Wind By: Charles Louis Fontenay (1917-2007)
Wind by Charles Louis Fontenay is a captivating science fiction novel that takes readers on a thrilling journey across distant planets. Set in a future where humanity has colonized several worlds, the story follows the protagonist as he battles against the harsh environment and a mysterious force known as the "Wind." One of the key highlights of this book is Fontenay's ability to world-build. The author creates a rich and immersive universe filled with unique planets, each with its own distinctive culture and geography. From the barren wasteland of Mars to the lush forests of Venus, the descriptions are vivid and transport the reader into these alien landscapes. The attention to detail and the realistic portrayal of the challenges faced by colonizers bring this fictional universe to life. The characters in Wind are also noteworthy. The main protagonist, who remains nameless throughout the story, is a relatable and flawed individual. His determination to uncover the secrets of the Wind and his struggle to survive in this hostile environment make him a compelling hero. The supporting characters, too, are well-developed and add depth to the narrative. Fontenay effectively portrays the interpersonal dynamics among the diverse cast of characters and explores themes of trust, betrayal, and sacrifice. The pacing of the story is another strength of this novel. Fontenay balances action-packed sequences with quieter, reflective moments, ensuring that the reader remains engaged throughout. The suspense builds gradually as the protagonist uncovers the truth about the Wind and confronts its devastating consequences. The author adeptly keeps the reader guessing, while also providing thought-provoking insights into the nature of power, control, and the consequences of human hubris. If there is one criticism to be made, it is that the ending of the book feels somewhat rushed. After an intricately woven plotline, the resolution feels slightly abrupt and could have benefited from more elaboration. However, this does not significantly detract from the overall enjoyment of the story, and the journey leading up to the finale remains satisfying. Overall, Wind is a highly enjoyable science fiction novel that combines an imaginative setting, well-developed characters, and an engaging plot. Fans of the genre will appreciate Fontenay's attention to detail and his ability to create an immersive universe. This book serves as a reminder of the allure of exploration, the resilience of the human spirit, and the consequences that can arise when we tamper with the natural order of things. First Page: WIND By CHARLES L. FONTENAY When you have an engine with no fuel, and fuel without an engine, and a life and death deadline to meet, you have a problem indeed. Unless you are a stubborn Dutchman and Jan Van Artevelde was the stubbornest Dutchman on Venus. Jan Willem van Artevelde claimed descent from William of Orange. He had no genealogy to prove it, but on Venus there was no one who could disprove it, either. Jan Willem van Artevelde smoked a clay pipe, which only a Dutchman can do properly, because the clay bit grates on less stubborn teeth. Jan needed all his Dutch stubbornness, and a good deal of pure physical strength besides, to maneuver the roach flat groundcar across the tumbled terrain of Den Hoorn into the teeth of the howling gale that swept from the west. The huge wheels twisted and jolted against the rocks outside, and Jan bounced against his seat belt, wrestled the steering wheel and puffed at his pijp . The mild aroma of Heerenbaai Tabak filled the airtight groundcar. There came a new swaying that was not the roughness of the terrain. Through the thick windshield Jan saw all the ground about him buckle and heave for a second or two before it settled to rugged quiescence again... Continue reading book >>

Wind By: Charles Louis Fontenay (1917-2007)

Wind by Charles Louis Fontenay is a captivating science fiction novel that takes readers on a thrilling journey across distant planets. Set in a future where humanity has colonized several worlds, the story follows the protagonist as he battles against the harsh environment and a mysterious force known as the "Wind."

One of the key highlights of this book is Fontenay's ability to world-build. The author creates a rich and immersive universe filled with unique planets, each with its own distinctive culture and geography. From the barren wasteland of Mars to the lush forests of Venus, the descriptions are vivid and transport the reader into these alien landscapes. The attention to detail and the realistic portrayal of the challenges faced by colonizers bring this fictional universe to life.

The characters in Wind are also noteworthy. The main protagonist, who remains nameless throughout the story, is a relatable and flawed individual. His determination to uncover the secrets of the Wind and his struggle to survive in this hostile environment make him a compelling hero. The supporting characters, too, are well-developed and add depth to the narrative. Fontenay effectively portrays the interpersonal dynamics among the diverse cast of characters and explores themes of trust, betrayal, and sacrifice.

The pacing of the story is another strength of this novel. Fontenay balances action-packed sequences with quieter, reflective moments, ensuring that the reader remains engaged throughout. The suspense builds gradually as the protagonist uncovers the truth about the Wind and confronts its devastating consequences. The author adeptly keeps the reader guessing, while also providing thought-provoking insights into the nature of power, control, and the consequences of human hubris.

If there is one criticism to be made, it is that the ending of the book feels somewhat rushed. After an intricately woven plotline, the resolution feels slightly abrupt and could have benefited from more elaboration. However, this does not significantly detract from the overall enjoyment of the story, and the journey leading up to the finale remains satisfying.

Overall, Wind is a highly enjoyable science fiction novel that combines an imaginative setting, well-developed characters, and an engaging plot. Fans of the genre will appreciate Fontenay's attention to detail and his ability to create an immersive universe. This book serves as a reminder of the allure of exploration, the resilience of the human spirit, and the consequences that can arise when we tamper with the natural order of things.

First Page:

WIND

By CHARLES L. FONTENAY

When you have an engine with no fuel, and fuel without an engine, and a life and death deadline to meet, you have a problem indeed. Unless you are a stubborn Dutchman and Jan Van Artevelde was the stubbornest Dutchman on Venus.

Jan Willem van Artevelde claimed descent from William of Orange. He had no genealogy to prove it, but on Venus there was no one who could disprove it, either.

Jan Willem van Artevelde smoked a clay pipe, which only a Dutchman can do properly, because the clay bit grates on less stubborn teeth.

Jan needed all his Dutch stubbornness, and a good deal of pure physical strength besides, to maneuver the roach flat groundcar across the tumbled terrain of Den Hoorn into the teeth of the howling gale that swept from the west. The huge wheels twisted and jolted against the rocks outside, and Jan bounced against his seat belt, wrestled the steering wheel and puffed at his pijp . The mild aroma of Heerenbaai Tabak filled the airtight groundcar.

There came a new swaying that was not the roughness of the terrain. Through the thick windshield Jan saw all the ground about him buckle and heave for a second or two before it settled to rugged quiescence again... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Fiction
Literature
Science
Short stories

eBook links
Wikipedia – Charles Louis Fontenay
Wikipedia – Wind

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