The novel is a science fiction tale set on the planet of Tartarus-IV, where humans have established a colony to mine for valuable minerals. The story follows a group of colonists who are struggling to survive in a harsh environment and must confront their own personal demons as they try to maintain order and stability in the face of technological failures and interpersonal conflicts. The protagonist is a skilled engineer who becomes embroiled in a conflict between rival factions vying for control of the colony. As tensions escalate, he discovers that the true enemy may not be external, but rather internal, threatening the very survival of humanity on Tartarus-IV. Throughout the novel, themes of power, corruption, and redemption are explored as the characters navigate the complexities of human nature in a desperate bid to survive and find peace in a hostile environment.
By James McKimmey · First published 1965 · Genre: Science Fiction, Dystopian, Drama