During an artillery barrage at the Civil War battle of Antietam in 1862, a young colonel lost his leg. More than 150 years later, he lost the same leg in a traffic accident on the Washington, D.C. Beltway Diane Kowalski, a research scientist, examines tissue from the anonymous victim's severed leg. She discovers a genetic mutation that could make regeneration possible - and increase longevity. Diane and Jack O'Sullivan, a private investigator, follow clues that lead them to Thomas Winthrop, founder of a leading genetics research laboratory. They learn that Winthrop has developed a gene therapy to extend his natural "gifts" to humanity. However, Winthrop's "family" opposes his plan, arguing that it would lead to overpopulation, economic chaos, famine and war. Lightning's Child is a novel about the latest advances in biotechnology that one day may allow the human species to control its evolutionary destiny. It's also a lighthearted and entertaining story about its colorful characters, as they struggle to achieve purpose, fulfillment and love in their lives.