The story in one page
Nick Danson is suffering from a massive case of amnesia. He finds himself in a house with a woman named Beth who insists they are married, despite him having no memory of her or their union. While Nick tries to piece together his past, he remains oblivious to the reality that he is actually an extraterrestrial scout named Lors. His mission is to spy on Terran society, a task complicated by his genuine affection for his human 'wife' and the cold-blooded orders of his commander to eliminate the couple. Eventually, Lors is recalled to his starship, leaving Beth behind as he prepares to report back to his own world.
Who's who
- Nick Danson
An amnesiac man who is unknowingly replaced by an alien.
- Beth Danson
The human wife who remains loyal to her husband's imposter.
- Lors
An alien operative masquerading as a human man on Earth.
- The Commander
Alien superior officer who prioritizes the mission over human life.
What it's really about
- Identity
- Questioning who remains when memories are forcibly replaced.
- Deception
- The precariousness of living a lie among humans.
Why it's memorable
- Drinking bitter, sulfuric-tasting coffee while pondering one's own existence.
- A lonely scout ship hovering over the trees in a clearing.
The ending, explained
Spoilers — show the ending
Lors departs Earth in a scout ship, promising to return when their people are finally friends. He leaves Beth behind to marry the Commander's daughter, Jela.
For your book club
- The absurdity of maintaining a domestic marriage while conducting deep-space espionage.
- Whether the alien's affection for his host's wife is genuine or programmed.