The discovery of a wrecked ship that vanished in hyperspace unveils a chilling mystery, striking fear even in the most hardened individuals. As the secrets of its disappearance come to light, the implications of faster-than-light travel and the dangers it entails become increasingly apparent. The narrative promises a blend of suspense and exploration of the consequences of technological advancement.
The arrival of postgraduate Myrna Parkin revitalizes the life of Chief Astronomer Mal Spragg, but his newfound happiness is disrupted by a posthumous letter from Reverend Gulvain, an amateur astronomer. The letter reveals Gulvain's struggles and his obsession with a chilling biblical prophecy. As Spragg delves deeper, he discovers a previously unknown planetoid on a collision course with Earth, intertwining personal and cosmic stakes in a gripping narrative of discovery and impending doom.
Colin has dedicated a decade to building a successful business on the harsh terrain of Mars, envisioning a future where he could retire comfortably. With just a few more years of hard work, he believes he will secure his financial freedom. However, the story hints at the challenges and uncertainties that come with pursuing dreams in such a hostile environment, raising questions about sacrifice, ambition, and the price of success.
The story revolves around two characters: Rosslyn, a pilot who is resurrected after dying in space, and Comain, a dreamer who remained on Earth. After two centuries, Rosslyn returns to a transformed civilization where women hold power, guided by a formidable machine that predicts the future and shapes society's actions. The narrative explores themes of technological advancement, the evolution of society, and the contrast between Rosslyn's past and the astonishing new world he encounters.
The narrative unfolds in the aftermath of devastating alien attacks on various settled worlds within the Earth Confederation, where entire towns have been annihilated, leaving only destruction and chaos in their wake. The brutal reality of these assaults is starkly depicted, showcasing the tragic fate of fleeing inhabitants reduced to mere remnants. This setting sets the stage for exploring themes of survival, loss, and the resilience of humanity in the face of overwhelming odds.
Tension mounts among the major powers as they observe each other's moves, poised for action. This atmosphere of anticipation sets the stage for potential conflict, where alliances may shift and strategies are tested. The intricate dynamics of power play a crucial role in shaping the unfolding events, highlighting themes of trust, betrayal, and the precarious balance of international relations. As the players navigate their ambitions, the stakes are higher than ever, leading to an uncertain and gripping narrative.
Max Feyman, a powerful empire builder, faces a personal crisis when his daughter Celia suffers a debilitating condition while vacationing on the moon. As she becomes dependent on others for survival, a mysterious affliction begins to affect others across the solar system. Driven by desperation, Feyman embarks on a quest to find a cure, which not only holds the key to saving his daughter but also to humanity's survival. This gripping narrative explores themes of power, loss, and the lengths a parent will go to protect their child.
The story explores the complex dynamics on Venus, where native Venusians, Earth colonists, and half-breeds coexist amid rising tensions. Jim Warren, a half-breed, is determined to validate his theory that both races descended from a shared Elder Race. However, his quest for acceptance leads to ostracism from both the Earthmen and his own kind, highlighting themes of identity and belonging in a divided society.
Set in a future where interstellar travel is routine, the narrative centers on the emergence of Planetoid Disposals Ltd., a company established to tackle the dangers posed by rogue planetoids and meteorites. With the invention of the Nulgrav Drive revolutionizing space travel, the company’s mission is to ensure safe passage through the cosmos by eliminating these celestial threats, highlighting themes of innovation and the challenges of space exploration.
The setting of Turgan is vividly depicted as a labyrinth of narrow, dark alleys flanked by ancient houses that have stood for centuries. These structures, with their unseeing facades and barred doors, create an atmosphere of mystery and history, hinting at untold stories and secrets hidden within the shadows. The intertwining alleys evoke a sense of both confinement and exploration, emphasizing the age and depth of the environment.