Showing results by author "Randall Garrett" in All Categories

Twenty-four of the greatest science fiction stories of all time in this fourth sci-fi short story collection, including works by Jerry Dunham, Emmett Dowell, James Causey, Gordon Randall Garrett, James A. Cox, Phyllis Sterling Smith, Richard A. Sternbach, Robert Sheckley, E. G. Von Wald, Keith Laumer, Jerome Bixby, Frederik Pohl, Roger Dee, Arnold Marmore, James H. Schmitz, Lester del Rey, Cordwainer Smith, Ray Bradbury, and Philip K. Dick.

Dive into the intriguing world of Mark Phillips, the pen name of two talented writers, Randall Garrett and Laurence M. Janifer. Their unique collaboration, inspired by their middle names (Philip and Mark), originated one fateful night at a science-fiction convention—where the cocktails were flowing, and only one of them has ever truly sobered up. Originally titled That Sweet Little Old Lady, Brain Twister takes readers on a thrilling journey with FBI agent Kenneth J. Malone as he navigates the complex web of a telepathic spy. His mission? To uncover the elusive telepath hiding in plain sight...

When a super-robot named Snookums learns to create his own superbombs, it quickly becomes clear that Earth is no longer a safe haven for him. In response, Dr. Fitzhugh, his creator, along with Leda Crannon, a child psychologist serving as Snookums’ caretaker, devise Operation Brainchild—a daring plan to transport the robot to a distant planet. However, their journey takes a dark turn aboard the spaceship when the medical officer is found murdered, and Snookums suddenly finds himself the prime suspect… - Summary by Mark Nelson

Dive into a world where psionic powers like telepathy and teleportation are a reality in Supermind. Follow FBI agent Kenneth Malone as he navigates the chaotic landscape of a government riddled with confusion and unexpected challenges. With an enigmatic FBI Director keeping him on his toes, Malone must uncover the source of the disorder affecting the U.S. Government, unions, the Mafia, and beyond. This engaging tale blends science fiction with slapstick comedy and a touch of romance, ensuring an entertaining ride from start to finish. (Summary by Richard Kilmer)

Dive into the intriguing world of The Society For Mystical and Metaphysical Research, Inc. This organization boasts a façade so eccentric that it has gone unnoticed by all but the most curious minds. Yet, beneath this seemingly absurd exterior lies a truth that is both shocking and enlightening. Once a hidden arm of the government, the Society has proven to be a valuable resource in unraveling the most perplexing mysteries. Join us as we explore the remarkable tale of how the Society achieved the impossible. Just another day at the SMMR. - Summary by the author and Phil Chenevert

Dive into the whimsical world crafted by Randall Garrett in That Sweet Little Old Lady, first published in Astounding Science Fiction in September and October of 1959. With his signature blend of twisted humor and fantastical yet relatable characters, Garrett tells the story of Ken Malone, a young and ambitious FBI agent tasked with an extraordinary mission to uncover a spy pilfering secrets from the Ultra Top Absolute Secret project aimed at developing a non-rocket spaceship at Yucca Flats Labs in Nevada. This isnt just any spy; they possess an enigmatic ability to extract information ...

Can a spaceship truly lose its mind? The answer is a resounding yes—especially if it has a brain! Enter the MG (magnetogravitic drive) experimental robot spaceship, known as the McGuire, which has baffled its creators. After the first six models of the supposedly flawless MG-YR went haywire upon activation, the company fears sabotage. To uncover the mystery, theyve enlisted the expertise of Daniel Oak, a hard-boiled private investigator with nerves of steel and a razor-sharp mind. Though costly, Oak delivers results and has a knack for navigating the worlds of crime, spaceships, and ...

In a world where iron bars cant truly imprison a man‚Aîonly his body‚Aîthere lie deeper, more insidious forms of confinement. As police embrace cutting-edge technology, they must still confront the age-old struggle of human nature, perpetually capable of committing unspeakable acts. Will the hypo-gun replace the nightstick, and is prison the ultimate solution? Immerse yourself in this captivating tale by Randall Garrett and explore the complexities of justice and freedom.

What happens when telepathy emerges in society? The answer isnt pretty the draconian punishment of being chained to an asteroid and left to drift endlessly in space. In this gripping tale, we explore the unsettling reality of Earth‚As response to telepaths, branded as psychodeviants by a world gripped with fear. As the psychodeviant police hunt these so-called threats, one must wonder are all telepaths truly malevolent? Could it be that one of the hunters is hiding a secret of his own? Join us on this thought-provoking journey into a future where fear shapes the fate of humanity. - Summary ...

Dive into the imaginative world of Randall Garrett, an irrepressible Science Fiction author renowned for his sharp wit and playful critique of the cherished beliefs of his time. Under a variety of pseudonyms, he penned a treasure trove of short stories for the SF magazines of the 1960s. In this collection, you‚All find three of his most entertaining tales With No Strings Attached, The Destroyers, and In Case of Fire. No matter the by-line, you can count on Garretts quirky storytelling to captivate and amuse.

Dive into a world where the ancient Gods and Goddesses of Greece and Rome have returned to a transformed Earth, bringing their immense powers‚Aîand a new set of rules. In this imaginative adult science fiction tale, war, economic turmoil, and prudery have been outlawed, leading to a radical reimagining of society. New York City is no longer the same; the Empire State Building has become the majestic Tower of Zeus! Our protagonist, William Forrester, an acolyte of Athena, navigates his role as a teacher while grappling with the passionate advances of Maya Wilson, a devoted follower of Venus....

In a future where humanity has achieved its utopian dream of absolute equality, material poverty is a relic of the past. However, this new social order comes with its own set of chains‚Aîclass distinctions are now horizontal, and advancement is dictated solely by seniority, not talent. What is an intelligent and ambitious man to do when shackled by a society that stifles his innate abilities? For Colonel Sebastian MacMaine, a military officer caught in the throes of war and a true believer in the very principles that bind him, the choice to betray his own side may be the only way to break ...

In this captivating sequel to Randal Garretts original tale, A Spaceship Named McGyer, our reluctant hero finds himself thrust into the role of the unwitting master of the robot spaceship McGyer. Summoned by the ships owners to assist their experts in fixing a critical issue, he soon realizes that he is the only human McGyer will heed. As rival corporations plot to sabotage the project, his safety hangs in the balance. At the heart of this thrilling narrative lies a thought-provoking exploration of Asimovs three laws of robotics and the complex definition of what it means to be human. Prepare ...

What compelled an entire crew to disembark from their ship in a mysterious valley, only to succumb to an inexplicable fate? How did a team of well-equipped spacemen fall victim to their surroundings, leaving behind nothing but a field of skeletal remains in this seemingly serene world? Peter and Sherri are determined to unravel this enigma‚Aîif they can survive long enough to do so! [from the Judas Valley] Originally published in Amazing Stories, October 1956.

To escape the confines of Mars, Clayton faces an impossible challenge breaking free from a crack-proof exile camp, boarding a ship that seems unreachable, and smashing through an impenetrable wall of steel. But as he embarks on this perilous journey, he realizes that Mars has a sinister influence on men, and he isnt even sure who he is anymore‚Aîhe has transformed into The Man Who Hated Mars. This recording also features four lesser-known stories by the talented Garrett Bramblebush, Viewpoint, Time Fuze, and Heist Job on Thizar, each packed with thrilling excitement and intrigue.

The title may come off as obscure and somewhat unsettling, but therein lies its intrigue. Randall Garretts story had me blissfully misled until he dramatically pulled the rug out from under me, leaving me both irritated and amazed. I loved and hated the ending‚Aîunexpected yet undeniably fitting. The richly imagined society and culture of the galaxy he crafted is as captivating as the narrative itself, and I can only hope he explores it further in his other works. As noted by the publisher, R. Phillip Dachboden adds another layer of thought, highlighting the complexity of freedom and belief...

In Anchorite, Randall Garrett skillfully probes the depths of our government and society with a sharp needle of insight. He paints a vivid picture of a future where a world government enforces equality‚Aîregardless of individual desire‚Aîand ensures everyones needs are met, no matter their competence or character. As people navigate a landscape rife with deceit and distrust, Garrett chillingly forecasts the consequences of todays trends if left unchallenged. However, amidst the chaos, hope emerges from the asteroid belt, where only the capable and sensible can thrive and govern. But will...

An alien with sinister intentions crash-lands on Earth, unleashing a decade of terror. As it lurks in the shadows, it preys on unsuspecting victims and siphons materials for a mysterious goal. Humanitys last chance lies with Bart Stanton, a superhuman engineered specifically to confront this deadly threat known as the Nipe. Will he be able to stop the alien menace before its too late?

Have you ever wondered about those amazing inventions that were supposedly buried by big corporations or utilities? The ones that could change our world with their sheer brilliance? While many of these so-called wonderful inventions may not deliver, what if a few truly do exist? Could the oil industry, power conglomerates, or auto monopolies really be ruthless enough to stifle innovations that could benefit everyone, all in the name of profit? Of course, the answer is yes! But there‚As another angle to explore, one that the remarkable Randall Garrett delves into in his unique style. Prepare ...

This second collection of great sci-fi stories includes the following: "A Sense of Wonder" by Stephen Marlowe, "Seller of the Sky" by Dave Dryfus, "The Shining Cow" by Alex James, and more.