The streets of New York have erupted in celebration of Wild Card Day - the annual event held every September 15th to remember the dead and cherish the living. It is a day for fireworks, street fairs and parades, for political rallies and memorial banquets, for drinking and fighting in the alleys. With each passing year, the festivities become larger and more fevered. And this year - 1986, the 40th anniversary - promises to be the biggest and best Wild Card Day ever. The media and tourists have discovered the celebration, and taverns and restaurants expect record-setting. But lurking in the background is a twisted genius who cares nothing for the fun and festivity. The Astronomer has only one concern: destruction...

Featuring plotlines and writing from George R. R. Martin, John J. Miller, Lewis Shiner, Melinda Snodgrass and more, this novel wraps up the opening Wild Cards series, while also setting the stage for future adventures.