Author
Frank Belknap Long
1903-1994
Frank Belknap Long (1903-1994) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Frank Belknap Long
Space Station 1
"Space Station 1" by Frank Belknap Long is a science fiction novel written in the late 1950s. The story follows Lieutenant David Corriston, who, upon visiting an enormous space station, becomes embroiled in a dangerous conspiracy involving kidnappings, murder, and a hidden enemy. As he grapples with these threats, his determination to uncover the truth could determine not just his fate, but that of Earth itself. At the start of the narrative, the atmosphere onboard the space station is infused with wonder but quickly turns to terror. Corriston finds himself in a life-threatening struggle with a mysterious assailant just after expressing his awe for the station's grandeur. As he wrestles for survival in the dark, his mind races with thoughts of Helen Ramsey, the daughter of a powerful figure, who has vanished amid the chaos. The opening segment sets up an intense plot filled with suspense as Corriston fights against time and unseen threats to find her, hinting at deeper intrigues that might endanger them both.
Young man with a trumpet
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Mars is My Destination
"Mars is My Destination" by Frank Belknap Long is a science-fiction adventure written in the early 1960s. The narrative follows Ralph Graham, who is deeply driven by his lifelong dream of reaching Mars, a place fraught with both opportunity and violence. As tensions rise in Earth's spaceports and violent confrontations loom, the story opens with Ralph navigating a chaotic environment that sets the tone for an explosive journey into a world of colonization, danger, and personal conflict. At the start of the novel, Ralph Graham senses impending violence in a spaceport bar filled with patrons anticipating travel to Mars. His instincts prove correct when a confrontation escalates, resulting in a shooting that plunges the bar into chaos. Ralph intervenes and finds himself in deeper trouble as he attracts unwanted attention due to his special Mars clearance, symbolizing his importance in the unfolding events tied to the Martian Colonization Board. Meanwhile, a mysterious blonde woman warns him of the dangers he faces, and the intrigue intensifies as Ralph grapples with his ambitions, relationships, and the volatility surrounding the push for human settlement on Mars. The opening sets the stage for a gripping tale of survival amidst social strife and personal dilemmas.
The hounds of Tindalos
"The Hounds of Tindalos" by Frank Belknap Long is a short story published in the late 1920s and is part of the genre of weird fiction. This eerie narrative explores the boundaries of time and reality through the experiences of a protagonist who witnesses the horrific consequences of a friend's reckless experiment with a mind-altering drug. The story delves into themes of time travel, the nature of consciousness, and the existence of otherworldly beings that lurk beyond human perception. The tale begins with a character named Chalmers, who believes he can transcend time and access knowledge of the past and future through the use of an ancient drug. After his drug-fueled journey into time, he encounters terrifying entities known as the Hounds of Tindalos, who are said to exist outside the conventional dimensions understood by humankind. As he becomes engrossed in this horrifying experience, Chalmers loses touch with reality and physically deteriorates, ultimately succumbing to madness. His friend, who attempts to help him, grapples with the dreadful visions Chalmers describes—beings that threaten to invade the world through angles, symbolizing a primordial evil. In a climax filled with dread, Chalmers' fate unfolds in a haunting conclusion, leaving readers to ponder the thin veil between knowledge and horror, and what lurks beyond the limits of human understanding.
The horror expert
"The Horror Expert" by Frank Belknap Long is a novel written in the early 1960s. The story revolves around Helen Lathrup, a complex woman who navigates a world filled with psychological intrigue, obsession, and terror, pulling those around her into a dark spiral of violence and fear. Her interests in horror literature and films suggest that her own life may mirror the unsettling narratives that she consumes. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to Helen Lathrup, who is portrayed as a striking yet unsettling figure, deeply intrigued by violent and disturbing aspects of life. Her impatience and frustration are palpable as she navigates through a rain-washed New York City morning, leading her to her editorial office, where she is unexpectedly confronted with a life-threatening situation. The tension escalates dramatically as an intruder with a gun enters her office, culminating in a shocking act of violence. This early sequence sets the tone for a gripping psychological thriller that explores themes of obsession, morality, and the human psyche's darker inclinations.
Woman from another planet
"Woman from Another Planet" by Frank Belknap Long is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. The story revolves around an artist named David Loring and his fiancée Janice, whose lives become entangled with extraterrestrial beings from Mars. The plot explores themes of love, jealousy, and the unknown as it delves into human emotions and the implications of an impending alien invasion. At the start of the novel, David Loring is depicted in a disoriented state after an unsettling encounter with Janice, who has returned home shaken after encountering a mysterious man in her apartment earlier that morning. As Janice describes her experience, which leaves her feeling violated despite the stranger's assurances of innocence, David grapples with feelings of confusion and jealousy, fearing that Janice's emotional turmoil may hold deeper implications. The opening effectively sets a tense atmosphere and hints at a conspiracy that may involve alien forces watching them, as the narrative suggestively introduces the idea that these Martian entities have an ulterior motive for their earthly visit. In weaving these elements together, the book prepares readers for a complex interplay between human relationships and extraterrestrial intrigue.
Mating center
"The Mating Center" by Frank Belknap Long is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. The book explores a dystopian society where love and sexual attraction have been suppressed through biological manipulation and societal control, leaving only a select few "sex-privileged" individuals allowed to reproduce. The narrative follows the experiences of Teleman, a non-sex-privileged construction worker, as he grapples with newfound desires and uncovers the rebellion against this restrictive regime. The opening of "The Mating Center" introduces a highly controlled society that views love as a biological function stripped of emotional significance. Teleman experiences an unexplainable stir of desire as he encounters a beautiful woman, leading to a provocative interaction that hints at a breakdown in societal norms. As a monologue at a public gathering reveals the ruling caste's oppressive views toward passionate relationships, a bold female character stands up, expressing her refusal to conform. Tensions escalate as Teleman meets this woman and grapples with his suppressed instincts, setting the stage for the struggle against a system that punishes those who dare to embrace love and desire.
The miniature menace
"The Miniature Menace" by Frank Belknap Long is a thrilling novelet written in the early 20th century, specifically during the 1950s. This science fiction work explores themes of alien encounters and the complexities of interstellar relations. The story follows Captain Ralph Langford as he grapples with the consequences of not engaging an alien craft that poses a potential threat, leading him into a series of intense and dramatic events. As the narrative unfolds, Langford finds himself under arrest for defying orders to fire on the alien spacecraft. While under suspicion, he discovers a miniature, metallic insect that seems to possess extraordinary qualities. In a twist of fate, Langford's empathic and clairvoyant wife, Joan, becomes pivotal in their quest to locate the stranded alien ship, which has crash-landed on Earth. As their journey leads them to discover mysterious creatures with the ability to multiply and a telepathic alien hidden within a mental projection, the couple confronts themes of trust, the fear of the unknown, and the moral implications of violence. Ultimately, Langford's moral stance and Joan's psychic abilities combine their efforts to avert a significant interstellar conflict, culminating in a profound connection with the alien life form and a resolution that underscores the importance of understanding beyond aggression.
And we sailed the mighty dark
"And We Sailed the Mighty Dark" by Frank Belknap Long is a science fiction novelet written in the late 1940s. The story revolves around themes of adventure in space and the exploration of human emotions against the backdrop of a lost ship and its haunting history. It presents a blend of speculative elements with vivid characterizations as it navigates the vastness of deep space. The plot follows Jim Sanders and his companion Pete as they embark on a journey through the remnants of old ships in a graveyard on the outskirts of the solar system. After Jim's streak of bad luck in gambling, he decides to purchase an old spacecraft, convinced it will lead them back to Earth. However, upon takeoff, they encounter bizarre phenomena, including a vision of a mysterious woman, which turns out to be an illusion created by a creature known as a mirage pup. The mirage pup remembers a girl who died on the ship long ago, manifesting its memories as real figures and places. As the story unfolds, they confront both the trials of their physical journey through space and the emotional weight of lost love and memories, leading to a poignant conclusion as Jim reconnects with the past and finds hope for the future.
Little men of space
"Little Men of Space" by Frank Belknap Long is a science fiction novel written during the early 1950s. The story centers around a father, John Elwood, who is on the cusp of launching a small rocket designed for space travel. The plot intertwines the wonder of childhood and the chilling reality as Elwood's children, Melvin and Mary Anne, become involved in a struggle against far more advanced and sinister beings from another planet—tiny aliens with their own agenda. As the narrative unfolds, Melvin and Mary Anne encounter the little men who have come to Earth seeking to commandeer Elwood's rocket for their own escape. The children find themselves trapped in a mental confrontation with these extraterrestrial beings, who are desperate for survival. Melvin uses his wits and newfound mental abilities to outsmart the aliens, ultimately preventing them from carrying out their plans. The climax blends elements of horror with themes of childish imagination and ingenuity, showcasing how the innocent perspective of children can provide unexpected solutions to seemingly insurmountable challenges. The story concludes with a poignant reminder of the fragile boundaries between reality and fantasy, as well as the consequences of both parental ambition and childlike curiosity.
The Timeless Ones
"The Timeless Ones" by Frank Belknap Long is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The story explores themes of time, youth, and the consequences of our choices as the main characters return to a colonized planet to find their old friends unchanged by the passage of time. This examination of existence, memory, and the nature of happiness raises questions about human experience and the relationship between humanity and the unknown. The narrative follows Ned and Cynthia Jackson as they journey back to a previously colonized green world, eager to reunite with their friends, the Sweeney family. However, upon their arrival, they are startled to discover that time seems to stand still for the Sweeneys, who do not age and appear to live in a state of blissful ignorance regarding the true nature of their existence. As the couple uncovers the deeper implications of this phenomenon, they learn that the Sweeneys’ children are also stuck in eternal youth, hinting at a powerful and mysterious force at play. Intrigued and troubled by the implications, Ned and Cynthia grapple with their understanding of happiness and the nature of existence itself, leading them to confront the ambiguous intentions of a group identified as the Druids, who seem to be behind this unnatural stasis of time. The story ends with an open question about whether the characters will choose to embrace this strange existence or find their way back to their own time.
The Vibration Wasps
"The Vibration Wasps" by Frank Belknap Long is a science fiction novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the thrilling and perilous journey of Richard and his adventurous wife Joan as they attempt to explore Ganymede, one of Jupiter's moons. The narrative tackles themes of exploration, survival in hostile environments, and the unexpected challenges posed by alien life forms. The plot follows Richard and Joan as they navigate through Jupiter's atmosphere, initially believing they are pursuing a scientific expedition. However, upon landing, they discover alarming signs of life in the form of giant, wasplike creatures that are both fascinating and terrifying. As they face horrifying encounters with these beings, it becomes evident that their appearances are deceiving and exhibit terrifying predatory instincts. Caught in a nightmarish situation, Richard and Joan must rely on their wits and emotions to confront their adversaries while grappling with the extreme dangers of a world that challenges their comprehension of life itself. Their fate hangs in the balance as they confront the very essence of existence and the unknown.
The cottage
"The Cottage" by Frank Belknap Long is a science fiction short story published in the mid-20th century, specifically in 1954. The narrative explores themes of cruelty, familial relationships, and the consequences of obsessive hatred. It delves into the psychological and supernatural ramifications of a man's harsh treatment of his stepchildren, examining the darker aspects of human emotions and actions, particularly in the context of a violent universe. The story centers around Will Durkin, a cruel stepfather who harbors deep animosity toward his stepchildren, Robert and Emily, and their mother, Helen. The tale begins with Durkin gleefully presenting a dollhouse to the children, intending it as a tool for emotional punishment by reflecting their disdain for him. However, as he confronts the children's vivid and imaginative transformation of the dolls, which portrays him as a demonic figure, the story escalates into a supernatural twist. As atomic explosions occur outside, the cottage is uprooted into another dimension, and Durkin, embittered and vengeful, realizes too late the implications of his cruelty, culminating in a fateful encounter with a childlike force of revenge. The story encapsulates the interplay of childhood innocence and adult malice, ultimately highlighting the perils of a vindictive nature.
The Mercurian
"The Mercurian" by Frank Belknap Long is a science fiction novella written during the early 20th century. The story is set on Mercury, a harsh and unforgiving environment characterized by extreme heat and molten landscapes. It revolves around a group of miners working to extract uranium when an unexpected encounter with a living creature challenges their perceptions and survival. The narrative follows a young officer named Rawley, who is quickly thrown into the chaotic world of Mercury's mining operations. When the crew inadvertently captures a strange, amphibious creature resembling a frog, tensions rise among the miners, especially when the creature, later revealed to be a highly intelligent being, showcases its telepathic abilities. As the situation escalates, the crew finds themselves in peril as the creature's intentions become clear, leading to a gripping confrontation that tests their resourcefulness and humanity. The ending intertwines themes of scientific exploration with the complexity of human emotions, particularly through the romantic subplot between Rawley and Sylvia, the commander's niece, adding a personal dimension to the unfolding conflict.
The red fetish
"The Red Fetish" by Frank Belknap Long, Jr. is a horror short story that was published in the early 1930s. It delves into themes of survival and the primal instinct in a desperate situation. The narrative unfolds on a deserted island, where two men find themselves battling starvation, fear, and each other in a chilling exploration of the human psyche under stress. In the story, Bill Cullen and Wellington Van Wyck are left stranded on an isolated island, facing an overwhelming thirst and the lurking fear of cannibals. Bill's physical strength diminishes, while Van Wyck's cowardice exacerbates their dire predicament. As their desperation escalates, they propose a dangerous swim to find safety, only to encounter not only the threat of cannibals but also man-eating sharks. The narrative takes a darker turn when Van Wyck meets a gruesome fate at the jaws of a shark, leading Bill into the clutches of the cannibals, who, surprisingly, thank him for a mysterious object that had come ashore before him. The story culminates in madness as Bill, horrified by the fate of his companion and his own predicament, becomes part of the very culture he feared.
Time Trap
"Time Trap" by Frank Belknap Long is a science fiction novella written during the mid-20th century. The narrative delves into the exploration of time and identity, presenting a thrilling encounter with the complexities of time travel and the human experience on a desolate moon. Through the story, Long weaves a tale that navigates the psychological landscape of a man's encounter with his past and future selves. The plot centers around Charley Grimes, a seasoned explorer of the Solar System, as he shares his eerie experience on the dark side of the moon. While traversing a desolate valley, he discovers a trail of footprints that leads him to a mysterious mound. Inside, he encounters younger and older versions of himself who warn him about a monstrous creature that manipulates time. As Grimes grapples with this entity, he is compelled to confront the essence of his existence and the paths he has taken. The story culminates in a chaotic confrontation with the time-dissolving beast that forces him to reclaim his identity amidst the surreal, mind-bending reality of time's nature. Through vivid imagery and psychological depth, Long's work provokes reflection on the interconnectivity of past, present, and future.
Mr. Caxton draws a Martian bird
"Mr. Caxton Draws a Martian Bird" by Frank Belknap Long is a science fiction short story written in the mid-20th century. The narrative centers around two young siblings, Peter and Susan Ashley, who are left in the care of a harsh and impatient adult named Mr. Caxton while their parents are on an expedition in the Martian desert. The story explores themes of childhood innocence, imagination, and the clash between youthful wonder and adult skepticism. The plot unfolds as Peter, eager and inquisitive, believes he has seen a mysterious bird on Mars, a claim that Mr. Caxton dismisses with ridicule and scorn. The children find themselves in a struggle for validation against the adult's cynicism, leading to a climactic confrontation where Peter's vision of the strange bird becomes a pivotal moment. Ultimately, Mr. Caxton's cruel mockery leads to his downfall as he encounters the real Martian bird, resulting in a fatal consequence. The story captures the essence of how the imagination of children can challenge and surpass the limiting views of adults, blending adventure with a cautionary tale about the effects of jealousy and cruelty.
Two way destiny
"Two Way Destiny" by Frank Belknap Long is a science fiction novelette written in the early 1950s. The story explores themes of tribal dynamics, the nature of civilization, and the contrasts between different cultures as the protagonist finds himself navigating life on a beautiful but hostile alien planet called Dracona. The book delves into the psychological aspects of fear and superstition prevalent in primitive societies, as well as the potential for growth following the breaking of those taboos. In "Two Way Destiny," the main character, Taro Hargon, an Earth-born trader, encounters Kallatah, a woman from the technologically advanced planet of Tragor, while both are on the exotic planet of Dracona. As their relationship unfolds, they inadvertently provoke the wrath of the planet's tribal inhabitants due to a cultural misunderstanding surrounding a sacred, dangerous creature. The story escalates as Hargon uses mental manipulation and insights from his studies of primitive cultures to save both of them from a dire fate. Ultimately, they triumph over the tribal superstitions and the oppressive nature of the creatures that threaten the natives, suggesting a hopeful future for the inhabitants of Dracona, enhanced by the realization of their own power and wisdom.
The Sky Trap
"The Sky Trap" by Frank Belknap Long is a science fiction novel written in the early 1940s. The book explores themes of human nature and survival within an extraordinary and tense setting, as a group of characters navigates a bizarre situation that challenges their perceptions of reality and existence. It is likely to appeal to readers interested in speculative fiction that examines the consequences of scientific phenomena and the resilience of the human spirit. The story centers around Lawton, a meteorologist aboard the stratoship Perseus, who finds himself in a perplexing and dangerous situation when the ship becomes suspended in what appears to be an invisible bubble high in the atmosphere. As Lawton and the crew grapple with the lack of movement and the strange gases outside, they soon discover that they are not only trapped but also surrounded by rapidly proliferating and threatening alien vegetation. Tensions rise as the crew struggles with madness induced by the peculiar environment, and Lawton devises risky plans to escape. The narrative is a gripping exploration of how human instincts and social dynamics are tested in the face of the unknown, ultimately leading to a suspenseful confrontation with both the mysterious threats outside and the internal conflicts within the crew.
Lake of Fire
"Lake of Fire" by Frank Belknap Long is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The story explores themes of love, identity, and the tension between aspirations and reality, set against the backdrop of a Martian landscape filled with relics of an ancient civilization. It delves into the complexities of an Earth man's obsession with a Martian mirror that captures the image of a long-dead woman, leading to a struggle between emotional attachment and sanity. The plot centers around two main characters, Steve Claymore and his companion Tom Gierson, who discover a Martian hand mirror in the desert. The mirror reflects the image of a beautiful Martian woman named Azala, who captivates Steve and leads him into a dangerous obsession. As Steve becomes increasingly fixated on the image and his belief that she is alive, Tom tries to intervene, understanding the destructive nature of such an infatuation. The story escalates into a confrontation with other treasure-seeking men, showcasing both the peril of Steve's fixation and Tom's determination to protect his friend. Ultimately, the narrative culminates in an unexpected twist when the shattered mirror leads to a genuine connection between Steve and Azala, revealing deeper themes of love transcending time and culture.
The Man the Martians Made
"The Man the Martians Made" by Frank Belknap Long is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The book explores the harsh realities and psychological challenges faced by humans living in a Martian construction camp, where survival is fraught with danger and the haunting presence of an elusive Martian race looms. The narrative delves into themes of human nature, existential dread, and the brutal struggles against both the environment and each other. The story revolves around the lives of a group of human settlers on Mars, particularly focusing on Tom and his companions as they navigate the turmoil within their camp after the gruesome murder of a harmless man named Ned. Amidst the tension, the machinations of a man named Larsen provoke chaos, revealing the darker sides of human nature. As suspicions arise, and justice becomes a dangerous game, the settlers are confronted not only by their violent impulses but also by the unsettling whispers of the Martians, suggesting a lurking malevolence. The novel culminates in a visceral showdown that unveils the complex interplay of fear, jealousy, and primal instincts while leaving readers with lingering questions about the human psyche and the influence of the Martians.
The Mississippi Saucer
"The Mississippi Saucer" by Frank Belknap Long is a science fiction short story written in the early 1950s. The narrative explores themes of childhood innocence, familial love, and the impact of external forces on individual lives, specifically through the eyes of a young boy named Jimmy living on a shantyboat with his uncle and sister. The story combines elements of adventure with the mysterious and fantastical, reflecting the era's burgeoning interest in extraterrestrial phenomena. The plot centers around Jimmy's vibrant imagination and his interactions with his sister, Pigtail, and their caring yet struggling Uncle Al. The story escalates as the siblings witness a mysterious flying saucer descending from the sky, which ultimately brings them into a confrontation with the menacing Harmon brothers. As the situation grows intense and perilous, Jimmy’s latent extraordinary abilities emerge, leading to the intervention of the saucer’s extraterrestrial beings. These beings reveal Jimmy’s unique heritage, offering rescue and insight into his potential, while also bestowing Uncle Al with a gift of gold to improve their humble lives. The story concludes with a message of hope and remembrance for the struggles and bonds of family, set against a backdrop of cosmic wonder.
The Man from Time
"The Man from Time" by Frank Belknap Long is a science fiction novella written in the early 1950s. The story explores the psychological struggles of a man named Daring Moonson who travels through time using a sophisticated machine. It delves into the themes of fear, isolation, and the human condition, suggesting that even technological advancements cannot shield individuals from their internal conflicts. In the narrative, Daring Moonson grapples with acute "Time Fear," a debilitating anxiety that seizes him during his travels. Despite his innovative journey through different ages, he becomes increasingly haunted by past fears and uncertainties about his own existence and relationships. As he encounters various characters, including a troubled young couple and a writer struggling with his past failures, Moonson learns the importance of companionship and emotional connection. Ultimately, the story culminates in a realization that love and trust can overcome fear, leading him back to his wife, Rutella, who has come to reaffirm their bond and confront life's challenges together.
The Calm Man
"The Calm Man" by Frank Belknap Long is a science fiction short story written in the early 1950s. The narrative delves into themes of emotional detachment and alien identity, exploring the complexities of domestic life through the eyes of a woman named Sally. The story unfolds as she grapples with her unresponsive husband's true nature, ultimately leading to revelations about both her family and her own feelings of isolation. In this tale, Sally Anders bears the burden of her husband's emotional coldness, which becomes increasingly troubling as they raise their son, Tommy. Despite the joy of motherhood, Sally's life with her husband, Jim, feels hollow and lacking warmth. As the story progresses, a shocking truth is revealed: Jim is not human but an alien who has been using a stand-in to maintain his life on Earth while preparing to return to Mars. This revelation not only shatters Sally's world but also reveals the deeper impacts of her husband's calm demeanor. The climax builds towards the realization that Tommy, too, is drawn to his father's world, culminating in an emotional goodbye as the two entities leave Earth behind, illuminating the profound sorrow of a mother who is losing her child to another realm.