Eater - Gregory Benford

A scientist facing personal tragedy discovers a sentient black hole targeting humanity in this "tense and thrilling" hard sci-fi thriller (Kirkus).

Dr. Benjamin Knowlton's private world is crumbling around him. On the threshold of their greatest achievement, the renowned astrophysicist learns that his beloved wife and partner, Channing-an ex-astronaut-turned astronomer-is dying of cancer.

Meanwhile, something looms alarmingly on the far edge of the solar system: at once a scientific find of unparalleled importance that could ensure the Knowltons' immortality, and a potential earth-shattering cataclysm that dwarfs their private one. For Benjamin and Channing have discovered "Eater," an eons-old black hole anomaly that devours stars and worlds. Yet its most awesome and devasting secrets are still to be revealed . . . and feared.