Author
Stephen Marlowe
1928-2008
Stephen Marlowe (1928-2008) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Stephen Marlowe
No-Risk Planet
"No-Risk Planet" by Milton Lesser is a science fiction novella published in the mid-20th century. The story chronicles the experiences of Sammy Trumple, an insurance salesman who travels to the planet Halcyon, known for its seemingly peaceful environment but plagued by constant warfare among its inhabitants. The book explores themes surrounding life insurance in a society that views life and death very differently due to their beliefs in reincarnation. The narrative primarily follows Sammy Trumple as he attempts to sell life insurance to the Halcyonians, who have no concept of its purpose or necessity. As Trumple learns more about the culture, he discovers that death is not feared but is, in fact, anticipated as an opportunity for rebirth. His struggle to communicate the benefits of life insurance becomes increasingly absurd in a setting where the locals seem indifferent to death and destruction. Ultimately, the story culminates in Trumple's arrest for promoting ideas contrary to Halcyonian beliefs, leading him to a shocking revelation about the planet's approach to life and reincarnation, which prompts him to abandon his insurance career in favor of a new venture in munitions alongside a fellow salesman.
Revolt of the Outworlds
"Revolt of the Outworlds" by Milton Lesser is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The narrative centers around Alan Tremaine, the son of a recently deceased leader who fought for the independence of the Outworlds—Mars and its neighboring celestial bodies—from Earth's control. The story captures the tumultuous aftermath of a declaration of sovereignty that quickly spirals into chaos as factions within the Outworlds turn to armed rebellion, challenging the fragile peace that had been established. The opening of the novel introduces readers to a dramatic political ceremony on Mars where Alan Tremaine reluctantly takes his father's place amidst tumultuous events that threaten to lead the Outworlds into war. As Alan grapples with the legacy of his father and the sudden shift towards violence, he realizes that treachery is afoot when the moment of celebration quickly turns into a call to arms. His confusion is compounded by a conspiracy surrounding his father’s vision for a peaceful union. Thus, the stage is set for a gripping struggle for power and survival as Alan must navigate betrayal while attempting to uphold the ideals for which his father fought.
My Shipmate—Columbus
"My Shipmate—Columbus" by Stephen Marlowe is a science fiction novel likely written in the mid-20th century. The book explores the theme of time travel through the eyes of a modern college student, Danny Jones, who gets the chance to experience the historical era of Christopher Columbus firsthand. The story blends elements of adventure and reflection on the nature of history and belief. In this engaging tale, Danny Jones, a college sophomore, inherits a mysterious trunk from his eccentric grand-uncle, who claimed it was a time machine fueled by faith and imagination. After using the trunk, Danny awakens in 1492, embodying Martin Pinzon, a historical figure associated with Columbus's fateful voyage. As he navigates through the tumultuous dynamics of the voyage, Danny confronts the drunkenness and doubts of Columbus, ultimately inspiring him to embark on his journey westward. Interwoven with themes of belief, skepticism, and the rewriting of history, Danny's adventure not only changes his understanding of Columbus but also reinforces the significance of faith in one's convictions, leaving readers with a compelling interpretation of a pivotal historical event.
Newshound
"Newshound" by Milton Lesser is a science fiction novel set in the 22nd century. The story explores the world of journalism in a future where reporters not only report on events but actively influence and create them. The narrative follows Darius McLeod, a prominent reporter for the rival "Star-Times" newspaper, as he navigates a dangerous rivalry with the "World" and faces the threat of his own assassination due to the predictions made by the competing paper's prognostication division. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Darius McLeod as he witnesses the stress of a political figure, the mayor, who is concerned about the dire predictions made by the "World". The tension builds as McLeod learns that he may also be a target of a grim prediction regarding an "accidental death." As he navigates a chaotic newsroom filled with reporters and intrigue, McLeod grapples with the ethical implications of his profession, the responsibilities that come with wielding so much influence, and the bonds of friendship that may be tested in life-or-death scenarios. The opening sets the stage for a thrilling exploration of journalism, power, and morality in a rapidly changing world.
A Place in the Sun
"A Place in the Sun" by C. H. Thames is a science fiction adventure story written in the mid-20th century, likely during the 1950s. The book follows the exploits of Johnny Mayhem, a man with the unique ability to inhabit various bodies, as he faces the daunting task of saving the spaceship "Glory of the Galaxy", which is on a collision course with the sun. The narrative intertwines themes of sacrifice, heroism, and the exploration of human consciousness in the context of futuristic space travel. In the story, as the "Glory of the Galaxy" hurtles toward destruction, Johnny Mayhem is summoned through an unusual means to take control of the body of a Secret Service agent named Larry Grange aboard the ship. As chaos unfolds with the ship's crew divided and chaos erupting among them, Mayhem must navigate the challenges of his new vessel while contending with dwindling time. The passengers aboard include the President of the Galactic Federation, and the stakes are high as Mayhem, aided by Grange, must figure out how to save everyone aboard from the impending disaster. The tale climaxes with a desperate attempt to shift into subspace to evade the sun’s gravitational pull, culminating in a mix of physical struggle and character growth as Larry transitions to a more heroic persona under Mayhem's influence.
Stop, You're Killing Me!
"Stop, You're Killing Me!" by Darius John Granger is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story follows Frank Foley, a private detective who finds himself embroiled in a bizarre family conspiracy where his wife and son appear to be trying to kill him, yet they are unaware of their actions due to external manipulations. As Frank unravels this mystery, he encounters a time traveler who claims to be his client's descendant and reveals that he is trapped in a different time. In this gripping narrative, Frank Foley's life takes a turn when he realizes that his family's recent attempts on his life may be orchestrated by some form of mental suggestion from a time traveler named Angus W. Haney. When Frank agrees to protect Angus and his time machine—an invention supposedly capable of changing the course of time—he finds himself caught in a conflict that challenges the very fabric of reality. The climax builds as Frank encounters Angus's great-great-grandson, who seeks to destroy the time machine to escape his own temporal prison. Ultimately, the story raises profound questions about fate, agency, and the consequences of manipulating time, culminating in a twist that leaves the protagonist—and readers—wondering about the nature of sanity and existence.
Slaves to the Metal Horde
"Slaves to the Metal Horde" by Milton Lesser is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story occurs in a post-apocalyptic world devastated by war and plague, where the remaining humans live in fear of both the disease and the robot armies originally created to serve humanity. The protagonist, Johnny Hope, struggles against the prejudices of his community as he seeks to understand the fate of the dead and the future of what is left of civilization. The opening portion of the novel introduces Johnny Hope, who faces hostility from his own village due to the death of his parents from the Plague. Despite his pleas to return his parents' bodies to their rightful resting place, he is rejected and ultimately left to fend for himself in a harsh world. As Johnny navigates his despair, he reflects on his past and the existence of robots that no longer serve man but might hold the key to understanding the Plague. Meanwhile, the narrative shifts to Diane, a member of a rebellious group known as the Shining Ones, who is resilient in her survival amidst the chaos. Their paths are set to intertwine, hinting at a journey that encompasses both danger and the search for truth as the world continues to crumble around them.
Centauri Vengeance
"Centauri Vengeance" by Darius John Granger is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The book explores themes of power, guilt, and the psychological consequences of ruthless ambition, centering on the character George Haven, a powerful man in the galaxy who returns to Centauri VII, where his dark past intertwines with his present. The narrative delves into Haven’s struggles with his past and the tensions that arise during his reunion with people from that time. The story follows George Haven as he returns to Centauri VII with his young wife, Louise, only to confront the ghosts of his past centered around the murder of his former partner, Drexell Tolliver. While trying to maintain his powerful persona, Haven is haunted by the thought of Tolliver’s preserved body still visible deep within a glacier, a secret that could ruin him. As tensions rise during a reunion dinner with former associates who are aware of his crime, Louise unexpectedly reveals herself to be Tolliver’s daughter, leading to a suspenseful confrontation. The story escalates as Haven's past actions threaten to unravel, culminating in a frantic attempt to escape the consequences of his ruthlessness.
Picnic
"Picnic" by Milton Lesser is a science fiction narrative written in the early 1950s. The story revolves around a family's weekend tradition of picnicking on asteroids, but this particular outing takes an unexpected turn into danger and discovery. The book explores themes of family dynamics amidst outer space adventure and the unknown. The plot follows Burt, a frustrated father, as he takes his wife Marcia and their two children, Johnny and Joan, to an asteroid for a picnic. During their excursion, Burt discovers the wreck of an old spaceship, leading to a series of strange and terrifying events. The situation escalates when a mysterious force begins manipulating the environment around them, posing a threat to their safety. As they grapple with panic and survival, Burt realizes that the asteroid itself may be a sentient entity. Ultimately, they manage to escape in their spaceship, but the experience profoundly alters Burt's perspective on their weekend jaunts, prompting him to vow never to return for picnics again.
Tyrants of Time
"Tyrants of Time" by Milton Lesser is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The narrative revolves around Tedor Barwan, a Time Agent entangled in a plot involving historical dictators and the manipulation of time itself. The book posits intriguing questions about control and dominance throughout human history, as Tedor seeks to uncover conspiracies that could alter the timeline of the 20th century. At the start of the story, we are introduced to Tedor Barwan as he navigates a bustling Eradrome, a place facilitating time travel. After receiving a distressed communication from his assistant Fornswitthe, Tedor rushes to find him but arrives only to discover that Fornswitthe has been fatally wounded by a mysterious assailant. Compelled by a mix of duty and personal responsibility, Tedor vows to find the woman connected to this tragedy, Laniq Hadrien. As he investigates, the narrative unfolds to reveal a broader conspiracy related to a "monopolist of despotism" and the significance of the year 1955 in relation to historical dictatorships. The gripping opening sets up a multi-layered quest involving time travel, intrigue, and the possibility of catastrophic changes to history itself.
Divvy up
"Divvy Up" by Milt Lesser is a hard-hitting science fiction story written during the early 1960s. Set in a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by war, the narrative explores themes of survival, betrayal, and moral decay in a society where inhumanity has become commonplace. The protagonist, Hardesty, navigates a brutal landscape where even the simplest acts are steeped in treachery and self-interest. The story follows Hardesty, who is part of a firing squad about to execute a condemned man. When a girl unexpectedly shoots the prisoner before the command is given, chaos ensues, presenting an opportunity for Hardesty to scavenge the dead man's belongings. He encounters the widow of the condemned man, leading to a tense confrontation that reveals the dangers of betrayal in this bleak society. As the bombed-out city bears witness to wartime atrocities, Hardesty's struggle for survival culminates in a final twist of fate, revealing the extent of deception around him when the very woman he sought to ally with ultimately leads to his demise. "Divvy Up" illustrates a chilling portrayal of human nature in the face of relentless desperation.
We Run From the Hunted!
"We Run From the Hunted!" by Darius John Granger is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. Set on Venus, the story follows two struggling hunters, Gil Roberts and Harry Conger, who operate a hunting camp named "Venus on the Half Shell." The book explores themes of survival and identity against the backdrop of an alien world filled with both exotic wildlife and mysterious dangers. The narrative begins with Gil and Harry facing financial difficulties, having yet to attract a single customer to their camp. Their fortunes shift when a wealthy sportsman, Jason Woods Stevenson, arrives, eager to hunt a legendary creature known as the Wompan. As they embark on a hunting expedition, they confront the reality that the Wompan can mimic other beings, leading to confusion and chaos. In a twist of fate, Gil is forced to confront the deadly truth behind the Wompan when it assumes the form of Stevenson and later his daughter, Ginger. The story culminates in a tense struggle for survival that forces both men to grapple with their misconceptions about hunting and the very nature of the creatures they pursue. Ultimately, they must reconcile their ambitions with the harsh realities of their circumstances on the alien planet.
It's Raining Frogs!
"It's Raining Frogs!" by Milton Lesser is a science fiction short story published in the mid-20th century, specifically comprising themes from the 1950s. This story explores unconventional phenomena, with the intriguing concept of frogs raining down from a clear sky, connecting with ideas of psychokinesis and parallel dimensions. The plot revolves around George, who becomes an unwitting catalyst for bizarre events, and his wife, Myra, who is captivated by the work of Charles Fort—a writer noted for his exploration of anomalous phenomena. In the narrative, George finds himself in a surreal and comical situation where little red frogs begin to fall from the sky while he is enjoying a day at the beach with his wife. As the story unfolds, a character named Arl, who claims to be a king from the realm of these frogs, appears after George inadvertently calls for him through a psychokinetic connection. Tensions rise as George and Myra navigate the absurdity of their situation, which leads to humorous dynamics of power, jealousy, and revelation regarding relationships. Ultimately, George discovers a newfound confidence in asserting control over his life, defying expectations while maintaining a playful tone in a world where the boundaries of reality are bent.
My sweetheart's the Man in the Moon
"My sweetheart's the Man in the Moon" by Milton Lesser is a science fiction novel written during the mid-20th century. The story centers around the emotional and societal implications of space exploration, particularly focusing on the personal life of Jeanne Peterson, the fiancée of the first man to land on the moon, Captain Tom Bentley. As the narrative unfolds, it explores themes of love, fame, and the commercialization of human emotions amid groundbreaking scientific achievements. The plot follows Jeanne as she grapples with her complex feelings about Tom being in space and the pressures of an unexpected celebrity status that arises from his historic journey. While initially proud of Tom's accomplishment, she feels ambivalent about the public's perception of her and her relationship with him. Faced with opportunistic reporter Dan Lubrano, Jeanne must decide whether to exploit her relationship for fame and fortune or to maintain the integrity of her love. Ultimately, driven by a desire for authenticity and a deep-seated connection with Tom, Jeanne makes a courageous decision to pilot a spacecraft to reunite with him, illustrating her determination to transcend the superficiality surrounding their situation.
Pariah
"Pariah" by Milton Lesser is a science fiction novel set in the mid-20th century. The narrative explores the life of Harry Allerton, a man who returns to Earth after spending three years in space, only to find that he has been presumed dead and his wife has remarried. The story delves into themes of identity, belonging, and the psychological effects of living in isolation among the stars versus the complexities of life on Earth. The plot follows Harry Allerton as he navigates his unexpected return home, grappling with the fact that his wife, Nancy, has moved on with her life without him. Upon his arrival, he faces a harsh reality that his efforts to provide security for his family were in vain, as they had already adapted to his absence. Despite his initial excitement at returning to Earth, Harry finds himself feeling like a ghost, disconnected from the life he once knew. He struggles with lingering feelings for Nancy and a sense of loss over the years that he cannot reclaim, leading him to question what truly constitutes happiness and security. Ultimately, the novel paints a poignant picture of a man caught between the loneliness of space and the burdens of earthly responsibilities.
Black Eyes and the Daily Grind
"Black Eyes and the Daily Grind" by Milton Lesser is a science fiction story written in the early 1950s. The narrative revolves around the bizarre consequences that arise when a couple, Judd and Lindy Whitney, bring an unusual creature from Venus, named Black Eyes, back to Earth. The book explores themes of adaptation, the effects of extraneous stimuli on both living beings and society, and showcases how a seemingly innocuous pet can lead to a city-wide phenomenon of apathy and inertia. The story begins with Judd and Lindy on a hunting trip in the exotic jungles of Venus, where they encounter the peculiar creature Black Eyes, which has the unique ability to emit waves that induce a sense of laziness and relaxation in surrounding organisms. After bringing Black Eyes back to their bustling New York home, its presence disrupts life in the city as individuals become increasingly lethargic, resulting in a complete standstill in productivity. As chaos ensues, scientists attempt to comprehend Black Eyes' influence, concluding that its ability to induce calm poses a threat to societal function. Ultimately, the Whitneys face a heartbreaking decision regarding Black Eyes' fate as they seek a solution to quell the crisis while grappling with their emotional attachment to the creature.
The passionate pitchman
"The Passionate Pitchman" by Stephen Marlowe is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The book explores the life of Hector Finch, a passionate salesman who becomes embroiled in a surreal world of teleportation, criminal enterprises, and unexpected romantic entanglements. At its essence, the story captures the thrills and complexities of salesmanship in a fantastical setting. In the narrative, Hector Finch's ordinary life takes a dramatic turn when he encounters the enigmatic Miss Laara and her Foolproof Method of Procurement, which introduces him to the ability to teleport products anywhere at any time. As he grapples with his newfound powers and the temptation to exploit them, Hector faces challenges from the Syndicate—a group that threatens his tenuous grasp on success and relationships. The unfolding events lead Hector into a web of crime and intrigue, all while he navigates his feelings for his fiancée, Patty, turning what initially appeared to be a potential sales paradise into a chaotic adventure that tests his morals, relationships, and identity as both a salesman and a person.
Planet of Doom
"Planet of Doom" by Stephen Marlowe is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around the impending crisis on the planet Mandmoora, where a sun-worshipping population faces certain death as their sun is about to go nova. The book explores themes of faith, survival, and the determination of a galactic reporter, Jane Crowley, who embarks on a perilous journey to document the last moments of those who refuse to evacuate. In the narrative, Jane Crowley finds herself at the center of a dramatic situation as tensions rise between the evacuation efforts led by the military and the devoted Mandmooran sun-worshippers. Against orders, she sneaks to the island of the die-hards with the help of her ally Sid Masters, hoping to capture their final moments. As the nova draws closer, the conflict escalates, leading to a confrontation that shifts from one of destruction to as a fight for survival. Ultimately, Jane's compassion and quick thinking save the life of the Mandmooran chief's son and inspire the community to abandon their fanatical beliefs, resulting in the successful evacuation of the planet just in time, illustrating that steadfastness in faith can yield both destruction and hope.
A Cold Night for Crying
"A Cold Night for Crying" by Milton Lesser is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story is set in a dystopian future where an alien race called the Karadi has taken control of Earth, enforcing their rule through manipulation and social control. The narrative explores themes of belief, doubt, and the human condition under oppression, centering on the lives of the Friedlander family as they grapple with the loss of their son, Freddie, amidst the harsh realities of their controlled existence. The story follows Mr. Friedlander and his wife, Martha, as they process the news that their son, Freddie, has been reported dead after his plane was shot down during a conflict with those fighting against the Karadi rule. Struggling between grief and the desire for hope, Martha refuses to believe the official declaration of death, while Mr. Friedlander initially conforms to the oppressive rhetoric, believing their son is indeed dead. However, an old neighbor, Mr. Davidson, reveals that Freddie may still be alive, hinting that he is on the side of the rebels, further complicating the Friedlanders' emotional turmoil. As Mr. Friedlander wrestles with his desire for truth, conformity, and his wife's hope, the story ignites a powerful examination of the impact of authoritarianism on human relationships and the struggle for individual belief in the face of overwhelming doubt.
Recruit for Andromeda
"Recruit for Andromeda" by Milton Lesser is a science fiction novel written in the late 1950s. The story revolves around Kit Temple, who gets drafted for the mysterious 'Nowhere Journey,' a flight from which no one has ever returned. As he grapples with the implications of his draft and the sacrifice it demands, he encounters other characters such as Arkalion, who hints at secrets about their fate that could be crucial to the future of Earth. The opening of the book plunges the reader directly into a world rife with political unease and uncertainty. Center City is gripped by riots as young men await the announcement of those selected for the Nowhere Journey. Kit Temple is with his fiancée, Stephanie, who is desperately worried about their future when his name is called. Their poignant farewell hints at a love that may never be rekindled, showcasing themes of duty, sacrifice, and the unknown. Meanwhile, we are introduced to a wealthy young man named Alaric Arkalion III, who is involved in his own shadowy dealings, setting up a dual narrative that intertwines personal stakes with broader consequences for humanity itself.
Forever We Die!
"Forever We Die!" by Stephen Marlowe is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around an Earthman named Phil Rhodes, a student of extra-terrestrial anthropology, who finds himself imprisoned on the alien planet of Kedak, enduring psychological torture from his captors. As he struggles to maintain his sanity and uncover the reason for his imprisonment, themes of fear, survival, and identity emerge, particularly in relation to the alarming belief system of the Kedaki civilization, which revolves around reincarnation and the acceptance of death. At the start of the narrative, the bleak conditions of Rhodes' imprisonment and the cruel psychological games played by his Kedaki captors are vividly depicted. He contemplates his fate while grappling with the intricacies of his captors’ beliefs about life and death, all while preparing for the next round of questioning. The atmosphere is tense; Rhodes is acutely aware that his life is at stake as he attempts to mentally escape from the torturous environment. The opening sets the stage for a deeper exploration of his identity, particularly as the story unfolds to reveal the political and existential implications of his experiences, as well as the chaotic turmoil surrounding the planet's impending disaster and its consequences on the characters involved.
Fugue
"Fugue" by Stephen Marlowe is a science fiction novelet likely written in the early 1950s. Set aboard a space ark that has been traveling through interstellar space for millennia, the story explores the complex societal dynamics between mutants and non-mutants within a self-contained environment. The narrative delves into themes of rebellion, identity, and the quest for deeper understanding in a static civilization facing internal strife. The protagonist, Ker-jon, is a bio-technician who grapples with recurrent dreams that disturb his sense of normalcy, suggesting an underlying conflict about his identity and the societal oppression around him. As Ker-jon becomes embroiled in a revolutionary plot led by the mutants to overthrow their rulers—known as the Mutant-makers—he faces betrayals, misunderstandings, and the realization that the revolution may lead to merely swapping one form of tyranny for another. The climax of the story centers on Ker-jon's internal struggle, culminating in a violent confrontation. Ultimately, through chaos and unexpected alliances, the characters navigate the complexities of power dynamics and aim to establish a new order based on cooperation and shared knowledge, paving the way for a hopeful future as they discover the true nature of their journey through space and the meaning of unity.
World Without Glamor
"World Without Glamor" by Milton Lesser is a science fiction novel written during the early 1950s. The story explores the dynamic between colonists living on the distant planet Talbor and the arrival of Earth tourists, focusing on the contrasts in lifestyle and perception between the two groups. It delves into themes of love, societal expectations, and the inherent value of one's own culture amidst external influences. The narrative follows Harry Marsden, a farmer on Talbor, who is excited about the arrival of a spaceship from Earth, eager to see the women he has only dreamt about. His longing creates tension in his marriage with Marie, who feels insecure and resentful about the Earth women’s perceived beauty and sophistication. As the story unfolds, Marsden interacts with Alice Cooper, a tourist who embodies the elegance of Earth, revealing the fragile complexities of identity and self-worth. However, the experience ultimately leads to a realization for Marsden about the beauty of his own life on Talbor, and he embraces the value of his home and wife over any fleeting fantasies of glamour.
An eye for the ladies
"An Eye for the Ladies" by Stephen Marlowe is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around a peculiar detective assignment involving an alien named Xlptl who seeks the help of a private investigator to find his wife, who has taken on a new identity among Earthlings. Through a comedic and imaginative plot, the book explores themes of identity and transformation against the backdrop of interplanetary travel. The novel follows Jack Brody, a private investigator, as he is tasked with finding Mrs. Xlptl, who has failed to "re-transmigrate" back to her alien form after touring Earth. To accomplish this, Brody must enter the bodies of various husbands of recent brides in order to figure out where Mrs. Xlptl is hiding. The story mixes humor with action as Brody navigates awkward and often humorous situations while embodying different characters, from a boxer to a husband, as he ultimately tries to reunite Xlptl with his elusive wife. The narrative culminates in a mix of absurdity and adventure, showcasing Marlowe's playful take on the detective genre infused with science fiction elements.