"Winter on Planet Storn is deadly for humans. They cannot withstand 370 days of dark and cold so must retreat to the freeze chambers in the sleep-ships on which they arrived. “Wintersleep” is mandatory for all. However, the Group, Ansel, Trinto, Doncer and others, dissidents who know a terrible truth dare not go into Wintersleep this season. If they do, they and the extraordinary children they are sworn to protect will not awaken come spring. In secret, they build a refuge where they hope to safely winter over with the youngsters whose lives will otherwise be forfeit to the great god of “Earthliness.” No one knows for certain if Refuge, however carefully designed and constructed, will prove adequate against the storms even native animals are forced to escape. Worse, a greater danger may await. How can they be sure everyone claiming membership in the Group is trustworthy?"