The final week of 1999 draws to a close. Billions prepare for the inevitable letdown. Billions more hold their breath. Will the wild fantasies of New Age zealots be realized and the world we know end? Will the dawn of a new era be marked by profound occurrences? Or will it be just another New Year's Eve turning into one more New Year's Day? Suddenly and terrifyingly, everyone's question is answered. On Christmas Eve, fiery destruction rains down on a secret scientific installation in the Negev desert. Then, at midnight on New Year's Eve, a beautiful young woman appears, displaying a strange and awesome gift. 500,000 first printing.