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Free Will or External Factors
Nephilim follows a PhD student who invents a machine that when it merges with a human, gives them incredible powers. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
As a neurosurgeon, I’ve inserted augmentative technology into the brains and spines of patients. So, what if…
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I often wonder whether the choices we make are based on free will or external factors (natural or supernatural) which force our hand.
Secondly, it strikes me that there’s no such thing as a free lunch. Are the greatest gifts, such as awesome power, worth the costs?
Perhaps, most importantly, I often wonder what makes us human. As a corollary, how much of a person can be replaced or augmented by a machine and have that person still remain human?
I felt that the science inserted in the fiction was well-balanced. How did you manage to keep it grounded while still providing the fantastic edge science fiction stories usually provide?
The first few drafts weren’t so well balanced. It took intense effort not to ‘show off’ my new world. Ultimately, it came down to trusting the reader to ‘get it.’ I cut and cut and cut, until the story wasn’t bogged down by the sci-fi.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I’ve been writing a series of medical murder mysteries, the main character being a neurosurgeon, Felix Hoenniker, who has a penchant for sticking his nose where it doesn’t belong. Felix’s third adventure, which I’m finishing up now, is called Muñeca. It’s a novella, around ninety pages, and should drop over the summer. Here’s the blurb:
Felix wakes up in slime-dripping catacombs with a busted jaw, only to be confronted by an insufferable blowhard, a little girl in a frilly princess dress who comes bearing gifts, and a sadistic entrepreneur with a penchant for dumping automobiles in the Gowanus Canal. Cracking his most other-worldly case yet takes Felix on a whirlwind ride; from the bowels of New York City’s outer boroughs to the depraved heights of Manhattan society…and even has him dodging a possessed horde of scorpions in the Hamptons.
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Before long, all the wrong people start to notice:
-A secret religious order, The Urialites, prophesy the dawning of the New Age of Nephilim.
-A clandestine unit of Chinese commandos believe they’ve stumbled upon an invincible weapon.
-Sean isn’t sure he wants any part of the new guest.
-As for the machine… well, it has its own ideas.
Nephilim
Nephilim by Marc Arginteanu introduces readers to the brilliant mind of Zdenek, a PhD student whose groundbreaking invention bestows incredible powers upon its user. The story unfolds with intrigue as Zdenek races to protect his creation after a failed experiment threatens its safety. However, what ensues is a thrilling chase as two formidable groups—the secretive Urialites and a squad of Chinese commandos—relentlessly pursue the weapon.
In an unexpected turn, Sean, a humble waiter, becomes entangled with the device, thrusting him into a world of danger and excitement. As the narrative unfolds, themes of technology, prophecy, and the human desire for power are expertly explored, offering readers a captivating journey through a realm of uncertainty. The novel skillfully weaves various subplots and characters, adding depth and realism to the story. While the pacing is brisk, it keeps the reader engaged, and including multiple side stories enriches the overall narrative experience.
Marc Arginteanu’s ability to intricately connect different elements of the plot is praiseworthy. Though the character development may feel slightly rushed at times, the diverse cast of characters adds layers to the story, reflecting the complexities of human nature. While some violent scenes may be intense, they contribute to the gripping nature of the narrative, adding to the sense of urgency and danger.
Nephilim by Marc Arginteanu delivers an electrifying tale of power, technology, and the human condition. With its gripping plot, diverse cast of characters, and intricate storytelling, the novel immerses readers in a world of suspense and intrigue. While the brisk pacing and occasional violence may not be suitable for younger audiences, adult readers will find themselves drawn into the heart-pounding action and thought-provoking themes.
Pages: 364 | ASIN : B0CZLWBJ54
LITERARY TITAN 