The Ethic of the Assassin: Classic Book Guide and Free Edition
The Ethic of the Assassin: author and translator credits, catalogue synopsis, subjects and links to the Gutenberg reading formats.

The Ethic of the Assassin is catalogued by Project Gutenberg with author credits for Howard, Hayden (1925–2014).
Catalogue synopsis
Project Gutenberg supplies this automated synopsis of the opening text:
"The Ethic of the Assassin" by Hayden Howard is a science fiction novel written in the early 1950s. The story unfolds in a distant future where assassins have a rigid code of ethics, implying a complex interplay of contracts concerning life and death. The narrative centers around Doctor Jeff, who faces dire consequences due to the machinations of a powerful figure named Konrad, as well as the titular Assassin whose actions are dictated by tradition and necessity. The plot revolves around Jeff's struggle to save his pregnant wife, Kit, after she is kidnapped by Konrad, who has purchased her life with the help of The Assassin. As Jeff navigates treacherous waters, he attempts to strike a deal with The Assassin itself, offering to restore his sight in exchange for Kit's safety. Throughout the story, Jeff engages in a desperate quest that intertwines elements of morality, power dynamics, and the nature of human life. With rich world-building and tension-filled encounters, the novel explores themes of vengeance, ethical dilemmas, and the value of life within a futuristic society, ultimately leading to a climax filled with unexpected twists and resolution.
Book and edition facts
- Title: The Ethic of the Assassin
- Author credits: Howard, Hayden (1925–2014)
- Catalogue language: English
Catalogue subjects
- Assassins -- Fiction
- Life on other planets -- Fiction
- Physicians -- Fiction
- Science fiction
- Spouses -- Fiction
Gutenberg collections
- Category: Novels
- Category: Science-Fiction & Fantasy
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View the complete Gutenberg catalogue record. Project Gutenberg identifies this edition as public domain in the United States; that designation does not establish its copyright status in every country.
Source notes
Catalogue metadata is public domain and is supplied through Gutendex, which imports Gutenberg's machine-readable catalogue. The automated synopsis is source-supplied, not an independently verified review. Author dates above describe the credited people; no ebook release date is presented as the book's original publication date.



