The Hour of Battle By: Robert Sheckley (1928-2005)
In Robert Sheckley's, The Hour of Battle, readers are thrust into a captivating world of intergalactic conflicts and the resilience of the human spirit. Set in a future where Earth has become the battleground for warring alien species, this science fiction novel explores themes of war, politics, and the fragility of our own existence. Sheckley's writing style is highly engaging, capturing the attention of readers right from the opening pages. His knack for descriptive storytelling allows readers to vividly visualize the chaotic and tense atmosphere as alliances shift and battles rage on. The world-building is expertly crafted, with intricate details that immerse readers into this futuristic realm, making it feel almost palpable. The characters in The Hour of Battle are a true highlight of the book. Sheckley presents a diverse cast who are all uniquely flawed and relatable. From the determined and ambitious commander to the weary and battle-worn soldiers, each character adds depth and complexity to the storyline. The author does a commendable job of portraying the psychological toll of war, showcasing the emotional struggles faced by those involved in the conflict. What sets The Hour of Battle apart from other science fiction novels is its exploration of politics and morality. Amidst the chaos of battle, Sheckley delves into the ethical considerations of war, raising questions about the nature of humanity and the devastating consequences of our actions. This adds a thought-provoking layer to the narrative, forcing readers to reflect on the choices made by individuals as well as societies. One aspect that could have been improved in the book is the pacing. At times, the narrative moves at a breakneck speed, making it difficult to fully grasp the implications of certain events. Some chapters could benefit from additional development and slower pacing to fully explore the complexity of the plot and the emotional journey of the characters. Despite this minor flaw, The Hour of Battle remains an enthralling and gripping read. Sheckley's skillful storytelling weaves together elements of action, suspense, and introspection, creating a narrative that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. As the final pages unfold, readers are treated to a climactic and satisfying conclusion that ties up loose ends while leaving room for contemplation. Overall, The Hour of Battle is a must-read for any science fiction enthusiast. Its engaging writing style, compelling characters, and profound exploration of war and humanity make it a book that lingers in the mind long after the final page is turned. Sheckley's talent for crafting an immersive and thought-provoking narrative solidifies his position as a master in the genre, and this novel stands as a testament to his storytelling prowess. First Page: THE HOUR OF BATTLE BY ROBERT SHECKLEY ILLUSTRATED BY KRENKEL As one of the Guardian ships protecting Earth, the crew had a problem to solve. Just how do you protect a race from an enemy who can take over a man's mind without seeming effort or warning? "That hand didn't move, did it?" Edwardson asked, standing at the port, looking at the stars. "No," Morse said. He had been staring fixedly at the Attison Detector for over an hour. Now he blinked three times rapidly, and looked again. "Not a millimeter." "I don't think it moved either," Cassel added, from behind the gunfire panel. And that was that. The slender black hand of the indicator rested unwaveringly on zero. The ship's guns were ready, their black mouths open to the stars. A steady hum filled the room. It came from the Attison Detector, and the sound was reassuring. It reinforced the fact that the Detector was attached to all the other Detectors, forming a gigantic network around Earth. "Why in hell don't they come?" Edwardson asked, still looking at the stars. "Why don't they hit?" "Aah, shut up," Morse said. He had a tired, glum look. High on his right temple was an old radiation burn, a sunburst of pink scar tissue. From a distance it looked like a decoration. "I just wish they'd come," Edwardson said... Continue reading book >>

The Hour of Battle By: Robert Sheckley (1928-2005)

In Robert Sheckley's, The Hour of Battle, readers are thrust into a captivating world of intergalactic conflicts and the resilience of the human spirit. Set in a future where Earth has become the battleground for warring alien species, this science fiction novel explores themes of war, politics, and the fragility of our own existence.

Sheckley's writing style is highly engaging, capturing the attention of readers right from the opening pages. His knack for descriptive storytelling allows readers to vividly visualize the chaotic and tense atmosphere as alliances shift and battles rage on. The world-building is expertly crafted, with intricate details that immerse readers into this futuristic realm, making it feel almost palpable.

The characters in The Hour of Battle are a true highlight of the book. Sheckley presents a diverse cast who are all uniquely flawed and relatable. From the determined and ambitious commander to the weary and battle-worn soldiers, each character adds depth and complexity to the storyline. The author does a commendable job of portraying the psychological toll of war, showcasing the emotional struggles faced by those involved in the conflict.

What sets The Hour of Battle apart from other science fiction novels is its exploration of politics and morality. Amidst the chaos of battle, Sheckley delves into the ethical considerations of war, raising questions about the nature of humanity and the devastating consequences of our actions. This adds a thought-provoking layer to the narrative, forcing readers to reflect on the choices made by individuals as well as societies.

One aspect that could have been improved in the book is the pacing. At times, the narrative moves at a breakneck speed, making it difficult to fully grasp the implications of certain events. Some chapters could benefit from additional development and slower pacing to fully explore the complexity of the plot and the emotional journey of the characters.

Despite this minor flaw, The Hour of Battle remains an enthralling and gripping read. Sheckley's skillful storytelling weaves together elements of action, suspense, and introspection, creating a narrative that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. As the final pages unfold, readers are treated to a climactic and satisfying conclusion that ties up loose ends while leaving room for contemplation.

Overall, The Hour of Battle is a must-read for any science fiction enthusiast. Its engaging writing style, compelling characters, and profound exploration of war and humanity make it a book that lingers in the mind long after the final page is turned. Sheckley's talent for crafting an immersive and thought-provoking narrative solidifies his position as a master in the genre, and this novel stands as a testament to his storytelling prowess.

First Page:

THE HOUR OF BATTLE

BY ROBERT SHECKLEY

ILLUSTRATED BY KRENKEL

As one of the Guardian ships protecting Earth, the crew had a problem to solve. Just how do you protect a race from an enemy who can take over a man's mind without seeming effort or warning?

"That hand didn't move, did it?" Edwardson asked, standing at the port, looking at the stars.

"No," Morse said. He had been staring fixedly at the Attison Detector for over an hour. Now he blinked three times rapidly, and looked again. "Not a millimeter."

"I don't think it moved either," Cassel added, from behind the gunfire panel. And that was that. The slender black hand of the indicator rested unwaveringly on zero. The ship's guns were ready, their black mouths open to the stars. A steady hum filled the room. It came from the Attison Detector, and the sound was reassuring. It reinforced the fact that the Detector was attached to all the other Detectors, forming a gigantic network around Earth.

"Why in hell don't they come?" Edwardson asked, still looking at the stars. "Why don't they hit?"

"Aah, shut up," Morse said. He had a tired, glum look. High on his right temple was an old radiation burn, a sunburst of pink scar tissue. From a distance it looked like a decoration.

"I just wish they'd come," Edwardson said... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Literature
Science
Short stories

eBook links
Wikipedia – Robert Sheckley
Wikipedia – The Hour of Battle

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