The puzzle planet

Communications expert Roy Auckland expects a routine assignment when he joins an expedition on Carolus, a remote planet whose blue skies, strange vegetation, and uncanny resemblance to Earth conceal an entirely unfamiliar society. There he encounters the Vaec, agile, cherubic-looking natives whose expressive eyes, shifting head tendrils, and playful devotion to practical jokes make them fascinating—and difficult to read.

When an apparent prank nearly kills Dr. James, the expedition’s friendly atmosphere turns menacing. Was the incident an alien joke gone disastrously wrong, or a carefully designed murder attempt brought from Earth? As suspicion spreads, Roy must use his understanding of messages, behavior, and hidden meanings to penetrate the Vaec’s mask before more visitors become targets. Combining an off-world setting with a classic detective puzzle, this intriguing mystery invites listeners to weigh the clues alongside Roy while discovering what truly makes Carolus—and its inhabitants—so dangerous.