Author
George O. (George Oliver) Smith
1911-1981
George O. (George Oliver) Smith (1911-1981) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by George O. (George Oliver) Smith
The Big Fix
"The Big Fix" by George O. Smith is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story takes place in a world where telepathy and psi powers exist, creating a complex social landscape where manipulations of chance and human nature become intricate games. The narrative revolves around the protagonist, Wally Wilson, who is confronted with an outrageous request to fix the outcome of the Kentucky Derby involving three seemingly incapable horses. In the plot, Wally finds himself coerced by the enigmatic Joseph Barcelona into ensuring that Flying Heels, Moonbeam, and Lady Grace finish in a specific order at the Derby. As he navigates the dangerous intersection of crime, telepathy, and the law, Wally grapples with the ethical implications of his predicament. The story is enriched with a cast of colorful characters, including the tough yet captivating Tomboy Taylor, and Lieutenant Delancey, who is suspicious of Wally's activities. Throughout the book, Wally's struggle to balance friendship, criminal activity, and his own moral compass leads to a clever resolution where human nature ultimately thwarts Barcelona's plan, illustrating the resilience of integrity amid the temptations of manipulation.
Venus Equilateral
"Venus Equilateral" by George O. Smith is a series of science fiction short stories published between 1942 and 1945. Set at a massive space station positioned at a strategic point between Venus and the Sun, the stories follow communications engineers who solve extraordinary problems through ingenious inventions. Led by Director Donald Channing and his team, the station's crew faces incompetent managers, space pirates, communication crises, and technical disasters—all while maintaining the vital relay linking Earth, Venus, and Mars across millions of miles of space.
Highways in Hiding
"Highways in Hiding" by George O. Smith is a science fiction novel published in 1956. When a mysterious spaceborne illness called Mekstrom's Disease begins turning victims into stone, a secret society establishes hidden highways and safe houses to shelter the infected. Against this backdrop, espers and telepaths navigate a world where extraordinary abilities collide with a deadly plague. A cure exists, but those who possess it remain in the shadows, creating an underground network invisible to ordinary society.
Nomad
"Nomad" by George O. Smith is a science fiction novel first published in 1950. Guy Maynard is rescued from Martian captivity by inhabitants of Ertene, an invisible wandering planet. Armed with knowledge from this mysterious world, he launches invasions, becomes a hero, then faces court-martial. Fleeing between worlds while impersonating rulers and raising armies, Maynard's journey culminates in a dramatic bid for ultimate power across the Solar System.
Identity
"Identity" by George O. Smith is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. Set in a futuristic world filled with advanced technologies, the story explores themes of identity, twin relationships, and the quest for treasure. The main topic revolves around the protagonist, Cal Blair, who grapples with his problematic relationship with his identical twin brother while embarking on a treasure hunt linked to the notorious pirate Hellion Murdoch. In the narrative, Cal Blair, a cryptologist, discovers a mysterious Key that is believed to lead to Murdoch's Hoard, a legendary treasure rumored to hold invaluable medical knowledge. The plot thickens when Cal's twin, Benj, attempts to impersonate him and get his hands on the Key for nefarious purposes. As Cal sets off on a perilous journey to uncover the Hoard, he faces both physical and emotional challenges, including a confrontation with Benj. Along the way, he also navigates his feelings for Tinker Elliott, a skilled surgeon and his love interest. Their journey culminates in a race against time to retrieve the medical advances hidden away by Murdoch, ultimately questioning the very nature of identity and the ethical implications of duplicating human life.
Lost Art
"Lost Art" by George O. Smith is a science fiction novella written in the early 1940s. Set against the backdrop of a futuristic Mars, the story explores the rediscovery of advanced technology from an ancient Martian civilization, particularly focusing on a mysterious beam tower and a technical manual detailing its functions. The narrative delves into themes of technological evolution and the cyclical nature of knowledge, suggesting that breakthroughs in science can become enigmas for future generations. The plot follows two Terran characters, Barney Carroll and Jim Baler, as they uncover remnants of a lost Martian technology, initially mistaking it for an abandoned signal device. They excavate a beam tower that contains a complex electronic artifact linked to a manual filled with advanced mathematics and engineering principles. As they experiment with the technology, they accidentally harness its power and inadvertently create a series of citywide electrical disruptions. Despite their initial failures and humorous misadventures, their perseverance leads them to realize the device's potential as a method of transmitting electric power over vast distances. Ultimately, the story culminates in their understanding that while this technology could revolutionize energy distribution, the practicality of its use may be lost in translation to their own civilization, reflecting on the continuity of knowledge across time.
Pattern for Conquest
"Pattern for Conquest" by George O. Smith is a science fiction novel likely written in the mid-20th century. The story unfolds in a futuristic setting involving interplanetary communication and military operations between Earth, Mars, and Venus, with a focus on the complex relationships between its main characters. The narrative introduces Stellor Downing, an ambitious Martian flight commander, and Cliff Lane, a Venusian counterpart, who find themselves entwined in a high-stakes mission that threatens the stability of their civilizations. The opening of the novel sets the stage for a tense and chaotic environment. It begins with Signal Officer Manley, who frantically tries to prevent unauthorized messages from being sent into space, highlighting the urgency and gravity of the situation. As the signal officer and his superior discuss the ramifications of their actions, we meet the Little Man, who represents a mysterious alien culture, as well as Patricia Kennebec, the daughter of the ruling figure of the Solar Combine. The narrative then shifts to Downing and Lane, who prepare for a mission that could either spell or avert doom for their worlds. The interactions among these characters, punctuated by mounting tension and impending conflict, lay the groundwork for an intricate tale of cooperation, rivalry, and the fate of interstellar races.
Off the Beam
"Off the Beam" by George O. Smith is a science fiction novel written in the early 1940s. The story revolves around the spacefaring adventures of the crew aboard the spaceship "Solar Queen", navigating the perils of space travel and communication challenges in a time when technology is still evolving. The book explores themes of survival, problem-solving, and human resilience in the face of unforeseen circumstances. The narrative centers on Don Channing, who is aboard the "Solar Queen" when the ship collides with a meteor, leaving it adrift in space with minimal systems operational. As the crew suffers various injuries, Channing, who is somewhat prepared due to his knowledge and medication, takes on a leadership role. He rallies the remaining crew members to restore power and establish communication with Venus Equilateral. As they work against time to stabilize the ship and ensure their survival, they send out a signal that ultimately leads to their rescue. The story intertwines technical ingenuity with human emotion, particularly through Channing's relationship with his wife, Arden, whose concern for her husband's safety adds a personal touch to the high-stakes narrative.
The Undamned
"The Undamned" by George O. Smith is a science fiction novel written during the mid-20th century. Set in a future where the aftermath of interplanetary war has brought humanity to the brink of technological chaos, the story explores themes of warfare, atomic technology, and the complexities of personal relationships amidst a backdrop of societal unrest. The plot centers around the Terran Union and its conflicts with Mars, informed by an intricate tale of espionage and bomb disposal. The narrative follows Colonel Ralph Lindsay and his team as they grapple with a series of highly advanced Martian robombs, a potent symbol of ongoing hostility between Earth and Mars. As they attempt to defuse these dangerous devices, personal tensions escalate, particularly concerning Lindsay’s relationship with his wife, Jenna, who has Martian ancestry. The story delves into the psychological turmoil of the characters, highlighting Lindsay's struggle with his dual loyalties and identity, while also unearthing secrets about the Martian technology that threaten the lives of many. Themes of sacrifice, loyalty, and the moral dilemmas of war run deep as characters confront their fates and the impact of their choices.
The Long Way
"The Long Way" by George O. Smith is a science fiction novel written during the early 1940s. The story centers around a group of engineers and scientists who work at a communication station on Venus Equilateral, where they make groundbreaking discoveries about power transmission technologies, particularly focusing on an alien transmission tube. The narrative reflects on themes of innovation, collaboration, and the bureaucratic challenges in scientific research. In the story, protagonist Don Channing and his team are excited about the arrival of the Martian power transmission tube and are determined to experiment with it despite the legal constraints imposed by the company that owns it, Terran Electric. As they attempt to unlock the potential of the transmission tube for various applications, they also conceive a daring plan to harness solar power directly from the Sun. As Channing's team engages in clever problem-solving and experimentation, they ultimately face off against corporate interests, leading to a tense negotiation that defines the future of their invention. The work intertwines technical jargon and a captivating plot, making it a thought-provoking exploration of the possibilities of technology and the ethical dilemmas faced by those who push boundaries in the name of progress.
Dynasty of the lost
"Dynasty of the Lost" by George O. Smith is a dynamic feature novel written in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around Harry Vinson, a dedicated engineer whose groundbreaking work is threatened by a sinister plot involving theft and kidnapping tied to advanced machines. As the narrative unfolds, Vinson finds himself entwined with various characters including the enigmatic Narina Varada, setting the stage for a gripping conflict between human ingenuity and relentless mechanization. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to Harry Vinson, who arrives at his worksite to find his years of effort in building a complex machine has been devastated by theft. As he grapples with the shocking realization, the perspective shifts to Narina Varada, who is similarly caught in a web of danger involving malevolent machines that seem to operate independently. The plot intensifies as Vinson discovers he has been abducted, leading to a tumultuous escape attempt alongside Narina. The opening chapters set the stage for a clash of wills—between humans and machines—while teasing deeper themes about existence, control, and the very nature of intelligence.
Trouble
"Trouble" by George O. Smith is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around the complexities of human identity and the interactions between an engineer and his physicist alter ego, exploring themes of creativity and practicality within the realm of science. The narrative unfolds through the experiences of Tom Lionel, the consulting engineer who struggles with a split personality, leading to humorous and thought-provoking situations as both personas grapple with their conflicting approaches to problems. The plot centers on Tom Lionel, who awakes to find his life complicated by the presence of his physicist counterpart, who continuously interferes with his practical work. As Tom navigates his daily life, he becomes increasingly frustrated with his physicist self's impractical theories and expensive whims, such as the purchase of a mass spectrograph that Tom deems unnecessary. The tension escalates when the physicist uses the laboratory equipment to delve into fantastical experiments, including the study of poltergeist phenomena and attempts to harness antigravity. The two personalities engage in an ongoing "battle" of intellects, ultimately leading to a realization that their coexistence may be more beneficial than previously thought as they confront unexpected scientific challenges together.
Hellflower
"Hellflower" by George O. Smith is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around Charles Farradyne, a disgraced space pilot who is entangled in a deadly game involving a powerful and intoxicating flower known as the Hellflower, which has the ability to manipulate human desires. As Farradyne grapples with his past and seeks redemption, he is drawn into a dangerous world where emotions can lead to destruction, making for a gripping narrative filled with intrigue and moral complexity. The opening of the novel introduces us to Charles Farradyne, a once-esteemed pilot who has fallen from grace after a tragic accident involving the spacecraft Semiramide, which resulted in the death of thirty-three people. Lost in the squalor of Venus, he meets Howard Clevis from the Solar Anti-Narcotics Department, who offers him a chance to regain his former life by infiltrating a criminal gang involved in trafficking the Hellflower. As Farradyne navigates his new reality, he encounters the complicated and emotionally charged presence of Norma Hannon, a woman whose life has been irrevocably altered by the substance he seeks to dismantle. Their tumultuous relationship sets the stage for a thrilling exploration of addiction, hatred, and the quest for redemption.
The Fourth "R"
"The Fourth 'R'" by George O. Smith is a science fiction novel published in 1959. Five-year-old Jimmy Holden possesses a college-level education thanks to his parents' invention, an "Electromechanical Educator." When his parents are murdered by his godfather and guardian, Jimmy must protect the plans imprinted in his mind, escape his would-be killer, and survive alone in a world designed for adults. The story examines what happens when extraordinary intelligence meets childhood vulnerability in mid-century American society.
The kingdom of the blind
"The Kingdom of the Blind" by George O. Smith is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around James Forrest Carroll, a brilliant physicist, who suffers from severe amnesia following a mysterious incident related to the Lawson Radiation. The narrative delves into themes of identity, the impacts of traumatic experiences, and the quest for knowledge against a backdrop of alien influence on Earth’s scientific progress. The opening of the novel introduces Doctor Pollard, a psychologist, as he grapples with the puzzling case of James Forrest Carroll, who cannot acknowledge his own identity. Embedded within a larger conspiracy surrounding the Lawson Radiation, Pollard and his colleague, John Majors, struggle to understand Carroll’s condition while hinting at broader ramifications for humanity’s understanding of interstellar science. As Carroll navigates his new reality, he begins to experience inexplicable urges to reconnect with his former life, suggesting layers of complexity regarding his lost memories and the threat posed by unseen alien forces monitoring his progress. The stage is set for a compelling exploration of the interplay between intellect, memory, and the unknown, inviting readers on a journey filled with intrigue and existential challenges.
The hellflower
"The Hellflower" by George O. Smith is a novel written in the early 1950s. This science fiction narrative revolves around a disgraced space pilot, Charles Farradyne, who is approached by Howard Clevis from the Solar Anti-Narcotic Department for a risky job. The story seems to explore themes of redemption, substance addiction, and the consequences of one’s past decisions in a futuristic setting where space travel is commonplace. At the start of the book, we find Charles Farradyne living in the desperate conditions of a fungus field on Venus, having lost his pilot's license after a tragic accident that caused numerous fatalities, including a significant loss related to narcotics operations. When Clevis arrives to offer him a new chance—alongside a forged pilot's license—Farradyne grapples with his bitter memories and the weight of his reputation. As he reluctantly accepts the job to infiltrate a drug operation tied to the dangerous love lotus, the narrative sets the stage for tension, personal conflict, and the exploration of Farradyne's character as he navigates through his past mistakes and the gritty underworld he’s being drawn back into. The opening hints at both exciting space adventures and deep emotional undertones as Farradyne embarks on what could be a path to redemption or further despair.
One of three
"One of Three" by Wesley Long is a science fiction novel written in the late 1940s. The story begins with Ed Bronson, an electronics engineer, who inadvertently discovers a means of communication with another world through experimental work with a phosphor material. The narrative suggests themes of parallel realities, scientific exploration, and potential conflicts between worlds, as Bronson learns that the woman he hears may be associated with an ominous atomic fire threatening their existence. The opening of the novel sets up an intriguing scenario where Bronson's experiments lead him to receive messages from a woman named Miss Carlson, who reveals a dangerous situation occurring in her world—a world where an atomic explosion has created a perpetual sunrise. As Bronson attempts to make contact, he quickly discovers that otherworldly invaders may be seeking to infiltrate his reality, leading to a sense of urgency and tension. The narrative is rich with scientific curiosity and the implications of technology as characters navigate the complexities of interworld communication and the impending threat of invasion. This sets a compelling stage for both personal conflict and broader existential stakes.
QRM-Interplanetary
"QRM-Interplanetary" by George O. Smith is a science fiction novel written in the early 1940s. Set in a future where interplanetary communication is crucial for civilization on different planets, the narrative explores the challenges faced by the characters during the operation of a communications relay station. The work encompasses themes of technological complexity and the interplay between administrative decisions and practical engineering. The story follows Don Channing, an electronics engineer at the Venus Equilateral Relay Station, who grapples with the appointment of Francis Burbank as the new Director. Channing and his colleagues strive to maintain the operation of their station amid Burbank's misguided efforts to cut costs and impose restrictions, which threaten their critical interplanetary communication services. When an air purification system fails due to Burbank's decisions, oxygen levels dangerously drop, leading to a frantic effort by Channing to correct the situation. Ultimately, the novel delves into the themes of teamwork and ingenuity in the face of bureaucratic oversight, culminating in Channing's elevation to Director after Burbank's removal, thus restoring order and morale to the station’s community.
Special Delivery
"Special Delivery" by George O. Smith is a science fiction novella that was published in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around the innovative concept of a matter transmitter, exploring themes of scientific experimentation, technological advancement, and competitive business dynamics in the field of interplanetary communications. Set against the backdrop of space exploration, the book delves into the challenges faced by a group of scientists as they attempt to develop a machine capable of transmitting objects instantaneously through disintegration and reintegration processes. The narrative centers on Don Channing and his colleague Walt Franks, who are deeply engaged in the creation of a matter transmitter for Venus Equilateral. Their progress, however, is mired in technical setbacks and competitive tensions with their rivals at Terran Electric. As they navigate the scientific and legal complexities surrounding their invention, the story highlights the humorous and challenging situations they encounter, especially during a court trial to establish the rightful ownership of their newly developed technology. The climax illustrates their determination to prove the validity of their invention while facing skepticism and opposition, all while maintaining a sense of camaraderie and ingenuity throughout their trials.
Stop Look and Dig
"Stop Look and Dig" by George O. Smith is a science fiction novel set in a futuristic world where mental telepathy and extrasensory perception (ESP) are prevalent. Written during the mid-20th century, the narrative explores the darker side of these psychic abilities through the adventures of Steve Hammond, a private investigator, who finds himself embroiled in a web of crime and deception. The book delves into topics of morality, crime, and the societal impact of psychic powers. In the story, Steve Hammond faces off against various threatening characters, including a hired gun named Peter Rambaugh and others connected to organized crime. After a close encounter where he is targeted by Rambaugh, Steve's investigation leads him to uncover layers of conspiracy, blackmail, and treachery involving him and a mysterious woman, Martha Franklin. As the tension builds, Steve navigates through physical confrontations and psychological mind games, ultimately revealing darker motivations behind Martha's actions and the nature of organized crime in their world. The climax forces Steve to confront not only the criminals but also the ethical dilemmas posed by the misuse of psychic abilities, leading to a dramatic conclusion where loyalties are tested, and the true nature of characters is unveiled.
The fixer
"The Fixer" by Wesley Long is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. Set on the alien planet Telfu, the story follows Sandra Drake, a resourceful human stranded among the native Telfans as they face a devastating epidemic. The novel delves into themes of scientific experimentation and cross-cultural interactions in an alien world, while also exploring the challenges of survival and adaptation in an unfamiliar environment. In "The Fixer," Sandra Drake finds herself helping the Telfans combat a deadly airborne disease known as andryorelitis, which threatens to decimate their population. As she navigates her new life, Sandra uses her knowledge of Terran science to work with Telfan scientists who are struggling to create an effective antidote. Faced with numerous challenges, including communication barriers and the Telfan's unique physiology, Sandra devises a plan to contact her Terran colleagues for assistance. Ultimately, the story highlights her determination and ingenuity as she plays a critical role in the struggle for survival on Telfu, leading to a climactic resolution that showcases the power of collaboration and innovation. Through Sandra's journey, the novel addresses broader themes of identity, the nature of intelligence, and the moral complexities of scientific progress.
Dark recess
"Dark Recess" by George O. Smith is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The story delves into complex themes of mathematics, psychology, and the dangers of unrestrained scientific exploration. The primary narrative follows Clifford Maculay, a gifted physicist who, while on a sabbatical, unwittingly becomes involved in a cosmic mystery that threatens the very fabric of the universe due to his groundbreaking equations on negative space. In this tale, Clifford Maculay struggles with personal and professional challenges, ultimately undergoing a transformation due to a unique therapeutic approach from Doctor Hanson. As he is hypnotized and encouraged to abandon his obsessive work ethic, Maculay explores a freer, more liberated lifestyle. This leads him to a series of escapades on Venus, where he meets and develops a dynamic relationship with Ava Longacre. However, a looming threat emerges when his assistant, Redmond, seeks to unravel the mysteries of Maculay's theories, potentially unleashing catastrophic consequences. The novel intricately weaves themes of self-discovery and the perils of ambition, culminating in a dramatic revelation about the effects of manipulating space and time.
Operation Interstellar
"Operation Interstellar" by George O. Smith is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around Paul Grayson, an engineer from the Bureau of Astrogation, who embarks on a mission to Proxima Centauri I to measure distances in a cosmic survey. As he prepares for launch, he becomes embroiled in an unexpected incident involving a robbery and a mysterious woman, which hints at more complex intrigues surrounding his journey. At the start of the novel, the reader is introduced to Paul Grayson as he enjoys a leisurely walk to the spaceport, reflecting on the mundane aspects of life before heading into the vastness of space. His routine is disrupted when he is attacked and robbed, leading to a chaotic encounter with a woman named Nora Phillips, who is both an interest and a potential ally. The opening sets the stage for a blend of space exploration, danger, and personal connection, paving the way for the larger themes of interstellar communication and the intrigue that surrounds Paul’s mission. As Paul grapples with the robbery and his immediate goals, the foundation for suspense and adventure within an expansive universe is established.
The Firing Line
"The Firing Line" by George O. Smith is a science fiction novel written in the early to mid-20th century. The story revolves around themes of revenge, space piracy, and the interplay between technology and human ambition. It explores the life of Mark Kingman, a lawyer entangled with the criminal mastermind Allison Murdoch, who seeks vengeance against a space communication company, Venus Equilateral, after suffering a prior defeat. In the narrative, the ambitious Murdoch escapes imprisonment and approaches Kingman, proposing a plan to take control of Venus Equilateral through illegal means. As they concoct schemes that involve high-tech weaponry and economic manipulation, Murdoch's intentions lead to clashes with the station's personnel, primarily Don Channing, who is determined to thwart Murdoch’s malicious ambitions. The novel contrasts the intelligence of scientific innovation with the moral implications of using such power for personal vendettas. Ultimately, the climax involves a high-stakes confrontation where advanced technology plays a pivotal role, culminating in a dramatic showdown that raises questions about ethics in technological advancements.