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Book Review By J. Lee
Worlds of the Imperium by Keith Laumer

Keith Laumer's Worlds of the Imperium is the first in a series of science fiction, alternate universe novels.

American diplomat Brion Bayard is kidnapped by agents of the Imperium and taken to their version of Earth. This alternate Earth's technology and society in general are roughly equivalent to Europe around World War I, but they have, by fortuitous accident, invented a means of traveling between universes. Apparently so has somebody else. There have been raids by an unknown enemy, one who hasn't hesitated to detonate a nuclear bomb in a recent attack.

There are only three universes in which humanity hasn't destroyed itself: the Imperium, Bayard's and a third which is thought to be the home of the attackers. The Imperium wants Bayard to secretly kill the Brion Bayard in that war-torn Earth and take his place as its ruler. After intense training, he is sent in. However, Bayard is easily unmasked (the "real" Bayard lost his legs in combat). He is surprised to be warmly greeted by the other Bayard, but then the latter is assassinated.

It turns out that the attacks are being staged by a secret organization within the Imperium itself in a bid to seize power. Bayard manages to foil their scheme. Offered a chance to return home as a reward, he instead chooses to remain in the service of the Imperium.


Plot & Themes
FANTASY or SCIENCE FICTION? - science fiction story
Explore/1st contact/ enviro story Yes
Explore:
Is this an adult or child's book? - Adult or Young Adult Book
Descript. of chases or violence - 30 %
planning/preparing, gather info, debate puzzles/motives - 20 %
Feelings, relationships, character bio/development - 20 %
Descript. of society, phenomena (tech), places - 30 %

Main Character
Identity: - Male
Profession/status:
Age: - 20's-30's

Setting
Earth setting: - 20th century
Takes place on Earth? Yes

Writing Style
Accounts of torture and death? - moderately detailed references to deaths
scientific jargon? (SF only) - some scientific explanation
How much dialogue? - roughly even amounts of descript and dialog
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