Blood Music

Vergil Ulam's breakthrough in genetic engineering is considered too dangerous for further research. Rather than destroy his work, he injects himself with his creation and walks out of his lab, unaware of just quite how his actions will change the world. Bear's treatment of the traditional tale of scientific hubris is suspenseful and a compelling portrait of a new intelligence emerging amongst us and changing our world irrevocably.

"A dazzling flight of disciplined imagination! One of the most interesting stories to come along in years!" - Poul Anderson

"A work of thoroughgoing excellence. It's a delight to read science fiction by someone who knows what he's talking about. A damned good read!" - Gregory Benford

"One of the best of this generation's idea writers. He explores the very edge of tomorrow, and makes you feel what might happen the day after." - David Brin