Stalemate By: Basil Wells (1912-2003)
In "Stalemate" by Basil Wells, readers are taken on a thrilling journey through a world of survival and intrigue. The story follows the lives of two main characters, whose paths converge in unexpected ways as they navigate a post-apocalyptic world. Wells excels at creating a believable and vivid setting that captivates readers from the very beginning. The desolate landscapes and crumbling cities evoke a sense of hopelessness, reflecting the dire state of humanity. Through his descriptive prose, Wells paints a picture of a world in decay, teetering on the edge of destruction. The characterization in the novel is one of its strongest aspects. The two main characters, Greg and Cara, are well-developed and their struggles become the focal point of the story. Greg, a battle-hardened survivor, is driven by a desperate need to protect his loved ones and find a way to rebuild society. On the other hand, Cara is a resourceful and determined woman who refuses to let the harsh reality break her spirit. The dynamic between these two characters is filled with tension and adds depth to the overall plot. The pacing of the novel is well-balanced, with enough action to keep readers engaged, while also allowing for moments of introspection and character development. Wells seamlessly weaves together the different narrative threads, ensuring that each twist and turn feels organic and natural. What truly sets "Stalemate" apart is the moral and ethical dilemmas it presents. As the characters face difficult choices, Wells explores the consequences of their decisions, forcing readers to question their own beliefs and values. This thought-provoking element adds layers to the story and elevates it beyond mere post-apocalyptic fiction. However, there are moments where the plot feels slightly predictable, and the ending, while satisfying, leaves room for further exploration. Nonetheless, these minor flaws do not diminish the overall impact of the novel. In conclusion, "Stalemate" is a gripping and thought-provoking tale of survival and humanity's resilience in the face of adversity. Wells' skillful storytelling and well-developed characters make for an engaging read. Fans of post-apocalyptic fiction will find themselves captivated by this thrilling adventure from start to finish. First Page: STALEMATE BY BASIL WELLS Illustrated by Leo Summers [Transcriber Note: This etext was produced from If Worlds of Science Fiction November 1954. Extensive research did not uncover any evidence that the U.S. copyright on this publication was renewed.] [Sidenote: The rules of a duel between gentlemen are quite different from the rules of war between nations. Is it because gentlemen do not fight wars, or is it that men in war cease to be gentlemen? ] The bullet slapped rotted leaves and dirt into Gram Treb's eyes. He wormed backward to the bole of a small tree. "Missed!" he shouted. He used English, the second tongue of them both. "Throw away your carbine and use rocks." "You tasted it anyhow," Harl Neilson's shrill young voice cried. "How was the sample?" "That leaves you two cartridges," taunted Treb. "Or is it only one?" The sixth sense that had brought him safely through two of these bloody war duels here in space made him fling his body to the left. He rolled over once and lay huddled in a shallow depression. He knew all the tiny hollows and ridges they were his insurance on this mile wide island high above Earth. Something thudded into the tree roots behind him. He hugged the ground, body flattened... Continue reading book >>

Stalemate By: Basil Wells (1912-2003)

In "Stalemate" by Basil Wells, readers are taken on a thrilling journey through a world of survival and intrigue. The story follows the lives of two main characters, whose paths converge in unexpected ways as they navigate a post-apocalyptic world.

Wells excels at creating a believable and vivid setting that captivates readers from the very beginning. The desolate landscapes and crumbling cities evoke a sense of hopelessness, reflecting the dire state of humanity. Through his descriptive prose, Wells paints a picture of a world in decay, teetering on the edge of destruction.

The characterization in the novel is one of its strongest aspects. The two main characters, Greg and Cara, are well-developed and their struggles become the focal point of the story. Greg, a battle-hardened survivor, is driven by a desperate need to protect his loved ones and find a way to rebuild society. On the other hand, Cara is a resourceful and determined woman who refuses to let the harsh reality break her spirit. The dynamic between these two characters is filled with tension and adds depth to the overall plot.

The pacing of the novel is well-balanced, with enough action to keep readers engaged, while also allowing for moments of introspection and character development. Wells seamlessly weaves together the different narrative threads, ensuring that each twist and turn feels organic and natural.

What truly sets "Stalemate" apart is the moral and ethical dilemmas it presents. As the characters face difficult choices, Wells explores the consequences of their decisions, forcing readers to question their own beliefs and values. This thought-provoking element adds layers to the story and elevates it beyond mere post-apocalyptic fiction.

However, there are moments where the plot feels slightly predictable, and the ending, while satisfying, leaves room for further exploration. Nonetheless, these minor flaws do not diminish the overall impact of the novel.

In conclusion, "Stalemate" is a gripping and thought-provoking tale of survival and humanity's resilience in the face of adversity. Wells' skillful storytelling and well-developed characters make for an engaging read. Fans of post-apocalyptic fiction will find themselves captivated by this thrilling adventure from start to finish.

First Page:

STALEMATE

BY BASIL WELLS

Illustrated by Leo Summers

[Transcriber Note: This etext was produced from If Worlds of Science Fiction November 1954. Extensive research did not uncover any evidence that the U.S. copyright on this publication was renewed.]

[Sidenote: The rules of a duel between gentlemen are quite different from the rules of war between nations. Is it because gentlemen do not fight wars, or is it that men in war cease to be gentlemen? ]

The bullet slapped rotted leaves and dirt into Gram Treb's eyes. He wormed backward to the bole of a small tree.

"Missed!" he shouted. He used English, the second tongue of them both. "Throw away your carbine and use rocks."

"You tasted it anyhow," Harl Neilson's shrill young voice cried. "How was the sample?"

"That leaves you two cartridges," taunted Treb. "Or is it only one?"

The sixth sense that had brought him safely through two of these bloody war duels here in space made him fling his body to the left. He rolled over once and lay huddled in a shallow depression. He knew all the tiny hollows and ridges they were his insurance on this mile wide island high above Earth.

Something thudded into the tree roots behind him. He hugged the ground, body flattened... Continue reading book >>

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