Author
Fox B. Holden
1923-1973
Fox B. Holden (1923-1973) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by Fox B. Holden
Down Went McGinty
"Down Went McGinty" by Fox B. Holden is a science fiction novel written during the mid-20th century. Set in a future where space exploration is a reality, the story follows the struggles and dynamics between military personnel aboard a second-rate space satellite and the challenges posed by their adversaries, the Comrades. The likely topic of the book revolves around themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the morality of authority under the stress of political machinations in space. The narrative centers around Colonel Kenton, who is tasked with solving a mystery involving a theft of classified microstats after a safe is blown open in his office. The prime suspect is Patrick McGinty, an affable maintenance technician known for his love of music and science fiction. As the story unfolds, McGinty unexpectedly takes control of a spacecraft and heads towards the Moon, prompting a desperate pursuit by Kenton and his team to save him from the authoritarian General Kolomar's orders to destroy him. Throughout the pursuit, themes of friendship, sacrifice, and the search for a moral compass in the vastness of space emerge, ultimately leading to a twist that reveals McGinty’s true intentions and his enduring belief in humanity's potential to transcend political conflicts.
Dearest Enemy
"Dearest Enemy" by Fox B. Holden is a science fiction novel likely penned in the mid-20th century, specifically during the 1950s. The book explores themes of isolation, war, and the human condition amid the backdrop of space exploration and an escalating cold war. It delves into the psyche of a soldier trapped in a space mission gone awry, emphasizing the consequences of conflict amidst vast, unforgiving space. The story follows Major Joshua Thorn, who finds himself aboard Vanguard-I, a spacecraft designed for observational purposes. After a catastrophic event leads to the obliteration of humanity on Earth, Thorn grapples with the surreal reality of being potentially the last human alive. As he struggles with grief and despair, he discovers a new land on Venus, only to encounter another human, an enemy soldier. In a moment that encapsulates the cruel irony of war, Thorn is forced to confront his conditioning as he ultimately kills the stranger, solidifying the grim fate of his own kind. The novel raises profound questions about loyalty, identity, and what it means to be human when faced with annihilation.
The Man the Tech-Men Made
"The Man the Tech-Men Made" by Fox B. Holden is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story centers around Jon Kane, a young Earth-descendant who is caught in a dystopian universe ruled by a powerful alliance known as the Intergalactic Technical Alliance (ITA). As he grapples with charges of heresy and technological rebellion, he finds himself pursued across worlds, grappling with themes of power, knowledge, and survival in a galaxy that fears innovation. The opening of the book immerses the reader in Kane's desperate escape through the harsh desert of Procyon, where he is apprehended by local authorities. The narrative quickly shifts to his trial, revealing his background and the technological aspirations that put him at odds with the oppressive regime of the ITA. Despite his age, Kane's intelligence and ingenuity shine through as he admits to creating forbidden tools and attempting to repair a malfunctioning vehicle, actions that label him a renegade. As he faces the grim prospect of execution, he is unexpectedly rescued by Majtech B-Haaq, who sees potential in Kane's skills. This encounter signals the beginning of a tumultuous journey through a galaxy in conflict, setting the stage for Kane's struggle against both the ITA and his own burgeoning identity as a creator and a rebel.
The Time Armada
"The Time Armada" by Fox B. Holden is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The story follows Congressman Douglas Blair, a former physicist, who is grappling with complex political issues while also experimenting with a mysterious gadget of his own invention that may allow him to see into the past. As Blair struggles to resolve political turmoil, he inadvertently transports himself and his wife, Dorothy, to a bizarre future where they encounter their doppelgängers and face the implications of time travel. The opening of the novel introduces us to Blair, who is tired and overwhelmed by political dilemmas, particularly the contentious McKenny bill. As he engages in a contemplative discussion with his friend Carl during a dreary car ride home, Blair muses on the moral implications of their world and his failed ambition to become an astronaut. After arriving home and tinkering with his invention, the Contraption, he and Dorothy are unexpectedly swept into a different reality where they have taken on entirely new identities. This sets the stage for a narrative exploring the themes of identity, time, and the human condition against the backdrop of a futuristic society that challenges their understanding of advancement and morality.
The Builders
"The Builders" by Fox B. Holden is a science fiction novella written in the early 1950s. Set in a post-apocalyptic world, it explores themes of technological restoration and the consequences of human innovation. The narrative follows a group of builders in a society that values the reconstruction of lost machinery and technology from the ruins of old Earth, ultimately questioning the limits of human achievement and understanding. In the story, we follow Markten and his young aide as they scavenge through the remnants of once-great cities, searching for plans to recreate lost technology. Their quest leads them to discover four significant books, one of which contains blueprints for constructing new chemical automatons. Excited by their potential, they begin building, only to find that the automatons develop a life of their own. As the creations escape into the wild, Markten reflects on their lack of control over their inventions, highlighting the tension between human ambition and the unforeseen consequences of their actions. The novella culminates in a contemplation of whether these newly built automatons could pose future threats, leaving readers to ponder the ethical implications of technological advancement.
Beyond the X Ecliptic
"Beyond the X Ecliptic" by Fox B. Holden is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The story is set in a future where Earth has succumbed to despair, and the protagonist, Cragin, a seasoned space pilot, ventures beyond the mysterious Barrier into a realm that complicates scientific understanding. The book explores themes of humanity's quest for meaning and control in an indifferent universe, particularly through the narrative of Cragin's encounters with an enigmatic race known as "The Owners." The plot follows Randolph Cragin as he embarks on a perilous mission through Deep Space, where he encounters Lin Griffin, the daughter of a great scientist. Lin reveals that her father discovered a machine-planet with the ability to control celestial bodies, but was killed by The Owners, who rule the universe with absolute power. As Cragin and Lin navigate this perilous landscape, they grapple with profound philosophical questions about existence, purpose, and the consequences of wielding such immense control. Ultimately, Lin seeks to destroy the machine-planet to free humanity from the constraints imposed by The Owners, leading to a climactic confrontation between the forces of control and the yearning for autonomy. Through these characters' journeys, the novel examines the dichotomy between scientific mastery and the fundamental truths that transcend human understanding.
Earthmen Ask No Quarter!
"Earthmen Ask No Quarter!" by Fox B. Holden is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of an alien invasion of Earth, centering on themes of surrender, resistance, and the human spirit in the face of overwhelming odds. The book explores the desperate measures taken by humanity's defenders as they confront a technologically superior enemy. The story primarily follows General Taylor and Colonel Geofferey Steele, along with various military and civilian characters, as they navigate the fallout from an unexpected invasion. After the New United Nations Joint Chiefs of Staff reluctantly decide to surrender to the aliens to prevent bloodshed, Colonel Steele finds himself questioning the orders and the fate of Earth's inhabitants. Fueled by a desire to resist, he leads a small contingent of J-88 fighter jets against the alien armada in a final stand. The climax reveals not only the dire circumstances of humankind but also the bravery and sacrifice displayed by those who refuse to go down without a fight. As the narrative unfolds, it ultimately examines themes of hope and resistance, exploring what it truly means to stand up against tyranny.
Yachting Party
"Yachting Party" by Fox B. Holden is a science fiction story written in the early 1950s. It follows a group of space travelers whose yacht makes an emergency landing on an alien planet. The narrative explores their interactions with the mysterious environment and its inhabitants, particularly a creature known as the Hairy One, delving into themes of communication, exploration, and the nature of intelligence. The story begins as the passengers Marla, Ronal, Krist, and the young mechanic Logan attempt to repair their damaged spacecraft while they explore the planet. They encounter the Hairy One, an ape-like creature that seems to struggle with its ability to stand upright. Ronal takes on the challenge of trying to teach the creature to walk, driven by curiosity and the desire for cross-species understanding. However, as they work to repair the yacht and communicate with this alien life form, tension looms with the uncertainty of their situation. After several close encounters, they prepare to depart, leaving the Hairy One behind as it watches them, aware that it stands on the brink of a new evolution but ultimately chooses to remain in its own world. The book concludes with a poignant reflection on the creature's place in its environment and the bonds of understanding that were briefly touched.
Task Mission
"Task Mission" by Fox B. Holden is a science fiction novella written in the mid-20th century. The narrative follows Captain Nicholas Joel on a mission to the planet Arcturus IV, where the crew of the "White Whale" has discovered a rich supply of a rare and valuable resource called mneurium-4. As Joel and his crew engage with the planet's peaceful inhabitants, the story explores themes of ambition, morality, and cultural understanding against the backdrop of space exploration. In the story, Captain Joel, who has long harbored disdain for the endless grind of space exploration, finds himself conflicted about the ethical implications of exploiting the resources of Arcturus IV. His crew encounters the indigenous people, who, although technologically primitive, exhibit a deep sense of community and simplicity that captivates Joel. As he interacts with them, particularly a young woman he helps after an accident, he begins to question the values of his own civilization. Amidst the rich landscapes and the simple joys of life on Arcturus IV, Joel grapples with the emptiness of his former life and the true meaning of wealth, leading to profound realizations about civilization, greed, and personal fulfillment. Ultimately, his experience forces him to confront whether he truly wants to return to a life consumed by ambition and technological progress.
A Matter of Order
"A Matter of Order" by Fox B. Holden is a science fiction narrative written during the mid-20th century. The story explores themes of artistic integrity and the philosophical implications of technological progress as a colony of artists on the planet Ste. Catherine encounters three desperate men from Earth seeking their help amid a catastrophic war. This encounter ignites discussions about balance, society, and the very nature of humanity as the inhabitants of Ste. Catherine contemplate the implications of assisting their technologically advanced counterparts. In the story, the protagonist Angelo, the Dean of Masters, along with his fellow artists Tharn, Maler, Ghezi, and Ojar, greet the Earthmen as they arrive in a sleek, unfamiliar spacecraft. The Earthmen reveal their dire situation: a war on Earth has reached a stalemate threatening humanity's survival. Seeking the unique talent of the Artists, they request assistance in crafting propaganda to gain an advantage. Amidst the lighthearted banter and philosophical debates between the characters, the narrative highlights the tension between art and politics, and the characters grapple with their decision to help, underscoring the underlying principles of order, balance, and the essence of true creativity in a world increasingly reliant on technology.
Hideout
"Hideout" by Fox B. Holden is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. This book explores themes of identity and survival as it follows the adventures of Robbin Cutlass, a space pirate with a price on his head, who seeks refuge not only from his pursuers but also in time itself. The narrative traverses the realms of space and time through the innovative concepts of time-warping technology created by a brilliant Martian scientist. In "Hideout," Robbin Cutlass, the last of a notorious line of space buccaneers, finds himself on the run after a treacherous encounter with the heavily armed Tri-Planet Entente Space Patrol leads to the destruction of his ship, the "Vulture". Seeking aid from Doc Raven, a genius scientist who has been hidden away for years, Cutlass is offered a chance to escape not just space but time. With the use of a peculiar device, he is transported to various historical periods where his instincts kick in, leading him into new escapades and conflicts. As Cutlass meets both familiar and unfamiliar challenges in different incarnations throughout time, he grapples with the consequences of his existence as a pirate and the recurring patterns in his life, all while evading the relentless pursuit of those who wish to claim his life.
A Gift For Terra
"A Gift For Terra" by Fox B. Holden is a science fiction novella written in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around Johnny Love, an astronaut who becomes the first human to land on Mars, only to find himself in a deadly situation after his ship crashes. The novella explores themes of survival, the unknown, and humanity's quest for knowledge and connection with other life forms, particularly in the context of space exploration. In this gripping tale, Johnny Love crash-lands on Mars where he initially believes he is alone after losing his partner, Ferris. As he wanders the desolate landscape, he encounters Martians who reveal that they have been observing humans but are wary of their intent. The Martians wish to offer humanity advanced technology and knowledge to prevent the destruction that has befallen their civilization due to previous contact with Earth. However, as Johnny grapples with his situation and the ulterior motives behind the Martians' offers, he faces moral dilemmas and paranoia about Earth's future. As the narrative unfolds, the suspense builds toward the impending arrival of additional human space crews, leading to a climactic moment where the fates of both worlds hang in the balance.
Sidewinders From Sirius
"Sidewinders From Sirius" by Fox B. Holden is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The story revolves around an impending alien invasion from the Sirian colonists, led by the tyrannical Xenthl, who have given Earth a six-month ultimatum to surrender. Vice-Colonel Gaylord Kram of Terrestrial Intelligence devises a daring plan to negotiate a truce with the aliens instead of capitulating to their demands, using a combination of wit and strategy to confront their advanced weaponry. The novel follows Kram as he navigates the treacherous political landscape between Earth and the Sirians, who initially appear benevolent but have ulterior motives, including the development of a devastating weapon called the G-ray. Through a series of clever maneuvers, Kram gains the upper hand by bluffing Xenthl into believing Earth's capabilities are far greater than they truly are. Ultimately, his clever tactics lead to the evacuation of the Sirian forces, showcasing themes of strategy, intelligence, and the importance of resilience in the face of interstellar threats.
The Women-Stealers of Thrayx
"The Women-Stealers of Thrayx" by Fox B. Holden is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The story explores themes of war, gender roles, and cultural differences through the lens of intergalactic conflict between two humanoid civilizations, Ihelos and Thrayx. The plot revolves around a group of Earthmen caught in the conflict, particularly focusing on the demand from the Ihelians for women from Earth to ensure their survival amidst war. The narrative follows Lieutenant Lance Mason and his crew aboard a scout ship as they navigate a dangerous intersection of alien politics and the ethics of warfare. When they encounter the Ihelian warrior Kriijorl, they discover that their enemies, the Thrayxites, are not merely seeking to conquer but are enslaving women for breeding in order to regenerate their population amid the ongoing feud. Mason, along with his sergeant Judith Kent and Kriijorl, must grapple with the implications of their actions while confronting the Thrayxite forces. The climax reveals profound truths about war, survival, and the potential for peace, leading to a resolution that involves an unexpected alliance that could end the conflict between the two civilizations. Ultimately, this thought-provoking tale examines how outdated cultural beliefs can perpetuate conflict and the possibility of unity through understanding and adaptation.