In their place, the transhuman Bionics are using microscopic nanobots to adjust their genes, reshape their bodies, and perhaps even change human nature itself. Only in a few traditionalist communities do people attempt to live as they have in the past, resisting the allure of this new technology.
In Petram, one such oasis, seventeen-year-old Agnes just wants to live in peace. But when her friends and then her family start to disappear, she knows that the time for complacency is over.
Agnes must reunite her family and convince the rest of Petram to stand up to the Bionics. This takes her on a journey deep into the center of the Bionics' power, the futuristic city of Nissus. Here, she discovers a surprising and troubling new world, where the Bionics seem to be able to control everything: weather, animals, perhaps even her own mind.
Agnes is ready to fight for her home, but soon discovers what it will take. Will she truly do anything to save Petram?
Carl has been a fan of science fiction (and fantasy) for many years - always interested in an intriguing premise matched with a good story. When he finds that an idea has been developing in his head for a while and won't leave, it's time to start writing!
Carl's debut novel, Nissus, reflects his deep interest in understanding how science and technology can affect people - what their experiences are and how it informs their values and sense of purpose.
When Carl is not reading or writing, he is often hiking the trails and mountains of North Carolina with his family. Professionally, he helps develop software that models the operation and economics of the electric grid. He is passionate about human rights, human development, civic involvement and democracy, and education, as well as topics around the climate crisis and climate/energy nexus.
For more information and links to Carl's additional web sites, visit his personal web page.