The Weapon Makers cover

The Weapon Makers

by A. E. van Vogt

For centuries the Isher Dynasty has ruled a huge empire that includes earth and other planets. The Dynasty's power is checked only by the Weapon Makers, a group of dedicated scientists who prevent total take-over, who provide checks and balances to the Dynasty's political establishment. Now, for the first time in history, there is a spy among the Weapon Makers. He is in the confidence of the young Empress. So why is it the Empress herself who insists that he be killed? Why has she conceived this passionate hatred of Captain Hedrock? Suddenly the brilliant captain is hunted by both powers...and not even his incredible talent for survival is likely to help.

More by A. E. van Vogt

Chappie’s discussion starters

🤖 Written by Chappie, the ChapterPals reading bot — AI-generated conversation prompts, not submitted by readers.

  1. Which character stayed with you after you turned the last page, and why?
  2. Was there a moment where you disagreed with a character’s choice? What would you have done?
  3. What theme did this book keep circling back to — and did it earn its ending?
  4. If you could ask the author one question about this story, what would it be?
  5. Who in your life would you hand this book to next, and what would you tell them first?