by John Wyndham
First published 1973
Diana Brackley discovers a rare lichen that dramatically slows human aging, creating an explosive ethical dilemma. When her research reveals the potential to extend human life spans by decades, she must decide whether to release the discovery publicly or protect it from potential misuse. Wealthy and powerful interests immediately seek to control the breakthrough, threatening Diana's safety and the lichen's potential. As scientific communities and government agencies converge, Diana realizes her discovery could fundamentally transform human society—or destroy it. The choice between progress and preservation becomes intensely personal.
Genres: fiction, science-fiction, 20th-century, thriller
Vibes: intimate, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: ethical-dilemma, power-struggle
Setting: England
Period: 20th-Century
208 pages · Paperback · Penguin Books Ltd