Wild Cards XII: Turn of the Cards

Wild Cards XII: Turn of the Cards delves into the perilous and unpredictable world of altered humans, where the outcome of every action holds immense consequence. Crafted by the talented Victor Milán and guided by the editing expertise of George R. R. Martin, this standalone instalment in the Wild Cards universe takes readers on an exhilarating journey across continents, driven by intrigue and peril.

At the heart of the story lies Mark Meadows, a renegade biochemist grappling with the burdens of his incredible powers and the fractured personas residing within him. Mark is a man on the run, relentlessly pursued by the CIA and the DEA. Among them is Mistral, a Wild Card with dominion over the very winds, adding to the urgency and intensity of his flight. As Mark navigates a shadowy trail through the diverse landscapes of Europe and Asia, his path collides with a disillusioned Vietnam veteran who harbours an ambitious, if not dangerous, dream of creating a joker army to change the world.

In this volatile landscape, Mark finds himself ensnared in a complex web of adversarial forces that test the limits of his morality. On one side stand the jokers, individuals afflicted with the alien Wild Card virus that grants extraordinary, yet often grotesque powers, who harbour deep-seated resentment towards those who may pose a threat to their existence. On the other, fervent nationalists lurk, determined to eradicate him at all costs.

As the title suggests, Turn of the Cards challenges Mark to make a pivotal choice: yield to the chaotic call for revolution or uphold his own principles of peace, even at the cost of his life. This high-stakes journey explores themes of identity, power, and the struggle between idealism and the harsh realities of a world divided by fear and prejudice.

For readers seeking a story rich with action, ethical dilemmas, and the fantastical elements of a richly developed universe, Wild Cards XII: Turn of the Cards is a captivating exploration of how one man's internal and external conflicts could reshape his destiny—and possibly the world itself.