In a near future, the genetics of intellect are finally within reach. Research suggests how to harness brain evolution, launching a hunt for a missing link―one that would allow to design humans with skills that prodigies of old could only dream of.

The reader is thrown into the thick of unfolding events as a baby is torn from its mother and forced into hiding, to grow up unaware of the pivotal role he will play in the global pursuit for the unique traits he possesses.

As germline engineering and biological enhancement become routine, ancient doubts emerge under new guises: Who are we? Is there a purpose to life? Why is there so much suffering? When faith and science fail to answer these questions, personal greed and national interest quickly fill the void.

 

But gene selection is expensive, and many are excluded from its benefits. The stage is set for tribalism and social discontent on a scale without precedent, and those caught in the fray, whether by choice or by chance, must play roles not always to their liking in the struggle of all creatures against the arbitrariness of existence.