Lee Urban is living a lie.
In a society where everyone's DNA determines their destiny, being a Natural means automatic relegation to the gritty and dangerous Outskirts. With the harnessed power of gene-editing, the ability to create a super-human race has transformed the world and offered the opportunity of a genetically enhanced life. But only to those who can afford it.
Born a Natural, Lee Urban was adopted into the Enhanced high society of the Asian Federation and forced to conceal her genetic roots. When her dream of attending Peking University becomes a reality, she is determined to go despite a warning from a mysterious source.
Targeted by a hacker bent on exposing her true DNA, Urban faces off with an Artificial Intelligence Game that puts her-and her lies-to the test. What was supposed to be a dream come true turns into a lethal gamble of hide-and-seek with her genetics. Can Urban continue the act, or will the cracks in her story expose her and endanger her family? Lee Urban is living a lie.
In a society where everyone's DNA determines their destiny, being a Natural means automatic relegation to the gritty and dangerous Outskirts. With the harnessed power of gene-editing, the ability to create a super-human race has transformed the world and offered the opportunity of a genetically enhanced life. But only to those who can afford it. Candace Kade grew up in China and currently lives in Austin, Texas. When she's not missing Chinese food, she's busy writing, exploring new countries, volunteering, hiking in national parks, teaching her husband Mandarin, and keeping a baby human alive. "New and innovative. Candace Kade's impressive debut expertly tackles the theme of identity while immersing readers in a futuristic world unlike any other. In this action-packed mystery where the genetically Enhanced are pitted against Naturals, everyone is suspect and no one is safe. Can't wait for what happens next!"
-S.F. Rhoads
"Enhanced thrusts you into an impossible world that somehow feels all too familiar. Peppered with resonating truths about the direction of our society, this fascinating and imaginative story makes you rethink what could be feasible in the not so-distant-future. A must read for fans of young adult literature and science fiction!" - Lorie Langdon, author of the Disney Happily Never After Series
"Pulling from her unique upbringing in Asia, Candace Kade brings to life diverse cultural and creative influences to craft a stunning urban sci-fi novel with a pulse-pounding story you won't be able to put down." - Kara Swanson, award-winning author of Dust and Shadow and co-founder of the Author Conservatory
"The novel excels in its portrayal of an unequal, divided society obsessed with social status and genetic modifications...Urban's story flourishes in twists and turns that intrigue and engage." ~ Kirkus Reviews "Candace Kade's debut Enhanced fuses old ideas of DNA rewriting with newer concepts of social credit systems … a fun and quick-paced read, filled with inventiveness and sharp detail." ~ Lorehaven "Intricately constructed and incredibly layered, ENHANCED by Candace Kade will suck readers in, taking them on a thrilling ride through a terrifying future that looks far too familiar for comfort."
