The planet of peril

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

79360

Title

The planet of peril

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

In this classic science fiction adventure, Earthman Robert Grandon is abducted to the perilous planet of Venus (Zarovia). There, he joins forces with Princess Vernia and a diverse group of allies—including fighting Traveks and underground-dwelling Sabits—to thwart a treacherous coup, rescue enslaved people, and survive encounters with monstrous creatures. A tale of romance, military strategy, and interplanetary diplomacy.

Summary up to 500 words

In Otis Adelbert Kline's *The Planet of Peril*, bored Chicago aristocrat Robert Ellsmore Grandon is drugged by a mysterious stranger and transported to the hostile world of Venus (Zarovia). Upon awakening, he finds himself in a dangerous environment inhabited by giant reptiles, hairless bear-like beasts, and intelligent scaly humanoids known as Sabits. His survival depends on an alliance with Vernia, a beautiful princess abducted by her scheming cousin, Prince Destho, who seeks to seize the throne. Grandon quickly forms a resistance alongside Vernia, Joto—a former captain from Mars—and the Granterrites. The narrative is defined by intense action sequences involving sword fights and gun battles utilizing unique weaponry like the 'mattork.' Grandon faces strategic military challenges against massive Sabit armies while navigating political intrigue. A pivotal moment occurs when Grandon discovers that Vernia is actually the rightful ruler of Reabon, a neighboring empire. During a climactic proclamation ceremony at the palace, Destho attempts to assassinate Grandon but is killed by his own conspirator, Zueppa. Grandon is proclaimed Emperor of Reabon. Rejecting the abject servility of old customs, he reforms court traditions, allowing Vernia to sit beside him on the throne rather than at his feet. The novel concludes with Grandon and Vernia ruling together peacefully. As they watch a spacecraft depart for Earth, Grandon reflects on his new life among the stars, having found action, romance, and purpose far removed from his idle existence back home. The story explores themes of loyalty, leadership, and the clash between archaic traditions and new ideals.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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2026-08-17 16:14 UTC

Categories

• Adventure
• Science Fiction