SuitabookPerfection and self-worth
Kyle lives in the shadow of Connor, who is presented as exceptionally successful, while Kyle sees himself as an underachiever. His investigation prompts him to act for himself.
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Book details
Debra Dockter - Author
A fast-moving science-fiction mystery about identity, genetic engineering and survival. Kyle’s investigation combines family comparison, secrets and a race against time, with romantic feelings forming alongside the central danger.
Genetically engineered identical twins Kyle and Connor McAdams were born two years apart. Their parents figured it was safer that way, to increase their odds of survival. Connor was born first, paving an impossibly perfect path for Kyle to follow. He was the best at everythingvaledictorian, star quarterback etc. Kyle never thought he d be able to live up, so he didn t even try. But when Connor, 18, suddenly drops dead of a heart attack, and Kyle learns of other genetically modified kids who ve also died on their eighteenth birthdays, he s suddenly motivatedto save his own life.
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Sign in for personalised guidanceA fast-moving science-fiction mystery about identity, genetic engineering and survival. Kyle’s investigation combines family comparison, secrets and a race against time, with romantic feelings forming alongside the central danger.
Kyle lives in the shadow of Connor, who is presented as exceptionally successful, while Kyle sees himself as an underachiever. His investigation prompts him to act for himself.
Kyle and Connor were conceived through Genesis Innovations after their parents sought to improve their chances of having healthy children; a doctor’s work is linked to a fatal flaw.
After Connor’s death, Kyle searches for answers about other deaths and tries to prevent his own possible death before time runs out.
Expect sudden death from a heart attack, bereavement and an ongoing threat to teenagers’ lives. Genetic experimentation, hidden medical consequences and a frightening investigation are central; romantic feelings and a crush are also mentioned.
This is a grounded book brief while Suitabook strengthens the analysis: the book’s treatment of its main themes is not yet firm enough; some draft conclusions still depend on unresolved evidence.
Book information
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The Hiding Spot: Interview with Debra Dockter, author of Deadly Design
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Checked: 19 September 2026.
Anything not established here remains open; it is not being treated as absent or safe.