Small Miracles

Garner Nanotechnology is developing nanotech-enhanced protective suits and autonomous first-aid nanobots. It's cutting-edge stuff, and when it saves Brent Cleary from a pipeline explosion that killed hundreds, the Army takes notice. Near-death experience changes a person, so no one is entirely surprised when easy-going Brent turns somber and studious, focused and cold. Not at first. But Kim O'Donnell, Brent's best friend, cannot get past some of the changes. This justisn'ther friend, and she wonders what's gotten into him. With an Army field trial imminent and the company's future at stake, possible nanotech side effects aren't something anyone wants to discuss. The bad news is, Kim's right. Somethinghasgotten into Brent and he isn't the only one changing. If Kim can't stop them ... maybe we'll all change.

EDWARD M. LERNER has degrees in physics and computer science. As an engineer, Lerner has led development projects for NASA and various contract work from telecommunications to national defense. His books include Probe, Moonstruck, and the collection Creative Destruction, as well as a collaborative series of Ringworld prequels (Fleet of Worlds and Juggler of Worlds) with Larry Niven. He lives in Virginia with his wife, Ruth.