povs! One persons in jail, one person has a family with like 4 kids, one person is like the assistant to the boss that died, and so on and so forth! So then it kinda just gets into a heap of confusion. Since you have to all that information from all those people.
November 21, 2025
An experiment to increase the human life span has all failed until he was the test subject. He is a convicted criminal and this success will lead to bigger questions being asked about the experiments. See how it will affect everything else
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and a very thoughtful read
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and a very thoughtful read
November 14, 2025
Quite an enjoyable story. The action was good and the hint of supernatural really piqued my interest.
December 2, 2025
Good book! I'd love to see (um, read) a part 2.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews