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SHIVERING WORLD is the planet Goddard in the year 2134. This sci-fi
novel portrays the wonders and dangers of genetic engineering, with an
added blend of mystery and romance. Author Kathy Tyers has constructed
a futuristic world that seems real and tangible.
Graysha Brady-Phillips is employed by Gaea, a consortium which creates
liveable conditions on planets by a process called "terraforming."
Goddard's colonists, the Lwuites, are suspected of illegal genetic
engineering (genegineering). Graysha suffers from an incurable disease
which she hopes they may be able to cure. Her mother is a high-ranking
investigator for the United Sovereignties and Space Colonies' Eugenics
Board, making it extremely difficult for Graysha to gain the Lwuites'
trust and assistance.
Lindon DalLierx, Colonial Chairman, is a widower with two children.
Dedicated to the well-being of the colonists, he is suspicious of
Graysha's motives and loyalty. When she and his sister become friends,
DalLeirx comes to admire Graysha, in spite of his reservations.
Foul play is suspected in her predecessor's death and Graysha may also
be in danger-but from whom? Her eccentric supervisor, the Lwuites, or
Gaea Consortium? The cooling of the planet could cause a catastrophic
freeze-out and force the abandonment of the planet. Someone wants to
hide the facts, but both Graysha and DalLierx fight to reveal the
truth.
Science fiction is not my favorite genre, but I was drawn in and
fascinated by the characters and the future world in which they live.
Tyers's characters, including the supporting ones, are well-developed.
I especially liked Trevarre, a young man trying to escape both his
father and enforced surgery. I fell in love with Graysha's pet gribien,
a lab animal that is her almost-constant companion. Tyers weaves her
subplots together seamlessly. It was interesting, and a little
frightening, to read about Christians in a society that prohibits
proselytizing. I highly recommend this book.
Reviewed by Marie DisBrow for The Road to Romance
February 2, 2004 |
