In Case of Fire By: Randall Garrett (1927-1987)
In Case of Fire, written by Randall Garrett, is an enthralling science fiction novel that takes readers on a wild adventure through time and space. The story revolves around a group of determined individuals who possess the ability to manipulate time, forming the core of an elite team tasked with preserving humanity's existence. What makes this book truly exceptional is its intricate and thought-provoking plot. The author skillfully weaves together various elements of time travel, alternate realities, and meticulous details, creating a multilayered narrative that effortlessly keeps readers engaged from start to finish. Garrett masterfully constructs this intricate web of events and introduces complex characters, each with their own unique motivations and personal dilemmas, adding depth and nuance to the overall story. The pacing of In Case of Fire is also commendable, as the author expertly balances action-packed sequences with quieter, introspective moments. This creates a perfect ebb and flow that keeps the readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly turning the pages in anticipation of what comes next. Furthermore, Garrett's vivid and evocative descriptions paint a vivid picture of the futuristic worlds and various time periods the characters traverse, transporting readers to these remarkable settings and adding an extra layer of richness to the story. Another aspect that sets this novel apart is the way it delves into philosophical questions about time, destiny, and the consequences of meddling with historical events. Through thought-provoking dialogues and inner reflections, the characters grapple with the ethical implications of their actions and the potential repercussions on the fabric of time itself. This introspection adds depth to the narrative and encourages readers to ponder their own beliefs about the nature of time and human agency. Although In Case of Fire excels in many aspects, there are a few minor shortcomings. At times, the sheer complexity of the plot can be slightly overwhelming, requiring readers to pay close attention to keep up with the multiple threads and timelines. However, this is a small price to pay for the intellectual satisfaction one gains from this intricate storytelling. Overall, In Case of Fire is a remarkable science fiction novel that seamlessly blends captivating storytelling, intricate world-building, and philosophical musings. It is a thought-provoking journey through time and space that challenges readers to reflect on the nature of time and the responsibility that comes with wielding its power. Randall Garrett's writing is engaging and masterful, making this book a must-read for fans of the genre and those seeking a mentally stimulating adventure. First Page: [Illustration] IN CASE OF FIRE There are times when a broken tool is better than a sound one, or a twisted personality more useful than a whole one. For instance, a whole beer bottle isn't half the weapon that half a beer bottle is ... By RANDALL GARRETT Illustrated by Martinez In his office apartment, on the top floor of the Terran Embassy Building in Occeq City, Bertrand Malloy leafed casually through the dossiers of the four new men who had been assigned to him. They were typical of the kind of men who were sent to him, he thought. Which meant, as usual, that they were atypical. Every man in the Diplomatic Corps who developed a twitch or a quirk was shipped to Saarkkad IV to work under Bertrand Malloy, Permanent Terran Ambassador to His Utter Munificence, the Occeq of Saarkkad. Take this first one, for instance. Malloy ran his finger down the columns of complex symbolism that showed the complete psychological analysis of the man. Psychopathic paranoia. The man wasn't technically insane; he could be as lucid as the next man most of the time. But he was morbidly suspicious that every man's hand was turned against him. He trusted no one, and was perpetually on his guard against imaginary plots and persecutions. Number two suffered from some sort of emotional block that left him continually on the horns of one dilemma or another... Continue reading book >>

In Case of Fire By: Randall Garrett (1927-1987)

In Case of Fire, written by Randall Garrett, is an enthralling science fiction novel that takes readers on a wild adventure through time and space. The story revolves around a group of determined individuals who possess the ability to manipulate time, forming the core of an elite team tasked with preserving humanity's existence.

What makes this book truly exceptional is its intricate and thought-provoking plot. The author skillfully weaves together various elements of time travel, alternate realities, and meticulous details, creating a multilayered narrative that effortlessly keeps readers engaged from start to finish. Garrett masterfully constructs this intricate web of events and introduces complex characters, each with their own unique motivations and personal dilemmas, adding depth and nuance to the overall story.

The pacing of In Case of Fire is also commendable, as the author expertly balances action-packed sequences with quieter, introspective moments. This creates a perfect ebb and flow that keeps the readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly turning the pages in anticipation of what comes next. Furthermore, Garrett's vivid and evocative descriptions paint a vivid picture of the futuristic worlds and various time periods the characters traverse, transporting readers to these remarkable settings and adding an extra layer of richness to the story.

Another aspect that sets this novel apart is the way it delves into philosophical questions about time, destiny, and the consequences of meddling with historical events. Through thought-provoking dialogues and inner reflections, the characters grapple with the ethical implications of their actions and the potential repercussions on the fabric of time itself. This introspection adds depth to the narrative and encourages readers to ponder their own beliefs about the nature of time and human agency.

Although In Case of Fire excels in many aspects, there are a few minor shortcomings. At times, the sheer complexity of the plot can be slightly overwhelming, requiring readers to pay close attention to keep up with the multiple threads and timelines. However, this is a small price to pay for the intellectual satisfaction one gains from this intricate storytelling.

Overall, In Case of Fire is a remarkable science fiction novel that seamlessly blends captivating storytelling, intricate world-building, and philosophical musings. It is a thought-provoking journey through time and space that challenges readers to reflect on the nature of time and the responsibility that comes with wielding its power. Randall Garrett's writing is engaging and masterful, making this book a must-read for fans of the genre and those seeking a mentally stimulating adventure.

First Page:

[Illustration]

IN CASE OF FIRE

There are times when a broken tool is better than a sound one, or a twisted personality more useful than a whole one. For instance, a whole beer bottle isn't half the weapon that half a beer bottle is ...

By RANDALL GARRETT

Illustrated by Martinez

In his office apartment, on the top floor of the Terran Embassy Building in Occeq City, Bertrand Malloy leafed casually through the dossiers of the four new men who had been assigned to him. They were typical of the kind of men who were sent to him, he thought. Which meant, as usual, that they were atypical. Every man in the Diplomatic Corps who developed a twitch or a quirk was shipped to Saarkkad IV to work under Bertrand Malloy, Permanent Terran Ambassador to His Utter Munificence, the Occeq of Saarkkad.

Take this first one, for instance. Malloy ran his finger down the columns of complex symbolism that showed the complete psychological analysis of the man. Psychopathic paranoia. The man wasn't technically insane; he could be as lucid as the next man most of the time. But he was morbidly suspicious that every man's hand was turned against him. He trusted no one, and was perpetually on his guard against imaginary plots and persecutions.

Number two suffered from some sort of emotional block that left him continually on the horns of one dilemma or another... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Fiction
Literature
Science
Short stories

eBook links
Wikipedia – Randall Garrett
Wikipedia – In Case of Fire

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