The Dark Side of Science
Julie C. Gilbert
eBook
The mind can hold powerful secrets.When Dr. Jessica Paladon worked for her friend, Dr. Dean Devya, she helped create Nadia, one of the world’s few Minders. Tough circumstances drove her away from that life, and to protect the secrets, she willingly took a drug that induced amnesia.But now she needs those memories.Two children—her children—Nadia and Varick are competing in a winners-take-all, losers-might-die competition for the biggest secret government contract out there. They’re fighting for the right to exist.If Jessie can’t remember, how will she help them survive?Interview with the Author:Q: What makes the Devya’s Children series special? A: At the heart, this series is about family and friendship as well as the ethical questions surrounding genetic engineering. It’s been likened to the Orphan Black TV show. I like to think of it as a more family-friendly take on those themes. The premise is that a brilliant scientist and his team created several genetically altered children who have special Gifts, such as telepathy, healing, and dream shaping. The journal/letters style is not unique to this series, but I believe ultimately it suits my need to get in these people’s heads. I’ve worked very hard to fill the books with relatable characters. Some of them happen to have superpowers, but as Jillian points out, everybody has gifts, if not Gifts. It’s just a matter of finding out what those gifts are and how they can be applied for the good of the world.Q: What order should I read them in?A: I suggest the traditional order of:- Ashlynn’s Dreams- Nadia’s Tears- Malia’s Miracles- Varick’s Quest … before jumping into the prequel—The Dark Side of Science—or the Ashlynn’s Dreams Shorts. The prequel and the short stories can certainly be read as standalones, but they may be more enjoyable once the reader’s already familiar with some of the characters.Q: Where does this book fit in the series? What theme(s) make it special?A: The Dark Side of Science is a prequel to the Devya’s Children series. On one level, it’s about the battle to gain a secret government contract that will allow the research to move forward. On another level, it’s a personal journey for Dr. Jessica Paladon. Those already familiar with the series will recognize Dr. Paladon as Nadia and Varick’s genetic mother. The story references events mentioned in Ashlynn’s Dreams and Nadia’s Tears. It explores questions like how far would you go to protect those you love? By the way, Brian Troxell’s performance with the audio is stellar. (I love all my narrators.)Q: Why should readers check out this series?A: Because Devya’s Children will introduce you to a charming cast of characters dealing with some big issues. Right or wrong, the children exist, so now what? If you have the power to change the world, should you? What are the personal cost and consequences of shaping the world? These are all questions explored by the series.Q: Can the reader get the whole series at once?A: Readers can grab books 1-3 in a combination. I’ve not bundled in Book 4 yet, but hop on over to my amazon author page or website to get plugged in and keep up with the current promos.