Author
Basil Wells
1912-2003
Basil Wells (1912-2003) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by Basil Wells
Quest's End
"Quest's End" by Basil Wells is a science fiction novel written in the early to mid-20th century. The story revolves around Thig, an alien being from the planet Ortha who takes on the identity of the human author Lewis Terry. The narrative explores themes of identity, loyalty, and the clash between two vastly different civilizations. Thig is determined to thwart an impending invasion from Ortha that threatens to conquer Earth, forcing him to battle against his own people to protect his newfound home. The plot follows Thig as he prepares to confront a forthcoming expedition from Ortha, aiming to prevent the Horde from colonizing Earth and ensuring the safety of his adopted family. Utilizing both cunning and explosive means, he embarks on a series of daring missions to gather resources and craft a plan for destruction. Thig's dilemma intensifies as he navigates the complexities of his identity and the alien logic of the Hordemen while devising a last-ditch effort to thwart their plans. In a climactic twist, Thig ultimately sacrifices himself to ensure Earth's safety, underlining the transformative power of love and humanity against the backdrop of war and betrayal. Through Thig's journey, the novel reflects on the significance of personal sacrifice for the greater good.
Quest of Thig
"Quest of Thig" by Basil Wells is a science fiction novel set during the early to mid-20th century. The book revolves around a character named Thig, an Orthan warrior who travels to Earth with a mission to evaluate the planet for colonization by his race, known as the Horde. As Thig interacts with Earth and its inhabitants, he experiences emotions and perspectives that ultimately challenge his loyalty to the cold, utilitarian ethos of his people. The story follows Thig as he disguises himself as a human after capturing Lewis Terry, a writer, and absorbing his memories. Initially focused on the conquest of Earth, Thig's time among humans—especially his interactions with Ellen, Terry's wife, and their children—transforms him. He begins to question the morality of his mission and the oppressive culture of the Horde. As the plot unfolds, Thig becomes torn between his duty to his race and his newfound appreciation for love, individuality, and the human experience. Ultimately, he rejects the destructive plans of his comrades, opting to return to Earth and live with the legacy of the man he has replaced, perpetually shaped by the memories and emotions he once sought to plunder.
Scrambled World
"Scrambled World" by Basil Wells is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century, specifically in the post-World War II era. The story explores themes of time travel, altered realities, and the impact of technological advancement on society. The plot centers on a time traveler, Devin Orth, who navigates a drastically changed Earth three million years into the future, confronting a bizarre and dangerous new world. In the narrative, Devin Orth and his companions journey through time in search of a means to shield humanity from the fallout of atomic power. Upon landing in the distant future, Orth discovers that Earth has been transformed into a kind of park by descendants of humanity, who have created a society that appears to revive aspects of American history. As he interacts with locals, including a frontiersman named Dun Horgan and an enigmatic woman named Ayna, Orth faces both physical threats and confusion about the cultural and historical context around him, marked by a surreal mash-up of time periods. Ultimately, he learns that he cannot return to his time with newfound knowledge, yet finds hope in the possibility of salvaging humanity's future. The story serves as a reflection on civilization, its achievements, and the potential ramifications of technological dependence.
Queen of the Blue World
"Queen of the Blue World" by Basil Wells is a science fiction novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows the adventurous journey of Martians as they search for the missing ship, the "Indra", which has crashed on Earth, known in Martian as Soora. The themes revolve around exploration, survival, and the intertwining fates of different species amid a colorful, alien landscape filled with unique life forms. The plot centers on Rurak Dun, a Martian officer, who is sent to find Prince Hudar Kel, the heir to the Martian throne, missing for seventeen years. Upon landing in the strange swamplands of Earth, Rurak encounters the beautiful Nitha Kel, daughter of the prince, as well as various dangerous creatures, including the savage Yzaps and the grotesque thuftars. Nitha reveals that her father is alive but under threat from a rival faction led by Jokar Ged. As Rurak and Nitha work to fend off Jokar’s forces and reunite with her father, they navigate the challenges of this hostile world. The story culminates in their efforts to return to Mars just in time for the ascension of the new emperor, amid constant peril and adventure in their quest.
Fog of the Forgotten
"Fog of the Forgotten" by Basil Wells is a science fiction novel likely written in the mid-20th century. This narrative explores themes of ancient civilizations, the fall of technological advancement, and the struggle between savagery and enlightenment. The story is set in a world shrouded in fog, both literally in its environment and metaphorically in the minds of its inhabitants who have turned against science and progress. The plot centers around Ho Dyak, an ivory-skinned man from a civilization that has regressed after a catastrophic downfall. Determined to recover the knowledge of their ancestors, he ascends from the fog-laden lowlands to the highlands where remnants of advanced technology linger. After discovering a crashed spaceship, Ho Dyak encounters new allies, including earthlings who possess knowledge of their ancient's technological prowess. Amidst lurking dangers from the priestly rulers of his people, Ho Dyak’s quest becomes a journey not only to reclaim lost knowledge but also to unite his people and rekindle their forgotten greatness, ultimately leading him to love and a revitalizing purpose for his race.
The Hairy Ones
"The Hairy Ones" by Basil Wells is a science fiction novel written in the early mid-20th century. The book presents a narrative set on Mars, exploring themes of survival and conflict as it follows a patrolman named Sisko Rolf. The story revolves around his adventures in a hidden network of caverns, highlighting the challenges of life on a dying Mars and the fight to restore its former vitality. The plot unfolds as Sisko Rolf finds himself trapped in a vast cavern world after his ship is attacked by outlaw ships. Surrounded by danger and facing the perils of the Martian landscape, Rolf encounters a unique group of inhabitants, including the "Hairy People" and "Furry Ones," along with a fierce female named Altha. As Rolf navigates through treacherous encounters and battles, he learns that hidden waters could revitalize Mars. With the stakes high, Rolf joins forces with Altha and her protector Mark Tanner to combat their foes, rescue her people, and strive for a future where Mars may flourish again. The novel combines action, adventure, and elements of camaraderie, ultimately emphasizing hope and resilience in dire circumstances.
Pioneers
"Pioneers" by Basil Wells is a science fiction novel written in the early to mid-20th century. The story revolves around themes of exploration, survival, and the struggle against the unfamiliar as a group of colonists journeys to the habitable but untamed planet Sulle II. The narrative focuses on characters who flee the constraints of their mechanized lives on Earth in search of a new beginning. The plot follows Dorav Brink, who, along with fellow colonists, awakens from a hibernation-like state on Sulle II, eager for adventure and the challenges of life outside the controlled environments of Earth’s domes. Assigned to work in Middle Park with his partner Tzal Evans, Brink grapples with the harsh realities of survival, including hunting for game and building rudimentary shelters. Tensions arise when Rea Smyt, the attractive partner of another worker, yearns to return to Earth, leading to a series of conflicts that culminate in tragedy as they encounter hostile native inhabitants. As Brink navigates love, loss, and the primal challenges of an alien world, he ultimately embraces the pioneering spirit, seeking to lay down roots for future generations amidst the struggle for a new life.
Survival
"Survival" by Basil Wells is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The book explores themes of identity, adaptation, and survival in an alien environment as humans find themselves marooned on Venus after a scientific experiment goes awry. The intriguing premise revolves around the transfer of human consciousness into alien bodies, forcing the characters to navigate the challenges of their new existence. In "Survival," Glade Masson, a meek history professor, along with a group of fellow Earthlings, undergoes an unexpected transformation when their minds are swapped with the native froglike beings of Venus following a failed scientific experiment. As they adapt to their bizarre surroundings and physical changes, they must contend with hostile natives and the harsh ecosystem of Venus. Throughout the story, Masson and his companions embark on a quest to survive, struggling to build a new civilization while grappling with the implications of their new bodies and the ethics of their actions. As the narrative unfolds, they face intense conflicts, not only from the natives they seek to understand but also about their own humanity in the face of monstrous challenges.
Animat
"Animat" by Basil Wells is a science fiction novel written in the late 1940s. Set on the inhospitable planet Venus, the story explores the themes of identity and humanity through the experiences of an android named J46 (Jay Forsix) and his companions, a group of survivors following a crash landing. The narrative delves into the blurred lines between man and machine, while characters grapple with their survival in a hostile environment inhabited by strange creatures. The plot follows Jay Forsix, an android who discovers he may have human qualities and memories as he seeks to protect his human companions, including the ambitious Ina Haan and the privileged Thela Draper. After their ship, the "Sun Maiden", crashes, they must fend off aggressive frog-like natives known as the butrads while trying to uncover the secret of their own identities. As tensions rise between the human characters and their feelings for one another, particularly between Jay and Ina, the narrative escalates into conflict and betrayal. Ultimately, the story raises questions about loyalty and the nature of existence, culminating in a struggle for survival that tests the bonds of trust among the characters.
Valkyrie from the Void
"Valkyrie from the Void" by Basil Wells is a science fiction novel written in the late 1940s. The story unfolds in a vividly imagined alien world, focusing on themes of adventure, rebellion, and survival. The protagonist, Hardan Synn, is a frontier guide navigating the treacherous political and physical landscape populated by various humanoid species and mythical creatures. The plot centers around Hardan Synn, who, while managing a wagon train composed mostly of oppressed Wetlanders, encounters a violent uprising led by the antagonistic sarif, Nitka Porn. In a struggle for power and control, Hardan fights to maintain order as the group attempts to traverse the harsh Drylands to reach Lake Gron. Complicating matters is the presence of Ylda, a headstrong priestess who seeks to escape her fate, and the looming threat of Drylanders, formidable creatures of the land. As Hardan grapples with personal conflict and external threats, he ultimately embarks on a quest towards the Bitter Sea, where he hopes to find a new life and foster relationships between the Wetlanders and Aarthmen, a race with mental powers. The tale is marked by hard-fought battles, unexpected alliances, and an exploration of love and duty amidst chaos.
Among the Scented Ones
"Among the Scented Ones" by Basil Wells is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century, likely during the 1940s. The book explores themes of survival and the clash between different civilizations on a distant jungle planet called Saaar, inhabited by humanoid creatures known as the Garros, alongside Terrans, who are trying to escape oppression from their home world. It combines elements of adventure and speculative fiction, highlighting the coexistence of species with distinct biological traits, especially around the concept of scent. The story follows Besan Wur, a Terran who, along with his companions—Nard Rost and Relsa Dav—barely escapes a violent stampede of gigantic saurians called denars. They find refuge in the jungle but soon face numerous challenges, including being captured by savage humanoids while trying to survive in this hostile environment. As they navigate treacherous landscapes and confront the brutal realities of primitive life, Besan grapples with his identity as a Terran among the scent-sensitive Garros. The plot thickens when conflicting desires and survival instincts come into play, challenging Besan’s notions of love, loyalty, and what it truly means to be free. Ultimately, the characters must unite to escape their captors and return to the relative safety of Garro civilization.
Raiders of the Second Moon
"Raiders of the Second Moon" by Gene Ellerman is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The narrative explores themes of adventure and memory loss set in a fantastical environment beyond Earth's celestial body, wherein a strange second moon named Sekk is home to a variety of human-like species and mythic creatures. The plot centers around the character Noork, who grapples with his lost memory while navigating the perils of this alien world. In the story, Noork, who has been stripped of his past, finds himself among the inhabitants of Sekk, particularly the golden-skinned people and the wild Vasads, a more primal race. He encounters Sarna, a captive golden-skinned girl, and learns of the oppressive regime of the Misty Ones, who are priests residing on a sinister island. As Noork sets out to rescue Sarna from a planned sacrifice, he discovers his own identity as Captain Dietrich, a pilot in pursuit of a nefarious scientist. The tale unfolds with action and intrigue as Noork and his allies confront various adversaries, ultimately leading to a climactic confrontation with both the Misty Ones and the villainous Von Mark, revealing a deeper connection to his own past and goals for the future.
Memorium
No description available.
Second Sight
"Second Sight" by Basil Wells is a science fiction novel written during the mid-20th century, likely in the 1950s. The story delves into themes of identity, human connection, and the consequences of technology, focusing on the life of the protagonist, Merle Duggan, as he struggles to regain his sight and independence after years of blindness. In "Second Sight," Merle Duggan, trapped in an unfulfilling life run by his domineering wife, comes into a small fortune that enables him to rent an advanced mechanical body, or super mech, to temporarily regain his sight. As he navigates the beautiful but overwhelming world above the lower levels of Appalachia City, Duggan is confronted by the harsh realities of his past, including his strained relationship with his wife, Janith. The story intensifies when Duggan becomes embroiled in a robbery while operating the mech, leading to a confrontation with the criminals and a revelation about his wife’s love and sacrifices. In the end, he recognizes that his quest for independence comes with the need for self-reflection and reconciliation, culminating in a touching reunion with Janith in the hospital, where he finally acknowledges the depth of their bond.
Stalemate
"Stalemate" by Basil Wells is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century, likely during the early 1950s. It explores the theme of war and conflict through a unique setup where individual duelists represent their nations in a controlled combat scenario rather than conventional warfare. The book delves into the psychological struggles of these warriors, offering an intense examination of honor, ambition, and the moral dilemmas of violence. The story centers around Gram Treb and his adversary Harl Neilson, who are two of the last surviving combatants in a staged war duel taking place on Earth Satellite One. As they engage in their desperate struggle for survival, both men confront the harsh realities of their situation and the implications of their actions. Treb, who is struggling with wounds and the memories of loss, contemplates the futility of their conflict and longs for peace, while Neilson, motivated by love and ambition, is driven by the desire for recognition and a better life. As the duel progresses, the two men's intertwined fates force them to consider the true cost of victory and the possibility of friendship in a world beloved by competition, ultimately leading to an unexpected conclusion that challenges the nature of honor and human connection.
Moment of Truth
"Moment of Truth" by Basil Wells is a science fiction narrative written in the mid-20th century. This book explores the themes of identity, reality, and human resilience through the eyes of a young girl adjusting to life on Mars. The narrative juxtaposes a pioneer woman's experience on Earth with the novel challenges posed by life on another planet. The story follows Ruth Halsey, a fourteen-year-old girl recovering from polio, who finds herself torn between her familiar past and a surreal present on Mars. As she wakes from a dream, she realizes that her surroundings are a distorted reflection of her childhood home, filled with memories of her deceased brother Alex. The narrative deepens when Ruth's husband, Buhl, tries to pull her into the harsh reality of Martian life, emphasizing the struggle between the comfort of illusions and the acceptance of hard truths. Amidst this, Ruth attempts to reconcile her dreams with her new life, symbolizing the universal quest for hope and belonging in a strange environment.