All over the world spheres of white light have descended from the sky, levitating into them anyone who strays too close. These people are never seen again. Many believe the Rapture is taking place; others are certain aliens are carrying out the mass abduction – or even the mass annihilation – of humankind.

Teenage stammerer Steven Lesser doesn't know what to believe. Caught between the incessant arguments of the faithful and the faithless, he spends his time watching every online video and TV news report about the Lights, looking for signs they're approaching his sleepy seaside village.

Steven and his father plan on driving to London when the Lights arrive, heading for the relative safety of the Underground. But when the time comes, Steven is faced with an unexpected choice. Should he stick to the plan? Or should he try to help the girl he's secretly in love with?