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H. Beam Piper

    March 23, 1904 – November 4, 1964

    This American author is best known for his extensive series of stories and novels exploring future and alternate histories. His works feature intricate world-building and original concepts that draw readers into compelling narratives. He often sets his tales within vast future histories and alternate timelines of his own creation.

    A Slave is a Slave
    The Complete Paratime
    Ullr Uprising
    Little Fuzzy
    Ministry of Disturbance and Other Science Fiction by H. Beam Piper, Adventure
    Time Crime
    • Time Crime

      • 100 pages
      • 4 hours of reading

      In a universe governed by parallel timelines, the Paratime Police safeguard against disruptions in time travel. Verkan Vall, a seasoned officer, confronts a particularly complex case that tests his skills and resolve. The novella delves into the thrilling and perilous implications of manipulating time, as Vall navigates the challenges posed by his mission, highlighting the intricate balance between different realities.

      Time Crime
      4.0
    • Exploring complex themes of morality, logic, and communication, this collection features four thought-provoking stories. "A Slave is a Slave" challenges the notion of sympathy towards the oppressed, while "Oomphel in the Sky" questions the effectiveness of logic against deeply held beliefs. "Omnilingual" delves into the difficulties of translating an ancient Martian language, emphasizing the barriers of time and understanding. Lastly, "The Keeper" follows Raud's quest to reclaim stolen treasure, showcasing courage against technologically advanced foes.

      Ministry of Disturbance and Other Science Fiction by H. Beam Piper, Adventure
      4.2
    • Little Fuzzy

      • 134 pages
      • 5 hours of reading

      Set in a future where humanity has colonized other planets, the story follows the discovery of a small, intelligent creature known as Little Fuzzy. As the protagonist navigates the complexities of interspecies communication and the implications of sentience, themes of ethics and the nature of intelligence emerge. The novel explores the tension between corporate interests and the rights of sentient beings, highlighting the struggle for recognition and understanding in a rapidly advancing society. Nominated for a Hugo Award, it remains a classic in science fiction literature.

      Little Fuzzy
      4.0
    • Ullr Uprising

      • 108 pages
      • 4 hours of reading

      The narrative centers on Terra's struggle to quell the Uller uprising, drawing parallels to the historical Sepoy Mutiny within an expansive interstellar empire. This gripping tale showcases H. Beam Piper's masterful storytelling in the Space Opera genre, offering a blend of action and deep insight into the complexities of rebellion and governance.

      Ullr Uprising
      4.0
    • The Complete Paratime

      • 434 pages
      • 16 hours of reading

      The narrative explores the concept of infinite parallel worlds, where the Paratime Police serve as guardians against the threats posed by more advanced civilizations. This collection features a range of stories, including the original Paratime tale and "Lord Kalvan of Otherwhen," highlighting the adventures of time-traveling heroes and a state trooper's conquest in an alternate Earth. The work showcases H. Beam Piper's imaginative world-building and the complexities of navigating multiple realities, presenting a grand science fiction experience.

      The Complete Paratime
      4.1
    • A Slave is a Slave

      • 24 pages
      • 1 hour of reading

      The narrative explores a complex dialogue between Count Erskyll and Prince Trevannion regarding the transition from slavery to a form of servitude, highlighting themes of power, exploitation, and the slow evolution of society. Erskyll expresses skepticism about the proposed changes, fearing that the new system will perpetuate abuse and debt. In contrast, Trevannion believes gradual reforms will eventually lead to genuine freedom, emphasizing that societal change requires time and effort. The discussion reflects deep philosophical questions about freedom and the responsibilities of leadership.

      A Slave is a Slave
      3.8
    • The Cosmic Computer

      • 154 pages
      • 6 hours of reading

      Set on a struggling backwater planet rich in war surplus, the story follows the inhabitants' quest for a long-lost supercomputer. As they navigate the brink of economic collapse, the search for this technological relic becomes their hope for salvation, intertwining themes of desperation and innovation in a sci-fi backdrop.

      The Cosmic Computer
      3.7
    • Space Viking

      • 180 pages
      • 7 hours of reading

      The book is a classic that has played a significant role in human history, and its preservation is prioritized by Alpha Editions through modern republishing. It has been reformatted, retyped, and designed to ensure clarity and readability, avoiding the pitfalls of scanned copies. This effort aims to keep the work accessible for both present and future generations.

      Space Viking
      3.6
    • Graveyard of Dreams

      Science Fiction Stories

      • 160 pages
      • 6 hours of reading

      Featuring five of H. Beam Piper's notable stories, this collection showcases his talent for imaginative storytelling. Each tale explores unique themes, from the haunting "Graveyard of Dreams" to the thought-provoking "Genesis." Readers will encounter intriguing plots and compelling characters in "Operation R.S.V.P.," "The Answer," and "Last Enemy," making this anthology a must-read for fans of science fiction and those new to Piper's work.

      Graveyard of Dreams
      3.6
    • Murder In The Gunroom

      • 174 pages
      • 7 hours of reading

      The story features Jeff Rand, a ruggedly handsome man reminiscent of King Charles II, whose duality suggests he could be either a loyal friend or a formidable adversary. His intriguing presence captivates women, hinting at his romantic prowess. The narrative introduces his secretary, Kathie O'Grady, who embodies classic beauty. As Rand explores his surroundings, he shows an interest in the firearms stored in the garage, hinting at a deeper, possibly darker layer to his character and the unfolding plot.

      Murder In The Gunroom
    • The book explores the foundational nature of logic, emphasizing that it is based on unchanging postulates. It argues that while logic can analyze and derive conclusions, it cannot alter the fundamental principles upon which it is built. This examination delves into the relationship between logic and its foundational assumptions, highlighting the static nature of postulates in the realm of logical reasoning.

      Oomphel in the Sky
    • Time and Time Again

      • 28 pages
      • 1 hour of reading

      The book is a classical work that has held significance throughout human history. Alpha Editions has undertaken the task of preserving it by republishing it in a modern format, ensuring its accessibility for current and future generations. The text has been reformatted, retyped, and designed for clarity, avoiding the pitfalls of scanned copies, resulting in a clear and readable edition.

      Time and Time Again
    • Four-Day Planet

      • 190 pages
      • 7 hours of reading

      Set on the unique planet Fenriss, which has a lengthy rotation of 2000 hours, the story follows a 17-year-old reporter investigating the planet's corrupt leadership. As a rocket ship arrives at the spaceport, tensions rise with characters like Leo Belsher, the Earth representative, and Bish, a local alcoholic with questionable ideas about civil unrest. Amidst plans for confrontation and a legal battle over stolen funds, the narrative explores themes of power, justice, and the complexities of interplanetary politics.

      Four-Day Planet
    • Paratime! Collected Paratime Stories

      • 260 pages
      • 10 hours of reading

      Set in the Paratime universe, this collection features six captivating short stories and novelets by Piper. Each tale explores unique themes of time travel and alternate realities, showcasing the complexities of human experience and the consequences of meddling with time. Notable stories include "He Walked Around the Horses" and "Police Operation," which delve into intriguing scenarios that challenge perceptions of fate and morality. This anthology is a must-read for fans of speculative fiction and those interested in the intricacies of time.

      Paratime! Collected Paratime Stories
    • The Edge of the Knife

      • 38 pages
      • 2 hours of reading

      Rejection from prominent science-fiction editors highlights the unconventional nature of this story, which challenges traditional genre boundaries. It delves into themes of identity and societal norms, presenting a narrative that pushes readers to rethink established conventions. The plot unfolds through unique characters who navigate a world that mirrors our own while exploring futuristic concepts. This bold approach invites readers to engage with thought-provoking ideas, making it a distinctive addition to the science-fiction landscape.

      The Edge of the Knife
    • Omnilingual

      • 50 pages
      • 2 hours of reading

      The challenge of translating Martian writings lies in the vast temporal gap between the last Martian author and the first human writer. This intriguing premise explores the complexities of communication across time and species, raising questions about understanding and interpretation in the absence of a common linguistic framework. As the narrative unfolds, it delves into the mysteries of Martian culture and the quest for knowledge that transcends millennia.

      Omnilingual
    • Four Day Planet

      A Very Entertaining SF Novel

      • 122 pages
      • 5 hours of reading

      Set on a harsh planet with extreme temperatures, inhabitants are forced to live underground due to the intense heat of prolonged days and frigid nights. The story explores survival in this unforgiving environment, highlighting the challenges posed by the planet's unique day-night cycle. As characters navigate life in such conditions, the narrative delves into themes of resilience and adaptation to a world where only specialized suits allow for survival outside.

      Four Day Planet
    • Science Fiction Stories 59

      • 123 pages
      • 5 hours of reading

      Enthält folgende Stories von H.Beam Piper: - Der letzte Feind - Im Dienst der Sache - Genesis

      Science Fiction Stories 59
      4.0
    • Science fiction stories

      • 155 pages
      • 6 hours of reading

      Enthält folgende Stories: H. Beam Piper: Machtkampf der Götzen Harry Bates: Ein Rest von Größe Fritz Leiber: Hinter der Maske Walter M. Miller, Jr.: Die sterbende Stadt

      Science fiction stories
      3.0
    • Vor Beendigung des Krieges war der Planet eine waffenstarrende Festung. Nahezu alle Einrichtungen waren doppelt vorhanden, um Ausfällen zu begegnen, die durch einen Angriff aus dem Weltraum hätten auftreten können. Conn Maxwell wußte, wo diese geheimen Anlagen zu finden waren. Aber keine Spur wies auf das angebliche Vorhandensein des Computers >Merlin< hin, das allmächtige Elektronengehirn der Befestigungsanlage. Doch man glaubte ihm nicht. Eine machthungrige Gruppe von Männern erhoffte sich durch den Einsatz des Computers für ihre Ziele schnellen und durchschlagenden Erfolg. Keiner ahnte etwas von den Gefahren, die der Zivilisation drohten, wenn das nur von wenigen Überlebenden streng gehütete Geheimnis des Computers an die Öffentlichkeit dringen würde ...

      Der verschollene Computer.
      3.0
    • Die Welten-Plünderer

      • 125 pages
      • 5 hours of reading

      Ein galaktischer Krieg hat die Föderation der Planeten unter Führung der Erde zerschlagen. Ein Rückfall in die Feudalherrschaft des Mittelalters ist die Folge. Hemmungsloses Machtstreben einzelner Fürsten treibt die Planeten noch weiter auseinander. Einziges Bindeglied sind die Raum-Vikinger, eine Gruppe von untereinander rivalisierenden Räuberbanden, die mit ihren lichtschnellen Raumschiffen die schwer angeschlagenen Planeten der einstigen Föderation, deren Zivilisation der Krieg ins Chaos und in die Barbarei zurückgeworfen hat, gnadenlos überfallen und ausplündern, um mit der Beute Handel zu treiben. Lucas Trask von Traskon verabscheut diese Praktiken - bis ihn ein Schicksalsschlag aus der bisher so geordnet erscheinenden Bahn wirft. Vor seinen Augen wird seine Braut erschossen, und Lucas schließt sich den Raum-Vikingern an, denn nur mit ihrer Hilfe kann es ihm gelingen, den Mörder in den Weiten des Weltalls zu finden ...

      Die Welten-Plünderer
      2.5
    • Science Fiction Stories 14

      • 157 pages
      • 6 hours of reading

      Enthält folgende Stories: Jonathan Blake Mackenzie: Gesetz der Wildnis Henry Kuttner & C. L. Moore (als Lawrence O'Donnell): Aus der Tiefe empor H. Beam Piper: Der Universalschlüssel

      Science Fiction Stories 14
    • In Zusammenarbeit mit ausgewiesenen Kennern unternimmt es Hardy Kettlitz in seiner Reihe SF Personality, die Geschichte der Science Fiction schlaglichtartig aufzuarbeiten. Nachdem die Einzelausgaben größtenteils vergriffen sind, werden in diesem Band die chronologisch ersten fünf Nummern wieder zugänglich gemacht. Sie wurden grundlegend überarbeitet, die Bibliographien ergänzt und das Bildmaterial auf den doppelten Umfang erweitert. Die Abbildungen umfassen Titelbilder von Originalausgaben, deutschsprachigen Ausgaben und Illustrationen aus zeitgenössischen Magazinen. In diesem ersten Sammelband werden Murray Leinster, C.L. Moore & Henry Kuttner, H. Beam Piper, Leigh Brackett und Gustav Meyrink ausführlich vorgestellt und gewürdigt. Hardy Kettlitz ist Chefredakteur des SF-Magazins ALIEN CONTACT und gilt als einer der besten Kenner der Science Fiction und Phantastik im deutschsprachigen Raum. Unter anderem für die Reihe SF Personality wurde er 2002 mit dem renommierten Kurd Laßwitz Preis ausgezeichnet.

      SF Personality - 1: Die vergessenen Science-Fiction-Klassiker