It's 2026, and catastrophe has struck from an unexpected source. The Alpha Centauri supernova has risen like a second sun, rushing Earth toward its last summer. Floods, fires, starvation, and disease paralyze the planet. In a blue aurora flash of gamma rays, all microchips worldwide are destroyed, leaving an already devastated Earth without communications, transportation, weaponry, or medicine.
The disaster sets three groups of survivors on separate quests. A militant cult seizes the opportunity to free their leader, known as the Eye of God, from the long-term coma to which a court sentenced her. Three cancer patients also search for a man in judicial sleep: the brilliant scientist--and monstrous criminal--who alone can continue the experimental treatment that keeps them alive. From a far greater distance come the survivors of the first manned Mars expedition, struggling homeward to a world that has changed far beyond their darkest fears. And standing at the crossroads is one man, US President Saul Steinmetz, who faces a crucial decision that will affect the fate of his own people--and the world.
About the Author :
Charles Sheffield (1935-2002) was an English-born mathematician, physicist, and author of both nonfiction and science fiction. His novels won the John W. Campbell Memorial Award, the Nebula Award, and the Hugo Award.
Gary Dikeos is a voice actor and audiobook narrator living in Los Angeles. In addition to narrating audiobooks, he voices television commercials, documentaries, and animation projects.
Review :
"A fascinating and complex tale of human determination and survival...Sheffield provides a variety of unique voices that add a distinctive perspective to his story. Most libraries should add this well-written SF thriller to their collections."
-- "Library Journal "
"Charles Sheffield has taken a classic hard-SF concept, applied it to the real world, and created a gripping story of survival."
-- "Amazon.com, editorial review "
"Charles Sheffield is one of the very best hard science fiction writers in the world."
-- "Kim Stanley Robinson, award-winning author of the Mars Trilogy "
"Hard-science SF meets the disaster novel, and since the matchmaker is the accomplished Sheffield, the science is not hard going, and the novel is anything but disastrous...The characterization and writing are superior."
-- "Booklist "
"Professionally handled and ingeniously extrapolated and with engrossing plot elements, this entry is complete in itself but clearly anticipates sequels."
-- "Kirkus Reviews "
"Sheffield clothes the most advanced speculations of modern science in alluring forms of beauty and danger."
-- "Washington Post Book World "
"Sheffield...has taken an often-used scenario and given it enough of a twist to keep the pages turning."
-- "Publishers Weekly "
