THIS IS THE WAY THE WORLD WENT INSANE.
Anne, a disgraced scientist with mounting debt, was warned not to go to the fortress. When she is recruited to join a team researching organoids, she doesn’t hesitate to accept, not even when she learns the project is on Fort Chamberlin. Classified as a synthesist, Anne’s only job is to come up with ideas for experiments.
Research Anne stole from another scientist results in an astounding application of organoids. When the birds fall from the sky, the team struggle to prevent a global catastrophe. Matters are complicated by wet footprints, a taciturn prisoner of war, and a little dead girl who wants her mommy. As a vortex of misfortune spreads beyond the moat, the scientists realize that making the improbable possible can have some nasty side-effects.
Key Characters
Anne Huntington is an unemployed neuroethicist running out of cash to pay rent. Disgraced and kicked out of her lab for falsifying data, the job offer on Fort Chamberlin sounds like just what she needs. She accepts, taking a book of poetry and a packet of stole papers with her…
Pilar Mariana Cortez is a little girl with psychic abilities. She warns Anne about “the woman of flowers and a man with stars.”
Shalmaneser Antony Mordino, better known as Shal, is a homeless man living outside of Anne’s apartment. When he is arrested, Shal leaves behind a stack of papers full of what appear to be raving, unconnected thoughts. That and beautiful mathematics labeled “The MYR Theory.”
Ishmaela Prothero is a researcher on the FIASCO project on Fort Chamberlin. She survived an anti-science terrorist attack. Prothero makes a terrifying discovery using organoids, sunspots and the MYR Theory.
Themes
- Organoid Research (“mini-brains”)
- Top-Secret Government Project
- Ghosts
- Women Scientists
- Researcher Behaving Badly
Questions about The Book
What is Lorikat about?
Lorikat is about a team of scientists isolated on a miliatary fortress who accidentally prove a catasrophic theory.
Is Lorikat a standalone novel?
Yes, Lorikat can be read as a standalone novel.
However, Lorikat is also a part of the Antigone Effect series of standalone novels featuring strong women, futuristic technology, and a Gothic atmosphere of dread. The series explores the ethics of applied technological advances, with a focus on the social implications for women. Like true crime podcast, Antigone Effect is linked by theme, not characters. The books can be read in any order.
What makes Lorikat different from other sci-fi?
Lorikat is different from other sci-fi books because it contrasts hard science with supernatural events. Lorikat is Gothic science fiction. It has an atmosphere of creeping dread, an isolating environment and ghosts.
Who will enjoy reading Lorikat?
Lorikat appeals to readers who…
… want to read sci-fi featuring smart women
… seek novels with a Gothic atmosphere of dread
… are interested in mini-brains/organoids
… question the ethics of applied technology
… like ghost stories
Who might not enjoy reading Lorikat?
Lorikat is not for readers who…
… are looking for a cozy read
… want a happy story
… want “softer” sci-fi (for that, try Aulisyn)
Where can I buy Lorikat?
Lorikat is available at Gothic Sci-Fi Books. You can find more information and read a sample on the book page. If you’re an international (non-US) buyer, you can get the e-book on Smashwords.
Is there a book club discussion guide for Lorikat?
Yes! There is a book club discussion guide for Lorikat. You can find it here: Shop – Gothic Sci-Fi Books. Just scroll to the bottom where you can get the guide, and also download information sheets to share with your book club.
When will the paperback edition of Lorikat be available?
The paperback will be on sale in August of 2026. Sorry, no international shipping available.
| Publisher | Genre | Audience | Setting |
| Pendletyn & Bromptyn, LLC | Gothic Science Fiction | Adult | A military fortress inspired by Fort Monroe, VA. |
Lorikat e-book is available here:
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Erzsebet Carmean 