Author
Chester S. Geier
1921-1990
Chester S. Geier (1921-1990) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by Chester S. Geier
Run, Little Monster!
"Run, Little Monster!" by Chester S. Geier is a science fiction novella written in the early 1950s. This tale explores themes of survival and identity in a post-apocalyptic world, where societal changes and the aftereffects of a devastating war have resulted in the emergence of individuals—like the protagonist, Fran—who exhibit extraordinary abilities due to radiation exposure. At its core, the book delves into the struggles of a young girl facing persecution and her journey toward self-discovery amidst fear and danger. The story follows Fran, an orphaned girl living with the abusive Big Luke Becker and his troubled sons, Sammy and Davey. As Fran experiences an emotional and physical transformation into womanhood, she discovers that she is one of the "changed" children born after an atom bomb devastated cities, endowing her with unique powers. While being hunted by her tormentors, she encounters Tom, a voice whispering guidance and support. As the tension escalates with her pursuers closing in, Fran learns of her abilities and her connection to others like her—eventually revealing that "Tom" is actually Davey, who has been hiding his own powers. The story culminates in Fran's escape to a ruined yet safe urban landscape where she can thrive among the other changed children, symbolizing hope for a new beginning in a world that fears them.
The Soul Stealers
"The Soul Stealers" by Chester S. Geier is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The story delves into themes of life, death, and the metaphysical concept of the soul, portraying a world where souls can be stolen by otherworldly beings. The tale follows the protagonist Bryan as he investigates a series of mysterious deaths linked to strange occurrences in Grant Park, leading to encounters with ethereal creatures and a woman named Leeta, who represents both hope and danger. Bryan, a weary reporter, becomes embroiled in a supernatural mystery when he discovers that men found incapacitated in Grant Park appear to have lost their souls, leading them to death. As he delves deeper into the situation, he witnesses bizarre creatures known as mosquito-men and their connection to Leeta, a captivating being from another realm who seeks to save her dying civilization by extracting souls from men in Bryan's world. When Bryan is drawn into her world, he realizes that their connection transcends mere attraction; however, they are ultimately faced with a harrowing choice that intertwines their fates. The story challenges Bryan's understanding of existence, love, and sacrifice as he navigates the line between two worlds and grapples with the implications of Leeta's desperate actions to save her race.
The Venus Evil
“The Venus Evil” by Chester S. Geier is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century, during a time when space exploration was a burgeoning topic in popular culture. The story revolves around the themes of exploration, ambition, and the darker sides of human nature as it follows an ill-fated expedition to Venus. The likely topic of the book centers on the consequences of human greed and the unknown dangers encountered on an alien planet. The narrative unfolds through the perspective of Richard Farris, who recounts the harrowing events leading to the death of his fellow explorer, George Pearce. As a trio of scientists—Farris, Pearce, and another named Sandley—explore Venus, their initial excitement gives way to foreboding as they encounter bizarre lifeforms, particularly the eerily beautiful but lethal butterfly creatures. Farris grapples with his own ambitious desires for profit when he discovers precious gems on Venus, leading to a moral quandary between friendship and the urge for wealth. Ultimately, the situation culminates in a tragic confrontation between Farris and Pearce, as both men's greed and fear push them into a desperate struggle for survival against the alien threats of Venus.
Planet of Creation
"Planet of Creation" by Chester S. Geier is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story explores themes of exploration, ambition, and the consequences of desire as a fleet of Urgollian spacemen seeks resources on a mysterious planet that seems to offer limitless possibilities. The narrative takes place against the backdrop of a demoralizing defeat and the uncertain fate of a population on the brink of revolution. The plot centers around Commander Thettumir and his crew, who, after a harrowing defeat, discover a mysterious planet that not only has a breathable atmosphere but also appears to be capable of materializing objects from their thoughts. As they utilize this strange phenomenon to create weapons and duplicate their forces, their ambitions spiral out of control. However, as they embark on a return journey to take revenge on their enemies, they face catastrophic consequences when their newly created fleet begins to vanish in the vacuum of space, revealing the dangers of their short-sightedness and the fragile nature of their newfound power. The story serves as a cautionary tale about the hubris of unchecked ambition and the potential perils of reliance on forces beyond one’s understanding.
Cold Ghost
"Cold Ghost" by Chester S. Geier is a suspenseful short story published in the late 1940s, reflecting the psychological tension typical of mid-20th-century literature. The narrative revolves around themes of survival, betrayal, and supernatural retribution amidst the harsh, frozen wilderness of Alaska. At its core, the tale examines the chilling consequences of greed and deception. The story follows Matt Hager, a trapper grappling with the dire situation of transporting his sick partner, Cahill, through a brutal snowstorm. As frustration feeds his desire for wealth, Hager devises a plan to abandon Cahill to the cold, believing that the death of his partner will secure the entire profit from their furs for himself. However, after successfully carrying out his heinous act, Hager becomes haunted by an intense, persistent cold that seems to follow him, no matter where he goes. Desperate to rid himself of this chilling presence, Hager's attempts to escape lead him across the country, culminating in a futile search for warmth and solace. In the end, he is left confronted with the consequences of his actions when the cold becomes his ultimate demise. The tragic irony lies in the fact that the heat of life eludes him forever, leaving readers to ponder the true nature of guilt and the spectral weight of past misdeeds.
Meet Me in Tomorrow
"Meet Me in Tomorrow" by Guy Archette is a science fiction novella written in the early 1950s. It explores themes of love, choice, and time travel, centering on the protagonist Andy Pearce, who grapples with an impending departure from his familiar life to fulfill a mission in the future. The story intricately blends emotional conflict with imaginative sci-fi elements, as Pearce is faced with the decision of leaving his friends, particularly Ellen, behind. In the narrative, Andy Pearce invites his friends, Ellen and Dave, to a picnic in the woods near his childhood home, where he reveals his intentions of leaving with a young woman from the future named Nela. As they enjoy their outing, Pearce reflects on his past and the peculiar circumstances that led him to this moment—an encounter with Nela that changes the trajectory of his life. The tension builds as Pearce recognizes the depth of his feelings for Ellen, juxtaposed with the responsibility he feels towards the future he is destined to embrace. In a surprising twist, it is revealed that Ellen is, in fact, the same as Nela, who has taken on a human form to ensure Andy's happiness in the future. Ultimately, their love transcends time as they step into the spaceship together, leaving their past lives behind.
The Sphere of Sleep
"The Sphere of Sleep" by Chester S. Geier is a science fiction novel likely written during the early 1940s. The narrative follows Brad Nellon, a man driven by jealousy and desire, as he navigates the treacherous landscapes of Titan, Saturn's moon. The book delves into themes of morality, obsession, and the consequences of one's actions, as Brad contemplates murder to win the affection of a woman named Laura, who is already involved with his friend, Big Tim Austin. The story begins with Brad and Big Tim on a perilous expedition to retrieve forgotten equipment at a location known as Tower Point. As their journey unfolds, Brad struggles with his dark thoughts of eliminating Big Tim, believing it is the only way to have Laura to himself. Despite twice missing opportunities to execute his plan, Brad and Big Tim stumble upon a mysterious metal door hidden in the snow, which leads to an ancient alien structure containing dormant beings under the influence of a powerful green light. As Brad's intentions shift and human consequences intertwine with alien mysteries, he ultimately finds himself trapped in a fate he never anticipated: while Big Tim is put into a dream-like slumber, Brad is left alone, facing the reality of his own impending death in the harsh environment of Titan. The story forces readers to grapple with questions of ambition, morality, and the unforeseen outcomes of selfish actions.