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The Dar Lumbre Chronicles: A Hard Science Fiction Novel Laced With Political Satire

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“A clever extrapolation of today’s sociopolitical pathologies…ingenious narrative.” –Kirkus ReviewsWhen NatGov attempts to arrest Dr. Dar Lumbre for performing illegal genetic experiments, he vanishes like a will-o’-the-wisp.Fifty years after his disappearance, the enigmatic doctor’s followers proclaim his imminent return as a sociopolitical messiah destined to unite the divided nation by serving as a nexus between science, politics, and religion.Dr. Lumbre is the creator of DL-666, a tissue used to produce artificial hearts on a 3-D printer. When it fails, geneticists Crane Hopkins and Annie Lee spring into action, and during their efforts to repair the oddly-named tissue, they discover that it contains DNA from a snake.In Spanish, Dar Lumbre means to give light. If the mysterious doctor reappears, will he establish himself as a bold new light in the world of medicine? or will NatGov ban his efforts again, as the number 666 might suggest?Read The Dar Lumbre Chronicle to see what the near future holds for America.

367 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 15, 2018

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34 people want to read

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Don Johnston

23 books1 follower

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
Profile Image for Heather Gadd.
299 reviews21 followers
January 12, 2021
A curious interpretation of the future where Starbucks is an essential business, “meat” is grown, Amazon delivers pizza via drone, and vegetables grown in soil are a sought-out commodity. This Crichton-esque, sci-fi novel is an interesting mix of current events and politics that would suggest not much will have changed 100 years in the future.

While it can get a bit technical at times, the story and the humorous look into the future of businesses is enough to carry you through the end. The characters make this an enjoyable and relatable experience, and the cliffhanger leaves you wanting more.
Profile Image for Ian Miller.
Author 16 books101 followers
April 30, 2019
The story is set about a third of the way through the 22nd century. Fifty years previously, Dar Lumbre had developed a strain of tissue (DL - 666) that would grow synthetic hearts, thus removing the need for heart transplants. (The issue of why one strain would not lead to rejection is some cases was not really clear.) At the same time the political pressures on genetic research was such that Dar had to disappear. There was a Dar Lumbre Society that predicted his return. The story starts with this strain showing signs of degrading, and since nobody else had been working on this technology, presumably due to government controls, and there were patients needing the hearts, there was pressure applied to Crane and Annie, the two leading geneticists, to unravel what had gone wrong and fix it. In the background, there are various comments on the society of the time, and on US politics. Thus there are three sets of people: registered Democrats, registered Republicans, and Outsiders. From experience, imagining the future is difficult. When I included music in my future writing, I resorted to people like Mozart and Haydn; Johnston resorts to late 20th century pop "classics". They still seem to have petrol driven vehicles. None of this distracts from the story.
The story is basically one of scientific research: the search for a replacement, with the politics and Dar Lumbre in the background. Leaving aside the details, which perforce won't be right because we do not know the answer, the methods etc and the way the scientists behave is excellent. It feels authentic, and I know how scientists behave. The bits about scientific funding add to the authenticity. The characters are nicely written, and the writing is clear. The structure of the story is very good – everything follows for a reason, and there are no signs at all of magic or luck, all of which forces the grading. There is one contrary. The author overlooks the fact that converstations should not be reported in full. We don't need a page devoted to coming into a room and making trivial comments. However, overall this book is well worth reading, especially if you have an interest as to how scientific work proceeds.
Profile Image for Píaras Cíonnaoíth.
Author 144 books208 followers
June 28, 2020
A unique and wonderfully written Sc-Fi that was hard to put down...

Forty-some years ago my uncle gave me a science fiction anthology. It was a thick red hardback that I read from cover to cover. It inspired a lifelong love of the genre. The stories in that book made me think outside the box. They filled me with awe for the imagination it took to write them. That book still remains in my collection today. The title is OMNIBUS OF SCIENCE FICTION, edited by Groff Conklin, a well-known and prolific editor of the genre. It was published in 1952, the Golden Age of Science Fiction. It’s a substantial volume, 562 pages, with 43 stories divided into sections relating to a common theme. Some stories are fun, some are thought-provoking, and some are adventurous. I love them all.

The Dar Lumbre Chronicles by Don Johnston is a wonderfully written and richly descriptive novel with brilliantly drawn characters and settings. The author weaves a clever web of intrigue in this well-crafted Sci-Fi that will captivate the reader from the opening chapter. Skillfully constructed, this well-written and unique story will have you turning the pages from beginning to end.

I’m a big fan of Sci-Fi, so this for us was a phenomenal read. It’s one of those books that stayed with me for several days after I finished reading it. The vivid descriptions of the settings, situations, and the people were stunning and realistic.

I’ll be looking forward to reading more from Don Johnston in the future. Highly recommended reading and a well-deserved five stars from me.
Profile Image for Payal Sinha.
Author 7 books24 followers
April 8, 2019
The Dar Lumbre Chronicles is an engaging science fiction that takes places with a mix of futuristic politics and some warm romance. The story revolves around a science nerd Crane Hopkins and his quest to complete the puzzle namely Dr. Dar Lumbre and his secret experiments. The book is long and maintains a steady pace to build up an atmosphere that is burdened down by the existing political scenario. One can see the influence and interference of NatGov on almost everything that touches a person's life. For example, Crane's sister in law goes to register herself and her registration process is filled with hurdles simply because the government record does not show up her marriage certificate and she had failed to update her new residential address; the sister-in-law also has to wait a long time to get a date for her father's operation; Annie goes stargazing with her boyfriend where she reveals that anyone can have a particular star named after them for a given sum of money. Hence, amidst all these restrictions, Dar Lumbre looks like a victim of government. However, there are many hidden truths and many secrets strewn about (some of the rooted to the teenage of Crane) that would bring in new revelations.

The main characters in the book are properly built-up and each given a space of their own so that they grow together and contribute a comprehensible whole. The scenes are also mostly believable and the story, on the whole, is very engaging.
Profile Image for Ben.
46 reviews1 follower
May 20, 2019
The premise and world-building are the strongest thing this work has going for it. Incredible, suspenseful description pulls you straight into the world of Dr. Dar Lumbre and keeps you there.

I can only commend Don Johnston for his ability to envision science in a late 21st century, in terms of genetics and morality.

Balancing big themes of religion and cult mentality with the science of a newer world, Johnston manages this in terms of his world brilliantly.

However, while the books main strengths lay here with the world-building and integrating science into this world, I found the dialogue and characters somewhat lacking. On one hand Annie's characterisation could be chalked up to the futuristic, dark, dystopian setting, on the other hand, I still found some of the dialogue clunky and unrealistic.

So overall, this book isn't perfect, but it's commendable.
Profile Image for Brian Aird.
216 reviews14 followers
April 1, 2020
Snakes and DNA

The Dar Lumbre Chronicles by Don Johnston is a futuristic novel set in the year 2135. It is a world where government control and influence has magnified significantly. The political scene requires all residents to register under a two-party system. They can either register as a Democrat or Republican. If a person does not register, they become non-compliant and earn the label of being an Outsider. The government does not provide benefits to Outsiders.

Added to the mix are the significant strides that have been made in the medical field. Specifically, it is in the area of heart transplants. If a properly registered citizen is experiencing heart failure, they can take advantage of receiving an artificial heart through the government's reliable system known as DL-666.

Lumbre developed this medical breakthrough before he went missing.

And so the plot of the Dar Lumbre Chronicles unfolds when medical officials discover a flaw within the artificial heart apparatus. Furthermore, the present-day first lady needs a new heart.

Consequently, the narrative swirls around the rumored return of Dar Lumbre and the question of where he has been, if still alive, these 50 years. Added to the complexity of the situation is that the society is classified as a political party which is not allowed by the current government's framework.

Finally, how do a pencil-sized green snake with a forked tail and the revelation of an aligned star event occurring on the 22nd of September factor into the suspense-filled plot?

The Dar Lumbre Chronicles by Don Johnston is a thoughtfully produced science-fiction novel that is sure to capture the reader's interest, imagination, and attention. In addition to the main plot unfolding, there are other nicely developed backstories that add to the enjoyment of the narrative.
Profile Image for Kristin.
113 reviews8 followers
November 10, 2021
I love sci-fi but it seems like there are some cliches and tropes that are overdone in the genre. However, I was a bit intrigued when I came across Dar Lumbre by Don Johnston. We start off in 2086 when a futuristic Dr named Dar Lumbre has a warrant out for his arrest. His crime, genetic experimentation. Yet when he disappears before he can be arrested and a massive data loss caused by a solar flare helps him hide in the shadows, more questions are left unanswered. Was he killed? If he’s alive, is he someone new? Does he have more power? 50 years pass without a word about Dar Lumbre but his followers create a cult; thinking his disappearance and the acts that helped as well as his return are all “divine” messages. It was an interesting combo of science, cult/religion, conspiracies, and government yet terrifying to see how people can get worked up yet not see the true story. So, when the Dr. and research that created the procedure of DL--- that helps create ---hearts and you have patients waiting for those transplants including the First Lady
When the heart tissue called DL-666 goes wrong preventing transplant hearts to be ineffective, the main characters, Annie and Crane have a bigger problem. Sure, they can’t get patients’’ their hearts including the First Lady, but the bigger problem is that the research for the hearts was done by Dr. Dar Lumbre. That research and “how to’s” is gone and they have to find the answers and fast. The readers follow their investigation and obstacles at each turn to find out if Dr. Dar Lumbre is still alive, if he is the next Messiah as his cult likes to claim, and every other conspiracy that followed him into the shadows. I really enjoyed the book and it took different turns than other sci-fi books I have read. Some of the dialogues were a little forced but honestly, the story and the world were really well built.
1,486 reviews21 followers
January 26, 2020
Dar Lumbre, a world famous geneticist, is about to be arrested for conducting banned genetic experiments. Before the feds can close in on him, a massive solar flare destroys much of America's census data. In the ensuing chaos, Lumbre disappears. Did the feds get him? Has he voluntarily gone to an "undisclosed location"?

In 2086, fifty years later, America is under corporate control, run by NatGov. All Americans are required to register to vote, as a Republican or Democrat. Those who don't are officially "outsiders," and get no government benefits. DL-666 is a very reliable system for creating an artificial heart for anyone who needs one. There is no longer any need for donated hearts from the recently deceased. It was developed by Lumbre before his disappearance, but a major problem with it has just been discovered. Things get critical when America's First Lady suddenly needs a new heart.

Meantime, rumors, and flyers popup all over America from the Dar Lumbre Society (NatGov has banned all other political parties). Is Lumbre still alive? Where could he have been for all these years? Is he returning as some sort of savior? Does NatGov reassert control and crush the Dar Lumbre Society before it gets going? Does DL-666 get "fixed"?

This is a really good hard science fiction novel, containing lots of genetics. Perhaps the society building is a little bit better than the actual story. That should not stop anyone from reading this book. It is very much worth checking out.
Profile Image for Darryl Terry.
Author 6 books11 followers
June 24, 2020
A disturbing and dark view of the 22nd century

Science Fiction writers rarely predict accurate futures, but some of the dystopian writers came chillingly close with their dark worlds. Remarkably similar in style and atmosphere to some of these classics, The Dar Lumbre Chronicles evokes a similar atmosphere of chilling inevitability as these books.

In the 22nd century, America is governed by a so-called National Government which controls the lives of registered citizens with a complex web of stifling red tape and legislation which combines health care, religion, politics, and science, in a toxic mixture. Those not willing to submit to these rules are excluded from the benefits of society and live precarious lives on the outer fringes of the vast cities.

Containing a fascinating mixture of genetics, a great deal of political drama and thrilling action with a dash of romance, this is a fascinating story of a world with dazzling advances. But it is interesting to see that many humans still use antiquated machines and gadgets which crop up in the story.

Packed with an almost overwhelming amount of medical and biological science, this provides a brilliant backdrop for the thrills and dangers of a wonderfully crafted, but ominous vision of an undoubtedly dystopian future world.
Profile Image for Jenny Goff.
70 reviews2 followers
October 11, 2019
This science fiction book had a great story and was very enjoyable to read. I like that the story is set over a hundred years into the future as it is fun to imagine what life will be like then. I thought the story was very realistic but also a little frightening with showing how the government had taken a lot of control over businesses, politics, religion, people’s everyday lives, etc. I thought the two geneticists, Crane and Annie, were great characters to root for in the story with how they were working together as a team and as friends to solve the malfunctioning issues with the synthetic heart tissue that was previously being used for heart transplants. Their work with trying to solve these issues also leads them into researching Dr Lumbre who had created the heart tissue and who had disappeared 50 years before it had started failing. I liked following along with Crane and Annie as they went on this adventure of solving the mystery of Dr Lumbre and his heart tissue creation. There were times when the genetics terminology was a little too complex for me, but I thought the author did a great job with still presenting the story in a way that anyone could understand. Overall, it was a very creative and fun story to read.
Profile Image for Pegboard.
1,830 reviews9 followers
February 23, 2019
Years into the future, The Dar Lumbre Chronicles, by Don Johnston, focuses on the political power that rules the population. The government appears to have erased all data across the board to start over. Which initially sounds good, but they set up a governing system that is controlling. Banning Dar Lumbre, a scientist that was making genetic breakthroughs, and his writings were considered acceptable by the government, but now they realize the greatest work he gave them has reached its expiration date. Crane and Annie have been searching for a cure to the DL-666 before it causes death worldwide. Will Dar Lumbre come out of hiding after all these years?
 
I was impressed by the professionalism and quality of words written in The Dar Lumbre Chronicles. Don Johnston is obviously a well-educated man who doesn’t insult the English language by using slang and trash talk to sell his book, which I appreciate. This novel takes the reader into the life of a genetic engineer who desperately seeks answers. I enjoyed the suspense as the characters seek a solution. I found the government control an eerie thought, but not unbelievable. Excellent medical thriller.   
Profile Image for Karyn H.
568 reviews10 followers
August 28, 2019
A beautiful blend of medicine and the sci-fi with a bit of religious undertone

Firstly, I'd like to commend the author Don Johnston for the effort he put in writing this book. He has proven in this book that he has a good knowledge of Biology and Chemistry.

The Dar Lumbre Chronicles is indeed a well-written novel with a lot of sci-fi elements in it, from a solar flare to cyber terrorism and synthetic heart tissue. Johnston did a nice job at bringing a lot of points together and tastefully put them together to give the reader a wonderful experience through the entire pages of the book.

The Dar Lumbre Chronicles sheds light on the possibility of a synthetic heart tissue which will be the end of heart transplants. The sudden disappearance of Dar Lumbre and the destruction of valuable information concerning him was the heat of the story.
His followers who strongly believed he is alive formed the Dar Lumbre society and awaits his return messianic return to unite the divided country.

The government, on the other hand, is in search of this man whom they believe holds the key to a successful synthetic heart tissue development.
Profile Image for Liz.
1,431 reviews36 followers
July 24, 2020
“THE DAR LUMBRE CHRONICLES” is a futuristic novel written by Don Johnston. It is a science fiction middle-length novel with 250 pages, divided into 38 chapters.
In this futuristic world, citizens have to register under a two-party system. If citizens do not register, they become “outsiders”. In this society, the government has pretty much the control over its citizens. Dr. Dar Lumbre is arrested after being caught doing some illegal experiments. While he is in jail a tremendous explosion from the sun occurs. After this explosion, Dr. Lumbre disappears. Does the explosion make him disappear? After a while, a group of geneticist create the Dar Lumbre Society. They want Dr. Lumbre to appear alive, so that he can unite the divided country.
The author did an amazing job portraying the characters and the plot. Throughout the novel, there is plenty of description and details of the different settings. Johnston’s prose is clean and lean which makes the readers be hooked until the last pages.
I’ll be looking forward to reading more from Don Johnston in the future. I highly recommend reading this extraordinary sci-fi novel.
871 reviews28 followers
October 9, 2020
It is not hard to imagine that a strong and popular scientific can be an annoyment for a corporate control government. Since Dar Lumbre had the force of personality to create a nexus between science, religion, and politics; NatGov drew up a list of charges against him and swore out a warrant for his arrest. But meanwhile, a solar flare erased massive amounts of government data; and in the midst of the chaos and confusion following the flare, Dar Lumbre disappeared. The mystery around his disappearance was even stronger than his alive presence. Moreover, 50 years later his work research is needed, due to the failure of DL-666, the synthetic heart tissue developed by himself. Will he reappear? Will NatGov have a second chance to arrest him?

The Dar Lumbre Chronicles by author Don Johnston is a hard science fiction novel, full of intrigue and mystery. Although the plot is about Genetics and its scientific procedures, the imaginative mixture with a futuristic society and corporate government makes it really interesting and engaging. It will leave you on the edge of your seat with every turn of the page. I enjoyed this book and will be keen to read any more by this author.
Profile Image for Caro Rey.
261 reviews6 followers
October 30, 2020
For Sci-Fi lovers!

It is a science fiction novel filled with intrigue, thrill and freedom for the reader's imagination to soar as they flip through each page. The Dar Lumbre Chronicles by Don Johnston is wonderfully written and filled with rich descriptions of each character and scenario. The author created a clever web of intrigue that will captivate the reader from the opening chapter. The connections between characters and suspense that fills the story as Dr. Dar Lumbre disappears will capture any reader to continue reading. Set in the 22nd century, the United States is faced with a “National Government” which controls society in every aspect and requires all citizens to register as a census; all citizens who refuse to register must live poor and cannot enjoy the benefits of this new government. As the story carries on, we see a mix of medical, political and futuristic views.
Sci-fi isn’t much of my thing but I was captured by the storyline and the intrigue to find out where the main character was. I highly recommend this novel to any Sci-Fi lovers and anyone else who might enjoy this type of read.
Profile Image for Rachel Kester.
487 reviews8 followers
January 25, 2020
The Dar Lumbre Chronicles by Don Johnston takes readers to 2086 when Dr. Dar Lumbre is about to be arrested for doing illegal genetic experiments. However, before Lumbre is taken away to prison, a solar flare occurs causing massive amounts of data to be destroyed. Eventually, this causes great disruption in society and takes the focus off of Dr. Lumbre’s case. Despite this, many have questions about what happened to him during the confusion, such as if he was assassinated or was able to escape and go into hiding.

But the story doesn’t end here. In fact, two geneticists are on the search to research more about heart tissue experiments left behind by Dr. Lumbre which can be used to help numerous people. They look deep into Dr. Lumbre’s research to find answers before it’s too late for society.

If you enjoy science fiction or are just looking for an interesting book to read, this is definitely one to check out. It’s not only filled with twists and turns but takes an intriguing look into society’s relationship with genetic engineering.
8 reviews
July 7, 2020
The Dar Lumbre Chronicles by Don Johnston, is an i intriguing, captivating sci-fi, that causes the reader to find it hard to put down.

The reader discovers that Dar Lumbre is a world famous genetist, who goes against the law and conducts banned genetic experiments. The Feds find out and go to arrest him, however before they make it a solar flare occurs wiping all records, chaos breaks out and during all this, Lumbre disappears. His followers are unsure if he was captured or if he will return one day. We then fast track to later years, where Lumbre’s experiments forvheart creation is in use and organ donation is no longer required. The reader is left wondering if the famous Dar Lumbre will reappear in the nick of time. Unlike some sci-fi’s there is no way the reader can foresee what will happen.

If you are a sci-fi fan or not, I think you would enjoy this from start to finish. The well written plot and cleverly constructed characters add to this book. It’s very clear the author has medical knowledge and a lot of thought, time and research was put into this book. Great job!
Profile Image for Valery.
1,523 reviews58 followers
February 25, 2019
The Dar Lumbre Chronicles is a formidable example of science fiction that not only entertains but is so close to almost being plausible, it makes sense. Taking place in Houston in the distant future of 2086, genetic scientists are scrambling to solve a problem. Dr. Dar Lumbre created synthetic heart tissue that could save many people, but he has gone missing, and so have his scientific writings. Without them, Crane and Annie, geneticists, may not be able to win the race against time. The action and tension is palpable in this book, the science is believable, and the political backdrop is scary on a lot of levels. Government control has run amok, leaving much of society stymied, and unable to move forward with important medical advancements. A little bit eerie, a little mysterious, with great characters, and a fast paced plot, this is a highly recommended book for those who love science fiction with a medical angle.
Profile Image for Amanda.
329 reviews
April 30, 2019
The premise of The Dar Lumbre Chronicles by Don Johnston is that 116 years in our future, not too much has changed; our government is corrupt, our healthcare system is in shambles, there are practical ways to fix these issues but those might cost rich people too much money so nothing gets done, people die and the cycle continues. At least in works of fiction, there can be some retribution and positive change and Johnston delivers in the regard.

Science fiction featuring medicine and genetics is a fascinating genre but where I fell some authors drop the ball is in developing characters who matter to the reader as much as whatever medical or genetic problem the plot is based around. Annie and Crane are an exception in that they are singularly focused yet complex enough to be interesting. That can be a difficult balance to achieve, though it seems effortless in The Dum Lumbre Chronicles. I found this novel to be a quick but fulfilling read.
Profile Image for CarlitasFox.
1,524 reviews28 followers
March 27, 2020
A great sci-fi futurist book.

It is true that science has become one of the main important matters in the world, particularly when it comes to genetics. This book called “The Dar Lumbre Chronicles” is proof of that. The author is Don Johnston; he has a degree in biology and chemistry, so, his vast knowledge about this is shown in this great sci-fiction book.
It is set in the future, in the 22nd century where Dr. Dar Lumbre, a scientist, invented something crucial for genetic science. One day, he is arrested and then he disappeared mysteriously. This event brought about many questions about him and his whereabouts.
The plot is well-developed and intriguing. Since the writer knows about science, the language he used is very specific. I had to look up many words in the dictionary but then I learned new meanings. This book was worth reading and I am sure that people interested in this subject will enjoy it as well. I liked it!

Profile Image for S Tyty.
1,297 reviews29 followers
May 16, 2020
The Dar Lumbre Chronicles by Don Johnson is a mesmerizing science fiction story which we can tell right from the beginning that its author is well-informed about medical and biological sciences. THIS IS one of the main reasons why the narrative is so captivating and catches readers' attention right away.
The story is set in the future, in 2086, and the book bares its name to the main character, Doctor Dar Lumbre, who after performing genetic experiments banned by law vanished and was never seen again.
The reading is so exciting that it keeps readers enchanted throughout the chapters since it instills doubts and anxiety to know what actually happened to the Doctor. I can assure you that once you start reading, you will be hooked until the end of the book, with the hope of learning the truth, something I will not spoil.
Far from an average sci-fi story, this one stands out from the rest and I highly recommend it to those looking for something out of the ordinary.
Profile Image for Pearl.
534 reviews7 followers
May 22, 2020
I love futuristic reads and this book is something worth reading for. The author significantly has a way to capture your attention. The use of science and politics was very much well-done in this book and the conflict between the government and Dr. Lumbre awed me.

The main characters Crane Hopkins and Annie Lee were interesting as well. I love their team-work and how they were able to solve the mystery behind Dr. Lumbre's DL-666 genetical project.

What made this book a lot more interesting was the fact that it was set in the year 2035. Isn't it amazing to see how the world resolves in the future, even if it's just in a fictional world? And oh, the author did mention an amazing thing like Amazon drone, a technology which would already delivery products straight to your door. Isn't that awesomesauce?

All in all, I enjoyed this book. The scientific theme was very well narrated. I would like to read more books like this!
Profile Image for Alfredo R.
603 reviews8 followers
September 29, 2020
Upgrade your weekend with this fascinating tale
This 250-pages, futuristic and religious science fiction and fantasy book called The Dar Lumbre Chronicles is a great book to read during the weekend.
It tells the story of a brave - and probably loony - scientist who likes to do what is forbidden: mess with genetic experiments banned by law. There is a twist in this tale that makes us ponder if we were actually judging this scientist and he is, instead, the light that we need to restore peace and harmony.
To my mind, this is an entertaining piece of writing. The characters are well-developed, the plot is addictive and the whole story is action-packed.
The writer of this tale, Don Johnston, is a former biologist, a religious advocate and a family person. I found this information interesting because now I know that all the experiments described in this tale are actually told by someone that is on the subject.
I recommend this book to science fiction lovers!
Profile Image for Celeste.
995 reviews26 followers
October 3, 2020
“The Dar Lumbre Chronicles” is a futuristic novel with an interesting mixture of science and political intrigue and manipulation woven into its pages. Although it is a work of fiction, the plot is supported by detailed descriptions of scientific facts and medical explanations and procedures. This, together with the descriptions of a society governed by an authoritarian National Government , makes this book realistic, spine-tingling at times and thought-provoking.
The story is set in a dystopic future. In 2086, Dr. Dar Lumbre is soon to be arrested for conducting genetic experiments. But, before he can be caught, in the middle of a chaotic massive loss of data due to a solar flare, he vanishes. Many years later, in 2135, great medical advances have been made in the area of heart transplants following the medical breakthrough developed by Lumbre. A flaw within the artificial heart and a series of strange occurrences set the plot in motion. A great read, don’t miss it!
171 reviews6 followers
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October 16, 2020
Read this!

This book is SO up my alley. It has all the factors that make a good book for me. Not just the genre, but the structure of the story is exactly what I love to read. The story put me right into the narrative and I felt like I was actually in the story with the different characters. I liked the premise of this great scientist who has life saving information and is being quieted by the government. I loved the way it unravels. There’s the two scientists who are struggling to recreate or understand the work that Dar Lumbre left behind. There’s a couple who are waiting for this technology to be done so that they can save a family members’ life. The two couples intertwine to become one story that is the potential return of Dar Lumbre. I don’t want to give any spoilers so I will not say anything more but the whole story is that sci-fi new society that is painted so amazingly by the author makes for a great journey and a good ending. Read this!!!
Profile Image for Carol M..
246 reviews2 followers
October 19, 2020
‘The Dar Lumbre Chronicles’ is a fascinating sci-fi book written by Don Johnston. It is set in a not-too-distant future and we’re presented with the main protagonist Dr. Dar Lumbre from the very beginning. This mysterious character is accused of performing genetic experiments and is being chased by NatGov. Yet, an extraordinary happening occurred and his warrant arrest vanished, and so did Dr. Dar Lumbre.

The plot focuses on the exciting but dangerous deeds of Crane and Annie, two loyal followers of the doctor. Despite being a long novel, it is easy to read as the narrative structure is not complex. Curiosity is aroused throughout the story as the reader wants to know what happens with Dr. Dar Lumbre and if he will appear.

What I liked the most about it is the photographic detail that the writer used to describe this new fantasy world. In my opinion, it is perfect for both teenagers and adults who like suspense.
Profile Image for Ivana S..
578 reviews12 followers
March 26, 2020
The Dar Lumbre Chronicles” is a hi-tech, futuristic thriller. I found this story very interesting because you caught a glimpse of what the future would be like. It is a fast-paced, enjoyable novel from Don Johnston that every person will enjoy. The story is well written; it has a nice description so it drew me through the story quickly. The characters were well rounded. I never felt bored in the story. There was always something happening.

If you like futuristic sci-fi narrations, then you WILL sure love this one. It is worth every moment of reading and it kept me absorbed from start to finish.

The author has a gift with his writing and storytelling abilities. He makes the story come alive. His words flow naturally and gracefully across the pages which makes the reader enjoy the experience and the world he has created. I would highly recommend this book to everyone.
Profile Image for Brenda.
1,387 reviews26 followers
August 9, 2020
The Dar Lumbre Chronicles by Don Johnston is his first sci-fi book, and I have to say he did an outstanding work.
This story takes us forward to 2086, 22th century with Dr. Dar Lumbre as the main character. He happens to disappear after some genetics experiments which are prohibited by law. In this very intriguing story, you'll find a fusion between genetics, politics and religion, all of that mixed with some romantic drama.
This novel contains a considering amount of science, but the author blended it in a very clever way so you won’t get overwhelmed with the topic. It also has a lot of enthralling situations that make you not want to stop reading.
If you like sci-fi novels you are going to enjoy this one, it’s like sci-fi 3.0. It has all the condiments and more. I’m looking forward to reading some more books of this author.
Profile Image for Agustina Sureda.
606 reviews13 followers
October 26, 2020
The Dar Lumbre Chronicles is a richly descriptive novel, the author put me right into the narrative, and I felt as if I was actually in the story being one of the characters. It is set in a dystopic future in 2086, and it tells us about a great scientist who has been saving information and is being quieted by the government, and about families that are waiting for new treatments to save their loved ones, so it also relates to the present as those are things that are happening now.
Don Johnston managed to create 249 pages of a hard science fiction novel, full of intrigue and mystery, adding drama and involving scientific work procedures.
The thing that I liked the most is that although it is a futuristic saga, you can relate to the characters and settings in quite an easy way. The writing is simple to follow and it is very much worth checking out.
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613 reviews12 followers
November 9, 2021
I found The Dar Lumbre Chronicles by D. Johnston an amazing piece of science fiction work. I'm amazed by this type of novels. Every time I read one of this, I become more and more intrigued by this genre. I've always read romantic and or suspense stories, but since I've discovered science fiction novels, I felt fascinated by the plots. In this case the tale itself was not the only thing that caught my attention, the course of events made me think about the future. In the story, everyday life and routine in the future are very well described. Moreover, the political aspect is mentioned, too. None of the previous tales that I've read hit me so hard. I started thinking that these events are not so far away.
Another point to highlight is the language used in the book. Great descriptions! I could perfectly picture every scene in my mind. I hardly recommend Johnston's work.
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