Set in the Solar System, the narrative introduces Northwest Smith, a proto-Han Solo character, as he embarks on adventurous escapades. Originally published in 1933 in Weird Tales, this story marks the beginning of a series that showcases the imaginative world of science fiction. Catherine L. Moore, a pioneering female author in the genre, crafted this tale, establishing herself as a significant and award-winning figure in science fiction and fantasy literature.
Set on the mysterious planet Mars, the story follows Northwest Smith as he encounters a terrifying monstrosity that lures victims from distant realms. The narrative explores themes of fear and the unknown, immersing readers in a gripping adventure filled with suspense and cosmic horror. Smith's journey reveals both the dangers of the Martian landscape and the darker forces at play, making for a compelling and atmospheric tale.
Comus, the communications network/police force, has spread its web of power all across an America paralyzed by the after-effects of limited nuclear war. But in California, resistance is building against the dictatorship of Comus and Andrew Raleigh, president for life. For now Raleigh is dying and the powers of Comus are fading. It's the perfect time for the Californian revolutionaries to activate the secret weapon that alone can destroy America's totalitarian system and re-establish democracy. Yet Comus too has powers at its disposal, chief among them Howard Rohan. A washed-up actor until Comus offers him a second chance, Rohan will head a troupe of players touring in the heart of rebel territory. Howard Rohan, double agent, caught between the orders of Comus and rebels demands. Which side will he choose? Who will he play false - himself, or the entire country?
Jirel of Joiry, the first of the great female warriors, the beautiful commander of the strongest fortress in the kingdom, would face any danger to defend her beloved country. She wielded her bright sword against mighty armies, the sinister magic of evil sorcerers and fearsome castles guarded by the dead, even daring to descend into Hell itself... Northwest Smith, the scarred and weathered outlaw, the legendary hero of the spaceways, forced to confront the terrible mysteries, the terrifying, mythic monsters of the universe... Jirel of Joiry and Northwest Smith are C.L. Moore's greatest creations and she used them not only to spin spellbinding tales but also to explore the mysteries of the human psyche.
Contents: 5 • Introduction (Chessboard Planet and Other Stories) • essay by Peter Pinto 9 • Note on "Fairy Chess" • essay by Peter Pinto 11 • Chessboard Planet • novella by Henry Kuttner and C. L. Moore (variant of The Fairy Chessmen 1946) 116 • Camouflage • (1945) • novelette by Henry Kuttner and C. L. Moore 148 • Android • (1951) • novelette by Henry Kuttner and C. L. Moore 179 • Or Else • (1953) • shortstory by Henry Kuttner and C. L. Moore
This small paperback contains 3 novelettes: Vintage Season, Home There's No Returning, and Two-handed Engine as well as two short stories: The Devil We Know and Exit the Professor written by the husband and wife co-authors.
