The Big Black Mark

Even legends carry scars.

In The Big Black Mark, the seventh installment of the celebrated John Grimes Saga, A. Bertram Chandler delivers a gripping and introspective science fiction tale about duty, defiance, and the cost of doing the right thing. Captain John Grimes—now a seasoned officer in the Federation Survey Service—is faced with a moral dilemma that could ruin his career and reputation forever.

Grimes is ordered to assist a brutal colonial governor on a distant world—one whose oppressive regime sparks outrage in the normally obedient captain. As tensions mount and ethical lines blur, Grimes makes a bold decision to rebel against orders in defense of justice. His actions, while noble, don’t go unnoticed. Instead of praise, he receives the dreaded "big black mark" on his service record—a permanent stain that threatens to derail everything he’s worked for.

This isn't just another space adventure. It's a deeply human story about conscience, sacrifice, and the gray area between obedience and honor. Chandler skillfully balances high-stakes galactic politics with personal turmoil, making Grimes' struggle both epic and relatable.

For readers who love morally complex protagonists and richly layered worlds, The Big Black Mark stands out as a turning point in Grimes’ evolution—from rule-follower to independent thinker, from officer to legend.

Now available as a Free pdf download on Bookdio, this thought-provoking free books download is a must for fans of character-driven science fiction.