Forever for a Moment

A fast-paced Crichton-like techno-thriller that journeys through the near-future of genetic engineering of living humans. The discovery of CRISPR AND CAS9 has forever changed the world. Living humans are walking the planet today with modified DNA.
In Forever for a Moment, Detective Casey Randall discovers the Omega Alpha Institute (OAI) and its powerful CEO, who is secretly genetically modifying living humans – for inconceivable profit. The Anti Genetics Engineering Society – a front for a church-sponsored crusade – anoints Casey as its prophet and leader. But it may be too late as the CEO sells his greatest discovery to the highest bidders – a genetic cure for aging. Unlikely partners align, and they pay in blood for information aimed to destroy OAI. But will there be enough time to stop the CEO from redefining the very definition of “human?” After all, who doesn’t want to live forever?


Preface
While Forever for a Moment is fiction, almost everything contained herein is either possible or happening now. Humans are walking around today with artificially modified genes. I wrote this novel to explore what I consider a clear and imminent existential threat to the definition of “human.” For the first time, we as a species can “self-program.” Many science fiction stories focus on the fear of computers becoming self-aware by modifying their own code. This may never happen. However, in some sense, we are all walking, talking, and breathing computers, with our DNA being our programming code. And now, we can reach inside of our cells and change our very own code. I believe it is not a matter of if but when nefarious actors modify humans for profit. It will start with “curing” genetic diseases in children. After all, who doesn’t want to cure children? It will then move onto adults and genetic disorders. But as we become accustomed to genetic modifications in living humans, the lines between illness and traits and preferences will become blurred, and transhumans will emerge. If we as a society don’t take this threat seriously and implement draconian measures to curtail the genetic engineering of living humans, our children’s children will be competing against a new species that I call Homo independus. I hope this novel provides you with a foundation to ponder the ramifications – both positive and negative – of transhumanism – and that you express any concerns you might have to those in power – before they too succumb to the addicting elixir of genetic engineering of the human genome. But know this, it may already be too late to put the genie back into the proverbial bottle.
A.G. Ferguson – May 19th, 2021

Praise for Forever for a Moment
“Forever for a Moment is an engrossing action thriller that takes off like a rocket and never slows. Combine that with a fascinating education about the threats of transhumanism and you have a winner. Economics, power, greed, and selfishness could very well combine in such a way that the world – and the definition of human – may be changed forever. This novel is a must-read for anyone who cares about the future and how genetics may forever alter humanity.” – Chris Elsenbach

“Ferguson tells a frightful story that clearly captures the threat of genetic engineering. No matter what preconceived notions you might have, Forever for a Moment will create a foundation for you to consider the many ramifications of transhumanism. You owe it to yourself and future generations to become familiar with this existential threat to humanity – and to act upon it if you dare.” - Brad Parker

“Ferguson’s novel hits the ground running. The story line is ominous, sensational, and believable. The characters are very human and relatable. Take a few hours of your life to see into the not-too-distant future in a highly entertaining way.” – Kory MacGregor