Spillthrough

"Spillthrough" by Daniel F. Galouye is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The story explores the high-stakes world of space travel and the dangers of hyperspace navigation. At its core, the novel delves into themes of survival, betrayal, and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals in dire situations. The plot follows Brad Conally, the captain of the space freighter SS Fleury, who finds himself in a precarious predicament after his ship suffers critical damage during a hyperjump. As he struggles to maintain control and avoid spilling into normal space—a potentially fatal transition—he faces betrayal from Altman, captain of the Cluster Queen, who aims to salvage not only the valuable cargo from Fleury but also eliminate Brad to cover his tracks. Through a desperate series of maneuvers and clever tactics, Brad uses his knowledge and ingenuity to outsmart Altman in a fight for survival and justice. Ultimately, the narrative culminates in a thrilling resolution that tests the boundaries of morality and resilience in the unforgiving vacuum of space.