Set in the impenetrable jungles of the African Congo, this fast-paced debut tells the tale of a world poised for ecological crisisand the secret that could save it. From corporate profiteers to the natives whove been expecting them, here is a story that asks if man and nature are fated to clashor if the right man can break the cycle. Heir to a mining dynasty, geologist Paul Reece has chosen a simple life over the scheming opportunism of the International Mining Company. But when IMC approaches him about their mysterious discovery miles beneath the rain forest, Paul is compelled to set aside the sordid event that drove him from his legacy. For the project requires not only a brilliant engineer but one gutsy enough to descend 20,000 feet of solid rockinto the heart of a miracle. With Pauls expertise, IMC can unearth a windfallunless Paul decides to bury them first. But Paul isnt alone in his quest. Congos mystics have prepared for this day. Paul doesnt realize it yet, but hes been chosen to pilot a mission that will decide the fate of humanity.From the Paperback edition.