The novel combines science fiction and suspense, following three people who are injected with nanotechnology by an amoral doctor and subsequently develop superhuman abilities.

During a stay at an Arizona motel, Dylan is knocked out and tied up by a doctor, who administers 18 cc's of a golden liquid substance from a syringe with a large-bore hypodermic needle.

The O'Connors meet Jillian after escaping their bonds, only to witness the doctor's death in an explosion, while being chased by ominous men driving in large black Chevrolet Suburbans.

The trio reach out to overnight radio host Parish Lantern (inspired by real-life Art Bell), who had interviewed Proctor several times.

The ominous men in SUVs are revealed to be mercenaries hired by the wealthy business executives who funded Proctor's research but later decided to eliminate him, fearing costly lawsuits from the nanotech injections.

Shep, Dylan and Jill agree to stay with Lantern at his Lake Tahoe estate, where they can avoid public attention while they plan to use their newfound abilities to help people in need.