In the novel Conception – Book One of the Dominion Chronicles - by K.S. Fish, evolution is given a boost in a bizarre plot to create living gods. Children produced as experimental subjects are kidnapped from their foster homes in later years and their special abilities are tested in the harshest means possible. The survivors of this extreme test are kept on a hidden compound and educated in the telekinetic skills necessary to become a god.

The intrigue of the plot draws the reader into the story from the beginning. How does the author plan on building gods out of children? From the creepy beginning, we are introduced to a variety of characters - the cruel man who will patiently do whatever it takes to alter the world; the newbie reporter chasing the story; the cops unsure of what to make of unlikely events; and the young adults given powers far beyond the possible. The plot seems incredible, but it is the character writing that keeps the reader’s interest and allows the journey to continue. Each character is memorable in their own way and easy to keep straight.

Then there is the plan itself. What price is too high to become a god? This is the question that drives the wedge between the group of young adults being trained for this ultimate responsibility. From the horrific beginning of their training, they have been exposed to the deadly results of failure in their elite club. Growing up in such a twisted environment, the group splinters into those who are good and those who are evil, and sometimes those who are both.

The author delivers a full round of suspense, drama, horror, and relationship problems in Conception. The writing style is smooth, easy to read, and entertaining. There is some gore and the plot is certainly horrific, but this isn’t a typical horror novel. It’s more like a superhero comic book written out in novel form. There are villains to despise and heroes to root for. And the author was visual enough in his descriptions that line drawings of the action (of which there is plenty) are easy to visualize. The only real drawback to the writing was in the publishing. There were so many spelling/grammatical errors that I came to expect them. I did enjoy the story despite the obvious editing problems.

Conception is part of a series but unlike some series books, this novel had a real, and surprising, ending and was complete in itself. Even so, it did the job of leaving me wanting more of the characters and more of the action. I’m glad to know the author is hard at work on a follow-up.

The author of Conception kindly provided me with a free review copy of his book.