Reviewed by Romuald Dzemo for Readers' Favorite

Jack Hammer's GR2113: The Genetics Riots is a spellbinding science fiction novel in a compelling first-person narrative voice. It is an age of high technological advancements and jobs that involve high risks are being performed by gene-programmed animals. Now, one of the canines that have been modified is leased to the Los Angeles Police force. First, he has a hard time working with his handler who'd prefer to have a purely human companion. Rookie officer Linda Johnson looks on Max as a creep. Second, the challenges that lie ahead are far worse than Maximillian has experienced in the past and, in spite of his physical prowess and intelligence, he might not be able to come out alive.

This is a very intelligently plotted novel and I enjoy the premise of an age where humanoids are quickly replacing human beings in many tasks. The reader is immediately introduced to the protagonist and narrator. It is interesting to listen to a story told from the perspective of a creature that is neither human nor a real dog. One can feel it, follow the movements, and experience the intensity of the conflict. The feelings come out clearly and readers will want to follow the relationship between Max and Linda from the moment readers learn about them on that bus. The gorgeous prose makes for great reading and the excitement is augmented by good pacing and the intense action that punctuates the story. Jack Hammer infuses the work with magical realism, builds characters that reflect humanity, and creates a sophisticated plot that combines suspense with action to drive interest in readers. GR2113: The Genetics Riots is one of the finest things I have read in the genre, a story with great appeal to dog lovers and fans of innovative ideas.