Author
W. J. (William J.) Matthews
Read free books by W. J. (William J.) Matthews on Rivro. Explore public-domain classics and related works.
Subjects
Books by W. J. (William J.) Matthews
Space-Trap at Banya Tor
"Space-Trap at Banya Tor" by W. J. Matthews is a science fiction novel written in the late 1940s. The story revolves around themes of crime, piracy, and deception within a futuristic interplanetary setting. It explores the consequences of glamorizing crime and the moral dilemmas faced by its characters, particularly in their interactions with a dangerous band of outlaws. The narrative follows Jeff Thorne, a wealthy and enigmatic figure with a troubled past, who becomes embroiled in a plot involving the glamorous Senator Iris Chanler and the notorious pirate Chain Lucas. As Thorne is enlisted by the Planet Patrol to expose Lucas's true nature, he discovers a web of treachery that connects the Senator to the criminal underworld. The story escalates as Thorne, while initially paralyzed by a treacherous plot, ultimately reveals his own strength and uses his cunning to confront the General, unmasking a shocking betrayal that intertwines the fates of all involved. Through thrilling action and unexpected twists, the story critiques the romanticization of outlaw life while offering a gripping tale of redemption and justice.
The Death From Orion
"The Death From Orion" by W. J. Matthews is a science fiction novel written during the late 1940s. The story unfolds against a cosmic backdrop, exploring themes of betrayal, survival, and the insatiable greed for power exemplified through the quest for the mythical Jewels of Orion. Set within a future where space travel is commonplace, the narrative captures the essence of adventure and danger inherent in the pursuit of treasure across uncharted territories. The plot revolves around Eldon Kurland, an outlaw facing execution, who is given a chance at freedom by Gion, the Marward of Jupiter. Gion has orchestrated a plan to retrieve the coveted Jewels of Orion, which were lost in a space shipwreck. Kurland's cooperation in this perilous quest is driven not only by the desire to save his own life and that of his captured crew but also by the tumultuous encounters with various characters, such as the mysterious Irene Francinet. The storyline weaves through alliances and betrayals, highlighting Kurland's transformation from condemned outlaw to a man searching for justice, even as Gion's greed ultimately leads to his downfall. The narrative culminates in Kurland's struggle against Gion to reclaim his crew and deliver the jewels, presenting a gripping tale of interstellar adventure and moral reckoning.
The Derelict
"The Derelict" by W. J. Matthews is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. Set against the backdrop of Mars, it follows Geoffrey Thorne, a once-esteemed space pilot who has fallen into a life of despair and substance abuse after being marooned on the planet. The narrative explores themes of redemption, the consequences of addiction, and the struggle for self-worth amidst overwhelming odds. The story begins with Thorne in a dismal state, rescued from the beach by tourists who see him as a derelict. Despite his past glories which include pioneering important space routes, he is now defined by his addiction to the dangerous Martian drug known as t'ang. As he encounters a compassionate woman named Helen Thurland and a Martian friend named Hanu, Thorne is forced to confront his failures and the possibility of change. Ultimately, his journey leads him into the Martian desert where he discovers a long-lost treasure—the valuable Vadirrian oil—which symbolizes hope and renewal, yet his path to redemption is filled with doubt about whether he can truly change and return to the society that cast him aside. The climax reveals not only Thorne's physical struggles but also his quest for inner peace and redemption as he grapples with his identity and potential future.