Using remotely controlled, nearly invincible robots called "soldierboys", the Alliance military fights third-world guerrillas in an endless series of economy-driven wars.

As only first-world nations possess the nanoforge technology that can produce anything from basic materials, conflict is largely asymmetric.

After attempting suicide, Julian and his lover, Amelia "Blaze" Harding, are made aware of a problem with an automated particle physics project that could trigger a new Big Bang that would destroy the universe.

When Julian, Blaze, and another physicist submit their paper to a journal's review board, they find themselves the target of "The Hammer of God", a Christian cult bent on hastening an anticipated end of the universe.

As the Hammer of God has a secret presence throughout the government, Julian and Blaze narrowly miss being assassinated.