Infinitas published this review of The Gene Thieves by Maria Quinn, reviewed by Garry Dalrymple in the Infinitas November 09 newsletter.
An excerpt of the review is below.
The Gene Thieves
‘… in a world where the institution of Marriage has been replaced by sequential conjugal contracts and surrogate pregnancies are a reproductive option, a researcher has decoded a genetic pathway to longevity. He is already wealthy, as he has sold to the Japanese Government a patent for blue eyes. He wants to have a child, in effect another child of his late parents. Corporate forces kidnap his child and the ransom demanded is the longevity technology. A dashing UN Science nobbling committee activist, marriage contract lawyers and a Surrogate baby farm collective all become involved. In spite of the ‘defeat’ of the institution of Marriage, it seems that guilt and divine retribution survive into the future as several ‘sinners’ get their come-uppance through the book and in the end, the eternal family triumphant? The ‘Adventures’ are at times James Bond-ish, but under the circumstances they are credible and through the book the body count of incidental figures mounts, there is cross dressing, beach side holidays recalled, a family secret, surfing and Sydney sights, so what’s not to like about this book?’
…
Conclusion – I recommend this book, and I hope that Maria will be encouraged to write more Science Fictional / Techno thriller books as the genre is enriched by the entry of Writers with ’new to the Genre’ writing skills and points of view, also I do have a weakness for Sydney centric SF.
Garry Dalrymple is the convenor of this year’s Sydney Freecon: Free Entry, Three sessions November 27 (Friday 6-8 pm) 28 (Saturday 8.30-4 pm) and 29, (Sunday 1-4 pm). Short Story Competition, Paradox Auction and about a dozen published writers from WA, ACT and NSW taking part this year.
Infinitas produce a monthly newsletter, and you can see past issues here. They’re also among the most dedicated of spec fic booksellers in Australia, and have lots of regular events – including an upcoming appearance by Kylie Chan in December.
