Strands of Life — Michael Cole

When Eric Shade purchases a 16th-century letter written by a Spanish conquistador that provides information on how the legendary Star Walkers can be found, he sets out into the Amazon in search of them. Things become mighty complicated when Shade realizes that in addition to having to deal with mercenaries who are hell-bent on killing him, he must also contend with a tribe of cannibals. But it is only when he is confronted with the imposing challenges of an infamous mountain that Shade begins to doubt his own abilities. Deep within this mountain, Shade discovers the truth about the Star Walkers. Much to his horror, he realizes that it is up to him to make certain the world doesn't implode.