That Hideous Strength

by C. S. Lewis

Published December 1945
The third novel in the science-fiction trilogy by C.S. Lewis. This final story is set on Earth, and tells of a terrifying conspiracy against humanity, a plot to recreate mankind in the image of slave robots. The story surrounds Mark and Jane Studdock, a newly married couple. Mark is a Sociologist who is enticed to join an organisation called N.I.C.E. which aims to control all human life. His wife, meanwhile, has bizarre prophetic dreams about a decapitated scientist, Alcasan. As Mark is drawn inextricably into the sinister organisation, he discovers the truth of his wife's dreams when he meets the literal head of Alcasan which is being kept alive by infusions of blood. Jane seeks help concerning her dreams at a community called St Anne's, where she meets their leader -- Dr Ransom (the main character of the previous two titles in the trilogy). The story ends in a final spectacular scene at the N.I.C.E. headquarters where Merlin appears to confront the powers of Hell.

Perelandra

by C. S. Lewis

Published 1 September 1965
The second novel in Lewis's science fiction trilogy tells of Dr Ransom's voyage to the planet of Perelandra (Venus). On Perelandra Dr Ransom finds himself battling to preserve a second Eden from the evil forces present in the possessed body of his enemy, Weston. Ransom eventually destroys the body of Weston, which he calls the 'Un-man' and is thanked by all the creatures of the planet which come to greet him. Through the fantasy of Perelandra, Lewis explores issues of good and evil, God and the devil. His vividly imaginative description of another world is remarkable and delightul.