Predator/Nomad by Daniel Micko

A conspiratorial novel of progress, royalty, love, and betrayal that moves at a relentless pace, Predator/Nomad by Daniel Micko is a bold and breathless read.

A doctor on the edge of a species-changing breakthrough and the twin sister of a Saudi prince are an unlikely pair, and their deviant tryst is doomed from the start. Jordan’s work in the field of genetic manipulation and cloning puts her in bed with Afghani nationalists, and when the crown prince dies under mysterious circumstances, Saleh is forced to take his place in the royal spotlight. Presenting a behind-the-scenes look at the dangerous nexus of politics and technology, this is an emotionally charged slice of sci-fi drama.

Tackling one of the most controversial and fascinating advancements of modern science, this novel dances on the cutting edge, but doesn’t always explore its contemporary themes well. The scientific and genetic jargon can feel superficial even for a layperson, while the exposition surrounding Saudi culture and geopolitics is light on detail. Additionally, including a transgender character in such a central role is progressive, but the language and conversations around this choice are quite clumsy, in a way that may not be received well by that community.

All told, this is an ambitious, timely novel, and the plot is gripping and unpredictable, but Micko’s creativity is sometimes overwhelmed by issues in execution.

Book Links