Occasion ... for Disaster

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

30434

Title

Occasion ... for Disaster

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

In a near-future America where society is fracturing, FBI Agent Kenneth Malone investigates mysterious inefficiencies plaguing the government. As he uncovers a conspiracy involving telepaths and a shadowy organization, Malone must navigate political paranoia and his own emerging psychic abilities to prevent a catastrophic global conflict.

Summary up to 500 words

Set in 1973, *Occasion ... for Disaster* follows FBI Agent Kenneth J. Malone as he investigates a series of inexplicable errors and sabotage plaguing the U.S. government. FBI Director Andrew J. Burris warns Malone that the nation is spiraling out of control and that a secret enemy is targeting key figures like Senator Lefferts. Malone discovers that the chaos stems from computer-secretaries in the Senate but soon realizes the threat is far deeper. Malone travels to Las Vegas's Great Universal Hotel, a futuristic-medieval complex, to investigate further. There, he encounters the Psychic Research Service (PRS) and its connection to Her Majesty, a telepathic figure. During his investigation, Malone himself begins to develop telepathic and precognitive abilities, realizing he is unique among humans for achieving such powers as an adult without childhood training. Confronting the PRS leadership, including Sir Lewis, Malone learns a shocking truth: they have orchestrated the destruction of civilization to prevent a 'Last War' between superpowers. The PRS had attempted to tamper with minds to control underlings, but this experiment backfired, leading to the collapse of both the U.S. and Soviet blocs. The narrative explores themes of paranoia, the burden of power, and the unintended consequences of trying to control humanity's future. As Malone grapples with his new abilities and the moral weight of the PRS's actions, he faces a looming crisis in New York. The story concludes with Malone accepting his unique role in this fractured world, leaving the fate of the world hanging in the balance while he prepares for the challenges ahead. The novel serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked technological and psychic intervention in human affairs.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Psychology
• Mystery
• Science Fiction