Eater

<b>From the flaps of the Eos first edition:</b> "Dr. Benjamin Knowlton heads the High Energy Astrophysics Center, a prestigious research facility devoted to the interpretation of astronomical data. He stands at the apex of his profession, respected by his peers and involved in research with the potential to revolutionize our understanding of the universe. But Benjamin has no cause to celebrate. His beloved wife and colleague, Channing, an ex-astronaut turned astronomer, is dying of cancer. She has only a few months to live. <p>The entity - dubbed the Eater for its habit of devouring everything in its path - proves eager to share its vast knowledge, accumulated in the course of explorations that began long before life arose on Earth. In exchange, it seeks to learn about human art, culture, and science. The world is charmed by the seemingly beneficent alien. Even Channing is infused with fresh strength and purpose. <p>But gradually a terrifying truth about the singularity emerges - a truth almost too awful to comprehend. Now, as the world waits, Channing volunteers to undertake a desperate gamble: a one-to-one confrontation with the Eater."

Year	Award	Category	Status
2001	Locus Poll Award	Best SF Novel	Runner-up