Threshold (novel)

infobox Book |
name = Threshold
title_orig =
translator =


image_caption =
author = David R. Palmer
illustrator =
cover_artist =
country = United States
language = English
series = To Halt Armageddon
genre = Science fiction novel
publisher = Bantam Spectra
release_date = December 1985
media_type = Print (Paperback)
pages =
isbn = ISBN 0-553-24878-2 (first edition, paperback)
preceded_by = Emergence
followed_by =

"Threshold" is a science fiction novel written by David R. Palmer and published by Bantam Spectra in December 1985. It was his second book published, following "Emergence", and was intended to be the first book of the "To Halt Armageddon" trilogycite book | last=Palmer | first=David R. | title=Emergence | publisher=Bantam Spectra | id=ISBN 0-553-25519-3 | year=1990 | edition=Signature Special Edition | pages=297 | origyear=1984 | origmonth=November | quote="Threshold" (Book I of the "To Halt Armageddon" trilogy) ] .

Plot introduction

"Threshold" is a space opera novel, involving interstellar intrigue, mysteriously alluring space aliens, and a hero who is larger than life. Its protagonist, the penultimate issue of millennia long alien breeding program: Peter Cory, billionaire, hard driving adventurer, and unrequited rescuer of damsels. (Due to a "clerical" error in the program, his future wife was born late and is now only a child, but there is no time to wait.) One of the aliens, a "wWyh'j" (witch) named Megonthalyä (Meg) and her obese feline familiar (Memphis) come to earth to enlist Peter's help.

Plot summary

Due to what they call a 'racial mental block' a quasi-immortal race called the Isi are unable to prevent a galactic catastrophe. The Isi think humanity (specifically Peter) will help them overcome this hurdle, hence the book's opening line "Peter, we are losing Armageddon..." Unless he joins forces with them "... the galaxy is doomed...!"

While Peter (and the reader) is understandably skeptical, the talking cat, as well as a crash course in telepathy rapidly convince him of Meg's sincerity. Soon he is using his uniquely human perspective to unveil new applications of ancient Isi mental powers, and develops some startling new abilities. Armed with complete control of his cellular structure (which allows for slow but complete cellular metamorphosis), and a "gnNäáq" (knack) which allows the mental manipulation of electrical energy, Peter and Meg travel to Meg's home planet of Isis where he will be taught the "mMj'q" (Magic) necessary to help save the galaxy from its impending destruction.

Writing in what can only be described in a "Heinlein-esque" style, Palmer deliberately plays with sci-fi conventions. For example he transforms common terms such as witch, familiar, and magic into alien words. He also turns several clichés on their ear, giving the reader a trip through the protagonist's ego as he travels across a decidedly hostile planet.

Literary significance & criticism

Touted as the first book in a trilogy, subsequent novels have yet to be published. Internet rumors abound as to causes for the delay (from publisher disputes, losing drive after the poor reception of the first book, etc). As of 1990, Palmer claimed that once his finances were under control, he would return to writing. [cite book | last=Palmer | first=David R. | title=Emergence | publisher=Bantam Spectra | id=ISBN 0-553-25519-3 | year=1990 | edition=Signature Special Edition | pages=297 | origyear=1984 | origmonth=November | quote=At that point I will again quit reporting and devote all my time to writing. ]

References