Author
Leigh Brackett
1915-1978
Leigh Brackett (1915-1978) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Leigh Brackett
Lorelei of the Red Mist
"Lorelei of the Red Mist" by Leigh Brackett and Ray Bradbury is a science fiction novel likely written in the mid-20th century. The story follows Hugh Starke, a man who, after dying in a violent escape attempt on the planet Venus, awakens in a new body that he quickly discovers is both powerful and cursed by the influence of Rann, a devil-goddess who rules the planet Falga. The narrative blends elements of adventure and mysticism as Starke grapples with his new identity and the treacherous forces at play. The opening of the book introduces us to Hugh Starke's desperate flight and subsequent death, which leads to his awakening in an unfamiliar setting—a world of striking beauty and peril. Initially disoriented, Starke learns that his previous identity is fading and that he is now entangled in a larger conflict involving the inhabitants of this alien realm, particularly Rann who seeks to manipulate him for her own ends. Moreover, the dynamics between Starke, the blind warrior Faolan, and the fierce leader Beudag create intriguing tension as the plot suggests a deep history of betrayal and war. As Starke confronts his new identity and the looming threats, the stage is set for a tale filled with complexity, emotion, and interplanetary intrigue.
Enchantress of Venus
"Enchantress of Venus" by Leigh Brackett is a science fiction short story published in 1949. Eric John Stark ventures into the mysterious depths of Inner Venus, seeking his missing friend Helvi in the enigmatic town of Shuruun. After plunging into the legendary Red Sea, Stark discovers a world ruled by god-like beings called the Lhari, who command legions of slaves beneath shrouding veils of mist. Betrayed, enslaved, and fighting for survival, Stark must ignite a rebellion to escape this hidden city of secrets.
Out of the sea
"Out of the Sea" by Leigh Brackett is a science fiction novel written in the early 1940s. This gripping tale revolves around strange sea creatures that rise from the ocean, wreaking havoc on the coast of California amidst wartime tension. The story follows Webb Fallon, a down-on-his-luck reporter, who finds himself at the center of chaos as he grapples with both the monstrous invasion and a developing bond with a woman he saves. The narrative begins with Webb Fallon in a post-quake Los Angeles where he faces personal crises, only to be thrust into a battle for survival when monstrous sea creatures begin emerging from the ocean, initially attacked people on the beach. As he meets Joan Daniels, they seek refuge together amid the chaos, ultimately embarking on a mission to discover the cause of this bizarre phenomenon. As the story unfolds, they learn that these creatures are part of a greater plot by Japan to unleash a new kind of warfare via biological manipulation. With an underlying message about human resilience, the novel explores themes of evolution, morality, and sacrifice through its compelling characters and thrilling situations.
Outpost on Io
"Outpost on Io" by Leigh Brackett is a science fiction novella written during the early 1940s. The story presents a harrowing tale of survival and resistance against an alien oppressor on one of Jupiter's moons, Io. The narrative centers on the plight of prisoners, including the protagonist Chris MacVickers, who find themselves trapped in a grim labor camp controlled by the inhuman Europans, striving to escape an inevitable fate. The plot unfolds as MacVickers, a deep-space trader, arrives at a desolate outpost where he and other captives are forced to work extracting a powerful substance known as Jovium from the dangerous, muddy terrain of Io. As the men face their bleak circumstances, MacVickers bears witness to the psychological and physical toll the oppressive environment takes on his fellow prisoners. Driven by a desire to reclaim their freedom, MacVickers rallies the desperate group to take a stand against their captors. The story culminates in a daring plan that could potentially turn the tide in the war against the Europans, raising themes of sacrifice, solidarity, and the human spirit's resilience in the face of overwhelming odds.
Black Amazon of Mars
"Black Amazon of Mars" by Leigh Brackett is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The story follows Eric John Stark, a rugged Earthman, as he traverses the harsh, icy landscapes of Mars, seeking to fulfill a promise to his dying Martian friend, Camar. Stark finds himself entangled in a conflict revolving around a powerful talisman linked to ancient Martian legends, leading him to confront dark forces beyond the Gates of Death. The opening of the novel introduces Stark as he and Camar wait in a ruined tower in Mars' Norlands. Stark learns of Camar's past as a thief who stole a sacred talisman, which he entrusts to Stark with the hope of returning it to the city of Kushat before he dies. As Stark’s journey unfolds, he is warned about the dangers of the North and the impending threat from the savage riders of Mekh. Tension mounts as Stark grapples with visions evoked by the talisman, which reveals a sinister history and portends the dangers that lie ahead, not only for himself but for the city he is bound to protect.
The Jewel of Bas
"The Jewel of Bas" by Leigh Brackett is a weird novel written in the mid-20th century. The narrative explores themes of power, identity, and survival against a backdrop of a richly imagined world filled with fantastical elements, focusing on characters Ciaran and Mouse as they face the threat posed by the androids created by the boy-god Bas, who is asleep with a mysterious power. As the story unfolds, they find themselves fighting against malevolent forces and dark legends that threaten their existence. At the start of the story, Ciaran and Mouse, two wandering mortals, set up camp in a desolate land bordering the infamous Forbidden Plains. Their banter reveals their complex relationship and hints at deeper fears of the rumored darkness and evil surrounding them—specifically the dreadful Kalds that bear servitude to Bas, the so-called immortal presence rumored to guard the Stone of Destiny. An ominous shadow manifests as inherent dangers appear, drawing them deeper into the unfolding legends that may alter their fates and the fate of their world, setting the stage for an epic conflict against the forces of subjugation stemming from Bas's immortal legacy.
Shannach—The Last
"Shannach—The Last" by Leigh Brackett is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. It explores themes of survival, alienation, and the struggle for freedom within a vividly imagined universe. The story follows Trevor, a prospecting miner stranded on the inhospitable planet Mercury, who confronts both external dangers and moral dilemmas as he encounters strange creatures and a brutal society ruled by the Korins. At the start of the novel, we meet Trevor as he fights for survival after being trapped underground on Mercury. Struggling against heat, darkness, and despair, he eventually discovers an alien valley filled with vibrant life and an uneasy civilization. Here, he witnesses horrific hunts led by the vicious hawk-like creatures and must navigate a complex relationship with the enslaved inhabitants and their fearsome masters. The opening chapter sets the stage for Trevor's perilous journey through an alien landscape fraught with danger, inviting readers to delve into a narrative that blends adventure with profound questions about autonomy and identity.
Citadel of Lost Ships
"Citadel of Lost Ships" by Leigh Brackett is a science fiction novel written in the early 1940s. Set against a backdrop of a decaying society in the Solar System, the story follows the character Roy Campbell, an outcast and fugitive, as he becomes entangled in the plight of the Kraylens, a dying tribe on Venus. The book examines themes of freedom, exploitation, and the struggle of small cultures against the overwhelming forces of progress and modernization. The narrative follows Campbell as he seeks refuge among the Kraylens while the Coalition threatens them with forced relocation. After a vivid encounter with the tribe and their ritualistic culture, Campbell learns of their impending doom due to the Coalition's expansionist ambitions. Determined to save them, he embarks on a hazardous journey to seek assistance from Romany, a sanctuary for lost races. However, upon arriving, he discovers internal conflict within Romany, particularly regarding its leader Tredrick, who is in league with the Coalition. As Campbell organizes a plan to rescue the Kraylens, he ultimately sacrifices his freedom in exchange for their chance at survival, embodying the fierce struggle between individual desire and collective well-being.
Queen of the Martian Catacombs
"Queen of the Martian Catacombs" by Leigh Brackett is a science fiction novel written in the late 1940s. The story follows Eric John Stark, a rugged Earthman with ties to Mars, navigating a treacherous landscape filled with danger and intrigue as he seeks a path through Martian society and to a city known as Valkis. The narrative touches on themes of survival, power struggles, and Stark's complex relationship with a mystical and haunting woman named Berild. At the start of the tale, Stark finds himself pursued in the Martian desert, where he is forced to confront a group of officers from Earth Police Control who have come to bring him back into custody for past transgressions. The opening chapters introduce Stark’s fierce determination to remain free and his grim acceptance of the harsh realities of his life, which is shaped by both his Earth lineage and his upbringing among Martians. As he encounters old friends and former mentors like Simon Ashton, Stark unwittingly gets drawn into a brewing conflict between various factions in Mars, including the ambitions of the cunning Kynon and the seductive, enigmatic Berild. The stark environment, echoing with ancient Martian legends, sets the stage for Stark's tumultuous journey ahead.
The road to Sinharat
"The Road to Sinharat" by Leigh Brackett is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s, reflecting the era's rich imaginative exploration of other worlds and complex narratives. The story is set on Mars and revolves around themes of colonialism, identity, and the battle for autonomy, as Carey, an Earthman, engages with the native Martians who resist rehabilitation efforts imposed by Earth. The underlying topic touches on the desire for self-determination in the face of external intervention and the historical connection between cultures. The narrative follows Dr. Matthew Carey, who seeks to uncover the lost secrets of Mars while evading capture from the authorities working on the Rehabilitation Project. His journey is fraught with peril as he navigates through treacherous landscapes and encounters various characters, including Derech, a Martian trader, and Arrin, a woman who becomes part of his quest. As Carey ventures towards Sinharat, the forbidden city of the Ramas, he grapples with the consequences of past actions that have led to the current conflict between Earth and Mars. Ultimately, the story culminates in a confrontation with the repercussions of immortality and the desires of a native populace striving to retain their way of life amidst chaos.
The Blue Behemoth
"The Blue Behemoth" by Leigh Brackett is a science fiction novella written in the early 1940s. The story is set in a future where an imperial circus travels through space, encountering both bizarre creatures and dangerous situations. The plot revolves around the antics and troubles of the circus as they navigate a mysterious journey on Venus, while exploring themes of survival, fear, and the deep-rooted connections between humans and the unknown. In "The Blue Behemoth," the protagonists, Bucky Shannon and his assistant Jig Bentley, are struggling to keep their failing circus afloat. When they encounter a well-dressed stranger named Simon Beamish, who offers to charter their circus for a lucrative tour, they suspect ulterior motives. As they venture to Venus, events spiral out of control, leading to the escape of dangerous beasts known as "cansins". The story builds tension when an evil force is revealed that threatens to control the "cansins" through a mysterious green entity, culminating in a frantic struggle between humans and the unleashed primordial horrors. The novella combines elements of suspense, adventure, and the uncanny, examining the powerful bond between Gertrude, the last male "cansin", and his kin as they confront their past and seek a connection in an unforgiving universe.
The Vanishing Venusians
"The Vanishing Venusians" by Leigh Brackett is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century, specifically during the post-World War II era. The book explores themes of survival, hope, and the search for a new home as the characters grapple with their identity and existence in a harsh alien environment. Set on the planet Venus, it delves into the struggles of colonists who are exiled from Earth while facing both external dangers and their internal conflicts. The story follows Matt Harker and Rory McLaren, two colonists who, along with their companion Sim, embark on a treacherous journey in search of a sustainable settlement on Venus. They face numerous threats, including hostile native species and the lingering despair of a doomed expedition. As they ascend the cliffs, they uncover a hidden world filled with strange, flower-like beings that are both alluring and dangerous. Harker ultimately makes a harrowing sacrifice to lure the creatures away from McLaren, ensuring the survival of their colony but at a tremendous personal cost. Themes of sacrifice, trust, and the nature of existence unfold in this gripping tale, highlighting the lengths one would go to for hope and for the sake of their loved ones.
The Dragon-Queen of Jupiter
"The Dragon-Queen of Jupiter" by Leigh Brackett is a science fiction novella written in the early 1940s. Set against the backdrop of Jupiter, the story follows a group of soldiers stationed at Fort Washington as they fend off attacks from the indigenous swamp-dwelling creatures, led by a formidable dragon-queen. The narrative blends adventure with elements of survival, showcasing the struggles and strategies of the characters as they face both external threats and internal despair. The novella primarily revolves around Tex, a corporal in the Volunteer Legion, and his fellow soldiers, including the Martian Breska, as they endure a prolonged siege by the swamp-dwellers. The soldiers grapple with dwindling supplies, mysterious attacks using green snakes and beetles, and the psychological toll of their isolation. As the conflict escalates, Tex encounters the dragon-queen herself, a beautiful yet deadly figure, whose tactics place them at the brink of annihilation. Ultimately, they must confront the harsh realities of their environment, a unique phenomenon where their very survival hinges on understanding the dry spots that combat rust and provide elusive hydration. The story culminates in a tense struggle for life and a glimpse of hope for the colonization of Jupiter.
The starmen
"The Starmen" by Leigh Brackett is a science fiction novel first serialized in 1951 and published in book form in 1952. This space opera centers on a unique race—the only humans capable of surviving the extreme demands of traveling between the stars. As interstellar tensions mount, their rare abilities make them both invaluable and vulnerable in a galaxy where such powers determine who controls the future of space travel itself.
Thralls of the Endless Night
"Thralls of the Endless Night" by Leigh Brackett is a science fiction novella written in the early 1940s. The story explores themes of survival, betrayal, and the struggle for power in a post-apocalyptic setting. It features a conflict between two groups, the Hans and the Piruts, who vie for limited resources and grapple with the enigmatic Ship that harbors secrets essential for their survival. The narrative follows Wes Kirk, a young member of the Hans, who discovers a hidden path into the Ship while grappling with his feelings of anger and confusion after the death of his father. Tensions escalate as Wes forms an alliance with the Piruts to confront the oppressive Officers who hoard vital resources. Wes becomes embroiled in a power struggle, discovering that the Ship harbors not precious heat-stones but a much greater secret. As the storyline unfolds, elements of loyalty, love, and revenge are intertwined, culminating in a revelation about the Ship's true purpose, which forces both groups to reconsider their conflict as they confront a greater threat to their existence. Ultimately, Wes's journey highlights themes of unity and the human condition in dire circumstances.
Terror Out of Space
"Terror Out of Space" by Leigh Brackett is a science fiction novella published during the early 1940s. The story unfolds in a chilling landscape beneath the black seas of Venus, where a terrifying, unknowable force evokes madness and despair in those who encounter it. The narrative primarily explores themes of alien influences, the human psyche, and the haunting allure of unattainable ideals. The plot follows Lundy, a pilot for the Tri-World Police, who finds himself embroiled in a desperate struggle against an alien entity that ensnares the minds of men, driving them to obsession. After a disastrous encounter, Lundy must confront his fears as he navigates the mysterious undersea environment, contending with otherworldly dangers and the seductive presence of a being known only as "It". This entity possesses the ability to hypnotically captivate those who glimpse her veiled beauty, resulting in madness for those driven to pursue her. Lundy's journey reveals the thin line between admiration and destruction, culminating in a profound revelation about the price of desire when he finally confronts the truth behind the alluring enigma.
The Beast-Jewel of Mars
"The Beast-Jewel of Mars" by Leigh Brackett is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The book is set on Mars and explores complex themes of identity, civilization, and the primal instincts buried within humanity. The narrative primarily follows Burk Winters, a troubled Earthman who seeks to escape his pain through a psychedelic substance known as Shanga, which leads him on a journey into the darker aspects of Martian society. The story unfolds as Burk Winters, haunted by the disappearance of his fiancée, Jill Leland, travels to Mars, where he becomes entangled with the seductive and addictive world of Shanga. This place, designed as an escape for weary Terrans, devolves into a chaotic playground of primal instincts that strips away the veneer of civilization. As Winters undergoes a transformation back to a more primitive state, he grapples with his identity and desires. When he finds Jill, transformed by the same drug, Burk faces the challenge of saving her from the perils of Shanga while confronting the Martian society that revels in their degeneration. The climax stresses the struggle between the remnants of civilization and the allure of primal forces, leaving readers to ponder the nature of humanity and the cost of one's desires.
Child of the Sun
"Child of the Sun" by Leigh Brackett is a science fiction novel written in the early 1940s. It explores themes of freedom, oppression, and existence within a cosmic setting, as it follows the struggle of humans in a dystopian world governed by a tyrant named Gantry Hilton, who wields near-godlike control over minds through his Psycho-Adjuster. The narrative centers on the character Eric Falken and his desperate attempts to escape capture and save both himself and an Unregenerate woman named Sheila Moore from the clutches of Hiltonism. In the book, Eric Falken is pursued by the Hiltonist forces and must navigate the treacherous depths of space aboard his ship, the "Falcon". Along the way, he grapples with his past, loss, and the looming threat of being "Hiltonized." As he and Sheila seek refuge on a mysterious planet named Vulcan, they encounter a powerful entity known as the Sun-child, a being of immense energy and intelligence who has created its own fantastical world, yet remains trapped in it. The narrative evolves into a battle of wills as Falken and Sheila confront both their oppressor and the Sun-child, ultimately forming a tentative alliance to create a new haven for the Unregenerates. The climax revolves around a poignant moment where Falken challenges the Sun-child’s identity and purpose, leading to a transformation that offers hope for humanity's future in a newly formed world.
The Stellar Legion
"The Stellar Legion" by Leigh Brackett is a science fiction novel originally published in the early 1940s. Set on the swamplands of Venus, the book explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and redemption within a military context as it follows the grim experiences of the members of the interplanetary Stellar Legion. The narrative focuses on the treachery and struggles among a diverse group of individuals who are conscripted or volunteer to serve in the Legion, reflecting on the harsh realities of life in a hostile environment. The story centers on Ian MacIan, a disillusioned Earthman with a troubled past, who joins the Stellar Legion, where he faces dangerous swamp creatures known as the Nahali. Tasked with reconnaissance in Nahali territory, he is alongside Thekla, a cynical Martian, and Bhak, a Titan whose social struggles add a layer of complexity. Tensions rise as accounts of betrayal surface, particularly when a traitor is suspected within their ranks. As the narrative unfolds, MacIan grapples with his past failures while trying to save himself and his companions from impending doom, ultimately revealing his inner strength as he devises a plan to combat the Nahali and confront the burdens of his past. The climax leads to intense confrontations and a chance for redemption, echoing the themes of honor and survival in an unforgiving world.
Last Call From Sector 9G
"Last Call From Sector 9G" by Leigh Brackett is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around a man named Lloyd Durham, who finds himself embroiled in political intrigue and personal struggles in a complex universe inhabited by humanoids and non-humanoids alike, primarily set within the Galactic Center known as The Hub. As he navigates his troubled past and the expectations of others, Durham is tasked with a dangerous mission connected to the mysterious Bitter Star. The opening of the book introduces Lloyd Durham as he is reluctantly drawn back into the bigger world following a bout of heavy drinking. After two Embassy members, Paulsen and Burke, arrive at his apartment, he learns that he has been summoned by Hawtree, an influential figure from the Terran Embassy. Though reluctant, Durham agrees to take on a covert mission that involves traveling to the isolated planet of Nanta Dik, where he must gather crucial information while dealing with his own demons and the potential for danger. As the plot unfolds, we see glimpses of his past relationships and growing threats as he is pursued by unknown enemies, all while setting the stage for the larger conflict that unfolds throughout the narrative.
A World is Born
"A World is Born" by Leigh Brackett is a science fiction novel written in the early 1940s. Set on the harsh and infernal planet of Mercury, the story revolves around a group of veteran convicts from the Second Interplanetary War who are tasked with establishing a new society in a brutal environment. The narrative explores themes such as redemption, the human desire for freedom, and the moral complexities of survival in a hostile world. The plot centers on Mel Gray, a cynical and hardened veteran, who finds himself trapped in the Moulton Project, an ambitious endeavor to build a self-sustaining community on Mercury. As the story unfolds, Gray contemplates escape while navigating the dynamics between the project’s supporters, including the idealistic Jill Moulton, and the treacherous influence of outside forces wishing to see the mission fail. Conflict arises from Gray's internal struggles and external threats, leading to dramatic confrontations with the enigmatic Caron of Mars. Ultimately, the novel escalates into a race against time and destiny, revealing Gray's journey toward self-discovery and the principle of sacrifice for a greater good.