Stephen P. Kiernan is an author of fiction and nonfiction. He is a graduate of Johns Hopkins University and the University of Iowa Writers’ Workshop and an award winning journalist. His books are beautifully written, this one is a literary thriller. The Curiosity was Kiernan’s debut novel in 2013 and I also enjoyed another one of his called The Hummingbird earlier this year.
A team of scientists working on reanimating creatures from hard ice in the far North, stumble upon a man who has been frozen for a hundred years. Against all odds he is awakened in the present day and finds so many things have changed…and yet what hasn’t changed is that the greatest thing in life is still love.
The Curiosity features a scientific process called cryonics. The way the novel plays with the science and weaves it into the novel, reminded me of Michael Crichton’s books–scary and fascinating because it all sounds so plausible. The characters are unforgettable, and the novel touches on all aspects of this type of scientific breakthrough–media, ethics, politics, protestors, greed, jealousy, but also focuses on humility, humanity, kindness and love.
Though I’m usually not too fussed about endings, I had a strong feeling after finishing this book that the author might have ended it differently. Wondering why he didn’t, I thought I would just ask him and I got the nicest reply. He was so gracious about my alternate ending suggestion, and took the time to thoughtfully answer my query. I was very impressed. Thanks for being available and willing to discuss, Stephen Kiernan. It’s what I love most about reading, talking about the book afterwards, and what a treat to have a conversation with the author himself! The Baker’s Secret is next on my list and he said he thinks I’ll be happy with that ending! 🙂 He also said there’s one more book in the works which has a brilliant ending, so even more to look forward to!
Joanne's Reading Blog 
I’ve had the pleasure of reading Kiernan’s novel as well as his other two fiction books and without exception are three of the best books I’ve read. Don’t miss out on an opportunity to read a well crafted, intriguing and entertaining story by this keen author.