Showing results by author "Murray Leinster" in All Categories

Dive into the captivating realm of science fiction with Nightmare Planet, where timeless tales of adventure and exploration await. Celebrated stories like Murray Leinsters The Mad Planet and Red Dust have enchanted readers for nearly a century, and now they are being revived for a new audience. In this latest addition to the series, Leinster crafts a thrilling narrative featuring the beloved character Burl, as he embarks on extraordinary adventures amidst vibrant landscapes. This installment not only entertains but also weaves in profound philosophical and psychological insights, elevating the...

This volume contains a variety of imaginative stories from both famous and not-so-famous science fiction writers.

As humanity ventures deeper into the galaxy, they come to a stark realization they are not alone. With the emergence of two powerful empires, the stage is set for an inevitable clash. But is war truly the only outcome? Discover the thrilling possibilities that lie ahead. (Summary from Gutenberg text)

Scattered through the galaxy are thousands of worlds colonized by humans. Many have native microbes dangerous to the human immigrants. Others have diseases brought to them accidentally - or on purpose - by visiting ships. When millions of lives are threatened, it's a job for the Interstellar Medical Service, and a Med Ship is sent to solve the problem. Calhoun is the best the Med Service has, and hard experience has taught him that often the major obstacle to curing the sick is...the sick.

An impulsive action, on his part? Hardly. Bron Hoddan went to the ship that landed on his native planet of Zan, the ship whose heartless crew was intent on lining up all his relatives for execution... and he stowed away.Bron had planned it all long before, hoping to escape to the planet Walden, a place of wealth and peace where he might have a chance to prove himself as an electrical engineer, then find the beautiful wife of his dreams.

Life as a Med Service officer may seem monotonous, darting from one human-inhabited planet to another aboard a small ship with only a furry companion for company. Yet, excitement lurks just beneath the surface. In this gripping tale, Calhoun and Mugratroid find themselves crash-landed on a plague-infested world, hunted and facing grave danger. As they navigate this perilous landscape filled with surviving plague victims, they must rely on their resourcefulness and resilience. Will they emerge unscathed? Join us for a thrilling adventure that proves life in the Med Service is anything but dull!

Join Space Medical Service officer Calhoun and his trusty sidekick Murgatroyd the tormal as they embark on an exhilarating adventure! What was supposed to be a routine visit to the planet Maya quickly turns into a mystery when they discover the planet is eerily devoid of all life. Will they uncover the secrets hidden within this desolate world? - Summary by Mark Nelson

The significance of any situation often hinges on your perspective. Consider the difference between labeling an event as a riot versus a war‚Aîits subtle yet profound. What if someone were to steal a spaceship? The local police are well-equipped to handle that. And a malfunctioning freighter in a remote solar system? Just another day at the office. But when a group of misguided individuals attempts to incite a war? Well, thats just routine for the seasoned officers of the Empire Police. In this captivating tale, the brilliant mind of Murray Leinster explores an Earth empire that has evolved...

Join young Ed McCauley on an exhilarating journey through the cosmos in MEN INTO SPACE, where the thrilling saga of humanitys quest to conquer the stars unfolds. From the innovative rockets of today to the ambitious development of the Space Platform and advanced spaceships, witness the remarkable evolution of space exploration. Experience the excitement of the first successful landings on the Moon, Mars, and beyond, all through Eds adventurous eyes. Prepare to be captivated by the wonder and daring spirit of the Space Age!

Dive into three captivating tales from Murray Leinster, originally published by Galaxy Magazine as one novel, The Last Spaceship. In The Disciplinary Circuit, a society under constant surveillance ensures that thoughts remain pure and aligned with the councils vision for the greater good. Are you a good citizen? In The Manless Worlds, a sinister empire targets men across the galaxy, using death rays to solidify their control while leaving women to occupy the conquered planets. Can the courageous crew of the Starshine thwart their plans at planet Ades and restore balance? Lastly, in The ...

Join Dr. Calhoun and his loyal pet tormal, Murgatroyd, as they embark on a perilous journey with the Interstellar Medical Service, conducting public health inspections on distant colonial planets. Upon arriving at Tallien Three, they are met with a shocking rocket attack by the Paras‚Aîmutated humans threatening to overtake the ‚Aúnormals.‚Aù While the locals believe they are facing a pandemic of demonic possession, Calhoun suspects a more sinister truth. As he races against time to avoid becoming a Para himself‚Aîor falling victim to their deadly intentions‚Aîhe must uncover ...

Imagine a creature born from the fierce union of a spitting cobra and a wildcat, painted in striking tan-and-blue, endowed with hydrophobia and a murderous instinct‚Aîwelcome to the world of the sphex. This is the reality faced by rugged adventurer Hyugens, who embarks on an audacious mission to illegally colonize the unforgiving planet of Loren Two. Joined by his loyal companions Sitka Pete, Sourdough Charley, and Faro Nell (along with her young son Nugget), as well as massive, intelligent Kodiak bears bred for loyalty, and his trained giant eagle Semper, Hyugens must confront the dangers ...

In a chilling broadcast from nowhere, sinister signals flood in from the depths of space, wreaking havoc on any receiver they touch. How can Earth defend itself against such a malevolent force? Set in the distant future of 1972, at a top-secret military installation, Staff Sergeant Bellews stands at the forefront of an extraordinary scientific breakthrough a method that allows ordinary machines‚Aîlike vacuums and lawnmowers‚Aîto learn and perfect their tasks over time. But when these strange transmissions begin to sabotage his machines, Bellews is suddenly drawn into a battle he never ...

Moklins are the most amiable aliens humans have ever met, overflowing with admiration for humanity and eager to mirror our ways. After four decades of coexistence on their planet, the few humans remaining enjoy a unique bond with these endearing people. However, a seemingly minor issue looms on the horizon‚Aîone that could send the humans packing in a hurry. And even if they do leave, will it truly change anything? - Summary by phil chenevert

Dive into another captivating tale from Murray Leinster, where the busy Med Ship is called into action to unravel a perplexing situation on the planet Pheydra. As a mysterious plea for medical assistance arrives, the crew faces an unusual dilemma a war is brewing, but the idea of inter-planetary conflict seems utterly absurd. With time running out, our protagonist and Mergatroid must navigate a chaotic landscape where children are pitted against their parents in a strange battle. Join them as they uncover the truth behind this extraordinary crisis. - Summary by phil c

Set 30,000 years after a cataclysmic shift in Earths climate, Mad Planet explores a world where massive carbon dioxide emissions have reshaped the environment and decimated human and animal populations. Those few humans who survived live in ignorance of the advanced civilization that once thrived, while insects and fungi flourish in this new landscape. At the heart of the story is Burl, a young man from a small tribal community, whose quest for food and adventure leads him beyond familiar territory. Driven by a desire to impress Saya, the intriguing young woman of his tribe, Burl embarks on an...

On a once-forgotten planet that was meticulously seeded with life, the story unfolds as the descendants of a crashed spaceship struggle for survival. Initially inhabited by microbes, plants, and insects, the planets ecosystem has evolved drastically, giving rise to colossal flora and fauna. In this thrilling tale, survivors face off against wolf-sized ants, chicken-sized flies, and enormous flying wasps, navigating a world where nature has taken a wild turn. (Summary by Wikipedia)

The miles of rock-hewn corridors through which the Earth party wandered, left no doubt about the purpose of the asteroid, it was a weapon. There was no life on the asteroid. Yet something here had called across space to the people of Earth.

In a world where every confidence trickster has taken a shot at old Vachti, one offering stands out‚Aîthe Elixir of Youth. But this time, Professor Barrs pitch is unlike any other, and Buck holds the key to something extraordinary! (Summary by Paul Hampton)

In a town gripped by fear and corruption, Big Jake Connors is orchestrating his reign of terror through violence, intimidation, and bribery. Detective Sergeant Fitzgerald seethes with frustration as the gangsters seem unstoppable‚Aîuntil one fateful day when a humble dry cleaning shop bravely refuses their protection offer. From that moment on, the balance of power begins to shift, leading to a series of strange and unexpected events. Murray Leinster invites you to explore a gripping what if scenario from his vivid imagination in this delightful tale. Tune in and prepare to be entertained! ...