Author
Alan Edward Nourse
1928-1992
Alan Edward Nourse (1928-1992) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Alan Edward Nourse
The Native Soil
"The Native Soil" by Alan Edward Nourse is a science fiction novella written in the mid-20th century. Set on Venus, the narrative examines the challenges faced by a corporation, Piper Pharmaceuticals, Inc., as it attempts to exploit the planet’s unique and mysterious resources. The central theme revolves around the misunderstandings and mishaps that arise between human colonizers and the native Venusian inhabitants while uncovering the true potential of the planet's mud. In the story, Robert Kielland, a special investigator for Piper Pharmaceuticals, arrives on Venus to evaluate a struggling research installation that has encountered unexpected difficulties in extracting valuable resources from the planet's lush and clinging mud. The Venusian natives, known for their playful and seemingly unintelligent nature, are initially viewed by the Earthmen as a hindrance to their objectives. However, as Kielland navigates through the series of logistical failures and absurd incidents involving the natives and their unique knowledge of the environment, he gradually realizes that the Mud-pups are not as simple as they appear. The narrative culminates in a revelation about the natives' actual intelligence and their connection to the very resources the humans seek, leading to a reconsideration of the exploitation strategy in favor of a more mutually beneficial arrangement.
A Man Obsessed
"A Man Obsessed" by Alan Edward Nourse is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around Jeffrey Meyer, a man consumed by a desire for revenge against Paul Conroe, whom he is determined to kill after a relentless five-year hunt. Set in a chaotic and surreal future world, the novel explores themes of obsession, the darker sides of humanity, and the implications of medical experimentation. The opening portion of the book introduces Jeffrey Meyer in a tension-filled scene as he prepares to confront Paul Conroe in a seedy tavern, which reflects the moral decay of society around him. Meyer is deeply absorbed in his mission and is willing to sacrifice anything to achieve his goal, even entering the twisted realm of human vivisection experiments. As he plans to execute his revenge, we see his inner turmoil and determination, made more complex by the presence of a mysterious girl, a potential pawn in his deadly game. The initial chapter sets the stage for an intense psychological thriller filled with suspense, questions of morality, and the pursuit of vengeance.
Peacemaker
"Peacemaker" by Alan Edward Nourse is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The story revolves around a character named Flicker, who is human and has embarked on a mission to communicate with an alien species that poses a threat to his people. The book explores themes of misunderstanding, the desire for peaceful communication, and the instinct for survival when faced with hostile forces. In "Peacemaker," Flicker is captured aboard an alien spaceship, where he learns that the aliens view him as a threat and consider killing him to ensure their safety. Despite their initial aggression, Flicker seeks a way to establish contact and convey critical messages to the aliens, warning them against encroaching on his people. Throughout the narrative, he navigates the challenges of captivity, using his cunning to exploit the aliens' weaknesses and ultimately engendering a deadly game of survival in the darkened confines of the ship. As tensions escalate, Flicker is forced to resort to violence, blurring the line between his original intentions as a peacemaker and the brutal reality of self-preservation, leading him to contemplate the balance between coexistence and defense against aggression.
Heir Apparent
"Heir Apparent" by Alan Edward Nourse is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The book explores the themes of aspiration, love, and the conflict between personal dreams and relationships, particularly set against the backdrop of space exploration. Focused on the life of an aspiring astronaut, it examines the emotional struggles that arise when the desire for adventure clashes with romantic commitments. The story follows Bart, a passionate young man drawn to a life in the stars, as he navigates his ambitions to join an exploratory crew headed into space. His dream leads to a poignant conflict with Marny, the woman he loves, who fears for his safety and struggles to accept the idea of a life where he may constantly be away. As Bart grapples with his yearning for the cosmos and the implications of leaving Marny behind, their relationship becomes strained, ultimately leading him to confront the painful choices between love and the fulfillment of his dreams. The narrative unfolds with rich emotional depth, highlighting the complexity of human desires and the sacrifices that often accompany great ambitions.
Journey for the Brave
"Journey for the Brave" by Alan Edward Nourse is a science fiction story written in the mid-20th century. This narrative focuses on the emotional and psychological challenges faced by an astronaut named Scotty Johnson as he prepares for the historic journey to the Moon. The story delves into themes of courage, fear, and the desire for validation as Scotty confronts his own insecurities and past traumas while awaiting the launch. The plot follows Scotty as he arrives at the launch site and interacts with friends, officials, and the excitement of taking part in a groundbreaking mission. Initially brimming with bravado, Scotty soon grapples with intense feelings of fear and doubt when he finds himself isolated in the spacecraft. Through reflections on pivotal moments from his past, including a traumatic event in the jungle during the war, Scotty confronts the truth about his motivations and fears, ultimately discovering what it truly means to be brave. As the countdown progresses, Scotty's transformation from apprehension to acceptance of his fate encapsulates the essence of heroism—embracing courage in the face of overwhelming fear.
The Fifty-Fourth of July
"The Fifty-Fourth of July" by Alan Edward Nourse is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The book is centered around a post-apocalyptic scenario where society has collapsed due to an economic disaster linked to failed rocket launches. The main theme explores the consequences of humanity's relentless pursuit of technological advancement, symbolized by the titular Rocket that becomes a focal point for the characters' struggles and decisions in a chaotic world. The story follows Matt Matthews, who is part of a group encamped near a military installation guarding a rocket. Tensions arise as they are on the brink of launching an assault on the fortification, led by Colonel Gorham, who refuses to surrender the rocket despite the dire circumstances outside. An outsider named Loevy arrives, claiming he can negotiate a truce, which leads to unearthing grim truths about the government and the state of the world beyond. Throughout the novel, Matt grapples with his hatred for the rockets and what they represent, especially after learning of personal tragedies that have befallen his family. As desperation mounts, Matt ultimately decides to blow up the rocket, hoping to destroy the symbol of the old world's ambitions, while also realizing the importance of preserving the blueprints for a future that might allow humanity to explore the stars once again, without the same catastrophic consequences.
Letter of the Law
"Letter of the Law" by Alan Edward Nourse is a science fiction short story likely written in the early to mid-20th century. The narrative centers around themes of justice, deception, and cultural misunderstanding as it explores the complexities of interplanetary legal systems and the consequences of actions taken by individuals unacquainted with alien customs. It delves into the interaction between humans and the Altairians, shedding light on the societal norms that dictate the nature of truth and law for the inhabitants of Altair I. The story follows Paul Meyerhoff, who is tasked with dealing with Harry Zeckler, a con artist who has been imprisoned for defrauding the native Altairians by selling the same piece of land to multiple buyers. As Meyerhoff attempts to navigate the bizarre legal proceedings in the alien court, he realizes that the Altairian legal system is built on a culture where truth is convoluted, and lying is a survival tactic. As the trial unfolds with ludicrous accusations against Zeckler, he concocts a dramatic defense based on the paradox of being a liar, turning the courtroom chaos to his favor. Ultimately, his ploy not only secures his own release but also complicates future relations between Earth and Altair, leaving Meyerhoff with the burden of managing the fallout from Zeckler's actions.
The Brain Sinner
"The Brain Sinner" by Alan Edward Nourse is a science fiction novel written during the mid-20th century, likely in the 1950s. This narrative explores themes related to telepathy, alien invasion, and societal fears regarding psi-powers, delving into the implications of contact between humans and extraterrestrial beings. The story centers around a powerful telepathic alien who lands on Earth, disguised to blend in among humans. The alien's mission is to study psi-presence, a developing telepathic ability within some humans that poses a threat to his plans for invasion. As the alien navigates through various encounters, he becomes embroiled in a tense political landscape led by Councilman Benjamin Towne, who seeks to leverage the situation to undermine Psi-Highs — those with telepathic abilities — in society. Through the character of Paul Faircloth, also a Psi-High, the narrative highlights the dichotomy between perceived threat and reality while showcasing a gripping battle of wits against the societal backdrop that fears and marginalizes those with psychic powers. Ultimately, the story grapples with the consequences of fear, power, and the possibility of unity in the face of a shared existential challenge.
Bramble Bush
"Bramble Bush" by Alan Edward Nourse is a science fiction novel likely written in the mid-20th century. The book explores the complexities and challenges of psionics, particularly focusing on the development of psychic abilities in children and how adult influences may inhibit that growth. Central to the plot is Dr. David Lessing's research at the Hoffman Medical Center, where he aims to understand and cultivate these emergent psionic potentials among children at a special facility known as "the Farm." The story follows Dr. Lessing as he grapples with the implications of his psionic theory after an unexpected incident involving a young boy named Tommy. The narrative unfolds with Lessing and his colleagues facing skepticism from Dr. Melrose, a scientist with conflicting data that challenges their claims. The tension builds as they navigate the murky waters of research ethics, professional authority, and the true nature of psionic phenomena. As Lessing confronts the limits of his understanding and the potential harm of his authoritative stance, he considers rewriting his impending publication to better reflect the nuances of their findings. Ultimately, the novel poses significant questions about the authority of scientific knowledge and the unpredictable nature of discovery.
Martyr
"Martyr" by Alan Edward Nourse is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story centers around Senator Dan Fowler as he battles against a powerful elite that seeks to monopolize rejuvenation technology, allowing only a select few to benefit from it while the rest of humanity remains at risk. Through Fowler’s struggle, themes of power, mortality, and the ethical implications of advanced medical technology are explored. The opening of the novel introduces several key characters and sets the stage for the conflict at hand. We meet Carl Golden, who is undercover in the Mars Colony, determined to uncover the truth behind the mysterious death of a colleague, Kenneth Armstrong. Golden's interactions and the brewing tension hint at a deeper conspiracy connected to the rejuvenation program. Meanwhile, Senator Fowler learns from his doctor that he has a serious health condition, prompting him to consider participating in the very system he is fighting against, adding personal stakes to the political struggle. The opening sets a dark, suspenseful tone, inviting readers into a complex narrative that intertwines personal ambition with broader societal issues.
Brightside Crossing
"Brightside Crossing" by Alan Edward Nourse is a science fiction novel set in a future where space exploration is viable. Written during the mid-20th century, the narrative revolves around a group of daring explorers intent on crossing the Brightside of Mercury, one of the hottest environments in the Solar System. The book explores themes of ambition, risk, and the perils of confronting the unknown as the characters deal with treacherous terrain and extreme heat. The story follows James Baron and a team led by Major Mikuta as they embark on a perilous journey across Mercury's Brightside. Their mission is motivated by a desire to conquer the planet's harsh conditions, but they quickly confront the brutal realities of their quest. Tension arises as members of the crew struggle with trust issues, differing personalities, and the overwhelming heat that exacerbates their fear and anxiety. Ultimately, the mission ends in tragedy when their reckless choices against the planet's unforgiving nature lead to severe consequences, highlighting the message that there are limits to human endurance in the face of nature's might. Through Baron’s encounter with Peter Claney, a previous survivor of an ill-fated attempt, the novel raises profound questions about the cost of ambition and the need for humility in the face of the natural world.
Derelict
"Derelict" by Alan Edward Nourse is a science fiction novel written in the early to mid-20th century. The story revolves around a mysterious spaceship that appears near a satellite station, drawing the attention of the crew stationed there. The novel explores themes of ambition, loyalty, and the ethical dilemmas faced by individuals when confronted with power dynamics and personal desires in a tense, isolated environment. In "Derelict," the crew of a remote satellite station encounters a massive and seemingly abandoned ship from deep space. As they attempt to make contact and understand the origin of the vessel, tensions rise, particularly between Second-in-Command John Sabo and Captain Loomis, who is eager to claim glory for discovering an interstellar drive. When Sabo and engineer Brownie venture aboard the ship, they discover the remains of its alien crew, raising questions about the ship's purpose and nearly revealing a dark secret. Ultimately, as Loomis’s ambitions threaten their safety, Sabo and Brownie find themselves in a desperate bid for freedom, leading to an explosive confrontation that forces Sabo to choose between self-preservation and the greater good. The story delicately balances the thrill of exploration with the moral implications of authority and survival in the face of adversity.
Rx
"Rx" by Alan Edward Nourse is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The book follows the story of two Earth doctors, Sam Jenkins and Wally Stone, as they respond to an emergency call from the journalist Morua II, a planet with a troubled history of refusing medical contracts with Earth. The primary theme revolves around the challenges of providing medical assistance in a foreign and hostile environment, highlighting the complexities of cultural understanding and the nature of healing. The narrative kicks off with a crash-priority call that brings the medical team aboard the General Practice Patrol ship "Lancet" to the chaotic world of Morua II. Upon their arrival, they are immediately faced with the dying "Tenth Son of a Tenth Son," whose illness has baffled the local witch doctors. Faced with potential danger and unrest among the Moruans, Jenkins relies on a blend of modern medicine and cultural theatrics to treat the ailing leader. Through clever improvisation and an understanding of both medical science and the Moruan belief system, Jenkins manages to stabilize the emperor's condition, ultimately forging a medical contract with the Moruans. The ending emphasizes the significance of time and patience in medicine, concluding that healing is often as much about cultural connection as it is about treatment.
Sixty-Year Extension
"Sixty-Year Extension" by Alan Edward Nourse is a science fiction novella written in the early 1950s. The story explores themes of identity, life after death, and the complexities brought forth by advanced medical technology that provides people with a second chance at life. The narrative centers on a character named Daniel Carter Griffin, who voluntarily undergoes a radical medical procedure which effectively replaces his failing body and grants him a new lease on life. The plot follows Griffin as he grapples with his new identity as a "Free Agent," a term denoting individuals who have undergone a complete medical overhaul, leaving their previous selves behind. After his procedure, Griffin experiences profound existential turmoil, realizing that while his body is rejuvenated, he may no longer fit into the life he once knew, especially with his wife, Marian. Disoriented and filled with anxiety, he avoids returning home and instead embarks on a journey through the bustling city. Along the way, he uncovers dark truths about the fate of other Free Agents, questioning whether their transformation is genuinely liberating or if it's a manipulation leading to a loss of autonomy. Ultimately, Griffin's journey culminates in a grim revelation that the technology meant to save lives might also be a means to exploit them, as he learns he is being sent to the stars against his will, raising unsettling questions about freedom and existence in a rapidly changing society.
Wanderlust
"Wanderlust" by Alan Edward Nourse is a science fiction narrative written in the early 1950s. The book explores themes of adventure and the innate desire for exploration, focusing on the generation of young men drawn to space travel. It delves into the conflicts between familial responsibilities and the pursuit of dreams, particularly reflecting the sentiments of youth in the post-war era. The story centers on Tad, a young man whose excitement about pursuing a career in spaceflight is met with concern and resistance from his father, George Barlow, a farmer with a traumatic past related to space travel. As Tad expresses his desire to abandon college and join the crew of a spaceship, George grapples with his own memories of the dangers associated with that life, recalling his own experiences and fears of loss. The narrative captures the heartbreaking struggle between a father's protective instincts and a son's aspirations, ultimately leading to an insightful conclusion on the price of wanderlust. Through powerful dialogue and emotional depth, the book portrays not just the thrill of exploration but also the heavy burden it carries.
Star Surgeon
"Star Surgeon" by Alan Edward Nourse is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The storyline revolves around Dal Timgar, a Garvian alien striving to become a physician in a world dominated by Earthmen. The narrative begins with Dal's tumultuous journey to Hospital Seattle, the epicenter of intergalactic medicine, where he faces prejudice and challenges due to his alien heritage as he seeks acceptance and a place among the ranks of skilled physicians. The opening of the novel introduces us to Dal Timgar as he rushes to catch a shuttle to Hospital Seattle, reflecting his feelings of isolation and anxiety over the pivotal interview that could determine his future in medicine. As he arrives at the prestigious hospital, he is haunted by the knowledge that he is on shaky ground—his application for assignment is being reviewed by a council that may not want him due to his alien origins. Throughout the opening chapters, Dal grapples with feelings of inadequacy, discrimination, and longing for acceptance in a milieu that often views him as an outsider, while hints of political dynamics in interstellar medicine set the stage for the trials he will face.
Prime Difference
"Prime Difference" by Alan Edward Nourse is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story centers around the personal dilemmas of George Faircloth, a man who becomes increasingly disenchanted with his turbulent marriage. In a society where divorce has become prohibitively difficult due to stringent laws, George turns to an illegal technology that creates a duplicate of himself, an "Ego Prime," to handle his domestic life while he explores extramarital affairs. The plot unfolds as George uses his Ego Prime to navigate his frustrations with his wife, Marge, while indulging in newfound freedom. However, as the Ego Prime begins to develop a personality of its own, George finds himself entangled in unforeseen complications, including Marge's unexpected admiration for the Prime. Ultimately, the story explores themes of identity, marriage, and the moral implications of technology, culminating in an ironic twist that challenges George’s perceptions about love and companionship. As the narrative concludes, the distinction between human and machine becomes blurred, revealing deeper insights into relationships and personal fulfillment.
Consignment
"Consignment" by Alan Edward Nourse is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The book explores themes of revenge, ambition, and the consequences of technological advancements in a future setting, depicting a world where crime and transportation are intricately linked through a vast system of automated roads. The story centers around a convict's struggle to reclaim his life and enact vengeance against a former partner who wronged him. The narrative follows John Krenner, a man who escapes from prison after serving 27 years for the murder of his partner's wife. Armed and determined, he navigates the complexities of an advanced transportation system known as the Rolling Roads as he seeks to locate his former partner, Jerome Markson. Krenner's journey is marked by brutal confrontations and strategic manipulation as he attempts to elude the authorities and fulfill his desire for revenge. However, his plan comes to a sudden and fiery end when he inadvertently becomes part of an automated coal delivery system, leading him to a fate he could never have anticipated: a plunge into Markson's own steel foundry. The story serves as a thrilling exploration of the intersection of technology, vengeance, and fate.
Image of the Gods
"Image of the Gods" by Alan Edward Nourse is a science fiction novel likely written in the mid-20th century. The story takes place on the planet Baron IV, where a group of human colonists is grappling with political upheaval back on Earth that threatens their way of life. The novel explores themes of survival, colonization, and the unexpected bonds that form between species, particularly between the colonists and the planet's indigenous beings, known as the Dusties. The narrative follows Pete Farnam, the mayor of the colony, as he navigates the arrival of a new, authoritarian Earth government represented by Captain Varga and his official, Rupert Nathan. Instead of the expected supply ship led by the familiar Captain Schooner, the colonists are presented with a demand for increased production of the crop "taaro" and face a new governor overseeing their colony. Tensions rise as the colonists resolve to resist this takeover. In a climactic showdown, the Dusties—a peculiar and intelligent species native to Baron IV—dramatically intervene, demonstrating their loyalty to the colonists by shielding them from the Earth government's violent enforcement of its demands. Ultimately, the novel not only demonstrates the struggle for autonomy and self-determination but also highlights the underlying connection and respect that can exist between different forms of life.
Bear Trap
"Bear Trap" by Alan Edward Nourse is a science fiction novel written in the late 20th century. The story follows Tom Shandor, a public information officer who grapples with his role in propagating government deception during a time of impending war, and his discovery of a deadly plot tied to the death of a peace-seeking Secretary of State, David Ingersoll. As the narrative unfolds, Shandor's quest for truth compels him to confront the dark undercurrents of manipulation and betrayal that threaten not only his existence but the fate of nations. The opening of the novel introduces Tom Shandor arriving back at a rain-soaked New York airport after covering military news. He is depicted as weary and disillusioned—a propagandist skilled at spinning public narratives that often conceal the grim realities of war. After learning of Ingersoll's sudden death, Shandor is reluctantly assigned to craft a glorified biography that obscures the truth about his work. As he interacts with Ingersoll's daughter, Ann, a complicated relationship develops amid swirling tensions surrounding the truth of her father's legacy. The stakes escalate as Shandor becomes embroiled in a conspiracy that could lead to catastrophic decisions, fueling an impending conflict that threatens global stability. From the beginning, the novel deftly explores themes of truth versus deception, theomachy of authority, and the moral quandaries faced by those tasked with shaping public perception in tumultuous times.
The Dark Door
"The Dark Door" by Alan Edward Nourse is a science fiction novel likely written in the mid-20th century. This gripping narrative delves into themes of paranoia and the nature of reality, exploring the psychological turmoil faced by the protagonist, Harry Scott, as he is hunted by mysterious entities. It presents a dystopian world where science and mental health intertwine in a harrowing quest for knowledge and survival. The storyline follows Harry Scott, an engineer who unravels a disturbing truth about the existence of beings that appear human but possess incredible abilities. As he becomes increasingly paranoid, he finds himself pursued by these entities, whom he believes want to kill him. His journey is further complicated by Dr. George Webber, a scientist who seeks to use Scott as a means to uncover deeper truths about insanity's rising tide in society. In a tense climax, Scott's struggle becomes not just for survival, but for his sanity as he encounters the blurred lines between reality and the horrors projected into his mind. As he navigates through treacherous encounters, he ultimately realizes that the real threat may not be the beings he fears, but rather those who seek to control his perception of reality, leading to exposure of a chilling conspiracy that questions the fabric of his existence.
Gold in the Sky
"Gold in the Sky" by Alan Edward Nourse is a science fiction novel likely written in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around Gregory and Tom Hunter, two brothers whose lives are intertwined with the dangerous business of asteroid mining. Faced with the mysterious death of their father while mining in the Asteroid Belt, they uncover a deeper conspiracy associated with the Jupiter Equilateral company, leading them to confront the perils of their spacefaring world in pursuit of justice. The opening of the novel sets the stage for a tense narrative filled with action and emotional conflict. It begins with Greg Hunter, a test pilot, preparing for a risky space mission when he receives an urgent summons from the U.N. Council, signaling trouble regarding their father’s safety. Simultaneously, Tom Hunter, who has been dealing with his own struggles in the Martian landscape, learns of the unexpected loss of their father. The brothers reunite amid a backdrop of suspicion surrounding the motives of powerful corporate entities like Jupiter Equilateral, establishing an atmosphere charged with danger and intrigue. Their quest to uncover the truth about their father's death propels them into a web of conspiracy, setting the tone for the thrilling adventures that await them in the vastness of space.
Contamination Crew
"Contamination Crew" by Alan Edward Nourse is a science fiction novel likely written in the mid-20th century. The story takes place in a futuristic setting, specifically aboard a medical survey ship in the Galactic Period 22, addressing themes of interstellar medical practice and the unforeseen consequences of encountering alien life forms. The primary topic revolves around the crew's struggle to deal with a bizarre and menacing creature, the hlorg, that poses a significant threat to their mission and survival. In this narrative, Red Doctor Samuel Jenkins and his colleague, Green Doctor Wallace Stone, find themselves aboard the General Survey Ship Mercy after a mission to a planet suffering from mass psychotic delusions. However, the situation escalates when they inadvertently bring aboard the indestructible hlorg, a gelatinous entity that voraciously consumes the ship's supplies and wreaks havoc. As the crew works frantically to understand and contain the creature, they confront moral dilemmas and the consequences of their actions, leading to a tense and unexpected resolution. The novel explores themes such as the unpredictability of alien biology and the ethical considerations of survival in a scientific context.
Infinite Intruder
"Infinite Intruder" by Alan Edward Nourse is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The narrative unfolds in a post-apocalyptic future where Roger Strang discovers that someone is attempting to murder his son, David, prompting an urgent investigation. The story delves into themes of identity, memory, and the consequences of time travel as Roger's search leads him to question the very fabric of his existence. The plot centers around Roger Strang's frantic efforts to protect his son from mysterious attackers after multiple attempts on David's life. As Roger grapples with the horrific possibility that his son is being targeted for something greater, he uncovers a shocking truth about his own identity: his past is a construct, created to mask a reality involving time travel and a traumatic history that he cannot recall. With the help of his wife, Ann, he learns that they were once involved in a plot to eliminate their own son, who has grown into a powerful dictator in the future. The tension escalates as Roger ultimately takes drastic action to prevent a war driven by his altered reality, leading to a dramatic climax where he must confront the truth about himself and the dangerous implications of their actions in the past.