Baby X

This high-concept speculative thriller from Peikoff (Mother Knows Best) undermines its tabloid premise with wobbly worldbuilding. In the near future, babies can be made in test tubes from any living cells, leading to a “rising trend” of people stealing celebrity DNA for blackmailing purposes. Superstar musician Trace Thorne wants his DNA protected; biosecurity guard Ember Ryan guarantees it, though her efforts appear to consist solely of chemical wipe-downs at his public appearances. Both are shocked to be confronted by Quinn Corrigan, a professional surrogate who claims she’s carrying Thorne’s baby. How did it happen? Meanwhile, rookie journalist Lily is shocked by her middle-aged parents’ announcement that they’re planning a genetically screened second child, but sees an angle that could cinch her a byline at a prestigious tech magazine—if she can get her secretive mom to talk. The real mystery is how these two plots are connected, and Piekoff pulls off a clever twist in the reveal. Unfortunately, incongruities—some needless, some plot-convenient—pepper the narrative and overstrain credulity. Meanwhile, the characters’ purported areas of expertise are seldom backed up by their actions. The concepts intrigue, the execution disappoints. Agent: Erica Spellman-Silverman, Trident Media Group. (Mar.)