The Y Factor by Liam Roberts

Scientists discover a genetic secret that threatens to wipe Israel off the map . . .

Back Cover Copy:

What is our CNA holds the solution to the Middle East conflict? What if there are people willing to kill to keep it a secret?

Computer scientist Eric Colburn is anticipating his college graduation and eager to begin life with his girlfriend, Alana, when he receives a cryptic e-mail from his former college roommate, Hamdi. A former classmate of Alana's in the genetics program, Hamdi has returned home to Cairo to work on an international project that decodes DNA to develop a comprehensive family tree of the human race.

When Hamdi disappears and Eric receives nothing but disinterest and evasions from those who were working with him, Eric feels he has no choice but to investigate, taking a position with the company Hamdi was working for. While there, and with Alana by his side, he uncovers a terrorist plot so dark and explosive that it threatens to shake the very foundations of the world.

With an unforgettable cast of characters—from brilliant scientist to al Qaeda assassins—The Y Factor is a scientific thriller that deftly combines edge-of-your-seat action with a challenge for us to love our enemies . . . even when that seems impossible to do.


About Liam Roberts: 

Liam Roberts' fascination with genetics—particularly the Genographic Project sponsored by the National Geographic Society and the idea that the story of Noah's flood might be recorded in our DNA—combined with an interest in Islamic terrorism provide the impetus for this debut novel. Roberts has a popular blog where he writes on topics surrounding Christianity and Islam in America. He has been married for thirty-three years to his wife, Marsha, and they have been blessed with three incredible children.


Margie's Comments: I was intrigued by the premise of the book when I first saw it mentioned on Facebook, and when the opportunity came to review it for this blog, I jumped at it. The story and the characters are interesting and well-done. While I felt the beginning of the story was a little slow, the pace picked up and I was drawn into the intrigue and the danger of the Middle East. I was also fascinated by the scientific aspect of the story, the what ifs of life and a heritage that goes all the way back to the beginning of time. Although I found the dialogue pedantic at times, the story definitely kept me reading to an exciting and satisfying finish.

The Y Factor is published by Realms and is available at most bookstores.