by Wil McCarthy
First published 2002
Bruno de Towaji invented collapsium, a substance made of miniature black holes that grants humans immortality and allows instant travel across the solar system. His former colleague Marlon Sykes has constructed a massive telecommunications ring of collapsium around the sun, threatening to overshadow Bruno's achievements. The two scientists harbor deep animosity, competing not only in their research but for the same woman's affections. When a saboteur attacks Sykes' solar ring, the structure begins falling toward the sun. The collapse threatens to destroy the entire solar system and everyone in it. Bruno and Marlon must overcome their personal hatred and work together to prevent catastrophe. As they race against time, both men confront the consequences of wielding godlike power through their technology. The fate of humanity rests on whether these brilliant minds can set aside their rivalry long enough to save the world they helped create.
Genres: science-fiction, romance, adventure, thriller
Vibes: fast-paced, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, race-against-time
Setting: Solar System
Period: Future
428 pages · Paperback · Bantam