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The Sequence
Kit McKee is the world’s leading genetic editor. Having run from an America where she is no longer welcome, she now develops lucrative cosmetic edits to the human genome from her secure laboratory in northern China. She has been working on a side-project in her spare time, keeping it a secret—or so she thinks.
Dallas Ward is a former civilian sub-orbital pilot who now flies contraband for a Hong Kong triad in a ground-effect stealth jet, not as a matter of choice. He has been tasked with a special delivery, this one with a time restriction.
Fong and Woo are two Hong Kong police detectives investigating a series of homicides that appear to take place only during typhoons. The bodies are found to be genetically edited, leading the detectives toward Kit, who has suddenly gone missing.
All three storylines weave together into a fast-paced, near-future techno thriller that raises intriguing ethical questions about genetics and the global distribution of power.
Dallas Ward is a former civilian sub-orbital pilot who now flies contraband for a Hong Kong triad in a ground-effect stealth jet, not as a matter of choice. He has been tasked with a special delivery, this one with a time restriction.
Fong and Woo are two Hong Kong police detectives investigating a series of homicides that appear to take place only during typhoons. The bodies are found to be genetically edited, leading the detectives toward Kit, who has suddenly gone missing.
All three storylines weave together into a fast-paced, near-future techno thriller that raises intriguing ethical questions about genetics and the global distribution of power.
- GenresScience Fiction
288 pages, Paperback
Published September 1, 2021
2 people are currently reading
76 people want to read
About the author
Lucien Telford
1 book15 followersHUGO Astounding Award Nominee for Best New Writer 2022
CIBA Global Thriller Award FIRST in Category 2022
IPPY Silver Medalist for Suspense/Thrillers 2023
CYGNUS Award Longlist 2022
Lucien is a Canadian writer and airline pilot. The Sequence, his debut novel, follows a pair of mercenaries moving contraband for an organized crime syndicate, while asking some intriguing ethical questions regarding human genetic modification. Lucien has lived in the UK, Hong Kong, France, Poland, and the Netherlands. He now lives in Whistler, British Columbia with his wife and son.
--
For those of you hungering for a sequel, I am working hard to complete this manuscript in a way that hopefully will blow the readers mind! Unfortunately recent global events have mirrored my creative writings and my particular version of a speculative near - future has become all too real! So I am adjusting the storyline, in a Gibsonesque way, to keep the readers on their toes. Or so I hope. I shall be looking for beta readers in the coming months. If anyone is interested in a homework assignment, I'd love to have a conversation with you.
Kindness and love,
Lucien.
lucientelfordbooks.com has a contact form.
LET'S CHAT!
CIBA Global Thriller Award FIRST in Category 2022
IPPY Silver Medalist for Suspense/Thrillers 2023
CYGNUS Award Longlist 2022
Lucien is a Canadian writer and airline pilot. The Sequence, his debut novel, follows a pair of mercenaries moving contraband for an organized crime syndicate, while asking some intriguing ethical questions regarding human genetic modification. Lucien has lived in the UK, Hong Kong, France, Poland, and the Netherlands. He now lives in Whistler, British Columbia with his wife and son.
--
For those of you hungering for a sequel, I am working hard to complete this manuscript in a way that hopefully will blow the readers mind! Unfortunately recent global events have mirrored my creative writings and my particular version of a speculative near - future has become all too real! So I am adjusting the storyline, in a Gibsonesque way, to keep the readers on their toes. Or so I hope. I shall be looking for beta readers in the coming months. If anyone is interested in a homework assignment, I'd love to have a conversation with you.
Kindness and love,
Lucien.
lucientelfordbooks.com has a contact form.
LET'S CHAT!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
November 16, 2021
“The Sequence” by Lucien Telford is absolutely brilliant in parts, (many parts), so much so that it’s hard to believe this is the work of first time author. The story line is multi-layered, fiendishly ingenious, and peppered with such cool tech gear, holograms, vehicles, implants and gadgets that I couldn’t stop thinking what a terrific movie it would make.
The story weaves around three main characters -
- Dr. Kit McKee, physician and genetic scientist, whose technical prowess and lab insights are unparalleled, - her ethical choices and compassionate heart, on the other hand, appear to be entirely lacking.
‘Kit found working in the deep basement for long stretches added to the darkness writhing around in her soul where she knew that this part of her work was horribly, horribly wrong.”
“She was a terrifying woman, he loved her, respected her prowess, and wondered what it was like inside her mind.”
- Dallas Ward, a 34 year old mercenary and pilot - a runner of goods for an evil and faceless Hong-Kong based mob. Dallas is an enigma, - extremely professional and capable, yet hard to like, and harder still to understand. We cannot help but feel there is more to him - an emotional past hinted at, but not resolved in his elusive backstory.
- Johnny Woo - a seasoned and somewhat embittered police detective - wise to the ways of organized crime, bio-weaponry, and the depravity and darkness that can pollute humankind. Perhaps the most like us, (the reader), Johnny is our moral compass, the long arm of the law and its clearly questionable power in protecting against the worst of human frailties.
For about two thirds of so of this book I was in sci-fi nirvana. The fantastical themes explored quickly morph across the spectrum from explosively and visually cool gadgets for speed, communication, highly marketable cosmetic augmentation, - to weaponry, cognitive manipulations, and finally truly dark and horrifying extensions. With great skill, the author introduces ideas and concepts so horribly and potentially possible in this new bio-morally corrupt arena that they appear to be natural extensions of a world gone utterly mad.
For the remaining third of the novel, I couldn’t help but feel some tighter editing, greater focus on the bio-themes, less “action and chase”, and a deeper exploration of the emotions, motivations and backstories of the main characters (in particular, Dallas and Kit), as well as a glimpse through the eyes of those characters (no spoilers here) who can only be referred to as lumpy and powerless (read the book, you will know who I mean!) could have transformed the final story into an absolute masterpiece.
All considered, this book is a wonderful, original and fascinating read, with an unexpected ending that I guarantee you’ll walk away from with a definite chill, and a burning desire for a sequel.
A great big thank you to the author for an ARC of this book. All thoughts presented are my own.
The story weaves around three main characters -
- Dr. Kit McKee, physician and genetic scientist, whose technical prowess and lab insights are unparalleled, - her ethical choices and compassionate heart, on the other hand, appear to be entirely lacking.
‘Kit found working in the deep basement for long stretches added to the darkness writhing around in her soul where she knew that this part of her work was horribly, horribly wrong.”
“She was a terrifying woman, he loved her, respected her prowess, and wondered what it was like inside her mind.”
- Dallas Ward, a 34 year old mercenary and pilot - a runner of goods for an evil and faceless Hong-Kong based mob. Dallas is an enigma, - extremely professional and capable, yet hard to like, and harder still to understand. We cannot help but feel there is more to him - an emotional past hinted at, but not resolved in his elusive backstory.
- Johnny Woo - a seasoned and somewhat embittered police detective - wise to the ways of organized crime, bio-weaponry, and the depravity and darkness that can pollute humankind. Perhaps the most like us, (the reader), Johnny is our moral compass, the long arm of the law and its clearly questionable power in protecting against the worst of human frailties.
For about two thirds of so of this book I was in sci-fi nirvana. The fantastical themes explored quickly morph across the spectrum from explosively and visually cool gadgets for speed, communication, highly marketable cosmetic augmentation, - to weaponry, cognitive manipulations, and finally truly dark and horrifying extensions. With great skill, the author introduces ideas and concepts so horribly and potentially possible in this new bio-morally corrupt arena that they appear to be natural extensions of a world gone utterly mad.
For the remaining third of the novel, I couldn’t help but feel some tighter editing, greater focus on the bio-themes, less “action and chase”, and a deeper exploration of the emotions, motivations and backstories of the main characters (in particular, Dallas and Kit), as well as a glimpse through the eyes of those characters (no spoilers here) who can only be referred to as lumpy and powerless (read the book, you will know who I mean!) could have transformed the final story into an absolute masterpiece.
All considered, this book is a wonderful, original and fascinating read, with an unexpected ending that I guarantee you’ll walk away from with a definite chill, and a burning desire for a sequel.
A great big thank you to the author for an ARC of this book. All thoughts presented are my own.
August 3, 2021
The Sequence is a dystopian tale taking place many years in the future, when genome editing is a thing among several other tech and scientific advancements. Despite the condemnation and restrictions from various fronts, Kit McKee is a leading geneticist, producing the best augments in the world, including a secret one that could change humanity forever. The question is: for better or worse?
The book weaves the stories of different characters together. Apart from Kit, we follow a Hong Kong detective as he tries to solve a series of strange homicides and a triad smuggler hired for a job that turns out to be harder and far more complicated than usual. All the characters are intriguing and well-developed.
The writing is rich and smooth, unravelling the plot very nicely. At times it does feel a bit too languid for the action illustrated, while also missing some opportunities for more depth in terms of important scenes and emotions, for example. Nevertheless, the overall effect of The Sequence is good. You can look forward to an immersive and thought-provoking experience.
To be exact, through the mystery, intrigue, and excitement, we get to think about the morality of gene editing. As Jurassic Park’s Ian Malcom pointed out, just because you can, doesn’t mean you should. But what if some augments actually save lives? Does it justify what Kit and other scientists like her do, not to mention the means used to reach their goals? Additionally, is the betterment of mankind worth delivering such innovations to people who happily abuse and weaponize them?
This novel is a worthwhile read, not just because of the great plot, characters, and style, but also because it makes very important points regarding human nature and scientific discovery. The Sequence is the type of science fiction that makes you think and feel while sweeping you up in smart and thrilling action that doesn’t go overboard. Quality work all-round.
Many thanks to the author and Reedsy Discovery for providing a copy of this book: https://reedsy.com/discovery/book/the...
The book weaves the stories of different characters together. Apart from Kit, we follow a Hong Kong detective as he tries to solve a series of strange homicides and a triad smuggler hired for a job that turns out to be harder and far more complicated than usual. All the characters are intriguing and well-developed.
The writing is rich and smooth, unravelling the plot very nicely. At times it does feel a bit too languid for the action illustrated, while also missing some opportunities for more depth in terms of important scenes and emotions, for example. Nevertheless, the overall effect of The Sequence is good. You can look forward to an immersive and thought-provoking experience.
To be exact, through the mystery, intrigue, and excitement, we get to think about the morality of gene editing. As Jurassic Park’s Ian Malcom pointed out, just because you can, doesn’t mean you should. But what if some augments actually save lives? Does it justify what Kit and other scientists like her do, not to mention the means used to reach their goals? Additionally, is the betterment of mankind worth delivering such innovations to people who happily abuse and weaponize them?
This novel is a worthwhile read, not just because of the great plot, characters, and style, but also because it makes very important points regarding human nature and scientific discovery. The Sequence is the type of science fiction that makes you think and feel while sweeping you up in smart and thrilling action that doesn’t go overboard. Quality work all-round.
Many thanks to the author and Reedsy Discovery for providing a copy of this book: https://reedsy.com/discovery/book/the...
September 25, 2021
An engrossing look at a future where one woman holds the key to humanity's destiny through her work in genetic manipulation. A 'what if' novel filled equally with interesting characters and thought provoking possibilities, Sequence is a must read for those who like well written speculative fiction. Lucien Telford is a writer to watch.
November 20, 2021
This is a highly engaging thriller that draws upon sci fi and noir conventions. The story is peopled by scientists, smugglers, and detectives. The dialogue is sharp and funny. The world-building is detailed and inventive. The story also feels chillingly prescient. This is a world shaped by extreme weather and widespread sociopolitical disorder. Features of this world, such as “pod” dwellings, “protective covered walkways,” “asteroid mining,” and sudden violence (inflicted by both criminal operatives and by weather systems) are assumed parts of daily life.
At the center of the story are stunning advances in genetic modification. Geneticists have been driven out of the United States (“the United Governments of the America”) as a result of some sort of theocratic crackdown, but elsewhere the work races forward. One modification revealed near the end of the story is genuinely species-altering.
Though the story is not without disturbing elements (e.g., unconscious humans are grown in medical storage facilities for organ harvesting), it is also full of laugh-out-loud funny passages (the one about bad-food tourism was a particular favorite).
Kit McKee, the plucky antiheroine at the center of the story, is a gene editor—an author of “augments.” Detectives Woo and Fong are wisecracking, analog-preferring, persevering investigators. Dallas and Cam are aviators for hire—extremely good at their jobs, but working in a definite gray area. The author deftly weaves all of their stories together.
If you enjoy the rich atmospherics of Bladerunner 2049 as well as the fast-paced plotting and provocations of Minority Report, you really should check out The Sequence.
At the center of the story are stunning advances in genetic modification. Geneticists have been driven out of the United States (“the United Governments of the America”) as a result of some sort of theocratic crackdown, but elsewhere the work races forward. One modification revealed near the end of the story is genuinely species-altering.
Though the story is not without disturbing elements (e.g., unconscious humans are grown in medical storage facilities for organ harvesting), it is also full of laugh-out-loud funny passages (the one about bad-food tourism was a particular favorite).
Kit McKee, the plucky antiheroine at the center of the story, is a gene editor—an author of “augments.” Detectives Woo and Fong are wisecracking, analog-preferring, persevering investigators. Dallas and Cam are aviators for hire—extremely good at their jobs, but working in a definite gray area. The author deftly weaves all of their stories together.
If you enjoy the rich atmospherics of Bladerunner 2049 as well as the fast-paced plotting and provocations of Minority Report, you really should check out The Sequence.
October 21, 2021
Fantastic book.
July 3, 2021
I fully anticipate Lucien Telford to soon begin gracing the lists of best up-and-coming sci-fi writers, after having the pleasure of reading his novel, "The Sequence." I received an ARC of the book in exchange for an honest review, which in no way influenced my opinion of this novel. Wow, I was glad I got a sneak peak this one! An absolutely brilliant book!
Telford begins his novel with some definitions of laws that exist within the universe he creates. These laws include prohibitions against 1) growing living humans from cloned material 2) editing the human genome for the purposes of enhancement 3) humans being used as test subjects for genetic alteration, and 4) illegal transportation to elude taxation and prohibition laws, ergo smuggling. You just know from these definitions being provided at the onset that some of our characters are going violate these rules, and that is going to make things very interesting. No disappointment here: that's exactly what happens.
For me, "The Sequence" is very much about secrets, clandestine pursuits, and moral questions about what constitutes "the end justifies the means". Save for the police investigators in the novel (and even with them there is some moral ambiguity) everyone has something major to hide, that can cost them everything, up to and including their lives.
The setting for "The Sequence" is a dystopian-like near-future earth. There, the plot follows several POVs. The three main POV characters are Dr. Kit McKee, Dallas Ward, and Detective Woo. The reader will follow their unique stories as they align, all tied together by a shadowy, powerful, reclusive figure, who strikes terror in the heart of governments, much less individuals.
McKee is a brilliant scientist, an American expat, working for a private company in China. Her field is genetics, and she is one of the world's best in that sphere. She and close friend / fellow top scientist, Nigerian-Canadian Avery Hill, have been provided some of the most elite laboratory facilities possible to conduct their research. However, both are keeping things from each other. In particular, Kit is working alone on a secret project that is at best controversial. And Hill is engaging in other activities that could compromise his friendship with Kit, and potentially ruin her trust in him forever.
Meanwhile, Dallas Ward, and his partner Camerica, are pilots and smugglers. They are employed by a Hong Kong triad. That particular gang wields large global influence, does not suffer failure gladly, and tends to keep their contracts short, with contract termination meaning the literal end for their contractors. Faced with this numbing prospect, and flying the latest in advanced stealth airplane technology, Dallas and Camerica (Cam) are very well compensated to risk life, limb, and liberty, trying to avoid imprisonment or being shot down by the authorities, or killed by their employers should they botch any of their illicit missions.
Finally, Hong Kong Police senior Detective Woo, and his partner Fong, have been drawn into the investigation of murders linked to the field in which McKee specializes. Woo is haunted by tragedy occurring in a task force unit he was once part of, and dodged in his determination to get to the bottom of the crimes, which seem to follow after turbulent weather episodes.
These characters are fascinating. Each are intelligent, talented, driven, but lonely or isolated, conflicted, and trapped in their own unique fears and issues. They are very well fleshed out, and the reader will be engrossed in their fates. The best characters have the reader easily envision what they would look like, if portrayed by famous actors on the screen, and Telford's slick narrative does that for me.
Ward - who I would have played by someone like Henry Golding or Darren Criss - reminds me of legendary charming rogue smugglers of screen sci-fi lore such as Dominick Cobb, and Hans Solo. I can see Chow Yun Fat or Jet Li, with all their gravitas and charisma, playing the movie / tv version of Detective Woo. And for the heart of the story, the genius, ambitious, strong yet vulnerable heroine McKee, could be portrayed by someone like Constance Wu or Ali Wong. This book definitely deserves a movie adaptation some day down the road - it just plays well to that sort of conversion. No doubt it would look gorgeous on the big or small screen.
Beyond exceptional characters, "The Sequence" has the best elements every popular sci-fi books needs: it illustrates the relationship between the characters and the future environment, and how that new-age environment impacts them; it explains the future technologies, systems, and how they operate in a way that is readily understood; and it features incredibly cool, sexy tech that is imaginative candy for the reader.
The pacing feels like a great spy thriller, or police procedural. Its fast, yet Telford manages not to skimp on the details, and truly suck the reader into his novel, with a potent blend of action and exposition, highlighted by evocative prose.
Oh, that succulent prose. I have read few sci-fi books that pay the kind of attention to detail and description that I crave, which catapults me into the setting as if I am actually there. Not so with Telford. This author had me captivated with the elegance of his writing in the opening paragraphs:
"A staccato of shallow flora along a bare, wind-razored stretch of savannah, pimples on a barren landscape, short grasses scorched by a summer's fierce sunlight. In the distance, the tendril-like fingers of a fiery-red sunrise crept up behind blackening thunderheads through the pre-dawn East African air, the rising sun illuminating their silhouettes with a background of blood-red sky."
Finally, the book incites thought-provoking questions about genetic enhancement, and whether or not this is something good for humankind, or bad. I found the exploration of this topic riveting. Great science fiction books make one think about future possibilities for the human race, and where they could take us, and Telford's novel certainly delivers on that aspect.
"The Sequence" is a gripping, flawlessly-paced, diverting, beautifully written action sci-fi thriller. This one is bound to garner many more great reviews, and I predict Telford is in for his share of writing accolades in the future. He is surely a great writer to watch.
Telford begins his novel with some definitions of laws that exist within the universe he creates. These laws include prohibitions against 1) growing living humans from cloned material 2) editing the human genome for the purposes of enhancement 3) humans being used as test subjects for genetic alteration, and 4) illegal transportation to elude taxation and prohibition laws, ergo smuggling. You just know from these definitions being provided at the onset that some of our characters are going violate these rules, and that is going to make things very interesting. No disappointment here: that's exactly what happens.
For me, "The Sequence" is very much about secrets, clandestine pursuits, and moral questions about what constitutes "the end justifies the means". Save for the police investigators in the novel (and even with them there is some moral ambiguity) everyone has something major to hide, that can cost them everything, up to and including their lives.
The setting for "The Sequence" is a dystopian-like near-future earth. There, the plot follows several POVs. The three main POV characters are Dr. Kit McKee, Dallas Ward, and Detective Woo. The reader will follow their unique stories as they align, all tied together by a shadowy, powerful, reclusive figure, who strikes terror in the heart of governments, much less individuals.
McKee is a brilliant scientist, an American expat, working for a private company in China. Her field is genetics, and she is one of the world's best in that sphere. She and close friend / fellow top scientist, Nigerian-Canadian Avery Hill, have been provided some of the most elite laboratory facilities possible to conduct their research. However, both are keeping things from each other. In particular, Kit is working alone on a secret project that is at best controversial. And Hill is engaging in other activities that could compromise his friendship with Kit, and potentially ruin her trust in him forever.
Meanwhile, Dallas Ward, and his partner Camerica, are pilots and smugglers. They are employed by a Hong Kong triad. That particular gang wields large global influence, does not suffer failure gladly, and tends to keep their contracts short, with contract termination meaning the literal end for their contractors. Faced with this numbing prospect, and flying the latest in advanced stealth airplane technology, Dallas and Camerica (Cam) are very well compensated to risk life, limb, and liberty, trying to avoid imprisonment or being shot down by the authorities, or killed by their employers should they botch any of their illicit missions.
Finally, Hong Kong Police senior Detective Woo, and his partner Fong, have been drawn into the investigation of murders linked to the field in which McKee specializes. Woo is haunted by tragedy occurring in a task force unit he was once part of, and dodged in his determination to get to the bottom of the crimes, which seem to follow after turbulent weather episodes.
These characters are fascinating. Each are intelligent, talented, driven, but lonely or isolated, conflicted, and trapped in their own unique fears and issues. They are very well fleshed out, and the reader will be engrossed in their fates. The best characters have the reader easily envision what they would look like, if portrayed by famous actors on the screen, and Telford's slick narrative does that for me.
Ward - who I would have played by someone like Henry Golding or Darren Criss - reminds me of legendary charming rogue smugglers of screen sci-fi lore such as Dominick Cobb, and Hans Solo. I can see Chow Yun Fat or Jet Li, with all their gravitas and charisma, playing the movie / tv version of Detective Woo. And for the heart of the story, the genius, ambitious, strong yet vulnerable heroine McKee, could be portrayed by someone like Constance Wu or Ali Wong. This book definitely deserves a movie adaptation some day down the road - it just plays well to that sort of conversion. No doubt it would look gorgeous on the big or small screen.
Beyond exceptional characters, "The Sequence" has the best elements every popular sci-fi books needs: it illustrates the relationship between the characters and the future environment, and how that new-age environment impacts them; it explains the future technologies, systems, and how they operate in a way that is readily understood; and it features incredibly cool, sexy tech that is imaginative candy for the reader.
The pacing feels like a great spy thriller, or police procedural. Its fast, yet Telford manages not to skimp on the details, and truly suck the reader into his novel, with a potent blend of action and exposition, highlighted by evocative prose.
Oh, that succulent prose. I have read few sci-fi books that pay the kind of attention to detail and description that I crave, which catapults me into the setting as if I am actually there. Not so with Telford. This author had me captivated with the elegance of his writing in the opening paragraphs:
"A staccato of shallow flora along a bare, wind-razored stretch of savannah, pimples on a barren landscape, short grasses scorched by a summer's fierce sunlight. In the distance, the tendril-like fingers of a fiery-red sunrise crept up behind blackening thunderheads through the pre-dawn East African air, the rising sun illuminating their silhouettes with a background of blood-red sky."
Finally, the book incites thought-provoking questions about genetic enhancement, and whether or not this is something good for humankind, or bad. I found the exploration of this topic riveting. Great science fiction books make one think about future possibilities for the human race, and where they could take us, and Telford's novel certainly delivers on that aspect.
"The Sequence" is a gripping, flawlessly-paced, diverting, beautifully written action sci-fi thriller. This one is bound to garner many more great reviews, and I predict Telford is in for his share of writing accolades in the future. He is surely a great writer to watch.
January 18, 2022
I enjoyed how the author put so much emphasis on the detail of his characters. He also took aspects of his life and his knowledge and put them directly into the story. There were times where I experienced unnecessary wordiness and longer than needed sentences but that’s the purpose of a novel, the author should be able to structure it how they see fit to get the story’s plot across to the reader. For me, I love sci-fi, and when I tell you that’s what The Sequence gives, that’s what it gives. You’re set far into the future but I love how it jumps from one era to another seamlessly.
You’re technically within the same time but not in the same place. Geographically, you’ll notice the flow of the characters' connections will lead from Hong Kong to Africa, to Singapore, etc. The way the author kept track of each story-line and merged it into one, seemed like art on its own because there is honestly a lot going on for one central “coming together” idea. The Sequence is a story that combines where we were and where we might end up if we develop and distribute certain technologies. Woo gives me the feeling of another version of K from MIB, the terminology that was used throughout especially the technical and aerospace jargon gave me chills as it matched the story-line, and the slight usage of languages from Africa, I was very impressed with the overall work.
It's a story of how passion can be used as a catalyst to do both good and bad things. This story seriously meets action, science and theory, and morality all in one. I'm really impressed with the world-building of this futuristic society, the incredible intelligence of the protagonist, and the way real-world issues are grappled with. I mean, genetic alterations, auto-printers, a shot to keep you from aging....all topics we all hope to be around to see in real life.
You’re technically within the same time but not in the same place. Geographically, you’ll notice the flow of the characters' connections will lead from Hong Kong to Africa, to Singapore, etc. The way the author kept track of each story-line and merged it into one, seemed like art on its own because there is honestly a lot going on for one central “coming together” idea. The Sequence is a story that combines where we were and where we might end up if we develop and distribute certain technologies. Woo gives me the feeling of another version of K from MIB, the terminology that was used throughout especially the technical and aerospace jargon gave me chills as it matched the story-line, and the slight usage of languages from Africa, I was very impressed with the overall work.
It's a story of how passion can be used as a catalyst to do both good and bad things. This story seriously meets action, science and theory, and morality all in one. I'm really impressed with the world-building of this futuristic society, the incredible intelligence of the protagonist, and the way real-world issues are grappled with. I mean, genetic alterations, auto-printers, a shot to keep you from aging....all topics we all hope to be around to see in real life.
December 26, 2021
Big questions in a fast-paced sci-fi thriller
The Sequence by Lucien Telford is a fast-paced thriller novel with elements of futuristic science fiction. Exceptionally written, this book is undoubtably a page turner. I was impressed at the way the story unfolded and provided clarity in a compelling way. The writing is very descriptive with curt and occasionally humorous dialogue. The pacing is fast and Telford does an excellent job introducing the settings and characters swiftly, with just enough detail to feel satisfied yet yearning to uncover more. The novel extrapolates into a dystopian future of genetic modification of the human genome, environmental degradation, and political conflict. Creative world-building keeps the novel interesting as readers relish in the idea of technological advancements and new gadgets that are incorporated within the story. Readers learn of three distinct storylines with their own set of characters that interlace to create an impactful novel that is worth the study. This novel is exemplary of living life while facing the environmental consequences of our actions, how the advent of new technology may gravely implicate our reality, and arguably most important is the question of ethics and social justice in a world that meddles with the modification of the human genome. The Sequence does an amazing job at bringing up these important questions for the preservation of our future in an entertaining way. I could easily see this novel discussed in a university context for the variety of themes it encompasses. A great novel to ponder the meaning of our actions and what kind of life this humanity would like to usher into the future.
The Sequence by Lucien Telford is a fast-paced thriller novel with elements of futuristic science fiction. Exceptionally written, this book is undoubtably a page turner. I was impressed at the way the story unfolded and provided clarity in a compelling way. The writing is very descriptive with curt and occasionally humorous dialogue. The pacing is fast and Telford does an excellent job introducing the settings and characters swiftly, with just enough detail to feel satisfied yet yearning to uncover more. The novel extrapolates into a dystopian future of genetic modification of the human genome, environmental degradation, and political conflict. Creative world-building keeps the novel interesting as readers relish in the idea of technological advancements and new gadgets that are incorporated within the story. Readers learn of three distinct storylines with their own set of characters that interlace to create an impactful novel that is worth the study. This novel is exemplary of living life while facing the environmental consequences of our actions, how the advent of new technology may gravely implicate our reality, and arguably most important is the question of ethics and social justice in a world that meddles with the modification of the human genome. The Sequence does an amazing job at bringing up these important questions for the preservation of our future in an entertaining way. I could easily see this novel discussed in a university context for the variety of themes it encompasses. A great novel to ponder the meaning of our actions and what kind of life this humanity would like to usher into the future.
March 14, 2022
The Sequence by Lucien Telford is exactly the book you're looking for if you're a sci-fi fan. A combination of the old school sci-fi classics that fans grew up on and a new story never seen in the genre before. The Sequence follows three POVS Dr. Kit McKee, Dallas Ward, and Detective Woo. We read as their individual stories develop until they all eventually connect with each other in an exciting climax. Telford does an excellent job of crafting each character and making them feel well-rounded. As a reader, you will enjoy your time reading from their perspectives and learning how each of their stories connects to the larger plot.
An unexpected, but possibly my favorite part of the story was the focus on the ethics of biogenetics. The character of Dr. Kit McKee allows Telford to explore the moral dilemma of altering the genomes of the human species. The reality Telford presents in The Sequence where the process of altering human genomes is normalized is terrifying. It's where most of the horror lies in the book. The Sequence will have you weighing your conscience regarding biogenetics while still having you be on the edge of your seat with the twists and turns the book takes.
The Sequence is the fast-paced and page-turning sci-fi novel fans of the genre have been waiting for. Telford has built a universe where the setting, characters, and plot feel so well realized and lived in. By the time you finish reading the book, you will be hoping for a sequel. There are so many stories left to be told from this universe if it does become a series. A series that dives deeper into the world of Kit, Dallas, and Detective Woo, could potentially make for a new classic sci-fi trilogy if comes to fruition. Here's hoping we get it.
An unexpected, but possibly my favorite part of the story was the focus on the ethics of biogenetics. The character of Dr. Kit McKee allows Telford to explore the moral dilemma of altering the genomes of the human species. The reality Telford presents in The Sequence where the process of altering human genomes is normalized is terrifying. It's where most of the horror lies in the book. The Sequence will have you weighing your conscience regarding biogenetics while still having you be on the edge of your seat with the twists and turns the book takes.
The Sequence is the fast-paced and page-turning sci-fi novel fans of the genre have been waiting for. Telford has built a universe where the setting, characters, and plot feel so well realized and lived in. By the time you finish reading the book, you will be hoping for a sequel. There are so many stories left to be told from this universe if it does become a series. A series that dives deeper into the world of Kit, Dallas, and Detective Woo, could potentially make for a new classic sci-fi trilogy if comes to fruition. Here's hoping we get it.
December 15, 2021
This is one of those books that you’ll read, finish and hope a sequel is in the works.
Telford has written a great first novel. He did such a fantastic job of describing the scene, characters and all the high tech gear and gadgets in between.
I loved the description of the impending typhoon hitting Hong Kong, and the casual acceptance of it from the city’s inhabitants.
Right form the beginning you are introduced to all key players in this story. Dallas Ward, the pilot working for a Hong Kong triad, Kit McKee, a master geneticist working on something groundbreaking, and Johnny Woo a Hong Kong Detective investigating recent murders.
Telford has painted a future where humans are augmented, a wall really does exist around the U.S., and communication via holograms from tech embedded in your own skin is totally normal. I couldn’t help but thinking how cool everything sounded as I read along.
Though each character has a separate story in the beginning, they eventually weave together to an ending I wasn’t expecting. Not only would I recommend, I hope a second book is in the works or even better, books focusing on singular characters like Dallas’s friend Cam or Kit’s friend Doudna, as they were interesting side characters that dropped out of the story toward the end and I wanted to know where they ended up.
Either way, would highly recommend.
Telford has written a great first novel. He did such a fantastic job of describing the scene, characters and all the high tech gear and gadgets in between.
I loved the description of the impending typhoon hitting Hong Kong, and the casual acceptance of it from the city’s inhabitants.
Right form the beginning you are introduced to all key players in this story. Dallas Ward, the pilot working for a Hong Kong triad, Kit McKee, a master geneticist working on something groundbreaking, and Johnny Woo a Hong Kong Detective investigating recent murders.
Telford has painted a future where humans are augmented, a wall really does exist around the U.S., and communication via holograms from tech embedded in your own skin is totally normal. I couldn’t help but thinking how cool everything sounded as I read along.
Though each character has a separate story in the beginning, they eventually weave together to an ending I wasn’t expecting. Not only would I recommend, I hope a second book is in the works or even better, books focusing on singular characters like Dallas’s friend Cam or Kit’s friend Doudna, as they were interesting side characters that dropped out of the story toward the end and I wanted to know where they ended up.
Either way, would highly recommend.
December 19, 2021
Full disclosure - I'm his Dad, however as anyone knows, no-one is harder on you than your Dad.
I've been reading sci-fi since I was 11 or 12, and I don't think I've ever read a first novel that struck such a chord with me since William Gibson's Neuromancer.
I was completely "in" this world that Lucien created by the middle of the second page. The pace was fast, the writing furious, so much so that I found myself reading it faster than I wanted to - but I couldn't slow down. As you can see, a month later I read it again, and was astonished at just how much detail I'd missed the first time through.
Have to say, the first read was a thrill ride, but the second read was so much more satisfying - somehow, the tiny details I'd missed the first time turned out to be crucial to the real flow of the story, and gave a great deal more depth to the action.
Try as I might, the only fault I could find is that there wasn't more - let's see the next volume soon please!
I've been reading sci-fi since I was 11 or 12, and I don't think I've ever read a first novel that struck such a chord with me since William Gibson's Neuromancer.
I was completely "in" this world that Lucien created by the middle of the second page. The pace was fast, the writing furious, so much so that I found myself reading it faster than I wanted to - but I couldn't slow down. As you can see, a month later I read it again, and was astonished at just how much detail I'd missed the first time through.
Have to say, the first read was a thrill ride, but the second read was so much more satisfying - somehow, the tiny details I'd missed the first time turned out to be crucial to the real flow of the story, and gave a great deal more depth to the action.
Try as I might, the only fault I could find is that there wasn't more - let's see the next volume soon please!
January 27, 2022
I am very happy that I stumbled across The Sequence. I grew up consuming the books of Michael Crichton and reading this story brought me back to those days. The author has created a great page-turner that, although based in the future, references the cutting edge science of today and what could very well come to be. That balance between well-done research driving an intriguing story is what drew me to Crichton's novels and it is present in this book as well.
The descriptive writing instantly draws the reader into the world of The Sequence and it feels like you're standing there with the characters. I could easily see this book forming the basis of a screenplay one day. Weaving together several different stories within a single novel takes skill and Telford pulls it off with ease. I was surprised to learn that this was his debut effort at a novel. The end teases that this may not be where the story some of these characters ends and I hope a sequel is somewhere in the future.
The descriptive writing instantly draws the reader into the world of The Sequence and it feels like you're standing there with the characters. I could easily see this book forming the basis of a screenplay one day. Weaving together several different stories within a single novel takes skill and Telford pulls it off with ease. I was surprised to learn that this was his debut effort at a novel. The end teases that this may not be where the story some of these characters ends and I hope a sequel is somewhere in the future.
November 24, 2021
In his debut novel, THE SEQUENCE, author Lucien Telford skillfully mixes science fiction about the ethics of biogenetics with an action-packed international thriller. Many of his characters, which include a scientist and a mercenary pilot, are various degrees of evil. The exceptions are heroic Hong Kong detectives investigating a series of homicides that take place during typhoons. Mr. Telford’s strengths are his clever use of biogenetics terminology and his knowledge of current high tech gadgets that can be used both as assets and as weapons. All his knowledge gives this wild novel verisimilitude. Since Mr. Telford is also a real-life pilot, this reader gives his novel flying colors.
February 27, 2022
Lucien Telford’s ‘Sequence’ is a novel centered around a futuristic world where science is well founded so much that genetic editing has become a widespread practice.
The plot, itself, is centered around a genetic editor on the run, a pilot whose calling is smuggling contraband and two Hong Kong detectives racing to figure out why genetically modified bodies keep showing up.
This novel illustrates that everything can be done with science and the possible unethical future of science will be responsible for providing ground-breaking evolutionary discoveries.
With an intriguing storyline, compelling characters with questionable ethics, this Sci-Fi makes for a very interesting read.
The plot, itself, is centered around a genetic editor on the run, a pilot whose calling is smuggling contraband and two Hong Kong detectives racing to figure out why genetically modified bodies keep showing up.
This novel illustrates that everything can be done with science and the possible unethical future of science will be responsible for providing ground-breaking evolutionary discoveries.
With an intriguing storyline, compelling characters with questionable ethics, this Sci-Fi makes for a very interesting read.
January 14, 2022
This was a highly enjoyable book. It was well written and contains elements of realism that at times can be chilling. However, the darker aspects of the book are well balanced with humorous excerpts, so it isn’t a heavy read. I found the pacing of this book to be on point and I couldn’t stop reading once I was past the first few pages. The characters really shone throughout this novel and each one was brilliantly brought to life.
If a sequel is in the works I can’t wait to read it.
If a sequel is in the works I can’t wait to read it.
January 17, 2022
The Sequence is an engaging story that blends near-future science fiction with a fast paced, page turning mystery involving genetic manipulation and lots of questionable ethics. The author immediately immerses the reader in a world that feels believable and a story that feels urgent. The characters were interesting, and my only complaint is that I wanted to dig a little deeper into both the world and the characters. An overall enjoyable read.
August 18, 2022
Well I loved it, but I also wrote it!
A fast paced techno thriller that will have you turning page after page. The climax comes together well, with an unexpected twist I hope everyone loves!
Cheers Lucien Telford
A fast paced techno thriller that will have you turning page after page. The climax comes together well, with an unexpected twist I hope everyone loves!
Cheers Lucien Telford
December 30, 2021
Mr. Telford managed to create a fantastically interesting future world with exciting Sci-fi concepts rooted in emerging technology of today. The book was a very readable, fast paced, page turning thriller that kept me interested the entire way. If this is what this nascent Sci-fi author can produce on his first effort I can't wait for the sequels!
January 7, 2022
One of the best debut novels I've read in a long time. Although set in the near future, many of the themes are extremely relevant today, given the rapid advancements in genetic technology. A Mach 2 tour across Hong Kong, Ulaanbaatar and Africa, with a largely irrelevant and closed-off America long past it's prime. Can't wait for the next installments!
January 8, 2022
This was an entertaining and fast paced book. The story line jumps between characters and settings which kept me turning page after page. The author expertly pulls you into their very technologically-rich world and always kept me guessing about how it would all come together in the end. A good read.
August 11, 2025
Excellent read, fast paced and exciting. A nice mixture of sci-if and dystopia; Lucien adds an element of realism into the story with his well researched ideas and his personal experiences traveling as a pilot. Very cool.
November 10, 2021
Action packed book that had me fully immersed.
January 22, 2023
Sci-fi is not usually a genre that I gravitate to though I believe Lucien Telford has officially changed my mind. In a refreshing diversion from my usual bookshelf picks, this surprising thriller had me turning pages not just once but twice and I enjoyed it immensely both times. An epic adventure across continents and oceans at nothing less than Mach speed. Blending cultures and protagonists into an interwoven page turner, his debut novel didn’t hold anything back. Lucien is able to pull you into the book with his vivid descriptions, indelible characters and the strange feeling that overcomes you when you realize that humankind may not be that far off from this utopian/dystopian future. You be the one to decide.
I look forward to many more novels from this author and hopefully a sequel to The Sequence.
I look forward to many more novels from this author and hopefully a sequel to The Sequence.
January 3, 2022
A plot based story that doesn't delve deep into character arcs but is a fun read overall. It is very fast paced (mostly focusing on plot), but isn't disjarring.
Dr. Mckee reminds me of Dr. Wu from Jurassic Park, brilliant but no ethics. I am a huge fan of brilliant scientists who lack morals. They tend to be able to do great things, but their advances cause chaos. I guess, if they did have ethics they wouldn't be discovering what they do.
I did enjoy this book although at times the genre mash-ups become very obvious rather than working fluidly together. I am a huge SF reader, but started to lose interest in the last act of the book as it jumped genres.
Overall this was a fun book. Glad I read it.
Dr. Mckee reminds me of Dr. Wu from Jurassic Park, brilliant but no ethics. I am a huge fan of brilliant scientists who lack morals. They tend to be able to do great things, but their advances cause chaos. I guess, if they did have ethics they wouldn't be discovering what they do.
I did enjoy this book although at times the genre mash-ups become very obvious rather than working fluidly together. I am a huge SF reader, but started to lose interest in the last act of the book as it jumped genres.
Overall this was a fun book. Glad I read it.
February 1, 2025
Fantastic read
Up there with Three Body Problem, Altered Carbon. I hope Mr Telford is working on another one. I would definitely recommend.
Up there with Three Body Problem, Altered Carbon. I hope Mr Telford is working on another one. I would definitely recommend.
January 1, 2025
Love the ending. All ties together nicely.
April 6, 2025
The Sequence is a masterclass in immersive sci-fi storytelling. Lucian crafts a universe where genetic coding isn’t just biology—it’s a hidden language of power, conspiracy, and evolutionary revolution.
What makes The Sequence stand out is how effortlessly Telford balances an unfurling story with consistent and engaging pacing. The opening chapters build intrigue and give a quick start on Telford’s world, but once the first few strokes are set in motion, the book becomes an adventure to read. From high-stakes betrayals to a classic shoot-out, every twist lands with precision.
As a fellow aviator, I love the idea of high speed, technical aviation based drug running (a futuristic ‘American Made’ if you will) and it made for some thrilling reading.
What makes The Sequence stand out is how effortlessly Telford balances an unfurling story with consistent and engaging pacing. The opening chapters build intrigue and give a quick start on Telford’s world, but once the first few strokes are set in motion, the book becomes an adventure to read. From high-stakes betrayals to a classic shoot-out, every twist lands with precision.
As a fellow aviator, I love the idea of high speed, technical aviation based drug running (a futuristic ‘American Made’ if you will) and it made for some thrilling reading.
August 18, 2022
I enjoyed this book as a very captivating read.. It was fast paced, with an interesting premise that kept me flipping pages all the way through. As the story moved along I found myself relating with several of the characters and I hope that some may find a home in future novels by Mr. Telford. There were interesting ideas along the edge of the plot that draw you into the story and leave potential threads into other parts of this world that are intriguing me into a new novel but still satisfying that this one stands perfectly well on its own. I'll be watching for future books by this author!
December 19, 2021
A gripping sci-fi thriller with a twist at the end I did not see coming. A must read!
February 24, 2024
5 star read for me!
I am not usually one to read science fiction, however the book was recommended to me by P.L. Stuart, so I thought I would give it a whirl. I was not disappointed.
I usually read mysteries and so it certainly delivered on that was action packed from page one all the way to the end. I certainly got engrossed in the world the author created and appreciated that it was a futuristic world, but tied to earth so the locations and geography made sense to me.
I can see that the author is well travelled as it reflects in his descriptions of the sights, sounds and smells of the places he writes about.
I am looking forward to reading more novels from Lucien Telford. I think his talents are being well used in his writing endeavour. Well done!!!
I am not usually one to read science fiction, however the book was recommended to me by P.L. Stuart, so I thought I would give it a whirl. I was not disappointed.
I usually read mysteries and so it certainly delivered on that was action packed from page one all the way to the end. I certainly got engrossed in the world the author created and appreciated that it was a futuristic world, but tied to earth so the locations and geography made sense to me.
I can see that the author is well travelled as it reflects in his descriptions of the sights, sounds and smells of the places he writes about.
I am looking forward to reading more novels from Lucien Telford. I think his talents are being well used in his writing endeavour. Well done!!!
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