Robert Silverberg and Randall Garrett's *The Judas Valley* opens with a chilling mystery: an entire crew of seasoned spacemen vanishes upon landing in a serene, peaceful valley, leaving only skeletal remains in their wake. What lethal force could transform tough, well-equipped explorers into death so swiftly and completely?
Captain Peter Wayne and his partner Sherri must unravel this science fiction enigma before meeting the same inexplicable fate. Dispatched by the Interstellar Exploration Service for what should be a routine survey mission, they instead encounter a world that promises tranquility while delivering only doom. Every step deeper into the valley brings them closer to answers—and potentially closer to death.
Originally published in Amazing Stories in October 1956, this classic science fiction tale masterfully blends mystery and hard science fiction, exploring themes of survival, deception, and the unknown dangers lurking beyond familiar space. Silverberg and Garrett craft a tense narrative where peaceful surroundings mask something far more sinister, forcing characters and readers alike to question what lies beneath the surface of seemingly ideal worlds.
Perfect for fans of vintage science fiction who appreciate intelligent plotting and psychological tension, *The Judas Valley* remains a gripping reminder of why space exploration demands both courage and caution.
