THE VISITOR - hard, near-future science fiction for the reader who likes realism.Specialist astronaut Evelyn Slater encounters a small, badly damaged, ancient, alien artefact (British spelling) on the first ever space-junk elimination mission. Where was it from? Who sent it? International governments impose a security clampdown. Evelyn leads a team of hand-picked scientists who make amazing discoveries within the alien device. Secrecy becomes impossible to maintain. When the news is finally released, she becomes embroiled in international politics, worldwide xenophobic hatred and violence. This is book one of Tony Harmsworth's First Contact series of novels. If you like realistic near-future stories which compel you to imagine yourself as the protagonist, The Visitor is the book for you. The Visitor - science fiction written for the 'thinking' reader, and with a wicked twist. Buy it now and be transported into orbit. Amazon reviews: "At first I was put off by negative reviews but upon further analysis, I figured the story could also be like a Rorschach test- comments may be seen as a projection of one's mind. I am glad I did not rely on negative reviews as I would have missed a good experience." "This is unquestionably the finest first contact novel I have ever read. All of the activity that takes place in outer space is realistic, well-informed yet easygoing. It is a completely plausible milieu and this adds considerably to the gravitas and integrity of the plot and its theme." "If you want to get a feel for this book reading the reviews won't help. The vast majority of reviews fall strictly across political party lines. I felt the book itself had a unique concept on first contact and was well written. I however feel that the reviews will be tainted by ones right or left leaning views." "The action picked up and quickly developed into a most beautiful, yet cautionary, tale of intersecting cultures. Some readers have complained of the story's 'political correctness'; I would call it 'humane correctness'. What's not to love about a distaste for violence, fear, xenophobia, and their fruits?" "I recommend this book very highly."