Lemuria - A Sea Adventure Thriller by John Triptych

I am glad that after reviewing the novel Visitor on the same platform, I have got the opportunity to review another novel by author John Triptych, which is Lemuria, the first book in his Project Proteus series.

Lemuria is a tightly plotted adventure marine thriller. In which scientific horror is beautifully woven with family drama. Published in 2018, reading this 324-page novel, one feels at times the suspense of Michael Crichton's Jurassic Park and at times the marine horror of Peter Benchley's "Jaws".

Novel is named after mythical continent Lemuria which is an artificially erected island  somewhere amidst Lakshadweep. Here a horrifying story unfolds which entails human efforts made for survival.

The main character of the story, Nick Dirkse, is a workaholic software developer, who, in order to overcome the emptiness created by his strained marriage and estranged children, comes up with the idea of ​​spending a luxurious family vacation in Lemuria, the man-made resort on the south-western coast of India. The island may be an invitation to heavenly pleasures, but it hides a terrible secret.  There are deadly creatures born from reckless genetic experiments. Also local inhabitants are protesting against the artificial island being created by dredging the coral reef atoll. 

The novel explores themes of familial harmony, the dangers of unchecked science, and humanity's fragility in the face of the power of nature. Triptych's writing is fluid and engaging, bringing the gorgeous but terrifying island to life. The pace of the story is consistent, starting with the island's eerie mystery at a leisurely pace and taking readers to a heart-pounding climax that is nothing short of a cinematic thrill ride.

Nick's transformation from a distraught father to a determined protector gives the story an emotional humane touch, although secondary characters such as the resort staff and other guests seem somewhat dull. The prose sometimes falters with repetitive phrases, but the suspense remains intact.

The artificial island of Lemuria is a different charm, with its luxurious façade a stark contrast to the horrors hidden beneath. Triptych's research gives credibility to the novel's scientific premise, making the Lemuria creatures seem both fascinating and terrifying.  This blend of awe and dread is reminiscent of classic technothrillers, while the family-focused narrative highlights an innately human aspect. As the start of the Project Proteus series, Lemuria is a strong base, its self-contained story giving it a sense of assurance for the books that follow. This is an entertaining book for those looking for a thrill as well as a bit of horror. 

Triptych's ability to blend 'credible science' with a human plot is a particular highlight of Lemuria, but prominently highlights the dark side of technology.

Read more at https://jtriptych.wordpress.com/