Devya's Children Books 1-3 - Devya's Children, #1

Ashlynn's Dreams: Two teenagers get kidnapped because one can shape dreams. The other's there to keep her in line while the scientists who created her train her to use her Gift. Nadia's Tears: Jillian tries to awaken Nadia from a mysterious coma while Danielle tries to keep her friend from making some fatal mistakes. Malia's Miracles: The genetically altered teens, their younger siblings, and their good friend Danielle band together to try to cure cancer and save a life.
Interview with the Author:Q: What makes the Devya's Children series special?A: At the heart, this series is about family and friendship as well as the ethical questions surrounding genetic engineering. It's been likened to the Orphan Black TV show. I like to think of it as a more family-friendly take on those themes. The premise is that a brilliant scientist and his team created several genetically altered children who have special Gifts, such as telepathy, healing, and dream shaping.
The journal/letters style is not unique to this series, but I believe ultimately it suits my need to get in these people's heads. I've worked very hard to fill the books with relatable characters. Some of them happen to have superpowers, but as Jillian points out, everybody has gifts, if not Gifts. It's just a matter of finding out what those gifts are and how they can be applied for the good of the world.
Q: What order should I read them in?A: I suggest the traditional order of:- Ashlynn's Dreams- Nadia's Tears- Malia's Miracles- Varick's Quest. before jumping into the prequel-The Dark Side of Science-or the Ashlynn's Dreams Shorts. The prequel and the short stories can certainly be read as standalones, but they may be more enjoyable once the reader's already familiar with some of the characters. Q: Where does this book fit in the series? What theme(s) make it special?A: This is the combination book, so you'll get to experience Ashlynn's Dreams, Nadia's Tears, and Malia's Miracles all in one convenient package.
You may want to check out the audiobook versions of these. The first two were narrated by Kristin Condon and the third was narrated by Julie Hinton. Both ladies, did a lovely job. The series themes are family ties and love, loyalty, friendship, and genetic engineering. The first book brings up the topic of kidnapping, the second brings up human trafficking, and the third tackles cancer. Q: Are there any books beyond this one?A: Yes, Varick's Quest is Book 4 in the series and it's currently available.