Lost on Venus

"Lost on Venus" by Edgar Rice Burroughs is a science fiction novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Carson Napier, a man who, in his quest to reach Mars, accidentally lands on the dangerous planet Venus, also known as Amtor. Here, he encounters various antagonistic civilizations and horrific creatures as he embarks on a perilous adventure, including the search for his love interest, Duare, who is caught in a web of political intrigue and danger. At the start of the narrative, Napier is captured after a series of misadventures and finds himself in a perilous situation known as the "room of the seven doors," where each door leads to a potential death. His struggle is compounded by the brutal dangers of Venus and the chilling realization of his impact on Duare's fate, as he learns that she's been abducted by a leader of one of the warring factions. The opening effectively sets the stage for a blend of suspense, romance, and high-stakes adventure, showcasing Burroughs' signature style of weaving fantastical elements with gripping storytelling.

Lost on Venus, by Edgar Rice Burroughs. Republished by OpenStories from Project Gutenberg eBook #70816.