Humanity’s future has been disrupted and shaped by the mysterious alien Jackaroo. We spread to the planets they gave us, and we discovered the ruins of a dozen previous civilistions. All previous clients of the Jackaroo, all dead. So far we have escaped that fate – but we have also escaped from the Jackaroo’s planets and begun to explore the galaxy. The discovery of ancient spaceships, and the unlocking of their mysteries, has led to a new way of life. But humanity’s failings and conflicts are always with us.
A woman living a quiet secluded life, with only her dog and her demons for company. The dissolute heir to a powerful merchant family. The laminated brain of the woman who led us into the universe. A policeman, seemingly working for the Jackaroo. All of these people are on the edges of a vast plan, one which will span decades and light years. A piece of alien code has awakened, and the end of our species may be happening around us.
And we may finally discover if the aliens really are here to help us.
(p) 2016 Orion Publishing Group
A woman living a quiet secluded life, with only her dog and her demons for company. The dissolute heir to a powerful merchant family. The laminated brain of the woman who led us into the universe. A policeman, seemingly working for the Jackaroo. All of these people are on the edges of a vast plan, one which will span decades and light years. A piece of alien code has awakened, and the end of our species may be happening around us.
And we may finally discover if the aliens really are here to help us.
(p) 2016 Orion Publishing Group
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Reviews
'A book infused with energy and confidence'.
the latest novel from Paul McAuley finds him at the top of his game
As usual, McAuley imparts mind-bending SF concepts in prose that is always elegant and precise
