Perfect Control By: Richard Stockham
Perfect Control by Richard Stockham is a gripping novel that offers readers an insightful exploration of the human condition with a unique mix of mystery, psychology, and suspense. The narrative is intriguing, diving into the depths of the protagonist's mind, questioning the limits of control and the consequences of our actions. The story follows Alex, a successful businessman who appears to have it all—wealth, a loving family, and a thriving career. However, beneath the surface, Alex's life is filled with internal struggles. Haunted by past experiences, he grapples with an insatiable desire for control, controlling every aspect of his life to maintain a semblance of order. Stockham masterfully crafts a complex character in Alex, showcasing the intricacies of his inner world. Through introspective prose, the author delves into the depths of his psyche, illustrating the ongoing battle between his desire for perfection and the chaos that inevitably intrudes upon his carefully constructed life. Alex's constant quest for control creates a compelling tension that holds readers captivated throughout the novel. The pacing of Perfect Control is steady, with each twist and turn expertly timed to maintain suspense. As the story progresses, unexpected events lead Alex on a journey of self-discovery, forcing him to confront his deepest fears and question the extent of his control over himself and his circumstances. The untangling of his past is as intriguing as it is devastating, plunging the reader into a world of mystery and intrigue. Stockham's prose is rich and evocative, painting vivid imagery that enhances the reading experience. His words bring every scene to life, immersing readers in the intricate details of Alex's surroundings and thoughts. The author's attention to detail creates a vivid atmosphere, heightening the sense of unease and suspense that permeate the narrative. Furthermore, the exploration of psychology is a standout aspect of Perfect Control. Stockham delves into the complexities of the human mind, examining the motivations and behaviors that drive our actions. Through Alex's psychological journey, the novel invites readers to reflect on the limitations of control in our own lives, making us question whether absolute control is ever truly attainable. While the novel excels in many areas, some readers may find the intricate psychological exploration and slower pacing to be a bit overwhelming. Additionally, the ending may polarize opinions, leaving some wanting more closure or resolution. However, these minor shortcomings do not detract significantly from the overall impact of the book. In conclusion, Perfect Control is an engrossing and thought-provoking novel that combines elements of mystery, psychology, and suspense to deliver a captivating read. Richard Stockham's ability to delve into the complexities of the human mind shines throughout the narrative, offering readers a haunting exploration of control, the consequences of our actions, and the delicate balance between order and chaos. First Page: Transcriber's Note: This etext was produced from Galaxy Science Fiction January 1955. Extensive research did not uncover any evidence that the U.S. copyright on this publication was renewed. PERFECT CONTROL By RICHARD STOCKHAM Illustrated by MEL HUNTER Why can't you go home again after years in space? There had to be an answer ... could he find it in time, though? Sitting at his desk, Colonel Halter brought the images on the telescreen into focus. Four booster tugs were fastening, like sky barnacles, onto the hull of the ancient derelict, Alpha . He watched as they swung her around, stern down, and sank with her through the blackness, toward the bluish white, moon lighted arc of Earth a thousand miles below. He pressed a button. The image of tugs and hull faded and the control room of the old ship swam onto the screen. Colonel Halter saw the crew, sitting in a half circle, before the control panel. The telescreen in the control room of old Alpha was yet dark. The faces watching it held no care lines or laugh lines, only a vague expression of kindness. They could be faces of wax or those of people dying pleasantly... Continue reading book >>

Perfect Control By: Richard Stockham

Perfect Control by Richard Stockham is a gripping novel that offers readers an insightful exploration of the human condition with a unique mix of mystery, psychology, and suspense. The narrative is intriguing, diving into the depths of the protagonist's mind, questioning the limits of control and the consequences of our actions.

The story follows Alex, a successful businessman who appears to have it all—wealth, a loving family, and a thriving career. However, beneath the surface, Alex's life is filled with internal struggles. Haunted by past experiences, he grapples with an insatiable desire for control, controlling every aspect of his life to maintain a semblance of order.

Stockham masterfully crafts a complex character in Alex, showcasing the intricacies of his inner world. Through introspective prose, the author delves into the depths of his psyche, illustrating the ongoing battle between his desire for perfection and the chaos that inevitably intrudes upon his carefully constructed life. Alex's constant quest for control creates a compelling tension that holds readers captivated throughout the novel.

The pacing of Perfect Control is steady, with each twist and turn expertly timed to maintain suspense. As the story progresses, unexpected events lead Alex on a journey of self-discovery, forcing him to confront his deepest fears and question the extent of his control over himself and his circumstances. The untangling of his past is as intriguing as it is devastating, plunging the reader into a world of mystery and intrigue.

Stockham's prose is rich and evocative, painting vivid imagery that enhances the reading experience. His words bring every scene to life, immersing readers in the intricate details of Alex's surroundings and thoughts. The author's attention to detail creates a vivid atmosphere, heightening the sense of unease and suspense that permeate the narrative.

Furthermore, the exploration of psychology is a standout aspect of Perfect Control. Stockham delves into the complexities of the human mind, examining the motivations and behaviors that drive our actions. Through Alex's psychological journey, the novel invites readers to reflect on the limitations of control in our own lives, making us question whether absolute control is ever truly attainable.

While the novel excels in many areas, some readers may find the intricate psychological exploration and slower pacing to be a bit overwhelming. Additionally, the ending may polarize opinions, leaving some wanting more closure or resolution. However, these minor shortcomings do not detract significantly from the overall impact of the book.

In conclusion, Perfect Control is an engrossing and thought-provoking novel that combines elements of mystery, psychology, and suspense to deliver a captivating read. Richard Stockham's ability to delve into the complexities of the human mind shines throughout the narrative, offering readers a haunting exploration of control, the consequences of our actions, and the delicate balance between order and chaos.

First Page:

Transcriber's Note:

This etext was produced from Galaxy Science Fiction January 1955. Extensive research did not uncover any evidence that the U.S. copyright on this publication was renewed.

PERFECT CONTROL

By RICHARD STOCKHAM

Illustrated by MEL HUNTER

Why can't you go home again after years in space? There had to be an answer ... could he find it in time, though?

Sitting at his desk, Colonel Halter brought the images on the telescreen into focus. Four booster tugs were fastening, like sky barnacles, onto the hull of the ancient derelict, Alpha .

He watched as they swung her around, stern down, and sank with her through the blackness, toward the bluish white, moon lighted arc of Earth a thousand miles below.

He pressed a button. The image of tugs and hull faded and the control room of the old ship swam onto the screen.

Colonel Halter saw the crew, sitting in a half circle, before the control panel.

The telescreen in the control room of old Alpha was yet dark. The faces watching it held no care lines or laugh lines, only a vague expression of kindness. They could be faces of wax or those of people dying pleasantly... Continue reading book >>

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