Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner
Stinger
Amazon US PB Amazon US HC Amazon Canada PB Amazon Canada HC
Nancy Kress
Class/Genre: Mystery Scientific based Thriller
Forge, Oct 1998, $24.95, 304 pp.
Dellbridge Community Hospital in La Plata, Maryland, suddenly is dealing with the beginnings of what could easily become an epidemic when several African-Americans die from strokes. FBI Agent Robert Cavanaugh investigates the astronomical possibility that this is just a coincidence. Besides race, it is quickly determined that the common factor is that all of the deceased carried the sickle cell gene.
Though they understand the cause, CDC is divided as to how the mutant strain formed. Epidemiologist Melanie Anderson insists that this particular strain was genetically engineered to eradicate the black race. Because of the potential size, the Army sends in its best team because they are taking the risk seriously. Cavanaugh must convince his own agency that two and a half million Americans are at dire risk and a race war could be imminent if the FBI fails to actively seek answers.
STINGER is a well written scientific thriller that fans of the sub-genre will take pleasure reading. The plot is well designed as Nancy Kress demonstrates her remarkable ability to scribe complex scientific knowledge and theory into an easy to read fiction. However, too many events seem to miraculously occur for the hero and heroine, and the ending seems weak for a story line as well written as this one is. As with her previous novels, OATHS and MIRACLES, Ms. Kress provides fans with a state-of-the-art science thriller that is frightening because it appears so realistic yet remains an enjoyable experience.
Harriet Klausner
Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Harriet Klausner
If you enjoy this website, a link would be appreciated. |