The Chrysalis

About the Book

A young biology student at the University of Puerto Rico reveals his sexual orientation to his wealthy San Juan family by wearing a diamond earring in his left ear at Sunday dinner. In addition to confronting them with their prejudices, he unexpectedly revives a secret crime of passion that involved his paternal grandfather. Fascinated, the young man fantasizes the story of his grandfather’s love and develops a unique emotional bond that leads him to research the genetic causes of homosexuality - and to startling discoveries.

About the Author

MIGUEL ENRIQUE FIOL-ELIAS was born in Ponce, Puerto Rico and in his childhood moved with his family to Santurce. He graduated from University of Puerto Rico with a Bachelor of Science degree and subsequently completed a doctoral degree in medicine in 1969. He moved with his young family to the USA where he specialized in Neurology at the University of Wisconsin and in epilepsy and other brain disorders at the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis where he is currently Associate Professor of Neurology. He performs clinical work, teaching and research on the genetic basis of neurological conditions and behavior. He has published in scientific journals and has been visiting professor at several medical centers around the world. He lives in Minneapolis, Minnesota with his wife, children and grandchildren.

This is his first novel and it incorporates his theories on the inheritance of homosexuality, hoping to contribute to the discussion of gay/lesbian issues by highlighting its genetic aspects.