Reviewed by Anne Boling for Readers' Favorite

The Genesis Key by James Barney takes a sharp look at the longevity of life. Dr. Kathleen Sainsberry’s archeologist parents were killed in Iraq while on a dig when she was a mere child. Kathleen’s own research was on the INDY (I’m Not Dead Yet) gene. A friend of her parents, Dr. Sargon, contacted her and left an artifact with her. Someone else wants the artifact and will stop at nothing to get it. Kathleen’s life is on the line.

The Genesis Key is filled with conspiracy, intrigue, betrayal, danger and suspense. Is The INDY Gene a miraculous discovery or the curse of mankind? Barney successfully demonstrates both sides of the issue. In the wrong hands the INDY Gene could cause an economic collapse; it could destroy the world as we know it. Yet it was easy to see the great potential for such research.

I found this book very entertaining; however, I expected more. The blurb on the back of the book hinted at much more. I’ve always found the “giants” of the Old Testament fascinating. I wondered why Kathleen had not researched her parents’ death. It never seemed important to her. There were several twists and a lot of action to hold this reviewer's attention. The ending was superb. There was a surprise twist to it, and I loved it. It is hard to believe this is Barney’s debut novel. If he is this good right out of the chute, I can only imagine how good he is going to be in future projects. I hope there is going to be a sequel to The Genesis Key.