In a Martian settlement, tensions run high as humans struggle for survival under the rule of Malovel, a tyrannical Martian leader who controls their access to water. Ed Early, a newcomer, challenges Malovel's authority, prompting a confrontation. John Sanderson, the settlement's leader, watches to gauge Early's resolve. Meanwhile, Miss Tweedham, a...More
Robert Moore Williams was an esteemed American writer known for his captivating science fiction tales. Born on June 19, 1907, in Farmington, Missouri, Williams discovered his passion for storytelling early on. After graduating from the Missouri School of Journalism in 1931, he embarked on a remarkable career that would span decades. Williams made his debut in the science fiction realm with the publication of "Zero as a Limit" in Astounding Science Fiction in 1937. Under the pseudonym "Robert Moore," he introduced readers to his unique narrative style and imaginative worlds. From that point forward, his literary output was ceaseless, captivating readers with his vivid imagination and thought-provoking ideas. His final novel was published in...More
Robert Moore Williams was an esteemed American writer known for his captivating science fiction tales. Born on June 19, 1907, in Farmington, Missouri, Williams discovered his passion for storytelling early on. After graduating from the Missouri School of Journalism in 1931, he embarked on a remarkable career that would span decades. Williams made his debut in the science fiction realm with the publication of "Zero as a Limit" in Astounding Science Fiction in 1937. Under the pseudonym "Robert Moore," he introduced readers to his unique narrative style and imaginative worlds. From that point forward, his literary output was ceaseless, captivating readers with his vivid imagination and thought-provoking ideas. His final novel was published in 1972, marking the culmination of a prolific career. Among his notable works is the "Jongor" series, which first enthralled readers in the pages of Fantastic Adventures during the 1940s and 1950s. The series eventually found its way into book form in 1970, cementing Williams' reputation as a master storyteller. By the 1960s, he had already penned over 150 stories, leaving an indelible mark on the science fiction genre.
Book Summary
In a Martian settlement, tensions run high as humans struggle for survival under the rule of Malovel, a tyrannical Martian leader who controls their access to water. Ed Early, a newcomer, challenges Malovel's authority, prompting a confrontation. John Sanderson, the settlement's leader, watches to gauge Early's resolve. Meanwhile, Miss Tweedham, a woman seeking something missing in her life, witnesses the tension. L'Sor, a Martian priest, ridicules Early and warns of Malovel's power. Sanderson explains that Malovel controls the water supply, forcing the humans to comply. Early accuses Sanderson of losing his nerve, which shocks everyone. Sanderson then reveals that Malovel has the esse, a mysterious weapon, which keeps them all in check. Later, Early challenges Malovel, resulting in his transformation into a lifeless doll. Miss Tweedham, shocked by this display, questions Sanderson's inaction. Sanderson explains the dire situation and the power of the esse. As the settlement faces an ultimatum to leave by the next day, Sanderson organizes a plan of resistance, distributing weapons and assigning duties. Miss Tweedham chooses to stay and help rather than leave, earning Sanderson's respect. When the attack on Malovel's palace begins, Big Marie, a fierce protector of Sanderson, disappears. Miss Tweedham follows and witnesses Malovel's death and Big Marie's sacrifice. Sanderson takes control of the throne chair, which holds power over the water supply, ensuring their survival. After their victory, Sanderson offers Miss Tweedham a chance to return to Earth, but she reveals her past as a call girl and expresses her desire to stay. Sanderson, initially taken aback, eventually grins, and they share a hopeful moment as water flows into the fields.
Robert moore Williams
