There is a Reaper ... By: Charles V. De Vet (1911-1997)
In "There is a Reaper..." by Charles V. De Vet, readers are treated to a riveting and thought-provoking collection of science fiction short stories. With his creative storytelling and compelling narrative style, De Vet manages to capture the essence of the genre in a way that leaves a lasting impact on readers. The book is divided into eleven distinct stories, each offering a unique perspective on the human condition and the mysteries of the universe. De Vet's ability to seamlessly blend elements of science and fiction allows the reader to momentarily suspend disbelief, immersing themselves fully in the worlds he creates. One of the standout aspects of De Vet's writing is his remarkable character development. Even in these shorter stories, he presents readers with multidimensional and relatable protagonists, each faced with their own moral dilemmas and personal struggles. Whether it is a scientist grappling with the ethical implications of his creation or an ordinary person encountering alien beings, the emotional depth of the characters adds an additional layer of complexity to the narratives. The author's skillful use of suspense and tension keeps readers engaged from start to finish. Each story contains unexpected twists and turns, leaving the reader constantly guessing and eager to uncover the outcome. De Vet's ability to create a palpable atmosphere of anticipation is nothing short of impressive. Moreover, the underlying themes explored in "There is a Reaper..." further elevate this collection. De Vet seamlessly incorporates social commentary and philosophical dilemmas within the narratives, inviting readers to ponder the implications of our own humanity and the consequences of our actions. From questions about the nature of consciousness to reflections on the boundaries of science, these stories prompt introspection and provide a rich ground for intellectual exploration. However, it is worth noting that some readers may find some stories in this collection more compelling than others. While most maintain a consistent level of quality, a few may not resonate as strongly, resulting in occasional unevenness in the overall reading experience. Nonetheless, "There is a Reaper..." is a remarkable collection that showcases Charles V. De Vet's talent for crafting engaging and thought-provoking science fiction tales. With its intricate characters, captivating narratives, and profound themes, this book is a must-read for fans of the genre. De Vet's ability to push the boundaries of imagination while grounding his stories in the human experience is truly commendable, solidifying his place among the greats of science fiction literature. First Page: There Is A Reaper ... By Charles V. De Vet Doctors had given him just one month to live. A month to wonder, what comes afterward? There was one way to find out ask a dead man! The amber brown of the liquor disguised the poison it held, and I watched with a smile on my lips as he drank it. There was no pity in my heart for him. He was a jackal in the jungle of life, and I ... I was one of the carnivores. It is the lot of the jackals of life to be devoured by the carnivore. Suddenly the contented look on his face froze into a startled stillness. I knew he was feeling the first savage twinge of the agony that was to come. He turned his head and looked at me, and I saw suddenly that he knew what I had done. "You murderer!" he cursed me, and then his body arched in the middle and his voice choked off deep in his throat. For a short minute he sat, tense, his body stiffened by the agony that rode it unable to move a muscle. I watched the torment in his eyes build up to a crescendo of pain, until the suffering became so great that it filmed his eyes, and I knew that, though he still stared directly at me, he no longer saw me. Then, as suddenly as the spasm had come, the starch went out of his body and his back slid slowly down the chair edge. He landed heavily with his head resting limply against the seat of the chair... Continue reading book >>

There is a Reaper ... By: Charles V. De Vet (1911-1997)

In "There is a Reaper..." by Charles V. De Vet, readers are treated to a riveting and thought-provoking collection of science fiction short stories. With his creative storytelling and compelling narrative style, De Vet manages to capture the essence of the genre in a way that leaves a lasting impact on readers.

The book is divided into eleven distinct stories, each offering a unique perspective on the human condition and the mysteries of the universe. De Vet's ability to seamlessly blend elements of science and fiction allows the reader to momentarily suspend disbelief, immersing themselves fully in the worlds he creates.

One of the standout aspects of De Vet's writing is his remarkable character development. Even in these shorter stories, he presents readers with multidimensional and relatable protagonists, each faced with their own moral dilemmas and personal struggles. Whether it is a scientist grappling with the ethical implications of his creation or an ordinary person encountering alien beings, the emotional depth of the characters adds an additional layer of complexity to the narratives.

The author's skillful use of suspense and tension keeps readers engaged from start to finish. Each story contains unexpected twists and turns, leaving the reader constantly guessing and eager to uncover the outcome. De Vet's ability to create a palpable atmosphere of anticipation is nothing short of impressive.

Moreover, the underlying themes explored in "There is a Reaper..." further elevate this collection. De Vet seamlessly incorporates social commentary and philosophical dilemmas within the narratives, inviting readers to ponder the implications of our own humanity and the consequences of our actions. From questions about the nature of consciousness to reflections on the boundaries of science, these stories prompt introspection and provide a rich ground for intellectual exploration.

However, it is worth noting that some readers may find some stories in this collection more compelling than others. While most maintain a consistent level of quality, a few may not resonate as strongly, resulting in occasional unevenness in the overall reading experience.

Nonetheless, "There is a Reaper..." is a remarkable collection that showcases Charles V. De Vet's talent for crafting engaging and thought-provoking science fiction tales. With its intricate characters, captivating narratives, and profound themes, this book is a must-read for fans of the genre. De Vet's ability to push the boundaries of imagination while grounding his stories in the human experience is truly commendable, solidifying his place among the greats of science fiction literature.

First Page:

There Is A Reaper ...

By Charles V. De Vet

Doctors had given him just one month to live. A month to wonder, what comes afterward? There was one way to find out ask a dead man!

The amber brown of the liquor disguised the poison it held, and I watched with a smile on my lips as he drank it. There was no pity in my heart for him. He was a jackal in the jungle of life, and I ... I was one of the carnivores. It is the lot of the jackals of life to be devoured by the carnivore.

Suddenly the contented look on his face froze into a startled stillness. I knew he was feeling the first savage twinge of the agony that was to come. He turned his head and looked at me, and I saw suddenly that he knew what I had done.

"You murderer!" he cursed me, and then his body arched in the middle and his voice choked off deep in his throat.

For a short minute he sat, tense, his body stiffened by the agony that rode it unable to move a muscle. I watched the torment in his eyes build up to a crescendo of pain, until the suffering became so great that it filmed his eyes, and I knew that, though he still stared directly at me, he no longer saw me.

Then, as suddenly as the spasm had come, the starch went out of his body and his back slid slowly down the chair edge. He landed heavily with his head resting limply against the seat of the chair... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Horror/Ghost stories
Literature
Science
Short stories

eBook links
Wikipedia – Charles V. De Vet
Wikipedia – There is a Reaper ...

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