Author
Charles L. Fontenay
1917-2007
Charles L. Fontenay (1917-2007) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by Charles L. Fontenay
Bargain Basement
"Bargain Basement" by Charles L. Fontenay is a science fiction novella written during the late 1950s. The story revolves around the peculiar happenings at a basement store that offers inexplicably low prices on futuristic items, hinting at the existence of a time anomaly. The narrative explores themes of time travel, love, and unintended consequences resulting from choices made through the shop's unique bargains. The storyline follows Jack Hanshaw and his roommate Ken Adaman as they visit a strange basement shop filled with bizarre merchandise sold at a fraction of its potential value. While trying to resolve an issue with a malfunctioning television set he purchased, Jack becomes embroiled in a series of events that reveal the shop's connection to the future. As Ken acquires an astonishingly cheap, futuristic car, Jack's jealousy leads him to use a drug from the future to win over the affections of Lorene, the woman they both desire. The culmination of their actions brings forth a paradox in which their choices alter the very fabric of reality—resulting in the dissolution of the store and its products, despite Jack retaining his marriage to Lorene. Consequently, the story reflects on how love, ambition, and the delicate nature of time can intertwine in surprising and profound ways.
A Case of Sunburn
"A Case of Sunburn" by Charles L. Fontenay is a science fiction short story published during the mid-20th century. The narrative revolves around a group of Martian rebels during a critical phase of their struggle against the oppressive Mars Corporation. With the fate of their rebellion hinging on a mysterious strategy known as Plan Blue, the characters confront imminent danger and betrayal as they attempt to carry out their mission. The story follows Jonner, who leads a small team of rebels on a risky undertaking to capture a Marscorp G-boat and secure a spaceship known as The Egg. As they navigate challenges, including the presence of a possible spy among them, they ultimately find themselves caught between the rebel cause and the might of Marscorp. With unexpected twists involving espionage and the repercussions of a rare astronomical event, the narrative culminates in a revelation about the significance of The Egg in thwarting the enemy's capabilities. The outcome showcases clever strategy and highlights the unintended effects of the Earth-sun conjunction on the battle for Mars.
Blow the Man Down
"Blow the Man Down" by Charles L. Fontenay is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around Captain Albrekt Vebrug of the Flanjo intelligence service, who hijacks the Mars-Titan freighter "By Jove!" with plans to commandeer its crew and cargo for his own military purposes. The narrative explores themes of power, survival, and the psychological dynamics of captivity in the isolation of space. The storyline follows Albrekt as he successfully takes control of the ship, initially keeping the crew locked away while he learns to manage the spacecraft. Tensions rise as the crew members, Captain Carrel, engineer Migl, and navigator Qoqol, attempt to thwart Albrekt's plans, leading to a series of confrontations as they navigate their precarious situation together. As the crew work on a bizarre plan involving a lithium shield to protect against radiation from Jupiter, Albrekt finds himself grappling with loneliness and fear of isolation in space. Ultimately, Carrel and his crew use cunning tactics to reclaim their ship, turning Albrekt's own strategies against him and demonstrating the unpredictability of power dynamics when survival hangs in the balance.
Escape Velocity
"Escape Velocity" by Charles L. Fontenay is a science fiction novel written during the mid-20th century. The book centers on the intense psychological and physical struggle between two astronauts, Kraag and Jonner, who find themselves stranded on an asteroid after a crash. As the pair confront the brutal realities of survival, the underlying themes of betrayal, fear, and the instinct for self-preservation come to the fore. The narrative unfolds as Kraag, motivated by a desire to eliminate competition, murders their navigator Stein to ensure that he can outlast Jonner until rescue arrives. As Jonner realizes that survival is not guaranteed and that Kraag intends to kill him, he employs both cunning and adaptability. The conflict escalates into a deadly game of cat and mouse, with each character employing physical and psychological tactics to gain the upper hand. The novel explores the characters' motivations, ultimately revealing a tragic irony when Jonner uses Kraag’s own bullets to execute a lethal plan that takes advantage of the unique environment of the asteroid. The story culminates in a poignant commentary on the extremes of human nature when survival is at stake.
Pretty Quadroon
"Pretty Quadroon" by Charles L. Fontenay is a science fiction novel likely written in the mid-20th century. Set against the backdrop of an alternate history where the United States is embroiled in a renewed civil conflict called the Second War for Southern Independence, the story explores themes of race, identity, and the nature of destiny. The narrative follows General Beauregard Courtney, who becomes embroiled in a complex plot with deep personal and societal implications as he grapples with his love for Piquette, a mixed-race woman, and the weight of his decisions during a divisive war. The story unfolds as Beauregard is drawn into a critical moment when he learns of a man named Adjaha, who introduces the idea of manipulating time and choices to alter the course of history. Adjaha reveals that Beauregard’s desires and the tragedy of war are intertwined and that he is the "key" to either peace or conflict. As Beauregard reflects on his choices and their consequences, he faces the poignant dilemma of his emotional ties to Piquette against the stark realities of racial tensions and war. Through the use of hypnosis and African mysticism, Adjaha urges Beauregard to reconsider pivotal moments in his past, ultimately challenging the reader to consider how love, race, and history can influence one another in profound ways.
Conservation
"Conservation" by Charles L. Fontenay is a science fiction novella written in the mid-20th century. The narrative explores themes of technological regression and human survival in a post-apocalyptic Earth, where vast advancements in power and technology are present but largely unutilized. The story is set after a period of catastrophic warfare, presenting a society that has adopted stringent conservation measures to guard against potential threats while neglecting to fully harness their technological capabilities. The plot follows a crew led by Executive Officer John Gray as they return to Earth after a 258-year absence due to their mission to colonize a planet elsewhere in the galaxy. Upon landing, they encounter a military society that lives amidst advanced machinery yet chooses to use a rudimentary lifestyle reminiscent of earlier centuries. The crew grapples with local customs, governance, and a poorly understood legal system focused on conservation. As they uncover the motivations behind the society's apparent technological hostility, they learn that the Earth has been occupied and had a long struggle against alien invaders. Ultimately, their knowledge and skills from the Deneb III colony may offer a path to rebuilding Earth’s lost technological prowess and help restore a more sustainable future.
The Martian Shore
"The Martian Shore" by Charles L. Fontenay is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The book follows the story of Robbo Shaan, a man branded a traitor by the Imperial Government of Mars for advocating democracy after the Martians' recent loss of freedom. Stranded in the harsh Martian desert, Shaan's journey of survival becomes a testament to his resilience and struggle against tyranny. The narrative unfolds as Shaan makes a desperate crawl across the barren landscape of Mars, navigating his way toward a dome he believes could offer sanctuary. Facing the brutal realities of dwindling oxygen and a hostile government, he is forced into a cat-and-mouse game for survival. After finding temporary refuge in a canal cactus, Shaan encounters the daughters of a previous settler, leading to a tense confrontation with their father. Eventually, Shaan must choose between self-preservation and the fate of the girls, ultimately leading him to a profound decision about human life and existence on Mars. The story encapsulates themes of democracy, survival, and the innate human desire for freedom against the backdrop of a stark and unforgiving world.
Atom Drive
"Atom Drive" by Charles L. Fontenay is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story explores the competitive world of space travel between two rival companies, focusing on their differing propulsion technologies and the challenges they face on a vital Earth-Mars cargo route. In the book, Captain Jonner Jons of the "Radiant Hope" leads a team using a new atomic drive system against the Mars Corporation's established chemical rocket, the "Marsward XVIII". The narrative unfolds as Jonner’s ship aims to break the Mars Corporation's monopoly on transporting goods between Earth and Mars, utilizing a constant low-acceleration strategy, which allows for more cost-effective cargo transport. However, tricks and sabotage from the rival company create significant obstacles, including a betrayal by their ship's doctor, Serj. As Jonner and his crew navigate these challenges, they must rely on their ingenuity and the advantages of atomic propulsion technology to outpace their rivals and secure a better future for Mars' transport costs. The story culminates in a high-stakes race that emphasizes the ingenuity and resilience required in the rapidly advancing field of space travel.
Family Tree
"Family Tree" by Charles L. Fontenay is a science fiction novella written during the mid-20th century. The story revolves around the provocative exploration of evolution, social norms, and what it means to be human in the context of a man who is revealed to be a superman due to his unusual chromosomal makeup. The narrative grapples with themes of societal standards, personal identity, and the implications of genetic mutation. The plot follows Masefield Truggles, a self-appointed moral guardian in the small town of Marston Hill, who aims to confront Blan Forsythe, a man rumored to be practicing polygamy and harboring extraordinary powers due to his unique genetic structure. As Truggles investigates and attempts to rally the town against Forsythe, he uncovers complex relationships with Phyllis Allison, Forsythe's ex-wife, and her son Donald, who holds a mysterious power of his own. The climax reveals that Donald is indeed the product of Forsythe's lineage, possessing an unusual number of chromosomes, which suggests a new step in human evolution. The narrative ultimately forces Truggles to confront his prejudices and insecurities, leading to a deep existential reflection on the nature of humanity and the ethics of evolution.
Earth transit
"Earth Transit" by Charles L. Fontenay is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story unfolds aboard the spaceship "Marsward IV", where the crew is navigating the complexities of space travel while dealing with a sudden crisis: the murder of their captain, Makki. As the three crew members find themselves in a precarious situation, they must confront their suspicions and the dark undercurrents of their relationships amidst the backdrop of their journey to Mars. The plot centers on Lefler, the astrogator who becomes the acting captain after finding Makki dead in the control room. The narrative unfolds as Lefler and his fellow crew members, Taat the ship's doctor and Robwood the engineer, grapple with the implications of the murder. Each character is shaped by their complicated history with Makki, a captain disliked for his cold demeanor and ruthless management. As tensions rise, the three men navigate their conflicting claims of innocence while examining potential motives and alibis. The story reveals psychological nuances and the moral dilemmas faced in isolation, culminating in shocking revelations that challenge their understanding of truth and loyalty.
The Last Brave Invader
"The Last Brave Invader" by Charles L. Fontenay is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story takes place on the planet Pamplin, where society abides by a unique Constitution that mandates that a man must prove his bravery by successfully invading a woman's home to win her affections. The narrative explores themes of individual rights, gender dynamics, and the conflict between personal desires and societal expectations. The plot centers on Lauria, a proud and beautiful woman who has successfully defended her home from numerous suitors over the years, leading to a reputation as an unassailable fortress. However, as time passes, Lauria grapples with loneliness and the fading of her youth. During a community dance, she makes a radical decision to signal that her home is no longer defended, yearning for companionship. When an intruder finally attempts to invade her home, she finds herself conflicted between her ingrained beliefs and her desire for connection. The story culminates in a tense moment that questions the very principles that Lauria has lived by, leading to unexpected consequences and a reflection on love and vulnerability.
Beauty interrupted
"Beauty Interrupted" by Charles L. Fontenay is a science fiction novella written during the mid-20th century. The story takes place on the planet Orcti, where the inhabitants are envious of the advanced Earthmen who live among them. It explores themes of progress, beauty, and the consequences of ambition, particularly in a context where knowledge and power can lead to both enlightenment and destruction. The narrative follows Birkala, a young Orctian scientist who is bitter towards the Earthman Erik, who has integrated himself into Orcti society and is adored for his talents and longevity. Driven by jealousy and ambition, Birkala seeks to uncover the secrets of Erik's advanced technology, particularly a forbidden beam transmitter. When Birkala's actions inadvertently lead to the abduction of his sister Spira into a dangerous realm beyond comprehension, both he and Erik must confront the limitations of their understanding. Ultimately, the story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition and the need for emotional and moral maturity to accompany scientific advancement.
Communication
"Communication" by Charles L. Fontenay is a science fiction short story written in the mid-20th century. The narrative explores the first Earth expedition to Mars and examines the challenges and misunderstandings inherent in inter-species communication. The work invites readers to consider the possibility of intelligent life on Mars and the complexities of establishing contact. The story begins with Earth astronauts encountering Martians for the first time. As the Earthmen boldly attempt to communicate using mathematical representations, they fail to recognize the Martians' apparent hostility. Misinterpretations and assumptions lead to tragic consequences as communication breaks down completely. Ultimately, the Martians respond to the perceived threat from the Earthmen by eliminating them, illustrating the frailty of communication across vastly different cultures and species. Through this encounter, Fontenay prompts important questions about understanding and the potential dangers of miscommunication in an interstellar context.
Matchmaker
"Matchmaker" by Charles L. Fontenay is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. The story revolves around the efforts of a societal mechanism, known as the Calculator, which utilizes probability algorithms to manage human relationships and solve a pressing demographic crisis. The book delves into themes of love, duty, and the implications of a highly regulated society on personal choices and emotions. The narrative follows Lao Protik, a successful psycho-artist whose life unravels after he becomes embroiled in a conspiracy that leads to his professional and personal downfall. Banished from his career and facing existential challenges, he is coerced into marrying Grida Mattin, a woman with whom he initially shares little connection. Despite external manipulations, Lao's emotions are ignited when he becomes involved with Grida's sister, Alina. The story intricately explores the dynamics of these relationships against a backdrop of governmental control and societal expectations, ultimately revealing profound insights into love, marriage, and the unpredictable nature of human emotions and connections.
Disqualified
"Disqualified" by Charles L. Fontenay is a science fiction novella written in the mid-20th century. The story delves into a futuristic inspection of a colonized planet, raising significant ethical questions about civilization, class differences, and the treatment of sentient beings. The narrative primarily centers on an encounter between representatives of a Galactic Council and the inhabitants of a newly visited planet. The plot follows Tardo, a Planetary Aid agent, and his companion Peo as they conduct an inspection of Saranta's agrarian society, searching for any signs of slavery and wrongdoing. Initially captivated by the seemingly peaceful and prosperous existence of the planet's citizens, Tardo grows suspicious about the social structures present beneath the surface. As he observes their meals, the abundance of food, and the cheerful demeanor of the locals, he deduces that the apparent tranquility masks a darker reality: there exists another class of beings who are treated as less than human, effectively relegated to a state of subjugation. Concluding that the development of such a society should not be aided, he rejects any support from the Council, emphasizing an ethical stance against aiding systems that perpetuate subjugation and inequality.
West o' Mars
"West o' Mars" by Charles L. Fontenay is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. Set in a future where interplanetary travel is commonplace, the book explores themes of ambition, love, and the complex dynamics between men and women through the experiences of its protagonist, Samlaan Britt. The story takes place primarily on Mars and delves into the impacts of psychological abilities on human relationships. The narrative follows Samlaan Britt, a wealthy and successful man who achieved his fortune through dubious means, aided by the psychokinetic abilities of his wife, Dori. Initially, he utilizes Dori’s powers to manipulate outcomes in gambling games, which leads to immense wealth and the construction of a lavish home, West o' Mars. However, their marriage is fraught with emotional disconnect, stemming from Britt's cold-heartedness and his treatment of Dori as a mere tool for his success. A turning point arises during a risky gambling session where Britt wagers Dori against everything his opponent owns. Unexpectedly, Dori’s emotional turmoil surfaces during a critical roll of the dice, leading to surprising consequences. Ultimately, the story reveals the fallout of Britt’s manipulative actions, illustrating the unpredictability of love and the human heart amidst a backdrop of interplanetary adventure.
Rebels of the Red Planet
"Rebels of the Red Planet" by Charles L. Fontenay is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. The story unfolds on Mars, where a rebel group known as the Phoenix seeks to overthrow a tyrannical government, led by a resurrected figure, Dark Kensington. As the narrative progresses, it explores themes of mutation, survival against harsh environments, and the struggle for autonomy amidst governmental control. The opening of the novel introduces us to key characters and sets up the conflict between rebel forces and the Martian government. S. Nuwell Eli and Maya Cara Nome, agents of the Earth government, are on a mission to find the rebel headquarters while navigating the treacherous landscape and cultural intricacies of Mars. They encounter mutated beings, remnants of abominable experiments, and hints at scientific advancements, particularly related to genetic manipulation. Meanwhile, Dark Kensington, having unexpectedly returned after twenty-five years, has plans that could reshape the balance of power on the planet. The stakes are raised as multiple forces converge, each with their own agendas, leading to a suspenseful foundation for the ensuing narrative.
The Patriot
"The Patriot" by Charles L. Fontenay is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century, exploring themes of freedom, oppression, and the power of art. Set in a future where Earth is weary of war and has outlawed military music, the story delves into the struggle of the Martian people, who fight against the corporate regime controlling their planet. The protagonist, Cornel Lorensse, is a Martian musician who seeks support from Earth to liberate his oppressed people. The narrative follows Cornel as he travels to Earth in search of help for Mars, where he intends to harness his musical talent to raise awareness about his people's plight. He is taken under the wing of Meta Erosine, a wealthy socialite who helps him rise to fame, but Cornel’s true passion remains with the cause of Martian freedom. Ultimately, he composes a powerful piece, "The Martianne," which becomes a rallying cry for his people's struggle. In a pivotal concert, he defies Earth’s oppressive laws by playing his composition, inciting both admiration and fear as the music stirs the hearts of listeners. Cornel's journey is one of self-discovery and sacrifice, culminating in his deportation to Mars, where he becomes a symbol of resistance against tyranny and a champion of artistic expression.
The Old Goat
"The Old Goat" by Charles L. Fontenay is a science fiction story written in the mid-20th century. It revolves around the experimental work of Dr. Angstrom, a grumpy scientist colloquially nicknamed "The Old Goat" by his students and colleagues. The narrative explores themes of scientific discovery, matter transmission, and the intersection of the physical and metaphysical, particularly focusing on the implications of transmitting animate versus inanimate objects. The plot centers on Dr. Angstrom's ambitious experiment to test a matter transmission device using a live goat as his subject. After successfully demonstrating the device with inanimate objects, he decides to transmit the goat. In a humorous turn of events, both the goat and Dr. Angstrom accidentally find themselves inside the transmitter. Upon transmission, they reemerge unharmed, with the goat humorously asserting its triumph while Dr. Angstrom appears changed by the experience, leading to an ambiguous yet comedic conclusion. The story cleverly blends science fiction with humor, leaving readers to ponder the nature of existence and the soul in light of modern scientific advancements.
Z
"Z" by Charles L. Fontenay is a science fiction novel crafted in the mid-20th century. The narrative explores the intriguing and complex concept of time reversal, particularly through the experiences of two characters, Summer and Wyn Storm, who find themselves mysteriously displaced in time and struggling with their identities and relationships. The story raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of existence, love, and memory against a backdrop of scientific theory. The plot centers on Don Gracey, who encounters Summer and her husband Wyn Storm during a thunderstorm in Central Park. After a lightning strike seemingly disrupts their reality, the couple exhibits strange behavior and memory issues, causing Don to take them in and help them navigate their newfound lives. Over the years, Don develops a deep and conflicted love for Summer as she undergoes peculiar changes, including an inexplicable process of aging backward. As Wyn embarks on a quest to understand and possibly reverse this phenomenon, the story delves into themes of identity, time, and the intricate dynamics of love, leading to an astonishing revelation about the intertwined fates of the characters and the implications of time travel.
Wind
"Wind" by Charles L. Fontenay is a science fiction novella written during the late 1950s. The story is set on Venus, where the main character, Jan Willem van Artevelde, faces the daunting challenges of navigating the harsh, wind-swept terrain to rescue a boy suffering from a deadly space-borne disease known as the Venus Shadow. The narrative explores themes of resilience, ingenuity, and cultural perspectives as Jan pushes his limits to overcome both environmental and technological obstacles. The plot centers around Jan van Artevelde, a stubborn Dutchman, who must travel to the remote settlement of Rathole to bring a sick boy back to a nearby spaceport before a critical spacecraft departure. Despite encountering treacherous earthquakes and fierce winds that complicate his journey, Jan's determination shines through. When he arrives in Rathole, he discovers there is no fuel for a flying platform that could expedite their return, forcing him to think creatively. He dismantles the platform's engines and ingeniously uses wind power to create a makeshift propulsion system from the local windmills. The story culminates in a thrilling yet heartwarming conclusion as he navigates challenges to save the boy's life, showcasing the spirit of resourcefulness and heroism amidst the unique cultural backdrop of Venus.
Service with a Smile
"Service with a Smile" by Charles L. Fontenay is a science fiction short story published in the late 1950s. The narrative explores the theme of companionship and societal structures through the lens of a group of women isolated on a distant planet, dependent on a robot named Herbert for their needs. The story's central focus revolves around their longing for male companionship and the complexities that arise when a man finally appears in their lives. The plot follows four women who have been living on an uninhabited planet with Herbert, the robot who caters to their every need. Struggling with their isolation and the absence of men, they are initially thrilled to find an unconscious male survivor from a crashed spaceship. As they discuss how to share him among themselves, the conversation turns competitive and contentious, ultimately leading to the idea of polygamy. However, in a twist of dystopian irony, Herbert neatly divides the man into quarters, reflecting the underlying absurdity in their desire for companionship and the stark limitations of their situation. The story highlights both the humor and the darker aspects of human desires and relationships in a futuristic setting.
The Jupiter Weapon
"The Jupiter Weapon" by Charles L. Fontenay is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. Set in a futuristic context, the book explores themes of identity, human nature, and the implications of advanced technology through the eyes of its characters. The primary focus is on the story of Quest Mansard, a man with incredible strength and an intriguing background that raises questions about his humanity. The novel follows Trella Nuspar, who finds herself in a perilous situation while out with her inebriated companion, Motwick, in the rough part of Jupiter's View on Ganymede. She encounters Quest Mansard, who unexpectedly comes to her aid despite his reluctance to engage physically due to an unexplained aversion to violence. As Trella gets to know Quest, she grapples with her blossoming feelings for him while uncovering his unusual origins—potentially as an android created by his father, Dr. Mansard. Throughout the story, Quest's extraordinary attributes and emotional detachment come into conflict, leading to a dramatic revelation about his purpose and past, resulting in a blend of action, romance, and philosophical questions about what it truly means to be human.
The Gift Bearer
"The Gift Bearer" by Charles L. Fontenay is a science fiction novella written in the late 1950s. The story explores the themes of morality, societal norms, and the clash between progressive ideals and conservative values through a humorous narrative. It revolves around the character of Richard J. Montcalm, who unexpectedly encounters an extraterrestrial visitor, complicating his rigid perspectives and responsibilities as a family man amidst rising tensions from local censorship. In the storyline, Montcalm, a member of a censorship board, finds himself face-to-face with Liz, a beautiful alien woman who has arrived to offer humanity advanced knowledge and technologies. As Montcalm grapples with his attraction to Liz and the potential gifts she brings, he struggles to maintain societal norms, particularly regarding her choice to remain unclothed. The comical tension escalates as Montcalm faces opposition from his wife, Millie, and the local police, eventually leading Liz to retreat, concluding that humanity is not ready for the gifts she offers. The narrative ultimately leaves Montcalm reflecting on his decisions and the impact they have on his family and the broader community.