The wild cards herein are people from an alternate Earth who have been infected with the wild card virus. It strikes at random, leaving the victim with unusual powers. The type and strength of the powers varies with each victim. The most powerful are aces; the weakest are jokers.

There are several agencies that employ these aces. The Committee works through the UN to provide stability and security in a tormented world. The Silver Helix is a branch of the British government. They specialize in spying and assassinations, with an occasional kidnapping thrown in for good measure SCARE is a branch of the United States government. They have a laboratory in New Mexico, where they have tried to breed aces. Using one female ace, they bred many children, hoping one might live long enough to be trained. So far, none of Niobe’s children had survived more than a few months. Now, they have a young boy who can create nuclear explosions. Can Niobe free him?

Busted Flush is an absorbing tale of power hungry, greedy people who oppress those who stand in their way. The magic is powerful and varied. What can they do if they combine their gifts? No one knows, for the arrogance and pride born of power keeps them from working together. There is realism in that the story doesn’t end happily. So, if you don’t mind the sex and profanity, and I do mind, read Busted Flush and the other Wild Card stories. You’re in for a treat.