GATEWAY

Dive into Frederik Pohl's Hugo, Locus, Nebula, and John W. Campbell Award-winning masterpiece, *Gateway*, a cornerstone of science fiction and the captivating opening chapter of the renowned Heechee saga. This 2022 Orion edition brings a fresh look to a story that has captivated readers for decades. In a resource-starved future, humanity stumbles upon Gateway, an abandoned artificial spaceport brimming with interstellar ships left behind by the enigmatic Heechee, a long-vanished alien race. These automated vessels offer a tantalizing proposition: wealth beyond imagination, or a swift and silent death in the cold depths of space. The ships are pre-programmed with destinations unknown, easy to operate but impossible to truly control. Each voyage is a gamble, a cosmic game of Russian roulette where the stakes are astronomical. For those desperate enough to risk it all, Gateway offers a chance to escape the crushing poverty and bleakness of Earth. Prospectors embark on perilous journeys, hoping to return with alien artifacts, new technologies, or discoveries that will make them rich beyond their wildest dreams. But the dangers are immense. Many ships return empty, their crews lost to the vast unknown, while others bring back horrors beyond comprehension. The story follows Robinette Broadhead, a former food miner who takes the plunge and invests everything he has into a Gateway trip. Broadhead's experiences, both on Earth and in the uncharted territories of space, form the emotional core of the novel. Pohl masterfully blends thrilling adventure with deep psychological exploration, delving into Broadhead's motivations, fears, and regrets as he confronts the challenges and wonders that Gateway throws his way. The narrative jumps between Broadhead's past experiences and his therapy sessions in the future, adding layers of complexity and suspense. *Gateway* is more than just a space opera; it's a profound exploration of human ambition, desperation, and the enduring quest for knowledge. Pohl's sharp wit, insightful social commentary, and compelling characters make this a truly unforgettable read. The novel examines themes of addiction, trauma, and the consequences of unchecked technological advancement. It asks profound questions about the nature of humanity and our place in the universe. Frederik Pohl, a Grand Master of science fiction, was a towering figure in the genre. His influence extended beyond his own acclaimed writing; he also worked as an editor and literary agent, shaping the careers of countless other writers. His decades-long career saw him produce a body of work that continues to inspire and challenge readers today. *Gateway*, widely considered one of his finest achievements, cemented his place as one of the most important voices in science fiction. Don't miss your chance to experience this genre-defining classic. *Gateway* is a must-read for any science fiction fan and a perfect introduction to the work of Frederik Pohl. As lauded by Tordotcom, it's a "masterpiece of the genre," and as Gareth L. Powell aptly puts it, "Gateway deserves its reputation as a classic." The Guardian hails it as "One of the best Hugo winners I have read." Welcome to The Best Of The Masterworks, where the finest in science fiction awaits.