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 . . .
Dive into a chillingly plausible near-future thriller with Peter James' "Perfect People," a First Edition hardcover published by MacMillan in 2011. This gripping novel explores the ethical minefield of genetic engineering and the terrifying consequences of playing God, a theme that resonates deeply in our increasingly technologically advanced world. John and Naomi, shattered by the tragic loss of their four-year-old son to a devastating genetic disorder, are desperate to rebuild their family. The fear of history repeating itself hangs heavy over them, making the prospect of conceiving naturally unbearable. Hope arrives in the form of Dr. Leo Dettore, a pioneering geneticist who promises to eliminate the risk of inherited diseases. Dettore's clinic offers a seemingly miraculous solution: the ability to design the perfect child, free from genetic defects. Initially, John and Naomi are captivated by the prospect of safeguarding their future child from suffering. The allure of choosing desirable traits eye color, hair type, athletic prowess proves irresistible. They rationalize their decision, viewing it as an act of love, a way to shield their offspring from the cruel hand of fate. However, as Naomi's pregnancy progresses, unsettling signs begin to emerge, hinting at a sinister truth lurking beneath the surface of Dettore's scientific marvel. The couple soon realize they have unwittingly opened Pandora's Box, unleashing forces they cannot control. "Perfect People" isn't just a thrilling page-turner; it's a thought-provoking exploration of moral boundaries and the potential for scientific hubris. Peter James, a master of suspense, expertly crafts a narrative that will keep you on the edge of your seat, questioning the very definition of perfection and the price we are willing to pay to achieve it. As Naomi delves deeper into the secrets surrounding Dettore's clinic, she uncovers a web of deceit, manipulation, and horrifying experimentation. The novel masterfully blends elements of science fiction, mystery, and thriller, creating a truly unforgettable reading experience. Peter James is a renowned British crime writer, best known for his Detective Superintendent Roy Grace series. His meticulous research and knack for creating believable characters add depth and authenticity to his novels. In "Perfect People," James tackles complex scientific concepts with clarity and precision, making the story both accessible and intellectually stimulating. The novel raises important questions about genetic engineering, designer babies, and the responsibility that comes with scientific advancement. "Perfect People" is more than just a thriller; it's a cautionary tale about the dangers of tampering with nature and the unintended consequences of playing God. Prepare to be captivated by this suspenseful and thought-provoking novel that will stay with you long after you've turned the final page.