by Karen Lord
First published 2023
Owen commands millions of fans with what everyone assumes is pure charisma. But his ability to connect with audiences runs deeper than anyone knows. Earth faces rising seas and climbing temperatures while alien civilizations watch from space, preparing for first contact. A group of visionaries works to ready humanity for this encounter. Peter Hendrix develops cutting-edge VR technology. Celebrity Charyssa channels her fame into humanitarian efforts. Young council member Kanoa helps reimagine how humans might relate to alien societies. Owen's hidden talent could unite Earth as it prepares to join a larger universe. His gift proves so powerful that no one can control him, yet so tempting he cannot resist using it. Owen faces a choice between the freedom he has always wanted and becoming the tyrant he fears. The fate of humanity's first contact may rest on whether a pop star can master abilities that transcend human limits.
Genres: science-fiction, fantasy, contemporary, thriller
Vibes: intimate, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: chosen-one, enemies-to-lovers, found-family
Setting: Earth
Period: near-future
235 pages · Paperback · Gollancz