Author
H. L. (Horace Leonard) Gold
1914-1996
H. L. (Horace Leonard) Gold (1914-1996) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by H. L. (Horace Leonard) Gold
Menace of the Mists
"Menace of the Mists" by Richard Storey is a science fiction novella published in the early 1940s. Set on the planet Venus, the story unfolds around four human characters who must confront a formidable threat from vicious centaurpedes: monstrous, intelligent creatures that have emerged from the depths of the ocean. The novella explores themes of survival, bravery, and camaraderie in the face of overwhelming odds. The narrative follows MacAloon and his three companions as they defend a valuable iron mine from an invading horde of centaurpedes that have developed tactics to overcome their human adversaries. As the characters wrestle with their fears and strategize to fend off repeated assaults, they witness the unfolding horror of their situation, including the loss of a brave companion, Al Birchall. Ultimately, Mac devises a daring plan to disrupt the centaurpedes' centralized control, leading to a chaotic battle that culminates in a hard-won victory. Through vivid action and character dynamics, the story captures the tension of a desperate fight against nature's terrifying unpredictability, emphasizing the importance of resilience and sacrifice.
Grifters' Asteroid
"Grifters' Asteroid" by H. L. Gold is a science fiction novella originally published in the early 1940s. Set in a humorous and satirical depiction of interplanetary con men, the story follows Harvey and Joe, two slick con artists, as they navigate their outrageous schemes on the small planetoid known as Planet 42. The novella explores themes of deception, greed, and the absurdities of commerce in a futuristic setting. In the story, Harvey and Joe arrive at Planetoid 42 and quickly find themselves in a precarious situation as they confront the local mayor, Angus Johnson, who charges extortionate prices for water while simultaneously deceiving them. The duo, attempting to sell a miraculous remedy called "La-anago Yergis", realizes that they too have been swindled when they discover that the sweet water they bought is merely a ruse. As the plot unfolds, they cleverly manipulate Johnson into purchasing both the remedy and a faulty fourth-dimensional radio, ultimately escaping with a meager profit. The novella cleverly critiques human greed and the cyclical nature of deception in a lighthearted and entertaining manner.
Someone to watch over me
"Someone to Watch Over Me" by H. L. Gold and Floyd C. Gale is a science fiction novel written in the late 1950s. The story follows Len Mattern, a man with a troubled past, as he navigates the complexities of love and loyalty in a universe where hyperspace travel opens pathways to unforeseen dangers. The plot explores Mattern's relationship with Lyddy, a beautiful woman from his past, and introduces elements of alien beings and existential threats that could challenge their lives together. The opening of the novel introduces Len Mattern as he prepares to reconnect with Lyddy at the Golden Apple Bar. Initially filled with a mix of excitement and trepidation, he is reminded of their past and his commitment to her despite the years that have elapsed. As he confronts Lyddy amid the bustling scene, their reunion is marked by tension and unresolved feelings. The narrative hints at deeper, unexplained phenomena affecting their existence, including a shadowy presence that both intrigues and unsettles Mattern. As Len reflects on the unfolding dynamics of his life, the stage is set for a compelling exploration of love, responsibility, and the otherworldly forces at play.
Never Come Midnight
"Never Come Midnight" by Christopher Grimm is a science fiction novel written in the late 1950s. The book explores themes of identity, morality, and the consequences of immortality within a richly constructed universe. It centers around the life of Emrys Shortmire, a man navigating his strange heritage as the unknowing son of the brilliant inventor Jan Shortmire, who has made a pact with an alien race, the Morethans, leading to complex ramifications for humanity. The story unfolds amidst a backdrop of futuristic technology and interplanetary dynamics, primarily focusing on Emrys as he grapples with his dual identity—a blend of human and Morethan. Following the mysterious death of his father on the planet Morethis, Amrys emerges as a young man with unfulfilled desires but is burdened by an alien lineage that threatens the fabric of Earth. As he becomes aware of his immortality and the bargain struck by his father, he finds himself caught in a web of revenge against those who wronged him, particularly Nicholas Dyall, a rival inventor. The narrative culminates in a bittersweet exploration of what it means to be human, the cost of ambition, and the peril of playing god, while weaving a tale that questions the true value of life and legacy.
Bodyguard
"Bodyguard" by Christopher Grimm is a science fiction story published in the mid-20th century, specifically in the February 1956 issue of Galaxy Science Fiction. The narrative blends elements of suspense and futuristic intrigue, focusing on a character named Gabriel Lockard, who finds himself in a perilous situation leading to the involvement of body-swapping and existential threats. The book explores themes of identity, beauty, and the consequences of one's choices in a universe where physical appearance can be traded like currency. The plot revolves around Gabriel Lockard, a strikingly handsome man whose arrogance leads him into trouble at a bar. He attracts the attention of a nondescript man who seems to be his bodyguard, though their relationship is far more complex. As Gabe navigates a series of confrontations and unfortunate events, including a crash that ties him to the mysterious bodyguard, readers are exposed to a world governed by dangerous games involving body-swapping, legal and illegal dealings, and interpersonal struggles. The story unfolds as various characters attempt to reclaim their identities and bodies, culminating in a climactic confrontation that tests their morals and relationships. In the end, Gabriel finds himself in a familiar body but grapples with the realization that even when restored to his original form, the shadows of past decisions loom large over his future.
The Enormous Room
"The Enormous Room" by H. L. Gold and Robert W. Krepps is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The story revolves around a group of characters who mysteriously find themselves trapped in an alien laboratory after a roller coaster ride goes awry. Central to the narrative are characters like John Summersby, a forest ranger, and the various abducted individuals, including a newlywed couple, who must navigate their bizarre predicament and the strange beings controlling them. The opening of the book introduces the reader to a chaotic scene on a roller coaster, where passengers are suddenly rendered unconscious and awaken in an unusual room filled with peculiar objects and tree trunks. As the bewildered group tries to make sense of their surroundings, they soon realize that they are prisoners of a gigantic, alien race, which behaves like children playing with fascinating yet ominous toys. The initial confusion heightens when one of the aliens appears, wielding a green rod, and begins to herd them about. The stage is set for a gripping adventure that blends elements of suspense, alien encounters, and an exploration of their captors' bizarre motivations.
The Old Die Rich
"The Old Die Rich" by H. L. Gold is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The story revolves around Mark Weldon, an actor who becomes obsessed with understanding why elderly individuals with substantial savings choose to starve to death rather than spend their money. Through a series of investigations, Weldon uncovers a connection to a mysterious woman, May Roberts, who operates a time-traveling scheme that preys on the elderly, leading them to tragic ends. The opening of the story introduces Mark Weldon, who is visiting a scene of death with a medical examiner. He learns about an elderly woman who has died of starvation despite having thousands of dollars in the bank. Intrigued and disturbed by the circumstances surrounding such cases, he begins to delve deeper into the psyche of these old people. His search leads him to the enigmatic May Roberts, who uses a time machine for her own profitable motives, offering Weldon a chance at wealth but at a potentially deadly cost. As he grapples with moral questions and dangers related to time travel, the narrative sets up a gripping exploration of desperation, greed, and the lengths to which people will go to survive.
At the Post
"At the Post" by H. L. Gold is a science fiction story written in the early 1950s. The narrative revolves around Clocker Locke, a race handicapper who, grappling with the mental breakdown of his wife Zelda, discovers a bizarre and compelling intersection of humanity and extraterrestrial beings. The book explores themes of identity, love, and the specter of human extinction in a richly imagined universe where mental states and emotional realities are deeply intertwined with alien interventions. The story unfolds as Clocker, motivated by a desperate longing to save his wife, delves into the world of catatonic patients and their peculiar routines. He theorizes that these patients, including Zelda, are unwittingly engaged in an otherworldly task under the influence of benevolent alien beings seeking to record human history. As Clocker navigates through emotional conflicts and cognitive challenges, he ultimately strikes a deal for Zelda's freedom while committing to help the aliens document humanity's legacy. The story culminates in a surprising twist as Clocker's efforts inspire others to reclaim their agency, pushing against the impending doom of human extinction while solidifying the story's message about the power of love and determination amidst despair.
No Charge for Alterations
"No Charge for Alterations" by H. L. Gold is a science fiction short story published in the early 1950s. The narrative unfolds on the planet Deneb, where the medical practices and societal norms starkly contrast those of Earth. The story explores themes of adaptation and social control, questioning the moral implications of altering people's identities and bodies to suit the needs of a frontier society. In the story, Dr. Kalmar, a seasoned physician on Deneb, faces the challenges of training his inexperienced assistant, Dr. Hoyt, who has just arrived from Earth. The plot revolves around the practice of using Ego Alter and Rephysical treatments to mold individuals to fit societal roles, such as transforming Avis, a discontented young girl, into a capable farm worker she once resisted becoming. Dr. Kalmar believes he is acting for the greater good of Deneb, while Dr. Hoyt grapples with the ethics behind such alterations. As tensions rise, Dr. Lowell, Kalmar's mentor, intervenes to provide perspective, ultimately leading to a surprising resolution. The story raises thought-provoking questions about personal agency, societal expectations, and the consequences of intrusive medical practices.