The book describes what happens when an apocalyptic plague sweeps the world killing 50% of the population of the world. It focuses on Britian for the story and is told through the eyes of a divorcing couple, a virologist and her playboy husband who is a newspaper reporter who wants to document the event on film. The story deals with issues and consequences of governments providing 100% protection for select few while the bulk of the population fends for itself. It also deals with the problems of trying to stay neutral in a struggle between opposing sides when you disagree and see atrocity on both sides.

It is a quick and in most ways a satisfying read of a book with a strong thread of reality. There is no fantasy, no overt religious overtones...quite realistic and a book that causes you to think. ( )