“Space adventure for the twenty-first century . . . made sophisticated with Asaro’s fascinating knowledge of cutting-edge science.” —Nancy Kress, Hugo and Nebula Award–winning author

Seventeen-year-old Tina Santis Pulivok has never seen anyone like Althor in 1987 East LA. With his metallic skin, inner eyelids, and stilted way of talking, Althor baffles her. It doesn’t help that he keeps talking about his spaceship. And although Tina has always experienced other people’s emotions at a level far beyond normal, she’s never felt the intensity she does with this strange visitor.

Althor finally convinces Tina that he comes from the future, the year 2328, and possibly another universe. He had been headed for a reception on Earth, in Washington D.C., when something went terribly wrong with his starship. Although he has managed to stay free, he loses his Jag starfighter to the American military of 1987. Althor’s internal web system connects directly to his Jag, which means his life depends on his recovering his ship. As he and Tina race to get his Jag and evade capture, Tina’s connection to Althor grows. A second chance is in her future— his future. But it becomes clear that someone in Althor’s universe sabotaged his ship, trying to kill him. And the assassins aren’t finished yet . . .

“From the L.A. barrios to the universe! Excellent.” — The San Diego Union-Tribune

“A truly masterful accomplishment in world-building, an example of consummate craftsmanship and an impeccable feel for the technical and social possibilities that lie ahead of us. Hard science fiction fans can rejoice—the next superstar is here.” — Romantic Times