Author
H. Beam Piper
1904-1964
H. Beam Piper (1904-1964) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by H. Beam Piper
Lone Star Planet
"Lone Star Planet" by H. Beam Piper and John J. McGuire is a science-fiction novel first published in 1957. When diplomat Stephen Silk is banished to New Texas after writing a controversial article, he discovers a world where assassinating politicians is legal—as long as the killer proves their victim "needed killin'." His predecessor was murdered, and evidence suggests he's next. Silk must navigate deadly politics while convincing New Texans to join the Solar League against an alien threat.
Time Crime
"Time Crime" by H. Beam Piper is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around the operations of the Paratime Police, tasked with investigating a sinister slave trade that transgresses multiple timelines. The protagonist, Kiro Soran, a guard captain, uncovers a chilling link between slaves bought at a plantation and their origins on a different temporal line, leading to a complex investigation that intertwines with various characters while grappling with moral dilemmas. The opening of "Time Crime" introduces readers to a plantation on the Third Level Esaron Sector, where Kiro Soran and Dosu Golan, the plantation manager, are involved in the purchase of a hundred slaves from a Calera dealer. As Soran observes the slaves, he realizes they are not local but from the Kholghoor Sector in India, suggesting they were kidnapped and brought through time for sale. This discovery prompts Soran to take action, alerting the Paratime Police and setting the stage for a deeper investigation into the criminal activities of the mysterious slave traders known as the Wizard Traders. The opening establishes a tense atmosphere and the gravity of the situation, hinting at the broader implications of time travel and ethics in the context of slavery and commerce.
Little Fuzzy
"Little Fuzzy" by H. Beam Piper is a science fiction novel published in 1962. On the planet Zarathustra, prospector Jack Holloway discovers a small, furry species that may be sapient. When the powerful Chartered Zarathustra Company realizes that recognizing the Fuzzies as intelligent beings would strip away their control of the planet's resources, they move to prove otherwise. The question of the Fuzzies' sapience must be settled in court, with the fate of an entire species hanging in the balance.
The Cosmic Computer
"The Cosmic Computer" by H. Beam Piper is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. The story revolves around Conn Maxwell, who returns to his home planet of Poictesme after studying on Terra with the intent of unraveling the mystery surrounding a supposedly all-powerful strategic computer named Merlin. The narrative delves into themes of belief, obsession, and the impact of technology on society, primarily driven by Conn's interactions with various local dignitaries who are eager to locate this fabled machine. At the start of the novel, Conn Maxwell is on a journey back to his home world after years of absence, grappling with the changes that have taken place in his homeland. As he arrives, he encounters several key figures from his past, including his father and the mayor, all of whom are fixated on finding Merlin, a computer rumored to have the potential to restore prosperity to their declining planet. The opening highlights the bleak economic conditions, hints at the dangers posed by pirates, and presents a mix of characters who are both supportive and skeptical of Conn's efforts to uncover the truth behind Merlin's existence. As the story progresses, Conn's inner conflict about misleading those around him while pursuing a larger goal begins to take shape, setting the stage for a captivating exploration of hope amid despair in a technologically advanced yet struggling society.
Space Viking
"Space Viking" by H. Beam Piper is a science fiction novel serialized in 1962-1963. Lucas Trask's wedding day becomes a nightmare when a madman murders his bride and flees into space. Consumed by vengeance, Trask transforms into a Space Viking, raiding collapsed Federation worlds while hunting his enemy across the galaxy. But his quest leads him down an unexpected path—from pirate to prince, from destroyer to builder of civilization. As he establishes a new realm on the planet Tanith, Trask discovers that revenge may matter less than the future he's creating.
Omnilingual
"Omnilingual" by H. Beam Piper is a science fiction short story published in 1957. On Mars, an Earth expedition discovers the ruins of an ancient civilization that vanished 50,000 years ago. When archaeologist Martha Dane attempts to decipher the alien texts left behind, she faces skepticism from her male colleagues and rivalry from a competitive teammate. Her breakthrough comes from an unexpected source—a universal scientific truth that might bridge the gap between human and Martian understanding.
Murder in the Gunroom
"Murder in the Gunroom" by H. Beam Piper is a mystery novel written in the early 1950s. The story centers around Colonel Jefferson Davis Rand, a private detective, who is hired to appraise and negotiate the sale of a deceased collector's extensive gun collection. However, the circumstances surrounding the death of Lane Fleming, the collector found dead in his locked gunroom, raise suspicions of foul play, prompting Rand to investigate both the collection's value and the mysterious circumstances of Fleming's death. The opening of the novel introduces Rand and sets up the central mystery. After Mrs. Gladys Fleming approaches him for help, Rand learns about the peculiar details surrounding her husband's death, including the fact that he was found with a Confederate-made revolver in his hand. The narrative paints a detailed backdrop of gun collecting and introduces supporting characters, such as the suspicious stepdaughters and a rival collector, Arnold Rivers. As Rand begins to untangle the web of relationships and motivations surrounding the firearms and the people who wanted Fleming's collection, he suspects that the death was not an accident but rather a carefully disguised murder. The beginning sets a suspenseful tone as Rand gears up to decipher the truth amidst personal conflicts and potential hidden agendas.
Rebel Raider
"Rebel Raider" by H. Beam Piper is a historical novel set during the American Civil War, likely written in the mid-20th century, as it was published in 1950. The book explores the exploits of John Singleton Mosby, a Confederate cavalry officer known for his guerrilla warfare tactics in Northern Virginia. The novel highlights themes of bravery, strategy, and the balance between loyalty to one’s cause and the realities of war. The story follows Mosby's journey as he transitions from a disinterested civilian to a key figure in the Confederate campaign against Union forces. After being left behind with a small detachment by General J.E.B. Stuart, Mosby organizes surprise attacks on Union pickets and supply lines, growing his reputation and force as he gains the support of locals. The narrative details Mosby’s strategic mindset, showcasing his ability to create significant disruption in the Union rear, which forced the enemy to divert resources to counter his guerrilla tactics. Throughout, Mosby evolves into a figure of both tactical brilliance and local folklore, demonstrating the complexities of allegiance and the harsh realities of civil conflict.
Uller Uprising
"Uller Uprising" by H. Beam Piper is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The story is set on the planet Uller during a time of colonial expansion and explores the complex dynamics between human overlords and the alien Ullerans who serve them. The novel indicates themes of colonialism, cultural clashes, and the inherent challenges of power dynamics, reminiscent of historical uprisings. The beginning of "Uller Uprising" establishes a tense and vividly detailed setting, focusing on a remote planet with unique and harsh environmental features. Here, we meet General Carlos von Schlichten, a Terran officer who oversees operations involving Ulleran natives under the Chartered Uller Company. As tensions rise, a riot breaks out between Terran colonists and the native Ullerans, leading to a violent confrontation that highlights the fragile coexistence of both species. This opening portion not only sets the stage for conflict between the two groups but also hints at deeper political intrigues and themes of societal exploitation that will likely unfold throughout the narrative.
He Walked Around the Horses
"He Walked Around the Horses" by H. Beam Piper is a science fiction short story published in 1948. Based on the true disappearance of diplomat Benjamin Bathurst in 1809, the story unfolds through letters and official reports investigating his vanishing. Piper imagines that Bathurst slipped into a parallel universe where the American Revolution failed and history took a dramatically different course. The tale cleverly uses historical figures in unexpected roles, building to a surprising revelation about the identity of one investigator.
Null-ABC
"Null-ABC" by H. Beam Piper and John J. McGuire is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The narrative unfolds in a futuristic society where literacy is a privilege restricted to a few, referred to as Literates, while the majority refer to themselves as Illiterates. Central to the story is Chester Pelton, a senator running a campaign against the influence of the Literates, as he grapples with both personal and political challenges surrounding his family, particularly his children, Claire and Ray, who possess the skills that threaten to upend their father's aspirations and societal norms. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Chester Pelton, enjoying breakfast with his children, Claire and Ray. The scene is set in a household where authentic food is a sign of affluence amidst a backdrop of socio-political tension. The narrative shifts from breakfast discussions to the political climate, as Chester is alerted to his son's admiration for a Literate—a concern that festers amidst ongoing election campaigns. A heart attack incident involving Chester, triggered by a confrontation with a Literate, intensifies the stakes, highlighting the societal divide. The opening suggests a deep exploration of the ramifications of literacy on personal identity and power dynamics, foreshadowing a critical conflict that questions the role of educated elite in society.
Four-Day Planet
"Four-Day Planet" by H. Beam Piper is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. The story unfolds on the planet Fenris, known for its peculiar four-day solar cycle, and follows Walter Boyd, a young reporter working for the local newspaper, as he navigates the challenges of life in a gritty, struggling society. The narrative revolves around the arrival of a mysterious author, Glenn Murell, and the ensuing political intrigue involving local hunters and corrupt officials that threatens the stability of the community. At the start of the novel, the protagonist, Walter Boyd, is preparing to cover the arrival of the space ship "Peenemünde" and the notable visitors it brings. As Walter interacts with various characters, including fellow hunters and local officials, he reflects on the harsh realities of life on Fenris and the limited opportunities available to its inhabitants. Walter's curiosity about the new author, combined with his disdain for the local power dynamics dominated by figures like Steve Ravick and Leo Belsher, sets the stage for the unfolding drama. The opening section establishes a rich setting filled with engaging dialogue, character development, and the hints of larger conflicts to come, drawing readers into this unique and precarious world.
The Edge of the Knife
"The Edge of the Knife" by H. Beam Piper is a science fiction novella likely written in the mid-20th century. The narrative revolves around Edward Chalmers, a history professor with the ability to foresee future events. The story addresses themes of precognition and the repercussions of knowledge about future events, particularly in the context of political upheaval and assassination. In the plot, Chalmers inadvertently reveals his knowledge of Khalid ib'n Hussein's upcoming assassination during a history lecture. This incident leads to significant turmoil for him professionally, as he faces accusations of madness from college administrators and skepticism from his peers. As events unfold, Khalid is indeed assassinated, validating Chalmers' foresight but also complicating his life as a professor. In a twist of fate, the story explores how knowledge of the future can be both a gift and a burden, ultimately leading Chalmers to confront his sanity and the implications of his abilities in a world rife with political tension.
Last Enemy
"Last Enemy" by H. Beam Piper is a science fiction short story published in 1950. In a world where reincarnation is scientifically proven, researcher Hadron Dalla's experiments threaten to upend society's political order. When she mysteriously disappears, Paratime Police operative Verkan Vall must find her before hostile forces silence her permanently. But Dalla's discoveries about consciousness and death carry dangerous implications that extend far beyond one timeline—revelations that could expose secrets meant to remain hidden forever.
A Slave is a Slave
"A Slave is a Slave" by H. Beam Piper is a science fiction novel written in the early 1960s. The story centers around the Galactic Empire's annexation of the planet Aditya, where the locals, who have lived under a system of slavery for centuries, suddenly find themselves confronted with the Empire’s principles of freedom and autonomy. The narrative explores themes of power, societal structure, and the complexities of transitioning from a deeply rooted slave society to one that may embrace freedom. The opening of the novel introduces several key characters, including Prince Jurgen Trevannion and Line-Commodore Vann Shatrak, who are involved in the military operation to take over Aditya. The tone reveals a tense atmosphere as they discuss the military strategies and the implications of their actions on the local population. Observations of the planet's governance highlight a bizarre social structure reliant on slavery, with the new Imperial forces contemplating how to impose their secular but ethical worldview on a populace that has never known freedom. Imperative debates among the characters set the stage for a larger conflict between ideals of liberty and the existing oppressive realities, as the narrative hints at both the administrative challenges and moral dilemmas ahead.
Ullr Uprising
"Ullr Uprising" by H. Beam Piper is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. Set on the hostile planet of Ullr, the narrative revolves around the complex interplay of Terran colonizers and the indigenous Ullrans, examining themes of colonialism, exploitation, and cultural conflict. The story introduces characters such as General Carlos von Schlichten and Dr. Paula Quinton, who navigate through the escalating tensions that arise amid a violent uprising against the Terran presence. At the start of "Ullr Uprising," readers are immediately immersed in a world where industrial mining operations are perilous, rooted in nuclear technology on a planet filled with toxic atmospheres. As the rebellion brews, we meet a diverse cast including the chief engineer, a young woman named Paula Quinton, and Ullran natives, specifically focusing on the character Gorkrink, who appears to be an ally yet is shrouded in mystery. The story hints at the deep-seated resentments of the Ullrans towards their Terran overseers, culminating in riots triggered by rising tensions. The opening lays the groundwork for a richly detailed exploration of interspecies diplomacy, survival, and the socio-political landscape of a colonized world.
Ministry of Disturbance
"Ministry of Disturbance" by H. Beam Piper is a science fiction novel that was published in the late 1950s. The story unfolds in a distant future where the Galactic Empire, ruled by the Emperor Paul XXII, faces internal threats and political intrigue, particularly surrounding the behavior of its various ministers and the stability of governance. At its core, the book explores themes of loyalty, paranoia, and the struggle for power amidst changing societal dynamics. The narrative follows Emperor Paul XXII as he navigates a labyrinth of conspiracies against his reign. Driven by paranoia and the fear of betrayal from ministers and officials, Paul discovers plots targeting his life, orchestrated by Prince Travann and others. As students protest against bureaucratic inefficiencies, the Emperor attempts to quell unrest while addressing the threats from within his palace. The plot thickens with the introduction of scientific discovery, including the potential for time travel, which serves as a metaphor for the need for innovation and change in an Empire stuck in stagnation. Ultimately, Paul's journey reflects the balance of power, the allure of authority, and the need for progressive transformation within a crumbling political structure.
Time and Time Again
"Time and Time Again" by H. Beam Piper is a science fiction novel written during the mid-20th century, specifically in the mid-1940s. It explores the concept of time travel and the possibility of altering one's past life, focusing on themes of memory, identity, and the consequences of changing history. The narrative follows the protagonist, Allan Hartley, who unexpectedly finds himself back in his childhood body during a pivotal historical moment just before a significant event in World War II. The story begins with Hartley awakening in his 13-year-old body after suffering injuries in a future war. While navigating the challenges of being a child again, he retains all the memories and knowledge of his adult life, including events yet to occur. With this unique perspective, he realizes he has the chance to influence his family's future and prevent a looming world conflict. Throughout the novel, Allan grapples with the complexities of his new existence, all while devising plans to change history for the better, including schemes to acquire wealth and political power. As he attempts to alter the course of events, the book delves into philosophical questions regarding fate and free will, making Allan's journey both a personal and a universal exploration of time's essence.
The Mercenaries
"The Mercenaries" by H. Beam Piper is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The book centers around a group of highly skilled scientists who are part of an independent research team engaged in advanced physics experiments. As they navigate the complexities of international power politics, they face the looming threat of espionage, with the added tension of a traitor within their ranks jeopardizing their work and lives. The storyline follows Duncan MacLeod, the leader of the research team, and his colleagues as they grapple with the realization that one of their own is betraying them to the Komintern, a powerful faction seeking to exploit their scientific advancements for military purposes. As paranoia builds, MacLeod identifies the suspected traitor, Adam Lowiewski, through cunning deduction and surveillance. Ultimately, the mounting pressure of their precarious situation leads MacLeod to execute Lowiewski to protect the integrity of the team and their research. The conclusion dives deep into the moral implications of their actions, exploring themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the price of scientific advancement in a dangerous political landscape.
Naudsonce
"Naudsonce" by H. Beam Piper is a science fiction novel written during the mid-20th century. The narrative explores themes of communication and cultural interaction as it follows a team of humans encountering an alien humanoid race on a newly discovered planet. The book delves into the complexities of establishing relations with intelligent beings whose perception and means of communication differ significantly from those of humans. In "Naudsonce," a colonial expedition led by Paul Meillard encounters the Svants, an alien race with unique auditory perception that translates sound into tactile sensations rather than audible language. The Terran crew struggles to communicate while navigating their misunderstandings of the Svants' society. As they attempt to establish a treaty for colonization, they discover the challenges of teaching these aliens Terran technologies without disrupting their existing culture. Amid language barriers, cultural conflicts, and the exploration of new technologies, the narrative raises questions about the ethics of colonization and the unintended consequences of imposing one's own beliefs and technologies on another culture. The journey leads to the realization that true understanding may require deeper empathy and adaptation on both sides.
Police Operation
"Police Operation" by H. Beam Piper is a science fiction novella originally published in the mid-20th century, specifically in 1948. The narrative follows the unusual case of a rogue extraterrestrial creature—a Venusian nighthound—that has escaped to a rural setting and is causing havoc among livestock, leading the protagonist, Verkan Vall, to embark on a perilous mission to capture or eliminate it. The story explores themes of parallel universes and the interaction between different timelines, all wrapped in a police procedural format. The plot centers on Verkan Vall, a special assistant to the Paratime Police, who is dispatched to a Fourth-Level timeline to deal with the aftermath of Gavran Sarn's reckless actions in bringing a deadly nighthound to Earth. As Vall tracks the creature, he navigates through thrilling encounters and utilizes his knowledge of the beast, which is a genetically modified hunting animal. The tension builds as Vall contemplates the impending danger posed by the creature if it were to attack humans. With its unique features and hunting techniques, the creature becomes a formidable adversary. The story concludes with Vall effectively resolving the threat while reflecting on the potential complications of paratime travel and the consequences of human interference in alternate realities.
The Keeper
"The Keeper" by H. Beam Piper is a science fiction novella published in the mid-20th century. Set in a distant future where humanity has ventured into space and civilizations have risen and fallen, the book revolves around themes of legacy, guardianship, and the battle against greed. The story follows Raud, an elderly man designated as the Keeper of a powerful artifact, the Crown, which holds significant historical importance. In the narrative, Raud lives a solitary existence in the Northland, protecting the Crown and his home with the help of his two dogs. When his home is invaded and the Crown is stolen by a group of thieves, including Vahr Farg's son and three Southron deserters, Raud embarks on a perilous quest to retrieve it. Amidst harsh weather conditions and the dangers of the Ice-Father, he faces internal conflicts regarding his duty as a Keeper and the realities of aging. His journey culminates in a confrontation where he fights to reclaim the Crown, ultimately recognizing both the value of the artifact and his own inadequacies as its guardian. The story explores the relationship between the past and present, emphasizing the importance of responsibility and the surprising resilience of the human spirit.
Day of the Moron
"Day of the Moron" by H. Beam Piper is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The book explores themes related to technology, human behavior, and the potential dangers that arise when insufficiently capable individuals work within critical fields, particularly those involving nuclear energy. Set in a future world where atomic power plants provide energy for vast metropolitan areas, it presents a narrative that delves into the implications of human error and negligence in high-stakes environments. The story follows Scott Melroy, an engineer tasked with implementing a cybernetic control system at a nuclear reactor. As he prepares to begin his work, he becomes increasingly concerned about the potential presence of incompetent workers among his newly hired staff. To mitigate the danger posed by such "emotional morons," Melroy enlists the help of psychologist Dr. Doris Rives to administer a series of tests aimed at identifying individuals who may be mentally unstable or insufficiently intelligent. Tensions rise as union representatives challenge Melroy’s methods, leading to a labor dispute that culminates in a catastrophic failure of the nuclear plant, highlighting the dire consequences of human folly in reliance on dangerous technology. The novel ultimately serves as a commentary on the fragility of modern civilization in the face of human incompetence.
Hunter Patrol
"Hunter Patrol" by H. Beam Piper and John J. McGuire is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around themes of war, time travel, and the quest for peace, focusing on a soldier navigating a complex future shaped by an authoritarian regime. The narrative engages with the implications of advanced technology in warfare and the potential for an individual's impact on the fabric of history. The plot follows Captain Fred Benson, who is thrust into a futuristic world where he discovers the United Nations is governed by a man called The Guide, who rules with an iron fist while promoting ideals of beauty and peace at a dire moral cost. As Benson grapples with his role in this new world, he meets a group of individuals determined to resist The Guide's oppressive regime. They harness time-travel technology to bring Benson from his contemporaneous war into their era, hoping he can assassinate The Guide and free humanity from tyranny. Yet, upon becoming embroiled in this conflict, Benson must confront not only the moral complexities of violence in pursuit of peace but also the unforeseen consequences of wielding such power. Ultimately, the narrative explores the cyclical nature of violence and authority, leading to a dramatic realization of who now holds true power in this dystopian landscape.