&b>Peter F. Hamilton has produced something extraordinary with this amazing trilogy opener. In the future, human lifespans have been extended indefinitely and Earth is a comparative paradise. But its about to go so wrong and Peter shows us how, as the adventure switches between near future calamity and far-future war. &/b>

KNOW YOUR ENEMY - OR BE DEFEATED

AD 2204 An alien shipwreck is discovered at the limits of human expansion, so Security Director Feriton Kayne selects a team to investigate. The ship's sinister cargo not only raises bewildering questions, but could also foreshadow humanity's extinction. Yet back on Earth, we can make deserts bloom and extend lifespans indefinitely, so humanity seems invulnerable. We therefore welcomed the alien Olyix when they contacted us. They needed fuel for their pilgrimage across the galaxy, offering technology in exchange. But were they a blessing or a curse?

THE FAR FUTURE Many lightyears from Earth, Dellian and his clan of genetically engineered soldiers are raised with one goal: they must destroy their ancient adversary, who caused mankind to flee across the galaxy. Otherwise, we'll be wiped out - and we're running out of time.

'Highly enjoyable' Stephen Baxter 'An intoxicating combination . . . Science fiction is in excellent hands' Justina Robson

'Loud, proud and beyond epic' Ian McDonald

Insert jpegs of THE ABYSS BEYOND DREAMS and THE REALITY DYSFUNCTION onto back cover, with keylines

Hugely impressive. We've said it before but let's say it again: nobody does BIG SF quite like Hamilton