Entheóphage
Formats: E-Book, Audio, Paperback
Dr. Isobel Fallon thinks she's found a treatment that will help her son and others suffering from Milani Syndrome, a rare neurological disorder. What she doesn't realize is that harvesting the source of this treatment in the only accessible place on earth it grows, a coral reef in the Nlaan Islands, is going to have consequences far beyond the disruption of the fragile ecosystem on one small reef.
CDC researcher Nadine Parker and her team are baffled. Lukas Behn’s daughter Kyndra has contracted a bizarre new virus that leaves her screaming in pain. But they can't identify any physical, biological source for that pain, not in Kyndra, nor in the dozens, then hundreds, and finally millions of children worldwide succumbing to the same virus. And no one seems to have made a connection between what's happening with the infected children and the events on a small coral reef in the South Pacific.
Eventually, Nadine has to face the unlikely truth, and the enormous implications of it. The children aren't sick. They're changing. But will anyone else believe her?
Reviews
Initially, the cover gave me the impression of a youthful or stylized take on sci-fi, so I almost passed on it. But once I looked deeper, I realized how much depth and substance the story had—and I’m so glad I gave it a chance. The science is seamlessly woven into the story, making complex concepts accessible without oversimplification. The research behind it is evident, adding depth and realism. I also appreciated how the book explores a difficult societal challenge without turning it into a one-sided debate. It highlights the unintended consequences of human choices—how personal circumstances and societal systems can drive actions that impact the environment—not out of malice, but necessity or limited perspective. This approach makes for a thought-provoking, balanced narrative. The writing is sharp and engaging, with vivid yet natural phrasing. The characters feel real, their struggles and dry humor adding to their depth and making them easy to empathize with. For anyone looking for sci-fi that blends ethical dilemmas with compelling storytelling, this is an easy recommendation.
"Entheóphage, by Drema Deòraich, is a captivating narrative centered on environmental crisis and human accountability. The story begins with a gripping and tragic event: Lukas Behn's daughter becomes the first known victim of a strange pandemic affecting only children. What sets this illness apart is not just its mystery but the victims' profound empathic connection to the environment, a link that reveals the broader impact of humanity's reckless actions. Lukas finds an unexpected partner in Nadine, the CDC's lead investigator, whose fearless determination uncovers the disease's chilling correlation with environmental pollution. As the plot deepens, Dr. Isobel, a scientist working for the pharmaceutical giant Holschtatt, is revealed as a pivotal figure. She oversees the destructive exploitation of coral reefs around the Nlaan Islands, ignoring the ecological devastation caused in pursuit of corporate interests. Together, Lukas and Nadine confront a world in denial, battling public indifference and corporate resistance to expose the true costs of environmental neglect. Deòraich's novel is more than just a dystopian warning—it's a powerful reminder of the irreversible damage we risk by ignoring the earth's warnings. One of the novel's standout features is its seamless integration of science. Deòraich has clearly done extensive research, crafting a fictional disease whose symptoms and underlying mechanisms are not only plausible but are explained with impressive clarity. The scientific elements are woven naturally into the plot, never feeling forced, and they contribute to the unsettling realism of the pandemic's portrayal. The balance between hard science and the development of complex, relatable characters is masterful, making for a story that is both emotionally engaging and intellectually stimulating. A key strength of Entheóphage is its refusal to offer easy solutions or to vilify any one character. Instead, the author delves into the intricacies of human impact on the environment. Dr. Isobel, for example, is not depicted as a simple antagonist. Her motivations and internal struggles are given depth, illustrating the gray areas between corporate ambition and ecological destruction. This nuanced approach adds a layer of authenticity to the story, making the characters feel real and their conflicts compelling. Entheóphage is an engrossing blend of scientific insight, moral urgency, and thought-provoking storytelling. Its message is clear: the time to act is now before it's too late. This book is an excellent read for all ages, offering both a warning and a call to action for those concerned about the future of our planet." --Literary Titan
"Entheophage is not only a well-written, easy-to-read mystery with twists and turns but its basic premise is so unique and unusual. The storyline reflects two issues of the past decade, pandemics and climate change, and combines them into a thrilling tale that will keep readers glued. I particularly appreciated that almost all the lead characters were strong, well-educated, resourceful, and confident women. In a political environment that daily seeks to denigrate and limit women's roles in society, it is important to read literature that celebrates women's achievements and abilities. I also loved the concept that all life, no matter how small and seemingly insignificant, is part of one giant consciousness; eternally linked and reliant on the other parts. That nature, in the form of a virus, should be the central character in addressing the imbalance in the universe, created by one small part of that environment, humanity, was an inspired and unique direction taken by this author. I can't speak highly enough about how much I enjoyed this story and I recommend it to all readers." --Grant Leishman, Readers' Favorite
