De-Extinction of the Nephilim. A Short Story. Ebook

Excellent story! Really wanted it to go on longer!

I follow J.F. Penn, and I've read a couple of titles in her ARKANE thriller series, which I've enjoyed, so I expected to be in for a wild ride with twists and intrigue when I cracked open the short story, De-Extinction of the Nephilim. Yet I got so much more! The story is a chilling and gripping 'what if' tale that explores resurrection biology and the mythic Nephilim, Biblical creatures of horrific power. The questions raised and implications explored are relevant for today's projects to resurrect extinct animals. But even if you're not into the science-side of the story, you'll still get a twisty, pace-y page turner with well-developed characters, which you won't be able to put down! Once again, J.F. Penn, masterful storyteller, has delighted readers with a fun and scary read. Snag it!

Scary!! De-Extinction No let’s not play God! Dangerous! Fiction Fun!
Enjoyed!

I read the ebook and was wanting more so I bought the audio book and listened to it as well. It's such a great story and Jo ended it in such a way that you stop and think about which way the ending could have gone. Jo is a great storyteller and this one is yet another success.

In "De-Extinction of the Nephilim," award-winning author J.F. Penn masterfully intertwines archaeology, genetics, and biblical mythology to create a gripping short story that is as thought-provoking as it is thrilling. The narrative kicks off with archaeologist Dr. Emilia Kaya's astonishing discovery of a massive sarcophagus containing the remains of a mysterious winged creature. It's a discover that could change humankind's of history and get her the funded needed to continue her dig and research. This unearths a chain of events that may lead to the resurrection of the Nephilim—the legendary giants of biblical lore.

Desperate to unlock the secrets hidden within the ancient bones, Emilia joins forces with geneticist Dr. Alex Novak. As Dr. Novak races against time to decode the DNA that could validate the existence of these mythical beings, their quest for knowledge plunges them into a shadowy conflict over the power to redefine life itself. He sees a co-credit on an academic paper that while rock their field and resurrect his career. The story explores profound themes, questioning the nature of humanity, the perilous consequences of playing God, and the interference and government take over of research.

Penn's storytelling is world-class, seamlessly blending elements of science and faith into a compelling narrative. The character development is robust, and the plot is meticulously crafted, keeping readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. The ending, in particular, is chilling and thought-provoking, leaving readers with lingering questions about the ethical implications of genetic manipulation and the fine line between innovation and hubris.

"De-Extinction of the Nephilim" is a well-written, captivating tale that showcases Penn's talent for weaving complex themes into an engaging story. This short story is a must-read for fans of speculative fiction, archaeology, and anyone intrigued by the intersection of science and ancient mysteries.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/customer-reviews/R2NJP4XLX071NU/ref=cm_cr_srp_d_rvw_ttl?ie=UTF8&ASIN=B0D5BNQGRS

What an amazing read. This was very easy to get into but really wish it was a longer story. Please consider that but in the meantime I look forward to more short stories!

I enjoyed the story. It ended too soon! Interesting story well developed characters!

As a huge fan of Joanna, who regularly listens to her podcast and reads her books, my expectations for this short story were high—and it did not disappoint!

From the moment archaeologist Dr. Emilia Kaya discovers the remains of a massive winged human, I was hooked. The plot thickens with a DNA analysis hit at the Nephilim, legendary biblical giants. Emilia's collaboration with geneticist Dr. Alex Novak plunges them into a dangerous battle over the power to redefine life itself. As the book came to an end, I coudl only image what would happen. So if you are a fan of Jurassic Park and Indiana Jones - you are going to LOVE this one!

Recommend a read

An enjoyable short story. The intensity built quickly, each chapter leaving me wanting to know more. Great ending. Leaves you wondering what might happen next.

Fascinating short story from a historic site at Göbekli Tepe in Turkey, an "An immense mystery older than Stonehenge" according to Andrew Curry, BBC features correspondent wrote in 2021. So from this actual site, JF Penn conjures up this story about the "Nephilims", mythical beings that were only capable of being destroyed by a flood. As is her style, the author just gives you an outline, but leaves you, the reader with your overactive imagination. to fill in all of the details - brilliant!

Another fantastic short story! I loved how contemporary science was interwoven with myth. Brilliant!

It integrates archaeological mystery with leading-edge genetic science, creating a unique and interesting plot that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.

J.F. Penn’s well researched writing style is vivid and descriptive, immersing the reader in the ancient wonders of Göbekli Tepe and the high-tech world of genetics.

However, the story’s pacing can fluctuate with some transitions feeling abrupt.

I had just settled down for another chapter and it ended. If you follow the old saying, “Always leave them wanting more,” then this short story achieved that.

Its unique premise and well-crafted characters make it a standout in the genre, promising an engaging experience for readers.

"De-Extinction of the Nephilim" by J.F. Penn immerses readers in a gripping tale woven with mystery and intrigue. Set against the ancient marvels of Göbekli Tepe in Turkey, archaeologist Dr. Emilia Kaya unearths a sarcophagus buried deep within the earth. Penn masterfully paints vivid scenes of the archaeological site, invoking a palpable sense of wonder and historical richness.

The story takes a thrilling turn when an earthquake disrupts Emilia's exploration, leaving her with only a single bone from the sarcophagus. This bone becomes the linchpin of the narrative, leading Emilia to send it for analysis, setting off an unexpected chain of events.

Penn's narrative prowess shines through in her ability to blend scientific curiosity with ancient mythos, crafting an atmospheric setting that pulls readers into the heart of Emilia's discoveries. The rich descriptions not only bring Göbekli Tepe to life but also evoke a sense of the uncanny as the mystery surrounding the bone deepens.

"De-Extinction of the Nephilim" is a captivating exploration of archaeological intrigue and the blurred lines between science and mythology. Penn's skillful storytelling and vivid imagery make this short story a compelling read.

FASCINATING!

“…but what were they really doing if not playing god?”

Suspenseful Plot!
De-Extinction, a politically correct way to describe Resurrection. A disguised version to not bring up the wrath of any religious group.
A short but compact engrossing story with an interesting psychological depth, compelling conflict resolution within the characters’ dynamics, moved by typical human traits to achieve their goals and be recognised in their respective jobs.

“Frontier science plucked species from the oblivion of extinction, hauled them into the present where they no longer belonged. Who could know the impact of such a reversal? The dangers of meddling with nature’s course is intimidating, to say the least.”

A gripping, heart pounding, exciting and intense hair raising storytelling! A somewhat unexpected revelation with a sudden turn of events bringing up a twisted and unpredictable ending! I was left with wanting more!
I’d love this short story converted into a novel, because the story needs to be told fully. It is a fascinating read!

“Devler. If you wake them, the flood must come again.”
“The Watchers and the Nephilim. As it is written in the Book of Enoch.”

I received an ARC from the author to read and review.
What an amazing story. I don't know how she puts so much intensity into a short story, but she does it every time.
A historical and terrifying find that could lead to the destruction of the earth, and why, sometimes, if you can do a thing, doesn't mean you should.
Loved it.

I received ARC for this book. As usual Ms. Penn didn’t let us down. This is a great read. Definitely an interesting find at the dig site! Something I haven’t heard of! My only problem with it is that it wasn’t a longer story. I enjoyed it.

JF has a way of marrying archeology to the modern day that I have rarely seen. This book transports to the land of sand, stone and rubble known as Göbelli Tepe and makes you feel like you are looking over Emilia’s shoulder. I am a huge fan of Jo’s writing and this one does not disappoint!

J. F. Penn has done it again with a 57-page short story that doesn’t seem to have an end. It starts out at an archaeological site in south west Turkey at the excavations of Gobekli Tepe when Emilia, Director of Border Excavations and her partner, Dr. Mehmet Ali, have made a discovery which could be monumental in more ways than one. She sends a bone fragment to a former professor, genetisist Dr. Alex Novak, for DNA analysis. This story had me sitting on the edge of my chair for practically the entire reading. It seems to me that Ms. Penn gets better with each writing she completes. If you are looking for some excitement, go no further as this story is for you! I can highly recommend it!

This story ticked all of the boxes - except one for me (I wanted MORE of it!!!!)
There was travel & adventure, in a region that I've visited a few times over the past 35 years, there was some futuristic clever stuff and an ethical dilemma/religious question. Of course there was also a twist at the end...

When Dr. Emilia Kaya discovers something quite unusual things get a little complicated. Other people get involved and more of the mystery starts to unfold but when a certain group gets ahold of the item they want to create something quite powerful. Great short story.

This is another cracking story from this author. I was fascinated by the storyline all the way through. Like the other readers have commented on, it was too short, but still very, very good. Highly recommenced

JFPenn is such a great storyteller. She has expertly woven themes of theology, archaeology and science fiction together into this thought-provoking thriller that left my imagination running wild.

Another well written and intriguing story from JF Penn. My only regret is that it’s a short story and not a novel