Set in 2060, The Bonds of Earth approaches science fiction's much loved first-contact theme from a fresh new angle, weaving approachable characters and popular science into a rich tapestry of adventure: - A dangerous new schedule and a broken promise. For Karen Conner - Chief Astronaut on NASA's Explorer project - life is already complicated, but when her resolve to untangle it meets violent resistance the future of her career rests on a knife edge. One man can help, but younger ex-lover Jack Summers took their break up hard. Will he risk his life for her now? During a globe spanning pursuit, Karen must confront the realisation that her precious scientific mission has been hijacked for profit. Or has it? The brilliant scientist whose discoveries made the Explorer possible has evidence for an even more disturbing possibility. In space, Karen's quest for answers pits her against betrayal, sabotage and the ultimate sacrifice...