When a reporter discovers an astronaut presumed dead in a space shuttle accident, he uncovers a conspiracy that threatens the survival of humanity. Laurent Michaelmas, a journalist with an unparalleled information network, utilizes his advanced computer, Domino, to monitor global communications and manipulate events. When his digital reach fails to penetrate the mystery surrounding the astronaut's reappearance, he finds himself forced into a high-stakes investigation. The narrative follows his efforts to navigate a world of hidden agendas and technological secrets, where the boundary between information and reality becomes increasingly blurred.

This work is often cited as a significant precursor to the cyberpunk genre, highlighting the intersection of human agency and pervasive computing. The narrative structure emphasizes the cold, analytical nature of information gathering, which contrasts with the high-stakes personal danger faced by the protagonist. Readers often note the prescience of the author in predicting the societal impact of global, interconnected data networks. The story maintains a clinical, detached tone that reflects the protagonist's reliance on his machine companion, creating a distinct atmosphere of intellectual suspense.