This story is set 300 years further into the future than Hard Wired for Love, but the two stories are set in the same futuristic universe and share a common theme and timeline.

In both stories, the sentient AI systems that manage the societal complexities of human civilisation continue their work for the good of all. It might not always seem like that’s what they are doing, but they see a far bigger picture than any human individual.

There are indirect links between some of the main characters in the earlier work that, in some sense, have relevance in this one.

The technologies at play here, in particular the use of Nexima Implants for all adults in the older society and this one, are very similar, even if there have been advances during the intermediate time period.

I’m not going to explain the Nexima Implants, or their history in any detail in this story, so if you need to know more, I’d suggest you read the first novel. Suffice it to say that they are still an integral part of the society on all the worlds that humanity now occupies.

And, yes, I’m going to take liberties with the laws of physics sometimes here. The fact that Beta Canum Venaticorum, Chara, almost certainly doesn’t have a gas giant companion in an approximately 1 AU orbit isn’t going to stop a good story. I will try my best to get the orbital mechanics and the physics of the system in order though. I might have a physics A-level buried somewhere in my past, but I’m not a scientist!

Like with any Sci-Fi story, just try to suspend any disbelief and enjoy the tale being told. Like with all my other novels, if you don’t like the explicit gay sex scenes, then skip them.

Sorry if I’m still controlling the drama, but most readers do really love a happy ending and, even if they didn’t, I really do.

David