Laurence D Chalem

Glycosis: Love in a Hostile, Sugar-coated World Laurence D Chalem

Publisher Marketing: Can true love triumph in a world of sweetness that is often false, and sometimes fatal? This is the essential question of Glycosis, the debut novel of author Laurence D. Chalem that probes the natural and man-made worlds to chart a rare romantic union that is in grave and gripping danger. Expanding the lexicon, Glycosis is a tastefully told love story set on a San Diego campus that surges with suspense and intelligence. It's certain to absorb anyone taken by the mysteries of the human heart-and intricate life of the mind-whether lovers of legal or medical thrillers, or anyone who relishes a well-crafted, smart read. On the sunny campus of the University of California, San Diego, Michelle, a stunning, witty undergraduate from Korea, along with her two fine and fun-loving friends, find their destinies crossed with David when Michelle discovers him playing some of her favorite classical compositions. A brilliant, gifted doctoral student in evolutionary biology, David, and his mentor, Professor Ross, are making new strides in evolutionary theory. Just as David and Michelle deepen their connection, a dashing ex-Berkeley man threatens their premature demise. Sporting a yellow Hummer, John invites the four of them to his house in the hills to have a drink, enjoy the view, and meet his pets. It will change them all for the rest of their lives. Can David and Michelle surmount the grave obstacles that may upend their uncommon bond? In Glycosis, the science is real, the story compelling, and the food delicious. Subtly shaded with symbolism, the novel transitions from the celestial to the oceanic, and from a sports bar to the ICU and beyond. Throughout, sensory detail of music and food will immerse you in the world of these characters, from piano concertos to pop music, from junk food to fine wine. To battle evil, the lovers must learn new skills. Join them on a thought-provoking, thoroughly surprising journey. Contributor Bio:  Chalem, Laurence D Laurence D. Chalem (b. 1963), a type 1 diabetic, received both his B. A. in Economics, and M. B. A., from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Based in San Jose, California, Mr. Chalem serves as global sourcing manager with Cisco Systems, Inc. He is the 2009 recipient of the Above-and-Beyond Award, presented by Diversity Best Practices and Working Mother Media, which recognized Network Leaders whose determination have led to the success of their group. Laurence served as Co-Chair of the Cisco Disabilities Awareness Network (CDAN) in 2008. Laurence's HbA1c has been significantly below 7% since 2006. He eats a very low-calorie diet, consisting of approximately 60% fat, largely coconut oil, 30% protein, and less than 10% carbohydrates, typically in the form of vegetables. Besides coconut oil, his favorite fats are butter, ghee, macadamia nut, pecan, almond, olive, and avocado.