The protagonist, having undergone a problematic transformation, remained both our eyes into this world and dually the antagonist to the norm. Sammy's struggle is still very real but perhaps, with her own finally locked away, she can focus on searching for a solution that will rectify all her family's complications. But when Aislyn is given a chance at mutating the genes that directly cause her inhibitions it seems like a miracle cure for all her problems. But this pales in comparison when she thinks of her brother, Sammy's, everyday struggle of living with severe cystic fibrosis. The science is both sharp and accessible here, and readers will get a sense of the nuances and messiness of genetic alterations while staying in Aislyn's world.I initially picked this book up after my absolute adoration for Nerve and the intriguing-sounding synopsis.Īislyn's crippling shyness plagues every day of her existence. Not a far step from Ned Vizzini's Be More Chill.The science is explained well enough for non-scientist readers to understand, and gives teens much to think about regarding medical ethics and experimentation. Considering Ryan has a PHD and has worked with youth development programs and social workers, it's obvious she knows what she talking about. Kirkus ReviewsĬharismaby Jeanne Ryan is at its best when it gets technical.

A sympathetic protagonist combines with intriguing medical possibility for a solid thriller. Suspense balances with discussions of bioethics for a provocative and entertaining read. Her take on the topic is fresh and intriguing. Ryan ( Nerve) offers a cautionary tale about the perils of designer genetics and what happens when scientists aspirations get ahead of ethics. This Robin Cook like thriller zips along at breakneck speed to a satisfying conclusion. this fast-paced and edgy novel has enough thrills, romance, and family drama to please a wide audience. Aislyn must find a way to stop it, before its too late. The media goes into a frenzy when the disease turns contagious, and then deadly, and the doctor who gave it to them disappears. But strangely, so are some other kids she knows.

Anedge-of-your-seat thriller from the bestsellingauthor of, Nerve, the book behind 2016s hottest YA film, starring Emma Roberts, Dave Franco& Juliette Lewis.Ī chance at the ultimate makeover means deadly consequences.Aislyn suffers from crippling shyness -that is, until she's offered a dose of Charisma, an underground gene therapy drug guaranteed to make her shine.

Charisma by Jeanne Ryan