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Change Agent

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Change Agent by Daniel Suarez is a thrilling science fiction novel set in the year 2045, exploring the implications of advanced genetic engineering technology. The story follows Kenneth Durand, an Interpol agent who is injected with a "change agent" that alters his DNA, turning him into a wanted criminal. As Durand races against time to reclaim his original DNA, he navigates a world where genetic modification is commonplace and black market activities pose a threat to society. The book is praised for its fast-paced plot, well-developed characters, and plausible yet mind-bending speculations about the future of genetic engineering.

Characters:

Characters include a relatable protagonist but feature more engaging antagonists; some supporting roles may lack depth.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is engaging and informative, blending technical details with accessible storytelling, although some readers find the techno-babble overwhelming.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot centers on Kenneth Durand, an Interpol officer who undergoes a forced genetic transformation to look like a wanted criminal. This premise leads to a thrilling chase filled with ethical dilemmas surrounding genetic engineering.

Setting:

The setting takes place in a near-future Southeast Asia, specifically highlighting Singapore's role as a technological center and reflecting dystopian themes.

Pacing:

The novel is predominantly fast-paced, maintaining a high level of tension, though pacing issues are noted in terms of rushed conclusions.
The young Mumbai couple exchanged uncertain looks. In their late twenties, well-groomed, and dressed in crisp business casual clothes, they appeared a step above the cramped, dingy, and windowless off...

Notes:

The story takes place in the near future, specifically the year 2045.
The protagonist, Kenneth Durand, is an Interpol agent focusing on genetic engineering crimes.
The plot centers around illegal black market labs that design custom babies by editing genes.
Ken Durand is injected with a change agent that alters his DNA to look like a notorious crime lord, Marcus Wyckes.
The book explores profound themes like personal identity and the ethical implications of gene editing.
Significant locations in the story include Southeast Asia, particularly Singapore, Thailand, and Myanmar.
There are strong philosophical questions about the nature of identity and what defines a person.
The author, Daniel Suarez, is known for his thrilling writing and ability to blend technology with human drama.
The narrative features high-tech elements like automatic cabs made from shrimp shells and intricate gene editing technology.
Despite a thrilling premise, some readers felt the main character lacked depth compared to the villains.
The book examines potential abuses of genetic engineering, like creating child soldiers without conscience.
Change Agent highlights how advancements in genetics could lead to new societal issues and ethical dilemmas.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include discussions on genetic manipulation, identity crisis, violence, and ethical implications of technology.

From The Publisher:

New York Times bestselling author Daniel Suarez delivers an exhilarating sci-fi thriller exploring a potential future where CRISPR genetic editing allows the human species to control evolution itself.

On a crowded train platform, Interpol agent Kenneth Durand feels the sting of a needle-and his transformation begins...

In 2045 Kenneth Durand leads Interpol's most effective team against genetic crime, hunting down black market labs that perform "vanity edits" on human embryos for a price. These illegal procedures augment embryos in ways that are rapidly accelerating human evolution-preying on human-trafficking victims to experiment and advance their technology.

With the worlds of genetic crime and human trafficking converging, Durand and his fellow Interpol agents discover that one figure looms behind it all: Marcus Demang Wyckes, leader of a powerful and sophisticated cartel known as the Huli jing.

But the Huli jing have identified Durand, too. After being forcibly dosed with a radical new change agent, Durand wakes from a coma weeks later to find he's been genetically transformed into someone else-his most wanted suspect: Wyckes.

Now a fugitive, pursued through the genetic underworld by his former colleagues and the police, Durand is determined to restore his original DNA by locating the source of the mysterious-and highly valuable-change agent. But Durand hasn't anticipated just how difficult locating his enemy will be. With the technology to genetically edit the living, Wyckes and his Huli jing could be anyone and everyone-and they have plans to undermine identity itself.

Ratings (3)

Incredible (1)
Loved It (1)
It Was OK (1)

Reader Stats (6):

Read It (3)
Want To Read (3)

2 comment(s)

Incredible
2 weeks

(Listened to audiobook with hubby) I'm so happy my hubster introduced me to this author. I really enjoyed this book and look forward to listening to more; the narration was great.

 
It Was OK
5 months

Another cool concept from Suarez, but super weird and a little unnerving. I wanted to check out some of his other stuff because I liked the Delta V books so much. The three I’ve tried haven’t hit that same high mark.

 

About the Author:

Daniel Suarez is the author of the New York Times bestseller Daemon, Freedom™, Kill Decision, and Influx. A former systems consultant to Fortune 1000 companies, his high-tech and sci-fi thrillers focus on technology-driven change. He lives in Los Angeles, California.

 
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