Trust

A world brought up on a diet of science-fiction stories about bloody invasions and wars with other planets is asked to open its arms to three hundred aliens who are stranded in their crippled mining ship. The eyes of the world are focussed on the small fishing village of Thatcham - the site of the first confirmed, undisputable contact with an alien species. The arrival of the visitors affects everyone. Barriers are broken down, perspectives are altered and the life of every single person on the planet is changed forever. Science-fiction becomes science-fact.

Stranded without their ship, the incredibly advanced aliens throw themselves at the mercy of mankind. The initial trepidation and uncertainty of the indigenous population quickly gives way to wonder and euphoria. The visitors are welcomed as heroes and friends. Trapped until a rescue mission arrives, the aliens soon become an accepted part of society. In exchange for shelter and protection they trade their knowledge and experience, allowing the world to make countless years worth of progress in the space of days and weeks.

But not everyone is convinced. A small minority doubts the motives of the aliens. The views of these people are met with anger and hostility from their families and friends. To these people the world suddenly feels unfamiliar and cold. If Tom Winter is right, 6 billion others are wrong.