Lethal Harvest by William Cutrer & Sandra Glahn

This novel is centered on cutting edge medical procedures. Readers interested in IVF, cloning, and stem cell research will find a great deal of information included in the plot.

The story revolves around the work of an embryologist and his experiments manipulating human embryos. He is a partner in a fertility clinic helping couples who are having trouble conceiving. A high profile couple from Mexico uses the clinic's services, resulting in the birth of twins. It is clear from their skin and hair color, that the twin girls are not the offspring of the husband. He sues the clinic and the lives of the three doctors are forever changed.

This novel contains a vast amount of medical information regarding fertilization, DNA, cloning, and stem cell research. For me, it was too much information. I would have preferred the novel concentrate on one aspect of the several cutting edge medical issues involved. The novel could have then been a little shorter and, for me, a little more readable.

The plot is complex. The embryologist is experimenting in embryo stem cell research because his family, including a very high public official, is suffering from a debilitating neurological disease. He has the secret help of government officials, something that seems unrealistic to me.

There is a good Christian message included in the book. Two of the doctors are committed Christians and we read of their witnessing to the third, the rogue embryologist. There is some suspense in the novel too, as the secret government officials are willing to kill to keep the covert research from being made public. There is also a little romance involved, although it takes a back seat to the medical research topic.

I recommend this novel to those with serious interest in issues like stem cell research. You'll receive a great deal of information while reading the story.

My rating: 4/5 stars.

William Cutrer, MD, (1951-2013) was a recognized expert in reproductive technology and medical ethics, and an ordained minister. At the time of his death he was a professor at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky.

Sandra Glahn, PhD, is a professor in media arts and worship at Dallas Theological Seminary. She is a journalist and the author or co-author of twenty books.

Kregel Publication, 416 pages.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for the purpose of an independent and honest review.