The Usurpers: The SF Classic

By: Geoff St. Reynard

Narrated by: David Bufton

Length: 4 hrs and 56 mins

Publisher's summary

This is a 1950s pulp alien invasion shocker too intense for book publication!

When The Usurpers first appeared in the magazine Imagination during the early 1950s, Nebula and Hugo Award winner Robert Silverberg wrote that Geoff St. Reynard's work is "off the beaten track". The concept of aliens masquerading in human form is not at all new, but this story is different and powerful and considered a minor sci-fi classic.

Considered too strong by the book publishers of the era, The Usurpers has never been republished in the past decades since. Now, you can listen to this science fiction classic and judge for yourself. Here is a story that is bound to remind you of Night of the Living Dead and The Thing.

Science fiction often speculated about whether aliens might walk the Earth masquerading as human beings. Jerry Wolfe discovered it was true. He had seen the aliens in their actual form. He must be high, you say. Don't laugh! Your best friend is one of them. Discover what happens when a handful of brave men and women decide to pit their puny forces against the might of Earth's secret masters and the governments they control! You will find romance, action, and daring speculation in this lost classic, in its first ever audiobook publication.

©1950, 2005, 2009 PageTurner (P)2019 PageTurner

Pulp fiction at its best

I can imagine this being broadcast simultaneously with War of the Worlds. It would creep people out. Nowadays the subject of aliens disguised as human seems to be a story on the fringe told by “normal” people. I guess the Usurpers didn’t keep their promise to leave and never return! Hahaha.

A Remarkable Blend of Sci-Fi and Horror Fantasy

When delving into the mesmerizing world of science fiction, one often anticipates epic journeys to far-off galaxies, encounters with advanced technologies, or explorations of cosmic enigmas. However, "The Usurpers" by Geoff St. Reynard, a hidden treasure from the 1950s, defies these conventions, delivering an enthralling narrative that artfully blurs the lines between science fiction and horror fantasy. Brilliantly narrated by David Bufton in its inaugural audiobook release, "The Usurpers" introduces a story that remains as fresh and spine-tingling as the day it was penned.

While "The Usurpers" is primarily categorized as science fiction, its eerie resonance with the horror genre, particularly reminiscent of John Carpenter's iconic film 'They Live,' sets it apart as a unique and unforgettable reading experience. Published in 1950, this groundbreaking work predates the renowned "Invasion of the Body Snatchers" by four years, laying the groundwork for the subgenre of science fiction centered on alien infiltration. However, what truly distinguishes "The Usurpers" is its masterful blending of horror and fantasy elements, crafting a narrative that continues to send shivers down the spine.

At its core, "The Usurpers" beats with a sense of dread that would find itself comfortably at home in any classic horror novel. The story unfolds through the eyes of various characters who inadvertently uncover the disconcerting truth: otherworldly entities are clandestinely inhabiting human bodies, living among us, and exerting an eerie influence over the world, manipulating governments and society from the shadows.

One of the central figures in this otherworldly chess game is Jerry Wolfe, an ordinary man whose life takes an uncanny turn after a mysterious operation alters his optic nerve, allowing him to perceive the aliens in their grotesque, true form. Reynard expertly navigates the psychological turmoil that engulfs Jerry as he grapples with the knowledge that he belongs to the select few who can see the invaders for what they truly are. This aspect of the narrative underscores Reynard's mastery in creating multifaceted, relatable characters.

As Jerry wrestles with his newfound understanding, "The Usurpers" delves deeper into the labyrinth of secrecy and deception surrounding the aliens' presence on Earth. Readers are introduced to a courageous group of individuals who, upon discovering the truth, decide to take matters into their own hands, pitting their meager resources against the overwhelming might of Earth's covert rulers and the puppet governments under their sway.

What sets "The Usurpers" apart is the palpable suspense and tension that permeate each page. Reynard masterfully constructs a narrative that keeps readers teetering on the edge of their seats, drawing them deeper into the ominous world of these alien infiltrators. The constant fear of discovery and capture looms over the characters like a menacing specter, heightening the emotional stakes and creating a gripping and immersive reading experience.

While "The Usurpers" undoubtedly embraces the spine-chilling elements of the horror genre, it does so in a manner that retains its roots in science fiction. Reynard seamlessly weaves together speculative fiction elements, inviting readers to contemplate the consequences of otherworldly entities' presence on Earth. As the narrative unfolds, it raises thought-provoking questions about identity, trust, and the extent to which humanity would go to safeguard its autonomy.

David Bufton's narration in the audiobook edition of "The Usurpers" deserves special recognition. His commanding and evocative voice breathes life into Reynard's richly imagined world, imbuing each character with distinct personality and depth. Bufton's expert delivery enhances the story's immersive quality, making it a truly captivating listening experience for both seasoned audiobook enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

In hindsight, it is not surprising that "The Usurpers" may be perceived as more of a horror fantasy than traditional science fiction. While the story incorporates familiar science fiction tropes such as extraterrestrial beings and advanced technology, it employs them to craft a tale that is undeniably dark, mysterious, and unsettling. The narrative's eerie ambiance and the visceral horror of discovering alien beings concealed within human hosts evoke a sense of dread akin to the masterful works of horror fiction.

Notably, "The Usurpers" predates John Carpenter's iconic film 'They Live' by several decades, sharing striking thematic parallels with this cinematic classic. Both narratives delve into the unsettling territory of concealed truths and the manipulation of perception by hidden forces. While Carpenter's film explores these themes through a different lens, "The Usurpers" similarly resonates with its audience, highlighting the enduring relevance of its narrative.

One of the most captivating aspects of "The Usurpers" is how it elicits pervasive paranoia and distrust. As readers follow the characters on their journey of awakening to the hidden reality, they cannot help but question the identities of those around them. The story taps into a primal fear of the unknown, casting the everyday into an eerie and unsettling light. This transformation of the mundane into the macabre is a hallmark of horror fantasy, and Reynard executes it with precision and finesse.

Jerry Wolfe, the character at the story's heart, becomes a symbol of its central theme: the fragility of human existence in the face of cosmic forces. His experiences, from the operation that alters his perception to the harrowing alien encounters that follow, offer a poignant exploration of the human spirit's resilience. Through Jerry's eyes, readers bear witness to the struggle of an individual thrust into a world of unimaginable terror, forced to confront the boundaries of human understanding.

Reynard's storytelling prowess shines brightly in "The Usurpers." His ability to craft a narrative that seamlessly melds science fiction and horror elements is a testament to his creativity and vision. While firmly rooted in the science fiction tradition, "The Usurpers" transcends genre boundaries through its fusion with horror fantasy. It is not merely a story of alien infiltration; it is a contemplation on the essence of humanity and the inexorable forces that seek to control it.

For far too long, "The Usurpers" languished in obscurity, deemed too potent by the publishers of its time. Thanks to the audiobook edition narrated by David Bufton, this hidden gem has been resurrected for a new generation of readers and listeners. Bufton's expert narration captures the essence of the story, immersing the audience in a world of suspense, intrigue, and existential dread.

In conclusion, "The Usurpers" by Geoff St. Reynard is a timeless classic that defies easy categorization. It challenges the boundaries of science fiction and horror, delivering a narrative that is both thought-provoking and spine-tingling. With its masterful storytelling, complex characters, and themes that resonate with contemporary readers, "The Usurpers" stands as a testament to the enduring power of speculative fiction. Do not miss the opportunity to experience this hidden treasure, now available in an engaging audiobook format that brings its chilling narrative to life in a whole new way. Whether you are a devoted fan of science fiction, a lover of horror fantasy, or simply seeking a thrilling and thought-provoking tale, "The Usurpers" will leave you questioning the world around you and the secrets that may lurk beneath

Body Snatchers!

A short pulp novel that is both faced paced and entertaining. The Usurpers is listed as science fiction, but seems closer to a horror fantasy.The Usurpers was published in 1950, four years before the similarly themed Invasion of the Body Snatchers, basis of the 1956 SF classic. The narration was excellent.