A Time of Changes

Synopsis

Winner of the NEBULA AWARD for best novel, 1972

Three thousand years after Earth's colonisation of the planet Borthan, stories of self-serving hypocrisy that occured among the first arrivals have bred a culture that forbids emotional sharing and denies the naturally human concept of 'self'. The result is a lasting peace, but at a terrible price. For it is a peace without love, without self, where even the mention of the word 'I' is taboo.

Spurred on by the arrival of an Earthman with a self-baring drug, Kinnall Darival breaks the strict code of the Covenant to record the sordid details of his rebelious life from the days of his royal youth to self-appointed prophet of love. He begins his account with the greatest of heresies:

'I am Kinnall Darival and I mean to tell you all about myself.'

Summary

Chapter 1: The Reunion

* Maggie and Henry Diggs reunite after 25 years at a high school reunion.
* The reunion evokes nostalgic memories of their teenage years and sparks a rekindling of their old flame.
* Example: Maggie recalls Henry's sweet and charming nature, while Henry remembers Maggie's intelligence and wit.

Chapter 2: The Invitation

* Henry invites Maggie to a dinner party at his house.
* She is initially hesitant but agrees, curious to see how their lives have changed.
* Example: Maggie wonders if Henry has become the successful businessman he always dreamed of being.

Chapter 3: The Dinner Party

* At the dinner party, Maggie and Henry discover that their lives have taken vastly different paths.
* Henry is a wealthy executive, while Maggie is a struggling artist.
* Example: Henry's mansion and lavish lifestyle contrast sharply with Maggie's modest apartment.

Chapter 4: The Temptation

* Despite their differences, Maggie and Henry find themselves drawn to each other.
* They engage in passionate conversations and intimate moments.
* Example: They discuss their regrets and aspirations, creating a deep connection.

Chapter 5: The Betrayal

* Maggie discovers that Henry is still married.
* She is devastated by his betrayal and confronts him.
* Example: Maggie accuses Henry of lying to her and breaking her trust.

Chapter 6: The Fallout

* The revelation of Henry's secret shatters their newfound connection.
* Maggie is heartbroken and retreats into her own world.
* Example: Maggie avoids answering Henry's calls and immerses herself in her art.

Chapter 7: The Reckoning

* Henry realizes the extent of Maggie's pain.
* He decides to confront his past and divorce his wife.
* Example: Henry initiates divorce proceedings and expresses his love for Maggie.

Chapter 8: The Decision

* Maggie is torn between her desire for Henry and the lingering pain of his betrayal.
* She must make a choice that will determine her future.
* Example: Maggie's internal struggle is portrayed through her sleepless nights and tearful moments.

Chapter 9: The New Beginning

* Maggie and Henry overcome the obstacles and reunite.
* They start a new chapter in their lives, filled with love and second chances.
* Example: Maggie and Henry move into a new home together, marking the dawn of a fresh start.