Author
Gardner F. (Gardner Francis) Fox
1911-1986
Gardner F. (Gardner Francis) Fox (1911-1986) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by Gardner F. (Gardner Francis) Fox
The Warlock of Sharrador
"The Warlock of Sharrador" by Gardner F. Fox is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The book follows Kael McCanahan, a Terran officer embroiled in a conflict against the malevolent forces of a powerful entity called Noorlythin, who has the ability to manipulate reality and commands a robotic army known as the sfarri. With themes of vengeance, loyalty, and the struggle between good and evil, the narrative invites readers into a richly imagined universe where humanity’s survival hangs in the balance. The opening of the novel introduces Kael McCanahan waking up to an assassination attempt in his quarters, which immediately signals the treacherous environment he inhabits. As he leaps into action, it becomes clear that his father, Fleet Admiral Patric McCanahan, has just been murdered under dubious circumstances, likely orchestrated by the High Mor of Senorech, who seeks to expel Terrans from his world. Torn between grief and rage, Kael decides to retrieve his father's body, setting him on a path filled with danger and intrigue, where he soon encounters Flaith, a captivating woman who joins him on his tumultuous quest. As the narrative unfolds, readers witness Kael’s deepening resolve to confront the corruption of the High Mor and the dark forces at play in his universe, culminating in a destiny entwined with Noorlythin and the fate of countless worlds.
Vassals of the Lode-Star
"Vassals of the Lode-Star" by Gardner F. Fox is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around Thor Masterson, an Earthman who becomes embroiled in a cosmic conflict after being transported to a fantastical alien world where he faces off against the ancient and powerful entity known as Aava. The narrative unfolds as Thor, accompanied by various companions, navigates strange dimensions and battles both androids and otherworldly creatures, while seeking to understand and ultimately defeat the malevolent force threatening their existence. At the start of the novel, the audience is introduced to Thor Masterson amid a chaotic battle that seems to transcend conventional reality, as his home on Earth is inexplicably merged with an alien landscape. Thor displays strength and resourcefulness as he instincts kick in to protect a beautiful woman named Karola from a diminutive adversary. As they explore this bizarre new world filled with twisted space and strange beings, they encounter the mysterious "Discoverer," who provides insight into their situation. The opening portion establishes a sense of urgency and adventure, characterized by Thor's determination to confront powerful threats while deepening his bond with Karola, all the while hinting at larger cosmic stakes involving Aava and his android army.
When Kohonnes Screamed
"When Kohonnes Screamed" by Gardner F. Fox is a science fiction novel written during the late 1940s. The book explores themes of creation and destruction on a fantastical planet influenced by a god-like machine called Kohonnes, which reshapes the environment and creates havoc for the inhabitants and any visitors. Additionally, the novel delves into the adventures of the protagonist, Grim Thorssen, as he navigates this bizarre and hostile world. The story follows Grim Thorssen, a space commander sent to investigate the disappearance of trading vessels in the mysterious land of Stormland. Upon crash-landing, he encounters a realm where landscapes and creatures are manipulated by an omnipotent force known as Kohonnes. With the help of Tlokine, the Black Priestess of Kohonnes, he learns that another priestess, Althaya, seeks to harness Kohonnes’ power for her own ambitions. The narrative unfolds through a series of conflicts involving Grim, Althaya, and the pirate Black Randolph, who aims to exploit the power of the machine for personal gain. Ultimately, Grim discovers the essence of the machine behind Kohonnes and confronts the challenges that arise from this powerful force, leading to a dramatic battle between the desires for power and the struggle for freedom.
Tonight the Stars Revolt!
"Tonight the Stars Revolt!" by Gardner F. Fox is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The story revolves around the themes of rebellion against tyrannical rule, the pursuit of knowledge, and the struggle for freedom in a futuristic world. It is set on the planet Karr, where societal divisions and the oppression by the ruling elite create a backdrop for the protagonist's journey. The narrative follows Red Angus, a space pirate and nobleman who opposes the despot Stal Tay and the oppressive Hierarchy that controls society through fear and superstition. Angus, having escaped from captivity, is embroiled in a plot to assassinate the Diktor, which leads him to embark on a quest for the legendary Book of Nard. This ancient text holds the secrets of the Elder Race, who once thrived on Karr. Along the way, Angus allies himself with the enigmatic priestess Moana and must confront the powers of both the Diktor and the Hierarch, who seek to control the energies of the black pools that dominate the landscape. Through betrayals, epic battles, and the quest for liberation, Angus discovers the potential for scientific advancement and the importance of sharing knowledge with the oppressed people of Karr, ultimately striving to inspire a revolution against their oppressors.
Werwile of the Crystal Crypt
"Werwile of the Crystal Crypt" by Gardner F. Fox is a science fiction novel penned in the mid-20th century. The narrative revolves around the peril posed by an ancient entity known as Rudra, the Werwile, who embodies a dark force threatening cosmic stability. The story is steeped in adventure and exploration, detailing the journey of the protagonist, Clark Travis, as he navigates through dangerous ruins and confronts formidable foes while seeking to uncover the last remnant of a lost civilization. The plot unfolds as Clark Travis, an archaeologist, embarks on a treacherous mission to find Princess Nuala, the last surviving member of the ancient race known as the Nekkalad. Enclosed in a crystal crypt for eons, Nuala possesses unrivaled knowledge from her civilization that is crucial for combating the malevolent Rudra. As Clark faces threats from alien creatures and the mystifying powers of Rudra, he teams up with Nuala to form an ambitious plan to thwart the sinister forces at play. As they confront the essence of Rudra, the tale reaches a climactic battle of wits and strength, ultimately revealing the profound connection and potential new beginnings for both Travis and Nuala amidst the cosmic chaos.
Sword of the Seven Suns
"Sword of the Seven Suns" by Gardner F. Fox is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story unfolds in a dark, fragmented world where the remnants of a once-great civilization are threatened by chaos and barbarism. The main character, Flane, grapples with his heritage as he strives to reactivate a revered Machine-God, sought by factions of Klarn, to restore order and unity to the land. The opening of "Sword of the Seven Suns" introduces a precarious situation where Flane finds himself amidst the wreckage of a spaceship and a mysterious sword. As the narrative progresses, flashes of his lineage and the societal factions battling for control come to light, including the power struggles between the noble "dulars" and the barbaric Darksiders. Flane's journey propels him forward as he navigates treacherous relationships, personal conflict, and the quest for a key to revive the lifeblood of Klarn—the Machine—while also accommodating a romantic subplot with the fiery-haired Aevlyn. The tumultuous atmosphere sets the stage for an adventure beset by loyalty, betrayal, and the fight for freedom against overwhelming odds.
Man nth
"Man nth" by Gardner F. Fox is a science fiction novel likely written in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around Jonathan Morgan, an Earthling who, after an extraordinary shift in his mental capabilities, discovers he has infinite powers that grant him the ability to manipulate matter and explore the universe. As he grapples with his newfound abilities, he feels an insistent calling from beyond the Earth, drawing him into a larger cosmic conflict. In the book, Jonathan undergoes a transformative journey after scientists on Earth inadvertently awaken immense powers within him, enabling him to grow, shrink, and even teleport. He eventually travels to the alien world of Neeoorna, where he meets various extraterrestrial life forms and learns of a threat posed by dark, destructive flames ravaging the universe. Through his adventures, Jonathan must confront his own fears and inadequacies while also engaging in a mental duel against a rival scientist, Morka Kar. This clash not only tests his abilities but also determines the fate of the world as Jonathan discovers that the key to overcoming the shadows lies within himself and his understanding of the universe's fundamental laws. Ultimately, the journey explores themes of evolution, the limits of humanity, and the idea of what it means to be truly "infinite."
The Last Monster
"The Last Monster" by Gardner F. Fox is a science fiction novel written during the mid-20th century. The story revolves around Irgi, the last surviving member of a once-great race of monsters who possesses the key to immortality. The plot explores themes of loneliness, existence, and the human desire for survival against the backdrop of an abandoned planet and interplanetary quests. The narrative follows four men from Earth, led by Valentine Emerson, who journey to the dead planet of Urg in search of radium to combat a devastating plague on their home world. Upon arrival, they encounter Irgi, a tentacled creature who has lived in solitude for centuries. As the men struggle with their imminent demise from the plague and space cancer, they initially mistake Irgi as a threat. However, as the story unfolds, they realize that Irgi has the capability to cure their afflictions. Tensions rise as Emerson fights to save his crew from Mussdorf, the volatile convict who aims to exploit Irgi and the mysterious powers of his technology for personal gain. Ultimately, the men are faced with moral dilemmas of survival versus selfish ambition, with Irgi’s fate entwined with their own—a poignant commentary on fear, understanding, and the longing for connection.
Engines of the Gods
"Engines of the Gods" by Gardner F. Fox is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around Kortha, a powerful Martian smith who grapples with his fears and the consequences of his past, embroiled in a conflict for control over a mysterious weapon that could change the balance of power in the universe. As the narrative unfolds, themes of power, self-discovery, and the haunting allure of love are interwoven with the rich tapestry of Martian lore and culture. The opening of the book introduces the formidable character Kortha, who feels both overwhelmed by his strength and trapped by his own cowardice stemming from past violent actions. Living in isolation on Mars, he is approached by Ilse, a woman representing the Confederacy who implores him to return to leadership in order to save their planet from the aspiring tyrant Guantra. As Kortha grapples with his tortured conscience, he suddenly finds himself on a quest to uncover secrets from the ancient city of Yassa, potentially containing the powerful technology that Guantra seeks. This beginning establishes both the immediate stakes and the character dynamics that will drive the rest of the novel forward, making it a rich and engaging read for fans of space opera and heroic fantasy.
The Man the Sun-Gods Made
"The Man the Sun-Gods Made" by Gardner F. Fox is a science fiction novel likely written in the mid-20th century. The story dives into themes of identity, power, and heroism against a backdrop of alien worlds, focusing on a character named Tyr who is worshipped as a god by the Tryllans, yet struggles with his own humanity and the expectations placed upon him. The book explores the conflict between Tyr's unique abilities and the oppressive rule of the "ardth" people, drawing readers into a vivid cosmic landscape where advanced technologies and primal struggles intertwine. In the narrative, Tyr is a seemingly godlike being who derives energy from the sun and has extraordinary strength and speed, leading the Trylla race to view him as their savior. As the "ardth" return to reclaim dominance, Tyr grapples with his role as a protector while uncovering his origins which link him to the "ardth". His quest leads him to the Barrow, an ancient repository of knowledge, where he ultimately aims to find a way to defeat the "ardth" and free his people. The story culminates with Tyr's transformation into a powerful entity fueled by the Glow, a miniature sun, and his decision to embrace his dual heritage as he forges a new alliance between the Trylla and the "ardth", paving a path towards understanding and coexistence.