Delayed Action By: Charles V. De Vet (1911-1997)
Delayed Action by Charles V. De Vet is a captivating science fiction novel that takes readers on an exciting journey through time and space. The story revolves around a mysterious device known as the Inertia Control Unit (ICU), which possesses the power to manipulate time. The protagonist, Paul Haney, stumbles upon the ICU and becomes intrigued by its potential. However, as he delves deeper into its workings, he realizes that this incredible invention could fall into the wrong hands, leading to disastrous consequences. Haney's race against time to prevent the ICU from causing havoc is filled with suspense, unexpected twists, and the eternal battle between good and evil. De Vet's writing style is engaging and paced perfectly, keeping readers hooked from start to finish. The intricate plot is skillfully woven together, revealing just enough information to maintain suspense while creating a sense of mystery and intrigue. The author's vivid descriptions allow readers to vividly visualize each scene, whether it be a chaotic futuristic city or a desolate landscape in a distant time period. One of the standout aspects of Delayed Action is the well-developed and relatable characters. Paul Haney is a likable and believable protagonist, driven by a strong moral compass. His determination and resourcefulness in the face of numerous obstacles make him an endearing hero. The supporting characters are equally compelling, contributing to the depth and complexity of the story. Furthermore, De Vet expertly explores the ethical implications of time manipulation, raising thought-provoking questions about the consequences of altering history and the potential dangers of tampering with the natural flow of time. This philosophical layer adds depth and substance to the narrative, making it more than just a thrilling adventure. The novel's only minor drawback is that at times, it can feel slightly predictable. Some plot twists and resolutions may be anticipated by experienced readers of the genre. Nevertheless, this does not significantly detract from the overall enjoyment of the story. In conclusion, Delayed Action is a riveting science fiction novel that seamlessly blends suspense, time travel, and ethical dilemmas into a captivating narrative. Charles V. De Vet's masterful storytelling skills, engaging characters, and thought-provoking themes make this book a must-read for fans of the genre. First Page: Transcriber's Note: This etext was produced from the September 1953 issue of Galaxy Science Fiction. Extensive research did not uncover any evidence that the U.S. copyright on this publication was renewed. This planet gave him the perfect chance to commit the perfect crime only he couldn't remember just what it was he had committed. [Illustration] DELAYED ACTION By CHARLES V. DeVET Illustrated by DICK FRANCIS It was just a hunch. Johnson knew that, but his hunches had often paid off in the past, and now he waited with a big man's patience. For five hours he sat in the wooden stands, under the rumpled canvas the concessionaires had put up to protect the tourists from Marlock's yellow sun. The sun was hot and soon Johnson's clothing was marked with large soiled patches of sweat. Now and then a light breeze blew across the stands from the native section and at each breath his nostrils crinkled in protest at the acrid smell. Marlock wasn't much of a planet. Its one claim to fame was its widely advertised Nature's Moebius Strip. For eighteen months of the year nine months of sub zero cold, and nine months of sultry, sand driven summer the only outsiders to visit the planet came to buy its one export, the fur of the desert ox... Continue reading book >>

Delayed Action By: Charles V. De Vet (1911-1997)

Delayed Action by Charles V. De Vet is a captivating science fiction novel that takes readers on an exciting journey through time and space. The story revolves around a mysterious device known as the Inertia Control Unit (ICU), which possesses the power to manipulate time.

The protagonist, Paul Haney, stumbles upon the ICU and becomes intrigued by its potential. However, as he delves deeper into its workings, he realizes that this incredible invention could fall into the wrong hands, leading to disastrous consequences. Haney's race against time to prevent the ICU from causing havoc is filled with suspense, unexpected twists, and the eternal battle between good and evil.

De Vet's writing style is engaging and paced perfectly, keeping readers hooked from start to finish. The intricate plot is skillfully woven together, revealing just enough information to maintain suspense while creating a sense of mystery and intrigue. The author's vivid descriptions allow readers to vividly visualize each scene, whether it be a chaotic futuristic city or a desolate landscape in a distant time period.

One of the standout aspects of Delayed Action is the well-developed and relatable characters. Paul Haney is a likable and believable protagonist, driven by a strong moral compass. His determination and resourcefulness in the face of numerous obstacles make him an endearing hero. The supporting characters are equally compelling, contributing to the depth and complexity of the story.

Furthermore, De Vet expertly explores the ethical implications of time manipulation, raising thought-provoking questions about the consequences of altering history and the potential dangers of tampering with the natural flow of time. This philosophical layer adds depth and substance to the narrative, making it more than just a thrilling adventure.

The novel's only minor drawback is that at times, it can feel slightly predictable. Some plot twists and resolutions may be anticipated by experienced readers of the genre. Nevertheless, this does not significantly detract from the overall enjoyment of the story.

In conclusion, Delayed Action is a riveting science fiction novel that seamlessly blends suspense, time travel, and ethical dilemmas into a captivating narrative. Charles V. De Vet's masterful storytelling skills, engaging characters, and thought-provoking themes make this book a must-read for fans of the genre.

First Page:

Transcriber's Note:

This etext was produced from the September 1953 issue of Galaxy Science Fiction. Extensive research did not uncover any evidence that the U.S. copyright on this publication was renewed.

This planet gave him the perfect chance to commit the perfect crime only he couldn't remember just what it was he had committed.

[Illustration]

DELAYED ACTION

By CHARLES V. DeVET

Illustrated by DICK FRANCIS

It was just a hunch. Johnson knew that, but his hunches had often paid off in the past, and now he waited with a big man's patience. For five hours he sat in the wooden stands, under the rumpled canvas the concessionaires had put up to protect the tourists from Marlock's yellow sun.

The sun was hot and soon Johnson's clothing was marked with large soiled patches of sweat. Now and then a light breeze blew across the stands from the native section and at each breath his nostrils crinkled in protest at the acrid smell.

Marlock wasn't much of a planet. Its one claim to fame was its widely advertised Nature's Moebius Strip. For eighteen months of the year nine months of sub zero cold, and nine months of sultry, sand driven summer the only outsiders to visit the planet came to buy its one export, the fur of the desert ox... Continue reading book >>

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