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Asteroid belt -- Fiction Books
Best books
Stephen Marlowe
The Old Way
"The Old Way" by Milton Lesser is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. Set against the backdrop of a post-war society grappling with economic depression, the story explores themes of survival and ingenuity as the characters venture out to mine the resources of the asteroid belt. This adventurous tale encapsulates the human spirit's quest for opportunity, even in the face of impending danger. The plot revolves around Jerry and his companions, Clair, his wife, and Gramps, his grandfather, as they attempt to claim a mining site on a desolate asteroid following a government initiative aimed at helping families during hard times. As they settle into their new home and face the uncertainties of asteroid living, they encounter another group of miners who arrive with sinister intentions. To outsmart their rivals and protect their claim, Jerry devises a clever scheme involving misinformation about a purported powerful weapon left behind by the Russians. This strategy leads to a tense showdown, highlighting the importance of quick thinking and collaboration amidst adversity. Ultimately, the narrative not only captures the struggles of space colonization but also underscores the timeless value of wit and psychological maneuvering in overcoming challenges.
V. E. Thiessen
Asteroid Justice
"Asteroid Justice" by V. E. Thiessen is a science fiction novella written during the mid-20th century, specifically around the late 1940s. The story follows Sam Knox, a man-hunter in the dangerous territory of the Asteroid Belt, as he searches for Pell, an inventor accused of crimes he may not have committed. The narrative delves into themes of justice, suspicion, and the complexities of human relationships set against a backdrop of space exploration and mining. The plot unfolds as Sam Knox navigates the treacherous world of asteroid mining, where he encounters a close-knit community of miners who are wary of outsiders due to recent thefts and threats. After saving an injured miner, Sam gains access to the community and discovers that Pell is hiding among them. As he works to earn the miners' trust, he finds himself embroiled in a web of deceit orchestrated by a jealous rival, Ned Hawkins. Sam's determination to bring Pell back to Terra leads him through trials of loyalty, love, and ultimately, the fight for truth and justice, culminating in a confrontation that could clear Pell's name or seal his fate forever.
George A. Whittington
Space-Lane of No-Return
"Space-Lane of No-Return" by George A. Whittington is a science fiction novel likely written in the mid-20th century, specifically during the post-World War II era. The story revolves around the adventures of two rookie officers in the Inter-Planetary Patrol as they navigate the dangers of asteroids and space piracy, ultimately seeking excitement and danger beyond the mundane routine of their patrol duties. In the book, Nord Holber and his partner Mike Doren are tasked with "asteroid fishing", a monotonous job of clearing space lanes from hazardous fragments in the Asteroid Belt. Their routine quickly shifts when they receive an urgent communication about the infamous space pirate, Dhain Kadine, who has raided a space liner and is making his way toward a safe haven in the Belt with valuable stolen documents. Seizing the opportunity for glory, the two officers confront Kadine, leading to an intense battle in which they employ clever tactics and ingenuity to overcome the outlaw’s superior steel-hulled ship. Ultimately, they form a plan that not only empowers them to capture Kadine but also allows them to contribute significantly to their Patrol’s mission, transforming their initial drudgery into a thrilling adventure.
Leroy Yerxa
Through the Asteroids—To Hell!
"Through the Asteroids—To Hell!" by Leroy Yerxa is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century, likely around the 1940s. The book details the life of Blair Freedman, a skilled pilot and member of the Tunnel Patrol, responsible for keeping a crucial passage through a treacherous asteroid belt open amid rising tensions and impending war between two satellites. The story explores themes of duty, sacrifice, and the longing for glory in the backdrop of an interstellar conflict. In the narrative, Blair Freedman grapples with his discontent in the monotonous Tunnel Patrol, yearning to join the more glamorous Warrior Patrol and prove himself in battle. However, his decision to leave leads to tragic consequences when he realizes that his friend and colleague, Jerry Graham, has died during an enemy attack on the tunnel. As he returns to the Tunnel Patrol out of guilt and a desire to honor Jerry's memory, he ultimately finds himself in a desperate situation alongside Sheila Graham, Jerry's daughter, as they attempt to thwart the impending attack by the Vestena fleet. Their bold plan requires the use of the Cutter ship to confront the enemy head-on, leading to a climactic and tragic end that underscores the heavy toll of war and the deep ties of love and loss.
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